The Nansemond-Suffolk Academy boys’ soccer team had two players make the All-Conference team as well as the team sportsmanship award.

NSA is about a week removed from its season. The Saints finished the season 4-8-1, losing in the first round of the Tidewater Conference of Independent Schools tournament. Although there were games the Saints felt like they should have won, it didn’t take away from their positive outlook on the season.

“I’m so proud of our team this year,” Coach Patrick Whelan said. “We always worked hard, played with the right style and attitude, and gave it our all.”

Playing with the right style and attitude turned out to be rewarding for the team, which was awarded the Betty Jean Riddick Sportsmanship Award. It means NSA is going out and playing with character and playing the right way.

“Coach Sanin and I view the sportsmanship award as a great honor,” Whelan said. “In our eyes, it means that we are playing the right way. We were competitive in just about every match, but more importantly, we played the right way. We learned to build from the back, defend with tenacity, and go forward at speed and with style.”

On top of the sportsmanship award, NSA had two players recognized for All-Conference. Aidan Watts was a second-team selection while Brett Hogan was a first-team selection. Whelan said both players were instrumental to the team and worked hard during games and practices.

Whelan was also complimentary of the goalkeeping this season as well. Justice Walters played well and was supported by the duo of Hogan and Angelo Tortolini.