Joe Highfield Named WCC Player of the Week: A Celebration of Excellence in University of Portland Athletics

Portland Pilots forward Joe Highfield was named the West Coast Conference Offensive Player of the Week. This marks his first award this season and the third time a Pilot has earned it this year.

Highfield stood out by scoring during the Pilots’ thrilling 3-2 victory over the Denver Pioneers. With this goal, he notched his fifth of the season, tying him for the most goals and points in the conference, with a total of 13. Over his first two years on the team, Highfield has scored 12 goals, a record tied with Benji Michel from 2016-17 for the most by a Pilot in their initial seasons.

Currently, the Pilots are ranked 4th in the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 poll. They have an impressive record of 6-0-1, marking their best start since 1988, and are boasting a 17-game unbeaten streak that began last season. This is a notable achievement for the program, reflecting the team’s tremendous growth and determination.

This Saturday, the Pilots will kick off their conference play against the Gonzaga Bulldogs. The game is part of homecoming week, featuring a pregame barbecue and tailgate at 5 p.m. at the Chiles Center Plaza.

In a broader context, the Pilots’ performance highlights a shift in college soccer, where teams are increasingly focusing on strategy and player development. As noted by sports analysts, this trend is positioning programs like Portland to compete at higher levels, potentially attracting more talented recruits.

For fans wanting to catch the action, details about tickets and live coverage can be found at PortlandPilots.com. Keeping up with the Pilots’ journey also offers fans a sense of community, as social media platforms buzz with support during games.

The excitement surrounding the team is not just about soccer; it reflects a growing interest in collegiate sports as many programs around the country adapt to the evolving landscape of athletics.

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