Students from across New Ulm filled the bleachers at Farmington High School on Wednesday, Oct. 22, to watch the boys’ soccer team face St. Paul Como Park in the state quarterfinals. The Eagles fought hard but lost 3-1, closing out an impressive season and making the final game for 11 seniors.

“Energy was anxious,” said Aliana Enter, a student from Minnesota Valley Lutheran.”Everyone was on edge, waiting to see what was going to happen next, but it made cheering even more exciting.”

Enter said that the student sections’ chants and energy helped push the team through the hard moments. She said the unity between MVL, Cathedral, and New Ulm Public fans made it unforgettable.

Morgan Black, also from MVL, described the student section as “hype”. “It’s just fun to be part of something so loud and full of school spirit,” Black said.

Black explained that even though the loss was disappointing, fans stayed positive and proud of the team’s journey to state. She said it was sad knowing so many seniors were playing their final game.

From the stands, Lillian Mathiowetz of New Ulm Public said it was difficult to watch the seniors walk off the field for the last time. “It was devastating when we started to fall behind,” Mathiowetz said. ” Holding my sign and talking to my friends still made it worth it.”

Mathiowetz added that even in defeat, the game brought all three schools together to celebrate the players’ hard work and accomplishments.