There wasn't a lot of time for the Whitehall girls soccer team to celebrate after winning the District 11 title last week.

Head girls' soccer coach Dave Weitzman admittedly didn't know much about Elizabethtown, his team's first-round opponent in the opening round of the PIAA state playoffs that began Tuesday. Even though they lost 5-1 (see story on page A10) Weitzman had little doubt the girls would be prepared.

For the bulk of the regular season, the Zephyrs have followed the same format. It recently led them to capture the PIAA District 11 Class 3A crown, something they can perhaps now enjoy a little more with the season officially over.

"The girls have done what they have needed to do all season," Weitzman said. "They have really gone about taking care of business and have been out there playing with a purpose. We have had our share of big wins this season."

Likely the biggest win was finally defeating Parkland in the semifinal round of the District 11 Class 3A playoffs, marking the first time they downed the Trojans in four games this season. Despite their poignant victory, Weitzman was optimistic his club didn't peak.

"That was an emotional win for us," noted Weitzman. "The girls were really focused on beating them and they got it done after some very tough games. I don't think we have peaked yet. We bounced back after that game and got it done again."

The girls beat Nazareth in the finals 2-1. They fell behind in the first half 1-0 but goals from Kourtney Cunningham and Cara Bonshak gave them the title.

Cunningham continued to be the offensive scoring machine for the team and fellow teammates, goalie Jude Luckenbill and defender Maddy Walker, have been at the forefront of the program all season. Cunningham entered the state tournament with 39 goals and 11 assists and Luckenbill entered the next level with 13 shutouts.

However, Weitzman was also impressed with the play of Bonshak, and juniors Ivanna Jones, Jill Kreglow, Corrine Kohler and Taylor George. With six wins in their past eight games heading into their state game against Elizabethtown, the Zephyrs certainly have infused together their game.

"Kourtney (Cunningham) has just been outstanding and she should have been the (Eastern Pennsylvania) Conference's Player of the Year," said Weitzman. "Cara (Bonshak) also has had an outstanding year and I believe she is the best defender in the conference.

"Overall, we have had a good team effort, and that has been the reason where we are right now."