Christian selected Player of the Year

The Outlaws boys soccer squad had four players named to all-league teams, including senior Vince Christian, who was not only a first-team pick, but also selected as Player of the Year.

Christian was a cocaptain for the Outlaws and played as an attacking midfielder. Vince is a four-year starter and led the team in both goals (20) and assists (12).

Coach Jeff Husmann said, “Vince is at the heart of our team. He has an exceptional work rate, often draws two to three defenders, and finds the open guy. He has incredible vision and soccer IQ. He has sown tremendous leadership growth this year, always helping mentor our younger players, and learning how to be an effective communicator. Every team we face has to attend to him. He is very deserving as Player of the Year.”

Seniors Carson Bell and Austin Dean were also first- team selections.

Bell played as a holding midfielder and Husmann noted that his stats alone (six goals and four assists) don’t show the great player that he really is.

“Carson is such an outstanding soccer player and human,” said Husmann. “He has worked so very hard at becoming the player he is. He exemplifies the selfless style of play we strive for. He is at the core of our build-up play, and has incredible vision and the innate ability to find and utilize space. He has played every minute of every game this year, and truly is a big part of this program’s growing strength.”

Dean was a cocaptain, and Husmann told The Nugget that he is among the most versatile and athletic individuals he’s coached. Dean has been a three year starter and has played every position on the field, including keeper.

“Austin is always helping guide younger players and is very much our scout,” said Husmann. “He is a consummate coach, does research on our opponents, and helps us prepare for our upcoming games. He missed a few games due to a concussion, and in that time we sustained our only league loss. Though he doesn’t get the credit that the goal scorers do, we would not have the success we’ve had without him. He’s a big part of the ascent of our program.”

Jesse Polachek (sophomore) rounds out the all- league picks, and was a second-team selection. He is a two-year starter, played at center back, and hasn’t missed a single minute the past two years.

“Jesse is wise and experienced beyond his years,” said Husmann. “He is calm on the ball, has great understanding of the game, and continually helps other players understand their roles. He is among the best defenders in our league.”

In addition, Coach Jeff Husmann was named Co-Coach of the Year alongside Brandi Wittenborn of Creswell.

Of this distinction Husmann said, “It is an honor to be acknowledged by such a solid group of coaches. All coaches know the level of commitment required to build a strong program, so it is nice to get recognized. We have won back-to-back league titles against some very tough teams. However, my primary focus is all about helping our student athletes be the best version of themselves that they can be...

“I would also like to say thank you to the families for their support and my coaching staff for all their contributions to our program,” added Husmann.