Des Plaines travel soccer team named Nike champs
The Des Plaines Park District DP America FC traveling boys U-12 soccer team won the 2011 Nike Cup Division Championship. The team swept all four of their games beating the Sockers FC, 9-0, Trevian SC, 4-3, Rockford United, 6-0 and the Rockford Raptors FC, 5-2 for the championship.
“We are so proud of how these young players work together as a team to create scoring opportunities and a strong defense,” said Joshua Cantres, athletic supervisor. “Congratulations go to Coach Julio Perez whose positive coaching efforts helped lead this team to victory.”
The 2011 Nike Cup was held at Olympic Field in Schaumburg the weekend of October 7-9. U12 play began under the lights at 8:00pm, Friday, against the Sockers FC. Within the first nine minutes of the game, DP America was up 2-0. They continued to dominate the field and at the half had increased their lead to 4-0.
The second half, DP America FC kept up the pressure, scoring five straight goals, for the 9-0 shutout. Saturday night, DP America came out strong against Trevian SC, moving the ball down the field, and scoring 3 to their 1, during the first half.
The size and physicality of the Trevian players started to take a toll in the second half, and DP America allowed two goals to be scored. They were able to rally back, however, for the 4-3 win. The third game against Rockford United offered Perez the chance to rotate in all players. They easily swept Rockford United, 6-0.
The championship game was played against the Rockford Raptors, a Platinum Division Team. Play went back and forth with DP America scoring the first goal. The point was promptly answered by the Raptors. DP America was able to take the ball down the field, thereafter for a second goal. During the second half, DP America went up by two more, and though the Raptors were able to score again, the final was 5-2, DP America.
The U-12 team has an impressive 11 and 1 record, and two games left to play in the season: one against Heat United who they beat earlier, 5-2; and one against Campton United, who beat them 4-1.
The Des Plaines Park District DP America FC also has a U-10 team, who has played valiantly this year, despite only having the minimum number of players. “Our U-10 players often have to play the entire game without the benefit of substitutions, “said Cantres, “so we are on the lookout for additional players to join the team.”
Players who are interested in joining a traveling soccer team should contact Josh Cantres at (847) 391-5711.
The Des Plaines Park District is also looking for additional soccer coaches. Though some experience is preferred, training is available. For more information, visit www.DPParks.org.