LIVINGSTON, Ala. – University of West Alabama men's soccer freshman midfielder Florian Laot has been named the Gulf South Conference Freshman of the Year following an outstanding debut season for the Tigers.

Laot made an immediate impact in the West Alabama midfield, finishing the season with seven goals and six assists for 20 points across 16 appearances, including 14 starts. He recorded 20 shots, putting 16 on target, and finished with two game-winning goals.

The freshman consistently contributed to the Tigers' offensive production throughout the season, recording at least one point in nine matches. He opened his collegiate career with a goal against Tampa on August 27 before adding two assists in West Alabama's 8-1 victory over Tuskegee on September 13.

Laot delivered one of his strongest performances of the season against Harding on September 20, scoring twice and adding an assist for a season-high five points. His two goals helped lead the Tigers to an 8-2 victory.

He continued to provide an offensive spark in conference play, scoring against Christian Brothers on October 2 and adding goals in consecutive victories over Union and Montevallo on October 11 and October 14. Against Montevallo, Laot recorded a season-high four shots, all of which were on target.

Laot also contributed in the Tigers' postseason run, recording a goal and an assist in West Alabama's 4-3 GSC Tournament quarterfinal victory over Alabama-Huntsville on October 31. His performance helped the sixth-seeded Tigers advance to the conference semifinals.

The freshman finished the season with 928 minutes played, including a season-high 84 minutes against AUM on October 7. His ability to contribute as both a scorer and playmaker made him a valuable presence in the Tigers' midfield throughout his first collegiate campaign.

Laot's selection as GSC Freshman of the Year highlights an impressive first season in Livingston and adds another individual honor to West Alabama's 2026 men's soccer campaign.