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Bradford United U12 players, from left: Brecken Placer, Chael Johnson, Cameron Butler, Mason Poling, Conley Swanson, Liam Allen, Ryan Feely, Blake Nelson, Declan Dragoone, Jaxson Newell, Jack Morrison, Mitchell Bach. Missing: Landon Fitzpatrick, Trey Jackson, Caiden Englert. Coaches, from left: Jerry Dragoone and Jim Butler. Missing: Jon Fitzpatrick

ROCHESTER, NY — The Bradford United U12 boys soccer team brought home the championship trophy from the Hilton Heat – Westside Invitational, held June 6-8, topping off a remarkable tournament run. The event, sanctioned by the Rochester District Youth Soccer League (RDYSL) and hosted by the Hilton Heat Soccer Club, showcased talented teams from across the region. Bradford took home wins in three of its four matchups.

Game 1 – Bradford 4, Brockport 2

Bradford came out strong under the hot sun, with Landon Fitzpatrick scoring the first goal of the tournament. Ryan Feely added a second off a double assist from goalkeeper Cameron Butler and Chael Johnson.

In the second half, Brecken Placer nailed a highlight-reel shot from 35 yards out to extend the lead, and Mitchell Bach sealed the victory late. Butler made 8 crucial saves to keep Brockport at bay.

Game 2 – Hilton Heat 3, Bradford 2

Later Saturday, Bradford fell behind early against the host team, trailing 3-0 at halftime. Despite clear fatigue, the boys dominated the second half with goals from Chael Johnson and Mason Poling, and an assist from Jack Morrison. A 9-save effort from Cameron Butler kept the game close. The two-goal margin proved critical, helping Bradford edge into the semifinals on tiebreakers.

Semifinal – Bradford 6, Greece United 1

Re-energized in cooler Sunday afternoon conditions, Bradford exploded offensively. Chael Johnson and Conley Swanson each scored twice, while Declan Dragoone and Blake Nelson added one apiece. Johnson and Dragoone also picked up assists. Cameron Butler (3 saves) and Blake Nelson (1 save) split time in net during the commanding win.

Championship – Bradford 4, Cobras 3

The title match against the Cobras was a nail-biter. Conley Swanson opened the scoring, followed by Declan Dragoone to give Bradford a 2-0 lead. Cobras answered before halftime, and despite Mason Poling restoring the two-goal cushion, the Cobras tied it at 3 in the second half. With just about a minute left in regulation and the game seemingly headed to penalty kicks, Chael Johnson delivered the championship moment — a stunning free kick from 25 yards out, perfectly placed in the top left corner of the net. The final whistle sparked celebration as Bradford secured a hard-fought 4-3 win.

The coaches for Bradford United U12 described the weekend as “the culmination of an incredible journey that began back in late March — a journey defined by commitment, growth, and resilience. These boys should be incredibly proud of what they accomplished. All the hard work, the practices, the sacrifices — it all paid off this weekend. They earned every minute of that championship and brought it home to Bradford where it belongs.”

Bradford United remains undefeated in league play and wraps up its regular season this Saturday at 6 p.m. at Gleason Field before entering playoff action.