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!
Friday, March 27, 2009
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!
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