The Prince Edward County Eagles soccer team had a flair for the dramatic on Monday night to become champions
In front of a loud hometown crowd at Johnson Fields, the Eagles captured the 2026 U14 Boys SOSA League championship with a 2-1 victory over Kingston United.
Trailing by a goal with less than two minutes remaining, Remington Leavitt launched a long throw into the box that found Sasha Minhas, who tied the game.
Moments later, Noah Thompson delivered a perfectly placed corner kick to Rhys Kelly, who headed home the championship-winning goal.
Led by coaches Mike Thompson, Beth Van de Bij and goalkeeper coach Matt Carter, and supported by team manager Jess Gibeau, the Eagles dominated the season with a perfect 15-0 record against teams from Brockville, Belleville, Kingston and North Leeds.
Leavitt led the league in scoring with 27 goals, while Noel Valihora and Sasha Minhas also finished among the league’s top five scorers. Goalkeeper Elliot Van de Bij tied for the league lead in shutouts, and team captain Noah Thompson recorded more than 30 assists.
The Eagles were also the only team in the league to have every player register on the scoresheet during the season.
This outstanding season marks a huge turnaround from a last-place finish one year ago with seven returning players
“I’m most proud of the young leaders these players have become. I’ve watched them work hard, support one another, and continue to compete no matter the challenge. Last night was our biggest challenge yet, and they never gave up. There’s something special about County kids. They bring an extra level of grit, determination and heart to everything they do,” said coach Beth van de Bij.
Coach Mike Thompson pointed to the growth of the team’s newer players as a key factor in the Eagles’ success.
“I’m incredibly proud of the younger players and those who are new to the sport who stepped up to make this team happen. The whole team never stopped trying and that really showed this season,” said coach Thompson.
