Orlando Squeeze Take on the MLP Mid-Season Tournament

Tournament Overview

The Orlando Squeeze returned to action at the MLP Mid-Season Tournament in Grand Rapids, taking on a challenging field that included Team Europe, the Palm Beach Royals, and the California Black Bears. Competing in one of the season's most anticipated events, the Squeeze opened the weekend with intensity and energy against Team Europe, showcasing the competitive spirit that has kept Orlando in the playoff hunt throughout the season.

The tournament's biggest challenge came early when Orlando lost standout player Lacy Schneemann to injury, forcing the Squeeze to adjust on the fly against a deep and talented field. Despite the setback, the team continued to battle through every match, demonstrating resilience and determination against playoff-caliber competition.

Days 2 and 3 brought two marquee matchups. First came the Sunshine Showdown against in-state rival Palm Beach, followed by a cross-coast test against the California Black Bears. While Orlando came up short in both contests, the experience provided valuable reps against postseason contenders and further sharpened the team for the stretch run ahead.

The Squeeze leave Grand Rapids at 9-9 on the season with 19 points, holding the No. 11 spot in the MLP standings and remaining above the playoff cutoff heading into the final two regular-season events. With San Diego next on the schedule, Orlando remains firmly in the postseason race and focused on securing its place in the playoffs.

Tournament Name: MLP Mid-Season Tournament – Grand Rapids
Dates: July 8-12, 2026
Location / Venue: Beer City Open
Format (e.g. round-robin, bracket): Group Play
Total teams competing: Twenty-Four (24)

Tournament Results

The following reflects Orlando Squeeze's performance across all matches played:

Final standing / placement out of all teams competing in Grand Rapids: 18^th
Overall record (W-L):  1-2

Tournament Highlights
Player Performances

•       Yates Johnson—Earned Player of the Match (presented by AdventHealth) recognition during the men’s doubles against Team Europe. 
•       Federico Staksrud—Earned the Moment of the Match (presented by City National Bank) recognition after delivering a tricky blow across the net in the men’s doubles against Team Europe. 
•       Lacy Schneemann—Ankle injury during a scrimmage that left her in a boot for the remainder of the tournament. Luckily, Alex Walker was available and eager to step up to the court in her place. 
•       Jack Sock—Unfortunately unavailable this weekend to play alongside his dynamic duo Federico Staksrud but will be back in action in California.  

Key Moments
•       The Squeeze completed the list of clean sweeps for opening day after their 3-0 victory over Team Europe. Rane and Schneemann delivered an 11-0 sweep in women’s doubles before Staksrud and Johnson took stage in the men’s doubles. Rane and Staksrud finished Team Europe off and closed out the contest with their mixed doubles victory.                                                                

Team Quote

— Frederico Staksrud on his mentality prior to facing Team Europe.

Next Tournament

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