Why no high school soccer?

Dear Editor,

That is a question my daughter has asked me the last two years she has been in high school. We moved here from Rapid City, SD where soccer was played all year long. I have heard others have tried to bring soccer to McCook. Here are my reasons that McCook should have a soccer team.

1. McCook wants to grow and bring new opportunities to the city. If I was looking to relocate my business and my children play soccer, would I choose a community that offers soccer at all levels or one that only goes up to eighth grade? I know of at least two families that have taken opportunities in other places because there will be the opportunity to play a higher level of soccer.

2. Adding soccer may take away some kids from the spring sports. But what about the kids that may not be the best athlete but are great at soccer? This could keep them out of trouble and in school. You do not need to be the most athletic person to play soccer. Also why not let other schools like Southwest participate like they do with swimming.

3. You should take the time to go down to Barnett Park and see how much fun the kids have playing and learning soccer on Saturdays. Why not allow kids the opportunity to play and learn all the way through high school instead of just to eighth grade? You never know we may have the next Mia Hamm playing.

4. We have the facilities. Weiland Field is a great football field but is only used about one fourth of the year. Why not use it for soccer also.

5. There is support for soccer. Drive by the soccer fields down at Barnett Park and see the parents and grandparents supporting the kids.

6. I know money is always an issue. But if the majority of class B schools can find the funds to have a soccer team why can't McCook? Soccer is an inexpensive sport. All you need is a field, goals, uniforms, coaches and referees.

I feel now is the time to consider bring soccer to the high school.

Tamela Laurie

McCook, Nebraska