(KJCCC) November 10, 2022 -- All-KJCCC Men's D1 West Soccer Selections

ALL-KJCCC MEN'S D1 WEST SOCCER SELECTIONS

Coach of the Year – Rafael Simmons – Barton Community College
Completing his sixth year overall in the KJCCC, Rafael Simmons' first season at Barton produced a West title with a 7-3 conference record and regular season final ranking of 11^th in the nation after climbing as high as No. 5 in the polls.  Rebuilding the program from a .500 season the year prior, Simmons guided the Cougars to six additional wins in the 2022 season including a 4-2 record against fellow nationally ranked Region VI opponents. Advancing to the Region VI/Plains District semifinals, Simmons' Cougars had the season close on an overtime goal finishing at 12-5-1. 

Offensive Player of the Year: Caique Trivelato - Cowley College
The honors continue to roll in for Cowley College sophomore Caique Trivelato as the stellar forward was named the Jayhawk Conference Western Division Offensive Player of the Year. Trivelato, who was the Jayhawk West Co-Player of the Year as a freshman, has continued his success in year two of the Tiger soccer program. Trivelato has scored eight goals and added five assists as he has helped the Cowley College men's soccer team capture a second straight district title. 

Defensive Player of the Year: Kotaro Natsume -Barton Community College
Arguably the most improved and toughest pound-for-pound player for Barton, Kotaro Natsume earns the Defensive Player of the Year helping the Cougars to the West title and season long national rankings.  The 5'6" sophomore helped anchor the defensive line to six shutouts, two in conference play including a shutout over then 3^rd ranked Cowley.   Taking just six shots on the offensive end, Natsume's lone goal helped Barton to a big early road victory while his lone assist set up the game winner in another road win.