Vermont’s soccer team made history on Monday night as they clinched their very first national championship in men’s sports. The Catamounts triumphed in a hard-fought battle, defeating Marshall 2-1 in the final of the 2024 Men’s College Cup held at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina.
The pivotal moment came when Maximilian Kissel scored in overtime, securing the win for Vermont. After a swift breakaway down the right flank, Kissel managed to get past Marshall’s goalkeeper and struck the ball into an open net, igniting wild celebrations among his teammates and supporters.
The goal marked another impressive moment in a season defined by late-game heroics for Vermont, as it was the 16th time this season the team scored a goal in the 83rd minute or later. It was also Kissel’s sixth game-winner of the year, contributing to his total of 11 goals during the season. This included crucial goals in the postseason, such as a key score against Bryant in the America East final.
Reflecting on the significance of the victory, Kissel expressed his pride in the team’s achievement. “It means every single thing,” he stated. “Vermont always has a small school, in the middle of nowhere, with a small population. No one believes in us, and they always doubt us, but we always come out on top. That’s Vermont.”
The game itself was a rollercoaster of emotions. With only about 10 minutes left in regulation, Vermont equalized the score thanks to a superb strike from Marcell Papp, who found the net from the edge of the box. This late-game resurgence set the stage for the thrilling overtime period.
Defensively, Vermont showcased their skills by allowing only three goals throughout the entire tournament, which is a testament to their strong play on that side of the ball. They advanced to the finals after overcoming No. 3 ranked Denver in a tense semifinal that went to penalty kicks. Marshall also fought their way to the championship by beating SMU and then shocking the top-seeded Ohio State team with a narrow 1-0 win in their semifinal match.
This victory is particularly notable as Vermont’s soccer championship marks a milestone in the university’s history. The Catamounts are now the first team sport in the university’s history to claim a national title, shining a spotlight on the athletic program. Though the university’s skiing program has been successful with six championships, this soccer win represents a breakthrough for team sports at Vermont, especially as they become the first team from the America East Conference to compete for, and win, a national championship in soccer.
Coach Rob McCarthy praised the team’s effort and resilience, emphasizing how hard they worked throughout the season to achieve this goal. He highlighted how the team’s unity and determination were key factors in their championship run, and he expressed immense pride in leading a group that has shown such heart and dedication.
As fans and supporters cheered from the stands, the mood on the field was filled with joy and celebration. The team’s victory resonates not just at the university but also among smaller institutions that often face skepticism on the national sports stage.
The triumph of the Catamounts serves as an inspiring reminder of what can be achieved with teamwork, passion, and persistence. As they return home as national champions, Vermont’s soccer team will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in their community and create new paths for future athletes within their program. The celebration of this historic achievement will be remembered as a proud moment for both the players and the Vermont University community.
With their newfound status as champions, the Catamounts will look ahead with enthusiasm, hoping to build on this success in the seasons to come. This victory is not just a win; it’s a stepping stone for the future of Vermont athletics.
