By COLLYN COWLES Editor
WEBER STATE FOOTBALL: WHAT TO EXPECT THIS FALL
As the August heat bears down on Stewart Stadium, the Weber State University Wildcats are back on the field, ready to kick off the 2024 season under the guidance of head coach Mickey Mental. The Wildcats held their first fall practice on Aug. 1. With the season opener against the University of Washington looming on Aug. 31, Mental and his team are focused on building on last year’s successes while addressing the challenges that lie ahead.
Coming off a 6–5 season, Weber State is eager to return to the Football Championships Subdivision playoffs. The Wildcats finished last season with a strong three-game winning streak, highlighted by a victory over the fourth-ranked University of Idaho. That momentum, combined with a roster that
features nine returning starters, has Weber State ranked 22nd in the Stats Perform FCS Preseason Top 25 poll. This marks the eighth consecutive year the Wildcats have entered the season with a national ranking.
The quarterback position is one area where Weber State looks to build on last season’s late success. Sophomore Richie Munoz, who took over as the starting quarterback late in the 2023 season, returns with high expectations. Munoz ended last season with a breakout performance, throwing for 329 yards and five touchdowns against Cal Poly. Despite wearing a knee brace due to an offseason injury, Munoz has shown no signs of slowing down, connecting with wide receiver Jaden Thrower for a 45-yard touchdown during the first practice of fall camp.
“I truly believe we’re going to surprise a lot of people this year,” Munoz said. “Our focus is on taking care of the ball and playing great defense.”
Defense remains a cornerstone of Weber State’s game plan, led by junior defensive end Brayden Wilson, who was named to the Big Sky Preseason All-Conference team. Wilson, who led the Big Sky in tackles for loss last season, is joined by a talented group of defensive linemen, including Steven Bryant and sixth-year senior Zeke Birch. The Wildcats’ defensive secondary, though lacking the experience of recent years, is filled with potential, with players like Jalon Rock and Colorado State transfer Angel King expected to make significant contributions.
On the offensive line, Weber State faces the challenge of replacing several key players, including Noah Atagi and Andrew Carter. However, the addition of power-conference transfers such as Jason White from Oregon State and Hunter Deuel from Utah gives the Wildcats hope that they can maintain a strong presence in the trenches.
As the Wildcats prepare for a challeng-
ing schedule that includes non-conference matchups against Lamar, Northwestern State, and McNeese, as well as Big Sky road games at Montana and Sacramento State, the team’s depth and resilience will be tested. But with Mental at the helm and a roster filled with young talent hungry to prove themselves, Weber State is poised to make a statement in the 2024 season.
The Wildcats’ first home game is set for Sept. 7 against Portland State, marking the beginning of their Big Sky Conference play. Fans can expect an exciting season as Weber State looks to extend its streak of winning seasons and push for a return to the postseason. Season tickets are on sale now, and anticipation is building for what promises to be an action-packed year of Wildcat football.
FÚTBOL AMERICANO DE WEBER STATE: EXPECTATIVAS DE OTOÑO
POR NATHANAEL STOUT Traductor
POR COLLYN COWLES
Editor
Al caer a plomo el sol de agosto en el estadio Stewart, los Wildcats de la universidad Weber State están en el campo de nuevo, preparados para empezar la temporada de 2024 bajo la guía de jefe entrenador Mickey Mental. Los Wildcats tuvieron su primer entrenamiento el primero de agosto. Con el inminente partido principal de la temporada contra la universidad de Washington, Mental y su equipo están enfocados en construir sobre los éxitos del año pasado mientras que preparan para los desafíos venideros. Viendo de una temporada de 6–5, Weber State están ansiosos por regresar a los desempates de subdivisión del campeonato de fútbol americano. Los Wildcats terminaron la temporada pasada con una racha fuerte de tres partidos ganados, destacado por una victoria contra la universidad de Idaho, el rango cuatro. Ese impulso, combinado con un
equipo que incluye a nueve iniciadores que están regresando, ha dado a Weber State el rango de 22 del mejor 25 en la encuesta de pretemporada de Perform FCS. Esto marca el octavo año consecutivo que los Wildcats han empezado la temporada con un rango nacional.
