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Kelli Peterson, Dodgeville junior-to-be soccer player, has been honored as the recipient of the 2011-2012 Drury-Matchett Award for Excellence in Soc-cer.
The Drury-Matchett Award is given each year by the Platteville Power Soccer Club to the player from the PPSC U18 girls team who most exemplifies the following qualities as a soccer player: Sportsmanship, Team Spirit, 100% Effort, Love of the Game and All Around Ability.
In the fall of 2011, Peterson exhibited these qualities game after game. Well liked by her teammates, she showed determined persistence and resolve as she defended the PPSC goal against her opponents. Her love of the game was demonstrated by the zeal and fire with which she played. Peterson played in a non-selfish was, utilizing her teammates whenever possible.
"I have never heard Kelli complain about her opponents, the referees or her own teammates," said her coach, jim Neumann from PPSC. "She was a real joy to have on the team. This was a great group of girls to work with and Kelli was a vital part of the team."
"But attitude wasn't all that Peterson contributed to the team," Neumann continued saying. "I was often amazed by how well Kelli was able to break up the attack and how quickly she was able to close down the opposing forwards. She also possesses a quiet leadership that should serve as an example to others."
According to Neumann, she did not shout at others or boss them around, but the team looked up to her because of the example that she provided.
Neumann concluded saying, "Anytime I'm putting a team together, I would love to have Kelli back."