Class 1A — Davenport Assumption Knights vs. Denver Cyclones

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Speaker: It is time for state championship soccer. Iowa PBS is here at the Cyclone in Ames to bring you the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union State Soccer Championships. Today we open up with class one A. And how about this? Top seeded Denver takes on perennial power Davenport assumption in the opener. Hi again. We're one with Gilbert. Head coach Heather Currans, this is BJ Schaben. And coach. What a matchup we start with offensively minded Denver against the defensive juggernaut in Assumption.

 

Speaker: Really excited for this championship game today. Assumption so strong in the back line. Denver they're just a powerhouse of strong leadership and they're ready to take them on, I bet.

 

Speaker: Well, let's get introduced to these two teams a little bit more intimately. Let's turn it over to today's public address announcer Jason Esslinger.

 

Speaker: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the 2025 Girls state soccer Championships presented by Iowa Farm Bureau. This morning's matchup features the Assumption Knights and the Denver Cyclones. It's now time to introduce the players in today's championship matchup. First, the Nonstarters for Davenport. Assumption number one Lennon Riberdy. Number 11 Izzy Motto. Number 14 Kathleen Yeates. Number 15 Delaney O'Hare-Logan. Number 17 Natalie Stombaugh. Number 20 Maddy Martinez. Number 21 Ava Waldron. Number 25 Lainey Peterson. Number 27 Kasyn Kurtz. Number 32 Sadie Nolan. And number 33 Tatiana Bakich. Now the starter nonstarters for Denver. Number 2 Addison Rohm. Number 3 Jules Neubauer. Number 5 Adeline Decker. Number seven Hazel Kolsrud. Number 12 Emily Mulert. Number 13 Mackenzie Simmons. Number 15 Grace Mullihan. Number 19 Kenna Rothmeyer. Number 20 Sydney Krabbenhoft. Number 21 Alexis Miller. Number 22 Aubrie Jergens. Number 23 Nancy Van De Walle. Number 25 Evie Shaya. Number 26 Seraphie Oesterle. Number 27 Maddie Johnson. Number 24 Elise Ricketts. And 69 Krisanne Wirtjes. Now let's meet the starters for Davenport. Assumption number 1 Alyssa O'Neal. Number 4 Gabby Stoffregen. Number 5 Ella Curoe. Number 8, Drew Dorsey. Number 9 Caitlin O'Brien. Number 10 Heather Jondle. Number 12 Cameron Menke. Number 13 Anna Weiman. Number 19 Ruby Stevens. Number 22 Amalie Yeates. And 24 Maddi Tolle. The head coach for Davenport Assumption is Elizabeth Moss. She's assisted by Michael Harrington. Now the starters for the home team, the Denver Cyclones. Number 0 Adeana Murch. Number 4 Addison Shepard. Number 6. Mackenzie McEwan. Number 8 Kira Gerkey. Number nine Alyssa Harberts. Number 10 Elena Akers. Number 11 Bailey Mullihan. Number 14 Anna Mulert. Number 16 Maya Rosenkrans. Number 17 Kenzie Snyder. Number 18 Miranda Thurm Kern. The head coach for Denver for Denver is Derek Krebsbach. He's assisted by Kain Eagle, Marissa Lopez, Sami Gehrke and Emma Hennessey. The officials for today's match, the referee is Miranda Woodcock. Assistant referees are Jacqueline Kellam and Courtney Woodcock. The fourth official today is Crystal Tate. Ladies and gentlemen, the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union would like to take this quick opportunity to recognize Jim Albertson for his outstanding service. Jim is retiring as the Director of Soccer officials at the. Following today's championship matches, his dedication and expertise in training and retaining soccer officials have been invaluable to our organization and the sport of soccer. His contributions will be greatly missed. Thank you, Jim, and congratulations on your well-earned retirement. Ladies and gentlemen, if you'd please stand and remove your hats for the playing of our national anthem.

 

Speaker: There is nothing better than brunch, soccer. And how about this? It's the one. A state championship match as the Denver Cyclones take on the Davenport Assumption Knights, who come in as the number 3 seed. As these two squads ready to do battle out on the the pitch. As we take a look at their tournament resumes coming into this one. First up for Davenport assumption, you've seen them before 18 consecutive state tournament appearances, but 11 championships, which is a record in the state of Iowa. They've got a very experienced team, six returning starters, nine seniors in their lineup and they've got Drew Dorsey. She leads the team with 30-6 goals and Alyssa O'Neal look out for her. She's only allowed eight goals this season. It's her first year in at net. Meanwhile, for the Denver Cyclones, it's their fourth trip to state. They were runners up last year to Nevada, losing 2-0 They've got five different players who've scored in the tournament and then you've got Alyssa Harberts and Miranda Thurm and Junior Grace Mullihan. They were members of last year's one, a all tournament team, so a lot of experience back coach, which could bode well for Denver. But there's also experience on the other side with Assumption.

 

Speaker: They've they are no they're it's not new to them to be at this state championship game. Fun for Denver to make it back again. Two years in a row. And I bet they're really trying to put the put the cherry on top this year.

 

Speaker: Well, for Assumption, it's been three years since they've played in the state championship match. They won the coin toss. They'll start with the ball first. They're going to run a four for two today. And for Denver their formation will look more of a 43, three as this one is getting underway. Again, keep an eye on Dru Dorsey as Assumption wants to put a lot of pressure on the ball. The conditions here today, it's just absolutely gorgeous for soccer. Overcast, not very warm. The field is in great shape, as you would expect here at Iowa State University as Assumption and Denver again meeting for the first time. Two they've never played against one another and it comes here in the one a title match as they try to stretch it out to Dorsey as we're going to see a lot of action here at the midfield here early on. You've coached in the state championship before, two years ago. Didn't want to bring that up. But you played against Heelan.

 

Speaker: We did. We got to play against Heelan in that game. Beautiful conditions today. That day I would say pretty darn hot. But today this looks great for them. They shouldn't hopefully get too tired with the conditions, but I know they'll be working really hard.

 

Speaker: Here's acres with the ball right now. Denver looking to run a little bit more spacing. That was an issue in one of their earlier games, in which they won in the opener against Underwood 53, as this one is going to be rolled up to O'Neal, who will look to kick start it again from Ned. And again, just so impressive for Alyssa O'Neal as she puts the ball in play. She transferred into Davenport Assumption from Bettendorf, where she had played three years as a varsity starter but in the field, and then transferred to net this year. That's a tough task to make that transition, and she's done it exceptionally well.

 

Speaker: Well, it tells me that she's a really coachable player to be able to come into a brand new position, and that's what you look for in a in a teammate or a player that you're having on the field.

 

Speaker: Now offensively for Assumption, they're going to try to shoot it here to the near side to Tolle and Denver defensively able to get back here at least in formation as a. They're going to rule this one out. And last touch by the Cyclones. So defensively Miranda Thurm who's been good all season. In fact coach Dike Griesbach calls her the smartest player out on the field. She's going to be tasked or try to slow down. Drew Dorsey. And Assumption with another throw here with Maddi Tolle. She had a goal against Nevada in the opener and also with an assist. Is that one's. Again. Assumption going to have another throw here, but Denver having trouble clearing it.

 

Speaker: Yeah, just kind of clearing it to the side. I'm happy to see they're not clearing it to the middle, because I see a lot of white shirts right there.

 

Speaker: Well, let's take a look at our keys to the match here for the Davenport Assumption Knights coming in at 14:04 and one overall. Coach, what do you have drawn up here.

 

Speaker: For the Davenport assumption? They need to be better at the midfield. They got to be stronger there. It looks like they have a little bit more presence there today. It's early in the game, but I would like to see them capitalize on their opportunities, that they get their ball in the middle and they do something with it, distribute it to the sides.

 

Speaker: Now Denver trying to stretch it out as this one rolls away from Assumption and Kate O'Brien, but she'll track it down as they were trying to lead it out towards Harberts and the Cyclones will get an opportunity. We'll take a look at Denver's keys to the match here in just a moment, as the Cyclones. Well, let's take a look at them now. What do they need to do?

 

Speaker: Denver should stay aggressive. In all positions. They need to make sure that they're keeping their shape. Like BJ talked about earlier, they got a little clumped up early on, but we're hoping that they do that. Just to distribute the ball out to the sides would be great.

 

Speaker: Now, a goal kick here coming up for the Denver Cyclones and Adeana Murch. You know, we talked so much about O'Neal, actually, as they'll put it in play with acres right to the midfield. But O'Neal has been challenged. She's just a freshman. She had four saves against Underwood and six saves in the semifinals to help them advance as they beat Hudson 1-0 or 21. Excuse me. And that one was in overtime. We mentioned the weather here just a moment ago. Coach about overcast chance of rain. They had rain earlier this week.

