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The Wildcat boys soccer season has ended, but the team, its head coach and some players were recently recognized for excellence, keeping the season alive for a while longer.

Three Wildcat players received statewide recognition. Senior forward Chris Golv was named to the Class A All-State team. Senior goalkeeper Tommy Fitzer and senior sweeper Jordan Belleisle were awarded Class A All-State Honorable Mention. Golv’s 25 goals this season was the fourth highest total in the state, including both Class A and Class AA. Fitzer allowed just 13 goals and had 10 shutouts. Belleisle anchored the Wildcat defense and played at a consistently high level all season.

Wildcat head coach Mark Leigh was named Section 3A coach of the year for the second straight season. Leigh just completed his fifth season as the Wildcats’ head coach.

And the Wildcats, as a team, were named the All-Section Academic Champions and Class A All-State Academic Champions. They had the highest GPA among all Class A soccer teams in the state, 3.56.

“I believe this has happened only to one other team at Chisago Lakes High School,” said Chisago Lakes High School Activities Director Perry Aadland. “Winning All-Section Academic in itself is an outstanding accomplishment. But being named All-State Academic is an outstanding honor. Having watched this team on many occasions this season, it was evident that this group played the game in a very intellectual fashion. They have represented our school with class all season long, and have done so once again.”

Chisago Lakes High School Principal Dave Ertl added, “This is an outstanding accomplishment for our soccer program.  The phrase student/athlete comes to mind where our athletes take their academics very seriously.  It is also a tribute to our coaching staff that also places an emphasis on the classroom.  Congratulations to all!”

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