Last week, the American Southwest Conference announced its 2025 Men's Soccer All-Conference honors, and Howard Payne University was well represented across the league's top performers. Freshman goalkeeper Adrian Villa headlined the Yellow Jackets' selections, earning Defensive Freshman of the Year after a breakout debut season. Villa started all 17 matches, made 109 saves, and consistently gave HPU a chance in tight contests, quickly becoming one of the most reliable young keepers in the conference.
Leading off the conference awards, Forward Xzavier Saldana, Midfielder Ethan Mauldin and the aforementioned Adrian Villa took home All-Conference First Team Honors showcasing the depth of talent for this Yellow Jackets squad.
Howard Payne's defensive identity was further strengthened by the recognition of Phrabvir Singh and Ashton Riedel, both named to the All-ASC Second Team. Their chemistry and grit on the backline were major factors in several close matches, particularly during the Jackets' mid-season stretch where defensive resilience kept HPU firmly in the postseason hunt.
In the midfield and attack, Deaven Connelly and Kolby Lara also earned Second Team honors. Connelly's presence in the center of the pitch brought stability and control, often dictating tempo during key stretches of matches. Lara, meanwhile, provided offensive spark and scoring threat, giving the Jackets the ability to turn defensive stops into dangerous counterattacks.
Head Coach Brandon McGibeny praised the group's impact and growth throughout the season. "We are incredibly proud of Adrian, Ethan, Xzavier, Phrabvir, Ashton, Kolby, and Deaven," McGibeny said. "They've worked hard all season, and their recognition by the conference is well-deserved."
This marks the 4th All-Conference selection for Deaven Connelly in his career, the 3rd selection for Ethan Mauldin, 2nd for Phrabvir Singh, Xzavier Saldana, and Ashton Riedel, and the first selections for both Kolby Lara and Adrian Villa.
These honors highlight a season marked by development, resilience, and a growing core of young talent. With a strong foundation in place and multiple standout performers returning, the Yellow Jackets are building momentum toward an even more competitive run in the ASC next fall.
