The Albert Lea U-11 boys&8217; soccer team, recently concluded what it considered a very successful season playing in the classic two south division, which includes some of the toughest 11-year-old teams in the state.

The league record of 4-6 doesn&8217;t tell the whole story for this team. Over the July 9-10 weekend, the team went 4-0 to win the Star of the North Tournament in Rochester allowing only one goal during the entire tournament.

Over the past weekend the team entered the district tournament seeded seventh. Its first game was against a tough Dakota Rev team which beat Albert Lea 9-1 earlier in the season. The boys gave maximum effort managing to keep pace with their opponent through the entire game.

One of the highlights was a penalty kick save by goalie Nate Hogstad early in the game, giving Albert Lea some much needed momentum. The game ended regulation with a 2-2 tie. Both scores came as a result of great teamwork with assists from Tim Furland, Tyler Vandenheuvel and Carter Dahl being there to put the ball in the net.

The defense played like pros lead by Cesar Herrera in the middle with the speed of Preston Smith, strong leg of Cole Keyeski and the hard work of Collin Jahnke keeping Dakota&8217;s shots to a minimum. Riley Rubel, Preston Smith and Van Zelenak played the tough midfield position setting up many runs at the goal. Following two five minute overtimes the score remained tied forcing a shoot-out.

The Albert Lea boys came out victorious netting five of five goals with Hogstad managing to deflect one of the Dakota shots.

The team then faced third-seeded Apple Valley who was very surprised to be matching up with Albert Lea. The team managed to play well but the Apple Valley team proved to be too quick and ended the Tigers&8217; season.

Members of the U-11 team are Carter Dahl, Tim Furland, Cesar Herrera, Nate Hogstad, Collin Jahnke, Cole Keyeski, Garrett Matz, Riley Ruble, Preston Smith, Tyler Vandenheuvel and Van Zelenak.

The players and parents would like to thank coaches Bob Furland, Gary Hogstad, Pam Ruble and Rafael Herrara for their time and dedication to the team over the past season.