YOUTH SPORTS: Sandpoint Albion SC 11U boys second at Three Blind Refs tourney
The Sandpoint Albion SC 2013/2014 boys show off their second-place trophy from the Three Blind Refs tourney held May 31 to June 2 in Kalispell. Front row, from left are Avery Bonner, Will Hawn, Garrison Markwardt and Keldon Ridley. Back row, from left are coach Jennings Waterhouse, Jacob Moren, Felix Carlson, Chris Medrano, Greyson Reid, Griffin Asquith, Mason Donenfeld, Aiden Mojzis, Raleigh Brown, Desi Owens, coach Eric Donenfeld and assistant coach Lawson Tate. Not pictured are Maddux Arana, Mike Asquith & Kit Gaddess.
(Courtesy Photo)
KALISPELL — The Sandpoint Albion SC 2013/14 boys placed second out of 20 teams in the gold division at the Three Blind Refs soccer tourney held May 31 to June 2 at the Kidsports Complex in Kalispell, Mont.
"Our boys are peaking towards the end of this spring season and we're working to find them the strongest competition," coach Eric Donenfeld said.
Albion SC played a total of four opponents, three of which were from Canada. In the team’s opener against the Glacier Surf, Albion settled for a 3-3 tie after giving up a late two-goal lead. In their second matchup, Albion bounced back with a thrilling 7-3 victory over a strong Calgary Rockies team. Albion coaches said rising star Keldon Ridley was instrumental in slowing down the Rockies key playmaker and scorer.
Albion’s third matchup, the final matchup of pool play, resulted in a 5-1 victory over the Lethbridge Futbol Club. Albion coaches said the team put on a technical clinic that included one of the best goals of the tournament.
"Felix Carlson's strike from 40 yards into the upper far side netting was next-level academy skill. He is an intelligent sharpshooter," coach Donenfeld said.
With the win, Albion advanced to the finals where they faced the nationally ranked Calgary Rangers and fell 8-0. Albion surprised the Rangers by holding their own in the first half, only conceding two goals. Calgary eventually cruised to a dominant victory to earn the championship.
"The opportunity to battle the Calgary Rangers was a special experience,” coach Jennings Waterhouse said. “Of the 2300 or so ranked competitive teams, their intensity, team chemistry and discipline was characteristic of an elite program. We applaud their professionalism on and off the pitch. For our club, we welcome these sorts of valuable experiences.”