 

Speaker: Oh yeah, a downpour on Tuesday. Lots of water. But you know, they've gotten to play in all kinds of different conditions today. The field is beautiful, like you said, but a lot of these teams play on turf. So you just have to make that adjustment for the rolling of the ball.

 

Speaker: Elisabeth Moss, she's been here before, head coach for Assumption. She actually played for Assumption as part of their first ever state title. As again the cyclones just having trouble getting it towards net and Assumption will go with the quick throw with Shepard. They'll leave it ahead to Harberts, who touches it for the first time, and an opportunity will center it. The pass and it goes in and goal for Assumption as they

 

Speaker: strike first. Harberts able to connect with a teammate and Davenport assumption will score the game's first goal. So Dorsey. Able to connect with Ruby Stevens. That's her second goal of the state tournament, and Assumption strikes first, which is huge.

 

Speaker: That was a great cross from the end line back cut back to Dorsey. Dorsey was just in the right place at the right time. I love that.

 

Speaker: Can see why Dorsey heavily recruited. Going to be going on to play at the University of Cincinnati. She'll be back playing on this field as Cincinnati is part of the big 12 conference, and I think she likes playing on this surface, no doubt, as she was able to get the assist there. It's her second assist here of the state tournament. She already has two goals in the tournament and scored the lone goal in the semifinals against Heelan. Assumption again, this is where they put a lot of pressure on you, as they'll swim it down deep to Thurm. Now Tolle trying to hit it to the middle to Dorsey Denver having trouble clearing it. Another opportunity. Dorsey will go to the outside as Assumption looks to stretch it out a little bit. Now. Gerkey Denver back on the possession. Snyder along that far sideline, just lost the handle and again, defensively Assumption has been stout. That's O'Brien again. Last year Nevada beat Denver in the final 2-0 In a similar type fashion, in which Nevada was able to jump out early on Denver and prevailed throughout. Now the cyclones are going to have to come back if they want to win their school's first ever state title. Here's Dorsey this is dangerous. Too much of a lead pass, as it will be a goal kick here. Coming up for Denver. What do you think? Assumption playing a lot more forward here today.

 

Speaker: They're really putting a lot of pressure. It seems like they're getting to all the 50 50 balls. And Denver is having a hard time making connected passes.

 

Speaker: Shepard has it taken away? Good steal by Stombaugh now. Dorsey. Again. They'll shoot it ahead as Stoffregen trying to find Dorsey.

 

Speaker: Yep. No foul there.

 

Speaker: As it was a clean play and tackle by Denver. Here's Yeates open field. Will try to power that one through Denver able to get in front of it. Again to the outside. That's Weiman. It will be a throw from the sideline here for Assumption. Anna Weiman the senior will put it in play. And we'll do it all over again. Again 1-0 on the goal scored by Ruby Stevens. And the assist by Drew Dorsey. The Knights have struck first. And what's interesting, in the last seven state titles that Assumption has won, they've never had to play from behind. They've always scored the game's first goal.

 

Speaker: I know they did that on us.

 

Speaker: And us being Gilbert. We're joined by Gilbert, head coach Heather Currans here today on Iowa PBS, as this is one of three state championships today. Denver looking to again hold their shape, but you can see in the close proximity they're not able to stretch it out very much. At the top, they're trying to identify Harberts. It's going to be nullified though by Menke. Menke again will turn the ball around. And you have to wonder, you know, Denver. In talking with Coach Krebsbach before the game, he had mentioned, you know, they play on some short fields. This is a very large field as they try to hit the lead pass to the out and Denver will have a throw here. So it's a little bit of a difference, you know, with the size of the field, the scope.

 

Speaker: Yes, I'm sure that that does make a difference. You know, you think that all the fields are going to be the same when you're playing, but they definitely are not. So you have to be prepared for all those different opportunities different variables in this game.

 

Speaker: Here's Stevens Ruby putting it down the near sideline. Still on the left foot. We'll center it. This is going to be quickly caught up by Denver.

 

Speaker: Good.

 

Speaker: And what you want to do to stem the tide there. As Keira Gehrke. Was able to get it going. Now they're going to try to stretch it out to Shepard the freshman trying to track that ball down. But Jondle is there. We'll bump it out and it will be a throw deep on their side for the Denver Cyclones.

 

Speaker: It's really the first chance that Denver's had down in that last third.

 

Speaker: So with the throw here is Bailey Mullihan. Tries to get to the middle. This is deep.

 

Speaker: Right now.

 

Speaker: And still going with it is Shepard the centering pass a little too high, but it will be going down to the outside to Gerkey. We'll pass it back out again. Denver trying to go to the middle now the shot towards the top and that one is just going to be wide left again. O'Neal had that pipe covered up and now we'll do a goal kick. Boy Shepard with the opportunity there. And Denver a little bit shorthanded throughout the season. Shepard the freshman coming in place of Grace Mullihan, who is her outstanding player from a year ago, Mullihan out with a shoulder injury and actually had surgery. But Shepard has coach Griesbach has said has played incredible this year.

 

Speaker: She was very strong in the first two games that I saw her play here at the state tournament.

 

Speaker: And for a freshman to step up and here she is again. Here's Shepard on the outside centering, but nobody home would have been offsides to as Denver was not at the ready. Had they connected. Now Mullihan is again. They try to play it forward.

 

Speaker: Weiman eight.

 

Speaker: Denver seems to be getting a little bit more organized together.

 

Speaker: And McEwan again on that far sideline will look to throw. But again as they try to get some spacing here as they go to the outside. Here's Bailey Mullihan now to the middle Mullihan will try to touch it up as player had slipped for Denver. To the near side to Mulert just lost. It and quickly to cover up on it as Tolle for Assumption again they try to stretch it out Ruby Stevens trying to track it down for Assumption and the Knights are going to get a throw here. Again, a one nothing lead. As we're nearing the midway point here of the first half. Tolle will play it close to Stevens. And this will go out for a goal kick here for Denver. And it looks like we're going to see our first substitutes of the game coming in. Elise Ricketts. The freshman will check in for the first time today, and also coming into the contest is going to be Alexis Milder, a junior, as she will check in to the contest for Anna Mulert. And also out of the game will be Kiara Gerkey for the Denver Cyclones again. For high school soccer, you can substitute as frequently as much as needed or wanted. And so they are allowed to reenter. And what's been new this year for high school soccer is the ability for ties. No overtimes during the regular season. So you're seeing a lot of teams with that. Here's Dorsey deep and we'll try to shoot it to the inside. And again, Dorsey able to track it down and this will roll out. And a last touch by Assumption Dorsey trying to plead her case to say no. It should be a corner, but it was ruled out on Assumption. So a goal kick here coming up for the Denver Cyclones. How is that this year with the ties?

 

Speaker: That was interesting. We had a tie. It leaves it a little unfinished, but we have also been in in game situations where we maybe dominated possession in the game, had more shots, ends in a tie, goes to PKS, and the other team wins. So I can kind of see both sides.

 

Speaker: And maybe keeps you fresher for the season as this will be a throw here. Coming up for Denver.

 

Speaker: Oh for sure. That was kind of the main reason why the switch was made, I believe is just to protect the athletes. You know, refs are kind of at a shortage. And so for officials to not have to have such long nights to, I think kind of all of the players, not just the players on the field that kind of determined needing to just go to ties.

 

Speaker: So let me ask you this, coach, what is Assumption doing? Because Denver has not been able to get it to their playmaker and Harberts very much in this first half. Now they stretch it out though to shepherd the freshman along the end line will scoot it to the middle of the centering pass. It's left up, but the kick goes high. What an opportunity, but just too hard on the follow through. By Kenzie Snyder.

 

Speaker: Wow, that was great. Denver had three players there in the box ready to receive that cross. That was great.

 

Speaker: Just a little too much in Snyder knew it right off of her foot. Assumption holds there 1-0 lead. Denver starting to get a little stronger on their offensive possessions here. What an opportunity though for the Cyclones Assumption able to capitalize on their first opportunity as Dorsey hit a crossing pass to Ruby Stevens, who connected for the game's only goal. Here is the before mentioned Ruby Stevens. Trying to weave her way through traffic, and the defense comes up big here for the Cyclones trying to go to Shepherd, the freshman working against the senior. Now to the middle. Nobody home on the outer wing. Tolle will kick it out and it will be a throw for the Cyclones deep.

