By Ashley Ferraro
Springs Soccer Club has achieved an unprecedented milestone: both its U13 and U14 boys teams have won the National Premier League (NPL) South Division Playoffs in Orlando, earning spots in the NPL Finals in Denver this summer. The highly coveted NPL Finals, an annual event for U13 through U19 teams, will be held from July 8-14. This marks the first time in the club’s four-year history that not only one but two teams have qualified for the NPL Finals.
The playoffs that qualified both teams for the NPL Finals were held from April 26-28 at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, FL, near Orlando. The competition was fierce, but both Springs Soccer Club teams rose to the occasion, showcasing the club’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
The U13 boys team, coached by Anthony Corbett with assistant coach Camoy Williams, displayed exceptional skill and teamwork throughout the playoffs. In the first match on April 26, they drew 2-2 against Swan City. The following day, they triumphed over the Chargers with a 4-2 victory, showcasing their offensive strength. Finally, on April 28, they secured their spot in the NPL Finals with a 1-1 draw against the West Florida Flames. Their overall performance, marked by a combination of strategic play and relentless effort, earned them the top position in their division.
The U14 boys team, led by Matey Mateev, the Boys Director and Springs 2010 Elite Coach, also showcased remarkable resilience in Orlando. They kicked off the playoffs with a 1-0 win against Florida Elite Soccer Academy Palm Coast 2010 Boys Elite on April 26. The next day, they continued their winning streak with a 1-0 victory over Florida Hawks Futbol Club. Their final match on April 28 marked a phenomenal 6-0 win against the Chargers. With three wins and no losses, they dominated their division and secured their place in the finals.
The players, coaches, families, and the entire Springs Soccer Club organization are immensely proud and honored by this achievement. “Everyone is excited to head to Colorado in July,” says Matey Mateev.
Upon arriving in Denver on July 14th for the NPL Finals, the Springs Soccer Club U13 and U14 boys teams will compete against champions from various states. Following these matches, they will have the chance to advance to the semi-finals and ultimately the finals.
This milestone for the U13 and U14 boys teams is a testament to the club’s mission to shape champions both on and off the field. Under the leadership of Executive Director Laurie Thomas and Director of Methodology Roger Thomas, Springs Soccer Club not only teaches soccer skills to players, but also cultivates character through values like competence, competitiveness, and Spring confidence.
As the teams prepare for the NPL finals in Denver, they look forward to continuing their legacy of excellence and making their mark on the national stage.
For more information about Springs Soccer Club, please visit springssoccerclub.com.
