Elite scorer Jones playing key role for Crusaders

Growing up in Connecticut, senior forward Evan Jones played for the Farmington Soccer Arena Football Club since he was 10 years old through his senior year of high school. Alongside the club, Jones played for his high school team at William H. Hall High School and was part of a squad that won the state championship his junior year. He was also named an All-American in 2020. Both achievements started to get him some attention from the collegiate level and led him to Holy Cross.

“I felt like it was the right choice and I wanted to make a decision,” Jones said of his commitment to the Crusaders.

Coming to Holy Cross, Jones made an impact as soon as he stepped on the field. Totaling eight goals and six assists for 22 points during his first year, Jones was named the Patriot League Rookie of the Year. With this major accomplishment bringing some more attention to the team, Jones was feeling some more pressure, alongside his teammates, to perform at the same level or a higher one. 

As he transitioned to the collegiate level, Jones had to experience playing at a more physical and competitive style. After navigating his first season, his accomplishments proved that he could be an asset to the team which is something that he has continued to be throughout his four years. Having now totaled 56 career points on 22 goals and 12 assists, Jones currently is ranked sixth all-time at Holy Cross in points, ninth in assists and ninth in goals. He is also tied for the Patriot League lead in scoring with nine points on four goals and one assist so far in 2024.

“I’m just trying to make the most of this last year and hopefully create some more good memories for us all,” Jones expressed in his hopes for a memorable senior season.

In a competitive match up on Sept, 16, Holy Cross faced No. 5 Clemson on its home field. Knowing that chances to score would be limited, the Crusaders had to ensure they would capitalize on any opportunity they earned. That is exactly what Jones did as he found the back of the net within the first three minutes of the game. With over 2,500 fans in attendance, the team had the support of their fellow Crusaders that night which helped provide them with the confidence to take on Clemson and close out the match with a 2-2 draw.

With new head coach Matt Brown in his first year with the Crusaders, the 2024 season has been a fresh start for everyone. As the team only had a few weeks before the start of the season to learn the ropes of a new staff, the Crusaders have been working hard to navigate these changes and come together as a team.

“It's been great so far with Coach Brown,” Jones said. “He's taken us on board with what he wants, and we all want to play for him and do what he wants for the team.”

As the Crusaders move through their 2024 season, they are currently tied for first place in the Patriot League at 1-0-1, while standing 2-4-3 overall. The Crusaders return to action this Sunday, Sept. 29, when they play host to Patriot League preseason favorite Loyola (Md.) at 2:00 p.m.

“I love this team,” Jones said. “These are my best friends.”

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