Sports – Page 10 – Lake Weekly

Ryan Nets Two as OLLU Finishes Season with Hard-Fought Effort

The Our Lady of the Lake University men’s soccer team closed out their season on Saturday afternoon with a hard-fought 5-3 loss to the Texas A&M–San Antonio Jaguars on Senior Day. Though the result didn’t go their way, the Saints showed resilience, pride, and determination in their final outing of the year, rallying in the second half to make things competitive and giving the home crowd plenty to cheer for in the season finale.

The first half proved difficult for OLLU as the Jaguars capitalized on their early chances, jumping out to a 4-0 lead with goals in the 3rd, 5th, 17th, and 22nd minutes. Despite the deficit, the Saints continued to battle and looked more organized as the half progressed. Goalkeeper Zak Averns played all 90 minutes in goal, finishing with two saves and anchoring a defense that refused to back down against a relentless Jaguar attack.

After halftime, the Saints found their rhythm and began to take control of the pace of play. Texas A&M–San Antonio struck again in the 49th minute to make it 5-0, but OLLU refused to fold. Just two minutes later, Cade Ryan sparked the Saints comeback effort with a goal in the 51st minute. Ryan struck again in the 71st minute, burying his second of the match to cut into the Jaguars lead and energize the Saints bench.

The home side kept pressing, and in the 83rd minute, Caleb Chagoy found the back of the net with an assist from Ryan to make it 5-3. The Saints continued to push forward in the closing moments, fighting for every ball. Though time ran out before they could complete the comeback, OLLU walked off the field with heads held high after an inspired second-half performance.

The Saints finished the 2025 season with a 3-11-4 overall record and a 2-7-2 mark in conference play. Despite the challenges, the team showed flashes of promise and growth, with several young players stepping into key roles throughout the campaign.

Saints Rally Past Xavier for 3–1 Victory Ahead of Senior Day

Our Lady of the Lake volleyball showed poise and championship focus Friday night, rallying after a slow start to defeat Xavier University of Louisiana 3–1 in a statement victory on the road. After dropping the opening set 25–23, the Saints regrouped, adjusted, and took full control of the match, winning the next three sets 25–15, 25–21, and 25–23 to seal the victory.

The first set saw OLLU battle point-for-point, but a few late miscues allowed Xavier to slip ahead. That loss only fueled the Saints response. In the second set, OLLU came out with renewed energy and precision, dominating from the service line and at the net. The offense found its rhythm behind the setting of Lauren Reynard, who orchestrated the attack with confidence and creativity on her way to 47 assists and 16 digs.

Mia Francis and Anais Velazquez Figueroa led the charge offensively, each recording 14 kills, while Clarissa Rodriguez added another 14 and Bailey Scott chipped in 12, giving OLLU a balanced and dynamic attack. Defensively, the Saints were relentless. Chanisty Villarreal Bermea led the back row with 18 digs, while Mia Perez added 17, keeping rallies alive and frustrating the Xavier hitters. At the net, Scott and Velazquez Figueroa provided a formidable wall, finishing with 4 and 5 blocks, respectively.

The third and fourth sets showcased OLLU’s composure under pressure. Every time Xavier tried to rally, the Saints answered with timely kills, disciplined defense, and steady leadership. The closing set was a fitting cap to the match, tight throughout, but OLLU’s determination shined as they closed it out 25–23.

With the win, the Saints carried momentum into what promises to be an emotional and exciting Senior Day at home tomorrow, where they’ll look to finish the regular season on a high note. The victory over Xavier not only added another notch to OLLU’s strong campaign but also showed the toughness and unity that define this team’s identity.

The Saints will play again tomorrow at 12:00 PM CDT against Xavier.

