DOWNEY - The Downey United 14U boys soccer team won the national championship last month, the first boys team to bring the title to Downey.The team traveled to Knoxville, Tenn., where they competed against teams from around the country. Downey was in a division that included 24 other teams. In addition to winning the championship, the Downey team earned praised from competitors for their sportsmanship. During a game against Knoxville - which Downey won 7-1 - a Knoxville player was seriously hurt and transported to a hospital. After the game, the entire Downey team showed up at the hospital to wish the boy well. "What an amazing bunch of kids and coaches," the Knoxville coach said. "(Downey) should be very proud of the players and coaches and the way they present and represent themselves." The Downey team was coached by Phillip Caro, Humberto Luna, Andres Esparza, Jonathan Pasaye and Johnny Lemucchi. Players included Saul De Alba, Humberto Luna, Kevin Chavez, Peter Torres, Phillip Caro, Alex Reveles, Jaden Andalon, David Lemucchi, David Gonzalez, Joseph Rodriguez, Brandon Melendez, Anthony Casillas and Cristian Chavez.

********** Published: August 02, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 16