Ranked No. 2 in Texas by MaxPreps, Marcus entered the match with an 18-4-3 record, leaning on a battle-tested roster that featured standouts like Maddie Hayes, Emma Fioretti (Central Oklahoma-signee), and Piper Garcia (American University).
But it was Hayes, the senior forward and now two-time state champion, who delivered the critical moment.
Just two minutes into the second half, Hayes curled a free-kick past a narrow gap in the Stratford wall, scoring a goal that would ultimately be the decider.
Said moment also led to her being named the 6A-D2 State MVP.
Marcus' Maddie Hayes (Sr. F) being presented with the 2025 UIL 6A-D2 State MVP AwardMatthew Ogle (VYPE)
“I definitely had the confidence when I stepped up to that shot,” said Hayes. “I’ve been in similar situations throughout the year, and once I saw a gap through the wall towards the post, I knew that it should be in.”
For Hayes, it was a full-circle finish to her high school playing career.
“After winning it during my sophomore year, we kind of thought that it wouldn’t happen again because it’s such a rare occasion,” she said. “But bringing it back means so much more. We have such a great community that always stands behind us, so they’re going to be really happy when we come home with the gold.”
While the goal proved to be the game-winner, the Marauders' defensive unit — anchored by senior goalkeeper Aubrey Tipton — held firm against a dangerous Stratford side, which came into its first-ever Final Four appearance with a 22-2-3 record and a No. 12 state ranking.
Coach Erin Smith, who took over as interim head coach in 2023 and was later named the full-time lead after guiding Marcus to a championship that same year, praised the resilience of her team.
Head Coach Erin SmithMatthew Ogle (VYPE)
“It took a lot of grit,” Smith said. “The experience that this group brings to the table shows in the most critical moments. We’ve been down before, especially in district-play, and the knowledge of what it takes to overcome has been a strength. At the end of the day, I’m so proud of them because they accomplished exactly what they set out to do from the beginning.”
This championship was especially meaningful for Smith, who led a senior class she began her tenure with — all while adjusting to life as both a head coach and new mother.
“Honestly, I’ve been able to take a deep breath this year which has been really nice,” Smith said. “After that first year in the interim position and then having a child, I had a more secure footing this season and made all the adjustments needed. What makes this one sweeter is the fact that I was able to see off the first class of seniors I began with in the best way possible. Plus, having my baby here to watch along the way has been especially sweet.”
As the final whistle blew, the Marauders celebrated not only another title but the legacy of a program that continues to raise the bar in Texas high school soccer.
Marcus' Maddie Hayes (Sr. F) being presented with the 2025 UIL 6A-D2 State MVP AwardMatthew Ogle (VYPE)
Head Coach Erin SmithMatthew Ogle (VYPE)
