Vanguard University of Southern California Address: 55 Fair Drive Costa Mesa, California 92626-6597 Phone: 714-556-3610 Fax: 714-966-5471 Web Site: http://www.vanguard.edu Vanguard University of Southern California admission closing date: Rolling Does Vanguard University of Southern California offer Associate's degrees? No Does Vanguard University of Southern California offer Bachelor's degrees? Yes Does Vanguard University of Southern California offer Master's degrees? Yes Does Vanguard University of Southern California offer Doctoral degrees? No Vanguard University of Southern California graduation rate: 51.8% Vanguard University of Southern California average high school GPA: 3.35 Vanguard University of Southern California average ACT score: 22 Vanguard University of Southern California average SAT score: 1014 Vanguard University of Southern California tuition cost (estimate): $21,524 Financial Aid is available only to those who qualify. Vanguard University of Southern California room & board cost (estimate): $7,058

Is Vanguard University of Southern California a private college? Yes Is Vanguard University of Southern California a coed college? Yes Vanguard University of Southern California school calendar: Semester Is Vanguard University of Southern California a 2 year or 4 year college? 4 Years Please Note: Length of programs pertain to finishing programs in normal time. Vanguard University of Southern California enrollment: 2,249 Students Percentage of applicants accepted to Vanguard University of Southern California 85% Percentage of students at Vanguard University of Southern California receiving financial aid: 98% Percentage of African American students: 3.2% Percentage of Native American students: 0.7% Percentage of Asian students: 3.6% Percentage of Hispanic students: 13.0% Percentage of Caucasian students: 69.5% Percentage of students living on campus: 96% Percentage of students living off campus: 4% Other Activities Nearby: Golf Courses in Costa Mesa

Data provided by Data-lists.com Universities and Colleges Database. Data last updated on 2007-10-17.

VANGUARD UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA IN CALIFORNIA GRANTS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION

Federal Pell Grants

Academic Competitiveness (AC) Grant Program

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) Program

Grants and Scholarships available in California

VANGUARD UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NEWS

[Athletics] Top 10 Moments of the Year
The 2016-17 year within Vanguard Athletics saw the department as a whole reach new heights. Below, you will find the Top 10 Moments as determined by the VU panel. Notable acheivements that fell just outside of the list include baseball falling just ½ game short of their first GSAC Championship, Claire Lamunu (SO/Kampala, Uganda) (SR/Kampala, Uganda) and Christian Ware-Berry (JR/Pomona, CA) being recognized as Cliff Hamlow Award winners, 30 Lions reaching All-American or Scholar Athlete status, the men's track and field team with the highest ever team finish in the GSAC Meet, and the department finishing tied for second in the GSAC All-Sports Award.


[Baseball] Rojas, Isaac Make Strides in Angels Minor League System
Last Summer, Sean Isaac and Jose Rojas were chosen in back to back rounds by the Los Angeles Angels organization. Both players were fresh off being chosen as GSAC Player of the Year and Pitcher of the Year respectively. In their first full year of being in the minor league system, they have showcased their unbelievable talent and been rewarded on the field.​


[Baseball] Sandoval, Fuchs Receive NAIA Gold Glove Awards
KANSAS CITY – The National Associate of Intercollegiate Athletics announced this afternoon the 2017 Rawlings Gold Glove Team as determined by the American Baseball Coaches Association. This year, two members of the Vanguard Baseball squad were recognized on the list: Michael Fuchs (JR/Irvine, CA) and Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA). The duo makes the list in the same year, marking the third ever time such a feat has occurred. With Fuchs and Sandoval earning the nod in 2017, it now marks three total winners over the last three seasons after Jose Rojas won the first ever after the 2015 NAIA World Series run for the Lions. With its three victors, Vanguard is second all-time in total Gold Glove recipients.


[Baseball] Vanguard Officially Breaks Ground on Dean Harvey Field
COSTA MESA, Calif. – On Friday, June 16th Vanguard University welcomed the family of Dean Harvey (SCC Alum from the 1985 World Series team) in a special ground breaking ceremony for the baseball field renovation. With a target date of November 1st, the renovated field with feature new dugouts, state of the art tension netting system for the backstop, improved spectator experience included branding through the facility, new field service and pro style grass infield and outfield, as well as a new irrigation system. The project has been spearheaded by Jeff Motske and the rest of the committee includes Steve Castle, Mark Deushane, Tim Fortugno, Donovan McReynolds, Ron Nelson, Cindy Overeem, and Mike Peterson.


[Baseball] Sandoval Selected by Los Angeles Angels in 2017 Draft
ANAHEIM, Calif. – For the second straight year, a member of Vanguard Baseball will switch out his Lions hat for one from the Los Angeles Angels. Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA), the Vanguard Male Athlete of the Year and All-GSAC player, was selected in the 27th round with the 805th overall pick. Last year, Jose Rojas and Sean Isaac were taken in back to back rounds by the local team.


[Softball] Softball to Mix in Six Recruits to Reigning GSAC Champions
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Earlier this week, Vanguard Softball welcomed its six new student-athletes together on the freshly renovated field for the first time as a group. The latest recruiting class will look to fill the voids of four departed seniors, two which were starters, from the 2017 GSAC Regular Season and Tournament Championship squad. The Lions reached the NAIA Opening Round and served as host for the first time in program history.


[Men's Basketball] An Alumni Perspective: Levi Seekins
Vanguard University is a family and that bond does not end after the player's playing career ends. Recently, Vanguard Athletics caught up with Levi Seekins, who shared about how Vanguard shaped him as a person and his future. During Seekins' time at Vanguard from 2002-2006 his hard work, dedication, and desire culminated with an amazing senior season that included Vanguard male Athlete of the Year and VU Male Champions of Character honors. He helped lead the program to its first NAIA National Tournament appearance since 1990 and was rewarded with All-GSAC and NAIA Honorable Mention recognitions.


[Men's Cross Country] Clark Commits to Transferring to Vanguard
COSTA MESA, Calif. - As the summer months continue to tick by, head coach Bryan Wilkins is hard at work securing a deeper roster on the distance side of both cross country and track and field. Cade Clark, a transfer from Riverside City College and former teammate of the Lions' own Jeronimo Brito (JR/Riverside, CA), will enter as a junior this fall. The Corona native found success at both the 2016 and 2017 California Junior College State Meets. 


[Men's Basketball] Coach Klun Holds Basketball Clinic in Rio de Janeiro
CRUZADA, RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil - Vanguard University men's basketball assistant coach Andre Klun has returned to his homeland of Brazil for the summer to spread the game of basketball to the less fortunate children of the community. "Basquete Cruzada" was created in 1998 by Wagner Silva and his friends who still run it today. Cruzada is a community in the heart of Leblon, which is the richest neighborhood in Rio and one of the most expensive square feet in the world. However, Cruzada is a poor community which has historically had problems with drug dealing.


[Athletics] Vanguard Athletics Launches New Online Fan Store!
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University is pleased to launch www.shopvanguardlions.com, the first official online store for Vanguard Athletics in the school's history. This new joint venture between the Lions and Advanced-Online, A Follett Company, will give our fans and community a chance to buy fan gear at their own pace, on their own time. The site allows users to pick the item and style of their choosing before having numerous custom graphics created special for you!


[Athletics] Sign Up Now for Vanguard Athletics Summer Camps
COSTA MESA, Calif. - As the weather continues to warm here in Southern California and the Vanguard campus is quiet without the familiar sounds of student-athletes around the gym, fields, training room, and offices, attention turns to summer camps. This year, Basketball, Soccer, and Volleyball are proud to host 14 separate camps for kids ranging from high school all the way down to kindergarten. See the list of dates, times, and position position camps with brief descriptions below (for more detailed information click here). There are Vanguard alumni, faculty, and staff discounts for the volleyball and soccer camps. We look forward to seeing you and your family around campus this summer!


[Women's Soccer] Vanguard Reloads with Four Recruits Added to Talented Core
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Coming off a record year last year where the Lions tied for the most successful team in school history by reaching the NAIA Quarterfinals and winning 18 games, Vanguard women's soccer reloads with a talented recruiting class to add to an experience core."We are very excited about this incoming class; we believe that this squad is the deepest we have ever had, which is saying a lot for a program that utilized an average of almost 19 players a game last year," Director of Soccer Randy Dodge reported. "Our senior class is extremely motivated to push this team to new heights, which will undoubtedly include our newcomers stepping in and rising up to the level of play in the GSAC and the NAIA."


[Stunt] Vanguard Locks in First STUNT Recruiting Class
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University Athletics and head coach Leslie Allen are pleased to announce the 27 incoming Lions who will go down in history as members of the first STUNT team at VU. In the mix are four transfers, 11 incoming freshmen, and 12 current Vanguard students. The team will begin practicing and training in the fall and begin compeitions during the spring athletic season.


[Baseball] Lions Reload with 12 New Recruits for 2018 Season
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The customary needs of Vanguard Baseball to replenish upwards of 10 graduating senior athletes each summer has fallen upon head coach Rob Pegg and lead assistant Michael Thompson. After finishing just one half game out of winning the Golden State Athletic Conference, the Lions move to replace the on field and classroom contributions of 11 players. Currently, the Blue and Gold have 12 players inked for the 2017-18 academic year.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Lawson, Rogers Clinch All-American Status at NAIA ...
ORANGE BEACH, Ala. – Over the last three days, eight Lins competed at the NAIA National Championships hosted at the Mickey Miller Blackwell Stadium in Gulf Shores. Many exciting moments happened for the Blue and Gold including a personal record by Winston Lawson (SR/Santa Ana, CA) (SO/Santa Ana, CA) in the javelin portion of the men's decathlon, despite fighting through a nagging injury. At the conclusion, Lawson placed third in the decathlon, moving him into the four time All-American bracket for Vanguard. Through six events, Lawson was sitting in first place before falling victim for an injury on the pole vault. Despite the bum wheel, Lawson set a personal record on the javelin and raced near his yearly time in the 1500m.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Volleyball Adds Five Recruits for 2017 Season
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University Volleyball, in addition to recently coming under the direction of new head coach JP Dorn, is proud to announce the latest recruiting class which was meticulously targeted over the past year. The five incoming athletes include four freshmen (Kayla Fisher, Joelle Dueck, Kyler Garrett, and Eliana Johnson) as well as senior Jené Lee who is arriving on campus from Gardner-Webb, a NCAA Division I program.


[Volleyball] DeGroot Joins Volleyball Staff as Assistant Coach
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University is continuing its transformation under new head coach JP Dorn with the addition of new assistant coach Amy Degroot. With two new coaches and five new members of the team, a newly minted Blue and Gold will hit the court this August on a path to rejoining the NAIA's and GSAC's elite programs.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Track & Field National Championships Preview
ORANGE BEACH, Ala. - At 3:00 a.m. California time, Vanguard University Track & Field began its journey to the NAIA Men's Outdoor Track & Field National Championships. The event runs May 25th-27th and is held at Mickey Miller Blackwell Stadium. Vanguard sent eight athletes to this years final meet, competing in eight separate events. Winston Lawson (SR/Santa Ana, CA) (SO/Santa Ana, CA) highlights the group competing in three overall events with Noah Rogers (JR/Santa Ana, CA) just behind with two events. As a side note: Zach Hunt (SR/Sparks, NV) used the Los Angeles River Half Marathon to qualify to run the full marathon at the NAIA National Championship per official rules. 


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Vanguard Track & Field Team Awards
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Following the end of the GSAC Championships, Vanguard Track & Field gathered for their yearly team awards. For the second straight year Winston Lawson (SR/Santa Ana, CA) (SO/Santa Ana, CA) was named the Male Athlete of the Year and following suit Lydia Perrigo (SO/Hartsburg, MO)on (SO/Hartsburg, MO) was named Female Athlete of the Year for a second time. During the year seven school records were broken, often multiple times, and 30 All-GSAC awards were earned by 15 different athletes. 


[Softball] Lions Sent Home on Second Loss of the Opening Round
COSTA MESA, Calif. — The Vanguard Lions (46-15) finished out the NAIA Opening Round with their second loss today against Avila University (37-23). The two school competed for a spot in the semi-finals and the Lion's were unable to push past Avila's defense. The final score of the game was 5-3, Avila University.


[Softball] Defensive Battle Ends with a Lions' Loss
COSTA MESA, Calif. — The Vanguard Lions (46-14) finished off a successful season by winning the GSAC tournament which gave them a place in the NAIA Opening Round. The Lions' are the number two seed and host the tournament as four teams fight for a place in the NAIA World Series. The Lions started off the Opening Round in a game against Oregon Tech (35-15). It was a defensive battle between the two teams as each were able to keep runners from scoring and pushed the game into extra innings. After ten innings of play, Oregon Tech came out victorious with a final score of 2-1. victorious with a final score of 2-1.


[Softball] NAIA Softball Tournament Costa Mesa Bracket Headquarters
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The field has been set for the 2017 NAIA National Softball Tournament and the Costa Mesa Bracket features top seeded marian University of Indiana, second seeded Vanguard University, third seeded Oregon Institute of Technology and finally Avila University of Missouri.  Below you will find all of the NIAA Opening Round information for the three day event held on Vanguard's softball field from May 15-17th. 


[Baseball] Lions Fall on Wrong Side of Offensive Explosion
REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions began the day as one of three teams left in the GSAC Tournament. The winner of the Lions and Mustangs would move on to face Hope International with the title on the line. Twenty five runs later, the Blue and Gold feel just short by a 14-11 count as the game ended with two VU runners on the base paths. Early in the contest, the Pride led 7-1 before the TMU bats awoke.


[Baseball] Lions Suffer First Loss of Conference Tournament
REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – Meeting up against the top seeded Hope International Royals with a berth in the 2017 GSAC Conference Tournament Championship Game, the third seed Lions could not find the offensive firepower from the previous day. HIU took the game by a 6-2 count and forces the Pride to win the elimination game tomorrow at 11:00 AM for the right to play Hope International once again.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Local Runner Caleb Myers Choses Vanguard
COSTA MESA, Calif. - After leading off the recruiting cycle with four new members of Vanguard Women's Track and Field, Caleb Myers pens his name on his letter of intent and solidifies himself as the first new member of the Lions on the men's side. He will join the Blue and Gold out of Brea Olinda High school. The Fullerton native holds personal bests of 2:01 in the 800m, 4:36 in the 1600m, and 9:42 in the 3200m. On the cross country side of the equation, he runs the three-mile in 15:11.


[Baseball] Lions Explode for 16 Runs to Defeat Biola in GSAC Tournament
REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – Less than a week ago, the Vanguard Lions and Biola Eagles squared off in a series that had GSAC regular season champion implications. Now, in each squads first game of the conference tournament, the bitter old rivals matched up yet again. After a tough loss, the Blue and Gold clearly had revenge on their minds as they blew past the Eagles 16-3. Vanguard is the third seed in the five team tournament while Biola slots in second.


[Softball] Lions Win Three Straight to Take Tournament Championship on Home Field
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Having clawed their way back from the brink of elimination to make it to the championship round, the Vanguard University Lions (46-13) hosted the William Jessup Warriors (22-19) for the final time this season. After losing to the Warriors yesterday, the Lions had the perfect opportunity to earn their revenge on the biggest stage. The Pride were able to beat the Warriors 6-2 in game one, extending the contest to game two, where they dug deep to grind out a narrow 1-0 victory. This result sees the Blue and Gold establish their undisputed dominance over the conference, as GSAC regular season and tournament champions.


[Baseball] Trio of Lions Secure Both All-GSAC & Gold Glove Recognition
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference has released the awards for the 2017 baseball season and three Lions found their way onto both the All-GSAC Team and the GSAC Gold Glove Team. Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA) led the way being elected to both sides, adding to his already full trophy case from the year. The multi winner of Player of the Week voting and Player of the Year candidate receives these awards to add to his previous recognitions from earlier in his career. Last month he was named Vanguard Male Athlete of the Year. The other two members of the All-GSAC team were Shane Elias-Calles (JR/Mission Viejo, CA) and Trai Patrick (SR/Everett, WA) while Michael Fuchs (JR/Irvine, CA) and Tanner Perry (JR/El Cajon, CA) earned the Gold Glove nod.


[Softball] Dwyer's Complete Game Pushes Vanguard Into Winner's Bracket
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Taking the field in the final game of the first day at the 2017 GSAC Tournament, the Lions (43-12) felt right at home on their regular field. The familiarity was evident as they captured a 4-0 victory over Hope International (29-16) who was playing their second game of the day. HIU kicked off the day at 9:30 am by defeating Menlo. Vanguard, the top seed in the tournament, is one of two unbeaten teams left (William Jessup is the other).


[Softball] Lions Dig Deep to Secure Championship Berth
COSTA MESA, Calif. - After starting the tournament strong with a shutout victory over Hope, The Vanguard University Lions (44-13) hoped to carry their home advantage into their game against the William Jessup Warriors (20-17).  The Lions had the last laugh the last time these two sides met, but unfortunately that wasn't the case in this tournament tussle. The Warriors defeated the Pride 9-1 over five innings, securing a place in the championship match, while the Pride was forced to settle for an elimination berth against the San Diego Christian Hawks (25-22). After seven grueling innings, the Blue and Gold were able to save their season with a narrow 1-0 win against the Hawks.


[Track & Field] #VUTF GSAC Championships Preview
COSTA MESA, Calif. - At 6:00 a.m. tomorrow, the Vanguard Track and Field teams will make the three hour journey north for the two-day GSAC Championships hosted by Westmont College. On Friday, April 28th the final tallies will be made to determine who takes home the conference crown for the 2017 Outdoor Track and Field season. After months of training and tapering over the last few weeks, the athletes will put it all on the line with berths at the NAIA National Championships on the line. Below you will find the events they will be competing in, as well as their season best time and the corresponding meet it was scored at. 


[Track & Field] GSAC Championships Day 1 Recap
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The first day of the 2017 GSAC Championship has come and gone and it was a highlight worthy event for the Lions. After one day of competition, the VU men are sitting in second place with 59.50 points. Westmont sits in first place with 93 points while Biola (38) and The master's (37) are sitting behind the Blue and Gold. For the women's squads, Westmont also sits on top while the Pride is sitting back in fifth place but just 2.50 points out of forth place.


[Baseball] Eagles Narrowly Edge Lions in Game One of Decisive Weekend Series
LA MIRADA, Calif .- With the GSAC regular season championship on the line, the Vanguard University Lions (30-20, 18-10) traveled to enemy territory to take on the Biola University Eagles (33-15, 18-10). With both teams occupying first and second place respectively, this was much more than the typically heated rivalry match. Whoever comes out on top of the three game series will be taking the title home, and Biola drew first blood over nine innings with a 13-12 victory.


[Track & Field] Lawson Named GSAC Men?s Athlete of the Meet
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The Vanguard Lions wrapped up the regular season with a strong showing in the GSAC Championships on Thursday and Friday (April 27th/28th) at Westmont. The VU Men finished second overall in the GSAC Championship's final team standings with a program best 209 points to host Westmont's 265. This marks the highest placing ever for the school.


[Baseball] Lions' Dream of GSAC Title Still Alive!
La Mirada, Calif.- Following Biola's (34-16, 19-11) victory the day before, it was all on the line as Vanguard (31-21, 19-11) hoped to mount a comeback on day two. The Lions got off to a strong start with a win in game one, but the Eagles came back with a vengeance to take game two. Despite today's loss, Vanguard still has a chance at the GSAC Crown. Hope International and Westmont have a makeup game that will pick up in with HIU trailing 2-0 in the 5th.SCENARIO 1: If Hope wins, they are the outright champion earning the #1 Seed in the upcoming GSAC Tournament. Biola would slot second due to owning the tie breaker over Vanguard who would be the third seed.SCENARIO 2: If Westmont defeats Hope International, there will be a 3-way tie for the conference championship. Biola would be #1 Seed (due to 2-1 record over Vanguard/Hope International). Vanguard would be 2nd with 3-0 record over HIU who would take the third seed.


[Track & Field] Lions Capture Six Event Titles at Cal Pac Invitational
ALISO VIEJO, Calif. - Last Saturday, eight athletes from the Vanguard Track & Field program took to the Soka Cal Pac Invitational on April 22nd, as a few wanted a last chance tune-up meet prior to the conference championships this weekend. Noah Rogers (JR/Santa Ana, CA) recorded a big personal best in the men's 400 meter hurdles racing to a first place finish in 53.97. His time met the qualifying standard for NAIA Outdoor Nationals and currently ranks #1 in the GSAC and #5 in the NAIA.


[Volleyball] Student-Athlete Blogs: Rory McCloy - Adios Vanguard!
Hey everyone! The end of the semester is here. It's the last week before finals, and then it's summer break.  For me, that means my time at Vanguard is over.  It's surreal to think that in less than two weeks I won't be living in Southern California anymore.  The memories and relationships I have made at this school will last a lifetime.   


[Men's Soccer] Penaloza, Valdez Kick-Off 2017 Recruiting Class
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Vanguard University men's soccer program has been working hard to solidify the next recruiting class for the Lions. Director of Soccer Randy Dodge is pleased to announce the first two signees for the 2017-18 school year in Ricardo Valdez and Alex Penaloza.


[Baseball] Lions Remain Atop GSAC Standing After Gritty Victories Over TMU
COSTA MESA, Calif. — Vanguard came off a hard loss against The Master's University in the first game of the weekend series, but came back to win the series after taking both games of the Saturday double header. While the bats were slow for Vanguard in the beginning of the series, Vanguard picked up the pace during the double header, earning 18 hits in game one and 11 hits in game two. Game one saw a strong performance from Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA) and Michael Fuchs (JR/Irvine, CA) as each of them went 3-5 at the plate to help post a final score of 9-2, Vanguard. Game two saw fewer hits than game one, but the Lions gained the lead early and didn't let up. The Lion's defense helped maintain that lead, leaving nine runners on base, and the last out saw a Vanguard victory, 8-3.


[Softball] Oaks Shut Down Lions to Close Out Conference Play
ATHERTON, Calif.- With one win from two against William Jessup, The 14th ranked Vanguard University Lions (42-12, 17-7) hoped to finish conference strong against the Menlo College Oaks (31-16, 15-9). However, this was not the case, with the Oaks defeating the Lions in both games. Although these two defeats sent the Pride home with three defeats out of a possible four games, they still have a possibility for redemption in the conference tournament.


[Baseball] Lions Downed in Series Opener Against TMU
COSTA MESA, Calif. — Vanguard came away from a blow out victory last Tuesday and was hoping to continue that streak in this weekend's series, but they were unable to beat out The Master's University (26-18, 14-11). In the first day of the weekend series, the Lions (RV) (28-18, 16-9) fell behind the Mustangs early and couldn't come back. The final score was 11-6, The Master's. Despite the disappointing board, the Pride pushed through until the end, with three of the six runs scored in the bottom of the ninth.


[Softball] Vanguard Splits Double-Header at Jessup
ROCKLIN, Calif. — The GSAC champion Vanguard Lions (42-10,17-5 GSAC) went on a   road trip up north to face off against William Jessup (16-17,12-10 GSAC) in a double header. The Lions had an unusual, low hitting game for game one, but came back to split the day with the Warriors. Game one might have been low score, but the Lion's defense kept the Warriors from scoring as William Jessup would only score one off of their six hits. Game one ended with a final of 1-0, William Jessup. Game two was back to normal for the Lions as the Pride score six off of 13 hits and kept William Jessup from scoring any runs. The final score of game two was 6-0, Vanguard.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Lions Add State Champion Amanda Chan to 2017 Recruiting ...
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard University is already reloading its women's track & field team for next season and has snagged another commitment. Amanda Chan signed her letter of intent on campus last week and boasts an impressive resume including state champion as a junior. She is wrapping up her high school career at Mead High School in Spokane, Washington before she moves south for the coasts of California. Her title was earned at the Washington 4A level by hitting 5'6' in the high jump. She also competes in the 200m (25.8 personal best) and 400m in one minute flat.


[Softball] Vanguard Selected as NAIA Softball Opening Round Host Site
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has released the list of 10 host sites for the 5th annual NAIA Softball National Championship Opening Round and for the first time in school history, Vanguard will be hosting the event. It will be played between May 15 – 17 and Vanguard will hosty four teams in a double elimination tournaments. The 40 qualifiers and pairings for the Opening Rounds will be announced Wednesday, May 10. 


[Baseball] Lions Maul Mariners with Four Homers in 19-0 Shutout
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Having lost game three of their Norcal Series with William Jessup, the Vanguard University Lions (27-17) had a non-conference contest waiting for them at home, to help them get back on track. The Lions hosted Marymount California University (20-16) in a rematch of their first encounter, a month prior. The Mariners defeated the Pride 15-10 in their first game, but this second game was a completely different story. The Blue and Gold avenged their previous defeat with a 19-0 victory, their biggest win of the season so far.


[Athletics] Lions Announce Male & Female Athletes of the Year
Vanguard University is proud to announced the 2016-17 Male and Female Athletes of the Year. Traditionally, the names have been revealed at the University Awards Chapel, but this year the department decided to break with the routine and reveal them online. The students will still be honored during the chapel on Thursday, April 20th and also at the Athletics Awards Banquet on April 23rd. This year, three athletes will be recognized for the two award categories as the competition was too close on the men's side to select just one winner.


[Track & Field] Sallee Breaks Own School Triple Jump Record at Star-Studed Beach Relays
AZUSA, Calif. - Over three grueling days this weekend, Vanguard Track and Field sent competitors to three separate meets including the California Invitational Multi-Events and Bryan Clay Invitational both held at Azusa Pacific University on April 13th and 14th, as well as the Beach Relays hosted at Long Beach State on April 15th. Over the course of the three day period, 15 different Lions recorded personal bests including Mason Sallee (FR/Auburn, WA) breaking his own triple jump school record and Winston Lawson (SO/Santa Ana, CA) scoring a PR of 14/68 in the 110m hurdles. Additionally, 16 season bests were set across the weekend. 


[Men's Basketball] Student-Athlete Blogs: Christian Ware-Berry - Next Phase of Life
I hope everyone had a great Easter weekend. As we approach the end of the school year and head into the summer, I am excited to see what direction I take in my life going into my last year of college. This past week I had to make one of the hardest decisions of my life and decided to end my basketball career. The decision took a lot out of me mentally and emotionally, but I feel like I made the right decision for myself. If some of you don't know, I have an interest in music and this decision will allow me to focus on starting my music career and finishing my education. I can tell you that I am beyond blessed to be able to have played college basketball and this game has helped me grow as a man. I am confident that the habits I built from being an athlete will transfer over into my next phase of life. I want to thank my coaches, teammates, the athletic staff, the school faculty, and all of the Vanguard students for all of their support for the last three years. All of you have impacted my life tremendously and I am grateful for you all. I hope that you continue to support me as I transition into this new stage of life. Thank you.


[Softball] Russell Earns Career Highlight in GSAC Pitcher of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Emily Russell (SR/Calabasas, CA) started her first game of 2017 for the Blue and Gold last week against St. Katherine College, earning the victory. Today, she earned another recognition as she was named GSAC Pitcher of the Week thanks to allowing just five hits and two strikeouts over all five innings of work in the circle during a shortened game. Her start was during senior day and the right handed pitcher rewarded the faith of her coaching staff. Russell is a four year member of the Pride and a key leader off the field for the GSAC Champion Lions.


[Baseball] Warriors Win Game Three to Prevent Blue and Gold From Series Sweep
STOCKTON, Calif.- Having won games one and two of the three-game series, the Vanguard University Lions (27-17, 16-8) had every right to go into game three with plenty of confidence. However, the William Jessup University Warriors (9-28, 4-19) played better in game two than they did in game one, and unfortunately this trend continued. After nine innings, the Warriors prevented a series sweep by defeating the Lions 4-1.


[Soccer] Vanguard Soccer Presents 14th Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser
RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, Calif. – Vanguard University Soccer is proud to present the 14th Annual Golf Tournament, held at Tijeras Creek Golf Club on Friday, April 21st. All proceeds from the event go directly to the Men's and Women's Soccer Program at Vanguard University, sponsoring the nationally represented teams who are committed to being Champions of Character. Funds supplement the existing budget allowing maintenance of the top notch facility, travel costs to compete around the country, as well as uniform and scholarship needs.


[Baseball] Lions Lead Warriors on Day One of NorCal Series
LINCOLN, Calif.- After leaving home on a high with their three-game sweep of Shepherd University, the Vanguard University Lions (27-16, 16-7) made the long trip up north to face the William Jessup University Warriors (8-28, 3-19). This arduous journey was not made in vain, with the Lions starting the series strong by winning games one and two. The Pride outscored the Warriors 13-7 on the day, holding them in good stead for game three.


[Softball] Pride Play Like Champions on Senior Day
COSTA MESA, Calif. - After being crowned conference champions with their sweep at Arizona Christian, The 17th ranked Vanguard University Lions (41-9) returned home to host the St. Katherine College Firebirds (5-24). This match was originally scheduled for February 10th, before being rescheduled due to inclement weather. The GSAC champions refused to rest on their laurels, recording their third consecutive sweep by outscoring the Firebirds 18-3 on the day.


[Softball] Heinle, Tonini Help GSAC Champion Lions Sweep Weekly Awards
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Clinching the GSAC Regular Season Championship on Saturday becomes that much sweeter as Britany Heinle (JR/Stockton, CA) and Kolbi Tonini (SO/Reno, NV) were named GSAC Player and Pitcher of the Week respectively. This marks the first time this season Heinle has won the award (she previously won it last year) and Tonini takes it home for the second time in 2017. For the second time this year, Vanguard swept both awards during the same week.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Coach Wilkins Signs Renfroe as Latest Distance Runner
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The cross country and track & field program at Vanguard University has locked in its third commitment for the 2017-18 season. Hailing from Red Bluff High School in Northern California, Naomi Renfroe will join the team with personal bests in track of 5:28 in the 1600m and 11:38 in the 3200m, while running the cross country 5k in 19:32."Naomi is another talented addition to next year's women's team," Cross Country/Track & Field head coach Bryan Wilkins happily stated. "We're excited she has chosen to be a Lion! She brings talent and a strong passion for running to the program."


[Women's Basketball] Student-Athlete Blogs: Kaitlyn Hawthorne - Celebration
Hi everybody!  I hope everyone is finishing up the year strong and getting ready for the summer break with only a little less than a month left.  Since getting back from Montana and the NAIA National Basketball Tournament, I've had time to reflect on all the exciting things and memories made there.  This includes meeting many people within the kindhearted community of Billings, attending different churches, getting to know children from the Grace Montessori school, and of course making it to the Fab Four.  As heartbreaking as it was to end our season so close to the championship, Coach Russ Davis reminded us how important it is to take these lessons and learn from them, but also to celebrate all the accomplishments.  Not only do these accomplishments comprise of our season record and awards, but the amount of love we have gained for each other and great strides we've made in our walk with the Spirit of God.  As this is my final blog of the year, I feel as though "celebration" is the perfect topic to close out the semester. 


[Baseball] Bring Out The Brooms! Vanguard Sweeps Shepherd in Weekend Series
COSTA MESA, Calif. – After taking care of business and capturing an 11 run victory a day before, the Lions (RV) (25-16) hit the field to complete the weekend series against Shepherd University (2-26). Despite an initial hiccup, Vanguard followed through on the expected outcomes winning 11-5 and 6-2 to complete the sweep. The three victories mark the final non-conference series for the Pride in 2017, as only two stand alone non-GSAC games remain.


[Track & Field] Rogers Highlights 19 PR's at Pomona Pitzer Invitational
CLAREMONT, Calif. - Saturday the Vanguard Lions took to the track at the Pomona Pitzer Invitational and left with 19 personal bests recorded on the day. The events were highlighted by Noah Rogers (JR/Santa Ana, CA) who had a huge day for the Lions racing to personal bests in the 110m hurdles (14.83) and 400m hurdles (54.76) finishing 2nd and 1st in his respective heats. Both times rank #2 all-time for VU and both currently rank #1 in the Golden State Athletic Conference. Roger's 110m hurdles effort met the qualifying standard for NAIA Outdoor Nationals. 


[Athletics] Vanguard Launches New Athletics Website
Vanguard Athletics is pleased to announce the full redesign of the athletic website, www.vanguardlions.com, launching promptly at 7:00 a.m. PST on Friday, April 7, 2017. The complete overhaul of The Official Home of Vanguard University Athletics was begun in December 2016 and the final touches were added earlier this week. Vanguard University inked an extension to its current contract with web provider SIDHelp, continuing the partnership to a full decade by the end of the term. This marks the first revamp of the webpage since its initial inception in 2010 with slight modifications over the last seven years.


[Baseball] Vanguard Slams Their Way Past Thundering Herd
COSTA MESA, Calif. — With the sun shining and a slight breeze keeping the fans cool, the Vanguard Lions (23-16) took the field against Shepherd University (2-24) to start a new weekend series. The Lions shut the Thundering Herd out through seven innings, but Shepherd was able to get two runs on the board by the end. Vanguard was incredibly effective with their hitting as the scored 13 off of 14 hits. The final score was 13-2, Vanguard. Shane Elias-Calles (JR/Mission Viejo, CA) went 4-5 at the dish, earning 3 RBIs in the process, and Michael Fuchs (JR/Irvine, CA) followed in suit, going 3-3. 


[Softball] Vanguard Captures Programs 6th GSAC Championship
PHOENIX – Flying down the home stretch of the conference slate, the 17th ranked Lions (39-9,16-4) sat in first place with control of their GSAC fate. Saturday ended with history being made as Vanguard won the GSAC Regular Season Championship for the first time since 1999 with a sweep of Arizona Christian (25-22,5-13). During that 90's, with Southern California College printed across the chest of their jerseys, the program won five conference titles within seven seasons. Then the dominant program in the GSAC shifted to Cal Baptist and eventually Concordia making it 18 years before the Lions would once again be crowned champions. More impressive, the team left Sandra Day O'Connor High School wrapping up the feat with four contests still to play.


[Volleyball] A Lions Heart - Kamelah Noel
In an ongoing effort to show Vanguard student-athletes as more than just a number in a jersey, Vanguard Athletics is pleased to announce a new regular web series titled "A Lions Heart". In this, the student-athlete takes the reigns discussing their relationship with Christ, their Vanguard experience, and a little more about their daily life.


[Softball] Lions Sweep Royals in Ranked Rumble
COSTA MESA, Calif.- After wrapping up March with a split in their final match against rival Biola, the 17th ranked Lions (37-9, 15-4) hosted the 23rd ranked Royals (22-12, 8-10). This matchup between the two ranked teams in the conference ended in a split in their first meeting, making this second meeting an especially intriguing encounter. The occasion most definitely did not disappoint, with the Lions sweeping the Royals 15-10 on the day. Even more impressive, is the fact that the Pride came from behind in both games after initially losing the lead.


[Women's Soccer] Student-Athlete Blogs: Maddy Slade - My Favorite Psalm
An assignment in my English class really struck me this week. We were told to pick our favorite psalm and explain how it applies to our lives. I chose:Psalm 9:9-10The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.


[Baseball] Sandoval Takes Home 3rd Player of the Week for 2017
COSTA MESA, Calif. – For the third time in four weeks, Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA) has been recognized as Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week. This recognition also marks the third time in his career he has received the award. The four year Lion was scorching last week as he held a .667 batting average across the three games played. He tallied eight hits in 12 at bats while also adding in nine RBI's. His 11 total bases led to him scoring six runs. The leadoff hitter jacked out his first grand slam helping him post a slugging percentage of .917. He was 3-4 on stolen base attempts and a perfect 10-10 in fielding opportunities.  


[Track & Field] Two School Records, 20 Event Titles Claimed by Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Vanguard Lions captured both the men's and women's team titles at the Coast-Guard Invitational Friday co-hosted by Orange Coast College and Vanguard University. The VU men outdistanced Orange Coast College by 77 points finishing with 282 points to OCC's 205, while the women topped runner-up Palomar College by just 6 points 182 to 176. Vanguard athletes won a total of 20 events on the day.


[Baseball] Runs-A-Plenty in Lions Split with Firestorm
COSTA MESA, Calif. — The Vanguard Lions (22-16,14-7 GSAC) took the field on a beautiful sunny day to finish out the weekend series against the Arizona Christian Firestorm (20-17,11-12 GSAC). After winning Friday's game off a grand slam from Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA), the #21 Lions were looking for a sweep. The end result was not the desired one however as the Lions split the double header with the Firestorm. In game one, both teams were hitting well. Arizona had 15 hits to Vanguard's 13, but it was the Lions who came out on top. Game one had a final score of 14-8 in Vanguard's favor. Vanguard seemed to keep the trend up in game two as they took the lead early, but it was the Firestorm who ended taking the second game with a final score of 5-3. 


[Track & Field] Two School Records, 18 Event Titles Claimed by Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Vanguard Lions captured both the men's and women's team titles at the Coast-Guard Invitational Friday co-hosted by Orange Coast College and Vanguard University. The VU men outdistanced Orange Coast College by 77 points finishing with 282 points to OCC's 205, while the VU women topped runner-up Palomar College by just 6 points 182 to 176. Vanguard athletes won a total of 20 events on the day.


[Softball] Lions Split in Final Meeting of Rival Biola
COSTA MESA, Calif. — With three sweeps in their wake, the Vanguard Lions (35-9,12-4 GSAC) were feeling confident in their match up with their rivals, the Biola Eagles (17-14-2,6-8 GSAC). The first game was a struggle for the Lions as they took the lead early but couldn't keep it. Biola won game one, 6-5. The second game was a standoff, both teams holding each other back, until Vanguard broke through. The final score of game two was 2-0, Vanguard.  


[Baseball] Sandoval's Grand Slam Lifts Lions to Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. — After a rough couple of games and a disappointing road trip, the Vanguard Lions got themselves into gear for the opening game of a weekend series against Arizona Christian. Vanguard didn't out hit Arizona Christian, only earning 11 hits as opposed to Arizona Christian's 10, but the Lions made the most out of their opportunities while the Firestorm left players on base. After nine innings, the Lions won, 8-1. Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA) led the offense, batting 4-5 and earning 6 RBI's including a grand slam!


[Track & Field] Vanguard Athletics to Live Stream Tomorrow's Track Meet
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University and Orange Coast College have teamed up to put on the premier track and field meet in the city this weekend. Squads from VU, OCC, Arizona Christian, Cuyamaca, and Palomar will compete their hearts out at the OCC Track and Field Complex starting at 11:00 a.m.  For the first time in school history, Vanguard Athletics will be live streaming selected events, from the events listed below, thanks to the partnership of Vanguard and OCC Sports Information Departments. To view online, you may access it through the live video function of the website or by clicking here.


[Softball] Lions Sweep Ephs Ahead of Conference Clash Against Biola
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Following their shutout sweep of San Diego Christian, the 17th ranked Vanguard University Lions (34-8) took a break from conference play to host the Williams College Ephs (7-7). Although the Lions failed to record another shutout on the day, they did record a second sweep, extending their winning streak to four games. The Pride beat the Ephs 2-1 in game one and 5-1 in game two.


[Volleyball] Student-Athlete Blogs: Rory McCloy - Senioritis
Hey everyone! It's that time of the spring semester.  The spring slump, right after springs break with summer right around the corner.  I wish I could say otherwise, but senioritis is in full effect.  I have one month left here at Vanguard, the weather is starting to be fantastic, and I'm beyond ready to enjoy the summer and move forward with my life. However, I have met myself in the middle and started focusing on what's important now, and how to enjoy my life right now.I realized that I'm leaving SoCal, and I have decided to enjoy every last day that I'm still here. I was so blessed to have had the chance to live here for the last two years, and it would be wrong of me to take it for granted my last month here.  I realized that my grades are still important. I have decided to continue to keep my classes right now a priority because that's what will help me in the future.  I realized that this season of my life is just as important as any other season. I have decided to wake up every day and make the best of what is put in front of me.  I realized that I have made so many beautiful friendships while living here.  I have decided to cherish these people that have made the last two years of my life something amazing! I'm here to simply say you can do it!  You didn't come this far, to only come this far.  Ask the Lord to take your stress, worries, anxieties, and bad thoughts out of your head and off your shoulders, and just push through! Make it to summer on a high note.  Enjoy the beautiful life that you have.Thank you for taking time out of your day to read what I have to say, talk to you next month!


[Women's Soccer] A Lions Heart: Erica Wadell
In an ongoing effort to show Vanguard student-athletes as more than just a number in a jersey, Vanguard Athletics is pleased to announce a new regular web series titled "A Lions Heart". In this, the student-athlete takes the reigns discussing their relationship with Christ, their Vanguard experience, and a little more about their daily life.


[Softball] Once Again Vanguard Softball Sweeps GSAC Player of the Week Awards
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In what has become a familiar announcement on Monday's, Vanguard University Softball is once again represented on the Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week voting. For the second time this season, Vanessa Dwyer (FR/Temple City, CA) was elected Pitcher of the Week and for the first time in her young career Cassie Balswick (FR/Turlock, CA) was tabbed as Player of the Week. With this round, the 17th ranked Lions have been represented on at least one of the awards all five weeks in 2017 and have swept the awards twice. Vanguard currently sits atop the GSAC standings and they have come out victorious in 21 of the last 26 competitions.


[Softball] Strong Pitching Gives Lions 4-0 Record Over Hawks
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Starting the day with their eyes on keeping the top spot in the GSAC standings, the 17th ranked Lions (32-8, 11-3) took the field against San Diego Christian (16-15, 6-8). The teams entered with the first and third best records respectively. It required excellent play by the infield and headstrong pictching to get out of some jams, but Vanguard ended with two victories by 1-0 and 4-0 counts.


[Baseball] Saturday Double Header Ends in Split with Westmont
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — The Vanguard Lions (20-15,12-6 GSAC) continued their weekend series against Westmont College (17-12,8-8 GSAC) with a double header and split the day with the Warriors. After a loss on Friday, Vanguard was hoping to pick up both wins, but only could take game one. The first game was won by the third inning as Brock Eissman (SR/San Clemente, CA) solidified the lead with a homerun that made it so Westmont couldn't come back. The final score of game one was 5-3. Unfortunately, game two was a different story as Westmont took the lead early and kept the Lions from scoring. Game two ended with a score of 6-1, Westmont.


[Baseball] Warriors Edge Lions in Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — The Vanguard Lions (19-14,11-5 GSAC) went on the road to start a weekend series against Westmont College (16-11,7-7 GSAC). Despite an impressive day at the plate for Shane Elias-Calles (JR/Mission Viejo, CA), the Lions were unable to get the result they wanted. In the end, the Lions fell to the Warriors with a final score of 5-4. 


[Softball] Top Two GSAC Teams' Meeting Results in Split
FULLERTON, Calif. — With an exciting weekday game behind them, the 17th ranked Vanguard Lions (30-8,9-3 GSAC) took the field against Hope International University (22-6,8-4 GSAC). The first game was all about the Lions as they shut out the Royals, 4-0. Game two showed a struggle between the two teams until Hope International won on a walk off single. The final score of game two was 7-6.


[Basketball] Lamunu Earns 1st Team All-American, Allmon Named Honorable Mention
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The NAIA National Office has released the 2017 Division I Men's and Women's Basketball teams. Vanguard University is proud to have two representatives on the list including First Team member Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) and Honorable Mention Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA). This continues a long list of awards that have been given to Lamunu throughout her record breaking senior campaign.


[Basketball] Five Lions Earns Scholar Athlete Status for NAIA and GSAC
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University is proud to honor five student-athletes who exemplify what it means to be a Lion. In addition to excelling on the basketball court, they got it done in the classroom to earn both Golden State Athletic Conference and Daktronics-NAIA Scholar Athlete. Representing the women's basketball team are seniors Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda), Hanna Tabron (SR/Gilroy, CA), Maya Kennedy (SR/Huntington Beach, CA), and Jaime Goff (SR/Oregon City, OR) while Nick Dalafu (SO/Manila, Philippines) is the lone representative on the men's side.


[Softball] Lions Grind to Upsets of #14 Simpson
COSTA MESA, Calif. – A day after vaulting up the Coaches' Top 25 Poll, the newly minted 17th ranked Vanguard Lions (27-7) pulled off two thrilling upsets of #14 Simpson University (19-7). The Lions battled back for a 2-1 victory in game one before grinding to a 1-0 win in the nightcap, even though it took nine innings to do so.


[Baseball] Mariners Sink Lions in 25-Run Thriller
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Having returned home following their three-game sweep defeat to Menlo, the Vanguard University Lions (19-13) hoped to steady the ship against the Marymount California Mariners (10-10). However, this homecoming was not a happy one, with the Mariners defeating the Lions 15-10. This latest loss extends the Pride's losing streak to four games.


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard Knocked Out of National Tournament in Semifinals
BILLINGS, Mont. – Fresh off the second largest victory margin in the NAIA Tournament Quarterfinals, the Lions' season ends as the ball would not find the bottom of the basket the way it had all season.  Lewis-Clark State College (35-1), a one seed in their bracket, defeated the second seeded Lions 65-41. For Vanguard (30-4), Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) scored 15 points and grabbed 19 rebounds as she tallied her 25th double-double of the season.


[Men's Basketball] Student-Athlete Blogs: Christian Ware-Berry - More Life
Hey everybody,If you're a fan of Drake, I'm sure the title of the blog sparked your attention. To be honest with you, I thought the album was ok. I only say that because 1) It isn't an album. It's a compilation of several songs that don't really match a main concept. 2) I'm one of his biggest fans, but also a heavy critic of him. I think his artistry is so great that I feel he gets a little complacent with some of his tracks ( Just big expectations for one of the best in the game.. "Sacrifices" is my favorite song by the way). To put this all into perspective, I titled this entry "More Life" because we will never get it. Not here at least. Every day there are new experiences to encounter, new goals to reach, and new opportunities to seize. It's what we live for and what others have died for. To elaborate on the latter part of the last sentence, we can sometimes take for granted the life that we have. I recently saw posts on my Instagram feed from people I know who were sending their condolences and saying good-bye to one of their close friends who unexpectedly died in his sleep. The man was probably in his mid-to-late twenties and from the posts that I saw he seemed liked a good-hearted guy. It made me think about my purpose here and what I am living for. I'm sure that he had his future planned out, family and friends that loved him, and joy to still be alive. I saw his last post before he died, which was a picture of him and his girlfriend that appropriately stated in his caption, "More Life". My message to everyone reading is not to fear death, but to love life and to love every second of it. You are here for a reason so don't let anything discourage you or hold you back for what God has in store for you, which is in fact "More Life".


[Softball] Tonini Voted GSAC Pitcher of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - For the fourth consecutive week, a member of the Vanguard Lions (27-7) was recognized as Player or Pitcher of the Week as determined by the Golden State Athletic Conference. This time, the honor goes to Kolbi Tonini (SO/Reno, NV) who earns the accolade for the first time in her two year career with the Blue and Gold. Her strength inside the circle is one of the reasons the Pride is on a tear to open the season and scorching up the Coaches' Top 25 Poll. Tonini appeared in four of the Lions eight games last week and ended with a 2-0 record in over 20 innings of work. She allowed only two earned runs on the week and struck out and impressive eight batters against Embry Riddle, 10 overall.


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard Knocked Out of National Tournament in Quarterfinals
BILLINGS, Mont. – Fresh off the second largest victory margin in the NAIA Tournament Quarterfinals, the Lions' season ends as the ball would not find the bottom of the basket the way it had all season.  Lewis-Clark State College (35-1), a one seed in their bracket, defeated the second seeded Lions 65-41. For Vanguard (30-4), Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) scored 15 points and grabbed 19 rebounds as she tallied her 25th double-double of the season.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Fab Four Match Up Preview
BILLINGS, Mont. – The final four teams have earned their slot in the NAIA National Tournament Semifinals which begin tomorrow, March 20th. The first matchup features Campbellsville (3rd seed) and Oklahoma City (2nd seed) on the left side of the bracket. Vanguard is matched up against Lewis-Clark State College (1st seed) who defeated conference rival Westmont College in the prior round. The Lions (2nd seed) will take on the Warriors starting at 7:00 PDT. Below you will find a breakdown of the two teams and how they have played so far in the 37th Annual NAIA Division I Women's Basketball National Tournament. Entering the tournament, LCSC was ranked fourth in the NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll with the Lions just behind at fifth.


