The Albert Lea U-14 girls’ soccer team ended the season with a 7-1-1 record.

The only loss on the season came at the hands of a Northfield team that eventually went on to win the state championship.

Albert Lea continued to improve all season and ended the year with a fitting hard-fought, come-from-behind, 3-2 victory over a very strong LaCresent team.

Practice, teamwork, and hard play were emphasized all year and it paid off. The numbers tell it all.

Last year the girls scored eight goals while allowing 19 and ended with a 3-8-1 record. This year they scored 26 goals and only allowed 10.

The winning record earned the team the right to move up to a higher bracket next year in league play. The team was also eligible for district/state playoffs; however, they decided early in the season not to participate.

Everyone brought a positive attitude and desire to learn to practice and they never gave up. This effort is the reason for the much improved season. The team frequently practiced with the U-13 team and many of the U-13 players played in games and contributed to this season. The success of any season is judged by the level of improvement and personal growth achieved and this season was a winner.