Congratulations to the girls’ soccer team for winning the Minnesota State Championship! The team finished their 2013 season with a 16-2-2 record. The state tournament was the highlight of the season and a huge reward after hours of practice and team bonding.

After starting the season unranked, the Skippers made huge strides on their journey to the Metrodome. This was Minnetonka’s 5th state tournament appearance and 2nd championship (the first title was in 2001). Senior captain Elizabeth Endy says that it “was super cool to play in the dome and have so many fans there.” But getting to state was only half the battle. The team knew they would have to “focus and play [their] best to have a shot at winning.” While there were “some rough moments,” the girls played well overall and moved past the hard spots to achieve victory. Minnetonka students cheered loud and proud for the girls at the semifinal and championship games on Tuesday, October 29th and Thursday, October 31st, respectively. Having so many fans was encouraging for the team and undoubtedly contributed to their success. Both games proved to be edge-of-your-seat exciting, with Tonka winning each match-up by one goal.

Endy’s “two greatest memories this year” are “winning state and the state semifinal game.” In the state semifinal, the Skippers rallied from trailing by two goals in the second half to come out on top in overtime, defeating Lake Conference rival Eden Prairie 3-2. Maggie Crist scored the third goal to advance the team to the championship. Just two days later, Tonka beat Lakeville North 1-0 to take home the trophy. Ellen Mau, assisted by Diana Draayer’s corner kick, scored the winning goal. Several Minnetonka players were named to the All-Tournament Team for their outstanding performance at state. Congratulations to Maggie Crist, Ellen Mau, Elizabeth Endy, and Alli Bakken for achieving this honor.

Endy was also named Miss Soccer Minnesota, an honor she attributes to her teammates’ support and hard work. She was “really surprised and honored” and “couldn’t have done it without the rest of [her] team.” She commented that “they made practicing every day and going to pasta parties so much fun.” Liz will play soccer for DePaul University in Chicago next year. While many key players are graduating this year, the program will remain strong with returning and new members for next season.

Congratulations on an amazing season, Skippers!