Both the Watertown High School boys' and girls' soccer squads celebrated impressive victories over Sioux Falls Roosevelt on Thursday, September 18, 2026, at the Allen Mitchell Athletic Complex, marking a successful evening as their seasons near an end.
The girls' team (6-4-1) started the night with a decisive 2-0 win. Following this, the boys' team (10-0-1) demonstrated resilience, overcoming an early deficit to secure a 4-1 victory. During the interval between games, a special 'Senior Night' ceremony was held, recognizing 22 graduating athletes and their families for their contributions to the program. The boys' match saw Roosevelt initially take the lead with a goal from Aaron Schroeder. However, Watertown's Xane Fligge leveled the score just before halftime. The Arrows surged ahead in the second half, with Carson Schlaht netting two goals and Ethan Raml adding another. Goalkeeper Owen Muller made four saves, and assists were provided by Schlaht and Matthew Bertsch. Coach Jesse Hauck praised his team's mental fortitude, stating, "After Roosevelt scored the first goal, our boys didn't hang their heads or point fingers, they actually came together in huddle on our own end. When they broke that huddle, the switch was turned on." For the girls, Sophia Gallardo was the star, scoring a goal in the final minutes of the first half and adding another early in the second half, securing their 2-0 win. These performances underscore the teams' potential for historic runs in their respective seasons, with both squads eyeing further success in the upcoming playoff rounds and conference championships.
The boys' team, currently ranked fourth, is building on a strong foundation from the previous year, where they reached the state quarterfinals. With a 5-0-1 record in the Eastern South Dakota Conference, they are aiming for their first ESD championship since 2014. Their path to the title includes key matchups against Brookings, Mitchell, and top-ranked Aberdeen Central. The team's offensive prowess is evident, led by Roger Carranza (12 goals, 5 assists), Isaac Thorson (9 goals, 2 assists), Xane Fligge (7 goals, 7 assists), Luke McLaughlin (4 goals), and Carson Schlaht (2 goals, 4 assists). Goalie Owen Muller has been a standout in defense with 45 saves. Coach Hauck emphasizes the team's depth and unity, noting their ability to overcome challenges. As the second seed in the state Class AA standings, the Arrows are well-positioned to host playoff games, with the state championship scheduled for October 17 at their home complex. The girls' team, with a 6-4-1 overall record and 3-3 in the ESD, is also enjoying a commendable season. After a historic playoff win last year, they are currently seventh in the state standings, aiming to host a playoff game for the first time. The team benefits from strong leadership from seniors and key contributions from underclassmen like freshman Sophia Gallardo, who leads with 16 goals and 5 assists. Other notable players include senior Katie Fischer (9 goals, 6 assists), junior Bo Meidinger (6 goals, 1 assist), and senior Claire Schochenmaier (3 goals, 4 assists). Senior Madison Enstad anchors the defense with over 70 saves, supported by Arianna Snyder, Olivia Dettman, and Harper Hendricks. The girls' remaining schedule mirrors the boys', with critical games ahead, including a final regular-season match against fifth-ranked Aberdeen Central. Their only losses have come against the top four teams in the Class AA standings, demonstrating their competitive spirit and skill.
These impressive performances by both Watertown soccer teams highlight their dedication and teamwork, demonstrating that through collective effort and perseverance, remarkable achievements are within reach. Their journey serves as an inspiring example for aspiring athletes, showing that hard work and a united front can lead to significant success and personal growth.