[Softball] Eagles Sweep Lions in Non-Conference Rivalry
COSTA MESA, Calif. - With 33 unanswered runs in four consecutive shutouts, the Vanguard University Lions (23-7) faced the Concordia University Eagles (20-9-2), with the utmost confidence. However, the Eagles proved to be a worthy non-conference rival, beating the Lions in both bouts. The former GSAC powerhouse beat the Pride 4-1 in game one and 2-1 in game two.


[Women's Basketball] Uluheua's Paint Dominance Guides the Lions to the Quarterfinal Round
BILLINGS, Mont. – Moving into second round play, the second seeded Lions (29-3) took on the Montana State Northern Skylights (24-9) for a chance to move on to the NAIA National Tournament Quarterfinals. After the final whistled sounded, Vanguard held a 71-65 lead and claimed its spot as a member of the eight teams for the 10th time in program history and the first time since 2012-13 season. The difference in the game came down to 20 more points scored by the Lions bench as well as 20 more points in the paint.


[Women's Basketball] Swarming Defense Moves Vanguard into Fab Four
BILLINGS, Mont. – The party continues at Rimrock Auto Arena for Vanguard (30-3) as they roll past William Woods (22-12) by a 71-34 count as the Lions earn a berth in the NAIA National Tournament Semifinals for the first time since 2008. Vanguard forced 22 turnovers and held the Owls to only 11 points in the final 20 minutes of play to easily cruise into the next round. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) scored a game high 18 points while Maya Kennedy (SR/Huntington Beach, CA) chipped in 14 and Victoria Chea (FR/Murrieta, CA) added 12. The Pride held a 10-0 edge in offensive rebounds and scored 21 points off turnovers.


[Baseball] Oaks Sweep Lions in Three-Game Series
REDWOOD CITY, Calif. - After suffering defeat at the hands of Menlo (22-5, 11-2) a day prior, the Vanguard University Lions (19-12, 11-4) hoped to turn their fortunes around in this double-header. The Lions came close in game one, losing 5-6, while losing game two 1-10. These results see the Oaks switch places with the Pride in the standings, taking control of first place.


[Softball] Lions Back on Track with Sweep of Mariners
COSTA MESA, Calif.- Following their sweep defeat to non-conference rivals Concordia, the Vanguard University Lions (27-7) hoped to restart a winning streak against the Marymount California University Mariners (4-12). The Lions got back on track with 4-2 victories in games one and two.


[Women's Basketball] Team Effort Guides Lions Past Lady Lynx at National Tournament
BILLINGS, Mont. – The 5th ranked and the 2nd seeded Vanguard Lions (28-3) took the court in the final game of the first round at the NAIA Division I Women's Basketball National Championship, presented by Wells Fargo, at the Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark. The Blue and Gold were matched up against Lindenwood-Belleville (22-10) who was making their first ever appearance in the event, while the Pride has reached it 19 total times and 16 in a row. The Lady Lynx gave Vanguard everything they could handle before the Lions emerged victorious 66-59. Hanna Tabron (SR/Gilroy, CA) dropped in a team-high 15 points by going 3-6 from behind the arc. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) went off for 13 points and 14 rebounds as she faced double teams on almost every possession. Vanguard moves out of the first round for the second straight year.


[Softball] Pride Punish Pioneers with 23-0 Shutout Sweep
PALMDALE, Calif.- Getting back on track with their shutout sweep against Embry-Riddle Aeronautical, the Vanguard University Lions (25-5) traveled 105 miles to face the University of Antelope Valley Pioneers (1-13). Earlier in the month, the Lions beat the Pioneers 12-0 over two games, giving them every bit of confidence going into this rematch. In a performance that qualifies as their most dominant to date, the Pride outscored the Pioneers 23-0 on the day, giving them a grand total of 33 unanswered runs.


[Women's Basketball] National Tournament Preview: Women's Basketball
Vanguard is one of four teams in this year's tournament field to have reached the mountain top and claimed the elusive title. The Lions took home the red banner in 2008 and were the second at large berth selected for the 2017 field. Vanguard comes in with a 27-3 record and went 15-1 in conference play. All three of the Blue and Gold's loses were to teams who reached the 37th Annual NAIA Women's Basketball National Championship. The tough Golden State Athletic Conference pushed four teams through, proving once again it is one of the most difficult conferences to navigate year in, year out.Their opposition, Lindenwood-Belleville (Ill.) is reaching the big dance for the first time in school history. The Lady Lynx were awarded the 13th at-large berth after finishing the year 22-9, finishing fourth in the American Midwest Conference with an 18-6 record. LBU is one of four teams from the AMC who reached the final field of 32.


[Women's Basketball] WBCA Selects Claire Lamunu as Player of the Year
ATLANTA – Vanguard University standout Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) has been named the 2017 WBCA Player of the Year, being chosen as the top player in both the Division I and Division II rankings of the NAIA. Lamunu adds this prestigious award to an already full shelf as she was voted Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week five times on route to being named conference Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year.


[Softball] Thornhill Named GSAC Pitcher of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Just two months into her first collegiate season, Courtney Thornhill (FR/Hughson,CA) was voted Golden State Athletic Conference Pitcher of the Week as she had a stellar seven days going 3-0. She is now 8-2 on the year as Thornhill is another one of the stud freshman in the Vanguard pitching rotation. She threw complete games in two of her outings this week and is a huge reason why Vanguard sits at the top of the GSAC and should break into the Top 25 Poll in its next release. Thornhill leads the team with 32 strikeouts on the year and an average of 3.82 per contest. She also slots in a 27th in the nation in wins this season.


[Baseball] BACK 2 BACK: Sandoval Once Again Named Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. – For the second time in as many weeks, Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA) has been selected as the Player of the Week for the Golden State Athletic Conference. He backed up his blitz of a week with another solid seven days. Sandoval continues to lead off the lineup for the 16th ranked Lions and tallied 6-13 hitting including seven runs scored on the base paths and five RBI's. He was perfect on his steal attempts and smashed a pair of home runs, while also drawing three walks. On the year he leads the team with 42 hits at a .400 average and has 19 stolen bases. Nationally, he is fifth in hits, 10th in stolen bases, 15th in at bats, and 42nd in total doubles.


[Softball] Tonini, Dwyer Star in Shutouts of Embry Riddle
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions (23-5) continue to roll on all fronts as they pick up a sweep of Embry-Riddle Arizona (7-16) and claiming two shut outs in the process. The bats responded with a 7-0 victory in the first game and stellar pitching sealed a 3-0 score in game two.


[Track & Field] Hunt Earns Spot in National Championships
EAGLE ROCK, Calif. - On Friday Evening, the Lions Track and Field team sent a group of competitors to the Oxy Distance Carnival hosted by Occidental College. Zach Hunt (SR/Sparks, NV) highlighted the evening at Oxy finishing 3rd overall among thirty competitors in the men's 10,000 meter run with a personal best time of 31:12.73 earning him an A-Standard qualifying mark for NAIA Outdoor Nationals.


[Track & Field] Duran is the Fastest Man in the GSAC!
FULLERTON, Calif. - Heading to their final event before a two-week hiatus, the Vanguard Track and Field teams competed on the second day of the Ben Brown Invitational. Alec Duran (SO/La Verne, CA) raced to a speedy season best time of 10.91 in Section A of the men's 100 meter dash at the Ben Brown Invitational Saturday. Duran's time is a Vanguard best for him and is also the fastest time in the Golden State Athletic Conference to date. Ayana Chambers (JR/Bellflower, CA) had a big day for the Vanguard women, racing to an outdoor season best of 16.49 in the 100m hurdles and coming close to breaking her own school record of 16.38.


[Women's Basketball] Student-Athlete Blogs: Kaitlyn Hawthorne - National Tournament
Hi everyone! Finally we've made it to the end of the season, but luckily for us, its not quite the end yet!  We just arrived in Billings, Montana for the NAIA National Tournament and we are more excited than ever to compete for that red banner.  All the hard work and well-earned title of GSAC conference champions, continuing to push ourselves to our best potential is still on our list of things to do.  Being here with these girls and coaches makes me thankful and reminds me that I am so blessed to be a part of a program where there is so much love, compassion, and selflessness. 


[Stunt] Vanguard to Host 1st Annual STUNT Clinic
COSTA MESA, Calif. – As part of the recruiting process for the first annual STUNT team at Vanguard University, the athletic department is hosting a free clinic for those interested in pursuing STUNT at the collegiate level here at Vanguard University. Head coach Leslie Allen will be conducting the one-day event on Saturday, April 1st from 9:00-11:00 AM.


[Baseball] Lions Make it Three for Three Against Mustangs
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Having won their first encounter less than 24 hours ago, the 16th ranked Vanguard University Lions (19-9 ) hosted the Morningside Mustangs (10-9) in a double-header rematch. On top of their series opening victory, the Lions also moved up four places in the rankings, adding to their growing confidence. This confidence was on full display in game one, with the Pride beating the Mustangs 7-1. Game two was a far more mellow affair, with the Blue and Gold winning 2-0 to sweep the three-game series.


[Softball] Lions Stay on Top With Share of the Spoils
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Fresh off their sweep of Menlo, the Vanguard University Lions (21-5, 8-2) hosted the William Jessup Warriors (9-11. 5-4) less than 24 hours later. Despite their long and arduous journey, the Warriors caught the Lions off guard, winning game one 5-2. However, the Pride were able to recover, winning game two 2-1.


[Baseball] One Win, Two to Go
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Following their first defeat to Bethesda in the previous three meetings, The 20th ranked Vanguard University Lions (17-9) hosted the Morningside Mustangs (10-7) in search of a winning response. A winning response is exactly what they found, beating the Mustangs 7-3 after eight and a half innings. However, a double-header rematch awaits, with the teams battling it out again tomorrow.


[Softball] Lions Chop Down Oaks in 13-2 Sweep
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Having won 15 of their previous 16 games, the Vanguard University Lions (20-4, 7-1) returned to conference play with plenty of conference. They hosted the Menlo College Oaks (15-13, 2-6) and swept them, winning games one and two with a 13-2 overall score line. This latest sweep makes it three in a row for the Pride.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Thompson Joins the Blue and Gold for 2017-18
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University Athletics and head coach Bryan Wilkins is thrilled to sign the latest addition to the Lions. Marissa Thompson of Woodcrest Christian High School in Riverside, CA formally committed to being a member of the Blue and Gold yesterday. Thompson, scheduled to join the Pride in Fall 2017 as a freshman competes in both cross country and track & field. She holds the Ambassador League Individual Champion 2015 & 2016 and was also a CIF-SS State Meet Qualifier for both of those seasons. She has a personal best of 18:26 in the 3-mile distance and 19:10 at the 5000m length. On the track side, Thompson runs the 1500m in 5:02.


[Softball] Offensive Explosion Continues for Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. — After a Saturday sweep, Vanguard (18-4) was ready to take the field in a double header against Doane University (11-9). Vanguard kept up their impressive hitting and won both games. The first game was a shutout as Vanguard won 8-0. Game two saw a little tension in the last few innings, but Vanguard was able to maintain their lead and send Doane home. Game two ended with a final score of 8-4.


[Baseball] Vanguard Stunned by Flames
COSTA MESA, Calif. — A weekend sweep had Vanguard (16-9) in good spirits as they took on Bethesda (9-7) in a non-conference week day matchup. Despite the success in the weekend, Vanguard was not able to pull out the same result and lost to Bethesda, 8-4. Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA) tried to keep the Lions competitive, going 3-4 for the day, but it wasn't enough to push back Bethesda. 


[Women's Soccer] Student-Athlete Blogs: Maddy Slade - Lent
Something that has been really important in my life this month has been starting the beginning of lent. Although it isn't required in the Christian culture, my family loves the idea of lent and being able to give something important up for God. Just like Jesus did for 40 days, we decided to give something up in honor of his sacrifices. This year I made the choice to give up sugar in my diet. Although this is something personal between me and God, I would love to share how great this experience is not just for me and my health, but for my relationship with God.


[Softball] Scorching Lions Sweep Weekly Conference Awards
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The second round of voting for the Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week and Pitcher of the Week has been cast and the Lions swept both awards. For the second week in a row, Payton Ross (JR/Hughson, CA) was voted in for helping the Blue and Gold to a 5-1 record and winners of 13 of their last 14 games. The junior tallied 10 hits in six games, scoring five runs and driving in four RBI's as well. She also recorded a pair of doubles on the week. Ross is third in the conference in batting average and second in runs scored, only trailing teammate Taylor Wilson (SR/Modesto, CA) in that category. Vanessa Dwyer (FR/Temple City, CA) appeared in three games and took home the victory each time. She threw complete games against Biola and Arizona Christian allowing five earned runs and striking out 10 across the pair of outings. In a non-conference battle with Antelope Valley, she threw the first five innings and left with four strikeouts and no runs on the day.


[Baseball] Sandoval Recognized as GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The fourth edition of Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week has been revealed and Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA) takes home the credit for the first time ever. Sandoval continues to lead off the batting order for the No. 20 Lions who went 3-1 on the week and have now won seven straight conference games. On the week he tallied six hits in 11 at bats including three RBI from the top of the order. He also drew four walks and was 3-3 on stolen base attempts. He joins the list with Trai Patrick (SR/Everett, WA) and Brock Eissman (SR/San Clemente, CA) who have earned the same recognition so far this season.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Announces New Women's Volleyball Coach
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University's department of intercollegiate athletics announced this week that Jennifer Dorn has been appointed as head volleyball coach for the Lions. Dorn comes to the team with a long list of wins, awards and accolades, and coaching experience since her career began in 2002. A graduate of University of Southern California, with a master of science in kinesiology from California Baptist University, her athletic coaching has covered NCAA Division I & II, and NAIA schools during her 15-year span.


[Beach Volleyball] Dorn Chosen to Start Beach Volleyball Program at Vanguard
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University has announced Kristofer Dorn as head women's beach volleyball coach for the Lions. The beach volleyball program is brand new to the Vanguard Athletics roster of 13 total sports for men and women at the collegiate level. Dorn's 21 years of collegiate experience ranges from NCAA Division I and II teams, and NAIA programs. A graduate of Taylor University, Dorn went on to receive his masters of science in kinesiology and sport management at California Baptist University.


[Track & Field] Hunt Races to 12th Place Finish at Indoor Nationals
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. - Zach Hunt (SR/Sparks, NV) raced to a 12th place finish in the men's 5,000 meter run Saturday afternoon in a time of 15:34.47 at the NAIA Indoor Track & Field National Championships held at David E. Walker Track. Hunt was seeded 13th among 18 finalists in what was his first Indoor National Championship appearance. Hunt was also the first Vanguard men's competitor in the 5k at a National Championship since Christian de Glymes raced the 5k at Outdoor Nationals in 2010.


[Softball] Pride Blank Pioneers in 12-0 Sweep
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Taking a break from conference play to host the University of Antelope Valley Pioneers (1-11, 0-2), the Vanguard University Lions (16-4, 7-1) looked to bounce back from their first defeat in 12 games. Clearly in the mood to return to winning ways, the Lions outscored their opponents 12-0 on the day. Game one saw the majority of the action, ending 8-0, while game two ended 4-0.


[Baseball] Vanguard Finishes Sweep of Royals
COSTA MESA, Calif. — The Vanguard Lions (16-8, 11-1 GSAC) came off Friday's win to finish out the weekend series against Hope International University (9-6, 7-5 GSAC) in a double header. With cloudy skies and a brisk breeze, the Lions got the desired result: a full sweep. The Lions out hit the Royals in game one with Vanguard getting 10 hits as opposed to Hope's four. The final score of game one was 4-1. Tyler Steele (SO/Kingsburg, CA) shined in game two, going six out of the seven innings, and gave his team room to go to work. Game two ended with a final score of 5-1.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Fall Short of Victory for Only the 3rd Time
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – The #4 Lions (27-3) entered the GSAC Tournament as the top seed, but due to pre-established championship host sites, they ended up playing a road game in the GSAC Semifinals. Taking on #19 The Master's University (22-7) for the third time in a season would not be an easy task. In the prior matchups, Vanguard prevailed by 75-68 (overtime) and 67-46scores  with that last game occurring just one week prior. The third edition ended with a 69-67 advantage favoring TMU.


[Men's Basketball] Moore Locked in as Lions First 2017-18 Recruit
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Coach Rhett Soliday is excited to announce the signing of James Moore, a 6'5" 225 lb. forward from Talco, TX.  Moore attends Mount Pleasant High School in Mount Pleasant, TX and just completed his senior season, playing for coach Joey Chism and the Tigers.  Mount Pleasant had and incredible season at one of the highest levels in Texas as his team finished 25-6, including a perfect 12-0 mark in the district, with Moore leading his team in nearly all statistical categories.  In his senior year, the versatile do-everything forward averaged 14 points per game, eight rebounds, shooting 54% from the field and 44% from three-point range.  For his varsity career, Moore scored 1,297 points, grabbed 713 rebounds, and is a career 54% shooter. Additional accolades include being named the 2015 District 15 5A  Newcomer of the year, the 2016 District 15 5A Offensive player of the year and in his senior season he was named the 2017 District 16-5A  Most Valuable Player. 


[Baseball] Lions Continue Hot Start to Conference Play
COSTA MESA, Calif. — After a few cold and windy games, the Vanguard Lions (14-8,9-1 GSAC) finally got to take the field on a beautiful, sunny day. The Lions started a weekend series agains Hope International University (9-4,7-3 GSAC) and came out of day one with a win. The outcome was exactly what Vanguard was hoping for, the Lions won, 5-2. Four of the five Vanguard runs were scored off of home runs from Tanner Perry (JR/El Cajon, CA) and Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA).


[Softball] Lions Lose First Conference Contest to Firestom
COSTA MESA, Calif.- Sitting at the top of the conference with a 10 game winning streak, the Vanguard University Lions (14-4, 5-1) hosted the Arizona Christian University Firestorm (6-10, 2-4), looking to further strengthen their position. Although the Lions started the day off strong with a 6-2 victory in game one, the Firestorm recovered in game two, winning 10-4. Despite the fact that this defeat ended the Pride's 11 game winning streak, they still remain at the top of the conference standings.


[Track & Field] Lawson Finishes 2nd in Heptathlon at NAIA Championships
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. - Friday, Winston Lawson (SO/Santa Ana, CA) captured a 2nd place finish in the men's seven-event heptathlon competition at the NAIA Indoor Championships, earning his third All-America honor as a Lion. Lawson finished the second day with a total of 4,987 points, behind event winner Lucas Wiechman (Concordia, Nebraska) who finished with 5,112 points. Lawson's highlights included a 1st place finish in the high jump (2.01 meters), 2nd place in the 60m hurdles (8.73), 3rd in shot put (11.14m) and 5th in the 60m dash (7.29) among seventeen athletes who contested the two-day event.


[Volleyball] Student-Athlete Blogs: Rory McCloy - The Creative Side
Hello Friends!​Today's blog I am going to tell you why I think having a creative outlet is important. I have heard so many people tell me that they aren't creative, but I will stand by my words forever when I say, "Everyone has a creative side."  Creativity has no boundaries.  Just dig deep into the right side of your brain.  This part of the semester is the second most stressful behind the end of the semester, so that outlet is perfect for the moments before you throw in the towel. 


[Athletics] Vanguard Selected as NAIA Showcase Host
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University is pleased to announce it has been selected by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics to be the site of the NAIA Showcase here on the west coast. Vanguard Athletics will be the host facilities for men's and women's basketball, men's and women's soccer, and nearby baseball will be conducted at TeWinkle Park. The showcase gives an opportunity for high school or junior college athletes to network with collegiate coaches, build relationships that could lead to scholarship offers, and get real world evaluations on the skills on talents of the prospective student-athlete.


[Track & Field] Vanguard NAIA Indoor Nationals Previews
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. – The Vanguard Lions have made the long trek and arrived on location for the 2017 NAIA Indoor Track & Field Championships which will be held on David E. Walker Track at Gentry Field. This year will be the 52nd Annual edition on the men's side and will be the 37th annual time for the women's student-athletes.


[Baseball] Firebirds Outlast Blue and Gold in Non-Conference Tilt
COSTA MESA, Calif. — The Vanguard Lions (13-8) were feeling strong facing Saint Katherine College (9-10) after coming off a weekend sweep. The last time the Lions faced Firebirds, the score was drastically in Vanguard's favor. This time around, however, Saint Katherine tested the Lions and, Vanguard fell in extra innings. After 11 innings, Vanguard lost, 7-2. Vanguard's fielding was strong and kept the score tied, but, after Saint Katherine scored five runs in the ninth, the Lions couldn't come back.


[Softball] Lions Win 10 in a Row With Win at Biola
LA MIRADA, Calif. - Heading out on the road, into enemy territory to face their bitter rivals Biola (13-6-2, 2-2), the Vanguard University Lions (13-3, 4-0) couldn't have been in a much better position. They had opened their conference account with two wins, increasing their winning streak to eight games. The Eagles had won their first two conference games as well, but by the end of game two, the Lions outscored their rivals 11-3. While game one saw both teams score in a 8-3 affair, the Pride shutout the Eagles in game two, winning 3-0.


[Track & Field] Throwers Lead the Way for Vanguard
CLAREMONT, Calif. - Vanguard Track & Field raced at the 21st Annual Carl Rossi Relays hosted by Clarmeont McKenna College. Vanguard throwers have highlighted the stats sheet each week this season, and Saturday was no exception. Sophomore Lydia Perrigo-Elson (SO/Hartsburg, MO) tied a school record in the women's hammer throw with a toss of 145 feet 11 inches (tying Kristine Grime's 2012 program best) while finishing 6th overall. Elson also finished 4th overall in the shot put with a heave of 39 feet 7 inches. Over 20 teams were represented in the highly competitive Rossi Relays Saturday. One week ago Elson recorded a school record in the weight throw and she also currently owns VU's #2 all-time mark in the shot put.


[Softball] Ross Erupts at the Plate to Earn GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The first edition of GSAC Player of the Week has been determined and Payton Ross (JR/Hughson, CA) slugged her way to the recognition for the first time in her career. During six games last week, she totaled 11 hits in 20 trips to the plate. On the base paths she scored seven runs and drove in 10 RBI's. Vanguard currently holds an eight game win streak including going 2-0 last week to start conference play. Ross had a batting average of .550 and slugged at a .650 rate. On the year, she leads the team with a .429 batting average with 18 hits and 16 runs to go along with 12 RBI. She is a perfect 25-25 in fielding chances and is 5-5 with stealing bases. 


[Women's Basketball] And the Award for GSAC Player of the Year Goes To...Claire Lamunu!!
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference has announced the 2016-17 All-Conference Team presented by Under Armour and it is highlighted by Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) being named both Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. She led the conference in scoring at 22.9 points per game and also scored the highest overall number of points this year 664. She was second in the conference with a .561 field goal percentage and was the top player with both offensive, defensive, and overall rebounding numbers. Lamunu was third in steals, the highest number for a front court player (86). She also was fifth in blocked shots.


[Men's Basketball] Allmon Reaches All-GSAC for Second Straight Year
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference has announced the 2016-17 All-Conference Team presented by Under Armour and for the second year in a row, Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) has represented Vanguard on the team. As a senior, the forward posted averages of 12.4 points per game and 6.9 rebounds. He scored a team high 348 points in 688 minutes. He converted at a .529% clip and added 39 blocks and 35 steals. Within the conference, he ranked 13th in scoring per game and 10th in total points. Allmon was fifth in total rebounds per game (just .03 out of fourth place). He slotted in third in the GSAC in both blocks per game and total blocks.


[Baseball] Steele Nearly Steals a Perfect Game from SDC
COSTA MESA, Calif. — One win wasn't enough for Vanguard (13-7,8-1 GSAC) this weekend. The Lions came back to face San Diego Christian (3-10,2-7 GSAC) in a double header to wrap up the series and came out with a sweep. In game one, the bats were flying as Vanguard got 15 hits in all to earn a final score of 10-4. Game two was all about the pitching as Tyler Steel earned Vanguard's first shut out of the season. Game two ended with the score at 2-0. 


[Softball] Lions Win 8th Straight Game, Start GSAC 2-0
SANTEE, Calif. - The Vanguard Lions (11-3, 2-0) headed south to start Golden State Athletic Conference play on the road at 25th ranked San Diego Christian (7-6, 0-2). Vanguard entered with a six game winning streak and a high octane offense. The bats responded with a 5-1 victory in the opener before running away with the second game 11-0 in only five innings as the run rule came into effect.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Fall Just Short of Playoffs with 85-76 Defeat
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Following their stellar showing against 16th ranked Westmont, the Vanguard University Lions (7-23, 5-11) hosted the 18th ranked Master's University Mustangs (23-4, 12-4), with a playoff spot still within reach. However, despite their best efforts the Lions fell just short of this goal, losing 85-76. Although the Pride finished tied for sixth with Arizona Christian, the Firestorm progress to the playoffs due to their win against the conference champions Hope.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Master Mustangs in 67-46 Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Celebrating senior day as league champions, was a fitting way for the third ranked Vanguard University Lions (27-2, 15-1) to face the 21st ranked Master's University Mustangs (20-7, 10-6). However, the celebrations would have to wait until after the game, considering this was a contest between two ranked teams. Nevertheless, the Lions closed out the conference on a high, winning 67-46.


[Baseball] Weekend Opens Victorious for McCasland, Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. — The Lions (11-7,6-1 GSAC) returned from a disappointing road trip to square off against San Diego Christian (3-8,2-5 GSAC) and ended up victorious with a final score of 4-3. The scoring started off fast and had the lead set by the second inning as the Lions were able to hold off the Hawks. Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA) held it down batting 4-4 and snatching five out in center field. Trai Patrick (SR/Everett, WA) kept up his hitting, going 2-4, and drove in a run in the process. 


[Softball] Lions Sweep Redhawks Prior to Conference Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif.- Going into this double header on the back of a four-game winning streak, the Vanguard University Lions (9-3) faced the Benedictine-Mesa Redhawks (1-2), feeling quite confident. Game one proved to be an extremely tight affair, with the Lions beating the Redhawks 8-7 after nine innings. Game two however, painted an entirely different picture, with the Pride prevailing over the Redhawks 9-1. These two wins extend the Blue and Gold's winning streak to six games, putting them in a perfect position going into their GSAC opener.


[Baseball] Pioneers Outlast Vanguard in Road Tilt
LANCASTER, Calif. – The offense was flowing for both sides as the 20th ranked Lions (10-7) and the University of Antelope Valley (6-9) squared off in a non-conference tilt hosted at The Hangar. A big spurt by both teams left the game with a 9-8 score favoring the Pioneers. Vanguard was led in hitting by Brandon Sandoval (SR/Fallbrook, CA) and Brock Eissman (SR/San Clemente, CA) both going 3-5 on the day. Michael Fuchs (JR/Irvine, CA) backed that up with a 2-5 day of his own, adding in two scored runs, and Josh Weeks (FR/Murrieta, CA) finished 2-4 inside the batter's box.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Bring Home Championship #12
COSTA MESA, Calif.- Back home following their victory against Arizona Christian, the third ranked Vanguard University Lions (26-2, 14-1) hosted the sixth ranked Westmont College Warriors (23-4, 12-3). The last time that these two GSAC powerhouses met, the Lions pulled off an upset in what was the biggest game of their season. This time, the Pride played as the favorites, with the GSAC conference championship waiting for them if they emerged victorious. In a closely fought battle that tested both teams to their very limits, the Blue and Gold prevailed in the end, winning 43-40 to be crowned GSAC conference champions.


[Men's Basketball] Vanguard Stays in Playoff Hunt with Upset of Westmont
COSTA MESA, Calif.- The Vanguard University Lions (7-20, 5-10) had a lot to think about, making the long journey home after a fourth consecutive loss at the hands of Arizona Christian. Waiting for the Lions, were the 16th ranked Westmont College Warriors (22-6, 10-5), who handed the Lions their first loss in their four game losing streak. Stopping the skid looked like a truly daunting task on paper, but the Pride upset the odds by comfortably defeating the Warriors 87-72. Teslim Idris (SR/London, England) led the way for the Lions, scoring 19 points on the night.


[Softball] Lions Kick-Off Week with Sweep of British Columbia
LA MIRADA, Calif. — Riding a high from a combined 26-12 blowout across three games last Friday, the Vanguard Lions (7-3) headed to La Mirada to face off against British Columbia (1-3) in a double header. Vanguard came in full force and won both games easily due to a strong offense by the Lions. The first game ended with Vanguard leading 8-4 while the second game was cut short on a mercy rule after six innings with Vanguard holding British Columbia at 10-2. 


[Baseball] Patrick Earns GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - For the second week in a row, the Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week resides at Vanguard. Trai Patrick (SR/Everett, WA) tallied nine hits in 14 chances, adding three walks on the week as well. The senior third baseman also recorded five RBI's and four extra base hits. He was instrumental in the Lions besting The Master's University 2-1 in the 3-game series. On the year, Patrick is leading the team with a .463 average including 25 total hits, six doubles, two home runs and 20 total RBI's.


[Men's Basketball] Student-Athlete Blogs: Christian Ware-Berry - Gratitude
We are in the last week of our regular season and this year has been full of ups and downs. Although I have had my share of frustrating moments and doubts, recently I have really started to embrace a sense of gratitude that I have never felt before. No matter what the outcome may have been in my past, I am thankful for each experience I have encountered not only in these last couple years at Vanguard, but in my life. This is one of the hardest lesson I have learned and it is also one of the most gratifying. It is a great feeling to have when you can detach yourself from the results of everything and solely focus on gratitude.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Fall in OT for Second Time in Three Games
PHOENIX, Ariz.- Having Traveled 376 miles to face the Arizona Christian University Firestorm (17-10, 4-10), the Vanguard University Lions (6-22, 4-10) hoped to put an end to their three game losing streak. However, after yet another back and forth battle that ended 75-75 in regulation, the Lions lost 88-81 in overtime. This marks the third game in a row where the Lions have lost by a seven point margin or less. 


[Baseball] Slugger trio of Sandoval, Eissman, and Patrick lift Lions to Victory
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Vanguard, the preseason 20th ranked team in the NAIA, travel back up to The Master's University (6-10, 1-5) for a double-header to wrap up the weekend series. After securing a 7-3 victory on Thursday, the score of the first game was 13-2 in favor of the Mustangs. But, the Pride (10-5, 5-1) rallied back for a 5-4 victory to win the second game and edge out TMU, currently ranked 11th in the nation, 2-1 in the series.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Bounce Back With 58-47 Victory Over Firestorm
PHOENIX, Ariz.- Following their first conference defeat at the hands of Biola, the Vanguard University Lions (25-2, 13-1) faced the Arizona Christian University Firestorm (13-12, 7-7), with a burning desire to bounce back. In what was a relatively comfortable contest, the Lions did indeed bounce back, beating the Firestorm 58-47. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) returned to the top of the point pile, leading with 17 points on the day.


[Track & Field] Perrigo-Elson Throws Her Way to Nationals!
LA MIRADA, Calif. - Saturday, the Vanguard Lions competed in their second dual meet this week going head-to-head with GSAC member Biola University, just two days after a friendly competition with nearby Concordia University. Saturday's show-down with Biola was a result of the Pomona Pitzer All-Comers meet being cancelled due to rain. As it turned out, rainy weather was not a factor Saturday and the Biola venue was in good shape.


[Track & Field] Women's 4x800 Relay Earns Nationals Birth
IRVINE, Calif. - A spur of the moment meet was scheduled between Vanguard University and Concordia University as a last ditch effort to qualify some athletes for the upcoming NAIA Indoor Nationals event to be hosted in Tennessee the first week of March. By meet end, the Lions Track & Field teams qualified four more athletes for Nationals and had another four mark personal bests. 


[Baseball] Patrick, Fuchs Double Down in Lions' Victory
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – The Lions (9-4, 4-0) rebounded nicely from a midweek downer by taking on #11 ranked The Master's University (5-9, 0-4) for the first game of a weekend series. The three-game slate pushed the Blue and Gold on the road for the first series in Golden State Athletic Conference play.


[Softball] Lions Outscore Opponents 26-12 on Day Two
WEST COVINA, Calif. - Going into day two of the 2017 NAIA So. Cal Classic, the Vanguard University Lions (5-3) strived for more consistency after their opening day win and loss. However their inconsistency continued, with wins against College of Idaho (1-2) and Carroll College (1-2) being separated by a loss to Oregon Tech (4-1). Nevertheless, the positives far outweighed the negatives, with the Lions outscoring their opponents 26-12 on the day. 


[Women's Basketball] Biola Breaks Vanguard's 20 Game Unbeaten Run
LA MIRADA, Calif.- Following their 20th consecutive victory against Hope, the third ranked Vanguard University Lions (24-2, 12-1) were finally bested by the 17th ranked Biola University Eagles (20-6, 11-3) 71-47. As hard as it is to see the Pride's incredible run come to an end, it's made all the worse by the fact that it was ended by their bitter Biola rivals. This defeat came down to a variety of different factors, with Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda)'s 20 points not being enough to win the game.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Lose Second Straight Tight Affair
LA MIRADA, Calif. - Following their overtime defeat against Hope, the Vanguard University Lions (6-21, 4-9) hoped to return to winning ways against the fourth ranked Biola University Eagles (25-3, 11-3). Despite pushing them to the very end, the Pride fell to their third consecutive defeat, losing 75-68. However, this does bring an end to a run of three games against ranked opposition, a daunting portion of the Lions' conference slate.


[Baseball] Lions Halted by Corban's 7th Inning Spurt
COSTA MESA, Calif. — The Vanguard Lions (8-5) came off a weekend sweep and went head to head with Corban University (5-4). The Lions started off strong, taking the lead in the first inning, and seemed to have the game at the bottom of the sixth. Unfortunately, Vanguard fell to the Warriors in the top of the seventh and could come back. The ninth inning ended with Vanguard losing, 8-5.


[Softball] Lions Day Ends One Up, One Down
LA MIRADA, Calif. – Vanguard moved away from home for the first time this year to take part in the 2017 NAIA So. Cal Classic hosted in conjunction by Biola University and Triple Crown Sports. Due to the incoming rain, day one events were shifted from Big League Dreams to Biola's campus. Vanguard (3-2) was pitted against Embry Riddle and Southern Oregon (RV), ending the day with one loss and one win and a narrow 9-7 combined scoring edge.


[Women's Basketball] Student-Athlete Blogs: Kaitlyn Hawthorne - Relationships
Hey everyone!  February is here and conference play for our basketball teams is coming to an end.  As it definitely went faster than expected, my team and I are working hard and it's surely paying off as we're heading in to our third to last game at 24-1 and undefeated in conference.  Coach Russ Davis continues to push us to our limits every day to get the best out of each and every person on the team.  As we grow in this process, mentally and physically, he is preparing us not only for our road to the national championship, but also life and the obstacles it throws at us. 


[Women's Basketball] Lamunu's Mantel Continues to Fill Up
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Five out of six. That is the number of Golden State Athletic Conference Players of the Week that Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) has taken home this season. The senior is on fire and once again continues to dominate for the fifth ranked Lions. This week, in an upset over #3 Westmont and a home victory over Hope International, she averaged 21 points and 14 rebounds while shooting over 50% from the field and a perfect 100% from the charity stripe. Lamunu is cementing a strong case for conference Player of the Year and building a worthy resume for awards on the national level as well.


[Baseball] Eissman Kicks off GSAC With a Bang
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The first ballots for Conference Player of the Week have been submitted by the GSAC and Brock Eissman (SR/San Clemente, CA) takes home the first recognition. The junior slugger played in all four games for Vanguard last week (3-1) and rode a .625% batting average and .813% slugging to the award. He tallied three extra base hits and was 2-3 on stolen base attempts. During the double header on Sunday, Eissman was 6-8 from the batters box and struck out three batters during his lone inning on the mound. This marks the first time in his career that he has received POTW.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Roast Royals in 82-40 Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif.- Still flying high from their overtime victory against third ranked Westmont, the Vanguard University Lions (24-1, 12-0) swept aside the Hope International University Royals (5-17, 0-12) 82-40. This comprehensive victory extends the Pride's winning streak to 20 games, thanks in large part to the double double contribution of Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda). However, it was Maya Kennedy (SR/Huntington Beach, CA) who led the game in scoring, with an impressive 20 points on the night.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Left to Rue Royals Defeat in Overtime
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Back home following their defeat at the hands of Westmont, the Vanguard University Lions (6-20, 4-8) looked to turn their fortunes around against the Hope International University Royals (21-5, 10-2). Desperate to return to winning ways, the Pride fought tooth and claw, only to lose 91-86 in overtime. Malachi Hoosein (JR/Norwalk, CA) just missed a half court shot as time expired in regulation, as the ball just fell short of being nothing but net. 


[Track & Field] Perrigo-Elson Wins Weight Throw and Shot Put at Soka
ALISO VIEJO, Calif. - The Vanguard Track and Field team spent Saturday competing at the Soka Indoor Qualifier hosted by Soka University of America. BY the end of the meet, multiple personal bests and school records were notched including four first place finishes by the Lions. One more week of events is all that stands between the Blue and Gold from earning more opportunities to compete at the NAIA Indoor Nationals from March 2-4.


[Baseball] Eissman Stars in Lions GSAC Opening Series Sweep
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Riding high off a closely won victory the day before, the #20 Lions (8-4, 3-0) had their eyes on a series sweep over William Jessup (2-5, 0-3). The bats responded in the opening game throwing up an 11-2 count before coming up with timely base knocks in the nightcap to earn a 5-2 victory. Brock Eissman (SR/San Clemente, CA) was a monster on the field combining for 6-8 hitting and three runs score in addition to pitching the ninth inning of game one and punching three strikeouts.


[Baseball] Lions Power Through Rain to Kick Off GSAC in Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. — Despite rain delays and a soaked field, the 20th ranked Vanguard Lions (6-4, 1-0) faced William Jessup (2-3, 0-1) in the GSAC opener. Vanguard took the lead early and held the Warriors off throughout all nine innings. The game ended in Vanguard's favor, 4-2. 


[Baseball] Defending 2x National Champions Outlast Vanguard
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. — Despite having to be rescheduled due to rain, Vanguard (5-4) traveled over to Santa Clarita to play the number one seed, Lewis-Clark State College (2-2). Vanguard held their own until the top of the fifth but fell to the Warriors, 9-3. Alex Camacho (JR/Stockton,CA) (1-1) started on the mound for Vanguard and earned four strike outs in his four innings before handing it off. The Warriors, the two time defending National Champions, are a powerhouse program from storied Lewiston, Idaho.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Lay Waste to Warriors in Overtime Victory
SANTA BARBARA, Calif.- Playing in what was the biggest game of their season thus far, the fifth ranked Vanguard University Lions (23-1, 11-0) faced off against the third ranked Westmont College Warriors (19-3, 9-2). This was an extremely rare occasion where the Pride played as the underdogs, and they certainly didn't allow this change in role to phase them. With the game tied 49-49 at the end of regulation, the Blue and Gold upset the warriors in overtime 64-57. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) rose to the occasion and earned her second consecutive double double, scoring 25 points and winning 11 rebounds.


[Men's Basketball] Pride Falls Prey to Warriors in 88-67 Defeat
SANTA BARBARA, Calif.- Following their pulsating overtime victory against 20th ranked William Jessup University, the Vanguard University Lions (6-19, 4-7) played against the 12th ranked Westmont College Warriors (19-5, 7-4). However, this match against ranked opposition didn't fare as well for the Pride, who lost 88-67. This defeat can largely be attributed to the scoring exploits of Cory Blau, who led the game with 22 points on the night.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Maddy Slade - Off Season Changes
Hello fellow Lions! As I mentioned in my last blog, I have recently been looking for my first job. I have not been pushing anything though, since there has been a lot on my plate lately with school. However, I saw an opportunity from the connections I have and I didn't want to pass it up. My friend works as a valet at The Boathouse on the Bay in Long Beach. This is a cute little restaurant on the water, family owned. He happened to see an old friend working inside and went in to visit. His friend happened to be the manager of the restaurant and told him they were looking for some help. He passed this news on to me and I began contacting the manager. Soon enough, I was in for an interview!


[Track & Field] Lawson Stars at Sunshine Indoor Qualifier
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - For the second straight weekend the Lions competed on the track at Westmont College, this time for the Sunshine Indoor Multi Qualifier. By the end of the two day event, Winston Lawson (SO/Santa Ana, CA) came home with the overall Heptathlon event victoryand multiple other members of Vanguard Track and Field recorded personal bests and some top marks in the GSAC this season.


[Athletics] Vanguard Athletics Inducts 5th Hall of Fame Class
COSTA MESA, Calif. – On Friday February 3,2017 Vanguard University inducted the fifth class into the Athletic Hall of Fame highlighted by none other than Bob Wilson – the pioneer to the Hall of Fame at Vanguard University – in the category of meritorious service. Next, was Mike Singletary who won two individual NAIA National Championships en route to being inducted into the student-athlete category along with Kelly Schmidt who single handily rewrote all of the women's basketball records at Vanguard. Rounding out the class was the 1974 Track and Field team who set 22 school records that season, 13 of which still stand.


[Softball] Freshman Pitchers Shine in College Debuts for Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. - After starting their season off strong with a win over Cal State University San Marcos, the Vanguard University Lions (2-1) played the Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Athenas (1-1) in a double header. Game one went right down to the wire, with the Athenas just edging out the Pride 2-1 after an incredible 10 innings. However, game two was a completely different story, with the Lions clawing back to a decisive 6-1 victory.


[Baseball] Fourth Inning Sparks Lions to 13-3 Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. — After losing the first game in the series, Vanguard (5-3) game back to face Biola (5-1) in a double header. Vanguard struggled in the first game to get their bats going, and were out to prove themselves. The first game was a battle of will between the bullpens, and Vanguard lost 4-3. The second game, however, was over by the fourth inning as Vanguard bats began to pick up speed. The Lions won the second game, 13-3.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Outfight Warriors in 58-50 Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif.- Playing host to their second NorCal visitor in a row, the fifth ranked Vanguard University Lions (22-1, 10-0) defeated the William Jessup Warriors (8-11, 2-8) 58-50. This less than comfortable victory extended the Pride's winning streak to 18, while they remain undefeated in conference. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) was back at it with a double double, scoring 24 points and winning 13 rebounds on the night.


[Men's Basketball] Vanguard Outlasts #20 William Jessup in Crowd Pleasing Upset
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Tuesday's struggle turned into a fight for victory for the Vanguard Lions as they faced William Jessup University. After a period of overtime, Vanguard was able to claim victory with a final score of 99-96. The entire game was evenly matched, as neither team had a lead larger than 10. The win was possible with three Lions posting up twenty or more points. Shacquille Dawkins (FR/Santa Clarita, CA) lead with 26, while Victor Evans (JR/Winnetka, CA) put up 21 and Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) landed 20. 


[Softball] Lions Shut Out Cougars in Season Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Starting the 2017 season off at home against the Cal State San Marcos (0-1), the Vanguard University Lions (1-0) shutout the Cougars 5-0. The game was originally scheduled to be a double-header, but the second game was canceled due to the delay of the first game. However, the inclement weather didn't adversely affect the Lions, who essentially won the game with four runs in the second inning.


[Baseball] Lions Edged by Biola
COSTA MESA, Calif. — The Lions were in good spirits after their last series, but the fun turned serious as the 20th ranked Vanguard Lions (4-2) took on the Biola Eagles (4-0). Despite their best efforts, the Lions were unable to beat Biola in the series opener. The final score was 9-3.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Chop Oaks Down in 76-50 Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif.- Back home following their marginal victory over San Diego Christian, the Vanguard University Lions (21-1, 9-0) comfortably disposed of the Menlo College Oaks 76-50. This extended the Pride's winning streak to 17, which can once again be largely credited to GSAC player of the Week Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda). Although Lamunu led the game with 23 points, she fell just short of a double double, winning nine rebounds throughout the contest.


[Men's Basketball] Oaks Timber Against Vanguard
COSTA MESA, Calif. - After a loss on the road, the Vanguard University Lions (5-18, 3-6) were ready to show their strength and beat the Menlo Oaks (9-12, 2-7). The game was a close one and ended in Vanguard's favor, 83-77. The first half was all Vanguard, but Menlo gave the Lions a run for their money as the Pride had to keep the Oaks at bay in the last half. The Lions kept their lead with help from four players posting double digits. Malachi Hoosein (JR/Norwalk, CA) and Victor Evans (JR/Winnetka, CA) led the team with 14 points each, followed closely by Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) with 11 and Shacquille Dawkins (FR/Santa Clarita, CA) with 10. 


[Baseball] Lions Douse Firebird's Flame 14-3
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Following their triumph in the weekend series against Benedictine-Mesa, the 20th ranked Vanguard University Lions (4-1) tested their mettle against the Saint Katherine College Firebirds (2-2). After redeeming their narrow defeat in game one against Benedictine-Mesa with an 11-2 victory in game two, it was more of the same for the Lions who ran out with a 14-3 victory against the Firebirds. The third inning proved to be the Firebirds' undoing, with the Pride scoring an impressive seven runs to put the score at 8-0. Perhaps even more impressive, is the fact that the vast majority of these runs were recorded with two outs.


[Athletics] Alumni Perspective: Amanda Domingos
Vanguard University is a family and that bond does not end after the player's playing career ends. Recently, Vanguard Athletics caught up with Amanda Couch Domingos. She shared about her experience and what Vanguard University and the Athletic Department did in her life as a collegiate student athlete. During Domingos' time at Vanguard from 2009-2012, she scored the second most points in program history (87) and game winning goals (11), culminated her careeer by being named Vanguard Female Athlete of the Year for the 2011-2012 school year.


[Women's Basketball] Lamunu Hits the Trifecta!
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Just announced by the Golden State Athletic Conference is a historic achievement for Vanguard University Athletics as Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) takes home her third conference Player of the Week award within a calendar month. Each week, she keeps posting better and better statistical lines and very easily could have won four straight in January. 


[Men's Basketball] Blue and Gold Bested in Overtime
EL CAJON, Calif.- Following their narrow defeat to rival Biola, the Vanguard University Lions (4-17, 2-5) fell to an even slimmer margin, losing 86-82 to the San Diego Christian University Hawks (6-12, 2-7). However, overtime was required to defeat the Pride, who gave everything they had in order to come out on the winning side. Derek Novsek and Isaiah Milan proved to be the difference on the night, scoring 25 and 20 points respectively for the Hawks.


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard reaches 16 Game Win Streak
EL CAJON, Calif.- Back on the road following their comprehensive victory over rival Biola, the fifth ranked Vanguard University Lions (20-1, 7-0) narrowly defeated the San Diego Christian Hawks (13-7, 3-6) 69-62. This slim win extends the Pride's winning streak to 16, thanks in large part to Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) who lead the contest in both points and rebounds with 21 and 12 respectively.


[Track & Field] Newcomers Shine at "On Your Mark Meet"
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The vanguard track and field teams got the 2017 season underway, competiting at the On Your Mark Meet hosted by Westmont College on Saturday, January 28th. The event was under NAIA Indoor Meet standards and the Blue and Gold found much success for their first outing of the season.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Rory McCloy - Loving Yourself
Hey everyone! So we are already a few weeks into the semester, and time feels like time is flying by. It's crazy because I am officially done with volleyball so I have a lot of free time on my hands, but time it still seems like the days are going by so quickly. I've noticed that I spent a lot more time on Pinterest lately than I should, but while I was scrolling I saw a quote that hit me pretty hard.  The quote was "If I asked you to list all the things that you love… How long would it take for you to list yourself?"  Now I have no idea who said it or where it came from, but I enjoy this quote. 


[Athletics] Leslie Allen Named Lions Stunt Coach
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University announced this month that Leslie Allen has joined the athletics department to serve as head stunt coach, a new position on the Costa Mesa campus. Allen comes with a wealth of coaching experience, having spent the last seventeen years as head cheer coach at St. John's Lutheran School in Orange, Orange Lutheran High School, Cypress High School, and Ouachita Baptist University in Arkansas.


[Baseball] Lions Outlast Benedictine-Mesa 7-6 to Open Weekend Series
COSTA MESA, Calif. — After dominating two weeks ago, preseason 20th ranked Vanguard Lions (2-0) went head to head with Benedictine-Mesa (1-3) to grab their second win of the season. The game started with Benedictine-Mesa getting a run in the first inning, but the Lions made their determination known and answered with two runs of their own. The rest of the game was a back and forth struggle that ended in Vanguard's favor, 7-6.


