Thursday was a historic day for the Lakehead Orillia varsity women's indoor soccer team. For the first time in program history, the Thunderwolves secured a final four finish, qualifying them to play in the semi-finals of the OCAA Provincial Championships, a feat that even some of the most sought-after programs in the Province were unable to achieve.
After a season of constant adaptation and unexpected challenges brought on by COVID-19, the Thunderwolves have proven themselves as a dedicated and resilient group, who we are proud to declare, have earned their spot as number four in Ontario!
Advancing from day one of the tournament, alongside the Thunderwolves in the final four included the Humber Hawks, Seneca Sting and St. Clair Saints. Lakehead Orillia was certainly up against some tough competition, but ensured to also represent themselves as tough competitors in themselves. Their grit and determination, matched with deep roster of exemplary skill established their deserving position in the Provincial standings.
In their semi-final match, the Thunderwolves were paired up against the Humber Hawks. The women showed up ready to play and delivered a performance that astounded the Hawks and their fans. Humber has won the Provincial title for the last three consecutive active seasons, and many believed that the Hawks would have no problem advancing to the finals, ahead of Lakehead. The Thunderwolves united in what could possibly be the most impressive showing of the tournament, holding the Hawks off for the entire first half of the match. Threatening the reigning champions' chances at advancing to the finals, the Lakehead women kept pressure on their opponents and gave their all to the game. With a couple strong shots for the Hawks in the second half, umber pulled ahead and took the lead. Unfortunately, one of Lakehead Orillia's top scoreres this season, Brelyn Bannister suffered a heel injury in the late stages of the game that left her on the sidelines for the remainder of the tournament. The Thunderwolves kept strong pressure on the Hawks through the sond half, but ultimately fell 2-0 to Humber.
The Bronze medal game would be played against the St. Clair Saints, the very same team the Thunderwolves had met in their final game of day one. Feeling positive about their strong showing against Humber, the Thunderwolves took to the pitch in what would be their concluding game of the season, eager at a chance to defeat their rivals and take the bronze. Strong scoring attempts were made by players of the likes of Tanya Wroblewski and Grace Heywood however, the St. Clair defence did not let up to surrender a goal.
Capping off her rookie season, goalkeeper Mikaela Pludra continued to make huge saves that impressed spectators and players alike that witnessed her in her element. Although the Saints managed to find the back of the net on one occasion, the Thunderwolves made sure that goal remained lone through the match. Though they fought hard to the last second, the women were unable to answer the Saints unaccompanied goal and the final score of the match remained 1-0 in favour of St. Clair. Despite the Thunderwolves not being able to defeat the Saints this season, they can be proud in knowing that they improved their game with each showing. From 3-0 in Ancaster, to 2-0 on day one, and finally 1-0 in the bronze medal game, it is clear that even playing as a top team in Ontario, the potential of the team continues to grow with each game they play.
In spite of a win being just out of reach on the pitch, the Thunderwolves played with fire, passion and skill through both games on day two and made themselves known as a team to be on the lookout for. While they just narrowly missed a medal position, the team left the Ontario Soccer Centre with their heads held high, and all eyes on them as the underdogs that seemingly came out of nowhere to threaten an OCAA Provincial medal.
Ranked fourth in the province, the Thunderwolves have officially wrapped up their 2021/22 season. Lakehead Orillia Athletics would like to congratulate the entire women's indoor soccer team, including the coaching and support team of Marco Moras, Silvo Meridiani, Ian Beattie, and Ashley McLetchie on an incredible and historic season. We are exceptionally proud of the efforts and dedication that each of our student-athletes showcased both on and off the pitch this season.
Lakehead Orillia Athletics would like to thank George Brown College for hosting an incredible tournament for our women to showcase their talent and drive on the Provincial stage. We would also like to thank all the fans who came out to cheer on our women's team through their tournaments at both Regionals and Provincials this year. We look forward to continuing cheering on our Thunderwolves to more historic program accomplishments in the years to come. The future is bright for the Thunderwolves and all of Ontario has now heard our howl.
For full tournament results and standings, click here.
Go Thunderwolves Go!