Wheaton’s Rusin and North Central’s Rijnja Named CCIW Men’s Soccer Athletes of the week
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The College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin (CCIW) recognized outstanding performances in men’s soccer this week, naming Wheaton’s Craig Rusin as Offensive Athlete of the Week and North Central’s Joris Rijnja as Defensive Athlete of the Week on Tuesday. Both players demonstrated pivotal contributions to their teams’ success, solidifying their positions as key figures in the conference.
Rusin Secures Offensive Honors After Championship-Clinching Performance
Craig Rusin of Wheaton College earned the offensive Athlete of the Week award following a dominant performance in the Thunder’s 2-1 victory over Carroll University. Rusin scored both goals in the match, including the game-winner, securing Wheaton’s first CCIW Championship since 2018. His performance showcased not only his scoring ability but also his crucial role in leading the Thunder to a conference title.
rijnja Recognized for All-Around Impact
Joris Rijnja of North Central College was recognized as the Defensive Athlete of the Week for his all-around impactful play. Rijnja scored the game-winning goal against North Park university on a penalty kick,contributing directly to the Cardinals’ 2-1 win. Beyond his offensive contribution, Rijnja anchored a strong defensive performance against Illinois Wesleyan University, limiting the opposition to just five shots on goal in a 1-1 draw.
CCIW Weekly Honors – A Season in Review
The CCIW has consistently highlighted remarkable talent throughout the 2025 men’s soccer season. Here’s a look at previous Athletes of the Week:
Offensive athletes of the Week:
- Oct. 28: Craig rusin, Wheaton
- Oct.21: Nico Chavez, North Park
- Oct. 14: Joseph Sargent, North central
- Oct. 7: Joseph Sargent, North Central
- Sept. 30: javi Landin, Augustana
- Sept. 23: Alexander Gahm, North Park
- Sept. 16: Vidar Rydell, North Park
- Sept. 9: Mathias Soerum, North Park
- Sept. 2: Luke Vander Kolk, Wheaton
Defensive Athletes of the Week:
- Oct. 28: Joris Rijnja, North Central
- Oct. 21: Jack Krahel, Wheaton
- Oct. 14: Jack Krahel, Wheaton
- oct. 7: Jack Krahel, Wheaton
- Sept. 30: Sam Kedzior, Illinois Wesleyan
- Sept.23: Chase Mandra, Millikin
- Sept.16: Griffin French, North Central; Andrew Herringa, Wheaton
- sept. 9: Christian Smith, Millikin
- Sept. 2: Kevin Perez, north Park
founded in 1946, the CCIW currently comprises nine member institutions: Augustana College, Carroll University, Carthage College, Elmhurst University, Illinois Wesleyan University, Millikin University, North Central College, North Park University, and Wheaton College.fans can follow the CCIW on social media for the latest updates:
- CCIW on X: CCIW on X
- CCIW Instagram: CCIW Instagram
- CCIW Facebook: CCIW Facebook
The consistent recognition of student-athletes like Rusin and Rijnja underscores the high level of competition and dedication within the CCIW men’s soccer programme.
