KALISPELL — Residents of the Flathead Valley are accustomed to witnessing top-tier soccer programs compete for victory on the fields of Columbia Falls, Whitefish, and Kalispell. Local teams have consistently participated in state championships for the past seven years, winning eight trophies, including a clean sweep by Whitefish’s teams last fall. Athletes from Flathead and Glacier consistently dominate the all-state Class AA honor lists, while Bulldogs and Wildcats players dominate the Class A lists.
Whenever championship matches are held at Smith Fields in Whitefish or Flip Darling Memorial Field in Columbia Falls, the community comes out in large numbers to support the hometown athletes and demonstrate their love for the game.
However, soccer fans in the region have never experienced a game like the one scheduled for Sunday evening.
The University of Montana and Gonzaga University women’s soccer teams will kick off their seasons with an exhibition match at Flip Darling Memorial Field in Columbia Falls. Both teams had impressive records last fall, with a total of 27-7-5 and winning their respective conference championships, making this game a top-tier matchup.
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“We’ve cultivated a vibrant soccer culture here that continues to grow, but we lack a higher-level soccer program nearby. Our kids don’t have the opportunity to watch professional or college games in this area,” stated Columbia Falls soccer coach O’Brian Byrd. “The Flathead Valley has a passionate soccer fanbase, and we’re thrilled to offer them an exciting game.”
