East Ventura News

The Cal Lutheran women’s soccer team, under the guidance of head coach Frank Marino, embarked on their preseason with a unique ritual of reading and discussing inspirational books to instill values that transcend the field. One such quote from the book "Legacy" by James Kerr resonated deeply with the team, as Marino emphasized, “Your role is to leave the jersey in a better place.”

In a remarkable turn of events, the Regals clinched the NCAA Division III National Championship for the first time in the university’s history, solidifying their legacy as one of the most successful teams. Marino lauded the team's achievement, stating, “She didn’t just leave that jersey in a better place – she left it in the best place for future generations,” in reference to Isabella “Bella” Veljacic, who scored the winning goal in the championship match.

Veljacic, a standout player, humbly deflected praise, attributing the team's success to collective effort, saying, “The goal was cool, but it was the team who won the championship and broke records.” The team's unity and bond were highlighted as key factors in their victory, with Veljacic emphasizing, “We all worked to know each other on a deeper level.”

The Regals' triumph was not only a display of athletic prowess but also a testament to their academic excellence and community values. Cal Lutheran President Lori Varlotta commended the team for their academic achievements, noting their impressive group GPA of 3.4 and high student retention rate, showcasing the players as exemplary representatives of the university.

Howard Davis, the director of athletics, lauded the team's exceptional talent and emphasized the importance of teamwork and selflessness, stating, “We have so many ultra-skilled soccer players on this team, and it’s a credit to our coaching staff on the recruiting job they’ve done.” The team's success was attributed to their ability to prioritize the collective over individual accolades, fostering a culture of support and camaraderie.

The Cal Lutheran women’s soccer team's historic win not only etched their names in the annals of sports history but also exemplified the enduring legacy of teamwork, dedication, and unity that will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.