Dragons Dominate: Grade 8 Boys' Soccer Team Earns Back-to-Back TISSA Championships

by Matt Bailey

The Kaohsiung American School (KAS) community is celebrating a spectacular victory after the Grade 8 boys' soccer team crushed the competition on Saturday, traveling to Morrison Academy Taipei (MAT) and securing their second consecutive first-place finish in the TISSA tournament.

The Dragons went undefeated in every single match, leaving no doubt about their supremacy on the pitch.

This talented squad, featuring several players from the Kaohsiung Attackers club team, made winning look easy. Over the five games played, KAS demonstrated phenomenal control, netting an outstanding 33 goals while conceding only 7—a staggering +26 goal difference.

The team’s foundation for success was evident right from the start of group play, where the Dragons effortlessly topped their bracket. Marcus Chen was the engine in the midfield, earning comparisons to a "conductor" for his sharp passing and ability to deliver assists that exploited space along the wings. Tournament MVP Skylar Chen, Marcus's twin brother, anchored the defense. He was a rock-solid presence at the back, flawlessly stifling nearly every opposition attack.

The Dragons carried their momentum into the knockout stages with fiery intensity. In the Semi-Final, KAS made light-work of the hosts, Morrison Academy Taipei, burning them "to oblivion" with a dominant 4-0 victory.

The final match pitted the Dragons against their constant rival, Taipei European School. However, TES was ultimately overcome by KAS's superior chemistry, depth, and patience. 

Jack Hua delivered a massive performance, scoring an incredible four goals (a 4-piece) to lead the team to a triumphant 6-3 final score.

“They’re so good,” a proud Coach Sam commented after the final. He noted that the team barely requires any coaching, explaining, “They just need to go out there and play football.”

The scoring sheet was littered with KAS names, showcasing the team's depth of talent:

• Jack finished as the tournament's Top Goal Scorer with 8 goals.

• Marcus and Ethan were right behind him, each scoring 7 goals.

• Po Cheng poached 5 goals, while newcomer Anthony secured a hat-trick in Game 3.

• Nelson chipped in with 2 goals, and Marc rounded out the scorers with one goal.

  
  

With two TISSA titles in two years, the future looks bright for this powerhouse Grade 8 team as next year they move into contention to be selected for the varsity team. 

The Grade 7 boys team also won first place competing at I-Shou and beating TES in the final. "G7 team on fire, another great play and another win for our team," said Coach Martin.

Our middle school girls team did not place this tournament but built connections and understandings that can serve them well in the next competition. "Well done to all the coaches," said Athletic Director, Stella Chen.