Jr. Lakers continue impressive Ontario Cup journey

The team's advancement marks the furthest a North Bay soccer team has progressed in the Ontario Cup format in recent history

The NDSC Jr. Lakers U16 Girls continue their journey through the Ontario Cup knockout stage following a big Round 2 victory over Woodbridge Soccer Club. The Jr. Lakers came up with the victory despite the absence of some key players due to injury. After travelling for their first two Ontario Cup matches, the Jr. Lakers will finally have the opportunity to bring the competition home to North Bay and host an Ontario Cup match for the first time.

The girls will face Dixie Soccer Club in the Round 3 knockout stage on July 25 at 1 p.m. at Nipissing University, as they look to continue what has already become a historic Cup run. Dixie SC is a strong opponent and will provide a significant test for the Jr. Lakers. The team's advancement marks the furthest a North Bay soccer team has progressed in the Ontario Cup format in recent history.

The Ontario Cup success adds to an outstanding season for the 2010 Jr. Lakers. The girls completed a dominant and undefeated iModel qualification campaign, finishing first overall and advancing to the Ontario Soccer iModel C1 Division for the second consecutive season. The Jr. Lakers will have their work cut out for them as they enter the top iModel C1 Division.

Competing against some of the most competitive teams from across the province, the girls will be challenged to carry their strong league form into the next stage of the season and prove they can consistently compete at the highest level of iModel play. The strength of this group continues to be its commitment, depth, and team-first mentality. The players have worked extremely hard to train and prepare for this level of competition, pushing one another and continuing to raise the standard within the group.

C1 competition begins this weekend with 2 challenging matches against Unionville Milliken Soccer Club on Saturday and Glen Shields Juventus on Sunday providing an immediate test for the Jr. Lakers as they look to establish themselves among the top teams in the division. With the challenge of C1 competition underway and a historic Ontario Cup home match ahead, the Jr. Lakers remain focused on continuing their development and pursuing their team goals. Next Ontario Cup Game: Round 3 Knockout is Saturday, July 25 at Nipissing University.