On Saturday April 16, the fourth annual RDS Spring Invitational returned to Red Bulls Training Facility in Whippany, NJ. Early morning clouds gave way to a sunny spring afternoon, and perfect conditions for the beautiful game as teams from Ironbound SC, Brooklyn Italians, BW Gottschee, Players Development Academy, Met Oval, New York Soccer Club and Futboltech joined the three Red Bulls Pre-Academy teams in the spirit of camaraderie and friendly competition.
The ten teams clearly relished the occasion at Red Bulls Training Facility, as they exhibited inspired performances game after game. Indeed, with the training ground once again open to spectators, there was a real buzz in the atmosphere as the young starlets showcased their abilities sandwiched between the spectators in the bleachers on one side, and RBII’s training session on the other.
The U11 Boys tournament has undergone several evolutions since inception and this year was no different. With no group or final standings and no placement games, the players were encouraged to just focus on competing, free of the burdens of previous results or upcoming fixtures. The result was a festival-like event celebrating each players commitment, effort, and talent.
Typically hosted in March as a warmup for the spring season, the cost-free, invite only tournament was rescheduled to coincide with the NY Red Bulls vs FC Dallas MLS match at Red Bull Arena. In addition to cost free participation, every player in the tournament was provided with a complimentary ticket to the game, and the tournament MVP’s were all honored on the pitch at halftime.
New York Red Bulls RDS & Pre-Academy would like to thank the participating clubs for their involvement, and their help in creating a supportive and pressure free environment for the players.
For more information on how to join upcoming RDS summer camps, and earn opportunities to represent the RDS Showcase Teams, Pre-Academy and Academy, click here.
