Bishop Union High School girls varsity soccer team traveled to Bakersfield to play in the 2024 South High Winter Classic tournament on December 6 and 7.

There were 16 teams divided into four Groups. Bishop first played Golden Valley and won with a final score of 5-0. Ellie Crall and Brooke Taylor each had 2 goals and one assist. Ashley Sandoval had one goal and one assist. Alyssa Buchholz and KATYA Fierro  Each had an assist. Ellie Crall was named player of the game for her constant front pressure.

The second game played was against Porterville High School. Bishop won with a final score of 2-0.

Brooke Taylor and Alyssa Buchholz each had one goal while Ellie Crall had an assist.  Katya Fierro was named player of the game for her constant back pressure against a strong Porterville attack.

The third game of the tournament, Bishop took on Centennial High School. The final score was 4-0 in favor of the Broncos.

Ellie Crall had one goal and two assist, while Ashley Taylor and Alyssa Buchholz each had one goal and one assist. Brooke Taylor also had one goal.

The player of the game went to Gabby Veenker with her constant defensive pressure and backfield leadership.

Bishop Broncos ended the third game with 29 out of 30 points possible, placing them in the second seed playing for the championship game. Tournament rules awarded a team 6 points for a win, 1 point for each goal up to 3 goals, and 1 point for a shut out.

On Saturday evening, Bishop Broncos challenged Stockdale High School in the Championship game. Bishop Lady Broncos had more shots on goal than Stockdale but were unable to fine the back of the net. It really is a game of inches. Stockdale was able to place two goals in the net in the 1st half. During the second half Stockdale scored from a direct free kick. Bishop’s defense limited their attack to only 6 shots on goal.

Alyssa Buchholz was named player of the game for her outstanding pressure I. The middle of the field and front pressure.

Coach Bill Dailey stats the Lady Broncos took on a couple of D1 schools with outstanding soccer programs, taking 2nd out of 16 teams. This year was the lady’s varsity team went furthest any Bishop soccer team has gone, boys or girls.

Coach Dailey stated he is very impressed with this team and with the depth of the team as well. He looks forward to this year’s season,