Soccer turning into ageless sport

• Alan Larson

Alan Larson (in white), a team organizer for the Northshore Steel adult soccer team, competes in a recent game. Many of the players on the team are from Two Harbors and in their adulthood. Photo by Jill Innis

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When watching professional sports teams, you will see that many players are past their teenage years.

These instances, when people play past their prime age for sports are rare – that’s why they are called professionals.

The Northshore Steel (the team sponsor) soccer team, who are not professionals or get paid any money, still find a way to run amuck on the soccer pitch.

Some of the players on the team are still in high school while the majority are not. Most of the players on the team are from Two Harbors.

The oldest player on the team is in his late-20s, which isn’t old, but does prove something

Soccer is turning into an ageless sport, just like others (ever hear of an adult hockey league).

“There are a lot of guys that play into their 30s,” said team organizer Alan Larson. “We are the youngest team in the league.”

Larson went on to say that it can feel weird playing against guys that are a lot older.

Those who do play, however, should be experienced in the game.

“All of us played soccer in high school,” Larson said.

High school is a distant memory for some of players on the team, but that mindset of getting older has not deterred these players.

“It depends on the person,” Larson said about playing soccer as one gets older. “If you stay in shape you would be able to play it for a long time.”

Different skill sets are also required to play this level of soccer.

“Your skill level goes down [when you get older],” said team member David Lukkonen. “You play position better and have more of a defensive mindset.”

The team plays in the Duluth Amateur Soccer League and has not lost a game yet.

“We are playing well together, having fun and guys are playing smart,” Lukkonen said.

Some of the teams in the league consist of both men and women.

The DASL’s mission is to be “an all-inclusive adult soccer league, committed to providing competitive and recreational soccer opportunities for men and women. While providing a venue for nurturing healthy relationships, community, and skills through sport, DASL strives to promote soccer activities and information in and around the Twin Ports.”

For more information, visit www.duluthsoccer.com.

Tags: two harbors, sports, northshore steel, soccer