[Basketball] Ware-Berry, Lamunu Chosen as Cliff Hamlow Award Winners
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The annual release of the Cliff Hamlow Champion of Character Award by the Golden State Athletic Conference was announced on Thursday, January 26th. During the banquet ceremony taking place on Sunday, March 5th at the Avenue of the Arts Hotel, 18 student-athletes from around the conference will be honored including the recipients from Vanguard University Christian Ware-Berry (JR/Pomona, CA) and Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) from the men's and women's basketball teams.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Soar Over Eagles to Push Win Streak to 15
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Playing in their first game at home after two straight on the road, the fifth ranked Vanguard University Lions handily beat the 21st ranked Biola University Eagles 71-35. This extends the Pride's(19-1, 7-0) unbeaten run to 15 games, and what better way to achieve that than over your university's greatest rivals (15-5, 6-2). Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) equaled her scoring output from the previous contest with 18 on the night, continuing the form that has seen her lead the country so far this season.


[Volleyball] Leja Completes Tenure As Head of Vanguard Volleyball
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University Athletics announces the departure of head coach Eryn Leja after completing her seventh season with the Blue and Gold to pursue other professional opportunities. During her six years in the top seat, she guided the Lions to one of the top NAIA programs and a key cog in the always tough Golden State Athletic Conference. In 2015, under Leja's direction, the Vanguard Volleyball program captured its first ever GSAC Championship as Leja garnered Conference Coach of the Year recognition and was named the AVCA Regional Coach of the Year. She propelled the team to the NAIA National Tournament in five of her seasons, a feat only two prior teams from Vanguard had reached. Twice she coached the Lions into the Top 12, getting the team out of Pool Play, and in 2015 the senior laden squad reached the NAIA Quarterfinal round. She recruited and coached two GSAC Libero's of the Year and the 2015 Conference Player of the Year.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Yi Inked as First 2017-18 Recruit for Wilkins
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard University Cross Country and Track & Field has added its first addition for the 2017-2018 year as Savannah Yi signed her letter of intent last Friday. The Glendora High School senior owns personal bests of 17:59 in the three mile and 18:52 in the 5000m distance for cross country season. On the track side, she competes in the 800m, 1600m, and 3200m events with respective times of 2:28, 5:17, and 11:33 as her personal bests. 


[Men's Basketball] Conference Rivalry Heats in Second-To-Last Meeting
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Lions (14-7, 3-4) squared up against the seventh ranked Eagles from Biola University (20-2, 6-2) and gave them everything the road team could handle in the 83-74 loss. In front of a packed house, the team pushed the highest ranking GSAC team the full 40 minutes. The difference in the contest was that the quality looks Vanguard took would not find the bottom of the net and low percentage chances from BU were being converted.


[Women's Basketball] A Lions Heart - Maya Kennedy
In an ongoing effort to show Vanguard student-athletes as more than just a number in a jersey, Vanguard Athletics is pleased to announce a new regular web series titled "A Lions Heart". In this, the student-athlete takes the reigns discussing their relationship with Christ, their Vanguard experience, and a little more about their daily life.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Christian Ware-Berry - It Shall Pass
Good afternoon, I hope everyone is starting to settle back into school and is enduring this rain as best as they possibly can. For you Washington natives, these rainy days should be nothing. It rains so much in Washington that you should be accustomed to it unless you've been in California too long and it's made you soft like me. I'm a true Cali guy and I DO NOT like the rain (only when I'm sleeping). I cannot wait to have my sunshine and 75-degree weather back! This rainstorm is complicating my life. My clothes are always wet. I get in my car and the water from the bottom of my shoes make my car floors wet. I can't even go to the beach and enjoy it. This weather is really frustrating me.


[Women's Basketball] Lions' Win Streak Reaches 14 games
FULLERTON, Calif. – The fifth ranked Lions (18-1, 6-0) continue their winning ways as they capture their 14 straight victory, this time taking down Hope International (4-12, 0-7) by a 61-50 count. Vanguard's win streak is one of the longest in the NAIA this season, trailing three teams undefeated straight to the season and Westmont's 15 game streak. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda), who scored 18 points in the contest, leads the entire country in scoring with just under 24.5 point per game.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Pushed to 2nd Consecutive Road Loss
FULLERTON, Calif. – Vanguard University (14-5, 3-3) was upended by Hope International (14-5, 5-2) as the Royals held the Lions to their lowest offensive output of the season. Even as they trailed much of the second half, the Pride was high in energy and effort, fighting until the final horn sounded ndt the margin was 57-43. Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) was the lone player in double-figure scoring for the Blue and Gold before fouling out for the second straight game. The Pride struggled with keeping HIU off the free throw line in the second half as Malachi Hoosein (JR/Norwalk, CA) also ended his night early due to fouls after knocking down 3-7 from the field. Brandon Hood (JR/Gardena, CA) added eight points in his minutes, while Allmon and Kwinn Hanson (SR/Spokane, WA) each snagged seven rebounds. Hoosein added six boards of his own.


[Women's Basketball] Two Straight Player of the Week Awards for Lamunu
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Continuing a strong start to the season, Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) has been named Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week for the second straight time. After not earning the award at all prior, she is making up for lost time and collecting some hardware in the process. This marks the second straight year that a post player for the Lions has achieved the feat as Melissa Norman previously did it. Vanguard moved up to fifth in the latest NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll. 


[Men's Basketball] Hood Lights It Up In Loss at TMU
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Vanguard University (14-5, 3-2), who moved back up to receiving votes in the NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll earlier in the day thanks to a three game win streak, was knocked off 93-72 by #21 The Master's University (14-3, 3-3). Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) and Brandon Hood (JR/Gardena, CA) led the team in scoring as each pitched in 17 points, with Shacquille Dawkins (FR/Santa Clarita, CA) and Christian Ware-Berry (JR/Pomona, CA) reaching double-figures as well.


[Women's Basketball] Smith Shines in Overtime, Lifts Vanguard to Road Win
SANTA CLARITA, Calif.- After moving up a rank following the latest poll behind a 13 game win streak, the fifth ranked Vanguard University Lions (17-2, 5-0) defeated #20 The Master's University Mustangs (12-5, 2-4) 75-68 in overtime. This was the first time that the Pride had been held in regulation all season, living up to the hype that comes with a contest between two ranked teams. In a game that saw the lead change six times and the score even 10 times, the unstoppable Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) proved to be the biggest difference. The reigning GSAC player of the Week for two weeks running led the game in both points and rebounds, with 29 and 11 respectively.


[Athletics] 2017 Hall of Fame Class Announced
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Vanguard University Athletic Hall of Fame Committee is proud to announce the 2017 Class of Inductees. Bob Wilson, the former Director of Athletics for over 20 years and men's basketball coach for a portion of that stint, will be inducted in the categories of meritorious service and coach. Kelly Schmidt, the all-time leading scorer in Vanguard Women's Basketball history, will be inducted as the female student athlete this year. Mike Singletary, a skilled athlete in track and field earned two individual national championships in the 500m (indoor) and 400m (outdoor). Finally, the 1974 Track and Field team will be inducted as they finished in second place overall during the National Championship Meet as four members of the squad finished in first place, in addition to a pair of second place finishes.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Kaitlyn Hawthorne - God's Unique Plan
Hey everybody! As the second week of spring semester is here, it's exciting to get to know who is in my classes and the new professors I have to help me in my time here at Vanguard.  With many math and sciences being a kinesiology major, it makes school a little difficult sometimes, especially as conference games for basketball are starting to get busy as well.  This is just all a part of God's plan to prepare me for the next chapter of my life. 


[Baseball] Offense En Fuego During Season Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 2017 season kicked off with a bang for the preseason 20th ranked Vanguard Lions (1-0). It didn't start off pretty as the second inning got away from them, but in the fourth inning they found their stride and never looked back. The pivotal sequence of Michael Fuchs (JR/Irvine, CA)' double and Hunter White (SO/Galt, CA)'s bomb to left field gave Vanguard a lead they would not look back on. After the final out, the Lions captured a dominant 14-5 win over La Sierra University (0-1) including 12 unanswered runs.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Extinguish Firestorm in Final Seconds
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Following a rather tame game against Shepherd University, the Vanguard University Lions (14-4, 3-1) played the 14th ranked Arizona Christian University Firestorm (12-5, 0-5) in a contest that was quite the contrary. It was a matchup that was always going to receive top billing, due to ACU's reputation as a GSAC powerhouse in the last couple of seasons. The end result certainly didn't disappoint, as the Pride emerged victorious with a final score of 65-64. Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) led the Blue and Gold in scoring, with 12 on the night.


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard Runs Away from ACU in Fourth Quarter
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The sixth ranked Vanguard Lions (16-1, 4-0) kept their winning streak alive as they beat Arizona Christian (9-7, 3-2) with a final score of 66-46. The Pride kept defense strong with two players, Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) and Jaime Goff (SR/Oregon City, OR), snatching rebounds in the double digits. Lamunu had 14 and Goff grabbed 11 of her own. The Pride also held strong with their scoring. Lamunu posted 30 points by the end of the night, and Maya Kennedy (SR/Huntington Beach, CA) came in with 15 of her own. 


[Women's Basketball] Durr, Gerostergiou Help Burn Firebirds
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Playing in what was their first game since their NorCal tour of the GSAC conference, the sixth ranked Lions (15-1) announced their homecoming in style with a 110-29 victory over Saint Katherine College (2-11). As well as equaling their tally for most points scored this season, this game also saw the Pride concede the fewest points so far this season. It was an all-around devastating display by the Blue and Gold, highlighted by the team-leading 29 points courtesy of Christiana Gerostergiou (JR/Thessaloniki, Greece).


[Men's Basketball] Vanguard Captures Convincing Win Over Shepherd
COSTA MESA, Calif. – What started off in a slow trudge forward on both sides of the court ended in a beautiful victory for the Lions. Vanguard (13-4) won out over Shepherd University (3-16) with a score of 92-48. The Lions, fresh off of a road trip, were led by Malachi Hoosein (JR/Norwalk, CA), who racked up 17 points overall and handed out eight assists. Five other Lions hit double digits before the clock ran out. 


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Maddy Slade - Welcome Back!
Hello Lions. Welcome back to school! I hope everyone had an amazing Christmas break with their families. It's exciting to say that we are already half way done with this year! I can't wait to see what's in store for this second semester.


[Women's Basketball] Lamunu Finally Earns GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference released its fourth Player of the Week Award and first in the New Year. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda)'s torrid play has earned her the recognition for the first time this season. Amidst her record breaking season, this is the first time in Lamunu's career that she has received this award.


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard Pushes Win Streak to 10 Straight
LOS ALTOS HILLS, Calif. – Ending the yearly NorCal swing, the Lions (14-1, 3-0) were looking to continue their nine game win streak and capture another victory over Menlo College (9-7, 0-3). Riding behind a dominant performance from Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) – 32 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists in only 28 minutes on the court – Vanguard has now won 10 straight games. The Blue and Gold has averaged a 28 point margin of victory during their win streak. Christiana Gerostergiou (JR/Thessaloniki, Greece) scored 12 points off the bench for the Pride knocking down 4-4 from behind the arc.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Turn Oaks to Timber in Bounce Back Victory
LOS ALTOS HILLS, Calif. – Playing in what was their second game of their Northern California tour of the conference, the Vanguard University Lions (12-4, 2-1) defeated the Menlo College Oaks (9-6, 2-1) by a score of 68-50. This positive result ensured that the Pride would not come home empty handed, following their narrow defeat at the hands of William Jessup two days prior. Shacquille Dawkins (FR/Santa Clarita, CA) was the star performer on the day, leading the Lions in points and assists with 17 and three respectively.


[Women's Basketball] This One's For Walt!
ROCKLIN, Calif. - Resuming conference play in their opening game of 2017, the sixth ranked Vanguard University Lions (13-1, 2-0) began the new year in style with a 62-47 victory over the William Jessup University Warriors (7-4, 1-2). This is the ninth consecutive victory for the Lions, who are primed to reach a double digit winning streak if this formidable form continues. The ever-impressive Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) led in points for the Blue and Gold, with 21 on the night. It may be a new year, but it's the same Lamunu. The contest was big for the Lions as they wanted to grab this one for Walt Simon, the beloved former assistant coach of the junior and senior classes, who passed away suddenly this week.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Cannot Overcome Warriors
ROCKLIN, Calif. – Playing their first game on the road in conference was a battle between William Jessup (12-5, 2-1) and Vanguard (11-4, 1-1) and the home team held on down the stretch for the 75-71 victory. Malachi Hoosein (JR/Norwalk, CA) and Brandon Brothers (SO/Pasadena, CA) combined for seven made three pointers and each scored 17 points in the defeat. Shacquille Dawkins (FR/Santa Clarita, CA) was right behind with 14 points. Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) posted eight posts and 12 boards before fouling out of the contest – the first time all year he has.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Rory McCloy - New Beginnings
It could be safe to say many of us had a rough 2016, so I guess it's a good thing that the new year always calls for resolutions. But let's be honest, probably a small amount of us actually keep up with our resolutions for the whole year, or even just through January.  I've done a lot of thinking, and I think this year I am going to try something new. I am going to reallocate my time, and I am going to replace things in my life that I don't necessarily like with new or better things. When I say things, I don't mean material things, I mean abstract or action things.


[Athletics] Celebrate the Life of Walt Simon
The Simon Family has finalized the details for the celebration of Walt Simon's incredible time here on earth with us. Vanguard University Athletics invites anyone who's life was impacted by Walt to join us at the public viewing, home going service, interment, and repast. 


[Men's Basketball] Energy Propels Lions to Bounce-Back Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. – What a difference a day makes. Less than 24 hours after their third loss in a row, the Lions (11-3) came back with incredible energy and heart to take down a very talented and tough team from the University of Saskatchewan (5-8) by a score of 89-72. Vanguard, led offensively by Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA), forced the Huskies into 26 turnovers which produced 34 points for the Pride.


[Athletics] A Life Well Lived: Walt Simon
With a heavy heart, Vanguard Athletics has learned that former assistant basketball coach Walt Simon has gone to be with the Lord. Walt spent over a decade faithfully serving Lions basketball, first with seven years on the men's team before switching over the coach the perennial powerhouse on the women's side.


[Men's Basketball] MacEwan Extends Skid for Blue and Gold
COSTA MESA, Calif. – After a long, two week break for the holidays, the Lions (10-3) showed some signs of rust as they ultimately fell 76-68 against the MacEwan University Griffins (3-7). This marks the third straight loss for the Blue and Gold after kicking off the year on a torrid start. The Griffins jumped out to a quick 19-9 lead and the Pride could never completely close the gap. Each time they made a run to get back into it, MacEwan would hit a dagger from the field and stop the potential swing in momentum.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Christian Ware-Berry - No Excuses
Happy Holidays,I hope all of you are enjoying your Christmas break! My family and I had a great Christmas and are looking forward to the new year ahead of us. With that being said, I am equally excited about conference play coming up in a couple of weeks. Our team is coming back to campus after a 10 day break to get ready for our last games of 2016. We have a chance to end this year on a good note after dropping two games in a row at home. We also need to gain momentum by getting these two wins before we start playing GSAC games. This break has really allowed me to rest my mind and body so I can come back with a clear head and lock in on the task we have ahead of us. We have a really talented group, but now is the time where the little things will matter. Our talent will only get us so far, but if we want to be GSAC champions and get to the national tournament this year, we need to sacrifice our own individual pride and focus on executing what we practice.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Maul Leopards in Big Cat Battle
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Playing in what was scheduled to be their final game of 2016, the sixth ranked Lions (12-1) closed out the year with a third blowout in four days, this time against the University of La Verne (0-8) by a score of 90-53. The result came as no surprise, considering that the Pride has now gone eight games undefeated while the Leopards are still in the hunt for their first win. However, this takes nothing away from what has been an outstanding season so far for the Blue and Gold, Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) in particular. In yet another scintillating, attacking display, Lamunu put up over a third of the Pride's points, with 33 on the day.


[Athletics] Vanguard CSA to Host 1st Annual All-Sport Camp
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University Athletics is proud to announce its First Annual Athletic Camp hosted by Lions student-athletes and the Council of Student Athletes. The CSA sought out a way to impact the surrounding community during the holiday season, providing a recreational activity for local kids who are out of school for the Christmas Break. The proceeds from this year's event will go to supporting character-driven intercollegiate athletes and the Counsel of Student-Athletes. Ages 6-13 are invited to participate in this coming up next week!


[Women's Basketball] Lions Force Blue Hawks to Land in Defeat
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Although not quite as simple as the victory against La Sierra, the 6th ranked Lions (11-1) comfortably defeated Dickinson State (6-4) by a score of 93 to 65. This marks the seventh victory in a row for the rampant Blue and Gold. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) continued her impressive form with a team high 25 points, closely followed by Maya Kennedy (SR/Huntington Beach, CA) who contributed an almost equal share of the points with 24 on the day. In the dominant outing, Victoria Chea (FR/Murrieta, CA) and Hanna Tabron (SR/Gilroy, CA) reach double figures in scoring.


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard and the Unstoppable Lamunu!
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Kicking off the first of three games spread across four days, the sixth ranked Lions (10-1) easily dispatched La Sierra (4-8) to the tune of 110-51. This marks the sixth straight victory for the Blue and Gold. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) was turning heads all night as she posted an astounding stat line of 33 points, 21 rebounds, six steals, four assists, and three blocks. Over the last wo contests she had accumulated 55 points and 45 rebounds.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Kaitlyn Hawthorne - The Little Things
Hey guys! I hope everyone made it through finals without too much stress, but luckily Christmas break is finally here!  This is one of my favorite times of the year as we get to celebrate the birth of Jesus and spend quality time with the friends and family we love.  I don't get to see my family often because I'm about 500 miles away, so this holiday season is a special time of the year for me! 


[Men's Basketball] Heartbreak Falls on Vanguard at AG Classic
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In a tightly contest battle between two of the top schools featuring Lion mascots in the NAIA, Southwestern Assemblies of God University (10-3) sank the final point of the game to narrowly escape The Pit with a 79-78 win. The game was a back and forth endeavor down the stretch as neither team was willing to give an inch. Vanguard (10-2) was led in scoring by Shacquille Dawkins (FR/Santa Clarita, CA) whose speed and shiftiness put the Blue and Gold in correct positions all night and pitched in 16 points. Additionally, he recorded half of the Lions six steals.


[Women's Soccer] Dodge Named NSCAA Regional Coach of the Year
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) announced yesterday the 2016 Regional Coaches of the Year on the women's side of the NAIA. For the West Region, one of six throughout the country, Randy Dodge was selected as the recipient. This adds to the Golden State Athletic Conference Co-Coach of the Year he received last month. Dodge guided the Lions to an 18-4 record, which tied the program record. Vanguard advanced to the Quarterfinal Round at the NAIA National Tournament after winning both the GSAC Regular Season and Tournament Championships. 


[Basketball] Lions Basketball Promotes Education and Character at Rea Elementary
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard University men's and women's basketball players and staff got away from the court to spend time with area kids at Rea Elementary School in Costa Mesa on Thursday morning to promote the power of reading and education. Lions student-athletes were sprinkled across the campus and throughout the hallways as the younger students looked in awe when the larger-than-life players came into view. Inside the 3rd-6th grade classrooms, players fielded questions from eager little fans about their favorite childhood book, favorite basketball player and favorite color.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Suffer First Defeat of 2016 Season
COSTA MESA, Calif. – After more than six-weeks of undefeated play, the Lions (RV) were eclipsed in a heartbreaker. Vanguard (10-1) kept fighting the uphill battle and had a chance to tie the game in the final seconds, but Evangel University (4-7) took the 66-63 victory during Day One of the 2016 Assemblies of God Classic. Malachi Hoosein (JR/Norwalk, CA) scored a game high 16 points for the Blue and Gold.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Maddy Slade - Holiday Break
Happy December! It's finally the month everyone has been waiting for! I hope everyone has made it home safely for the anticipated Christmas season. I'm sure I can speak for most that these past few weeks have been crazy stressful with finals. I was up for long hours studying and trying to cram last minute assignments in. However, I'm excited to say that the stress is finally gone and we get to go home and relax for a while! I'm looking forward to seeing all my friends that come home from their colleges and hearing about their new lives, as well as visiting with my family.


[Men's Basketball] Brothers and Co. Pushes Vanguard Past NWIC in Rout
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions (10-0) came back from a victorious road trip to face the Northwest Indian College (1-14). The Pride came out on top in the match, continuing their winning streak, with a final score of 114-46. Six Lions reached double digits led by Brandon Brothers (SO/Pasadena, CA) who hit 19 by final buzzer, nine of which from the behind the arc. Kaleb WIlbourn, Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA), and Teslim Idris (SR/London, England) all pushed the score up with 12 points each. The Lions kept the stellar shooting from their last game and shot 50% on field goals. 


[Women's Basketball] Lamunu Tallies Crazy Stats in Lions Victory
COSTA MESA,  Calif. – The sixth ranked Vanguard Lions (9-1) took on Bethesda (3-12)  and came out on top 71-49. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) led the Lions in scoring and rebounds, sinking 22 points total and 24 boards. Victoria Chea (FR/Murrieta, CA) also hit double digits for the Lions with 10 points. Lamunu was just one rebound shy of tying the Vanguard record for single game rebounds.


[Volleyball] Johnson, Lowden Named NAIA All-American Honorable Mention
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The NAIA has released the 2016 list of All-American's which featured a pair of Lions from the women's volleyball team. Becca Lowden repeats on the list on NAIA All American Honorable Mention's and Juanae Johnson (JR/Santa Monica, CA) makes her first showing. Both Lowden and Johnson were named to the All-GSAC team last month and each earned at least one GSAC Player of the Week award throughout the year. Luckily for the Pride, the duo will return for 2017 as they shoot to get back to the NAIA National Tournament. 


[Soccer] Arellano Highlights Four Lions as NAIA All-American Honorable Mentions
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard soccer found much success on the field this year team wide, but individually, four Lions were recognized as Honorable Mention players on the NAIA All-American teams. Juan Arellano (SR/Hawthorne, CA) backs up his Second Team berth a year ago with an Honorable Mention ranking while Madison Lopp (JR/Anaheim, CA), Haley Bruce (SO/San Diego, CA), and Haley Magana (SO/Los Alamitos, CA) secured spots for the first time in their careers. 


[Women's Basketball] Lions Survive Despite Sluggish Start
COSTA MESA, Calif. – California Lutheran (1-5) did not shy away from the sixth ranked Lions, pushing them to the limit. But, as the final buzzer sounded, Vanguard (8-1) held on for the 63-55 victory. The Regals played much better than their record suggests; it took a stellar game from Hanna Tabron (SR/Gilroy, CA) to keep the Blue and Gold undefeated in The Pit this season. She scored a game high 20 points on 5-7 shooting from downtown.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Cruise to 9-0 Record Over Winless La Sierra
RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Going on the road for the first time this season, the Lions (RV) (9-0) continued their winning ways as they handled La Sierra University (0-11) by a 61-69 count. Vanguard placed four into double figures highlighted by Malachi Hoosein (JR/Norwalk, CA) who dropped in four of seven tries from behind the arc. The Blue and Gold shot the ball well, ending the contest with exactly 50% shooting from the field.


[Soccer] Lions Trio Earns NAIA Scholar Athlete
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Three members of the Vanguard University soccer teams have added another list to their academic achievements. Kristen Lum (SR/Honolulu, HI), Nahum Paz (JR/Costa Mesa, CA), and Erica Wadell (JR/Yucaipa, CA) have been named NAIA Scholar Athletes to go along with the GSAC Scholar Athlete Awards they won in November. Lum, a Biology major with a 3.88 GPA, is a repeat winner from last year, while Wadell (an astronomical 3.96 grade point average in Communications) and Paz (a 3.53 GPA while studying Business Administration) join this season, as they are now of junior standing. To qualify as a NAIA Scholar Athlete they must have a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher. 


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] DeAtley, Hunt Qualify for NAIA Outdoor Marathon at Nationals
LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Sunday, December 4th Vanguard's Zach Hunt (SR/Sparks, NV) and Zach DeAtley (SR/Victorville, CA), from the cross country and track programs, both raced the Los Angeles River Half Marathon and met qualifying standards for the NAIA Outdoor National Marathon to be held Saturday, May 27th in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The duo finished 1st and 2nd overall in the race completing the 13.1 mile course in 1:12:22 and 1:12:50 respectively (an average of 5:32 and 5:34 per mile). The NAIA automatic qualifying standard is 1:13:30, so both were well under the required mark. This is the third time Hunt has qualified for the NAIA Marathon and second time for DeAtley. 


[Men's Basketball] Lee Earns Conference's 1st Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference and the NAIA have wrapped up their first week where the winter sports were eligible for Player of the Week status. In his first chance, Jamaal Lee (JR/Long Beach, CA) took home the award thanks to a dominating performance against Bethesda University of California. The all-around play gave Lee an ending stat line of 23 points, 14 rebounds, six assists, four steals, and a pair of blocks. Tonight, Jamaal and the rest of the Lions put their undefeated streak on the line against San Diego Christian in the opening game of the GSAC season. 


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard Hands Hawks First Loss of the Season
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (7-1, 1-0) came out on top in the opening GSAC game against  San Diego Christian (8-1, 0-1) ending the game with a score of 73-62. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) led scoring for the sixth ranked Lions, shooting 8-12 resulting in 16 points for the night and snatching 14 rebounds.   Maya Kennedy (SR/Huntington Beach, CA) and Victoria Chea (FR/Murrieta, CA) were close behind Lamunu with Kennedy putting up 15 and Chea following in suit with 13 points of her own. In addition to the three leading scorers, Hanna Tabron (SR/Gilroy, CA) also put up double digits with 10 total points and rounding out the defense with 10 rebounds. Tabron was key to keeping the Lions in possession stealing from the Hawks twice.


[Men's Basketball] Hoosein + Allmon = Vanguard Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif.  – The day began with the Lions (8-0) receiving votes in the NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll for the first time this season and it ended with an 80-63 victory over San Diego Christian (3-6). Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) continues to dominate the Hawks, tallying 28 points on 12-19 shooting. Malachi Hoosein (JR/Norwalk, CA) slotted in second in the contest with 21 points, dropping in 6-9 from behind the arc.


[Athletics] Vanguard Athletics Participates in GSAC Operation Christmas Child Drive
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference has released the results of its annual Operation Christmas Child drive between all of the member schools. This year, the conference collected a total of 598 boxes, which will be distributed via Samaritans Purse to 150 countries. The total of nearly 600 boxes is the highest amount collected to date. 


[Women's Basketball] Durr, Goff Shine in Return to Homestate
PORTLAND, Ore. – Vanguard (6-1) moved head on into its second straight out of state trip this preseason and did what it was supposed to. The sixth ranked team in the NAIA walked by Warner Pacific (2-5) by an 87-52 count on Bart Valentine Court. Maya Kennedy led all scorers posting a season high 26 points on a deadly 7-13 from behind the arc. Claire Lamunu continued to do her thing notching a double-double with 24 points and 10 rebounds. She would be one of three Lions to achieve that feat on the glass.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Rory McCloy - "The Pause"
Hello Friends!Finals week is officially in full affect.  For most of us, it is the week of running on coffee, being stressed beyond belief, and fighting the impulsive urge to drop out of college.  I wanted to share with you guys a small technique I use to calm my anxiety and stress.  It doesn't necessarily have to be for finals, it could really be for any stressful time in your life. I found its actually quite popular, but in case you haven't heard of it... It's called "The Pause."


[Men's Basketball] Lions Enter GSAC 7-0 Behind Lee's Dominance
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 7-0 Lions made it harder on themselves in the second half, but regrouped in overtime to defeat Bethesda (4-8) by a 99-83 count. Vanguard led by 14 points at halftime, but a late surge by the Flames pushed it into an extra five minutes of play with an 81-81 score. Jamaal Lee (JR/Long Beach, CA) controlled the game on multiple levels as he tallied 23 points and snatched 14 rebounds – both were game highs. Rounding out his fingerprints on the contest were six assists, four steals, and two blocks.


[Women's Soccer] Dream Season Ends in Quarterfinals
ORANGE BEACH, Ala. – The magical ride has come to an end as the top team in the country, defending National Champion, and last undefeated squad in the NAIA narrowly slipped past the seventh ranked Lions (18-4) by a 1-0 score in the Quarterfinal Round of the 33rd Annual NAIA Women's Soccer National Tournament. The lone goal was scored midway through the first half as it just squeezed between the diving arms of Haley Magana (SO/Los Alamitos, CA).


[Women's Soccer] That's So Rayven! Vanguard moves onto the Quarterfinals
ORANGE BEACH, Ala. – The first match of the year for Vanguard was when they traveled to play at Martin Methodist College (14-3-3) and now three months later the Lions ended the season of the #2 team in the country. Vanguard (18-3) was pushed into the Quarterfinals of the 33rd Annual Women's Soccer National Tournament thanks to the right foot of Rayven Hernandez (JR/Rancho Santa Margarita, CA), earning the 1-0 victory. In today's matchup, the Lions were the eight seed and the Redhawks were just behind as the ninth seed.­


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Christian Ware-Berry - My Journey
As we approach the end of the semester, I am really in crunch time mode. Being a student-athlete not only requires me to perform well on the court, but also in the classroom. I have always been good at balancing my schoolwork with my gym time and other activities. I wouldn't say that I'm stressing out with all the work I have to get done, but man I can't wait till we get on winter break!


[Women's Soccer] Quarterfinal Match-up: Vanguard vs. Spring Arbor
ORANGE BEACH, Ala. - The Vanguard Lions (8th seed) and Spring Arbor Cougars (1st seed) are prepping for their Quarterfinal matchup at the 33rd Annual NAIA Women's Soccer National Championship. The winner of tomorrow's game will advance to the semifinals which will be played on Friday. A semifinal berth would make history for the Blue and Gold while Spring Arbor is looking to defend their 2015 National Championship title.Let's see how the teams stack up...


[Women's Basketball] Lions Upended in Oman Arena
JACKSON, Tenn. – On the very site where they captured the 2008 National Championship, the sixth ranked Lions (4-1) tipped off in a Top-20 matchup with Columbia (Mo.) and it proved to be as advertised. After winning the first half score, the tides turned during the halftime break and the Cougars (5-1) came back to pull of the two point upset. The final score was 55-53.


[Men's Basketball] Vanguard Trolls for Victory Against Trinity Christian
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (5-0) continued its unbeaten streak to start the year as they held on to win 74-72 over Trinity Christian College (1-4) in the first day of the annual Thanksgiving Tournament in The Pit. The Trolls came roaring back and tied the game in the waning seconds before the Lions held on to win by successful free throws from Jamaal Lee (JR/Long Beach, CA) after he was fouled in the lane.


[Men's Basketball] Ain't No Worries When You Got Lee
COSTA MESA, Calif. - In the final outing of the Vanguard Thanksgiving Classic, the Lions (6-0) took care of business handily as they trounced Shepherd University by 24 points. Jamaal Lee (JR/Long Beach, CA) led the way for the Blue and Gold with 20 points and eight rebounds, pushing the Pride to the 91-67 victory in The Pit.


[Women's Basketball] Gerostergiou Rains Down Three's In Oman Arena
JACKSON, Tenn. – The Lions came out with authority and touted the higher seeded Our Lake of the Lake in their final matchup of the Jackson Rotary Club Classic. Vanguard (5-1) was reeling after a narrow defeat the previous day and took their revenge out on the Saints (3-5). When the final whistled blew, the Pride had blown the doors off the matchup to the billing of a 91-60 victory.


[Women's Soccer] 'Bama Bound Behind Lopp's Eight Minute Hat-Trick
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions hosted an NAIA Opening Round contest for the fifth straight year, and this one was just as sweet as the wins that came before. Vanguard (17-3), the Golden State Athletic Conference regular season and conference tournament champions rolled through Marymount California 3-0. Madison Lopp (JR/Anaheim, CA) recorded all three goals within eight minutes of each other during the first half, set up each time by Alex Bachman (SR/Buena Park, CA). The Pride now moves on to Orange Beach, Alabama for the Final Site of the NAIA National Tournament where they will face Martin Methodist College (14-2-3).


[Men's Cross Country] DeAtley, Hunt Finish 2nd & 3rd of GSAC Runners at NAIA National ...
Elsah, Ill. - The Vanguard trio of Zach DeAtley (SR/Victorville, CA), Zach Hunt (SR/Sparks, NV) and Jeronimo Brito (JR/Riverside, CA) put it all on the line today in cold and windy conditions on the North Farm Course located near the campus of Principia College. The weather was chilly (40 degrees at race time) with 20mph winds and the course was 100% grass with challenging hills throughout. The senior duo of DeAtley and Hunt concluded their collegiate cross country careers with their best collegiate efforts finishing 48th & 50th overall among 331 finishers with impressive 8k times of 25:35 and 25:36 respectively.


[Women's Basketball] Student-Athlete Blogs: Kaitlyn Hawthorne - Giving and Gratitude
Hello everyone! I hope everyone has had a good semester thus far as we are arriving at Thanksgiving break.  First off, congrats to the women's soccer team for winning the GSAC conference and tournament.  As the fall sports are coming to an end, basketball is just starting to pick up.  We've just arrived in Jackson, Tennessee for the Jackson Rotary Classic Invitational tournament and are excited as Coach Russ Davis has put together a skilled, competitive group of teams.  This is a good opportunity for us to play some great competition and apply the hard work and instruction we've been given during this preseason.  As the community of Jackson and the Northside Assembly of God Church is welcoming towards us, we get the chance to extend our hearts and hands towards them. 


[Men's Soccer] A Lions Heart - Jon Paul Pacheco
In an ongoing effort to show Vanguard student-athletes as more than just a number in a jersey, Vanguard Athletics is pleased to announce a new regular web series titled "A Lions Heart". In this, the student-athlete takes the reigns discussing their relationship with Christ, their Vanguard experience, and a little more about their daily life.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Cruise Past Tigers in Tennessee
McKenzie, Tenn. – The sixth ranked Lions (4-0) took their first foray away from the friendly confines of The Pit and continue their scorching start to the 2016-17 campaign. Vanguard started the first of three games in Tennessee by squaring off against Hiwasee College (3-1) who suffered their first loss on the year by an 88-40 score.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Hang Triple Digits in Rim Rattling Route
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The offense was clicking on all levels tonight as Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) posted a game high 26 points, dunking all over Bethesda (4-3) in the Lions 113-67 victory. Vanguard (4-0) continues its home winning streaking by shooting 45% from behind the arc and knocking down 12 triples. Brandon Brothers (SO/Pasadena, CA) contributed 17 points off the bench, nailing 5-7 from downtown.


[Women's Soccer] NATIONAL TOURNAMENT PREVIEW :: Women's Soccer
COSTA MESA, Calif. – For the fifth consecutive year, the women's soccer team at Vanguard University will not only be moving on to the NAIA National Tournament, but will be a host site for the Opening Round on November 19th – this Saturday.  Dating back to 2012, the Lions have played the first round of the tournament on familiar turf and own a 2-0-2 record, and have not advanced to the Final Site once during that span.


[Cross Country] CROSS COUNTRY NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions will be racing in tomorrow's 61st Annual NAIA National Championship. For the first time North Farm Cross Country Course in Elsah, Illinois will be the host site. Jeronimo Brito (JR/Riverside, CA), Zach DeAtley (SR/Victorville, CA), and Zach Hunt (SR/Sparks, NV) qualified to race for the individual title by their finish in the GSAC Championships on November 5th


[Volleyball] All-GSAC Awards go to Lowden, Johnson
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference has released its 14 member All-Conference team ,presented by Under Armour, for the 2016 Volleyball season and the fourth place Blue and Gold placed two members on the squad. Vanguard University was represented by Rebecca Lowden (SO/Glendora, CA), making the list for the second straight year, and Juanae Johnson (JR/Santa Monica, CA) who earns the prestigious recognition for the first time in her Lions career.


[Women's Basketball] Holy Lamunu!
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions (3-0) are showing why coaches all over the nation voted them sixth in the Preseason Top 25 Poll, as they roll through Saint Katherine College (1-2) by a 92-41 score. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) continues her scorching start to the season by putting up a stat line of 30 points, nine boards, and four steals. The senior did her damaged on an efficient 13-19 from the floor.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Maddy Slade - Champions!
Hello Lions! As our women's soccer team is wrapping up season, we have been blessed enough to be called the GSAC champions! This past week we won the GSAC Tournament behind a goal from our senior captain Alex Bachman. We are now on our way to the NAIA National Tournament Opening Round with the goal of reaching the Final Site. Around Thanksgiving we hope we will be playing with Gold Pride in the National Tournament.  #BacktoBama!


[Women's Basketball] Lamunu Paves Way for Lions Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions (2-0), currently ranked sixth in the NAIA Coaches Preseason Top 25 Poll, hit the court after nearly a two week hiatus to take on the Leopards of La Verne (0-0). In a team effort, the Blue and Gold cruised to a 92-46 victory over ULV behind another double-double from Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda).


[Women's Soccer] Basking in That Championship Feeling!
LA MIRADA, Calif. – The rematch in the GSAC Tournament Championship was one for the ages as #7 Vanguard (16-3) held on to win 1-0 over the #8 ranked Eagles. Biola (15-1-3) entered the game without a loss on the year, and the Lions were the team to give to them thanks to the left foot of captain Alex Bachman (SR/Buena Park, CA) who scored the only goal of the match in the 72nd minute, from just outside the 18-yard box.


[Men's Basketball] Pride Cruises Past Rio Grande
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Vanguard Lions (3-0) came out firing on Saturday evening when they faced off against Rio Grande (0-3) ending with a 90-64 victory. Shacquille Dawkins (FR/Santa Clarita, CA) led all scorers with 19 points shooting 6-9 from the field. Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) was second in scoring tallying 18 points while pulling down six boards for VU.  Victor Evans (JR/Winnetka, CA) was crucial for the offense of the Lions contributing 15 points on the night.  


[Volleyball] Vanguard Bids Farewell to Chase, Dalrymple, and McCloy
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Saturday Night was a time of celebrating for the Vanguard Volleyball program. The evening began with celebrating a trio of players who have changed the fabric of the team with their presence over a combined 10 years. Then, as the action began, the crowd was in for a treat as Vanguard (1-20,10-6) and Hope International (11-16,5-11) battled the full five sets in the bookend contest for both teams. Vanguard pulled out the win by set scores of 25-15,28-26,17-25,20-25,15-11.


[Men's Basketball] Hoosein in the Membrane
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions (2-0) kicked off a three game slate this week by defeating Whittier College in front of a full crowd in The Pit. Vanguard was guided to the 94-86 victory behind 17 points and seven boards from Malachi Hoosein (JR/Norwalk, CA) and 17 points from Zach Allmon (SR/San Luis Obispo, CA) to go along with 14 rebounds. The Blue and Gold put five players in double figures. Connor Longmire scored a game high 21 points for the Poets.


[Baseball] A Lions Heart - Shane Elias-Calles
In an ongoing effort to show Vanguard student-athletes as more than just a number in a jersey, Vanguard Athletics is pleased to announce a new regular web series titled "A Lions Heart". In this, the student-athlete takes the reigns discussing their relationship with Christ, their Vanguard experience, and a little more about their daily life.


[Men's Soccer] Vanguard Eclipsed in OT at GSAC Semifinals
LA MIRADA, Calif. – For the second time in less than a week, the Lions  (11-5-1) competed in a do-or-die match in the GSAC Tournament and both of the games could not be decided in regulation. The high scoring affair for the first 50 minutes of the game settled down as the game-winning goal was netted by Menlo College (14-4-1) just 4:25 into the overtime period.


[Women's Soccer] Once, Twice, Three Times a Winner
LA MIRADA, Calif. – What a nail bitter! The Lions (15-3) and Mustangs (8-7-5) met for the third time this season, and like the previous times, Vanguard comes out victorious. Regulation couldn't decide a victor, but the Blue and Gold prevailed 1-0, as Megan Chlentzos (JR/Tustin, CA) scored three minutes into the overtime period.


[Volleyball] The End of an Era
COSTA MESA, Calif. – For the final time in conference play history, the Vanguard Lions and # 19 Biola Eagles squared off in The Pit. Vanguard (13-20, 9-6) started out hot winning the first set 25-17, before the Eagles (23-9,13-3) kept their postseason lives afloat winning the next three sets with some outstanding individual plays.


[Volleyball] Clean Sweep for Vanguard in GSAC Player of the Week Awards
COSTA MESA, Calif. – For the second time in as many years, the Lions have swept the GSAC Player of the Week votes behind a 2-0 record. The Blue and Gold defeated Menlo College and William Jessup University, with success by three key individuals. Aubryn Coale (FR/Huntington Beach, CA) has been balling out of late and took home her first career Attacker of the Week recognition. Rory McCloy (SR/Colorado Springs, CO) was honored for the first time this season, adding to the award she won last season as Setter of the Week. Last but not least, Becca Lowden adds to her awards collection winning conference Defender of the Week. Coale put up a team high 24 kills in the nine sets played, McCloy dished out 48 assists, and Lowden averaged 24.5 digs per match last weekend.


[Men's Soccer] Gomez Goes Back-To-Back
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference released the latest edition of Players of the Week, and the Lions swept both awards for men's soccer. Brandon Gomez (JR/Los Angeles, CA) earns his second straight Defensive Player of the Week and fourth overall this season. Juan Arellano (SR/Hawthorne, CA) had an impressive showing in the Conference Tournament First Round to take home the recognition for the first time this year. Gomez, was crucial in the Blue and Gold beating Biola in the penalty kick shootout as he blocked two of the Eagles shots and them calmly sank the game-winning PK. Meanwhile, Arellano was just as necessary as he scored the first two goals of the day for the Pride and drilled a successful penalty kick just before Gomez.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Outlast Eagles in Dramatic PK Shootout
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Intense. The first word that comes to mind when talking about Biola (10-6-1) and Vanguard's GSAC Tournament First Round contest is intensity. Neither team wanted to blink, as their seasons rested on the outcome of this game. After a 3-3 tie in the end of double overtime, the game moved into a shootout where the Lions (11-4-1) came out victorious behind Brandon Gomez (JR/Los Angeles, CA)'s PK shot.


[Volleyball] Defense Gives Lions 2nd Straight Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Home has treated the Lions well as they rattled off a second consecutive victory in as many days. Vanguard (13-19, 9-5) played strong volleyball in their three set victories as they defeat William Jessup 3-1 (25-11, 25-23, 25-10, 25-18). The Blue and Gold were led offensively by a quintet of hitters who helped the team tally a .369 attacking percentage and 53 kills.


[Cross Country] Brito, Hunt, DeAtley Earn All-GSAC
ROCKLIN, Calif. - The VU Men finished fourth among nine teams at the GSAC Cross Country Championships hosted by William Jessup University  while the VU Women put together their best race of the season finishing sixth overall in a talented GSAC field. Jeronimo Brito (JR/Riverside, CA), Zach Hunt (SR/Sparks, NV), and Zach DeAtley (SR/Victorville, CA) run Top 15 times in the field of male runners earning All-GSAC and putting themselves in great position to reach the NAIA Cross Country National Championships.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Rory McCloy - Time of Thanks
Hello my friends, I am back for my third post.  For those of you who didn't know, volleyball's very last two games of the season are this Thursday and Friday (both at 7pm in The Ppit)! That means that after Friday, I get to open a new chapter in my life, and being a student-athlete will be in my past.  I am excited to explore the next chapters in my path.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Sprints Past Menlo in 5th Set
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Returning home after two weeks of life on the road, the Lions (12-19, 9-5) were in for a night of outstanding volleyball. Menlo College (14-15, 6-9) and Vanguard duked it out for the full five sets, until the Blue and Gold ran away in the final frame. The Pride tallied a 3-2 victory with set scores of 20-25,25-21,26-24,20-25, and an incredible 15-4 ending.


[Cross Country] DeAtley, Finch, Soholt Earn 2nd Straight Scholar-Athlete Status
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference has announced the list of student-athletes who have qualified as GSAC Scholar Athletes for Fall 2016. Three members including two members of the women's team represented the cross-country program of Vanguard University. Zachary DeAtley, Sarah Finch (SR/Redondo Beach, CA), and Lauren Soholt (SR/Riverside, CA) are all repeat winners from last season.


[Soccer] Lum Highlights Three GSAC Scholar Athletes
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Continuing coverage of Golden State Athletic Conference awards, the Lions are pleased to have three players named scholar-athletes for Fall 2016. Three members of the soccer program are recognized including a pair from women's soccer. Kristen Lum (SR/Honolulu, HI) is a repeat winner from last year, while Erica Wadell (JR/Yucaipa, CA) and Nahum Paz (JR/Costa Mesa, CA) join the ranks this season.


[Soccer] GSAC Soccer Tournament Preview
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions have qualified for the Golden State Athletic Conference Tournament for both the men's and women's teams. The Vanguard Women, currently ranked sixth in the nation, won the GSAC Regular Season Title and earned the #1 Seed in the upcoming tournament for only the third time in program history. This has advanced them past the first round with a bye and all the way through to the Championship Host Site. This year, similar to last year, the predetermine location for the Semifinals and Championship was Biola University. On the men's side, a great final week vaulted them all the way to the third seed in the tournament and they will host a First Round game on Vanguard's campus on Saturday,  November 5th at 2:00 p.m. A win on Saturday pushes the Blue and Gold to the next site, Biola, to take on #2 Menlo College who earned a first round bye.Entering the tournament, the Lions earned some top honors as Director of Soccer Randy Dodge was selected as the Co-Coach of the Year on the women's side. Haley Magana (SO/Los Alamitos, CA), Lauren Aronson (JR/Henderson, NV), Haley Bruce (SO/San Diego, CA), and Madison Lopp (JR/Anaheim, CA) received All-GSAC recognition, while for the men Brandon Gomez (JR/Los Angeles, CA), Juan Arellano (SR/Hawthorne, CA), and Josh Davis (SR/Mission Viejo, CA) reach the All-Conference squad for the second straight year.  


[Men's Basketball] Lions Escape with 1st Victory of 2016
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (1-0) earned a victory on their first countable contest of the year as they battled to a 73-69 score against Chapman University. The Lions were pushed to the brink by a well coached Panthers squad which tested the mental toughness of the team early in this season. The Blue and Gold was led in scoring by the trio of Teslim Idris (SR/London, England) (14), Brandon Brothers (SO/Pasadena, CA) (12), and Shacquille Dawkins (FR/Santa Clarita, CA) (10).


[Men's Soccer] Vanguard Trio Reaches All-GSAC Status Once Again
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference released the 2016 All-Conference Team presented by Under Armour and the Blue and Gold featured three repeat winners on the squad. The trio of Juan Arellano (SR/Hawthorne, CA), Brandon Gomez (JR/Los Angeles, CA), and Josh Davis (SR/Mission Viejo, CA) are named to the squad for the second straight season.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Christian Ware-Berry - Spiritual Training
Hello everybody. This is my third blog of the year and I am excited to share my thoughts with you. First, let me give you an update on our team status. Our season is finally here and we are all excited to compete for a GSAC championship this year. We were able to test our preparation for the first time this past Saturday against our crosstown rival, Concordia Irvine University. Although we did not win the game, I saw some bright spots from our team that looks very promising for the rest of the season ahead of us. With that being said, we still have a lot of work to do. Our desire to have a great season is there more than ever in my three years here. Now it is about us bridging our desire with the ability we need to reach our destination.


[Soccer] Lions Snag Three of Four Possible GSAC Player of the Week Awards
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions nearly swept the GSAC Player of the Week awards taking home three of four overall and both Offensive and Defensive POTW on the women's side. The ninth ranked Lions featured Hayley Gonzales (SR/Huntington Beach, CA) earning her first career award while Haley Magana (SO/Los Alamitos, CA) took home her third of the year. For the men, Brandon Gomez (JR/Los Angeles, CA) pitched two shut outs to win Defensive Player of the Week for the third time.


[Women's Soccer] Four Lions Awarded All-GSAC
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference has released the 2016 Women's Soccer All-GSAC recipients and five members of the Blue and Gold were recognized. At the top, Director of Soccer Randy Dodge was named Coach of the Year – he also received the award in 2012 when the team went undefeated in conference play. Haley Magana (SO/Los Alamitos, CA), who allowed only three goals in conference play, was named to the All-GSAC team as a goalkeeper. Lauren Aronson (JR/Henderson, NV) reaches the team for a second straight year as she helped guide a backline that featured four new players throughout the season. Haley Bruce (SO/San Diego, CA) was a force in the midfield while adding a sweet touch on free kicks, which resulted in six assists – a team high. She also ranked second on the squad with 16 points. Coming in as the team leader in points is Madison Lopp (JR/Anaheim, CA) who netted eight goals and five assists to earn All-GSAC for the second year in a row. 


