In a thrilling display of athletic prowess, the Sioux Falls Lincoln boys soccer team secured their third consecutive state championship, defeating Sioux Falls Jefferson 6-0 on March 16, 2024, at Sioux Park. This victory marks Lincoln’s fifth state title since the South Dakota High School Activities Association began sanctioning high school soccer in 2012 and makes them the first team to achieve a three-peat in Class AA boys soccer.
The Patriots established early dominance, scoring three goals in the first half. Miles Rolfing opened the scoring just eight minutes into the match. Following that, Salmonsi David added a second goal in the 26th minute, volleying the ball in heavy traffic. A penalty kick converted by Brady Stamp shortly before halftime solidified Lincoln’s lead at 3-0.
In the second half, Hudson Holman scored on a breakaway, extending the lead to 4-0. David found the net again with eight minutes remaining, and an own goal from Jefferson capped off the scoring. Opland Sonnichsen recorded a shutout, ensuring Lincoln’s dominant performance. This win also avenged a 2-1 loss to Jefferson earlier in the season. Jefferson finishes their campaign with a record of 13-2-2, having reached the state championship match for the first time.
Harrisburg Girls Capture Fourth State Title
In the girls’ Class AA championship, the Harrisburg Tigers showcased their strength by defeating O’Gorman 3-1. The Tigers, the second seed, improved their record to 16-1-1 and celebrated their fourth state title, the most by any school in the division. This victory also avenged their only loss of the season, a 3-1 defeat to O’Gorman on September 29.
The match saw Harrisburg break the scoreless draw in the 30th minute when Lily Churchill scored following a deflection. Brynn Skogen doubled the lead with a header from teammate Aubrey Zink with 14 minutes remaining. Taylor Syverson sealed the victory, scoring the third goal shortly after. O’Gorman managed to get on the scoreboard in the final minutes with a goal from Addison Dougherty, but it was too late to change the outcome.
Sioux Falls Christian and Vikings Claim State Titles
In a dramatic finish, the Sioux Falls Christian girls team clinched their second consecutive Class A state title, overcoming Dakota Valley 2-1 in a penalty shootout after a tied regulation period. The match, held at Sioux Park, featured Sioux Falls Christian, the second seed, improving their season record to 10-6-1. Dakota Valley concluded their season at 11-4-1, still seeking their first soccer championship.
The Chargers took an early lead when Kenley Anderson scored off a corner kick that deflected into the net. Dakota Valley responded quickly, with Millie Squier equalizing. After a tense period of overtime without additional goals, the match moved to penalties. Sioux Falls Christian’s Nealie Stanford played a crucial role, converting her penalty and saving a crucial kick from Dakota Valley to secure the win.
Finally, the JVC Vikings celebrated their first Class A boys title, defeating Freeman Academy 2-0. With this victory, the Vikings avenged their loss in last year’s championship. Noah Fast and Carson Dorris provided the goals, while goalkeeper Jonah Niederbaumer earned his eighth clean sheet of the season, capping off a successful campaign with a record of 14-1.
The state championships highlighted the strength of South Dakota high school soccer, showcasing emerging talent and fierce competition among schools across the region.
