Xavier University of Louisiana’s (XULA) men’s and women’s soccer teams have both dominated the fields in their remarkable debut season, with the women's team (Gold Nuggets) clinching the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC) regular-season championship and the men’s team (Gold Rush) concluding the regular season as the #3 seeded team in the RRAC. Both teams had an impressive first season because of their hard work and determination, and the entire Xavier community is cheering on the women’s team as they hope bring home a national championship for Xavier University of Louisiana.

In a thrilling match on Saturday, the Gold Nuggets secured their title with a 1-0 victory over Louisiana Christian, extending their historic journey in the RRAC. Luci Schroeder, a junior studying business management, became the hero of the day when she netted a crucial goal in minute 72 with an assist from fellow junior Julia de Souza, who is studying sociology. This pivotal goal further solidified XULA's position at the top of the RRAC standings. The Gold Nuggets displayed an exceptional defensive performance, keeping their opponent at bay and achieving their fourth consecutive shutout in the regular season. A significant part of this achievement can be credited to computer science junior Theresa Wiesiolek's outstanding goalkeeping.

The victory is even more exceptional because Xavier University of Louisiana is celebrating its first-year program for women's soccer.  Almost one year ago, the university announced the launch of varsity soccer teams for both men and women. The women's team is led by Head Coach Ashley Cordeiro, who took charge in January. The assistant coach for the women’s team is Justin Besley.

Coach Cordeiro says she's proud of what her team has accomplished in a short amount of time. She shares that Xavier University sets high standards for both academics and athletics, and those standards were no exception for the Gold Nuggets soccer team.

Gonzalo Carranza took over as the head coach of the men’s team in January, same as Cordeiro, and just like Cordeiro, has led the Gold Rush to an impressive first season alongside his assistant coach Lucas Cordeiro. The Gold Rush were seeded No. 3 after scoreless ties Thursday at LSUA and Saturday at Louisiana Christian, who were seeded No. 6, closing out the regular season.

Coach Carranza knew the men's year was going to be an exceptional one because of the caliber of players on the team. He expected them to go far from the very beginning of the season. 

 "We fell short of clinching the regular season, but I am looking forward to this Friday as we play the first round of playoffs as the #3 seed.” said Carranza. “Overall, we are also looking at the big picture. Reaching the goal of    putting Xavier Men’s Soccer on the map in a positive way by contributing on the field, classroom, and in the community is an ongoing process."

Still aiming to claim victory, the men's team will play LSU-Alexandria at home at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, November 3, in the opening round of the RRAC Championships presented by Farmers Bank & Trust.

With their RRAC regular-season championship win, the Gold Nuggets have secured one of the RRAC's two automatic bids to the NAIA national tournament, set to commence on November 16 at campus sites and conclude with the championship game on December 4 in Orange Beach, Alabama. This historic achievement has put XULA on the national soccer map and has undoubtedly inspired both the university and their supporters.

The journey to the top for the Gold Nuggets wasn't without its challenges, as the women’s team faced a tough start to the regular season with two consecutive losses by a combined score of 9-2. Despite their difficult beginnings, the Gold Nuggets persevered and continued to work hard, steadily building their skills and finding their place in the competitive world of college soccer. Their 4-3 victory against Texas A&M-Texarkana on September 30 was especially notable, as it marked TAMUT's first loss after an impressive 10-0 start to their season. The team’s continued dedication and determination paid off as they climbed the RRAC standings, ultimately claiming the championship on the final day of the regular season.

“With the quality of the recruiting and coaching, it's no surprise that Coaches Cordeiro and Besley have had this type of success in their first season.” said Patricia “Pat” Kendrick, executive director of athletics and recreation and women’s volleyball head coach at Xavier. “We're looking forward to seeing them compete in their first conference tournament and representing Xavier at the National Championship.”

XULA's incredible journey exemplifies the power of purpose and teamwork, proving that even in their inaugural season, they were ready to compete at the highest level of college soccer. The Xavier University of Louisiana community is eagerly looking forward to their showing in the NAIA national tournament, where they will continue to chase their dreams and make history.