The Edge 12u team beat the Ramapo Tigers 59-34 for the second time this weekend in a championship showdown on Sunday afternoon at the Torne Valley Sports Complex. After defeating the Tigers on Saturday in double overtime, the 12u Edge from Dutchess County put on a defensive clinic, holding the high scoring Tigers to just 12 points by the half. “We really played well defensively this weekend, but especially today. Our pressure on the ball was very effective and the kids are starting to understand and apply the total man defensive principles,” said Coach Santoro.
Offensively, the Edge came out showing they can also put points on the board. Justin Rhynders opened the game with two three’s to take an early 6-0 lead. From there, the Edge picked apart the Tiger’s zone defense. Frustrated by the sharp passing Edge team, the Tigers switched to a man to man defense, and then went to a full court press. Each time the defense changed, the Edge adjusted and continued to break them down. “We did a very good job reading the defenses,” said Coach Santoro. “Every time they switched the defense, our kids responded and made adjustments,” he added. The Edge not only made adjustments, but they were on the attack most of the game….pushing the ball up the court on every possession. “We were able to push the ball out of transition triggered by our defense and made some very good decisions to complete the play,” added Santoro.
Although it was a total team effort with every player making significant contributions, the MVP of the tournament went to David Verdis. “David led our team this weekend. He ran our offense, commanded our defense, and helped our boys keep their composure under pressure situations. I was pleased the tournament committee recognized him as the MVP,” commented his coach on Verdis’s award.
With the win, the Edge earned the right to participate in the AABC National tournament hosted in Dayton Ohio. Unfortunately, the Edge will have to pass as their schedule presents significant challenges that will prevent them from attending.
