On November 20, 2009 the USL Super Y-League North American Finals kicks off in Tampa, Florida. Across the length and breath of the Nation, teams are going through final preparations for competition in this prestigious tournament. For the first time in our club’s history, West Pines will be represented by four teams and one can sense the nervous, but controlled, excitement beginning to creep into the air surrounding our present U-14, U-15 boys, as well as our U-14 and U-16 girls’ teams. All teams will be competing in the age group a year younger due to the seasonal year the Super Y-League competition started. West Pines United FC will be honored for their regular season accomplishments where they earned an impressive "First Eleven" as a Club with an overall ranking of #11 & a Girl’s Program ranking of #8 at an awards reception and dinner planned for the opening night ceremonies.    

Though recent results cannot predict the future, there are encouraging signs that a highly competitive performance could be in the cards. Facing the State’s crème-del-la-crème in Florida State League action last weekend, the U-14 girls accomplished a rare double when defeating two top-ranked State teams. Taking both games by a 3-2 margin, the girls avenged last year’s defeat at the 2009 State Cup Final Four by defeating the defending State Champions and #1 ranked East Lake, before returning a few hours later to down #4 ranked Braden River. Their preparation for the Nationals continues this weekend with games against #3 ranked Krush and the other 2009 State Cup Final Four participant, FC America Kumba. Ardent preparations are also underway by our U-14 boys who are currently undefeated in the older division of the South Florida United Youth Soccer Association (SFUYSA), regular season league. The defending State Cup champions run in the recently concluded West Pines Kickoff Classic produced victories over some of the top age group teams in the State, including a championship final over the Tampa Fusion, their 2009 State Cup Final opponents. Somewhat on the negative side, preparation of our older teams, the U-15 boys and U-16 girls, have been hampered with both squads laden with players currently playing on their respective High School teams. Extensive practices sessions are limited in order to prevent over-taxing the players and creating the likelihood of unwanted injuries. Both squads remain upbeat however, and are confident that their performances will bring nothing but glory to West Pines. Good luck to all!