The Gillette College soccer teams placed five individuals on the National Junior League College Athletic Association (NJCAA) D1 All-Region 9 squads. The nominated Pronghorns all made the Honorable Mention squads.
The decision for this recognition was made through an all-conference vote, with head coaches nominating and then voting on players throughout Region 9 to be recognized for their excellence on the field.
While the number in the win column for both teams was not as high as the reestablished teams hoped, that didn’t deter other conference coaches from noticing the effort these five Pronghorns showed on the field.
Cesia Swain, a midfielder from Spanish Fork, Utah, and Camree Tribe, a defender from Vernal, Utah, were recognized from the women’s team. Swain led the team in goals, posting eight to her name. Tribe served as a key contributor to the Pronghorn defense throughout the year. “I am happy to see the Region 9 coaches acknowledge Cesia and Camree. Their work ethic and productivity on the field throughout the season is something to be celebrated. I am both grateful and proud of them both,” said Coach Anthony Longo.
David Silva, a defender from Sao Joao da Madeira, Portugal; Julen Arteaga, a forward from Barcelona, Spain; and Phillip Avendaño Castillo, a forward from Bogota, Columbia, were the recognized players from the men’s team. Silva contributed not only to the defense but also tallied three goals himself. Arteaga led the team, starting in every game, and scored the most goals, a total of seven, throughout the season. Avendaño Castillo not only scored goals but led the team in assists, allowing the Pronghorns to score on the pitch. Coach Alex Machin is proud of the players, “These sophomores had a major impact in our program. Not only are they great athletes, but they are also great people in the community. I want to take this opportunity to thank them for all they have done for the college and the community.”
“I am very pleased to have our Pronghorns recognized,” said President Oberlander. “The pressure of being an inaugural player for a reestablished team was not an easy weight to bear. I am proud that our student athletes continued to show up to every contest throughout the season to showcase their talent despite the odds.”
The athletes will be recognized by Dr. Oberlander and their coaches for their achievement on Saturday, December 9th, between the 4 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. basketball games in Pronghorn Center.
The Gillette College soccer teams will begin their second season in Fall 2024.
