ROCHESTER, Mich. -- The Oakland women's soccer team announced the return of seniors
Carmela Barro,
Sami Lopez,
Alexa Sabbagh,
Noemi Stadelmann,
Sophie Wilsey, and
Kendra Zak who will all compete for the Golden Grizzlies for their final season in the fall.
"We could not be more excited and grateful to have these six phenomenal players back," Head Coach
JuanPa Favero said. "All these young women have already made such a positive impact on the program, so we are beyond excited that we get to spend another year with them on and off the field. They are proven leaders, who love their teammates, believe in the program, and are hungry to finish their Oakland career on a high note. We can't wait to see them back in uniform next Fall."
The Golden Grizzlies finished the 2021 season with an 11-9-1 mark and an impressive 9-1-1 record in conference play, marking the first time since 2012-13 Oakland had back-to-back winning seasons. Oakland made it all the way to the Horizon League Championship game a season ago before ultimately falling to Milwaukee, 2-0.
"I'm beyond happy to have the chance to come back for one more year and play with my friends to achieve our long-awaited goal of winning a Championship." - Carmela
"I am excited to be returning for my final year of eligibility in the fall of 2022, I look forward to working towards the Horizon League Championship and to have one last ride with my team!" - Sami
"I am super excited to have another opportunity to play my last year surrounded by my amazing teammates #RingSzn" - Alexa
"I am excited to be able to play one last season with this incredible group of people and look forward to leaving it all on the field and walking out with a ring and a lifetime of memories." - Noemi
"I'm excited to have the opportunity to comeback and compete for a championship. I cannot wait to be alongside my friends on the pitch for one more season." - Sophie
"I am grateful to be given the opportunity to return for my fifth season and play with the most hardworking and enjoyable group. Knowing that there are still goals to be attained gives me the motivation and hunger to continuously improve for the success of this team." - Kendra
