craigdailypress.com

Coach Isidro Quezada of the 17-and-under boys Craig Youth Soccer team has one goal in mind get the high school soccer players ready for the upcoming soccer season.

"I helped put this team together because the high school season is too short," said Quezada. "When the high school season starts, we want to be ready to go and have all the kids be in shape."

A year ago, Quezada put together a team, but it wasn't too successful.

"This is the second year that we have had all the kids together," said Quezada. "Last year, we didn't have that many and so we had them mix with other teams. This year, we have 17 kids that are ready to play and most of them are high school kids."

The players believe summer soccer is a good idea.

"This will help us a lot because it will get us working together," said Isidro Quezada Jr., who will be senior in high school. "But since we will be playing all summer, that will really helps us out. I am very pleased with the turnout. I didn't think some of these guys would come out."

"I am excited to be on the team playing soccer," said Alex Johnson. "I think that this team will prepare us pretty good for high school. In the summer, we still do a lot of exercises and training."

Two weeks into the season, Craig is sporting a 1-1 record. The team started the season with a 4-1 road win against Steamboat Springs.

Last Friday in Craig, Steamboat downed Craig, 4-1.

"Last Friday, Steamboat Springs brought a different team because the first time they were embarrassed because we beat them at their own place," said coach Quezada.

"I am happy with the way things have gone so far this season. This team has looked pretty good."

The team is looking forward to the Rock Springs, Wyo., tournament, which starts June 17.

"We are preparing for that tournament," said coach Quezada. "It should be a good test for us."

The team goes on the road June 10 to play Glenwood Springs.