INDIANAPOLIS – While soccer fans across the globe have their sights on World Cup play in South Africa, one local team from the St. Francis Soccer Club (SFSC) is focusing on lofty goals, too.The Lady Bluez notched a 1-0 win over Carmel United Elite 97 (girls, under 13 years) to win the 2010 U.S. Youth Soccer Indiana State Cup and the Indiana Challenge Cup. Kristen Bellinger gave Sam Dewey an assist for the winning goal with three minutes to play in the second half to defeat Carmel, ranked No. 3 in the nation and regional top seed.
The June 14 at Lawrence, Ind., victory propels the Lady Bluez to Dayton, Ohio, where they will play three championship teams from Ohio, Kentucky and North Dakota. If they win that pool, they will advance to a single-elimination bracket with a chance to play for the Region II Championship.
The 15-member team is led by coaches P.J. Orlando and Autumn McClatchy.
“This is the first ever State Cup Championship in the 12 year history of St. Francis Soccer Club,” said Steve Campbell, director of coaching and player development. “Obviously, we’re proud of the Lady Bluez’ accomplishments as we are all of the teams in our club.”
SFSC’s White Blaze (boys, under 12) also made it to the final four and Premier (boys, under 14) placed second in their division.
The club has 30 competitive travel teams, and serves more than 1,000 youngsters annually in recreational play. It also has an outreach program for developmentally disabled children and an adult co-ed league.
SFSC, sponsored by St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers, has playing fields at Arlington Ave. and Stop 11 Road on the city’s far south side. Registration for the fall recreational play is now under way. To register and to learn more about the St. Francis Soccer Club call 317-783-8849, or visit its Website at www.stfrancissoccer.com.
Photos by Amy Fistrovich
