Despite a smaller field than usual, the Knights of Columbus, along with the Harrison County Parks and Recreation, hosted the 8^th Annual Kirkwood Memorial Soccer Challenge at the Summit Park Rec Complex on Saturday, September 27^th.

 

Those who qualified in the local event advance to the state finals, which will be on Sunday, October 19^th at the Clarksburg City Parks soccer field adjacent to Frank Loria ball field.  Age groups from six to 14 competed in the one day event.

 

While the event is open to younger soccer players, those who range from nine to 14 years of age only qualify for the state competition. 

 

Scoring, which starts from the most basic of kicks - the penalty kick, is decided on accuracy.  Points are earned as long as the ball goes into the net.  The lower corners have a score of 10 points while the upper corners are 20.  All other shots into the net are valued at five.

 

“The Soccer Challenge is one that we hold dear to our heart because the event is named after the Kirkwood family, who has strong soccer ties in our community,” remarked Deputy Director Doug Comer.  “We wished to have a little more participation, but soccer league commitments seem to come first.  Overall, we are happy for those who qualified and hope to crown a local as the state champion this month.”

 

Winners of the qualifiers include the following.  Out of all winners, only the 9 year olds and older will be able to compete in the state finals.

 

Girls Divison

Brynly Richards 7 years old

Teahla Mayle 9 years old

Birkley Richards 12 years old

 

Boys Divison

Jacob Keener 7 years old

Joseph Reinhart 9 years old

Randy Keener 11 years old

Jake Comer 12 years old

Khori Miles 13 years old

 

Editor's Note: Pictured from left to right, Joseph Reinhart / Jacob Keener and Randy Keener Behind / Brynly Richards / Mayle

Back Row Birkley Richards / Jake Comer / Khori Miles