This will be the last post for this blog. It has been a great year filled with many memorable events, tournaments, players and parents. Try outs for the 2010 season are underway and personnel are changing. One thing that will remain constant in the loyal Sodium fans are the memories, and this blog. I will never remove the teams blogs, they will be our little time capsules etched in eternity. If you are ever feeling nostalgic, come on back and relive the seasons. The great games, the great plays, the great players and the great friendships we all made. My only hope is that the words posted here bring a smile to your face and warm your heart as you recall the season. I still cannot believe this years blog generated over 7000 hits! Far surpassing my wildest expectations! Thank you all for your support and visits this year!
The next blog will be the last
Don't get all excited, what I mean here is that instead of starting a new blog every Sodium season, I will just continue to post at the same address. I may change the pictures or layout, but the address will remain the same until they all graduate and the team disbands. [a very sad day that will be indeed]
So, without further delay, I introduce to you, the official THUSC Sodium blog:
http://www.thuscsodium.blogspot.com
As we will do for many years to come, we yell: GO SODIUM!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Monday, May 4, 2009
2008 Champs didn't fair well in 2009
In an interesting side note to this years State Cup, none of the 2008 champions in the U11, U12, U13, U14 or U15 brackets made it to the finals. So, Sodium, you weren't alone in your agony this year.
2009 State Cup Results
Lake Oswego defeats FC Portland in PK's to claim the crown and represent Oregon in this years Regional Tournament.
GO SODIUM!
2009 State Cup Results
Lake Oswego defeats FC Portland in PK's to claim the crown and represent Oregon in this years Regional Tournament.
GO SODIUM!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
The bitter taste...
The bitter taste of defeat. Remember this taste Sodium. Take it with you to next year. Remember what it feels like to lose to a team you have no business losing to. Remember what it's like to fall short. Feel the hurt and remember the tears. Could have's, should have's and would have's don't win games. In the end it's balls in the net. They had 1 more than we did. Hold your heads high Sodium, and get mad. And next year, get even. Because next year, it's time to take it personal.
Brief
After last years visit to Regionals we lost some players. But this year Sodium saw the emergence of new, more exciting faces; Lexi Frey, Aliyah Chance, Mac Kearney, Elianna Beard, Taylor Moscoe and Camille Fairbairn. And for the 2010 season we have already added keeper Taylor Luty. At try-outs, even more potential Sodium greats will emerge.
I would like to recognize those who guest played for us this year;
Bailey & Bethany Hall, Sahalie Doe, Crystal, Delaney, Cailin and other players from Mercury.
I am not one to dwell in the past. I am someone who learns from it and moves on. I do not dwell on the "Why" but focus on the "What".
What are we going to do make Sodium better next year?
What sre we going to do to make sure we are competitive with LOSC, Rush, FC?
What new players are we going to bring on?
What position changes will be made next year? [if any?]
What personnel will & will not be returning?
What are the coaches strategies for next year?
What can we as parents do to help in our girls development?
As most, I'm sure, I can't believe this season is over. Anti-climatic compared to the last 2. But now is the time to reflect and regroup. To come out next year a seasoned, well-oiled, soccer machine. As with years past I am sure we will loose a few and add a few players. For those who leave, for whatever reason, it has been our pleasure playing with you. Thanks for all the great memories you have provided and you will always have a warm spot in our hearts and on our team. For those who join, welcome! We're glad your here and look forward to a great season! Jump on and strap in, it's going to be a wild ride!
Thanks!
To coach Tom and Nikki for their countless hours, the lessons they taught and their commitment to the team. For pulling from the girls what they didn't know they had.
A special thanks goes out to Kristina Cook, Molly Kearney & Caryn Camp for their hard work, organization and scheduling this season.
And to all the parents, Thanks. For the car pools, the hotels, the expenses, the band-aides and shoulders to cry on and all the support this year. It wouldn't have been Sodium with you.
And of course, THANKS to the Lady Warriors. We are so very proud of you.
For the hours of great soccer you provided. For the laughter and the tears. For being great daughters and giving your parents the opportunity to be proud. For giving everything you have for the team. For sacrifices you made. For the many victories and the few defeats. You are sisters united in a common goal. You are warriors on a field of green. You are Sodium.
You are now and will always be, the greatest team.
With love in our hearts and our chests swelled with pride we yell: GO SODIUM!
Brief
After last years visit to Regionals we lost some players. But this year Sodium saw the emergence of new, more exciting faces; Lexi Frey, Aliyah Chance, Mac Kearney, Elianna Beard, Taylor Moscoe and Camille Fairbairn. And for the 2010 season we have already added keeper Taylor Luty. At try-outs, even more potential Sodium greats will emerge.
I would like to recognize those who guest played for us this year;
Bailey & Bethany Hall, Sahalie Doe, Crystal, Delaney, Cailin and other players from Mercury.
I am not one to dwell in the past. I am someone who learns from it and moves on. I do not dwell on the "Why" but focus on the "What".
What are we going to do make Sodium better next year?
What sre we going to do to make sure we are competitive with LOSC, Rush, FC?
What new players are we going to bring on?
What position changes will be made next year? [if any?]
What personnel will & will not be returning?
What are the coaches strategies for next year?
What can we as parents do to help in our girls development?
As most, I'm sure, I can't believe this season is over. Anti-climatic compared to the last 2. But now is the time to reflect and regroup. To come out next year a seasoned, well-oiled, soccer machine. As with years past I am sure we will loose a few and add a few players. For those who leave, for whatever reason, it has been our pleasure playing with you. Thanks for all the great memories you have provided and you will always have a warm spot in our hearts and on our team. For those who join, welcome! We're glad your here and look forward to a great season! Jump on and strap in, it's going to be a wild ride!
Thanks!
To coach Tom and Nikki for their countless hours, the lessons they taught and their commitment to the team. For pulling from the girls what they didn't know they had.
A special thanks goes out to Kristina Cook, Molly Kearney & Caryn Camp for their hard work, organization and scheduling this season.
And to all the parents, Thanks. For the car pools, the hotels, the expenses, the band-aides and shoulders to cry on and all the support this year. It wouldn't have been Sodium with you.
And of course, THANKS to the Lady Warriors. We are so very proud of you.
For the hours of great soccer you provided. For the laughter and the tears. For being great daughters and giving your parents the opportunity to be proud. For giving everything you have for the team. For sacrifices you made. For the many victories and the few defeats. You are sisters united in a common goal. You are warriors on a field of green. You are Sodium.
You are now and will always be, the greatest team.
With love in our hearts and our chests swelled with pride we yell: GO SODIUM!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Desire | Commitment | Team
This will be the last post prior to the first Quarter Final game.
I want to take this opportunity to address what it means and what it takes to be, not only a Championship caliber, but any, team. These are the opinions of a former coach and athlete.
Desire The player wants to be there. Period. You will never develop an athlete who's parents pushed him/her into a sport. They have to love it and desire to be the best and contribute to the success of the team. This desire will push them to give 100% in practice and thus, perform at that same level during the game. You play like you practice. A player with this desire doesn't complain that the coach is pushing them too hard, that they had to run an extra lap or another flight of stairs. Players with this desire push themselves and their teammates because they know it is for their own good, It will make them faster, stronger, better.
Commitment To be an effective part of any team, all players need to be committed. Committed to the success of the team. If that means getting physical & rough at practice because that is the type of opponent you face, then so be it. There should never be a question. Your opponent will never back down from you, your teammates shouldn't either. Commitment means being to practice on time and working your behind off while you're there. Commitment means practicing good nutrition and getting plenty of sleep because if you don't, you run the risk of not playing to the level you need to be at and the team expects. It means doing whatever it takes. A player who is not willing to commit 100% to the team, should not be on the team.
Team [taken from July 1st, 2008 post titled: Team]
~ noun
To be part of a team is a great achievement. To be part of a championship team is an outstanding accomplishment. What that means is that you have fought together, sacrificed together and won together. You have developed a bond that few realize and even fewer recognize. These are your sisters. You are solders doing battle on a field of green. When you step onto the field this weekend look into your teammates eyes and see the look of a warrior. A Lady Warrior. Sodium.
Your fans will be screaming our heads off; GO SODIUM!
I want to take this opportunity to address what it means and what it takes to be, not only a Championship caliber, but any, team. These are the opinions of a former coach and athlete.
Desire The player wants to be there. Period. You will never develop an athlete who's parents pushed him/her into a sport. They have to love it and desire to be the best and contribute to the success of the team. This desire will push them to give 100% in practice and thus, perform at that same level during the game. You play like you practice. A player with this desire doesn't complain that the coach is pushing them too hard, that they had to run an extra lap or another flight of stairs. Players with this desire push themselves and their teammates because they know it is for their own good, It will make them faster, stronger, better.
Commitment To be an effective part of any team, all players need to be committed. Committed to the success of the team. If that means getting physical & rough at practice because that is the type of opponent you face, then so be it. There should never be a question. Your opponent will never back down from you, your teammates shouldn't either. Commitment means being to practice on time and working your behind off while you're there. Commitment means practicing good nutrition and getting plenty of sleep because if you don't, you run the risk of not playing to the level you need to be at and the team expects. It means doing whatever it takes. A player who is not willing to commit 100% to the team, should not be on the team.
Team [taken from July 1st, 2008 post titled: Team]
~ noun
- a number of persons forming one of the sides in a game or contest: a soccer team.
- a number of persons associated in some joint action: a team of players.
- a number of persons joined together in unison to achieve a common goal: to win.
- a number persons committed to their coach and each other, giving 100% to be the best they can, day after day, game after game: Sodium.
To be part of a team is a great achievement. To be part of a championship team is an outstanding accomplishment. What that means is that you have fought together, sacrificed together and won together. You have developed a bond that few realize and even fewer recognize. These are your sisters. You are solders doing battle on a field of green. When you step onto the field this weekend look into your teammates eyes and see the look of a warrior. A Lady Warrior. Sodium.
Your fans will be screaming our heads off; GO SODIUM!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Thoughts on the coming week
Lady warriors, we are 3 games away from making history. I don't need to stress to you what Tom said at the end of the game yesterday [but I will].
Sleep: Probably the most important factor here. 9 to 10 hours per night minimum. Go to bed at 9PM instead of 11PM or midnight. Get more if you can do it. Sorry, but that may mean no sleep overs or late night homework sessions. You can do it for one week out of the year, I know you can. Do it for the team.
Nutrition: Fuel. You need to keep your bodies running at peak performance this week. Fruits, veggies, proteins and carbs. Look up online the best way to optimize nutrition before a game, and do it. All week. This should be something you try to follow all season, not just State Cup week.
Training: Train hard. Listen. Execute. You play like you practice. Give it 100% every time you set foot on the field.
Mental Prep: Have fun this week but work hard. On game day, it's time to focus. Focus on your responsibilities. Visualize every situation that may come your way and how you will deal with it. Visualize the win. Get the adrenaline going as you drive to the field. When you get there, view the opposition as the enemy. View your dominance over them. View the scores, view the stops, view yourself winning the 50/50's. Build up some hatred toward them. These girls are standing in your way to the State Championship. These girls want to beat you and they think they can. You need to prove them wrong. You need to elevate your game and push them and pound them until they break. Period.
If we lose, we go home. There is no tomorrow. Our backs are against the wall and we can not move forward unless we give it 100%. Push your team mates. If you see someone not giving 100%, get in her face! Push her. Let her know that if she doesn't give 100% then the team cannot win. You cannot afford to have players not giving it everything they have at this point. You need 100% commitment from every player. If someone is not willing to do that, she needs to find another team where that kind of play is accepted. Period. Sodium will not accept anything less than 100% and there are girls waiting in line to join the team and they are ALL willing to give 100%.
If you elevate your game every time you set foot on the field, if you bring your 'A' game, there is not a team in Oregon that can keep up. Part of that 'A' game is the sleep, nutrition, training & mental prep. If you want to take this team to the next level, it is vital that you all make it a priority to push yourselves and follow those guidelines. Do it for the yourself, do it for Tom, do it for Sodium.
You gotta believe. We do.
From our hearts we yell; GO SODIUM!
Sleep: Probably the most important factor here. 9 to 10 hours per night minimum. Go to bed at 9PM instead of 11PM or midnight. Get more if you can do it. Sorry, but that may mean no sleep overs or late night homework sessions. You can do it for one week out of the year, I know you can. Do it for the team.
Nutrition: Fuel. You need to keep your bodies running at peak performance this week. Fruits, veggies, proteins and carbs. Look up online the best way to optimize nutrition before a game, and do it. All week. This should be something you try to follow all season, not just State Cup week.
Training: Train hard. Listen. Execute. You play like you practice. Give it 100% every time you set foot on the field.
