As temperatures drop across the area, the NCFC Girls College Showcase is pressing onward, with players and parents alike braving the chill. Organizer Bryan Bachelder is among those keeping a close eye on conditions.
“With the cold weather coming in, there are a few adjustments that we will probably have to end up making with the grass Fields to make sure that everything is all right. But at this point, we are continuing to see that the roads are safe and we’re going to have a great weekend," says Bachelder.
Other WRAL Top Stories
Thursday was the Girls College Showcase Combine, where high school players got the chance to show off their skills and meet some of the several hundred college coaches who came to scout. Friday begins the 3 days of tournament play. Some college coaches say the cold weather conditions may help show them what players are capable of.
“I think it shows more of the resiliency and the positive attitude that these kids have to want to come out and play in the cold," says Jake Dowiak, ECU Women's Soccer Assistant Coach. "I know that there are tournaments that are going on in California right now that these kids could probably be participating in, but they chose to be here because of the quality of soccer."
Players who showed up tell WRAL this event is their opportunity to prove themselves to college coaches, and they won't let the weather impact that.
“You get used to the cold and everything. It is a bit of a nuisance at times, like during halftime or whatever the case may be," said Isabella Evans, a high school soccer player.
“It is a little bit of a downside to this. But I do think that we will be OK. It’s just rough some days more than others," said Janie Lehr, a high school soccer player.
For these young athletes, the NCFC Girls College Showcase is an opportunity to shine, as they seek to make their mark and impress college scouts. The first tournament game begins on Friday at 8 a.m., and the tournament ends on Sunday.
Click here to learn more about the tournament and to see the game schedule.