Sixteen highly skilled teams from high schools across the western U.S. were represented in this tournament including schools from Kansas City, MO, Lakewood, CO; Bainbridge Island, WA; Poway, CA and the San Francisco Bay Area.

The game of the weekend that had everyone talking was Saturday’s 8:00 am face-off matching California’s #1 ranked St Ignatius Prep Wildcats, (affectionately known as Ignats or SI), and our own #10 ranked Palos Verdes Sea Kings. After a clunky first game late Friday against Bainbridge Island, the Sea Kings woke up on the right side of the bed and put on a valiant display of teamwork on both sides of the field that had the sidelines humming by halftime. With a score of 3-2 in favor of Palos Verdes, the Wildcats had to be wondering what the second half would bring. After all, SI has never trailed an opponent in regulation play this season. SI was able to capitalize on several scoring opportunities after the break including a crucial man-up situation that tied the score. In the end, St Ignatius won the game 6-4, but it was up for grabs until the final minute. The Sea Kings can carry their heads high for this was a true test of their character.

Palos Verdes followed with a dominant win over San Jose’s Bellarmine High and ended the tournament with a close game against John Mcreery’s alma mater, Stevenson School of Pebble Beach.

To close out the tournament, trophies were awarded and outstanding players were recognized. Only two of the teams had multiple players in the awards lineup. Menlo School of Atherton, CA, and Palos Verdes High School. For Palos Verdes, Alex Marin was singled out for his outstanding efforts as Goalie and Adam Wagoner received props for his Individual Sportsmanship during the tourney. High praise for these two gentlemen, especially considering the company they were in.