The Fallbrook U18 Girls are out in front of the SoCal Summer Sevens Series, winning the first of three tournaments at the Encinitas 7s last Saturday. The field will attempt to close the gap at the Gator 7s (July 12) and Cal State Games (July 25) before a champion is declared.

The Warriors brought nine players to the tournament, but fortunately for the reigning national high school champion, fitness has always been prioritized. Coaches Craig and Marin Pinnell also brought a mixed squad in terms of experience, and leaned on the veteran leadership of players like Alex Beckett, Destiny Arena, and Miriam Friebe.

In the opening round, Fullerton was ready for Fallbrook, and battled to a 12-12 tie. Jenny Smidt and Meckena Hultin scored tries, while Mack Miller added the conversion. It became evident that the pair would meet again, likely in the final.

Fallbrook defeated the Aztec Warriors 36-0 and Poway 30-5 throughout the day, and Alyssa Lee led the charge with three tries. Beckett (2), Miller (2), Hultin, Arena, Smidt, Isela Orozco, and Julie Cervera all added tries, and Miller tacked on another three conversions.

Fullerton was equally as busy advancing to the championship round, defeating Poway 19-5 and the Aztecs 40-0.

But by game four, Fallbrook had settled into its winning form, and the rematch wasn’t as close as game one. Friebe had been leading the team on defense and setting up her teammates throughout the tournament, but she showcased her speed in the final and dotted down three tries in the 29-12 win. Beckett and Lee scored tries as well, and Miller slotted her fifth and sixth conversions of the day.

Check out photos from the tournament at Pink Shorts Photography.

Fallbrook Girls U18s
Destiny Arena
Alex Beckett
Julie Cervera
Miriam Friebe
Meckena Hultin
Alyssa Lee
Mack Miller
Isela Orozco
Jenny Smidt

​Related Articles:

Montana Girls Gain Victory in Pitching Up

Washington Toughs out Girls GNC

Loggers Girls take GNC