Lightning strikes in spring

The Sparta Lightning U14 Girls team won the championship of the MCYSA soccer league's highest flight this spring. The team is made up exclusively of Sparta- area players and the victory is significant because most teams in the flight used out-of-town players to supplement their rosters to compete at this level. This championship was particularly satisfying as this was the last season before team members entered high school. The team also won the Wayne invitational tournament in the fall. Team members, from left, are (front row) Kristen Gartside, Christina Belli, Julia Benjamin, Shannon McHugh, and Brittany Matthes; (second row) Sarah Bieganousky, Jillian O'Grady, Sarah Cayan, Liz Sim, and Tara O'Grady; (third row) Molly Smith, Katelyn Bruffy, Jordan Baker, Keri Cresbaugh, and Tierney Greene. Coaches are Brian Gartside, Harry O'Grady and Jim Cresbaugh.