State Soccer Champions

Wow..... Mountain View High School has been in the State soccer championships the last three years and two weeks ago they won their first State Championship. Richie played very well this year and I enjoyed watching his burst of speed and passionate play.

Richie puts a head on the ball to clear it out of the box.
Richie catches a hard hit ball on his thigh setting it on the grass for a shot. It was a beautifully hard hit shot to the top right but is was just wide.
I hate it when I see him try to block the goalkeepers kick. He just missed the ball !
Waiting for a throw in Richie walks across the field and gets into a seam.
Richie ran all over the field putting pressure on his opponents.
After the semifinals the team was elated to play in the State Championship game
(Rio Tinto Stadium, where Real Soccer calls home )
Richie smiles as his name is broadcast across the stadium speakers. There was excitement in the air and the kids played with the intensity of champions. Richie runs into a seam as the ball is kicked up field.
Continuing up the field defenders take angles to cut Richie off from the goal.

Blowing by the defense Richie puts sets up to pass the ball.


Quick changes of direction gives Richie good field position for passing and shooting.
This was an awesome move..... he tapped the ball around the defender and used his speed to chase down the ball. Cool stuff !!!
With the final seconds the kids were all over the field.
Richie is holding the trophy..... what an evening!! This is one win we will all remember many years to come. Thanks Richie for giving your best effort every time you step on the grass. Remember...... good things happen to those who consistently work hard and never give up.