Soccer seniors wrap up four "unforgettable" years

The MVNU women’s soccer team said goodbye to seven seniors when the season ended last month. Those graduating are goalkeeper Ashley Flautt, defender Olivia Boldoser, midfielder Emily Heaton, forward Allison Paley, defender Shannon Gwynn, midfielder Faith Orecchio and midfielder Bethany Bogantz.

The seven seniors have been given NAIA and NSCAA Team Academic Awards all four years, the NSCAA Team Ethics and Sportsmanship Award (achieving a program-high NAIA National Ranking of 14th in the nation). They have also performed a multitude of community service projects, reflecting a tremendous impact on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.

Bogantz said the last four years have been “truly unforgettable.”

“I have been pushed, stretched, encouraged, and loved by my amazing teammates and coaches,” she said.

Flautt said she has spent the last four years learning about herself and God.

“My favorite thing about my four years as a Lady Cougar is the relationships I have built,” Flautt said. “It’s so comforting to know that I have an army of sisters always there to support, pray, and laugh with me. I’m so thankful to have been able to play this wonderful game with wonderful people who mean the world to me.”

Boldoser said MVNU and the soccer program developed her as a person.

“This program has meant so much to me. It has not only shaped me into who I am today, but it has also helped me find lifelong friends,” Boldoser said. “This is more than just a program, it is a family. I love each and every one of these girls.”

Heaton said she is thankful for the MVNU coaches.

“This team is my family and I am honored to be a part of it,” Heaton said. “I am very thankful for Coach (Dan Seiffert) and Papa Coach [Rick Seiffert] and everything they have taught me.

Paley said she leaves the program with great memories.

“This team has brought immense character growth, learning time management, and brought incredible memories with some unforgettable girls and coaches,” Paley said.

Gwynn agreed, saying MVNU soccer has “meant the world to me.”

“I have loved playing soccer, competing at this level, and learning under such an amazing coaching staff,” she said.

Orecchio also praised the coaches for their knowledge and intensity.

“I will always cherish the amazing memories I have made. I’m grateful to have played with my sisters and for two passionate coaches,” she said.

Coach Dan Seiffert said he is honored to have been able to coach these seven girls. “It has been an absolute joy and honor getting to work with these young women over the past four years,” he said. “I have seen great growth, maturity, love, and concern for others constantly being displayed by these young ladies.

“This has been one of the top classes to come through our program in all of my time here,” Seiffert said.