July 6, 2026
WPSL 2026, California Storm (photo by TJ Valenton)
By Andrew Mosier, WPSL Communications
California Storm versus San Francisco Nighthawks.
It is the true—the original—WPSL Classico.
On Friday, the two remaining WPSL founding clubs squared off for the NorCal Conference title at San Mateo High School in San Mateo.
“Playing the Nighthawks in the conference championship was very special because of the history between the two organizations and what they have done for women’s soccer,” Jamie Levoy, California Storm executive director, said.
“Many teams have come and gone over the years, but these two organizations have been consistent and present since the beginning, creating a platform for female players to compete, be part of something bigger than themselves when there were hardly any opportunities for women to play,” Levoy said.
Behind braces by Kennedy Mayo and Jordyn Wickes, and a match-opening goal by Ciara Wilson, Storm claimed its 16th conference title with the 5-0 win over its longest and fiercest rival. Stalwart goalkeeper Abbie Faingold earned the sixth clean sheet for Storm in WPSL play this season.
Storm took the lead in the 11th minute behind Wilson’s second goal of the season. Mayo made it 2-0 in the 33rd minute. Wicks all but put the game out of reach for the Central Valley Division champions in the 58th minute, following it up six minutes later with her second before Mayo slammed the door shut on NorCal Conference play with her added time goal to make it 5-0.
“This has been an incredible season,” said Levoy, who is no stranger to incredible seasons. With Friday’s win, Storm advances to its sixth consecutive West Region Playoffs. The last time Storm did not participate in the West Region Playoffs was 2018.
“We have such a talented group of players who have been great at stepping into different roles throughout the season, " Levoy said.
California Storm hosts the West Region Playoffs July 11 and 12 at Davis Legacy Soccer Park in Davis, Calif.
