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EXTRA TIME: Previewing the 2025 UIL Soccer State Finals--Stratford v. FM Marcus (Girls 6A-D2)
The pinnacle of the UIL soccer season has arrived, with teams and their fanbases heading to Birkelbach Field in Georgetown for an unforgettable finish.
Kicking off Saturday’s events, the 6A-Division II state final between Stratford and Flower Mound Marcus promises to be a clash of titans.
Stratford has already made history by reaching the state semifinals for the first time, and they’ve taken it a step further with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Austin powerhouse Vandegrift last Friday.
This victory not only earned them a spot in the final but also extended their winning streak to 19 games.
The Spartans, now 22-2-3, have been one of the most dominant teams in the state, combining an effective offense with a disciplined defense.
With 143 goals scored in 27 games (roughly five per match) and only 14 goals conceded, Stratford has been a force to be reckoned with.
Under the leadership of coach David Walters, the Spartans have relied on their veteran captains— Auburn-signee Allison Goodwin (F), Ryann Weber (MF/Samford), Mary-Charlotte Paul (MF), and goalkeeper Olivia Harbison—who have been pivotal throughout their postseason run.
The same can be said for SHSU-commit Sara Benton (Jr. MF) and junior forward Sydney Valentine.
Though they are ranked No. 32 in Texas according to MaxPreps, Stratford has an opportunity to finish at the top of the 6A-Division II rankings with a win on Saturday.
Flower Mound Marcus, from Lewisville ISD, enters the final battle-tested and looking for their third state title.
No. 17-ranked Marcus (18-4-3) has enjoyed yet another tremendous postseason, defeating the defending 6A champions, Prosper, 1-0 last Tuesday, followed by a solid 2-0 win against Forney on Friday.
This marks their eighth appearance in the state tournament, and they’re aiming to add to their championship legacy, having last won the title in 2023 with a 2-0 victory over Ridge Point.
The Erin Smith-led Marauders boast a roster full of talent, with key players such as senior forwards Maddie Hayes and Emma Fioretti (Central Oklahoma-commit), junior defender Piper Garcia (American U), and senior midfielders Hannah Campos and Zemira Dube (Missouri Southern), all of whom have played critical roles in the team’s success.
Senior goalkeeper Aubrey Tipton has also been a standout, consistently coming through in crucial moments, while sophomore captain Ryleigh Albin anchors the back-line.
Saturday’s opener between Stratford and Flower Mound Marcus is sure to be a spectacle, as the two battle for 6A-D2 supremacy at 11:00 AM at Birkelbach Field.
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VYPE Coaches Corner: Stratford Girls Soccer Coach David Walters (6A-D2 State Final Preview)
After outlasting Vandegrift (1-0) on Friday, the Stratford Girls Soccer program looks to cap off their unprecedented season with their first-ever State Championship, when facing FM Marcus this Saturday (11:00 AM) at Birkelbach Field.
We spoke with Spartans HC David Walters, detailing the team's historic run to State, the key players who made it happen, the gameplan for Marcus, and more...