When I tell folks that I’m playing in a full seven-versus-seven adult soccer league with eight teams and a waitlist to get in to play in Pendleton, some just don’t believe me.

But it’s true.

In what most might say is a rodeo, baseball and football town, the beautiful game of soccer is alive and well thanks to the efforts of Blue Mountain Community College Women’s head soccer coach Jordan Hillmick who organizes Pendleton’s Adult Summer Soccer League, now in its 11th year.

The league runs from the end of May until the middle of July, pitting teams against each other at least 14 times before entering a playoff bracket. Sign-ups ended earlier in May, but those interested can contact BMCC athletics to see if they can join the waitlist. If not, be on the lookout in 2024.

All are welcome to sign-up, regardless of soccer background. No try-outs or practices are necessary, leaving nothing in the way for those who wish to play the world’s most beloved game.

Every level of skill, age and style of soccer is on display at games held weekly Tuesdays and Thursdays, either at 6 p.m. or 7 p.m., at the BMCC soccer fields. The environment is incredibly welcoming while remaining fantastically competitive.

Just a few years ago, this lifelong player and lover of the game might have thought I’d hung up my boots for the last time, but in the Pendleton adult league, I’ve found a new soccer home, and you should too.

See you on the field.