How Medfield’s Girls Soccer Shockingly Avenge Last Year’s Heartbreak to Clinch the Div. III Title!

MILTON - In a thrilling rematch, the Division III girls' soccer championship saw the Medfield Warriors edge out the Nipmuc Warriors with a narrow 1-0 victory, repeating the tense showdown from the previous year. This championship win marks Medfield's third state title and their first since 2012.

"It was just revenge," said Medfield captain Emily Hoffman. "I know some of the girls on that team, and they’re amazing, but knowing that we got back here against the same team, the same score, just our way this year, it’s just unreal. We couldn’t let them have the second championship."

The triumph in 2025 caps off a three-year journey for this group of players. Coach Melinda Lohan noted, "This has been a climb for us the past three years. Being in the final four and then losing last year in the state championship. To come back this year, our leadership, they’ve been a part of this entire journey and the experience that they bring to this team means everything to all of us." Lohan emphasized that the team had made a collective decision after last November’s loss, vowing to return with a different outcome.

Heading into the championship game, Medfield and Nipmuc boasted impressive records, a combined 42 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, solidifying their positions as the No. 1 and 2 seeds in the Division III state tournament. Each team showcased their lethal attacks and formidable defenses throughout the season, setting the stage for a competitive finale.

From the outset, Medfield established dominance, maintaining possession and applying constant pressure on Nipmuc. In the 13th minute, Medfield's tactical counterattack paid off. Center back Stella Scobbo launched a precise pass down the right sideline to Sidney Heavey, who skillfully maneuvered past the defense and set up Devon Weafer for the game's only goal.

"Every time Sid beats someone and dribbles down, I know exactly where to be because she crosses it the same way," Weafer said of the play. "I just hit it in because I knew where she was going to pass it."

Heavey echoed this sentiment, highlighting their long-standing synergy. "I know where she is constantly; we’ve been playing together since sixth grade. We’ve got amazing chemistry," she remarked.

Weafer's performance throughout the postseason has made her a key asset for Medfield, demonstrating her versatility and determination to claim the trophy. Coach Lohan praised Weafer, saying, "Devin can just pull a ball, run a screen; she can do anything and light up a goalie. She wants this." Lohan noted that Weafer's desire was fueled by the pain of last year's loss, a sentiment echoed by many in the squad.

After Weafer's goal, the Medfield defense went to work, successfully keeping Nipmuc at bay for the remainder of the match. Despite a few close calls, including shots that grazed the crossbar, Nipmuc struggled to penetrate the resilient Medfield defense, led by keeper Cate Rodenhi.

"I just knew that I could trust them," Hoffman said, reflecting on her defense. "I trust them with the ball anywhere on the field, and they’re just a wall back there. They stop everyone else."

Lohan acknowledged that her team’s defensive prowess, which allowed only 16 goals against throughout the season compared to 123 scored, often went unnoticed amid their offensive success. "Our offense has gotten a ton of press, but our back line is really its own fortress," she said.

In the second half, while Medfield continued to maintain control, the tension heightened as Nipmuc ramped up their efforts. With the clock ticking down on a tight 1-0 scoreline, Medfield faced several critical moments. Yet, Rodenhi was unshakeable, thwarting Nipmuc's attempts and preserving the shutout.

Lohan reassured her team, explaining that, though they hadn't faced many tight situations throughout the season, they prepared for these scenarios in practice. "They just want this more than anything, and they’ve earned it, and they’re so proud," she said.

As the final whistle blew, the relief and joy washed over the Medfield players. Heavey encapsulated the moment, stating, "It’s in my mind 24/7, every day, every week, just getting back on the field with this amazing group of girls. It’s unbelievable to do it."