After a hard-fought 15U State Cup Championship match, PPA Green and Baltimore Union Elite showed the true spirit of Maryland soccer, not just in competition, but in character. After the final whistle blew, both teams came together for a joint photo on the championship stage, symbolizing mutual respect, sportsmanship, and a shared goal: representing Maryland with pride at Regionals.
PPA Head Coach Clare Roche, taking the championship stage during the awards ceremony, addressed Baltimore Union with heartfelt sincerity:
“You guys make us better. We love playing you guys and cheering for you guys.”
Her words reflected the deep respect between the two programs rivals on the field, but united in excellence off of it. This moment stood as a testament to the culture of high-level sportsmanship and camaraderie that defines Maryland soccer.
With PPA Green claiming back-to-back State Cup titles, Coach Clare looked back at her team with pride and passion:
“I love you all more than anything and you already know that. You continue to raise the bar. I remember at the end of Regionals last year after we lost, I signed the email, ‘All eyes on Nationals 2025.’ You guys already qualified so let’s win the dang thing and bring it back to Maryland!”
Both teams will represent the state at Regionals, and we look forward to cheering them on as they carry Maryland pride onto the next stage.
