By: Leon Mitchell, GSU Athletic Communications
PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas | Grambling State University women's soccer collected major recognition across the Southwestern Athletic Conference postseason awards, highlighted by
Kaylen Jankans being selected as the 2025 SWAC Defensive Player of the Year. The honors were officially announced on Wednesday evening.
Under Head Coach
Justin Wagar, the Tigers finished the regular season in second place.
Grambling State also delivered one of its most balanced offensive campaigns, producing 41 goals and 41 assists.
The Tigers were undefeated in SWAC play and undefeated at home, establishing themselves as one of the most consistent and dominant teams in the conference.
Jankans anchored Grambling State's defensive identity throughout the year.
The Junior logged 1,596 minutes and started all 18 matches, contributing three assists while anchoring Grambling State's defensive unit.
She earned All-SWAC First Team recognition in addition to her Defensive Player of the Year honor.
She was joined on the All-SWAC First Team by defender
Taya Sands, who appeared in 17 contests with 15 starts and played 1,190 minutes.
Sands added two goals and one assist.
Her mobility and decision-making along the back line helped reinforce Grambling State's defensive stability.
Forward
Alana Aiken capped one of the most dangerous attacking seasons in the SWAC, earning a First Team selection after recording a SWAC-best 12 goals with two assists.
Aiken played 1,248 minutes across 18 matches, registering 46 shots.
Three of her 12 goals were game-winners, reflecting her impact in high-leverage moments.
Grambling State's midfield dominance also earned two selections onto the All-SWAC Second Team.
Giulia Altomare recorded four goals and two assists in 18 matches, producing 10 total points.
She played 1,041 minutes and served as a key link distributing possession between lines.
Olivia Kowall earned Second Team honors as well.
Kowall appeared in 16 matches with 13 starts, collecting four goals and two assists playing from a defensive midfielder position.
She logged 840 minutes and finished with 21 shot attempts.
Grambling State now turns its attention to postseason play as the Tigers open the 2025 SWAC Women's Soccer Tournament on Thursday, November 6. Grambling State will face No. 7 Southern University at 4 p.m.
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