Posted: 7/5/06
North Branch finishes second in division
 Center mid fielder Trent Holmes of North Branch kicks a ball while a Blaine defender is on his heals June 21 in North Branch. The Vikings won the game 6-2 and finished the regular season 11-1-2. |
By Steve Morris
America has been eliminated from the World Cup but the North Branch U13 soccer team is still playing strong. In fact, the U.S team could learn a little from the local soccer standouts on how to score goals. The U13 team lost only one game this season and out scored its opponents 58-14; an impressive statistic anyway you cut it.
On June 21 they continued their dominance and defeated Blaine 6-2 in North Branch for their 11th win of the season. It was their last game of the regular season. They finished with a record of 11-1-2. Now, the Vikings prepare for the district tournament July 14.
The team is coached by Jay and Norm Falk along with Chisago Lakes principal Dave Ertl. The teams fabric is comprised of 11 kids playing together for wins. Norm Falk, who coached varsity soccer at White Bear Lake for more than 20 years, said they donít have a star player, rather many stars. Norm Folk stresses the importance of team unity.
ìWe have 16 top players,î he said.
Norm Falk said they play 4-3-4 setting. In soccer terms, this means four defenders, three strikers, and three defenders. The strategy seems to be working considering their record and the amount of goals they have scored.
ìWe try to keep things fair,î Norm Falkís son, Jay, said. ìItís not all about scoring.î
The Vikings play under the Minnesota Youth Soccer Association. U13 means any player 13 years old or younger can play on the team. MYSA rules state teams can have as many as 18 players on a roster. North Branch has 16 players on the team. Norm Falk said they have many kids going into eighth grade and one or two sixth graders.
ìWe have some very good players,î he said. ìWeíve come a long way since the beginning of the season.î
The Vikings practice once a week and play games twice a week. The Vikings play in the Classic three division. Champline/Dayton leads the division and is the only undefeated team for the season. North Branch played Champlin/ Dayton earlier in the season only to fall short by a score of 1-0. North Branch is in second place in the division.
All things considered, Jay Falk said the win against Blaine closes a good regular season.
ìIt ends a very successful season for us and we look forward to districts in July.î
For more information on youth soccer, visit the MYSA Web site at www.mnyouthsoccer.org
©ECM Post Review
6448 Main Street
North Branch, MN 55056
Telephone: 651-674-7025
Fax: 651-674-7026
E-mail: editor.postreview@ecm-inc.com