15U Boys Finish 5th of 12 at Bugarski Cup Premier Division

It has been a slow but very good progression for our boys in Black (and Red. This weekend proved that they can compete with the best in the age group. Well….. after their first match was over and they finally woke up.

First up was one of the top seeds (Storm Avalanche 3rd). The boys kept up with them for most of the match. Due to some missed opportunities and the sluggish start, the result were 2 straight losses.

After a break the boys were ready to go against Riverside. Still a bit sluggish the boys provided their opponents with a good head start. With the score at a crucial 11 – 23, “the switch” finally turned on. Combined that with the great serving stint from Jake (Jacob) Gray and we have our “TSN turning point” moment. Once the boys caught up they fought hard to stay in the game, eventually succeeding with a score of 32 – 30. Our poor score keeper (one of our own 13U ladies’ player) could not bear the ups and downs of this game. Second game was competitive but we were able to prevail with a score of 25 – 19.

The boys finished 2nd after pool play.

On to the cross over matches with our first opponent – Toronto Boys. Two hard fought games with a resulting 2 straight wins for BLACK, moving them to the next round. Up next were the Niagara Rapids (seeded 4th). Attack Black (in red jerseys) played well but lost the first game, fought back to win the second and fell short in the 3rd loosing 13-15.

Our last match was against Riverside, take 2, to determine 5th place. The boys came out “hungry” and won both games 25 – 14 and 25 – 13.

Some highlights from our weekend – Jake, great serving to bring us back against Riverside, much improved offence from Brady, Bryn, Chris, Connor H, consistent setting from Trey, Patrick, Bryn and Brady, along with great blocks and hits from Jayson, Matt, Erich and Connor M. A few hits versus Riverside stood out for me – Erich hitting the line or the great deep roll and Brady hitting straight down, between 2 blockers from the right side.

Overall a very successful transition back in the premier division. The boys earned and deserve their spot. Finishing 5th in this tournament places the boys in good seeding for the Provincials. Next stop RIM Park, Waterloo, Ontario.

all photos...