The PVCC women once again will compete the National Junior College Athletic Association Championships after defeating Scottsdale Community College 3-1 in the Region 1 Championship game. The Puma women were the National Champions in 2010 under Head Coach Kasey Bingham.
The Pumas were off to a great start with an early goal in the 8th minute by Cassie Beckwith assisted by Jessie DeLeon. The Artichokes found their own momentum toward the end of the half and scored in the 32nd minute, leaving the score 1-1 at halftime. The Pumas found the net again in the 70th minute. DeLeon chipped a ball back post to Beckwith who headed it into the net.
Tianna Stewart clinched the game in the 78th minute with a finish off a free kick from DeLeon to finish the game. DeLeon was named Region Tournament MVP for her solid performance.Tessa Hamberlin played 90 minutes in goal for the Pumas. Hamberlin recorded five saves.“This is an incredible accomplishment for our team. We not only get a chance to go back to Nationals, but were able to have another undefeated run. I think this team has a great chance to compete for another National Championship,” Bingham said.
Nationals will be hosted in Melbourne, Fla., Nov. 12-17. This will be the Pumas third appearance in the past four years. In 2009 PVCC finished 3rd, returning in 2010 to take the national title.