UCLA Storms Through the WCLA National Tournament
May. 8, 2011 After coming up just short in the first round of the WWLL Championships in April, the Bruins barely expected a bid to this year's national tournament, let alone to finish second in the nation. But that is exactly what they did this past week in Scottsdale, AZ.
The 9th seeded Bruins powered through their first game against 8th seed Michigan, coming out on top 15-11 on Wednesday night. The following evening, UCLA took down the tournament's #1 seed, Colorado in a stunning upset during which they never once lost the lead, winning 11-7.
The Bruins headed to the national semi-finals where they faced 2011 WWLL Champions, Santa Clara. After digging themselves into a 4-9 deficit at the half, the Bruins regrouped and steadily fought back, eventually taking their first lead in overtime. Junior Morgan Oberstein netted the final goal of the game for a 14-13 UCLA victory.
UCLA took on defending national champions, Colorado State, in the final game of the week to play for their first WCLA D1 Championship in history. After a hard-fought 60 minutes in over 100 degree heat, the Bruins came up shy in the 9-11 loss.
The following players were recognized for their individual achievements:
WCLA D1 All-American, 2nd Team Allie Simpson, Attack
WCLA D1 National Tournament Midfield MOP Morgan Oberstein
WCLA D1 National Tournament Defense MOP Allie Steinberg
WCLA D1 All-Tournament Team Allie Roe, Midfield Michelle Rice, Defense Devon Comito, Goalie
Game recaps, photos and tournament highlights are available at Lacrosse Magazine Online. Congratulations to the Bruins on a strong 2011 season and an incredible run in this year's tournament.
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