By Anthony Gutierrez, October 14, 2025
After tallying a career-high eight saves in Cal Poly Pomona’s 1-0 shutout win over Cal State East Bay Sept. 28, Jenna Tetrault was awarded the CCAA Women’s Soccer Defensive Player of the Week, her first conference honor of her collegiate career.
Tetrault’s hard-fought performance propelled the top-ranked Broncos to another victory, maintaining their undefeated 9-0 record and contributing to the best start in the history of the program.
“It feels great to be recognized,” Tetrault said. “Last year I was third string and didn’t travel. Now coming in, it feels great to get minutes and be recognized for what I’ve been working on.”
The award conveys not only a single week of work but a representation of a major breakout season for the goalkeeper. Tetrault currently ranks second in goals-against average (0.571), sixth in save percentage (0.826) and already has three shutouts. These stats place her as one of the top goalkeepers in the CCAA after nine games.
Tetrault’s soccer journey at CPP has been filled with patience and persistence. She spent her freshman year as a redshirt, utilizing last year and the offseason to strengthen her craft and mindset.
“I was redshirted this past year, so this season I wanted to make the most of every opportunity,” Tetrault said. “It’s about staying focused and keeping my team calm, even when the pressure (is) intense.”
Tetrault’s composure was on full display against East Bay. She described the match as the team’s most stressful game so far, a tight contest that demanded focus from start to finish. Her mindset was about keeping things simple, staying locked in and making sure nothing got past her, she said.
“Jenna’s energy and confidence have really lifted our backline this year,” said senior defender Liberty Ortiz. “She’s always staying positive, communicating and that makes us her as our anchor.”
She values communicating with her teammates as one of the most important tools during high intensity matches.
“I don’t shut up,” Tetrault said. “Constant talking helps me and my backline stay connected for 90 minutes. It keeps everyone locked in.”
Tetrault follows a strict routine the night before games to prepare herself, writing out her day every step of the way to keep herself grounded and focused.
“I’m really big on routine and superstition,” Tetrault said. “Doing things the same way makes me feel ready and locked in.”
Now in her second year at CPP, Tetrault has earned the respect of her fellow teammates and coaches for her growth and determination. Volunteer assistant coach Haley Hong, who contributed to last year’s title as a player, said Tetrault’s growth has been inspiring.
“Some people associate good leadership with intensity and intimidation, but others lead with genuine support and example,” Hong said. “That’s exactly what Jenna is. You don’t have to be the loudest person on the field to be the hardest working or want the best for your team.”
Hong highlighted Tetrault’s communication and composure, noting as the only player with a full view of the field, the goalkeeper carries the responsibility of organizing the defense and keeping the team aligned.
“She takes that responsibility seriously,” Hong said. “She’s constantly making sure her defensive line is organized and that the players above them are where they need to be.”
Her consistency at the goal and calm demeanor has been a crucial part of the Broncos success this season, helping them exceed the already heightened expectations after last year’s national title run.
“Jenna’s growth has been awesome to watch,” Hong said. “She worked hard all last season and always took advantage of it and hasn’t let go since.”
Individual recognition is rewarding, but Tetrault remains focused on the collective team-first mindset.
“For the team, it’s team-first always,” Tetrault said. “It’s great to be part of a group that’s doing something special this season.”
This award recognizes Tetrault’s years of hard work and those who have supported her.
“My brother, my parents and my club coach have always been my biggest influence,” Tetrault said. “They’ve given me everything I needed to be my best and have never stopped supporting me.”
As the Broncos continue their undefeated run, Tetrault remains focused on the same goals that earned her the spotlight in the first place. Her calm, disciplined approach continues to set the tone for the Broncos’ defense.
Feature image courtesy of CPP Athletics