OLLU Duo Shines at Arturo Barrios Invitational, Collects RRAC Honors

The Saints Cross Country team are soaring once again. Our Lady of the Lake University’s cross country program continues to make waves across the Red River Athletic Conference, and this week two of its standout runners ha, Isai Moran and Kristen Torres, had quite the performance. Both were named the RRAC Cross Country Runners of the Week for the period of October 13–19, following exceptional performances at the highly competitive Arturo Barrios Invitational hosted by Texas A&M University.

Facing a deep field packed with NCAA Division I talent, the Saints proved they could hold their own among some of the best runners in the nation. Kristen Torres delivered an incredible race, clocking a 21:59 in the women’s 6K, a mark that not only showcased her strength and composure but also demonstrated how OLLU’s women’s program continues to rise. This is the second time this season that Torres has claimed the RRAC Runner of the Week honor, and she’s done it in commanding fashion, taking on stellar competition and emerging as one of the top NAIA runners in the field.

On the men’s side, Isai Moran continued his dominant season with a stellar 25:03 in the 8K, once again asserting himself as one of the premier runners in the conference and the region. His performance at the Arturo Barrios Invitational was yet another testament to his consistency, which has defined his remarkable 2025 campaign. This marks the third time this season that Moran has been named RRAC Runner of the Week, adding to an already historic year in which he set the OLLU school record in the 8K earlier this season.

For both Moran and Torres, these awards aren’t just personal milestones, they reflect the hard work of OLLU Cross Country. Under the guidance of their coaching staff, the Saints have built a culture of excellence, one that’s increasingly being recognized beyond the RRAC. Competing against Division I programs and putting down stellar times shows the depth of their talent and the strength of their preparation.

As the postseason looms, OLLU is moving in the right direction.

OLLU Cross Country Holds Strong in Elite Field at Texas A&M

The Our Lady of the Lake University men’s and women’s cross country teams made a powerful statement at the Arturo Barrios Invitational, hosted by Texas A&M University in College Station. Competing against a field loaded with NCAA Division I programs from across the nation, the Saints proved they can hold their own against some of the country’s elite.

On the men’s side, OLLU finished 28th overall. There were 353 total runners. It was a test of endurance and courage for the Saints, and they rose to the occasion. Leading the charge was standout runner Isai Moran, who clocked an impressive 25:03 in the 8k to place 114th overall, proving once again that he can compete stride for stride with top Division I talent. Close behind was Damon Gutierrez, who crossed in 25:21, earning 130th place and giving OLLU two runners under 26 minutes, a testament to the program’s growing strength.

Joseph Gonzalez battled his way to 176th in 26:16, followed by Tony Favella in 183rd with a 26:28 finish. Joel Telles (187th, 26:36), Jose Saucedo (197th, 26:56), and Anthony Alaniz (198th, 27:01) rounded out the scoring for OLLU, demonstrating impressive pack running that helped the Saints secure their top-30 team finish in a highly competitive race. Every Saint showed up, embodying the toughness that has become a hallmark of the OLLU distance program.

The women’s team also faced a deep Division I field but refused to be intimidated, finishing 35th overall in a race that tested every runner’s resolve. Kristen Torres led the charge for the Saints, placing 207th in 21:59 for the 6K course, a strong performance against athletes from nationally ranked programs. Mia Curiel followed with a 23:37 finish for 189th, continuing her steady season form. Liliana Hernandez crossed the line in 24:17 for 208th, with Daylah Vega (228th, 26:09) and Claudia Helena Lopez (242nd, 27:34) rounding out the squad’s effort.

While the Saints may not have topped the leaderboard, their performances spoke volumes about the program’s growth this season. Competing against some of the best teams in the nation, both OLLU squads displayed the depth, drive, and unity that continue to elevate the program.

OLLU Hands No. 9 The Master’s University 86-79 Loss

In one of the biggest wins in program history under the Coach Thompson Era, the Our Lady of the Lake University men’s basketball team stunned the nation Thursday night, taking down the No. 9 team in the country, The Master’s University Mustangs, with a thrilling 86-79 victory. The Saints played with heart, grit, and confidence from start to finish, proving they could compete, and win, against one of the NAIA’s elite programs.

