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A pair of real keepers

By KELLIE DIXON
Published December 20, 2006

SPRING HILL

Having two equally talented goalkeepers is a problem any coach would love to have, but it's one that forces Springstead coach Sal Calabrese to rack his brain before every game.

"If I could put them together they'd be the best keeper in the state," Calabrese said. "They're both very good keepers."

Senior Jason Bowie, at 6-foot-1, is more of a shot blocker and the better penalty-kick goalkeeper. Junior Kyle Beach, at 6-61/2, has the height and is a little more technical.

Both have helped Springstead to a 7-2-4 record and 4-2-3 mark in Class 4A, District 8 as of Monday. Out of 102 shots taken at the Eagles' goal, the duo has combined to save 68. They have given up 13 goals.

Sometimes Calabrese alternates the goalkeepers during the game and their starting status during the week. "It is a lot of strain," Calabrese said. "Playing 80 minutes and playing between the frame like that is tough."

Neither keeper sweats Calabrese's decision. Sure, their competitive sides ache to be on the field, but they care more about the team. That's why they push each other in practice.

"I don't really see it as we're battling," Bowie said.

As the senior, Bowie is a little more established. He has played behind the Springstead defenders even on his Hernando Heat team, and they know what to expect when he is in the goal. But with Beach in practice, Bowie can't get complacent. Their talent levels are nearly even, so the starting job never is a lock.

"Every day I want to come out and push him to make him the better keeper," Beach said. "And I push myself to be the better keeper. It just makes it overall better competition."

Beach, who grew up as a football and baseball kind of guy, learned about soccer from his stepdad. He has been minding the net since and continues to do so for the Countryside Youth Soccer Association in Clearwater.

Beach and Bowie also are pushing each other for the future. Beach hopes to play for Eckerd College; Bowie still is looking at his options.

"For me and Bowie, this isn't soccer, this is life," Beach said. "We're out in the field every day training. We take very much pride in our athletic ability and what we do."

Kellie Dixon can be reached at kdixon@sptimes.com or 352 544-9480.

[Last modified December 20, 2006, 02:33:30]