The 3rd Annual MaxPreps Soccer Tour of Champions presented by the Army National Guard brought us to sunny San Diego, the home of the
Parker Lancers. Parker secured its first ever regional title with a win over Marymount School. Parker, ranked No. 36 in the nation out of 10,000 schools by MaxPreps, was also one of only 10 schools to receive the prestigious honors from MaxPreps and the California Army National Guard.
On Thursday, April 10, MaxPreps and the California Army National Guard arrived on campus and were greeted by head coach Mark Thiebach. Sergeant Arkadiy Knopov of the California Army National Guard then set up a National Guard display for the prestigious trophy.
The ceremony took place during the students' lunch break. At the bell, approximately 200 students, parents, coaches, administration and community members gathered in the school auditorium excited for this wonderful presentation. Principal Barski, having coached at Parker for 16 seasons saw this great honor as a tremendous and well-deserved feat for the school.
By 11:45 am, the ceremony was underway. Principal Barski began the ceremony and expressed how proud he was of his players and coaching staff. Afterwards, he introduced MaxPreps representative Josh Canales. Josh congratulated Parker School on their successful season and talked about the significance of the award and the great work MaxPreps has done to emphasize and promote high school athletics. Then, he explained the partnership between MaxPreps and the Army National Guard. All who were in attendance applauded the Parker girls soccer team for its commitment to excellence and sportsmanship.
Next, Sergeant Knopov was introduced to present the Army National Guard national ranking trophy, a symbol of excellence, dedication and commitment to our nation. He developed the topics of hard work and teamwork on and off the field relating them to being in the National Guard. Then, he invited coach Thiebach to come forward and receive the Minuteman trophy. Coach Thiebach thanked Sergeant Knopov and posed for a brief picture.
Coach Thiebach accepted the award graciously and expressed his complete gratitude to the California Army National Guard and MaxPreps for recognizing them. He then handed off the microphone to principal Barski to conclude the ceremony by expressing his sincere appreciation for the recognition.
Congratulations Parker Lancers on winning your first Regional Championship!
