After experiencing their first coaching change in eight seasons, the Hawks took flight under first-year head coach Alessandro Llamas Ibarra and his dedicated staff, Kendra Selle and Dani Chang. As the season comes to a close, we pause to reflect on the journey—a testament to resilience, skill, and an unyielding drive for excellence.
The team's accomplishments were nothing short of extraordinary. They reclaimed the East Region Title for the third time in four seasons, reaffirming their dominance and consistency in one of the most competitive regions. In a historic feat, the Hawks completed East Region play undefeated for the first time since 1999—a testament to their grit, focus, and teamwork. For the fourth consecutive year, CBC Women's Soccer advanced to the NWAC Final Four, a post-COVID streak unmatched in the league and a benchmark of excellence that few programs can claim.
Defensively, the Hawks rewrote the record books. Allowing only two goals during East Region play and six throughout the entire NWAC season, they achieved the best goals-against record in eight years. This remarkable performance was driven by the discipline and coordination of the backline—
Olivia Mendoza,
Julissa Caceres,
Rosie Aguilera, and
Shelby Geiger—and goalkeeper
Samantha Groesbeck. Offensively, with 15 different players finding the back of the net, the team showcased depth and versatility in the attack lead by Sophomore forward
Ava Suarez who earned the title of East Region Offensive MVP
Reflecting on the season, Coach Llamas expressed gratitude:
"I feel blessed to be here at CBC. The ladies did amazing and deserve their success. I'm extremely grateful for my coaching staff. All three of us share a deep love for this program as alumni of CBC Soccer. It's special that we've returned to give back to an institution that shaped us—it speaks to the lasting impact of the CBC experience."
The team's journey ended with an overall record of 11-2-3. In the NWAC Semi-Final match, they faced a formidable Bellevue College team in an intense battle that went down to penalty kicks. Though the Hawks narrowly fell short, their fight and determination epitomized the heart of this program.
As we bid farewell to our Sophomores, we celebrate their contributions to the program's legacy—one built on championships, historic achievements, and an unrelenting pursuit of success. While their departure marks the end of an era, it also heralds the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Recruitment for the next generation of Lady Hawks is already underway, and with the momentum of this season, the future holds endless possibilities.
To our student athletes, supporters, and community: thank you for making this season unforgettable. Together, we celebrate our past, embrace our present, and look forward to a brighter future.