Proudly donning their Nike Rush kit for the first time, the MD Rush Nike 97 boys – a Calvert-based travel soccer team – won the Gold Division of the 25th Spirit Kick-Off Classic in Downington, PA.

 

Playing against tough competition, the boys conceded a goal in the first ten minutes of the first match but kept a clean sheet the rest of the tournament.  They tied the improbably named Tredyffrin-Easttown YSA FC Europa Samba 1-1, and shut out Penn Legacy 97 Black, West Chester United and Hunter SC to win the Gold Division Championship.  Striker Justin scored in every match.  Other goals were scored by Mason, Andre, and Nico, while team newcomers David and Ben contributed assists and goal-scoring chances in each game.  Keeper Brady and defenders Mason, Matt, Nicolas, Brandon and Kevin maintained their customary stout defense.

 

Coach David Mongey, in his post championship game comments, lauded the boys for playing the game in the proper spirit, never receiving referee discipline and refraining from dissent throughout the tournament.

 

The boys also won the Olney Boys and Girls Club Tournament over Labor Day weekend in a penalty kick shootout over Bethesda, and have started regular season play in the National Capital Soccer League Division 3 with three straight shutouts.