Jessica Miller scored a decisive goal early in the second half to lift Waterford to a 1-0 victory over Maeser Prep in the 2A state girls soccer championship on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, at Zions Bank Stadium. The win marked the ninth title in program history for the Ravens, breaking a tie for the most championships since the Utah High School Activities Association began sanctioning the sport in 1989.
A Rematch for the Crown
The championship match served as a rematch of the previous year's final, when Maeser Prep secured a 1-0 win in extra time to earn the No. 1 overall seed in the tournament. That 2023-09-19 victory by the Lions had set the stage for the current season's competitive landscape. On Saturday, however, Waterford proved that a single goal could be sufficient to secure the crown.
Miller's Decisive Strike
Jessica Miller, a former goalkeeper who transitioned to center back, provided the decisive moment in the 42nd minute. Following a corner kick, Miller took a touch and finished inside the box with a shot from her right foot. Miller, who stated she felt pure ecstasy upon scoring, noted that she knew the outcome once the team broke the scoreless deadlock.
Defensive Stand
Following the goal, Miller transitioned back to a defensive role to help protect the lead alongside teammates Savvy Williams, London Taix, and Andrea Sun. The Ravens' defense successfully held off a strong Maeser Prep side to secure the second consecutive 2A title for the program.
Maeser's Semifinal Dominance
Maeser Prep entered the championship match following a dominant 5-0 semifinal victory over American Leadership Academy on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026. During that semifinal performance, Maeser striker Cami Simmons scored two goals, while Ellery Garner and Norah Johnson also contributed to the scoring barrage.
Maeser's Offensive Power
Coach Dustin Simmons credited his team's lethal counterattack during the semifinal, specifically highlighting the contributions of Simmons and freshman Garner. Simmons also noted the importance of career assist leader Tess Jorgensen and midfielder Deb Chaves in the Lions' offensive success. Despite the loss in the final, Cami Simmons expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play in the championship, noting that her brothers, Aiden and Matthew, had previously won championship trophies for the Maeser boys team.
Season Context
The 2026-27 fall sports season continues to progress, with the Utah High School Activities Association previously releasing championship brackets for various sports including girls soccer, baseball, and volleyball through October 2026.
Program Legacy
Waterford's 15-5 record this season highlights a program that has reached the pinnacle of 2A soccer. By securing their ninth title, the Ravens have established a historical benchmark for the sport in the state.
