The Inferno Rush are on their way to the National Championship Tournament after a critical win on Tuesday night at Millersville University’s Pucillo Field, taking the East Conference Championship over Connecticut Fusion.
With a 8-3-0 record, the Inferno assured their place as regular season champion of the UWS East Conference. Amidst pioneering a wildly successful season, the Inferno had six players honored by the UWS this season for their outstanding play, including midfielders Tessa McKibben and Kendra Jones, defender Ashley Chilcoat, forward Haley Crawford.
Goalkeeper Kelly O’Brien, the UWS Week V Defensive Player of the Week, commented on the road to Nationals,
“I’m happy to be a part of a team that has been able to accomplish so much this season. We’ve had our mind set since game one on going as far as we can. I’m excited to see what happens at nationals.”
Midfielder Tessa Rook (Rynier), another honoree, was noted for her efforts for the Inferno three times, capturing UWS Week VIII and Week X Team of the Week and Honorable Mention for her goal and assist against the New York Surf in Week III.
“This season has been the best one yet for the Inferno Rush,” Rook (Rynier) commented.
“There are so many players that made this team and season successful. The opportunity that has been provided for players to compete at this level is greatly appreciated. We have the coaches and staff to thank for that. We are ecstatic to be heading to Michigan for the Final Four. This is the reason that you play soccer or any high level sport. We are ready to compete for the UWS National Championship!”
Head Coach Francisco Cleaves added closing comments on the character of his team throughout the season, “I am very proud with how the team has come together during practices and games throughout the entire season. They play selflessly and truly demonstrate a team spirit through our wins and losses. The comradery developed is truly exceptional. That along with the discipline and leadership demonstrated by our veterans is the key to our success.”
The Inferno continue to make history this season as they join three other teams with National Championship berths, the Houston Aces (Southwest Conference Champions), Calgary Foothills Women’s FC (West Conference Champions), and Grand Rapids FC Women (Midwest Conference Playoff Champions).
The Inferno Rush will face off against Grand Rapids FC Women in a Semifinal match tonight, July 21st at 7:30 PM ET at Grandville High School, in Grandville, Michigan. The winner of this match will play tomorrow in the Championship match.
For more information on the UWS National Championship Final Four, or to watch the livestream, click here.