Skye Finley and Olivia Norman met on the soccer pitch when they were 9 years old.
"And we've been playing soccer together ever since," Finley said. Both are set to be junior captains at Forest Lake. They've been together on numerous teams, attended the same camps and shared collegiate aspirations, but both are dynamic players in their own ways.
Norman's combination of speed and skill can put defenders on their heels, while her defensive play as a midfielder stifles opposing threats. Finley is a defensive stalwart. Her poise and decision-making provide a solid anchor on the back end. She also contributes speed and heads-up passing to jump-start the offense.
Chemistry, friendship, skill and leadership have put them on the map. They've also helped spark the Rangers girls' soccer program. Coach Hanz Lehrke said he believes their actions speak for themselves, and that's why they'll be captains on this fall's squad.
"They both bring talent and a strong work ethic that will help as we continue to grow and improve our program," Lehrke said. "They are coachable and lead by example. The rest of the players follow them and emulate their ethic and attitudes."
Their commitment to soccer is undeniable -- and intertwined.
"We've never really played soccer without each other," Norman said.
The girls have played together not only through the local youth program -- in which they credit coach Steve Stolz for cultivating their love of the game -- but also on the Olympic Development Program, the Twin Cities Fire Soccer Club and recently in the inaugural Midwest Elite Soccer Camp held at Hamline University last weekend.
