Laguna Beach’s Blue Lagunas girls under 10 AYSO soccer team fought their way to a state crown in one of youth soccer’s most competitive divisions on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day.
The team of 10 locals in the Extra program would first face Riverside’s Red Lightning, whom they beat 8-0, allowing for advancement to the finals. In the championship game, their opponent would be undefeated Corona-Norco’s Premier.
The game was played in 20 mph winds and torrential rain, but Blue Lagunas won in hard-fought 2-0 victory.
“We could not be prouder of these girls,” beamed Coach Kent Pachl. “This is the result of years of hard work the girls have put in playing together.”
“It all starts with a positive coaching environment, building skill and self confidence,” said Coach Ole Nielsen. “In these two games the difference became our speed, conditioning and heart. It was inspirational to see every girl give her very best up to the final seconds.”
Now, their challenge becomes fundraising for a national tournament in Tennessee in July. More information and details on supporting the team can be found by emailing [email protected].
Laguna Beach AYSO is now holding try-outs for next fall’s EXTRA program for all age groups, schedule and information at www.ayso86.org.
Contributing writers: Katelyn Carballo, 13, Riley and Cameron Russo, both age 9.
