News Summary
The Benjamin High School girls soccer team, led by standout defender Sam Woods, secured their first Florida Class 2A state championship title. After a series of impressive playoff victories, including a nail-biting semifinal match, the team triumphed in the championship game against Episcopal School of Jacksonville with a 1-0 score. This historic win marks a significant milestone in the school’s sports history, celebrating their hard work, teamwork, and determination.
Sam Woods Leads Benjamin High School Girls Soccer Team to Historic Florida 2A State Championship Victory
Deland, Florida – In an exciting turn of events for sports enthusiasts and families alike, the Benjamin High School girls soccer team has proven they are a force to be reckoned with! With their remarkable skills and teamwork, they have triumphed in the Florida Class 2A state championship, securing their first-ever title in the program’s history.
The journey to glory started on March 1, as the Benjamin School’s varsity girls took to the field with impressive determination. They faced off against Lake Christian in a nail-biting semifinal match, ultimately emerging victorious with a close score of 2-1. Star defender Sam Woods, who just so happens to be the daughter of golf legend Tiger Woods, played a pivotal role in this win, helping to keep Lake Christian at bay in the second half and two extra time periods, ensuring her team secured a solid position in the championship game.
The team’s impressive regular-season record of 10-5-3 prepared them for the challenge ahead, but no one could have predicted the stunning momentum they’d gather in the playoffs. The Benjamin schoolgirls went on to achieve seven consecutive playoff wins, a true testament to their grit and determination. Their dynamic junior Siena Barboni struck the game-winning goal in the semifinals during the second extra time period, cementing their place in the championship match.
Fast forward to the championship game against Episcopal School of Jacksonville, and the atmosphere was electric at Spec Martin Stadium. The anticipation was palpable, and in a thrilling showdown, the Benjamin team proved their worth with a 1-0 shutout victory. It was a proud moment for the team and their loyal supporters, as the fans erupted in cheers, celebrating what had never been achieved in the school’s history— a state championship for girls’ soccer.
One of the standout moments of the championship match was when Emma Bartoli found the back of the net with a crucial goal, sending waves of jubilation through the stands. Among those celebrating was none other than Tiger Woods himself, who was there to cheer on his daughter and the team. His pride was evident as he celebrated along with the fans and embraced Sam after the thrilling victory.
This season, Sam Woods has not only made a name for herself as a solid defender but also proved her offensive skills, netting three goals and assisting with another. This includes a remarkable game-winning header during the district championship against King’s Academy— a moment that will go down in Benjamin sports history.
The excitement doesn’t stop there! As the winter progresses, the nominees for the 2024-25 Palm Beach County High School Sports Awards will be announced, and Sam Woods is a strong contender for the girls’ soccer player of the year. The big reveal is slated for May 28, and fans are eagerly waiting to see if her hard work gets the recognition it deserves.
Interestingly, despite being the daughter of a golfing icon, Sam has always chosen soccer over golf. She was born on June 18, 2007, in Orlando, and her name carries a sentimental touch, as it pays homage to her father’s nickname. Interestingly enough, Tiger Woods rarely referred to himself by that name, adding an extra layer of connection for Sam. This victory not only adds to her list of accomplishments but also aligns her with her brother, Charlie Woods, who was part of the boys’ golf state championship team in 2023.
As the dust settles from this remarkable season, the Benjamin High School girls soccer team stands tall amidst the thrill of victory, and their future looks bright. One thing is sure: with talents like Sam leading the way, this soccer program is one to watch in the seasons to come!
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Additional Resources
- USA Today High School Sports
- Wikipedia: Soccer
- USA Today Sports
- Google Search: Sam Woods Soccer
- Essentially Sports
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florida High School Sports
- South China Morning Post
- Google News: Tiger Woods daughter Sam Woods
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
