MCSA DSL Select: A Weekend of Growth and Memories
MCSA’s first-ever U10 Girls DSL Select team rocked it at the California Cup!
This past weekend, four of Mendocino County Soccer Academy’s DSL Select teams competed in the California Cup in Fremont, offering our young players a unique opportunity to face competition from larger clubs and experience the challenges of tournament play. Despite a week of heavy rain in Northern California and pouring conditions on Friday night, the fields in Fremont held up beautifully. By Saturday morning, the skies had cleared, and the crisp fall weather set the stage for an unforgettable weekend of soccer.
Developing a Unique Style of Play
MCSA’s approach to soccer was on full display over the weekend. While many teams rely on direct, boot-and-chase tactics, we focus on developing players with a high soccer IQ, emphasizing creativity, ball control, and decision-making. We encourage our players to build from the back and dribble under pressure, even when challenging. This style of play is more difficult at younger ages, especially against bigger, faster teams, but it lays a foundation for long-term success.
For some parents, this approach can lead to moments of frustration, especially when other teams swarm and capitalize on mistakes. Watching an opponent score as our players attempt to play the right way rather than simply clearing the ball can be tough. But those moments are where the magic happens. Kids learn by doing, making mistakes, receiving feedback, and trying again. Over the weekend, parents experienced “a-ha” moments as the kids gained confidence, made adjustments, and grew more comfortable on the field. By the end of the tournament, our players were visibly improving, and the seeds of progress were evident. And frankly, our style of play is just more interesting to watch!
Bigger Lessons Beyond the Field
The value of this weekend wasn’t limited to the games themselves. For many players, this was their first tournament, their first time stepping onto a larger stage. They learned how to handle the physicality of competitive play, adjust to faster-paced games, and understand the importance of teamwork under pressure. These lessons extend beyond soccer, teaching resilience, adaptability, and the value of hard work.
Families also had the chance to connect, whether cheering on the sidelines, sharing meals, or spending time together at the team hotel. These moments of camaraderie and community are just as important as the action on the field, creating memories that will last long after the final whistle.
A Proven Pathway for Player Development
Competing against powerhouse clubs like the Danville Mustangs—who have more players than the population of Willits and fees far exceeding those of our programs (rec soccer for
From young Eagles to some of Northern California’s best: Rios Munoz and Giovani Dop recently shined in NorCal Premier’s Boys College Showcase All-Star Game, showcasing the talent and hard work that began right here at MCSA.
them is $450-$850)—showed the unique value of MCSA’s development-focused approach. While other teams may prioritize winning at all costs, our focus is building well-rounded players who will succeed when it truly matters.
This philosophy is exemplified by players like Rios Munoz and Giovani Dop, who recently represented MCSA in NorCal Premier’s Boys College Showcase All-Star Game. Both started with MCSA as young boys and are now among the best players in Northern California – coming from small Mendocino County. Their journeys highlight the effectiveness of MCSA’s pathway, which focuses on player growth and opportunity over short-term results.
Looking Ahead
We’re incredibly proud of our DSL Select teams and their performance this weekend. The effort, commitment, and growth shown by both players and families underscore the strength of our program. For those interested in continuing on the path of development, we’ll be sharing information soon about select team tryouts for the spring season starting in February. Limited spots will be available, and open tryouts for the following fall and spring seasons will take place in May.
For now, we celebrate the progress made this weekend—the lessons learned, the bonds formed, and the memories created. At MCSA, our mission is to inspire a love for the game while providing opportunities for players to grow on and off the field. Thank you to all the families who made this experience possible, and here’s to many more weekends of learning, growth, and soccer!