By: Kate Nordhaus
The Howard Payne University soccer teams are off to different starts as the Yellow Jackets continue their early-season schedules.
The HPU women’s soccer team opened the season with an impressive 3-0 record, getting wins over Austin College, LeTourneau University and the University of Dallas. They started with a 4-0 shutout against Austin College before defeating LeTourneau 1-0 and Dallas 4-1. Through three games, HPU has outscored its opponents 9-1.
This strong start led to recognition for two Lady Jackets. Madison LaDart was named the American Southwest Conference Offensive Player of the Week, and goalkeeper Landry Combs was selected as the ASC Defensive Player of the Week. LaDart contributed one goal and two assists through three games, while Combs helped anchor an HPU defense that has allowed just one goal and six saves.
Combs, a graduate student in the SWELL program, said that it feels great to be recognized.
“Those shutouts and wins are just as much a reflection of my team and back line as they are of me,” she said. “ I’m really proud of how we’ve been playing together defensively and the way everyone has bought into doing their job for the team. I think being named this is a reflection of the hard work we’ve all put into the team.”
However, the men’s soccer team is 0-2 after losing on the road to LeTourneau and the University of Dallas. The Yellow Jackets fell 2-1 to LeTourneau and lost 4-1 to Dallas. Xzavier Saldana has scored both of HPU’s goals so far this season, including the team’s one goal against Dallas.
Both teams will look to build on their early-season performances as the schedule continues. The women return home Sept. 11 to face Centenary College, while the men continue their road trip against Penn State Berks on Sept. 10.