🎅 Santa Cup 2012: Lions Wrap Up the Season in Festive Spirit
To close out an incredible year for the club, the Shanghai Lions participated in the Santa Cup 2012 on Sunday, December 16. This year’s edition, organized once again by our own Presidente Freek, was bigger and better than ever with 16 teams competing in 8-a-side matches at Waigaoqiao from morning until sunset.
After a memorable run in the Santa Cup 2011, this edition confirmed the Lions’ growing presence and commitment to the SPL’s most festive event of the year.
🎁 Two Lions Teams on the Field
The Lions proudly fielded two teams this year:
- A Senior Team, composed of committed veterans and regulars;
- And for the first time ever, a Lions U18 squad stepping into the men’s competition, gaining valuable experience at a higher level.
While the tournament was not about rankings, the event was clearly about team spirit, football, and festive fun.
🧤 Notable Performances
- Thomas, our goalkeeper, delivered several outstanding saves, making himself a standout figure of the day.
- Simon showed persistence and was rewarded by scoring his first and second goals ever for the Lions on a Sunday.
- Benji arrived fashionably late but brought his trademark smile—and a couple of goals—to lift the spirit of the squad.
- The U18s, though facing tougher opposition, scored goals, registered wins, and gained essential match exposure.
The closing of the tournament saw the Lions and the Scottish team shutting down Waigaoqiao, highlighting the strong camaraderie and good vibes that defined the day. It was a perfect way to end a fantastic year of football.
🍷 Lions Christmas Party
Just two days prior, the Lions family gathered at our Lions Lounge @ Bloc for our annual Christmas Dinner. With a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere, it was the perfect occasion to look back on 2012’s successes and share laughs among teammates.
Special mentions:
- Terao-san had the time of his life after being invited to kiss 10 ladies (!).
- Kevin won a new tie and possibly the unofficial fashion award of the night.
- Post-dinner, many players made a few extra stops around town—just enough to “fuel up” for the Santa Cup.
🦁 Thank You, Lions!
To all players, parents, sponsors, and supporters—thank you for being part of our journey in 2012. The Santa Cup reminded us of the true spirit of the Lions: passion, unity, fun, and love for the game.
Happy Holidays & see you in 2013!
🎄⚽
Freek
