Junior Franco Reyes, a forward from Silver Spring, Maryland, and Montgomery Blair High School graduate, was named the United East Conference Men’s Soccer Offensive Player of the Week on September 15, 2025, for his standout performances with the St. Mary’s College of Maryland men’s soccer team. This marks the first career offensive player of the week award for Reyes, a key contributor to the Seahawks’ recent success.
Reyes played a pivotal role in the Seahawks’ 1-0-1 week, which included a 3-3 draw against regionally ranked Johns Hopkins University on September 10 and a 2-1 road victory over Stevenson University on September 13. Against Johns Hopkins, Reyes applied consistent pressure on the defense, registering one shot on goal. His impact was even more decisive in the Stevenson match, where he scored the game-winning goal, finishing with one goal on two shots on target. These efforts helped St. Mary’s College maintain a competitive 3-3-1 record as they prepare for their next challenge.
The St. Mary’s College men’s soccer team, based in St. Mary’s City, is a source of local pride, drawing support from residents across Southern Maryland. The Seahawks’ home games at Jamie L. Roberts Stadium attract fans from Leonardtown, Lexington Park, and beyond, fostering a sense of community around collegiate athletics. Reyes’ recognition as the conference’s offensive player of the week underscores the talent emerging from the region, where athletes often balance academics and sports in a supportive environment.
The United East Conference, which includes schools like Cairn University and Stevenson University, has highlighted St. Mary’s players twice in the 2025 season. Earlier awards went to sophomore forward Nick Haney on September 1 and Cairn’s Emanuel Lazor on September 8, reflecting the competitive nature of the conference. Reyes’ award adds to the Seahawks’ momentum as they head into a non-conference matchup against Bridgewater College from Virginia, set for Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Jamie L. Roberts Stadium. Bridgewater, with a 4-1 record, presents a formidable challenge, and the game offers local fans a chance to see Reyes and the Seahawks in action.
Southern Maryland’s connection to collegiate sports runs deep, with St. Mary’s College serving as a hub for athletic and academic excellence. The Seahawks’ soccer program has built a reputation for developing talent, and Reyes’ performance exemplifies the dedication of student-athletes who represent the region. His journey from Silver Spring to St. Mary’s City highlights the broader Maryland pipeline that feeds the Seahawks’ roster, with players often drawn from nearby Montgomery and Prince George’s counties.
Jamie L. Roberts Stadium, located on the St. Mary’s College campus, is a familiar venue for local sports enthusiasts. Its intimate setting allows fans to engage closely with the action, making it a cherished spot for community gatherings. The upcoming game against Bridgewater is expected to draw a strong crowd, especially with Reyes’ recent accolade adding excitement. St. Mary’s County residents can attend the match to support the Seahawks, with free admission for students and affordable tickets for the public, aligning with the college’s mission to foster community involvement.
Reyes’ offensive contributions come at a critical time as the Seahawks navigate a demanding schedule. The draw against Johns Hopkins, a regionally ranked opponent, showcased the team’s resilience, while the win over Stevenson demonstrated their ability to secure results on the road. Reyes’ game-winning goal against Stevenson, a team from Owings Mills, Maryland, highlights his clutch performance under pressure, a trait valued in Southern Maryland’s sports culture, where local high schools like Great Mills and Chopticon also emphasize competitive spirit.
As St. Mary’s College prepares for Bridgewater, the focus will be on maintaining offensive momentum. Reyes’ ability to pressure defenses and convert opportunities will be key against a Bridgewater squad that has started the season strongly. The non-conference game offers a chance to test the Seahawks’ depth and strategy, with Southern Maryland fans eager to see how the team builds on its recent performances.
The United East Conference’s weekly awards recognize individual excellence within a team context, and Reyes’ honor reflects both his personal skill and the Seahawks’ collective effort. For Southern Maryland, where sports play a significant role in community identity, such achievements resonate widely.
