Golden Eagle wins conference offensive player of the week

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Xavier Zamora

Golden Eagles celebrate Wait’s second goal of the night vs. Cal Poly Pomona.

Cal State LA student athlete Aidan Wait won CCAA Offensive Player of the Week in September. He has been a key player for the Golden Eagles men’s soccer team for the last two seasons and received his first conference award.

His award-deserving week came at the beginning of conference play this season, with big games against Azusa Pacific and Cal Poly Pomona. He scored a total of three goals in 68 playing minutes with a 75-shot percentage. He is also one of the top players on the team in goals scored (4) and points (8).

The wait has been on the roster for the Golden Eagles since 2018. He played a big role for the team last season in its championship run. He appeared in 21 games and contributed nine points for the team, with two goals and five assists. 

One of the most exciting moments of last season was Wait’s game-winning free kick goal in the CCAA Championship game against conference rivals, Cal Poly Pomona. His success against the team continued into this season, where he scored two goals in the second half of their matchup, leading the Golden Eagles to a dominant 6-0 win. 

The wait was excited to hear the news of winning Player of the Week, however, he is more focused on how he can help the team to continue to improve for another championship run. 

“Personal awards are great, but the success of the team is what really matters,” he said. “We want another championship.”

His improvement on the field has already greatly contributed to the success of the team this season. With only half of the season played, Wait has doubled the number of goals he scored last year.

Head Coach Michael Erush attributes his work ethic as a reason for his newfound success. 

“Aidan’s been great for us,” Erush said. “He plays well when he’s on the field. He’s one of our leaders. You can tell he’s put in the time to improve and it shows.”

The Golden Eagles have been at the top of their game, losing only two matches in the last calendar year. 

“We’re off to a good start,” Wait said. “But, the games coming up are the ones that matter. We have to keep our focus every game and try to make another good run.” 

Heading into the month of October, the Golden Eagles are ranked seventh overall in the nation with upcoming conference games this week against Cal State San Marcos and Cal State San Bernandino.