Team Red Bull edged out the Freaks 7-6 in the final match of the Feb. 17-19 co-ed futsal tournament.
“It was a really good game,” said Red Bull player Keisha Aliyak, also one of the organizers of the tournament, which had seven teams participating. “Both teams really wanted first place. It was a really close, good game.”
She said the weekend went well and she was glad there were no serious injuries.
Aliyak credited Bull player Nolan Sammurtok for his impact over the games.
“He carried us practically the whole weekend,” said Aliyak, adding everyone played well. “He’s a really good player.”
James Merritt on the Freaks called the final game intense.
“The Red Bulls all day played pretty good,” he said. “It was a fun game.”
Players take Rankin Inlet sports seriously, and there can be strong emotions shown on the field.
“Sports is really big in Rankin, no matter what sport,” said Aliyak. “Everyone always plays their hardest every game, even if it’s just a local tournament.”
Merritt thanked all the organizers and everyone who helped out on the weekend.
Awards:
Female most goals: Amy Kaludjak (Freaks)
Male most goals: Nolan Sammurtok (Red Bull)
Chosen by refs:
Most Sportsmanlike: Alyson McKay (Pick Ups)
Female MVP: Tanisha Tanuyak (Black)
Male MVP: Uujuq Pilakapsi (Black)
Top Forward: Maximus Ammaq (Freaks)
Top Defence: Seamas Ayaruak (Black)
Top Goalie: Lukisha Tatty (Red Bull)
Hardest Working: Xzavier Kubluitok (Pick Ups)