Mental Prep: Have fun this week but work hard. On game day, it's time to focus. Focus on your responsibilities. Visualize every situation that may come your way and how you will deal with it. Visualize the win. Get the adrenaline going as you drive to the field. When you get there, view the opposition as the enemy. View your dominance over them. View the scores, view the stops, view yourself winning the 50/50's. Build up some hatred toward them. These girls are standing in your way to the State Championship. These girls want to beat you and they think they can. You need to prove them wrong. You need to elevate your game and push them and pound them until they break. Period.
If we lose, we go home. There is no tomorrow. Our backs are against the wall and we can not move forward unless we give it 100%. Push your team mates. If you see someone not giving 100%, get in her face! Push her. Let her know that if she doesn't give 100% then the team cannot win. You cannot afford to have players not giving it everything they have at this point. You need 100% commitment from every player. If someone is not willing to do that, she needs to find another team where that kind of play is accepted. Period. Sodium will not accept anything less than 100% and there are girls waiting in line to join the team and they are ALL willing to give 100%.
If you elevate your game every time you set foot on the field, if you bring your 'A' game, there is not a team in Oregon that can keep up. Part of that 'A' game is the sleep, nutrition, training & mental prep. If you want to take this team to the next level, it is vital that you all make it a priority to push yourselves and follow those guidelines. Do it for the yourself, do it for Tom, do it for Sodium.
You gotta believe. We do.
From our hearts we yell; GO SODIUM!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Sodium advances to Quarter Finals in State Cup
Sodium advanced to the Quarter Finals of the 2009 State Cup by defeating the Aloha United Xtreme club at Aloha High School this morning. Even though the score was 0-0 at half, the first 35 minutes was all Sodium. The lady warriors knew they had a job to do, they just didn't know how hard they would have to work to get it done. In the first half alone Sodium took over 15 shots on goal. They were high, they were wide, they were off the far post. Sodium just could not buy a goal in the first half. After a "pep" talk by coach Tom, Sodium took the field in the second half with their game faces on. The second half began as the first had ended. Sodium was on the attach with run after run. Break-a-way after break-a-way. Hats off to the Aloha keeper, she stopped more shots, and received more bruises, than she has had all season I would bet. At the 15 mark of the second half we found Laura Camp lining up for a corner kick. Lately, coach Tom has sent the entire team, bench, fans and kitchen sink into the box on corner kicks. A very effective strategy so far, and this proved it again as Lexi Frey, left defender, headed Laura's corner kick into the net for a 1-0 Sodium lead! The remaining fans roared and did the wave as everyone cleared the goal box. Play continued in the Xtreme end and with under 3 minutes left Lexi, now at left mid, drove deep into Aloha territory, launched a perfect cross to a driving Emmy Owens who ripped the back of the net for what proved the final goal and solidified a Sodium 2-0 win and clinching the brackets #1 spot.
Quarter Final Bracket at a glance;
All games Saturday 5/2/09 @ Aloha High School
9:30AM - OR Rush vs OSA Inferno
11:AM - FC Portland vs Sherwood Force
12:30PM - LOSC Extreme vs Keizer Hotshots
2:00PM - Sodium vs SSC Hotspur
Important Notes;
LOSC only posted a 2-0 win over OSA Inferno. OSA is for real. Of course, Sodium only posted a 2-0 win over Aloha. EMFC 95 Magic tied Sherwood Force and actually beat them in PK's. And, SSC Hotspur only beat WSM Strikers 1-0, a team Sodium has beat up on for 2 years.
SSC Hotspur
2009 State Cup
Beat by OR Rush 3-0
Beat LOSC Harambee [B] 6-0
Beat Clackamas United Elite 3-0
Beat WSM Strikers 2-1
2008 Fall League
Hotspur was undefeated in fall league.
They beat Sherwood Force, OSA Inferno, PCU Impact, OC Fireballs, WUSC Flamengo, Aloha United Xtreme and LOSC Harambee.
2009 Spring League
Tied EMFC Magic 2-2
Beat OC Fireballs 1-0
Beat WSM Strikers 2-0
Beat OSA Explosion [B] 4-1
Beat Sherwood Force 2-0
Beat WUSC Flamengo 5-0
Beat PCU Impact 3-0
*Funny thing, it never shows SSC playing FC Portland or Keizer Hotshots and they were all in the same league??
Take-a-ways:
1) SSC knows how to win.
2) Sodium needs to neutralize their offensive threat [only one girl is scoring from what I can tell]
3) FINISH. So far in State Cup Sodium has missed more shots than I can remember.
4) Hotspur hasn't advanced to this level in a few years. If Sodium can attack the goal early, it should deflate them.
5) Look at the bracket Hotspurs played in. They got beat 3-0 by OR Rush, the only real team, and then beat a handfull of lesser teams.
6) Sodium needs to play their game. DO NOT PLAY YOUR OPPONENTS GAME. If your opponent plays slow & timid, Sodium needs to play their typical fast and physical game. If your opponent wants to play boot-ball, LET THEM. We need to play our calculated, controlled game still, no matter what.
We have a great opportunity to take out SSC Hotspur next weekend and then on to the next round. Stay focused, work hard and make every effort count. This can be your year Sodium, it all depends on who wants it bad enough to make the sacrifices to succeed. Get the rest you need, eat right and practice hard. You have to believe in yourself Sodium. Your loyal fans believe in you.
From the bleachers at Aloha High School we yell; GO SODIUM!
Quarter Final Bracket at a glance;
All games Saturday 5/2/09 @ Aloha High School
9:30AM - OR Rush vs OSA Inferno
11:AM - FC Portland vs Sherwood Force
12:30PM - LOSC Extreme vs Keizer Hotshots
2:00PM - Sodium vs SSC Hotspur
Important Notes;
LOSC only posted a 2-0 win over OSA Inferno. OSA is for real. Of course, Sodium only posted a 2-0 win over Aloha. EMFC 95 Magic tied Sherwood Force and actually beat them in PK's. And, SSC Hotspur only beat WSM Strikers 1-0, a team Sodium has beat up on for 2 years.
SSC Hotspur
2009 State Cup
Beat by OR Rush 3-0
Beat LOSC Harambee [B] 6-0
Beat Clackamas United Elite 3-0
Beat WSM Strikers 2-1
2008 Fall League
Hotspur was undefeated in fall league.
They beat Sherwood Force, OSA Inferno, PCU Impact, OC Fireballs, WUSC Flamengo, Aloha United Xtreme and LOSC Harambee.
2009 Spring League
Tied EMFC Magic 2-2
Beat OC Fireballs 1-0
Beat WSM Strikers 2-0
Beat OSA Explosion [B] 4-1
Beat Sherwood Force 2-0
Beat WUSC Flamengo 5-0
Beat PCU Impact 3-0
*Funny thing, it never shows SSC playing FC Portland or Keizer Hotshots and they were all in the same league??
Take-a-ways:
1) SSC knows how to win.
2) Sodium needs to neutralize their offensive threat [only one girl is scoring from what I can tell]
3) FINISH. So far in State Cup Sodium has missed more shots than I can remember.
4) Hotspur hasn't advanced to this level in a few years. If Sodium can attack the goal early, it should deflate them.
5) Look at the bracket Hotspurs played in. They got beat 3-0 by OR Rush, the only real team, and then beat a handfull of lesser teams.
6) Sodium needs to play their game. DO NOT PLAY YOUR OPPONENTS GAME. If your opponent plays slow & timid, Sodium needs to play their typical fast and physical game. If your opponent wants to play boot-ball, LET THEM. We need to play our calculated, controlled game still, no matter what.
We have a great opportunity to take out SSC Hotspur next weekend and then on to the next round. Stay focused, work hard and make every effort count. This can be your year Sodium, it all depends on who wants it bad enough to make the sacrifices to succeed. Get the rest you need, eat right and practice hard. You have to believe in yourself Sodium. Your loyal fans believe in you.
From the bleachers at Aloha High School we yell; GO SODIUM!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Sodium lets Sherwood in the door
Historically, Sodium has a tendency to play to their competition. Today's game against the Sherwood Force was no exception. The play started off as expected, Sodium pounding the ball in the Sherwood end of the field. Then Sherwood crossed midfield, found a seem in the defense, and the forward found the net from 20. Sodium down 0-1. Later in the first half, after being bounced around the ball squirted back to Aliyah Chance [I think, I was kind of blocked out] who's shot deflected off a Force player to Emmy Owens who alertly ripped it into the net. 1-1 at half. The second half found Sherwood looking at a corner kick of their own. The ball flew untouched across the face of the goal where a Force player easily found the net. Sodium down 2-1. With only a couple minutes left, Laura Camp & Lexi Frey lined up an indirect kick, Lexi touched it over to Laura who chipped a perfect shot high off the right post and in! The final whistle blew with the score deadlocked at 2 apiece.
Off to PK land!
First up, Jadyn McMillan - 1-0
Sherwood misses - 1-0
Laura Camp in! - 2-0
Sherwood scores - 2-1
Marisa Reid finds the net - 3-1
Sherwood misses - 3-1
Lexi Frey just off the mark - 3-1
Sherwood scores - 3-2
Erika Cook with a decisive score! - 4-2
What it means:
The official score ended in a tie. This means that both Sherwood and Sodium have 7 points. If both teams win [or lose or tie] tomorrow then the team with the highest goal differential will represent the bracket in the #1 spot. If both teams have identical goal differential, it will fall back to these PK's and Sodium will advance in the #1 spot. If Sherwood wins big and Sodium loses, the Sherwood would capture the #1 spot. So basically, Sodium needs to beat the pants off of Aloha tomorrow and advance in #1 position.
The girls looked sluggish & slow tonight. Not the style of play that advances teams to the quarter finals. Sodium needs to turn up the intensity and play the fast physical game that has gotten them many, many victories this season. If they can Bring It, no other team can compete. Get a little pissed here ladies, you should have walked all over the Sherwood team. You need to take it out with a vengeance on Aloha and get back into the groove. If you can do that, then we can take the momentum into the quarter finals and beyond.
Next up: vs Aloha United Xtreme @ 9:30AM - Aloha HS. 4/26/09
GO SODIUM!
Off to PK land!
First up, Jadyn McMillan - 1-0
Sherwood misses - 1-0
Laura Camp in! - 2-0
Sherwood scores - 2-1
Marisa Reid finds the net - 3-1
Sherwood misses - 3-1
Lexi Frey just off the mark - 3-1
Sherwood scores - 3-2
Erika Cook with a decisive score! - 4-2
What it means:
The official score ended in a tie. This means that both Sherwood and Sodium have 7 points. If both teams win [or lose or tie] tomorrow then the team with the highest goal differential will represent the bracket in the #1 spot. If both teams have identical goal differential, it will fall back to these PK's and Sodium will advance in the #1 spot. If Sherwood wins big and Sodium loses, the Sherwood would capture the #1 spot. So basically, Sodium needs to beat the pants off of Aloha tomorrow and advance in #1 position.
The girls looked sluggish & slow tonight. Not the style of play that advances teams to the quarter finals. Sodium needs to turn up the intensity and play the fast physical game that has gotten them many, many victories this season. If they can Bring It, no other team can compete. Get a little pissed here ladies, you should have walked all over the Sherwood team. You need to take it out with a vengeance on Aloha and get back into the groove. If you can do that, then we can take the momentum into the quarter finals and beyond.
Next up: vs Aloha United Xtreme @ 9:30AM - Aloha HS. 4/26/09
GO SODIUM!
Friday, April 24, 2009
This weekend
I was in my car today and a song came on that really caught mt attention. It said something about coming face to face with your enemies. It made me think of the upcoming games this weekend and how Sherwood is coming to our house. How playing us will equate to their world cup. How we will face the enemy tomorrow face to face. How Sodium needs to face every game, tomorrow forward, like their backs were against the wall and there was no tomorrow. Let the bodies hit the turf! Just like the second half of the RVSC game, you have to get your cleats on their neck and NEVER let up! We have the talented players and coach this year and there is no reason Sodium shouldn't three peat and represent Oregon in Lancaster. I have gone to bat for this team on blogs and the Internet all year long and there is no way I would ever call it any differently. I believe in this team. I believe in Sodium. And lady warriors, I know you believe too. The time is NOW. The time is NOW to rise up. To play from the heart. To lay it all on the line.
What's it going to be Sodium, it's all up to you. Who's going to be the hero today?
Your faithful followers will be on the sidelines screaming; GO SODIUM!
What's it going to be Sodium, it's all up to you. Who's going to be the hero today?
Your faithful followers will be on the sidelines screaming; GO SODIUM!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
2009 State Cup Predictions
I've been blogging my predictions on other soccer forums & blogs so I thought I would bring them to our little haven of soccer fun. So, I bring you my 2009 predictions.
