UPL of Colorado Over-35 Division Season Finale

Before the start of the final UPL Over-35 game at the Gates Soccer Complex, the Guadalajara Soccer Club of Denver (Chivas) held a slim, technical margin over Arsenal Over-35. Both teams were undefeated, both teams had allowed merely six goals all season, and they hadn’t faced each other yet. But Chivas had 38 goals, one more than Arsenal. Chivas scored early in the final game, lead 4-0 at the half, and finished 5-0 to win the UPL Over-35 division with 24 points. Arsenal finished second with 21 points, followed by CCCP (14), Pars America FC (10), Harlow Park FC (10), Foxes Masters (7), Peace FC (4), and Black Sheep United (2).

“I was very impressed with the organization pioneering a new league,” noted Chivas manager Miguel Ochoa. “I was pleased to see team information on my Smart Phone, which makes it easier to check in players for games. I was also impressed with the referees.”

Using new technology, the UPL system allows managers and referees to quickly track players online at the fields. But Ochoa appreciated the competition as well.

“The other teams that joined from different leagues added a nice flavor,” Ochoa continued. “The sportsmanship was very good. We shared a lot of respect among the teams. To play at this age, we want to continue playing as long as possible.”

As a veteran member of the Chivas organization in Denver, Ochoa said he was very proud of his club. “We always try to reflect a good image of Mexican teams. Our philosophy is to show our love of soccer and we can play without limits.”

The Chivas tradition in Mexico is based on an all-Mexican roster. But in Denver, Ochoa noted the diversity on the team, non-Mexicans from Colorado and other parts of the world.

According to Jebb Dukes, Arsenal team manager, the UPL “is a first-class operation all the way around. Although we lost, we could have not lost to a better team. I have nothing but the utmost respect for Chivas. They are first-class and won the league with respect, honor, and dignity. I am proud to play against them and grateful that they are in our league. Congratulations to Chivas! Thank you to all the refs. Arsenal looks forward to the league growing and improving for years to come.”