
Ten Division III Standouts Eye the Gagliardi Trophy
A look at the top contenders for the prestigious Gagliardi Trophy, named for coach John Gagliardi, and the schools they represent.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning North Central College across Soccer, Basketball, Football.

A look at the top contenders for the prestigious Gagliardi Trophy, named for coach John Gagliardi, and the schools they represent.

The Blue Streaks enter 2026 with a top‑five preseason poll position, bolstered by a championship‑winning 2025 campaign, an intact offensive line and the addition of transfer quarterback Tyler Green.

Shea Cupples joins Millikin University's men's basketball program as an assistant coach for the upcoming 2026-27 season, bringing a track record of player development and competitive experience.

The Edwardsville girls soccer team finished fourth in the Class 3A state tournament, earning their second state trophy and capping a three‑year run that showcased dominant defense, clutch performances and a senior class that will shape the program’s future.

Father McGivney’s poise and precision overwhelm undefeated Pleasant Plains in a 3‑0 state championship shutout.

The Father McGivney Griffins captured their first Class 1A state title with a dominant 3‑0 win over Pleasant Plains, finishing the season at 24‑2‑3 and outscoring opponents 136‑13.

New Trier edged Naperville Central 2-1 in the 3A girls soccer state championship, delivering a late decisive strike after the Redhawks rallied in the second half. The triumph marks the Tigers' second title in three years while Naperville Central concludes a record-breaking campaign.

The Griffins concluded a dominant 24-2-3 season with a decisive state title, highlighted by goals from Kinley Dettmers, Natalie Beck and Mira Ahlvers.

The Tigers finished a 16-5-2 season with a narrow defeat, reflecting on a journey marked by injuries, camaraderie, and a historic first state trophy for their opponents.
The Crystal Lake Central Tigers secured their second Class 2A girls soccer championship in three years, defeating Morton 3-1. Key performances from Addison Shaffer and Izzy Ripka defined the match, while Morton's record-breaking season ends with a 26-2-1 record.
The Cardinals dominated their semifinal, scoring five first‑half goals, and now eye a historic championship against Glen Carbon Father McGivney.

The Father McGivney High School girls soccer team, led by coach Jason Turkington, enters the state tournament for the first time after a dominant season that saw them outscore opponents 128‑13. With standout talents such as Natalie Beck, Layla Tobin and keeper Peyton Ellis, the squad aims to capture the championship on Saturday afternoon.
The Morton girls soccer squad, led by standout performances from Madi Greiner and Claire Ceresa, extended their unbeaten streak to 11 wins and will now face Wheaton St. Francis in the semifinals.
The Panthers clinched a 2-0 win over Rock Island Alleman in the Class 1A Williamsville Supersectional, earning their first state berth since 2023 and setting up a June 4 semifinal against Johnsburg.

After guiding Illinois College to consecutive Midwest Conference titles and a Division III Final Four run, Steve Schweer is set to lead the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh men's basketball program, inheriting a legacy that includes a 2019 national championship.

Steve Schweer, celebrated for his recent triumphs at Illinois College, is set to lead the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh men's basketball team starting June 1, bringing a blend of strategic acumen and winning experience.

Steve Schweer, celebrated for guiding Illinois College to back‑to‑back Division III titles, will take the helm of UW‑Oshkosh’s men’s basketball program on June 1, succeeding longtime coach Matt Lewis.

Steve Schweer, celebrated for his eight‑year run at Illinois College, has taken the helm of the University of Wisconsin‑Oshkosh men’s basketball team, succeeding Matt Lewis. His track record of conference titles, NCAA tournament wins and national recognition positions him to continue the Owls' storied tradition.