Quarter Finals
First Place A Bracket - OR Rush
vs
Second Place C Bracket - OSA Inferno [advances on points over ESUFC Arsenal]
First Place D Bracket - FC Portland
vs
Second Place B Bracket - EMFC Magic*
First Place C Bracket - LOSC Extreme
vs
Second Place D Bracket - Keizer Hotshots
First Place B Bracket - THUSC Sodium
vs
Second Place A Bracket - SSC Hotspur
Semi Finals
OR Rush vs FC Portland
LOSC Extreme* vs Sodium
Final
FC Portland* vs Sodium
2009 State Champion - THUSC SODIUM
*Notes:
There are some big games & assumptions this year. First, I am predicting LOSC beats Keizer. Keizer is probably feeling pretty down right now after tying a very beatable PCU Impact 3-3 and nothing would bring me more pleasure than to have them knock off LOSC so we could beat them in the Semi's. Second, that FC Portland beats OR Rush in the Semi's. Third, that EMFC beats Sherwood in the bracket.
No matter what though, Sodium needs to concentrate on their match ups and take care of business Sodium Style!
GO SODIUM!
Quarter Finals
First Place A Bracket - OR Rush
vs
Second Place C Bracket - OSA Inferno [advances on points over ESUFC Arsenal]
First Place D Bracket - FC Portland
vs
Second Place B Bracket - EMFC Magic*
First Place C Bracket - LOSC Extreme
vs
Second Place D Bracket - Keizer Hotshots
First Place B Bracket - THUSC Sodium
vs
Second Place A Bracket - SSC Hotspur
Semi Finals
OR Rush vs FC Portland
LOSC Extreme* vs Sodium
Final
FC Portland* vs Sodium
2009 State Champion - THUSC SODIUM
*Notes:
There are some big games & assumptions this year. First, I am predicting LOSC beats Keizer. Keizer is probably feeling pretty down right now after tying a very beatable PCU Impact 3-3 and nothing would bring me more pleasure than to have them knock off LOSC so we could beat them in the Semi's. Second, that FC Portland beats OR Rush in the Semi's. Third, that EMFC beats Sherwood in the bracket.
No matter what though, Sodium needs to concentrate on their match ups and take care of business Sodium Style!
GO SODIUM!
Update to "It's about the team" post
I wanted to include this because I feel it is important.
When Emmett Smith won the NFL rushing title he was with the Arizona Cardinals. On that very play Emmett got up with the ball and ran around the outside of the field, searching. Emmett was searching for Daryl Johnston. Daryl was there broadcasting for ESPN. When Emmett finally found him in the crowd, he handed Daryl the game ball, hugged him and through his helmet said 7 words Daryl will never forget, he said; "I couldn't have done it without you".
So when its late in the second half and your exhausted and beat up, think of Daryl. Dig deep and never give up. And when you rise victorious, look at the girl next to you, a warrior who has it left it all on the field, give her a hug and tell her "We couldn't have done it without you" because that is the essence of a team.
"We will win as a team or die as individuals"
When you take the field Saturday, and the four games to follow, remember those words.
GO SODIUM
When Emmett Smith won the NFL rushing title he was with the Arizona Cardinals. On that very play Emmett got up with the ball and ran around the outside of the field, searching. Emmett was searching for Daryl Johnston. Daryl was there broadcasting for ESPN. When Emmett finally found him in the crowd, he handed Daryl the game ball, hugged him and through his helmet said 7 words Daryl will never forget, he said; "I couldn't have done it without you".
So when its late in the second half and your exhausted and beat up, think of Daryl. Dig deep and never give up. And when you rise victorious, look at the girl next to you, a warrior who has it left it all on the field, give her a hug and tell her "We couldn't have done it without you" because that is the essence of a team.
"We will win as a team or die as individuals"
When you take the field Saturday, and the four games to follow, remember those words.
GO SODIUM
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Sodium rolls to 2-0 in State Cup
The lady warriors were back on their home turf Saturday to face EMFC Magic from Eugene in the second round of the 2009 State Cup.
The Magic was led by the outstanding keeper play of Sahalie Doe who often accompanies Sodium to tournaments outside the region.
In typical Sodium fashion the play was isolated to the Eugene end of the field most of the game with the winning goal coming off a Lexi Frey corner kick that was finished by midfielder Laura Camp for a 1-0 Sodium win.
The girls looked crisp, had good communication & hustle. This win was very business like. The girls took the field, assessed what needed to be done, and took care of business out shooting the magic 3-1.
Up next: 4/25 vs Sherwood Force @ 5pm - REC Field #2
Other games in our bracket;
RVSC Power Strikers 2 vs Aloha United Xtreme 1
Notable Games;
FC Portland 2 vs Keizer Hotshots 1
LOSC Extreme 6 vs BSC Mercury Black 0
OR Rush 95 5 vs WSM Strikers 0
GO SODIUM!
The Magic was led by the outstanding keeper play of Sahalie Doe who often accompanies Sodium to tournaments outside the region.
In typical Sodium fashion the play was isolated to the Eugene end of the field most of the game with the winning goal coming off a Lexi Frey corner kick that was finished by midfielder Laura Camp for a 1-0 Sodium win.
The girls looked crisp, had good communication & hustle. This win was very business like. The girls took the field, assessed what needed to be done, and took care of business out shooting the magic 3-1.
Up next: 4/25 vs Sherwood Force @ 5pm - REC Field #2
Other games in our bracket;
RVSC Power Strikers 2 vs Aloha United Xtreme 1
Notable Games;
FC Portland 2 vs Keizer Hotshots 1
LOSC Extreme 6 vs BSC Mercury Black 0
OR Rush 95 5 vs WSM Strikers 0
GO SODIUM!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
It's about the team
I was sitting around the table talking with some friends and we started talking about who the greatest football player of all time is. Many, many names were thrown around from present day superstars to greats from a bygone era. Several chose Emmett Smith, the Dallas Cowboy running back that will be a future Hall-of-Fame player. I, on the other hand, chose Daryl Johnston. You may ask "Who is Daryl Johnston?" and why I would choose a fullback that only carried the ball 232 times for 753 yards and 14 touchdowns [that's 1.4 touchdowns per year!] his entire career when there were so many others to pick?
I chose Daryl for many reasons; he was unselfish, he was the hardest working player on the field, being in the limelight was not important to him, winning was. But the most important of all reasons I chose Daryl was because throughout his 10-year career Daryl always put the team first.
You see, for his entire career Daryl Johnston had the unglamorous honor of opening holes and blocking for Emmett Smith. He was Emmett's fullback. For Emmett to get 18,355 yards in his career and become the NFL's ALL TIME RUSHING LEADER, he had to rely on Daryl. Game after game, season after season, Emmett would get the glory and Daryl would get the bruises. But did that bother Daryl? No. He has 3 Superbowl rings. He has played with and against some of the most talented and gifted athletes in the 20th century. And if you ask him, he will tell you all his efforts, all his pain and sacrifices were for one thing; opening holes so Emmett could run so the team could win. Simple, according to Daryl.
Now I know we don't have any Emmett Smith's on the team. But what I do know is we have an entire team made up of warriors like Daryl Johnston. Warriors that will give everything for the success of the team.
So next time your exhausted, beat up and ready to quit on the field, think of Daryl. If Daryl quit, Emmett couldn't run.
Run Emmett Run
GO SODIUM
I chose Daryl for many reasons; he was unselfish, he was the hardest working player on the field, being in the limelight was not important to him, winning was. But the most important of all reasons I chose Daryl was because throughout his 10-year career Daryl always put the team first.
You see, for his entire career Daryl Johnston had the unglamorous honor of opening holes and blocking for Emmett Smith. He was Emmett's fullback. For Emmett to get 18,355 yards in his career and become the NFL's ALL TIME RUSHING LEADER, he had to rely on Daryl. Game after game, season after season, Emmett would get the glory and Daryl would get the bruises. But did that bother Daryl? No. He has 3 Superbowl rings. He has played with and against some of the most talented and gifted athletes in the 20th century. And if you ask him, he will tell you all his efforts, all his pain and sacrifices were for one thing; opening holes so Emmett could run so the team could win. Simple, according to Daryl.
Now I know we don't have any Emmett Smith's on the team. But what I do know is we have an entire team made up of warriors like Daryl Johnston. Warriors that will give everything for the success of the team.
So next time your exhausted, beat up and ready to quit on the field, think of Daryl. If Daryl quit, Emmett couldn't run.
Run Emmett Run
GO SODIUM
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Sodium opens State Cup with a decisive win
Like a boxer feeling out his opponent in a prize fight, Sodium jabbed, countered and danced in the first half, exposing weaknesses and strengths in the very big, aggressive RVSC Power Striker team. As the half was coming to a close you could tell the lady warriors had the information they needed to plan their attack as play was confined to the Rogue Valley end of the field for the last 5 minutes. Rogue Valley only had 2 shots on goals in the first half compared to Sodium's 9.
Tom made some adjustments at the break as Sodium came out with a vengeance. Hannah Lautenbach was blazing deep into Power Striker territory when she was mugged in the 18 yard box leading to a Sodium PK. Laura Camp lined it up, stutter-stepped and fired a rocket just under the cross bar and out of the keepers reach giving Sodium the 1-0 advantage! As the second half progressed so did the Sodium attack. Lexi Frey [from left defense] decided she wanted to be part of the action as she drove the ball coast-to-coast. From 20 yards out she chipped a shot just over the outstretched arms of the RVSC keeper where Emmy Owens awaited to crash with the ball into the net! From my angle it looked like the shot was in and Emmy was in the net but others say that Emmy shot it in so, I am awarding each of them the goal! A true team effort! Sodium up 2-0. Later in the half our newest member, Aliyah Chance [who had a great game!] placed a perfect pass to a charging MAC Kearney who finished by blasting the back of the net! Sodium up 3-0. Literally 2 minutes later Lexi Frey was lining up for one of her patented corner kicks. She let it fly, there was mosh pit in front of the net, the ball was cleared back out to Lexi who launched it again, over the crowed, to an awaiting Jadyn McMillan who stuffed it in for a Sodium 4-0 romp. And, to add a little "Sodium" to the wound, Emmy drove deep into the box, drilled a shot off the RV keeper and Hannah was there to mop up for the 5th and final score. Rogue Valley also racked up a couple yellow cards in the match to add insult to injury.
Sodium is starting to file fire on all cylinders just as the State Cup is getting underway. Let's keep the momentum as Eugene Magic comes to town next weekend.
In other bracket games;
Sherwood 3, Aloha 2
In other State Cup Games
FC Portland 4, PCU 0
LOSC 3, Arsenal 0
Rush 3, Hotspur 0
Keizer 6, Oregon City 1
And our friends WSM Strikers 0, LOSC Harambee[B squad] 0
Great job ladies! Remember your goals and your teammates goals and let's have a great week of practice. Always strive to be better. Every practice, every game, every day.
From somewhere on I-5 the parents are yelling: GO SODIUM!
Together with family & friends, the Coons wish everyone Happy Easter!
Tom made some adjustments at the break as Sodium came out with a vengeance. Hannah Lautenbach was blazing deep into Power Striker territory when she was mugged in the 18 yard box leading to a Sodium PK. Laura Camp lined it up, stutter-stepped and fired a rocket just under the cross bar and out of the keepers reach giving Sodium the 1-0 advantage! As the second half progressed so did the Sodium attack. Lexi Frey [from left defense] decided she wanted to be part of the action as she drove the ball coast-to-coast. From 20 yards out she chipped a shot just over the outstretched arms of the RVSC keeper where Emmy Owens awaited to crash with the ball into the net! From my angle it looked like the shot was in and Emmy was in the net but others say that Emmy shot it in so, I am awarding each of them the goal! A true team effort! Sodium up 2-0. Later in the half our newest member, Aliyah Chance [who had a great game!] placed a perfect pass to a charging MAC Kearney who finished by blasting the back of the net! Sodium up 3-0. Literally 2 minutes later Lexi Frey was lining up for one of her patented corner kicks. She let it fly, there was mosh pit in front of the net, the ball was cleared back out to Lexi who launched it again, over the crowed, to an awaiting Jadyn McMillan who stuffed it in for a Sodium 4-0 romp. And, to add a little "Sodium" to the wound, Emmy drove deep into the box, drilled a shot off the RV keeper and Hannah was there to mop up for the 5th and final score. Rogue Valley also racked up a couple yellow cards in the match to add insult to injury.
Sodium is starting to file fire on all cylinders just as the State Cup is getting underway. Let's keep the momentum as Eugene Magic comes to town next weekend.
