By Staff
NILES – The Second Annual Elk's Soccer Shoot, which took place at Plym Park on Saturday, June 7, was a tremendous success. More than 55 boys and girls showed up to test their levels of soccer goal kicking skills.
The "Five Goal Contest" consisted of a series of five goals, decreasing in size from 48 inches to 17 inches. The age groups that use these goals were divided into two categories – U-8 is for all ages four to seven, and the U-10 group is for ages eight and nine. The winners of U-8 boys were Jose Morales, Baker Hassan and Jiovanny Morales; U-8 girl winners were Erin Fisher, Meghan Sokoloskis and Catalina Muniz.
The winners of U-10 boys were Jacob Gaines, Matthew Rosenthal and Jacob Holland; U-10 girl winners were Elizabeth Clark, Emily Gaines and Jeniah Palmer.
The Grid Goal Contest consists of a full-size goal sectioned off so points can be scored when the ball is kicked into certain sections. The age groups that use this goal are U-12, which is for ages 10 and 11, and U-14, which is for ages 12 and 13.
The winners of U-12 boys were Sheldon Mudd, Josh Chavous and Noah Borzsei; U-10 girl winners were Jayriel Palmer and Allison Grant. The winners of U-14 boys were Chase Hullinger, Ryan Casey and Dawlton Britton; U-14 girl winners were Taylor Sokoloskis and Abigail Gaines.
Soccer ball shagging was provided by volunteers Chris Lewellen, Alex Lewellen, Sam Clark and Zack Webber. A hot dog lunch and awards banquet was hosted by the Elks Lodge at the Lodge after the competition.
Next year's event will take place June 6, 2009.