Photo Courtesy of Monsignor Donovan High School

MACON—On Saturday, May 11, both the girls and boys soccer teams from Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School, Athens, earned the titles of Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) Class A State Champions, the first state soccer titles in the school’s history. The Donovan teams and a busload of loyal supporters traveled to Mercer University in Macon for the competition.

The Lady Rams competed first against Oak Mountain Academy of Carrollton. At the end of regulation, the teams were tied 1-1. Alondra Arteaga scored the first goal with an assist from Rachel Duncan, who scored two goals in overtime bringing the final score to 3-1 with Donovan claiming the victory.

With their sixth consecutive game win, the Lady Rams finished the season at 11-4. Keaton Craw and Nathan Edwards served as coaches for the Lady Rams.

Later that afternoon, the Donovan boys soccer team took to the field to compete against First Presbyterian Christian Academy of Hinesville. At halftime, Donovan was ahead 2-0 with goals from Emmanuel Ohana and Carlos Huisa.

The boys soccer team of Monsignor Donovan High School in Athens claimed a state championship May 11 competing against First Presbyterian Christian Academy of Hinesville. The GISA championships were held in Macon. Photo Courtesy of Monsignor Donovan High School

Lightning and rain caused a weather delay, but the Rams remained focused. Jay Liu, Will Auslander and Johann Lopez scored additional goals in the second half, bringing the score to 5-0 before First Presbyterian scored their first point.

With a final score of 5-1, the Rams earned the title of state champion with its fourth consecutive win and a final season breakdown of 8-7-1. Ed Rock and Nathan Edwards coached the Rams.

Senior team members include Gemma Alvarez, Alondra Arteaga, Andrea Mojica, Natalie Rosales, Russell Parker and Victor Tejada.

The Monsignor Donovan boys head soccer coach (Ed Rock) and the girls head soccer coach (Keaton Craw) were named by the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) as Georgia Coach of the Year for Class A.