Full Breakdown
Minnesota High School Soccer Championships: Record-Setting Performances and State Tournament Advancements
10/16/2025, 4:11:57 PM
Jacob Oliver Sets State Records for St. Cloud Cathedral
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Jacob Oliver, a senior midfielder for St. Cloud Cathedral, has set multiple records during the 2025 Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) soccer season. On October 14, 2025, Oliver scored two goals in a 3-1 victory over Pelican Rapids in the Section 8A championship match held at Sauk Centre High School. This performance not only secured the championship for the Crusaders but also propelled Oliver to the forefront of Minnesota high school soccer history.
With his first goal, Oliver tied the previous state record of 133 career goals held by Jake Makela of Mankato West. He then broke the record with his second goal, bringing his career total to 134 goals. Additionally, Oliver set the record for the most goals in a single season with 51, surpassing the previous record of 50 set by Chris Pellegrino in 2013. His cumulative points, combining goals and assists, reached 186, establishing another state record.
Oliver's achievement is significant as he becomes the fifth player in MSHSL boys soccer history to score over 100 goals. The Crusaders, now boasting a record of 17-1-1, are making their fifth consecutive appearance in the state tournament, aiming for their first title.
Sartell Sabres Advance to State Tournament
The Sartell girls soccer team also made headlines by securing their first state tournament appearance since 2015. On the same day, they defeated St. Cloud Crush 2-0 in the Section 8-2A championship match. Junior forward Mollie Stastick scored the game-winning goal, marking her 37th goal of the season, which ranks third in the state. Senior midfielder Lilly Breitkreutz added a second goal, solidifying the Sabres' victory.
Sartell's head coach, Andrea Benninghoff, praised Stastick's leadership and work ethic, noting her ability to perform under pressure. The Sabres finished the season with a 13-5 record and will compete in the state quarterfinals scheduled for either October 21 or 23.
Official Statements & Responses
Jacob Oliver's coach, Alex Hess, expressed relief and pride in Oliver's accomplishments, stating, "I think it's a relief for everybody now... It's more 'let's go out and play our game.'" Meanwhile, Sartell's coach, Andrea Benninghoff, reflected on the team's journey, saying, "It's been a long ride, but it's definitely worth it."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the successes, St. Cloud Crush's head coach, Katie Boardman, acknowledged the challenges faced by her team, particularly in adapting to a co-op structure with players from Tech and Apollo. She expressed pride in her team's effort throughout the season, despite their loss in the championship match.
What's Next
Both St. Cloud Cathedral and Sartell will learn their opponents and schedules for the state tournament during the seeding meeting on October 18, 2025. The state tournament is set to begin on October 21, 2025, with both teams looking to make a significant impact.
