June 2, 2025
Waxahachie, TX - As we wrap up the 2024–2025 athletic year at Nelson University, it's hard not to smile at all we've accomplished together. From big-time wins to quiet moments of growth, this season was packed with growth and plenty of unforgettable memories. Whether it was on the field, the court, the track, or even behind a screen, our student-athletes showed what it really means to wear "Lions" across their chests as they competed with heart, growing with purpose, and representing Nelson University with pride in everything they do.
Baseball
The Lions Baseball Team delivered one of the most explosive offensive seasons in the NAIA, establishing themselves as one of the nation's top run-scoring squads. From thrilling walk-offs to powerhouse performances, the team made its mark with statement wins, none more impressive than a conference-opening sweep of crosstown rivals #21-ranked Texas Wesleyan, where they outscored the Rams 26–14 en route to being named the NAIA Ball Team of the Week. Pitchers Jake McMahan and Ryan Avalos each earned SAC Pitcher of the Week honors during the campaign, and by season's end, Andrew Ortiz and Eli Lyons were recognized with First and Second Team All-Conference nods.
ESports
From the diamond to the digital realm, Nelson's Esports program took a giant leap forward under first-year head coach Caden Primm. With elite focus and strategic cohesion, the team built a foundation of excellence while showcasing camaraderie and competitive spirit in every matchup. The digital Lions represented Nelson with poise and promise in their inaugural season under new leadership with big time contributions from players like: Isaac Hershberger, Joyce Reyes, Camden Cuellar, Jonathan Pak and James Loutzenhiser.
Women's Track and Field and Cross Country
In women's track and field and cross country, history was made repeatedly. The Lady Lions broke numerous school records and achieved the highest regional and conference rankings in program history. Among the highlights, Natalie Guillen earned SAC Outdoor Track Athlete of the Week with a gutsy 5:13.10 in the 1500-meter, while Betzaidy Najera clocked an impressive 25:43.0 in a rugged 6K to earn Cross Country Runner of the Week honors. These achievements were not anomalies, but rather the product of relentless training that defined the team all year long
Men's Track and Field and Cross Country
On the men's side, the track and field and cross country team roared with record-breaking energy. Isaiah Jean turned heads with a 10.78-second 100-meter dash to capture SAC Athlete of the Week honors. Meanwhile, multi-event sensation Montrell Blacknall delivered one of the most dominant seasons in the nation. After a first-place finish in the Decathlon at the OBU Invitational with 6,296 points (ranking sixth-best in the NAIA) he followed that performance by being named the SAC Outdoor Championships Most Outstanding Athlete for the third consecutive year. Blacknall amassed 42 points across seven events, including titles in the Decathlon and Pole Vault, plus top-six finishes in five others. Alongside Blacknall, Isaiah Perez Major and Ishmael Ealoms were named to the SAC First Team, with Xavier Garcia earning Second Team honors, and Jaquarius Gordon and Brandon Clark claiming Third Team accolades. Both Perez Major (High Jump) and Blacknall (Heptathlon) also represented Nelson on the national stage as NAIA Indoor National Qualifiers.
Men's Soccer
Nelson Men's Soccer, under the guidance of new head coach Cesar España, made great strides, achieving a .500 record for the first time in years. With over 60 players committed to building something special, the program's energy and potential were evident throughout the fall. Coach España was recognized as the North Texas Soccer Boys Competitive Coach of the Year prior to the start of the season, and multiple Lions received All-Academic honors. It was a season defined by momentumn and a growing belief that brighter days lie ahead.
Women's Soccer
The Women's Soccer Team followed up their historic 2023 NCCAA National Runner-Up campaign with another strong season. They earned Nelson University's outdoor sports first-ever varsity win, secured a fifth-place SAC finish for the second year in a row, and reached the SAC Quarterfinals. Individual brilliance from Anna Bewly (First Team All-Conference) and Daisy Altamirano (Second Team) helped lead the way as the Lady Lions continued to build a competitive and resilient identity.