La posición de quarterback es un área en que Weber State intenta construir sobre el éxito a finales de la temporada pasada. Richie Munoz, estudiante de segundo año que se encargó como quarterback inicial tarde en la temporada de 2023, regresa con expectativas altas. Munoz terminó la temporada con un desempeño notable, tirando 329 yardas y cinco touchdowns contra Cal Poly. A pesar de llevar una rodillera debido a una herida fuera de temporada, Munoz no ha mostrado un signo que va a pararse. Completó un pase con receptor Jaden Thrower de 45 yardas para un touchdown durante el primer entrenamiento del campamento de otoño.
“Verdaderamente creo que vamos a sorprender a muchos este año”, dijo Munoz. “Nuestro enfoque es cuidar de la pelota y tener una defensa excelente”.
La defensa permanece esencial en el plan
de juego de Weber State. Está dirigido por defensora de tercer año Brayden Wilson, que fue elegido por el equipo de todas las conferencias de pretemporada de Big Sky. Wilson, que se adelantó en número de tacles que causan una pérdida de yardas durante la temporada pasada en el Big Sky, está jugando con un grupo talentoso de defensores, incluyendo a Steven Bryant y el estudiante de sexto año Zeke Birch. Los secundarios de defensa de los Wildcats, aunque a ellos les falta la experiencia de otros años, están llenos de potencial. Es esperado que jugadores como Jalon Rock y Angel King, el cual se transfirió de Colorado State, hacen contribuciones significativas.
En la línea ofensiva, Weber State enfrenta el desafío de reemplazar a varios jugadores importantes, incluyendo a Noah Atagi y Andrew Cater. Sin embargo, la adición de transferencias de conferencias poderosas como Jason White de Oregon State y Hunter Deuel de Utah da esperanza a los Wildcats que puedan mantener una presencia fuerte en las trincheras.
Al preprarse los Wildcats para una programa que incluye partidos fuera de con-
ferencia contra Lamar, Northwestern State y McNeese, también como partidos de viaje del Big Sky en Montana State y Sacramento State, la profundidad y resiliencia del equipo se pondrán a prueba. Pero con Mental al mando y un equipo lleno de talento joven con un hambre de demostrar su valor, Weber State está en la posición de causar sensación en la temporada de 2024.
El primer partido en casa de los Wildcats está planeado para el 7 de septiembre contra Portland State, marcando el principio de su juego de la conferencia Big Sky. Aficionados pueden esperar una temporada emocionante mientras que Weber State intenta extender su racha de temporadas ganadas e impulsarse para regresar a la postemporada. Los pases de temporada están disponibles ahora, y la anticipación se aumenta para lo que promete ser un año de fútbol americano Wildcat lleno de acción.
WEBER STATE VOLLEYBALL
SETS UP FOR FALL 2024
By GAVIN NELSON Reporter
The words “acta non verba,” tattooed on Weber State University’s volleyball coach Jeremiah Larsen’s bicep, translates to “actions, not words” in Latin. Last season, they served as the team’s rallying cry. After a tough firstround performance in the conference tournament, star player Dani Richins suggested that Larsen make the phrase permanent.
“To be honest, part of me thought, ‘there’s no way this is going to happen,” Larsen said. “We weren’t playing well, had key injuries and players were dealing with nagging ailments. I figured it was just too steep a challenge, but I said it with the idea that it probably wouldn’t happen.”
The Wildcats defied the odds. After two nail-biting five-set victories against regular-season champion Sacramento State and Montana State, they emerged as conference champions.
Heading into the new season, the Wildcats
are fortunate to have multiple starters returning. However, they will be without two critical members of last year’s championship squad:
Makayla Sorensen, the team’s starting libero and an All-Conference First Team selection, and Richins, one of the most accomplished players in both Weber State and Big Sky Conference history.
Richins, the conference’s all-time leader in aces and a former All-American, leaves a significant void in the lineup.
“There are some massive holes to fill, not just in terms of their volleyball skills, but also their leadership and presence as teammates,” Larsen said.