From the opening tip, OLLU showed they weren’t intimidated by the top-ten Mustangs. The Saints shot an impressive 45.9 percent from the field, moving the ball with precision and purpose. Their unselfish play was on full display, racking up 20 team assists and finding scoring opportunities inside and out. From beyond the arc, OLLU went 9-for-22, knocking down big shots at crucial moments to keep momentum in their favor.

The battle on the boards was one of the key differences in the game. OLLU dominated the glass, outrebounding The Master’s 53-44, including 17 offensive rebounds that led to critical second-chance points. The Saints also turned defense into offense, forcing the Mustangs into costly mistakes and converting them into 11 points off turnovers. OLLU’s relentless hustle resulted in 5 blocks and 10 steals, a testament to their all-around defensive effort.

Inside, the Saints were unstoppable, scoring 40 points in the paint and showing physicality that overwhelmed their nationally ranked opponent. The bench stepped up in a major way as well, contributing 21 points and keeping the energy high whenever they were called upon.

Wahkil Lopez led the charge for OLLU, putting together a brilliant performance. Lopez went 10-for-13 from the field on his way to 22 points, adding 4 rebounds and 4 assists while shooting 2-for-4 from the free throw line. His leadership and composure set the tone for the Saints throughout the night. Jaydin Morin-Bishop added 16 points and 7 rebounds, battling on both ends of the floor. Isaiah Moore was efficient with 14 points and 3 rebounds, while Mike Aiken chipped in 11 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists. Kenyon Elliot anchored the team inside, pulling down a game-high 10 rebounds as the Saints controlled the glass all night long.

When the final buzzer sounded, the Saints celebrated a hard-earned 86-79 win over one of the best teams in the nation.

The Saints will be back in action Friday night against Westcliff (CA) at 10:30 PM CDT.

Diversi, Tapia Lead Saints in Commanding Shutout

The OLLU women’s soccer team delivered a stunning performance, dismantling the North American University Stallions 9–0 in a dominant display of skill, teamwork, and relentless pressure. From the opening whistle, the Saints made it clear that they were in complete control, dictating the tempo and keeping the Stallions pinned deep in their own half.

It didn’t take long for OLLU to strike. In the 7th minute, Eleonora Diversi opened the scoring with a clean finish off a perfect feed from Leah Tapia, setting the tone for what would become an unstoppable first half. Just nine minutes later, Tapia added a goal of her own, slotting home after a clever assist from Gabrielle DeLeon to make it 2–0.

The Saints attack continued to roll. At 19:57, Sara Garza found the back of the net to push the lead to 3–0, as OLLU’s confidence soared. The team kept their foot on the gas, and at 36:22, Hannah Brookfield converted after a sharp setup from Diversi. Barely a minute later, Diversi struck again, this time assisted by both Tapia and Kira Brown, marking her second goal of the half and sealing a commanding 6–0 lead before the break.

In the second half, OLLU didn’t let up. Just three minutes in, at 48:07, Emerson Weiler buried another shot, followed swiftly by a Katherine Delgadillo goal at 49:37. The Saints continued to showcase their depth and creativity, spreading the field and keeping the Stallions chasing shadows. The final blow came at 83:11, when Bethany Garr connected on a crisp pass from Delgadillo to make it 9–0 and put an exclamation point on the evening.

Defensively, OLLU was rock solid. Goalkeeper London Suarez was composed and commanding throughout all 90 minutes, facing just one shot on goal and turning it away with ease to record a well-earned clean sheet. The Saints fired 38 shots in total, 24 of them on target, reflecting their relentless offensive rhythm and clinical execution.

The Saints will be back in action away at Texas A&M-Victoria this Saturday.