 

Speaker: Let's see what Denver can do with this.

 

Speaker: Looking to set up Bailey Mullihan the junior will look to throw. She's really been dangerous this season on centerpieces. Now with the high throw. Oh, they tried to hit it with the pass. A lot of contact as Kenzie Snyder went down hard and no foul called. That would have been deep inside of the zone there.

 

Speaker: Fans aren't too happy about that one.

 

Speaker: They can hear it as a hard play. Let's take a look at it again. As we'll set up a corner kick here. The first corner kick of the day. As Denver will put Addyson Shepard with the duties. Shepard with seven assists on the season. The centering pass headed back out. That was Dorsey who got in on it for Assumption. Denver trying to go more forward. Here's Shepherd and that's going to be out. It will go back to Assumption. So a couple of opportunities here so far for the Denver, Cyclones and Assumption, as we've seen throughout not only this tournament but the season holding strong. Assumption this team a lot of experience as. They've returned nine seniors, six returning starters again, 11 state championships for the Knights last season got bounced in the opening round 51, but have came back this season with a vengeance, getting to the championship match and giving up just a goal in the last month. Cyclones though, trying to put their will out onto the field. Mullihan out into space here deep inside of the zone to Kenzie Snyder. Again. Assumption trying to swarm the ball and this is going to be a corner kick coming up. How about the heads up play there by Bailey Mullihan going off of the defender of Assumption to get the corner coach.

 

Speaker: Well this is going to be great. Addyson Shepard is awesome on a corner kick and it looks like Denver's got a lot of people in the box ready to head that in. Hopefully. I love a header goal.

 

Speaker: Here's Shepherd tries to go out. It'll be booted by Assumption. But again a lot of pressure here by the Cyclones but unable to capitalize yet. The Knights have been so strong defensively. That's your trademark Assumption team coached by Elisabeth Moss.

 

Speaker: Number 12 Cameron Menke on Assumption in the back line. I really enjoy watching her play. She's not super tall, but she doesn't act like it.

 

Speaker: Find it guys, find it again.

 

Speaker: Overcast conditions today. Showers in the area. In fact 70% chance of rain. We hope it stays rain. If it goes to lightning, we will delay the championship match here. But the Girls High School Athletic Union is monitoring the situation. And if we have a stoppage in play coming up, we'll let you know. But right now, the only lightning so far has been struck by Assumption, as Ruby Stevens has the game's lone goal. And it was roughly 7 minutes into this match.

 

Speaker: Okay, let's just keep an eye on.

 

Speaker: Her as the first half through the midway point. As Denver will go with a throw. Here's Shepherd. It will stay with Denver as they. Move it up the field one way or the other. Now an errant pass will give it back to Assumption there on that far sideline. Well, Coach Moss been a part of eight state championships and her tenure at Assumption one as a player, many as a head coach. They went five, 3-1 this season in the Mississippi Athletic Conference. Their losses to Bettendorf, Muscatine and North Scott. So they play up and out. How about the defensive play by Denver? As Alexis Milder had it for a moment, but quickly you can see that experience the composure by Assumption. How about Gerkey again going through traffic here. Keira Gehrke will leave it for the freshman. Now. Gerkey trying to let traffic slip by. And Denver again will hold. Here's Harberts. Good play by the Cyclones and Ricketts. Milder now Stevens. And Dorsey said I've had enough as she tries to come in and power on the ball, but one by Harberts. That's a good matchup right there between Harberts and Dorsey.

 

Speaker: Did a great job shielding that ball from her.

 

Speaker: Opening moments of the game. Assumption if you're joining us late, was able to get the ball deep and they struck for a goal. Now have Sorg back Denver getting their offense in motion. They've had two shots on goal. They've come up empty. As the throw will be put in play for the Denver Cyclones again, you're watching the class one, a state championship here on Iowa PBS and coming up from net is Murch as the keeper will come up and haul in that ball. So here's Denver again, wearing the maroon uniforms with yellow numbers, Assumption in white with black numbers trimmed in red. And a steel over on the far side. Again, defensively, Assumption has had their fill today. Caitlin O'Brien cleared that one. Back to Mullihan. Right at midfield. Shoots it to the outside. It's going to be a tough play on the ball and we will have a foul here. As Anna Weiman collided with Kara Gerkey. It will be a free kick here. Coming up for Denver.

 

Speaker: Yeah, just got her on the leg.

 

Speaker: You think about yellow cards accumulated throughout the season. Denver has four Assumption physical style of play. They have five. This one going to be centered towards Net and O'Neal easily makes the play with no traffic in front. And we still remain one nil.

 

Speaker: Thank you.

 

Speaker: So on the free kick just a moment ago was Addison Shepard. For Denver as again Assumption with an opportunity here. This is where they've been. Good. You just have to be good or great when you get these chances. And that's what Assumption has been in this game. They're able to get the ball deep. Stevens will get it into Dorsey, who's quickly smothered up on. And it'll be a corner kick here. Coming up for Davenport assumption.

 

Speaker: Great opportunity for them to put another one in the net here.

 

Speaker: So over in the far corner Anna Weiman. We'll get the chance here for assumption. Trying to add to their lead here we're marked ready for play with the right foot. And that hit the official as winding up on that was Tolle. This shot just sails over the net high. How about that? Tolle wound up, hit the official, got it back. And then on the second chance, a little bit too much.

 

Speaker: Just over the top of the crossbar. That was a great shot.

 

Speaker: Too much room there, coach.

 

Speaker: A lot of space. Denver didn't get right on her to. She shouldn't have been able to take a shot right there.

 

Speaker: We have a substitution Anna Mulert back into the contest here for Denver.

 

Speaker: Trying to slide that through the defenders.

 

Speaker: And taking a hard tumble on that far sideline and getting back up and okay, is Kenzie Snyder. Off of the throw. In Denver playing back three deep as they run the four, three, three. We've seen evidence where that's helped them, but you have to be crisp against Assumption who runs that four four, two and the back two defenders with O'Brien and Jondle have been good so far. Solid Tolle leaves it ahead. They tried to find Dorsey on the outside. That was a terrific play for many reasons. By Gerkey now Tolle. Assumption again leaving to the middle and here comes the freshman keeper in Murch. What a job she's done. Of course, last year they had Tausha Schrader, who's now playing at Iowa Central, and the keeper Murch is, according to head coach Krebsbach, has played awesome all season long, including the state tournament. How about six saves in the semifinals, in which they were able to beat Hudson 21 in overtime? And he says a lot of times she makes mistakes. She'll come back and just forget about it and just play much better or stronger throughout a contest and now tries to has to hold it here. As we have a little roughing foul called as Denver will get it back.

 

Speaker: A little bit of a shoulder there.

 

Speaker: And a little bit slow to get up was Mackenzie McEwan. She took the shoulder and the foul called against Gabby Stoffregen. So the first half winding down with Gilbert. Head coach Heather Currans, this is BJ Schaben here on Iowa PBS as this is the one a state championship here from Ames at the Cyclone Sports Complex. And Assumption scored in the game's first 7 minutes. And that's been the difference in this one, as Dru Dorsey was able to connect with Ruby Stevens for the game's lone goal. Couple of opportunities for the cyclones here so far. As Shepard gets bodied. Cyclones able to control it here, the Denver Cyclones here at the Cyclone Sports Complex. It's been a fun week. Now. This is the first time these two teams have played here. The quarterfinals and the semifinals were played at the lead recreation facilities here. Shepard the opportunity. How about O'Neal coming up and saying no.

 

Speaker: Oh.

 

Speaker: And now the high kick. And that goes over the top of the bar. Wow. Alyssa O'Neal her first year in net and she is standing on her head here in the first half as she has been challenged.

 

Speaker: That was an excellent save. She took a risk coming out, but she knew that she was going to have to because there was no defender to take her on.

 

Speaker: Did you get a replacement?

 

Speaker: And she has been solid all the way throughout. Again, just they've given up a goal in the last month. That's it for Davenport. Assumption beginning of the year a little shaky defensively, but they have really honed it in. Have the Knights. Stevens. Will get the throw here as Assumption will try. Thought about going quick. She'll lob it in the air for Dorsey, who's been marked so far here in the first half. Two Cyclones have been following her throughout. And the cyclones trying to clear it. As the Assumption Knights had it deep inside of the zone. Here's Ella Curoe who just checked into the game and that will be a misfire on the pass. It'll be a goal kick here. Coming up. For the Denver Cyclones. Appropriately named to be playing on this field, right?

 

Speaker: That's true. The home of the Iowa State Cyclones wind women's team.

