CEC To Honor Tucker, Retire Jersey

Wes Vork-Archive

Sept 23

Kerry Rodd-NSO

A year ago the Cloquet-Esko-Carlton boys soccer team was riding a strong wave of success. Much of that success was due to the great goaltending and attitude of Esko senior Jordan Tucker. Tucker died tragically in his sleep just weeks after the high school soccer season ended and the three communities spent days, weeks and months morning this exceptional young man. This weekend the three communities will come together to honor Tucker during an event at Rol Bromberg Field in Cloquet.

“At halftime of our game with Hermantown on Saturday the players, coaches and friends of Jordan will dedicate and retire the number 23 jersey that Jordan wore,” explained CEC coach Archie Clark. “Jordan was our goalkeeper and was All-Conference and had a great all-around senior year, but we will remember him for his great wit, friendship and his enjoyment of sports and all who participated.”

While Tucker was admired by his coaches, he was equally held in high esteem by his teammates and opponents alike.

“Jordan was one of those kids that if he asked how you were, he truly cared,” said former teammate Colton Roy. “He was one of those kids that was genuinely liked by both teams on and off the field, which is a statement of his sportsmanship, kindness and most importantly his character.”

Saturday’s game versus Hermantown will start at 11am with ceremonies taking place at halftime.

“It will be a time to tell his family how much we miss him,” stated Clark. “It will also be a time to tell his family how grateful we are to have known such a fine young man.”

Kerry Rodd can be reached at kerry@northlandsportsonline.com