Lauren Boone
Sports Editor
Although the season has just begun, defender Mayowa Alli ’14 is starting off his senior year with a bang. Following his selection as one of three team captains, Alli was chosen to be on the Men’s Soccer 2013 Preseason All-Patriot League Team.
Alli had a stunning 2011 season. As a sophomore, he started every game as left back. Furthermore, he scored seven goals and 16 points, leading his squad and ranking second in the Patriot League for both categories that season. These statistics earned him a reputation as a tough, athletic defender who was key to finishing set plays. He was honored with a selection to First Team All-Patriot League and Second Team All-Mid-Atlantic Region.
Alli’s momentum continued into the 2012 season. He was named to the Men’s Soccer Preseason All-Patriot League Team in 2012, as well. In 15 games, Alli posted two goals and one assist as a defender before a shoulder injury ended his season early. As a result, Alli missed the last five games of the regular season.
“My selection to the Men’s Soccer Pre-Season All-Patriot League Team was a pleasant surprise considering the fact that I had been injured for a large portion of the season last fall. However, putting it into perspective, it doesn’t mean much if I don’t perform and help my team become successful,” Alli said.
Clearly, Alli has his team’s success as his first priority. The squad ranks sixth in the now 10-team league. Despite the challenging schedule, Alli and his team have high hopes and goals for the upcoming season.
“Looking into the season I truly believe we have a strong team and have the ability to surprise a lot of teams who are overlooking us on their schedule. We haven’t won the Patriot League title since my freshman year, and it’s evident that the team has high expectations for the year. Personally, my goal coming into the season is to stay healthy and lead my team through a strong season,” Alli said.
Bison Profile
Hometown: Lanham, Md.
High School: Bishop McNamara
Height/Weight: 6-0/190
Position: Defender
Stats
2011 Season
Games: 18
Goals: 7
2012 Season
Games: 15
Goals: 2