Sodium

The last post...

2009-05-13T20:57:00.000-07:00

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!

2008 Champs didn't fair well in 2009

2009-05-04T12:14:00.000-07:00

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!

The bitter taste...

2009-05-03T09:01:00.000-07:00

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!

Desire | Commitment | Team

2009-04-30T07:16:00.000-07:00

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

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!

Thoughts on the coming week

2009-04-27T08:59:00.000-07:00

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!

Sodium advances to Quarter Finals in State Cup

2009-04-26T18:15:00.000-07:00

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!

Sodium lets Sherwood in the door

2009-04-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

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!

This weekend

2009-04-24T17:29:00.001-07:00

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!

2009 State Cup Predictions

2009-04-21T15:16:00.001-07:00

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!

Update to "It's about the team" post

2009-04-21T12:39:00.001-07:00

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

Sodium rolls to 2-0 in State Cup

2009-04-18T16:53:00.000-07:00

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!

It's about the team

2009-04-14T15:46:00.000-07:00

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

Sodium opens State Cup with a decisive win

2009-04-12T08:31:00.000-07:00

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!

To Sodium

2009-04-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

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

McMillan's host first State Cup dinner

2009-04-08T18:53:00.000-07:00

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!

Sodium tunes up for State Cup with trip to Eagle Crest

2009-04-05T17:31:00.000-07:00

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!

Welcome Aliyah!

2009-04-03T17:09:00.000-07:00

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!

State Cup thoughts...

2009-03-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

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!

GAME ON! - The annual motivation edition

2009-03-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

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

Kick'n it Sodium Style in San Diego!

2009-03-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

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!

The Black and the White

2009-03-19T14:24:00.000-07:00

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.

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!

Sodium, Sodium, where for art thou...?

2009-03-17T16:06:00.000-07:00

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!

Sodium advances to Nomad Championship

2009-03-16T08:04:00.000-07:00

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!

Nomads first day results

2009-03-15T08:25:00.000-07:00

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!

Black decends on San Diego

2009-03-14T10:14:00.000-07:00

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!

The tradition Continues...

2009-03-05T11:00:00.001-08:00

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!

Sodium Sweeps BME For Championship!

2009-03-02T07:30:00.000-08:00

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 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!

Sodium Advances to BME Championship

2009-03-01T12:11:00.000-08:00

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!

Sodium Explodes @ Blue Mountain Exchange

2009-02-28T18:07:00.000-08:00

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!

Sodium & Corvallis tie in the early game

2009-02-25T18:58:00.000-08:00

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

2009-02-25T18:55:00.000-08:00

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!

More than just a game...

2009-02-20T11:14:00.000-08:00

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!

Sodium ties Reading

2009-02-20T11:05:00.000-08:00

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!

Sodium Starts Spring Off With a Pair of Wins!

2009-02-09T16:48:00.000-08:00

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!

Sodium Wins U14 Indoor Tournament

2009-02-02T08:53:00.000-08:00

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!

Winter Break Comes Early

2008-12-22T06:09:00.000-08:00

With the onslaught of snow, sleet and freezing rain, the Sodium team is taking a little R & R time this winter. Conditions have made it impossible to GET anywhere, let alone practice. So, keep practicing those foot skills in the house girls, knocking over the Christmas tree, candles, mom's best china, little brothers and the dog. And between hot cocoa, peanut butter balls and 'Santa Claus is Coming to Town' reruns, make sure you play hours of Wii Fit and Dance, Dance Revolution to keep in tip top physical shape! Oh, and you could actually bundle up and go outside for a long walk. [if you don't mind frost bite and being pelted by razor sharp frozen particles of ice blowing in sideways that is!]

Have a Happy Holiday Season One and All!

But most importantly remember: Ho Ho Ho, GO SODIUM!

