Oklahoma Christian University’s men’s soccer team boasts a roster of 37 players representing 12 countries, a reflection of both the program’s diversity and its shared determination. With a 5–8–1 overall record and a 2–6 mark in conference play, the Eagles’ season has been one of growth, grit, and unwavering unity. Despite a schedule filled with close battles, the team has continued to build momentum through faith and chemistry, two pillars that define this year’s squad.
Senior midfielder Luke Habermacher has a lot of experience, being a four year veteran of Oklahoma Christian. Although he recognized the difficult year from a statistical standpoint, he had this to say on team chemistry:
“Our team chemistry has been a lot closer and tighter than all my years at Oklahoma Christian,” Habermacher said. “What drives our team to keep fighting is firstly to glorify God on and off the field, and secondly, each other. This group would run through a brick wall for each other.”
With players from 12 countries across Europe, Africa, South America, and beyond, the team’s diversity has become one of its biggest strengths.
“It makes for getting to know a lot of different cultures,” Habermacher added. “Faith has shaped us this season. Several guys have found Christ, and the team has grown in our knowledge and faith in God.”
Senior goalkeeper Carter Higgins echoed that sense of brotherhood and resilience.
“This season has been challenging, and we’ve faced a lot of adversity,” Higgins said. “Thankfully, we’ve stuck together as a team. Our chemistry is one of the reasons we continue to support each other through thick and thin.”
Higgins, who transferred from Rose State College, also reflected on what makes Oklahoma Christian special compared to his previous team.
“If I had to say one thing that makes Oklahoma Christian more special, it’s the bond I’ve built with the guys,” Higgins said. “I’ve grown so close with a lot of great teammates, and I’m glad to have met them.”
Sophomore forward Ethan Nakolo also spoke about the program’s culture and faith-driven motivation. A native of Yukon, Oklahoma, Nakolo’s love for the game began early, playing with his dad from a young age.
“What makes Oklahoma Christian special is the bond the guys have and the feeling of family that comes from the people around the team,” Nakolo said. “We’ve built important bonds through the adversity we’ve faced this year, and that’s better than anything you could ever achieve, building lifelong relationships with people.”
Faith, Nakolo said, continues to serve as the heartbeat of the team.
“Faith reminds me, as well as others, that when we feel down and out, God is always on our side, and whatever outcome happens, we have a reason to be content in what the Lord has blessed us with,” Nakolo said.
Nakolo also reflected on a defining moment this season with a thrilling victory over rival Southern Nazarene University.
“Beating SNU by a goal was awesome and a great way to start our season,” Nakolo said. “It was such a great feeling after all the hard work we’d put into that game.”
Above all, Nakolo wants the Oklahoma Christian student body to know that the team’s passion runs deep.
“Our team is full of hardworking guys who love repping Oklahoma Christian,” Nakolo said. “We appreciate the support, motivation, and excitement you guys bring to games.”
Head Coach Neil Hilton, now in his second season leading the Eagles and his 14th year of coaching overall, said he is proud of how this group has grown both as players and as people.
“I love to see student athletes develop into better people on and off the field by competing at a high level,” Hilton said. “This year’s group has very good team chemistry and a real desire to improve.”
Hilton noted that while experience has been a learning curve in high pressure moments, the team continues to show tremendous character.
“I think we could do better in high pressure situations, but that comes with experience at this level,” Hilton said.
When asked about the leaders who have helped set the tone this season, Hilton pointed to several standouts
“Luke Habermacher, Alejandro Gomez, and Jorge Blanc have been very good examples on and off the field,” Hilton said. “Their leadership and consistency have been huge for our team.”
Like Nakolo, Hilton highlighted the season opening win over Southern Nazarene as a special memory.
“Beating SNU opening night of the season, being a local rivalry, was a great moment for the guys and the program,” Hilton said.
Above all, Hilton wants the Oklahoma Christian community to know just how much this team has invested in representing their school.
“These players have given everything for Oklahoma Christian University,” he said. “They’ve worked hard, played for each other, and embodied what it means to be part of this program,” Hilton said.
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