The final championship games of the Illinois girls high school soccer season unfolded in Naperville, drawing families, alumni and local fans to witness the crowning of three state champions across different classes.
Class 1A: Father McGivney's Historic First Title
Representing the Father McGivney Catholic Griffins from Glen Carbon, the team secured its inaugural state championship with a commanding 3‑0 victory over Pleasant Plains. Freshman Kinley Dettmers opened the scoring in the 18th minute, and Natalie Beck, an Arkansas State recruit, converted a penalty in the 25th minute. Mira Ahlvers added a third goal in the 61st minute, sealing a performance that highlighted the Griffins' rapid rise.
Class 2A: Tigers Defend Their Crown
Crystal Lake Central Tigers, riding a strong season, captured their second title in three years by edging Morton 3‑1. Addison Shaffer struck first in the 30th minute, only for Morton to reply through a corner‑kick header by Izzy Ripka in the 65th. Shaffer restored the lead with a penalty in the 66th, and Ella Bechler sealed the win with a long‑range strike in the 90th minute, underscoring the Tigers' resilience.
Class 3A: New Trier's Pursuit of Legacy
In the Class 3A final, New Trier entered the match with a 1‑0 halftime lead courtesy of Addy Randall's 36th‑minute goal. A victory would tie the Trevians with St. Charles East for the most state championships in program history. Across the field, Naperville Central, absent from a state tournament for three decades, fought valiantly but could not break the deadlock, leaving New Trier one win away from matching the record.
Beyond the scoreboard, the championships reflect a growing competitiveness in Illinois girls soccer, where suburban programs are investing in development pathways and community support. The matches also provided a platform for standout players such as Kinley Dettmers, Natalie Beck, Mira Ahlvers, Addison Shaffer, Izzy Ripka, Ella Bechler and Addy Randall, whose performances hint at bright futures at the collegiate level.