Hertel signs to play at Webster University

SANDPOINT — Featuring a solid mix of size, athleticism and passion for the game, Sandpoint senior Kyle Hertel signed a letter of intent to play soccer next season for Division III Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri.

Hertel, a 6-foot-1, 190 pound goalie who posted seven shutouts for the Bulldogs last season and was a two-year captain, received academic scholarships and was ultimately swayed by Webster offering his major — pre-physical therapy.

Hertel visited the school and coaches, and liked the small college feel of the program and the student body, which is around 2,500 students. He can’t wait to keep playing goalie at the next level, getting to experience new things away from home and test himself against bigger, faster and stronger athletes.

“Basically develop a new family within the sport,” said Hertel, adding what he loves most about soccer. “How much of a controlled chaotic situation it is; it’s on-the-fly thinking. You basically see everything, everyone’s personality gets drawn out.”

St. Louis has recently developed into a bit of a soccer hotbed nationally, with the next pro expansion team slated for the city on the Mississippi River.

There are also a lot of quality small college programs in the region, and Bulldog head coach Adam Tajan thinks Hertel will grow by leaps and bounds in the college game. Hertel had several highlight reel saves last season, and has both the physical attributes and feel for the game that coaches love.

“Kyle is a pure athlete, and super determined and committed,” said Tajan. “A guy with that kind of drive and attitude will do well at the next level.”