[Volleyball] Lions Fight Valiantly Against #1 Westmont
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Vanguard (11-19, 7-5) continues to fight tooth and nail through the second round of Golden State Athletic Conference competition, but ran into the buzz saw of #1 and undefeated Westmont College (29-0, 14-0). Juanae Johnson (JR/Santa Monica, CA) scored a match-high 12 kills at a .200% attacking rate.


[Cross Country] Hunt Named GSAC Runner of the Month
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Zach Hunt (SR/Sparks, NV) has been named the Golden State Athletic Conference Runner of the Month for October. The senior showed great improvement as he competed in two races for Vanguard in the final full month of season.  Hunt placed fifth with a time of 25:59 at the 26th Vanguard Invitational 8K race held at Irvine Regional Park on October 8. Less than two weeks later, Hunt finished as the top runner for the Lions and the GSAC and sixth overall in a field of more than 140 runners at the Cal State Fullerton Titan Invitational.  His time of 25:01 was a personal record for Hunt and nearly a minute faster than the race earlier in the month. 


[Men's Basketball] Concordia Trumps Lions in Exhibition
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard men's basketball was welcomed to the floor for the 2016-17 season by a packed Pit for an exhibition matchup with former GSAC foe and crosstown rival Concordia. The Lions played the NCAA Division II institution tightly before the Eagles pulled away in the final nine minutes of the contest to earn the 75-63 victory.


[Women's Basketball] Lamunu Springs Lions to Opening Night Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 2016-17 campaign is underway and Vanguard (1-0) began with a bang as the Lions easily handled Bethesda University of California (0-3) in front of a pack crowd in The Pit. After a sluggish start, the Blue and Gold turned on the afterburners and cruised home to a 76-44 victory. Claire Lamunu (SR/Kampala, Uganda) was ridiculous snatching 21 rebounds and scoring 24 points to lead the contest in both categories.


[Men's Soccer] Arellano Lifts Lions to Victory on Senior Day
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University earned a crucial victory on Senior Day, as Juan Arellano (SR/Hawthorne, CA) celebrated in starring fashion - scoring the game winning goal. The Lions (11-4, 6-4) scrapped by the Master's University (10-6-2, 5-4-1) who upset the higher ranked Lions when the two met previously this season.


[Women's Soccer] Vanguard is the 2016 GSAC Champions
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The ninth ranked Lions (14-3, 9-1) came into the final regular season contest with control of the GSAC crown. Win and it is theirs. Lose and it resides in La Mirada with Biola University. Vanguard played their hearts out in the second half, in front of a full crowd on Senior Day, and scored two straight goals to win 2-1. The Blue and Gold are now the 2016 Golden State Athletic Conference champions.


[Women's Basketball] Russ Davis Partners with Jackson Rotary Club for Elite Tournament
JACKSON, Tenn. – Vanguard University head coach Russ Davis has announced the pairings for the 2016 Jackson Rotary Classic Invitational which will be held on November 25th and 26th at Oman Arena in Jackson, Tennessee. After years of memorable visits to that arena for the NAIA Division I Women's Basketball Tournament, Davis has actively sought to return a premier event to the region. The tournament will feature 14 of the top programs within the NAIA and will feature seven games each day beginning at 8:30am local time.  Currently, 13 of the 14 teams are ranked in the Preseason Coaches' Top 25 including seven within the Top 10 (Vanguard enters the season slotted sixth in the nation.)


[Women's Soccer] Allen Sinks Two in Vanguard's Shutout Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The ninth ranked Vanguard Lions (13-3, 8-1) were victorious against San Diego Christian (6-10-1, 1-7-1) with a final score of 3-0. The first two goals were earned early on, within the first 20 minutes, by Danyelle Allen (SR/Mountain View, CA), and Megan Stoll (SR/Laguna Niguel, CA) rounded out the trio in the second half. 


[Men's Soccer] Lions Roll Past Hawks 5-0
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (10-4, 5-4) took on San Diego Christian (7-10, 2-7) and ended in a shutout with the Pride prevailing 5-0. The Lions were out with a vengeance, shooting a total of 26 shots which overshadowed the Hawk's eight. Despite final score, the match was a constant battle due to the Hawks strong defense. The first goal landed in the 31st minute and the Lions just kept the shots coming from there.


[Volleyball] Lowden Records Match High 23 Digs in Loss
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – The Lions (11-18, 7-4) continue through the backend of the GSAC schedule where they play each team for a second time. The Master's University (19-9, 11-2) defeated Vanguard 3-0 (25-22,25-23,25-10), despite the Blue and Gold being very feisty in the first and second frames. Jessica Chase (SR/Riverside, CA) tallied a match high 25 attacking attempts with which she landed a team high 10 (hitting at a .280% rate). Hailey Gordon (SO/San Diego, CA) once again was a bright spot as a middle blocker and sank 5-9 attempts for a .556 attacking percentage. Becca Lowden was a monster defensively (23 digs) and was the only player in the match to record double digit digs.


[Basketball] Basketball Season Kicks Off This Week
Are you ready for some hoops? Vanguard University kicks off the 2016-2017 season this week, with three important basketball events. Starting it off is the second annual PitNight Madness, which will be held this Thursday (October 27th) at 9:30 p.m. The event begins with a tailgate at 8:00 p.m. just outside the gym with music and food for everyone! Once the event moves inside The Pit, you will be treated to 3-point shooting and dunk contests, as well as games for fans in attendance. Don't miss you chance to win awesome prizes! Then, just two days later, the Lions host their first home games of the year as the women take on Bethesda at 5:30 p.m. followed by the men with former rival Concordia at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Kaitlyn Hawthorne - Serving Others
Hey guys!  Another month as flown by and this week I want to talk about something that's been weighing on my heart, doing God's will and serving others.  This past month my team got a chance to raise money and awareness for a disease called Pulmonary Hypertension.  With 15-50 cases found per million people, this rare disease affects those people daily, making it a struggle to breathe and live life normally.  We put a group together and reached out to raise money and went to the Angel's Stadium in Anaheim to walk for the cause.  As a person that has a Patent Foramen Ovale, or a hole in my heart to put it simply, I have a chance of getting this someday and so helping these people is something that is important to me.  It feels good to help others and everyone on my team has such big hearts to serve other people.  If you would like to know more about this disease and donate to help find a cure you can go to https://www.phassociation.org/donate. 


[Cross Country] Lifetime Best "Hunt"ed Down at Titan Invitational
FULLERTON, Calif. - The Vanguard men's and women's cross country squads switched up the schedule and traded in their usual early Saturday morning race for an afternoon meet hosted by Cal State Fullerton. The Titan Invitational hosted both NCAA Division I and NAIA schools. In their respective fields, the Lion men side finished fifth out of 10 teams and the women sporting the Blue and Gold finished sixth amongst eight teams.


[Volleyball] Lions Bested by Defending National Champions
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Lions (11-17) completed their whirlwind two days of competition playing at Columbia College (MO) and then playing a neutral site match against Park University. Beginning at 12:00 pm local time, Vanguard suited up against the #25 Columbia Cougars (16-11) and then took a brief break before a matchup with the sixth ranked Park Pirates (26-1).


[Volleyball] MoBap Defeats Lions in St. Louis
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions (10-15) began a whirlwind 48 hour period where they will challenge four teams from Missouri, three of which are ranked. First, they were pitted against Missouri Baptist (24-6, 9-0 in conference play) who is currently ranked 14th in the nation and was the National Runner-Up a season ago. Vanguard was defeated 3-0 with scores of 25-18,25-15,25-23.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Conquers William Woods in Outstanding Fashion
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard bounced back in a big way, truly showing the character of this squad, as they fought back from a 0-2 deficit to rattle off three straight set wins including a fantastic 19-17 victory in the final frame over William Woods (17-11)! The Lions (11-15) looked adversity in the face and came out victorious as they completed the second match of the day after a 100 mile commute in between matches.


[Women's Soccer] Hernandez Nets Game Winner Against ACU
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions (12-3, 7-1), currently ranked ninth in the NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll and seventh in the Modified Rating Percentage Index, snatched a 2-0 victory over Arizona Christian (6-7-1, 2-6) in the squads annual Pink Game for breast cancer awareness. Both goals were scored in the second half of the competition as Rayven Hernandez (JR/Rancho Santa Margarita, CA) earns the game winning goal in the 68th minute.


[Men's Soccer] Arellano's Foot Sparks Overtime Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – It was a nail bitter, but the Lions (9-4, 4-4) closed out the 2-1 victory in the opening minutes of the first overtime period. Vanguard rode goals from Nathan Miramontes (JR/Fullerton, CA) and Juan Arellano (SR/Hawthorne, CA) (game winner) over Arizona Christian (5-11, 0-8). The Blue and Gold tallied an astronomical 33 shots on goal and Firestorm goal keeper Joshua Stewart made nine saves, thwarting the Pride's offense until the 58th minute.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Maddy Slade - College Adjustments
Hello again Vanguard! Our women's soccer team is now about half way through the season; we are now 6-1 in GSAC and prepared to finish strong. These first few months have been a crazy adjustment for me. Coming from high school, I haven't quite been used to the extra-long hours of classes and work. In addition, starting off season in the fall meant dedicating the rest of my time to soccer. I am finally starting to get in the swing of things and beginning to make a lot of friends!


[Women's Soccer] Magana Wins 2nd GSAC Defensive Player of the Week Award
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference has released the latest edition of Players of the Week, as voted by the conference, and Haley Magana (SO/Los Alamitos, CA) wins for the second time this season. She was recognized as Defensive Player of the Week after anchoring the ninth ranked Lions to a 2-0 record last week during a tough GSAC road trip. Magana continues to show why she is the top keeper in the conference. The Lions have vaulted to the top spot (18 points) in the GSAC thanks to her conference leading 10th shutout against Menlo. She has allowed just four goals all season and two of those came in her first collegiate game against No. 2 Lindsey Wilson back in August.


[Volleyball] Gordon Blasts Lions Past ACU
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions (10-14, 7-3) came back with a vengeance in the nightcap as they jumped on Arizona Christian (2-12, 0-10) early, winning the first set 25-14 before taking care of business to win in three sets (25-21, 25-20). Hailey Gordon (SO/San Diego, CA) was lights out as she went 8-11 with no errors for an otherworldly .727% attacking to go along with 3.5 blocks. Becca Lowden was flying all over the court making impressive digs to bring her total to 18 on the quick three set contest.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Find a Way...Zac Way
ROCKLIN, Calif. – Vanguard (8-3, 3-3) kicked things off right on their NorCal trip as they handled William Jessup by a 3-0 count. Brandon Gomez (JR/Los Angeles, CA) once again earns a shutout for the 20th ranked Lions. The last time the two teams met, it took extra time for VU to defeat William Jessup (7-4-1, 2-2-1). Zac Way (SR/Lakewood, CA) led the offense in the road tilt ended with a goal and an assist.


[Volleyball] Think Pink, Think Sweep
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (9-13, 6-3) has continued it stellar conference play as it picked up its second straight GSAC win and fourth in five games. Tonight, the Lions defeated San Diego Christian (11-12, 3-7) in straight sets 25-18, 25-15, and 25-23. The Pride was led by 31 total kills from the trio of Aubryn Coale (FR/Huntington Beach, CA), Hailey Gordon (SO/San Diego, CA), and Juanae Johnson (JR/Santa Monica, CA).


[Women's Soccer] Lopp Brings Lions Home with Victory at Menlo
ATHERTON, Calif.  Vanguard (11-3, 6-1) is coming home with a clean sweep of their trip to Northern California, ending the journey with a win against Menlo College (7-4-2, 2-3-1). The final score was 1-0 as only goal of the match was scored early for the 9th ranked Lions by Madison Lopp (JR/Anaheim, CA), earning her seventh goal of the year, only 11 minutes into the game. The Blue and Gold currently sit atop the GSAC standings with a two point cushion over #2 Biola.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Fall Despite Outshooting Menlo Handily
ATHERTON, Calif. The NorCal trip started off strong for the Lions, but 20th ranked Vanguard (8-4, 3-4) couldn't keep the momentum going against Menlo College (11-2-1, 5-0-1), losing by a score of 1-0. The Oaks took the lead in the first half, and the Lions fought hard to come back, outshooting Menlo 17-9. Juan Arellano (SR/Hawthorne, CA) led the barrage with six shots.  


[Volleyball] Diggers Knock Off Lions In Early Matchup
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Vanguard Lions (8-14) hosted the Diggers of Montana Tech (14-7) in a non-conference tilt and for the second time this season MTT left the building with a victory. Today's contest was a tight affair with the Diggers capturing a 3-0 victory by 25-21, 25-20, 25-21 counts. Hailey Gordon (SO/San Diego, CA) continued her impressive play in the middle recording a .556 attacking percentage to go along with five kills and two block assists. The duo of Becca Lowden and Aubryn Coale (FR/Huntington Beach, CA) ended the match with a combined 25 digs.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Rory McCloy - Season of Change
Hey Everyone! I hope all is well.  I want to start off by saying thank you for reading my blog; I appreciate you taking your time to read my post!  ​Change has been a heavy topic that I am dealing with in this season of my life.  Life is constantly changing, and I have been having to deal with some big changes coming up in my life.  For example, this is my last season ever of playing volleyball after 16 years.  So after December, something that has been a huge part of my life and has taken so much of my time will be almost non-existent.  Thinking about all of the time that I will have, and what I can do in that free time can be overwhelming.  It used to frustrate me and even create fear.  But, I have realized that everything will be okay.  I have faith that whatever happens is meant to happen.  I have changed my mindset from nervous to what will happen, to excited about what could happen.


[Women's Soccer] Bruce Voted GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Haley Bruce (SO/San Diego, CA) was voted Offensive Player of the Week for the Golden State Athletic Conference, announced Monday. This is the second time this season that the sophomore midfielder was been recognized for this award. Bruce is a weapon for the 11th ranked Lions offense as she has the ability to snap the ball into the correct spot. She scored another unassisted goal against Hope International which sealed the Lions fourth conference victory by a 2-0 score. Bruce is second on the team with 12 points this year.


[Cross Country] Brito Places 2nd at Vanguard Invitational
ORANGE, Calif. - Vanguard broke with tradition this year hosting its 26th Annual Invitational at Irvine Regional Park rather than historical Fairview Park in Costa Mesa where the meet had been held since 1999. A total of twelve teams were represented with nine posting scores in the team standings. The VU women finished eighth overall and the men finished fourth. Capturing team honors in the women's race was NAIA 18th ranked Lewis-Clark State (Idaho) with an upset victory over ninth ranked Westmont College by nine points (43-52). In the men's race the same two teams battled for the title again with NAIA 17th ranked Westmont College coming out on top with a mild upset over 15th ranked Lewis-Clark State by 10 points (42-52). Claiming individual honors for the women was Sophomore Alyssa Allen (Orange Coast College) with a winning 5k time of 18:33. Crossing the line first for the men was Freshman Michael Oldach (Westmont College) who clocked in with a 25:43 8k time.


[Women's Soccer] Magana Records Ninth Shutout of 2016, Blanking HIU 2-0
FULLERTON, Calif. – Vanguard (9-3, 4-1) got right back on track in a big way by shutting out Hope International (6-3-2, 1-2-1) in the 90-plus degree weather. Haley Bruce (SO/San Diego, CA) and Danyelle Allen (SR/San Clemente, CA) netted the goals for the 11th ranked Lions in the 2-0 victory. Haley Magana (SO/Los Alamitos, CA) recorded her ninth shutout of the season thanks to a pair of saves in the first half.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Derailed by GSAC Leading Hope International
FULLERTON, Calif. – Fresh off an invigorating conference win a week ago, the 12 ranked Lions (7-3, 1-3) were unable to keep the trend going as they fell to first place Hope International (10-0-2, 4-0) by a score of 2-1. Jared Gould (FR/Prescott, AZ) put Vanguard on the board in the 69th minute via a header serve far post by Carlos Yepez (SO/Inglewood, CA). Despite outshooting the Royals 16-6, the Pride was unable to come back from the two goal deficit.


[Volleyball] Lions Rattle Off Three Straight Sets to Defeat Royals 3-1
FULLERTON, Calif. – After narrowly losing the first set, the Lions (8-13, 5-3) rattled off three straight victories to defeat Hope International (10-8, 4-4). Vanguard took the contest 3-1 in sets - dropping the opening frame by a 25-21 count before winning 25-19, 25-21, and finishing strong with a 25-14 victory. The tag team of Aubryn Coale (FR/Huntington Beach, CA) (17 kills, 12 digs, and a .283 attacking percentage) and Shaylen Larson-Piper (SO/Elizabeth, CO) (9 kills, 1.5 blocks, and a .643 hitting rate) paced the way for the Blue and Gold. Chelsea Taylor (FR/Murrieta, CA) also had a solid day up the middle handling seven of 11 attempts.


[Women's Soccer] Former Lion Named Head Coach at Woodbridge HS
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Jennifer Martin, former member of Vanguard women's soccer has been selected as the next girl's soccer coach at Woodbridge High School in nearby Irvine, CA. Martin was a two-year member of the Blue and Gold after transferring in from Santiago Canyon Community College. In May 2015, she graduated from Vanguard University with a degree in Liberal Studies, emphasizing in Mathematics. In addition to coaching, she is currently a long-term substitute math teacher at Woodbridge.


[Athletics] A Day in the Life of Jessica Chase
Athletes at every level are reveled for their special abilities on campuses nationwide. But, what many people do not realize is the hours of tireless preparation that must go in before the lights go on and the student-athlete ties up his or her shoelaces. Similarly, being a student-athlete at Vanguard University has many unique challenges that go along with the pride of wearing the Blue and Gold.Jessica Chase (SR/Riverside, CA), a standout member of Vanguard Volleyball, is a prime example. Between practice, game, treatment, classes, homework, and meals, the schedule of an athlete is always jam-packed. Join us as we walk through a day in the life of Jessica…


[Volleyball] Lowden Named GSAC Defender of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference has released the weekly winners of Player of the Week and Becca Lowden was named Defender of the Week for the Lions. Lowden is a large factor why the Lions went 2-0 in conference play last week to stabilize their season. She snagged 47 total digs in 8 sets, regaining the form that earned her GSAC Libero of the Year last season. She added four service aces to boot. On the year Lowden ranks fifth in the conference with 11 service aces and third with 105 total digs. 


[Volleyball] Lions Narrowly Miss Upset Bid of #16 Biola
LA MIRADA, Calif. – Vanguard (7-13, 4-3) took the 16th ranked team in the country the distance as Biola (15-7, 6-2) narrowly escaped with a 3-2 victory. The Lions were led by Hailey Gordon (SO/San Diego, CA) who netted a staggering .846 hitting percentage along with 11 kills. On the road for the third straight match, the Blue and Gold won all statistical categories except two - service errors and solo blocks.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Christian Ware-Berry - The Building of Brotherhood
Hello again! I hope everyone is enjoying their Sunday. We're a month away from our first game of the year and with intense practices and challenging school work, things are getting real! Our preseason practices are going great and I think we're gonna be well prepared for this upcoming season.  It has also been great to connect with the multitude of students I have been able to meet this semester. I'm really taking charge in investing my time and effort to bridge the social gap between student-athletes and the rest of the Vanguard community.  


[Athletics] Vanguard Earns Champions of Character Silver Award
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics has released the Champions of Character Scoreboard Winners for the 2015-2016 season and Vanguard University was one of 171 institutions recognized. With three levels of recognition, Gold, Silver, and Bronze, the Lions slot in the middle as a silver level winner for the third consecutive year. In all, Vanguard has been recognized 15 times since 2000 for its commitment to the Champions of Character initiative.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Snatches Road GSAC Victory
ROCKLIN, Calif. – Kicking off the yearly NorCal swing, the Lions (6-12, 3-2) stopped in for a tilt against William Jessup (8-9, 1-5). Vanguard started off strong winning by the first set 25-18 before being caught off guard in the next two frames by 25-23 and 27-25 counts. The Pride came back with authority in the fourth set winning 25-21 before handling business in quick fashion in the decisive fifth set (15-6).


[Volleyball] Lions Cruise Past Oaks
ATHERTON, Calif. – Riding high from the dominance less than a day before in the decisive fifth set, the Lions (7-12, 4-2) sprang out to a hot 25-10 first set win over Menlo College (9-11, 1-5) before winning in straight sets. Vanguard won 25-22 and 25-21 in the final two sets thanks to 29 combined kills. The Blue and Gold earned a .323 hitting percentage for the match nearly double the Oaks' .125% rate.


[Women's Soccer] Lions Win Streak Stopped at Eight
LA MIRADA, Calif. – Vanguard University (8-3, 3-1) is knocked off for the first time in eight matches as they are handed a first conference loss by Biola (9-0-1, 3-0-1). The 10th ranked Lions only loses this year have been to teams ranked #2, #8, and #12 in the country. The Pride, sit one point out of first place as Biola holds 10 points through four games.


[Men's Soccer] Ninth Ranked Lions Earn Tough Victory at #15 Biola
LA MIRADA, Calif. – The ninth ranked Lions (7-2, 2-2) bounced back from the conference loss earlier this week by earning a hard fought victory over #15 Biola (7-3, 2-2). Miguel Tapia (FR/Fullerton, CA) found the back of the net off the long throw in from Zac Way (SR/Lakewood, CA) in the 44th minute to score the game winning goal.


[Men's Soccer] Warriors Befall 9th Ranked Lions 3-1
COSTA MESA, Calif. – A year ago, the Vanguard vs. Westmont game in Santa Barbara leaned heavily in favor of the Lions. This time, the ninth ranked Blue and Gold struggled out of the gate and spotted the Warriors too big of a lead before ultimately falling by a 3-1 count. Westmont holds a 5-3, 2-1 record while the Pride ends sporting a 6-2, 1-2 win/loss ratio.


[Women's Soccer] Lions Upset #3 Westmont for First Time Since 2012
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Bang! Vanguard (8-2, 3-0) sits alone at the top of the Golden State Athletic Conference standings by defeating #3 Westmont College (9-1-1, 2-1). The tightly contested match was left scoreless after regulation before Madison Lopp (JR/Anaheim, CA) sank the walk-off game winner in the 95th minute during the first overtime period. The victory marks the first time the Lions have knocked off the Warriors since 2013.


[Women's Soccer] Magana Voted GSAC Defensive Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Haley Magana (SO/Los Alamitos, CA) was voted Golden State Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Week for September 19-24. During that span, she helped the 10th ranked Lions win their seventh consecutive match and begin 2-0 in conference. Magana stopped six shots in Vanguard 1-0 victory at The Master's University and 5-0 win versus William Jessup University. During the seven match win streak, she has not allowed an opponent to score. Guiding the Lions defense, they rank second in the nation with seven total shutouts while Magana is fifth in the country conceding only 0.27 goals per contest.


[Cross Country] Hunt, Brito Place in Top 15 at Coyote Invitational
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. - The Lions raced early Saturday morning at the Coyote Invitational on the campus of Cal State University San Bernardino. At the conclusion of the meet, Zach Hunt and Jeronimo Brito (JR/Riverside, CA) stood for the Top 15 awards ceremony. 


[Women's Soccer] Lions Blank Jessup in GSAC Home Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University (7-2, 2-0) hosted William Jessup (3-5, 0-1) in the Lions conference home opener and rolled to a 5-0 victory, bolstered by a pair of goals from Madison Lopp (JR/Anaheim, CA). The Blue and Gold have now ripped off seven straight victories since returning from their preseason trip to Kentucky and Tennessee.


[Men's Soccer] Arellano is "Golden" in Lions 2OT Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – It took 106 minutes, but the eighth ranked Lions (6-1, 1-1) scrapped by William Jessup (4-3, 0-1). Regular ended in a 1-1 tie before Juan Arellano (SR/Hawthorne, CA) struck the team to victory off his foot."For us to be down a player for 80 minutes and find a way to win really shows the true character of our program," a happy Randy Dodge said. "I am supper proud of this group of men finding a way to get our first GSAC win against a solid William Jessup squad."


[Volleyball] Lions Fall Short in Decisive 5th Set
COSTA MESA, Calif. – They dug their heels in, but the five set thriller ended on the side of The Master's University (12-5, 5-1 GSAC). Vanguard (5-12, 2-2) narrowly fell to the Mustangs after fighting back to win sets three and four.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Kaitlyn Hawthorne - Preseason Prep
Hello again! As this first month of basketball and school is coming to an end, everyone is finally getting into the groove of things, including myself!  What a blast it's been getting to know everyone better on the team and reminiscing with my dorm mates and friends about old memories, already making new ones.  One of my goals this year is to invest more of my time into the community here at VU and diving into other social groups such as meeting people from the theater program, those in student government, etc.  Enjoying the end-of-summer weather trying to catch some sun and waves at the beach kicks the year into full swing, and gives me a nudge to get back in the library to start my homework as the tests begin to pile mountain high. 


[Athletics] A Lions Heart - Emily Hall
In an ongoing effort to show Vanguard student-athletes as more than just a number in a jersey, Vanguard Athletics is pleased to announce a new regular web series titled "A Lions Heart". In this, the student-athlete takes the reigns discussing their relationship with Christ, their Vanguard experience, and a little more about their daily life.


[Volleyball] Westmont Rolls Through Vanguard
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Opening up a two game home stand of conference matches, the #3 Westmont Warriors (16-0) lived up to their high ranking as they defeated the Lions (5-11) in straight sets. Vanguard lost by counts of 25-8, 25-19, and 25-9. The Warriors tallied a .337 overall hitting percentage for the contest while VU finished the match in the red.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Fall in 2OT Thriller
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Vanguard (5-1, 0-1), just hours after moving up to eighth in the NAIA Top 25 Coaches' Poll, squared off in their GSAC opener at The Master's University (6-2-1, 1-0). Regulation time could not determine a winner until the Lions ultimately fell 1-0 in double overtime in the 106th minute.


[Women's Soccer] Bachman Blasts Lions to Victory
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – The 10th ranked Lions (6-2, 1-0) kicked off conference play in winning fashion by leaving The Master's University (4-3-2, 0-1) with a 1-0 result. Alex Bachman (SR/Buena Park, CA) netted the game-winning goal just four minutes into the match and then the backline, captained by Haley Magana (SO/Los Alamitos, CA), held on for the shutout.


[Athletics] Vanguard Selected as GSAC Tournament Host
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Golden State Athletic Conference Commissioner Mike Daniels has released the site locations for GSAC championships over the next three years. Vanguard has been chosen to host the 2017 Softball Tournament, 2018 Cross Country Conference Meet, and the 2018 Baseball Tournament. This Spring will be the first time VU has been chosen to host a conference tournament since the 2014 Basketball Tournament, which the men's team won on their way to their first ever NAIA National Championship.


[Men's Soccer] Vanguard Displays Preseason Perfection
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Nothing like the environment of playing at home – something the 14th ranked Lions (5-0) as very familiar with. After being tied at the intermission break for the first time all season, the Blue and Gold rode the cheering from the crowd to a 2-1 victory over #21 Marymount California University (3-2-1). Nahum Paz (JR/Costa Mesa, CA) led all players with a goal and an assist. Ivan Azpeita (SR/Orange, CA) takes home the game-winning goal for Vanguard.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Cruises Past Life Pacific
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Back on home soil for the first time in over a month, the Lions (5-10) won their third straight contest by capturing 3-0 victory over Life Pacific College (1-8). Vanguard hopped out to a quick 25-6 win in set one before wrapping up the final two sets by 25-17 and 25-18 counts. Aubryn Coale (FR/Huntington Beach, CA) was a spark off the bench for the Pride hitting a contest high 13 kills on 17 attempts for an otherworldly .647 hitting percentage. Jessica Chase (SR/Riverside, CA) rode shotgun with seven sills at a .462% rate.


[Cross Country] Lions Shave Four Minutes Off Team Total
RIVERSIDE, Calif. - The Vanguard women had a big day improving their team time four minutes and nine seconds from two weeks ago when they competed at the Mark Covert Classic hosted by CSU Fullerton. The Lions raced to a composite team time of 1:43:12 (bettering their previous effort of 1:47:21). Junior transfer Morgan Tapia (JR/Eastville, CA) lead the way with a time of 19:46 (a 1:13 improvement over her previous best this season) followed by Bayleigh Porter (SR/Riverside, CA) 20:31 (season best), Lauren Soholt (SR/Riverside, CA) 20:53 (personal best), Sarah Finch (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) 20:57 (season best), Bethany Hinson (FR/Santa Clarita, CA) 21:05 (personal best) and Addie Blair 21:12 (season best). Finch recorded the biggest margin of improvement from the previous race, bettering her 5k time by 1:28. The women's team time bettered all their performances from last season as well.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Maddy Slade
Hi! My name is Madison Slade (FR/Los Alamitos, CA), but most people call me Maddy. I am from Seal Beach, which is a small coastal community just up the highway from Vanguard. I love music, traveling, and playing soccer. It's exciting to be a freshman student athlete here at Vanguard, and I look forward to letting you into my world of being a student-athlete at Vanguard.


[Women's Soccer] Griffith, Vanguard Roll Past Soka
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Light up the scoreboard! Defeating Soka University of America (0-5) gives the 10th ranked Lions their fifth straight victory of the young season. Winning by a 5-0 score, Vanguard now owns a 5-2 record as they have finished the preseason portion of their schedule. Allie Griffith (FR/Aliso Viejo, CA) led all members of the Blue and Gold with two goals in just over 80 minutes of game action.


[Athletics] Russ Davis to be Inducted into NAIA Hall of Fame
COSTA MESA, Calif. – After 35 years of exceptional coaching leadership, women's basketball head coach, Russ Davis, will be inducted into the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Hall of Fame this spring. Davis is a four-time recipient of the NAIA Coach of the Year and nine-time Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC) Coach of the Year. He led the Vanguard University Lions to the 2008 NAIA National Championship. Davis is also a member of the Vanguard University Athletic Hall of Fame.


[Volleyball] Johnson's 47 Kills Earn GSAC Attacker of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The second week of voting for Players of the Week in the Golden State Athletic Conference has concluded and Vanguard was represented by Juanae Johnson (JR/Santa Monica, CA) as Attacker of the Week after monstrous matches which helped the Lions (4-10) begin 2-0 in conference play. 


[Women's Soccer] Aronson Captures Defensive Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Lauren Aronson is a big reason why the 10th ranked Lions (4-2) have ripped off four straight wins at home. Anchoring a back line with no other returning starters on the field, she helped keep VU opponents scoreless. On the offensive end, she had her best career week recording two goals (including a game winner) and an assist in her last 182 minutes on the field. 


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Rory McCloy
Hey Everyone! My name is Rory McCloy (SR/Colorado Springs, CO) and I am a senior on the Volleyball team here at Vanguard. This will be my second year here at Vanguard. I was blessed with the opportunity to play the sport I love and get an education! It's something that I will never take for granted because playing college athletics is not an opportunity many people come across. It's not an easy thing to do, but we all have our own unique balances in life.


[Athletics] A Lions Heart - Sarah Finch
In an ongoing effort to show VU Student-Athletes as more than just a number in a jersey, Vanguard Athletics is pleased to announce a new regular web series titled "A Lions Heart". In this, the student-athlete takes the reign discussing their relationship with Christ, their Vanguard experience, and a little more about their daily life.


[Men's Basketball] Will Ball Competes with Athletes In Action Italy Team
The Summer 2016 Athletes In Action Team, comprised of athletes all over the country friend high level NCAA Division 1's like Baylor and Mercer down to the NAIA featuring Vanguard's very own Will Ball. Over the course of the trip, the AIA team combined playing hoops, engaging in the local cuisine, and some sightseeing in the Greater Milan area of Italy. Bob Hoffman and Jason Eaker of Mercer University, as well as Casey Shaw from Vanderbilt coached the team.


[Women's Soccer] Lions vs. Flames Ends "Lopp"sided
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 10th ranked Lions (4-2) battled a lopsided affair with Bethesda, ending with a 10-0 win over the Flames (0-4). Vanguard rattled off 49 shot attempts with 20 being on frame. Nicole Dunn (JR/Lake Forest, CA) took a team season high nine shots in the game while Madison Lopp (JR/Anaheim, CA), Hayley Gonzales (SR/Huntington Beach, CA), and Devin Gooch (SO/La Mirada, CA) each took seven attempts.


[Volleyball] Johnson Hammers Vanguard to Victory
PHOENIX, Ariz. – The Lions (4-10) make it two straight GSAC road wins, this time defeating Arizona Christian 3-1 (20-25,25-22,25-16,25-18) as Juanae Johnson (JR/Santa Monica, CA) sharpens her resume from this week of competition to the tune of 22 kills and a .333 hitting percentage.


[Men's Soccer] Azpeita Puts Vanguard On His Back
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Ivan Azepita continues his scorching start to the season as he nets two more goals in the Lions 2-0 victory over Bethesda, who now holds a 1-5 record on the year. Vanguard (4-0) keeps its unblemished mark this year as they have now outscored their opponents 11-0.


[Women's Soccer] Lions Too Strong For Sagehens
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard, the 10th ranked team in the country, continues to ride high during their home stand as they win a third straight contest. Defeating Pomona Pitzer (2-1) featured bookend goals in seventh and 89th minutes. The win today marks the third game in a row where the Lions (3-2) were the more aggressive side, taking more chances on goal than the Sagehens (17-10).


[Men's Soccer] Nathan Miramontes - Assist Machine
ANTELOPE VALLEY, Calif. – Leaving home turf for the first contest of the year, the #14 Lions (3-0) continued their unblemished record as they defeat the University of Antelope Valley (1-2) by a 3-0 score – all of which were converted in the first half. Brandon Gomez (JR/Los Angeles, CA), reigning conference Defender of the Week, blanked his third straight opponent as he stopped the trio of shots by the Pioneers.


[Volleyball] Pride Regains Winning Form in GSAC Opener
SANTEE, Calif. – The reigning GSAC Champions found comfort in conference play as they picked up a 3-1 victory over San Diego Christian in the GSAC Opener for both squads. Vanguard (3-10) took the match with scores of (27-25, 25-18, 15-25, 25-21) over the Hawks who are now 6-5 on the season.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Christian Ware-Berry
What's up everybody! My name is Christian Ware-Berry (JR/Pomona, CA) and I am a guard on the Vanguard Men's Basketball Team. It seems like it was yesterday I was walking on campus as a scrawny freshman full of excitement and curiosity for what Vanguard had to offer me.  Now being a junior, I can tell you that my experience here has been second to none.  Through my successes and failures, Vanguard has been a place where I have and will continue to grow not only as an athlete, but most importantly as a man. I am so excited to connect with as many people as I can this year and invest as much time and effort that I can into the Vanguard community! This past summer was by far the most important summer I have ever had as far as my growth in my faith and I will be sharing some of my experiences as the year progresses.


[Women's Soccer] Three's A Crowd in Vanguard Box Score
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The confines of their home turf have treated the #10 Lions (2-2) well as they rattle off their second straight victory by a 3-0 count. Haley Magana (SO/Los Alamitos, CA) records another shutout, while the Blue and Gold combine for three goals and four assists in the win over the University of Antelope Valley (2-2).


[Soccer] Lions Take Three Player of the Week Awards
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Week One of the GSAC Player of the Week voting has come and gone with the Lions securing three of the four slots. Brandon Gomez (JR/Los Angeles, CA) earns Defensive Player of the Week while Haley Bruce (SO/San Diego, CA) and Ivan Azpeita (SR/Orange, CA) take home Offensive Player of the Week status for achievements from August 29th to September 3rd.


[Women's Soccer] Bruce Helps Vanguard Corner Rocky Mountain
COSTA MESA, Calif. –Making their 2016 debut in front of the home crowd, 10th ranked Vanguard (1-2) kept the Lion faithful glued to their seats past the 90 minutes of regulation. Moving into the sudden death overtime period, it took only a handful of minutes before the Blue and Gold abruptly snatched the 1-0 victory over Rocky Mountain College (1-1). Haley Bruce (SO/San Diego, CA) took a free kick off her left foot and sank it straight into the back of the net thanks to generous top spin.


[Men's Soccer] Vanguard: Mayor of Upset City
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Chosen by the NAIA as the Game of the Week, it lived up to the billing for the Blue and Gold as they ran away with a 4-0 victory over eighth ranked Rocky Mountain College (2-1). Number 14 Vanguard (2-0) won their second straight home contest and Brandon Gomez (JR/Los Angeles, CA) has recorded a shutout in both outings.


[Volleyball] Johnson Helps VU End Tournament Torture
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Weekend three of tournament played began with familiar overtones as the Lions (2-9) were bested 3-0 by Carroll College (26-24, 25-19, 25-17) before ending a nine game skid by defeating UC Merced in straight sets (25-22, 26-24, 25-16). Carroll ended play in Day 1 of the HIU Tournament with a 9-2 record with UC Merced finishing with a 2-5 win/loss difference.


[Cross Country] Gun Fires on 2016 XC Season
BREA, Calif. – Vanguard Cross Country kicked off their seven meet slate with the 32nd Annual Mark Covert Classic hosted by Cal State University – Fullerton at Carbon Canyon Regional Park. The Lions sent out five runners on each side and finished the day with both new additions on the men's team earning personal best times.


[Volleyball] Warriors Vanquish Lions
FULLERTON, Calif. – Limping out of the gate on the final day of the HIU Labor Day Tournament, the ninth rated Lions (2-10) fell in straight sets versus Lewis-Clark State (3-4). Hailey Gordon (SO/San Diego, CA) and Juanae Johnson (JR/Santa Monica, CA) posted a team high six kills each in the loss. Kelly Dalrymple (SR/Poway, CA) led the squad with 11 assists.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for August 29th - September 3rd
Lions volleyball heads into their third straight weekend of tournament play, while both men's and women's soccer host home openers for 2016! Finally, cross country begins their year of competition at Cal State Fullerton.


[Athletics] Student-Athlete Blogs: Kaitlyn Hawthorne
Hello everyone! My name is Kaitlyn Hawthorne (SO/Reno, NV) and I am a member of the women's basketball team here at Vanguard. I am so excited to continue my sophomore year of college wearing the Blue and Gold while expanding my knowledge in school, growing in my faith with God, and working hard on the court! Having been a redshirt last year, I am looking forward to competing hard to find a spot on the court as the preseason begins.


[Volleyball] Big Sky Challenge trips up Pride
BUTTE, Mont. – Entering the second straight weekend of tournament play, the ninth rated Vanguard Lions (1-6) looked to turn the page at the Big Sky Challenge hosted at Montana Tech (5-1). Opening the four game slate with the home team, the Lions fell by a 3-0 count and then dropped a tough 3-1 matchup with 11th ranked College of Idaho (3-3).


[Women's Soccer] Allen nets second goal of 2016 against #2 Lindsey Wilson
COLUMBIA, Kent. – Rounding out the final day of their preseason road-trip, 10th ranked Vanguard (0-2) had their second straight Top 10 tilt in just three days. This time they squared off against #2 Lindsey Wilson (2-0) in a heavyweight battle of teams who regularly make noise at the NAIA National Tournament. In this edition, the Blue Raiders exited with a 2-1 advantage over the Blue and Gold.


[Volleyball] Lions make strides in second day of play in Montana
BUTTE, Mont. – Early season growing pains have afflicted the #9 Lions as they seek to replace the GSAC Player of the Year, three All-GSAC players, and two critical rotation players which is not made easy by the injury bug currently sweeping through the squad. In the final day of the Big Sky Challenge, Vanguard (1-8) was narrowly edged out 3-1 in dramatic sets against the University of Great Falls and then suffered a 3-0 knockout to #8 Eastern Oregon who is riding a six match streak of sweeping their opponents.


[Athletics] Vanguard launches student-athlete blogs for 2016
MEET OUR BLOGGERS!Vanguard University Athletics is proud to launch a new addition to the coverage of the Blue and Gold this year. One member from each class will posting a blog of their experience through the year on the main athletics website. The individuals selected were nominated by their respective coaches or teammates and then chosen from a pool of over 15 nominees. Vanguard Athletics hopes you enjoy our student-athletes' lives off the court as much as watching them compete!


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for August 22nd-27th
Big travel week ahead for Women's Soccer, currently 10th in the country, as they matchup against #2 Lindsey Wilson and #8 Martin Methodist. Likewise Volleyball, who sits at ninth in the nation, plays their second consecutive four match tournament this weekend in Montana.


[Women's Soccer] Top 10 showdown lives up to expectations
PULASKI, Tenn. – The 2016 campaign for both squads opened up with a heavyweight matchup as #10 Vanguard University (0-1) visited #8 Martin Methodist College (1-0) in front of 345 enthusiastic fans. The nearly two hour match ended with a 4-2 count in favor of the Redhawks. Danyelle Allen (SR/San Clemente, CA) and Rayven Hernandez (JR/Rancho Santa Margarita, CA) recorded the first scores of the season for the Pride.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Drops Two at Biola Summer Slam
LA MIRADA, Calif. - Opening play at the Biola Red Lion-Anaheim Summer Slam, the Lions (1-2) - ranked ninth in the preseason Coaches' Top 25 Poll - were pitted against #6 Midland University (2-0) and #24 Northwestern College of Iowa (1-1). The Blue and Gold fought closely in both matches but ended up falling 0-3 in both competitions.


[Volleyball] Early season blues fall on #9 Lions
LA MIRADA, Calif. – Friday was the final day of competition at the Biola Summer Slam, where ninth ranked Vanguard was matched up against #4 Viterbo University and #18 Southern Oregon. The close set losses of the previous day once again showed themselves as the Lions fell 3-1 against Viterbo and 3-0 versus Southern Oregon.


[Volleyball] Chase, Johnson guide Blue and Gold to opening match victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The emotions ran high as the Lions (1-0) hit the court for the first time since last year's historic run. They welcomed La Sierra (0-1), who brought a large contingent of fans, into The Pit for the opening match of the year for both squads. Vanguard finished the night with a 3-0 set win (25-20,25-20,25-21), but was pushed to the limit in the final set needing to come from behind to complete the sweep.


[Athletics] Sunday marks fall kick-off for Blue and Gold
COSTA MESA, Calif. – On Sunday, the fall sport student-athletes of Vanguard University reported for their first official organized activities. The day kicked off with all 89 student-athletes proceeding through the yearly physical process before moving into individual team activities. The evening finalized with the nearly 90 student-athletes joining the coaching and administrative staff's at a kick-off dinner.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Mason Sallee highlights 2016 recruiting class for Blue ...
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Gearing up for the 2016-2017 campaign, Vanguard University Cross Country and Track & Field has released their newest recruiting class to the Southern California campus. The 16 incoming athletes will join 14 returning members of the men's team and eight on the women's side.The season begin in the Fall when the Cross Country squad heads up to running camp in Mammoth Lakes, CA from August 11th-18th before competing in their first official meet on Saturday, September 3rd at 8:00 a.m. They will take part in the Adidas U.C. Irvine Invitational on the UCI ARC Fields course.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Mason Salle highlights 2016 recruiting class for Blue ...
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Gearing up for the 2016-2017 campaign, Vanguard University Cross Country and Track & Field has released their newest recruiting class to the Southern California campus. The 16 incoming athletes will join 14 returning members of the men's team and eight on the women's side.The season begin in the Fall when the Cross Country squad heads up to running camp in Mammoth Lakes, CA from August 11th-18th before competing in their first official meet on Saturday, September 3rd at 8:00 a.m. They will take part in the Adidas U.C. Irvine Invitational on the UCI ARC Fields course.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Mason Salle highlights 2016 class for Blue and Gold
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Gearing up for the 2016-2017 campaign, Vanguard University Cross Country and Track & Field has released their newest recruiting class to the Southern California campus. The 17 incoming athletes will join 14 returning members of the men's team and eight on the women's side.The season begin in the Fall when the Cross Country squad heads up to running camp in Mammoth Lakes, CA from August 11th-18th before competing in their first official meet on Saturday, September 3rd at 8:00 a.m. They will take part in the Adidas U.C. Irvine Invitational on the UCI ARC Fields course.


[Athletics] Vanguard Programs Earn NAIA Scholar-Team Honors
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University's athletics programs were recognized by the NAIA for their excellent work in the classroom, as the NAIA Scholar-Team distinctions were announced for the 2015-2016 academic year. The department had eight teams recognized for the award, which requires teams to have a minimum 3.0 grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) in order to be considered.


[Athletics] Sheplay Joins Athletic Staff
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The summer of changes within Vanguard Athletics reaches its final stage as Elizabeth Sheplay is brought on board as the Senior Administrative Assistant. This move coincides with a reshuffling after the retirement of Bob Wilson and departure of Nolan Steputis who spent a combined 30 years in their respective roles, including the promotion of Rhett Soliday and hiring of Jeff Bussell, within the Athletic Department. Sheplay becomes the fifth member of the administrative team that supports the 11 intercollegiate sports sponsored by Vanguard University.


[Baseball] Former Lion Guides Local High School to CIF Championship
This spring, Vanguard Baseball had an electric season and the success did not stop with those currently in the Lions' uniform. Former Lion Michael Bair guided Laguna Beach High School to the State Championship in his fifth season as skipper. Bair was a center fielder for the Blue and Gold from 1999-2002 and batted lead off in the order. The CIF Southern Section title was the first for the program in 78 seasons and added a 42nd championship to the schools record books. The Breakers won their league for the fourth straight season, claiming a comeback victory over Calvary Chapel on Vanguard's very own field.Adding to the bliss of capturing the crown, the team was honored at Angel Stadium on June 14th against the Minnesota Twins. Head Coach Bair was given the opportunity of a lifetime to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. During the seventh-inning stretch, the club was invited atop the dugout and led the chorus of fans in "Take Me Out To The Ball Game". Further highlights of the night included the CIF Championship celebration being played on the JumboTron in right field of the stadium. Laguna Beach High School finished the year with the 2016 CIF Southern Section Division IV championship, ending the year with a 20-12 record – which is made more impressive after a 0-6 start to the campaign. 


[Baseball] Isaac and Rojas Drafted by Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 2016 Major League Baseball Draft began June 9 in Secaucus, New Jersey and ran through June 11. A total of seven locals were taken in the draft, including Vanguard University standouts, Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) and Jose Rojas (SR/Anaheim, CA). The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim selected Isaac and Rojas in the 35th and 36th rounds. Both players were also named NAIA All-Americans earlier last week after being named Golden State Athletic Conference Pitcher and Player of the Year, respectively, in May.


[Athletics] 10 Lions Named Scholar Athletes
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference and the NAIA announce academic awards at the conclusion of seasons of competition. For student-athletes to receive this prestigious recognition, they must meet the requirements of junior standing and holding a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher. This spring, Vanguard University had 10 upper classmen slot in a Scholar Athletes both at the conference and national level.


[Baseball] Rojas, Isaac Selected to NAIA First Team All-America List
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The NAIA has announced the members of the 2016 Baseball All-America Teams as determined by the NAIA-Baseball Coaches Association All-America Committee. Jose Rojas (SR/Anaheim, CA) and Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) were selected as First Team members of the squad for their senior campaigns, which pushed the Lions to a 40 win season and the third straight trip to the Opening Round. Previously, Rojas and Isaac had been named as the GSAC Player and Pitcher of the Year. Rojas also reached the Golden State Athletic Conference Gold Glove team for the shortstop position.


[Athletics] Lions Team Up With Corey Maggette for Santa Ana Youth Camp
Santa Ana High School was the site of a tremendous day of basketball and ministry as Vanguard University Athletics teamed up with Triple Threat Mentoring, Emmaus Church Santa Ana, and Corey Maggette for a Saturday Afternoon of impacting our local community. Using the three principles of Passion, Sharing, and Impact the four groups gathered to uplift the inner city through the sport of basketball. Children from ages six to 15 were present for the event and we treated to basketball skill development, prizes, lunch, and the special dunk contest featuring members of the Vanguard Men's Basketball team and Corey Maggette himself!


