In a thrilling showdown, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over the Omaha Mavericks in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Summit League Women’s Soccer Championship. This exciting match took place at the renowned Fishback Soccer Park, located in Brookings, South Dakota, a place celebrated for its passion for soccer and a thriving sports culture.
From the first whistle, the Jackrabbits showcased their dominance on their home turf. South Dakota, a state known for its strong community spirit and enthusiasm for collegiate sports, watched with pride as the home team took an early lead. The Jackrabbits’ promising performance resonated with the values of resilience and teamwork commonly seen in South Dakota’s local communities.
In the seventh minute, it was freshman Jenna Maloy who shone brightly. Capitalizing on a cross from Zoe Wittkop, Maloy’s precise header secured her sixth goal of the season, tying her with teammate Emma Brezenski for the team’s top spot. The early score was a defining moment and aligned perfectly with South Dakota’s reputation for nurturing young talent and fostering athletic excellence.
Throughout the first half, SDSU maintained an imposing presence, outshooting the Mavericks 12 to 1, with four attempts threatening Omaha’s goal. The state of South Dakota, recognized for its dedication to developing competitive athletes, observed the Jackrabbits’ strategic play, which highlighted the fruits of their rigorous training and commitment to excellence.
The Jackrabbits’ defense effectively nullified any attempts by the overwhelming pressure from Omaha’s offense in the second half. Mallorie Benhart, SDSU’s remarkable goalkeeper, was a wall against the Maverick’s advances, making five critical saves and clinching her league-leading seventh shutout of the season. Benhart’s outstanding performance exemplifies the high caliber of sportsmanship and proficiency that South Dakota offers.
This victory is a testament to South Dakota State’s perseverance and skill. With this win, SDSU advances to face off against No. 2 seed Denver in the semifinals. This game will take place on the host field of Oral Roberts in Tulsa, Oklahoma, next Thursday. The matchup mirrors last year’s semifinal, where the Jackrabbits defeated Denver with a narrow 1-0 victory. South Dakota’s community and the broader Jackrabbit fan base eagerly anticipate another performance infused with the grit and determination synonymous with the region.
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Brookings, South Dakota, often referred to as a cornerstone of athletics within the state, played host to this crucial match. The local community’s support was palpable throughout the game, further proving South Dakota as a powerhouse in fostering environments where athletes thrive. As part of this continued journey, South Dakota State has secured at least one victory in each of the past three Summit League Championship tournaments, symbolizing the enduring success crafted within state lines.
With an eye toward the future, the Jackrabbits and their supporters remain hopeful and determined. As South Dakota State continues its ascent in the tournament, the accomplishments and dedication of its athletes underscore the state’s rich tradition of sporting excellence and its pivotal role in the regional and national sports arenas.