Katie Vidal (4) & Isabel Lane in action against Blue Ridge (Andy Morales/AllSportsTucson.com)
Desert Christian Old Pueblo Soccer Classic
Sept. 30 – Oct. 1: Udall Park
MORE PHOTOS HERE
The Old Pueblo Soccer Classic got underway on Friday and will conclude Saturday at Udall Park in Tucson. In all, 19 teams from around the state are taking part including the top six boy’s teams according to the current AIA/MaxPreps standings. In fact, 10 of the top 12 teams will be competing.
On the girl’s side, eight of the top teams are playing including the top-ranked Chino Valley squad.
Desert Christian went 1-1 on Friday with a 3-0 loss to No. 1 Blue Ridge and a 2-1 win over No. No. 9 Ash Fork. The Eagles are ranked No. 12 and the team is competing as a coed-squad this fall due to low numbers.
Sophomore midfielder Katie Vidal and Isabel Lane have joined up with the boys. Lane was recently offered a college scholarship from Trinity International in Illinois and the senior credits playing with the boys for her improved game.
“I had to adjust to the physicality and the speed,” Lane explained. “There is no time when a ball comes your way, you have to be ready and play it better and quicker. It has made me a better soccer player. There is less room for error”
Lane says four girls started out but only two remain. Senior forward Mikey Lord sees their presence as a blessing.
“We are all enjoying it,” he said. “It’s a blessing to have them on the team.”
Lord, like Lane, was also offered a spot at Trinity International and he is leaning that way.
“I’m hoping to enjoy every minute of my senior year,” he added. “This will be the last time I will be playing for my dad.”
Lord’s father is head coach Steve Lord.
BOYS
Benson 3, Snowflake 2
Willcox 1, Show Low 0
Blue Ridge 3, Desert Christian 0
Ash Fork 2, Holbrook 0
Camp Verde 2, St. Johns 0
Show Low 2, Benson 1
Blue Ridge 2, Chino Valley 1
Desert Christian 3, Ash Fork 0
Camp Verde 6, Holbrook 0
Snowflake 6, Willcox 2
Chino Valley 3, St. Johns 0
GIRLS
Show Low 5, Camp Verde 2
Blue Ridge 1, Chino valley 1
St. Johns 1, Payson 0
Snowflake 5, Holbrook 0
Payson 2, Holbrook 0
Snowflake 0, St. Johns 0
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Andy Morales was recognized by the AIA as the top high school reporter in 2014 and has been a youth, high school and college coach for over 30 years. His own children have won multiple state high school championships and were named to all-state teams. Competing in hockey, basketball, baseball and track & field in high school, his unique perspective can only be found here and on AZPreps365.com. Contact Andy Morales at AMoralesMyTucson@yahoo.com
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