Lopez, Yao Chosen IWU Men’s Soccer “Most Valuable Players”

December 11, 2007

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — Juniors Jason Lopez and Greg Yao have been chosen as the most valuable offensive and defensive players, respectively, for the 2007 Illinois Wesleyan University men’s soccer team.

A midfielder, Lopez (Naperville, Neuqua Valley HS) led the Titans in scoring with 17 points on seven goals and three assists. His free kick goal, the first of three he scored against North Central, was cited as the team’s “Goal of the Year.”

Yao (Yorkville, Neuqua Valley HS) was a starter in 16 games and played a key backfield role for a team that allowed 1.80 goals per game.

Junior midfielder Chris Sleezer (Lisle, Benet Academy) was named the “Most Improved Player” honor for the Titans, who finished 6-11-1 overall and 4-3 in CCIW play. Sleezer, who became a starter midway through the season, had nine points on three goals and three assists.

Lopez and Yao, along with juniors Matas Cyvas (Downers Grove, Benet Academy) and Stephen Rensa (St. Charles, St. Francis Prep), were elected to be the 2008 team captains.

Head coach Ryan Lakin awarded letters to 17 IWU soccer players, including 15 who will return for next fall. The lettermen are, with hometowns and high schools:

SENIORS – Colin Aubin (Orland Park, Sandburg HS), Ikenna Odinaka (Lagos, Nigeria).

JUNIORS – Jeff Carqueville (St. Charles, East HS), Matas Cyvas (Downers Grove, Benet Academy), Jason Lopez (Naperville, Neuqua Valley HS),  Stephen Rensa (St. Charles, St. Francis Prep), Chris Sleezar (Lisle, Benet Academy), Greg Yao (Yorkville, Neuqua Valley HS).

SOPHOMORES – Win Fisher (Birmingham, Ala., Mountain Brook HS), Brett Luy (Decatur, Warrensburg Latham HS), Paulo Michelini (Ames, Iowa HS). Robert Tabaka (Chicago, Lane Tech).

FRESHMEN – Frankie Gorg (Mt. Prospect, Hersey HS), Eric Johnsen (Peoria, Dunlap HS), Tom Marlow (Springfield, Mo., Parkview HS), Scott Pettenon (Orland Park, Sandburg HS), Andrew Wolschlag (Springfield, Sacred Heart Griffin).

CONTACT: Stew Salowitz, 309-556-3206