In other bracket games;
Sherwood 3, Aloha 2
In other State Cup Games
FC Portland 4, PCU 0
LOSC 3, Arsenal 0
Rush 3, Hotspur 0
Keizer 6, Oregon City 1
And our friends WSM Strikers 0, LOSC Harambee[B squad] 0
Great job ladies! Remember your goals and your teammates goals and let's have a great week of practice. Always strive to be better. Every practice, every game, every day.
From somewhere on I-5 the parents are yelling: GO SODIUM!
Together with family & friends, the Coons wish everyone Happy Easter!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
To Sodium
The journey begins...
Tomorrow, lady warriors, you embark on a journey, a journey that began June 20th on the Big Island of Hawaii. With a new coach and new players you will continue the tradition that is Sodium. A tradition of hard charging, fast physical play. Of sacrificing everything and never saying die. Tomorrow, there will be no tomorrow. You have to treat every game like it will be your last, with your back up against the wall.
Tomorrow marks the third year you will take the field for State Cup. All eyes will be upon the New Back In Black crew. There will be some who will doubt, some who will say that this years team cannot match up. But we know. We know the heart of this years team. We know the sacrifices and that you know how to fight and how to win. Leave no doubt on the field lady warriors, it's GO TIME.
Tomorrow when you take the field you will remember how it feels to be a champion, and what it took to get there. The blood, sweat, tears and exhaustion you endured. Tomorrow you will remember the sacrifices you made, how hard you have worked & fought and the lessons you have learned.
When you look up in the stands, feel proud Sodium. You have earned your place and the respect of all who follow you now, and those who wish to play for this glorious team in the future.
Tomorrow, when you take the field as a team, you will truly reflect what it means to be a team. What it means to work as a single entity toward a common goal. To fight and to sacrifice as one, as Sodium.
Tomorrow you will lace up your cleats, put on your game face and don the uniform of a champion. Wear it proud lady warriors, and let's go make history!
You be proud, we'll be loud! GO SODIUM
Tomorrow, lady warriors, you embark on a journey, a journey that began June 20th on the Big Island of Hawaii. With a new coach and new players you will continue the tradition that is Sodium. A tradition of hard charging, fast physical play. Of sacrificing everything and never saying die. Tomorrow, there will be no tomorrow. You have to treat every game like it will be your last, with your back up against the wall.
Tomorrow marks the third year you will take the field for State Cup. All eyes will be upon the New Back In Black crew. There will be some who will doubt, some who will say that this years team cannot match up. But we know. We know the heart of this years team. We know the sacrifices and that you know how to fight and how to win. Leave no doubt on the field lady warriors, it's GO TIME.
Tomorrow when you take the field you will remember how it feels to be a champion, and what it took to get there. The blood, sweat, tears and exhaustion you endured. Tomorrow you will remember the sacrifices you made, how hard you have worked & fought and the lessons you have learned.
When you look up in the stands, feel proud Sodium. You have earned your place and the respect of all who follow you now, and those who wish to play for this glorious team in the future.
Tomorrow, when you take the field as a team, you will truly reflect what it means to be a team. What it means to work as a single entity toward a common goal. To fight and to sacrifice as one, as Sodium.
Tomorrow you will lace up your cleats, put on your game face and don the uniform of a champion. Wear it proud lady warriors, and let's go make history!
You be proud, we'll be loud! GO SODIUM
McMillan's host first State Cup dinner
Dan & Kirsten McMillan opened their home to the wrath that is the lady warriors of Sodium. In celebration of the upcoming State Cup games, Sodium will gather for a feast before each battle.
Thank you parents for your support in hosting these events. We are hoping for several of these gatherings, the last one the week of May 9th.
Gather your strength lady warriors, this year you will put to the test. It will be the battle of the fittest with only the strongest surviving. Push yourself, push your team, and we will be victorious!
From the round table we cheer; HAIL SODIUM!
Thank you parents for your support in hosting these events. We are hoping for several of these gatherings, the last one the week of May 9th.
Gather your strength lady warriors, this year you will put to the test. It will be the battle of the fittest with only the strongest surviving. Push yourself, push your team, and we will be victorious!
From the round table we cheer; HAIL SODIUM!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Sodium tunes up for State Cup with trip to Eagle Crest
The lady warriors made their favorite road trip east this weekend to take on OR Rush 95. In typical Bend fashion the officiating was less than stellar but the play was spectacular! Right out of the gate Rush took advantage of a lapse in defense and scored. Sodium had several players absent so they had some player shifts and only one sub compared to Rush's 5. Not be out done Sodium came back with an offensive flurry that culminated with MAC Kearney taking advantage of a keeper miscue by ripping the ball past her for a 1-1 tie. Sodium came knocking again late in the first half when Hannah Lautenbach's attempt to chip the ball into the far corner just deflected off the cross bar. The half ended as the play see-sawed back and forth. The majority of play in the second half was isolated to the Rush side of the field. Although, there were occasions when Sodium keeper Camille Fairbairn had to make a some awesome saves to keep the score tight, but other than that, it was in Rush's end. It wasn't for lack of opportunity that the score was tied. The lady warriors penetrated and penetrated but just couldn't find the net as the much improved Rush defense held their ground. I'm sure we will see this team again in State Cup, so keep pushing Sodium and next time we meet we will have a full healthy roster and give them a little taste of Back in Black!
Next up; Rogue Valley in Medford on 4/11/09 for the first game of State Cup!
GO SODIUM!
Next up; Rogue Valley in Medford on 4/11/09 for the first game of State Cup!
GO SODIUM!
Friday, April 3, 2009
Welcome Aliyah!
The lady warriors are proud to announce a new member to the Back in Black Sodium squad, Aliyah Chance!
Aliyah comes to us via Westside Metros, plays midfield and forward and is part of the very talented 1996 ODP team.
Aliyah will travel with Sodium to Bend and Medford in the coming weeks and I am sure will make a great addition to the team as we embark on State Cup!
Parents, make sure you introduce yourself to Colleen in the coming weeks.
Great to have you as part of the team!
GO SODIUM!
Friday, March 27, 2009
State Cup thoughts...
While watching the Blazers crush Shaq and the Suns last night there were a series of commercials shown that consisted of slow motion NBA plays. The scenes were black & white but the player involved in the action, his jersey was highlighted with vibrant color. There was no audio but after the play, across the screen came a quote.
The one that struck me as most relevant was;
"Where will amazing happen this year?"
I started thinking about it and wanted to bring you back to 2008;
First Round: Sodium vs ESU Arsenal - Turning point; Payten Sonnen to Katherine Kramer to Emmy Owens late in the second half giving Sodium a 1-0 win.
Second Round: Sodium vs LOSC Extreme @ Lake Oswego. Payten Sonnen and Jadyn McMillan each score. Girls coming off the bench with wild abandonment. Turning point; Bethany Hall & Taylor Coon double team and crush an Extreme forward, shutting down a momentum building LOSC drive. Sodium wins 2-0.
Third Round: Sodium vs FC Portland - In PK's Kristin Boone elevates her game and body as she deflects the winning goal off the cross bar, boosting Sodium to the Semi's with a 1-0 win.
Semi Finals: Sodium vs Keizer - With 50 seconds left, crashing Sodium mids present Bailey Hall with a perfect pass for her to blast past the Hotshot keeper for a 1-0 win and a spot in the State Championship game.
Championship Game: Sodium vs FC Portland - After setting goals the night before, Marisa Reid realizes hers as she racks up a pair of goals, giving Sodium back-to-back State Championships with a 2-0 win.
The 2009 season has been chalked full of amazing moments. To many to recall at this point. Our focus needs to remain on the amazing moments to come. Who will provide the spark, the excitement, the game changing plays that turn the tide and raise Sodium to excellence? Will it be Camille with a game saving stop? A long goal from the mid position? A corner kick that results in a Sodium player giving everything she has to head it in? A break-a-way where our forward blasts it past a keeper? And who will supply these amazing moments? Who will be the hero in this years State Cup?
Enter into each game lady warriors with the confidence and attitude that it will be 'ME'! That if it is to be, it's up to me. That You will be that one we are cheering for. That You will be the one that wins the 50/50 that leads to a goal. That You will be the one that stops the opponents break-a-way or provides the perfect pass for the winning goal. You have the heart, you have the talent and the coach to lead Oregon again this year Sodium. As you stride into Rogue Valley on April 11th, know that you are the team to beat, know that you need to bring your 'A' game each and every match, know that you will not give up or give in. Bring the Sodium style and attitude that will not be beat, can not be beat. Remember going into Lake Oswego last year? Remember what was pulsating through your veins? To go into LO's house in the second round and decisively beating them at every position. To leave them standing there wondering just what happened. To have girls come off the bench and play with such ferocity and attack them from every position. THAT is the Sodium Style we know and love.
Expect no less than excellence from yourself and your team. Be the best you can every practice, every game, every day. Push yourself and your team mates to leave it all on the field every game. If you can do that, lady warriors, you truly will be champions.
Leave no doubt.
GO SODIUM!
The one that struck me as most relevant was;
"Where will amazing happen this year?"
I started thinking about it and wanted to bring you back to 2008;
First Round: Sodium vs ESU Arsenal - Turning point; Payten Sonnen to Katherine Kramer to Emmy Owens late in the second half giving Sodium a 1-0 win.
Second Round: Sodium vs LOSC Extreme @ Lake Oswego. Payten Sonnen and Jadyn McMillan each score. Girls coming off the bench with wild abandonment. Turning point; Bethany Hall & Taylor Coon double team and crush an Extreme forward, shutting down a momentum building LOSC drive. Sodium wins 2-0.
Third Round: Sodium vs FC Portland - In PK's Kristin Boone elevates her game and body as she deflects the winning goal off the cross bar, boosting Sodium to the Semi's with a 1-0 win.
Semi Finals: Sodium vs Keizer - With 50 seconds left, crashing Sodium mids present Bailey Hall with a perfect pass for her to blast past the Hotshot keeper for a 1-0 win and a spot in the State Championship game.
Championship Game: Sodium vs FC Portland - After setting goals the night before, Marisa Reid realizes hers as she racks up a pair of goals, giving Sodium back-to-back State Championships with a 2-0 win.
The 2009 season has been chalked full of amazing moments. To many to recall at this point. Our focus needs to remain on the amazing moments to come. Who will provide the spark, the excitement, the game changing plays that turn the tide and raise Sodium to excellence? Will it be Camille with a game saving stop? A long goal from the mid position? A corner kick that results in a Sodium player giving everything she has to head it in? A break-a-way where our forward blasts it past a keeper? And who will supply these amazing moments? Who will be the hero in this years State Cup?
Enter into each game lady warriors with the confidence and attitude that it will be 'ME'! That if it is to be, it's up to me. That You will be that one we are cheering for. That You will be the one that wins the 50/50 that leads to a goal. That You will be the one that stops the opponents break-a-way or provides the perfect pass for the winning goal. You have the heart, you have the talent and the coach to lead Oregon again this year Sodium. As you stride into Rogue Valley on April 11th, know that you are the team to beat, know that you need to bring your 'A' game each and every match, know that you will not give up or give in. Bring the Sodium style and attitude that will not be beat, can not be beat. Remember going into Lake Oswego last year? Remember what was pulsating through your veins? To go into LO's house in the second round and decisively beating them at every position. To leave them standing there wondering just what happened. To have girls come off the bench and play with such ferocity and attack them from every position. THAT is the Sodium Style we know and love.
Expect no less than excellence from yourself and your team. Be the best you can every practice, every game, every day. Push yourself and your team mates to leave it all on the field every game. If you can do that, lady warriors, you truly will be champions.
Leave no doubt.
GO SODIUM!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
GAME ON! - The annual motivation edition
With the OR Rush game looming in the near future as the last remaining tune-up before State Cup, I thought it would be a good time for me to don my coaches cap, get up on the soap-box, and deliver my annual "Get Motivated" Post. This years post will cover motivational speeches given by coaches/players and links to some past motivational posts that have made their way into the blog. Some I will actually write out, others I will link too. So grab a Gatorade, pull on your old high school jersey, pull up a chair with your favorite Sodium player and get ready to be MOTIVATED!
Don't really remember where I found this one, I think it came partially from Al Pacino in a movie where he was a football coach. Of course, it has been adapted to fit our situation.
"Soccer is a game of inches. A goal is often an inch out of the keepers reach. The 50/50 ball is won by an inch. The difference between stopping a forward in her tracks and being scored on is measured in inches. An inch down on the crossbar means a score.The team that fights, scratches and claws the hardest for that inch will win. The team that makes the greatest sacrifices for that inch will be victorious. To be able to look into the eyes of the lady warrior next to you on the field and see that she is willing to sacrifice it all for that inch, and for them to know you will too. That is what being a team is all about.You win as a team, you die as individuals."
