MariellaVirgillito

As the soccer season comes close to the end, Marian’s teams are demonstrating strength, skill and solidarity. They have had a standout year with aspirations for a State championship title, and a nearly perfect record. Being 16-1 going into State, the varsity team, led by Marian ’92 alum Coach Teresa DeGeorge, claimed victory in the Metro Championship and set high hopes for the State tournament.

Under the guidance of Coach DeGeorge, Marian’s varsity soccer team has enjoyed a season filled with growth and triumph. Coach DeGeorge highlights the team’s evolution, and “It’s been exciting to see their growth from leadership to game play. Our build-up passing game sets us apart from teams that rely heavily on long balls. We adapt well to different styles of play,” DeGeorge said.

The highlight of the season was winning the Metro Championship, which has not happened since 2017. Coach DeGeorge recalls, “Winning metros was super exciting. We were very focused. I’ve never seen them play a better first half ever. I told the girls it was good entertainment for the people who came and paid to watch,” DeGeorge said.

Despite the pressures of unpredictable weather and high expectations, Coach DeGeorge maintains a focused and incremental approach. “I never wanna get ahead of myself, and I always keep the girls focused on one game at a time. Any team can surprise us, we learned that last year against Westside,” DeGeorge said.

This season is particularly special because four out of five seniors have committed to playing soccer at the collegiate level. 

Izzy Snowden, who will join Drake University playing center back, credits Marian’s program for shaping her into her best self while being surrounded by empowering female role models. 

Jane Kidder will be playing at Hamline University next year.

Rylie Washington is committed to Iowa Western Community College.

Anna Bragg is set to play forward for Creighton University. Bragg reflects on her journey at Marian “I’ve learned great leadership skills and gained confidence that extends beyond the field.”

WOWT Channel 6 News named Anna Bragg Sports Athlete of the Week last week. It’s an honor that shows her impact on the Girls Class A game this year. Bragg is headed to State with 22 goals this season.

These seniors not only enhance the team’s skill set but also enrich the team’s culture. Coach Kerry Pivovar, with nine years at Marian, praises the seniors: “They bring diverse talents and create a respectful, inclusive environment that’s beautiful to watch,” Pivovar said.

The JV team, led by first-year coach Brendan Schneiderman, is proud of their impressive 9-1 record, setting a solid foundation for future Varsity players. Coach Schneiderman notes, “Our biggest accomplishment has been our defense.”

“Starting the season, we did not have centerbacks. Cleo Washington and Rory Wright-Kent stepped up to fill those positions and they have only allowed two goals all season,” Schneiderman said. 

The Reserve team also looks forward to their future contributions to the Marian soccer program. This year, they had a successful season, coached by alumna Patty Kliver, with the record of 7-1-1, losing to Westside and tying with Millard West. 

As the State tournament draws near, there is a lot of anticipation and optimism. “I believe Marian will make it to State. I don’t know the outcome, but I know for certain we will have the best team camaraderie and loudest cheering bench, which can be a difference maker,” Pivovar said.

As the season wraps up, the focus is not only on potential titles but also on cherishing these moments. 

For many players, especially seniors, these are the final matches in a Marian uniform, an emotional realization as noted by Coach DeGeorge “I start to get emotional thinking about this being it for them.”

With strong leadership, a talented roster, and a united front, Marian’s soccer teams are not just chasing a championship, they’re building a legacy of excellence, camaraderie and personal growth. 

Stay tuned to see how these inspiring teams conclude their journey in the upcoming State tournament. 

The Crusaders played their first round on Monday, May 6 at noon at Morrison Stadium against Kearney winning in a shootout. 

They will continue in the tournament’s semifinals playing on Friday, May 10 at either 12 or 2 p.m. 

State tournament finals for Girls Class A is Monday, May 13 at 8 p.m. at Morrison Stadium.