 

Speaker: We've recruited the state of Iowa very well. All Iowa schools have. Down along the near sideline. That'll be scooted out by Menke as they'll live for another play here. Will the Assumption Knights defensively Akers with the throw. Boot towards the middle. His team looking to gain possession here. Shepard couldn't corral it now. Dorsey looking to go to work for Assumption the lob ahead trying to find her teammate Stevens. It's a foot race to the ball and will be kicked out by Denver as they stem the tide with Myia Rosecrans. That's where you see the experience of Rosecrans. A four year starter, slid to center back last season and has performed well for Denver.

 

Speaker: She does a good job of kind of directing that back line. You can hear her out there on the field, see her encouraging her teammates.

 

Speaker: I have about 6 minutes to play here in the first half. What is Assumption corrected or is it what Assumption is done defensively that has slowed the slowed the tide down a little bit, actually have a little momentum going back on their side.

 

Speaker: I think one of the things that Assumption has gotten to all the balls, the 50, 50 balls, when Denver clears it out because they need to. Sometimes I see that Assumption is getting to the ball, you know, way more times than Denver is. So for Assumption keep that up for Denver. I would say that's something to work on for the second half.

 

Speaker: There's one of your examples of 50 50 ball, but a foul will be called.

 

Speaker: I think she got I think she called a handball.

 

Speaker: A handball. Excuse me, I beg your pardon. Camryn Menke was the one that touched it for Assumption. So off of the free kick they'll look to run it to Akers along the near sideline here. Akers will center it. Nobody home and we'll see a throw here coming up. First half winding down. Battle for the ball. It'll be won by Assumption. Denver trying to stretch it out here to Shepard. Can she get it before the end line? Yes, but just not enough as she tried to push it back in and will be a goal kick here. Coming up for the Assumption Knights. Again. The first half winding down here. Seeing a bevy of activity on both keepers have been challenged. Cyclones want to put a little bit more pressure on the Knights here. And that'll be out Tolle just could not hold that one in trying to go quick to Shepard. Denver will hold the possession here and the throw with Akers. She tries to find Gehrke and it's turned over. Terrific defense down that sideline by Amelia Yeates. Well, this is Ben Knief. It's 1-0 But it's been an exciting first half as each team has had their opportunities well balanced. And these are the closing moments that we've seen in past history, where Assumption has been able to get a late half goal. But Denver trying to do the same here.

 

Speaker: Golden field, it sealed it up.

 

Speaker: As it'll be a goal kick here. Coming up for Assumption.

 

Speaker: Denver just seems to be a little bit more organized here. After that first goal. Maybe the nerves shake, shook out a little bit.

 

Speaker: And you'll have that right?

 

Speaker: Oh for sure. Biggest stage for these girls being in the championship game for their class.

 

Speaker: Now. Both teams spent all week here in Ames. Not traveling back and forth in between contests even though they had a day of rest.

 

Speaker: This that's nice to have, an opportunity to rest. I like how they do that, where they have games and then a day of rest games and a day of rest. You know, there's something to be said for sleeping in your own bed, but I'm sure they had a lot of team camaraderie being here together all week long. Nobody looks tired, so I think it was good decision on their part.

 

Speaker: Everybody's fresh. Assumption we'll have it here on a throw with nearing 90s to play here in the first half. The Assumption Knights a 1-0 lead. And assumption will hold it here on the throw. Miranda Thurm has played very strong here after seeing her defense give up that game's first goal, as she's trying to get tied up with Stevens and Denver will get the possession. They're going to try to hurry it here. This one stayed in terrific ball opportunity for Assumption. Here's Dorsey trying to work it, but again, Bailey Mullihan is there along with Snyder.

 

Speaker: Maddi Tolle.

 

Speaker: Now to Tolle and a collision. Tolle will be called for the foul.

 

Speaker: Denver is going to have to move quickly.

 

Speaker: They have about 30s left. One more opportunity here in the opening half. It'll be staying in play with Gehrke. Again Denver with 15 seconds to go. Assumption just trying to get it out into open space with the ball. And that looks to be the end of the first half here, pending one more blast. And that'll be it as Assumption will sit on the ball. But what a first half.

 

Speaker: Wow, that was fun to watch.

 

Speaker: 1-0 Assumption with the lead on a goal from Ruby Stevens as Assumption through the first 40 minutes has a 1-0 lead over the Denver Cyclones. We've got more when we return as we're intermission. As you're watching the class one, a state championship here on Iowa PBS.

 

Speaker: Coming up on the next episode of Iowa Life, we'll learn how young people in the deaf and hard of hearing community share their love of baseball.

 

Speaker: Even though, like, you do have this impairment, that it doesn't have to stop you.

 

Speaker: We'll take a peek under the surface of a high school synchronized swimming club, and we'll meet a Des Moines handyman who shares his love of Minibikes. All that and more on the next Iowa Life, Tuesdays at 6:30 and Sundays at 10:30.

 

Speaker: Such a meaningful part of Iowa PBS is is the coverage of unique Iowa events. And part of that is our high schools and our kids programs. Whether it's athletics or otherwise. The state fair coverage that's such a part of the fabric of Iowa. And I think just the the programing that covers things meaningful to our people in our state.

 

Speaker: To learn more about becoming a corporate sponsor on Iowa PBS, call or visit us online.

 

Speaker: Oh, what a sight. The camp O'Neal here on campus at Iowa State University 1-0 Davenport assumption with the lead. It's a new site for the girls state soccer championships moving from County Park, who did an amazing job hosting the state soccer tournaments prior to that. Muscatine. Now it moves to Ames and our first state championship underway in class one. A Davenport assumption with a one nil lead as Ruby Stevens got a pass from Dru Dorsey 7 minutes into the contest and they capitalized on it as they try to go for their 12th state championship. Well, even soccer fans can't deny that baseball holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans. For some of us, it's just a spectator sport, but for others it's much more. Please enjoy this feature from our Iowa PBS program, Iowa Life, about how young people in Iowa's deaf and hard of hearing community share their love for our national pastime.

 

Speaker: First base, second base. Shortstop. Third base, left field. Raise your hand.

 

Speaker: We're here today at the Iowa baseball camp for the deaf. We're here all week. We have camp every morning for children who are deaf and hard of hearing, age 7-14 from all over the Midwest. It's an opportunity for them to not only play baseball, but socialize. It's a fully inclusive environment for deaf and hard of hearing kids.

 

Speaker: Nice job. Nice speed. Looking good, looking good. We're looking good, guys. The first thing we're going to work on is our catching and our throwing. Okay. So my first rule is going to be there is absolutely no throwing the ball unless the person you're throwing to is making eye contact with you.

 

Speaker: When I was little, I was involved with baseball camp for the deaf. The camp was smaller, but it was so much fun. I have such fond memories of the time. There were other deaf kids there. I could identify with all of them. Other individuals that signed. It was so exciting to be with people like me. It was a part of who I am today. I don't have to experience any of those barriers. It's just nice to be outside, be my true self.

 

Speaker: After he graduated high school and went on to college, the camp kind of died out and when he came back, he revitalized it.

 

Speaker: He came to me and he just said, you know, mom. He goes, I think I would really like to try and do the baseball camp again. And he goes, I am deaf. I know, you know, with deaf culture that this is really needed.

 

Speaker: 2015 yes.

 

Speaker: So. Wow.

 

Speaker: Dolan organized with the interpreters through the Des Moines Public Schools and interpreters in the community. We got the coaches back. We got the volunteers out there. So yeah, we rebooted it in 2015.

 

Speaker: The new camp is a lot larger, a lot more volunteers. It's been great having so many interpreters now and so much help.

 

Speaker: There we go. There we go. Bend those knees. Now bend those knees. Get down. There you go.

 

Speaker: I have interpreted for a number of these kids or known them just being in the same district as them. I volunteered for one day to come down, and then a friend of mine who's also an interpreter, and I went to the Iowa Cubs game with the camp, and she saw me explaining baseball stuff to the deaf kids, and she saw Dylan running around doing all his baseball stuff with the kids and sort of thought to herself. And ever since then, I have been interpreting at camp every single day. It really is a family affair. We're all here all week, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

 

Speaker: Catching a couple fly balls.

 

Speaker: We have a range of hard of hearing to deaf kids, so not even all the kids sign. But we have volunteers and interpreters and coaches that know how to work with that whole range.

 

Speaker: Done. Well done. Here we go.

 

Speaker: Some of them have never thrown a baseball or never swung a bat before.

 

Speaker: Here's a player.

