Last Thursday was a special day for the Seawolves’ Women’s Soccer Team. Not only was it senior day, but the team also clinched their third consecutive CCAA (California Collegiate Athletic Association) regular season title, with their 3-1 victory over the San Francisco State Gators. Entering the day the Seawolves sat tied with Stanislaus State at the top of the CCAA table, with a record of 6-2-2, for a total of 20 points. Even though both teams won their final match of the regular season (bringing them to 7-2-2, with 23 points), the Seawolves earned the edge with a 4-2 head-to-head victory when the two teams met earlier in the season. This gives the Seawolves the number one seed, and homefield advantage for this week’s CCAA tournament.

The team got off to a blazing start in their match this past Thursday, scoring all three of their goals on the front side of the first half. Gaining command out of the gate was a point of emphasis for the Seawolves, with senior defender Krissy Keller saying, “Every team in our conference is going to have their best game against Sonoma State, so in preparation for this game we really wanted to take control of the game while staying calm.” It was a balanced offensive attack that used the entire pitch, producing goals from Annette Sotelo in the ninth minute, Julia Horner-Bell in the 16th, and Lexi Zandonella-Arasa in the 22nd. Andrea Lozano had a pair of assists as well. A sluggish first half for the Gators was somewhat salvaged by getting a goal before the half, with Britton Kerby finding the back of the net in the 37th minute, making things somewhat interesting. Plenty of chances were created by both teams in the second half, but it ended up being more of a showcase for the goalkeepers, as neither team cashed in their opportunities.

While the occasion certainly called for celebration, the focus has quickly shifted back to business for the Seawolves, as they prepare to make a deep run in the postseason. Keller emphasized there were plenty of positives to take away from the game, but also things to improve upon for continued success. “Despite the win I think we had a solid first half, which is something we have struggled with in the past. Moving forward we know it will be important to put together 90 minutes,” said Keller. “We hold ourselves to a high standard, so we are always looking at what we could do better moving forward. Even if we win.”

The Seawolves will begin postseason play on Friday, with a CCAA Tournament Semi-final match against Chico State at Seawolf Soccer Field. If things go according to plan this will be just the beginning of the squad’s postseason journey. A victory on Friday would mean a chance to play for the CCAA Tournament Championship Sunday on home turf, before getting a chance in the regional tournament. Success at the regional level is something the Seawolves are capable of according to Keller who emphasized, “We feel the region is open this year and it has been something we have strived for during my four years here at Sonoma State.” She explained that the key to success is going to be turning weaknesses into strengths. If the Seawolves can do so, winning a regular season title on senior day could be just one of many great moments in a magical season.