Five Coast teams kicked off their fall season by entering the Dicks Sporting Goods Invitational hosted by Charlotte Soccer Academy over the weekend in Charlotte , North Carolina. Coast returned home with one championship and one finalist trophy after overcoming oppressive heat and very good competition. Coast Director of Coaching Ross Morgan said “ the heat made playing conditions very challenging this weekend. Most clubs have only been training for two weeks so it was difficult for the players. We enjoyed good results for the most part and the competition was excellent. Getting in a couple of pre season tournaments is a huge advantage before the start of league play.”

Coast 07 Red (Click for Image) coached by Mark Sanchez won the championship in the U17 top division. The boys rode a stout defense that conceded only two goals over four matches. The championship came against fellow Piedmont Conference foe Savannah United who they ironically face next weekend in league play. Coach Sanchez tasted victory in his first tournament with the 07 Red. “ Super proud of the boys. We played very well overall this weekend in very trying conditions. To beat a very good Savannah side twice over the weekend was a great way to start our season. “

Coach Brian Smith’s Coast 06 Red (Click for Image) team came up short against CESA out of Greenville, South Carolina in the final by a 0-2 margin. “ I am really proud of the way the boys competed in all four matches this weekend. Even though we did not get it done in the final there are a lot of positives to take from the tournament.