Two Belle Fourche High School soccer players recently received the coveted “Soccer Sportsmanship and Leadership Award”. The award is presented to a high school senior who has shown great leadership skills and good sportsmanship on and off the field. Both Lydia Main and Drake Sutter exemplify what the award represents and have been great mentors and examples to the other soccer players, the fans and the Belle Fourche soccer program. Courtesy Photo

Soccer Sportsmanship and Leadership Award

Sports

From Ryan Chervany, representing the Belle Fourche Soccer Association: “Each year we give out an award to a senior girl and boy who exemplifies the spirit of Belle Fourche Soccer by showing good sportsmanship, always being eager to volunteer and being a good role model to the youth of the program.

The Sportsmanship Award is typically awarded to those seniors, who show a positive attitude, and possess leadership within their team, and set a positive example to soccer players of all ages. They show good sportsmanship throughout the outdoor and indoor season.” The Belle Fourche Soccer Association (BFSA) has been a cornerstone of youth soccer in Belle Fourche since the early 1980s, providing opportunities for children ages 4-18 to develop their skills, embrace sportsmanship, and build lifelong friendships.

The program has thrived through the dedication of volunteers, support from local businesses, and small community donations. BFSA also plays a crucial role in supporting the Belle Fourche High School junior varsity and varsity soccer teams. Challenges and Growth BFSA has traditionally been self-reliant but faces facility limitations that restrict its ability to host larger tournaments.

In recent years, participation has soared to record levels, with players ranging from 5 to 18 years old. To accommodate this growth, efforts have been made to enhance soccer facilities and create a better experience for both players and spectators. Center of the Nation Indoor Blast The Center of the Nation Indoor Blast is an annual indoor soccer tournament organized by BFSA, first held in 2011. The 2025 tournament marked the 14th annual event, taking place from February 7 to February 9, 2025, at the Belle Fourche Rec Center and South Park Elementary School.

Over the years, the tournament has grown tremendously in popularity, now attracting nearly 70 teams from across a three-state region. Over the course of a single weekend, the event brings approximately 2,000 people into the community, providing a significant boost to local businesses, restaurants, and hotels.

The tournament has also expanded to include adult divisions, featuring men’s, women’s, and co-ed competitions. It has become a fun and competitive event that draws former high school players back from college, turning the tournament into a mini-reunion for many past athletes.

With the continued rise of indoor soccer, the need for additional gym space has become increasingly evident, ensuring the tournament’s future success and continued growth. If you need anything else or have anymore questions want specific information, please reach out to me! Thank you, Ryan Cherveny