November 27, 2025
Waxahachie, Texas — The rise of Nelson University Men's Soccer has been impossible to ignore. A season defined by championship-caliber performances has now been stamped with national recognition as six Lions have been named to the NCCAA All-Central Region Teams, representing one of the largest postseason hauls in program history.
NCCAA All-Central Region First Team Selections
Joel Palmer – Winger | #19
Electric. Dynamic. Unpredictable. Joel Palmer's creativity and pace made him one of the region's most dangerous wide threats. Whether isolating defenders 1v1 or creating separation on the break, his ability to stretch the field changed matches instantly. Palmer's consistency in big moments earned him a deserved First Team nod and reinforced him as one of Nelson's premier difference-makers.
Javaughn Hines – Defender | #4
The anchor at the heart of the back line. With elite physicality and captain-level communication, Javaughn Hines patrolled the defense with authority all season. His positioning, leadership, and command in pressure moments stabilized Nelson through tight, high-stakes matches. A First Team selection recognizes the dominance he brought every time he stepped onto the pitch.
NCCAA All-Central Region Second Team Selections
Sergio Lopez – Midfielder | #14
Sergio's composure, two-way work rate, and vision made him the engine of Nelson's possession structure. Whether breaking lines with forward passes or disrupting opponents' rhythm defensively, he played with the type of maturity that elevated the entire squad's tempo and creativity.
Amir Raime – Goalkeeper | #1
A wall between the posts. Amir Raime commanded the box with authority, stacking clutch saves in critical conference and postseason moments. His athleticism, decision-making, and refusal to concede soft goals gave Nelson confidence in every match. A Second Team spot highlights just how vital his shot-stopping presence was.
Omolemo Matla – Midfielder | #6
Omolemo, known for his intensity and presence brought physicality and emotion to the midfield. His ability to cover ground, win challenges, and inject belief into his teammates made him one of the program's most influential figures. This Second Team honor reflects his all-around impact on both sides of the ball.
Teddy Nkamanyi – Striker | #27
Teddy's strength, pace, and relentless mindset made him a constant nightmare for opposing back lines. He delivered key goals throughout the season, stepping up consistently when the Lions needed a spark in the final third. His Second Team recognition solidifies him as one of the region's most dangerous forwards.
This year's All-Central Region honors represent not only individual excellence, but a testament to the collective culture within Nelson Men's Soccer and a unified mission to play for Him. As the Lions continue their postseason push, these honors serve as confirmation of the program's growth and the bright future being constructed in Waxahachie. Congratulations to Joel Palmer, Javaughn Hines, Sergio Lopez, Amir Raime, Omolemo Matla, and Teddy Nkamanyi.
Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-NELSON.
