After winning two tournament during the summer months, the Battlefords Stingers U18 Development Girls soccer team had high expectations for provincials, which were held in Lloydminster July 23 to 25.
Being considered a smaller centre in the U18 development level, the Stingers, made up of girls 15 to 18 years old were competitive all season.
In the provincial tournament, the Stingers lost 1-0 to RC Rustlers of Lloydminster to open the weekend tournament.
Saturday morning, they played the Aurora Roadrunners of Saskatoon and suffered another loss, this time by a disappointing 7-1 score. Courtney Graham had the lone goal for the Stingers.
Sunday, they went up against the Rustlers in a rematch in the second versus third playoff game. This time the score was the same, but the Stingers came out on top with Sheridyn Graham notching the Battlefords lone goal.
Later Sunday, the Stingers went up against the Roadrunners and again the offence struggled to find the back of the net, as the Roadrunners were crowned provincials champions after a 2-0 win.
Along with the silver medal at provincials, the Stingers were also awarded the fair play award.
In talking with one player after the provincial tournament the Stingers were a bit upset of how their season ended, but to represent the Battlefords and area and to capture a provincial silver medal is a great accomplishment.
Coach Kat Huxley said she was thankful and proud of her team and wishes the best of luck to the graduating players as they move on to bigger and better things. As for next year's team, she is excited about welcoming the players moving up and looks forward to the returning players to supply some leader for next season.
"Thank you to the parents, players, fans, Battlefords Youth Soccer Association and the manager (Monica Graham) for a great season," said Huxley.
