Eight players from the Pacific Union College Pioneers women’s soccer team earned CAL-PAC honors ahead of the program’s first conference final. Freshman Leslie Reyes received First Team All-Conference recognition, while sophomores Rose Portillo, Jasmine Zapien, Kyleigh Melconian, and freshman Claire Gornik were named to the Second Team.
Camryn Folkers and Scarlet Gonzales earned Honorable Mentions, with Folkers and Zapien also recognized on the CAL-PAC All-Academic Team. Sophomore Kambrie Jehs was named Pacific Union College’s Champion of Character. All honorees are freshmen or sophomores, highlighting the team’s young core.
Leslie Reyes led the Pioneers by starting all 13 matches through the semifinal, sharing the team lead with four goals and leading with 34 shots. Rose Portillo led with four assists and 12 points and earned Second Team honors for the second consecutive year. Jasmine Zapien contributed as a midfielder with nine shots and All-Academic honors.
Defensively, captains Kyleigh Melconian and Claire Gornik earned Second Team honors. Melconian started nine matches before an injury, providing leadership in organizing the back line, while Gornik started all 13 matches and played a key role, including scoring the penalty that sent the Pioneers to the final.
Camryn Folkers contributed both in midfield and defense and was recognized for her academic achievements. Freshman goalkeeper Scarlet Gonzales made 71 saves through the semifinal, earning Honorable Mention and notably making 12 saves in a semifinal match. Kambrie Jehs demonstrated versatility and leadership at outside back and was acknowledged for her character and defensive awareness.
The Pioneers will face Simpson on Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the CAL-PAC conference final, marking a historic milestone for the program.
CSB Take
Pacific Union College’s recognition of eight underclassmen by the CAL-PAC highlights the program’s impressive development and potential. Balancing athletic achievement with academic honors indicates a well-rounded and dedicated team. As the Pioneers prepare for their first conference final appearance, these young players provide a promising foundation for continued success in women’s soccer at the college.
Source: Original report
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