[Volleyball] Coale, Taylor Finalize 2016 Recruits for Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Just under seven months ago, the Blue and Gold was celebrating a historic season in which they accomplish two feats never done in program history: winning the Golden State Athletic Conference and reaching the Quarterfinals of the NAIA National Tournament. Upon the end of the season they lost five seniors to graduation and needed to reload to continue the chase for the ultimate prize. Finally, the Lions have secured the last two members of the 18-player roster.


[Softball] NFCA Announces All-Region Winners
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Following the conclusion of the 2016 softball season, the National Fastpitch Coaches Association has announced that over 170 student-athletes from more than 70 programs have received NFCA NAIA All-Region status. Vanguard was represented on the list by Alexandra Olvera (SR/Gilroy, CA), Taylor Wilson (JR/Modesto, CA), and Kaitlin Estes (SO/Costa Mesa, CA). All three of the student-athletes were recognized as second team members of the West Region in addition to the All-GSAC awards they won in April.


[Athletics] Vanguard Welcomes Jeff Bussell as Senior Associate Athletic Director
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University brings Jeff Bussell aboard the Athletic Department for the newly created Senior Associate Athletic Director position. With 19 years of administrative, teaching, and coaching experience, he will elevate the Athletic Department into the next decade of excellence following the departure of Bob Wilson. Bussell will work directly under Director of Athletics Rhett Soliday with oversight over some of the University's 11 intercollegiate sports, work towards identifying areas of growth, and fiscal management for the department.


[Track & Field] Lawson Earns NAIA All-American in Decathlon
GULF SHORES, Ala. - A strong showing in the Men's Decathlon event pushed Winston Lawson (FR/Santa Ana, CA) to a career high 6,801 points. Lawson's two-day point total ranks second all-time for VU in the Decathlon and was the highest score since Steve Alexander's 6,936 point tally in 1974. Earlier this year at the NAIA Indoor National Championships, he finished third in the Heptathlon to earn his first national nod. Lawson's score of 5,009 points in the two-day Heptathlon competition broke his own school record set earlier this season by 176 points.


[Track & Field] Hunt, DeAtley Race at 65th Annual Men's Outdoor National Championships
GULF SHORES, Ala. – Vanguard University sent three athletes from the Men's Track & Field team to compete in the 65th Annual Men's Outdoor Track & Field National Championships from May 26th-28th at the Mickey Miller Blackwell Stadium. Winston Lawson (FR/Santa Ana, CA) placed third in the men's decathlon with a personal best score of 6,801 points this weekend earning his second All-American honors as a Lion. Lawson's two-day point total ranks second all-time for VU in the decathlon and was the highest score since Steve Alexander's 6,936 point tally in 1974. Saturday morning, Zach Hunt (JR/Sparks, NV) raced to a 15th place finish among 56 competitors in the marathon with a time of 2:51:13. This was Hunt's second consecutive year running the marathon at the Outdoor National Championships. The third Lion to compete at the Championships was Zach DeAtley (JR/Victorville, CA) who finished 17th in the 3,000 meter steeplechase final Saturday afternoon with a time of 11:08.94. The NAIA National Championships mark the end of the Athletic Calendar for Vanguard University for the 2015-2016 school year, ending on a high note with the solid showings from Lawson, Hunt, and Detley on behalf of all members of the Blue and Gold.


[Track & Field] Hunt, DeAtley Race in Marathon and Steeplechase
GULF SHORES, Ala. - Day One of the 2016 NAIA Outdoor Track and Field National Championships featured Winston Lawson (FR/Santa Ana, CA) competing in the Men's Decathlon. Through the first five events, he is sitting in second place. Day Two starts today at 10:00 a.m. and includes the 110m hurdles, discus, pole vault, javelin and 1500m. Saturday, tomorrow, Zach Hunt (JR/Sparks, NV) runs the marathon at 6:00 a.m. followed by Zach DeAtley (JR/Victorville, CA) in the 3000m steeplechase final at 2:00 p.m. 


[Baseball] Pride's Season Ends in Opening Round Regional Championship
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – In the third and final matchup between #3 Faulkner (49-13) and #16 Vanguard (40-17-1), home runs were flying out of the park left, right, and center and the game ended with the 5-3 advantage leaning the way of the Eagles. Today's loss ends the Lions season onE win shy of a second straight trip to the NAIA Avista World Series. Faulkner was announced a few hours later that they would be the top seed in the 10-team bracket in Lewiston, Idaho.


[Baseball] Lions Walk-Off into Championship Behind Suicide Squeeze
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Vanguard University (40-16) started the day as one of three teams remaining in the Montgomery Bracket held at Harrison Field on the campus of Faulkner University. The third seeded Lions squared off against Texas A&M- Texarkana (33-20) in the first game of the day and earned a chance to play again due to a 14-7 victory. In the nightcap, the Blue and Gold excelled and beat the top seeded and third ranked team in the country, Faulkner University (48-13), by a 5-4 score in walk-off fashion.


[Baseball] Vanguard Suffers First Loss at Hands of Faulkner
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – In a matchup of the top two seeds in the NAIA Opening Round Regional hosted by Faulkner University, the home team was victorious by a 10-0 score over the 16th ranked Lions (38-16). The Eagles, ranked 3rd nationally in the last Coaches' Top 25 Poll, are one of the most talented teams in the country and have been a factor in the NAIA Avista World Series the past three seasons.


[Baseball] Isaac's Complete Game Win Pushes Vanguard Forward
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Lions, ranked 16th in the latest NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll and seeded second in the Faulkner Bracket, started the NAIA Opening Round with a 4-1 victory over Texas Wesleyan (39-15). Vanguard (38-15) rode behind a complete game from Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) and timely hitting led by Brock Eissman (JR/San Clemente, CA) and Brandon Sandoval (JR/Fallbrook, CA) which combined with stellar defense to move the Pride forward in the five-team tournament.


[Baseball] Lions Land in Montgomery, Alabama Regional
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Vanguard University has reached the NAIA Opening Round of the National Tournament for the third consecutive season and was assigned to the Faulkner University Bracket. The 16th ranked Lions traveled to Montgomery, Alabama on Saturday evening to begin preparation double elimination bracket. The winner of the five team tournament will earn the berth in the NAIA Avista World Series in Lewiston, Idaho. Last season, Vanguard and Faulkner both won their individual regions to advance to the final site for the 10 team World Series. During the matchup between Vanguard and Faulkner during the postseason in 2015, the Lions fell by a 4-1 score.


[Baseball] Mustangs Maul Lions in GSAC Tournament
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The postseason run for the 13th ranked Lions (37-14-1) got off to a rocky start as they were defeated 8-0 by The Master's College (35-16) in both teams' opening game of the Golden State Athletic Conference Tournament hosted by Westmont College, played on Russ Carr Field. In the contest, Vanguard was outhit 15-5 as only four members of the Blue and Gold recorded a hit during the game.


[Baseball] Lions Eiminated from GSAC Tournament
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Vanguard University (37-15-1) was eliminated from the 2016 GSAC Tournament by losing their second straight game this time by an 8-4 score against Menlo College (34-21) on Day Two of play at Russ Carr Field on the campus of Westmont College. The 13th ranked Lions fell behind early and were unable to generate the offense necessary to get back into the thick of the contest.


[Softball] Estes, Russell Find Success in the Classroom and Field
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Two members of the Lions have been awarded for their achievements both on and off the field. Kaitlin Estes (SO/Costa Mesa, CA) was voted to the 2016 Academic All-District Team for NAIA District Four. This team is voted by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) for student-athletes and their combined performances athletically and in the classroom. Emily Russell (JR/Calabasas, CA) was selected as a scholar athlete within the GSAC and NAIA ranks.


[Baseball] Four Lions Honored for Academic Excellence
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University is proud of its four Lions who have excelled academically and athletically this season. The 13th ranked Pride has three players reach the GSAC and NAIA Scholar-Athlete threshold and one member honored as CoSIDA Academic All-District.


[Track & Field] Lions Trio Qualifies for NAIA National Championships
EAGLEROCK, Calif. - In a final effort to qualify for the NAIA Outdoor National Track & Field Championships, the VU men's 4x100m Relay team of Alec Duran (FR/La Verne, CA), Winston Lawson (FR/Santa Ana, CA), Daniel Alade (FR/Bakersfield, CA) and Quinton Alexander (SR/Las Vegas, NV) finished 2nd overall in a season best time of 42.13 but came up just 6/10th's of a second shy of the automatic qualifying standard. Junior Zach DeAtley (JR/Victorville, CA) (who is already qualified for NAIA Nationals in the Marathon) took a final shot at the 3,000m Steeplechase and raced to a career best and qualifying time of 9:31.05 finishing 8th place in Section 2 of the highly competitive field.


[Track & Field] Six Lions Reach Scholar Athlete from Track & Field
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference has formally announced the winners of the 2016 GSAC Scholar Athlete Awards. The qualifications necessary for the award are to be of junior or senior standing academically and to hold a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 of higher.


[Baseball] Rojas, Isaac Take Home Top Two Awards in Conference
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference has announced the All-GSAC Team presented by Under Armour as voted on by the coaches, and for the first time in Vanguard University history the conference Player of the Year and Pitcher of the Year both wore the Lions uniform. Jose Rojas (SR/Anaheim, CA) backs up his All-GSAC award from a year ago with GSAC Player of the Year, as does Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) respectively. Additionally, three other members of the Blue and Gold make the squad including outfielders Paul Keating (SR/Oceanside, CA) and Brandon Sandoval (JR/Fallbrook, CA); Michael Jordan (SR/Murrieta, CA) earns the relief pitcher spot with a new school record with 15 saves.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for May 2nd- May 7th
Baseball has wrapped up regular season play and will move on to postseason player next week. Softball completed their season in the GSAC Tournament and Track & Field has one more tune-up meet before the NAIA National Championships.


[Track & Field] Lawson & Perrigo lead Lions to 3rd Place Team Finishes
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The Lions captured 3rd place finishes in both the Men's and Women's team standings at the Golden State Athletic Conference Track & Field Championship hosted by Westmont College Thursday and Friday. Junior Winston Lawson (FR/Santa Ana, CA) led the Men with a team high 26.25 points while freshman Lydia Perrigo (FR/Hartsburg, MO) paced the women with 24 points. The Men's team finished with 126.5 points (an all-time high score for the men's program) and the women landed with a team score of 80.5 points. For the first time in program history every single Vanguard competitor (for both the men and women) scored points for the Lions.


[Baseball] Sandoval ends Vanguard's Senior Day in Walk-off Fashion
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Entering the final day of the regular season, 13th ranked Vanguard (38-13-1, 23-8) had much to celebrate as it was the final home game for 11 members of the Lions. Biola (28-25, 15-16) walked away with a 10-4 win in game one before the Blue and Gold won the second game and thus the series on a walk-off in the seventh inning.


[Softball] Lions Dismissed from GSAC Tournament with Second Loss
ATHERTON, Calif. – Continuing play in the GSAC Tournament, the Lions (34-22) were matched up with Arizona Christian (35-14-1) in the first game, a team they hadn't beat in four earlier tries. Game one ended with a similar results as VU fell in a tight contest. This moved the team to a fifth game of the year against San Diego Christian (33-16) with their season on the line. The Hawks ended up winning the contest by a 9-1 score.


[Baseball] Lions Hit Past Biola in Series Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 13th ranked Vanguard Lions (36-12, 21-7) bounced back from a rough outing the previous weekend by beating Biola (27-24, 14-14) with a score of 10-4. Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) secured his 13th win of the season lasting six innings and striking out seven batters.


[Softball] Wilson, Olvera, and Estes Voted to All-GSAC Team
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference released the 2016 All-GSAC Awards early Tuesday afternoon and the Lions were represented by Alexandra Olvera (SR/Gilroy, CA), Taylor Wilson (JR/Modesto, CA), and Kaitlin Estes (SO/Costa Mesa, CA). Olvera and Wilson grabbed two of the four at-large spots on the team and Estes was one of five infielders to make the squad. In total, 20 members make the list broken up in seven categories. 


[Softball] Lions Win in Opening Round of GSAC Tournament
ATHERTON, Calif. – In their first game of the 2016 GSAC Tournament hosted by Menlo College, the Lions (RV) (34-20) shutout the Warriors to gain a 4-0 win at Wunderlich Field. Vanguard was led by Taylor Doyle (SR/Oceanside, CA) (14-8) who threw a complete game and allowed only three hits. Today's win marks seven straight victories for the Blue and Gold.


[Track & Field] Lions to Race at GSAC Championships
Starting this Thursday and continuing until Friday, April 29th, the Golden State Athletic Conference will host its yearly Track & Field Championships at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California. The two-day event will feature all the teams within the GSAC and will determine the final list of those who will win All-Conference recognition and earn a trip the the NAIA Outdoor National Championship.


[Athletics] Rhett Soliday Elevated to Athletic Director of Vanguard University
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University today appointed men's basketball head coach Rhett Soliday as the next athletic director to lead the Vanguard Lions, one of the leading institutions in the Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC). He will assume the top post May 1, 2016, following the retirement of athletic director Bob Wilson, who was inducted into the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Hall of Fame in 2007 and led Vanguard University to earn a long list of NAIA Champion of Character Awards nationally. Soliday will serve a dual role as he continues to lead the men's basketball program as head coach. 


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for April 25th - 30th
JOIN US THIS SATURDAY FOR BASEBALL'S 2016 SENIOR DAY!We will recognize our 11 departing seniors: Kevin Bettencourt (SR/Modesto, CA), Sam Carillo, Matt Harris (SR/Seaside, CA), Ryan Heinle (SR/Stockton, CA), Sean Issac, Michael Jordan (SR/Murrieta, CA), Paul Keating (SR/Oceanside, CA), Michael Ostrea (SR/Buena Park, CA), Jose Rojas (SR/Anaheim, CA), Matt Silberman (SR/Murrieta, CA), and Justin Vega (JR/Chatsworth, CA).


[Baseball] Isaac Takes Home GSAC Pitcher of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference released its weekly awards and the Pitcher of the Week was presented to Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA). This is the first time this season he has taken home the award but has been in the nomination pool on a host of occasions. Isaac tossed ninth ranked Vanguard to victory holding The Master's College (RV) to only one run and striking out nine batters in eight innings of work. This season, the senior pitcher is third in the GSAC with a 2.01 ERA in 98.2 innings on the mound. He tops the GSAC and NAIA with 12 wins and has only one loss on the season.


[Softball] Shaffer, Olvera Named Conference Players of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Vanguard softball team swept the Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week and Pitcher of the Week prizes for the second time this year. Samantha Shaffer (FR/Modesto, CA) takes home the first award in her young Lions career while Alexandra Olvera (SR/Gilroy, CA) earns the recognition of Pitcher of the Week for a second time in 2016. 


[Softball] Wilson Olvera, Estes Voted to All-GSAC Team
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference released the 2016 All-GSAC Awards early Tuesday afternoon and the Lions were represented by Alexandra Olvera (SR/Gilroy, CA), Taylor Wilson (JR/Modesto, CA), and Kaitlin Estes (SO/Costa Mesa, CA). Olvera and Wilson grabbed two of the four at-large spots on the team and Estes was one of five infielders to make the squad. In total, 20 members make the list broken up in seven categories. 


[Softball] Lions Sweep Biola on Senior Day
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Hosting the final home games of the season, the Lions (33-20, 14-10) took on the Biola Eagles (21-30-1, 7-17) with standings in the 2016 Golden State Athletic Conference Tournament at stake. Led by their senior starting pitchers, the Pride went the distance and took home victories in both parts of the double header by 1-0 and 6-2 scores.


[Baseball] Lions Blasted by Mustangs in Double-Header
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – The 9th ranked Lions were bested in both games of the double-header with The Master's College (RV). Vanguard (35-12-1, 20-7) fell by scores of 18-0 and 8-1 against the Mustangs who hold a 31-15, 16-11 record this year. This season, TMC holds a 4-2 advantage in games won over the Blue and Gold.


[Athletics] Chase Selected as Vice-President of ASA
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - During the recently concluded NAIA National Convention, Jessica Chase (JR/Riverside, CA), from the Vanguard Women's Volleyball team, was chosen to be the first ever Vice President of the Association of Student-Athletes. Her term will serve throughout her senior season and Chase has served as a member of the association since the Fall of 2015 when the ASA was created.


[Baseball] Homers from Eissman, Sandoval Lift Lions
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Rebounding nicely from a loss earlier in the week, the 9th ranked Lions (35-10-1, 20-5) took care of business in the first game of a weekend series with The Master's College (RV) (29-15, 14-11). Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) struck out nine batters over eight innings of work on the hill to lead Vanguard to a 6-1 victory at Lou Herwaldt Stadium.


[Softball] Vanguard Scores 21 Runs in Double Header Wins
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (31-20, 12-10) continues its winning streak as they have now won four straight games and five of their last six contests. The Lions took the first game in an 11-0 shutout over Hope International (25-26, 9-15) before walking away with a 10-2 victory in the final game as they posted a plus 19 run difference.


[Baseball] Failing to Play Catch Catches up to Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. – For the first time in 12 outings, the #9 Lions ended up on the losing side of the result. Antelope Valley (34-13) rallied in the ninth inning to win 8-6 over Vanguard (34-10-1) as the Pioneers scored five unanswered runs.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for April 19th - 23rd
JOIN US THIS SATURDAY FOR SOFTBALL'S 2016 SENIOR DAY! We will recognize our four departing seniors: Alexandra Olvera (SR/Gilroy, CA), Taylor Doyle (SR/Oceanside, CA), Merissa Guzman (SR/Lemoore, CA), and Lindsay Sullivan (SR/Yucca Valley, CA)!


[Softball] Estes Earns GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The positive momentum from the Lions three win road trip to Menlo College and William Jessup University continues as Kaitlin Estes (SO/Costa Mesa, CA) is named Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week for her on field play during the dates of April 11th – 16th. The shortstop batted .636 and had a slugging percentage of 1.455 while generating a very impressive seven hits in only 11 at bats. She also tacked on two home runs, three doubles, three drawn walks, and talled five RBI's.


[Softball] Olvera, Doyle Toss Full Games Each in Pair of Lions Victories
ROCKLIN, Calif. – During a double header at Matt Redding Field, the Lions (29-20, 10-10) picked up a pair of wins over William Jessup (15-23, 8-12). These victories mark four straight over the Warriors during the 2016 season. The two games had completely different vibes as Vanguard battled its way to an extra inning win in the opener before the offense caught fire in the night cap to win in runaway fashion.


[Baseball] Steele's Complete Game Marks Lions 11th Straight Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The #11 Lions picked up where they left off yesterday as they completed the sweep against the Warriors in double header action by the tune of 10-5 in the first game and 3-0 in the second game. Vanguard (34-9, 19-5) gave the fans something to cheer about throughout the day as William Jessup (3-31, 3-21) was unable to keep up with the abundance of scoring the Pride was generating.


[Track & Field] Lawson Leads NAIA in Decathlon Scoring
AZUSA, Calif. - Winston Lawson (FR/Santa Ana, CA) scored 6,676 points in the ten-event decathlon competition at the California Invitational Combined Events hosted by Azusa Pacific University Wednesday & Thursday, finishing second overall among 16 competitors in his division. Lawson's mark currently ranks first in the NAIA this season and is Vanguard's second best all-time score in the decathlon. The rest of the team competed Thursday and Friday, April 14th and 15th, at Azusa Pacific in the 8th Annual Bryan Clay Invitational.


[Soccer] Vanguard Soccer Program?s 2016 Golf Tournament
The Vanguard University Soccer program is hosting its 13th Annual Golf Tournament on Friday, April 22nd with check-in beginning at 11:00 a.m. and the shot gun start at 1:00 pm. Tijeras Creek Golf Club, located in Rancho Santa Margarita, is this host of the event and the Ted Robinson designed course features breathtaking scenery and a demanding front nine holes.


[Baseball] Jordan, Isaac Continue Superb Seasons in Series Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif. -  After today's game, the Lions have made it one step closer in the GSAC race as #11 Vanguard avoided a scare from William Jessup (3-29, 3-19) to the tune of 3-2. The Lions (32-9, 17-5) had a great day on the mound from Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA), who collected seven strikeouts on eight innings on the day. This was another great team effort that set up Michael Jordan (SR/Murrieta, CA) for his 14th save of the season.


[Softball] Vanguard Splits with Menlo in Atherton
ATHERON, Calif. – Starting the Lions (27-20, 8-10) four game trip over the weekend, Vanguard ended with a split against Menlo College (23-17, 10-7) by scores of 11-4 and 3-4. Kaitlin Estes (SO/Costa Mesa, CA) was the star inside the batter's box combining for four hits, four RBI's, and four runs scored.


[Women's Soccer] Blue and Gold Welcomes 11 New Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Over the weekend, the Vanguard University Soccer Program hosted the 2016 recruiting class for their Annual Signing Day. The Lions, fresh off a berth in the NAIA National Tournament and Final Site Appearance, will welcome 11 fresh faces to the Blue and Gold this fall.


[Soccer] Vanguard Soccer Program?s Golf Tournament 2016
The Vanguard University Soccer program is hosting its 13th Annual Gold Tournament on Friday, April 22nd with check-in beginning at 11:00 a.m. and the shot gun start at 1:00 pm. Tijeras Creek Golf Club, located in Rancho Santa Margarita, is this host of the event and the Ted Robinson designed course features breathtaking scenery and a demanding front nine holes.


[Baseball] Jordan Records 13th Save in Pride's Eighth Straight Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions, newly moving up to 11th in the NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll, secured a 6-4 victory over Saint Katherine College to mark the eighth straight victory for the Blue and Gold. Highlights from the game for Vanguard (31-9-1) include a homer from Brock Eissman (JR/San Clemente, CA), 3-4 at the plate by Matt Harris (SR/Seaside, CA), and the 13th save for Michael Jordan (SR/Murrieta, CA).


[Women's Soccer] Blue and Gold Welcomes 10 New Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Over the weekend, the Vanguard University Soccer Program hosted the 2016 recruiting class for their Annual Signing Day. The Lions, fresh off a berth in the NAIA National Tournament and Final Site Appearance, will welcome 10 fresh faces to the Blue and Gold this fall.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for April 11th - 16th
As the athletic calendar moves down the home stretch, Vanguard Softball starts a three game road trip before their final home game, Baseball hosts William Jessup in their second to last home series, and Track & Field race in their final meet before the GSAC Championships.


[Baseball] Sandoval Named GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference has announced the Player of the Week for games played between April 4th and 9th, and Brandon Sandoval (JR/Fallbrook, CA) is the recipient of the award for the first time in his Lions career. His effectiveness at the plate and manning left field is a large reason why the Blue and Gold are ranked 13th in the NAIA and in the hunt for their first ever GSAC crown.


[Baseball] Harris Continues Strong Start to the Month at the Plate
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The two headed pitching monster of Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) and Michael Jordan (SR/Murrieta, CA) hands the 13th ranked Lions a 4-1 victory over Bethesda University of California (23-16) in the opening game of a non-conference battle. Vanguard (28-9-1) wins their fifth outing in a row as Isaac picks up win #10 on the year and Jordan is awarded his 12th save this season. The first six innings of the game had the players and fans alike battling through rainy and wet conditions.


[Softball] Penner Leads Vanguard Offense Against #18 ACU
COSTA MESA, Calif. – With the weather bearing down on, the Lions (25-18, 7-9) and Arizona Christian (28-10-1, 12-4) played a key double-header for the conference crown. After a high offensive output in the first game which the #18 Firestorm won 11-10, the Lions fell 3-1 in the nightcap.


[Softball] Vanguard Splits with Saint Katherine in Soggy Affair
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In the first ever matchup between the two schools in softball, the Firebirds (4-19) and Lions (26-19) each picked up a victory in the rainy weather on Saturday. Vanguard earned their 10-2 win in only six innings by the mercy rule before Saint Katherine rode a first inning score to the 1-0 win.


[Baseball] Lions Claim 30th Win of the Season in Comeback
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The #13 Lions (30-9-1) made it harder on themselves, but in the end they were able to rally back and complete the series sweep of Bethesda University of California (23-18). Vanguard picked up a 6-2 win in the first game before battling back and capturing an 11-8 comeback in the final contest.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Lions Set 13 PR's at Pomona-Pitzer Invitational
POMONA, Calif. - The Lion Track and Field teams traveled to the 30th Annual Pomona-Pitzer Invitational hosted by Pomona College where 13 personal bests were recorded including four individuals who posted two each. Lauren Cooper recorded life time bests in the 100m (13.61) and hammer throw (104'10") while on the men's side Noah Eley (FR/Huntington Beach, CA) chalked up personal bests in the 200m (22.74) and 400m (51.02), Zach Allmon (FR/San Luis Obispo, CA) (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) shot put (40'2.75") and triple jump (39'0.5"), and Zac Way (FR/Lakewood, CA) (JR/Lakewood, CA) javelin (147'4") and 110m hurdlers (21.75). Other personal bests were recorded by Lauren Soholt (SO/Riverside, CA) (JR/Riverside, CA) in the 5,000m (20:08.49), Daphni Kilgore (SR/Phoenix, AZ) 400m hurdles (76.11), Nathan Miramontes (FR/Fullerton, CA) (SO/Fullerton, CA) long jump (19'1.25"), Alex Alvarez (FR/Corona, CA) shot put (34'8.5") and Kerollos Makramalla (SO/Bellflower, CA) javelin (113'8"). The VU Men's 4x100m relay team raced to a season best time of 42.21 while finishing 4th overall and 1st among NAIA teams. The relay team was made up of Alec Duran (FR/La Verne, CA), Winston Lawson (JR/Santa Ana, CA) (FR/Santa Ana, CA), Daniel Alade (NA/Bakersfield, CA) (FR/Bakersfield, CA) and Quinton Alexander (SR/Las Vegas, NV). 


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Six VU Athletes Set PR's at San Francisco Invitational
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions Track and Field teams traveled up to Northern California last weekend to compete in the San Francisco State Invitational hosted on the Gators' home track. During the two-day meet, Zach Allmon (FR/San Luis Obispo, CA) (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) (FR/San Luis Obispo, CA) (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA), Lydia Perrigo (FR/Hartsburg, MO), and Daphni Kilgore (SR/Phoenix, AZ) recorded personal records and three other season bests were established.


[Baseball] Vanguard Cruises to Fourth Win Over MCU
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Riding high with lively bats for the third straight contest, the 13th ranked Lions (27-9-1) picked up a decisive victory over Marymount California (12-20-1) by a 14-2 count. Brandon Sandoval (JR/Fallbrook, CA) led the offense with 3-4 hitting and four RBI's including one of two home runs for Vanguard in the game. This season, the Pride holds a 4-0-1 record against the Mariners.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Allmon, Perrigo, & Kilgore Set PR's at San ...
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions Track and Field teams traveled up to Northern California last weekend to compete in the San Francisco State Invitational hosted on the Gators' home track. During the two-day meet, Zach Allmon (FR/San Luis Obispo, CA) (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) (FR/San Luis Obispo, CA) (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA), Lydia Perrigo (FR/Hartsburg, MO), and Daphni Kilgore (SR/Phoenix, AZ) recorded personal records and three other season bests were established.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for April 4th - 9th
Vanguard Athletics has entered the final full month of GSAC competition with the regular season for Softball ending on April 23rd, Baseball finishing April 30th, and Track & Field wrapping up on May 14th. All of our spring teams are right in the thick of the hunt for the GSAC Crowns!Matt Harris was named Golden State Athletic Conference Baseball Player of the Week for March 28th to April 2nd and Alexandra Olvera earns conference Pitcher of the Week recognition as they each earn the award for the first time this season. 


[Baseball] Harris Voted First Career GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard's first baseman Matt Harris (SR/Seaside, CA) was rewarded with the Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week for his unearthly numbers last week. The 15th ranked Lions ended the week with a 3-1 record including a series sweep over Arizona Christian. Harris hit at a .692 clip in 17 trips to the plate including three walks and once being hit by the pitch. He tallied nine hits and nine RBI's over the four games. 


[Softball] Olvera Records GSAC Pitcher of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - For the first time in her career, Alexandra Olvera (SR/Gilroy, CA) was voted the GSAC Pitcher of the Week thanks to a 2-0 record on the week and not giving up a run in 16 innings of work. She pitched a gem for the Pride in an upset of #14 San Diego Christian going the full nine innings and striking out nine batters in the process. On the week, only two runs scored off 10 allowed hits while she was in command of the circle. 


[Softball] Lions Rally Late to Beat Hawks
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard showed grit and mental toughness as they swept #14 San Diego Christian College (26-11, 8-6) in their double header action that went into extra innings both times. The Lions (25-16,7-7) picked up key GSAC victories by the tune of 2-1 in the first game and 3-2 in the second game. Alexandra Olvera (SR/Gilroy, CA) started the day off pitching for the Lions and posted nine strikeouts to go along with a very impressive defensive performance that shut down the Hawks offense for most of the day. On offense the Lions celebrated good performances from Lindsay Sullivan (SR/Yucca Valley, CA) and Taylor Wilson (JR/Modesto, CA), who each picked up a critical RBI in the waning moments of the first game.


[Baseball] Lions' Bats Scorch in the Valley of the Sun
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Vanguard, currently the 15th ranked team in the country, continued its winning ways as they finished the three game sweep of Arizona Christian (9-22, 6-18) by winning in 11-8 and 9-8 fashion. The Lions (26-9-1, 16-5) are staying neck and neck with conference leading Westmont as they now sit less than a game out of first place.


[Baseball] Jordan Earns GSAC Leading 10th Save This Season
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Vanguard (24-9-1, 14-5) got back on track by winning 3-1 over Arizona Christian (9-20, 6-16) in the opening game of the weekend series. The 15th ranked Lions are tied in the win column with GSAC leading Westmont as the chase for the conference crown heats up in the final month of play. Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) (9-1) threw eight innings before handing the ball off to Michael Jordan (SR/Murrieta, CA) who sealed the deal for the 10th time this year.


[Volleyball] Volleyball Locks in Four More for 2016
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Coming off the most successful season in program history, the Vanguard Volleyball team is gearing up for another run at it all in 2016. Big factors in the upcoming season will be the new recruiting class, which adds four more commits to the Pride. Callie Guasti, Lindsey Ng, Tobi Sanders, and Kamelah Noel are on board for next year and are fired up to wear the Blue and Gold this Fall.


[Softball] Olvera, Doyle Pitch Complete Games in Lions Sweep
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (23-16) bounced back from a tough result in their last outing by taking both from William Woods (12-19) in a home contest. Vanguard won the first game via a walk off hit in the final inning before taking a sweeping victory in just six innings in the back half of the twin bill.


[Baseball] Vanguard Downed by San Diego Christian
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions (23-9-1) took on San Diego Christian (17-12) in a non-conference tilt on the same day Vanguard moved up to 15th in the NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll. In the end, the Hawks left with a 6-4 victory in the early week matchup.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for March 28th-April 2nd
Baseball picked up two huge wins against Westmont last weekend to move just a game out of first place in the race to the Golden State Athletic Conference Regular Season Title! 


[Baseball] Lumanlan Recognized as GSAC Pitcher of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference and its members voted on the Players of the Week for March 21st through 26th and Vanguard's Chris Lumanlan (JR/Irvine, CA), a first-year transfer from Irvine Valley College, was named GSAC Pitcher of the Week for his impressive outing against Westmont College. 


[Baseball] Lions Alumni Win Australian State Title
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Three former members of the Blue and Gold moved their talents "Down Under" following graduation and began playing for the Penrith Baseball Club which repeated as State League Champions this March. John Collins, class of 2014, finished his Vanguard career as an All-GSAC Honorable Mention manning behind the plate. David Stone and Brett Collins, departing the Pride after the 2015 season, were apart of last year's World Series squad.


[Baseball] Lions Rally Back But Fall Short of Series Sweep
COSTA MESA, Calif. - As the sun sets on this day, Vanguard made big strides in the race for the GSAC title. The Lions (23-8-1, 12-6) were able to pick up two big wins this week against conference leading Westmont (24-6, 14-4), but were unable to close out the double header as they fell in a 9-5 extra innings thriller.


[Men's Basketball] Echols Named All-America Honorable Mention
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics has announced the Division I Men's Basketball All-America Teams and Vanguard own Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) was honored as an Honorable Mention recipient to go along with his All-Conference selection.


[Women's Basketball] Norman Earns NAIA First Team All-America
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) and Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) have been recognized by the NAIA with placement onto the Division I Women's Basketball All-America Teams. Norman earns the First Team award to cap off her incredible senior year and Doucette earns her second straight trip to the Second Team All-America. She also adds an Honorable Mention from her sophomore year to her long list of career accomplishments. Both of their outstanding seasons including being named to the All-GSAC team.


[Baseball] Lions Strike First in Series with Westmont
COSTA MESA, Calif. - One down, two to go. That is the mindset that the Lions have for the rest of this series as #18 Vanguard (22-7-1,12-4) picked up a big win against #6 Westmont  (23-5, 13-3) to close the gap in the race for the GSAC conference title. Pitcher Chris Lumanlan started the day for the Blue and Gold and had a solid performance on the fill. He was followed up by Michael Ostrea (SR/Buena Park, CA) in the eighth and Michael Jordan (SR/Murrieta, CA), who leads the conference with saves. They both put on stellar play from the mound with Jordan striking out two of the final three batters of the game to seal the victory. On offense, Brandon Sandoval (JR/Fallbrook, CA), Bryce Wetherell (SO/Chattaroy, WA), and Matt Harris (SR/Seaside, CA) all earned runs in the game.


[Baseball] Rojas Named GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Jose Rojas (SR/Anaheim, CA) continues to add to his treasure chest of recognition and awards as the senior slugger was voted Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week for his efforts on the field during March 14th-19th. In the premiere conference last weekend with Menlo, he blasted two home runs that directly led to victories for the Blue and Gold. 


[Softball] Heinle Voted GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Britany Heinle (SO/Stockton, CA) was voted the Golden State Athleic Conference Player of the Week for the Week of March 14th-19th, as released by the conference Monday afternoon. The first baseman, in her first year with the Blue and Gold, receives the recognition for the first time of her career. ​


[Women's Basketball] Scholar-Athlete Awards Feature Five Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference announced during the 2016 Conference Tournament the list of Scholar Athletes for each team. Echoing the names, the NAIA published the 2016 Daktronics- NAIA Division I Women's Basketball Scholar-Athletes in a release sent out on Marrch 21st and both lists featured five student-athletes from the Vanguard Women's Basketball Team. 


[Softball] Pride Downed by Eagles on the Road
LA MIRADA, Calif. – Fresh off a successful weekend, the Lions (RV) traveled to top conference rival Biola University (15-17-1, 4-8) for a twin bill. Both games were competitive, but the Blue and Gold (21-16, 5-7) fell 5-3 and 5-2 in the double-header. The two teams were voted in the preseason to be in the Coaches' Top 25 Poll but slipped out in the newest edition released.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Perrigo Sets Two Personal Records at Point Loma Invitational
POINT LOMA, Calif. – Over the weekend, the Lions Track and Field Teams traveled down to the Point Loma Invitational where the men's team scored 159 points to place fifth and the women netted 78.5 points and slotted in ninth place.


[Baseball] Vanguard Outlasts Menlo to Win Weekend Series
COSTA MESA, Calif. – With a buzz around the ballpark similar to playoff baseball, the #18 Lions and #25 Oaks faced off in a key conference double-header. Menlo (22-10, 9-6) took the first game 12-2 before Vanguard (21-7-1, 11-4) fought back to capture a 3-2 victory and took the series two games to one.


[Softball] Lions Sweep Twin Bill with Menlo to Close Out Impressive Weekend
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 18th ranked Lions (21-14, 5-5) picked up two more key conference wins in a tilt against Menlo College (12-12, 4-3). Vanguard took the first game by a 9-2 score before rounding out with a 10-4 victory in the second game of the double-header.


[Softball] Lions Sweep Warriors to Kick Off the Weekend
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Returning home after a six game road trip, the 18th ranked Lions swept William Jessup by scores of 4-1 and 5-3. Vanguard (19-14, 3-5) moves up into the thick of the conference rankings while the Warriors (6-14, 2-4) slide back in the order.


[Baseball] Rojas Breaks Up Pitcher's Duel with Game-Winning Homerun
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In a very important weekend series, #18 Vanguard Lions (20-6-1, 10-3) fought back on a go-ahead homerun by Jose Rojas (SR/Anaheim, CA) to capture the 3-2 victory. No. 25 Menlo falls to (21-9, 8-5) as the two schools are sitting in second and third place, respectively, in the conference standings.


[Women's Basketball] Lamunu, Norman's Double-Double's Cannot Eclipse Pikeville
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – During the Second Round of the NAIA Division I Women's Basketball National Tournament, the #6 Lions (25-7) squared off against the University of Pikeville (25-8). As the final buzzer sounded, UPike captured a 77-57 victory.


[Women's Basketball] Pride Rallies Back at NAIA National Tournament
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. - During their 15th consecutive trip to the NAIA Division 1 Women's Basketball National Tournament, the Lions rode a 20-2 third quarter to a 60-53 victory over Auburn University at Montgomery (23-10). Vanguard (25-6) was led by a balanced attack featuring four players in double figures.


[Softball] Trips Ends with Split Between Lions and Eagles
PRESCOTT, Ariz. – Ending the road trip, the 18th ranked Lions (17-14) split the twin bill with Embry-Riddle University of Arizona (8-20). An offensive battled overtook the first game which ended in a narrow defeat for the Pride, but fought back and took the nightcap by three runs.


[Women's Basketball] Doucette, Norman Recognized by WBCA
The Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) has announced the awards for the 2016 season and two members of the Blue and Gold were recognized. Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) earned one of the ten slots on the 2016 WBCA NAIA Coaches' All-America Team and was the only center chosen. Reaching the Coaches' All-America Team Honorable Mention is Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA).


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for March 14th-19th
Women's Basketball, currently ranked 6th in the nation, kicks off their 15th consecutive trip to the NAIA National Tournament on Thursday with a matchup with Auburn Montgomery at 8:45 a.m. PST. Viewing options can be found at naia.org. 


[Softball] Lions Split in Mesa Against Redhawks
MESA, Ariz. – For the first time in the two school's history, Vanguard and Benedictine University-Mesa squared off, with the two squads splitting the results. Both contests were one run differences as the Redhawks (4-13) took the first game before the #18 Lions (16-13) rebounded in the nightcap.


[Baseball] Lions Blast Past Dallas Christian, Earn Series Sweep
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Wrapping up a three game series with Dallas Christian (6-17-1), the 22nd ranked Lions (19-6-1) swept the Crusaders by capturing game one by a nine run margin and the second contest by a seven run differential.


[Softball] Stranded Runners Befall Lions in Phoenix
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Kicking off the Spring Break trip with six games in Arizona, the 18th ranked Lions (15-12, 1-5) first took on Arizona Christian (13-4-1, 5-1) at Shadow Mountain High School. Despite being right in the thick of both games, they fell 5-4 and 3-1 against the Firestorm who now sit in first place in the GSAC standings.


[Baseball] Blue and Gold Cruise to 13-1 Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – With a little luck from the weather, 22nd ranked Vanguard blitzed its way to a 13-1 victory over Dallas Christian College as it concluded minutes before the downpour arrived. The Lions (17-6-1) received another strong outing from Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) on the hill and saw an offensive explosion inside the batter's box.


[Baseball] Keating Blasts First Homer of the Year
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 22nd ranked Lions (16-6-1) began a four game week on the wrong side of a 4-2 score as Morningside College (13-2) took the victory. Vanguard's two runs were generated on a two run bomb to right field by Paul Keating (SR/Oceanside, CA).


[Women's Basketball] Lions Tripped Up in GSAC Tournament Championship
FULLERTON, Calif. – The third edition of the #2 Westmont vs. #6 Vanguard pairing was an exciting contest witnessed live by thousands as it was aired live on FOX Sports Prime Ticket. In the end, the Warriors (28-3) captured a 67-58 victory in the GSAC Tournament Championship Game.Claire Lamunu (JR/Kampala, Uganda) led the Lions (24-6) with 16 points and 10 rebounds off the pair to go along with two blocks and a steal. Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) tossed in 14 points and grabbed 12 boards.


[Softball] Lions Dashed by Hope International in GSAC Home Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In the 18th ranked Lions (15-10, 1-3) conference home opener, Hope International (14-11, 5-3) came out on top in both contests as they took game one 8-2 and ended with a 6-1 loss for the Blue and Gold. Vanguard tallied only eleven hits and three runs spread across the twin bill.


[Baseball] Patrick Takes Home GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference released the second edition of GSAC Player of the Week for the 2016 season and Trai Patrick (JR/Everett, WA) earned the recognition. Through his efforts at the plate, he led the #22 Lions to a GSAC sweep of Hope International and the Pride currently sits in second place in the standings.


[Softball] Lions Sweep First Edition of Player of the Week Awards
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2016 GSAC slate is in full swing and the conference has released the first edition of Player of the Week Awards. Vanguard own Taylor Doyle (SR/Oceanside, CA) and Kimberlee Estes (SO/Costa Mesa, CA) swept the Pitcher of the week and Player of the Week recognition.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for March 7th-12th
Vanguard Women's Basketball in GSAC Championship Game to be aired on FOX Sports Prime Ticket!Details: Tuesday, March 8th at 5:00 p.m. vs. Westmont College on the campus of Hope International in Fullerton.


[Men's Indoor Track & Field] Espinoza Breaks VU Record for Total All-American Honors
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. - Josh Espinoza (SR/Glendale, AZ) raced to a fourth place All-American finish in the Final of the men's Mile Saturday afternoon in a time of 4:19.35 bringing his total career All-American honors to seven. Espinoza also finished 11th in the Final of the 3,000m run later the same day in a time of 9:00.01. With the indoor season now complete, this concludes Espinoza's outstanding two year Vanguard career in which his seven All-American honors becomes the most in program history (men or women) breaking a tie held with former VU Lion Grace Jepngetich who earned six All-American honors in her illustrious career.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Will Play in GSAC Championship on FoxSports Prime Ticket
For the second straight year, the Lions will be playing in the GSAC Championship hosted by Hope International. This time, the Blue and Gold will be facing off against GSAC Regular Season Champion Westmont College and conference Player of the Year Kristin Karr. The game will take place on Tuesday, March 8th at 5:00 p.m. and will be televised on Fox Sports Prime Ticket.


[Athletics] Flores, Kadillak Honored as Cliff Hamlow Champion of Character Award Winners
COSTA MESA, Calif. - In a banquet held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Sunday, March 6, the Golden State Athletic Conference honored 18 student-athletes from across the conference with the Cliff Hamlow Champion of Character Award. Dr. Hamlow was also a key leader in the creation of the NAIA's Champions of Character program. 


[Women's Basketball] Three-Point Shooting Lifts Pride into Semifinals
FULLERTON, Calif. – It is never easy to beat the same team a total of three times in the same season, but the #6 Lions, the third seed in the conference tournament, completed with a 67-52 victory over William Jessup. Vanguard (23-5) rode a game high 19 points from Maya Kennedy (JR/Huntington Beach, CA) over the Warriors (15-15). Three other Lions tallied double figures including another 11 points and 11 rebounds for Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ).


[Women's Basketball] Lions March to GSAC Championship Game
FULLERTON, Calif. – Seeking revenge for the two previous losses this season, the sixth ranked Lions (24-5) defeated The Master's College (24-5) by a 57-44 count. The matchup was an upset since TMC was the second seed in the conference tournament and holds a higher rating in the NAIA Top 25 Coaches Poll. Vanguard now is slotted to battle for the GSAC crown on Tuesday with the game to be televised.


[Men's Basketball] Season Ends for Vanguard in GSAC Semifinals
FULLERTON, Calif. – In the GSAC Semifinal, Vanguard (18-11) was knocked out of contention by Hope International who holds a 26-5 record on the season. The Royals won by a 73-53 score, but the Lions gave every drip of emotion and energy they had. This season was unlike any other for the Pride due to the various blows they had with depth and injuries.


[Softball] Bats Propel Vanguard to Sweep of Marymount
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 18th ranked Vanguard Lions (13-8) closed the week by sweeping California Marymount University (3-7). In game one, the Blue and Gold were victorious by a 6-4 count before ending the nightcap in only five innings with an 8-0 score.


[Baseball] Scorching Bat of Trai Patrick Aides Lions Sweep
PLACENTIA, Calif. – Vanguard, the 22nd ranked team in the NAIA, increased its overall record by finishing a sweep of Hope International with scores of 7-5 and 8-5. The Lions (16-5-1, 9-3) are right in the hunt for GSAC supremacy while the Royals (9-13-1, 4-8) as still continuing to find their way in their first season of competition.


[Men's Outdoor Track & Field] Lawson Earns All-American; Espinoza Races into Finals
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. - Josh Espinoza (SR/Glendale, AZ) and Winston Lawson (FR/Santa Ana, CA) continued their quest at the 51st NAIA National Championships on Day Two of competition and Lawson finished in third place in the Heptathlon earning All-American status and Espinoza qualifies for two event finals tomorrow.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Throwers and Sprinter Alade Highlight OCC meet
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Orange Coast College, the home training site of the Vanguard Track teams, hosted its annual meet which kicked off the Outdoor Track Season. The Lions had a great showing on the throwing side and with Daniel Alade (NA/Bakersfield, CA) (FR/Bakersfield, CA) on sprints while five members of the team are still at NAIA Indoor Nationals.


[Men's Indoor Track & Field] Day One of NAIA Indoor Nationals in the Books
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. - Day One of the 51st Annual NAIA Indoor National Championships kicked off on Friday with all five members of the Blue and Gold starting competition. Winston Lawson (FR/Santa Ana, CA) finished four of the events in the Heptathlon and the Distance Medley Relay team raced in the later evening. 


[Men's Indoor Track & Field] Five Race at NAIA Indoor National Championships
NAIA INDOOR NATIONALS - Vanguard University is being represented by five members of the Blue and Gold who departed yesterday for the 51st Annual NAIA Indoor National Championships. The events will be held from March 3rd-5th at the David E. Walker Track at Gentry Field in Johnson City, Tennessee. Zach DeAtley (JR/Victorville, CA), Alec Duran (FR/La Verne, CA), Josh Espinoza (SR/Glendale, AZ), Winston Lawson (FR/Santa Ana, CA), and Jared Shohfi (SR/Pleasanton, CA) will be racing for the Lions in a total of six events including the Heptathlon, Distance Medley Relay, 1000m, Mile, 3000m, and High Jump.


[Women's Basketball] Doucette, Norman Splash Onto All-GSAC Team
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference announced the 2015-2016 awards and for the third consecutive year Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) has been named to the All-GSAC Team presented by Under Armour and is joined by her teammate Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) who was recognized four times as GSAC Player of the Week.


[Baseball] Lions and Mariners End in Draw After 10 Innings
COSTA MESA, Calif. – For the fourth time this season, the 22nd ranked Lions and Mariners have squared off on the diamond. Vanguard (13-5-1) had taken two of the previous games from Marymount California (6-9-1), but this contest would not end with a decision.


[Basketball] Lions Kick Off GSAC Tourney This Friday
GSAC BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT- Beginning this Friday, March 4th the Golden State Athletic Conference will host its annual Conference Tournament with this year's events being hosted by Hope International University. Both the men's and women's teams have reached the postseason for 2015-2016. Come up to Fullerton to witness all four of the Lions All-GSAC Players in action!


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for February 29th - March 5th
BIG WEEK FOR VANGUARD LIONS!On Friday, our Men's and Women's Track & Field Teams will take part in co-hosting the OCC Track Meet, which is their home training location. Later in the day, our Women's and Men's Basketball Teams will be participating in the First Round of the GSAC Tournament hosted at Hope International.


[Men's Basketball] Allmon, Echols Leap Onto All-GSAC Team
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference released the All-Conference Awards presented by Under Armour for the 2015-2016 Men's Basketball season and two members of the Blue and Gold were recognized for their accomplishments. Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) and Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) were selected for a pair of spots on the All-GSAC team.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] VU Freshman Throwers Crushing It!
POMONA, Calif. – This Saturday, the Track and Field teams from Vanguard competed at the Carl Rossi Relays held at Claremont-Mudd-Scripps and found success with freshman throwers and the men's distance relay. The teams were working on two objectives: tuning up for NAIA Indoor Nationals and springing forward to Outdoor Season for the rest of the squad.


