Ohio Christian University Trailblazers Celebrate a Historic Fall Athletic Season
The Ohio Christian University Trailblazers wrapped up a remarkable fall athletic season, marked by record-breaking achievements, national recognition, and thrilling moments that showcased the talent, resilience, and sportsmanship of its student-athletes. From the soccer pitch to the esports arena, the Trailblazers' dedication and hard work brought pride to the OCU community.
Season Highlights
This fall, the Trailblazers made history and celebrated milestones across multiple sports. Women’s Soccer delivered a standout performance, setting a new record for the most wins in a season and making a deep postseason run. Meanwhile, Men’s and Women’s Golf saw individual excellence, with athletes breaking records and representing OCU on the national stage.
The Volleyball team showcased incredible skill and teamwork, while both Men’s and Women’s Cross Country teams qualified for nationals, underscoring the depth of talent in OCU athletics. Finally, the Esports team demonstrated the versatility of OCU’s athletic program, claiming the 2024 NACE League Fall Overwatch Championship.
Athletes in the Spotlight
Numerous Trailblazers earned individual honors, reflecting their exceptional performances and contributions to their teams. Whether recognized as Players of the Week or for academic achievements as NCCAA Scholar Athletes, these individuals embodied the spirit of excellence that defines OCU athletics.
Key Achievements
- Men’s Soccer: Defensive stalwart David Spicer earned NCCAA Defensive Player of the Week honors on September 16th.
- Women’s Soccer: Karissa Buttelwerth stood out with two NCCAA Offensive Player of the Week awards and led her team to the Regional Championship.
- Men’s Golf: Edward Kehl broke the program's individual record for an 18-hole round, while Thatcher Wilson earned two prestigious NCCAA awards.
- Women’s Golf: Tristan Wilson represented OCU at nationals, finishing 19th, and Leah Watson was recognized as an NCCAA Scholar Athlete.
- Volleyball: Sophie Coleman and Madison Blickenstaff reached career milestones of 1,000 digs and 1,000 kills, respectively.
- Cross Country: Both teams earned national qualifications, with standout performances from Evan Caldwell, Corry Mientkiewcz, Jason Springer, Lexie Engstrom, and Darcy Mitchell.
- Esports: Captured the 2024 NACE League Fall Overwatch Championship, demonstrating OCU's competitive edge in this growing field.
Fall 2024 Stats Recap
- Men’s Soccer: Record 3-10-2 | David Spicer: NCCAA Defensive Player of the Week (Sept. 16)
- Women’s Soccer: Record 12-1-3 | Most wins in program history | Reached Regional Championship | Karissa Buttelwerth: NCCAA Offensive Player of the Week (Aug. 26, Oct. 14)
- Men’s Golf: Edward Kehl: Record 18-hole round of 68 | Thatcher Wilson: NCCAA Scholar Athlete, Dan & Kelly Wood Award
- Women’s Golf: Tristan Wilson: NCCAA National Tournament Qualifier | Leah Watson: NCCAA Scholar Athlete
- Volleyball: Record 16-18 | Reached Regional Championship | Sophie Coleman: 1,000 digs | Madison Blickenstaff: 1,000 kills | Sophie Coleman: NCCAA Defensive Player of the Week (Aug. 19)
- Men’s Cross Country: Team National Qualifiers | Meet Win: Welch College (Sept. 21) | 7th at NCCAA Nationals
- Women’s Cross Country: Team National Qualifiers | Meet Win: Welch College (Sept. 21) | 2nd at Wright State (Oct. 25) | 5th at NCCAA Nationals
- Esports: 2024 NACE League Fall Overwatch Champions
As the Trailblazers look ahead to the winter and spring seasons, the foundation laid this fall promises continued growth and success for OCU athletics. The entire Trailblazer community celebrates the achievements of its student-athletes and eagerly anticipates what’s to come.
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