UDA GCAFC Development Team Lift the Hellenic Cup in Bristol

The UDA GCAFC development team lifted the Hellenic League Cup this weekend with a 3-2 win over Headington in Bristol. 

In an excellent team performance with many outstanding displays, Jaxon Hundt (South Bend, Indiana) scored the winning goal in the 88th minute. With a clever run, Hundt split the Headington defense on a through pass from Chris Patterson (Cibolo, Texas) and coolly slotted the ball past the advancing keeper. Hundt made his first-team debut last week for GCAFC's first team in their County Cup win and continued his scoring run in the Hellenic Cup final with two goals. 

After falling behind twice in the game, goals from Jaxon, assisted by Caleb Thomas (Bothell, Washington) and Shane Pierson (Albuquerque, New Mexico), brought the game level. Shane scored on the far post after a corner delivery from Michael Patterson (Cibolo, Texas). Jax’s first goal came from another well-timed run on a through pass from Caleb Thomas. 

UDA GCAFC controlled most of the second half with good passing and combinations. Dylan Reetz (San Antonio, Texas) made critical saves in the second half to keep the score level. Ty Lake (Reno, Nevada), who also made his first-team debut last week, provided some excellent defending; he was well supported in defense by Mikkiel Graham (Pikesville, Maryland), who offered good cover and support when needed.

Michael Patterson not only assisted a goal, but also controlled the center of midfield with clever running and passing, keeping UDA GCAFC’s momentum moving forward with solid supporting performances from Alexis Marquex (Mercedes, Texas) and Caleb Thomas.

The team's victory was not just their own but a testament to the unwavering support of the UDA community. UDA students and university friends made the trip to Bristol, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the team. The final whistle was met with excited celebrations, a true reflection of the team culture, unity, and spirit the UDA GCAFC coaches and staff have built this past year.

Ryan Davies, UDA Head Coach, said, “A great team performance, coming back from twice behind to win the cup, shows the growth and resilience of the players, especially with some first-year players on the squad. We will enjoy this for now but will work to push on the player's development as we look to next year.”

UDA Football Director Dave Nichols said, “Everyone played their part today. All credit the players for their commitment, skill, discipline, and tactical awareness. This is a great achievement as we won the cup, with mainly first-year students coming to the UDA Academy. Credit to the coaching staff and the willingness of the players to take on board what the coaches have instilled in them. However, we now push on for next year and look to return when the new season arrives. I am excited to see where these players can play next year."

Congratulations to UDA’s Head Coach, Ryan Davies, and UDA Football Director, Dave Nichols, and all the players and staff on a memorable end to the season.