One player poised to step into a larger role is Kate Payne, formerly Kate Standifird. Over the past 12 months, she has led the Big Sky in assists, earned First Team All-Big Sky honors and helped secure a conference championship. As the longest-tenured player on the team, Payne has witnessed the Wildcats’ recent successes firsthand.
“We know we can handle tough challeng-
es and always come out on top,” Payne said. “No matter what happens, we’ll push through and come out stronger on the other side.”
While the team has lost key players, they’ve also gained valuable assets. Weber State volleyball legend Rylin Roberts returned to Ogden in the spring as an assistant coach after playing two seasons of beach volleyball at the University of Louisiana-Monroe. This news thrilled Payne, who not only played alongside Roberts at Weber State but also grew up as her neighbor, playing volleyball and softball together at Lehi High School.
“She’s been a great asset to the team, and all the girls love having her around,” Payne said. “We’re excited to see what she can help us accomplish this year.”
The Wildcats will begin their title defense on Aug. 30 when they host a tournament with the Utah Tech Trailblazers and the Denver Pioneers.
Volleyball Setter, Kate Payne, posing for a photo with Championship rings.
SPOTLIGHT ON WEBER STATE FOOTBALL’S BRAYDEN WILSON
By COLLYN COWLES Editor
Weber State University junior defensive end Brayden Wilson has emerged as a cornerstone of the Wildcats’ defense, earning recognition that reflects his impact on the field. Named to the Big Sky Preseason All-Conference team, Wilson enters the 2024 season with a resume that speaks volumes about his talent, determination and leadership.
Wilson, a Kaysville native and a graduate of Farmington High School, has been with the Weber State football program since spring 2021. Over the years, he has developed into a formidable presence on the defensive line, earning second-team All-Big Sky honors last season after leading the conference with 16.5 tackles for loss. That impressive stat also placed him No. 11 nationally and marked the 10th-highest single-season total in Weber State history. Wilson’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses was further highlighted by his 7.5 sacks, ranking No. 6 in the Big Sky and No. 27 in the nation.
The 2024 season highlights Wilson as the only returning Wildcat who earned All-Big Sky honors in 2023. His journey to becoming one of the most feared defensive players in the conference has been one of consistent growth and dedication.
Since making his debut in the spring 2021 season, Wilson has appeared in 25 career games, accumulating 81 total tackles, 23.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks. His performances against top-tier competition, such as his eight-tackle games against the University of Utah and California Polytechnic State University and his two-sack effort against Montana State, have cemented his reputation as a game-changer.
“I’m just trying to be the guy that they can
rely on if they need to come to for anything, whether it’s personal or football,” Wilson said. “When it comes to my teammates, I’m an open book, so if they want to talk about anything personal, I’m open, and then when they need help on the field, I’ll take them off and help them with it. Anything they need, I’m here for.”
Wilson’s journey has been marked by both individual and team achievements. As a redshirt freshman in 2022, he played in all 13 games, helping lead the Wildcats to a 10-win season and a second-round appearance in the Football Championship Subdivision Playoffs. During that campaign, he recorded 28 total tackles, seven tackles for loss and one sack, along with four quarterback hurries. These early contributions laid the groundwork for his breakout junior season.
In addition to his preseason All-Big Sky recognition, he was recently named a Stats Perform FCS Preseason All-American, earning a spot on the Third Team. He is the only player from an FCS school in Utah to receive this prestigious honor, underscoring his status as one of the most elite defensive players in the country.
“I can just come here, have fun, hit someone and then after all of it, that’s when I can worry about life,” Wilson said.
As the Wildcats prepare to kick off the 2024 season on Aug. 31 against the University of Washington, Wilson’s presence on the field will be critical to their success. Head coach Mickey Mental and the Weber State faithful count on his leadership and playmaking ability as they navigate a challenging schedule that includes key matchups against Portland State University, McNeese State University, University of Northern Colorado, Idaho State University and Cal Poly.
TOP: Defensive end Brayden Wilson (94) facing a tackle from an opposing player. BOTTOM: Safety Naseme Colvin is congratulated by teammates Spencer Niutupuivaha (left), Winston Reid (right) and Brayden Wilson (middle).
