EAST CHICAGO, Ind. – Senior forward Dom Bixeman delivered the breakthrough the Redhawks were searching for, scoring on a header in the 59th minute to propel Indiana University Northwest past Grace Christian University 1-0 in the 2025 home opener Wednesday night at East Chicago Central High School.

Bixeman's tally, his first goal of the season, came off sustained Redhawks pressure as IU Northwest racked up 14 total shots, including nine corner kicks, against the visiting Tigers.

Defensively, goalkeeper Devun Collins stood tall for the Redhawks, recording seven saves to preserve the clean sheet. Collins was tested multiple times in the second half but denied every look to secure his first win of the season.

The Redhawks controlled much of the tempo throughout the night, keeping possession in the attacking half and creating consistent chances that eventually broke down the Grace Christian back line. The defensive unit stayed organized and compact, limiting the Tigers to just eight total shots.

With the victory, IU Northwest improves to 1-1-0 on the season, while Grace Christian falls to 0-1-0.

The Redhawks now turn their attention to the road, traveling to take on Lourdes University at Wildcat Stadium in Sylvania, Ohio. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. at 5403 Silica Drive.