Lansing South Soccer Challenge Sends Eight Players to State
- Mon, Oct 26, 2026 8:05 PM
Rain fell all day, but it could not dampen the fun at the Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge for the Lansing South region of the Diocese of Lansing in September. The competition moved into the dry, warm gym at Christ the King in Ann Arbor, and the players and their families kept right on going.
The Soccer Challenge is a Knights of Columbus youth program for boys and girls ages 9 to 14. Players take turns at penalty kicks to show off the most important skill in soccer, shooting accuracy, and the top scorers move on to the next level of competition.
There were snacks for everyone and plenty of cheering as each player stepped up and took a turn scoring. When the last kick was taken, eight players had earned a place in the state competition: Brady LeClair, Amelia Baltodano, DJ Baisden, Chanel Carter, Elisa Galazka, Keira Mackmiller, Max Jeffrey and Mateo Mercado.
"Great job, the kids look like they had fun and are proud of their trophies!" said State Deputy Charles E. McCuen III.
Congratulations to all eight players who earned a spot at the state competition! Thank you to Diocesan Program Director Kelly Donnellon and to all the volunteers who helped make this event great.
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Youth programs like the Soccer Challenge are one way Knights of Columbus councils serve families in their parishes and communities. The Knights of Columbus welcomes practical Catholic men to join in a brotherhood of faith, charity, unity and fraternity. Men interested in joining are encouraged to contact their local council.
Submitted by Kelly Donnellon, Diocesan Program Director, Lansing South.