SANDPOINT — Continuing a rich tradition of soccer in Sandpoint, and perhaps even setting a new standard, SHS sophomore Tanner Williams is beginning to make a name for himself on the national stage as a member of the Olympic Development Program's Region 4 national team.

At a recent tournament in Florida featuring the four regional ODP teams, Williams played well enough to earn one of 18 invites from the U.S. to play in an international soccer tour in Argentina on Feb. 26. It's a rare opportunity and a chance for him to play in front of the national team coaches, essentially trying out for a chance to make the national team — a first for a player from Idaho.

"Huge, you just don't get that opportunity," said Sandpoint's Brian Farber, currently having an MVP type season in the PASL. "He's got a chance to get international experience and play with some of the top players his age in the country."

As a sophomore on Sandpoint's state championship team last fall, Williams scored 12 goals to go with a team-high 16 assists while earning a reputation as one of the top players in the state. The next step was to prove himself as one of the top players in the West, which he did by making the ODP team. Now he has a chance to make the national pool of the top 18 players in his age group in the entire U.S.

One of the things standing in his way is finances, as the travel expenses are not covered — at least until one makes the national team. The trip will cost more than $1,200, with the Idaho Youth Soccer Association in Boise having already donated $300. Farber is trying to help raise money (see inset box), and a fundraising dance — organized by Sandpoint's Dyno Wahl — will take place on Saturday (see inset box).

Farber believes the exposure in Argentina could open doors to Williams that have never been opened to a player from this state, and is willing to do anything he can to ensure Williams makes the trip.

"He'll be one of those athletes that makes a choice . . . UCLA, Cal, Wake Forest," said Farber of Williams' chance to get his college paid for. "They'll come to him. It's all going to pay off."

Anyone wishing to help with expenses can send money to: Sandpoint Strikers, Attn: Tanner to Argentina, P.O. Box 70, Ponderay, ID, 83852.