Corner‑Kick Clinic Fuels Prairie School's Dominance
The Prairie School capped the WIAA Division 4 state championship with a 5‑0 victory over Xavier, a team that had conceded only nine goals all season. The Hawks' offensive scheme revolved around set‑piece execution, producing three of their five goals from corner kicks.
Meghan Gavigan opened the scoring with a header from a corner, and later added a second when Constanza Belaunzaran's deflection fell to her. Kiera Kimbrough completed the aerial onslaught in the 56th minute, her header set up by Belaunzaran, while Belaunzaran herself sealed the win with a penalty after a handball in the box.
Xavier entered the final as defending champions, boasting a stingy defense that had allowed just nine goals throughout the campaign. Coach John Meyer acknowledged the Hawks' precise execution, noting that his side's improvement in aerial duels had been a key factor.
The loss marked the final match for eleven Xavier seniors, including defender Eva Stankewicz and midfielder Sydney Neilitz, who reflected on the team's resilience and the camaraderie that had defined their journey.
Legacy of a Program
For The Prairie School, the triumph added another chapter to a storied history. It was the 13th state appearance for the Hawks and their fifth title‑game visit, having previously lifted trophies in 2004, 2005 and 2008. Coach Meyer emphasized that the senior cohort had helped put the program back on the map.
The senior class, highlighted by leaders such as Eva Stankewicz and Sydney Neilitz, expressed gratitude for the opportunities and experiences the program provided. Their departure leaves a void, but the underclassmen are poised to build on the foundation laid by this accomplished group.