Boca Jrs 96 U11 boys seeded “lucky number 13”  in the NorCal Cup continue to hold the good fortune as they progress into the semi-finals in the Gold Division.  Led by Brandon Cavitt, who has coached this squad for three years, the team has played innovative soccer, utilizing the skills honed in practices and league play.  Invigorated by Don Finley’s enthusiastic coaching style, the boys have benefited from the addition of an assistant coach.

Tournament play started in September at home where Boca faced De Anza with a blowout win of 6-0.  The score says it all on this game.  Boca took turns pounding the goalie with 6 boys sharing in scoring. 

Fighting for Premier contention, Boca was aced out by PAC in a 0-3 loss in a game played on a field the boys laughingly referred to as “the swamp.”  It was a closer game than the score reflects.  Watch out swamp monsters next year, Boca has got your game.

The age-old adage that a team is only as strong as its weakest link surely applies to the boy’s Cup experience this season.  Lucky for the team, there are no weak links; however, the team faced injuries sidelining players and a questionable double yellow card in the game against Santa Rosa.  Down one player and only one sub, Boca still prevailed with a 3-2 victory.  Santa Rosa ranked 5 overall in NorCal Cup and was seeded one in the Gold division.

Playing a quick game on Astroturf, Boca had a good match-up against Mustang where a strong defense advanced the team with a tie of 0-0.  With an injured goalie out with a concussion from a previous game, Gabriel McEwen stepped in at goal, and thanks to well played defensive game, saw little action. 

A trip to Petaluma to face Sonoma County Alliance (SCA) saw Austin Platt’s header into the goal to score in the first half. A slow roller gave SCA a 1-1 tie, a score not reflective of Boca’s dominating play.

Advancing to the semi-finals, Boca has more than luck on their side – it has determination, skill, and the desire to bring home the GOLD.  Thanks to the coaches, they’re poised to play well, and gain valuable experience for matches yet to be played.