The spring 2019 campaign kicked off with some steep challenges and good results for the SOCA U13 Boys Elite squad, at the Jefferson Cup in Richmond.  With snow and wet conditions limiting training opportunities prior to the nationally recognized event, the U13’s faced tough competition while trying to quickly acclimate to high level matches.

The local squad faced four opponents from four different states over the March 9/10 weekend.  SOCA dropped their tournament opener, a 2-1 loss, to United Futbol Academy of Georgia in a closely contested match, while getting their legs adjusted to game conditions after the winter lay-off.

The second match on Saturday saw SOCA press for a 4-3 win over Maryland United FC, from the Bowie area.  The result was a confidence booster, as the team rolled into their Sunday morning match and posted a solid 3-1 win over Charlotte SA of North Carolina.

The win put SOCA at the top of their bracket, and set up a championship final showdown against South Carolina United in the Sunday afternoon match.  The boys from Carolina carried the day as SOCA legs tired, with a 3-0 final score line.

The opening tournament will serve to launch the team into CCL league play, which will begin on March 24.

Over the weekend of March 16/17, SOCA’s Girls U11 and U12 Apprentice, and U13 and U14 Elite teams will get their turn at the Jefferson Cup.