EDWARDSVILLE — Belleville West’s season ended Friday's 1-0 regional title loss to Edwardsville at Tiger Stadium, but Maroons coach Jason Mathenia said goalkeeper Brooke Stellhorn’s performance kept West in position throughout the match and into the penalty-kick shootout.
“Brooke Stellhorn had an absolutely amazing night in goal for us,” Mathenia said after the May 22, 2026, match.
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Mathenia said Edwardsville controlled much of the play, but Belleville West worked to contain the Tigers while looking for its own chances.
“Edwardsville is a very good squad, a very talented team. We did everything we could to neutralize them and give them everything we could on our side offensively,” he said. “Anytime you win or lose in PKs, it's always unfortunate, but it is part of the game. Congrats to Edwardsville, and good luck to them moving forward.”
Mathenia said the Maroons, a young team, matched up well against an Edwardsville squad he described as talented.
“Overall, we're pretty young,” Mathenia said. “Overall, we're pretty young, and they (Edwardsville) have some pretty talented players. But I'm very proud of our girls for stepping up, defending, and doing everything we asked them to do. It's been a fun season with this group. It is a special group of girls.”
Belleville West finished the season 13-11-1.
