Call it the World Cup Fever effect.

Thompson Falls-Plains-St. Regis boys soccer coach Michael Scharfe said his squad has received an unexpectedly large turnout for the sport this season, probably due to the exposure the beautiful game received this summer as the United States hosted the 2026 World Cup.

“I am expecting 27 kids, which is incredible, but which can also be a challenge trying to keep that many boys engaged,” he said. “This is a large jump from last year when we only had 16.”

Although Scharfe may have some trouble sorting out playing time issues early, the Hawk soccer team will rely on its returning players from last year, seniors Jacob Howell, Liam Pallister and Nathaniel Palacios, junior Caleb Hutchings, sophomores Zarek Pallister, Wyatt Franklin, and Talon Ferlan, and freshmen Noah Scharfe, Mason Bartlett, and Clinton Weedeman.

Coach Scharfe is optimistic heading into the season. “This year is our third of having soccer as high school sport,” he said, “and I am excited to see this program continue to grow.”

Scharfe said he is also happy to have Joel Myers of Plains, who has been coaching the youth program there for the last few years, join him on the sidelines as assistant coach for the Hawk boys.

The Blue Hawks open soccer season play at Polson Friday against Corvallis and return to Polson Saturday to face the hometown Pirates.

Scharfe is optimistic. “There is a lot of talent in this group and I am excited to see how they work together,” he said. “I think they could accomplish some great things this year.”