It was a memorable weekend for Sault Ste. Marie’s 2016 soccer athletes, with both the girls and boys capturing their division championships at the 3v3 National Soccer Qualification Tournament in Sudbury.

All of these athletes proudly train and play through the Sault Youth Soccer Club, a Canadian soccer club that has helped shape their development as players, teammates and friends. Now, they get to take that journey to the national stage.

2016 Girls — Back-to-Back Champions
The 2016 girls captured the championship after an impressive tournament, winning all but one of their games and tying the other.

The girls have now made their mark at the tournament for the second consecutive year. After reaching the finals last year and winning the qualifier, they returned this year determined to do it again, and they did.

This weekend was especially meaningful as the girls took the field playing for two very special people who have been an important part of their journey. With them in their hearts, the girls were determined to bring the championship home.

2016 Boys — Undefeated Champions
The 2016 boys also had an incredible weekend, going undefeated throughout the tournament and capturing the championship in their division.

Playing in the fast-paced 3v3 format, the boys played with heart from the first whistle to the last. They stood their ground, never backed down and never gave up. Their success came from working together as teammates, supporting one another and battling through every game as a team.

Their determination and teamwork carried them through the tournament and to a well-earned championship.

Toronto Bound
With both teams capturing their division championships, the 2016 girls and boys have earned their spots at 3v3 Nationals in Toronto this winter, where they will compete against teams from across the country and represent Sault Ste. Marie.