European experience: Franks competes in Norway Cup

Posted 11/29/22

A rare opportunity presented itself to Powell High School junior midfielder Chance Franks when he was asked to be part of a select group of Wyoming players to head to Europe to take part in the …

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European experience: Franks competes in Norway Cup

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A rare opportunity presented itself to Powell High School junior midfielder Chance Franks when he was asked to be part of a select group of Wyoming players to head to Europe to take part in the Norway Cup over the summer.

The international tournament brought in 1,852 teams along with 30 different nationalities being represented from ages 10-19.

Overall, the Norway Cup is boasted as one of the world’s largest youth soccer tournaments that takes place over the course of the end of July into early August.

In Frank’s division, the Wyoming team placed in the top 32 teams out of 158 that participated.

“For me, it was a huge step up from soccer over here,” Franks said. “The experience was indescribable, everyone over there is supporting a soccer team and is very passionate about it.”

Franks is a two time All-Conference selection for the Panthers and earned All-State honors while scoring 16 goals with 20 assists in his sophomore season.

Despite excelling in Wyoming, Franks said the competition in Norway was tough as the physicality, speed of play and strategy were much more intense alongside multiple teams having tall, physical and fast players.

He said being able to play alongside other top talent in the state allowed for the Wyoming team to find success, matching each other’s intensity to push the team further.

“It was very fun to play with other top players in the state because we were able to play off one another and match each other’s intensity to increase the level of the game,” Franks said.

Alongside being able to play against top competition, came the experience of learning new techniques and tactics that are used globally — things Franks said he hopes to bring back to PHS and use alongside his teammates this upcoming spring season.

Overall Franks said the part he enjoyed the most was the overall culture, with everybody showing their passion for soccer at every turn.

“The streets were full of different jerseys that the families were cheering for,” he said. “Many places were packed full because of a certain game going on. It truly was an amazing experience, and I am very thankful for all of the people that supported me along the way.”

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