KoMets retain Black & Blue Cup

Throughout their high school career, there are some moments that will stick through a player’s mind forever. Sometimes it can be something as simple as a rivalry trophy that’s defended through everything that they have or it’s wanting to win a game for their coach who has spent the time and energy making sure that they grow on and off the field.
Last week, both of those situations came together as the Kasson-Mantorville girls soccer team defeated Byron on September 20. While the KoMets victory meant retaining the Black and Blue cup, it meant a little something extra as it was coach Chris Soderberg’s 200th career victory.
“The 200th win was nice, especially when it was against a very good team and a rival like Byron,” Soderberg admitted. “I know the girls worked extremely hard for me that night and that meant a lot. It’s not the number of wins, but it’s the fact that when the girls show that effort for you that you know you are doing something good.”
Soderberg was also quick to point out that he didn’t get to 200 wins on his own as he had the help of great players and a supportive community throughout his tenure at K-M.
“I’ve been blessed with 17 years of great players, parents, coaches and administration,” Soderberg explained. “They’ve had my back every step of the way. I’m lucky to be able to work in such a supportive community.”
As far as the matchup with Byron went, the KoMets had something of their own to play for. In addition to the annual rivalry matchup, Byron coach Jeremy Baumbach had introduced the Black & Blue Cup last year. After K-M won the inaugural game in Byron, it was ready to defend the cup in a matchup of two teams toward the top of the HVL standings.
The KoMets were strong in the first half, creating several opportunities that either went flying over the net or right at the Byron goalkeeper. After the