By Grace Malec, Sports Editor
After already playing in ten regular season games and with only five more to go on their 2024 to 2025 schedule, the number four ranked Aquinas Saints of the Women’s Soccer team are hungry this season.
After falling to William Carey University in the NAIA national quarter finals last season, the Saints were looking to make their exciting comeback, which is evident in their performance this season.
Saturday, Oct. 5, the Saints took on the Racers of the University of Northwestern Ohio; the team that shook up the Saints last season and who put up a fierce fight in this match. Both teams played an intense game, with both offensive and defensive players putting their best cleats forward.
With UNOH taking six shots on goal and Aquinas taking seven shots on goal, it was a very close game, with both goal-keepers making several saves. Aquinas goal-keeper, junior Kayla Shuk showcased her impressive skills in the contest, making a save on every shot that came her way.
As the clock ran down, the pressure increased, with the game remaining tied until the second half. Scoring her ninth goal of the season and 25th point of the 2024 season, senior Maeva Lichtensteiger found the back of the net in the 81st minute of the contest from a penalty kick, ending Aquinas’ goal drought. Lichtensteiger said “Our win against UNOH was huge for this team. We knew it was going to be a battle, but came out on top. It wasn’t necessarily pretty but we got the job done and it felt really good.”
The Saints of the Aquinas Women’s Soccer team are on their way to an even more record-breaking season. After already having an incredibly historic season, extending their streak of winning in every conference regular season game to 56 games. Lichtensteiger said “We’ve been on a roll this year and we have no intention of slowing down. We show up every morning before the sun is up, we work hard, have fun and we get better. We know who we are and what we are capable of doing. This year is something special and I’m excited for what’s to come.”
The Saints will continue their season against University of Michigan-Dearborn on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at Home on the Aquinas Athletic Field at 7 p.m. and then by celebrating the class of 2025 on senior day on Saturday, Oct. 19 at home at 12 p.m. Go out and support your number four ranked Saints.
Images Below:
“Saints on three” – Women’s Soccer Huddle before the half begins. Photo by Grace Malec
Senior Maeva Lichtensteiger helps lead her team, scoring a goal in an intense contest. Photo by Grace Malec
The Saints inspire the next generation of soccer players; hosting young athletes from AYSO United – Photo by Grace Malec
The Saint 