June 11, 2021 – Jackson, WI – The Kettle Moraine Lutheran Chargers faced off against the Grafton Black Hawks in a WIAA Division 2 Regional girls soccer match.
The first-round matchup started hot with Grafton scoring just 1:39 into the game. The Chargers and Black Hawks then battled for chances until KML freshman Ava Zarling broke through and tied the game 1-1 at 27:44 into the first half.
Another defensive struggle ensued, but with exactly one minute left to play in the first half, Grafton junior Elizabeth Stewart would score what would the game-deciding goal as Grafton led 2-1.
The second half saw both teams’ goalies and defenses tighten up, preventing several opportunities.
Although she was sad her season was over, Zarling spoke positively about her experience on varsity soccer. “It was very warm and welcoming, especially the support from the seniors on the team,” she said.
Zarling credited seniors Angie Rose, center-back (defense), and Maya Bell, forward on offense with having the biggest impact on her season.
Zarling won’t be sitting idle over the summer. She got a job and “will be starting privates (sessions) with my club coach for soccer.”