 

Speaker: Their eye hand coordination is amazing because they're paying attention. They learn very fast. These kids have phenomenal attention spans.

 

Speaker: My favorite part about baseball camp is that I get to meet other people with my same, like symptoms, and I get to meet a lot of new friends. I'm not the only one that has hearing aids. It does really make me feel more included.

 

Speaker: You guys are a little.

 

Speaker: Bit more. I really like the community here because it's it kind of just shows you that, like, you're not alone and that like, even though, like you do have this impairment that it doesn't have to stop you. It doesn't have to be a big thing unless you make it a big thing.

 

Speaker: We get to play baseball and make it to China and make it to meet new friends. I go to public. I don't go to, you know, deaf school though. I just like, you know, hang out with my regular phone. But here it feels like, you know, deaf to it. And it's fun.

 

Speaker: Growing up, they're often isolated in mainstream schools or even within their own family because they aren't able to communicate, and so they don't have a sense of who they are when they come to camp and they see, wow, there are a lot of other deaf peers here, and it helps them find out who who they are to identify with these other kids. Some of them use their voice, some don't sign too much, but they're meeting other kids that do, and they're just sort of immersed in the deaf community here. And they become, you know, proud of who they are, proud of being deaf, proud of deaf culture.

 

Speaker: You can see the kids, they kind of start buddying up after the first and second day and they're making new friends. They're kind of timid and shy at first, maybe, but then it's like, oh wow, everybody's like us. And it's just heartwarming to see the friendships that are made.

 

Speaker: Also representing the Iowa baseball camp for the deaf, please welcome Skyler.

 

Speaker: It's a huge deal for the deaf community, because deaf community is going to be celebrated at the game. The Iowa Cubs team are going to be wearing special jerseys honoring this celebration of the deaf community.

 

Speaker: They've always gone to an i-cubs game during the week of camp, but this is the first year that the I-cubs have really expanded that to be deaf culture night.

 

Speaker: And people from all over the state of Iowa who attend will have some exposure to the deaf community and to support the Cubs as well.

 

Speaker: Go go go go go.

 

Speaker: Camp is everything to me and more. And hopefully it is for these, these young people as well.

 

Speaker: All. We are proud.

 

Speaker: Well joined Iowa host charity Nebbe for more compelling stories that shine a spotlight on the exceptional lives of the people who call Iowa home. Tuesday nights at 6:30 here on Iowa PBS and anytime online at Iowa PBS. Well, the score here at the half in the girls class one, a high school soccer championship is Davenport assumption leading it 1-0 over Denver and joined by Gilbert head coach Heather Currans. This is BJ Schaben. In that first half coach Assumption struck early. Their defense then took hold.

 

Speaker: They did take hold. They. There was not much getting past that back line. Denver had some opportunities to score there but wasn't able to capitalize on that. Maybe in the second half they seemed to get kind of back going organized together and connecting passes. So we'll see what happens.

 

Speaker: We'll see the highlights here in the first half as here's Dru Dorsey going to the University of Cincinnati. Able to connect on the One-timer pass to Stevens. And that's her game's lone goal. And Assumption knew that was big for a lot of reasons, because their defense then could take hold. Denver, though, gave it some gallant effort. A couple of shots on goal. Here's another look at it from the end zone. The opposite side and Stevens able to connect on that one-timer. And that is our game's lone goal. Huge contingent of fans. Let's just point that out here for both Denver and Davenport assumption for the state championship. They've had a long way to go. Of course, Denver about an hour and a half and some change away from Ames and Davenport. Assumption over on the east coast of the state, as they had to make their way here to Central Iowa for this matchup. So we're about ready to go. Keeping an eye on the radar too as well. There's rain in the area. Hopefully it's no lightning. We can continue on with rain as the players are set. The second half about ready to get underway as Denver will start with the ball as we are marked ready for play again. The cyclones 21-0 and one on the year as they are back into competition. Their only tie was to Nevada 22 and that was at the end of the regular season. Of course, assumption in the opening round game against Nevada defeated the Cubs, last year's state champs 51. Assumption then winners against Heelan 1-0 And for Denver, advancing here to the championship 53 over Underwood as Denver trying to slither their way through that defense. But assumption again very, very strong defensively as they hold now trying to turn it back over as they go down the field again, rather patiently and methodically. And that's a mark of a very senior led team. Now they get it deep inside to Yates who will fire it towards goal. Here's Dorsey denied as that one is headed back out. What a stop by Murch.

 

Speaker: That's a lot of composure there by a freshman.

 

Speaker: Dorsey. You don't stop her that many times as on the season coming into this one had 36 goals, 85 points and a great lead pass here from Yates. But Dorsey denied by the freshman keeper and Adeana Murch.

 

Speaker: That's what Assumption does. They come out strong right away in the second half. And they did that here again today.

 

Speaker: You better be ready to play Assumption. Centering pass to the middle for Denver goes awry. Good battle for the ball as Dorsey staying after it going to be called for the foul as she was bodied up on Alena Akers.

 

Speaker: It's been a pretty clean game here so far.

 

Speaker: And a free kick here coming up for Denver.

 

Speaker: One short, one short.

 

Speaker: Again, just a beautiful setting here on the campus of Iowa State University as the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union State Soccer Championships underway, we've got the three a title game coming up midway through the afternoon here on Iowa PBS, and then the nightcap death, taxes Dallas Center-Grimes Waverly-Shell Rock in the final. They've been there before many, many times. And they'll do it again here tonight as Denver will have a deep throw here coming up as that was played out by Jondle. On the throw. It'll be Mackenzie McEwan. McKenzie will center it towards the middle. Nobody home and unable to track that one down. They wanted to stay on side did Denver but again Denver going to take their shots here. Coach.

 

Speaker: It's a tall task for Denver Davenport. Assumption's let up one goal in the last month, so they're really going to have to be kind of creative in there and catch them off guard.

 

Speaker: Again. Here come the cyclones. As we are starting to see some rain falling the field again. Just excellent conditions can hold lots of water. As is very well aware, if you're from the state of Iowa, you know that Iowa State University knows its turf.

 

Speaker: That's for sure. Most soccer players I know like playing in the rain, so I don't see think we'll see any slowdown from any of them out here today.

 

Speaker: They're going to try to find Ruby Stevens deep that will be punched out by the Denver Cyclones and Rosecrans. And it's been an interesting mix today between Stevens, as you see the ponchos being whipped out. Umbrellas are coming out.

 

Speaker: Yes. It's going to be nice and dry in here.

 

Speaker: That's where we're at on this beautiful press box here at the Cyclone Sports Complex. Denver trying to nullify the tide there as offensively, Assumption punched it in deep.

 

Speaker: Assumption pushing up really high. Right now.

 

Speaker: They have just one back past midfield. Otherwise everybody is up. They want to get an insurance goal here. As Yeates tries to go to the outside and Weiman just cannot find it. But they're going to say last touch by Denver. And so Weiman with the toss.

 

Speaker: Denver has got a lot of players packed in the box right now.

 

Speaker: Weiman to Dorsey and caught by Murch.

 

Speaker: Wow.

 

Speaker: A lot of composure by Adeana Murch again gave up the goal early, but here in the second half especially has been challenged by the venerable Dorsey. And we've got a foul here called on Dorsey. She would like to see a replay of that foul and maybe try to get reversed. We don't have that, but, Denver will have it back here again. The rain is starting to fall here in Ames. As red top at midfield. Denver wearing the merino uniforms with yellow and Assumption wearing their white uniforms, black numbers trimmed in red. Good move on the inside by gerkey the centering pass. Great cross left home a collision and this is going to be a foul. Called on the Denver Cyclones boy. Very physical play. And just trying to go for the ball. That time was Mulert and she got tied up with Davenport Assumption Maddi Tolle.

 

Speaker: Do like you're working very hard to try to win that ball, but.

 

Speaker: Denver will try to punch it ahead here to Shepard it's a foot race to the ball. Shepard will center it. Nobody home now up at the top. Just missed the opportunity. Up at the top and again Assumption will kick it back out while very close. Alyssa Harberts just overran the ball there but would have had a chance to give it a punch.

 

Speaker: She'll be kicking herself on that later.

 

Speaker: She even coach Derek Krebsbach putting on the coat.

 

Speaker: Here we go now.

 

Speaker: McEwan.

 

Speaker: Here we go.

 

Speaker: Here we go.

 

Speaker: Redirected back towards midfield. Snyder in traffic to Harberts. Snyder with the deep shot. And that's going to be batted down by Alyssa O'Neal. O'Neal nine saves in the quarters, nine saves in the semifinals. She's been challenged at times here today but has held her position. Three saves so far.