Surf Cup Recap

2008-12-02T14:19:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a weekend! Stiff competition, good weather, great soccer!
Despite not advancing to the second round the lady warriors held their own against nationally ranked teams in San Diego.
Right out of the box Sodium faced Sereno 96 Girls White, a team we caught a glance of at Regionals. The scouting reports held true as they were a very technical team. Although field conditions were a struggle on both sides, we have to credit the defense for shutting down their extremely talented duo of forwards. These girls are ear-marked for greatness on a national level but Sodium shut them down to 3 goals. Sodium forwards and mids battled to the end with flurries of shots. Taylor Moscoe rocketed one off the far post with Emmy and Payten both there to slam shots off the Sereno keeper.
The night game proved to be the toughest test yet for Sodium as they faced the So Cal Blues - Bobak team [currently ranked 7th in the Nation]. The first half was exciting as Sodium attacked with a vengeance and had the So Cal team on their heels. Up 1-0 after the break the Blues changed their tune and displayed their 'prevent' defense. After a sloppy corner kick and an obvious jersey violation, So Cal had Sodium signing the 'Blues' with a 3-0 victory. The girls really played hard and showed what they were made of against a very worthy opponent.
On Sunday Sodium played a 7:30 night cap against the San Francisco based South Bay Force Black. After going down 1-0 in the first half you could sense the determination in the Sodium girls eyes, they would not let this game get away. Midway through the second half the Sodium forwards were relentless in their attack. MAC Kearney, double teamed on the break, was mugged in the box as she drilled the back of the net for the tie! But...it was called back because the ref said it was MAC who was the aggressor. Apparently, you aren't supposed to play that hard in Cali. The stands went nuts as the Sodium faithful voiced their displeasure. This fired the lady warriors up as they turned up the heat on the unsuspecting South Bay team Sodium Style. With just minutes left Laura Camp had a free kick from 25 yards out. She placed the ball just outside the far post where a battling Marisa Reid was there to drop a one-touch to Emmy Owens for the score! This one counted and the game was tied!! [officially!]
Sodium pounded the box again and again as time ran out and the score was deadlocked 1-1.

Summation
Sodium needs to realize a few critical points;
1) Not any team can come and play in this tournament, but you can. Do you think FC, LOSC, OR Rush or Keizer played in any tournaments this weekend? And if they did, do you think they saw near the competition? Doubtful.
2) It's about RESPECT. You can't tell me you didn't earn the respect of each of those teams. You KNOW they woke up Monday morning feeling like they had been through a war this weekend. And even though they are used to playing a technical game, blowing other teams away and scoring 6, 7 or 10 goals, we held them to 3 or less.
3) What you take away from a tournament like this you can use to elevate your play far beyond any competition you'll see locally.
4) Keep your heads up Sodium, be proud. You took a risk, you rose up and went to war against devastating odds, and held your own. You accomplished great things and now you can take what you learned and use it against opponents who are no where near the level at which you played.

Special Thanks
I would like to thank the following guest players for riding with the lady warriors into battle this weekend. Not only have you earned our respect, but our friendship as well.

Sahalie - Eugene Magic
Delaney - OR Rush
Crystal - LOSC Extreme
Cailin - THUSC Mercury

You will play with and against each other for many years to come ladies. This is what it's all about, friendship, building memories and looking at how far you've come. So live long, laugh hard and kick butt!

Thanks.

GO SODIUM!

Surf Cup Scouting Report

2008-11-17T07:34:00.001-08:00

OK Sodium, time to get cranked up for San Diego!

Style
The style of play down south is much different than we play. Some of you will remember Regionals and the Slammers. The ref's will call any contact of any kind. Technical play is huge and perfect passing and communication is a must. Obviously a big adjustment for the Bailey & Beth as they love to Blow up the opponent.

So Cal Blues
Play much like the Slammers. Strive to get on the board early and often. These guys will push to win EVERY ball. Awesome body positioning and they always 'crash the goal.' All their forwards can shoot with both feet, head, whatever! They had a few losses this season so they are beatable.

Sereno 96
Very similar play to So Cal Blues but throw in the fact they play a very technical game, and you have Sereno.

South Bay Force Black
No word on these guys yet, still researching.

Summary
We must bring our "A" game. Any team can be beat on any given day. The keys are how hard you prepare, how much you want it and to not let up for a second. All the the reports say that the key is to play harder the second half, if you let up for just a minute you will be down by 3 goals and scratching your head. This will be our biggest challenge yet as the 2008-2009 Sodium team. Are we ready? Will be prepared for this challenge? Will every player give 100%?

