June 2023 – Page 5 – Lake Weekly

OLLU softball recognized for one of top coaching staffs in region

The OLLU softball coaching staff is one of six NAIA programs selected by their peers as the 2023 ATEC/National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Regional Coaching Staffs of the Year, the Association announced on June 1.

OLLU represents Region II. The Saints made their first trip ever to the World Series as the No. 2 seed. The team was led by the award-winning coaching staff of Head Coach Bruce Lenington and Assistant Coach Jody Armijo. Oher assistant coaches include Katrisha Arocha, Jim Bray and Gilbert Alvarado. Lenington and Armijo began their tenure in 2019. Lenington has compiled a record of 134-53 at OLLU.

Other team winners include: Georgia Gwinnett College (Region I), Midland University (Region III), Park University Gilbert (Region IV), Baker University (Region V) and the University of the Cumberlands (Region VI).

All six teams are now eligible for the ATEC/NFCA NAIA National Coaching Staff of the Year award, which will be announced on June 12.

OLLU soccer signs standout goalkeeper from San Antonio Harlan

OLLU has signed Dominic Pena, a standout goalkeeper, to the soccer team.

Head Coach Shane Hurley commented, “I’m excited to see Dominic Pena choose OLLU to meet his academic, career and athletic goals. He will help us continue to improve depth and ability at the goalkeeper position.”

Pena is a graduate of Harlan High School in the Northside Independent School District of San Antonio. In 2022, he was the District 29-6A goalkeeper of the year after allowing seven goals and recording a .35 GAA. He earned TASCO (Texas Association of Soccer Coaches) 6A All-State honors. This past year, Pena allowed just eight goals during district play and was the defensive leader of Harlan’s third consecutive undefeated record in 29-6A. He repeated as TASCO 6A All-State.

Pena said, “Coming to OLLU means a lot to me, to be able to continue to play at the next level is everything. I can’t wait to show what I can bring to the team and meet new people, while taking on new challenges.”

The Saints begin their 17th season in late August. Most home games will feature live-streaming on the OLLUSaintsNetwork and will feature live-stats.