Grand Rapids, MI – The 2025 campaign didn't unfold the way Head Coach Luke Ruff and the Aquinas Men's Soccer team had envisioned. Despite moments of promise and stretches of competitive play, the Saints were unable to find the consistency needed in a crowded WHAC field, ultimately falling short of qualifying for the conference tournament. With their postseason hopes officially out of reach, Saturday's match-up against Cleary carried a different tone — less about standings and more about pride. While the Saints entered the contest determined to finish strong, the reality that this would mark the end of their 2025 season gave the match an undeniably anticlimactic feel, closing the chapter on a year that will serve as both a lesson and a building block for the program's future.

Cleary 3, Aquinas 0

Aquinas came out with energy and purpose, creating early chances from Bryce Schaner and Carter Hagan, but it was Cleary who found the net first midway through the opening half. The Saints continued to press forward, with midfielders Austin Tucker and Trae Collins helping to generate opportunities, while defenders Eddie Hudson III and Evan Goodfellow kept the back line organized. Goalkeeper Peyton Huffman made a key save to limit the damage before halftime, but the Cougars struck quickly in the second period to double their advantage. Aquinas kept fighting, highlighted by late efforts from Joseph Ray and Asmir Hujdurovic, yet Cleary's defense held firm. Dario Cela took over in goal for the second half and made several solid stops, but a late insurance goal sealed the final scoreline. Though the Saints couldn't break through, their effort reflected the resilience and heart that have been trademarks of Coach Ruff's program.

Inside the Numbers
     • 13 – Total shots for the Saints, including three on target.
     • 25 – Combined saves and clearances from the goalkeeping duo of Huffman and Cela.
     • 3 – Total saves made by AQ goalkeepers.
     • 4 – Yellow cards issued to the Saints in a physical, hard-fought match.

Coach's Comments
Following the loss to Cleary, Head Coach Luke Ruff reflected on the effort and what's next for the Men's Soccer squad:
"Even though the results didn't always show it, this group grew a lot throughout the year. We faced adversity, but our guys never quit, and that says everything about their character. We'll take the lessons from this season, build on the positives, and come back stronger next fall."

Up Next
With the 2025 season now complete, Head Coach Luke Ruff and the Saints will turn their attention to reflection, growth, and preparation for the future. While the results didn't align with preseason hopes, Ruff remains proud of his team's effort, resilience, and improvement throughout the campaign. Each match brought lessons and progress, and the foundation laid this fall will serve as a stepping stone toward returning Aquinas Men's Soccer to the upper echelon of the WHAC. The drive, determination, and commitment shown by this group promise brighter days ahead — and as always, it's a great day to be a Saint.