The Terrace Youth Soccer Association’s U13 Select Boys team overcame opponents in the Northern Cup held in Quesnel on June 24-25, securing an automatic spot in the provincials. The boys will now journey to Langley to vie for victory from July 13-16.
With teams hailing from across British Columbia, from 100 Mile House to Terrace, the competition was fierce. Yet, the Terrace U13 boys team iproved their mettle, winning the Northern Cup and earning a direct pass to the provincials. Their formidable collective strength shone through as they amassed an aggregate 14-0 score in the tournament. Striking goals from Maddox Berube, Fisher Witzke, Antonio Ferretti, Giovanni Ferretti and Osgar Leggat, who scored 5, 4, 3, 1 and 1, respectively, underscored the team’s winning performance.
This robust roster comprises mainly U13 players, with a few U12 players who have been integrated into the team. The inclusion of these younger players not only rounds out the team but also equips them with additional training, development and experience, paving the way for their seamless transition to the U13 group next year.
READ MORE: Terrace wins Every Child Matters Soccer Tournament
Coach Matt Berube proudly shared that this U13 group, including a few 12-year-old boys, is the first age group eligible for the provincial tournament and they rose to the occasion. Berube, whose son is part of the triumphant U13 team, has been nurturing these young talents as part of his commitment to “continue to grow the sport.”
A Terrace resident for five years and a member of the Terrace Youth Soccer Association for the past three, Berube has been coaching the U11, U12 and now U13 teams. He will continue to guide the team next year as they move up to the U14 category, if they choose to continue with the sport.
Berube said that the Terrace Youth Soccer Association deserves a special mention for its pivotal role in youth soccer development in Terrace. Its board of directors, along with technical director John Sneddon, have revolutionized soccer in the region, transforming it from a seasonal summer sport to a year-round endeavour, Berube added. This shift was achieved through the implementation of indoor soccer programs in the fall and winter. These programs keep players active and involved all year, giving the technical director and coaches an extended opportunity to foster player development.
Now, to cover the travel costs to Langley for the provincial championships, the team is actively seeking sponsorship and launching fundraisers. Supporters who wish to contribute to these young athletes’ journey can reach out to TYSA1@telus.net.
Viktor Elias joined the Terrace Standard in April 2023.
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