The undefeated run is over for Richmond Hill High School’s girls soccer team, but their 2024 season will be remembered as one of the most dominant in program history.
Richmond Hill fans held their breath through 80 minutes of regulation, then two 10-minute overtime periods, but the Wildcats’ perfect 2024 season came to a heartbreaking end Friday night. After going 18-0-2 in the regular season and playoffs, Richmond Hill fell 2-1 in double overtime to Westlake High School in the Class 6A state semifinal, ending their bid for an undefeated state title run.
A Season of Dominance Cut Short
Richmond Hill entered the state semifinal having outscored opponents 67-8 across 20 matches, with 14 clean sheets.
The Wildcats cruised through regional play, winning three straight games by a combined score of 9-0 to reach the state’s final four for the first time in program history.
2024 Season By The Numbers
- 18-0-2 overall record entering the state semifinal
- 67 goals scored, 8 goals allowed in 20 matches
- 14 clean sheets (shutouts) during the undefeated run
- 9-0 combined score in regional playoff wins
How the Overtime Loss Unfolded
Westlake struck first in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error to take a 1-0 lead into halftime.
Richmond Hill equalized in the 58th minute on a penalty kick from senior captain Mia Torres, sending the match to overtime tied 1-1.
After a scoreless first overtime period, Westlake found the winner in the 103rd minute of double overtime, ending Richmond Hill’s undefeated streak.
What’s Next for the Wildcats
Despite the heartbreak, the Richmond Hill girls soccer program has plenty to build on for the 2025 season.
Only three seniors started for the Wildcats this year, meaning 85% of the undefeated roster will return next fall.
Head coach Sarah Jenkins, who just finished her fifth season at the helm, called the team’s run “a testament to the hard work these girls put in every day, regardless of the scoreboard.”
Community Support Shines Through
Hundreds of Richmond Hill fans made the 3-hour drive to the state semifinal venue, filling the stands in Wildcats gear.
Local businesses posted congratulatory messages on social media after the loss, honoring the team’s undefeated regular season and deep playoff run.
“We’re so proud of how these girls represented our community,” said Richmond Hill High principal Dr. Amanda Cole. “This season was special, no matter how it ended.”
The Richmond Hill girls soccer team’s undefeated season may be over, but their legacy is just beginning. For a program that had never reached the state semifinal before 2024, this run sets a new standard for future Wildcats teams. While the overtime loss stings now, the 2024 season will be remembered as the year Richmond Hill girls soccer established itself as a perennial state contender.
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