As the snow fell around much of the Lower Mainland, 72 men's and women's soccer teams descended on a chilly but green Brennan Park for the 28th annual Soccerfest Saturday and Sunday (April 19-20).Organizers got a quick scare from the province's spring snowfall as they are accustomed to Squamish being left in the cold and wet when it comes to providing good soccer weather."It snowed everywhere in B.C. except for Squamish, I think," co-organizer Dave Harrison said with a laugh after the final game Sunday. "Friday night was kind of worrying but the sun came out and it was a great weekend once again."Six local men's teams participated along with five Squamish women's teams. The Pussycat Dolls was the only home squad to win the championship, beating the Benchwarmers 3-2 in the Ladies Open final after taking out Squamish Fury by the same score in the semis. Cassie Der, Tina Sangha and Michelle Rosser scored the goals."We had a little bit more speed and a little bit more juice in the tank at the end of the day," said coach Ron Rosser."Overall it was fantastic. It was run really well. I think most of the teams had a lot of fun, great weather, and really good competition - probably one of the best ones yet."Things got a little testy in the Men's Open final between Van United and Punjab Hurricanes when a minor brawl including players and fans ensued after two players were red-carded. However, the dust settled without major incident and Punjab went on to win 2-1 with an overtime goal scored by Simon Fraser University player Justin Carvery."It feels great," said Carvery with a big grin. "I didn't score all tournament but when I did it counted so that's what matters the most."All Squamish Men's Open teams, including Squamish FC, Khalsa FC, A-Team and Howe Sound Brew Pub placed second in their respective divisions - not enough to advance to the semis.
