Soccer Athletes of the Week - September 6-7, 2025

Avery Henderson

Henderson, a PACWEST women's soccer co-rookie of the year last season, started her second varsity campaign with a bang as the Mariners swept the Royals in the opening weekend of play.

She was a tireless defensive presence over both games and helped limit the Royals to one goal over 180 minutes but also scored the first VIU goal of the season: a rocket of a shot in the 10th minute on Saturday. Henderson also caused a midfield turnover and got an assist on VIU's third goal that day and was named VIU's player of the game. 

Avery's impact offensively and defensively was a major factor in VIU starting off the season with 6 points in the standings against an experienced Douglas Royals squad.

Declan Brown

In the first weekend of play, Brown showed that he is going to be an impactful player for the Mariners in his second season with the squad. In addition to making several electrifying runs up the pitch in both games, he showed versatility by playing several positions over the weekend. 

On Sunday, Brown's play led to both VIU goals. His attempt towards goal rebounded off a VIU player and right to Josh Rayner, who scored to get VIU on the board. VIU's second goal resulted from a long ball from Brown that put striker Charlie Smith in a dangerous position in the penalty area. After he was taken down, Smith converted from the spot moments later. 

Head coach Kevin Lindo noted that Brown's "quality and leadership is going to be key for us this year" while also complimenting the attacking play of forwards Smith and Brian Bland, who had a fantastic header to score for the Mariners on Saturday.