The Bucknell Bison were able to rely on the experience of Eddie Perez-Pelaez ’23 and company to come out with the Senior Day win against Colgate, 4-1. Perez-Pelaez contributed a timely second half goal as well as two assists.

The performance earned Eddie Patriot League Offensive Player of the Week as well as Bison of the week honors. This was the last home game of the year for the squad, and being able to end his last home game this way was extremely special for the senior. 

“I hadn’t really processed being a senior until we were honored for Senior Day, that’s when it really started to set in—it was just a surreal feeling,” Perez-Pelaez said in an email. “My parents who live in Madrid were able to come for the moment too. It was definitely one of the best moments of my career. I’m just so grateful for their and everyone else’s support who made not only my Senior Day, but my entire soccer career so special.”

Although their season is almost over, the senior noted how important it is for the squad to still perform. 

“We have to go out there and play our style against every team. We’ve had to push through so much adversity this year, it’s really important we finish the year strong,” he said. 

The team is composed of majority underclassmen and is in the first year of a new coaching staff. The group has shown tremendous growth and adaptability this year, and looks to show that off versus conference foe Loyola.

“It’s a shame that I and the other seniors won’t be able to see the best form of the team when they make the playoffs, advance in the NCAA tournament, and achieve other accolades like that in future, but it’s our job to help prepare the team for that future,” Perez-Pelaez said. “Versus Loyola, our goal will be to end the season on a good note. They are a bit of a rival so trying to interfere with their playoff chances and seeding will help us start next season as a team. It’s our goal to make sure the team has the confidence to continue playing as well. I know that we can not only compete in, but win the league.” 

The Orange and Blue look to execute this plan on Wednesday at 7 p.m. versus the Greyhounds in what will be their last game of the season.