AAC Men's Soccer Awards Announced

WALESKA, Ga. - The Appalachian Athletic Conference announced the 2025 Men's Soccer All-AAC Team and Awards on Thursday.

Tyrique Bailey-Edwards of Union Commonwealth is the Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and Newcomer of the Year. Kerim Akpinar of Milligan is the Offensive Player of the Year and Golden Boot winner, Laurin Fürmeier of Union Commonwealth is the Freshman of the Year, and Jonathan Shaw of Union Commonwealth is the Coach of the Year.

The awards were voted on and selected by the men's soccer coaches of the AAC.

Bailey-Edwards, a defender, anchors the Union Commonwealth defense, which leads the NAIA in goals allowed (5), goals-against average (0.29), and shutouts (14).

Akpinar, a forward, leads the AAC in goals (14) and points (31) and has three assists. In conference play, he led the league with 12 goals.

Fürmeier is also a defender for Union Commonwealth and has contributed offensively as well, with four goals and two assists.

Shaw guided Union Commonwealth to the regular-season championship with a 9-0-3 conference record.

Fourteen players earned a spot on the All-AAC First Team, with 14 making the second team. Dozens of players made the grade to earn a spot on the All-Academic Team, while nine were named to the Champions of Character Team.

For a complete look at the awards, click here.