Favorite Sayings [link]
TODAY [posted before the first game of 2008 State Cup]
To the lady warriors;
Today you begin the journey you have been preparing for since June of last year. Today you take the field for State Cup. But unlike where you were then, today you are a team. Today you will remember the blood, sweat, tears and exhaustion you endured. Today you will remember the sacrifices you made, how hard you have worked & fought and the lessons taught by Ronnie. Today, when you get to the field, look around you and see how far you’ve come, be proud. Rejoice in your fans who love and admire you. Embrace your teammates and know that each and every one of them will have your back today, and you there’s. Today balls will hit the net, and bodies will hit the turf.
Today you will be unstoppable. Today you are a team. THE team.
Today, you are SODIUM
Thoughts on Motivation [link]
Remember...When we're not training, someone is training to kick our butts!
Win Forever [link - posted before the 2008 State Championship game]
"Every Game Needs A Hero, Who Will It Be?"
Quotes [link]
Hard Work and Dedication [link]
Impressions [link]
Jimmy V [link]- Coach Valvano took a seemingly unknown NC State basketball program and in 1983 won the NCAA Tournament. This is Jimmy Valvano's 1993 ESPY Awards speech. "Never give up. Never EVER give up" He died later that year of cancer.
40 Inspirational Speeches in 2 minutes [link]
I guess what I'm really trying to get at here is simple, the time is now to elevate your game Sodium. You are coming off 2 impressive showings. A first place at BME and a second place finish at Nomads. You have to keep pushing yourselves. You can't let up. Yes, we have a relatively easy State Cup bracket, but what happens in round 2? What happens when we face LOSC? Or Keiser? Or OR Rush or FC? Are we going to be prepared? Are we going to ready to go to battle?
Push yourself, push your team, push your opponent. If you don't go out every practice and every game with the goal to get better, you'll get pushed out of the way.
We have watched you work, watched you sweat and watched you give it your best all year in preparation for State Cup. This is what you have sacrificed for. Commit to excellence Sodium. Commit everyday to get better. You have to put your 'Game face' on every game from here on out. You have to treat each game like you are the underdog and their is NO tomorrow. You will go to war against your opponent and show no mercy. "Trample the weak, hurdle the dead" was a great saying last year, and it holds true this year. You cannot let other teams think they can play at your level. Call it the killer instinct. You have go for the throat and NEVER let up! I've seem this team score 5-6-7 goals a game and more. You have to stride onto the field every game thinking you are going to do it again. And when you get up by a few goals, GO FOR ANOTHER! AND ANOTHER! Remember the Mia Hamm saying about leaving a lasting impression? Lady warriors you have the talent, the skills and the heart to defeat any team in Oregon. You just gotta believe. You have to believe that if you work harder, sacrifice more, push yourself further that no other team will survive but Sodium.
Because when it comes down to it, you are the only team.
You are SODIUM
Don't really remember where I found this one, I think it came partially from Al Pacino in a movie where he was a football coach. Of course, it has been adapted to fit our situation.
"Soccer is a game of inches. A goal is often an inch out of the keepers reach. The 50/50 ball is won by an inch. The difference between stopping a forward in her tracks and being scored on is measured in inches. An inch down on the crossbar means a score.The team that fights, scratches and claws the hardest for that inch will win. The team that makes the greatest sacrifices for that inch will be victorious. To be able to look into the eyes of the lady warrior next to you on the field and see that she is willing to sacrifice it all for that inch, and for them to know you will too. That is what being a team is all about.You win as a team, you die as individuals."
Favorite Sayings [link]
TODAY [posted before the first game of 2008 State Cup]
To the lady warriors;
Today you begin the journey you have been preparing for since June of last year. Today you take the field for State Cup. But unlike where you were then, today you are a team. Today you will remember the blood, sweat, tears and exhaustion you endured. Today you will remember the sacrifices you made, how hard you have worked & fought and the lessons taught by Ronnie. Today, when you get to the field, look around you and see how far you’ve come, be proud. Rejoice in your fans who love and admire you. Embrace your teammates and know that each and every one of them will have your back today, and you there’s. Today balls will hit the net, and bodies will hit the turf.
Today you will be unstoppable. Today you are a team. THE team.
Today, you are SODIUM
Thoughts on Motivation [link]
Remember...When we're not training, someone is training to kick our butts!
Win Forever [link - posted before the 2008 State Championship game]
"Every Game Needs A Hero, Who Will It Be?"
Quotes [link]
Hard Work and Dedication [link]
Impressions [link]
Jimmy V [link]- Coach Valvano took a seemingly unknown NC State basketball program and in 1983 won the NCAA Tournament. This is Jimmy Valvano's 1993 ESPY Awards speech. "Never give up. Never EVER give up" He died later that year of cancer.
40 Inspirational Speeches in 2 minutes [link]
I guess what I'm really trying to get at here is simple, the time is now to elevate your game Sodium. You are coming off 2 impressive showings. A first place at BME and a second place finish at Nomads. You have to keep pushing yourselves. You can't let up. Yes, we have a relatively easy State Cup bracket, but what happens in round 2? What happens when we face LOSC? Or Keiser? Or OR Rush or FC? Are we going to be prepared? Are we going to ready to go to battle?
Push yourself, push your team, push your opponent. If you don't go out every practice and every game with the goal to get better, you'll get pushed out of the way.
We have watched you work, watched you sweat and watched you give it your best all year in preparation for State Cup. This is what you have sacrificed for. Commit to excellence Sodium. Commit everyday to get better. You have to put your 'Game face' on every game from here on out. You have to treat each game like you are the underdog and their is NO tomorrow. You will go to war against your opponent and show no mercy. "Trample the weak, hurdle the dead" was a great saying last year, and it holds true this year. You cannot let other teams think they can play at your level. Call it the killer instinct. You have go for the throat and NEVER let up! I've seem this team score 5-6-7 goals a game and more. You have to stride onto the field every game thinking you are going to do it again. And when you get up by a few goals, GO FOR ANOTHER! AND ANOTHER! Remember the Mia Hamm saying about leaving a lasting impression? Lady warriors you have the talent, the skills and the heart to defeat any team in Oregon. You just gotta believe. You have to believe that if you work harder, sacrifice more, push yourself further that no other team will survive but Sodium.
Because when it comes down to it, you are the only team.
You are SODIUM
Kick'n it Sodium Style in San Diego!
The girls had a great time and played some great soccer in San Diego!
GO SODIUM!
After the Championship game with a very gracious Hawaii Leahi Team.
Everyday Tom, Nikki or a couple of parents would take the team on a walk/jog. The views were spectacular and the girls had a blast!
GO SODIUM!
After the Championship game with a very gracious Hawaii Leahi Team.
Everyday Tom, Nikki or a couple of parents would take the team on a walk/jog. The views were spectacular and the girls had a blast!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
The Black and the White
I'm going to touch on a few things coach Tom said over the past couple weeks and then move into other areas. After this post I may not be the most popular guy but hey; winning, commitment and dedication aren't popularity contests.
First, after the championship game at Nomads, Tom said he felt disappointed. More accurately, he addressed the team and said he felt disappointed 'for you'. From an old coach when someone says that, I interpreted it to mean that maybe you weren't disappointed enough, or at all. That maybe it didn't mean as much to individuals as it should. That maybe getting pounded in the championship by a team we could have beat earlier in the tournament and playing so poorly should have hurt a little more than it did. Should have p*!!ed some people off a little more than it did. I saw some players crying. I saw some on the brink of tears. Do you think it hurt those players to lose in such a fashion in such a big game. Do you think they took responsibility? You bet they did. What hurt the most was to see others walk off the field like it was just another game. Like they were wondering where they were going to eat before the flight home instead of wondering how we could have taken such a beating, why it happened and what we need to do to ensure it would never happen again. It hurt because I saw players give up. Something I never thought I would see from a Sodium team. Can each individual player look in the mirror after that game and honestly say the gave 100%? Honestly say they left everything on the field for the team? A very few can, most can not. Let me insert an example here. There was a little REC hoop team some of you may be familiar with. The team had several players who had never stepped on the court before. In there second game of the season they played a returning team that was supposed to win the league. At the end of the first quarter this little REC team was down by 14 points and things didn't look good. But let me ask you this; "Do you think this team ever, for ONE SECOND, gave up? Stopped fighting or thought they didn't have a chance win?" NO WAY! And do you know why? Because almost half this team was made up of SODIUM PLAYERS! That's why! They never gave up, they never stopped fighting and clawing their way back into the game. They not only went on to win this game, but the league championship. I didn't see that effort Monday.
First, after the championship game at Nomads, Tom said he felt disappointed. More accurately, he addressed the team and said he felt disappointed 'for you'. From an old coach when someone says that, I interpreted it to mean that maybe you weren't disappointed enough, or at all. That maybe it didn't mean as much to individuals as it should. That maybe getting pounded in the championship by a team we could have beat earlier in the tournament and playing so poorly should have hurt a little more than it did. Should have p*!!ed some people off a little more than it did. I saw some players crying. I saw some on the brink of tears. Do you think it hurt those players to lose in such a fashion in such a big game. Do you think they took responsibility? You bet they did. What hurt the most was to see others walk off the field like it was just another game. Like they were wondering where they were going to eat before the flight home instead of wondering how we could have taken such a beating, why it happened and what we need to do to ensure it would never happen again. It hurt because I saw players give up. Something I never thought I would see from a Sodium team. Can each individual player look in the mirror after that game and honestly say the gave 100%? Honestly say they left everything on the field for the team? A very few can, most can not. Let me insert an example here. There was a little REC hoop team some of you may be familiar with. The team had several players who had never stepped on the court before. In there second game of the season they played a returning team that was supposed to win the league. At the end of the first quarter this little REC team was down by 14 points and things didn't look good. But let me ask you this; "Do you think this team ever, for ONE SECOND, gave up? Stopped fighting or thought they didn't have a chance win?" NO WAY! And do you know why? Because almost half this team was made up of SODIUM PLAYERS! That's why! They never gave up, they never stopped fighting and clawing their way back into the game. They not only went on to win this game, but the league championship. I didn't see that effort Monday.
Secondly, after the embarrassing loss to FC Portland, Tom said that from here on out, from U13 onward, it's no longer about the name on the back of the jersey, but the logo on front. It's about the black and the white. It's about doing for the team, not the individual. It's about dedication and pushing yourself to be the best you can for the team. Do you think every player gave everything they had for the team Monday? Short answer: No.
Practice: You practice like you play. You give 100% at practice, you give 100% in the game. If you give lame excuses not to go to practice or not to give 100%, you'll look like it on the field. And believe me, from the coach to the fans, we can all tell.
Fitness: When I was trianing if someone told me we would have Navy Seals training us, I would have jumped out of my skin! Think of how much better condition we are going to be in than our competition! I bet no OTHER team has Navy Seals training them! Instead, I heard a lot of lame excuses not to go to fitness. "It's too hot", "It's too cold", "I don't feel good", "I have some sort of ache or pain" or the best ever: "I'm too tired". If I would have been Tom, I would have said; "Fine, stay home. And maybe stay home the next couple of games too". I am an old school coach I will admit but I rarely had players miss practice.
Game Time: The hours before a game is a time for reflection. To review all the things you've been taught. To review the opposition, their strengths and weaknesses. To review why you are here and what contribution you can make to the team to ensure victory. To realize the opposing teams only goal is to beat your butt and to get fired up about it!
Commitment and Dedication: Do you think Mia Hamm is committed to the sport and dedicated to her team? Do you think she goes the extra distance? Does more sit-ups than her team mates? Pushes herself to be first in drills? More push-ups than anyone else? Climbs the stairs faster, jumps higher and sweats a little more? She is committed. To herself, to be the best so she can play the best for her team. Each individual on Sodium needs to ask themselves, "Am I committed?" Am I dedicated and willing to put everything I am on the line when I take the field? Sodium teams in the past have answered "Yes", Can you? Can you commit to the Black and the White of Sodium? Dig deep ladies, the answer is within you. The old saying "A team is only as good as it's weakest player" has withstood the test of time. Don't be that player. Work harder to be better every day, every practice, every game. Remember "If it is to be, it's up to me"? Each individual being the best they can be for the better of the team.
The letters 'L' 'O' used to make this teams blood boil. What does it mean now? Are we already beat before we walk on the field? Why play if you aren't 100% committed? Why do that to your team? If your going to go out and give less than 100%, save us all the agony and just go home! I say this as a coach and player because I know what it takes to win. I know the sacrifices that need to be made. I know the level of dedication and hard work it takes. I coached 2 league championship teams and played on 3 State Championship teams and 5 league championship teams in 3 different sports! Best of all though, I have had the pleasure of witnessing back-to-back State Championships from THIS team! And selfishly, I know we can do more.
