In a classic underdog story, the Marist Catholic Spartans earned the 4A boys soccer state championship on Saturday, Nov. 14, by defeating the top‑ranked Stayton Eagles 2‑1 in Hillsboro. The win represents Marist’s first state title since 1997 and its first championship game appearance since 2001.
Road to the final
Marist entered the tournament as the No. 10 seed, having secured upset victories over No. 7 Cascade and No. 2 Valley Catholic to reach the semifinals. In the semifinal, the Spartans hosted No. 14 Newport and advanced thanks to a two‑assist, one‑goal performance by senior Hudson Cheeseman.
Championship game highlights
Early in the first half, an eighth‑minute header from sophomore Caleb Hirons gave Marist a 1‑0 lead. The goal came after a long cross‑field pass found Isaac Atkerson, who set up Hirons at the back post. Marist’s sophomore goalkeeper Nelson Holland‑Bak made ten saves, including seven in the second half, preserving the lead.
Stayton’s lone response came in the 58th minute when forward Josiah Dessieux struck a first‑time shot that the Spartans’ defense deflected to Holland‑Bak’s chest. The Eagles were unable to generate further scoring chances.
Marist sealed the victory in the 80th minute when Evan Coffman capitalized on a mis‑cleared free kick, slotting the ball into the bottom left corner. The Spartans held on despite a late attempt from Dessieux that rattled the crossbar with 51 seconds remaining.
Significance for the program
The championship ends a 29‑year title drought for Marist Catholic and crowns the team as the state’s top 4A boys soccer program for the first time in three decades. The win also sets the stage for the Marist girls’ team, which will compete for its own state title later Saturday against No. 2 Scappoose, aiming to become the first school in history to win three consecutive state titles and complete a boys‑girls state title sweep.
Community reaction
Local fans and alumni celebrated the triumph, noting the Spartans’ resilience and teamwork throughout the tournament. Coach Hudson Cheeseman praised his players’ dedication, saying, “These young men showed heart, discipline, and faith in each other. Their effort reflects the values we teach at Marist.”
The victory adds to the growing sense of pride in the Hillsboro and greater Lane County sports community, highlighting the impact of high school athletics on family life and community spirit.
Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.
