The Region 4 Championships were held this year in Phoenix, Arizona, January 14th to 17th. This was one of the best soccer experiences I have ever had. To qualify for this tournament as a player we had to participate in the EPD pool trainings, where all the players picked for the pool to begin with come together to train. The coaches then pick the players that they want for the 18 to be on the traveling roster. We needed to pay for the uniforms and the trip itself, have a few more trainings just with the 18, and then we were set to go. Everyone arrived at the airport in the black ODP polo, khakis, and clean running shoes. Once we arrived in Arizona, we got settled in, and got our room assignments. We only had one light training throughout the whole tournament, the rest of the time we were playing games. I played right back the whole tournament. It was very hot during the day (and snowing in Seattle!), and cold at nights. I loved it.
We ended up winning the whole tournament, beating Cal North 4-0 in the finals. I would have to say our toughest game was against Utah, which was 1-0 and we scored in the 44th minute off of a penalty kick. We also beat New Mexico, Arizona, and tied Colorado. Overall, it was the best soccer tournament that I have been to in my soccer career to date, and I hope to soon play there again. I am thrilled to have been a part of the team.
Peace plays for Bobby Howe on ECFC M95 Green.
