Outlaws earn all-league selection

Five Outlaws soccer players earned all-league selection, including senior Micah Dachtler, who was a first team pick. Senior Danny Benson earned second team all league and seniors Cooper Merrill, Andrew Islas, and juniors Nick Palmer and Joseph Derksen were honorable mention.

Dachtler was a co-captain for the Outlaws and primarily played at center back. He scored one goal from a set piece during league.

Of Dachtler, Coach Jeff Husmann said, “Micah truly personifies the kind of player and person we hope to develop. He is such an intelligent player and student of the game. He has played every position for us, except goal keeper, and has such a balanced view of the game. He has modeled the commitment that we want the younger guys to strive for. His is so helpful in articulating our game play for other players, and so very well deserved getting first-team honors.”

Benson played attacking midfield for the Outlaws and scored six goals and recorded 11 assists over the course of league play.

“Danny has shown such growth and modeled such commitment to helping this team,” said Husmann. “He has such a strong soccer IQ and competitive nature. The biggest growth for Danny has been knowing how younger players learn and pay attention to him. He is our assist leader and is always involved with the development of play.”

Merrill played at center back and was also a co-captain for the Outlaws.

“Cooper exemplifies the kind of player and teammate we want for this program,” said Husmann. “This year he has taken ownership of playing a central defender. Most importantly, he has always led by example on and off the field. He has been such a strong part of our team these last four years.”

Islas was an Outlaws defender and scored one goal and tallied one assist.

“Andrew has been such an integral part of the development of this team,” said Husmann. “He has grown as an individual and as a soccer player. He is among the most skilled players on our team. His soccer IQ allows him to play in any position he is asked. He has modeled what it takes to improve and his selfless nature is commendable. He is so loved by his teammates and coaches.”

Palmer played as a holding midfielder and tallied four goals and five assists. According to Husmann he was their ‘set piece guy.’

“Nick has brought such a commanding toughness to our team these last two years,” said Husmann. “He plays with an intelligent passion that helps motivate the team. He is often helping analyze the tactical approach versus our opponents. He is such an impact player and continues to evolve in a leadership role.”

Goalkeeper Joseph Derksen rounded out the all-league picks, averaging over 10 saves per game.

“Joseph is perhaps the most overlooked and underrated player on our team and in our league,” said Husmann. He has trained so very hard to be the keeper he is. He has a savvy field vision and commands the defense. He models the kind of student/athlete balance that we want. He’s like able and coachable and tough.”