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WEBER STATE HOCKEY PREPARES FOR NEW SEASON
By GAVIN NELSON Reporter
On March 15, the Indiana State University men’s ice hockey team celebrated on the ice at the Centene Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights, Missouri. The Hoosiers had just won the American Collegiate Hockey Association Division II National Championship, culminating all their hard work during the season. As they celebrated, they looked up to the stands and saw Weber State University’s hockey team cheering them on.
Weber State also competes in the ACHA in Division II. The ACHA is divided into four regions: Central, Southeast, Northeast and West. The top two teams in each region at the end of the season automatically qualify
for the national tournament, while the remaining teams must compete in a regional tournament. The final two teams from each regional tournament also qualify for the national tournament, meaning each region sends four teams. The 16 teams are then divided into four pools, each with four teams. After round-robin play within the pools, the winner of each pool advances to the Final Four, where a single-elimination bracket determines the champion.
Weber State finished last season ranking No. 2 in the West Region, earning an automatic bid to the national tournament and bypassing the regional tournament, which has historically been a challenge for the Wildcats.
In the national tournament, Weber State was placed in a pool with Michigan State Uni-
versity, Northeastern University and Indiana. The Wildcats were eliminated from championship contention after losing to Indiana and Michigan State. However, in their final game against Northeastern, forward Rob Simmons connected with forward Jacobi Clark, who scored the game-winning goal in overtime. This victory allowed Indiana to advance to the Final Four. Following their overtime win over Miami University in the championship game, the Hoosiers thanked the Wildcats for helping them reach that point.
As the Wildcats enter this season, they will be without a few key players. Captain Bryon Fobair, who was named to the All-Region First Team last season, along with his alternate captains Cole VanOrman and Jacob Besnilian, all graduated. However, due to their suc-
cess last season, the Wildcats were able to recruit some talented new players. Jack Jones, who succeeded Fobair as captain, is excited about the new additions to the team.
“It’s just one of those kinds of gaps that you have to try and fill with new guys on the roster,” Jones said. “But I mean, our coaching staff — especially Yosh — they are so good at recruiting and bringing in the right guys that fit and can fill those shoes of the guys on the rosters that we did lose.”
The Wildcats will kick off their season on Sept. 13 against their rival, Utah State University, at 7:15 p.m. at the Ice Sheet. Admission is free for students.
LEFT: Defensemen Jack Jones skating with the puck in his possession. Photo taken in Oct. 2022. TOP: Jack Jones, a Weber State hockey player, attempting to get possesion of the puck from the other team.
WEBER STATE WOMEN’S SOCCER MISSES THE GOAL
By COLLYN COWLES Editor
Weber State women’s soccer is set to start the 2024-25 season with renewed determination and optimism. After a challenging 2023-24 campaign, where the Wildcats finished 1–9–5 overall and 1–3–4 in Big Sky Conference play, the team is ready to make a strong comeback.
In a preseason exhibition on Aug. 9, the Wildcats secured a 5–1 victory over Salt Lake Community College, demonstrating their potential for the season. Despite a 45-minute rain delay, Weber State struck early, with Brynlee Meyerhoffer scoring just over five minutes into the game, assisted by Josie DeLine. Samantha Kearns doubled the lead with an unassisted goal, and Ali Swensen added a third before halftime.
Salt Lake Community College managed to score just before the break, but the Wildcats dominated the second half. Sammie Sofonia extended the lead in the 61st minute, assisted by Ella Sanders, and Grace Kirby-Hortin sealed the win with a goal in the 81st minute. The Wildcats’ defense was solid, allowing only two shots, with goalkeeper Hadley Harris making one save.
“We put in a lot of hard work this week,” Sanders said. “Everyone got a chance to play, and our younger players really stepped up. It was a strong start for us.”
The Wildcats officially began their season on Aug. 15 at home against Utah Tech, resulting in a 1–1 draw.
