NAS Pensacola Edges Korean Navy in Friendly Soccer Match

Naval Air Station Pensacola's tenant command team defeated sailors from the visiting Republic of Korea Ship Hansando 4-2 in a friendly soccer match Monday at the Barrancas Sports Complex, according to a Navy press release. The 11-on-11 game saw the NAS Pensacola side rally from an early two-goal deficit, with Naval Aviation Schools Command Ensign Andrew Schuetz scoring twice to spark the comeback.

The match, organized by NAS Pensacola's Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department, was part of a broader cultural and professional exchange during the Hansando's four-day port visit through October 29. NAS Pensacola MWR Sports Coordinator Brett Pelfrey said the event highlighted how sports serve as a universal language, fostering camaraderie between the two allied nations. "Seeing these players interact not only on the pitch but in the celebrations after was a rewarding experience," Pelfrey said in a statement.

The Hansando and its embarked Cruise Task Training Group arrived at NAS Pensacola on October 26, marking a significant visit during the naval air station's 200th anniversary year. Beyond the soccer match, ROK Navy sailors and midshipmen participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Korean War Memorial in downtown Pensacola, toured the National Naval Aviation Museum, and observed a Blue Angels practice demonstration. Players from both teams exchanged jerseys following the match.