KAPAA — Whitney Lugo of the Kalaheo Futbol Club, April Barnes of Kauai United and Noah LaMadrid of Team Uhhhhh became the first Most Valuable Players for the first futsal tournament organized by the All Saints Indoor Sports program at
KAPAA — Whitney Lugo of the Kalaheo Futbol Club, April Barnes of Kauai United and Noah LaMadrid of Team Uhhhhh became the first Most Valuable Players for the first futsal tournament organized by the All Saints Indoor Sports program at the All Saints Gym in Kapaa.
“Considering it is our very first tournament, and futsal being relatively new to the island, the tournament turned out great,” said Sybil Nishioka, tournament coordinator. “We had 10 youth teams and five adult division teams. The response has been overwhelmingly positive and players and coaches are looking forward to more tournament and the opportunity to scrimmage and practice more.”
Lugo was named MVP for the Under 13 division which was won by the Kalaheo FC. The Survivors earned the runner-up spot. Third place honors went to Mytra’s Team.
Barnes was announced the MVP for the Under 17 division which was won by Team Ace. The eLEMONators filled in second place with Kalaheo FC2 getting third place.
“The South and Westside teams have been playing more formal futsal with established teams and regular practices,” Nishioka said of the indoor soccer sport. “They’ve been playing according to U.S. Futsal rules, and several of the younger players participate in Mainland tournaments.”
Michelle Alimboyoguen, a coach for the Kalaheo teams, said she was so excited about the tournament. She fielded five teams.
She said they hold practices on Wednesday for advanced players, or 18 and over, from 8 to 10:30 p.m. From 5:45 to 8 p.m., practice is held for a Select Youth Travel team. Pick-up futsal games are held on Friday and Saturday at the Kato Gym, across from the Kalaheo Elementary School.
“We’re open to all keiki,” Alimboyoguen said.
Nishioka said the Eastside and North Shore teams were also excited about the tournament. The Adult Division games were explosive and exciting, she added.
“It really came down to the final game to determine the champion with Pacos Tacos taking the win in a back-and-forth nail-biter against Kalaheo Futbol Club,” Nishioka said.
Third place honors was taken by Team Uhhhhh.
“It was amazing to see the level of skill that the young players have,” Nishioka said. “It’s expected from the older folks, but on such a small court, ball handling and control is vital, and the young players were remarkable!”