On Aug. 18, they earned another 1–1 draw on the road against San Diego State, bringing their record to 0–0–2. Swensen scored the equalizer off an assist from Sayler Schlosser in the 67th minute. Goalkeepers Maya Cordova and Hadley Harris led the defense, with Cordova making one save in the first half and Harris facing four shots in the first six minutes of the second half. Weber State recorded 10 shots, with Swensen leading the effort with four. Sofonia and Kirby-Hortin each contributed two shots, and DeLine and Sanders each added one.
The Wildcats continued their California road trip with a 2–1 loss to Fresno State on Aug. 22, dropping their record to 0–1–2.
Swensen scored from a penalty kick in the first half, but the Wildcats couldn’t maintain their lead. Fresno State tied the game late in the first half and won with a goal in the last minute. Weber State tallied nine shots, with six on target.
On Aug. 25, the Wildcats fell 2–1 to California State University, Bakersfield, bringing their record to 0–2–2. An own goal by Bakersfield off a corner kick from Schlosser gave Weber State the lead, but the Roadrunners corrected with two goals. Cordova recorded eight saves in the match.
With 21 games scheduled over 12 weeks, the Wildcats are looking to build momen-
tum as they approach their Big Sky Conference opener against Northern Colorado on Sept. 27.
Off the field, the Wildcats excel academically, earning the title of Big Sky Team Academic Champions for 2023-24. With a combined GPA of 3.75, the team posted the highest academic performance among all women’s soccer teams in the conference, reflecting the discipline and excellence promoted by head coach Craig Sanders.
As the new season unfolds, the Weber State women’s soccer team is determined to overcome last year’s struggles and make a significant impact in the Big Sky Conference.
With a balanced mix of experienced players and promising newcomers, the Wildcats are poised for a competitive and exciting season, ready to prove themselves both on the field and in the classroom.
The Wildcats faced Texas Tech on Aug. 29 at 6 p.m. The next home game for the ‘Cats will be against the University of the Pacific on Sept. 5 in Stockton, California.
Andelin Binford and Sayler Schlosser competing against Idaho’s team on Sept. 22, 2022.
FÚTBOL FEMENINO DE WEBER STATE PIERDE EL GOL
POR NELLY HERNANDEZ TEJADA
Traductor
POR VICTORIA HERNANDEZ
Traductor
POR COLLYN COWLES Editor
El equipo femenino de fútbol en Weber State están listos para comenzar la temporada de 2024-2025 con una mentalidad de optimismo y determinación renovada. Después de una campaña difícil en 20232024, cuando los Wildcats terminaron con un puntaje de 1-9 en general y 1-3-4 en el juego de Big Sky Conference, el equipo está listo para crear una remontada fuerte.
En una exhibición antes de la temporada el 9 de agosto, los Wildcats ganaron con un puntaje de 5-1 contra Salt Lake Community College, demostrando su potencial para esta temporada. Aunque había un retraso de 45 minutos porque comenzó a llover, Weber State tomó esa oportunidad con Brynlee Meyerhoffer anotando después de cinco minutos, con asistencia de Josie DeLine. Samantha Kearns dobló el puntaje con un gol sin asistencia, y Ali Swensen anotó el tercero antes de la media parte.
Salt Lake Community College pudo anotar justo antes del descanso, pero los Wildcats dominaron el segundo periodo. Sammie Sofonia aumentó la ventaja en el minuto 61, con asistencia de Ella Sanders, y Grace Kirby-Hortin aseguró el triunfo con un gol en el minuto 81. La defensa de los Wildcats fue firme, y sólo permitió dos tiros, con la guardameta Hadley Harris salvando un gol.
“Pusimos tanto esfuerzo “ dijo Sanders. “Todos tuvieron una oportunidad para jugar, y nuestros jugadores jóvenes realmente han mejorado. Fue un comienzo fuerte para nosotros”.
Los Wildcats oficialmente comenzaron su temporada el 15 de agosto contra Utah Tech, resultando en un empate con un puntaje de 1-1.