Softball
Nelson Softball brought flair and power to the field all year long. Walk-off victories, senior spotlights, and highlight reel performances defined a campaign played with unmistakable Lady Lion pride. The postseason honors reflected their impact: Sasha Jennings was named First Team All-SAC, Madyson Wiggins earned Second Team honors, Brooke Kinnibrugh received Honorable Mention, and Makinzy Kneip took home the Golden Glove award.
Women's Basketball
On the hardwood, the Women's Basketball Team continued to stand out for their spirit. Their presence was felt not just in the Sheaffer Center, but across campus, as they embodied the values of family and faith that define the Nelson experience. The trio of Wendy Clemmons, Kate Miller, and Ashley Gonzalez were all recognized by the Sooner Athletic Conference for their contributions throughout the season.
Men's Basketball
Meanwhile, the Men's Basketball Team soared to new heights under Head Coach Delton Deal. Capturing the SAC Regular Season Championship and earning themselves thier 6th consecutive bid to the NAIA National Tournament, the Lions played with a joy and purpose that was infectious. Coach Deal celebrated his 300th career victory and was named SAC Coach of the Year. On the court, Micah Clark, JJ Boling, Justin Collins, and Alerick Hall each earned All-Conference honors. CJ Hall, who led the team with leadership and scoring brilliance, was named NAIA All-American and the SAC Player of the Year. The season was a celebration of consistent excellence and pure joy marking another campaign to remember.
Football
Football at Nelson University saw a culture shift take root under new Head Coach Jared Hudgins. The team improved across nearly every statistical category, earning respect throughout the conference. Eight players earned All-Conference recognition, including Joseph Chavez, Dakeevion Rose, Quavean Mitchell, and Xavier Garcia. Chavez, Rose, and Garcia were also named All-NCCAA, with Chavez going on to be selected as an NAIA All-American. Quavean Mitchell and Amin White were among several Lions named SAC Players of the Week, emphasizing the defense's growing dominance. Off the field, Traveon Jones earned the 2025 Michael S. Scholarship at the NCCAA Pro-Am—an incredible $20,000 honor. The spring game previewed even more reasons for optimism in 2025.
Volleyball
Volleyball at Nelson was a masterclass in dominance and discipline. The Lady Lions, led by Hall of Fame Head Coach Hank Moore, completed a perfect 22–0 run through conference play en route to a 29–5 overall record and the SAC Regular Season Championship. Six players: Lilly Hanna, Cassidy Hargesheimer, Alexandra Bonnett, Tessa Glick, Mackenzie Smith and Bailee Alexander earned All-Conference honors, with Lindi Boling leading the entire NAIA in service aces. Coach Moore capped his final season with another SAC Coach of the Year award before announcing his retirement. After 24 years, Moore leaves behind a legacy that goes far beyond his 500+ wins, six SAC titles, and national tournament appearances. He built not just a volleyball program, but a ministry rooted in faith, and for that reason his legacy for Nelson University athletics is eternal.
As we reflect on this powerful year in Nelson University Athletics, we also recognize our top student-athletes. The 2024–2025 Female Athlete of the Year, Lilly Hanna, led by example every moment, from practice to playoffs, helping her team claim a SAC Championship while earning First Team All-Conference honors. The Male Athlete of the Year, CJ Hall, was a dominant scoring force and aura-inspiring leader whose performances anchored Nelson's championship basketball season. An NAIA All-American and the SAC Player of the Year, Hall exemplified what it means to be a Lion.
In the words of Director of Athletics, Dr. Jesse Godding:
"As we close out the 2024–2025 athletic year, I'm encouraged and humbled by the heart and growth of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff. Nelson University remains a place where 'Lions Find Their Roar'—academically, physically, and spiritually. This year was a testament to the commitment of our coaches and student-athletes to the Nelson University mission. I am grateful for the efforts of coaches, staff, and student-athletes, and thankful for the parents and fans who entrust Nelson University with individuals they love."
As we close the book on the 2024–2025 season, we're reminded that Nelson University is more than a place where athletes compete, for it's Where Lions Find Their Roar. In every practice, classroom, and competition, our student-athletes continue to grow in faith, sharpen their minds, and pursue excellence on and off the field. That commitment to spiritual formation, academic achievement, and athletic success remains at the heart of who we are. And as one chapter ends, we look ahead with pride knowing the roar will only grow louder.
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.
