It’s an exciting time for the U13 Woodstock Strikers girls soccer team. They’re embarking on regional league play this season for the first time, and they continue to improve as a team – during the summer and winter months.
“They really are one cohesive unit, all working towards one goal,” says Metaxas Makedos, who has been coaching the team, along with Vic Cabral, for three seasons. “And their true strength comes from the commitment and dedication of the players, as well as their parents.”
Since the team was originally formed, Makedos and Cabral have worked together on building basic skills with the girls. The process has involved developing strong technical skills, and then over time – as the girls have progressed – incorporating tactical skills.
“On a regular basis, the team continues to set attainable short and long-term goals,” says Makedos, who serves as the Director of Competitive Soccer for the Woodstock Soccer Club. “And our players are continuing to improve on things like being aware of the game surroundings by having strong tactical strategy and game awareness.”
The Strikers wrapped up their first indoor season as an U13 group, and the results were impressive. The girls went a perfect 17-0-0 during regular season play, posting a goals for and against ratio of 109/9, and then proceeded to sweep the playoffs, officially becoming District Cup champions after a 5-0 win over the Byron 1 squad. Meanwhile, the Strikes placed second at the Scrooge tournament over the Christmas holidays during the winter.
And now it’s on to outdoor play. The girls will be part of the Kick-Off Cup in Windsor on May 12-13, and will compete in the Peterborough Challenge Cup on June 3-4. They’ll also participate in the Ontario Cup and take part in the British Soccer Team Camp the week of August 7-10.
And when the team suits up for their first outdoor action, they’ll be doing so with five new players who have been added during the offseason.
“We’re very excited to have them become part of our team,” said Makedos.
Once again, Cowan park will be the home of the Woodstock Soccer Club in 2018, with both the Woodstock Stallions (male) and Woodstock Strikers (female) playing their home games at the Cowan pitch.
Contributions by Metaxas Makedos
