"And we've been playing soccer together ever since," Finley said. Both are set to be junior captains at Forest Lake. They've been together on numerous teams, attended the same camps and shared collegiate aspirations, but both are dynamic players in their own ways.

 

Norman's combination of speed and skill can put defenders on their heels, while her defensive play as a midfielder stifles opposing threats. Finley is a defensive stalwart. Her poise and decision-making provide a solid anchor on the back end. She also contributes speed and heads-up passing to jump-start the offense.

 

Chemistry, friendship, skill and leadership have put them on the map. They've also helped spark the Rangers girls' soccer program. Coach Hanz Lehrke said he believes their actions speak for themselves, and that's why they'll be captains on this fall's squad.

 

"They both bring talent and a strong work ethic that will help as we continue to grow and improve our program," Lehrke said. "They are coachable and lead by example. The rest of the players follow them and emulate their ethic and attitudes."

 

Their commitment to soccer is undeniable -- and intertwined.

 

"We've never really played soccer without each other," Norman said.

 

The girls have played together not only through the local youth program -- in which they credit coach Steve Stolz for cultivating their love of the game -- but also on the Olympic Development Program, the Twin Cities Fire Soccer Club and recently in the inaugural Midwest Elite Soccer Camp held at Hamline University last weekend.

 

Seventy players from 10 different states attended the camp, led by Hamline women's head coach Ted Zingman. It was a four-day clinic aimed toward dedicated high school players aspiring to compete at the college level.

 

Zingman coached Finley and Norman with the Olympic Development Program in 2009 and 2010, so he wasn't surprised to see their faces. He was, however, excited about their continued growth and ability to play different positions and contribute in a variety of roles. Finley showcased talents at center midfield, while Norman moved up to the front line and scored plenty of goals.

 

"I think versatility is important at every level," Zingman said. "What I always tell my players is the more positions you can play, the more valuable you are to the team."

 

The girls not only received on-field instruction from college coaches but learned more about the college recruiting process and what it takes to hit the next level -- maybe even Division I.

 

"I think both players could potentially go that direction if that's what they choose to do," Zingman said.

 

For now, they'll focus on continuing to build and grow Forest Lake's program, which will have several young players coming up -- and leaders to guide them.

 

"We expect that they will light an excitement and desire in the younger players and yet demonstrate the maturity that it requires to play at the highest level against the strongest competition," Lehrke said.