REPRESENTING THE OCEAN STATE
On the shores of the Mediterranean...
VALENCIA, SPAIN: The first ever IDA Easter Cup welcomed 36 teams from multiple countries to the sunny coast of Southeastern Spain this past weekend. In addition to participating in the tournament itself, players were offered the unforgettable experience of immersing themselves in Spanish culture, touring the historic Mestalla stadium and even coming together off the pitch to enjoy Valencian paella.
Rhode Island Surf was well-represented by Annabelle Fiore, Delaney Longval, Hollyn Got, Mya Lavigne, Raegan Hannouch, and Scarlett Fiore, all of whom were a part of the Surf Select Northeast GU12 squad that made the trip across the pond.
Following an opening day draw with Spanish giants RCD Zaragoza, the group produced two emphatic wins over Torrefiel ACE and UE Bentusser to finish as runners-up in the group on goal-differential. They met Zaragoza once again in the final, this time coming out on the wrong end of a 2-0 result.
"My experience in Spain was an amazing opportunity," said Hollyn, "I loved being able to play with highly competitive players in a different country while learning about Spain and their peoples' culture!"
Delaney had this to say of her experience, "I feel fortunate to have represented Surf Select in Valencia this past weekend. I enjoy making connections with other players in Surf Nation and playing against international competition. Experiencing Valencian culture was awesome!"
In sunny Central Florida...
ORLANDO/KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA: The 5th annual Easter International Cup presented by Rayados brought together top teams from the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Costa Rica, among others, for an epic 4-day competition in the Sunshine State.
Brynn Santos, Kayden Taji, Addison Longval, Anna Venditelli, Jackson Orr, Liam Mowry, Evangeline Czynski, Reese Taji, Carter Cathers, Greyson McCrory, Charlotte Hebert, Eden Dagan, Evelyn Godbout, Everly O'Connor, Natalie Bonvehi, Samara Filippo, and Ara Berrios made up the list of Rhode Island Surf players representing Surf Select Northeast, while coaches Dan Yarumian and Lucas Santos took charge of the BU13 and BU9 teams, respectively.
Of the groups competing down South, the GU12 and GU13 teams were silver final winners in their respective brackets. Personal highlights included a winning spot-kick for Carter Cathers that put the BU12 group through to the silver final.
"It was great meeting new faces and seeing old," said Carter, "I really enjoyed the intensity of every match we played. It's always cool having a team made up of players from many different Surf clubs!"
Brynn Santos had this to say, "I'm grateful for the chance to have been a part of this Surf Select team. Playing in competitive games with all of this amazing talent from across Surf Nation was an experience I'll never forget!"
"The Easter Invitational was so much fun. I loved meeting new teammates and playing with familiar faces from years past. The teams we played were high-intensity and presented good competition," remarked Reese Taji.
One thing is certain, Rhode Island Surf's influence and player quality was ever-present over the Easter period. Focus now returns to the remainder of the season at club-level, where these players will continue to showcase their quality at the highest levels. Until next time!
