Finding the back of the net was not a problem for the Humboldt Elite FC Grizzlies 12U players over the weekend.
And neither was stopping their opponents from scoring.
The local travel team made the trip to Redding to compete in the Smash Cup and went undefeated in four games, including three straight lopsided wins to close out.
In the championship game, the Elite beat the AC United Spartans 7-1 and they closed out the tournament with 23 goals, while conceding just four.
“What an incredible way to finish our 2026 season,” the coaches said “These boys showed heart, determination, discipline, teamwork and passion throughout the entire tournament.
“Every player contributed to this achievement and we couldn’t be prouder of how much they’ve grown together.”
The Grizzles opened tournament play with a 2-2 tie against the Chico Cal Soccer Club and followed that with a 6-0 win over Lassen United FC, before getting the better of MCSA 2014 Boys Black 8-1 to reach the championship game.
The roster includes Manny Cruz, Diego Peralta, Jacob Burgoa-Olea Jr., Bruno Ruiz, Legend Taylor, Ryder Trent, Manolo Gonzalez, Josue Munoz, James Coleman, Jesus Palacios, Kai Brothers, Giovanni Torres, Chayce McGinnis and Knox Midlbrandt, as well as head coach Ernesto Taylor and assistant coaches John McGinnis and Jacob Burgoa.
“We started this journey as a team, grew stronger as a family and the season as champions,” the coaches added.
