Two years ago Seattle United were playing in the state cup finals. The game was tied when the opponent took a shot from the left corner of the 18-yard box. The goalie dove and got a hand on it. Instead of hitting the ball away, it deflected into the goal.
UPrep spring sports are starting. Although soccer is not a spring sport, some students play year-round for club teams around Seattle.
Seventh grader Ella Sale has played soccer since the first grade. Seattle United was the first club team she tried out for.
“I tried out for Seattle United, and it was super fun because I got to meet a lot of really sweet and really interesting people,” Sale said.
Sale talks about the stress of school and using soccer as a getaway.
“Sometimes school can be a lot, and I think it’s really nice to have a place where the point of the game is to win,” Sale said.
Eighth grader Maeve Keegan played rec soccer before coming to Seattle United.
“It was the first thing I had access to,” Keegan said.
Keegan has been with Seattle United for six years.
“Seattle United has a tight-knit community,” Keegan said “Everyone’s usually pretty involved and supportive.”
Eighth grader Scout Lincoln talks about why she plays for Seattle Reign.
“It is a good style of play, and they don’t just boot it. They pass around and keep the ball,” Lincoln said.
According to eighth grader Violet Rowe, Seattle Reign focuses on team bonding before they start playing together. It helps teammates become more “cohesive,” according to Rowe.
Lincoln describes Seattle Reign’s academy as “kind and welcoming,” saying the expectation is for players to push themselves to be the best.
Seattle Celtic has lots of players and levels and tries to “provide the perfect mix of energy, passion and expertise,” according to the Seattle Celtic website.
Keegan has been on Seattle United Tango for three years.
“Sticking with it is one of the best decisions I’ve made,” Keegan said. “It’s now such a big part of who I am.”