Courtesy of CBU Athletics Noah Oyler, sophomore business administartion major and men’s soccer team goalkeeper, tries to prevent the ball from getting past him and into the net during a game in the fall season. Oyler received the PacWest Defender of the Week honor and was named the Altura Credit Union Athlete of the Week. Oyler has focused this season on maintaining composure between the posts.
The men’s soccer team’s season is underway at California Baptist University, having already defeated top-ranked opponents and a major contribution to the success of the team is Noah Oyler.
Having started playing soccer at 8 years old through AYSO, Oyler, sophomore business administration major and keeper, played different positions all over the field. However, at 11 years old, he was put in goal for the first time. Since then, Oyler has strived to put in all the work that he could.
Gregg Schroeder, head coach of the team, said Oyler has been a asset in the team’s success.
“Noah is a great teammate and has turned into a very good keeper,” Schroeder said. “He has made some very good saves at crucial times during games that have either kept us in the game or allowed us to keep momentum in our favor.”
Oyler said he’s worked on improving his game since last season and it has shown. Already this season, he was awarded the PacWest Defender of the Week honor and was named the Altura Credit Union Athlete of the Week.
“When I found out about the Defender of the Week honor, I was honestly surprised,” he said. “I don’t ever go into games trying to win awards or be recognized. I don’t think I did anything special in the two games I received recognition for. If anything, it was a team award and should be given to my defenders.”
Coming up in the game against University of California, San Diego Sept. 12, Oyler kept the Tritons scoreless, coming out with a 3-0 win, the first of the season.
Schroeder said that Oyler has a big heart for the team and is always willing to help.
“He’s one of the guys who is always the first to help off-field,” he said. “He is always last to leave practice because he’s helping put away equipment. We’re blessed to have him as part of our Lancer family.”
Oyler said he is happy to be at CBU.
“I feel blessed with the opportunity I have been given. I try to learn everyday,” he said. “When I do get the opportunity to play, I say a prayer and leave the best that I have out on the field and leave the rest to God.”
