The 29th Ferguson North American Sand Soccer Championships at the vibrant Virginia Beach Oceanfront from June 9th to 11th delivered an exhilarating showcase of beach soccer excellence.
Among the participating teams, the Tacoma Stars soared to victory, claiming the prestigious title in the U.S. Men’s Open Division Championship. However, the tournament encompassed much more than just the final outcome. Let’s dive into the captivating moments and highlights that made this event truly memorable.
Over the course of three thrilling days, teams from across North America battled fiercely for glory on the sandy shores. The tournament offered a platform for more than 750 teams to display their skills, making it a grand showcase of top beach soccer talent in the United States. With the highly anticipated Men and Women U.S. Open Championships, as well as matches featuring elite professional teams, the competition was intense, drawing spectators and participants into a world of thrilling beach soccer action.
In the culminating showdown, the Tacoma Stars emerged triumphant with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Maryzillians, securing the North American Sand Soccer U.S. Men’s Open Division Championship. Led by standout performances from players like Nick Perera, who scored two crucial goals, and goalkeeper Chris Toth, who also found the back of the net, the Stars displayed their skills and determination throughout the tournament, finishing with a perfect 6-0 record.
The championship-winning team showcased a remarkable blend of current and former Tacoma Stars players, including Perera, Cory Keitz, and Fellipe Souza. Their lineup was bolstered by the talents of other notable players, such as Toth, Alessandro Canale, Mike Palmerin, Ricardo Carvalho, and Thyago Henrique. The addition of U.S. Beach National Team member Alan Franco and local talent Kambez Shukoor further enhanced the team’s performance.
Nick Perera’s outstanding contributions throughout the tournament earned him the NASSC Tournament MVP Award, adding to his impressive resume as the reigning MASL MVP and scoring champion. His remarkable performance, coupled with Toth’s exceptional goalkeeping skills, which even saw him scoring goals of his own, played a pivotal role in the Tacoma Stars’ success.
The excitement of the Ferguson North American Sand Soccer Championships extended beyond the players and onto the organizers. Lauren Bland, the Executive Director of NASSC, expressed her enthusiasm for hosting the event, while Matt Whalen, U.S. Open Director, praised the exceptional competitiveness on display, recognizing it as a testament to the best beach soccer talent from around the world.
As the championship concluded, the memories of the event will be etched in the minds of participants and spectators alike. The 29th Ferguson North American Sand Soccer Championships embodied the spirit of beach soccer, showcasing fierce competition, outstanding performances, and the unifying power of the sport. With the sun setting on the sandy shores of Virginia Beach, fans departed with a deep appreciation for the thrilling championship and the entire event that celebrated the excitement and passion of beach soccer.
The Ferguson North American Sand Soccer Championships once again demonstrated the allure of the sport, captivating audiences and inspiring players to push the boundaries of their abilities. As the echoes of cheers and applause faded, the tournament left a lasting impression, reminding everyone of the excitement and camaraderie that defines the world of beach soccer.
Pictures: NASSC
