After coming up just short of a state championship a year ago, James Valley Christian ran it back this season to win their first sanctioned state boys soccer title. The Vikings defeated Freeman Academy 2-0 on Saturday afternoon at Sioux Park Stadium in Rapid City.
James Valley Christian sophomore Noah Fast got things started in the match as he found the back of the net with 13:56 to play in the first half. Nine-minutes later, Vikings freshman Carson Dorris added to the score with a goal of his own.
“I saw it bouncing right before I kicked it and I just had a glimpse of the back of the net. My soul just burst open and I was grateful,” said Fast. “We were a little nervous at first, but things started kicking. We got a goal, and then another one, and then we just defended the rest of the time.”
Freeman Academy had a near goal with a couple minutes to play in the championship match, but Jonah Niederbaumer had a big save in goal for James Valley Christian.
“Long last few minutes,” exclaimed Vikings head coach Jory Wipf. “Obviously, the game changed in the second half with [Freeman Academy] having the advantage with the wind there, but we were super stubborn, resilient, and super proud of them right now.”
A year ago, Vermillion topped James Valley Christian 3-2 in a thrilling ‘A’ boys title match. James Valley Christian was determined to get back and settle the unfinished business.
“This group has been on a great ride the past few years and it’s been fun to be a part of,” told coach Wipf with a smile.
This is the first sanctioned boys soccer title for James Valley Christian and their first as a program since 2010. The Vikings will graduate three seniors off this season’s squad.
