17 minutes ago Neil Vierzba ,

FOREST LAKE, Minn.- Three local soccer teams took the big stage on Tuesday night to begin state tournament play.

Perhaps the most eager to get going was the Grand Rapids girls, who made their first-ever state tourney appearance.

The Thunderhawks drew the defending champs, Mahtomedi, who they held in check in the first half and most of the second.

But in the 2nd, the Zephyrs scored three late goals to down Rapids 3-0.

Grand Rapids finishes the year with a 12-7-1 record.

Following that contest, Duluth East made their 2nd straight state tournament appearance, playing Stillwater in the quarterfinals.

Like in the regular season meeting, the Ponies took bragging rights to win 3 to 0.

East goes 16-3-1 in 2025.

Over on the boys side, Duluth Denfeld also

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