The U17s in early 2024. Photo provided.
The Can-Am Cup tournament is the first 11-side tournament in which the Northwood soccer teams competed in 2024. The tournament has a prolonged structure that stretches over 4 months. The first group games started in mid-November and will go on until the middle of March.
The Northwood soccer program traveled to Tinton Falls, New Jersey, to play the second and final round of group games. Both teams went 4-0, resulting in a combined 8-0 record for the weekend. The teams played one game on Friday, two games on Saturday, and one last game on Sunday.
The 17s’ first competitive game of the second round of group games was against Valencia FC. The scoreline showed a 3-1 victory to Northwood | Black Rock with Richard Szekely ‘27 grabbing his first Northwood goal. Saturday, the 17s played their toughest games against Woodbridge and RMPUS, with the scores 3-1 and 4-1, respectively. The final game on Sunday against Far Post was a tight match. Although it was a friendly, the 17s went all out to win. A single goal from goal machine Diego Green ’25 secured the 1-0 win. Diego was the player of the weekend with 3 goals and 2 assists.
The 19s played RMPUS on Friday night and came away with a comfortable 2-0 win with striker Mitchell Baker ‘24 scoring both goals. On Saturday, they played Valencia FC and Woodbridge, winning 2-1 and 4-0, respectively. On Sunday, the 19s played their final game against their Black Rock “brother” High Mowing School in the pouring rain. They finished their chances and earned a 4-1 victory. Star performances from Leo Doyle ‘25 (on his first matches back from injury) with 4 goals and Baker with 7 goals.
The unbelievable performances from both teams truly show what Northwood School is capable of. Ending the weekend with 8-0 combined is a first for the program in the 2023-2024 season, which is an incredible feat. With many college coaches looking on, many players showcased themselves. With every team, many things can always be improved, but 8-0 goes without saying as a successful weekend. The teams look forward to the winter showcase in New Hampshire and are preparing more than ever.