Every team from every bracket in State Cup is going to be gunning for you Sodium. Are you going to give some lesser team the chance to knock you out? Or are you going to refocus, recommit and rededicate yourselves back to the level you know you can achieve? I've seen the killer instinct in your eyes. Look at our defense giving up 0 goals in BME. Look at MAC scoring 3 goals in the semi-finals at Nomads and the team playing for the Championship. THAT is what I'm talking about. THAT is the Sodium we know. The look in Laura Camp's eyes when she is stutter stepping to a free kick from 25-yards. The look in Taylor's eyes when she stops a forward dead in her tracks and clears the ball. Eyes that say; "Is that all you got?" THAT is the Sodium we know.
Lady Warriors, will you truly be Back in Black or will it all just fade away...
The time is now to make that decision. { I'd hate to be the team that finds out! }
With pride and confidence, the Sodium faithful yell: GO SODIUM!
Lady Warriors, will you truly be Back in Black or will it all just fade away...
The time is now to make that decision. { I'd hate to be the team that finds out! }
With pride and confidence, the Sodium faithful yell: GO SODIUM!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Sodium, Sodium, where for art thou...?
For those of you that saw the game, I need not say more. For those who weren't in attendance, ask a player. Whether it was the star alignment or what, Sodium forgot to show up for the championship game and got pounded by Leahi 96 Premier 4-0 for the runner up position.
For those girls who left the field crying from frustration and disappointment, I tip my hat, for you left everthing on the field and deserved more. For those who gave up, who wouldn't finish or hustle or run to the ball, I will address this in a later post.
As for the experience I have to say 'Thanks' to the parents who joined us, the outstanding job the coaches did, to the Sodium team who showed us they HAVE what it takes to make it to the 'Big Show'. The Nomad tournament was a building block. We came in, we played well, and we left winners. No other Oregon team lasted this long. With the exception of one, no other team played better and deserved to be there. For that, lady warriors, you can hold your heads up and be proud of your accomplishment.
A heartfelt thanks go out to visiting players Bailey and Bethany Hall for accepting the invitation last minute and playing well with your old friends. Thanks for wearing the badge of Black you've come to know and love one more time. [even if the uniforms are a little smaller now!] Best of luck to you in the coming season with WCFC and I'm sure we'll see you on the field again. Remember, you've always got a spot on the roster and a place in our hearts.
Next up we have a road trip to Bend to play OR Rush, then on to State Cup.
We are proud of you Sodium, keep working hard, Lancaster is just down the road...
GO SODIUM!
For those girls who left the field crying from frustration and disappointment, I tip my hat, for you left everthing on the field and deserved more. For those who gave up, who wouldn't finish or hustle or run to the ball, I will address this in a later post.
As for the experience I have to say 'Thanks' to the parents who joined us, the outstanding job the coaches did, to the Sodium team who showed us they HAVE what it takes to make it to the 'Big Show'. The Nomad tournament was a building block. We came in, we played well, and we left winners. No other Oregon team lasted this long. With the exception of one, no other team played better and deserved to be there. For that, lady warriors, you can hold your heads up and be proud of your accomplishment.
A heartfelt thanks go out to visiting players Bailey and Bethany Hall for accepting the invitation last minute and playing well with your old friends. Thanks for wearing the badge of Black you've come to know and love one more time. [even if the uniforms are a little smaller now!] Best of luck to you in the coming season with WCFC and I'm sure we'll see you on the field again. Remember, you've always got a spot on the roster and a place in our hearts.
Next up we have a road trip to Bend to play OR Rush, then on to State Cup.
We are proud of you Sodium, keep working hard, Lancaster is just down the road...
GO SODIUM!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Sodium advances to Nomad Championship
Early game vs MN Thunder 96 Blue
The lady warriors qualified for the semi-finals with a 0-0 tie to the Minnesota State Champion Blues. Big, physical players with loud, uneducated parents made this match even more enjoyable. After the half the Sodium squad elevated their play after a yellow card inducing collision of a Thunder forward and keeper Camille Fairbairn. Sodium pounded the goal with shots, corner kicks and headers. Bodies were cleared out en route to the goal but unfortunately none found the mark. The Thunder coach stated; "You guys will advance, you deserve it." No truer words were spoke.
Semi-final Night-cap vs Leahi 96 Maile
This Hawaii U12 State Champion could have doubled for the U15 squad. They were big, physical and full of pride. As the sun set and the field lights illuminated, Jadyn McMillan penetrated deep into Maile territory around 2 defenders. She served up a perfect lead pass to a crashing MAC Kearney who ripped a goal past the diving Maile keeper! The place erupted as fans roared and Jadyn was surrounded by her team mates. Moments later the whistle blew for half-time. On the sidelines the electricity was thick, the excitement palpable. After a 10 minute pep-talk and some position adjustments from coach Tom the lady warriors strode confidently onto the Nomad home field. The whistle blew, the ball was touched and Sodium was off to the races! Rarely did the ball cross the midfield as the mids controlled the tempo, and the forwards controlled the ball. The defense raised the bar as they rarely allowed a forward near the 18-yard box or the keeper to touch the ball. At the 20 minute mark Eli Beard received the ball, flashed down the left side and placed a chip shot right to the foot of MAC who knew exactly what needed to be done; she two-touched and fired a perfect strike into the net for her second of the night. Again, the Sodium faithful and team screamed with excitement. Play continued back and forth with Sodium moving the ball at will against the larger Maile team. It was a joy to watch the girls as they passed with pinpoint accuracy and dominated the play. With under 3 minutes left the Maile keeper chipped her goal kick to midfield where guest player Bailey Hall skied above the rest and placed a header out front of the streaking forwards. In a footrace there is none better than MAC who chased it down and rocketed her third goal past a keeper who must have been getting tired seeing number 13 in her face all night. With a “MAC” trick Ms Kearney single-handedly dealt the Hawaii team a decisive blow and moved Sodium to the Nomad Championship! Even though MAC was awarded all the goals it was an outstanding team win from whistle to whistle.
Next up: Leahi 96 Premier for the Nomad Championship
From the deck at Chili’s the faithful raise a toast to their beloved team: GO SODIUM!
The lady warriors qualified for the semi-finals with a 0-0 tie to the Minnesota State Champion Blues. Big, physical players with loud, uneducated parents made this match even more enjoyable. After the half the Sodium squad elevated their play after a yellow card inducing collision of a Thunder forward and keeper Camille Fairbairn. Sodium pounded the goal with shots, corner kicks and headers. Bodies were cleared out en route to the goal but unfortunately none found the mark. The Thunder coach stated; "You guys will advance, you deserve it." No truer words were spoke.
Semi-final Night-cap vs Leahi 96 Maile
This Hawaii U12 State Champion could have doubled for the U15 squad. They were big, physical and full of pride. As the sun set and the field lights illuminated, Jadyn McMillan penetrated deep into Maile territory around 2 defenders. She served up a perfect lead pass to a crashing MAC Kearney who ripped a goal past the diving Maile keeper! The place erupted as fans roared and Jadyn was surrounded by her team mates. Moments later the whistle blew for half-time. On the sidelines the electricity was thick, the excitement palpable. After a 10 minute pep-talk and some position adjustments from coach Tom the lady warriors strode confidently onto the Nomad home field. The whistle blew, the ball was touched and Sodium was off to the races! Rarely did the ball cross the midfield as the mids controlled the tempo, and the forwards controlled the ball. The defense raised the bar as they rarely allowed a forward near the 18-yard box or the keeper to touch the ball. At the 20 minute mark Eli Beard received the ball, flashed down the left side and placed a chip shot right to the foot of MAC who knew exactly what needed to be done; she two-touched and fired a perfect strike into the net for her second of the night. Again, the Sodium faithful and team screamed with excitement. Play continued back and forth with Sodium moving the ball at will against the larger Maile team. It was a joy to watch the girls as they passed with pinpoint accuracy and dominated the play. With under 3 minutes left the Maile keeper chipped her goal kick to midfield where guest player Bailey Hall skied above the rest and placed a header out front of the streaking forwards. In a footrace there is none better than MAC who chased it down and rocketed her third goal past a keeper who must have been getting tired seeing number 13 in her face all night. With a “MAC” trick Ms Kearney single-handedly dealt the Hawaii team a decisive blow and moved Sodium to the Nomad Championship! Even though MAC was awarded all the goals it was an outstanding team win from whistle to whistle.
Next up: Leahi 96 Premier for the Nomad Championship
From the deck at Chili’s the faithful raise a toast to their beloved team: GO SODIUM!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Nomads first day results
The early game vs MN Thunder Elite White
The lady warriors came out fired up in the first game of the 2009 Nomads tournament. The MN team didn't know what hit them as the team from OR pounded there goal with relentless pressure. The Sodium mids and forwards controlled the tempo as the defense remained solid behind the much improved play of keeper Camille Fairbairn. Late in the first half Laura Camp lined up a free kick from 25-yards, stutter stepped and fired a perfect blast into the upper left net out of the reach on the Thunder keeper. The second half brought more of the same as the Sodium pressure never let up. The final whistle blew for the opening win!
The late game vs Leahi 96 Premier
The game proved to be one of the toughest games Sodium will encounter in the tournament. The Leahi Premier team was a 2008 Regional Semi-finalist and was all that and more. They were fast, technical and strong. Sodium held their own to a first half 0-0 tie. The play was fast hard and often physical as the teams fought hard at midfield. Late in the second half Leahi drove deep into Sodium territory, ripped a cross that found the net passed a diving Camille Fairbairn. With fire in their eyes Sodium reloaded at midfield. After dropping Bethany Hall back to left defense Tom brought the always dangerous Lexi Frey to forward. Within minutes Laura Camp fed a perfect pass to Lexi and she was off to the races! She flew past the right defender and had a solo run at the goal. The Leahi keeper, in a move we are all questioning, charged out of the box and intentionally body slammed/slide tackled Lexi, sending her sprawling to the turf and landing the keeper with a red card and a 2 game suspension. Because the violation occurred outside the 18-yard box Sodium was awarded a free kick. Laura Camp lined it up, stutter stepped and blasted it just over the cross bar. Sodium had two shots on goal before the final whistle left Sodium with a 0-1 loss.
Sodium is in a good position to advance with a win this morning. The next MN team has two ties so if Sodium brings their "A" game, they should sail into the next round.
In the pre-game show the Sodium dad's [plus Scott Hall] exhibited their soccer prowess and cat-like reflex's as they entertained the fans with their ball juggling skills. Injury update: Wade Frey's hamstring is healing well and he promises to be ready for Sunday mornings game.
Next up: MN Thunder 96 Blue @ 12:30PM
From the Mexican Snack Shack with taco's in hand, the Sodium fans yell: GO SODIUM!
The lady warriors came out fired up in the first game of the 2009 Nomads tournament. The MN team didn't know what hit them as the team from OR pounded there goal with relentless pressure. The Sodium mids and forwards controlled the tempo as the defense remained solid behind the much improved play of keeper Camille Fairbairn. Late in the first half Laura Camp lined up a free kick from 25-yards, stutter stepped and fired a perfect blast into the upper left net out of the reach on the Thunder keeper. The second half brought more of the same as the Sodium pressure never let up. The final whistle blew for the opening win!
The late game vs Leahi 96 Premier
The game proved to be one of the toughest games Sodium will encounter in the tournament. The Leahi Premier team was a 2008 Regional Semi-finalist and was all that and more. They were fast, technical and strong. Sodium held their own to a first half 0-0 tie. The play was fast hard and often physical as the teams fought hard at midfield. Late in the second half Leahi drove deep into Sodium territory, ripped a cross that found the net passed a diving Camille Fairbairn. With fire in their eyes Sodium reloaded at midfield. After dropping Bethany Hall back to left defense Tom brought the always dangerous Lexi Frey to forward. Within minutes Laura Camp fed a perfect pass to Lexi and she was off to the races! She flew past the right defender and had a solo run at the goal. The Leahi keeper, in a move we are all questioning, charged out of the box and intentionally body slammed/slide tackled Lexi, sending her sprawling to the turf and landing the keeper with a red card and a 2 game suspension. Because the violation occurred outside the 18-yard box Sodium was awarded a free kick. Laura Camp lined it up, stutter stepped and blasted it just over the cross bar. Sodium had two shots on goal before the final whistle left Sodium with a 0-1 loss.
Sodium is in a good position to advance with a win this morning. The next MN team has two ties so if Sodium brings their "A" game, they should sail into the next round.
In the pre-game show the Sodium dad's [plus Scott Hall] exhibited their soccer prowess and cat-like reflex's as they entertained the fans with their ball juggling skills. Injury update: Wade Frey's hamstring is healing well and he promises to be ready for Sunday mornings game.
