The Wasaga Canadians U16 girls' soccer team returned home from Agropoli, Italy, last week with a second-place trophy from an international soccer tournament they competed in during their once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The team travelled to Italy March 29 and returned April 10.

"The girls lost to the U.S. in the finals 2-0," said coach Mike Harvey. "With countries from Spain, Colombia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Poland, U.S.A. and the host Italian clubs, it (was) truly an international setting."

The Canadian contingent was welcomed by all, which was a real eye opener for the squad.

"The girls were given a very loud and warm welcome by all countries when they entered into the stadium for the opening ceremonies," Harvey said. "With many chants of 'Canada' coming from all nations, this was truly an experience for all in understanding how we as Canadians are appreciated by different peoples and cultures."

After the final game, the Canadians were invited to play another Italian team in Calabria, in the southern part of Italy. The Canadian weather seemed to have followed the team to the region, as both teams played in hail, rain and five-degree temperatures as the visiting squad won 3-0.

The team members hail from Stayner, Collingwood, Elmvale, Wasaga Beach and Orillia.

The coaches were Har vey and Vyvyan Hardwicke. The trainer was Cameron Ball and the team manager is Louanne Pardon.

During the visit to Italy, the team also participated in cultural and historical excursions, tours and other off-field activities.

GETTING IN TOUCH

How is your team doing? Have a big game coming up? The Enterprise-Bulletin wants to hear from you. Send your high-resolution photos and game reports to

ian.adams@sunmedia.ca.