Audrey Connealy, a junior goalkeeper for the Marian girls soccer team, steered her squad to a state championship that will be remembered as one of the program’s brightest moments.
Central to her success is a simple mantra taught by her parents: “be a goldfish.” The phrase urges her to release past mistakes and stay present, a mental discipline that has become her trademark on the field.
Her commitment to Creighton University, set to begin in August 2025, intertwines with a deep friendship and on‑field partnership with teammate Hayden Blaney, a duo that has reshaped the team’s dynamics.
The Championship Game
In the title match the Crusaders blanked their opponents 2‑0, with Connealy posting clean sheets in both the Class A quarterfinals and the final.
The win secured Marian’s 15th state championship, their first since 2017, and highlighted how a culture built on mutual competition and support can thrive.
Looking ahead, Connealy’s focus on the present and her partnership with Blaney suggest continued excellence for the program as it prepares for future challenges.