2012G Navy Shines at Dpl Showcase in Utah, Wins Bracket with Perfect Record
From October 3-6, 2024, Eastshore Alliance FC’s 2012G Navy team traveled to Provo, Utah, to compete in the prestigious DPL Showcase tournament. With over 60 clubs from across the western United States participating, the tournament featured intense competition at the U13 and U14 age groups. However, the 2012G Navy squad stood out, finishing the weekend undefeated with a perfect 3-0 record, winning their bracket without conceding a single goal.
2012G Navy posing for a celebratory photo after their first win in Utah.
The team’s stellar performance included scoring five goals across three matches while maintaining a flawless defensive record. Their nine-point tally secured them the top spot in their bracket, a testament to their discipline and teamwork on the field.
Coach Sam expressed her pride in the team’s efforts and the overall experience of traveling for the first time as a group:
Traveling to Utah for the DPL Showcase tournament was a fantastic experience all around. It was the first time the team traveled out of state to play soccer, which is a huge deal at this age. They performed well on the field, showcasing what we've been working on all season. Off the field, the team spent a lot of time together on team walks, eating meals together, and having some fun playing laser tag, completing a high ropes course, and enjoying the beautiful views and landscapes Utah has to offer. I can't wait to see what the rest of the season has in store for this incredible team of young players. Thank you to the team and parents who made it such a wonderful experience that we will all remember for a long time.
Director of Coaching, Niall Irwin, echoed Coach Sam’s sentiment, highlighting the team’s growth and hard work. “The 2012 Girls had a fantastic experience at their first travel tournament in Utah. The girls have been working diligently every week at training with Coach Sam and were rewarded for their efforts with 3 consecutive victories at the tournament. They also had a great time building culture and bonding off the field and are looking forward to competing in these events in the future. We hope to see them continue to grow as young players over the coming months.”
The tournament not only brought success on the pitch but also offered valuable bonding experiences off it. 2012G Navy center midfielder, Akane G., shared her excitement, saying, “I really enjoyed spending time with my teammates on and off the field. We had so much fun! It was a great experience to play with teams out of our area and from different states.”
Outside back, Phenom F., who battled through heel and knee pain during the tournament highlighted the resilience and spirit of the team. “Even when times are rough and you’re exhausted and you’re breathing heavy, even when you get fouled 10 times in a row but the referee was too slow to call it, never give up because you’re not just letting yourself down - you’re letting your teammates down too.”
With the DPL Showcase behind them, the 2012G Navy team returns home with valuable lessons, stronger connections, and anticipation for what the rest of the season holds. Their perfect weekend in Provo marks a significant milestone in their development, leaving the Eastshore community excited for their future.