Next up: MN Thunder 96 Blue @ 12:30PM
From the Mexican Snack Shack with taco's in hand, the Sodium fans yell: GO SODIUM!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Black decends on San Diego
The first Sodium wave arrived in San Diego Thursday for the Nomads Coaches Showcase Tournament. The lady warriors will have to bring their 'A' game as teams from across the US are here. Sodium's schedule includes;
3/14/09 - 12:30PM vs MN Thunder Elite White
3/14/09 - 5:00PM vs Leahi 96 Premier [2008 Regionals Semi-finalist]
3/15/09 - 12:30PM vs MN Thunder 96 Blue
Sodium is excited to have guest players Bailey and Bethany Hall this weekend from the 2008 State Championship squad.
This weekends theme from the Sodium dad's; "A pretzal and a prayer!"
With blue sky and sunglasses the Sodium faithful yell: GO SODIUM!
3/14/09 - 12:30PM vs MN Thunder Elite White
3/14/09 - 5:00PM vs Leahi 96 Premier [2008 Regionals Semi-finalist]
3/15/09 - 12:30PM vs MN Thunder 96 Blue
Sodium is excited to have guest players Bailey and Bethany Hall this weekend from the 2008 State Championship squad.
This weekends theme from the Sodium dad's; "A pretzal and a prayer!"
With blue sky and sunglasses the Sodium faithful yell: GO SODIUM!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
The tradition Continues...
Back in 2007 a rag-tag bunch of 10 and 11 year old girls took field #3 at the REC Center to take on an enormous challenge. They were facing a bigger, faster, more experienced LO team for the State Championship. They had a mediocre season but had rallied at the end to make their mark. And now, on this May afternoon, they faced their biggest challenge ever. There coach, Ronnie. The team, Sodium.
They knew they were in for a fight, a battle like none other they had faced. The field was packed with Sodium faithful, team Platinum and a ton of United fans.
This group pulled together like none we'd seen, and in the end, after the dust had settled and the shoot out was over, Sodium had emerged victorious.
Little did we know that this was the start of something very special.
In 2008, with the addition of some very talented players, Sodium was a year older, bigger, faster and came with a whole lot more attitude. They coined phrases like 'Lady Warriors' and 'Trample the weak, hurdle the dead'. They possessed huge hearts, dedication and an In Your Face attitude. And through all the blood, sweat and tears, Sodium found themselves again playing for the State Championship in May. With Ronnie at the helm they faced their arch rival,FC Portland, on REC field #5. They set goals before the game and no one lived up to theirs more than Marisa Reid who scored 2 unanswered goals. They rose up like true champions, Sodium put together 60 minutes of near flawless soccer to take home the State Championship and solidify their #1 spot representing Oregon atRegionals in Hawaii. They truly were, Back in Black.
And now...2009
With the loss of talent at several key positions and a new coach, some feared Sodium may not be back. Oh boy, did the "Rookies" prove the skeptics wrong!! Tom moved some veterans and strategically placed the new blood into positions that utilized their strengths. After a few games to get acclimated the new squad started to gel. The 2009 Sodium team brings quickness, speed and technique to compliment the physical play grounded in the Sodium spirit. The threat to score from nearly every position and confidence that the 'EAT' defense will shut down any opposing attack is a serious 1 - 2 punch for this team. That fact was evident recently in the Blue Mountain Exchange where Sodium outscored the opposition 10 to 0 to take home the crown.
This Sodium team has the potential to follow the same footsteps as other great United teams like NEON. Winning State Championships and having great showings at Regionals. They have the heart, the dedication, the skills and the coach to go a long way.
Keep fighting lady warriors for everything you earn. Never give up or give in. Put your heart and sole in, and leave it all on the field. You have an opportunity here to advance the legacy of Sodium to a new level. Commit to being the best every practice, every game, every day. And you will be.
I will leave you with a saying we referred to often during State Cup last year; "Every game has a hero, who will it be today?" Who will rise up in 2009?
Look for the 'Motivation' post and links to past motivational posts as we approach State Cup.
GO SODIUM!
They knew they were in for a fight, a battle like none other they had faced. The field was packed with Sodium faithful, team Platinum and a ton of United fans.
This group pulled together like none we'd seen, and in the end, after the dust had settled and the shoot out was over, Sodium had emerged victorious.
Little did we know that this was the start of something very special.
In 2008, with the addition of some very talented players, Sodium was a year older, bigger, faster and came with a whole lot more attitude. They coined phrases like 'Lady Warriors' and 'Trample the weak, hurdle the dead'. They possessed huge hearts, dedication and an In Your Face attitude. And through all the blood, sweat and tears, Sodium found themselves again playing for the State Championship in May. With Ronnie at the helm they faced their arch rival,FC Portland, on REC field #5. They set goals before the game and no one lived up to theirs more than Marisa Reid who scored 2 unanswered goals. They rose up like true champions, Sodium put together 60 minutes of near flawless soccer to take home the State Championship and solidify their #1 spot representing Oregon atRegionals in Hawaii. They truly were, Back in Black.
And now...2009
With the loss of talent at several key positions and a new coach, some feared Sodium may not be back. Oh boy, did the "Rookies" prove the skeptics wrong!! Tom moved some veterans and strategically placed the new blood into positions that utilized their strengths. After a few games to get acclimated the new squad started to gel. The 2009 Sodium team brings quickness, speed and technique to compliment the physical play grounded in the Sodium spirit. The threat to score from nearly every position and confidence that the 'EAT' defense will shut down any opposing attack is a serious 1 - 2 punch for this team. That fact was evident recently in the Blue Mountain Exchange where Sodium outscored the opposition 10 to 0 to take home the crown.
This Sodium team has the potential to follow the same footsteps as other great United teams like NEON. Winning State Championships and having great showings at Regionals. They have the heart, the dedication, the skills and the coach to go a long way.
Keep fighting lady warriors for everything you earn. Never give up or give in. Put your heart and sole in, and leave it all on the field. You have an opportunity here to advance the legacy of Sodium to a new level. Commit to being the best every practice, every game, every day. And you will be.
I will leave you with a saying we referred to often during State Cup last year; "Every game has a hero, who will it be today?" Who will rise up in 2009?
Look for the 'Motivation' post and links to past motivational posts as we approach State Cup.
GO SODIUM!
Monday, March 2, 2009
Sodium Sweeps BME For Championship!
With a perfect 4-0 record the lady warriors swept the BME tournament by beating local, and 2 time defending champion, TRSC Rage on Sunday. The Rage seemed a little over confident as the joked and laughed during warm-ups. On the other end of the field it was all business as Sodium flawlessly followed their pregame routine.
The play was physical all day as the battle raged [yes, that is a pun] on at midfield. Late in the first half Lexi Frey lined up one of her patented corner kicks and let it fly! The ball floated right down into the front of the net where a mosh pit of players ensued. Before it had a chance to touch the ground though Emmy Owens went air born to blast it in! The crowed went nuts as Sodium was on the board! The Rage was really didn't know what hit them. The score remained 1-0 at half as Tom huddled the team for a few adjustments. The second half started just as the first, a war from whistle to whistle. At one point Laura Camp lofted a corner kick that a crashing Lexi Frey and MAC Kearney both got a head on! MAC's went off the cross bar and out of bounds. The battle ensued until the final whistle and Sodium was crowned Champions! The team was whisked off to the adjacent field to cheer on the U12 Mercury team as they went into double over-time!
The Sodium squad really put the hammer down this weekend scoring 10 goals and allowing 0. A testiment to visiting keeper Sahalie Doe who, even though it was her birthday, traveled to Pasco to play with Sodium. A very special "THANK YOU" goes out to Sahalie. [see picture]
The play was physical all day as the battle raged [yes, that is a pun] on at midfield. Late in the first half Lexi Frey lined up one of her patented corner kicks and let it fly! The ball floated right down into the front of the net where a mosh pit of players ensued. Before it had a chance to touch the ground though Emmy Owens went air born to blast it in! The crowed went nuts as Sodium was on the board! The Rage was really didn't know what hit them. The score remained 1-0 at half as Tom huddled the team for a few adjustments. The second half started just as the first, a war from whistle to whistle. At one point Laura Camp lofted a corner kick that a crashing Lexi Frey and MAC Kearney both got a head on! MAC's went off the cross bar and out of bounds. The battle ensued until the final whistle and Sodium was crowned Champions! The team was whisked off to the adjacent field to cheer on the U12 Mercury team as they went into double over-time!
The Sodium squad really put the hammer down this weekend scoring 10 goals and allowing 0. A testiment to visiting keeper Sahalie Doe who, even though it was her birthday, traveled to Pasco to play with Sodium. A very special "THANK YOU" goes out to Sahalie. [see picture]
The play from every position was outstanding this weekend. The solid 'EAT' defense shut down some very talented offensive threats, the mids rarely lost a 50/50 and the forwards [including the Mighty 180's!] out-shot their opponents 3 to 1.
Up Next: A little break then off to San Diego!
From the patio at Fred's in the Lamplight district, the parents yell: GO SODIUM!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Sodium Advances to BME Championship
The lady warriors advanced to the championship game in the Blue Mountain Exchange tournament by defeating a big, physical SSC Elite team from Spokane.
The play went back and forth as bodies hit the ground, whistles blew and blood flowed in this typical Sodium battle. It took two tries for Payten Sonnen to score the first goal. She took a great cross from Emmy Owens, deflected it off the post, got her own rebound and blasted the net past the Elite keeper. Again, play went back and forth as the big SSC defense was tough to penetrate. Late in the first half Eli Beard was mugged just outside the 18-yard box that resulted in a Sodium PK. Taylor Moscoe confidently sized up the situation, took a step and sent a booming kick just out of the Elite keepers reach, off the cross bar and into the upper right net! The crowed erupted with cheers as Taylor was swarmed by her team mates. The half ended with Sodium up 2-0. The second half was scorless but no less exciting as the physical Spokane team gave the Sodium squad all they could handle. The final whislte blew givng Sodium the advantage they need to advance into the Championship game.
Next up: The Championship match vs 2 time BME Champion, TRSC Rage.
With fire in their eyes the lady warriors will take the field with an axe to grind. You see, the Rage defeated Sodium last year in the Lake Oswego Cup so Sodium will take the field with a little extra in their step, and a little something to prove.
From under the umbrellas the Sodium faithful will be screaming; GO SODIUM!
The play went back and forth as bodies hit the ground, whistles blew and blood flowed in this typical Sodium battle. It took two tries for Payten Sonnen to score the first goal. She took a great cross from Emmy Owens, deflected it off the post, got her own rebound and blasted the net past the Elite keeper. Again, play went back and forth as the big SSC defense was tough to penetrate. Late in the first half Eli Beard was mugged just outside the 18-yard box that resulted in a Sodium PK. Taylor Moscoe confidently sized up the situation, took a step and sent a booming kick just out of the Elite keepers reach, off the cross bar and into the upper right net! The crowed erupted with cheers as Taylor was swarmed by her team mates. The half ended with Sodium up 2-0. The second half was scorless but no less exciting as the physical Spokane team gave the Sodium squad all they could handle. The final whislte blew givng Sodium the advantage they need to advance into the Championship game.
Next up: The Championship match vs 2 time BME Champion, TRSC Rage.
With fire in their eyes the lady warriors will take the field with an axe to grind. You see, the Rage defeated Sodium last year in the Lake Oswego Cup so Sodium will take the field with a little extra in their step, and a little something to prove.
From under the umbrellas the Sodium faithful will be screaming; GO SODIUM!
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Sodium Explodes @ Blue Mountain Exchange
Nobody knew what hit them. The lady warriors descended on Pasco in typical Sodium style, they took the field fast, calculated and confident.
The morning game paired Sodium with BCSC from Idaho. Crisp passing, physical play and total domination were the themes all game. Guest keeper Sahalie Doe touched the ball a total of four times as the mids and forwards controlled game. Right out of the gate Marisa Reid drove deep into BCSC territory before serving up a cross for MAC Kearney to finish into the back of the net for the game opening goal! Just moments later Jadyn McMillan took a perfect dish from Emmy Owens, juked, jived and drilled the net for a 2-0 half time lead.
You knew that wasn't the end of the fireworks, this IS Sodium remember. With about 2 minutes left Lexi Frey lined up for a corner kick which she placed for the awaiting Laura Camp to blast into the BCSC net for proved the the third and final goal. A great opening win for the lady warriors. A real confidence builder.
