GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Bi-weekly during the academic year, Aquinas College Athletic Communications celebrates excellence across campus by naming the Saints of the Week — student-athletes and staff who embody what it means to be "All In for Aquinas."
For October 14–27, 2025, three exceptional Saints stood out: Kayla Shuk of the AQ Women's Soccer Team, Trayvon Mathis with the Men's Rugby Team, and long-time Head Coach/Athletic Communication Specialist Mike Wojciakowski as the Saint Support Superstar.
Female Saint of the Week: Kayla Shuk (Women's Soccer)
Senior goalkeeper Kayla Shuk continues to etch her name into the national record books, adding another incredible milestone to her already legendary career. Following her most recent shutout against Indiana Tech, Shuk officially moved into third place all-time in NAIA history for career shutouts with 46.3 (47). The Aquinas net-minder now trails only April Felker of Park (MO), who posted 58 shutouts from 1992–95, and Cait Wohlander of Lee (TN), who recorded 54 between 2003–06.
The dependable and dominant last line of defense for the Saints, Shuk has been a driving force behind Aquinas' success this season, helping guide the team to a third-place finish in the WHAC standings and positioning them for another deep postseason run. Her presence in goal continues to set the tone for the entire defensive unit, combining veteran leadership with unmatched consistency.
"Kayla is the kind of player every coach dreams of having," said Head Coach Jenna Smith. "Her work ethic, calm under pressure, and commitment to both her teammates and her craft have elevated our entire program. She doesn't just make saves — she inspires confidence in everyone around her."
For the year, Shuk performance has not only elevated Aquinas on the conference stage but has solidified her as one of the most accomplished goalkeepers in NAIA women's soccer history. Kayla is a shining example of what the Saints of the Week honor represents — excellence, leadership, and pride in being a Saint.
Male Saint of the Week: Trayvon Mathis (Men's Rugby)
Junior winger Trayvon Mathis has been an offensive sparkplug for the Aquinas men's rugby program, showcasing a blend of speed, skill, and poise that has helped the Saints string together key fall victories. The Avon, Indiana native and Psychology major has come into his own this season, emerging as both a scoring threat and a steadying presence on the pitch.
Mathis found the try zone twice in Aquinas' recent win over Drury — crossing once in each half, including a highlight moment when he touched down following a crisp set-piece move from a lineout. His early try helped Aquinas seize momentum, and his second score extended the lead before O'Malley slotted a penalty kick to put the match out of reach. In the Saints' opening victory over Michigan, Mathis again made his mark, blazing down the wing for a crucial first-half score in the 27–13 triumph.
Beyond the scoreboard, Trayvon has grown into a well-rounded leader within the program — someone his teammates look to for energy and example. His maturity and approach to training have earned high praise from the coaching staff.
"Trayvon embodies everything our program is built on — toughness, discipline, and a genuine love for the team," said Head Coach Lance Hohaia. "I've seen tremendous growth in his maturity and leadership over the last 12 months. He's become not only a reliable finisher on the field but a role model off it, setting the tone for what it means to wear the Saints jersey."
Whether lighting up the scoreboard or encouraging his teammates, Mathis has become an essential piece of Aquinas Rugby's success and a proud representative of the AQ community.
Saint Support Superstar: Mike Wojciakowski
(Head Coach M/W Cross Country & Track and Field / Athletic Communications Specialist)
This week's Saint Support Superstar is someone who truly defines what it means to be a Saint for Life — Head Coach Mike Wojciakowski. Better known around campus simply as "Woj," he serves as the Head Coach for Men's and Women's Cross Country as well as Men's and Women's Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field. Over the years, Woj has also worn many other hats within the Aquinas Athletic Department — from Sports Information Director to administrative leader — always embodying the spirit of dedication, humility, and excellence.
Wojciakowski is not only a coach but also a meet director for one of the nation's most prestigious NAIA events — the NAIA Great Lakes Challenge, hosted annually by Aquinas College. On October 25th, Riverside Park once again transformed into the stage for the largest NAIA-only cross country meet in the country, featuring a record 43 institutions from ten different conferences. The 17th edition promised elite competition, with multiple top-ranked men's and women's programs set to race, including national powers Indiana Wesleyan, Taylor, Marian, Grace, and Cornerstone.
A 1997 graduate of Aquinas College, Woj enters his 28th season at the helm of the cross country programs and his seventh year as head track & field coach. His résumé is unmatched — 25 WHAC team championships, six regional titles, 20 national top-10 finishes, and numerous individual and relay national champions. Woj has been named WHAC Coach of the Year 26 times, a six-time USTFCCCA Great Lakes Regional Coach of the Year, and has guided 72 student-athletes to All-American honors a combined 196 times. His teams have consistently embodied the very best of Aquinas Athletics: hard-working, humble, and nationally respected.
Beyond the accolades, Wojciakowski's greatest impact lies in the relationships he builds and the culture he creates. He's known for his balance of professionalism and compassion, and his ability to bring out the best in every student-athlete — both on the course and in life. Currently serving as the First Vice President on the NAIA Cross Country Coaches Association Executive Committee, Woj continues to be a leader not only at Aquinas but across the national stage.
As he celebrates his 50th birthday on Monday, it's fitting to honor a man whose lifelong commitment, leadership, and love for Aquinas have shaped generations of Saints. Coach Woj is the embodiment of the Saint Support Superstar award — a shining example of servant leadership, integrity, and the lasting power of being a Saint for Life.
Saints of the Week: Why it's always, Great to be a Saint.
Every other week during the school year, the Saints of the Week program recognizes the student-athletes and staff members who make Aquinas College special — competitors, mentors, and community builders who live out the "All In for Aquinas" motto every day.
Want to help celebrate our next group of honorees? Nominate a deserving student-athlete or staff member for Saint of the Week or Saint Support Superstar by contacting Director of Athletic Communications Joey Sutherlin at sutherlinj@aquinas.edu, or by submitting a nomination through the official form, click here.
The next honorees of the 2025–26 season will be announced Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
Until then, never forget — it's always a great day to be a Saint!
