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COMMERCE CITY – Cole Wearner has cherished the dream of clinching a high school boys soccer state championship since childhood. On an unforgettable Saturday at the iconic Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, that aspiration became a reality not just for Wearner, but for his dedicated Bruins teammates as well. The young star’s golden goal emerged as the decisive game-winner, sealing a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory over the formidable Broomfield Eagles, marking the Bruins’ first state title since 2010.
“It’s the best feeling in the world,” Wearner exclaimed, passionately reflecting on the moment. “It’s been a dream of all of ours since elementary school together, so it’s such a great feeling to end high school this way.”
The intense matchup featured the fourth-seeded Bruins (18-1-1) facing off against the No. 3-seeded defending champions, the Eagles (16-3-1). Both teams battled fiercely, resulting in a scoreless first half. The stalemate was finally broken by Broomfield’s Adam Thresher, whose goal in the 44th minute, assisted by Hayes Baucom, ignited the crowd and gave the Eagles a temporary lead. Undeterred, Cherry Creek fought back, with Austin Hall successfully converting a penalty kick with just 7 minutes and 45 seconds remaining in regulation, ultimately forcing the match into overtime.
In a climactic moment in the 93rd minute of play, Wearner found the back of the net, with his brother Reed Wearner providing the crucial assist, solidifying the Bruins’ triumphant comeback.
To reach the state championship game, Cherry Creek achieved a stunning 1-0 upset against the top-seeded Northfield team, showcasing their resilience and determination throughout the playoffs.
“The upsets, they look cool on the leaderboard or whatever, but I think that we knew at the start of the year that we were going to win state,” Wearner stated confidently. “This was our goal from the start and I’m glad we fulfilled it.”
With this victory, Cherry Creek now ties with Colorado Academy for the prestigious honor of second all-time in Colorado boys soccer championships, each boasting seven titles. In contrast, Broomfield holds the record for the most boys soccer championships in state history, with an impressive nine titles.
Prior to this season’s runner-up finish, Broomfield had secured five of the last ten state titles in the highly competitive 5A category.
To advance to the championship game, Broomfield earned a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the No. 2 Boulder, underscoring their skill and determination throughout the tournament.
What did Cole Wearner feel when he scored the golden goal in the championship match?
**Interview with Cole Wearner: The Hero of the Bruins’ Championship Victory**
**Editor:** Today, we’re thrilled to have Cole Wearner, the star player from the Bruins, who recently clinched the boys soccer state championship with a dramatic golden goal. Cole, congratulations on the win! How does it feel to finally achieve this dream?
**Cole Wearner:** Thank you! It’s honestly the best feeling in the world. This has been a dream of all of ours since elementary school. To have it come true in our final game together is something I’ll cherish forever.
**Editor:** It must have been an intense match against the Broomfield Eagles. Can you describe the moment you scored the decisive goal?
**Cole Wearner:** It was surreal. The game was so tight, and you could feel the pressure in the air. When I got the ball and saw the opportunity, everything just clicked. It was a mix of excitement and disbelief once I saw it go in. I couldn’t believe we secured the win!
**Editor:** Your team hadn’t won a state title since 2010. What does this victory mean for your program and your community?
**Cole Wearner:** This victory means everything! We’ve worked so hard for this and to bring the championship back to our school and community feels incredible. The support we’ve received has been amazing, and I hope this inspires younger players to keep dreaming big.
**Editor:** What are your plans now that high school soccer has come to an end?
**Cole Wearner:** I’m looking forward to celebrating this moment with my teammates and coaches. As for my future, I’m exploring collegiate soccer opportunities—hopefully, I can take this momentum into the next chapter of my life.
**Editor:** We wish you all the best in your future endeavors, Cole. Any final thoughts you want to share?
**Cole Wearner:** Just a huge thank you to everyone who supported us throughout the season. This victory isn’t just for us players, but for all of our fans, families, and the entire school community. Go Bruins!
**Editor:** Thank you, Cole! Your passion and determination truly inspire. Congratulations once again on your incredible achievement!
