HAMILTON, Ont. – Four athletes from McMaster's women's soccer team were recognized on Thursday afternoon as the OUA released the 2024 major award winners and all-stars. Jenine Alkhatib received the Champion of EDI major award, while Jade Abreo, Bryanna Caldwell, and Nicole Astaiza were named OUA West All-Stars.

Jenine Alkhatib (Ajax, Ont.) – Champion of EDI
Goalkeeper

"Jenine exemplifies everything it means to be a great teammate," says Head Coach Garrett Peters. Alkhatib has been an active advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion within McMaster and the broader Hamilton community. In recognition of her exceptional efforts, she has been awarded the OUA Champion of EDI title.

Alkhatib is a co-founder and executive of McMaster's 2SLGBTQ+ Athlete Advocacy Group (LAAG), where she has spearheaded several impactful initiatives, including:

• Hosting inaugural pride games for McMaster's soccer and basketball teams.
• Co-organizing a fundraiser for the Hamilton Trans Health Coalition.
• Coordinating the Nikki Hiltz Pride 5K run to support LGBTQ+ nonprofits.

Additionally, Alkhatib serves on McMaster's Women's Athletic Leadership Committee and volunteers at a soccer clinic in Hamilton, providing training and support for young girls.

Coach Peters also noted, "Jenine possesses the highest character and continually pushes our program forward. It's no surprise she demonstrates these qualities both on campus and within the community. We are thrilled to congratulate Jenine on this accomplishment, and we look forward to seeing her continue as a leader for many years to come!"

Jade Abreo (Mississauga, Ont.) – OUA West First Team All-Star
Midfielder

Abreo had an outstanding season, proving herself as a pivotal player in McMaster's success. The third-year midfielder led both U SPORTS and the OUA in assists (11) and topped the OUA in points (20), placing her third overall in U SPORTS, just three points shy of the national leader. This is Abreo's second consecutive season as an OUA West First Team All-Star.

Bryanna Caldwell (Tottenham, Ont.) – OUA West First Team All-Star
Defender

A fifth-year defender, Caldwell was a formidable presence this season. She led a strong Marauders defense that allowed only 14 goals during the regular season. Caldwell also contributed offensively, scoring three goals with a 0.750 shot percentage, including two in a crucial performance against the Lancers on September 6. This marks Caldwell's third OUA All-Star selection in her McMaster career.

Nicole Astaiza (London, Ont.) – OUA West Second Team All-Star
Midfielder

Astaiza made an impressive debut season with the Marauders. The rookie started all 14 matches, recording both a goal and an assist during a doubleheader against the Guelph Gryphons. With her first OUA West All-Star recognition, Astaiza has a bright future ahead, and the Marauders look forward to her continued impact in the seasons to come.