The FC Wisconsin Eclipse team played in their first ECNL Inter-Conference Event in Rockford, IL at Sportscore One this weekend.  The team had an impressive showing in all 3 games, finishing with 2 wins and 1 loss against some of the best teams from the ECNL Texas Conference.  The ECNL U14 events are new in 2012-2013, created to give the U14 ECNL teams a glimpse of the competition they will face in the ECNL National Showcases beginning at U15. 

The U14 FC Wisconsin Eclipse team played in their first ECNL Inter-Conference Event in Rockford, IL at Sportscore One this weekend. The team had an impressive showing in all 3 games, finishing with 2 wins and 1 loss against some of the best teams from the ECNL Texas Conference.  The ECNL U14 events are new in 2012-2013, created to give the U14 ECNL teams a glimpse of the competition they will face in the ECNL National Showcases beginning at U15. 

FC Wisconsin Eclipse beat Albion Hurricanes (TX) 3-0 in their first game, with goals from Lindsey Weiss, Grace Karegeannes, and Camille Davre.  The team went on to beat Tulsa Soccer Club (OK) 2-1, coming from behind with two goals from Mikaela Hoard in the second half.  In the final game of the event, FC Wisconsin Eclipse dropped a tough game to FC Dallas, conceding two goals late in the second half. 

"I am really excited about the way the U14 team is playing," said Christian Lavers.  "They are combining with each other really well, and we put together extended periods of possession with good attacking ideas in every game.  These players have really been working hard at training, and have shown a great enthusiasm to learn and get better."

The Rockford ECNL Inter-Conference Event featured teams from the Midwest Conference, the Texas Conference, and the Mountain Conference.  The 2012-2013 season is the first year of these U14 events, reflecting another expansion of the ECNL and another developmental program created to help aspiring young players see what the future holds for them.

"The exciting thing about this age group is the speed at which they pick up new ideas, and with this team in particular, the determination they have to play good, attacking soccer," said Monica White.

Madeline Hoitink and Jen Wandt led a very solid performance from the back line, while Taylor Kerwin was instrumental up front in setting up several chances in each game.  "Every game we see new ideas and new progress from multiple players," said Vito Parente.  "I thought our wide players (Kristina Barczak, Bianca Stubler, Celina Nummerdor, and Sam Broomfield) were particularly good and dangerous in the TSC game."

All five FC Wisconsin Eclipse ECNL teams will be in action this weekend, with Sunday games against their affiliate club, and one of the top clubs in the country, Eclipse Select (IL).  It will be the first games between the clubs, and a special day for both clubs.