Photos from GRFC’s national championship win against Santa Clarita
Grandville Mi— In their first season in existence, the Grand Rapids Women’s Football Club won the United Women’s Soccer national championship.
In front of more than 1,000 people. The Ladies in Blue defeated Santa Clarita, Ca in overtime 3-1 on Saturday night at Grandville High School.
It was the second night in a that the GRFC Women (12-1-1) came back from early deficits to win the match.
Santa Clarita (9-1) came into the match with an undefeated record and was looking to defend its 2016 national title.
This is what some people had to say after the game.
“Congratulations to Grand Rapids FC on winning the United Women’s Soccer championship,” Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss said. “Winning the national title in the team’s inaugural season — and against the defending champions — is something our entire city should be proud of and celebrate.”
“This was an incredible tournament,” said UWS Commissioner Joe Ferrara, Jr. “The games were absolutely ridiculous and the atmosphere was as electric as I’ve ever seen. Women’s soccer ruled this night!”
“It’s a culmination of a summer of work that all of our players, staff, organization, coaches, everyone put work into,” said GRFC owner Matt Roberts. “I couldn’t be prouder of everybody right now.”
“What an amazing night,” said Grand Rapids FC Head Coach Lewis Robinson. “We said at half time if we get to 90 (minutes) we will win in overtime. There is no way we can lose in in 120 minutes. Our fans would make it 12 players against 11…They din’t stop singing for 30 minutes.
“It was amazing. I can’t believe that I have a medal around me neck right now,” Said GRFC Goalkeeper Reilley Ott.” I can only thank my team around me.”
“The audience is amazing, I can not even put into words how amazing Grand Rapids has been,” said said tournament MVP and GRFC defender Michaela Kovacs. “Over 1000 in attendance that’s unreal…This is easily that largest crowd I have played in front of”
Media Works of John Rothwell 