Youth soccer league started in Lincoln County

HARRINGTON - The high school football field was a palette of color as kids in Lincoln County's new youth soccer league honed their skills in games Saturday, May 13.

"We have 175 kids between the ages of five and seven participating on 17 teams from Davenport, Wilbur, Harrington, Reardan and Odessa," league president Jon Evans said.

Evans, a deputy with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, started the league out of his love for basketball.

"Kobe Bryant said, 'Soccer transitions to basketball,'" Evans said.

Evans' desire is for each participant to develop good character traits.

"Sports teaches kids how to work together as a team, develop leadership skills, deal with adversity and accept failure," he said. "If they can learn these lessons when they're young, it's less likely they will end up riding in the back of my police car when they are older."

Evans praised members of his leadership team, Brittany Wagner and Kailey Vieira.

"Without them, none of this would be possible," he said. "With donations from Harrington's Booster Club and our sponsors, they purchased all the equipment and designed and purchased team uniforms."

Evans was grateful for sponsors, Haase Insurance, Leffel, Otis and Warwick, the Harrington Hause Tavern and The Post and Office.

Because of corporate sponsors and community support, Evans said the league will include middle school teams next year, which will increase participation to 250 kids.

The five-week season will conclude May 20-21 with the league tournament at the school. 38 games will be played to determine age group champions.

Competition begins Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and concludes Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission isn't charged.

"Next weekend there will be a lot going on in Harrington," Evans said. "It would be great if people came to support our soccer program, and while they are here, take in the car show. Our concessions will be open so that we can raise money that will benefit our kids."

Evans said the challenge with youth soccer is that each year kids outgrow their cleats.

"We will gladly accept the donation of used cleats," he said. "We don't want money to be an issue. If you don't think you can afford it, we will find a way for your child to play."