El 18 de agosto recibieron otro empate con un puntaje de 1-1 contra San Diego State, haciendo su récord a 0-0-2. Swensen
anotó el gol del empate con una asistencia de Sayler Schlosser en el minuto 67. Los guardametas Maya Cordova y Hadley Harris guiaron la defensa, con Cordova salvando un gol en la primera mitad del partida y Harris enfrenta cuatro tiros en los primeros seis minutos durante la segunda mitad del partido. Weber State anotó 10 goles, con Swensen anotando cuatro goles. Sofonia y Kirby-Hortin contribuyeron con dos goles, y DeLine y Sanders añadiendo un gol cada uno.
Los Wildcats seguían en California y perdieron contra Fresno State por 2-1 en el 22 de agosto, reduciendo su récord a 0-1-2. Swensen anotó un penal en la primera mitad, pero los Wildcats no pudieron mantener la ventaja. Swensen marcó de penalti en la primera parte, pero los Wildcats no pudieron mantener la delantera. Fresno State empató el partido al final de la primera mitad y ganó
en el último minuto. Weber State anotó nueve goles, seis de ellos directos.
El 25 de agosto, los Wildcats cayeron 2-1 contra la Universidad de California State, Bakersfield, dejando su récord a 0-2-2. Un gol propio de Bakersfield a la salida de la esquina de Schlosser le dio a Weber State una ventaja, pero los Roadrunners lograron remontar con dos goles. Cordova anotó ocho goles durante el partido.
Con 21 partidos organizados durante 12 semanas, los Wildcats buscan adquirir fuerza al acercarse a su primer partido en el Big Sky Conference, contra Northern Colorado, el 27 de septiembre.
Fuera del juego, los Wildcats brillan académicamente, ganando el título de Big Sky Academic Champions 2023-24. Con un GPA combinado de 3,75, el equipo registró el rendimiento académico más alto entre todos los equipos de fútbol femenino de
la conferencia, lo que refleja la disciplina y la excelencia promovida por el entrenador Craig Sanders.
Mientras comienza la nueva temporada, el equipo femenino de fútbol de Weber State está determinado a superar las dificultades del año pasado y tener un impacto significativo en la Big Sky Conference. Con un balance de jugadoras experimentadas y nuevas promesas, las Wildcats están preparadas para una temporada competitiva y emocionante, listas para demostrar su capacidad tanto en el campo como en las aulas. Los Wildcats se enfrentaron contra Texas Tech el 29 de Agosto a las 6 de la tarde. El próximo partido en casa de los Wildcats será contra La Universidad del Pacifico el 5 de septiembre en Stockton, California.
Weber State Women’s Soccer Defense, Shea Christiansen (14), dribbling the ball away from the UNLV Rebels.
weber.edu/wildcatwelcome
SPOTLIGHT ON MEN’S CROSS-COUNTRY’S BRYCE ANDERSON
By BRAYSON BROWN Reporter
Bryce Anderson is a senior at Weber State University and a member of the men’s cross-country team. Anderson has been a member of the team since he was a freshman, so he has had his fair share of memorable moments along the journey. One of his personal favorites has been traveling with the team. Anderson is an athlete who cares about his teammates and their success as a group over himself. He has cherished the time he has spent with his teammates. Another favorite moment of his was the conference championship in 2022 at Montana State University. He enjoyed the camaraderie and success as a team, which made that instance special to him.
Since Anderson’s freshman year, he has felt that he has grown drastically as both an athlete and a person.
“The team culture is very positive, and we help each other a lot to grow and be better athletes and Coach Talley helps a lot with that,” Anderson said. “He sets a good example and sets high expectations for all of us.”
Anderson competes in a diverse range of events, from the 400 meters in track to the 7K in cross-country. To prepare for these events, he said understanding your race and doing a lot of race prep is crucial. The team meets with a mental coach to help them get in the right headspace, especially for the longer runs in cross-country.
Anderson explained what practices are like for cross-country. They get together as a group to run, then afterward, they do poststrides and post-run routines. On other days, they do tempo runs, maintaining a certain pace to push their aerobic thresholds and get fitter.
Most athletes experience challenges on the way to success. Anderson suffered injuries and had an iron deficiency his freshman year, but he was determined to come back stronger, focusing on himself both physically and mentally to recover and become the athlete he is.
