Xavier soccer takes the state championship

When it comes to sports, Xavier prides itself on the fact that it is the most winning high school in Arizona. This has been especially exemplified this past winter season, as both Xavier soccer and spiritline came home with major wins to add to Xavier’s sports legacy. 

On February 24, the Xavier varsity soccer team battled it out against the third-ranked Perry Pumas for the 6A State Championship crown, winning 3-2 on penalty kicks.

The game was described as being “intense and it was a nail-biter the whole time. Everyone came with a will to win,” said defender Jayme Brown ‘22.

Head coach Barb Chura said, “There is so much on the line in a state title, so you play with guts, heart, determination and fight.”

No points were scored during the 90-minute regular time nor in the quadruple overtime. The resolution was then determined by penalty kicks: the first Xavier shot made by Bella Leonard ‘23, the second by Ansley Burns ‘22 and the goal that sealed the deal by Jayme Brown.

“To be the last team standing [shows] that all of the work and hours were worth it, [especially] for the girls who can look back one day and say ‘I am a state champion,’” said Chura.