Duquesne Sees Four Receive A-10 Honors

As part of its best season in the Chase Brooks era, four Duquesne Men’s Soccer players received Atlantic 10 Conference recognition, based upon regular season play.

The four Duquesne players recognized were Maxi Hopfer (First Team All-Conference Forward), Nate Dragisich (Second Team All-Conference Midfielder), Ryan Landry (Second Team All-Conference Defender & All-Academic Team) and Jack Emanuel (All-Rookie Team).

“I’m super proud of all these guys, their work ethic and commitment to making Duquesne Men’s Soccer better is evident every day, and it shows with awards like these,” Duquesne coach Chase Brooks said.

Duquesne is 9-6-2 on the season and Friday afternoon plays Rhode Island in the Atlantic 10 semifinals.

Hopfer has totalled 11 goals and 28 points this season, which included three two-goal games. He started all 16 games he played in.

His 11 goals tied for most during the A-10 regular season and tied for fourth in program history for single-season goals. Prior to its A-10 Championship quarterfinal contest at Saint Joseph’s, Hopfer ranked third in the NCAA with 4.73 shots a game.

Hopfer led the way for a Duquesne offense which was second highest in the conference, and also was a member of 2020 Atlantic 10 All-Rookie Team.

“Maxi is consistently the hardest working player and I am happy he was able to showcase his talents in a normal season,” said Brooks. “The award is well deserved and I look forward to him using this to motivate himself and others around him for future years.”

Dragisich has started all 17 games this season and has totaled four goals, 11 points and 32 shots. Dragisich is a key part of Duquesne’s offense, advancing the attack and having a nose for the ball.

He also was tasked with throw ins, an additional responsibility Brooks has placed on him to make sure the team is well positioned in the attacking third.

Dragisich also was a member of the 2019 Atlantic 10 Rookie Team.

“Dragisich covers the most ground virtually every time he is on the pitch, Brooks said. “He bleeds Duquesne colors and I am very happy for him and look forward to his development from here.”

Landry is one of two captains on the roster and has led by example both with his play and vocally. Landry has played in 68 career games, starting in 62 of them.

Prior to Saturday, Landry was the lone Duke to compete in an A-10 . Landry recorded nine points and was a member of the 2016 Atlantic 10 All-Rookie Team.

“Landry is a warrior for us,” said Brooks. “To see the other teams in conference take note of his ability is great and well deserved. It’s a shame it’s his last season, we will miss him.”

Emanuel started all 17 games and recorded three points. His consistency has been crucial for a defense which needed to take strides to improve as a unit.

His ability to find the ball and clear it out of harm’s way and chase down opponents is one which earned the coaching staff’s trust.

“Jack has a bright future with the our program,” Brooks said. “His work ethic and desire to defend is fantastic. I am excited to see him grow from this and take the next step as a Duke.”