MATTHEWS, NC - In a historic moment for Cal Poly Pomona women's soccer, the Broncos secured their first-ever NCAA Division II National Championship, defeating Minnesota State 2-1. This victory represents the culmination of an extraordinary season, highlighted by resilience, strong leadership, and the unrelenting determination of the championship squad.
— NCAA Division II (@NCAADII) December 15, 2024
The match started with high intensity, and it was the Mavericks who struck first, finding the back of the net in the 9th minute to take a 1-0 lead. It looked like the Broncos would face a tough road ahead, but adversity has been a familiar challenge for this team throughout the season.
In a key moment in the 23rd minute, senior forward Tara Oper netted the equalizer, with sophomore defender Georgia Rink providing the assist. This pivotal goal came shortly after senior defender Lindsay Sung was injured, giving Rink the opportunity to step in and make an immediate impact. Rink's assist not only energized the Broncos but also shifted the momentum in their favor.
TARA TIME! https://t.co/MXODBfEeTR
— Cal Poly Pomona Broncos (@cppbroncos) December 15, 2024
From that point, the Broncos took control of the match, dictating the play and putting more pressure on the Mavericks' defense. Head Coach Jay Mason reflected on his team's mentality going into the second half, stating, "Our team's been through moments this season where they've been down. The thing that's allowed them to reach this point has been their resilience. They never quit and just continue to play the way we can play and generate opportunities."
As the teams returned to the field for the second half, the Broncos knew they had to maintain intensity. Coach Mason was full of praise for the leadership of his senior class. "They bring comfort and composure to those moments where other teams might start to crumble," he said. "In that second half, I thought our defense really did it for us. We needed to maintain the intensity and stay connected, and we knew they were going to come at us."
The crucial goal came just after the break in the 47th minute. With the score tied 1-1 at halftime, the Broncos were awarded a penalty kick. Junior midfielder Marisa Salazar confidently stepped up and converted, giving Cal Poly Pomona a 2-1 lead early in the second half.
Marisa Salazar scores on a penalty kick to put the Broncos ahead, 2-1, in the 47th-minute of the #D2WSOC national championship match!#MakeItYours| @cppbroncos pic.twitter.com/2jLfvqTQWm
— NCAA Division II (@NCAADII) December 15, 2024
The second half was marked by a resolute defensive performance from the Broncos. Senior goalkeeper Bella Hara made three crucial saves, and the defensive line stood strong against a Mavericks attack that tried desperately to find an equalizer.
Senior defender Bella Anderson reflected on the team's mindset under pressure: "We just tried to keep our composure and play as a team. We settled down and played our game." Her leadership on the backline helped anchor the Broncos as they withstood the Mavericks' late push.
For Anderson, the win wasn't just about the game but the bond forged with her teammates. "This program brought a lot of family and friends into my life that I didn't know I had. The friendships that we have built are always going to be there with me no matter what. I love the community we have built."
Midfielder Auburn Burnett reflected on how much the program meant to her, describing it as an experience that brought her closer to a remarkable group of people: "It's an amazing program, amazing coaches, amazing group of girls. I haven't regretted anything and I love each and every person on this team."
As the final whistle blew, Coach Mason couldn't help but reflect on the incredible journey this senior class had taken. "We've seen them go through so much growth over the years," he said. "They came into this season with a clear message of what they wanted to achieve. It's hard to be leaders, and they kept pushing. For me, win or lose today, this is an incredible group of young ladies."
— NCAA Division II (@NCAADII) December 15, 2024
In addition to the national title, several Broncos were honored for their exceptional performances throughout the tournament. Senior forward Tara Oper, junior forward Vanessa Cruz, senior midfielder Auburn Burnett, and junior forward Angelina Rivas were all named to the NCAA Division II Championship All-Tournament Team.
The Broncos' victory in this historic match marks the culmination of a season filled with hard work, dedication, and growth, both on and off the field. The 2024 NCAA Division II Women's Soccer National Championship stands as a testament not only to the skill and resilience of the players but also to the leadership of Coach Jay Mason and the unity of this exceptional team.
All-Tournament Team:
Bronco Bits:
- This is the first National Championship victory in program history.
- Jay Mason is now 82-48-23 as the head coach of the Broncos.
- The Broncos set a program record of 7-0 in post-season.
- Marisa Salazar scored her 5th game-winning goal.
- Tara Oper scored her 9th goal of the season.
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