The elementary futsal teams ended their season on a high note at the South Korea Association of International Schools (SKAIS) finals hosted by the International School of Busan (ISB). After a season of steady progress, the players arrived at ISB on Nov. 15, ready to face their toughest opponents and put their training into trial. 

The boys’ A team opened their day on a high note, securing a dominant 4:1 victory over ISB followed by a decisive 6:2 victory against Busan Foreign School (BFS). The run carried them all the way to the finals, where they fought hard but fell short (3:2).

Third-grade A team striker Ben Lee praised players’ commitment across the board. “Everyone worked so hard, both the A team and the B team. Weejee Kung, in fifth grade, scored the most for the A team; he almost scored in every game.”

The boys’ JV squad also maintained their team spirit throughout the tournament. Despite an 8:0 defeat against BFS, the team maintained its composure and bounced back with a solid 5:0 win over ISB, closing the season with a well-deserved third-place finish.

Boys’ student coach, senior Robert Cho, shared his sense of accomplishment. “There were many strenuous efforts and engagement among the whole team, and all the boys went through a big step up at the end of the season,” Cho said.

Meanwhile, the girls’ A team showcased an impressive record throughout the day, with back-to-back victories that earned them a ticket into the finals against ISB. The finals proved to be one of the toughest matches the team faced, but they still managed to secure a three-peat.

“Everyone did well, and I want to congratulate the whole team for their hard work,” fifth grader striker Amelia Kim said. On the other side of the field, the B team also swept the preliminary rounds and went on to prevail against ISB in the finals (7-1).

Beyond the results, girls’ coach, Ms. Dennard, reflected on the team’s growth throughout the season. “The players tended to send the ball away too quickly, but over time their passing and build-up plays became a real part of their strategy with more connected attacks,” Coach Dennard said.  

As the final whistle blew, elementary athletes ended the day exhausted yet accomplished, jerseys marked by effort and faces lit with pride. The tournament leaves them with memories of first goals, hard-fought wins and teamwork that now fuels their confidence heading into next season.

Gallery • 11 Photos

Olya Karpenko

Fifth grader Jun Kwon presses the opponent with his firm stance, surprising the attacker, forcing him into a position. The defensive play contributes to the whole team with another opportunity to score a girl.