The tournament began today with most of the teams participating playing their first game. Both of our teams came up against FC Dallas. These teams we think may be the toughest competition in each of our age groups. Our U-15’s played first at 11.30am and the U-14’s played at 1.30pm.

The weather today was not friendly towards us and so was the opposition. It was tough.  The temperature was in the 50’s F and it was blustery, not what we would call Trinbago conditions. On the flip side, the fields were in immaculate condition, well grassed and cut in such a way that it gave a cushiony effect underfoot. If the weather was not as it was today, one would feel to play a game of football even if he knew nothing about the game.

As it turned out, it seemed as if some of our players would have preferred to be back in the hotel. I am sure the coaches may have had the same thought, but the show had to go on. As it turned out both teams lost, the U15’s 2-0 and the U-14’s 4-0, but both sets of players put up a brave fight and never gave up. This is a testament to their wanting to perform well. They battled on in the face of the cold, the wind, the burning nostrils and throat and the sheer physical advantage of both sets of opponents.

After the games the teams went to the official opening ceremony which was held at the Cotton Bowl in downtown Dallas. This the boys thoroughly enjoyed; then they watched the first half of the Super League match between the USA and Monterrey. Again, the coldness was challenging so we did not stay for the second half.

Tomorrow, Monday, both teams contest their second games. The U-15’s play at 10.00am and the U-14’s at 2.00pm. Hopefully, at least the weather will give us some respite.