CHICAGO, IL. – On Monday, the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference revealed the outstanding achievements of five Olivet Nazarene University men's soccer players who garnered well-deserved postseason accolades. Nick Kilian emerged as a standout, securing the prestigious CCAC Player of the Year award and earning a spot on the conference First Team. Kai Bucher and Elias Nonnenmann also received spots on the First Team while Holden Devore and Maxime Schonenberger were named to the conference Second Team.

Kilian, a German native, clinched his first career Player of the Year award after an incredible season, where he appeared in all 18 matches, and contributed significantly with six goals, seven assists, and a total of 19 points. This recognition adds another feather to Kilian's cap, making him the third Tiger in the program's history to receive this award, following in the footsteps of Justin Eisenmann in 2022 and Blake Van Bruggen in 2016. 

Kilian's remarkable achievements extend beyond the Player of the Year award. With his third First Team selection, he solidifies his status as a key player for the Tigers. Holding the title of the all-time program leader in assists with an impressive total of 37, Kilian has proven himself to be a playmaker of the highest caliber. His consistency is further highlighted by his inclusion in the CoSIDA First Team Academic All-America in 2022, Honorable Mention First Team Academic All-America in 2021, and a Second Team selection in 2020.

Joining Kilian in the limelight are two more outstanding players – Kai Bucher and Elias Nonnenmann – both securing First Team selections. Bucher, a freshman hailing from Switzerland, made an immediate impact in his debut season, featuring in 17 matches and providing a crucial assist. Nonnenmann, a senior from Germany, closed out his ONU career on a high note with his first-ever First Team selection, appearing in 13 matches and contributing five goals and one assist.

The recognition doesn't end with the First Team honorees, as senior Holden Devore and freshman Maxime Schonenberger earned Second Team selections. Devore, from Cedar Rapids, received his first career Second Team nod after an impressive season, playing in all 18 matches and tallying six goals and one assist. Schonenberger, a freshman from Switzerland, showcased his talent in 17 matches, securing two assists, making a significant impact in his inaugural season.

These five Tigers led ONU to their third consecutive CCAC championship and regular season titles this year. 

Looking Ahead

ONU will be traveling to Oklahoma to face LSU Shreveport in the opening round of the national tournament. The time has yet to be determined. 

--ONU—

*Contact Anyssa Hampton, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, ahampton@olivet.edu