In the nightcap Sodium faced TRSC Flames. To try and thwart the Sodium attack the Three Rivers team threw a 6 4 alignment into the mix [6 forwards & 4 defenders]. After evaluating the set and making adjustments, Sodium began their calculated attack. First out of the box was Hannah Lautenbach who crashed in from the left side to blister the net for the opening score. Just before half Laura Camp lined up a corner kick and let it fly. The ball was blasted off several defenders before being dished back to Laura who rifled her shot just out of reach of the keeper for a 2-0 half time lead! The Sodium faithful erupted in cheers and even entertained the crowed with a little footwork of their own [really, just trying to keep warm!].
The second half started as the first had ended, the play mainly isolated to the Flames end of the field. Physical play was the norm this afternoon as bodies were hitting the turf on nearly every possession. With just 2 minutes left in the match Lexi Frey put a couple moves on the right side defender, drove to the end line and dropped a perfect chip shot to the far post where driving Hannah Lautenbach flashed in the box to head the ball into the net! The score remained 3-0 to advance Sodium to the second day of competition a perfect 2-0.
Sodium is firing on cylinders and faces SSC Elite out of Seattle tomorrow to determine the bracket winner. The bracket winner will play for the Championship that afternoon.
Bundled and huddled to keep warm, muffled we yell: GO SODIUM!
The morning game paired Sodium with BCSC from Idaho. Crisp passing, physical play and total domination were the themes all game. Guest keeper Sahalie Doe touched the ball a total of four times as the mids and forwards controlled game. Right out of the gate Marisa Reid drove deep into BCSC territory before serving up a cross for MAC Kearney to finish into the back of the net for the game opening goal! Just moments later Jadyn McMillan took a perfect dish from Emmy Owens, juked, jived and drilled the net for a 2-0 half time lead.
You knew that wasn't the end of the fireworks, this IS Sodium remember. With about 2 minutes left Lexi Frey lined up for a corner kick which she placed for the awaiting Laura Camp to blast into the BCSC net for proved the the third and final goal. A great opening win for the lady warriors. A real confidence builder.
In the nightcap Sodium faced TRSC Flames. To try and thwart the Sodium attack the Three Rivers team threw a 6 4 alignment into the mix [6 forwards & 4 defenders]. After evaluating the set and making adjustments, Sodium began their calculated attack. First out of the box was Hannah Lautenbach who crashed in from the left side to blister the net for the opening score. Just before half Laura Camp lined up a corner kick and let it fly. The ball was blasted off several defenders before being dished back to Laura who rifled her shot just out of reach of the keeper for a 2-0 half time lead! The Sodium faithful erupted in cheers and even entertained the crowed with a little footwork of their own [really, just trying to keep warm!].
The second half started as the first had ended, the play mainly isolated to the Flames end of the field. Physical play was the norm this afternoon as bodies were hitting the turf on nearly every possession. With just 2 minutes left in the match Lexi Frey put a couple moves on the right side defender, drove to the end line and dropped a perfect chip shot to the far post where driving Hannah Lautenbach flashed in the box to head the ball into the net! The score remained 3-0 to advance Sodium to the second day of competition a perfect 2-0.
Sodium is firing on cylinders and faces SSC Elite out of Seattle tomorrow to determine the bracket winner. The bracket winner will play for the Championship that afternoon.
Bundled and huddled to keep warm, muffled we yell: GO SODIUM!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Sodium & Corvallis tie in the early game
Not much to report this game. Sodium played well but neither team could find the net in the early morning hours in Corvallis as the teams fought to a 0-0 tie.
Sodium unloads on Sherwood
In typical Sodium style the lady warriors put together another great performance against the Sherwood Sting in the afternoon game on Sunday. As with many of the games Sodium has played in the U14 bracket, the play was isolated to the opponents end of the field. The first score came as MAC Kearney broke loose down the left hand side, pumped a perfect left footed cross to a crashing Emmy Owens who fired a bullet pasted the Sting keeper! The Sodium faithful erupted in cheers as we could tell this one could get ugly. Try as they might, the mids and forwards just could not find the net as the half came to an end.
As the second half got under way the song remained the same as the play was confined to the Sting end of the field. With just under 3 minutes left Lexi Frey lofted a perfect corner kick that found Jadyn McMillan hiding behind the far post for the header goal!! High-fives all the way around as the girls mugged her at midfield.
The final whistle blew shortly after to give Sodium another U14 victory!
Up Next: Blue Mountain Exchange in Pasco!
Huddled under the tent and dodging tumbleweed, your faithful fans yell: GO SODIUM!
As the second half got under way the song remained the same as the play was confined to the Sting end of the field. With just under 3 minutes left Lexi Frey lofted a perfect corner kick that found Jadyn McMillan hiding behind the far post for the header goal!! High-fives all the way around as the girls mugged her at midfield.
The final whistle blew shortly after to give Sodium another U14 victory!
Up Next: Blue Mountain Exchange in Pasco!
Huddled under the tent and dodging tumbleweed, your faithful fans yell: GO SODIUM!
Friday, February 20, 2009
More than just a game...
I found an article I thought was inspirational that shows us all that there is so much more to life and sports than the game itself. Sports is about relationships, team building, dedication, commitment and competition. It's about trusting your teammates, giving everything you have for a common goal, sportsmanship and focusing on the big picture. About dealing with adversity and rising up to meet a challenge.
In my limited time on this planet I have realized many parallels between team sports and life itself. This article touches on one aspect.
http://highschool.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=914609
GO SODIUM!
In my limited time on this planet I have realized many parallels between team sports and life itself. This article touches on one aspect.
http://highschool.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=914609
GO SODIUM!
Sodium ties Reading
In a game that many thought would be a blow out, ESUFC Reading handed Sodium a tie. The game started out in typical Sodium fashion with the play centered on the Reading goal. Midway through the first half Emmy Owens, after beating her midfielder, took a break deep down the left hand side. A perfect cross was dished to a penetrating Payten Sonnen who capped the play with a rifle past the Reading keeper! Minutes later Reading capitalized on a momentary defensive breakdown to tie the score at 1-1 before half.
The second half played out like the first with play confined to the Reading half of the field. Sodium was unable to put another in the net as time elapsed and the score remained 1-1.
Coach Tom had some words about dedication, focus and State Cup preparation for the team after the game.
Next up: 9AM 2/22/09 vs Corvallis FA Red Hots in Corvallis.
After the long drive the Sodium faithful cheer: GO SODIUM!
The second half played out like the first with play confined to the Reading half of the field. Sodium was unable to put another in the net as time elapsed and the score remained 1-1.
Coach Tom had some words about dedication, focus and State Cup preparation for the team after the game.
Next up: 9AM 2/22/09 vs Corvallis FA Red Hots in Corvallis.
After the long drive the Sodium faithful cheer: GO SODIUM!
Monday, February 9, 2009
Sodium Starts Spring Off With a Pair of Wins!
You'd thought they were just coming back from a soccer vacation in the Bahama's! The lady warriors never missed a beat as they started the Spring U-14 League season with a couple of victories! The passing was crisp, the communication was loud and the play was fluid this weekend.
The Sodium team took on Cascade FC United in the league opener Saturday. Play was isolated to the CFC side of the field all game as as Sodium keeper Camille Fairbairn touched the ball only twice all contest. All match the Sodium forwards and mids pounded the goal box as the CFC goalie made one tremendous play after another. Finally, in the closing minutes, "MAC" Kearney took her own deflection and found the back of the net with her left foot! MAC had been a thorn the side of CFC keeper all game with several breaks into the box.
Sundays game turned into a blood-bath as Sodium pounded the WUSC Valencia squad 4-0. Lexi Frey opened the door with an early score by beating her defender down the left side, cutting back and spanking the right side of the net. Next up was a familiar player in the net, MAC Kearney off a perfect feed from visiting Mercury player Morgan. The half ended 2-0. In the Tom fashion we know and love, the pumped up Sodium team came ready to dish out more punishment in the second half. Shot after shot was saved by the Valencia keeper until Hannah Lautenbach drilled it in to keep the momentum alive! The icing was brought to you by visiting Mercury player Calin as she took the outstanding cross from Payten "Wheels" Sonnen and rocketed the WUSC net!
I can't say enough how well the girls played together in the league openers. Obviously the forwards were on a tear but the mids controlled the tempo and the defense put the hammer down on more than one occasion! These girls are, in my humble opinion, light years ahead of last years squad at this juncture and will undoubtedly be ready to put the hurt on the opposition during State Cup.
A special "Thank You" goes out to the Mercury players who joined Sodium this weekend and I'm sure we will see more of them in the near future.
Next up: ESUFC Reading on 2/13/09 @ 7pm.
From under the hooded parka's we yell: GO SODIUM!
The Sodium team took on Cascade FC United in the league opener Saturday. Play was isolated to the CFC side of the field all game as as Sodium keeper Camille Fairbairn touched the ball only twice all contest. All match the Sodium forwards and mids pounded the goal box as the CFC goalie made one tremendous play after another. Finally, in the closing minutes, "MAC" Kearney took her own deflection and found the back of the net with her left foot! MAC had been a thorn the side of CFC keeper all game with several breaks into the box.
Sundays game turned into a blood-bath as Sodium pounded the WUSC Valencia squad 4-0. Lexi Frey opened the door with an early score by beating her defender down the left side, cutting back and spanking the right side of the net. Next up was a familiar player in the net, MAC Kearney off a perfect feed from visiting Mercury player Morgan. The half ended 2-0. In the Tom fashion we know and love, the pumped up Sodium team came ready to dish out more punishment in the second half. Shot after shot was saved by the Valencia keeper until Hannah Lautenbach drilled it in to keep the momentum alive! The icing was brought to you by visiting Mercury player Calin as she took the outstanding cross from Payten "Wheels" Sonnen and rocketed the WUSC net!
I can't say enough how well the girls played together in the league openers. Obviously the forwards were on a tear but the mids controlled the tempo and the defense put the hammer down on more than one occasion! These girls are, in my humble opinion, light years ahead of last years squad at this juncture and will undoubtedly be ready to put the hurt on the opposition during State Cup.
A special "Thank You" goes out to the Mercury players who joined Sodium this weekend and I'm sure we will see more of them in the near future.
Next up: ESUFC Reading on 2/13/09 @ 7pm.
From under the hooded parka's we yell: GO SODIUM!
Monday, February 2, 2009
Sodium Wins U14 Indoor Tournament
The lady warriors strutted their stuff around OSU's Truax Center this weekend as they were crowned Champions of the U14 bracket!
After getting off to a rocky start [a 1-3 loss to CFA Red Hots] Sodium bounced back to tie the second game against a tough Zvezda team. The late game was an 8-0 blow out of a big but not very physical Hermistan Heat.
In the semi's Sodium faced the Zvezda team and handed them a 3-0 loss.
The Championship game looked like it was going to be a run-a-way as Sodium came out fired up scoring two quick goals. The tough CFA team kept plugging along and answered with two goals of their own. With about 5 minutes left in the match Emmy Owens crashed the box off a Payten Sonnen skyrocket to cap the game and the Championship!
There were so many goals scored that I am not going to even try to recap them. We scored from the forward position, the midfield and even got two scores from Taylor Coon on defense. It was a great team effort, no one gave up when we started off with a loss and a tie. I can say that I will tip my hat to the lady warriors who stepped up and played goalie for Sodium. Thank you guys, you rock!
And a another 'Thank You' goes out to Ronnie for coaching her old team to another tournament victory! Felt like old times to hear that familiar voice yelling at the Sodium players. You could see the smiles on the faces of the Sodium faithful throughout the Truax Center.
Great job to all who participated and we are looking forward to a great season. Check out the link to the right for the Spring League Bracket.
From the sidelines we yell; GO SODIUM!
After getting off to a rocky start [a 1-3 loss to CFA Red Hots] Sodium bounced back to tie the second game against a tough Zvezda team. The late game was an 8-0 blow out of a big but not very physical Hermistan Heat.
In the semi's Sodium faced the Zvezda team and handed them a 3-0 loss.
The Championship game looked like it was going to be a run-a-way as Sodium came out fired up scoring two quick goals. The tough CFA team kept plugging along and answered with two goals of their own. With about 5 minutes left in the match Emmy Owens crashed the box off a Payten Sonnen skyrocket to cap the game and the Championship!
There were so many goals scored that I am not going to even try to recap them. We scored from the forward position, the midfield and even got two scores from Taylor Coon on defense. It was a great team effort, no one gave up when we started off with a loss and a tie. I can say that I will tip my hat to the lady warriors who stepped up and played goalie for Sodium. Thank you guys, you rock!
And a another 'Thank You' goes out to Ronnie for coaching her old team to another tournament victory! Felt like old times to hear that familiar voice yelling at the Sodium players. You could see the smiles on the faces of the Sodium faithful throughout the Truax Center.
Great job to all who participated and we are looking forward to a great season. Check out the link to the right for the Spring League Bracket.
From the sidelines we yell; GO SODIUM!
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