LAGUNA NIGUEL, Calif. 026 026026026026 Gavin Arce, a defender for the California Lutheran University men’s soccer team, has been named the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Defensive Athlete of the Week following outstanding performances over a key weekend.
Arce played all 90 minutes in California Lutheran’s 3-1 victory over Colorado College on September 11, 2026, helping limit the Tigers to just 12 shots and five on goal. He then contributed to the defensive effort in a 1-1 draw two days later against No. 4 nationally ranked Emory University, holding the Eagles to six shots and three on goal.
The Kingsmen finished the weekend unbeaten with a 1-0-1 record, raising their season record to 2-1-2. Notably, Cal Lutheran has held four of their first five opponents to one goal or fewer this season.
The California Lutheran men’s soccer team will begin SCIAC conference play against Pomona-Pitzer on September 16, 2026.
CSB Take
Gavin Arce’s recognition as SCIAC Defensive Athlete of the Week highlights his crucial role in stabilizing the Kingsmen defense during the early part of the 2026 season. His ability to play complete matches against formidable opponents like Colorado College and No. 4 Emory University demonstrates his consistency and defensive skill. As Cal Lutheran men’s soccer enters conference play, maintaining this defensive strength will be vital for their pursuit of SCIAC honors and further success this season.
Source: Original report
