Island soccer team wins Washington Cup tourney

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, November 28, 2018

The U15 Shoreline Sports Club Vashon, an island team affiliated with Shoreline Sports Club, took first place in its division at the Washington Cup on Nov. 18. The event is U.S. Club Soccer’s state championship event for member teams in the U10 through U19 age groups.

Particularly exciting about the tournament is that Vashon beat a team it had previously never defeated to take the title, according to soccer parent Risa Stahl.

Fellow soccer parent Lise Ellner said the boys brought their skills and dedication to the tournament. The defense shut down most of the opposition and the strikers and midfield worked seamlessly together to set up plays to assist and make goals.

Team parents provided this statement the day after the tournament:

“Thank you to the coaches and (manager) Rusty (Knowles) for all of your efforts, encouragement, leadership and mentorship you continuously offer the boys. They were challenged and pushed, but also provided the tools and skills to thrive, step up and succeed. Hard work, diligence and perseverance pays off. The team was beyond elated and thrilled yesterday — heartwarming to witness their group excitement. What an accomplishment!”

The team plays year-round and is in its second year together.