KANSAS CITY – Marko Dordevic and Ognjen Bozovic were named 2024 NAIA All-Americans on Monday, becoming the first Spartans to earn the honor since 2006.
Under head coach Jake Alvernia, Dordevic and Bozovic are the first players he has coached at Missouri Baptist University to receive this prestigious national recognition.
Both Dordevic and Bozovic were tabbed on the third team list after helping lead the Spartans to a 12-6-4 record in 2024, a conference tournament title, and their first appearance in the NAIA National Tournament since 2021.
Marko Dordevic
Dordevic recorded 15 goals and seven assists in 2024, both career highs. His successful season left him just four goals shy of becoming MBU's all-time leader in career goals. He currently has 36 career goals and needs 40 to set the record.
"Marko is a game-changer whenever he's on the field," head coach Jake Alvernia said. "His goal tally this season, despite the limited games he played, was impressive, finishing with 37 points. He earned both Conference Player of the Week and NAIA Player of the Week honors. His performance this year is truly deserving of All-American recognition."
Dordevic's standout year earned him two American Midwest Conference (AMC) Offensive Player of the Week honors and one NAIA Offensive Player of the Week recognition after scoring six goals across three matches in one week.
The junior forward was also named to the AMC First Team All-Conference and the AMC All-Tournament Team. He tallied one goal and two assists during the conference tournament.
Ognjen Bozovic
Bozovic posted career highs in 2024 with six goals and two assists. The dynamic center midfielder was named to the AMC First Team All-Conference for his exceptional play.
"I am very proud of the work Ognjen put in during the offseason," Alvernia said. "His goal was to be a top player for MBU and the conference, and being awarded this honor is a testament to his commitment and dedication to improving this season."
Bozovic was instrumental in the Spartans' conference tournament success. He was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player after scoring a game-winning penalty kick in the semifinals and the championship-clinching goal in the final. His efforts helped the Spartans secure their first conference tournament title since 2018 and an automatic bid to the NAIA National Tournament.
The full release from the NAIA can be found here.
