Women's soccer celebrates All-Region honorees
Four Western Iowa Tech women's soccer players earned All-Region honors for their exceptional play as voted by the coaches of the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference and Region XI.
Brenda Villacres made the first team, Alexa Delatorre the second, and both Zoe Wiggall and Emma Jolly were honorable mentions.
"Their hard work, dedication and exceptional skills have truly paid off, and I couldn't be prouder of their accomplishments," head coach Eddie Vongsiprasom said. "This achievement not only reflects their individual success but also highlights the strength and unity of our team ... to have four players honored the first year of the program is a true testament that WIT is doing things right."
Villacres was the Comets top playmaker this season. The freshman from Ecuador led the team with six assists and was tied for third with two goals, both coming in a 4-0 home win against Marshalltown on Sept. 30. Her 10 total points was also first on the team.
Vongsiprasom praised Villacres' versatility and willingness to contribute to her team from anywhere on the field.
"Brenda's inclusion on the first team is a well-deserved honor that recognizes her exceptional versatility, love for the game and heart on the field," he said. "Her ability to play multiple positions and make a significant impact in each on has set her apart as a standout player in the region.
"Brenda's future in the sport looks incredibly promising."
Delatorre, a freshman centerfielder from South Sioux City, Nebraska, had three goals and two assists this season. She claimed the first goal in program history when she scored in the first half against Metropolitan CC on September 5. Delatorre also scored the lone goal in a 1-1 draw with Gillette College on October 2.
"Alexa has made a significant impact on her team as a team captain and a trailblazer for the program," Vongsiprasom said. "Being the first player to score a goal for the program is a remarkable achievement that showcases her skill and determination.
"Her contributions to the team have been instrumental in securing victories and pushing her team to new heights."
Zoe Wiggall was a constant for a new program working to find its identity during the season. The sophomore goalkeeper from Scotland made 10.44 saves per match over nine starts for the Comets.
Wiggall saved a season-high 17 shots on goal against the Iowa Western Reivers, NJCAA Division I's top-ranked team all season. She stopped 15 shots on goal in a 1-0 loss to North Iowa Area CC on October 14.
Vongsiprasom spoke highly of Wiggall's character, and the stability she brought to the field every day.
"Zoe's presence in the goal has undoubtedly made a significant impact on her team's performance, providing them with a solid last line of defense," he said. "As a goalkeeper, Zoe has taken on one of the most challenging positions in the game, where every mistake is magnified on the scoreboard. Despite the pressure and responsibility that comes with being a goalkeeper, Zoe has shown remarkable resilience and determination."
Jolly made the most of a limited season that was cut short due to injuries. The freshman forward from Scotland scored four goals in seven games to lead the Comets attack. Jolly scored two against Scott CC in a 9-0 home win on September 16.
"When Emma was able to play, her impact on the field was undeniable," Vongsiprasom said. "Her technical skills, tactical awareness, and ability to read the game set her apart as a standout player. Emma's presence on the field brought a level of creativity and flair to her team's play."
Vongsiprasom appreciated each player's commitment to building WIT soccer.
"This recognition is a testament to their talent and the countless hours they have invested in honing their craft," Vongsiprasom said. "It is an absolute privilege to coach such a talented group of individuals, and I am grateful to be a part of their journey."