Crossingham signs with Northwest Christian

SANDPOINT — Soccer standout Alex Crossingham will take his Sandpoint-honed soccer skills, as well as a penchant for clutch goals, to the collegiate level this fall at Northwest Christian University in Eugene, Oregon.

Crossingham received a substantial scholarship package to the small, private NAIA liberal arts school, which plays in the Cascade Conference. He plans to study business or education at the academically renowned school, which was ranked in the top 20 baccalaureate colleges in the Western U.S. for 2008 by U.S. News and World Report.

Crossingham, who played a key role in two state titles while at Sandpoint, was told by the coach that he will be starting right away at left back, where he has played the last three years.

“I guess Randy (Thoreson) knew what he was doing,” joked Crossingham about the Bulldogs coach. “It will be fun to try and prove myself again.”

The Beacons’ first game will be against Willamette University, where Crossingham will be playing against a familiar face. Friend and longtime teammate Gunnar Paulsen recently decided to play soccer at Willamette, and could possibly have to mark up on Crossingham when they meet in a scrimmage on Aug. 22.

“We’ve been playing together since we were eight, so it’s kind of crazy,” said Crossingham, one of eight incoming freshman on the Beacons’ roster. “We decided that no matter what happens, it’s a tie.”

Crossingham has played against college players before at various camps, and believes he can hold his own as he adjusts to the tactical changes and quicker pace. He counts playing alongside his younger brother Adam as one of his best memories at the high school level, as well as just being part of a solid program.

“It was fun to be a part of a team that won state; the reputation we had,” he said, hoping that success carries over to college. “I’m hoping to have some of the same experiences in college.”

The Deacons, who had 15 new players sign letters of intent this year after going just 1-16 last season, begin practice on Aug. 11.