Illinois State Soccer Player Sosi Dadekian Named MVC Defender of the Week

Defensive Anchor Earns First Conference Honor

Dadekian has started all 11 matches for the Redbirds this season, helping anchor a backline that has outscored opponents 10-1 during the team’s five-match win streak. According to Illinois State head coach Raleigh DeRose, Dadekian played a tough and tenacious match against UIC while making her presence felt on both ends of the field. She stepped up in a big-time moment and put the game in her hands, DeRose said of the sophomore’s performance. The weekly conference accolade is the first of Dadekian’s career and marks the third time an Illinois State player has earned an MVC weekly honor during the season.

Redbirds Extend Win Streak in Conference Play

The 2-0 win over UIC moved Illinois State’s overall record to 7-1-3 and pushed the team to 2-0 in Missouri Valley Conference play. The current five-match win streak stands as the longest for the Redbirds since the 2019 season. Dadekian’s penalty kick before halftime provided the decisive margin, while the defensive unit secured the team’s fifth shutout of the year.

Upcoming Match Against UNI at Adelaide Street Field

Illinois State continues its conference schedule on Sunday, hosting the University of Northern Iowa at Adelaide Street Field. Kickoff for the MVC matchup is scheduled for 1 p.m. CT. Dadekian and the Redbirds aim to defend their unblemished conference record and stretch their winning run against UNI.