December 20, 2005 > Lightning wins Invitational Tournament

by Karin Diamond

The FC Fremont Lightning girls under 13 division 1 team, won the Central California Invitational Tournament held in Clovis on Dec. 10 and 11. In an impressive streak of shutout games the Lightning defeated all their competition on both days to clinch the championship.

On Saturday, the Lightning beat Placer United Prestige 4-0 in the morning and beat the Odyssey 93 Girls 5-0 in the afternoon. With multiple Lightning players scoring, tight control of the midfield, impressive defensive play, and stand out goal keeping, the competition was overwhelmed. Paige Diamond scored three goals and had three assists, Janell Koide scored two goals and had one assist, Lauren Jauco scored one goal with one assist, Natalie Sanchez scored one goal and had one assist, Elisa Chen scored one goal and had one assist, Aubrey Lalumandiere scored one goal, and Shannon Genberg had one assist.

On Sunday the Lightning defeated Orchard Valley Sting, 1-0 to advance to the championship game. This was a tight fought game with impressive defensive play by Lauren Floro, Deborah Blalock, Shannon Genberg, and Lica Monobe. Megan Kufeld at goal keeper saved all shots on goal, and Lightning won the game on an unassisted goal by Paige Diamond in the second half. During the championship game, Lightning stepped up their play to beat Santa Rosa United Blue 1-0. Lighting displayed their talent and skill during a very rough and physical game. The winning goal was scored by Andrea Bonilla with assists from Paige Diamond and Lauren Floro.

Other Lightning players who contributed to the championship include Lindsay Cole and Alaina Gold. The FC Fremont Lightning are coached by Jeff Floro and Al Jauco with training from Jack Cairel.