Sugar River Raiders Bring Home Silver in State Tournament
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Wendy Goist Jones
The Sugar River Raiders competed in the State Championship Game on Saturday in Milwaukee. Before leaving for the game, their coach John Ziperski posted on Facebook: "Here we go! Today, I am fortunate to lead a unique team onto a soccer field for 90 minutes. Yes, it's a game, and believe me, perspective will never allow me to forget the gravity of the moment. But it is also a transition point, the end of a story, and abruptly the beginning of 10 new stories for our seniors. In 18 years, we have never known when the end of the season would come, today, that will come regardless of results. I am incredibly proud, as I always am, of what we achieved in the season. We talk about a journey, mostly in context of memories, but the secret is that it is a journey is about growth and relationships with each other, and in our community. This group is faced with a task that they knowingly and willingly approach with wide smiles, one last amazing 90 minutes together-along with two communities that so graciously have rallied behind them. Thank you, for the notes, the pictures, the pep assemblies, the cheers. This is the Raider nation's day-enjoy the experience, remember the moments, the good and bad, and celebrate."
The Belleville/New Glarus Raiders were one of only four teams remaining in Division Three State Soccer. With a record of 23-2-2, and having not lost a game since early April, the team was ready for the big stage of Uihlein Soccer Park in Milwaukee. The players had set the goal of making it to the State Tournament before the season began and fulfilled that goal with hard work, dedication and strong will. A festive sendoff that included a pep rally, decorated bus and signs along the roadside celebrated a well-deserved trip to State.
The opponent was Seymour in the Championship Semifinal. The stands were packed with Raider fans wearing their fan shirts to show support for their team. Both teams had not given up a goal in the post season so the game promised to be a battle. In an impressive performance, the Raider defense placed an emphasis on taking the ball away and limiting the offensive opportunities of Seymour. The game remained in a 0 to 0 tie until there was under five minutes to play. Senior midfielder Marissa Atkins sent the ball toward the goal where Abbi Lahey passed the ball to Vanessa Narveson who shot the ball past the keeper and into the net. Narveson, who leads the Raiders in goals scored with 28, secured the Raider victory while the defense kept their post-season shutout record intact. Final: Raiders 1, Seymour 0.
The 2016 Raiders are the first team in school history to reach the Championship Final at the State Soccer Tournament. The Raiders opponent, Catholic Memorial, has been the reigning State Champion for the past four years and was making their 11th consecutive state tournament appearance. Facing heavy attacks and pressure the Raiders fought hard and never gave up. Despite a valiant effort, the Raiders came up short on the scoreboard but are champions to their loyal fans. Final: Catholic Memorial 5, Sugar River 0.
The Raiders' remarkable season ended as never before with an appearance in the State Championship final. State ranking, convincing wins and an outstanding post season run are impressive. But even more important was the joy the girls took in playing the game, their dedication, commitment and the close bonds that developed between the players and their coaches. Congratulations on an outstanding season!
