Both the men and women’s varsity soccer teams were well represented when the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) East division released their all-star teams earlier this week, as a total of seven Carleton Ravens were honoured.
Despite seeing their season come to a disappointing end against Ryerson University, the men’s work did not go unnoticed this year, as three players were named to the first all-star team.
After a season in which goalkeeper Karl Wasslen posted an incredible clean sheet streak spanning nearly nine matches, the five-year veteran headlined the list of Ravens that made the cut.
Joining Wasslen were defender and captain Nick Persichino, along with the team’s leading goal-scorer, midfielder Joey Kewin.
After missing the entirety of last season due to a back injury, Persichino slotted right back into the heart of the Ravens’ defence, and was instrumental in leading the squad to the OUA East quarterfinals.
Further up the field, Kewin earned the first all-star nod of his university career, finishing the season atop the team scoring charts with seven goals.
The left-footed winger accounted for almost half of the teams 16 goals this season, and provided the lone threat offensively for Sandy Mackie’s side.
Midfielder Sam McHugh also received honours, being named to the second all-star team.
Over on the women’s side, it was veteran winger Amanda Ngwafusi, along with goalkeeper Rachel Bedek who garnered first-team honours.
Ngwafusi caused headaches for opposing defences all season long with her speed and skill down the wings, and finished the campaign with a team-high eight goals.
That tally was enough to see the Ottawa, Ont. native finish amongst the top 10 in OUA East scoring for the first time in her career.
Between the posts, Bedek built on last year’s impressive rookie campaign, recording five clean sheets for head coach Alex McNutt.
Joining the two women was striker Shayla LaVecchia, who was named to the second all-star team.