Sarasota Paradise’s Magical Run to the South Florida Division Crown
The Sarasota Paradise’s 2024 season was a journey filled with resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. While the season didn’t conclude with the ultimate prize, it was a campaign that will be remembered for its dramatic twists and triumphant moments, culminating in the Paradise claiming the South Florida Division crown.
A Rocky Start with a Triumphant Turnaround
The season began on shaky ground for the Paradise, with a loss to Miami AC and a draw against Swan City that left the team at the bottom of the table. However, the first glimmer of hope came with a crucial 2-0 victory over Tampa Bay United, marking the team’s first win of the season. This victory was a turning point, providing the momentum that would carry the Paradise through the rest of the regular season undefeated.
Defining Moments: Resilience and Drama on Full Display
One of the most unforgettable games of the season took place on June 12 against Tampa Bay United. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, ending in a 4-4 draw after a breathtaking sequence of five goals within just eight minutes. Key contributions from Seth Mahlmeister, who scored two minutes apart, highlighted the team’s attacking prowess and never-say-die attitude.
This theme of resilience was evident again on June 19, when the Paradise faced off against St. Petersburg FC. Down 2-0, the team launched an incredible comeback to secure a 3-2 victory, with Will Pierce netting the decisive goal just thirteen minutes before full-time. This win not only demonstrated the Paradise’s fighting spirit but also their ability to thrive under pressure.
The Final Push: Securing the Division Title
The last week of the season was nothing short of historic for the Sarasota Paradise. On July 9, the team faced a must-win game against Miami AC to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Paradise delivered an outstanding performance, with goals from four different players and an exceptional showing from goalkeeper Brendan Reilly, resulting in a 4-0 shutout victory. This match, hailed as the most thrilling in franchise history, set the stage for a dramatic finale.
The final game of the season saw the Paradise take on St. Petersburg FC, with the division title on the line. An early goal from Kai Tamashiro gave the Paradise the lead, and despite a nearly two-hour rain delay that shortened the game to just one half, the team held on to their advantage. When the final whistle blew, the Paradise players stormed the field, celebrating a hard-fought 1-0 victory that secured the South Florida Division crown and their first-ever playoff berth.
Top Performers of the Season
The Paradise’s successful season was driven by standout performances from several key players:
- Seth Mahlmeister: A consistent threat in attack, Mahlmeister played a crucial role in the team’s offensive success.
- Will Pierce: Known for his clutch goals, Pierce was instrumental in several of the team’s comeback victories.
- Kai Tamashiro: Tamashiro’s early goal in the division-clinching game exemplified his importance to the squad.
A Word from the Coach and Owner
Reflecting on the season, Coach Mirko Dakovic praised the unwavering support of the fans, stating, “Very grateful for our tremendous fan support. In every home game they were our 12th man and difference makers for our group!”
Owner Marcus Walfridson echoed this sentiment, adding, “We couldn’t have done this without our loyal fans! Thank you for showing up to every game and giving us your support.”
A Season to Remember
The Sarasota Paradise scored an impressive 26 goals in just 12 games, a testament to their attacking flair and teamwork. Their qualification for the playoffs in just their second season is a remarkable achievement and a sign of more success to come. Though the season had its ups and downs, it will be remembered as a magical run that united a team and its fans in the pursuit of glory.
As the Paradise looks ahead to the future, they do so with the confidence of a team that has proven they belong at the top, ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.
