Huskies get soccer abroad experience

The Owatonna boys’ soccer program took its biennial trip to Sweden in the middle of July, sending off some future varsity prospects to gain experience against European squads.

Huskies’ athletes took part in the Gothia Cup – a tournament that, according to its website, hosted 1,940 teams spanning 76 nations.

“It was a lot harder than it was in America,” said Owatonna’s Henry Wagner. “The passing was a lot better, but the speed was the big difference. They had a lot more speed than us.”

Owatonna’s Reeve Franko also noticed that the European sides seemed to emphasize different parts of their playstyle.

“I’d say that they focus more on precision and tactics. Their shooting is something they really practice. They’re also not afraid to hold the ball and play possession,” he said.

The difference in play and competitive level of the European teams may have resulted in an 0-4 winless showing for Owatonna FC, but the experience gained by playing at a high level was invaluable.

“It’s going to help me play a lot better because now I know what I can do and can’t do, and how I should be contributing on the field,” said Wagner.

According to him, the games were fun, but playing was only half the experience.

The team did some traveling while abroad as well, allowing teammates the opportunity to create memories together while taking in new cultures.

“We started in Stockholm, then went to Gothernburg and Malmo, and we got to see Copenhagen for half a day,” said Owatonna’s Reeve Franko. “I’d say Stockholm or Malmo were my favorites. We had great times there getting out and seeing the cities. It was cool to see the capital.”

Many athletes were also able to go with their family members, creating an experience that was memorable for the entire Owatonna soccer family.

“I was able to go with my mom. It was a lot of fun to be able to spend time with her walking around and seeing all the cities when we weren’t playing,” said Wagner.