Andy 8U All-Stars win ARPA state title
Published 12:00 am Tuesday, November 20, 2018
The Andalusia 8U All-Stars put on a show as they swept their way to the 2018 Alabama Recreation and Parks Association state championship on Sunday in Dothan.
“I couldn’t be more proud of these kids,” Andalusia coach Nick Crowson said. “This is a such a huge accomplishment. We went up against some bigger cities and came back with the state championship.”
On Saturday, Andalusia started the tournament off with a 4-2 win over Alex City.
Reuben Driver led the way for Andalusia with three goals in the win.
Destini Hourel tacked on the other goal for Andalusia.
“We were able to come out strong and take the lead early,” Crowson said of the game against Alex City. “Then we finished strong to pick up the win.”
Following the win against Alex City, Andalusia defeated Athens 5-2 to advance to the state championship against Dothan Red.
“Coming in, I figured Athens was probably going to be the toughest team in the tournament,” Crowson said. “Reuben (Driver) had another great game and Annlee Wise played a great game at keeper.”
Driver scored all five goals for Andalusia in the win over Athens.
With the win over Athens, Andalusia advanced to the championship game against Dothan Red on Sunday.
Andalusia was able to knock off Dothan Red 3-2 to clinch the 2018 crown.
“Dothan was a really strong team,” Crowson said. “We just played them directly and that allowed Reuben to have another great game.”
Reuben scored all three Andalusia goals in the win.
“This team was just a pleasure to be around,” Crowson said. “I’m honored to be a part of this. These kids deserve all of the credit. We were able to win because our kids played more aggressive.”