Anderson’s goals for his final season are for
the group to compete well at conference and regional championships so they can advance to the NCAA championship. His personal goal is to travel with the team and compete at some of the bigger events, placing in the top five. As a senior, he hopes the culture of the team remains the same and that cama-
raderie and fellowship become the norm for the organization.
Anderson credits head coach Corbin Talley for the belief he has in his athletes and the care he has for each one of them. He also credits his teammates for always being there for him and cheering each other on. Ander-
son values the relationships he has made with his teammates and coaches.
Anderson and the rest of the men’s cross-country team start their season on Aug. 31 in Logan at the Utah State Alumni Challenge.
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Weber State University Mid Distance runner, Bryce Anderson at the UTech Track and Field Invite Day 1.
SPOTLIGHT ON WOMEN’S CROSS-COUNTRY’S SAGA HAGELIN
By BRAYSON BROWN Reporter
Weber State University’s women’s cross-country team is looking to start the season with a bang; their first meet will take place at the Utah Valley Invitational on Aug. 30. The team’s top results last year came at the Montana Invitational, where they took second, and the Utah Valley Invitational, where they placed third.
Saga Hagelin is an international athlete from Gothenburg, Sweden. In 2023, Hagelin competed in the Big Sky Championships in the 3,000 meters and distance medley relay. She finished tenth in the 3,000 with a time of 9:45.61 and sixth in the DMR.
“I think Coach P [Pilkington] does a really good job with the training,” Hagelin said. “I also like the training environment and my teammates.”
The women’s cross-country team has been recognized for excelling both on the track and in the classroom. Hagelin takes pride in the team’s commitment to sports and academics.
“We are high-achieving,” Hagelin said. “We want to do our best in both sports and school.”
Hagelin’s goals are to score points at the conference championships and help the team place better. She also wants to place better personally than she did last year and set new personal records. Hagelin’s PRs include 9:39.02 in the 3,000 meters, 17:48.9 in the 5K, 22:05.6 in the 6K, and 18:53.1 in the 3-mile.
Some of Hagelin’s favorite moments at Weber State have been going to cross-country races with her teammates. As a group, they also went to a baseball game in Chicago to strengthen their bond. Hagelin’s favorite races to run are the 3K and the steeplechase. She enjoys the smaller races more, something we both have in common. Her advice to newcomers is to “enjoy it and take advantage of the opportunity they get to run collegiately.”
Women’s Cross Country runner Saga Hagelin posing for a photo on the football field.
WEBER STATE MEN’S SOCCER: JOIN THE CLUB
BY WIKTORIA KOLODZIEJCZYK Reporter
Weber State University’s Men’s Soccer Club is gearing up for an exciting season, with its first game set for Sept. 6 at home against the University of Utah. This match marks the beginning of a season full of opportunities for players to showcase their skills and represent Weber State in men’s competitive soccer. The club’s primary goal is to provide students with the chance to play high-level soccer while representing their university. The club offers an environment where members can stay in shape, build lasting friendships and develop leadership skills. It’s not just about the game — it’s about making the most of the college experience. Being part of the club means serving the community, participating in leadership activities and being part
of something bigger than oneself.
“When you start to play a little more competitive ball — for instance, college soccer — you think it’s 100% competitive and 0% fun, but the more I play for Weber, the more fun I find I have,” left wing Taggert Ralphs said.
For those interested in joining the team, the club holds tryouts every August to fill the roster for the school year. The club also offers open training sessions during the summer where anyone interested in trying out can hone their skills and prepare for the upcoming season. If a student wishes to join midseason, email inquiries are welcomed.
The soccer club is organized into two teams: the purple team (A team) and the black team (B team). The purple team will compete in the West Coast Soccer Association’s Club Collegiate Soccer League, with hopes of qualifying for regional and national
club soccer championships. The black team, while slightly less competitive, plays friendlies against other universities and adult soccer clubs. They are also looking forward to a travel college club soccer tournament, possibly in California or Tucson, providing additional opportunities for competition and growth.
The team trains approximately two to three days a week, with matches scheduled once or twice a week, depending on the game schedule and team assignments. This rigorous training schedule ensures that players are well-prepared for the challenges they will face throughout the season.
