Sports Shorts

The Twin County SA Titans, a competitive U14 boys travel team, won the N.J. Youth Soccer State Cup Nov. 1 at Mercer County Park, taking the place at the top of their age group in the state. They outscored their opponents in cup play 20-5, beating Hillsborough Roma 2-1, Vineland Devils 6-0, and Randolph Rovers 4-1. In the semifinals the Titans bested the Ocean Tornadoes 5-2, advancing to the finals, where they defeated Wayne United 3-1. Mauricio Garcia coaches the team. More information can be found at www.twincountysoccer. org

Ocean County College's women's cross country team is No. 1 in the nation after the Lady Vikings finished first in the team competition for the Division III National Junior College Athletic Association's (NJCAA) national championship held Nov. 7 at Finger Lakes Community College, Canandaigua, N.Y. This the first time that an OCC cross country team brought home a national title and the first cross country season after a 13-year hiatus. Under the guidance of head coach Ed Baynes, the women's cross country team was led by Jen Nelson (Barnegat), who also won OCC's firstever individual cross country title with a time of 19:48 on the tough 5K course. She was supported by Erine O'Connor and Alyssa Collier (both Toms River), who finished in 12th and 13th place, respectively, in the 115 runner field. The three athletes were among the top 15 runners who earned All-American Honors for their efforts. Priscilla Robinson (Lakewood) finished in 17th place and Lauren Ashman (Toms River) finished 30th to seal the victory for OCC.

In addition, the OCC men's team had a strong showing when two athletes set personal bests over the 8K distance. Mike Neigel (Brick) came in 35th and Jarryd Novin (Jackson) finished 55th.

Women's Professional Soccer champion Sky Blue FC will host the 2009 WinterFest 1- 3 p.m. Dec. 6 at Yurcak Field, Rutgers University, Piscataway. The free two-hour event features a free coaching clinic and season ticket select-a-seat. Members of the Sky Blue FC coaching staff will be on hand to conduct the training session, giving them the unique experience of participating in the same system as the 2009 WPS champions. At the conclusion of the clinic, coaches and staff of the team will participate in a special meet-and-greet session. Along with discounted merchandise on sale, fans will also be able to personally select their season ticket seats for the 2010 season. For more information, call 888-SBFC-TIX (888- 723-2849).