Two Jags honored as 2023 Daktronics NAIA Men’s Soccer Scholar-Athletes

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two UHV men's soccer players were recognized on the 2023 Daktronics NAIA Men's Soccer Scholar-Athlete list announced on Friday, Nov. 24.

Tyler Kaeppeli and Matthew Albury were recognized as two of the 1,032 student-athletes on the list. To be nominated, a student-athlete must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, must appear on the eligibility certificate for the sport and have attended one full year at said institution.

"Our programs are extremely proud of the academic performances of these athletes," said head coach Adrian Rigby. "It speaks volumes to their pursuit of academic excellence during their time at UHV. Our assistant coaches play a major role in the success of our student-athletes by conducting timely grade checks, scheduling extra assistance if needed and organizing student hall if needed. This recognition should inspire their teammates to pursue similar awards with their time as student-athletes here at UHV."

Kaeppeli, a sophomore goalkeeper born in Vernon, B.C., Canada, is pursuing his bachelor's degree in kinesiology. This year, Kaeppeli held a 0.97 goals against average with 44 saves and seven shutouts in 17 starts.

Albury, a graduate senior defender from Barcelona, Spain, is set to graduate in December with his master's degree in sport management. He tied a career-high with three goals scored this season for the Jaguars while helping the defense maintain a 0.97 goals against average.