Box Score

WAIPAHU - Hawai'i Pacific University opened the season with a promising exhibition against Division I South Dakota State University this afternoon at the Waipio Peninsula Soccer Complex. While the Sharks fell to the Jackrabbits 2-0, this game will not count as a loss towards the Sharks' season record, but will count as a win for the Jacks. 

Freshman goalkeeper Skylar Jacobsen tallied nine saves on the day against 11 shots on goal.

The first of the two goals scored for the Jacks came in the 25th minute on a corner kick when freshman Emma Brezenski found Waipahu's own freshman Deizha Lyn Jacinto, who drilled it in. The final goal came in the 55th minute on a brutal unassisted attack by sophomore Hailee Christensen. 

The Sharks maintain a strong defensive showing, possessing the ball for approximately a third of regulation but playing deep within their own territory most of the match against the two-time defending Summit League champions. 

"I'm incredibly proud of the effort and grit we showed today," said Connor Artigue, who made his head coaching debut in the exhibition. "We knew scheduling a Division I matchup this early in the season was a risk, but I'm so happy we took on the challenge. To concede only twice to a team of that quality is a huge positive. We set a standard of intensity and togetherness that will take us very far this season.  

"Today, we can celebrate the debut of seven freshmen, two players returning from season-long injuries, and the inaugural game for our coaching staff. Today was a showcase of our strong team culture and the greatness ahead of us. We will keep getting better every day, and I trust the results will come faster than anyone expects."

The Sharks will return to the field Sept. 7 in Arcada, Calif., when they take on Cal Poly Humboldt.