CAPERS U13 GIRLS RACK UP NEW ACADEMY'S HISTORIC FIRST WIN

CAPERS ACADEMY U13AA Girls chalked up the new set-up’s first ever Nova Scotia Soccer League (NSSL) win - and they have seen striker Evelyn Power soar to the top of the scoring charts.

Provincial squad striker Evelyn, whose siblings Eric and Emma Jean also play in the Academy, was part of the 13s squad that won the island’s first Tier One banner in 15 years last summer.

She is back to play her second season at this level and was part of an excellent opening weekend for the CAPERS Girls that saw them edged 4-3 by Halifax City before they dominated in a resounding 8-1 win over Halifax County.

The birth of a Tier One Academy for youth soccer is something CBU CAPERS Men’s Head Coach Deano Morley has dreamed of in over two decades dedicated to the growth of the game on the island.

Now it’s here Deano is giving back as Head Coach of the 13s Girls and he said: “The U13 Girls Academy team has laid a powerful foundation to start the season not just in how they play but in who they are becoming.

“Their work in the team room set the tone: defining their identity, habits, standards and what they want to be known for.

“From that foundation, their training habits have been exceptional. Communication has improved, leadership is emerging, and there’s a clear sense of togetherness growing stronger with each session.

“Many players who last year were part of the Development Team, designed to enhance experience, are now reaping the rewards. They are playing with confidence, belief and conviction.

“Several returning players from last year’s Academy team are stepping into leadership roles and doing a tremendous job guiding the group both on and off the field.”

Deano is loving the chance to see the players thrive under his guidance as part of what is a powerful Girls Academy.

Last weekend the U17AAA Girls, who have CBU CAPERS Women’s Assistant Coach Mitch Hanna at the helm, racked up a six-point weekend with two triumphs over South Shore United as Kuvy’s Moodley’s U15AAA Girls picked up their first point of the season against the same rivals.

Deano stressed: “Many players had outstanding performances in our opening games and, while we are not focused on individual achievements, we must note Evelyn’s goalscoring power which saw her score five goals in two games.

“More important than her goals was her relentless off-the-ball work and fight and the overall collective performance of the entire squad.

“Every player contributed and together they’ve launched what promises to be an exciting season. Winning habits are built in how you train and this group of young women are proving they are ready to live up to the goals they set for themselves.”

 * CAPERS ON THREE! Our picture shows the U13 Girls getting ready to shine before their historic win over Halifax County.