As the fall sports season came to a close, the Andrews women's volleyball and men’s and women’s soccer teams had their senior nights on Oct. 28 and 29. Players were surrounded by friends and family as they celebrated the years they dedicated to their sports.
On Oct. 28, the volleyball team honored its senior players. Students came with posters, and friends and families came with gifts for the different players, recognizing their hard work and commitment. The seniors took to the court with determination, showcasing their teamwork and team spirit one last time in front of their home crowd. The night was filled with cheers, laughter and a few tears as the team came together to celebrate both the match and the friendships built along the way.
Seminarian Xina Sanchez, one of those who played their final Cardinal game, said, “I’d say that for me, this final season has been one of the best memories and the best year of playing volleyball, not just because of the sport I love, but because of the girls I’ve grown close to and the sisterhood we’ve created. The best highlights were the car rides to away games, team dinners, locker room jammies and all the moments on the court. It was always filled with smiles and laughter.”
The following evening, on the soccer pitch, the Andrews women's soccer team took to the field for their own celebration. Each senior was cheered on as their names and accomplishments were announced to the crowd. Once the whistle blew, the team played with heart, giving it their all.
When asked about a memory that stood out to her during the season, senior Bryn Johns, a psychology and Spanish major, said, “Early in the season, there was a game where we were losing pretty badly, and everyone on the team, including myself, had mentally given up. After the game, our coach told us to get together and talk among ourselves about what we could do when we faced that kind of adversity again. We ended up having a long, productive conversation and figured out how to best motivate each other moving forward. From that day on, even though we lost several more games, we always finished each one in high spirits, knowing we gave our all for each other. Honestly, I’ve never seen a team as strong as this one. I’m so proud of these girls and grateful for all the amazing memories from this season.”
Andrea Huaytalla, a nursing major, said, “One memory that stands out the most was when I couldn’t play during the tournament and felt very sad. I told the team I didn’t want to let them down, but I had to go home because of a family emergency. All of them showed me so much support and encouragement, and I will never forget how appreciated, loved and grateful I felt after all of their messages and calls. Another quick one would be media day. It was very cold, but we had fun taking our team pictures!”
Later that day, the men's team took to the field for a senior night that was just as meaningful. The stands were filled with fans and students cheering on the team and the seniors. They came to play with energy and determination, ready to give their seniors a memorable sendoff. Every pass, tackle and goal carried extra meaning as the seniors led with heart and grit. After the first half, all three seniors were called out one by one, and each of their accomplishments was read off and met with cheers and applause. After the final whistle, the players gathered together, grateful for the memories they had created together.
When asked about a memory or moment that stood out to them, each graduating player had something meaningful to say. Seminarian Christian Barrera said, “For me, what was memorable was the soccer trips made with the boys for away games; I’m grateful for the friends I made on the team since it’s my first semester at AU.”
Guilherme Martin dos Reis, a mechanical engineering major, said, “Looking back at the season, what stood out to me the most was the fellowship we had through the ups and downs of the season. Everyone involved has definitely made a staple in my life.”
Finally, Jaquan Darrell, a finance major, said, “One of my favorite moments of the season was when we had Sabbath lunch at Coach Yuri’s house. It showed to me how committed we were to one another, even when we’re not on the field.”
Overall, through all the wins, losses, ups and downs of the season, the teams showed what true dedication and teamwork looked like. Each athlete learned valuable lessons about unity and giving their best effort, no matter the outcome. The seniors, in particular, have left behind a legacy of commitment and heart that will continue to inspire future players. As they leave their final season behind, they can look back proudly on a season filled with growth, friendship and unforgettable memories.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.