Wanderers' girls capture silver, boys claim gold

Bolton's under 10 boys won gold at the recent Newmarket tournament. Shown are (back) coach Mark Phipps and manager Jack Cortese, Matthew Dias, Braedyn Phipps, Ryan Tripone, Luca Cortese, Ian Sohl, Justin Donatelli, Anthony Marino, coach Joey Marino, (front) Frankie Filippo, Alexander Marcucci, Francesco Molinaro and Angelo Addario.

For the second time in recent weeks, Bolton's under 8 girls selects brought home silver.

Opening games in the Aug. 11 weekend North Toronto Tournament saw the Wanderers take on The West End Wildcats, Whitby, Unionville, and North Toronto. The results: 1-1, 2- 0, 2-5, and 3-1 respectively. Goals came from midfielders, Liza Knill, Jocelyn Coulombe, and Jessica Dodig who led the squad with four.

The most pleasant surprise of the tourney for Bolton was the outstanding play of full-back Kennedy Hanczyk who held the back line when called upon and added a wonderful spark to the offence by collecting two goals - both from set pieces - a free kick and a corner!

Sunday's final saw the girls take on Unionville in a highly spirited match in which Bolton sought to avenge an earlier loss where "getting the bounces" had played a major role. Neutralizing Unionville's top player would be part of the game plan - one that was superbly executed. However, there was one uncontrollable factor in the contest - the rain. A spinning, wet ball and unfortunate deflection off a Bolton player resulted in the only goal of the match. The "bounce" simply didn't go the Wanderers' way. However, the team held its head high in what was once again a memorable tournament.

Congratulations go out to goalkeeper Elizabeth Haarmann who collected another shutout, Alessia Boem, Emmah Barber, Jocelyn Coulombe, Jessica Dodig, Abbey Donnelly, Kennedy Hanczyk, Madison Johnston, Liza Knill, Elaina Mikulski, Madison Osvaldini, Julia Ruffolo, and Sarah Slater. Proudly sponsored by Havenwood Homes, the Wanderers' under 8 girls selects are coached by Wally Mikulski, Brian Barber and Dawn Dodig.

Boys win gold

Meanwhile, the Wanderers under 10 boys competitive squad competed in the Heart of York Summer Classic in Newmarket. Preliminary game results were as follows: 3-3 vs. Whitby; 5-1 over Sudbury; 1-4 to Newmarket - results that were most satisfactory to earn Bolton a berth in the semifinal.

A hard-fought re-match against Whitby resulted in a 1-1 draw. Nail-biting penalty kicks were to decide the outcome. And, Bolton squeezed through 4-3.

The final saw another earlier match-up, with the Wanderers against Newmarket, however, the result would be different this time out. Bolton won a 2-1 championship victory achieved in the driving rain!

Congratulations to the entire team and coaching staff, who dedicate this tournament championship to Ralph Phipps, grandfather of coach Mark Phipps, who passed away early Sunday, Aug. 12. The team's thoughts and prayers go out to the Phipps family.

Goals in the tourney game came from Braedyn Phipps (5), Anthony Marino (3), Luca Cortese (3), Matthew Dias (2), Ian Sohl (2), and Justin Donatelli. Bolton tournament MVP went to Francesco Molinaro who subbed in goal. Special recognition also goes to Ryan Tripone and Angelo Addario for their defensive play.

The team is sponsored by Leone Fence, Stairfab Manufacturing, The Consulate Dining Lounge, Ellis Don, Cucci's Hair Salon, CPS Flooring, Piam Holdings, and Roto Static.