WEST HAVEN, CT- Freshman Midfielder Pol Bota Gutierrez (West Haven, Conn./Verduna Girona) has been named NEC Rookie of the Week, as announced by the conference office on Tuesday. 

Pol Bota Gutierrez (West Haven, Conn./Verduna Girona) made a significant impact for the Men's Soccer team by scoring his first career goal, which also served as the game-winning goal, in the Chargers 2-0 victory against Quinnipiac. The win was New Haven's first of 2026 and their 12th consecutive home game without a loss, dating back to 2024.

Luke Fiscella (New Fairfield, Conn./New Fairfield) and Garrett Smith (Gorham, Maine/Bridgton Academy) also were honored by the conference, being named NEC Prime Performers. Fiscella contributed to the team's win over Quinnipiac by scoring the insurance goal in the 71st minute. Smith was honored following his first shutout as a Charger making five saves in the win.

This week marks the first time this year that players from New Haven have been recognized with Rookie of the Week honors. Pol Bota Gutierrez (West Haven, Conn./Verduna Girona). 

The team will continue non-conference play tonight at 6PM as they travel to New Hampshire with the game airing on ESPN+.