The 29th annual NIRSA National Soccer Championships, hosted at the Round Rock Multipurpose Complex, concluded on November 18, 2023. This season’s capstone event placed the spotlight on a spectacular showcase of talent, determination, and sporting behavior. With 96 teams competing, 83 officials overseeing proceedings, and a dedicated staff of 49 individuals, the tournament left an indelible mark on the soccer community.
The tournament featured a highly competitive field, with teams from across NIRSA regions coming together to vie for the national title; there was an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation all week long.
Women’s Championship Division: UCLA secures second title
The UCLA women’s soccer team showcased their dominance in the Women’s Championship Division, securing a second division title in two seasons. Their journey began with impressive pool play victories against Texas and Michigan, earning them the top spot in bracket play.
Facing tough competition, UCLA continued their winning streak by defeating Northeastern 2-0 and overcoming Virginia in a tight 3-2 match. In the semifinals, they triumphed over Cal Poly with another 2-0 victory, setting the stage for an intense final against Boston College.
The championship clash was a nail-biting affair, with UCLA ultimately clinching the title with a narrow 1-0 victory. This success builds on their achievements from 2022, when they claimed the top spot in the Women’s Open Division.
Men’s Championship Division: BYU continues to dominate
The BYU men’s soccer team continued their impressive run of success in the Men’s Championship Division. Dominating in pool play against Arizona State and Florida, they carried their momentum into the bracket, facing challenges from UConn, Georgia Tech, and UCLA.
BYU showcased their soccer prowess in the finals with a 2-0 victory against a formidable Virginia Tech team. The scoreline marked their fourth consecutive championship division win, highlighting their skill and consistency on the field.
Women’s Open Division: San Diego State emerges victorious
The San Diego State University women’s soccer team demonstrated resilience and talent in the Women’s Open Division. Starting as the third seed in their pool, they overcame tough competition from teams like Colorado, Vermont, and Oakland to claim the group’s top spot.
Through bracket play, San Diego State faced formidable opponents, including Grand Valley and UConn. The final match against UCSB was fiercely contested, culminating in a thrilling 2-1 victory for San Diego State. The intense competition underscored the depth of talent on both teams.
Men’s Open Division: Miami (Ohio) Triumphs Over Purdue
Miami (Ohio) emerged as the powerhouse in the Men’s Open Division. After a strong showing in pool play against Minnesota, James Madison, and Utah Valley, Miami secured the top spot in bracket play with a 3-1 win against Cal Poly and a 2-0 victory against Colorado College.
The Men’s Open Division final witnessed a commanding performance from Miami (Ohio), as they secured the championship with a 3-1 victory against Purdue. The team’s dynamic gameplay and offensive brilliance were on full display, earning them the coveted title.
All-Tournament Team
Throughout the championship, individual players stood out with exceptional performances. Whether it was dazzling goals, crucial assists, or outstanding defensive plays, these athletes left a lasting impression on spectators and opponents alike. The tournament emphasized the many talents within the soccer community.
Congratulations to the following 2023 NIRSA National Soccer All-Tournament Teams!
Women’s Championship All-Tournament Team
# | Name, Institution
8 | Mia Kim, UCLA – MVP
0 | Isabelle Southern, UCLA – Goalkeeper
1 | Olivia Perez, Colorado State
5 | Kaitlin Spiridellis, Vanderbilt
2 | Sasha Asselbaye, Vanderbilt
17 | Nina Toracca, Cal Poly
19 |Marissa Gorog, Boston College
4 | Camille Longabardi, Boston College
27 | Kylie Skiba, Boston College
13 | Linda Boama, Boston College
6 | Allison Shea, UCLA
17 | Brooklyn Horst, UCLA
Men’s Championship All-Tournament Team
# | Name, Institution
5 | Benjamin Gonzalez, BYU – MVP
00 | Chris Jenkinson, BYU – Goalkeeper
7 | Ciaran Hornon, UCLA
10 | Michael Crisera, UCLA
30 | Jacob Honner, Ohio State
18 | Asher Lackman, Ohio State
1 | Duke Durand, Virginia Tech
12 | Benjamin Hiebler, Virginia Tech
24 | Nicholas Washington, Virginia Tech
4 | Nathan Mumford, BYU
15 | Asher Franks, BYU
27 | Andrew Fiocca, Virginia Tech
Women’s Open All-Tournament Team
# | Name, Institution
3 | Alex Guzzardo, San Diego State – MVP
0 | Kiley Quillen, UC Santa Barbara – Goalkeeper
23 | Maya Presume, UConn
4 | Maya Pickhart, Oregon
16 | Svea Nuenfinger, Oregon
17 | Grace Turman, San Diego State
11 | Karoline Lundstrom, San Diego State
18 | Katherine Montoya, UC Santa Barbara
25 | Allison Hollomon, UC Santa Barbara
9 | Naiya Samios, UC Santa Barbara
13 | Lauren Edwards, Oregon
8 | Emma Duckett, San Diego State
Men’s Open All-Tournament Team
# | Name, Institution
19 | Noah Hjelmeng, Miami (OH) – MVP
99 | Christian Calabro, Purdue – Goalkeeper
14 | Bobo Kikonda, Cincinnati
18 | Hogan Daley, Cincinnati
9 | Jaiden Marriott, Weber State
28 | Lucas Summers, Cal Poly
9 | Mark Reiss, Colorado College
10 | Youssef Errihani, Purdue
11 | Nicholas Wilson, Purdue
25 | Robert Boychyn, Purdue
17 | Maddox Jung, Miami Ohio
5 | Ryan Gora, Miami Ohio
Gratitude to the behind-the-scenes heroes
The success of the tournament wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated efforts of the tournament staff. From directors and coordinators to on-site managers and volunteers, everyone played a crucial role in orchestrating a seamless and memorable event.
