Indianapolis, IN – All good things must come to an end; for the 2025 AQ Saints Women's Soccer Team, and for legendary goalkeeper Kayla Shuk, that end arrived against the #2 nationally ranked Knights of Marian University. Facing one of the top programs in the NAIA on their home turf, Aquinas battled with heart, discipline, and purpose in a match that capped an impressive season under first-year Head Coach Jenna Smith. It also marked the final chapter in the extraordinary career of Shuk, who departs Aquinas ranked 3rd all-time in the NAIA with 49 career shutouts—cementing her place among the Saints' all-time greats.

Marian 2, Aquinas 0

Aquinas opened the match with strong defensive shape, surviving early Marian pressure thanks to key stops from Bridget Sherman, Katelynn Sterling, and Catherine Hoff. Senior goalkeeper Kayla Shuk set the tone with a pair of early saves, including a diving denial in the 5th minute to keep the match scoreless. AQ nearly generated an early spark in the 28th minute when Olivia Bowling's shot from distance just missed the target. Throughout the midfield, Julia Grzadkowska, Savannah Reese, and Madison Slezinski worked tirelessly to disrupt Marian's rhythm and find transition moments.

The Knights eventually broke through in the 41st minute when a driven ball across the box found Olivia Parmer for the match's opening goal. Despite the setback, Aquinas responded with urgency to start the second half, nearly equalizing when Kiersen Korienek soared for a header that flashed narrowly wide. Minutes later, Abigail Kramer forced Marian's keeper into her only save of the afternoon, signaling the Saints' strongest attacking stretch of the match.

AQ earned a pair of second-half corner kicks—both taken by Emily Gignac—but the Knights defended well, limiting any clean looks inside the area. As the Saints pushed for the equalizer, Marian capitalized on a loose ball in the 75th minute, with Allie Tredway finishing to extend the lead to 2–0. Even with time winding down, Aquinas kept competing, bolstered by fresh legs from Bella Teelander, Reegyn Cady, and Maeve Comfort.

Defensively, the Saints continued to make critical stops in the final minutes, with Kramer and Sherman combining for multiple clearances inside the box. Shuk closed her collegiate career with five saves and her trademark composure, guiding her teammates through every defensive sequence. Although the Saints were unable to find a breakthrough, their fight and character were unmistakable throughout the full 90 minutes.

Inside the Numbers

     • Senior goalkeeper Kayla Shuk recorded 5 saves in her final collegiate match.
     • Marian outshot Aquinas 11–3, including a 7–1 advantage in shots on goal.
     • Aquinas earned 2 corner kicks while holding Marian to 4.
     • AQ held the #2 team in the nation to one goal in each half.
     • The Saints finish the season with a 12–7–1 record.

Coach's Comments

Head Coach Jenna Smith, saddened by the season's end but inspired by her team's growth, reflected on the journey:

"This group gave everything they had today. Their heart, discipline, and unity showed exactly what Aquinas soccer is becoming. To go toe-to-toe with one of the best teams in the nation speaks volumes about their character. I'm incredibly proud of our seniors, especially Kayla, and grateful for the foundation they've built. This season is just the beginning of where we're headed."

Up Next

Saturday's match in Indianapolis officially concludes the 2025 season for the Saints. Aquinas closes the year with a 12–7–1 record, highlighted by a second-place finish in the WHAC Tournament and an NAIA Opening Round victory. For first-year head coach Jenna Smith, the season was a whirlwind—taking over the program just a week before kickoff—but the squad showed weekly improvement and unwavering competitive spirit. Congratulations to Coach Smith and the Saints for representing Aquinas with pride. And to Kayla Shuk, thank you for everything you have given to AQ Women's Soccer. Your legacy will live on for years to come. And for all the fans of AQ Women's Soccer, 2026 will be here before you know it.