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OREM — The Timpanogos girls soccer team is celebrating the 4A state championship — their second in three years. It turns out they weren't just playing for a trophy this year.
The team dedicated their season to Owen Hartle, a 7-year-old Orem boy who is battling a rare form of cancer. Owen is the younger brother of Timpanogos player Devri Hartle. The team rallied around their teammate and her family during a difficult time.
"It's meant a lot," said Devri of the support from her coaches and teammates. "Sometimes it gets hard, but I know I have so many people supporting me. So does my family so it makes it a lot easier."
Owen loves soccer, but due to the illness and chemotherapy, he can't play. The team made a special effort this year to make Owen a part of the team.
"A true champion needs a motivation above and beyond winning," said Timpanogos captain Eva Willardson. "He was our motivation this season because he was just a special kid. Our coach reiterated over and over again that if we can win a state championship then Owen could beat his cancer."
Inspired by Owen's fight and courage, the Timberwolves went 16-1-1 during the regular season and won the Region 7 title. They marched through the playoffs and defeated Skyline 1-0 to claim the state championship.
A true champion needs a motivation above and beyond winning. He was our motivation this season because he was just a special kid. Our coach reiterated over and over again that if we can win a state championship then Owen could beat his cancer.
–Eva Willardson
Owen was there for the celebration.
"He wasn't supposed to make it to the game," Willardson said "He was really sick, but then he was there. It was like a miracle."
Katie Henderson scored the winning goal. After the match she presented the game ball to Owen.
"Every day we step across the line and we would play like it would be our last game," Katie said. "We play for Owen."
The team set out to win a state championship, but in the end, gained something from the experience much more valuable.
"This whole experience has been more than just winning a state championship," Eva said. "This has brought us closer together as a team. We all love each other so much and we all love sticks, Devri, and we want to support her in every way we can. We love her family and we hope for the best for little Owen."
Owen continues treatment for a cancer so rare that doctors don't even have a name for it.
Donations for Owen's significant medical care needs can be given anonymously at any Wells Fargo bank as "Owen Hartle Donation Fund"* You can also donate and learn more about Owen's battle with cancer by going to www.facebook.com/caringforowen and owiebo.blogspot.com.
*ksl.com has not verified the accuracy of the information provided with respect to the account nor does ksl.com assure that the monies deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
