Why we host Soccer Regionals!

Garrett hosted the 2011 Boys Soccer Regional Tournament tonight at the "Pitch". Fort Wayne Canterbury dominated Lakeland and won easily 8-0. Cross County Rival Lakewood Park lost in the second game of the night 2-0.

The weather was terrible, but we had a great crowd for both games. I have been asked why we host so many tournaments and so I thought I would answer that for everyone. Garrett has some of the best facilities in Northeast Indiana. That includes our Gymnasium, Track, Football Field, Soccer Fields, Baseball Field, and Softball field. We have a great history of managing tournaments. That is a testament to the great workers we have and the hospitality of our community. Even though all of those things are important considerations for being chosen by the IHSAA. Why do we offer to host?

There are several answers to that.

First, is I love to do them. I love it when people come to our community and school and here all the comments. They are always so complimentary about our hospitality and our great first class facilities. I never have difficulty finding great workers who represent this community with a lot of class.

Second, it is great for our community. I saw every kid on the Canterbury team with a pizza from Garrett's Pizza Hut after their game. I also saw plenty of subway sandwiches and drinks. I am sure they filled up their gas tanks at our gas stations. They spend money in our community.

Third, it is good for our kids. Although GHS did not have a team in the tournament, we always want to offer to host. When we do have a team in the tournament, our people can stay at home. We might host a tournament for years and never have a team in it. Then one day we do and it will be a great advantage for our kids. When we have hosted sectional softball, baseball, or basketball, it has helped our kids. When we have hosted the ACAC track meet or ACAC Wrestling meet, it has helped our kids.   Tonight, we had our Soccer Boys working the sidelines. It is good for them to see a regional game. It builds their desire to accomplish that goal and gives them incentive to get better.

The Regional Championship game will be held on Saturday Night at 7pm. Two really good teams, including the Number 1 state ranked Canterbury team will put on a great soccer game. Come out and enjoy the game!