Recent Perry High School graduate Tyler Soll made his first start for the junior varsity football squad of the Dordt College Defenders Monday night in Sioux City.
Soll played on every offensive play at right guard against the junior varsity team of the fourth-ranked Morningside Mustangs.
The Defender offense struggled in the early going and throughout the game with interceptions and fumbles. Soll played well, with the offense moving the ball in several successful drives.
The final score was 42-13, with the JV Defenders on the short end of the score.
Perry fans making the trip to Sioux City were Soll’s parents, Brandon and Kandi Soll, and the Rev. Chris Tjapkes and his wife, Susan.
“We witnessed a team that was very impressive even in the loss,” said Brandon Soll. “I’m proud of you, son.”
Chris Tjapkes was similarly enthusiastic, saying the Defenders “played well together, kept their heads up and didn’t quit.” He said it was “obvious that Tyler enjoys playing for this team and loves the game. That he has improved as a player is obvious and the grin he sported at the end of the game reminded me how much fun playing football really is, even if you lose.”
The Defenders gathered on the field after the game to encourage each other and join in prayer.
Dordt College’s jv team will travel to Fremont, Neb., for their next game.