 

Speaker: Again, just so impressive that she did not play goalkeeper before this year.

 

Speaker: Her first season transferred in from Bettendorf was the field player, three year starter for the Bulldogs and now she sees her team on offense here, with Yeates trying to find Stevens that must played off the foot. It's going to be a foot race to the ball. Akers will just punch it out. Dorsey over on that far sideline was in the neighborhood and she's had a couple of shots on goal, but hasn't been able to figure out the freshman just yet. Tolle will do the throw. Again. The rain is coming down. You can. Hear it now towards the middle. The centering pass goes awry. Here's Dorsey the big kick and gets into the net. Are you kidding me?

 

Speaker: Wow.

 

Speaker: A swipe kick at the top and Dru Dorsey puts her team up 2-0

 

Speaker: Incredible shot on her part. Just got right around that defender and just. Oh yeah.

 

Speaker: That one had some olé on it with a little curveball coming in from the top by Dorsey. And you can see the keeper Murch thought it was going to be wide. That thing had a little topspin on it and came right back into the net. A very impressive goal. Her 37th on the season for Dru Dorsey.

 

Speaker: She was even off balance when she took that shot. That was great.

 

Speaker: Now Denver the challenge that much greater.

 

Speaker: Let's go.

 

Speaker: A lot of game left.

 

Speaker: Over 30 minutes left to play here in the one a state championship. Again the table Stakes Assumption going for their school's 12th state title. They have the most already in the state with 11 and Denver trying to get their very first state championship in soccer. They've had a lot of success in other sports now trying to bring it home in soccer. We're here a year ago and lost to Nevada 2-0 this one deep as the keeper came up almost the opportunity. Now as they try to reset the ball towards the middle Assumption wisely just puts it down field with Stombaugh. Up to the top with Stoffregen. She'll track it down for Assumption. Assumption had won five state titles in a row. Now here's Dorsey left deep Murch will step in front of it and punch it down. Oh, that would have been a big one.

 

Speaker: Great job by Murch keeping composed.

 

Speaker: You think about that run when they had won five in a row. Rose Ripslinger, who went on to play at the University of Iowa. Of course, just a tremendous talent. They've had loads of talent going through the Assumption system and Dorsey among the best as well.

 

Speaker: They are just historically really good for them to not be back. The last three years, I think that's what you said. Yeah, that's surprising, but they really are a good, solid team. It's fun to watch them play.

 

Speaker: In fact, with our conversation with the head coach, Elizabeth Moss, we said hello again. And she goes, yeah, it's been three years. She mentioned that right away. Right off the bat. It's been three years since we've talked.

 

Speaker: I'm sure she hasn't forgotten. She's got it on her calendar.

 

Speaker: This is going to go to Assumption here. Last touch by Denver with Gilbert. Head coach Heather Currans. I'm B.J. Schaben here on Iowa PBS. We're in Ames for the class One.a Iowa girls high school Athletic Union state soccer championships. Assumption striking with a couple of goals. 7 minutes into the game, Ruby Stevens scored from a Dru Dorsey pass and then Dorsey just scored moments ago with the insurance goal to go up 2-0

 

Speaker: And Dorsey is just not letting up. You would think two goals on the on the board that she would maybe give herself a little rest, but she's not. She's still right in there in the mix.

 

Speaker: Dorsey will keep it in. Again as we play on the near side of the field. They'll send it in, see what can happen.

 

Speaker: Let's go.

 

Speaker: And Assumption will still maintain possession here, so this will be Anna Weiman with the throw.

 

Speaker: Denver is just really trying to get the ball out of their defensive half right now. I'm hoping to see them kind of control the ball. They can move it up the field.

 

Speaker: Off to the middle as again Assumption with the lead again, rain falling here in Ames Kent no lightning in the area so we'll play on as keeper. Will let that one go wide right. It will be a goal kick here. Coming up for the Denver Cyclones and Adeana Murch. As Tolle gave it a ride for the Assumption Knights. Boy Davenport assumption. Putting on a lot of pressure certainly here in the second half. Coach have they made any adjustments to what they were doing in the first half to put that pressure on, or is it just a higher level of play?

 

Speaker: I just the thing that I noticed the most was at the beginning of the half before they got that second goal, we were pushing the Assumption was pushing a lot of their team up. Once they got that second goal, I don't think they changed their formation, but it looked like they kind of sunk back a little bit, probably to defend the goal a little bit stronger.

 

Speaker: And both teams not really deep and that's, you know, benefited them well. They've only really send two or three players in off the bench. As you see Dorsey here will go to the outside again. Cool conditions throughout the week which has benefited a lot of play. And this is going to stay with Assumption Assumption with a deep throw here as it'll be coming off the hands of Anna Weiman. And just a misplay and it'll be a corner kick here. Coming up for Assumption boy Miranda Thurm just could not get square with the ball and watch Assumption load the box as they really try to extend this match out. Weiman centering to middle Dorsey headed it back out. Goal kick here for Denver and we'll see our first substitutions of the second half. We mentioned that Denver maybe goes about three deep. They'll send all three in Alexis Milder will be in Elise Ricketts and Hazel Kolsrud here in the second half. As checking out will be Mackenzie McEwan along with Kara Gerkey.

 

Speaker: I'd say for the Denver defense, just to kind of get reorganized together. We've done a lot of just kind of clearing the ball out with not a good plan of where it's going to go.

 

Speaker: And what adjustments does Denver and can they do it on the fly because you can't get two goals with one shot?

 

Speaker: No, exactly. They just you got to just chip away at it. Still 24 minutes left in the game. Soccer can turn just in an instant. We've seen that in our own games. You've seen it, I'm sure, time and time again. But nothing's out of reach at this point.

 

Speaker: This will turn into a goal kick here for the Denver Cyclones. A 2-0 lead here for Assumption. Coach Griesbach seen only this once this season where they've been down by multiple goals. It was against Nevada. They ended up tying that match. And during the regular season now in Iowa high school soccer, it's just a tie. There's no overtime during the regular season. There is here in the postseason. We've seen at the state tournament throughout various classes, penalty kicks, deciding who's going to advance or not.

 

Speaker: That's such a hard way to win and lose a game. I know it's necessary, but it's better when they can just play it out.

 

Speaker: Had it a few years ago, a couple of years ago in the three A title match. Here's Dorsey trying to find space. Beats everyone now from the sideline, the kick up and just to the outside Tolle with the punch. Teammate Stevens got in the way of it and now Tolle will put it back out. Stoffregen her shot.

 

Speaker: Another corner kick.

 

Speaker: Goes wide but off of a Denver defender boy just swarming right to the ball was the Assumption Knights.

 

Speaker: Kind of the communication right there between those two Assumption players.

 

Speaker: And from the far side Camryn Menke will do the chores with the corner. Denver Cyclones with her left foot. Goes to the middle, but Assumption able to space it out.

 

Speaker: Get it back.

 

Speaker: Now to Denver. And again Assumption with three back as they. Kept their formation at 4:42, but defensively they're going to try to stick their back a little bit with that two goal lead. We've seen this before. As we'll go with Elena Akers with the throw and again a substitution quickly coming back into the game is going to be Mackenzie McEwan as she will be back in for Hazel Kolsrud the freshman. Back down the field. Dorsey trying to plead her case and it will be a goal kick here. Coming up. For the Denver Cyclones veteran officiating crew here today. As they're done a terrific job here. Kept it clean so far here in the one a championship. Both teams known for their physical nature. But everybody staying upright throughout most of this.

 

Speaker: Yeah very clean game so far today. I like the aggressiveness but nobody's going after too hard.

 

Speaker: So a goal kick here coming up for the Assumption Knights who lead it two nil back. The Knights last winning the state championship. Would have to go back to 2021 in which they beat Des Moines Christian 2-0 in 22. They played in the title match but ended up losing that. And that was to Des Moines Christian, who gained a vengeance, if you will, from losing to him the previous year.

 

Speaker: Des Moines Christian is another solid team. They made it down here this year to.

 

Speaker: Win Christian. You think about they fell in the opening round to Hudson as Hudson really came on late in the season, finishing with that 18 and two mark and then falling. To these Denver Cyclones in overtime in the semifinals.

 

Speaker: Yeah, that was a good game.

