Even snow flurries, heavy downpours and strikes of lightning couldn’t stop the Stillwater girls varsity soccer team as they won the Class C Championship on Sunday, Nov. 16 at Homer High School in Homer, New York. Despite the bad weather, game delays and close calls that nearly cost them the title, the team’s determined spirit propelled them to the top, securing their third state championship since 2018.
“Winning the state championship felt so relieving. Throughout the season, everyone worked extremely hard toward this and it finally paid off,” said senior Brooke Coon. “I couldn’t ask for a better team to experience this with.”
Stillwater’s dream of a state championship was almost over before it began. They nearly lost to Burke Catholic on Saturday, Nov. 15, but rallied to defeat their opponent 2-1 in overtime. Their momentum continued into the championship game the following day as they took on Section 1’s Tuckahoe. After a scoreless first half, junior Brooke Hodgson nailed a free kick from 25 yards out, giving Stillwater a 1-0 lead early in the second half. The team held onto their lead for the remainder of the game, earning redemption after last year’s gut-wrenching defeat in the Class C finals.
“We deserved every bit of this win, especially after all the hard work and dedication each and every player put into this team,” said freshmen Finley Bornt. “Last year was devastating, but we fought back to win it all, and I know winning the state championship in the snow with this legendary team will be something I remember forever.”
Bursting with excitement and pride, the team celebrated their victory on the field—complete with the 2025 NYSPHSAA Championship banner, plaque and even a few falling snowflakes. Later that evening, they returned to Stillwater to cheers, flashing sirens and an escort worthy of champions—topping off the celebration with delicious pizza.
“This was definitely the best team to get this done with and I wouldn’t have wanted to do it with anybody else,” said senior Bridget Coon. “It was truly a team effort. On and off the field, we all put in so much work since the beginning of the season, and it’s an amazing feeling to know it paid off.”
“Winning the state championship and bringing it home with these girls, who are like family, is a huge memory and experience I’ll never forget,” said senior Sadie Hazen. “I couldn’t have asked for a better way to end my high school soccer career!”
The team concludes their season with an overall record of 22-1. Congratulations ladies on this extraordinary accomplishment!
