The U17 Morden Eagles claimed the 2025 Boston Pizza Players Tournament championship over the weekend and Vanessa Franz says winning with this group made it extra special.
Looking back over the tournament, Franz says that the group built up confidence and let their skill take over. "We started with a tough game," the captain explains. "First game was really close, it was probably the highest level of competition we've faced this season. We battled, kept our passes up, lots of communication and took home a 3-1 win. Saturday, big games but we didn't let any goals in. We had a 2-0 win and a 14-0 win. Later Saturday night, we started only at 10:00 p.m. we were a little sleepy, but we kept it, we had lots of fans, parents and siblings supporting us kept us awake. We took home a 3-0 win and to bring home that trophy, it meant a lot."
"Shutout Saturday" for the Eagles was special but the fact the team played three intense matches all in one day, Franz says proves their mental and physical toughness. "Being one of the captains, its about keeping the team awake. Lots of chatter, we do lots of dancing, keeping things fun and of course, mixing in naps, those help. Keeping the team together, communicating, sticking together and lots of talking. Lots of fun on and off the field, it really makes a difference."
Heading into the tournament, a humble Franz says that they wanted to manage expectations but the competitive side of her wouldn't let the group down. "I had a lot of hope going into the tournament. We took it home last year and I knew we could do it this year. We have some great girls on this team. We've been working through all winter and I had a lot of faith in us that we could do it."
Proudly being one of the captains, Franz says the leadership group takes a lot of pride in how the team gels together. "It's really all about just doing what we're doing. Being a leader is a privilege. Being supportive and keeping the team motivated, it's a big thing. It's been great playing with these girls, some of them for years. Getting to really know them and build that chemistry, it's really helped a lot."
It wasn't long ago that it was Franz that was one of the younger players but she know is the one showing new players the Eagles way. "We love when new girls join. Sometimes, you can tell when they're a little bit shy but our team, we don't leave anyone out. Right away, everyone joins in on the fun. On the field, everyone communicates, even off the field, it's awesome. Bringing new girls in, it makes our team stronger every year."
Hailing from Winkler, Franz says the support at home, on the road and at different events means the world to the team. "It means so much. Our parents put in a lot of time and our coaches deserve a loud shoutout. Our coach has been there with me so much, he's helped me work on my skill and it's because of him I am the player I am."
Looking forward, Franz says there's a special event upcoming. "We have a match against Brandon University. That's a fun thing we do every year and it's very exciting."
When it comes to her own future, the soccer star says a future in the sport while also getting a higher education is something she's dreamed about. "Oh, I've thought about it," she says with a smile. "It's my dream. Hopefully, I can accomplish that. I'll keep working on my skills and hopefully I can play bigger one day."
No matter where she goes, Franz will always represent the Morden Eagles programs proudly.