 

Speaker: Out to the outside. Here's Weiman. And it will be a throw for Assumption. Possession will stay with the Knights. Well we've got more exciting Iowa high school soccer coming your way with the state championships here at the girls state soccer tournament. Class three A will begin at around 230 as Waukee Northwest will take on Linn-Mar. That's the top seed against the seventh seeded Linn-Mar Lions, who are just an upstart and have really wreaked havoc on the bracket so far this year. And a corner kick will be coming up here for Assumption and then the nightcap tonight at 5:30. Waverly-Shell Rock, the top seed taking on second seeded Dallas Center-Grimes. As the girls state soccer championships here from Ames on Iowa PBS. So again, from the far side. This is Cameron Menke. Pass to the top. Going to be knocked away or nullified by Harberts, but it will still stay with Davenport. Assumption.

 

Speaker: Let's go.

 

Speaker: Dru Dorsey getting a goal here in the second half. With that shark mentality.

 

Speaker: She does have that shark mentality.

 

Speaker: She gets close to the net. Look out with the possession she can strike, has an assist and a goal.

 

Speaker: I don't know if Denver looks to be their man marking her. Doing their best to make sure she doesn't get the ball again.

 

Speaker: Out into open space. Stoffregen now to the top as that shot went wide for Assumption as they gave it a whirl there. As the Knights have Elizabeth Maus Curoe on that attempt.

 

Speaker: There to Addyson Shepard.

 

Speaker: What of what is Assumption done defensively to Denver though, because Denver has not had any opportunity here in the second half as this one will be scooped up by Murch.

 

Speaker: Yeah, just I don't know. I mean, Denver or Assumption is definitely played very well. Again, throughout the whole game. They've gotten to the ball first. It just looks like they're not playing with their heads down. Denver, but it just seems like they're not being as effective with connecting their passes and moving the ball up the field. You know, here in the box, I can't really hear the communication, but we know how important that is to the success of your team. So. And there again, Cameron Menke just not letting anything get past the Assumption back line.

 

Speaker: Stoffregen able to stem the tide, if you will, for the Denver Cyclones just haven't had many opportunities in the second half. Here's the freshman Shepard trying to work with it in midfield. To her teammate Snyder Snyder tried to put a blast together. Nothing there. Mullihan gets the ball through into open space but again just cannot gain footing. Was it deflected away? No. It will be a goal kick here. Coming up for Assumption.

 

Speaker: Yeah I love her effort. But again we're that communication might have helped out.

 

Speaker: Some fresh legs coming into the contest. Ruby Stevens will check out and coming in is going to be the sophomore Izzy Motto. Before the game, coach Elizabeth Moss told us from Assumption, her team is rested and rejuvenated having made the Saturday she calls Big Time Saturday as they are back into the state championship for the first time since 2022. Now Denver with the opportunity but again quickly stripped away. And how about the fight put out there by Caitlin O'Brien?

 

Speaker: For sure. I'm sure Coach Moss knows exactly. She's been here enough times. She knows exactly what to do to have her team be ready. And they look that today.

 

Speaker: Under 15 minutes to play in the one a title match. We've seen crazy comebacks before. As that will be punched out. It's going to stay with Denver.

 

Speaker: All right. Maybe Denver can do something here with this opportunity.

 

Speaker: Good fight on the ball by Kenzie Snyder. Of course. Hawkeye Community College will be taking three of these Denver players next year. Snyder one of them, along with Harberts. And also part of that will be Kiara Gerkey. So the three captains for Denver headed to Hawkeye Community College. Here's Drew Dorsey. Look at the speed again. The shark on the ball here for Assumption. Now the shot. It's deep but just goes wide left and misplayed off of the hands. They're going to say no. Murch did not touch it, so it will be a goal kick. Dorsey thought that it connected. How about you be the judge at home here? Was there a touch?

 

Speaker: Only I.

 

Speaker: Don't know.

 

Speaker: In volleyball we might see the fingers up in the air clasping around. Here comes Assumption again. Stoffregen. Her shot from deep goes up and too much on it. A goal kick here for Denver.

 

Speaker: Again the pressure from Assumption. Not satisfied with just the two.

 

Speaker: The Knights have been the aggressor here, especially in the second half. With that one goal lead coming out of intermission, they've really cranked it up.

 

Speaker: On.

 

Speaker: It'll be a throw here from the near sideline for the Denver Cyclones. Or no, I beg your pardon. Assumption will have it.

 

Speaker: We got a sub.

 

Speaker: We will have a substitution coming into the game, reentering for Denver. Anna Mulert will be back in as she briefly got a rest. And a collision. Assumption will have the free kick here coming up as the foul was called on Denver. Let's take a look.

 

Speaker: Yeah, here.

 

Speaker: Just kind of sandwiched her.

 

Speaker: Foul called a Miranda Thurm. So free kick. As Tolle will set the ball. Yeah. Gonna make sure that spot is dry. No slippage.

 

Speaker: Right.

 

Speaker: The rain is falling here in Ames. Here's Toles attempt towards the net. Just could not connect with Dorsey who was on a fast break and she's pointing to herself. My bad. May have gotten a late jump on that ball.

 

Speaker: It's always tricky because you don't want to get called offsides. Great header.

 

Speaker: Denver trying to circle around the ball. But again the defense right there for assumption as it's put out by Caitlin O'Brien who's been very strong here in this Championship match. Denver trying to stretch it out. But again Assumption a lot of white jerseys right there on the way.

 

Speaker: Again, getting to the ball first is super important.

 

Speaker: Assumption will gain control of the ball. Dorsey making a bid to be not only a part of the All-Tournament team, but All-Tournament team captain will be a part of the awards handed out at the conclusion of this one. And Coach Kerns, you're part of that committee. Tough choices to make in one. In the One-a field.

 

Speaker: There are a lot of tough choices. You know, it's really nice to be able to recognize the girls for such hard work that they've put in through the season, but especially here on this stage. It's just it's been really fun to watch a lot of great soccer.

 

Speaker: We're watching the girls state soccer championships here on Iowa, PBS here from the Cyclone Sports Complex in Ames with Gilbert head coach Heather Currans BJ BJ Schaben along with you. And look out Dru Dorsey from the outside with her left foot. Just put it above the bar and it will be a goal kick here for Denver again. Another attempt by Dorsey and company.

 

Speaker: I appreciate that Assumption is just continuing to play really good soccer. A lot of teams in a championship game up 2-0 might just really pack it in the box and just try to hold, but Assumption is not doing that.

 

Speaker: They're playing with house money down the stretch, no question, as jerky will track down the ball for Denver. But Assumption has done a terrific job of getting in the lanes. Tolle. Will steal it and push it forward. Stoffregen in traffic, tries to put together a blast. Again, just holding strong right at the midfield is Assumption. That's where this game has been won or lost with the play right at midfield. Would you agree coach?

 

Speaker: I would agree for sure. I mean they just have been really possessing the ball really well.

 

Speaker: Look out. Here's Dorsey left foot. Oh denied by Murch.

 

Speaker: Good job by Murch there.

 

Speaker: Under 9 minutes to play a two goal lead here for Assumption. Denver got to be thinking. We got to go. Might we see somebody jump up in the line for the cyclones?

 

Speaker: They could be pushing somebody up for sure.

 

Speaker: They've got to maintain the possession though. As that one goes out it will be a throw from the far sideline that'll be on the throw.

 

Speaker: They've just gotten in a little bit of a rut. Even when they have time to receive the ball and make a decision about it, they just have been really trying to clear it.

 

Speaker: Maddi Tolle will do the chores of throwing it in of Assumption going to their bench as Maddy Martinez, the junior will check in and also Denver will go back to their bench. Coming in is going to be Bailey Mullihan. Up because of the conditions. The weather has been outstanding all week and especially here in the championship match. We've got temperatures in the lower 70s. Rain falling right now, but unlike previous years in dealing with the heat and the consecutive play, the bench hasn't really been a factor in this one as that will be punched out by Denver.

 

Speaker: That a girl?

 

Speaker: Yeah. Good fight off the ball.

 

Speaker: Changes your game plan though considerably. Doesn't when you have favorable weather.

 

Speaker: Oh, it's been tremendous. I mean normally you're playing state tournament games like you're on the face of the sun. I mean, so hot. But this is really great. It's more, I guess, kind of like what the regular season is like. Cool. Cooler, very cold at some times. Snow. Players are really used to playing in the rain. It's just part of spring weather here in Iowa.

 

Speaker: Under seven to play again. Denver trying to figure out where that go button is.

 

Speaker: Wow. Assumption getting to the ball again.

 

Speaker: As they go to work here at the top. Stoffregen gives way to Dorsey. She's got space Dorsey to the outside to Tolle. And Yeates trying to cut and that pass a little. Aaron as she was trying to connect with Izzy Motto. And now back to the bench for Davenport. Assumption. As coach Moss trying to rotate players in and out. Kathleen Yeates will check in for the first time.

