Mid-Pen Families:

The players had an eventful weekend of Bay Area Winter League games. Our teams faced the challenges of newly formed groups and welcomed new players, and I'm eager to share insights from our coaches about the experiences. Please read on for their thoughts and observations.

Coach's Insights:

The first Bay Area Winter League games brought both challenges and opportunities for our teams. The coaches were impressed by the determination and teamwork displayed, especially considering the newly formed teams and the addition of new players. Your commitment to adapting and working together is commendable, and we look forward to continued growth throughout the season.

14U White Team—Coach Natasha

Game 1 vs. Santa Cruz, Lost 11-1

Being many players in the first game (ever), it took a little time to make moves confidently, but Roan made a fantastic goal in the second quarter, getting us onto the scoreboard! 

Game 2 vs. MBU B, Lost 17-6

A much higher-scoring match for us, with goals by Roan, Mason, and Thomas! There was much more communication by the players, making for an efficient offense. 

A shoutout to our goalie, Max, who blocked many one-on-one shots!

Overall, it was an excellent start to the season, and I see much potential moving forward!

14U Blue Team—Coach Bruno

Our 14U Blue had an eventful weekend, and while I can't share the scores (the desk took a breather from counting at one point!), I'm excited to give you a rundown:

Lost by a lot against NorCal, but hey, we scored a fantastic goal!

Won by a landslide against Tri-Valley—talk about a fantastic comeback!

Let's give a big shoutout to our incredible kids! Many leaped 12U to 14U, and a bunch are on the younger side. Despite all that, they played their hearts out and showed some serious skills.

Here's to a team that's not just growing but thriving! Can't wait to see what the rest of the season holds for our 14U Blue.

16U White Team—Coach Adam

Mid-Pen vs. Norcal was challenging, only having one sub. The game was constant goal after goal, finishing at 3-3, leading into a best out of 5 shoot out. Highlights both Isaac Chung and Dylan Peterson scored in the second quarter: Isaac 2, Dylan 1. The shoot-out allowed Isaac to make a 3rd goal. LJ (Lucian Booth) made two goals in the shoot-out, and Dylan Fisher made one goal. The overall score was 7-6. Mid-Pen's win! 

Mid-Pen vs. SJ Express was a bigger challenge. We started with two subs but were down to one sub after halftime. Dylan Peterson made the only goal in the game against SJX. All the players were exhausted from the first game due to having a small break between games. The overall score was 12-1, Mid-Pen's loss.

Another highlight to our goalie, Michael Poirier: he blocked 15 shots in the first game and 19 in the second—34 shots blocked.

16U Blue Team—Coach Eric

We won the first game nicely over Santa Cruz 8-6: very good team play with six total scorers. Brandon Ackerat and Sam Stallings with two goals a piece and a big 5-meter save from goalie Aiden. 

The second game was very close, but we lost 6-10 after being 6-6 after the third quarter—Navid Riahi had two goals and a significant impact on offense. 

Overall, it was a great day for the team's first games together!

18U Team—Coach Bruno

Mid-Pen vs. Burlingame 12-4

Santa Cruz vs. Mid-Pen 11-5

The first game was a breeze! Everyone got almost equal playtime. The second one was more of a challenge, and we could have played better. But, hey, I expected it since it was the first time we played together, and a bit of confusion is standard. Let's focus on the positives and keep improving as a team!

Uniform Distribution:

Exciting news! The size 30 and 32 Speedo swimwear and long-sleeve T-shirts are set to be delivered on Tuesday. I will be on deck distributing them throughout the week. Keep an eye on the app chats for specific dates and details. Make sure to grab your gear and wear it with pride!

Upcoming Schedule:

We're back to regular practices this week, focusing on refining skills and enhancing team dynamics. For the 14U teams, mark your calendars for games this Saturday, December 14. You'll find the schedule posted on the calendar and team centers as soon as it is released.

RSVP Reminder:

Remember to RSVP for the upcoming games. Here is a how-to article: https://help.sportsengine.com/en/articles/6311290-how-do-i-rsvp-to-a-game-or-event.

Here is to a fantastic week of practice and preparation for the upcoming games!

Go Mid-Pen!