Montana's women's soccer team clinched the Big Sky Championship after a dramatic 110 minutes of scoreless play against Weber State, culminating in a shootout victory of 4-2. MVP Ashlyn Dvorak secured the win by saving Weber State's initial penalty kick and confidently taking Montana’s first kick, which she scored. The Grizzlies went a perfect 4-for-4 in the shootout, ensuring their eighth tournament championship and seventh NCAA tournament appearance under coach Chris Citowicki. This win is particularly significant for senior players, like Maddie Ditta, who celebrated their hard-fought campaign for success in their final season. The match drew over 2,200 enthusiastic fans, amplifying the tense atmosphere as the two top teams battled it out.

By the Numbers
  • Montana went 4-for-4 in penalty kicks during the shootout.
  • The match attendance reached 2,227, setting a record for South Campus Stadium.
State of Play
  • The match was evenly contested with Weber State outshooting Montana 13-12.
  • Both teams had multiple near misses, leading to the shootout after two overtime periods.
What's Next

The Grizzlies will advance to the NCAA tournament, offering them a chance to build on their championship success and showcase their potential on a larger stage. Coach Chris Citowicki aims to leverage this momentum for their postseason games, focusing on continued team preparedness.

Bottom Line

This victory not only marks a significant turning point for the Montana soccer program, reigniting their postseason presence, but also serves as a testament to their resilience and determination, equally rewarding for both seniors and fresh players alike.