Freshmen Make Their Mark
The Navy men's soccer team faced San Diego State on a sweltering Sunday in San Diego, the match ending in a 2-2 draw after the Midshipmen rallied from a 1-0 deficit.
Freshmen Jack Illig and Cohen Nance scored their first collegiate goals, each finding the net early and sparking optimism among the visitors.
Nick Gallucci contributed two assists, the most pivotal one threading a pass to Illig that produced Navy's equalizer in the second half.
Goalkeeper Dylan Carmody made three saves before leaving the game with an injury, after which Sam Clark stepped in and delivered four crucial saves in the final 18 minutes.
San Diego State took the lead in the 28th minute when Gio Aguirre headed home a cross from Greyson Moreno, putting the Aztecs ahead.
Navy's attempt to level before halftime was nullified by an offside call, leaving the Midshipmen trailing at the break.
Early in the second half, Will Cawlfield's pass found Illig, who slotted home Navy's first goal of the 2026 season to restore parity.
The Aztecs responded with a brace, including a strike by Brecken Bowers and a final touch by Aguirre in the 71st minute that seemed to seal the win.
Captain Nate Stewart's defensive work set up Gallucci's assist that tied the game at 79', showcasing leadership under pressure.
Coach John Hackworth praised the team's resilience, noting the character displayed after a tough loss the previous week and emphasizing the positives of freshmen stepping up.
The result leaves Navy 0-2-1 in the all-time series against San Diego State, but the performance offers early optimism as the squad prepares for its home opener against George Washington on August 28, 2026, at 7:05 p.m.