Indian Hill High School State Champion Soccer Team celebrated with ring ceremony

Back-to-back State Champion Soccer Ring Ceremony

“Earned, not given.” 

During the 2018-2019 soccer season that was the team’s theme. Thursday, March 21 inside Indian Hill High School (IHHS) each State Champion was presented their State Championship ring. For all but one freshman, this was their second ring as back-to-back State Champions, an accomplishment that is unprecedented in the history of the Indian Hill School District.  

"This is an amazing chapter in the story of Indian Hill Soccer for these student-athletes," said Indian Hill Soccer Coach Amy Dunlap – who was also named National Coach of the Year in January. “We celebrate their successes on and off the field. As proud as we are to hold up a state championship trophy, we are also proud that all 16 players were recognized with scholar-athlete honors. We expect excellence, and they have delivered."

The team solidified their back-to-back State Champion status during the final game at MAPFRE Stadium in Columbus Friday, November 9, 2018. The team was recognized by the Indian Hill Board of Education for their achievement in December.

“Our success is a direct result of our support,” said Dunlap. “Braves lifted us up – from the tight-knit Indian Hill community of families and students, to our teachers, administrators, and fans – everyone went above and beyond to make this the experience of a lifetime, two years in a row. For that, on behalf of the coaching staff and our team – I want to offer a sincere thank you.”

“This is what it means to be a Brave,” said Indian Hill Athletic Director Matt Haskamp. “We authentically care for and support each other. It is exhilarating for us to be a part of what this incredible team has accomplished. This recognition was earned.”

“This team made history,” said Dunlap. “A huge thank you goes out to all the players and families who came before and paved the way. They created a culture of success, and their traditions still stand today. It is because of them that we are able to hold up two state championship trophies. There are so many players over the years who deserved to bite a state championship trophy, so even though we can't see their teeth marks, they are still there. 

“Finally, our biggest thank you goes out to our mighty TEAM of 16 players, who overcame adversity and persevered to grind out seven straight victories against high-quality opponents. These players accepted our challenge to become a TEAM and possessed a will to WIN. We are in awe of their accomplishments. Each played a big role in our successes this year, and we are so proud to have shared this journey with them.”

Photo caption: The back-to-back State Champion Soccer Team was celebrated with a ring ceremony at Indian Hill High School Thursday, March 21, 2019.