Big Tournament Weekend
The young talents of Eastshore Alliance FC (EAFC) took to the soccer fields with passion and determination this past weekend, participating in various tournaments and showcasing their skills in an action-packed series of matches. With 18 teams competing across different age groups, EAFC left a mark with impressive performances, unforgettable moments, and valuable lessons learned.
Surf Champions Cup: 2005B Navy Triumphs
One of the standout stories from the weekend came from the 2005B Navy team, which emerged as the Surf Champions Cup champions. Their hard-fought journey to victory included an inspiring comeback in the final, where they avenged an earlier defeat to Union FC with a nail-biting 1-0 win. This triumph not only brought home the trophy but also secured a spot in the prestigious Surf College Cup showcase tournament in San Diego this November. For these aspiring college soccer players, it's an incredible opportunity to shine on a bigger stage.
Coach Simba and 2005B Navy with their championship medals.
Photo: Michael Primmer
2005G Navy, 2008B Navy, and 2010G Navy Show Resilience at Surf Champions Cup
The weekend was marked by ups and downs for EAFC's 2005G Navy, 2008B Navy, and 2010G Navy teams. The 2005G Navy squad displayed resilience, finishing with a 1-1-1 record, which included a strong 3-0 win against Woodland Alianza FC.
On the other hand, the 2008B Navy team faced some tough competition but never backed down, ending the tournament with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Albion Merced.
The 2010G Navy team showed their prowess with an undefeated record, including a dominant 5-0 victory over Valley United. Although they fell short in the final, losing 3-0 to Burlingame, their impressive run speaks to their skill and determination.
2013G Navy Gains Experience and Team Bonding
The 2013G Navy team were excited to compete at Surf Champions Cup as their first tournament of the 23/24 season. After a tough 8-0 loss in their first game against Marin FC, the team bounced back in the second game with a 2-0 win over Diablo Valley FC. Goalkeepers Ayse (1st half) and Jamie (2nd half) were impenetrable despite the many shots fired at them while Ellie and Lia were both able to find the back of the net in the second half. Although they narrowly missed the final, the team's spirits remained high, and they created lasting memories both on and off the field, enjoying some well-deserved team bonding with boba in hand.
Davis Legacy Premier Cup: 2011B Navy's Redemption
The 2011B Navy team experienced a rollercoaster of emotions at the Davis Legacy Premier Cup. After a tough 3-1 loss to Corte Madera FC in their first match, they showed remarkable resilience, setting them up for a “minor setback for a bigger comeback”, winning 4-0 against Storm 11 and eventually securing the championship with a 2-1 victory in a rematch against Corte Madera FC. Coach Pablo named Jordan the player of the tournament with 6 goals and 2 assists.
2011B Navy celebrating their tournament win.
Ballistic Fall Cup: 2012B Navy Dominates
The 2012B Navy team showcased their dominance in the Ballistic Fall Cup, winning their first game 10-0 and defeating Castro Valley in a thrilling encounter. They continued their impressive run, securing a 5-2 championship victory over Montclair Clippers. Coach Mason thought his team’s performance at the tournament was strong overall and a confidence builder as the team has struggled to score goals and get clean sheets so far this season in league play.
2012G Red Earn a Bronze Medal at Palo Alto Tall Trees
The 2012G Red team participated in the Palo Alto Tall Trees tournament, where they displayed their competitive spirit and determination. Their tournament journey began with a solid start, securing a 6-1 victory over Palo Alto SC. In their afternoon match, they engaged in a hard-fought battle against Los Gatos United, narrowly losing 3-2. However, they bounced back on Sunday morning with a convincing 3-0 win against Santa Cruz County Breakers. This commendable performance earned them a spot in the third-place consolation final against Corte Madera Football Club, where they showcased their resilience by clinching a thrilling 2-1 victory in a penalty kick shootout. The 2012G Red team's tournament journey was marked by impressive teamwork and a never-give-up attitude, leaving a lasting impression on the field.
2012G Red posing for a team photo with their bronze medals.
IR Academy 2023 Fall Cup: 2008G Orange Shows Promise
The 2008G Orange team impressed in the IR Academy 2023 Fall Cup, reaching the semifinals after an excellent performance against Union City. Despite facing a challenging opponent, the girls showcased their chemistry and understanding of the game, hinting at a bright future ahead.
EAFC Teams Show Grit and Determination
Several other EAFC teams, including 2015B Navy, 2015B Orange, 2014B Red, 2012B Purple, 2009B Red, 2014G Navy, 2014G Orange, 2013B Red, and 2012G Orange, displayed grit and determination throughout their respective tournaments. Their performances were marked by highs and lows, but they all left the field with valuable experiences and lessons to carry forward.
In the end, the weekend was about more than just goals and wins. It was about growth, resilience, and the camaraderie that comes from being part of a team. EAFC's young athletes demonstrated that they are not only skilled soccer players but also resilient individuals who are committed to their passion for the game.
As the season continues, EAFC can look forward to even more exciting matches, challenges, and opportunities for their young talents to shine on the soccer stage. With each game, these players are one step closer to achieving their dreams on the soccer field.