AIS successfully defends state title, defeats Whitefield Academy 1-0 for GHSA 1A-3A Private championship

AIS Eagles celebrate winning their second straight GHSA soccer state championship

Heading into Wednesday night's Georgia High School Association 1A-3A Private Boys Soccer State Championship match, the Atlanta International School Eagles knew exactly what they were in store for as they took on the Whitefield Academy Wolfpack, who looked to dethrone the defending champions.

Having faced one another just a month ago, in a match which the Eagles hold on for a 1-0 win, the Wolfpack's determination for a different result was evident from the first kick as both teams played well defensively for nearly the entire 30 minutes of the first half.

However, with :58 seconds remaining before halftime, a defensive breakdown which led to Whitefield goal keeper Reuben Clarson to vacate the next in attempt to make a save, would lead to AIS's Val Kristensen placing the ball in the net for the only goal of the night, giving the Eagles a 1-0 lead.

"We knew the keeper is a phenomenal keeper. He has a lot of big things on the horizon for college, even potentially pro so when knew to get one by him would make for a tough day for us as well," AIS head coach, John Warde, said of the Eagles being able to take advantage of Clarson coming out of net of the eventual game winning goal.

With the win, the Eagles completed their mission to repeat as state champions and Wednesday's victory marks their third state title win in four years and Warde credited his players for their efforts over the years in building the Eagles' program into a title contender.

"We throw the word dynasty around a lot at our school, but you know, we're just willing to work hard. Our mantra is whatever they're doing, we're going to go 10 times harder," Warde said of his players' mindset and approach to each season. "We are seeing the end result of that hard work and dedication," Warde added.