[Baseball] Lions Split Double-Header But Win Series 2-1
SANTEE, Calif. – Vanguard (12-5, 5-3) and San Diego Christian (9-6, 5-3) split the two contests today with the Hawks taking the opener 8-0 before the Lions rallied and won 16-2 in the finale. At the end of the day, the Blue and Gold sit atop the GSAC conference standings.


[Women's Basketball] Seniors Highlight Lions Win in Final Home Game
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In a game full of highlight moments, 8th ranked Vanguard (22-5, 13-3) wrapped up the regular season with a 73-65 victory over Arizona Christian. With the loss, ACU is knocked out of the conference tournament with a 13-16, 5-11 record. On their respective Senior Days, Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) and Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) did not disappoint and led the team in scoring and rebounds.


[Men's Basketball] Echols Nets 29 Points, Continues to Lead GSAC in Scoring
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Effort has never been a question with the Vanguard Lions (18-10, 7-9) as they continue to give some of the top teams in the country all they can handle. Tonight, they pushed #15 Arizona Christian the distance before ended with a 84-70 loss. Echols led all scorers with 29 points as he continues to seal his position as the leading scorer in the conference. Additionally, he added three assists and five boards. Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA) was the sidekick tonight tallying 18 points, eight boards, and three dimes.


[Softball] Estes Homer Leads Lions to Game One Win
SANTEE, Calif. – Kicking off the GSAC slate today, the 18th ranked Lions (13-8, 1-1) split the twin bill with San Diego Christian (14-5, 1-1). The teams are currently seeded right next to each other in the conference standings in the early GSAC season.


[Baseball] Lions Defeat Hawks in Extra Innings
SANTEE, Calif. – Grossmont College was the site of a doozy of a contest as the 22nd ranked Lions rallied back for a 6-3 victory in extra innings over San Diego Christian (8-6, 4-3). Vanguard sits atop the GSAC with a 12-4, 5-2 record as the two teams entered the day tied for first place in conference.


[Women's Basketball] Trio of Doucette, Kennedy and Norman Pace Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard, the eight ranked team in the nation, secured its 21st win of the year by blitzing San Diego Christian (6-17, 1-14) by an 85-64 count. Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) led all scorers with 24 points to go along with 10 rebounds for the Lions (21-5, 12-3). Maya Kennedy (JR/Huntington Beach, CA) tallied 14 points and nine boards; Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) recorded another double-double with 12 points and 12 boards.


[Men's Basketball] Allmon & Echols Combine for 66 points in High Scoring Affair
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions (18-9, 7-8) received two monster games from Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) and Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) and captured the 109-93 victory over San Diego Christian (10-15, 3-12). Vanguard scored 61 second half point as Allmon totaled 35 points and 15 boards and Echols backed him up with 31 points.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for February 22nd - 27th
Join us this Saturday for our Men's and Women's Basketball games as we celebrate our departing senior players!


[Women's Basketball] Doucette Scores 1,500th Career Point in Rout
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard posted balanced scoring in a 92-60 rout of Bethesda University of California. The sixth ranked Lions exited the contest with a 20-5 overall record as they rounded out their non-conference schedule for the year. Bethesda is now 13-12 this season.


[Baseball] Pride Downed by Cal Poly Pomona
POMONA, Calif. – The 22nd ranked Lions (11-4) took a brief aside from conference play to challenge NCAA Division II foe Cal Poly Pomona (7-3) in a night tilt. Vanguard fell by a 6-3 count. For the day, Matt Harris (SR/Seaside, CA) and Paul Keating (SR/Oceanside, CA) were both 2-4 inside the box. Harris scored a run on the base paths and Keating netted one of the teams two RBI's. They were the only Lions to record a multi-hit day as the other five hits were spread across the lineup.


[Athletics] Behind the Mic - Meet Chris Osborne
Any fan that comes to an athletic event for Vanguard will see a staple behind the mic at the scorer's table. Most will recognize his voice, but few have ever experienced the Blue and Gold from his vantage point. As a member of the Vanguard family, Chris Osborne has seen the best of the Lions athletes, fans, and coaches.


[Baseball] Lions Link Up with Costa Mesa Little League
Prior to starting the 2016 season, the Vanguard Baseball Team took time out to coach up the next generation of players who love America's Past Time. The Lions went to Costa Mesa Little League and helped their coaches run a practice. During the event, they work on drills including base running, throwing, hitting, fielding, and coaching.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Five Lions Qualify for Indoor Nationals
POMONA, Calif. - The Vanguard University Track and Field teams competed at the Pomona Pitzer All-Commers Track & Field Meet on Saturday and had some very impressive finishes. With one meet left before the NAIA Indoor National Championships, the Lions currently have five athletes who have qualified in six events.


[Softball] Vanguard Takes Three at Big League Dreams
WEST COVINA, Calif. – The Biola Tournament, hosted at Big League Dreams, proved to be a fruitful occasion for Vanguard (12-7) as they took all three games today in convincing fashion. They end the two day tournament going 4-5 and finding their offensive grove.


[Baseball] Blue and Gold Seal Nightcap Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The twin bill of the weekend series against two heavy weights in the GSAC was split with The Master's College (9-6, 3-3) grabbing the first contest before the Lions (11-3, 4-2) rallied back to take game two. Wrapping up the series, 10th ranked TMC won two of the three contests against #22 Vanguard.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Push Royals to the Brink
FULLERTON, Calif. – The scrappy Lions (17-9, 6-8) continue to be thorns in the side of their GSAC competition as they took #6 Hope International (24-4, 12-2) the distance tonight before ultimately falling 62-58. Vanguard was led in scoring by Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) and Brandon Brothers (FR/Pasadena, CA) who each contributed 14 points.


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard Outlasts Hope International in Fullerton
FULLERTON, Calif. – The #6 Lions (19-5, 11-3) solidify their place in the GSAC standings with a 54-42 victory over the Royals of Hope International (12-11, 5-9). On a night where the ball wouldn't give Vanguard a favorable bounce, they held on down the stretch for the 12 point win. Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) snarled an unearthly 20 rebounds to go along with 13 points; she was the only player on either side with a double-double. Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) narrowly missed out on that plateau as she recorded a game-high 17 points and also added nine boards.


[Softball] Renkoski Earns 650th Victory with Blue and Gold
WEST COVINA, Calif. – In the first day of the Biola University Tournament, Vanguard (9-7) was pitted against Goshen College (0-2) and Southern Oregon University (7-4). Game one ended with the Lions falling on the wrong side of the 3-2 score before bouncing back and cruising to a 9-0 victory. The nightcap victory was monumental as it was Head Coach Beth Renkoski's 650th victory with the Pride.


[Baseball] Lions Fall Despite Vega's Bomb to Right Field
COSTA MESA, Calif. – For only the second time this season, Vanguard (10-2, 3-1) exited the diamond on the losing end. In their GSAC home opener, The Master's College won 4-3. After falling behind by three runs, Justin Vega (JR/Chatsworth, CA)'s home run put them right back in the thick of it. TMC sits at (8-5, 2-2) on the year.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Lose for only Second Time in 16 Games
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – After earlier being ranked the 6th team in the nation, the Lions (18-5, 10-3) was knocked off 77-61 by #10 The Master's College (23-3, 13-1). Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) posted a team high 16 points in the loss while Maya Kennedy (JR/Huntington Beach, CA) added 14 points. Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) once again put up a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds.


[Softball] Lions Split with Golden Eagles
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The seesaw opening to the year for the 18th ranked Lions (7-5) continues as they split two games against La Sierra University (5-3-1). In the opener, they stayed mentally strong and came back to win by two runs. Then, in game two they dug themselves a tough hole early in the contest that they couldn't work their way back from.


[Women's Basketball] Doucette Takes Home Player of the Week Award
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) had a great scoring week in two victories over William Jessup University and Menlo College on the road. In recognition of her efforts, the Golden State Athletic Conference named her Player of the Week. This is the first time this season she has been named POTW but she has recorded multiple others in the dazzling career. Overall, this is the fifth time this season a member of the Blue and Gold has taking it home as her teammate Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) has won it four times.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Close Game on 13-1 Spurt
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Utilizing a furious comeback at the end of the second half, the Lions (17-8, 6-7) escaped with a 67-65 victory over The Master's College (4-18, 1-13). Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA) tied the scoring lead with 20 points with five made triples from behind the arc. Three other members of the Blue and Gold notched double figures in the win compared to only two for the Mustangs.


[Softball] Whitley Homers in Game Two Win for Blue and Gold
COSTA MESA, Calif. – It took longer than usual, but the Lions pulled out the nightcap win over Brandeis (1-1) by a 9-3 count. The first game of the day went into the ninth inning before the Judges were able to grab the one run lead. Vanguard (8-6) currently holds the most victories in the GSAC this season.


[Softball] Lions Blast By Pioneers in Lancaster
LANCASTER, Calif. - Vanguard flexes their muscles today as they swept the University of Antelope Valley. The Blue and Gold (6-4) dominated the Pioneers (0-8) in their first game with a 10-0 shutout. Alexandra Olvera (SR/Gilroy, CA) had a great performance on the mound compiling three strikeouts on the day. Taylor Wilson (JR/Modesto, CA), Payton Ross (SO/Hughson, CA), and Kristyn Whitley (FR/San Diego, CA) all had stellar performances with each picking up two RBI's on the game.


[Baseball] Lions Pounce William Jessup from the Jump
ROCKLIN, Calif. - The best way to describe this game is dominant as the Vanguard Lions swept the William Jessup Warriors in crushing fashion today. VU (10-1, 3-0) was completely in the zone today on offense as they piled on the runs in their first game beating the William Jessup (0-9, 0-3) to the score of 15-4. Ryan Heinle (SR/Stockton, CA) started the day pitching for the Lions and put on a great performance. Brandon Sandoval (JR/Fallbrook, CA) helped to lead the charge on offense with 2 RBI's in the game. Paul Keating (SR/Oceanside, CA) and Shane Elias-Calles (SO/Mission Viejo, CA) also contributed on the day with 2 RBI performances as well.


[Men's Outdoor Track & Field] Three School Records by VU Freshmen and One National ...
ALISO VIEJO, Calif. - During the Soka Indoor Qualifer at Soka University of America the Lions broke three school records for the second straight week. Additionally, the Blue and Gold qualified a relay team for the National Championships.


[Women's Basketball] Doucette Paces Vanguard to Fourth Straight "W"
ATHERTON, Calif. – Vanguard (18-4, 10-2) took the second game of their Northern California swing by knocking off Menlo (11-15, 4-10) by a 71-66 count. Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) scored a game high 29 points on just under 50% shooting from the floor. She was a perfect 7-7 from the charity stripe as well.


[Men's Basketball] Smith's Seven Steals Propel Lions to Victory
ATHERTON, Calif. – Finishing the road trip strong, the Lions picked up an 84-64 win over Menlo College (9-17, 3-10). Vanguard (16-8, 5-7) was guided to the win by a game-high 26 points by Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA). Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) bounced back with 19 points and seven rebounds to go with three assists. Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA) hit 4-6 from downtown to end with 18 points.


[Women's Basketball] No. 9 Lions Squeek by with Victory at Jessup
ROCKLIN, Calif. - The 9th ranked Lions of Vanguard University (17-4, 9-2) kicked off the annual two game slate in Northern California with a 46-43 victory over William Jessup (14-11, 5-8). Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) led all players in the categories of points (16) and rebounds (15). Completing the deadly duo was 15 points, five boards, and two assists from Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA).


[Men's Basketball] Warriors Slide by Lions in Narrow Fashion
ROCKLIN, Calif. – In the first game of a pair of games in Northern California, the Lions (15-8, 4-7) exit on the wrong side of a 76-73 score against #25 William Jessup (17-7, 9-4). Vanguard places four players in double figures including a team-high 25 points from Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA).


[Softball] Lions Split Double-Header with Hawks
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Blue and Gold picked up a convincing victory today with their double header split against Holy Names University (1-4-1). Vanguard (4-4) had a great game on the mound from Alexandra Olvera (SR/Gilroy, CA), who had three strikeouts while starting the first game of the day for the Lions. The offensive explosion was led by Payton Ross (SO/Hughson, CA) who had four RBI's on three at bats and both Lindsay Sullivan (SR/Yucca Valley, CA) and Kimberlee Estes (SO/Costa Mesa, CA) each posted two of the seven total RBI's from the entire first game.


[Baseball] Hot Start Continues for the Lions
ROCKLIN, Calif. – Vanguard (8-1, 1-0) began Golden State Athletic Conference play with a 3-1 road victory over William Jessup (0-7, 0-1). Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) had one of the best performances of his career as he struck out 15 batters in only 7.1 innings. Brandon Sandoval (JR/Fallbrook, CA) was hot at the plate recording a hit on 3-5 attempts and batting in two runs.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for February 8th - 13th
WHAT A WEEK! Vanguard had an impressive week as the Baseball team smashed rival Biola in a three game series, Softball won three out of four games, women's basketball went 2-0 on the week, and men's basketball pushed #10 Biola to the limit. The men's and women's track squads had an impressive showing at their meet recording three new school records. 


[Men's Basketball] Allmon Named GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA), the Lions inside presence, has been named the Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week. Although the Pride was 1-1 last week, he was so dominant over the last week that the voters found him a worthy recipient.


[Women's Basketball] Magic Number is Four! Norman wins another POTW Award
COSTA MESA, Calif. - In what is becoming a common occurrence, Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) has been voted the Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week for the fourth time this season. The force inside for the Blue and Gold is averaging double figures in both points and rebounds on the year.


[Baseball] What a game! Lions Put on Offensive Clinic Against Eagles
LA MIRADA, Calif. - The Lions ended their three game non-conference road series by dominating the Eagles in double-header action. Vanguard (7-1) put up enough home runs to make it look like a home run derby at an All Star Game as Biola (3-5) could not keep up and was blown out in the first game by the score of 17-1 and finished off the nightcap in 7-2 fashion.


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard Completes Season Sweep of Biola
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions (16-4, 8-2) make it two straight this week by defeating Biola 61-48 behind 19 points from Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) and 18 points and 10 boards from Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ). Vanguard, the 9th ranked team in the country, outplayed the Eagles (13-12, 6-5) in the final three quarters to take home the season sweep of Biola.


[Softball] Lions Split at Claremont-Mudd-Scripts
CLAREMONT, Calif. – The day started off strong with an 11-4 thrashing of Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (1-1) but ended with a split of the two games as the winning run was just beyond the reach of the Blue and Gold's glove up against the outfield fence. Vanguard, currently ranked 18th in the country and 3-3 on the year was bested 2-1 in the second game.


[Men's Basketball] Eagles Edge Lions in Epic Clash
COSTA MESA, Calif. -  Vanguard put on an epic showing against #10 Biola tonight, but in the end, they came up just short.  The Lions (15-7, 4-6) had a great effort tonight in all phases of the game. They made sure that Biola (22-3, 9-2) was not going to come into their house and dominate them. The Lions were led in scoring by Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA), who scored 26 pts, two assists, two steals, and 11 rebounds on the night. Following right behind him was Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA), who put up an astounding 31pts, five assists and five rebounds.


[Track & Field] Blue and Gold Beam at Sunshine Indoor Qualifier
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The Vanguard Track and Field teams spent the weekend at the Westmont Sunshine Indoor Qualifier. The Lions found success as the men's side set three new school records and the women's squad was led by the thrower in their second meet of the year.


[Athletics] Homecoming Sports Clinics Show Sneak Peak of VU Athletics Summer Camps
Last weekend during the slate of Homecoming events, the Vanguard Athletic department served as host for two kid's sports camps. In conjunction with the Alumni Office, the men's basketball and women's soccer teams sponsored a clinic with equal parts skill development and fun!


[Baseball] Vamo Vanguard!
LA MIRADA, Calif. – In an early season non-conference matchup with foe Biola University (3-3) kicked off Friday afternoon and 22nd ranked Vanguard (5-1) snatched a 6-2 victory. Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) got it started by tossing seven quality innings and the offense gave him runs for cushion.


[Softball] Bats Erupt in Vanguard's Sweep of Antelope Valley
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The billing featured two teams looking to capture their first win of the 2016 season and the 18th ranked Lions answered the call. Vanguard (2-2) swept both games over the University of Antelope Valley (0-4) by 7-0 and 13-6 scores. Kaitlin Estes (SO/Costa Mesa, CA) might as well have had sparks flying off her bat today as she recorded a stat line of 4-7 hitting, two RBI's, a walk, and four scored runs across today's two games. She led the team in hitting, but the overall offense came alive with 20 runs scored and 23 hits.


[Softball] Thirty Years of Vanguard Softball
This Lions Softball season brings the program into it's third decade of existence. Vanguard (at the time Southern California College) first fielded its softball team in 1986 and the 30th Anniversary was recognized in a special event during Homecoming Weekend.​ The event was held on Saturday, January 30th at Newport Mesa Church on the campus of Vanguard University. Famous Orange County sports voice Ed Arnold was the emcee for the evening.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Pounce Hawks by 30
SAN DIEGO, Calif. - Vanguard (15-4, 7-2) improves its second half play and cruises past San Diego Christian (5-12, 0-9) behind a game-high 24 points from Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA). Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) continues to dominate the paint to the tune of 19 points and 13 rebounds, while Claire Lamunu (JR/Kampala, Uganda) adds 16 points and eight boards off the bench. Maya Kennedy (JR/Huntington Beach, CA) nearly had a double-double with 10 points and nine assists. VU won by a 86-56 score.


[Men's Basketball] Three Straight "W's" for the Blue and Gold
SAN DIEGO, Calif. – Monster game does not do justice to what those in attendance saw from Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) Tuesday evening. The forward went OFF to the tune of 39 points and 16 rebounds, setting a new team high in scoring for the year. Not only did he post high numbers, but it was efficient on 17-23 shooting. Vanguard (15-6, 4-5) left the Hawks (9-10, 2-7) in the dust by a 101-92 count and won their third straight in the process.


[Baseball] Bulldogs Hand Lions First Loss of 2016
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard, currently ranked 22nd in the nation via the NAIA Coaches Top 25 Poll, has the first blemish put on its record this season as the University of Redlands defeated them 6-5. The Lions (4-1) received strong offense from Jose Rojas (SR/Anaheim, CA) and Brock Eissman (JR/San Clemente, CA). The shortstop was 2-3 at the plate while batting in three runs and scoring one with his legs; the outfielder was 204 with an RBI and scored run as well.


[Women's Outdoor Track & Field] Indoor Season Kicks off at Wesmont
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Men's and Women's Track and Field teams kicked off the 2016 Indoor season at Westmont College over the weekend. One member of the squad qualified for NAIA Indoor Nationals while two runners qualified at events outside the On Your Mark Meet.


[Men's Outdoor Track & Field] Indoor Season Kicks off at Wesmont
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Men's and Women's Track and Field teams kicked off the 2016 Indoor season at Westmont College over the weekend. One member of the squad qualified for NAIA Indoor Nationals while two runners qualified at events outside the On Your Mark Meet.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for February 1st - 6th
Thank you to all of the Alumni who joined us for the Homecoming Weekend activities! We appreciate your love and the foundation you laid for our current students and athletes. This Saturday, join us for KNOCKOUT THE RIVAL during the Men's and Women's Basketball games against Biola!


[Baseball] Offense Blasts Lions to Series Opening Win
COMPTON, Calif. - In the opening game of a three contest series this weekend, the 22nd ranked Lions (2-0) knocked off Marymount California University (2-2) by a 6-3 count. Starting pitcher Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) earned his second win on the year, in as many tries. Jose Rojas (SR/Anaheim, CA) was 3-5 including an RBI and two scored runs.


[Softball] Lions Tamed in Season Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In the opener to the Lions 2016 season, they fell short in both contests against Cal State University San Marcos (2-0). Vanguard (0-2) lost game one 5-3 and was tripped up 7-5 in the nightcap that was called early due to the sun setting.


[Baseball] Pride Dismisses Marymount with Ease
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The hot start to the 2016 season continues as the rain could not cool down the Lions bats. Vanguard (4-0) completed the three game series sweep by defeating Marymount (2-4) by a 10-6 count in game one and 9-1 in the night cap. Jose Rojas (SR/Anaheim, CA) combined for 5-7 on the day with three RBI's and scored runs.


[Women's Basketball] Mustangs Halt Lions Winning Ways
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Selected as the NAIA Game of the Week, the matchup of #12 The Master's College and #8 Vanguard did not disappoint. The seesaw battle came down to the final possession where the Mustangs (19-2, 9-0) snuck away with a 58-55 win. Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) posted a game high 17 points for the Lions (14-4, 6-2) and Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) tacked on her 10th double double of the year.


[Men's Basketball] Homecoming Victory Goes to Vanguard
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Fresh off a huge upset win on Tuesday, the Lions rode the momentum in front of the Homecoming crowd to an 82-57 victory over The Master's College. Vanguard (14-6, 3-5) received stellar contributions from a trio of players to defeat the Mustangs who now hold a 4-13, 1-8 record.


[Baseball] Lions Impact the Youth of the Dominican Republic
Just before the spring semester and the 2016 season kicked off, all of the members of the baseball team took time out of their Christmas break to follow the Mark 16:15 principle and "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." This took the team to the Caribbean Island country of the Dominican Republic which is dominated by cultural Catholicism and a recent surge in Buddhist and Islamic beliefs.


[Women's Basketball] Norman Earns NAIA Player of the Week Recognition
KANSAS CITY, Mo. –Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) has been named the NAIA National Division I Women's Basketball Player of the Week, the national office announced Tuesday. This honor was earned during her performances against Biola and Arizona Christian last week. She is the fourth recipient of the national award for the 2015-2016 season. 


[Men's Basketball] Lions Upset Warriors in Costa Mesa Thriller
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (13-6, 2-5) showed true grit tonight as they defeated 15th ranked Westmont in front of a vivacious crowd. The Lions were led by forward Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA)'s 19 points and game-high 14 rebounds. Brandon Brother played sidekick with 14 points on 4-5 shooting and making both of his attempts from downtown.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Give Payback to Westmont & Win 10th Straight
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Payback was on the mind of the Lions (14-3, 6-1) as they knocked off #2 Westmont (17-3, 6-1) to pull the two teams into a second place tie in the current GSAC standings. Vanguard, now ranked 8th nationally was guided to the 67-57 win by their own version of "The Three Musketeers". Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ), the NAIA Player of the Week, posted a stat line of 16 points and eight rebounds.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly January 25th - 31st
It is a big week here at Vanguard Athletics! On Tuesday, 10th ranked Women's Basketball will sponsor a WHITEOUT as they host #1 Westmont. This weekend, its Homecoming against The Master's College will activities all day!12:00 p.m. Softball 30th Anniversary Event1:00 p.m. Basketball Kids Clinic2:00 p.m. Soccer Kids Clinic


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard Dismisses ACU for 9th Straight
PHOENIX, Ariz. - The #10 Lions leave the Valley of the Sun with a 79-66 victory over Arizona Christian. Vanguard wins their eight straight game to improve to a 13-3 record this season and sit in second place in the Golden State Athletic Conference Standings. Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) was a beast in the contest with 25 points and 15 boards, game highs in both categories.


[Men's Basketball] Firestorm Burn Lions in Phoenix
PHOENIX, Ariz. - The Lions (12-6, 1-5) are in the midst of a brutal portion of their schedule by playing the third of four consecutive teams in the Top 15 nationally. Arizona Christian (17-3, 5-2) dropped Vanguard 80-71 as the Firestorm currently sit as the 10th team in the country. Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) once again led the Pride in scoring with 21 points. Myles Smith (SR/San Pedro, CA) and Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA) each chimed in with 13 points.


[Athletics] Own A Piece of Vanguard History
Have you ever wanted to take a part of Vanguard Athletics and its history home with you? Now is your opportunity, as we have a limited number of game day chairs available for purchase, with all funds going directly to the Champions of Character Program Center Fund. These have faciliated 1,131 total victories for our volleyball, men's basketball, and women's basketball teams since the Fall of 1996. 


[Men's Basketball] Lee To Move From an OCC to Vanguard Uniform in 2016
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Surrounded by his current Orange Coast College teammates, coach, and mother Jamaal Lee commits to join the Lions for the 2016-2017 season. Lee is a 6-3 forward who attended Washington Prep High School and is wrapping up his sophomore year at OCC.


[Baseball] Eissman Slams Lions to Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The day may have been cloudy and gloomy, but it was the exact opposite for the Lions as Vanguard (1-0) defeated La Sierra (0-1) in a convincing 7-2 victory. This game was a great way for the Lions to kick off their new season in front of their home crowd. Sean Isaac (SR/Redondo Beach, CA) led the Lions pitching six innings and recording seven strikeouts. Vanguard out hit La Sierra to the tune of 9-3 including a 2-4 day by Brock Eissman (JR/San Clemente, CA) featuring five RBI's.


[Men's Basketball] Lightning Strikes Twice for Echols
COSTA MESA, Calif. - For the second time this season, Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) has been voted Player of the Week by the Golden State Athletic Conference. His scoring prowess (24 points per game this week) enabled the Lions to split their two games including a win over La Sierra University and a competitive loss to #9 Hope International University. 


[Women's Basketball] Lions Squeak Past Eagles on the Road
LA MIRADA, Calif. - Throughout the course of any season, there will be games where it ball just doesnt bounce your way. Vanguard (12-3, 4-1) in the thick of a road GSAC game and escaped with a 53-50 win over Biola (10-11, 3-4). The 12th ranked Lions were led by 19 rebounds from Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) and 12 points each from Gionni Blankenship (SO/Paramount, CA) and Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA).


[Men's Basketball] Lions Cannot Outlast Eagles
LA MIRADA, Calif. - Vanguard (12-5, 1-4) went toe to toe with 10th ranked Biola (19-2, 6-1) for nearly 40 minutes but could not hold on down the stretch and ended up losing 78-66. Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) tallied a double double with 21 points and 10 boards in the loss. Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) pitched in 16 points and Brandon Brothers (FR/Pasadena, CA) added 13.


[Men's Basketball] Echols Makes Bevo Francis Award Top 100 Watch List
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Small College Basketball has released the first edition of the Bevo Francis Award Watch List which features 100 of the top men's basketball players in the country at the NCAA DII and DIII, NAIA DI and DII, USCAA DI and DII, and NCCAA DI and DII levels. The Clarence "Bevo" Award will be presented annually to the player who has the finest overall season within small college athletics in the sport of basketball. 


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for January 18th - 23rd
Make sure to mark your calendar for January 30th as that is the 2016 Homecoming date for Vanguard University. There will be many great events including the 5k Run for Mercy, 30th Anniversary Softball Banquet/Alumni Game, Soccer and Basketball kids camps, and to top it all off the men's and women's basketball games against The Master's College. 


[Women's Basketball] Keen Shot Selection Guides Lions to Sixth Straight Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. - After a physical game, the 12th ranked Vanguard (10-3) makes it six straight victories with a hard fought win against Cal. State San Marcos (4-8). The Lions showed great poise as they executed a suffocating defense and an aggressive attitude on offense. Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) led the charge for the Lions on offense with 20 points and was complimented by Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) who scored 14 points and five rebounds.


[Volleyball] Pride Inks Rice and Young for 2016
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Fresh of the historic 2015 season where Vanguard Volleyball claimed their first conference title and marched on to the Top Eight, they lost five valuable members of the team to graduation. They have begun the process of gearing up for next year with signing their first two recruits. Sam Rice inks with the Pride and her current teammate Ashley Young is committed to donning the Blue and Gold for 2016.


[Women's Basketball] Norman Once Again Shines in Vanguard Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 12th ranked Lions (11-3, 3-1) continue their winning way by defeating Hope International (8-6,1-4) in resounding 63-42 fashion. Like so many times before in the year, Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) highlights the victory with an impressive 19 points and 12 rebounds.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Comeback Falls Short Against Royals
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) 25 points and nine boards are not enough as the Lions fall 77-67 to the 12th ranked Royals of Hope International (13-2,5-0). Vanguard (12-4, 1-3) also had key contributions from Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) who tallied 12 points and 11 rebounds in the game. HIU placed three players in double digits for the contest.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for January 11th -16th
Great things are happening within Vanguard Athletics! Last week both Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) and Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) were named Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week. This coming Saturday, we will be honoring our departing Athletic Director of 21 years. We ask you to join in this celebration for Bob Wilson by wearing your favorite Hawaiian print shirt to Saturday's basketball games!


[Athletics] Bob Wilson Named to Daily Pilot's Top 103
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Daily Pilot, a local newspaper who covers the Costa Mesa and Newport Beach cities, has released their list of 103 people "who made news and lent influence in 2015." Vanguard Athletic Director Bob Wilson ranks 55th on the list and the President of the university is number 42. See the complete list below. 


[Women's Basketball] Norman Wins Back-To-Back Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - For the second consecutive week, Melissa Norman has taken home the Golden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week. The 12th ranked Lions have won five straight games behind the inside play of Norman as she has led the team in rebounds, blocks, and points. Her play has been instrumental in Vanguard staying afloat playing without two starters.


[Men's Basketball] Blue and Gold Back on Track
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (12-3) bounced back with a non-conference victory over La Sierra (2-12) by a 79-66 count. Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) once again leads the Lions, who are receiving national Top 25 votes, by scoring 23 points including 3-5 from behind the arc. Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) notches a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds.


[Men's Basketball] Echols Marks Career-High in Lions Loss
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Entering the conference matchup with William Jessup (10-5,2-2) the 24th ranked Lions knew they would be tough inside. All night the Blue and Gold (11-3, 1-2) battled hard but ended up falling 99-92 to the Warriors. Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) notched a career-high 33 on 10-18 shooting to go with 13 made free throws and seven assists. Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) added 24 points and nine boards while Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA) chipped in 15 points and six assists.


[Women's Basketball] Doucette?s Return Sparks Vanguard
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard, #12 in the latest NAIA poll, received a strong boost with the return of Second Team All-American Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) to the lineup as she scored a game high 19 points. Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) tacked on 13 points and 14 boards as she was the only player to record double-digit rebounds in Vanguard's 62-42 win over William Jessup (11-4, 2-2).


[Women's Basketball] Lions Win First GSAC Match
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Playing without two starters and some rotation players out with illness, the 12th Lions (8-3, 1-1) defeated Menlo College (7-9, 0-3) by a narrow margin in front of the home crowd in The Pit. Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) scored a team high 18 points in the 72-69 win over the Oaks. Maya Kennedy (JR/Huntington Beach, CA) and Hannah Tabron chipped in 14 and 12 points respectively. 


[Men's Basketball] Allmon's Double-Double Leads Pride
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard (11-2, 1-1) secured its first conference win by a 69-46 count over Menlo College (7-9, 1-2). Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) scored a game high 19 points and grabbed 14 rebounds in the win. Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA) added 17 points and Brandon Brothers (FR/Pasadena, CA) dropped 14. The win marks the fourth straight victory for the Pride.


[Men's Basketball] Echols Earns First GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The first nominations and voting for Men's Basketball Player of the Week were fielded by the GSAC committee on January 4th and Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) came out as the winner in the first award of 2016. This is the first recognition he has received while wearing the Blue and Gold. Vanguard swept the awards this week as Melissa Norman also earned the award.


[Women's Basketball] Post Dominance Highlights Norman's Player of the Week Award
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Three strong performances from Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) has earned her Player of the Week for the Golden State Athletic Conference as announced on January 4th. She led the team in scoring, rebounding, and blocks and #1 Vanguard notched a 3-0 record on the week. The duo of Norman and Jaamon Echols swept the POTW Awards this week.


[Women's Basketball] Third Straight Victory Behind 19 Points from Norman
COSTA MESA, Calif. - For the third straight game Vanguard (7-3) has been led in scoring by Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ). Tonight they knocked off the University of Calgary (17-8) in overtime by a count of 70-65. This also marks the second game with the duo of All-American Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) and starting point guard Lauren Martin (SR/Torrance, CA).


[Athletics] Lions Reach New Heights in 2015
COSTA MESA, Calif. - On the first day of 2016, Vanguard Athletics wants to take a moment to thank all the supporters of the Blue and Gold! As we begin a new year fresh in the middle of basketball season and with baseball/softball right around the bend, now is a perfect time to recall the great achievements of our teams during 2015. 


[Women's Basketball] Norman Leads Blue and Gold to Runaway Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) tossed up a game-high 22 points on 10-14 shooting to lead the Lions (6-3) to an 8566 victory over the visiting Lewis & Clark College Pioneers (1-10). She also snatched 15 rebounds, blocked six shots, and dished out three assists for the well rounded effort. Jaime Goff (JR/Oregon City, OR) and Claire Lamunu (JR/Kampala, Uganda) are the other Vanguard players to reach double figures in scoring.


[Men's Basketball] Hoosein Sparks Career-High 33 and Guides Pride to Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. - It has been a week of career-high's as Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA) takes a turn and drops 33 points on 9-12 from behind the arc and guides the #21 Lions (10-2) to a runaway 89-62 victory over the university of Alberta (4-7). Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) pitches in with 15 points and Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) adds 10 points in Vanguard's third straight victory.


[Men's Basketball] Echols Pours in Career-High 31 points in Vanguard Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Lions (9-2) pick up right where they left off before Christmas and picked up a 81-75 victory over the University of Northern British Columbia (3-6) in the opening contest of the Bill Reynolds Holiday Classic. Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) put on a clinic tonight tying a career high with 31 points and four steals. Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) was impressive himself with 20 points and seven boards in 30 minutes of play. 


[Women's Basketball] Balanced Scorings Paces Lions to Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard (5-3) regains their winning ways by beating Trinity Western (3-6) by an 80-54 score. The Lions featured balanced scoring as four players reached double figures and all 12 players who entered the contest scored. Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) and Maya Kennedy (JR/Huntington Beach, CA) each had a team high 15 points. Jessie Brown posted 18 points for the Spartans in the loss. 


[Women's Basketball] Vanguard Toppled in Top 10 Matchup
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The woes continue for fans of #1 Vanguard as they drop their third straight game and fall to 4-3 on the year. The latest loss comes to #10 Our Lady of the Lake (8-2) by a 69-54 score. Maya Kennedy (JR/Huntington Beach, CA) scored 19 points in the loss including nailing five three pointers. Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) chimed in with 10 points and 12 boards.


[Athletics] Lions Rank Seventh in Directors' Cup
COSTA MESA, Calif. - In the chase for the 2015-16 Learfield Sports Directors' Cup, the Vanguard Lions have placed themselves in the thick of the chase after the fall sports were accounted for. Points are rewarded based off the final seeding of the teams and the Blue and Gold rode strong season from Volleyball and both Men's and Women's Soccer to a seventh placed ranking as of December 17, 2015. 


[Women's Basketball] #1 Lions Fall to #12 MidAmerica Nazarene
COSTA MESA, Calif. - For the second time in as many games, the #1 ranked Lions are defeated. Vanguard (4-2) loses 69-58 to #12 MidAmerica Nazarene  (7-2) in the night cap of day one of the Vanguard Classic. All five starters for the Pioneers scored in double figures. Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) led all players with 19 points on 8-14 shooting.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Right the Ship with Victory in Texas
WAXAHACHIE, Texas - Bouncing back from a loss in the previous game, the #21 Lions (8-2) rallied in the second half to beat Southeastern by a 80-68 count. Coming as no surprise, Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) scored a game high 19 points including nine from behind the three-point stripe. Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA) was close behind with 17 points as he heated up from behind the arc (3-4).


[Men's Basketball] Vanguard Loses Matchup of Lions
WAXAHACHIE, Texas - In a matchup of two schools nicknamed the Lions, #21 Vanguard (7-2) is bested by an 87-81 score by Southwestern Assemblies of God University who boast an 11-2 record. Consistent with the common theme for the year, Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) led the Pride with 18 points in a game high 36 minutes of play. 


[Women's Basketball] Lions Toss Triple Digits on the Scoreboard
COSTA MESA, Calif. - If there is one word to describe tonight's game it would domination as Vanguard (4-0) to keep their undefeated season alive. La Sierra (0-6) tried their best, but they just could not keep up with the Blue and Gold tonight. Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) led all scorers with 26 points on the night to go along with seven rebounds. Following her in scoring was Melissa Norman (SR/Elk Grove, CA ) with 20 points, five rebounds, one assist, one block, and three steals for the night.


[Softball] Softball Celebrating 30th Anniversary During 2016 Homecoming
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Vanguard University softball program will be celebrating its 30th year of existence on January 30, 2016, during VU's Homecoming weekend.  Prior to the annual alumni game, there will be a buffet luncheon and 30-year Celebration program, beginning at 12:00 p.m. in Newport Mesa Church on campus.  The first Southern California College team will be recognized, as well as other special acknowledgements will be made during the lunch program.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for December 14-19th
Holiday tournaments have descended on Vanguard University as they will partake in a slate of contests over the winter break. Make it a family affair and come root for the Blue and Gold!


[Volleyball] Keep 'em coming! The Awards Continue for Vanguard Volleyball
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Lions have stopped playing for the 2015 season, but the highlights keep coming. A day after having the American Volleyball Coaches Association laud the Blue and Gold, the NAIA echoed a similar sentiment by rewarding four members of the Pride with All-American level recognition.


[Women's Basketball] Pride Downed For First Loss
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Just hours after being ranked 1st in the country, for the 41st time in program history, Vanguard's spotless record received its first blemish. Number 2 Westmont College (9-1,1-0) won 60-47 in the GSAC Opener for both teams and Vanguard left with a (4-1,0-1) record.


[Men's Basketball] Vanguard Tripped up for First Time in 2015
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – In the opening game of the Golden State Athletic Conference slate, #14 Westmont (7-2,1-0) defeated #21 Vanguard (7-1). The first loss of the year for the Blue and Gold came in an 89-82 fashion on the road at the always tough venue of the Warriors.


[Men's Basketball] SATURDAY'S GAME POSTPONED!
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The non-conference matchup between Vanguard University (7-1) and La Sierra University (1-6) has been postponed for this Saturday, December 12th. It will be rescheduled at a date and time that is still to be determined. 


[Athletics] The Oral History of "The Pit"
During the early 1970's, Southern California College currently known as Vanguard University's gym earned the nickname "The Pit." The compact arena filled with roaring fans during the wrestling matches, basketball, and volleyball games created the feeling of being inside of a pit.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for Dec 7-12
HISTORY WAS MADE! Vanguard Volleyball exited pool play for the third time in school history and advanced to the Quarterfinal round for the first time in program history. Additionally, the men's and women's soccer squads both reached the round of 16 at their respective national tournaments. 


[Volleyball] Incredible Season Comes to an End in Quarterfinals
Box ScoreSIOUX CITY, Iowa. – The Lions gave absolutely everything they had in their quarterfinal matchup against the Viterbo V-Hawks, but they were unable to pull off an upset, losing in three sets (25-23, 25-23, 25-15) to finish their incredible run at the NAIA National Championship. With the loss the Lions complete their season with a record of 25-7 and become the most successful team in Vanguard Volleyball history after winning the GSAC Championship and advancing farther than they ever have at the national tournament.


[Volleyball] Lions Showcase Versatility; Defeat Raiders on Day 2 of NAIA Championship
SIOUX CITY, Iowa. – Coming into their match against Southern Oregon on day two of pool play, the Lions knew what was expected of them in order to come out with a victory. The Raiders presented a tough match up and would challenge the Lions on each point, and although it was not easy, the Lions would pull it out in four sets (25-18, 13-25, 25-15, 25-23) to win their second match in as many days.


[Men's Basketball] Explosive First Half Leads Lions to Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Blue and Gold will celebrate tonight as they blow out Life Pacific College (1-7) by a score of 92-59. Vanguard (7-0) enjoyed a very effective first half as Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) led the team in scoring with 35 points, 10 assists, and two steals. Following him was Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA), and Brandon Brothers (FR/Pasadena, CA), who combined with Echols to make 12 of 14 three pointers. Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) also put up a great game with 16 points to go along with eight rebounds, three assists, and perfect night from the free throw line. Brothers tossed up 24 points off the bench.


[Volleyball] Lions Fall on Day 3 of Pool Play
SIOUX CITY, Iowa. – Entering the match against the Midland University Warriors, Vanguard knew they would have their hands full against a quality opponent, as both teams would fight for the top spot in Pool F after starting 2-0. When it was all said and done, the Lions could not get past the Warriors disciplined defense, dropping the match in four sets (22-25, 26-24, 22-25, 16-25).


[Volleyball] Elite Eight Bound! Lions Survive and Advance Against MidAmerica
SIOUX CITY, Iowa – In a match that would determine who would move on into the next round, the Lions rallied to defeat the MidAmerica Nazarene Pioneers in five sets (21-25, 25-23, 27-25, 22-25, 15-7) to advance into the quarterfinals for the first time in program history.


[Volleyball] Lions Sink Mariners in First Match
SIOUX CITY, Iowa – It has been sixteen days since the volleyball team at Vanguard University (23-5) has played a competitive match, and after two weeks of practicing against themselves, they were ready to face a new opponent. The Golden State Athletic Conference champions looked focused and confident, as they overcame a slow start to defeat the Coastal Georgia Mariners in four sets (23-25, 25-11, 25-21, 25-17).


[Men's Soccer] Lions Stopped in National Tournament Quest
DELRAY BEACH, Fla. - Coming in as the seventh seed in the 16 team field, Vanguard (16-5) had eyes on another deep run into the NAIA National Championships. The magic of last season faded as the Lions were blanked 2-0 by the MidAmerica Nazarene (16-5). Vanguard was outmatched on the offensive end attempting 13 less shots.


[Women's Soccer] Family Spirit Runs High After Leaving It All on the Pitch
ORANGE BEACH, Ala. - As the second to last team tobe selected into the National Tournament, Vanguard (15-5-2) put on quite a performance. Reaching the final site, the 14th seeded Lions drew 3rd seeded William Carey in the opening match at the final site. The fans of the Blue and Gold who made the trip definitely got their monies worth as they left every last ounce of effort on the dew laden pitch of the Orange Beach Sports Complex in a 3-1 loss during penalty kicks.


[Volleyball] Lions Hungry for More - 2015 NAIA Volleyball National Championship Preview
SIOUX CITY, Iowa. – After the most successful regular season in program history, the Vanguard University Lions (22-5) are prepared to make some noise at the national level as they enter the NAIA Volleyball Championship in Sioux City, Iowa. The Golden State Athletic Conference champions earned an Opening Round bye thanks to their stellar play during the season, which placed them sixth in the most recent 2015 Tachikara-NAIA Volleyball Coaches' Top 25 Poll. 


[Men's Basketball] Lions Kick Off Thanksgiving Classic in Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Playing in the second game of the Thanksgiving Classic, the host team earned a 71-61 win over Bethesda who now is 0-3 on the year. Vanguard (5-0) was guided by Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) who scored a game high 24 points on 7-16 shooting. The Pride received double digit points from Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) and Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA) as 10 Lions played in the contest.


[Men's Basketball] Hot Shooting Guides Pride to 6th Straight Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard (6-0) claims a 79-73 victory over Benedictine University- Mesa (3-8) as Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) once again leads all players in scoring with 21 points on 13 field goal attempts. Christian Ware-Berry (SO/Pomona, CA) had an efficient night going 6-8 from the field en route to 14 points.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for November 23rd- 28th
Vanguard Men's Basketball will host the Thanksgiving Classic on Friday (27th) and Saturday (28th) this week. Participating teams include Benedictine-Mesa, Bethesda, Cal State Dominguez Hills, and Trinity International. 


[Women's Basketball] Hot Start Propels Blue and Gold to Victory
LOS ANGELES - Vanguard, ranked third in the coaches preseason poll, continues its undefeated season by picking up a 79-69 win over Bethesda. The Lions hold a 3-0 record as Kandyce Smith (SO/Monrovia, CA) scores a team high 16 points in only 14 minutes off the bench. Bethesda falls to 4-3 on the year with the loss at East Los Angeles College. 


[Women's Basketball] Doucette Splashes Vanguard to Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Although she hadn't made one all night, when the seconds were ticking down Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) drained the game winning three pointer to give #3 Vanguard the 59-58 victory over Montana Tech (4-3). She scored a game high 23 points on 8-21 shooting for the 2-0 Lions.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Cross Country Season Ends on High Note
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Vanguard runs a successful day at the NAIA National Championships at McAlpine Creek Park. The Lions were represented by Keili Dorn (FR/Kailua-Kona, HI) on the women's side and Zach DeAtley (JR/Victorville, CA), Zach Hunt (JR/Sparks, NV), and Jared Shohfi (SR/Pleasanton, CA) (JR/Pleasanton, CA) for the men. 


[Women's Soccer] Next Stop Alabama!
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The ghosts of last season's NAIA Opening  Round match loss in penalty kicks were vanquished as Vanguard (15-5-1) blasted Columbia (18-4) to the tune of a 4-1 victory. Dominated all statistical categories, Madison Cody Farrel and Nicole Dunn (SO/Lake Forest, CA) each scored a goal and an assist in the win.


[Men's Soccer] They Got Florida On Their Mind
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Fresh off a quarterfinal finish a year ago, the Lions (16-5) made things easier on themselves this year by smashing the University of Great Falls 3-0 in the NAIA Opening Round match. They did not have the stress of an overtime match like last year due to three second half goals from Jesus Fregoso (SR/La Puente, CA), Ivan Azpeita (JR/Orange, CA), and Jose Castillo (SO/Orange, CA).


[Men's Basketball] Cal State Northridge Drops Lions
NORTHRIDGE, Calif. - Cal State University Northridge (2-2) defeated Vanguard (RV) by a count of 72-52 in an exhibition matchup. Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) posted 16 points and four rebounds, while Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) tacked on 10 points and nine boards. THe Lions hold a 4-0 record/ 


[Volleyball] Lions Reach Tourney for Fifth Straight Year
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 NAIA National Tournament Bracket was released earlier this morning and the sixth ranked Lions (22-5) will receive an automatic berth at the Final Site in Sioux City, Iowa.


[Men's Soccer] Vanguard Marches Into National Tournament
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard will host the University of Great Falls on Saturday, November 21st in the NAIA National Tournament Opening Round. Vanguard is the seventh seed in the 32 team tournament and aims to make it to the final site in Delray Beach, Florida.


[Women's Soccer] Lions Host Opening Round Again
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard University has made it back into the NAIA National Tournament field as the seventh at large berth. The 31 team field featured 22 conference champions, the host site school, and eight at large teams. 


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for November 16th-21st
NAIA OPENING ROUND: Vanguard University has been chosen as a host site for both men's and women's tournament. The Lion Women will host Columbia (Mo.) at 11:00 a.m on Saturday followed by the Lion Men playing the University of Great Falls at 2:00 p.m.


[Volleyball] Awards Mantle Filling up for Blue and Gold
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference announced its 2015 Volleyball honors this afternoon and the accolades for this years historic season keep pouring in. Stephanie Flores (SR/Yucaipa, CA) is named GSAC Player of the Year and is joined by teammate Rebecca Lowden (FR/Glendora, CA) as the Libero of the Year. Coach of the Year recognition goes to Eryn Leja for guiding the Pride to a 15-1 record.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Look to Defend GSAC Title
LA MIRADA, Calif. - It took until the second overtime period, but #14 Vanguard knocked off #24 The Master's College 2-1. Vanguard (15-3) received goals from Jesus Fregoso (SR/La Puente, CA) and Juan Arellano (JR/Hawthorne, CA) who both came off the bench.


[Men's Basketball] Vanguard Opens Vegas Classic in Victory
LAS VEGAS - Vanguard University hit the road for its first true contest and walked away victorious. In their opening game of the Las Vegas Classic, the Lions (3-0) defeated Embry-Riddle Aeronautical of Arizona by a 85-71 count. Malachi Hoosein (SO/Norwalk, CA) poured in a game high 20 points on 6-7 from downtown.


[Volleyball] Lions Reign as GSAC Champs!
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The celebration started before the match as the program honored the five seniors playing in their final home match, and ending with hoisting a championship plaque after the three game sweep. Vanguard (22-5, 15-1) was led offensively by Charlotte Heerlyn (SR/Santee, CA) hitting .556% on 11 kills. Hope International falls to 12-14, 8-8 with the loss.


[Men's Basketball] Pride Takes Two in Vegas
LAS VEGAS - Vanguard moves to 4-0 on the year with an overtime 76-72 win over Eastern Oregon University. The Pride were led in scoring by Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA) 20 points. Brandon Brothers (FR/Pasadena, CA) went 4-7 from downtown to add 18 points and scored 16 points on 50% shooting.


