I got to enjoy the Springfield Soccer Club’s 2nd Annual Banquet Thursday evening and I’m impressed. It’s one thing to see the bumper stickers whenever I’m at Lake Country Soccer but to see well over 500 folks squeezed into the White River Room at Bass Pro Shops put it into a new perspective. Since I’m still a fan I can come right out and say it – the highlight for me was getting a chance to hear Jackie Jewsbury, KC Wizards starting midfielder and Kickapoo alumni, tell about his experiences as a player. First in Springfield, then the opportunities he had on the larger stage in Region II, at St. Louis University and now as a starter in Major League Soccer (MLS). You’ve read about his experiences here, but to see the kids react to him and the effort he puts into reaching out to them is something else again.

If you have not already purchased your tickets for Jackie’s next visit to Springfield, the KC Wizards play the Missouri State Bears next Wednesday April 12th at Cooper Sports Complex. Be there! Call 836-5243 and ask for Coach Sorlie.

The Club took the time to recognize the efforts of it’s players and it’s volunteers, in particular the family of Bill & Nancy Parsons and their son Andrew as Family of the Year. The Marlow’s were recognized as Volunteers of the Year. The many Team Administrators were recognized and there was a Team Player of the Year for each club team, the boys are pictured here and the girls here. Finally, the Player of the Year award was presented to Andrew Parsons and Rachel Lavoy. Andrew is headed for the University of New Mexico (an NCAA Finalists last November) while Rachel is headed for Purdue University. Both players have been featured here and in the News-Leader for their performances on the field but they are also top students as well. Much like their predecessors, Patrick Carver (Emory University) and Katie Brooks (William Jewell).

Congratulations to all. And thanks to the fine coaching staff for the effort and quality of development they offer to the players of the club. Who will be the next player to excel on the larger stage?

If you haven’t visited this site before, all photos are available for free download. Click on the photo associated with this story (above) and it will take you to my Flickr photo site. There you will find the 25 photos I’ve posted from this event and the more then 435 photos of Springfield SC. Instructions can be found on the right, under “How To Use This Site”