The final whistle at the state arena echoed with celebration as Mercer Island lifted the trophy for the second consecutive year, edging Shorewood 1‑0. The decisive strike came from Dylan Jones, whose precise finish capped a tightly contested match that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Shorewood’s journey to the championship was anything but straightforward. After a grueling 5‑4 shootout victory over Bishop Blanchet, the team demonstrated resilience and depth, setting up a much‑anticipated showdown against the Islanders.
In the third‑place match, Gig Harbor fought back to defeat Bishop Blanchet 2‑1 in a penalty shootout, with Bridge Gerry opening the scoring early and Mattias Perrenoud adding a second before halftime. The performance underscored Gig Harbor’s reputation as a perennial contender, despite never having captured a state title.
Beyond the scores, the tournament paid homage to the rich legacies of the programs involved. Mercer Island, the most decorated team in the field, added another chapter to its storied history, while Bishop Blanchet, with four state trophies including championships in 1974 and 1980, reminded everyone of its storied past.
A Look at the Tournament’s Legacy
The upcoming championship match will bring together two teams with contrasting narratives. Shorewood, riding an unbeaten streak and hungry for redemption, will face Mercer Island, the reigning champions looking to extend their dominance. The stakes are high, and the stage is set for a clash that will be remembered for years to come.