I always bet on BLACK......

GO SODIUM!

Some interesting thoughts...

2008-11-16T08:24:00.000-08:00

As I watched the game Saturday I was repeatedly asking myself; "What's going on? How come we're not attacking the ball? Where is our controlled ball movement? How come we're not getting in front of the ball when their player is winding up to let it fly?"
Yes, they have a very good keeper. Yes, we have had better officiating. Yes, their style of play challenges our controlled style. But, given all that, we were still standing around, watching the other team kick the long-ball, not getting in front of their players, not winning any 50/50's, not hustling to the ball.
Was there some sort of lack of communication? Did we not realize that this was the Semi-Finals? Was everyone thinking about the upcoming basketball or indoor season and not the task at hand? I know a couple defensive players who were in tears after the game. [and the ride home, and at home] They had given it there all, 100% to keep the forwards in check all game. Physical, body-on-body, elbows knees, cleats, you name it. And after the game when some of their teammates were going; "oooh, look at the pretty metals, can we wear them? These are cool." It was just too much for them to handle. Third place, lady warriors. THIRD PLACE. These aren't medallions to be worn proudly. To your defensive players these are reminders of a game lost. A reminder of us resorting to boot-ball instead of our normal controlled game. A reminder of teammates not 'wanting it' bad enough to give 100%. A reminder that we, Sodium, should have been playing Sunday in the Finals, the Championship game. Not something a Sodium player wears proudly.
Tom said after the game that it looked like 3/4 of the team just didn't care. Unfortunately, your loyal fans agree. The other 1/4 of the team agrees. Can you spot the players who played hard, made the sacrifices, gave it their best shots? What about those who didn't? Can you recall not running as hard as you could have? Not being first to the ball? Not making a shot, winning a 50/50 or stopping the ball? We on sidelines can. Those on the bench can. Your coach can. Think about it. When you play on a team of this caliber, with this talent, everyone can see who is giving 100% and who is not. It is obvious and stands out. So don't ever think you can coast through a practice or a game. We all know.
You are probably saying;"He wasn't out on the field, he doesn't know what it was like." Correct, I wasn't. But yes, I do know what it's like. The reason I am saying this is because I have seen you all play together and do great things. I know what you are capable of if you work together. I have seen you accomplish the impossible. That is why I can point out these things. I know what is in you and what you are capable of. And when we on the sidelines watch games like we did Saturday, it makes us scratch our heads and wonder; "What happened?"
Sodium the harsh reality is this, if we play the way we did against Eugene and Keizer in the Surf Cup, it's going to be a short, embarrassing, deflating trip. I have the scouting reports of our opposition in the Surf Cup and they are TOUGH!
We have what it takes to compete. We have the talent to win, to win a lot! It's come down to dedication. To your teammates, to your coach, to your sport. You are players who know how to win. That is evident by the number of State Championships. You are the team that everyone either wants to play for, or beat. You are the team that threatens everyone in the league because you can defeat any one of them if everyone gives 100%. Pretty simple if you think about.
We need to keep focused on something Tom said right at the beginning of the season; "Everything we do, this moment on, is to prepare us for State Cup." So lady warriors I challenge you to think about that when you walk off the field. Did you do something on the field today that prepared you to win at State Cup? Did you get a little better today? Did you give 100%? Did you learn a new move or perfect a cut-off angle? Did you sprint 10 feet past the end-line? Did you do extra crunches or give 100% in every drill? Did you give just one more?

Indoor season starts Monday. Let's play hard, score a load of goals and have a ton of fun. Practices & scrimmages prior to Surf Cup need 100% of your focus and effort. My next post will be a scouting report from Bailey & Beth on the teams we play.

GO SODIUM!

Sodium upset in Semi's

2008-11-15T14:31:00.001-08:00

Team Sodium was upset 1-0 in the semifinal match of The Oregon Premier League Tournament. Sodium never got in sync as they mirrored the oppositions "Bootball" style of play and allowed the underdogs a first half score. Even though Sodium seemed flat they out-shot the opposing team but with poor execution and officiating could never get back in the game.

