LINCOLN, Neb. (November 7, 2025) – Four members of the Nebraska Wesleyan men's soccer team have been recognized by the American Rivers Conference as All-Conference selections for the 2025 season. Junior forwards Max Matthies and Franklyn Herasme, junior midfielder Wil Tobaben, and sophomore defender Kaysha Shagavah each earned the first All-Conference honors of their careers after leading the Prairie Wolves to their fifth straight American Rivers Conference Tournament appearance.
Matthies proved to be the engine of the Prairie Wolves' attack, emerging as one of the league's most dangerous forwards. The junior from Omaha capped off his regular season with starts in 14 of the 16 matches he appeared in, totaling 889 minutes on the pitch. Matthies paced the team with 17 points, finding the back of the net in five different conference matches. His composure in front of goal and ability to stretch opposing defenses made him a constant threat in the attacking third. Matthies set new career highs in goals, assists, and minutes played, becoming a cornerstone of the Prairie Wolves' offensive identity.
Herasme complemented Matthies on the front line, giving NWU a balanced and creative strike force. The Dominican Republic native started 17 of 18 matches and logged 1,057 minutes this season. Herasme netted six goals and consistently drew defensive attention with his combination of speed and technical ability. His poise and energy helped spark several of the Prairie Wolves' most decisive stretches of play, including key performances in late-season wins that secured NWU's spot in the postseason picture.
In the center of the field, Tobaben anchored the midfield with control and maturity. The junior from Omaha has been one of NWU's most consistent performers, known for his passing range and ability to dictate tempo. Tobaben scored twice this season, including a crucial goal in the 2-0 win over Dubuque that helped keep the Prairie Wolves' postseason hopes alive. Beyond the stat sheet, Tobaben's leadership and awareness helped shape the team's style of play, bringing structure and calm to the middle third in high-pressure moments.
Defensively, Shagavah emerged as a standout presence on the back line. The sophomore defender from Kenya played with confidence and toughness well beyond his years, helping Nebraska Wesleyan record three shutouts on the season. Shagavah's ability to read the game and organize the back line made him indispensable in conference play. His assist in the win over Simpson showcased his ability to contribute in attack when needed. His consistency and leadership anchored a defensive unit that held opponents to one goal or fewer in ten matches this season.
Together, Matthies, Herasme, Tobaben, and Shagavah form the foundation of a rising Nebraska Wesleyan squad that continues to earn respect throughout the conference. The Prairie Wolves ended their season with a record of 6-7-5.
