JOURNAL Sports

Thunderbolts return for another season of adapted soccer

The South Washington County Thunderbolts are once again getting their kicks at Park High School.

After a season off because of the Covid-19 Pandemic restrictions, the Thunderbolts have returned to Park for another season of adapted soccer.

Park fell 6-4 to Chanhassen/ Chaska/Shakopee/Prior Lake Wednesday, but as usual for the Thunderbolts, the joy was in the competing.

“We really need to try, and try and try to get the ball in,” said senior goalie Allen Gillman.”And I really think that we should hustle more.”

“We tried our best,” said Sarah Badeski. “I always think it’s my fault they lost.”

Because there was no state tournament last season, technically the Thunderbolts are the defending state champions. The Thunderbolts have a rich tradition in adapted soccer, including state championships in 2019, 2014, 1998 and 1997. The team has competed in no less than 22 state tournaments.

“It’s nice to be back, nice to be in the gym again,” said Thunderbolts head coach Jeff Figlmiller. “Everybody is getting to see everybody. It’s been a long time. We did a lot of things online.

“Now we’re back and pretty excited,” Figlmiller continued. “The kids are excited.”

With almost no players back from the 2019 team, South Washington County’s inexperience is showing a bit this season with a 2-4 record.

“We’re struggling a little bit but they’re having a good time,” said Figlmiller. “The defense played well. I thought our goalie has really stepped up. Allen Gillman has been — he’s normally playing offense. He was a center, he was a left or right wing but we pushed him back into goalie and he’s been our goalie ever since. His saves are phenomenal.”

Next games for the Thunderbolts are Monday, Oc. 25 at South Suburban and Wednesday, Oct. 27 at home against St. Paul Humboldt.