By Niko Marinacci

On Saturday, October 25, 2025, the Tennessee Wesleyan Bulldogs men’s soccer team played against Bluefield College in Athens, Tennessee. The match ended in a 1–0 victory for the Bulldogs. This was the Bulldogs 8^th win of the season giving them an 8-7-1 record on the season and a 7-4-1 record in AAC Conference play.

 The significance of this game was that it was senior night. The Bulldogs recognized 7 seniors this season who have not only made an impact on the field but off the field as well. Prior to the game players went through different festivities with their friends and families, making it a memorable day for those who were able to make it to such an amazing point in their athletic careers.

We held a Q and A with a current senior, Nicko Bellot, about some of the aspects of the soccer team and this is what he had to say:

Q: How does it feel to be so close to the playoffs, especially as a senior?

A: It feels amazing honestly. Knowing we are this close especially during my senior year makes it even more special. The team has endured rough seasons in the past, and to see how far we have come as a program is really exciting. It feels like all of the hard work over the years is finally paying off, and to be able to experience that with my teammates during my last year means a lot.

Q: What has been your favorite game or moment this season?

A: Definitely senior day. It was such an emotional game – my family was in the stands, the crowd was loud, and we were playing one of the top teams in the conference. We left everything on the field. Getting the win made it even better, it was one of those moments that you dream about as an athlete.

Q: How do you and your teammates keep each other motivated as the season comes to an end?

A: We keep each other motivated by remembering why we started. For us seniors, it is knowing that this is our last chance to leave a mark on the program. For the younger players, it is about building something that lasts beyond this season. We push each other everyday in practice – even though it’s tough – because we all want to see the team reach its full potential. The goal of making playoffs keeps us locked in and hungry. The Bulldogs next game will come in the conference tournament, where the team will look to make a run and steal a conference title.

Photos by Rob Gordon
Interview by David Ballenilla
Edited by Lucas Grana