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MPU joins Pacific Ocean Cup 12
MP United U12 players chase the ball during their game against Vivid Blue U12 in the Pacific Ocean Cup 12 held in Shizuoka, Japan early this month. (Contributed Photo)
MP United Football Club warmed up for the 2019 NMIFA Youth Football Fall League by participating in the Pacific Ocean Cup 12 held in Shizuoka, Japan early this month.
The Gene Weaver-coached squad had 11 players challenging four Japanese teams, including MP United’s sister club Vivid Blue. Tristian and Jack Raho, Andrick Poon, Jereme Quimzon,William Sosa, Moshe Sikkel, Cassie Regan, Dong Hyun Lee, Dong Gyu Lee, Gyu Hyun Park, and Geon Ho Song suited up for the MP United U12 crew and earned a 1-1-2 win-draw-loss record in the Sept.1 tournament hosted by Vivid Blue in Numazu-City.
The visiting team first dueled Helki Football Club and forced a 1-1 draw. Next up for MP United was Katahama FC and Weaver’s players eked out a 1-0 victory. For their last two matches, MP United players challenged Vivid Blue U12 and U11 squads and dropped both games to finish fourth in the tournament. Vivid Blue U12 ruled the Pacific Ocean Cup 12 after earning an unbeaten record.
The champion squad and other participating teams were recognized at the awards ceremony along with the most valuable players from each group. Regan was named MVP of the MP United.
An MP United player dribbles during their game against Vivid Blue U11 in the Pacific Ocean Cup 12 held in Shizuoka, Japan early this month. (Contributed Photo)
The players did their best and gave their all in each game they played. I’m sure that they will up their game and apply what they have experienced in Japan this coming fall season,” Weaver said.
The 2019 NMIFA Youth Football Fall League will kick off this weekend.
“This is my fourth year in a row taking a team to Japan for the POC and I will continue to go back year after year. The hospitality that we receive once we step off the plane in Shizuoka is beyond words. The host families are so generous, kind and ensure that our stay is a memorable one. Numazu-city has become my second home,” the MP United coach added.
The club would like to thank the tournament sponsors in Japan, Vivid Blue, coaches Sachi and Tomoki, IT&E, and I Love Saipan for their continued support to the biannual competition that MPU and Vivid Blue alternately host. The group also acknowledged the help of Kyoung Min Song, Naoko, assistant coach Skyler Poon and other team delegates Stephanie Kim, and Jin and Yun Hee Woo.