[Men's Soccer] Vanguard Stopped Short of Back-To-Back Champions
LA MIRADA, Calif. - On a chilly evening in La Mirada the two top teams in the Golden State Athletic Conference found themselves playing in the conference tournament final with a chance to earn an automatic bid to the NAIA National Championship. The 14th ranked Lions (15-4) had a second straight title on their minds, but the eighth ranked Biola University Eagles (14-4-1) played the role of spoilers, winning the match 1-0 in front of their energetic fans.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly ~ November 9th - 15th
Come out and support the Blue and Gold in the GSAC Tournament hosted by Biola on Thursday! Also, this Saturday come to The Pit for Volleyball Senior Night as we celebrate the last home match of the year and recognize them for winning the first ever GSAC Championship!


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Four Lions Reach GSAC Scholar Athlete Status
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference has released the 2015 awards for men's and women's cross country. Vanguard was represented four times on the Scholar Athlete Teams. All of the Lions are first time winners.


[Women's Soccer] Lions Lead GSAC with Six Scholar Athletes
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 Golden State Athletic Conference Scholar Athletes for women's soccer have been released and the 11th ranked Lions place a conference high six members on the team. Three players for the Pride are repeat winners.


[Men's Soccer] Pride has Three Repeat GSAC Scholar Athletes Selected
COSTA MESA, Calif. - For the Fall 2015 season, three members of the Blue and Gold are selected as GSAC Scholar Athlete for being of junior standing and meeting high expectations for classwork. All three Lions are named to the list for the second straight year.


[Women's Basketball] UConn Raises Banner in Game Against Vanguard
STORRS, Conn. - Vanguard University was invited by University of Connecticut head coach Geno Auriemma to play and exhibition game in which the Huskies would raise the 2015 National Championship banner and receive their championship rings. The Lions were defeated 98-18 in the contest. 


[Women's Basketball] Lions Lose Close to University of Maine
GORHAM, Maine - In the first game of the Lions east coast exhibition tour, Vanguard lost 70-55 against the University of Maine. Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA) led all scorers with 23 points on 9-19 shooting.


[Women's Soccer] Lions March On!
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Lions (14-4-1), ranked 11th in the country and the third seed in the GSAC Tournament, moves on to the Semifinals by defeating San Diego Christian (9-8-1) 3-0. Haley Bruce (FR/San Diego, CA) scores her season high two goals in the match.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Secures Share of GSAC Championship
ATHERTON, Calif. - The long road trip north was fruitful for the #4 Lions (21-4, 14-0) as they picked up another 3-0 victory this time by defeating Menlo (6-19, 4-10) by scores of 25-16, 25-18, 25-17. Rebecca Lowden (FR/Glendora, CA) ended the contest with a match hig 21 digs.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Compete at UC Irvine
IRVINE, Calif. - As the 2015-16 season kicks off, the Lions (1-0) traveled just down the road for an exhibition against UC Irvine at the Bren Events Center. Last season the Anteaters reached the NCAA Tournament and ended up defeating Vanuard 83-59.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Wins 15th Straight Match
ROCKLIN, Calif. – After moving up to fourth in the nation this week, which is a program high, the Lions (20-4,13-0 ) kicked off a weekend trip with a victory over William Jessup (6-19,1-13).  Vanguard won in straight sets by 25-16,25-18,25-11 margins.


[Soccer] Vanguard Places Eight Players on All-GSAC Team
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference has released the 2015 All-Conference Teams Presented by Under Armour and the Vanguard Lions made a splash on both lists. For the both Men's and Women's All-GSAC, the Blue and Gold placed four members each.


[Men's Basketball] Echols Leads Lions to Opening Night Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Lions (1-0) picked up a win during opening night in front of a energetic crowd at The Pit. Vanguard (RV) defeated the University of La Verne by a 83-76 margin behind a game high 24 points from Jaamon Echols (SR/Seattle, WA). Zach Allmon (JR/San Luis Obispo, CA) chipped in 14 points and seven rebounds for the short handed Pride.


[Women's Basketball] #3 Lions Kick Off Season with Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Third ranked Vanguard (1-0) got the season underway in front of a home crowd who got their first experience with the new collegiate women's basketball rules. The Lions, led by Samantha Doucette (SR/Irvine, CA)'s 15 points, defeated California Lutheran 69-43.


[Men's Soccer] Pride Routs WJU 6-1
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard University (13-3,8-2) sealed the second seed in the upcoming GSAC Tournament by defeating William Jessup (5-11-1,2-8)  in a 6-1 blowout on senior day. Jesus Fregoso (SR/La Puente, CA) led all scorers with two goals and tied a game high six shots.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Moves to 12-0 in GSAC Play
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The seventh ranked Lions continue their record setting year as they win their 14th straight game. This time they defeated The Master's College (18-10,9-5) 3-0 on sets. Vanguard (19-4,12-0) has now won 16 conference matches in a row dating back to last November.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly ~ November 2nd - 9th
KEYS THIS WEEK: Women's soccer received the third seed in the upcoming GSAC Soccer Tournament and will host a match on Saturday; the men's squad earned a bye for the opening road. Men's basketball gets the winter season under way on Tuesday and women's basketball plays their first official match on Wednesday.


[Men's Soccer] Fregoso Wins Second Player of The Week Award
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference has released the Players of the Week for November 2nd and the 13th ranked Lions captured both of the awards. Jesus Fregoso (SR/La Puente, CA) takes home his second Offensive Player of the Week award and Josh Davis (SR/Mission Viejo, CA) wins for Defensive Player of the Week.


[Volleyball] Lions Sweep Player of the Week Awards Again!
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Once again the Lions are making history as they win all three conference players of the week for the second time this year. Rachael Barker (SR/Torrance, CA) was named Attacker of the Week, Rory McCloy (JR/Salt Lake City, UT) earns Setter of the Week, and Rebecca Lowden (FR/Glendora, CA) continues her hot first year with Defensive Player of the Week.


[Volleyball] Streak Extends to 11 Straight for Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard defeated #17 Westmont College 3-1 (29-27,21-25,25-14,25-18) to push their conference win streak to 11 as they continue with the second round of GSAC competition. The seventh ranked Pride were led by a match high 16 kills from Jessica Chase (JR/Riverside, CA) and strong defense from the back line. Boasting a 18-4,11-0 record, the Lions sit atop the GSAC standings and the Warriors are now 17-6,9-4 on the season.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Enter 2015-2016 Season as GSAC Favorites
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015-2016 women's basketball season is days away from beginning and the Golden State Athletic Conference has released its preseason poll and season preview. Fresh off its 13th consecutive trip to the NAIA National Tournament, the Lions will start the season as a contender not only for another conference championship but the top prize in the nation. The Lions received five of the nine first place votes in the preseason coaches' poll.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Edge out Menlo
Costa Mesa, Calif. - Vanguard squeezed out a hard fought victory today as they defeated Menlo College to gain their eighth home win of the season. Ranked 13th in the nation, Vanguard (13-3,7-2) and Menlo (8-6,2-5-3) played a game that displayed true defensive mastermind as neither offense was able to break the stalemate. The lone score of the game came from Luke Kadillak (SR/San Diego, CA) as he scored on a penalty kick late in the first half.


[Women's Soccer] Pride Wins Third Straight Contest
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard, currently ranked 12th in the nation with a 12-4-1, 6-2-1 record, defeated Menlo College (8-6-4,4-5-1) by a 2-0 count in front of the home crowd. The Lions picked up goals from Madison Cody Farell (SR/Irvine, CA) and Asia Kleinmeyer (SR/Mission Viejo, CA); Kaycee Smith (SR/Moreno Valley, CA) earned her second straight shutout victory.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Kick Off D1 Slate at UCLA
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard University is set to begin on its annual exhibition tour against NCAA Division 1 opponents and this year's slate includes meetings with UCLA, UConn, the University of Maine, and Boston College. This trip offers unique opportunities to extend the Vanguard brand around the nation and improve the play of the Lions in the preseason.


[Men's Soccer] Dodge Wins 150th Game with Vanguard Men
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Vanguard University, the 6th ranked team in the NAIA, rebounded from a tough loss last week by running away from Westmont (6-5-1, 3-3) by a 4-1 score on the road. The Lions (11-2, 5-1) victory was the 150th for head coach Randy Dodge with the VU men.


[Volleyball] Lions Reach 10-0 in GSAC Play
PHOENIX, Ariz. – The unbeaten streak in conference play continues for the 9th ranked Lions (17-4, 10-0) as they quickly handled Arizona Christian  (2-18, 0-10) in straight sets (25-15, 25-16, 25-16). Sarah McKinny (SR/Santa Barbara, CA) was the player of the match with 14 kills on 20 attempts for an unearthly .700 hitting percentage.


[Women's Soccer] Lions Draw in 2OT Against #8 Westmont
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – In a matchup of two top 15 teams, a decision could not be determined in 110 minutes of play and Westmont and Vanguard exited with a 2-2 tie. Madison Farell and Alex Bachman (JR/Buena Park, CA) scored the two goals for the Pride. Kaycee Smith (SR/Moreno Valley, CA) totaled eight saves in the draw.


[Cross Country] Lions Find Success at Bronco Invitational
SUNNYVALE, Calif. - Vanguard University's Men's and Women's Cross Country teams made the trek up to Santa Clara University to take part in the Bronco Invitational over the weekend. Many personal records were set by the Lions, highlighted by none other than Zach DeAtley (JR/Victorville, CA) dropping his best time by 46 seconds to 25:27.


[Volleyball] Snake Eyes! Vanguard Makes it 11 Straight
SANTEE, Calif. – For the second time this season, the #9 Lions (16-4, 9-0) knock off San Diego Christian (10-8, 3-4) this time by a 3-1 count. Sarah McKinny (SR/Santa Barbara, CA) posted a match high .583 hitting as she was 8-12 on kill attempts with a single error.


[Women's Soccer] Penalty Call Ruins Draw with Mustangs
SANTA CLARA, Calif. – In a GSAC rematch, the script was flipped and #22 The Master's College (6-6-1, 3-2) exited a heated affair with a 1-0 win over the #12 Lions (9-3, 3-2) in double overtime. After playing to a draw in the first 109 minutes of the match, the Mustangs were awarded a penalty kick with only seconds remaining.


[Men's Soccer] Mustangs Tame Lions in OT
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. - For only the second time all season and the first time in conference play, the #3 Lions (10-2, 4-1) exited the match on the wrong side of the result. Seventeenth ranked The Master's College (9-3-1, 3-2) won 2-1 in overtime during the NAIA Network Game of the Week.


[Volleyball] Pride defeats Hope for 10th Straight Victory
FULLERTON, Calif. - Vanguard University (15-4) hits 8-0 in GSAC play for the first time in program history behind a 3-1 victory over Hope International (8-8,5-3). The 9th ranked Lions won by set splits of 25-22, 25-17, 16-25, 26-24 over the Royals.


[Volleyball] Lions Sweep GSAC Volleyball Players of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The great week for the #9 Lions (15-4, 8-0) continues as they win all three Players of the Week in the Golden State Athletic Conference. Rebecca Lowden (FR/Glendora, CA) wins the Defender of the Week for the second time this season and Kelly Dalrymple (JR/Poway, CA) is named the Setter of the Week again. Stephanie Flores (SR/Yucaipa, CA) rides a monster week up the middle to the Attacker of the Week recognition.


[Women's Soccer] Lopp Rides Four Goals to Offensive Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 12th ranked Lions suffered a tough loss in double overtime on the road at The Master's College, but four goals by Madison Lopp (SO/Anaheim, CA) in the teams 8-1 win over San Diego Christian earns her the Offensive Player of the Week.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for October 5th- 10th
SPECIAL RECOGNITION: During the Volleyball match on Saturday, October 3rd against William Jessup, head coach Eryn Leja earned her 100th win with the Lions. She boasts a winning percentage of 65% with a win loss split of 100-55 in her five seasons with the Pride. 


[Men's Soccer] Hat Trick Nets Kadillak Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference has released the Player's of the Week for competitions between September 28th and October 3rd. Luke Kadillak (SR/San Diego, CA) was chosen to represent Vanguard University and the men's soccer program. 


[Women's Soccer] Lions Rebound in Rout of Hawks
SANTEE, Calif. - Fresh off their first conference loss this season, the #12 Lions (9-2, 3-1) rebounded with a 8-1 domination of San Diego Christian (6-4-1, 1-3). Vanguard was led by Madison Lopp (SO/Anaheim, CA), four goals, and Danyelle Allen (JR/San Clemente, CA), three assists and a goal.


[Men's Soccer] Scoring Burst Continues for Kadillak
SANTEE, Calif. - Staying in pole position of the Golden State Athletic Conference, the 3rd ranked Lions (10-1, 4-0) are guided to a 2-0 victory over San Diego Christian (7-5, 2-2) by goals from Luke Kadillak (SR/San Diego, CA) and Daniel Yo (FR/Fullerton, CA). Vanguard wins its seventh consecutive match and has only lost one contest this season. 


[Volleyball] And Down Goes Number One!
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In the largest match of the season for both teams, the 9th ranked Lions (14-4, 7-0) captured a 3-1 victory over #1 ranked Biola (15-1, 7-1) who had previously been undefeated. VU won the first, third, and fourth sets in front of a rowdy home crowd.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Wins Lopsided Affair with Menlo
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard continues its strong start to conference play defeating Menlo College (3-15, 1-6) in straight sets 25-11,25-14,25-10. The match unfolded as anticipated with the 10th ranked Lions (12-4, 5-0) being in firm control from the opening point.


[Men's Cross Country] Dorn; DeAtley Highlight Lions at Pomona-Pitzner Invitational
CLAREMONT, Calif. - The Lions cross country teams traveled north to race in the Pomona-Pitzner Invitational. On the men's side, the Lions were led by Zach DeAtley (JR/Victorville, CA) and once again Keili Dorn paced the women's squad. 


[Women's Soccer] Royals Upset Lions in Close GSAC Match
COSTA MESA, Calif. - For the first time in conference play and only the second time all season, the Lions lost a match. Hope International (7-1-2. 2-1) scored the only goal of the match in the 82nd minute to knock off Vanguard (8-2, 2-1).


[Men's Soccer] Kadillak's Hat Trick Dashes Royals Hope
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Fans who came out to today's match between #3 Vanguard (9-1, 3-0) and Hope International (4-6, 0-3) were in for a wild ride. The two teams combined for 11 goals including six straight from the Lions. Luke Kadillak (SR/San Diego, CA) was the Man of the Match recording the first hat trick for VU on the year. Vanguard ran away in the end with a 8-3 victory. 


[Volleyball] Leja Earns 100th Win as Lions Coach
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In the second straight three set sweep, all eyes were on head coach Eryn Leja as she earned her 100th win as the coach of the #10 ranked Lions. Vanguard (13-4, 6-0) defeated William Jessup (5-12, 1-6). Stephanie Flores (SR/Yucaipa, CA) led a group of fantastic offensive performances for the Blue and Gold. She was 8-11 on kill attempts for a .727 hitting percent. Charlotte Heerlyn (SR/Santee, CA) was 7-14 with an error resulting in a .429 hitting average.


[Soccer] Allen; Gomez Earn Player of the Week Recognition
Week three of Golden State Athletic Conference awards have been released and the Blue and Gold were represented by one player from each soccer squad. On the women's side, Danyelle Allen (JR/San Clemente, CA) was named Offensive Player of the Week for the first time in her Lions career. For the men, Brandon Gomez (SO/Los Angeles, CA) is the Defensive Player of the Week for recording his fourth and fifth straight shutouts.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for September 28th - October 3rd
SPECIAL EVENT: Join us on Friday, October 2nd as we recognize the historic season the 2015 Baseball achieved in their 8th place finish at the AVISTA NAIA World Series and honor Jose Rojas (SR/Anaheim, CA) winning the first Gold Glove in Vanguard University history!


[Volleyball] Heerlyn Earns Second GSAC Player of the Week
The Golden State Athletic Conference has released its Player's of the Week for September 28th and the Lions once again hold two of the three awards. Charlotte Heerlyn (SR/Santee, CA) wins as Attacker of the Week and Kelly Dalrymple (JR/Poway, CA) is named Setter of the Week.


[Men's Soccer] Torres, Paz Push Vanguard Past Master's
COSTA MESA, Calif. - In the opening match of the 2015 Golden State Athletic Conference season, the #8 Lions knocked off The Master's College 2-0. TMC entered the contest as the 16th ranked team in the nation and left with a 6-2-1 overall record and 0-1 in conference matches. Vanguard (7-1, 1-0) was lifted by timely goals from Brian Torres (SO/Huntington Beach, CA) and Nahum Paz (SO/Costa Mesa, CA).


[Athletics] Vanguard Athletics Exhibits Significance Overseas
As part of the NAIA Champions of Character program that was established at Vanguard in the early 2000's, the Athletic Department has supported summer trips to the Philippines '09, Himalayas '12 and '14, Australia '13, and Tanzania '14. This year, Vanguard Athletics is sponsoring trips to the Dominican Republic and the Philippines through the Beyond Athletics Ministry "BAM" portion of the department.


[Volleyball] Lions Win at Westmont for 5th Straight Time
Santa Barbara, Calif. – Facing off in the NAIA Game of the week, #10 Vanguard defeated #16 Westmont 3-1 on sets. The Lions (11-4, 4-0) won by scores of 25-22, 15-25, 25-21, 25-21 over the Warriors (11-4, 4-2). The tale of the match can be easily shown based off the hitting percentages for each squad throughout each set. In wins, the Lions hit at a higher rate with fewer errors. During the second set, which Vanguard lost, Westmont posted a .250% greater average.


[Women's Soccer] Lions Sit Atop GSAC after William Jessup Win
ROCKLIN, Calif. – Vanguard, the 12th ranked team in the nation, leaves Northern California with a 2-1 victory over William Jessup (7-1, 0-1). The Lions came back from a one goal deficit to win their seventh consecutive contest.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Dominate Warriors in Road Win
ROCKLIN, Calif. – Winning their fifth game in a row, 8th ranked Vanguard now boasts an 8-1, 2-0 record on the year. Today's 2-0 win over William Jessup (2-4-1, 0-1) was spearheaded by goals from Jesus Fregoso (SR/La Puente, CA) and George Zuniga (JR/Lynwood, CA).


[Women's Soccer] Allen Drops Two Goals in GSAC Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif. - In the opening match of conference play, Vanguard (7-1, 1-0) rallied late to defeat The Master's College (3-5-1, 0-1) by a 2-1 score. Danyelle Allen (JR/San Clemente, CA) nets both goals in the contest, pushing her season total to a team leading six goals.


[Volleyball] Lions Show Heart; Rally from Down 0-2
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. - After falling behind 2-0, 10th ranked Vanguard rallied for a 3-2 victory over The Master's College (RV). The Lions (10-4, 3-0) dug deep for a big win on the road despite hitting just .160% as a group. TMC exits the match holding an 11-6, 4-1 record.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for September 21st - 26th
Stay informed about what is happening with the Vanguard Lions by turning into the "Lions Weekly" each Monday. It will recap last week's results, list top performances by our teams and individual student athletes, and lay out the Athletic Calendar for the next six days.


[Men's Soccer] Juan, Two, Three
COSTA MESA, Calif. - A chippy, physical match with Bethesda University (2-4-1) ended with Vanguard (6-1) taking home a 3-0 victory. Juan Arellano (JR/Hawthorne, CA) scored the first two goals of the contest and Juan Espinoza (FR/Garden Grove, CA) sealed it in the 85th minute.


[Volleyball] Lions Win Sixth Straight Match
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In the first match since moving up a spot in the national rankings, 9th ranked Vanguard (9-4) beat La Sierra University in straight sets (25-17,25-18,25-19). Vanguard wins its fifth straight game at home and its sixth in a row overall.


[Women's Soccer] Lions with "Lopp-sided" Win Over Bethesda
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard (6-1) builds on its win streak which has now become a season high five games. The Lions blanked Bethesda University (0-5) by a score of 8-0. This is the highest scoring output on the season as they entered the match with 13 goals in six contests. 


[Volleyball] Heerlyn, Lowden Win GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - As the second batch of the new volleyball awards were released by the Golden State Athletic Conference, Vanguard found itself holding two spots. Charlotte Heerlyn (SR/Santee, CA) was named Attacker of the Week, while Rebecca Lowden (FR/Glendora, CA) is awarded the Defensive Player of the Week.


[Men's Soccer] GSAC Offensive Player of the Week Goes to Fregoso
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard, currently the 8th ranked team in the country, earns recognition by way of Jesus Fregoso (SR/La Puente, CA). For his efforts last week, September 7th-12th, he was named the GSAC Offensive Player of the Week. In two shutout wins over Soka and Antelope Valley, Fregoso scored a goal in each tilt.


[Athletics] Johansson Named to NAIA Hall of Fame and Coach of Character
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Former Vanguard University Tennis Coach Mattias Johansson received two prestigious awards during the 2015 NAIA National Awards Day. He was recognized for being the Coach of Character and for reaching the NAIA Hall of Fame as a head coach. 


[Women's Soccer] Dunn, Lopp Lead Lions Past Pioneers
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Staying on a roll, the #12 Vanguard Lions (5-1) earned a 4-0 victory over the University of Antelope Valley (1-4) on the VU Pitch. The Blue and Gold were led by goals from four different players as they tallied 14 total points.


[Volleyball] Barker Boosts Vanguard Past Firestorm
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Tenth ranked Vanguard (8-4, 2-0) won its second straight GSAC match, this time by beating Arizona Christian (2-7, 0-2) by a 3-0 count (25-17, 25-12, 25-12). Rachael Barker (SR/Torrance, CA) led the offense with a season high 17 kills to go with a .696 hitting percentage.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Score Four Unanswered in Rout
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Eighth ranked Vanguard (5-1) lived up to the national recognition as they blanked Soka University of America (3-3) in a 4-0 rout on the VU Pitch. Four separate Lions scored in the match as they have scored nine unanswered goals over the past two matches. Brandon Gomez (SO/Los Angeles, CA) earns another shutout between the posts.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Dorn Pushes Lions to 12th Place Finish
RIVERSIDE, Calif. - Vanguard's cross country teams competed in the U.C. Riverside Invitational held on the campus Agricultural Operations course. The women finished 12th while the men finished 20th. Two races into her Lions career, Keili Dorn (FR/Kailua-Kona, HI) ranked fourth in school history for freshmen.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for September 14th - 19th
Stay informed about what is happening with the Vanguard Lions by turning into the "Lions Weekly" each Monday. It will recap last week's results, list top performances by our teams and individual student athletes, and lay out the Athletic Calendar for the next six days.


[Athletics] Vanguard Athletics Recognized as Champions of Character Five-Star Institution
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard University has been selected as a Champions of Character Five-Star Institution for the second straight year. It marks the 13th time VU has been honored by the NAIA Character Advisory Committee and the National Office with the award since 2001. 


[Women's Soccer] Allen Lifts Pride Past Marymount
COSTA MESA, Calif. - In a non-conference tilt with Marymount California University (1-2-1) the #12 Lions (4-1) rode a 73rd minute goal from Danyelle Allen (JR/San Clemente, CA) to a 1-0 victory on the campus of Vanguard University this afternoon.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Offense Erupts in Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Returning from a pair of game in Ohio, the 8th ranked Lions (4-1) lived up to their national billing as they buried the University of Antelope Valley (1-2) by a score of 5-0. During the offensive explosion, Vanguard racked up 11 shots on goal in 20 attempts, leading to five goals and four assists. The 14 points in a contest was a season high for the Lions.


[Volleyball] Right Side Hitters Pace Lions to Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Golden State Athletic Conference play kicked off this evening for the 10th ranked Lions (7-4, 1-0) and they responded with a 3-0 sweep of San Diego Christian (5-3, 0-2). The Vanguard community came out in full support to watch the right side of the Lions offense combine for 18 kills.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Announce Roster Additions
COSTA MESA, Calif. - With just a few weeks left before the first games are played, Vanguard Men's Basketball is pleased to announce additions to the team. The 2015-2016 team loads up again after losing seven seniors from last year's squad, including the top two scorers. 


[Women's Soccer] Vanguard Picks Up Non-Conference Win At Soka
ALISO VIEJO, Calif. - Vanguard (3-1) continues to show why they are ranked 12th in the country with a 2-1 victory over Soka University of America (1-2). Madison Lopp (SO/Anaheim, CA) and Danyelle Allen (JR/San Clemente, CA) scored the goals for the Lions.


[Volleyball] Lions Regain Winning Ways
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard, the 8th ranked team nationally, came back to The Pit and beat Life Pacific College (1-6) by a 3-0 count on Bill and Shirley Reynolds Court. The Lions (6-4) offense was paced by Rachael Barker (SR/Torrance, CA) totaling eight kills and a .667 hitting percentage.


[Cross Country] Cross Country Kicks Off at UCI
IRVINE, Calif. - Both the men's and women's cross country teams from Vanguard University participated in their first meet of the year held by UC Irvine. The UCI Invitational saw 12 teams compete on the men's side and 15 for the women. Vanguard was one of three GSAC school to take part in the meet. The Lion men are ranked 23rd in the nation.


[Men's Soccer] Rio Grande Halts Pride 3-1
RIO GRANDE, Ohio - In the NAIA Men's Soccer Game of the Week, the 8th ranked Lions (3-1) were defeated by a 3-1 score at the hands of the University of Rio Grande (5-0), who is the 5th ranked team in the nation. Jesus Fregoso (SR/La Puente, CA) sank the lone goal for Vanguard.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for September 7th - 12th
Stay informed about what is happening with the Vanguard Lions by turning into the "Lions Weekly" each Monday. It will recap last week's results, list top performances by our teams and individual student athletes, and lay out the Athletic Calendar for the next six days.


[Athletics] Did You Know?
Exciting features within the Vanguard Lions website allow you to stay connected to our squads no matter where you are! Enjoy live streaming capabilities for all home events and selected road events from wherever. Also, stay up to date on any changes to the athletic calendar by subscribing on the device of your choice. 


[Women's Soccer] Offense Errupts at La Verne
LA VERNE, Calif. - Twelfth ranked Vanguard (2-1) rebounds from last weekend's loss with a 3-0 win over the University of La Verne (0-1) at Ortmayer Stadium in front of over 300 spectators. The Lions goals were scored by Danyelle Allen (JR/San Clemente, CA), Megan Stoll (JR/Laguna Niguel, CA), and Jessica Taukeiaho (SO/Rancho Cucamonga, CA) with three assists being credited to Nicole Dunn (SO/Lake Forest, CA), Ashley McCutcheon (SR/Aliso Viejo, CA), and Haley Bruce (FR/San Diego, CA).


[Women's Soccer] Racers Tame Lions 2-1
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In an early season matchup of the #2 ranked Racers and #12 Lions, the University of Northwestern Ohio (2-0-2) came out on top 2-1. Madison Lopp (SO/Anaheim, CA) netted the goal for Vanguard (1-1).


[Volleyball] Vanguard Drops Last Two Matches in Montana
BUTTE, Mont. – The final day of matches in Montana did not unfold as planned for #8 Vanguard University (5-4) as they dropped both contests. Sixth ranked Eastern Oregon (5-1) knocked off the Lions in a five set thriller (20-25,19-25,25-23,25-22,13-15) and #5 Rocky Mountain College (7-2) was victorious 3-1 (25-21,15-25,19-25,20-25).


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for August 31-September 5th
Stay informed about what is happening with the Vanguard Lions by turning into the "Lions Weekly" each Monday. It will recap last week's results, list top performances by our teams and individual student athletes, and lay out the Athletic Calendar for the next six days.


[Volleyball] Vanguard Takes Two
HELENA, Montana - The #8 Lions (5-2) won both matches held at Carroll College of Montana to kick off a four contest weekend for the Blue and Gold. In the noon tilt, VU defeated Montana State-Northern 3-1 and bested Carroll College 3-1 in the nightcap. MSUN ended the day with a 2-2 record, while Carroll finished the evening with one win and two losses on the season.


[Athletics] Lions Weekly for August 24-August 29th
Coming out each Monday, be sure to check out the Lions Weekly which will feature a brief review of last weeks scores, will list top performances by our teams and individual student athletes, and will list out the Athletic Calendar for the next six days.


[Men's Soccer] Lions Net Three In Season Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The #8 ranked Lions (1-0) opened their season with a home tilt against La Sierra University (0-1). Vanguard ran away with the 3-1 victory down the stretch of the second period, after falling behind early. Juan Arellano (JR/Hawthorne, CA) led all players with three points, earned from a goal and an assist, all which came in the second half.


[Men's Cross Country] Lions Rank 23rd in Preseason Coaches Poll
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 Men's Cross Country preseason poll conducted by coaches nationwide slots the Lions in the Top 25. Ranked 23rd, Vanguard rejoins the national elite after missing the cut at the end of the 2014 season.


[Women's Soccer] Allen Records First Goal as a Lion
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard Women's Soccer kicked off the 2015 campaign by hosting Viterbo University (RV) on the VU Pitch this afternoon. The Lions (1-0) rode goals from Danyelle Allen (JR/San Clemente, CA) and Madison Cody (SR/Irvine, CA) Farell to the 2-0 win over the V-Hawks (0-4).


[Men's Soccer] Another One For Juan
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard picked up a 1-0 victory over Northwest University (0-2). The Lions (2-0) were led to victory on a strike by Juan Arellano (JR/Hawthorne, CA), assisted by Brian Torres (SO/Huntington Beach, CA). Blasting the goal with almost 30 shots, it was only a matter of time for VU to plant one in the back of the net.


[Volleyball] Lowden Digs Lions to Victory Over #14 College of Idaho
LA MIRADA, Calif. – Kicking off the final day of the Biola Summer Slam, #8 Vanguard captured a 3-2 victory over #14 College of Idaho. The Lions (3-2) won the match by 25-20, 19-25, 25-13, 20-25, and 18-16 counts. In their final matchup for the tournament, the Blue and Gold took the 5th ranked team in the nation, Rocky Mountain College (2-2), the distance before losing 3-2 (27-25, 18-25, 16-25, 25-21, 10-15).


[Volleyball] Pride Splits Two at Day One of the Biola Summer Slam
LA MIRADA, Calif. – The Lions (2-1) kicked off the 2015 Biola/Red Lion Summer Slam with a 3-1 loss versus #12 Southern Oregon, who currently holds a 2-0 record on the season (24-26, 25-23, 17-25, 20-25). In the nightcap, Vanguard ripped off three straight sets to earn the 3-2 victory over Montana Tech (1-1). Splits for the match were 23-25, 31-33, 27-25, 25-12, and 15-13.


[Volleyball] #8 Lions Sweep Season Opener
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The opening match of the 2015 season was a 3-0 win for the Lions (25-14, 25-10, 25-7). Vanguard (1-0), ranked 8th in the polls, took care of business in The Pit. With the loss, Providence Christian College begins their year 0-1.The Vanguard offense was headlined by Taylor Jackson (SO/Henderson, NV) going 7-12 on attacks. Defensively, Sarah McKinny (SR/Santa Barbara, CA) recorded three solo blocks and four block assists. Rory McCloy (JR/Salt Lake City, Utah) and Kelly Dalrymple (JR/Poway, CA) teamed up for 22 of the Lions 25 assists in the contest.


[Tennis] Vanguard University to Discontinue Tennis Program
Vanguard University has announced the discontinuation of the tennis program, which includes men's and women's tennis, beginning with the 2015-16 academic year.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Vanguard Invitational Takes Hiatus in 2015
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The tradition of Vanguard University hosting the Vanguard XC Invite will not continue in 2015 due to circumstances outside the Lions hands. Regrettably, the location used for the past few years is not available for use this season. 


[Athletics] Lions Fill Three Positions Within Athletics
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Athletic Department of Vanguard University has completed their search to fill three vacancies. Jeff Melton was chosen to take over as the Coordinator of Athletic Media and Event Management. Mike Teague has been named the Coordinator of Compliance and Office Management and Kelly Wilson will be the new Assistant Athletic Trainer.


[Athletics] Wilson Announces Retirement
COSTA MESA, Calif. - After 20 years of exceptional leadership as the Vanguard University athletic director, Bob Wilson announced his intention to retire as athletic director, effective next year.  During his tenure he has steered Vanguard University to championships and awards, in becoming one of the leading institutions in the Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC). Under Wilson's direction, the Lions have won 2 National Championships and 28 conference (GSAC) titles in 7 different sports.


[Athletics] Former Lion Wynne Wins League Title in Germany
OLDENBURG, Germany - Former Lions Preston Wynne continues his championship ways, leading EWE Baskets to the 2014-2015 league title only a year removed from hoisted a banner for Vanguard University. Identical to last season, he was the leading scorer for his squad. 


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Track & Field Signs Nine 2015 Commits
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015-2016 Cross Country and Track and Field teams are rounding into shape for head coach Bryan Wilkins. Currently, there are four incoming freshmen on the men's side with five new Lions on the women's squad. 


[Men's Basketball] Former D1 Guard Chooses Vanguard
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Coming off a seaon in which the Pride of Vanguard University lost seven rotation players, the Lions are reloading for the next run. Jaamon Echols signs with VU and becomes the next in a long lineage of great guards that have worn the Blue and Gold. 


[Baseball] Three Join Pride for 2016
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Fresh off a NAIA World Series run and a Top-8 finish in the nation, the Blue and Gold have inked three incoming freshman, all from California. All three student-athletes are infielders with one specializing as a catcher. 


[Men's Basketball] Lions Ink Defensive Specialist
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard University adds another big time signee to its roster for next season. A year remove from raising the National Championship banner, the Lions load up at the wing position with the addition of Aubrey Myers Jr.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Track & Field Signs Five 2015 Commits
COSTA MESA, Calif. - As the 2015 Vanguard Track and Field season has come to a close, the eyes move forward to next season. The women's side has added one transfer and three incoming freshman while the men's team gathers its first commit.


[Men's Basketball] Brothers Joins the Pride
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard University continues to refill the roster after one of the larger graduating class in recent memory, not only in production but number of student-athletes. Brandon Brothers will add much needing ball handling and playmaking at the guard position. 


[Baseball] No Offseason for Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. - There is no rest for the Lions as nine student-athletes have joined collegiate summer ball teams to work on their craft. Their commitment to our nation's past time is evident in their commitment and only exemplified after their NAIA World Series run. Vanguard ended the 2015 season ranked 8th in the country after being unranked for the whole spring campaign. 


[Men's Basketball] Former D1 Guard Choses Vanguard
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Coming off a seaon in which the Pride of Vanguard University lost seven rotation players, the Lions are reloading for the next run. Jaamon Echols signs with VU and becomes the next in a long lineage of great guards that have worn the Blue and Gold. 


[Baseball] Rojas Awarded Gold Glove
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The NAIA announced the 2015 Rawlings-NAIA Baseball Gold Glove Team and Vanguard Jose Rojas (JR/Anaheim, CA) earned the first ever award for Lions baseball. The team was selected by the NAIA-Baseball Coaches Association All-America Committee based on defensive merit. Additionally, the 2015 NAIA All-America Teams were released today and Rojas was recognized as an Honorable Mention. 


[Baseball] Rojas Recognized at National Level
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The NAIA announced the 2015 Rawlings-NAIA Baseball Gold Glove Team and Vanguard Jose Rojas (JR/Anaheim, CA) earned the first ever award for Lions baseball. The team was selected by the NAIA-Baseball Coaches Association All-America Committee based on defensive merit. Additionally, the 2015 NAIA All-America Teams were released today and Rojas was recognized as an Honorable Mention. 


[Baseball] Stone Wins Charles Berry Hustle Award
LEWISTON, Idaho - Upon the completion of the 2015 Avista NAIA World Series, the committee released the All- World Series Team and three additional recognitions. David Stone (SR/Huntington Beach, CA) received the Charles Berry Hustle Award. 


[Softball] Boggs Named Academic All-America
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 Capital One Academic All- America Softball Teams were released today and Vanguard University was represented by Brittney Boggs (SR/Lakewood, CA). The senior infielder was one of two players from the Golden State Athletic Conference to receive the prestigious award.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Track & Field Athletes of the Year Announced
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 Men's and Women's Track and Field season has come to an end at Vanguard and we are pleased to announce our athletes of the year for the two teams. This season, there was a tie on the women's side in part because of the seven new school records that were achieved this spring. 


[Baseball] Lions Eliminated From World Series
LEWISTON, Idaho - The Vanguard baseball team's magical run fell short of a National Championship as St. Thomas (Fla.) bounced the Lions from the NAIA World Series. Vanguard (39-22) was the 10th seed in the tournament and the Bobcats move to 46-17 as the 9th seed in the World Series. The Lions ended on the wrong side of the 14-10 score in their third game at the final site.Vanguard garnered 10 runs on 13 hits and St. Thomas scored 14 on the same number of hits. Both teams combined to use 14 pitchers and the first 10 of them left the game with no decision. This is an NAIA record for a single team (Vanguard) and for combined squads. Five home runs were jacked out with all but one coming for the Bobcats.


[Softball] Boggs Name Academic All-America
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 Capital One Academic All- America Softball Teams were released today and Vanguard University was represented by Brittney Boggs (SR/Lakewood, CA). The senior infielder was one of two players from the Golden State Athletic Conference to receive the prestigious award.


[Men's Tennis] Kilchhofer, Muri, & Silva Named All-Americans
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 Men's Tennis season has come to an end, but the award keep trickling in. Vanguard University has three Lions represented on the NAIA All America Teams. Stefan Kilchhofer (JR/Basel, Switzerland), Roger Muri (SR/Zurich, Switzerland), and Fabio Silva (JR/Dracena, Brazil) receive First Team recognition. 


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Estell Breaks Her Own School Record
GULF SHORES, Ala. - Marline Estell (SR/San Marcos, CA) broke her own Vanguard school record in the 3,000m Steeplechase running 11:05.01 to finish 4th in her semi-final heat and advance to Saturday's finals. Estell had the 9th fastest time of the 14 athletes who advanced to the final. Saturday's top-8 finishers will earn NAIA All-American honors.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Vanguard Wraps Up Outdoor Season
GULF SHORES, Ala. - The 2015 Vanguard Men's and Women's Track season came to an end Saturday on the final day of competition at the NAIA National Championships. Three members of the squad raced today including Zach Hunt (SO/Sparks, NV), Josh Espinoza (SR/Glendale, AZ), and Marline Estell (SR/San Marcos, CA). 


[Baseball] Errors Squander Vanguard's Upset Bid
LEWISTON, Idaho - One day after playing a great opening game, the #10 Lions struggled through the second inning and found themselves losing 4-1 to #2 Faulkner of Alabama. Faulkner (49-13) stays in the winners bracket and the Blue and Gold (39-21) enters the elimination phase of the tournament.


[Baseball] Isaac Pitches Lions Into Winner's Bracket
LEWISTON, Idaho - Vanguard took the opening game of the 2015 Avista NAIA World Series by a score of 3-1 over Lindsey Wilson. The #10 Lions are 39-20 this year while #7 Lindsey Wilson sports a 41-18 overall record. 


[Baseball] Lions Blast Into World Series
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. - The heavy rain could not stop the Lions as they dominate the University of Northwestern Ohio from start to finish and earn a berth in the NAIA World Series, starting next week in Idaho. Vanguard cruises to the 8-0 victory.


[Men's Tennis] Vanguard Reaches Semifinal in Final Season
MOBILE, Ala. - The third ranked Lions (27-1) battled in the high and were pushed to the limit, but beat #6 Xavier (13-7) to head to the Semifinal Round tomorrow. Vanguard won 5-4 including the final decisive set by Daymon Johnson (JR/Bakersfield, CA).


[Men's Tennis] Lions Tamed in Final Contest
MOBILE, Ala. - The 3rd ranked Lions were bested in the Semifinal round 5-0 by the second seeded Embry-Riddle (Fla.) This loss marks the final competition for the Pride in tennis. Vanguard set a school record with 27 wins and only two losses this season.


[Baseball] World Series Bracket Annouced
LEWISTON, Idaho - The NAIA released the bracket for the 2015 Avita NAIA World Series beginning next week. Vanguard (38-20) is slotted in the 10th seed and will kick things off at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, May 22nd.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Lions Race Under the Lights at Occidental
EAGLE ROCK, Calif. - In the final regular season track meet for the Lions, Josh Espinoza (SR/Glendale, AZ) broke his own school record continuing his illustrious career wearing the Blue and Gold. This marks the seventh school record to fall this year. Vanguard will send six runners to NAIA Outdoor Nationals later this month.


[Softball] Seven Freshman Choose Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard University's Softball Program is thrilled to announce its 2015-2016 recruiting class. The seven incoming freshman will fill the large void left by nine departing seniors from this years squad. The coaching staff is exciting for the new phase of Lions Softball. 


[Baseball] Lions Reach NAIA Baseball Championship
COSTA MESA, Calif. - With the selection of the teams that will compete in the 2015 NAIA National Baseball Tournament, the Vanguard Lions found themselves selected as the fourth seed in the Santa Clarita Bracket. 


[Softball] Boggs Named Capital One Academic All-District
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 Capital One Academic All- District Softball Teams were released and Brittney Boggs (SR/Lakewood, CA) was one of five infielders chosen for the Collegiate Division number four.


[Volleyball] Lions Sign Five Commits for 2015-2016 Season
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Vanguard University Volleyball Program is thrilled to announce its 2015-2016 recruiting class which features five newcomers to the squad. It features three incoming freshman and two transfers who will join the team coming off a Top 12 finish in the 2014 NAIA National Tournament. They will fill in holes as outside hitters, defensive specialists, and middle blockers that were left by this years graduating class. 


[Women's Soccer] Lions Solidify 2015 Recruiting Class With Eight Signees
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 Vanguard University Women's Soccer team is rounding in to shape as they announce a recruiting class of eight. The players all hail from elite high school and club teams, they will jump in and make an immediate impact. The program loses a decorated graduating class and will look to maintain its top level talent as they compete for another GSAC Championship. 


[Baseball] Isaac Joins Kalamazoo Growlers for Summer
KALAMAZOO, MI – The Kalamazoo Growlers are pleased to announce the signing of a right-handed pitcher who will travel nearly 2,000 miles to join the team. Sean Isaac (JR/Redondo Beach, CA) of Vanguard University will join Travis Wade's staff for the 2015 season.


[Softball] Lions Kick off GSAC Tourney with Win
IRVINE, Calif. - In the Lions opening game of the 2015 Golden State Athletic Conference Tournament, #21 Vanguard defeats San Diego Christian by a 4-3 score. The Pride is the third seed in the tournament and the Hawks were sixth. 


[Baseball] Lions Eliminated from GSAC Tournament
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - The Vanguard Lions (34-20) were eliminated from the 2015 Golden State Athletic Conference Tournament on Thursday night. Loses to The Master's College (42-10) and Concordia (41-15) knocked the Blue and Gold out.


[Softball] Lions Bounced From GSAC Tournament
IRVINE, Calif. - Coming off a win on the previous day, the Lions (37-22) started the morning with a matchup with #18 Biola. Vanguard fell 4-2 in that came, setting up a rematch with San Diego Christian who ultimately won 1-0.


[Baseball] Three Lions Reach All- GSAC Team
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 All GSAC Team Presented by Under Armour was annouced earlier today, and three Lions student- athletes were recognized. Brandon Sandoval (SO/Fallbrook, CA), Jose Rojas (JR/Anaheim, CA), and Sean Isaac (JR/Redondo Beach, CA) reached the all conference squad for the first time in their careers at Vanguard.


[Softball] Boggs, Gomez, & Kuryllo Are All GSAC Again
COSTA MESA, Calif. - With the release of the 2015 All GSAC Softball Team presented by Under Armour, Vanguard is represented by a trio of senior infielders. Brittney Boggs (SR/Lakewood, CA) and Breanne Gomez (SR/Santa Ana, CA) earn third career award and Shelby Kuryllo (SR/Corona, CA) reached second consecutive team.


[Softball] Postseason Matchup Set
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 21st ranked Vanguard Lions are gearing up for the beginning of the GSAC Postseason Tournament beginning April 30th. As the top seed in the bracket Concordia will host the three day tournament.


[Athletics] Vanguard Athletics Announces Summer Trips
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The Vanguard University Athletic department has finalized its Champions of Character summer trips.  A group of seven student athletes and two co-leaders, Associate Athletic Director Nolan Steputis and Associate Women's Soccer coach Lauren Walker are heading to the Philippines to partner with Kid's International, KIDSIM.org. Ten members of the Men's Basketball team along with two coaches are partnering with the Basketball Association of the People's Republic of China to participate in a USA Basketball Visit and Exchange program. 


[Baseball] Vanguard Postseason Schedule Set
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The seedings and bracket for the 2015 GSAC Baseball Tournament have been set. Vanguard is slotted in fourth and will take on The Master's College to kick off the double elimination tournament. 


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Lions Claim Seven GSAC Titles
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Over the weekend, the GSAC Track and Field Championships were hosted by Westmont College where the Lions claim seven GSAC titles, set three new school records, and have 16 competitors finish in the top three. Vanguard will send six athletes to NAIA Outdoor Nationals to run in eight events.


[Softball] Biola Sinks Vanguard in Final Home Games
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In the final home game of the season, the Lions (36-20, 14-10) bid farewell to nine seniors. The ceremonious day did not go as planned, as Biola (32-16, 16-8) both games. The Eagles won by 1-0 and 6-3 scores.


[Baseball] Lions Bid Farewell to 12 Seniors
COSTA MESA, Calif. – On the final day of the regular season, the Vanguard University Lions were able to earn a split against the visiting The Master's College Mustangs. The first game saw the Lions fall just short in extra innings by a score of 5-3, but in the nightcap it was a late rally that propelled the home team past the 8th ranked Mustangs, and ending the regular season with the 5-4 win.


[Baseball] Lions Drop Tight Contest to #8 Mustangs
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In a battle between two of the top teams in the conference, the visiting The Master's College Mustangs edged the Lions in a tight contest, winning by a score of 3-2. The Lions actually outhit the Mustangs by a total of 10-6, but could not outscore the 8th ranked Mustangs. With the loss the Lions fall to 33-17 on the season with a 26-14 GSAC record, while the Mustangs improve to 39-9 on the year with a 32-8 record.


[Tennis] Kilchhofer Named Third Straight GSAC Player of the Year
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 2015 All Golden State Athletic Conference Tennis Teams presented by Under Armour were annouced with nine Lions being represented. Additionally, Stefan Kilchhofer (JR/Basel, Switzerland) takes home his third straight GSAC Player of the Year award and Mattias Johansson wins his eight Coach of the Year.


[Softball] Azusa Pacific Hands Lions Two Loses
AZUSA, Calif. - The Lions (36-18) fell in a non-conference match up with Azusa Pacific (27-22). Brittney Boggs (SR/Lakewood, CA) combined for five hits and four RBI's in the contest. No. 16 Vanguard has only one twinbill remaining in the regular season, before the GSAC tournament begins.


[Baseball] Lions Lose Last Non-Conference Tilt
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (33-16, 26-13) fell to Bethesda (26-22), 3-2, Tuesday afternoon in a game that saw Flames pitcher Braxton Diaz pitch a complete game against the Lions.


[Men's Tennis] Lions Tumble For First Time
CLAREMONT, Calif. - Riding high on a 25 game win streak, the Lions played on extra match in between the GSAC Tournament and NAIA Nationals. Claremont-Mudd is a top ranked NCAA Division III team, who downed the Lions (25-1) by a score of 7-2. 


[Women's Tennis] Tournament Title Bid Falls Short
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. - The 19th ranked Lions pulled a huge upset the previous day to book a ticket to th GSAC Tournament. In the final matchup, Vanguard fell 5-2 to 14th ranked Concordia.


[Baseball] Lions Drop Back-and-Forth Contest
IRVINE, Calif. – Although the bats were hot today for the Lions hitters, the pitching could not match that performance as Vanguard dropped the first of a an important three game series to the Concordia University Eagles by a score of 10-6. With the loss the Lions drop to 32-14 on the season with a conference mark of 25-12, while the Eagle improve to 38-11 with a 27-10 GSAC record.


[Softball] Two Swings Net Croce 6 RBI's
COSTA MESA, Calif. – As the GSAC portion of the season draws to a close, the 15th ranked Lions welcomed Arizona Christian to town. The Lions split the team games by taking the first one 6-3 and lose 6-5 in the nightcap. After the twin bill, Vanguard holds a 36-16 (14-8 GSAC) record and the Firestorm are now 28-15, 9-11.


