Two Woodlands International College teams made up of U14, U15 and U16 players played admirably in the Dana Cup tournament held in Denmark from July 24 to 29.
Woodlands director and Dana Cup coordinator Brenda Sampson said despite the persistent rain and icy conditions, the Woodlands teams played well.
“Woodland teams were the only school teams participating in the tournament, all the other teams were stemming from either soccer clubs or academies.
“The U16 team progressed to the 16th round (out of 141 teams) with the U15 team progressing to the 32nd round (out of 143 teams),” said Sampson.
She added that their boys distinguished themselves on account of their impeccable manners and behaviour, along with the respect they showed both on and off the field.
“They showed a strong sense of national identity, pride, and team spirit. They were firm favourites right from the opening ceremony with their distinctive parade shirts.
“The boys seized the opportunity to develop and expand their existing interpersonal football skills on a broader and more competitive international level. They also formed international friendships with like-minded players,” Sampson explained.
She mentioned that apart from the soccer experience, the players were taken to iconic places on an 11-hour cross-country bus trip.
“They went to the street art museums, a canal cruise in Amsterdam, and innumerable impressive sights. We are already working on strengthening ourselves and improving in certain areas because we want to compete in the same tournament next year.
“Dana Cup is an annual tournament, and this year 1114 teams across 19 categories, along with 18 942 players invited from 45 countries came to encourage, showcase and hone the skills of the finest young players on the planet,” she elaborated.
The Boksburg College extends its gratitude to the parents, coaches, managers and sponsors, including our supporters at home for their cheers on the sidelines, and those who contributed to making the tour a success.
Source: Citizen