Both men’s and women’s soccer teams have been successful for the majority of the season. In addition to overall team success, the individual players have won numerous awards as well with each one displaying their talent and having a tremendous season.

Men’s player Robert M’Boko was named Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) Men’s Soccer League Scoring Champion, scoring an impressive nine goals in eight games; he was also awarded the West Division Scoring Champion.

Robert and his two teammates Matt Catalano and Ben Mendes were also named OCAA League All-Star this season, helping the team finish in second place in the OCAA West Division.

Success seems to run within Fanshawe’s soccer program as the women’s team was massively successful since game one, both as a team and individual players.

Amber Lea Hodgins was awarded the OCAA West Division Rookie of the Year. Marisa Oliveira, Daniella Strano and Selena Roberts were all receivers of the OCAA League All-Stars.

Jade Kovacevic dominated throughout the league; she was the winner of the OCAA West Division Scoring Champion, as well as being an OCAA League All-Star. She was also awarded OCAA Women’s Soccer Player of the Year, her second one consecutively.

When asked for her thoughts and feelings on the matter, the young striker gave a humble answer.

“This year was a very big growing year for the program and I think what we accomplished this year reflects within the awards we received on a team level, and on an individual level.”

Kovacevic also had nothing but praise for her teammates and for her coach Mike Marcoccia.

“From the back all the way up to the front line, we had different individuals receiving awards this year, one of which won Rookie of the Year [Hodgins]. We went undefeated in the regular season, so it just goes to show the quality of coaching and organization we had this year. I couldn’t have asked for better people to surround myself with in my last career match for Fanshawe, especially playing for Mike Marcoccia, simply the best coach I’ve worked with. The lengths he goes to for his players is incomparable, which shows how much we fight on the field for him in return.”

As for the season coming to an end, Kovacevic has mixed emotions.

“It’s a bitter-sweet feeling that it’s done, but I’m on to the next step in my career and I’m really excited for what’s to come. Only looking forward.”

Every year, Fanshawe manages to find gems or diamonds in the rough, either way they always shine when it matters most. With soccer finished for the season, both teams have positives to look back on, both together as a team and individually.