ROCKLIN, Calif. - The Jessup Women's Soccer team closed out their 2025 home season schedule at Warrior Field Saturday, battling Chaminade University to a hard-fought scoreless draw on an emotional Senior Day, 0-0.
Before the ball officially rolled, the Warriors took time to celebrate the six graduating members of the program: Abella Waterman, Celeste Fernandez, Oluwabukunmi Babatunde, Adelaide Mae Smith, Maylin Rivera, and Paulina Iniguez. The seniors were recognized in a special ceremony where their families joined them on the field to share cherished memories and present them with gifts, honoring their commitment and dedication to the program over the years.
The game itself was a defensive showcase, with neither side able to break through the opposing back line. Chaminade University generated a slight edge in total shots (12 to Jessup's 7) and shots on goal (7 to Jessup's 3), but the Warrior defense stood tall.
Senior goalkeeper Celeste Fernandez was exceptional in the net, recording an impressive seven saves. Fernandez's efforts, combined with the tireless work of the back four, stifled every Silversword attack, preserving the scoreless tie for the home side.
Jessup's offense showed moments of brilliance, pushing forward in the second half. Seniors Maylin Rivera, Abella Waterman, and Oluwabukunmi Babatunde all contributed to the attacking effort, generating pressure that forced Chaminade's keeper, Maddie Merrick, to make three saves.
Ultimately, 90 minutes were not enough to separate the two sides, leaving the final home match of the season a 0-0 tie. The result secures a strong finish for the Warriors as they bid farewell to their six valued seniors. Head Coach Amsalu Fantahun spoke of his departing seniors and game, "Huge congratulations to our seniors, what an incredible journey it's been! The team gave it everything to make this day special. We didn't convert our chances, but our fight, focus, and defensive effort were rock solid." He continued about the remainder of the season, "Proud of the grit and teamwork on display today. Two more away games to close out the season, we're locked in and ready to finish strong."
The Warriors are not done yet as they are on the road for their final two matchups of the season. Jessup makes a trip down to Southern California on Thursday, November 6th to visit Point Loma Nazarene University. Kick-off will be at 11:30 AM.
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Jessup University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division II and the PacWest Conference. For additional information regarding Jessup Athletics, visit www.jessupathletics.com; visit www.jessup.edu for more information on Jessup University. Follow Jessup Athletics on social media: Jessup University Athletics (Facebook) and @JessupAthletics (Instagram & X).
