On Saturday March 12th, 2011, the Roanoke Star’s U13 Girls Elite team arrived at Bailey’s Elementary School Turf Field for the opening game of the 2011 Arlington Spring Invitational Tournament.

The U13 Girls opened the tournament by defeating Arlington Rowdies White 1-0.  The second game of the day turned out to be a classic. The girls defeated DC Stoddert Metros Blue 2-1 on a last minute goal.  The team gave up a game tying goal with less than 10 minutes left in the game.  However, they continued to play and it paid off in the last few seconds with a game winning goal. 

On Sunday they finished up the group play with an impressive 4-0 victory against SSA Blink Magic.  These successes led the U13 girls into the championship game on Sunday afternoon to face DAA Warriors (Maryland).  Star started the game off controlling the possession and shortly into the second half was able to put away one of their chances to lead the game 1-0. This is how the game finished and ensured the girls captured the Championship.

The girls played an attractive and exciting style of soccer the entire weekend.  They showcased their skill and creativeness in each of their four victories.  Also with the ability to control possession and tough defending, the girls only allowed one goal in the weekend.

Photo: Bottom Row:  Samantha Frey (Vinton), Kemper Wills (Salem), Kate O’Conner (Vinton), Corina Woodson (Vinton), Sarah Maurer (Roanoke City), Savannah Cowan (Stewartsville), Mackenzie Comer (Roanoke City), Emily Hillman (Moneta) Top Row:  Coach Alan Crowder (Salem), Gabby McClelland (Roanoke City), Taylor Smith (Franklin County), Madison Maxey (Goodview), Lissa Smith (Roanoke City), Kari Furrow (Roanoke County), Jenna West (Roanoke County). (Photo courtesy of Roanoke Star)