With a crispness creeping into the late August evening air and dusk arriving earlier each night, the milder weather is giving these young soccer players a second wind, allowing them to train harder and play longer during demanding drills and fast-paced matches.
Buzz about the returning school year is growing, leaving these summer teammates mindful that their weeks together on the pitch are nearly at an end.
Come autumn, many of these same players will face off across the field in different school colours for local tournaments. While cross-town rivalries are sure to kick in, competing against familiar friends always brings a lively dynamic of friendly banter, mutual respect, and inspiring sportsmanship.
