Rio Vista Triumph U13 girls coach Tom Hirschman figured the New Mexico Rush Spring Cup would be a good way to learn about his team.

What he didn’t figure is just how much he’d discover.

The team out of Albuquerque, New Mexico, wasted little time asserting itself as the Triumph captured the U13 Girls division with a perfect record of 4-0-0.

It was supposed to be a good starting point to what will be a big season, and it ended up becoming a major statement.

“It was just a way to get our season going, and we kind of dived right into it,” Hirschman said. “For me it was a chance to see what we need to work on. This is the age where it becomes more serious and there’s a higher level of commitment – this is definitely a group that’s in it to be competitive.”

Rio Vista wrapped up its successful two-day tournament Sunday with a final match that challenged its attrition and mental toughness.

Facing a fellow unbeaten Elite FC Barcelona squad in the decisive match of the division, the Triumph also had to deal with strong winds and temperatures that continually dropped.

The match began with players in their customary shorts and T-shirts and ended with them bundled up in sweats and long sleeves.   

Battling against the wind in the first half, Rio Vista sat its defensive back, content to sacrifice offense in order to protect the goal.

When the team finally got the wind its favor, it attacked. Led by leading goal scorer Jenny Chiu, and center midfielder Amanda Rudolph, the Triumph cruised to a 3-0 victory.

The final score wasn’t indicative of the match’s competitiveness, and all four of the Triumph’s wins were close affairs.   

“Any game could’ve gone either way, and could’ve swayed easily,” Hirschman said. “We just stayed consistent. We still have things to work on as far as our fitness, but this is a good start.”

Despite Hirschman’s surprise concerning his team’s fast start, Rio Vista is far from an underdog. The team has flourished ever since it was constructed, and has now won two tournaments in a row including a Thanksgiving tourney in Arizona.

“We played against some real deal teams and performed really well,” Hirschman said. “It’s a really good group that’s excited to play soccer.”

The team is especially excited about having the opportunity to compete for a state cup for the first time in their careers.

“We’ll work on our fitness, and focus on the state tournament,” Hirschman said. “With this team we have hopes to make regionals. That’s a step we’re hoping to take.”