Three Smyrna Girls Win National Soccer Championships

Three Smyrna students, Hannah Docabo, Danielle Trovato and A’liyah Warrick recently became national champions in their respective age divisions for NPL (National Premier League) soccer, based in South Carolina. The 2018 NPL Finals were played at Aurora Sports Park in Aurora, Colorado this summer. All three young ladies live in Smyrna and attend Whitefield Academy. Outside of their school pursuits, they also play soccer for Southern Soccer Academy (SSA).

Both Danielle and A'liyah play for the SSA Chelsea 05 Girls Elite team in the 13U division, coached by Josh Hurst. During the national tournament, A’liyah scored two goals and Danielle scored once for the team, winning with a 3-0 final score.

Hannah Docabo, plays for SSA Chelsea 04 Girls Elite in the 14U division, coached by Ricky Clarke. The team’s championship game was decided by penalty kicks for a win of 1-0. Southern Soccer Academy was the only club to clinch multiple division titles in the national tournament.

“The 2018 Girls NPL Finals was arguably the most successful edition yet,” said Leo Garcia, NPL General Manager and US Club Soccer Vice President of Competitions. “These champions all come from some of the top NPLs in the country, and that consistent competition level throughout the season undoubtedly helped them grind through the competition here in Colorado.” The girls’ Whitefield soccer coach, Sarah Voelkel noted, “This is an amazing accomplishment for these young ladies, and at such a young age. They have worked very hard and have won numerous tournaments to earn their spot to play for the national championship. Playing in two, very intense middle school championship games this past year probably helped a little bit with nerves. I am so proud of them!”