CdM U14 team captures title

The Corona del Mar boys’ U14 Spring Select Soccer team won the Spring AYSO Championship on May 5.

The team, coached by Dr. Dave Wirta, were 8-1-1 on the season.

In the championship game, the CdM boys avenged their only loss of the season by beating North Irvine (Region 213) in overtime. CdM trailed, 1-0, with five minutes remaining, but then Brett Wirta hammered home the tying goal.

In overtime, Will O’Conner nailed a header to capture the victory.

Over the course of the season, the CdM boys outscored their opponents 36-11.

O’Conner, Cameron Kormos and the Wirta brothers, Jon and Brett, led the offense. The defense was strong throughout the year led by Julian Ricci, Brandon Cargile, Aidan Murray and goalie Connell MacLean.

“This group of players was very special,” Coach Dave Wirta said. “Their teamwork and support of each other was evident all year long. The final game was a nail-biter, but we managed to avenge our only loss of the season. The boys left it all on the field for that game. They showed great pride in coming from behind to win the game in overtime.”

Next up for Dr. Wirta’s team will be the UCI Orange County Spring Classic Saturday and Sunday.

— Reader submission