LANCASTER, Pa. -- The Atlantic East Conference has announced this year's Major Awards and All-Conference nods this Wednesday afternoon, with seven Saints earning spots, the highest number since Coach Kalin has been at Marymount. 

Four Saints earned their spots on the Atlantic East All-Conference First Team while three took their spot on the Second Team.

Dylan Hirmas- First Team All-Conference Defender
A vital figure in Marymount's defensive strength, Dylan Hirmas anchored the Saints back line and played a key role in leading the team to the Atlantic East Championship final. The senior defender and Virginia native appeared in 20 matches this season, earning 17 starts. While his primary focus was on defense, Hirmas made an impact on both ends of the field, tallying one goal and three assists. His composure and vision from the back helped spark the Saints attack and stabilize their defense, contributing to six shutouts. Hirmas's leadership, consistency, and presence on the field were crucial to Marymount's success, earning him First Team All-Conference recognition for the first time in his career.

Merlin Torres - First Team All-Conference Midfielder
An essential catalyst for Marymount's success, Merlin Torres capped off his senior season by earning First Team All-Conference honor for the first time in his career. The dynamic midfielder was a commanding presence on both sides of the pitch, showcasing his ability to influence the game defensively and offensively. Torres finished the season ranked 10th in the conference for shots on goal with 15 and 13th in total shot attempts with 29. A true playmaker, he also placed 5th in assists across the conference, tallying four on the year. Offensively, Torres was instrumental in orchestrating the Saints possession and transition play, using his vision, creativity, and composure to drive the team's attacking rhythm. His consistency and leadership made him one of Marymount's most impactful players this season.

Erick Shoetter-Rojas - First Team All-Conference Forward
Junior Erick Shoetter-Rojas has earned his second straight Atlantic East First Team All-Conference honor. Widely regarded as one of the conference's most dangerous offensive threats, Shoetter-Rojas ranks fourth in the AEC with 22 shots on goal. Over 19 games, he recorded 46 total shots, placing him sixth overall in that category. His scoring ability was equally impressive, finishing top three in goals with 10 and amassing 20 total points, the fourth-highest total in the conference. Shoetter-Rojas's combination of energy, creativity, and technical skill made him one of Marymount's most dynamic and entertaining playmakers throughout the season.
 

Jefferson Lopez Coreas - First Team All-Conference Forward
Building on an impressive resume that includes two Player of the Week honors, the 2024 Atlantic East Rookie of the Year, and a 2024 First Team All-Conference selection, Saint forward and offensive powerhouse Jefferson Lopez Coreas has earned his second consecutive First Team All-Conference award. The sophomore has established himself as a dominant force both at Marymount and across the Atlantic East Conference. Lopez Coreas led the conference in shots on goal with an astounding 52 across 20 games, while ranking second in total shots with 98. His precision in front of goal was unmatched as he topped the league in goals scored with 17, far ahead of the competition. Beyond scoring, he contributed to the attack with three assists, placing him 13th in that category. Altogether, he led the conference in total points (37) and in game-winning goals (4), proving his ability to deliver when it mattered most. A driving force behind the Saints success this season, Lopez Coreas was an indispensable part of the team's offensive power and a consistent game-changer on the field.

Bayron Banegas - Second Team All-Conference Keeper
Record-breaking goalkeeper Bayron Banegas secured a well-deserved spot on the Atlantic East Second Team All-Conference. A career five-time Defensive Player of the Week, Banegas recorded four conference shutouts and six total during the season. Those performances helped him make history, as he broke the Marymount program record for most career shutouts, finishing with an incredible 16. With 79 saves this year, Banegas proved to be the backbone of the Saints' defense and the reliable leader in goal that every team hopes for. His ability to come up big in crucial moments was instrumental in the Saints' success, playing a key role in their run to the SEC Championship final.

Alex Rendon Benitez- Second Team All-Conference Defense
Sophomore Alex Rendon Benitez claims his second consecutive Second Team All-Conference award. A key pillar of Marymount's defensive line, Alex Rendon Benitez played an instrumental role in strengthening the Saints' backfield and helping propel the team to the Atlantic East Championship final. Though his main focus was defense, Rendon Benitez also made his mark offensively with 13 shot attempts. With his consistency, discipline, and impact on both ends of the pitch, Rendon Benitez earned his second career Second Team All-Conference recognition, a well-deserved honor for one of Marymount's rising defensive leaders.

Daniel Yi - Second Team All-Conference Defense
Senior defender Daniel Yi has once again been recognized for his outstanding play, earning a spot on the Atlantic East Second Team All-Conference his second time receiving the honor after first being selected in 2022. A vital leader and anchor of the Saints' defense, Yi has been instrumental in maintaining the team's stability and composure along the back line. While his primary role is defensive, Yi's impact extends beyond the backfield. He ranks top three in the conference for assists with five, showcasing his vision and playmaking ability. He also ranks among the conference leaders in shots on goal (6) and total shots (8) - impressive numbers for a defender. A model of consistency and leadership, Yi's senior season was marked by his reliability, effort, and two-way contributions. His performance was a major factor in the Saints' successful run, solidifying his reputation as one of Marymount's most dependable and influential players.
 

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