Saints Shine in Louisiana: OLLU Rolls Past LCU with 27–1 Shot Advantage

Pineville, LA- The Our Lady of the Lake University women’s soccer team delivered a commanding performance in Pineville, Louisiana, defeating Louisiana Christian University 4–0 in a dominant road victory that left no doubt about who controlled the match from start to finish.

From the opening whistle, OLLU pressed high and dictated the tempo. Their relentless attack paid off early in the 9th minute, when Eleonora Diversi stunned the Wildcats defense with a brilliant strike from 30 yards out. The play began with Angela Garcia sending in a crisp cross from the right side, perfectly setting up Diversi, who met it with power and precision to find the back of the net.

The Saints kept the pressure on, and at the 36:37 mark, Diversi struck again. This time, Hannah Brookfield delivered the assist, threading a smart ball into space. Diversi needed no second invitation, she fired a rocket into the top right corner, leaving the LCU goalkeeper frozen. It was a statement goal, sealing her brace before halftime and showing why she’s one of the most dangerous attackers in the conference.

Just six minutes later, Brookfield added her own name to the scoresheet. At 42:38, she capitalized on a loose ball outside the box and buried it unassisted, driving the Saints lead to 3–0 before the break. OLLU’s offense looked unstoppable, and their defense remained poised and disciplined, allowing LCU just a single shot in the entire first half.

In the second half, OLLU continued their dominance. Grace Reed made it 4–0 at 55:17 after a perfectly timed through ball from Kira Brown. Reed timed her run flawlessly, split the defense, and lifted her shot into the top left corner, an emphatic finish that sealed the victory.

Goalkeepers London Suarez and Salka Hrafns shared the shutout, with Suarez anchoring the first half and Hrafns entering in the second, recording one save to preserve the clean sheet. The Saints outshot LCU 27–1, showcasing their complete control on both ends of the field.

Louisiana Christian’s keeper worked overtime with 12 saves, but it wasn’t nearly enough to slow down OLLU’s relentless attack. The Saints performance was not just dominant, it was a display of precision, teamwork, and championship-caliber focus.

Saints Women’s Basketball Drops 2025–26 Home Schedule, Eyes a New Era Under Coach Showman

San Antonio, Texas— The Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) women’s basketball team has officially released its 2025–26 home schedule and with it, a renewed sense of excitement and optimism surrounding the Saints program.

After a challenging 2024–25 campaign that saw the Saints finish 8–19 overall and 6–18 in conference play, the program is turning the page under new head coach Ryan Showman, a proven winner who arrives in San Antonio ready to rebuild the Saints into a contender.

Showman comes to OLLU after an 18-year tenure at Kansas Wesleyan University (KWU), including 13 seasons as head coach, where his teams compiled an impressive 250–151 overall record and a 184–93 mark in Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) play. Under his leadership, the Coyotes became a perennial power in the KCAC, capturing two outright conference titles and earning multiple national tournament berths.

Showman’s accolades speak volumes — two-time KCAC Coach of the Year (2020, 2025), WBCA Regional Coach of the Year (2020), and Kansas Basketball Coaches Association Women’s 4-Year College Coach of the Year (2020). His 2024–25 squad finished as KCAC Champions and made national headlines as the only 15-seed to win an Opening Round game at the NAIA National Tournament, upsetting host MidAmerica Nazarene.

The Saints home slate promises to be an exciting one for OLLU fans. The schedule features early nonconference matchups designed to test the Saints and prepare them for the grueling conference season. Showman’s emphasis on defense, discipline, and high-tempo offense has already energized returning players and newcomers alike.

While rebuilding years can take time, expectations are high in San Antonio. The Saints faithful believe that with Showman’s leadership, the team’s best days are ahead.

“We’re setting a new standard here,” Showman said. “The goal isn’t just to compete, it’s to win the right way, represent OLLU with pride, and create a culture our community can be proud of.”

As the new era begins, the Saints are ready to rise to the challenge.

