Neon Ninjas Brave Storm to Capture Lorenzen Cup Championship Belt

Neither rain, mud, nor an undefeated opponent could stop the BCSC U10 “Neon Ninjas” this past Saturday at the Lorenzen Cup in Summersville. With puddles splashing and cleats caked in mud, the Ninjas fought their way to a flawless 4-0 tournament run — and a championship belt.
The day began at 8 a.m. under gray skies, but the Ninjas were anything but gloomy. They kicked off the action with a 2-1 win against NCYS, sliding and sprinting their way through the slick field.
Game two brought even tougher conditions, but the team dug deep for a hard-fought 1-0 victory over UCYS, locking down the top seed in their bracket. “Nothing could slow them down,” said Coach Jerad Williams. “Rain, mud, early games — they just kept smiling, sliding, and winning. It was pure heart and hustle.”
In the semifinal, the Neon Ninjas faced off against SSRA of Kanawha County. The Ninjas unleashed their energy, powering through with a 3-1 victory to secure their spot in the championship match.
Their final challenge was a showdown against a Marshall County team that hadn’t lost all season. But the Neon Ninjas saved their boldest performance for last, blanking their opponents with a commanding 3-0 shutout to take home the championship belt. “These kids played fearless soccer,” said Coach Russell Young. “They supported each other, stayed aggressive, and trusted the work they’ve put in all season. Watching them rise to the moment was just incredible.”
By the end of the day, the Neon Ninjas had outscored their opponents 9-2 across four grueling games a testament to their teamwork, determination, and unstoppable spirit. Rain might have drenched the fields, but it couldn’t dim the Neon Ninjas’ shine.
The Neon Ninjas roster includes Bentley Berry, Adalynn Coyer, Owen Davis, Elijah Enke, Layla Gump, Xavia Gump, Emersyn Hacker, Malia Nottingham, Ensleigh Rowe, Maeleigh Smailes, Violet Thomas, Hayden Williams, and Oliver Young.