[Baseball] Lions Score 15 in Game One Win
IRVINE, Calif. – It was a mixed performance on the afternoon for the Lions as they split their doubleheader today against the Concordia University Eagles, winning the first game by a score of 15-8, and dropping a close one in the nightcap, 3-2. With only four games left on the season the Lions record stands at 33-15 with a 26-13 GSAC mark, while the Eagles sit at 39-12 with a GSAC record of 28-11.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Vanguard Competes at Bryan Clay Invitational
AZUSA, Calif. - This weekend, the men's and women's track teams competed at the Bryan Clay Invitational at Azusa Pacific University. During the all day event, many new personal bests and season bests were recorded. On Saturday, the women's 4x100 racd at the Beach Invitation hosted by Cerritos College.


[Women's Tennis] Major Upset Sends Lions to GSAC Championship
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. - The Vanguard Lions upset Arizona Christian 5-3 in the GSAC Semifinals. The win advances VU to the Championship tomorrow. In the previous two meeting this season, the Pride lost 3-6 and 4-5.


[Men's Tennis] March Continues for #3 Pride
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. - The No. 3 Lions find themselves in familiar territory as they advance to the GSAC Championship Match for the third year in a row. Over the past two season, Vanguard has won both the regular and post-season titles. This time, the Blue and Gold defeated #13 Westmont 5-0.


[Softball] Rally Stops Short; Lions Fall
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 15th rated Lions (35-15, 13-7) fell on the wrong side of two tightly contested games against Concordia University Irvine. The #3 Eagles won 2-1 and 3-2, respectively. The game two rally fell just short as Vanguard narrowly missed out on a chance to move up in the GSAC standings.


[Women's Tennis] Vanguard Advances to GSAC Semifinals
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. – The GSAC Conference Tournament kicked off today and the #19 Vanguard Lions matched up against San Diego Christian. VU (7-15) took the match 5-2 over the 4-13 Hawks.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Relay Highlights Lions Success on Track
SAN MARCOS, Calif. - The men's and women's track teams of Vanguard University competed in the Mangrum Invitational hosted by Cal State San Marcos on Saturday. Fresh with some new faces, the Lions set many new personal bests. One male and one female athlete set qualifying times for NAIA Nationals as well.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Women's Track & Field Sign Four 2015 Commits
COSTA MESA, Calif. - As the 2015 vanguard Track and Field season rounds into full form with GSAC Championships nearing, the women's squad has already commited four athletes for next years roster. One transfer and three incoming freshman round out the current commits.


[Baseball] Lions Pull Away Late to Defeat #12 Warriors
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In a battle between two of the marquee pitchers in the Golden State Athletic Conference, Vanguard was able to come away with the victory, defeating the twelve-ranked Westmont Warriors by a score of 7-3. With the victory the Lions improve to 31-12 on the season, with a 24-10 GSAC record, and the Warriors drop to 31-9 with a 25-8 conference mark.


[Softball] NorCal Trip Turns Sour For Pride
ROCKLIN, Calif. - Heading into today's doubleheader with William Jessup, the Lions were firing on all cylinders and playing excellent ball. Unfortunately, the ball bounced against #13 Vanguard as they lost 13-9 in game one and 5-4 in the nightcap.


[Men's Tennis] 23-0, How's That Sound?
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Another day, another win. The 4th ranked Lions grabbed another 9-0 victory over Arizona Christian. The win marks a 23-0 record with a spotless 12-0 in conference play.


[Women's Tennis] Final Home Match Ends in Heartbreak
COSTA MESA, Calif. - It was the final time the Vanguard Lions would hit the court in from of a home crowd and it ended just short of a storybook finish. The 17th ranked Pride fell 4-5 to the #9 Arizona Christian Firestorm.


[Baseball] Rojas Walks Off in Style
COSTA MESA, Calif. - What a difference one pitch can make. After falling 8-3 in the first game, Jose Rojas (JR/Anaheim, CA) belted a shot to right field for a walk off grand slam. Vanguard (32-13, 25-11) won the nightcap 5-1 in extra innings.


[Softball] Lions Take Nightcap From #11 San Marcos
COSTA MESA, Calif. – In a matchup of two top 15 clubs, #14 Vanguard and #11 Cal State San Marcos walked away with one win each. The Cougars took game one by a 6-3 score while the Lions won game two 7-5.


[Women's Basketball] GSAC Women's Basketball Tournament Set
GSAC Champion Concordia will be the top seed in the upcoming GSAC Women's Basketball Tournament.  The Eagles along with No. 2-seed Vanguard, No. 3 Westmont and No. 4 The Master's will all host first round games on Wednesday, March 4, at 7:30 pm.Eight teams will compete in the conference tournament with the winner receiving the GSAC's automatic bid to the NAIA Div. I Women's Basketball Championship, which will be played at Independence Events Center in Independence, Missouri, March 18-24. The straight-bracket tournament schedule is listed below with a link to the bracket.  Ticket prices are $10 for adults and $5 for students.For more tournament information, including links for video streaming and live stats, go to 2015 GSAC Women's Basketball Tournament.


[Baseball] Collins' Three Run Bomb Lifts Pride
COSTA MESA, Calif. - In a non-conference tilt of regional foes, the Vanguard Lions (RV) came out on top 5-1 over Cal State San Marcos. Ryan Heinle (JR/Stockton, CA) picks up his third win of the year. Brett Collins put the Lions out in front early with a three run homer in the first inning.


[Softball] Boggs Leads Lions with 8 RBI's
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Brittney Bogg's owns the batter's box as she combines for 5-7 hitting and eight runs batted in. Vanguard (35-11) sweeps the double-header with the University of Antelope Valley by 7-1 and 4-0 scores. The Lions are the 13th ranked team in the nation as of this week's poll.


[Baseball] Late Home Runs Propel Lions Past Hawks
SAN DIEGO, Calif. – It took some time to find their offense this afternoon, but the Lions (27-12, 21-10) bats exploded in extra innings to help them secure the 9-4 win against the San Diego Christian Hawks (9-30, 8-23). Jose Rojas (JR/Anaheim, CA) and Brock Eissman (SO/San Clemente, CA) each provided a home run to spark a six run tenth inning to help secure the win.


[Men's Tennis] Blackjack!
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard continues its perfect start to the season picking up a win in a non-conference match against #20 Lewis-Clark State with a 9-0 margin. This year's Lions (21-0) squad is the first to win 21 games in the regular season.


[Baseball] Isaac Strikesout 16 in Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Sean Isaac (JR/Redondo Beach, CA) struck out sixteen batters to lead the Lions (29-12, 23-10) to a 3-1 victory in the first game, and Scott Torrey (SR/Simi Valley, CA) allowed zero runs in the second game that also ended up 3-1. With the two victories the Lions swept the San Diego Christian Hawks (9-32, 8-25), and extended their winning streak to nine games.


[Women's Tennis] #17 Lions Tripped Up Again
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 17th ranked Lions suffered a fifth consecutive loss, this time to #21 Lewis-Clark State by a 6-3 count. Vanguard is now 5-14 on the year.


[Men's Tennis] Lions Capture Third Straight GSAC Title
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The fourth ranked Lions win third straight GSAC Regular Season Championship behind a 8-1 victory over the #8 Westmont Warriors. Vanguard achieved this with a 20-0 record, including 10-0 in conference play. 


[Women's Tennis] Vanguard Suffers Third Straight 5-4 Loss
SANTA BARABARA, Calif. - Vanguard's 15th ranked women's tennis team continues to receive unfortunate outcomes, as a record third straight match is decided in a 5-4 loss for the Lions. This time the victor was #11 Westmont.


[Baseball] Lions Complete Sweep of Firestorm
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Vanguard (26-12, 20-10) concluded the weekend series in Phoenix, Ariz. with a sweep over Arizona Christian (8-24, 8-22). Scott Torrey (SR/Simi Valley, CA) earned the win in game one's 6-1 victory as he improved to 4-0 on the year. Jordan Moak (SR/Sulphur, LA) earned the win in game two's 14-4 blowout.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Espinoza Breaks Record, Qualifies For Nationals
SAN DIEGO, Calif. - The Lions traveled to the Point Loma Invitational this weekend and walked away with nineteen new personal bests, including a school record being beat by 11 seconds. Josh Espinoza (SR/Glendale, AZ) and Joi Goynes (SR/Las Vegas, NV) booked time that qualify for NAIA Outdoor Nationals this spring.


[Softball] #12 Lions Take Nightcap 3-1
COSTA MESA, Calif. -Vanguard (32-10) hosted a non-conference tilt with Williams College (MA). The Ephs (11-2) took the first contest by a score of 9-6, while the #12 Lions won the nightcap 3-1.


[Men's Tennis] Cinderella Season Continues for Pride
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard (19-0) continues to stay perfect on the season, picking up a 6-3 victory over #6 Xavier (11-6). The #4 Lions had the victory in hand after singles play.


[Women's Tennis] Lions Fall to Top Ten Team Xavier
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 15th ranked Lions suffered a loss to #7 Xavier (14-6) from Louisiana, who will be in contention for the NAIA title this spring. Vanguard (5-12) was bested by a 1-8 count.


[Softball] Lions Win in Wild Seventh Inning Rally
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (29-7, 11-3) rallied in the nightcap to beat (RV) San Diego Christian (23-11, 6-6) in another conference double-header sweep. The #12 Lions won the first game 6-3 before coming back to win 4-3 in game two. VU dropped one spot in the national poll released during the games.


[Women's Tennis] Lions Lose Heartbreaker
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 15th ranked Lions lost a heartbreaker in the third set of the deciding point against Concordia University. Vanguard fell 5-4 moving them to 5-10 (5-4 in GSAC).


[Men's Tennis] Johansson Wins 300th Game as Men's Coach
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard grabs the 7-2 win over Concordia to give Head Coach Mattias Johansson his 300th win with the men's squad. The #4 Lions move to 17-0 and 9-0 in GSAC matches.


[Women's Basketball] Holsinger Named First Team ALL-NAIA
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The 2014-15 NAIA Division I Women's Basketball All-America Teams were announced by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. Riley Holsing was named to the First Team and Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA) earn Second Team recognition.


[Baseball] Rojas Homerun Highlights Runaway Victory in Nightcap
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (23-12, 17-10) rode momentum from Friday's game into the double-header conclusion to the weekend series with William Jessup (5-22, 5-20). The (RV) Lions won the first game 5-2 and ran away with the series finale 11-1.


[Women's Tennis] Lions Take Home Second Straight Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 15th ranked Lions win their second straight, beating San Diego Christian 6-3. Vanguard is now (5-9, 5-3 GSAC) on the year which places them third in the conference. The Hawks fall to 2-8, 2-5 this season.


[Men's Tennis] Lions Earn 16th Straight Victory
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The fourth ranked Lions continue their flawless start to the season, picking up a 8-1 victory over San Diego Christian. Vanguard (16-0, 8-0) defeated the Hawks by the same score earlier this season and they hold a two game lead at the top of the GSAC leaderboard.


[Softball] Kuryllo Named GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Golden State Athletic Conference announced the first rendition of Softball Player of the Week Award. Vanguard third basemen Shelby Kuryllo (SR/Corona, CA) wins for the week of March 16th-21st.


[Softball] Hallahan Perfect 4-4 in Nightcap, Four RBI's for Gomez
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (27-7) continues an impressive showing through a 10 game slate in a week by taking both games of the double-header against Augsburg College (MN). The 11th ranked Lions squeezed by in game one 4-2 before rolling 8-0 in the nightcap.


[Baseball] Eissman Highlights Offensive Explosion for Blue and Gold
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions kicked off the weekend with a lopsided 10-2 win over William Jessup (5-20, 2-18). (RV) Vanguard grabbed win number 21 to go along with 12 losses (15-10 in GSAC). VU is currently in fourth place in the conference, two games behind third and five games up on the team seeded fifth.


[Softball] Latest Poll Ranks Lions 11th in Nation
PHOENIX, Ariz. --- Vanguard picked up a pair of key road wins on Tuesday, sweeping Arizona Christian University 7-3 and 11-3 in a GSAC doubleheader at Rose Mofford Field. The Lions, who were ranked No. 11 in the first regular-season NAIA National Poll, improve to 25-7 on the season and slide back into first place in the GSAC with a 9-3 record. The Firestorm fall to 16-6 and to 4-4.


[Men's Tennis] Lions Keep Winning, Now 14-0
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 4th ranked Lions continue dominating the competition, moving to 14-0 (7-0) with a 9-0 victory over Hope International. Using today's match as a tune-up for tomorrow's big test, the Lions got the added benefit of being awarded three points by HIU default.


[Athletics] Basketball Named NAIA Champions of Character
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. - Vanguard Lions Women's Basketball was awarded the NAIA Team Champions of Character Award at the NAIA National Tournament Banquet held last evening, March 17th. The Lions had won the award previously in the 2005-2006 basketball season.


[Men's Tennis] Amherst No Match For #4 Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions, holding the 4th ranking in the country, aced their biggest test yet, as the #1 NCAA Division III squad came to the Costa Mesa Tennis Center. Vanguard (15-0) dispatched Amherst College 8-1.


[Women's Basketball] No. 8 Lions Lose in First Game at National Tournament
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – The #8 Lions (22-8) were defeated 84-56 by Southern University at New Orleans in the nightcap game of the First Round. Amber Alexander (JR/Grand Blanc, MI) scored a game high 24 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the loss.Vanguard was knocked out of the NAIA National Tournament in the opening round for the first time since 2012. The Blue and Gold, a second seed in their part of the bracket, tied a season high with 19 turnovers. Alexander was the only Lion to score in double figures.


[Women's Basketball] Mustangs Down Lions in GSAC Finals
FULLERTON, Calif. – The #17 Mustangs defeated the #7 Lions in the GSAC Conference Finals played tonight at Hope International University. Vanguard (23-6) is now 8-4 all time in GSAC Final games. Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA) led all scorers with 23 points.


[Softball] Lions Drops Two At Concordia
IRVINE, Calif. --- Vanguard dropped a tough doubleheader on Tuesday, falling 5-2 and 12-4 in an early battle for first place in the GSAC against No. 8 Concordia in Irvine. The Lions (RV) fall to 19-5 on the season and to 7-3 in conference play while the Eagles improve to 21-3 and to 6-2 in the GSAC.


[Men's Tennis] Undefeated Vanguard Still Rolling
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The No. 4 Lions continue to plow through the competition, dismissing Case Western in a 9-0 fashion at the Costa Mesa Tennis Center. Vanguard is now 12-0 this season.


[Softball] Vanguard Wins Both Versus William Jessup
COSTA MESA, Calif. --- Rachel Stalford (SR/San Diego, CA) pitched a gem to lead Vanguard to a 1-0 win in the opener and the offense took control to lead the Lions to an 11-5 win in the nightcap as Vanguard swept a GSAC doubleheader against William Jessup University on Saturday at VU Softball Field.


[Baseball] Lions Split Doubleheader at The Master's College
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Vanguard (18-11, 12-9) split the doubleheader and ended up losing the weekend series to The Master's College. After losing yesterday's game, the Lions edged the Mustangs, 4-2. Game two was not nearly as close, as the Mustangs blew out the Lions,  12-1. Jose Rojas (JR/Anaheim, CA) stood out for The Pride as he led with four hits on 4-of-7 hitting with a home run and two runs batted in. Scott Torrey (SR/Simi Valley, CA) had a complete game victory in game one.


[Athletics] Cliff Hamlow Champions of Character Awardees Honored
IRVINE, Calif. - The Golden State Athletic Conference honored 18 student-athletes from across the conference with the Cliff Hamlow Champion of Character award during a banquet on Sunday, March 8. Vanguard University was represented by Jamie Goff (FR/Oregon City, OR) and Chris Gorman (SR/Oceanside, CA).


[Athletics] Lions to Play in GSAC Finals Hosted by Hope International
The Vanguard University women's basketball team will play in the Championship game for the Golden State Athletic Conference vs. The Master's College.  March 10, 2015 at 5:00pm at Hope International University broadcasted on Fox College Sports and Fox Sports PrimeTicket.Admission is $15 for Reserved Seating, $10 for General and $5 for students.  The first 100 current vanguard students at Hope International will receive free admission compliments of the VU Athletic department. Please bring your VU Student ID with you to receive your ticket outside the gym at Hope International. 


[Athletics] GSAC Scholar Basketball Athletes Announced
Today, the Golden State Athletic Conference announced the Scholar Athlete teams for the winter sports. Representing Vanguard University as 2014-2015 GSAC Scholar Athletes were four players from the Women's Basketball team. 


[Men's Basketball] 2015 Men's Basketball GSAC Tournament
The Golden State Athletic Conference Men's Basketball Tournament seeding took until the final night of the regular season to be determined.  Eight teams will compete in the conference tournament with the winner receiving the GSAC's automatic bid to the NAIA Div. I Men's Basketball Championship, which will be played at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri, March 18-24. 


[Men's Basketball] Lions Season Ends in Arizona
PHOENIX, Ariz. – The 2014-2015 Men's Basketball season has come to a screeching halt as they were bounced from the GSAC Tournament by #19 Arizona Christian. The Lions (16-15) lost 79-71 in the first round.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Survive 2OT Scare; Headed to GSAC Finals
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The (22-6) Lions needed 10 minutes of extra play to knock off (17-15) Hope International 68-62 in the GSAC Tournament Semifinals. Tonight's double overtime victory was Head Coach Russ Davis' 500th win at Vanguard.


[Baseball] Lions Can't Pull Out Win At The Master's
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Despite outhitting the Mustangs, Vanguard fell to 17-10 on the year after losing to The Master's College, 7-5, Friday afternoon. In the losing effort, the Lions were led by Taylor Knight's 2-for-3 hitting that included two runs batted in and a run scored. Brandon Sandoval (SO/Fallbrook, CA) also added two hits and two runs batted in. Paul Keating (JR/Oceanside, CA) led the Lions with three hits.


[Athletics] Russ Davis Reaches 500 Win Milestone
COSTA MESA, Calif. – At the conclusion of Vanguard's double overtime victory over Hope International on Friday, March 6th Head Coach Russ Davis was a newly minted member of the 500 wins club. Davis is one of only four active coaches to reach the milestone and completed the task with a higher percentage.


[Women's Basketball] Holsinger Named GSAC Player of the Year
IRVINE, Calif. - Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) is named GSAC Player of the Year for 2014-2015 and Head Coach Russ Davis is named Co-Coach of the Year. This is the ninth time Davis has received the award and the second straight award for Coach Davis. Holsinger makes it two straight years in which a Vanguard women's basketball player has won the GSAC Player of the Year award.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Goynes Places Third at Carl Rossi Relays
POMONA, Calif. - Vanguard's men's and women's track and field teams competed at the Carl Rossi Relays hosted by Claremont McKenna College on Saturday, February 28th. Joi Goynes (SR/Las Vegas, NV) placed third overall in the women's 100 meters and five more personal bests were set, marking the three straight weekends with personal records falling.


[Softball] Vanguard Splits with #12 San Marcos
SAN MARCOS, Calif. --- Vanguard used a big five-run fourth highlighted by a three-run home run by Brittney Boggs (SR/Lakewood, CA) to down No. 12 Cal State San Marcos 7-3, snapping the Cougars' 14-game win streak and earning a non-conference doubleheader split on Friday afternoon. The Lions improve to 14-2 on the season and pick up their third win in four games against nationally-ranked teams this week. The Cougars move to 17-4.


[Men's Basketball] Concordia Squeezes by Lions Upset Bid
IRVINE, Calif. – Vanguard (16-14, 8-8) narrowly missed out on a big upset of Concordia, losing 69-65 in the GSAC regular season finale. Chris Gorman (SR/Oceanside, CA) led the Lions with 18 points and five rebounds. DeAngelo Jones (SR/Cheney, WA) tacked on 15 points, four steals, and three rebounds. Concordia leaves with a 24-6 (13-3) record.


[Women's Basketball] Alexander, Doucette Net 20 Points Each in Upset Win
IRVINE, Calif. – The 9th ranked Lions (20-6, 12-4) upset No. 6 Concordia in the final game of the regular season. Vanguard needed 20 points each from Amber Alexander (JR/Grand Blanc, MI) and Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA) to achieve the 86-66 victory.


[Softball] Lions Split Double-Header with San Diego Christian
SANTEE, Calif. --- Vanguard finished up its weekend trip to San Diego with a split of a GSAC doubleheader against San Diego Christian College, falling 10-4 in the opener and winning 4-2 in the nightcap on a rainy Saturday at the Santee Sportsplex. The Eagles finish the day at 15-3 on the season and are 3-1 in conference play while the Hawks move to 13-5 overall and to 1-1 in the GSAC.


[Baseball] Errors Are Lions Downfall
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions (15-9, 11-7) were unable to take a game in the important GSAC series with the visiting Concordia University Eagles (21-3, 16-2), dropping both games by the score of 3-2 in today's doubleheader. Errors ended up being the difference in both games, as the Lions totaled five of them on the day, accounting for four of the six runs given up.


[Women's Tennis] Point Loma Bests Lions
SAN DIEGO, Calif. - The 15th ranked Lions dropped another tough match versus NCAA DII Point Loma Nazarene by a 9-0 score. The loss movesVanguard to 3-6 (3-2) on the season.


[Baseball] Eissman Blasts Lions To Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions (16-6) followed up the victory from the day before with another win, this time by the score of 8-4 against the visiting Grace University Royals (2-4). Paul Keating (JR/Oceanside, CA) and Brock Eissman (SO/San Clemente, CA) both had three RBI's in the game, helping to carry the team to another non-conference win.


[Men's Tennis] Lions Down Point Loma 9-0
SAN DIEGO, Calif.- Taking the show on the road did not prove to be a big test as the 4th ranked Lions handled NCAA DII Point Loma in a 9-0 fashion. Vanguard moves to 10-0 on the season and an unbeated 5-0 in conference play.


[Softball] Homeruns Push Lions Passed Biola
LA MIRADA, Calif. --- Breanne Gomez belted a pair of home runs--one in each game--as Vanguard opened GSAC play with a key road, doubleheader sweep at No. 14 Biola University by scores of 3-1 and 3-2 at Freedom Field.The Lions continue their hot play to start the season, pushing their win streak to eight games and improving to 13-1 on the season and 2-0 in GSAC action. The Eagles drop to 10-6 and to 0-2 in the conference.


[Women's Tennis] Lions Lose to NCAA D2 #4 BYU-Hawaii
COSTA MESA, Calif.- Brigham Young University Hawaii, a powerful NCAA DII program defeated the 15th ranked Lions by a 9-0 score. However, the Lions are still on pace to be very competitive in GSAC matches coming up.


[Men's Tennis] Lions Roll Over BYU-Hawaii
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 4th ranked Lions continue their scorching start to the season beating BYU Hawaii 8-1 and staying undefeated at an impressive 9-0. Vanguard sweeps doubles play.


[Baseball] Lions Walk Off With Win
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Lions (15-6) were able to come away with a 3-2 victory against the visiting Corban University Warriors (8-5), as Jose Rojas (JR/Anaheim, CA) sealed it in the bottom of the tenth inning with a walk off single.


[Men's Basketball] Cougars Spoil Senior Night
COSTA MESA, Calif. – What began as a celebratory event turned into a dogfight of a contest as the Lions (16-13) came up short in a 79-71 loss to the 4th ranked Cougars of Cal State University San Marcos. Chris Gorman (SR/Oceanside, CA) scored 19 points with five assists in his final outing in front of the home crowd. DeAngelo Jones (SR/Cheney, WA) added 18 points.


[Baseball] Lions Take Split at Westmont
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Vanguard (14-6, 11-4) capped off the weekend series by splitting Saturday's doubleheader. In the first game, Brock Eismann went 2-for-5 with four RBI and a home run to lead the Lions in a comeback victory, 6-5. Game two ended with the Lions coming up short in a low scoring affair, 1-0.


[Women's Basketball] Eagles Drop Lions in Upset
LA MIRADA, Calif. – The Biola Eagles served up an upset special as they knocked of the 8th ranked Vanguard Lions 81-76. Maya Kennedy led all scorers with 23 points in the loss. Vanguard falls to 19-6, 11-4 on the season and Biola moves to 16-12, 8-6 in GSAC.


[Men's Basketball] Victory Over Biola Stops Lions Skid
LA MIRADA, Calif. – The Lions picked up a key conference win as they move down the home stretch before the GSAC tournament. Defeating Biola 66-54 moved Vanguard to 15-12, 7-7 with only two conference games remaining. Zach Allmon (SO/San Luis Obispo, CA) led the way for the Blue and Gold with 18 points on an efficient 8-10 field goals and tacked on 12 rebounds.


[Track & Field] Mora Shaves Eight Seconds Off Personal Best
POMONA, Calif.- As one of 15 teams to compete at the Pomona-Pitzer All-Comers meet, the Lions had a very successful day highlighted by Christian Mora (SO/Covina, CA) placing first in his heat and trimming eight seconds off his personal record time. Vanguard competed alongside two other GSAC schools: Concordia and Biola.


[Softball] Ace Pitching Slows Poets
COSTA MESA, Calif. --- Solid pitching and timely hitting helped Vanguard extend its winning streak to six with a doubleheader sweep of Whittier College on Friday afternoon. The Lions downed the Poets 4-0 in game one and cruised to a 10-2 win in the nightcap.Vanguard improves to 11-1 on the season while snapping Whittier's five-game winning streak and dropping the Poets to 6-3.


[Baseball] Strong Pitching Blanks Westmont
COSTA MESA, Calif. --- With a tight race in the GSAC, Vanguard (13-5, 10-3) created separation from Westmont (13-4, 8-4) as the Lions shut out the Warriors, 4-0.


[Tennis] Lion Men Stay Undefeated; Women Stop Skid
LA MIRADA, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions found success on the hard court as both the men's and women's teams left with convincing victories. Fourth ranked on the men's side, vanguard swept Biola by a 9-0 score. Getting healthy again, the 11th ranked women's squad achieved a 7-2 victory.


[Women's Basketball] Alexander Named GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard forward Amber Alexander was named GSAC Player of the Week for January 9th-16th. This is the third time a Lion has won the award this season, and is Alexander's first while playing for the Blue and Gold. 


[Women's Basketball] Holsinger Double-Double Carries Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 9th ranked Vanguard Lions move to 19-5, 11-3 on the year with a 54-45 victory over Hope International in The Pit. Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) recorded her 8th double-double on the year scoring 19 points and grabbing 10 boards. She added six assists and three steals to her stat line.


[Women's Tennis] Injuries And Illness Sink Lions
COSTA MESA, Calif. – 11th ranked Vanguard suffers another tough loss, having to forfeit three points to Westmont College. The Warriors defeated the Lions 8-1.


[Men's Basketball] Jones' 32 Points Not Enough
COSTA MESA, Calif. – No. 5 Hope International outplayed the Lions in the second halfand held off the late game rally to take the 81-72 win in The Pit. Vanguard (15-12, 7-7) came up just short in getting stops and turning those into points.


[Baseball] Lions Sweep Weekend Series
COSTA MESA, Calif. – After taking the first game of the series, the Lions (12-3, 9-3) were able to finish off the series with a sweep against the visiting San Diego Christian Hawks (3-13, 2-13). The Lions saw their bats come to life in the first game with a 12-7 victory, and continued the winning trend with a 4-2 win in the nightcap.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Pull Out Victory Over Hawks
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard escapes tilt against San Diego Christian with 66-60 victory. The Lions (15-11, 7-6) received major contributions from Zach Allmon (SO/San Luis Obispo, CA) (18 points), Keither Mason (12 points and 12 boards), DeAngelo Jones (SR/Cheney, WA) (12 points) and Chris Gorman (SR/Oceanside, CA) (11 points).


[Softball] Lions Riding High With 9-1 Record
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Brittney Boggs collected a walk-off hit, singling through the right side of the infield in the bottom of the seventh of a tie to give Vanguard a 2-1 win over NCAA Division II Holy Names University in the first game of a non-conference doubleheader on Saturday, the Lions (9-1) would crush the Hawks 9-1 in the second game to sweep the twin bill.


[Women's Basketball] 9th Ranked Lions Achieve Revenge
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The No. 9 Lions cruised to the easy  90-35 win over San Diego Christian in the nightcap of the GSAC  double header. Vanguard (18-5, 10-3) was led by Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA), the 5th leading scoring in the nation, scoring 28 points (11-19 FG's) with nine rebounds, four assists, and three steals.


[Track & Field] PR's Pile Up at Soka Indoor Qualifier
ALISO VIEJO, Calif. - The men's and women's track teams from Vanguard found much success at the Soka Indoor Qualifier on Saturday. 16 Lions recorded new personal bests and a school record fell in consecutive weeks.


[Baseball] Takin' Care of Business
COSTA MESA, Calif. – After dropping a tough match in the first game of the series, the Lions (9-4, 6-3) were able to rebound and take the final two games from the visiting Arizona Christian Firestorm (3-6, 3-6). After yesterday's game, where the Lions could not find their bats, they responded with much-needed firepower in a close 7-6 win in the first game, and went on to win the second game behind strong pitching with a 2-0 victory.


[Softball] Lions Split Two With Claremont-Mudd Scripps
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard received a strong pitching performance in game one from Rachel Stalford (SR/San Diego, CA), but was unable to capitalize on 10 hits in game two, splitting a non-conference doubleheader against Claremont-Mudd-Scripps on Saturday afternoon.The Lions won the first game 2-1, but suffered their first loss of the season in game two by a 4-1 score and finished the day with a 5-1 record. The Athenas, playing in their first games of the season, move to 1-1 overall.


[Tennis] Tennis Finds Success in San Diego
SAN DIEGO, Calif. - The 4th ranked men's team knocks off 24th rated San Diego Christian by a resounding 8-1 score. Vanguard women, ranked 11th in the nation, held on for the 5-4 win.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Find Success on the Road
ROCKLIN, Calif. – Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) and Amber Alexander (JR/Grand Blanc, MI) combine for 30 of Vanguard's 49 points in a victory over William Jessup. The 49-35 win moves the Lions to 16-5, 8-3 on the season.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Soggy Conditions Can't Slow Lions
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The combined track teams from Vanguard competed at the Westmont Sunshine Indoor Open Meet on Saturday. Despite it being a wet and soggy day, the Lions found success with a new school record being set and many personal bests.


[Baseball] Lions Win 2-3 at William Jessup
COSTA MESA, Calif. – Vanguard (7-2, 4-2) continued their series with William Jessup (2-4, 2-4) with a high scoring doubleheader Saturday afternoon. After last night's thriller in extra innings, the Lions split the doubleheader losing the first game, 9-7, and winning the second, 12-5. The Pride went on to win the series 2-1. Paul Keating (JR/Oceanside, CA) had an impressive day for The Pride as he went 5-for-9 with five RBI in the two contests.


[Men's Basketball] Game Ripped Away From Lions
Costa Mesa, Calif. – Vanguard (RV) (13-10, 5-5) dropped to .500 in the GSAC with a heartbreaking 70-65 loss to the Master's College (7-13, 2-8) on homecoming night.  The Lions could not get rhythm all night as they shot only 26.9% from three-point land and a poor 62.5% from the free throw line.


[T&F & Cross Country - M&W] Lions Placed 4th in First Meet
Santa Barbara, Calif. - Vanguard was one of seven schools to compete in the On Your Mark Track and Field Meet hosted by Westmont College. The Lions finished in 4th place with 115 points.


[Women's Tennis] Lions Off To Rocky Start
Costa Mesa, Calif. – The start of the 2015 season did not go as hoped for the Lions, as they lost 1-8 to Cal State LA, a top quality NCAA DII program, at the Costa Mesa Tennis Center. 


[Women's Basketball] Kennedy Earns GSAC Player of the Week
COSTA MESA, Calif. - The 12th ranked Lions who will likely move into the Top-10 tomorrow when the new rankings are released, have just secured their second GSAC Player of the Week Award for 2015. Maya Kennedy (SO/Huntington Beach, CA) earned it for the week of January 26th- February 1st.    


[Athletics] Lions Launch Revamped Athlete Seminar Series
The Vanguard University Athletic Department is excited to announce our spring seminar series. These seminars serve to expose attendees to services and resources that are available on campus, reinforce principles of GOLD PRIDE to ensure that our student athletes are working towards achieving significance, or teach skills and techniques that can improve academic performance.  All of our spring seminars will be held on Friday mornings 10-1050 a.m. in HEATH 109. Some seminars are geared specifically towards student athletes and the demands of their rigorous schedule. However, all VU students are invited to attend.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Suffer Tough Loss on Road
Santa Barbara, Calif. –  The Vanguard Lions (13-9, 5-4) dug themselves a hole in the GSAC with a tough 56-52 loss on the road to the Westmont Warriors (15-7, 7-2).  Vanguard allowed a 14-0 run late in the second half to be the difference after leading by as much as nine early in the half.  It was the second loss to Westmont this year.


[Women's Basketball] #12 Lions Seize 3rd Place in GSAC
Santa Barbara, Calif.- The #12 Vanguard Lions defeat Westmont College 53-50. The tightly contested game will go a far way in determining final GSAC playoff seeding. Maya Kennedy (SO/Huntington Beach, CA) led the Lions with 16 points, three boards and three assists. Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA) chimes in with 15 points in 40 minutes of game action. 


[Men's Basketball] Zach Allmon Dunks His Way to Player of the Week
Costa Mesa, Calif. - Vanguard University men's basketball earns its second GSAC Player of the Week as Zach Allmon (SO/San Luis Obispo, CA) earns the award for the week of January 26, 2015.


[Athletics] Former Lions Star Signs in Columbia
Costa Mesa, Calif.- Former Vanguard Lions All American and GSAC Player of the Year Horace Wormely is signed by Patriotas de Tunga from the Liga DirecTV 2. He is one of the top five players for the squad that is in Group B of the league. 


[Softball] Lions' Bats Start 2015 Season Blazing
COSTA MESA, Calif. - Vanguard opened the 2015 softball season with a strong offensive showing, sweeping a non-conference doubleheader against La Sierra University 9-1 and 10-0 on Friday afternoon at the VU Softball Field.The Lions (2-0 overall) came out firing in the twinbill, pounding out 19 runs to go with the 19 hits while holding the Golden Eagles (0-2) to just one run on six hits.


[Baseball] Lions Run Away with GSAC Opener
LA MIRADA, Calif. – Getting his first taste of Golden State Athletic Conference play, Sean Isaac (SO/Redondo Beach, CA) pitched six strong innings to help Vanguard University defeat Biola University in La Mirada, as the Lions won by a score of 4-1. The Lions took the first game of the three game series behind the arm of the sophomore and through some aggressive base running. With the win Vanguard improves to 4-0 overall and 1-0 in Golden State Athletic Conference play.


[Baseball] Lions Start GSAC Strong Winning 2 of 3
​LA MIRADA, Calif. – Vanguard (5-1, 2-1 GSAC) came out strong in the first game of the day behind strong pitching winning 9-7, but was unable to complete the sweep as they fell to Biola (2-2, 1-2) in the second game 7-6. The Lions were still able to win the series and seem primed for a promising season.


[Men's Basketball] Allmon Brings Hammer as Lions Beat #12 Eagles 69-57
Costa Mesa, Calif. – The Lions (13-8, 5-3) knocked off the 12th ranked Concordia Eagles (17-4, 6-2)  69-57 in front of a standing room only crowd in The Pit. Vanguard was led by a monster day from Zach Allmon (SO/San Luis Obispo, CA) slamming his way to 13 points and 15 rebounds. DeAngelo Jones (SR/Cheney, WA) went 7-7 from the charity stripe for 16 points and Chris Gorman (SR/Oceanside, CA) posted 16 points, seven assists and two steals while shooting 90% from the free throw line.


[Baseball] Lions Open Season with Double-Header Sweep
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions (2-0) baseball opened the season by hosting the University of Antelope Valley in a doubleheader on the VU Baseball Field. The Lions swept the Pioneers; as they went on to win 5-3 in the first game and recorded a 6-0 shutout in the second half of the twin bill.


[Women's Basketball] Doucette Powers Lions Past Eagles
Costa Mesa, Calif.- The No. 13 Lions of Vanguard University (12-4, GSAC 5-2) picked up a key 68-51 conference victory over Biola University. Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA) scored 25 points and Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) filled the stat sheet with 18 points in addition to being active on the glass and distributing the ball. 


[Men's Basketball] Lions Maul Eagles in Key GSAC Win
Costa Mesa, Calif. – Vanguard (12-8, 4-3 GSAC) returned home and played a dominant game in a 60-47 win over Biola (13-7, 1-5 GSAC) in the Pit.  The Lions played lock-down defense and controlled the ball in the victory.


[Baseball] Keating and Bettencourt Knock Two Hits Each
COSTA MESA, Calif. – For the third consecutive year, Vanguard hosted La Sierra on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The Lions (3-0) finished with a dominant 7-0 victory over the Golden Eagles (1-2), making it the second consecutive shutout win for The Pride. Paul Keating (JR/Oceanside, CA) led Vanguard with two runs scored and two hits, including a triple in the sixth inning.  Catcher Kevin Bettencourt (JR/Modesto, CA) also had two hits to go along with two runs batted in.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Ride Defensive Scheme to GSAC Win
Fullerton, Calif. – The # 13 rated Vanguard Lions (11-4, 4-2) win convincingly over Hope International, 71-31, to wrap up a three game road trip. Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) scores a game high 18 points to go along with her eight rebounds.


[Men's Basketball] Rough Shooting Has Lions at .500
Fullerton, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions (11-8, 3-3 in the GSAC) had another rough night shooting as they lost on the road to the undefeated Hope University Royals (16-0, 4-0 in GSAC play) 66-59.  The loss drops the Lions to .500 in GSAC play with important games coming up.


[Women's Basketball] Five Lions Score Double Figures in Road Win
Phoenix, Ariz. - The 10th ranked Vanguard Lions defeat Arizona Christian 70-58 to improve to 10-4 (3-2 GSAC) on the season. Five Lions score in double figures in victory over the Firestorm (4-13, 0-4) as Vanguard shakes off a loss in overtime in the previous contest.


[Men's Basketball] Turnovers Ground Lions
Phoenix, Ariz. – Vanguard (11-7, 3-2 in the GSAC) fought hard but fell apart late as they lost 65-58 against 17th-ranked Arizona Christian.  The Lions beat themselves with 22 turnovers, committing 34 fouls and shooting only 50% from the free throw line.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Stay GSAC Road Warriors
El Cajon, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions (11-6, 3-1 in the GSAC) exploded in the second half and pulled away to a 78-53 win over the San Diego Christian Hawks (5-7, 0-4 in the GSAC).  The game, played at Grossmont College, gave the Lions their second straight road win in conference play. Keith Mason (SR/Carson, CA) was the high scorer for the Lions with 19 points.


[Women's Basketball] Holsinger Wins GSAC Player of the Week
Costa Mesa, Calif.- Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) named GSAC Player of the Week as she led the Lions to a 3-0 record on the week, pushing Vanguard to a 9-3 standing on the season. Her averages for the week were 24.7 points and 8.3 rebounds while shooting 41.2% from the field.


[Men's Basketball] Mason Earns GSAC Player of the Week Award
Costa Mesa, Calif.- Keith Mason (SR/Carson, CA) is named GSAC Player of the week for helping push Vanguard to a 2-0 record last week. Mason recorded consecutive double-doubles for the first time this season. For the week, he shot 15-for-26 (.577) from the field and 4-for-4 at the line.


[Women's Basketball] Poor Shooting Sinks Lions
El Cajon, Calif.- The Lions struggle shooting the ball from the field, leading to an 68-66 upset victory for San Diego Christian in OT. Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA) scores a team-high 24 points in the loss.


[Women's Basketball] Holsinger, Doucette Serve Common 1-2 Punch
La Mirada, Calif. – Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) drops 30 points and 11 rebounds as the #3 Lions (9-3) win their third straight contest, defeating Bethesda University of California 80-62. The Lions have defeated the Flames both times this season. Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA) added 22 points in the win.


[Women's Basketball] Holsinger and Doucette Combine for 40 Points
La Mirda, Calif.- The Lions (8-3) make it two straight victories defeating Evangel University (Mo.) by a score of 61-56. Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) scored 24 points (8-17 FG's) and grabbed 8 rebounds; Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA) 16 points including 6-8 from the charity stripe.


[Women's Basketball] Alexander Scores 22 Points in 22 Minutes for Lions
Costa Mesa, Calif. – Back in the friendly confines of The Pit, #3 Vanguard University (7-3) picked up a 80-72 non-conference victory over the University of Victoria. Amber Alexander (JR/Grand Blanc, MI) scored a team-high 22 points, her highest total in a Lions uniform. Maya Kennedy (SO/Huntington Beach, CA), Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA), and Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) added 54 of the Lions other 58 points.


[Men's Basketball] Mason Highlights Lions Efficiency
Costa Mesa, Calif. – Vanguard (9-6) took control early and defeated Bethesda University of California (3-14) by a score of 91-64 at The Pit.  The Lions went inside early and stayed consistent from the outside as they took the first of two games at the Bill Reynolds Holiday Classic.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Reach Double-Digit Wins Against Univ. of Fraser Valley
Costa Mesa, Calif. – The Vanguard Lions (10-6) rolled for the second straight night getting their 10th win of the season in an impressive 77-56 win over the University of Fraser Valley Cascades (8-2).   The Lions showed another balanced attack as they flexed their muscle and pulled away in the second half.


[Women's Basketball] Holsinger Drops 35 Points, VU Moves to 6-1
Las Vegas, Nev. – The #3 Vanguard Lions (6-1, 2-1 GSAC) kicked off the Las Vegas Shootout with a 77-53 victory over the University of Montana-Western. Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) lit up the scoreboard with 35 points on 66% field goal shooting and 5-7 from behind the arc.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Stumble at Chandler-Gilbert Classic
Chandler, Ariz. – Vanguard (8-5) dropped game two of their Arizona tournament to 13th-ranked Rocky Mountain College (11-2) 92-84 in a virtual repeat of what happened when these two teams met on November 15th (when the Lions lost 95-82).


[Women's Basketball] #3 Lions Fall Against Carroll (RV)
Las Vegas, Nev. - The #3 Vanguard Lions lost 67-55 against Carroll College (RV). Newcomer Amber Alexander scored 14 points in the loss, and Maya Kennedy (SO/Huntington Beach, CA) added 12 points.


[Men's Basketball] Vanguard Suffers Two Defeats in Arizona
Chandler, Ariz. – The Vanguard Lions (8-6) took another hit on the chin losing for the second consecutive night by double digits, this time to the Montana Western Bulldogs (8-3) by a score of 75-61.  The Lions finished their Arizona road trip with a record of 1-2.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Lose 58-55 at Las Vegas Shootout
Las Vegas, Nev. - The No. 3 Lions fell 58-55 to #4 Westminster College of Salt Lake City, Utah. The loss leaves Vanguard sitting at 6-3 (2-1 in GSAC play). Alyssa Durr (FR/Oregon City, Ore.) led all Lions scorers with 14 points; Maya Kennedy (SO/Huntington Beach, CA) contributed 13 points and three assists. Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) added 11 points on 5-8 shooting and three blocks on the defensive end."Alyssa came off the bench and was huge for us, keeping us in the game with her three-point shooting and a key layup," said head coach Russ Davis.


[Women's Basketball] Lions Trio Combines for 71 Points In Blowout Win
 Costa Mesa, Calif. - Vanguard (5-0, 2-0) grabs another early season conference win defeated William Jessup 89-47. Doucette, Holsinger, and Kennedy combine for 71 points in the blowout win including 46 in the second half. 


[Men's Basketball] Pride Back on Track With GSAC Win
Costa Mesa, Calif.  - Vanguard (5-4, 1-1 in GSAC) snapped a four-game losing streak and demolished William Jessup (9-3, 1-2 in the GSAC) 97-55 on Thursday night in The Pit.  A total team-effort was lead by senior guard Chris Gorman (SR/Oceanside, CA).  The Lions jumped on the Warriors 14-3 in the opening seven minutes and never looked back.


[Women's Basketball] #3 Lions Tumble for First Time This Season
Santa Clara, Calif.  - Coming in riding a five game winning streak, the #3 ranked Lions (5-1, 2-1)  stumbled in their third GAC game losing to #20 The Master's College (8-3, 2-1) by a score of 71-64. Riley Holsinger (JR/Spokane, WA) netted 26 points in the loss, and Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA) contributed 20 points.


[Men's Basketball] Lions Ride New Lineup to Second Straight Win
Santa Clarita, Calif.  - The Lions took their hot shooting on the road against the Masters (2-6, 0-3 in the GSAC) and notched their second straight GSAC victory 76-65 taking their record to 6-4 overall, 2-1 in the conference.  The new-look lineup paid dividends again as Chris Gorman (SR/Oceanside, CA) sizzled the nets for 31 points on 8-15 shooting including 5-10 on three's. 


[Women's Basketball] Holsinger Pushes Lions Through Injuries and Illness
Oceanside, Calif.- The #3 Lions continue their strong start to the 2014-15 campaign with a 65-41 victory over Cal State San Marcos. Riley Holsinger scored 24 points and 12 rebounds. Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA) chipped in 16 points.


[Volleyball] Volleyball Eliminated After Valiant NAIA Run
SIOUX CITY, Iowa - With its season on the line, No. 21 Vanguard put forth a valiant effort, out-performing No. 6 Missouri Baptist in nearly every statistical category (kills, blocks, hitting percentage, assists and digs) to force five sets, but in the end, two points and a 5-to-2 MBU edge in service aces prevented the Lions from advancing to the NAIA Volleyball National Championship Quarterfinal round of eight.


[Volleyball] Five Volleyball Players Named NAIA Scholar-Athletes
Costa Mesa, Calif.- The 2014 Daktronics NAIA Volleyball Scholar-Athlete team was announced today, with five Lions being honored for their achievements in the classroom and on the hardwood. 


[Men's Basketball] Pride falls in Exhibition at CSU-Northridge
Northridge, Calif.  - Cal State University Northridge (2-7) defeated Vanguard (4-4) in an exhibition tilt. DeAngelo Jones (SR/Cheney, WA) scored 20 points and led the Lions offensively once again. Struggling in the early portion of the game, the Matadores were spotted a lead that they would not relinquish.


[Men's Basketball] Vanguard Falls in GSAC Opener
Costa Mesa, Calif.- The No. 1 ranked Lions dropped their fourth-straight contest and GSAC opener behind a poor shooting night. Vanguard (4-4, 0-1) was led for the second-straight game by DeAngelo Jones (SR/Cheney, WA) with 17 points.


[Women's Basketball] Doucette Paces Pride with 27 Points
Costa Mesa, Calif.- The No. 3 Lions keep up their winning ways, moving to 3-0 on the season and 1-0 in GSAC competition. Vanguard wins 64-58 over Westmont behind 27 points from Samantha Doucette (JR/Irvine, CA). The Warriors (7-1, 0-1) drop their first contest of the season.


[Men's Soccer] Men's Soccer Bested in NAIA Quarterfinal
DELRAY BEACH, Fla. - Vanguard's magnificent run came to a close on Wednesday afternoon as the Lions fell 3-1 in the 2014 NAIA Men's Soccer National Championship Quarterfinal to a talented University of Northwestern Ohio team. Senior captain Luis Valdivia (SR/Oceanside, CA), a four-year player in the VU program, scored for the Blue and Gold in the final second (89:59) of the match.


[Volleyball] Lions Prevail in Must-Win Match
SIOUX CITY, Iowa - No. 21 Vanguard put on a masterful show Wednesday, upsetting No. 8 Columbia College 3-0 (25-15, 25-18, 25-13) on the second day of pool play to ensure its opportunity to compete for Pool E's final slot in bracketed play of the 2014 NAIA Volleyball National Championships. Charlotte Heerlyn hit a formidable .667 in the affair, winding up with a competition-high 13 kills in the victory.


[Volleyball] Volleyball Becomes Second VU Team Ever to Emerge from Pool Play
SIOUX CITY, Iowa - With its season on the line Thursday, Vanguard showed up to play, upsetting its second challenger in as many matches to push forward into the single elimination round of the NAIA Volleyball National Championships. The No. 21 Lions, 25-12 on the year following a 3-1 (25-22, 21-25, 25-18, 25-19) upset of No. 17 Southern Oregon University, now sit as one of the twelve remaining teams vying for the 2014 title.