To cap off last season, the men’s soccer team got an automatic bid into the national tournament in Round Rock, Texas. The men’s soccer team finished first in their group stage with two wins and a draw. The Wildcats faced
off against the University of Cincinnati in the quarterfinals. The University of Cincinnati defeated Weber State 2–1
“After we got a taste of Nationals, we don’t want anything else,” Ralphs said. “We’re 100% going to go and to try our best to make sure that we go.”
It’s important to note that this club should not be mistaken for intramurals. Weber State’s Men’s Soccer Club is designed for students who are serious about soccer and want to be part of a competitive program. This club is for those who are committed to making soccer a significant part of their college experience, not for casual players looking for a leisurely activity.
The team will kick off its season against the University of Utah on Sept. 6 and Boise State University on Sept. 7.
LEFT: Taggert Ralphs getting ready to kick the ball down the field. RIGHT: Taggert Ralphs keeping an eye on the ball during a soccer game.
PETER INGMAN
PETER INGMAN
By GAVIN NELSON Reporter
During the 2024 Summer Olympics, the world’s top athletes achieved feats of athletic excellence. The U.S. hosts the world champions of men’s and women’s basketball, along with women’s soccer. New Zealand claims the world champions of women’s rugby, Spain claims the world champions of men’s soccer and so on. But Weber State University hosts the world champions of hip-hop dance after winning the International Cheer Union World Championships.
On April 26, the WSU Dance Team, chosen to represent Team USA at the ICU World Championships in the hip-hop category, won the gold medal at the event, beating teams from England and Mexico.
“We really showed out and represented the U.S. so strong and we got to bring home that gold,” WSU dance coach Erica Jordan said. “Honestly, it was an experience that I will never forget.”
TEAM USA: WILDCAT WORLD CHAMPIONS
Jordan, who won gold at the world championships when she was a dancer at Arizona State University, was excited to see the other side of winning gold.
“As an athlete, I kind of knew what to expect, but as a coach, I had never experienced it,” Jordan said.
Last season was also special to Jordan, as she was able to coach her younger brother, Carter Williams.
“It’s been honestly amazing because what a blessing it is to have someone that you love truly, and to also share a passion with and also help lead a team to success,”
Jordan said.
Williams, a successful dancer in his own right — finishing in the top six on the hit Fox show “So You Think You Can Dance” in 2022 — could have gone pro like his childhood friend Rylee Arnold, who is now a professional dancer on “Dancing with the Stars.” However, he came to Weber last season because he wanted to finish his degree.
“I wanted to finish it out and graduate,” Williams said. “I wanted to get a degree. That’s super important to me.”
But Williams knew there was more to be done, coming back for one last year with the Wildcats.
“This is my senior, final year of college, so I just knew I had to finish it out strong, and I knew that there was going to be something special about this upcoming year, and I have not been let down one bit,” Williams said.
The Wildcats lost many great dancers from last year, whether due to graduation, getting into dance coaching, or serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Fortunately, some great dancers joined the team as well.
Jordan has a lot of confidence in the new faces, saying, “The rookies who are new to our team have really stepped up and been like, ‘You know, you’ve achieved so much last year that we don’t want to let anyone down and push further.’”
The team will once again represent Team USA this fall when they head to Ottawa, Ontario, for the 2024 ICU Pan-American Championships in September. WSU students will also be able to watch their world champions at home sporting events.
The Weber State dance team performing at half-time.
Women’s Soccer VS U of U
Women’s Soccer VS Colorado Men’s Golf Invitational
Women’s Soccer VS Utah State Women’s Golf Invitational
Men’s Golf Invitational
Women’s Golf Invitational
Women’s Volleyball VS Utah Valley
Men’s Golf Women’s Golf...
Women’s Soccer
Men’s Golf Invitational
Women’s Golf Invitational Softball VS Utah Valley
Men’s Tennis VS Air Force ALL Golf Invitationals
THE SIGNPOST TEAM
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ALL XC Invitational
Men’s Golf Softball Football Volleyball
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Men’s Tennis VS Air Force
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