A Game For The Ages

SANTA ANA, Calif. — The Stanton Elks' historic inaugural NAIA season came to an end in stunning fashion on Saturday night, as they fell to Simpson University in the Cal Pac Conference Semifinals following a 4–4 draw and two tense overtime periods. The match was ultimately decided by penalty kicks — a cruel conclusion to a game Stanton thoroughly controlled from start to finish.
The #4-seeded Redhawks entered the tournament with a 2–11–3 overall record and just 1–5–2 in Cal Pac play, but managed to scrape through on a night where fortune favored them more than form. The Elks unleashed a relentless attack, outshooting Simpson 44 to 8, keeping constant pressure in the Redhawks' half while displaying the same high-caliber soccer that earned them the Regular Season Championship.

At times, it was clear Simpson had little interest in matching Stanton's attacking tempo. When they found themselves ahead, the Redhawks dropped deep, "parking the bus" and doing everything possible to drain the clock — slowing play, drawing fouls, and leaning into every stoppage to keep the Elks from regaining momentum.

Adding to the frustration, a foul- and card-happy referee further disrupted Stanton's flow.
Still, the Elks pressed on with the same determination that defined their season. They showed composure, creativity, and the heart of a champion — traits that carried them from first-year newcomers to the top of the Cal Pac in just one season.
Last year, Stanton announced themselves on the national stage by knocking out #1 seed and reigning champion Bryant & Stratton Rochester at the USCAA National Tournament. This year, they proved that success was no fluke.
In the end, losing is part of soccer — and of sport itself — but to fall to a team that struggled throughout the season feels like an anticlimactic end to what has otherwise been a storybook year. Even so, the foundation has been laid. The Elks' young roster, disciplined system, and unwavering drive have shown that this program is built for greatness.
The result may sting, but make no mistake: Stanton's rise is only beginning.