 

Speaker: 6 minutes to go.

 

Speaker: Fresh legs to the finish a little bit for Assumption. Here's Dorsey at the top. Just couldn't pick it up off the bounce and she'll scoot that one way past net. In fact, it might have ended up on Lincoln Way.

 

Speaker: It sure might. Yeah, I'm not seeing that.

 

Speaker: Right now as the Cyclones try to stretch it ahead. Snyder trying to battle through traffic. Kenzie Snyder has her pocket picked that time by Assumption.

 

Speaker: Ball still down here.

 

Speaker: Nearing the five minute mark to play. Denver again from the outside, trying to center that pass, but just over the head of McEwan will have to track it down. Two defenders on her McEwan trying to bounce it off the defender, but it will be a goal kick here. Coming up for Assumption again. Really the deepest penetration, probably in the last 12 minutes for the cyclones. That's how dominant Davenport assumption has been. Dru Dorsey again for the Knights last time they won a state championship was in 2021.

 

Speaker: Did you say that was versus Des Moines Christian?

 

Speaker: Des Moines Christian. And then the following year, the two would meet up again in 22. And Des Moines Christian would upend. But it's been a while since assumption's a short minute or two that they've been in the state championship three years to speak, and the Knights trying to make the most of it here.

 

Speaker: So many good pieces on their team.

 

Speaker: Trying to go for that pink shirt.

 

Speaker: The elusive pink shirt.

 

Speaker: And assumption will come back into the game with Anna Weiman. She's played huge here as getting a few minutes was Maddie Martinez, who will check out back that you mentioned the elusive pink shirt. It was a few years ago when Davenport Assumption going for their fifth state title in a row as part of their 11 so far. Now trying to make it 12 today, Assumption actually wore pink shirts during the warm ups to intimidate the opposing team because they had everybody back from the previous year, and it worked.

 

Speaker: Wow. Well, if we ever get a pink shirt, it's coming up. I'm sure we'll try that.

 

Speaker: Also pretty interesting. I'm surprised we haven't seen more teams do that, especially when they try to go back to back.

 

Speaker: I've seen the pink ribbons in the hair and the pink captain bands, but not the pink shirt warm up shirts.

 

Speaker: And we have a whistle here. As we'll have to redo it again on the throw for Denver.

 

Speaker: Great throw.

 

Speaker: Right to the middle. Harberts McEwan in traffic. Dorsey says no.

 

Speaker: Wow.

 

Speaker: She just muscled her way through traffic there to get that ball, folks. And trying to go back on the attack here with Weiman.

 

Speaker: She's doing all she can for her team. On the offensive and defensive end of the field.

 

Speaker: , trying to preserve this victory and a state title for Assumption. Well, they have certainly built a program that you have to simply admire. And Davenport assumption. Is this going to be a corner coming up? I believe it is. But slow to get up is going to be Anna Weiman for Davenport assumption. And as we have some substitutes coming into the game. Sadie Nolan will be checking in. There she is. Down senior getting an opportunity. Going to be playing in her fifth game this season. And what an opportunity here in the one a state championship. Clock is stopped at 2:12 as Weiman was slow to get up. We'll see a corner kick here coming up. And it will be coming from Anna Weiman. And the rain falling here in Ames. Weiman tries to center it. Denver going to try to lead it ahead, but there is assumption.

 

Speaker: Every time.

 

Speaker: Cyclones trying to will it ahead.

 

Speaker: Menke there to clear it out again.

 

Speaker: So assumption will have it on a throw again a minute 40 now to play. As Assumption sensing another championship. It'll be their 12th in the school's history. That is hauled in back to Assumption. Over the years have been successful in the state title match, only losing a couple in their history as they go to the outside here with Yeates.

 

Speaker: They've certainly earned it today.

 

Speaker: Fact it started right at the beginning, 7 minutes into the contest, Drew Dorsey connected with Ruby Stevens for the game's first goal. In the second half, their presence known. They came out and attacked aggressively at the net of Denver and which drew Dorsey. Collected her 37th goal on the season and the Assumption Knights. They want to celebrate 30s to play.

 

Speaker: All the fans on their feet.

 

Speaker: Corner kick and will be denied by the Denver Cyclones. And one more go and that ought to be it. How about this assumption? They got their game out onto the field and are going to cap off the one a championship with a win, as the bracket going to be complete. And Davenport assumption is your class one a state champ.

 

Speaker: 18.

 

Speaker: So exciting for them all the emotions. Two really great teams out here today. Fun to watch both of them.

 

Speaker: Here.

 

Speaker: And in the rain. They bring home a 2-0 win over Denver to garner their school's 12th championship as head coach. Elizabeth Moss got her team back into this title match, and they're going to bring home the hardware again to eastern Iowa. What a job in. Net though too. You think about Assumption so many heroes. Dru Dorsey. Of course a phenomenal tournament, including the championship match. Alyssa O'Neal in net, playing her first year in net after transferring from Bettendorf. A huge, huge match today for her. You think back defensively with Caitlin O'Brien really nullifying the attack of Denver all around effort by the Knights.

 

Speaker: I really loved watching these two teams play today. Neither one of them ever quit during the whole game, but Assumption just had a little bit more with them today. The emotions that they have, it's so fun to see just the passion that they put into this game.

 

Speaker: On the pink shirts are out. What a tradition.

 

Speaker: Oh.

 

Speaker: And of course on the other side for Denver again, getting so close, making it to their second state championship match. But coming up short here in 2025. And a valiant season, their first setback of the year for the Denver Cyclones will finish at 20:01, one and one, and for Assumption, they'll finish at 15, 4-1 as each team comes over to salute their crowd. Well worth the drive for Assumption Knight fans.

 

Speaker: Ladies and.

 

Speaker: Gentlemen, let's turn it over to the all tournament team announcement with Jason Esslinger.

 

Speaker: Presenting the awards, representing the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union's board of directors is Ron Fodness. Ladies and gentlemen, presenting your 2025 class one, a all tournament team from Davenport Assumption Ruby Stevens. Championship from Denver Addyson Shepard. Reporting from Underwood Lola Paulson. From Hudson. Taylor. Davis. From Hudson. Endsley trunk. From Sioux City. Bishop. Heelan. Claudia Noriega. Also from Sioux City. Bishop. Heelan, Abby. Lee. From Denver. Addyson Shepard. From Davenport. Assumption. Drew. Dorsey. From Denver. Denver. Keira Gehrke. Tournament from Davenport. Assumption. Drew. Dorsey. From Denver. Kenzie Snyder.

 

Speaker: Way to go.

 

Speaker: And the captain of the all tournament team from Davenport. Assumption. Camryn Menke.

 

Speaker: Well, there's a look at your all tournament team. Your all tournament team captain is Cameron Menke junior, bringing home the honors, joined by plenty of her teammates to as well. Drew Dorsey along that list. Plenty of players too. From Denver. What a group. What a selection. For the all tournament team.

 

Speaker: It was really fun. Like I said before, to watch all these games, see a bunch of teams that I'd never got to see play before. What a great group right there.

 

Speaker: Can win a lot of matches with that group. I'm sure nationally.

 

Speaker: Would be really fun to watch all of them play together.

 

Speaker: So the won a state championship in the books. Davenport assumption winners to nil as they knock down Denver here in the one a title match. We've got the three a title match coming your way.

 

Speaker: Ladies and gentlemen, presenting.

 

Speaker: The trophy presentation.

 

Speaker: Congratulations to the.

 

Speaker: Denver Cyclones and head coach Derek Krebsbach. And presenting for a state record 12th time. The class one A state champions, the Knights from Davenport, assumption and head coach Elizabeth Moss.

 

Speaker: With that trophy case was full before. It's really full now with their 12th state soccer championship. What a job well done by Davenport assumption and coach. They they did it their way their style their game got out onto the field.

 

Speaker: Oh yeah. Congratulations to the Knights. Just a really solid game from start to finish today. They never had to adjust what they were doing too much. They just could play their game. Fun to watch again.

 

Speaker: It's a final as you see the final stamp put on as Davenport assumption wins it. Two nil. They get a goal 7 minutes into the contest and then add an insurance goal in the second half. And they are your class one a state champs. Want to remind you we've got more soccer coming your way next. Starting at 2:30 with the class three a title match as top seeded Waukee Northwest will take on number 7 seed Linn-Mar. That comes your way at 2:30 as you're watching the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union State Soccer Championships here on Iowa PBS.

 

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