Falcons Land Two on All-Region Team

The NCCAA Central Region announced it's All Region Team on Monday, and two Falcons made the team - Tyler Smalley, midfield, and Patrick Wyatt, defender.

The All-Region Team, voted on by the coaches in the region, was unique this year, as every player on the team was voted for by multiple coaches, according to Matthew Risher, head coach at Spurgeon College and chair of the central region.

Kansas Christian Head Coach, Luke Cottage, noted the Falcons selected have earned the honors, but it also reflects the camaraderie the team built while battling through a tough season.

"This team has fought hard in every game," Cottage said. "We learned to play through adversity and rely on each other to find success."

For Smalley, the recognition is the byproduct of a passion to improve in all aspects of his game.

"I've coached Tyler (Smalley) for many years, and it's been awesome to see him grow as, not just a player, but as a man," Cottage said. "He's been a key in every game this year, and I'm incredibly blessed to be his coach. He's played numerous positions for us this year, and that versatility as a player was pivotal for our team and probably a big reason why he was selected."

Wyatt, Cottage said, is the type of leader KCC needed during a long season.

"He has been instrumental to this team's success," the first-year coach said. "He's led the defensive line and made key plays in every single game. His leadership is second to none, and Patrick (Wyatt) has been a tremendous addition to this team. Being selected as one of three defenders in the conference is no easy task. I'm incredibly proud of him and know he still has a lot more to give this season."

The Falcons ended the season with a #9 ranking, and two players on the all-region team. That's a great start for Coach Cottage, but he knows his teams isn't satisfied and wants more.

"We're prepared and ready for the post season," he said. "It's been a great year, but the boys aren't done yet. We know we have more to give."

They'll get that opportunity tomorrow, as the Falcons take on Spurgeon College at 1 p.m. at Central Bank Sporting Complex in Kansas City, Missouri for the first round of the Regional Championships.