Thirteen games into the VIPL season, the Marine Harvest Riptide U15 Girls soccer team remains firmly placed
in top spot amongst the five teams in its age group on the island. In what was another battle in the cold, wind
and rain that players have had to get accustomed to over the last month, Riptide played Storm at home turf on
Saturday to wrap up their final game of 2015 with a 1-1 tie. Both teams fought hard with Riptide ahead until the
final minutes, when Storm claimed a late goal to even things up. That was the second tie game for Riptide.
Combined with the team’s eleven wins to date, Riptide relaxes into their well-earned and much needed two
week winter break with a total of 35 points, 7 clean sheets, and a goal differential of 23. Riptide is the only team
to have no losses at this point in the season. Proud coaches, Matt Laver and Lisa Wigard, credit the team’s
success to the players and their hard work. Additionally, to implement the team’s top-notch season plan
designed by the Riptide technical staff, ongoing training support from Geoff Hackett and Ken Garraway has
been invaluable.After the team returns from break, the focus will be on reaching peak performance. With only
three regular league games remaining in 2016, Riptide will prepare for tournament play. VIPL A-Cup Play
downs begin late February, followed by Coastal Cup in April and, hopefully, A Cup Provincials in Burnaby in
July.The team will also head to the mainland in March to compete in the annual Surrey Mayor’s Cup
tournament.Beyond the standings, Marine Harvest Riptide U15 Girls have had to overcome some setbacks this
season which has contributed to their growth, on and off the pitch. The team is grateful for all the community
support they have received and wish everyone Happy Holidays and a very Merry Christmas.