The U15 Norcal All Star team had its most successful performance in Colorado to date, finishing the tournament in Second Place out of nine teams. We played four games per day at the comfortable Vail altitude of 8,000 ft for a total of 12 games!
The team went 6-2 in the pre-bracket games, beating Utah, Texas, Idaho, Ft Collins (CO), Team Denver, and Pikes Peak (CO). Our only pre-bracket losses occurred against Minnesota in triple overtime, and a one goal loss to Team Colorado. At the end of the pre-bracket games, four teams had equal records of 6-2 (Norcal, Denver, Colorado, and Minnesota). On the final day, our journey through the brackets pitted us against Minnesota again, where we avenged our earlier loss. This win put us in the Championship game, where we lost to Team Colorado 12-5 (?).

The trip was wildly successful. Kids, parents, and coaches had a great time. And I think with the U13's comparable success, we showed Team Norcal as a premier lacrosse force in the west. Gone are the days of Colorado domination. We can and do contend.

With that, it's time to start thinking beyond the Vail Tournament. But instead of going out east, we might consider asking the lacrosse community
to come to us, the Golden State. Sunshine, beaches, and impartial refereeing...not a hard sell. When and where will the California tournament occur?

Go Team Norcal!

The U15 Coaches

Brad Lipscomb
Chris DeBiase
Gus Martin
John Wlcek