Megan Rapinoe and the U.S Women’s National Soccer Team weren’t the only ones crowned champions on July 7.
Just hours after the USWNT lifted the World Cup trophy in Lyon, France, the Chattanooga Lady Red Wolves (11-1-2) became champions of the Southeast Conference Tournament in the Women’s Premier Soccer League.
“I’m extremely proud and honored to be a part of this team,” Red Wolves forward Carlie Banks said. “This team is something special, and we knew it from the very first time we played together.”
With a 3-2 come-from-behind win over Nashville Rhythm, the Lady Red Wolves won their conference tournament after finishing at the top of the table in the regular season just a week earlier.
They have been dominant all year, finishing with 11 wins from 14 games and a regular season title. The Lady Red Wolves finished the season all alone at the top of the Southeast Conference, with 11 points between them and second-place.
“Being regular season and conference tournament champions is a testament to the hard work our players have put in all season,” Lady Red Wolves SC Head Coach Billy Sparks said. All of them have brought their individual qualities to the team, but it’s their desire to play for each other that has really been a big factor for the success they’ve earned.”
With the win over Nashville, the Lady Red Wolves keep their inaugural season alive and advance to the regional tournament in Pensacola, Florida beginning on Friday, July 12.
Banks and the rest of the Lady Red Wolves are proud but not satisfied with how far they’ve come, and now turn their attention to the ultimate prize: a national title.
“As we continue through post season play, we couldn’t be more thrilled and ready to keep doing our thing,” Banks said. “We hope to continue our run all the way to the national championship.”
Regional play begins play this Friday in Pensacola, Florida. The Red Wolves are slated to face Charlotte Lady Eagles (8-0) Saturday, July 13 at West Florida University Kickoff is set for 11 a.m. CT.