Directors of Competition
Laurel Hanna, University of Michigan
Chris McAlpine, University of Texas at Dallas
Director of Operations
Caroline Ciell, University of Florida
Alec Triggiano, University of Wisconsin Madison
Director of Officials
Erik Jaeke, University of Wisconsin Madison
Assistant Director of Officials
Abby Van Note, University of Wisconsin Madison
TEAL Director
Jon Janis, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Soccer Work Team Co-Chairs
Max Miller, Swarthmore College
Jessica Cuadra, Syracuse University
Tournament Director
Nicole Jackson, NIRSA Staff
Assistant Tournament Director
Lauren Carlson, NIRSA Staff
Special appreciation goes to the Tournament Directors for their leadership and, of course, The City of Round Rock, led by Tournament Hosts Chad McKenzie and Trae Matthews, provided an excellent backdrop for the championship.
A team effort
The tournament staff worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth operation of the event. Their dedication and passion for the sport contributed to the overall success of the championships.
- Bailey Adams, Utah State University
- Joel Arancibia, Florida International University
- Taylor Barnett, NIRSA Staff
- Cybbi Barton, Texas Tech
- Christopher Baunoch, Georgetown University
- Stephanie Calhoun, University of Georgia
- Sophia Caro, University of Texas at Dallas
- Shane Conti, Boston College
- Abbie Cunningham, Texas A&M University
- Pedro Da Costa, Missouri State University
- Rachel Hart, NIRSA Staff
- Andrew Havrisko, Rowan University
- Jesus Hernandez, University of West Florida
- Jack Isaacson, Baylor University
- Bridget Jones, The University of Texas at Austin
- Rachel Lucas, University of Arizona
- Amber Mateer, Plymouth State University
- John McNeal, Mississippi State University
- John Merryman, Sam Houston State University
- Valeria Ortega, The University of Texas at Austin
- Alex Pendar, University of Wisconsin – River Falls
- Gregory Pepper, Texas A&M Corpus Christi
- Christian Ramirez, University of Central Florida
- Shana Ranauto, University of Wisconsin – Madison
- Mario Rios, Tarleton State University
- Matt Sackstein, UMass-Amherst
- Alexandra Sanchez, Boise State University
- Ben Schwertner, The University of Texas at Austin
- Courtney Sherwin, University of California, Santa Cruz
- Yadira Soto, Texas State University
- Kristen Sullivan
- Gresh Urbanowski, The University of Texas at Austin
- Amara Wiggan, University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Keith Woolems, Purdue University
As the soccer teams reflect on this remarkable National Soccer Championships and their achievements, they will remember forever the enduring spirit of competition, good sporting behavior, and the pursuit of excellence that define collegiate soccer at its highest level.
Series Hall of Fame
It is with great pleasure and immense pride that the NIRSA Championship Series announces a monumental milestone in its history. After careful consideration and a dedication to honoring excellence, we are thrilled to introduce the inaugural class of our very own Series Hall of Fame.
The Series Hall of Fame is a testament to the outstanding contributions made by individuals who have not only excelled in their respective roles but have also left an indelible mark on the NIRSA Championship Series.
For the 2023-2024 Soccer inductees into the Series Hall of Fame, we are delighted to recognize and celebrate two remarkable individuals whose passion, dedication, and accomplishments have significantly impacted the world of soccer within our community.
NIRSA Volunteer, Mary O’Mahoney
Director at California State University- Bakersfield, Mary O’Mahoney exemplifies the true spirit of volunteerism. Her unwavering commitment to the NIRSA Championship Series and her tireless efforts in fostering the growth and development of soccer within our community have not gone unnoticed. Mary’s selfless contributions, dedication, and leadership have made a lasting impact, and we are honored to welcome her into the NIRSA Championship Series Hall of Fame.
Coach, Dorian Barnes
Coach Dorian Barnes has been a driving force in shaping the future of soccer within the NIRSA Championship Series. His coaching prowess, mentorship, and ability to inspire athletes have set a standard of excellence that resonates throughout our community. Coach Barnes’s significant achievements and positive influence make him a deserving member of our inaugural Series Hall of Fame class.
- For more information, contact NIRSA National Sport Programs Coordinator, Lauren Carlson.
Nicole Jackson is currently the Director of National Sport Programs at NIRSA.