Fans can catch the action at Mabee Gymnasium, where OLLU will host a dynamic lineup of home contests this season. The full 2025–26 home schedule is available below or at OLLU Saints Athletics

Shots, Signatures, and a Scoreless Standoff: OLLU Women’s Soccer Day of Impact

On a vibrant afternoon at the OLLU soccer field, the women’s soccer team played to a 0-0 draw against Xavier University of Louisiana. The match was more than just a game; it was a celebration of community, youth, and a cause that’s close to many hearts, breast cancer awareness. The day was marked as Youth Pinkout Day, where the stands were an array of pink in honor of those affected by breast cancer, and the young fans were treated to a memorable event both on and off the field.

From the opening whistle, the Saints dominated possession and controlled the pace of play. Despite creating several quality chances, they were unable to find the back of the net. The Saints registered 10 shots on the day, 3 of which were on target. Eleonora Diversi was particularly active in the attack, firing 3 shots with one on goal, while Monica Sanchez also had a productive day with 4 shots and one on target. Anisia Serrano added a shot that was also on goal, as OLLU continued to press forward and put pressure on Xavier’s defense.

However, it was the Gold Nuggets defense, along with some crucial saves from their goalkeeper, that kept the game level throughout. Xavier’s offense was stifled, managing only 5 shots, with none of them finding the target. OLLU goalkeeper London Suarez, who played all 90 minutes in goal, was solid between the posts, making sure to keep her team in the game with consistent and composed play.

Adding to the fun of the day, Youth Pinkout Day featured a special halftime event—a race for the young fans in attendance. Children from the community raced the field, creating a lively atmosphere. After the match, the team’s dedication to the youth continued as they stayed on the field to sign autographs for the kids and fans, making sure the young supporters felt valued and appreciated. The day was truly a reminder of the close connection between the OLLU soccer team and their community.

While the game ended in a goalless draw, it was a reminder of the strength, passion, and unity that OLLU soccer embodies. Their commitment to the breast cancer awareness cause was clear, with pink shirts and ribbons spread throughout the stadium. The day was a celebration of both the game of soccer and a cause that touches so many lives, underscoring the importance of supporting each other and raising awareness for a fight that continues to affect families across the world.

As the final whistle blew, OLLU may have walked away with a tie, but the true victory was the incredible atmosphere, the engagement with the youth, and the collective effort to raise awareness for breast cancer.

OLLU Dominates Weekly RRAC Awards

It was a great week for Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) athletics as both cross country and volleyball brought home top honors in the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC) weekly awards.

Isai Moran and Kristen Torres, who were named RRAC Cross Country Runners of the Week after stellar performances at the OLLU Invitational, hosted on the Saints home course.

Moran continued his dominant season, winning the men’s race outright and leading the Saints to a first-place team finish in front of their home crowd. His strong pacing and closing kick separated him from the pack and proved crucial in OLLU’s team title.

On the women’s side, Torres delivered a breakout performance by recording the top individual finish in the women’s race. Her efforts at the front of the pack set the tone for the team, helping the Saints secure the top women’s team finish at the meet.

Meanwhile, OLLU volleyball completed a clean sweep of the RRAC weekly awards after a dominant weekend series, defeating Louisiana Christian University 3-0 on both Friday and Saturday.

Mia Francis earned Attacker of the Week honors, consistently overpowering the Wildcats defense with efficient and timely kills throughout the two matches.
Lauren Reynard was named Setter of the Week, orchestrating the Saints offense with precision and distributing the ball effectively to keep Louisiana Christian on its heels.
Chanisty Villarreal Bermea locked down the backcourt and earned Defender of the Week, showcasing her defensive instincts and relentless effort to keep plays alive.

The Saints perfect weekend in both cross country and volleyball reflects the growing momentum across OLLU Athletics this fall. OLLU continues to be a competitive force at the conference, regional and national scale.