Otters Ink Four from Belmont

The Otters next signing group is here! Last week featured three players from Duquesne, including the return of Tom Tzabari. This week the Otters stay in-state with the signing of four players from Belmont University in Nashville. The Bruins are coming off of a record-setting 13–5–1 season in their final year in the Southern Conference. There is just over one month left to order fan jerseys for the 2022 season, so make sure to get your order in HERE before April 17th!

Austin Yowell, CB, Belmont

The first Bruin to join the Otters this fall is Austin Yowell. The Phoenix, Arizona native just completed his sophomore season with Belmont. Appearing in nine games, Yowell was used as an extra defender or reserve forward and aided the Bruins 2–1 semifinal win over UNCG to reach the SoCon Championship Game. The left-footed centerback helped the Bruins win 13 games this fall, the most in program history.

Mikey Saunders, W, Belmont

The next Bruin to join the Otters is attacker Mikey Saunders. From England, Saunders grew up playing in the Southampton academy, making multiple appearances for their U-18 and U-23 squad. In the spring, Saunders recorded one goal and three assists, starting all but one match. This fall, Saunders played in 16 games, scoring a goal and adding an assist, utilizing his 1-v-1 prowess to create chances.

Davis Eddleman, W, Belmont

On the other wing, the Otters have signed Davis Eddleman. This fall, Eddleman made 19 appearances off the bench, recording one assist. Eddleman began his career at Xavier University, where he made seven appearances as a freshman. The Georgia native also brings USL 2 experience having previously played with the Souther Soccer Academy Kings, one of the Otters new divisional foes in the Deep South.

Esteban Leiva, F, Belmont

The final signing of the group gives the Otters a big presence in the middle with Costa Rican forward Esteban Leiva. Despite dealing with an injury in the fall, Leiva still appeared in 12 matches, scoring two goals and an assist. He played the spring season with the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers, also recording two goals and an assist en route to a regular season and Sun Belt Tournament title. Leiva was named to the All-Tournament Team for his performance.

*All signings pending league and federation approval*

There are plenty more exciting announcements coming as the 2022 season draws closer so make sure to not miss a single one! Follow @ottersoccer here on Medium, or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date on all things Otters! #FearTheFur #OnTo22