The Rochester Warriors secured a decisive 6-0 victory against the Hoquiam Grizzlies on March 5, 2024, solidifying their position as the No. 3 seed in the Class 1A District 4 tournament. The Warriors, now boasting a record of 6-10-1 overall and 4-4 in the Evergreen League, showcased a commanding performance, scoring four goals within the first 15 minutes of the match.
Led by sophomore Annabelle Nakano, who netted a remarkable hat trick, Rochester wasted no time establishing dominance. The scoring began just four minutes into the game with a goal from Kenna Pratt. Nakano followed up with goals in the eighth, tenth, and sixty-eighth minutes, while Liz Hoover contributed two goals of her own, finding the net in the twelfth and forty-seventh minutes.
Rochester’s head coach, Matt Ashton, praised his team’s momentum going into the tournament, stating, “This gives them a lot of momentum. Once you get in the tournament, anything happens.” The Warriors are set to face King’s Way Christian, the No. 2 seed from the Trico League, in a rematch of last year’s quarterfinals, where they suffered a 6-0 defeat.
The Warriors’ offensive onslaught began early, with Pratt’s goal igniting the scoreboard. Nakano’s speed and agility were apparent throughout the match, earning her recognition from Ashton: “She has speed, very quick, and she’s good on the ball when she has it.”
With the victory, Rochester not only secured their playoff position but also demonstrated their capacity to perform under pressure. The upcoming match against King’s Way Christian will be crucial as the Warriors aim to improve upon last year’s performance and advance further in the tournament. The Class 1A District 4 tournament promises to be an exciting opportunity for the Warriors to showcase their skills and determination.