A Title Earned After Years of Near Misses
The Chapin Eagles girls soccer squad finally broke through a decade‑long drought, capturing the Class 5A Division II state championship with a 4‑0 victory over Eastside at Memorial Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina.
A four‑hour delay, caused by a marathon of overtime matches earlier in the day and a sudden downpour, only heightened the anticipation among the packed crowd, but the Eagles emerged focused and ready.
Avery Stoner opened the scoring in the first half and added a second goal early in the second half, underscoring her role as the team’s offensive catalyst while the Eagles continued to press and extend their lead.
Coach Chad Bridges, beaming with pride, praised the squad’s unity and highlighted the defensive foundation that had kept opponents to just nine goals all season, a testament to the back line’s consistency.
The team’s rallying motto, “FAITH,” guided them through the long wait and the pressure of the moment, a theme that resonated with players, families, and the broader community that had supported them through two previous runner‑up finishes.
Among those celebrating were teammates Sydney Stoner, as well as longtime supporters Liz Kujawa, Marv Levy and journalist Lou Bezjak, whose coverage had chronicled the Eagles’ journey from early‑season optimism to championship night.