As promised, here is my list of the Top 10 achievements in Springfield Soccer for 2006. I used a simple premise in choosing this list. I felt that it should recognize an individual, team or group reaching new heights, either on the pitch or within a community.
1. Record soccer crowd at MSU vs Creighton match (pictured)
There were 2102 of you who came out and enjoyed the Missouri State vs Creighton match on October 4th. A new record for attendance at a soccer event in Southwest Missouri.
2. Southwest All-Star HS game broadcast on Mediacom cable
With attendance exceeding 1000 at the 2nd annual match, Springfield also saw Mediacom step up and provide their first televised game coverage since the mid-90’s
3. Jack Jewsbury earns regular position with KC Wizards
In 2006 Jack started 19 games, played in 28 and accumulated over 1800 minutes, almost matching his total in the prior three years. Jack began his career in Springfield and is our finest representative on the pitch!
4. MSU alumni Matt Pickens earns MLS starting position
In 2006, recent alum (2003) Matt Pickens took over for Zach Thornton at the Chicago Fire and earned MLS Player of the Month, wins the US Open Cup and caps his year with a Men’s National Team call up
5. Missouri Southern Lion’s women’s team reach NCAA Tournament
The women reached a #21 ranking and 3rd seed in their Regional group enroute to a 11-4-4 record.
6. Nikki Llewellyn, MSSU Lions, named 2nd Team All American (D2)
Llewellyn, a native of O’Fallon, Mo., came through in a big way for the Lions this season, finishing with team-highs in both goals (6) and assists (5).
7. SSC U15 earn promotion to MRL Premier Division
The U15 team proves that Springfield SC can compete against the finest teams in Region II by earning their promotion to the Premier Division.
8. West Plains 3rd place finish at State
The Zizzer’s road their difficult Ozark Conference schedule all the way to a 3rd place finish this year, reaching new heights as a team.
9. Ellsworth working in the ACC
National Referee Andy Ellsworth continues to see the world via his performance on the pitch. This year it includes working the ACC Tournament, arguably the finest college soccer conference in the country.
10. Brian Bounds named Assistant Trainer for KC Wizards
This one arrives on the cusp of the year. It is going to leave a big hole until we can find a suitable replacement.
So there you have it, my measure of the key events and performers from the Springfield Soccer community. Like any list, there are performances that deserve recognition. From our State Cup winners - Tyler Williams with Scott Gallagher U17 (Region II winners as well) and Skyler Russell and Jordan Pitt with Scott Gallagher U14. Wade Luethy reaching the U23 National Finals. Jake Basecke and Mizzou SC reaching the National Club Finals. From Regional performers, such as Ryan Anderson, MSU, who was an early season Hermann Award nominee. Devon Newport (Glendale 2009, Springfield SC) who was chosen for Region II ODP team. Justin Douglass, MSU 2007 who is attending the MLS Combine at this moment. Jake Harris and Brett Thomas who were chosen to atted the USL Combine. The return of PDL soccer for 2007. It was a good year.
What do you think?
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