Alex and his Rapids ECNL team made it to the playoffs in North Carolina. What an experience for Alex. And what a tournament he had. I could write so much here about his experience the last year. I just might. Just don't know quite where to start.
Alex moved from Select 1 on Rapids North to ECNL as a center defender. He worked so hard to get to that team. He is small but fast and committed to the game. Taller and 2nd year ECNL players were on the team and started over Alex. Totally fine! He then changed positions to outside back and finally to wing. He thrived in all positions. He always came into a game and did his job. It was a hard team to be on as in most of the players were out for themselves. I think the higher you get, the more personal it gets. Anyway, Alex didn't love his team and he also had his pulled hamstring he had to heal and some stomach issues that kept him from practice on occasion.
The team tied most of their games but made it to the playoffs with Utah Avalanche. Both representing the west region. Rapids ECNL was one of 64 teams vying for #1. Guess who they played first? The team that won the tournament. But, they only lost by 2-1.
Travis went out for the first half of the tournament and two games. The boys played hard. Alex was a winger and he was responsible for 2/3 of the goals that were scored. Incredible! This tournament was one week after he was relegated to the ECNL Regional Team based out of Central. He didn't quit. He didn't get mad. He played his guts out for the team that would be playing together the next year! Travis and I were so proud of Alex and his grit and determination. The coach said basically "there are boys that aren't on this team next year that outplayed boys who are on this team..." Alex was happy to hear the praise.
The team visited Duke and UNC, played games and watched movies. Alex had a great time. Enjoy the photo story of ECNL Playoffs!
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