The Chaska Girls Soccer team is off to a promising start this season, posting a 3-1-1 record through their first five games.
The Hawks opened with a 1-1 draw against Owatonna, with Kaia Quale scoring Chaska’s first goal of the year. Two days later, they secured their first win, defeating Anoka 2-1 behind goals from Eleanor Slinde and Assi Schneider.
Shakopee handed the Hawks a tough loss in the next game, winning 6-0.
But Chaska bounced back in the rain against Benilde-St. Margaret’s, notching an impressive 4-3 victory.
“It had been a while since we’ve beaten BSM and the team played very well and showed what they are capable of,” said Head Coach Chris Bagshaw. “They were very happy with their play, and I was proud of their effort.”
In that win, Quale, Karina Aleknavicius and Addi Schneider (two goals) found the back of the net.
On Sept. 6, the Hawks faced the Armstrong/Cooper Football Club (ACFC) co-op team from Robbinsdale. Chaska controlled much of the first half, keeping the ball in ACFC’s end. Gretta Wasson had the best early scoring chance, but the ACFC goalkeeper made a strong save to keep it scoreless. Crisp passing and aggressive tackling from both teams left the match 0-0 at halftime.
The Hawks came out pressing in the second half, generating multiple shots on goal. The ACFC keeper continued to deny chances until minute 54, when Aleknavicius fired a shot that appeared to cross the line. Play continued until the assistant referee confirmed the ball had gone in, giving Chaska a 1-0 lead.
From there, both teams battled evenly, but Chaska senior goalkeeper Kate O’Connor stood tall, turning aside late ACFC pressure to secure the shutout.
After the match, Coach Bagshaw praised his players.
“Our win over BSM was big for us, and the team played well today,” he said. “Tess (Kushinski) set up many good plays, Kate (O’Connor) was great in goal with some key stops, and Addie (Moss) made influential plays. Great effort this week — some areas to improve, sure — but we’re going places.”
He also highlighted the home atmosphere.
“This is one of the best soccer pitches in the metro. Well-kept grass, a strong cheering section — it’s a great place to watch a match,” Bagshaw said. “The team loves community support anytime.”
The Hawks invite fans to support the program on Sept. 10 at Jersey Mike’s in Chaska, where a portion of sales will benefit both the boys’ and girls’ soccer teams.
Upcoming home games are Sept. 9 and 11 at Middle School West, followed by a rivalry matchup at Chanhassen on Sept. 15.
Fans can follow the team on Facebook and Instagram.
