UP Gazette

The Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) has announced the men's soccer postseason awards for 2024, recognizing three Wildcats for their achievements. Alessandro Scialanga, Tommaso Lami, and Quint Van Roij have been honored with spots on the All-GLIAC teams.

Head coach Alex Fatovic expressed his pride in the players' accomplishments: "I want to first congratulate Tommy, Ale and Quint on their post season awards. They and many others on our squad are fully deserving and more, however, they clearly displayed their dedication and passion for their team and the game every single day, which will always separate good players from great."

Scialanga was named to the All-GLIAC First Team after an impressive season. Despite missing most of last year due to injury, he started every conference game this season. He led the team in minutes played with 1080 during conference play and was third in points with a record of 1 goal and 1 assist from 25 shots as a defenseman. Overall, he led the team in assists (3) and points (9), while ranking second in goals (3) and shots (35). Coach Fatovic praised him highly: "I believe he's the best left back in the country so there is no real surprise here... Ale is a top player and top person."

Tommaso Lami earned a place on the All-GLIAC Second Team. The former GLIAC Freshman of the Year returned strong after an injury setback last season. He was a starter in all 12 conference matches, leading his team in goals (3), points (6), shots (34), shots on target (17), and game-winning goals (1). In total matches, he led with 4 goals and 9 points while being second in minutes played at 1353. Coach Fatovic commented: "We all know he's truly a First Team All-GLIAC player... Tommaso has been a great captain and inspiration for our young players."

Freshman Quint Van Roij received an honorable mention for his contributions as a central midfielder. He started all 11 conference matches he appeared in, recording significant playing time with 970 minutes during conference play. Throughout regular-season games, he maintained his position as third on the team for minutes played at 1326. Coach Fatovic remarked: "Quint was a mainstay in our central midfield... A natural leader, we can't wait to help develop Quint into the top player he can be."

The recognitions highlight not only individual talent but also reflect positively on Northern Michigan University's soccer program.