FARMINGTON, Utah – Two Bengals have been recognized among the Big Sky's best as the league announced its 2025 women's soccer regular season awards on Tuesday. Freshman defender Tess Livingston earned a spot on the All-Big Sky Second Team, while senior midfielder and captain Mary Za received Honorable Mention recognition.
This marks the first time since 2014 that Idaho State has placed multiple players on the Big Sky All-Conference teams, a milestone that underscores the program's continued rise under Head Coach Dustin Downey.
Livingston anchored the Bengal defense throughout her first collegiate season, starting all 17 matches and logging 1,511 minutes — the second-most on the roster. The freshman from Pleasent Grove, UT consistently matched up with opposing top forwards and helped Idaho State record five shutouts, tied for third in the Big Sky. She also tallied her first collegiate assist in the Bengals' 3-0 win over Sacramento State.
Her selection also makes history — Livingston is the first Idaho State freshman to be named to the Big Sky Second Team or higher since Ashley Jones in 2009.
"Tess has been a rock for us since day one," said Downey. "Her maturity and defensive awareness are way beyond her age. She's fearless in tackles, composed on the ball, and has quickly become one of the top young defenders in the league."
Za closed her standout Bengal career by earning Honorable Mention honors after leading Idaho State's midfield with three goals and three assists across 17 games played. She ranked second on the team in both points (9) and shots (32), finishing among the top 10 in the Big Sky in total assists. Her blend of creativity, composure, and veteran leadership guided a young roster through a competitive conference slate.
"Mary is the heartbeat of our team," Downey said. "Her leadership and ability to control the flow of play make everyone around her better. She's been a huge part of building the standard for what we're becoming."
Bengal Bites
-
First time since 2014 with multiple Bengals named to Big Sky All-Conference teams
-
Tess Livingston – Big Sky Second Team, Freshman defender who started all 17 matches and played 1,511 minutes
-
First Idaho State freshman named to the Big Sky Second Team or higher since Ashley Jones (2009)
-
Mary Za – Big Sky Honorable Mention, Senior captain with 3 goals, 3 assists, 9 points, and 32 shots
-
Livingston helped anchor a defense ranked fifth in the Big Sky in goals allowed (1.29 per game) and tied for third in shutouts
-
Za ranked tied for 10th in the Big Sky in total assists and top 15 in points per game among midfielders
-
Idaho State finished the 2025 campaign 5-8-4 overall and 2-4-2 in Big Sky play
Stay connected with Bengal Soccer all season long. Follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram for highlights, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
