Baltimore?s premier youth soccer club is kicking up some more national recognition.
The Baltimore Bays will send two boys? teams to the U.S. Youth Soccer National Championships next week in Frisco, Texas.
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After finishing last season ranked as the seventh-best club in the country by Soccer America, the Bays are in position to be regarded even higher after twoof their teams qualified for the nationals championships in their respective age groups.
The U19 Bays will chase down a third national title, while the U14 Bays make their first national tournament appearance.
“I think it?s big for the club,” said Kevin Healey, who co-coaches both teams. “We were ranked nationally last year. I think getting two teams to the final four is unusual for one club. We were close to getting four teams in.”
The U19 team won national titles in 2003 (U15) and 2004 (U16).
“They have a long way to go, but they have an opportunity to go there five years like the 19s and make their mark in history,” said Steve Nichols, who coaches both teams with Healy.
The U19 Bays have posted 10 straight shutouts ? five in State Cup play and five in regional tournament games ? but Nichols said they?ll be challeged by several teams next week.
“On paper, [the Dallas Texans] are loaded,” Nichols said. “The Chicago Magic are very good, as well.”
The Bays depart for Texas Monday, with the teams likely to play Wednesday through Friday. The U14 championship is July 28 and the U19 title game is July 29.
“I?ve been there a lot the past two years,” Nichols said. “It will be rewarding, but it will make our week busy.”
