Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate
A recap of the powerful Mason sports season of fall 2024
BY KEVIN BINAJ, SPORTS EDITOR
As the leaves turned and the excitement of fall took over campus, Mason’s student-athletes hit the fields and courts with determination and grit. From the soccer pitch to the volleyball court, Patriot fans were witnesses to a thrilling sports season.
Men’s Soccer
The men’s soccer team had a historic season, finishing with a record of 13-4-1 (6-1-1 in conference play) and securing a spot in the Atlantic 10 Tournament semifinals. This was their best season in over a decade, marked by strong team chemistry and dominant performances on both ends of the pitch. Their offensive spark came from standout graduate student forward Marek Gonda, who netted 8 goals and added 3 assists. Collectively, the team filled out the stat sheets scoring 36 goals, with 17 players registering at least a goal or an assist throughout the season. With most of their core players returning, the men’s soccer team looks poised to build on this season’s success and aim for a deeper postseason run in 2025.
Women’s Soccer
The women’s soccer team faced a tough fall 2024 campaign, finishing with a 3-10-6 record (1-5-4 in conference play). Despite the results, the team showed resilience and laid the groundwork for future improvement. Graduate student Katelyn O’Donnell, junior Michi Hooks, sophomore Molly Starner and sophomore Madyson Taylor gave Patriots fans moments of joy with each player netting two goals each throughout the season. While the results were not quite what the team was hoping for, the Patriots gained valuable experience that will be crucial heading into next season. There is no doubt that the team will aim to rebound in 2025.
Women’s Volleyball
The women’s volleyball team wrapped up the fall 2024 season with an 11-19 record, going 6-12 in Atlantic 10 play. While the results were mixed, the team showed flashes of potential and improvement under head coach Megan Shifflett Bachmann. The team showed moments of brilliance, particularly with their kills. The team totaled 1420 kills over the season compared to the 1349 kills their opponents managed against them. Senior Olyvia Kennedy led the frontline with 291 kills over the season, while sophomore Camryn Weldon managed an impressive 639 assists. Sophomore Autumn Martinez-Robison excited fans with a whopping 67 aces. With a core of talent returning and several promising recruits joining the program, the Patriots have a strong foundation to build upon for next season.
Cross Country
The Mason cross country teams achieved impressive milestones this season at the NCAA Regionals in Rock Hill, S.C. The women’s team placed 17th, a significant improvement of nine spots compared to last year, showcasing their growth and determination. Meanwhile, the men’s team delivered a standout performance and secured 11th place, a five-spot jump from their 16th place finish in 2023.
Both teams demonstrated remarkable progress, building momentum for future seasons. With this trajectory, they are well-positioned to aim even higher in 2025.
Patriot Pride on Display
The fall 2024 season was a testament to Mason’s commitment to excellence, teamwork and growth. With individual stars emerging and teams making strides, the Patriots have set the stage for success in the seasons to come.