The latest edition of the Illinois High School Association girls soccer playoffs delivered a pair of compelling stories from the Peoria area. Notre Dame High School dismantled East Moline United 5-0, with senior forward Abigail Chaddock delivering a hat trick that highlighted the team’s offensive firepower. The victory adds to a season that already boasts 22 shutouts — the 10th‑most in IHSA history — and 146 goals, placing the program among the most prolific attacks in the state.
Championship Matchups on the Horizon
In the upcoming sectional championship, Notre Dame is slated to face Edwardsville High School, a perennial contender that has advanced to the final with a disciplined defensive scheme. Dunlap, meanwhile, will meet either Morton High School or Champaign Central High School, depending on the outcome of their semifinal. Both potential opponents have shown resilience in tight contests, setting the stage for a competitive title match.
The dramatic finish came in Dunlap’s 1-0 victory over Normal West, a game that stretched into double overtime before Manuela Botera‑Moriarity struck the decisive goal. The result not only secured a spot in the championship but also underscored the team’s capacity to execute under pressure, a trait that could prove vital in the final.
Both schools have deep roots in the local community, drawing support from families, alumni and regional fans who gather at the respective campuses. As the championship approaches, the excitement reflects a broader celebration of high school athletics in Illinois, where tradition and emerging talent intersect on the field.