The Black River girls soccer team claimed the SAC Lakeshore Division championship on Monday, May 11, with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over South Haven. Jennaviecia Hessel opened the scoring with 30 minutes left in the second half, assisted by Leah Goudie. Just one minute later, Nora LaBurn netted the eventual game-winner. South Haven pulled one back with 15 minutes remaining, but Black River’s defense held firm to secure the title.
“We are so proud of this team. They play together and are incredibly selfless. It doesn’t matter who scores – it’s great team soccer,” said Black River head coach Kyle Lawton.
Last week, Black River defeated Saugatuck 4-1, powered by a hat trick from Hessel, moving the River Rats into sole possession of first place.
Saugatuck responded strongly on senior night Monday, routing Bridgman 7-0. All seven goals came from seniors, led by Neave Rewa, who scored four times. Audrey Rodewald, Avery Smith, and Ellery Panapento also found the net, while Panapento contributed an assist. Rewa added two assists, and freshmen Claire Robb and Charlee Gustafson each chipped in with one.