2014B Gold Claim Rapids Classic Championship in Thrilling Fashion

The 2014B Gold team wrapped up their preseason Rapids Classic tournament in unforgettable style, showing grit, growth, and a whole lot of heart along the way.

The journey didn’t exactly start with fireworks. After looking sharp during summer kickarounds, the boys were humbled in a pre-tournament internal matchup, taking a heavy loss to our own 2014B Red squad. It was a reality check—but also the spark they needed.

Despite having two Saturday matches scheduled, the team opted to hold a Friday training session. Coach Morten turned it into a mix of fun competitions to lift morale, paired with a longer tactical focus session to reinforce new defensive adjustments. That balance proved critical.

From the opening whistle of the tournament, the boys executed the game plan with precision. The result: a 3–0 sweep through the group stage in great competitive matchups that yielded 2 clean sheets and a total of 28 out of 30 points. Impressively, this was achieved by rotating positions, playing for development, and keeping a keen eye on growth rather than chasing single victories.

Game one was particularly special. Facing off against 2 former United teammates now playing with the Colorado Ice, the match had a friendly, reunion-like feel. To top it off, one of the dads presented United with a mini trophy after the game, an unforgettable moment of sportsmanship and community.

The championship final had all the drama anyone could ask for. Playing against a strong Borussia Dortmund International Academy team (BVB Puma) from the Springs, United got up 1-0, but could not get that second goal.  Instead BVB Puma equalized with 15 min to go and it came down to penalties. 

As part of the pre-final huddle, the boys had been told they had nothing to be nervous about. They had already proved they are a great team and delivered strong performances. Now it was simply time to go out and enjoy the opportunity of playing a final and showing the opponent who wanted it more, while sticking to the overall master plan that had proven successful. With PKs coming up, it was back to nerves, though. Missing the first 2 PKs while BVB Puma scored on theirs, the Championship looked out of reach. But in the end, after 9 of 10 kicks, it was tied, leaving United with one final shot for glory. Nerves of steel, the ball went i,n and the title was claimed.

What followed? Pure joy. The celebration was wild—like they had just lifted the Champions League trophy.

As a club, we emphasize development first and trust the results will follow. This championship embodied that philosophy: a young team responding to setbacks, committing to improvement, and ultimately earning a well-deserved reward.

Congratulations to the 2014B Gold boys, their families, and coaches on a memorable tournament win!

“I am really proud of these boys. They earned this trophy for sure. And to see their excitement together after they won will be a long-lasting memory for sure.”
— Coach Morten