U-19 girls beat odds to finish 2nd in League U-19 girls beat odds to finish 2nd in League (November 18, 2005)

'Danny's team' will stay together
by Jeb Bing

The Pleasanton Rage Orange U-19 girls team finished its season with a record of 18 wins, 2 ties, and only 5 losses. The team was second in its league and highlighted its season by winning the Pleasanton tournament.

Coached by Ron Cruger, the team's players are mostly under 17 and 18, which means they are all eligible to play again next year in the same U-19 team.

Assistant Coach Steve Kennedy said the win-loss statistics hide the real story behind the team.

Before the season even began their head coach, Danny Payne, lost his battle with cancer.

During the season, the girls incurred so many freakish injuries that the team had to withdraw from one tournament because eight out of 18 girls on the roster were unable to play.

In several league matches, the girls were forced to play with only 10 players.

"The success of the team is driven by amazing team chemistry, and is a credit to the courage and heart demonstrated by every one of the 18 players" Kennedy said. "Regardless of the circumstances, the girls have focused on playing a passing style that has been a joy to watch."

The U-19s will resume their season in March when they compete for the Association Cup.

E-mail a friend a link to this story.