The varsity girls field hockey team secured a monumental win against Loyola High School on Friday, earning a spot in the final four of the State tournament for the first time in Latin School history. Starting the playoffs ranked fifth in the state, the girls won their first game against the number eight seed, Parker, this past Wednesday and advanced to the second round against Loyola.

The Romans entered their second playoff game with confidence and gained momentum as junior Raffa Koloskov’s goal gave the Romans an early lead. Soon after, though, Loyola scored, tying the game 1-1.

With immense grit and determination from the defense working hard to keep the ball on their offensive side, the girls maintained the score until the last nine minutes of the game. Sophomore Caroline Gaines sent the ball flying and landing just inches away from the goal. The crowd held their breaths hoping for someone to take the shot. Just then, senior Casey Mitchell swiftly hit the ball, sending it right into the goal and putting the Romans back in the lead by a score of 2-1.

Latin players and fans erupted with cheers motivating the team to sustain their lead and finish the game with a strong victory. Astounded by the team’s perseverance, parents, friends, teachers, coaches, and players alike celebrated as they watched the making of history.

“It felt amazing,” Caroline said. “We all worked so hard to get here, and it has finally paid off. Everyone’s energy was at 100%, and we can’t wait to play in the next game.”

The team will face the number one seed, New Trier, in the semifinals of the State tournament on Thursday.

Sophomore Meredith Maechling said, “We are so excited to get the opportunity to play another game as a team and hope to achieve another win.”