A pivotal moment in the district final
The night of May 28 delivered a clash of two top‑10 Michigan High School Athletic Association girls soccer programs, Notre Dame Prep and Warren Regina, in the Division 3 district final. Both squads entered the match with strong records, but the contest quickly evolved into a tactical battle that would hinge on a single disciplinary incident.
A red card issued to a Regina defender left her team a player short, and the Prep seized the opportunity within minutes. Two rapid goals followed, shifting momentum decisively in favor of Notre Dame Prep and setting the stage for a comeback that would define the match.
The decisive strike came from Ellie Whalen, a Wayne State soccer commit, who calmly slotted the third goal to seal a 3‑2 victory. Her score not only broke the three‑game losing streak against Regina but also underscored the impact of individual composure under pressure.
Looking ahead
With the district final behind them, the Prep now turn their attention to the regional round, where they will meet either Williamston or Goodrich in a bid for a state‑championship berth in East Lansing. Coach Jim Stachura praised the team's resilience, noting that the early ejection forced rapid adaptation, while senior captain Maggie Maher highlighted a growing belief that the title is within reach.