The Iowa Lakes men's soccer team has earned their third consecutive trip to compete in the NJCAA DII National Tournament. The Lakers earn the 2nd seed and will open up pool play on November 16th at 12:45pm vs 11th seeded St. Clair County CC and November 18th at 12:45pm vs 7th seeded Pima CC.
The Lakers enter the national tournament on an eight-game win streak, including seven wins over nationally ranked opponents. This fall, the Lakers completed the Region XI "treble," winning the regular season title, the regional tournament, and the Plains District championship. Along the way, they avenged all three of their early-season defeats. Head Coach Ben MacRae praised the team's resilience and growth. "This group has matured every week," MacRae said. "They've battled through one of the toughest schedules in the country and handled every challenge thrown at them. Their togetherness, hunger, and desire to keep improving have pushed us to this point."
MacRae is looking for several players to have a big impact at the tournament:
Jugene Wessels (FR, Forward)
A dynamic attacker with pace and creativity, Wessels recorded nine goals and seven assists across 19 starts. His ability to break lines and create chances has made him one of the most exciting freshmen in the country.
Jeremy Koppe (SO, Midfield/Defender)
Koppe has been one of the most tactically important players in the squad. As a midfielder who drops into the back line during buildup, he provides leadership, communication, and stability. His versatility has been crucial to the team's defensive structure.
Louis Kruger (SO, Goalkeeper)
A calm, composed presence in goal, Kruger started 17 matches and directed a back line that improved dramatically during the postseason. His distribution and shot-stopping have been vital to the Lakers' transition play and overall defensive success.
Sam Storey (SO, Midfielder)
A consistent two-way midfielder, Storey contributed two goals and three assists while controlling the tempo of matches. His intelligence, work rate, and ability to connect lines make him one of the team's most reliable performers.
Florent Lefebvre (SO, Defender)
A standout defender who contributed six goals and seven assists from the back line, Lefebvre has been influential on both sides of the ball. His ability to step into midfield, win duels, and deliver quality service has had a major impact all season.
Jago Rafii (FR, Defender)
A poised freshman left back, Rafii started 15 matches and added four assists. His reading of the game and ability to play under pressure have given the Lakers stability in key moments.
Sharif Nata N'tcha (FR, Forward)
The team's leading scorer with ten goals and six assists, N'tcha has been a constant threat in the final third. His power, pace, and ability to score in big moments — including four game-winners — have made him one of the top attacking freshmen in the conference.
Anwar Yusif (SO, Defender)
A strong and physical defender, Yusif started 14 matches and added a goal. His aerial presence, defensive discipline, and ability to win key battles have anchored the Lakers throughout the postseason.
The National Tournament will take place at Stryker Sports Complex in Wichita, KS. Group play for Iowa Lakes will begin on Sunday, November 16th at 12:45 pm and Tuesday, November 18th at 12:45 pm. One team from each pool will advance into the semifinals on Thursday November 20th.
To learn more about Iowa Lakes Athletics, please visit iowalakesathletics.com.