This last Saturday, The Chesterton Trojans made history by taking home the Indiana 3A State Championship Trophy for the second time since 2018. This victory, following a season full of challenges and adversity parallel to none before, brought their 21-2 season to the happy ending they were all hoping for. 

The Trojans incredible offensive and defensive performances shattered multiple state records, among which include: Most goals scored in a half of a state championship (6), Most goals scored in a state game (7) and the Largest margin of victory in a state game (6)

Senior Captain Charlie Eaton had a comparatively laid-back game compared to ones in the past due to his impressive defensive backfield comprised of Kaden Donella, Matt Lane, Kevin McCoy, and Matteo Guererro. Eaton recalled the atmosphere on the bus ride there and back. 

“It was fairly laid back. We knew that we were gonna win so nobody was nervous. When the game was over, it was the most incredible feeling. All those years of work and preparation finally paid off. The bus ride home was incredible. The entire team was so hyped, and the police escort was the cherry on top.” 

Senior defender Matt Lane recalled the feeling of winning back  in 2018

“I remember being on that field as a sophomore, I didn’t think the energy that we felt couldn’t be matched.” 

Lane and the rest of his defense helped contribute to the 1st half shut-out of 6-0. 

“It feels great to live up to the same title as our 2018 seniors. As a sophomore being on that team I looked up to most of my teammates that made me a better overall player throughout the years, and it really has been a dream come true to win the championship ourselves.”

Offensive powerhouse Zach Bowser broke the state record for most goals in a final (3) with a first half hat trick. Ryan O’Dell also had 2 goals and 3 assists and Josh Wadowski and Nick Biel each scored a goal.  

This was the third state appearance The Trojans have made in the last five years, 2016 State runner-ups, as well as 2018 and 2020 champions. This has been a dream come true for these boys, and this victory will solidify their names in both school and state history.