Competition Outside of the Classroom—University of Sioux Falls Soccer Club

By Lauren LaFavre

Inspiration to create a soccer club grew from the University of Sioux Falls past Olympic games event in the fall of 2018. Jett Thune, a junior and soccer-lover, thought a club needed to be established. There is a hidden handful of athletes and non-athletes that are avid soccer lovers and not participating in collegiate soccer here on campus.

Thune immediately got in contact with the head coordinator of student events, and the group was approved. Thune gathered a cluster of friends from USF and Augustana for the first couple sessions, but further growth quickly started to occur once news of the club got out. Social media posts have been a huge part of gaining more members.

In the colder months, Soccer Club meets in the Stewart Center on campus, but once the temps pick up, they meet at the soccer field behind Bob Young Field. They try to meet twice a week, but recent scheduling conflicts only allows them one night a week. Sunday night sessions set a positive tone for the week to come.

Israel Miranda, a co-founder and consistent member of the club emphasized, “Everyone is here just to have a fun time. It is really one of my favorite days of the week.” Thune also claims this night to be, “The highlight of his week”. “Sunday scaries” goes unmentioned when knowing that it is a soccer club night.

So if you are looking to get some fresh air and new friends, grab a pair of shoes and come on down to the soccer complex Sunday nights from 4-6:00pm. Soccer club is always looking for new members, and don’t forget to bring a friend! For more information, contact Israel Miranda or Jett Thune.