Historic WPSL Season Comes To A Close In Oklahoma
FC Pride’s thrilling run to the Final Four in the Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL) concluded with a 0-2 loss to the defending National Champions, Charlotte Eagles, in the National Semi-Final held in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Despite the defeat, Head Coach Jamie Gilbert praised his team’s efforts, stating, “Ultimately, a 10-minute period after half time cost us dearly, but take nothing away from the girls who have been unbelievable this season.”
Central Region Title Victory
The previous weekend was a significant milestone for FC Pride as they clinched the Central Region Title. They triumphed over the number 1 seed, Sioux Falls City FC, in a nail-biting match that ended 3-3, decided by penalty kicks. Kayla Budish was the star of the game, scoring a remarkable hat trick, including a header with just 5 seconds left in regulation to force extra time. This was followed by a 2-1 victory in the National Elite Eight against KC Union, with Tatum Coleman scoring the winning goal.
Budish reflected on her season, saying, “Playing in the WPSL this season has definitely helped me prepare for the upcoming college season. Being able to play in a competitive training and game environment has allowed me to stay in top condition from a physical and technical standpoint. The WPSL has definitely provided an environment that will allow me to be successful come the college season.”
Memorable Season and Player Development
High school senior and standout midfielder, Summer Fishel, expressed her joy over the season, “Going to the WPSL Final Four was an unforgettable experience. Getting to compete with top talent and being around an intense atmosphere with my teammates and coaches by my side was incredible. Memories that will last a lifetime.”
Gilbert summed up the season positively, saying, “I feel that we have met our objectives for the season, which are always to get the players ready for their upcoming college seasons. The Playoff run was obviously a huge plus for us. The environment has been fantastic for the players and coaches all the way down the age groups to the Academy players that came out and watched the games every week. I am proud that we have done this with so many of our players that have grown up at the club and developed through the Academy, the ECNL program, and now into the WPSL.”
Looking Forward
The team will resume training in May 2025.
For information about tryouts or sponsorship opportunities, please email Jamie Gilbert at jamiegilbert@fcpride.org
Jamie Gilbert
FC Pride Executive Director of Coaching