In a stunning display of resilience and skill, the Walsh Jesuit women’s soccer team, under the strategic guidance of Coach Javier Iriart, reclaimed their glory, securing the State Championship at Columbus’ historic Crew Stadium. Their 2-1 victory over Olentangy Liberty on November 10, 2023, echoed a triumphant return to the top, the team’s first since 2016, and a redemption from the previous season’s semi-final heartbreak.
The match was a showcase of strategy and determination. Junior Hannah Pachan’s two early goals set the tone with a critical first strike in the opening minutes and a spectacular finish before halftime. Olentangy Liberty responded with Chloe Brecht’s goal, intensifying the match’s pace. However, the Warrior goalkeeper Adri Lika’s spectacular saves in the closing moments sealed the victory.
Junior midfielder and forward Hannah Pachan, a pivotal figure in the match, reflected on the mental shift crucial to their success. “Putting last year’s defeat behind and focusing on the present game was key. We had to adapt our play, focus on our strengths, and not dwell on the past. Once the whistle blew, we were all in for the win,” she explained.
Freshman striker Abby Witkiewicz, experiencing her first state championship, shared her exhilaration: “Starting as a freshman and playing in such a high-stakes game was an incredible experience. It was a blend of excitement and responsibility, contributing to the team’s success. Winning alongside my best friends and under the guidance of our coaches was surreal.”
The season’s journey, beginning with a challenging 1-1 tie against Toledo Central Catholic, showcased the Warriors’ resilience, culminating in an impressive 17-2-2 record. Junior forward Ciara Santiago offered insights into the team’s evolution. “After losing many key seniors, we had to regroup and refocus. The playoffs ignited a belief within us, showing that we had the potential to go all the way,” she shared.
Add Madden, a junior varsity midfielder, found inspiration in the varsity team’s grit and success. “Watching our team clinch the state title was not just inspiring but also motivating. It sets a high standard for us to aspire to in future seasons,” she said, mirroring the sense of inspiration sparked by the victory.
The team’s triumph was a testament to the leadership of Coach Iriart and the senior captains. Their guidance, both on and off the field, was instrumental in shaping the team’s character and performance. Abby Witkiewicz highlighted this, stating, “Our progress to the state final was motivated by the leadership and hard work of everyone. The desire and energy we felt as a group pushed us to be our best as individuals and as a team. This is probably the greatest experience of my life.”
In the wake of their victory, the whole school community rallied behind the women’s soccer team with a spirited pep rally. The student body came together in an inspiring display of school spirit to honor the team’s journey and remarkable success.
Reflecting on the school’s pep rally, junior Mike McFeature shared, “The rally was more than just a celebration of the victory. It was about our school’s spirit. It’s amazing to see how sports can bring us together like this. The team’s win actually felt like a win for all of us.”
