Men’s Soccer Athletes Honored with Awards

Cougars Soccer Sees Four Athletes Earn All-Region

Four members of the Cougars men's soccer team have been selected to the 2023 All-New England (All-Region) team. One player earned first team honors and three were chosen to the second team. One of the All-Region honorees was additionally named men's soccer's most valuable player (MVP) and a fifth athlete earned the team's Player Award. 

Sleiden Edmorin (Springfield, MA / Tech Boston Academy) – First Year – Center Midfielder - #8
2023 – 1st Team All-New England
Edmorin was the Cougars' most dynamic offensive player, leading the charge from his attacking midfield position. An exceptional dribbler with speed and a plethora of moves, Edmorin was a nightmare for opposing defenders. He possesses a lethal left foot that can strike the ball with furious pace. Edmorin led the Cougars in goals with nine and points with 20 in just ten games played. 

Dantae Bates (Springfield, MA / East Longmeadow HS) – Second Year – Center Midfielder - #13
2023 – 2nd Team All-New England, Team Captain
Bates was one of Holyoke's captains this season and the team's true leader. A hard working center midfielder, his passion for the game and desire to compete was unmatched. Bates led the team both vocally and by example on the field and fittingly scored the team's first goal of the season. Bates led the team in assists this year and was honored as the 2023 team's most valuable player. 

Niamke David Akpayne (Chicopee, MA / Chicopee Comprehensive HS) – Second Year – Midfielder / Forward - #7
2023 – 2nd Team All-New England
Akpayne was one of the Cougars' most skillful and dangerous attackers. A tricky and deceptive player who has a knack for finding the net in big moments, he led the team in game-winning goals. Akpayne scored the game-winner in Holyoke's regional quarterfinal victory and was second on the team in total goals and points at season's end.    

Sidg Dieng (Springfield, MA / Agawam HS) – First Year – Midfielder - #11
2023 – 2nd Team All-New England
Dieng was one of Holyoke's most gifted offensive-minded players, seemingly creating scoring chances whenever he touched the ball. His size and strength forced opposing defenders to foul him often, leading to dangerous free kick opportunities for the Cougars. Dieng tallied a pair of clutch goals in HCC's must-win regular season finale and scored the team's most spectacular goal of the year with a surprising and creative volley. 

Tanner Joseph (Holyoke, MA / Hampshire Regional HS) – First Year – Midfielder / Defender - #16
2023 – Cougars Player Award
Joseph was the one of the Cougars' hardest working players this season, giving his full commitment to the team's success. He is a fierce competitor and tremendous teammate, who was willing to play wherever his team and coaches needed him on the field. Joseph earned the prestigious Player Award that is given to a player who embodies what a Cougars soccer player should be. 

Photo: Bates get ready to to take a throw-in during a regular season home game.