|
What started out to be a tough
loss against a fantastic Creeks Clash team (2 - 1) in the Championship
game of the Region B Final Four in Ocala, became a blessing in
disguise from their team and coaches Rick O'Connor and Mark Leininger.
Since the Jacksonville team (Creeks Clash) was unable
to make the trip to the State Final Four due to Spring Break absences
from a group of players, the offer was extended to the 2nd place
team - Sebastian. Sebastian gladly accepted the offer and the
opportunity to represent the Region at State. With well wishes
in hand and comments from the coaches that "Sebastian is the classiest
team we have ever played against", Sebastian set out to perform
in honor of both teams.
With the challenge and big shoes to fill, Sebastian
was matched against a powerful team from Miami - Miami Strike
Force - who advanced through the tough South Florida Region.
The playing field in Merritt Island (home of Central
Brevard Soccer) was in perfect condition but the wind was a large
factor. The teams battled for 80 minutes without a score and Sebastian
chose the wind in the first of two ten minute overtime periods.
For 7 minutes, opportunities came and went and then
it happened - a Sebastian hand ball in the penalty box. It was
like the air was flushed from the field and the Sebastian players
were gasping for hope while the fans and players from Miami were
counting their victory.
The Miami player lined up for the penalty kick and
after the "ready" confirmation from the Sebastian goal keeper,
the referee blew the whistle. What occurred over the next 7 -
8 seconds is what dreams and movies are made of.
The Sebastian goal keeper - Aaron Ruiz - anticipated
the direction of the shot and with a dive, a save, three quick
steps and a punt beyond mid field, the emotional swing went from
devastation by Sebastian to complete exhilaration when the ball
landed, bounced over the head of the last defender, was chested
to the ground by a sprinting Jesus (Chuy) Pena and chipped over
the head of the Miami goal keeper.
In a few short seconds, victory was snatched from
the jaws of defeat and Sebastian went into a prevent 4 - 5 - 1
defense and ran out the clock for the most spectacular win everyone
in attendance would ever admit to witnessing.
Knowing the Miami game really could not be topped,
Sebastian began preparing for the next game against IMG Academy
on Sunday. IMG is another powerhouse team coming from the Bradenton
area that defeated Bay United from Panama City 6 - 0 in the Semi-Final
match. IMG is an Olympic Development Academy churning out players
such as Tim Howard (Goal Keeper) and Damarcus Beasley (Striker)
for the US National Team.
The game was played very evenly for the first 68
minutes with both teams having limited scoring opportunities.
Then it happened, a beautiful through ball to the right corner
of the penalty box and a speedy striker - Danny Hurtado - ripped
the ball past the goal keeper for a 1 - 0 lead. Immediately, the
coaches, players, parents and fans erupted from their seats with
screams of joy. Right away, the Sebastian coaches quickly focused
the team and changed the lineup into a 4 - 5 - 1 to allow the
team to run out the clock and preserve the victory. A couple more
scoring opportunities came about with no goals and the time expired
with Sebastian capturing the unlikely state crown with a 1 - 0
score.
The joy pouring from the sidelines was so emotional
that there were many tears, high fives, knuckle bumps and a multitude
of hugs that would make anyone and everyone smile. This was a
moment that will live on in the memories of all of those individuals
at that field for many many years to come.
After each of the victories, a strange situation
occurred. The coaches asked "just where exactly is Sebastian,
we have never heard of it?" After a brief explanation, some head
nodding and chuckling, they NOW KNOW where Sebastian is located
and it will be forever etched in their minds. The quiet little
fishing village of Sebastian has created a lasting impression
with a club of 300 or so soccer players, including three competitive
teams to emerge victorious against populated cities dwarfing this
tiny county.
The sensational play and defensive effort shutting
out the scoring power of these elite teams was bolstered by Aaron
Ruiz (GK), Ricky Gamboa (Sweeper), Scott Cairns (Left Defender),
Matt Magrane (Right Defender), Tyler Helms (Stopper); Ryan Henderson,
Noe Hurtado, Jesus Pena, Arcadio Salazar, Taylor Zilz, Sasha Benincasa
and Evan Kalish (Midfielders); and Daniel Hurtado, Adan Pena and
Rhys Lewis (Strikers). Unable to play due to injury was (GK) William
Hoelke.
This incredible weekend has extended the season
for Sebastian as they advanced to the Region III Presidents Cup
being held June 13 - 15 in Greer, South Carolina. The State Champions
from 11 states (with two coming from Texas) will gather to determine
the top four teams that will move on to play in the National Championships
in July.
This experience is a once in a lifetime opportunity
for these players to carry the Sebastian and Indian River County
banner to the next level. In an effort to support the players
advancement, the team is seeking sponsors for donations to make
this continued dream a reality. If you are interested in sponsoring
(no matter what size donation), please contact Bion Henderson
@ 321-258-4220 or 772-589-8869. All donations and proceeds from
individuals and events in support of this team will be used solely
and specifically to fund the travel and expenses of the players.
The team thanks the community businesses and individuals
in advance for consideration
|
