Photo by: Sydnee Sterkel
ELLENSBURG, WA — The Ellensburg Bulldogs didn’t just win a game on Tuesday, April 28; they claimed a seat at the head of the table. With a commanding 4–1 victory over the East Valley Red Devils, the Bulldogs officially captured a share of the CWAC Conference Championship, punctuating a dominant regular season with a trophy-clinching performance.
A Championship Performance: The Jasso Hat Trick
From the opening whistle, the Bulldogs played like a team with gold on their minds. Alejandro Jasso delivered a performance for the history books, finding the back of the net three times to dismantle the Red Devil defense.
- The Early Strike: In the 25th minute, Jasso opened the scoring off a clinical feed from David Arias.
- The Quick Double: Just five minutes later, the Bulldogs’ high-octane duo struck again, as Angel Aparicio assisted Jasso to make it 2–0.
- The Hat Trick Finale: In the final minute of regulation (80:00), Jasso completed his hat trick in spectacular fashion, burying a ball delivered directly from goalkeeper Parker Sterkel.
Sterkel’s Iron Curtain
While the offense secured the title share, Parker Sterkel ensured the lead never evaporated. Despite an unfortunate own goal in the 48th minute that cut the lead to one, Sterkel was an absolute force in the box. He finished the night with a massive 15 saves, repeatedly denying East Valley’s attempts to spoil the championship party.
Angel Aparicio also added to the scoring in the 75th minute, assisted by Jonathan Munguia, to provide the critical insurance goal that effectively sealed the conference crown.
Match Summary: Ellensburg 4, East Valley 1
| Team | 1st Half | 2nd Half | Final |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Valley | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Ellensburg | 2 | 2 | 4 |
Scoring Timeline:
- 25:00 (EHS): Alejandro Jasso (Assist: David Arias)
- 30:00 (EHS): Alejandro Jasso (Assist: Angel Aparicio)
- 48:00 (EV): Own Goal
- 75:00 (EHS): Angel Aparicio (Assist: Jonathan Munguia)
- 80:00 (EHS): Alejandro Jasso (Assist: Parker Sterkel)
Defensive Anchor:
- Parker Sterkel: 15 Saves & 1 Assist
League Standings Impact
With this victory, the Bulldogs cement their place among the CWAC elite. Capturing a share of the conference title is a testament to the squad’s consistency and high-level play throughout the spring. With the chemistry between Jasso and Aparicio reaching a fever pitch and Sterkel providing elite-level protection at the back, Ellensburg enters the postseason as a championship-caliber threat.