Eight local soccer teams recently showcased their talent at the annual Walt Zinco District Cup held in Anderson. This competitive event highlighted the skills of some of the district’s finest recreational teams over an action-packed weekend. Each team demonstrated impressive teamwork and sportsmanship, representing their community with pride. Notably, four teams secured top finishes in their respective divisions, reflecting their hard work and dedication throughout the season.
U10 Girls Shine with Championship Victory
The U10 Girls team, known as Flash, emerged victorious, claiming the championship title in their division. Coach Ryan Keebler expressed his pride, stating, “Coaching these girls has been a true privilege. Witnessing their growth as soccer players and their bonds as friends off the field has been remarkable. Bringing the District Cup back to Red Bluff is the perfect finale to an undefeated season.” The team’s performance was characterized by skillful play and a strong sense of camaraderie, culminating in a well-deserved first-place finish.
Following closely, the U10 Girls team named Xtreme secured second place. Under the guidance of coaches Jordan Sinclair, Jimmy Boyes, and Maria Rosales, Xtreme showcased their abilities in a thrilling overtime match that illustrated their tenacity and teamwork. The squad, a blend of eager newcomers and experienced players, displayed remarkable synergy throughout the tournament.
Impressive Showings from Boys’ Teams
In the U12 Boys division, the team Adrenaline finished as runners-up. Coaches Gerardo Parra, Carlos Arellano, Chris Pritchett, and Jonathan Lopez guided the team to this commendable placement. Coach Parra remarked, “I’ve worked with most of these boys for a few seasons. They’ve grown into such amazing players that the whole town can be proud of.” Their journey to the finals was marked by determination and sportsmanship, earning respect from all competitors.
The U12 Boys team known as Thunder finished third, leaving a lasting impression by winning every game they played, conceding only two goals throughout the event. Coaches Bernie Villavicencio, Andy Emerick, Gavin Lethbridge, and Avery Smith fostered a sense of unity and trust among players. Their motto, “Be brave, trust your team, give no excuses,” resonated throughout their matches, contributing to their success.
Other teams also made notable contributions to the tournament’s excitement. The U10 Boys team, Predators, experienced a strong run, achieving three victories before succumbing to a tough final match. Coach Victor Trejo-Gonzalez expressed pride in their performance, stating, “As coaches, we couldn’t be prouder of how they played their hearts out, showcasing exceptional teamwork and beautiful passing throughout the tournament.”
Meanwhile, the U10 Boys team known as Mustangs displayed steady improvement over the season. Coach Richard O’Campo reflected on their journey, stating, “Watching them improve, have fun, and build real friendships has been incredible.” The team’s commitment to growth was evident in both their gameplay and interactions.
The U12 Girls team, Lightning, opened the tournament with a victory, demonstrating teamwork and sportsmanship in every match. Coaches Matt Haman and Barry Henderson guided them through a competitive weekend, ensuring that each player felt valued and engaged.
Lastly, the U14 Boys team, Assassins, faced a challenging weekend against tough competitors. Despite the difficulties, the players showed remarkable heart and determination, reflecting the support of their coaches, Matt Hann and Alexandrea Brown. Their performance throughout the tournament left a lasting impression on spectators and families alike.
The Walt Zinco District Cup continues to be a pivotal event for local soccer teams, fostering community spirit and encouraging young athletes to develop their skills in a supportive environment. The tournament not only celebrates the achievements of players but also highlights the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in sports.
