Although I was stuck in Des Moines (and unable to attend the Drake games to boot), I was fed regular updates by fellow assistant coach Tyler Nielsen. The day started off strong with senior midfielder netting a hat trick early in the first half against a combined River City/Westside team on route to an eventual 8-2 victory.The Tigers then dominated host Lincoln 6-1 before topping 2009 league champion and 2010 runner-up Millard West 5-3. By the end of the morning, Griess scored ten goals and picked up two assists. Freshman attacker Ted Crites had five points (two goals, three assists) and Sophomore midfielder Sam Arends had three (two goals, one assist) to round out the team's top scorers in the preliminary games.
Teams were broken up into brackets for the afternoon games. The early game put the Tigers into a rematch with River City/Westside, resulting in a similar scoreline (8-1). The tournament championship was a repeat of the state semifinals with Valley facing Creighton Prep. Just like their last meeting, this game was a real nail biter with Valley coming out ahead by a single goal (6-5). There are (unconfirmed) reports that all six goals were scored by different players.
I do not have the individual stats for the afternoon games yet. Once I do, they will be updated on the Valley website. I will also edit this post.
Next up for Valley is the annual Orange vs White game at Valley Stadium. This year's game will be held on Thursday, October 21 at Valley Stadium. Unlike previous years, the boys will play following the Waukee girls' game. The girls game starts at 6:00 pm; the boys are scheduled to begin at 8:00 pm. Admission is free for both games.
Also unlike last year, CILA members will not be allowed to participate. This year's game will be played solely by Valley team members and coaches.
I do not have the updates for Drake's Cornfield Classic at this time.
