Bishop O’Dowd Girls Soccer
Bishop O’Dowd Girls Soccer clinched the NorCal Division I title in Oakland, California, on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
OAKLAND, Calif. – This remarkable journey for Bishop O’Dowd High School’s girls soccer team reflects the heart, grit, and determination embodied by its athletes, making history in Oakland.
#1 in California, #9 Nationwide
On March 7, the team celebrated its first-ever NorCal Championship title, achieving this at the Division I level of the California Interscholastic Federation state soccer tournament.
The Dragons secured a commanding 4-0 victory against Buchanan High School from Clovis, earning a spot in the upcoming State Championship against renowned Southern California contender Mater Dei from Santa Ana.
With this win, the Dragons have achieved an unparalleled season record of 19-0, securing the top position in California and ranking ninth nationally according to MaxPreps.com.
‘History in the Making’
“History is in the making for us to have a soccer team in the first year of the CIF State Championship,” noted Athletic Director Carlos Reed. “This is the first team heading into a State Championship undefeated in my research, which is thrilling.”
The Dragons clinched their NorCal Division I title just ten days after winning the North Coast Section Open Division Championship with a close 3-2 victory over powerhouse Carondelet High School.
This accomplishment marks a historic first for any O’Dowd team in any sport within the top open division.
Dominance Defined: One Goal Allowed All Season
The Dragons exhibited remarkable defensive prowess, remaining unyielded for the first 12 games without conceding a single goal.
Their shutout streak faced a break in the penultimate game of the regular season, where Piedmont High managed to score once in a 9-1 rout by the Dragons. By the end of the season, O’Dowd tallied an astonishing 87 goals scored against only 1 allowed.
Commitment to Excellence
Head Coach Mark Savvides, who joined the program in 2023, praised his players’ dedication to meeting the high expectations set for them.
“I honestly haven’t seen a team work as hard or run as much as this group,” Savvides said. “The players deserve the credit; they’ve embraced the challenges and are the ones winning games.”
He emphasized their adaptability and openness to coaching as crucial factors in their success.
“Our primary focus is on ourselves—controlling what we can and implementing our playing principles,” he stated, attributing the team’s success to their collaborative spirit and hard work during practice and games.
The roster boasts exceptional talent, including standout seniors Abby Forsgren and Chloe Keating, both committed to Division I programs. Freshman standout Sadie Siedel, ranked among the top players nationally in her age group, also adds to the team’s prominent talent. Additionally, goalkeeper Parker Bridgman and Beatrice Wheeler are set to continue their careers at the collegiate level, with commitments to Cal Poly Humboldt and Bowdoin College, respectively.
Building Team Chemistry
Forsgren highlighted the unique bond formed within the team that contributes to their on-field successes.
“We’ve created our own little family. Every game we play is for one another,” she expressed excitedly about their journey in recent years.
The players recognize andvalue each other’s contributions, creating an inclusive atmosphere where competing at high levels becomes a shared responsibility.
A Memorable Season Ahead
With a monumental NorCal Division I championship now in their pocket, the Dragons set their sights on Mater Dei as they aim to secure the first-ever state championship in O’Dowd’s girls soccer history.
Coach Savvides expressed immense pride in his team’s achievements thus far, saying, “This season will be unforgettable for everyone involved. Winning the NCS Open Division and now competing in the NorCal vs. SoCal game is incredibly special.”
With the culmination of a remarkable season looming, the Dragons are ready to display their hard-earned success and teamwork, fueled by unity and determination.
Bishop O’Dowd Girls Soccer Team proudly holds their NorCal Division I title.
