FULL TIME: 2025 TAPPS-D2 Girls Soccer State Final Preview -- Second Baptist vs. All Saints Episcopal
The stars of 2024-25 Second Baptist Girls Soccer
This winter has seen several teams surpass expectations, but few have undergone a transformation as remarkable as Second Baptist.
In what is arguably the best season in program history, the Eagles punched their ticket to the TAPPS-DII State Final with a dramatic overtime victory against Emery/Weiner, sealing the win in a penalty shootout (3-2). This clutch performance improved their record to an impressive 22-1-1, following earlier playoff wins over Saint Mary’s Hall (6-1) and Lutheran South Academy (1-1, PKs).
Under the guidance of TAPPS-II District 4 Coach of the Year Geoff Brooks, the Eagles have thrived behind a deep and talented roster.
One of the biggest surprises has been freshman Bailey Ultis, who leads the team in goals and has showcased versatility as both a forward and midfielder. She’s joined by key contributors like first-team all-district selection Syriah DeBakey (Jr. MF/D) and second-teamer Amy Menendez (Sr. F), both instrumental in the attack.
In goal, freshman Jeanne Hollingshead has been a standout, while Berkley Blount (So. MF), Willa Levine (So. F), Carson Patterson (So. D), and Sophie Nicholson (Fr. F/MF) have all played pivotal roles in the Eagles’ success.
Despite reaching the State Final Four three times in program history, Second Baptist has yet to claim a championship. With their current momentum, this could be their moment.
However, All Saints Episcopal has other plans.
Led by Coach Gilbert Richardson, the Saints enter the final fresh off a hard-fought 1-0 semifinal victory over defending TAPPS-II champions Grace Community. Their playoff journey also included dominant wins over Bishop Dunne Catholic (7-1) and 2024 semifinalist Regents School of Austin (1-0).
After missing the playoffs last season, All Saints Episcopal’s resurgence has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Veteran leadership has been a driving force, with senior defender Hope Monk (2024 second-team all-district), junior midfielder Lilianna Chavez (honorable mention), and sophomore goalkeeper Shyanne Bailey (honorable mention) setting the tone.
This marks just the second State Final appearance in program history for the Saints, the first coming in 2000 when they captured the TAPPS-4A title before the league’s playoff restructuring.
With both teams chasing history, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will Second Baptist secure its long-awaited first championship, or will All Saints Episcopal complete its remarkable turnaround with a title?
Find out Wednesday at 2:30 PM in Round Rock.