What a difference a week makes–or maybe it’s weaker competition.
After a hard fought opening weekend for both the men’s and women’s soccer Dinos, a home-and-home series against the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns was just what the doctor ordered–especially for a pair of talented sophomores.
Star second-year striker Stephanie Hoogveld and her three-goal weekend garnered the nod as Canada West Women’s Soccer Player of the Week. Despite a stellar rookie campaign last year, this is Hoogveld’s first ever weekly nod.
On the men’s side, the news was even better.
Adam McDonald, a second-year midfielder who is also co-captain of the young Dinos squad, matched his female counterpart and took it one step further, capturing Canada West Male Athlete of the Week to complement his weekly soccer honours. A-Mac, as he is known to teammates, announcers and devoted fans, also tallied three markers against the hapless ‘Horns, adding a pair of assists and a yellow card for good measure.
"I’m pretty honoured, it’s nothing I ever expected" he said. "Never all season did I expect to do that, it feels great."
His teammates were quick to sing his praises as well.
"It’s great to see A-Mac realizing his potential," said teammate Colin Smith. "We all knew he was a great player, but his attitude has changed over the last while and it’s great to see it pay dividends."
McDonald, Hoogveld and the rest of the Dinos will look to continue their success Sept. 27 and 28 at Foothills Stadium as they host the University of Victoria Vikes and the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds.