The SUNY Brockport men's soccer program added another impressive chapter to its 2025 postseason success, as senior defender Alex Rivara and sophomore goalkeeper AJ Nelson were both named to the 2025 NCAA Division III Men's Soccer All-ECAC First Team, the organization announced recently. Highlighting the honors, Nelson was named ECAC Defensive Player of the Year, recognizing his outstanding season anchoring the Golden Eagles' defense.

Rivara, a senior from Commack, N.Y., capped off an exceptional collegiate campaign by earning yet another prestigious accolade. A leader of Brockport's back line, Rivara started all 18 matches and logged nearly every possible minute (1,498), forming a dominant defensive force. His presence helped guide the Golden Eagles to eight shutouts, while Brockport allowed just 1.33 goals and 10.1 shots per game on the season. Already named Empire 8 Defensive Player of the Year, First Team All-Conference, and E8 All-Tournament Team, Rivara also earned Second Team All-Region recognition in 2025. He played every minute of Brockport's postseason run and contributed offensively with four assists during the regular season, including a key helper in the Empire 8 Tournament win over Russell Sage. His consistency, leadership, and ability to control the back line were central to Brockport's success.

Between the posts, Nelson delivered one of the finest goalkeeping seasons in program history. The Fairport, N.Y. native was dominant after assuming the starting role on September 20, immediately sparking a 12-match unbeaten streak (10-0-2) for the Golden Eagles. Nelson finished the year with seven shutouts, allowing just seven goals on 31 saves, while posting a 0.58 goals-against average and an 81% save percentage. Nelson's postseason performance further solidified his standout year. He was named Empire 8 Goalkeeper of the Year, First Team All-Conference, E8 All-Tournament Team, and Fourth Team All-Region, before adding ECAC Defensive Player of the Year to his growing list of honors. He recorded a three-save shutout against Russell Sage in the opening round of the conference tournament and allowed just three goals across three postseason starts.

Together, Rivara and Nelson formed the backbone of one of the Empire 8's most reliable defensive units, and their All-ECAC First Team selections underscore the elite level of play displayed by the Golden Eagles throughout the 2025 season.