A Vernon boys soccer team has advanced to the provincial championship later in July.
The Tolko Vernon United U15 team solidified their place at provincials, taking place in Langley from July 13-16, with a 5-0 win against Shuswap on Sunday.
Vernon dominated the match from the opening whistle, with goals from Mason Clerke, Ben Jones and Ricardo Barrios, while Enrique Noriega Calderon bagged two. The team was supported by a controlled midfield and a dynamite defence. Goalkeeper Ayers Cull made tremendous saves to keep Shuswap scoreless until the end.
Head coach Rick Ogasawara is excited to see his team battle it out at provincials.
“This is an opportunity for the boys to create lifelong memories. To this day, I have been approached by past players wanting to reminisce over their collective experiences at provincials.”
Vernon is continuing to train in preparation for Langley, as the matches will be played on artificial turf, which will be an additional challenge. The boys are making Okanagan College their home turf for their practices in the upcoming weeks.
“This is a very special group of boys that have worked hard to get to where they are,” said assistant coach Amy Shupe. “Our plan is to represent Vernon and the Okanagan the best we can.”
Eight other teams will be playing against Vernon at provincials.
The U15 team is grateful for the support from Bannister GM Vernon and Watkin Motors for their donations, but is still in need of financial support to cover travel costs to Langley. Contact jenblankley@hotmail.com if you can assist.
READ MORE: Uride steers support into Vernon Soccer net
READ MORE: Iron Heart Vernon soccer club kicks off season
@B0B0Assman
bowen.assman@vernonmorningstar.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our daily and subscribe to our daily newsletter.
