Perspectives: The Horizon League Women's Soccer Tournament

Some thoughts while observing the Horizon League women’s soccer championship this past weekend at Butler.

Thought No. 1 -- I eagerly looked forward to seeing Milwaukee’s Horizon League all-time leading goal-scorer, Sarah Hagen, in action and she didn’t disappoint.  Anything but, in fact, scoring three goals and adding an assist while leading the Panthers to the tournament championship.

Hagen simply dominates the action.  Even with defenders paying her close, and physical, attention, even the novice soccer fan can’t help but notice that she is the best athlete on the pitch.  When she’s not scoring, she’s setting teammates up for good shots. Just an absolutely gifted performer.  Let’s hope she continues her effective play when the Panthers meet state rival Wisconsin Friday in the first round of the NCAA tournament.

Thought No. 2 -- While play was aggressive and physical at times during the two semifinals and finals, the sportsmanship and conduct of our Horizon League student-athletes and coaches was exemplary. That’s a credit to all involved. Now did some of the fans/parents in the stands get a little, uh, exercised, at times? Well, yes, but perhaps that is to be expected.

Thought No. 3 -- For the seniors, the suddenness with which their collegiate athletic careers come to a close. Through youth leagues to high school competition and then on to college, so much of their time and effort has been committed to achieving excellence. Then, in a blink, the clock goes to zeroes and it is all over.

I am reminded of the NCAA’s tag line of “most of our student-athletes go pro in something other than sports,” and the value of the education that their athletic skills have afforded them. Still, when it is over, it is really, really over and, in most cases, they will never play for a name on the front of a jersey again.