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Lesmes, a forward from Fredonia, New York, has signed a letter of intent to further his education and continue his soccer career at MVNU. As a senior at Fredonia High School, Lesmes scored a school-record 52 goals and added 21 assists in just 21 games as he was named to the All-State Fourth Team and the All-Western New York First Team. A four-year varsity starter and two-year team captain, Lesmes finished his career with 103 goals, which ranks sixth in state history. He was a three-time Division I All-Star, a two-time Most Valuable Player of his league, and a three-time Most Valuable Player of his team.

"I am thrilled that Steven selected MVNU as the place to play his collegiate soccer,” said MVNU head coach Paul Furey. "He was highly recruited and with good reason. The guy can score goals. He will bring a hard work rate coupled with great technical ability, and he will certainly help make us a better team next fall. He has that competitive spirit that I believe is necessary in great goal scorers.”

"I very much admire Steven’s desire to seek the Lord in his college decision,” Furey added. "I know that he wrestled with many options on the table. But, I believe, along with Steven, that this will be a great place for him to get the education he desires, play at a competitive collegiate level the sport he loves, and grow in his faith.”

Lesmes, who won a national title with his 3-v-3 under-16 team, has been active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes for four years. He also received the Principal’s Award as a senior.

"After going and visiting MVNU, I asked the Lord where I was supposed to be,” said Lesmes of his decision. "Coach Furey is a strong Christian model, and I believe he will help me grow as a Christian and also as a soccer player. The people were very nice, and the campus was beautiful and seemed to be growing. I believe the Lord has placed me here for a reason and has great plans for me at MVNU.”

The Cougars finished the 2002 season with a 15-8-0 overall record. MVNU also finished third in the National Christian College Athletic Association National Tournament as the team made its fourth appearance in the event in the past five seasons.