Images by purpleeagles.com
By Franklin Heinzmann
NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. – It’s been quite the semester thus far for many sports teams at NU, one that’s been filled with highs and lows. As it can be tough to make it to every sporting event, and keep up with every team that’s in season right now, here is a quick update on how each team is doing at the moment
Volleyball – 6-11 (5-2), 3rd in the MAAC
The Volleyball team is on a roll. After hitting some turbulence to start out the season in non-conference play, they’ve won five of their last seven games – all over MAAC opponents. A few Purple Eagles rank high amongst their competitors. Setter Jessica Streuer is fifth in the MAAC with 7.74 average assists per set (min 5.00/Set). Defensive Specialis Emille Wright and Jaycie Roberts are eighth and ninth in the MAAC respectively in the digs category. Their next home game is Oct. 26 vs. Iona.
Men’s Soccer – 4-8-1 (2-2-1), 5th in the MAAC
The Men’s Soccer team has had a rollercoaster of a season thus far. Earlier in the season they were outscored 13-3 during a four game losing streak. The Purple Eagles then rebounded with a three game winning streak, including a win over Big 4 rival St. Bonaventure. The team is currently on a three game winless streak. Goalkeeper Josh Savoni and forward Rodrigo Almeida have been lighting it up this season. Savoni is first in the MAAC in save percentage (.795) and Almeida is tied for fourth in the MAAC for goals (5). The next time they’re at Niagara Field is on Sept. 26 for a Senior Night bout against Saint Peter’s.
Women’s Soccer – 6-6-2 (2-4-1), 6th in the MAAC
The Women’s Soccer team has been on a bit of a slide after starting the season 4-1-1. Much like the Men’s Soccer team, they’re winless in their last three games. On the bright side the Purple Eagles have been flawless at home, they’re 4-0-1 in games played at Niagara Field this season. Forward Annie Ibey leads the team in goals (5). Kelsey Araujo and Hailey Bicknell both have three assists, which lead the team. The Purple Eagles and the Siena Saints are tied for sixth in the MAAC, and the two of them face off in NU’s next home game on Oct. 23.
Statistics as of Oct. 18, 2019