Farber wins league MVP award

STOCKTON, Calif. — Former Sandpoint soccer standout Brian Farber had a stellar weekend recently, concluding the Professional Arena Soccer League season by winning league MVP on and Friday, then adding a goal, two assists and four blocks to lead the Stockton Cougars to their first-ever championship on a Sunday night.

“It was a great weekend,” recounted Farber, who didn’t have much time to celebrate. “I packed Monday and drove to Portland to start double-days.”

After leading the USL’s Minnesota Thunder in points last year during the outdoor half of the season, Farber opted to sign closer to home, currently playing for the Portland Timbers, who begin their season on April 24. Many players in the USL go up on occasion to play in MLS games, but right now Farber is acclimating to the outdoor game, which is considerably different than its indoor equivalent.

“It’s a huge transition,” explained Farber, noting he hasn’t played a ball over 25 yards in months. “In indoor you use the bottom of your foot, in outdoor you use the inside. I have to prove to new coaches and players who I am all over again.”

Not so in the PASL, where Farber has become a dominant force in the league. He led the Cougars with 68 points, coming on 49 goals and 19 assists. He attributed much of his success to finally being healthy from start to finish.

“He’s just an incredible player. He’s by far the fastest player in pro-soccer,” said the Cougars team owner. “The improvement I’ve seen with him over the last four years is incredible, and I’m glad that he’s getting some well-deserved recognition.”

While the MVP was validation for all of the work he put in, Farber said it wouldn’t have meant nearly as much had his team not won the championship.

“First ring; I just got it sized this week and can’t wait to see them,” said Farber. “Winning the championship was second to none.”

Farber plans to return to Sandpoint and run his soccer camp again this summer, from June 22-26. Last year the camp was a huge success, with more than 150 area kids getting professional soccer tutelage and a bevy of gifts.

Any local sponsors interested in helping support the camp this year can contact Farber at “farber7@gmail.com.”