CHICO, Calif. - Following a packed week of home action from the Wildcats men's soccer squad, it was another set of wins and scoreless shutouts from the 'Cats. Junior goalkeeper Emanuel Padilla continues to lead the back line; the Santa Rosa native has picked up six consecutive shutouts through all non-conference play and has been a critical addition to the squad this year.

Padilla earns his second Defensive Player of the Week award from the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). 

Before attending Chico State, Padilla was an All-American selection at the Junior College level for his impressive seasons at Santa Rosa Junior College—no surprise that he is flexing that experience and skill of his craft here with the Wildcats.

His impressive week is highlighted by keeping his side scoreless against both 2022 Co-Champions of the PacWest Conference, Biola, and Dominican. 

Against Biola on Thursday, Padilla was challenged early on throughout the game by some long-distance attempts from the Eagles, but the 6-foot keeper kept the game level with ease. Following an unfortunate handball from a Wildcats player in the 88th minute, Padilla was charged with facing down a shot from 12 yards away. As the whistle blew, the Wildcats keeper made himself as big as possible, already decided where he would dive, and made the crucial save to hold onto his team's win.

Following their thrilling win against Biola, the team that shared a piece of the regular season championship in the PacWest last year made the trip to Chico to take on the 'Cats. This game produced less action for Padilla, only seeing a few blips of action but dispatching all danger from Dominican.

Padilla recorded eight saves between the two games and a continued trend of refusing to let the ball go past him. He continues to flex his ability to lead his defensive line and be a strong presence in front of the net.