The U19 train just keeps rolling forward. 2007 became a banner year for the boys in many ways. It began in April when the boys defeated all challengers to capture the State Cup, bringing in the first State Championship to our brand new club in only three years. In August, the boys made the first trip overseas to play against big clubs FC Saarbrucken and Bundesliga youth team, FC Kaiserslautern.

The team also appeared on German television for a local sports show. Upon their return stateside, the U19s then buckled down and learned from their European exploits, becoming Champions yet again in their first season as Silver Elite players. Anchored by James Turner and Paul Fuchs, the team has become an exciting group to watch on the field. Goalkeepers Greg Griffin and Marc Giarratano combined to record seven shutouts this year.

While offenses win games, defenses win championships. Paul Fuchs and David Krogmann had a fabulous year in the backfield with lots of assistance from Ryan Martin, Roger Herrera, Luis Del Pozo and Mark Kelly-Isham. And we will not forget our wall in the back, Greg Griffin, an outstanding keeper who kept an amazing 1.25 GAA between the posts this year, assisted by Alex Anderson as backup goaltender.

Forwards John Tribbey, Manuel Ganoza, and My Le were always a threat to opposing teams’ goals (especially Le, who scored seven goals with his head alone). Ben Adair, Colin Heim, and newcomer Trevor Wright provided the midfield support needed to propel the team offensively. And Trent Shore proved his tenacity time and time again to become a valuable addition to the team in many positions. After the high school break, the U19 train will continue to roll on into Nationals for the first time.

CONGRATULATIONS TO COACH DAVID WEIDNER AND OUR U19 PLAYERS!