Eight local soccer teams recently showcased their talent at the annual Walt Zinco District Cup held in Anderson. The competition, which brings together some of the district’s best recreational teams, was marked by enthusiasm, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Over the course of the weekend, these teams not only represented their community with pride but also achieved impressive results on the field.
Outstanding Performances and Results
In the U10 girls division, the team Flash emerged victorious, capturing first place. Coach Ryan Keebler expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishment, 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.”
In a closely contested match, the Xtreme team secured a commendable second place under the guidance of coaches Jordan Sinclair, Jimmy Boyes, and Maria Rosales. Despite falling short in overtime, the team demonstrated resilience and teamwork. “We had a mix of eager new players and seasoned stars, and they gelled quickly,” Sinclair noted.
The U12 boys division also saw strong showings. The Adrenaline team claimed second place, with coach Gerardo Parra praising the players’ growth. “They’ve grown into such amazing players that the whole town can be proud of,” he remarked. Their journey to the finals was a testament to their heart and determination.
Meanwhile, the Thunder team finished third in the same division, guided by coaches Bernie Villavicencio, Andy Emerick, Gavin Lethbridge, and Avery Smith. They made a strong impression, winning every match played and conceding only two goals throughout the tournament. Their motto, “Be brave, trust your team, give no excuses,” resonated well as they showcased unity and trust.
Other Notable Team Performances
Several other teams also had noteworthy performances. The U10 boys’ Predators achieved three victories before narrowly losing in the final match. Coach Victor Trejo-Gonzalez expressed immense pride, stating, “We couldn’t be prouder of how they played their hearts out, showcasing exceptional teamwork and beautiful passing.”
The Mustangs, another U10 boys’ team, demonstrated continuous improvement throughout the season. Coach Richard O’Campo highlighted the growth of his players, saying, “Watching them improve, have fun, and build real friendships has been incredible.”
The U12 girls’ Lightning team also kicked off the weekend with a strong performance, demonstrating commendable teamwork and effort in every game. Coaches Matt Haman and Barry Henderson witnessed their players compete fiercely throughout the tournament.
Lastly, the U14 boys’ Assassins faced tough competition but showed remarkable heart and sportsmanship. Coaches Matt Hann and Alexandrea Brown noted the players’ commitment and dedication, which made their families and teammates proud.
The Walt Zinco District Cup served as a platform for local talent to shine and foster community spirit. Each team left with valuable experiences and lessons that extend beyond the soccer field, highlighting the importance of camaraderie and perseverance in sports.