[LOSC defeated Keizer in final 3-0]

Next Up:
11/17/08 - Indoor vs PCU White @ 5:40pm - Soccerplex
11/22/08 - Scrimmage @ 4:30pm - REC #1
11/23/08 - Scrimmage @ 12:30pm - REC#1

11/27/08 - Off to San Diego for Surf Cup!

The Sodium faithful yell: GO SODIUM!

Response to Comments

2008-11-13T19:34:00.000-08:00

Due to a couple of comments I received from the last post, I wanted to clear the air about some of the details.

The scenario:

My daughter and I saw the Keizer vs FC game.
In that game, Keizer played sloppy. I know they played sloppy because I have seen them play a whole lot better in the past as I have been watching them since U11. They are a good and respected team.
Bootball. This is when you kick the longball and let the forwards or mids chase it down and beat the opposing defense. Again, I have watched Keizer play since U11 and this is the style of play they use because it fits their personnel very well.
Physical. This team has always played very physical and if a team can't match up, they will run all over them, all day long.
Big. The Keizer team is one of the biggest teams we face. "Corn Fed" is not a negative term. It was a reference coined by a sports announcer describing the Nebraska Corn Huskers football team. A powerhouse in the Big 12 at that time. It was because they were big, fast and physical. If you called a 315 lb offensive lineman 'Corn Fed', he would take it as a badge of honor. It does not mean "fat" like the commenter said. It is not a negative slur.
During the game the coach was all over his team. Yelling at them. He yelled at the FC players too, and the refs. I wouldn't have noticed but I overheard some of the people in the stands talking about it so I paid attention and they were right, he was yelling a lot. Not very classy for a coach in my opinion. I do not condemn yelling, I do it myself. And, done in a positive manner, it can help to motivate and instruct.
I having been a player and coach for many years and do not believe I have a lot to learn about youth in America. Ask any of the kids I've coached in years past or any of the current or past Sodium players. They will verify that I am fare, honest, competitive and motivational. I think I possess a lot of good qualities to offer America's youth.
I do not hide behind the 'Anonymous said..' label when I post. Nor do my children do this. We stand behind our opinions, and when proven wrong by facts, admit to our mistake, learn from it and move forward.
So, Mr. or Mrs. Anonymous commenter, you can see my comments were neither rude or inaccurate. I have respect for the Keizer team, not contempt.
Also, I will never be a mouthpiece for any team but Sodium. I am dedicated to them, I stand for and beside them, and I will point out the oppositions weaknesses all day long if it will benefit Sodium in any way.
I like to keep this blog lighthearted and humorous until someone posts a comment that was as incorrect as the one you posted. Then, I feel compelled to respond up front instead of in the comment section.
Lastly, if you’re going to comment on things you know nothing about, please do it on another blog. Have a nice day.

If you want to discuss this further, I will be standing on the sidelines Saturday.

All the parents will be yelling: GO SODIUM!

Keizer Hotshots notes

2008-11-11T09:55:00.000-08:00

Taylor and I scouted the Keizer team against FC Portland last weekend. A few things come to mind after viewing the game; Sloppy, bootball, physical, big. Let's look as these individually.

Sloppy - they never seemed to play together. I witnessed on only a couple occasions where they were able to put 2 or 3 passes together.
Bootball - typical Keizer style. That is how they scored. Confusion at mid-field, big boot, forward ran it down and scored because keeper made a bad judgment call and the ball got passed her and barely rolled in.
Physical - more than normal. They played dirty here as well. The defender would clear the ball and while the ref would watch it, the forward would flatten the defender from behind. Tons of pushing, elbows and going out their way to slam into the FC players.
Big - corn fed Keizer gals, what else can I say.

In addition, I might add that their coach [and some fans] was very loud and often abusive to the players. He yelled at his players, their players, the refs. You name it. Not a very class act.

What to take from this;
We are going to have to match then physically to compete. I don't think we will have a problem if we can toughen up a little and get away from the 'Praying Mantis'. Defense, be on the lookout for cheap-shots after you clear the ball. If it happens, bring it to their attention and let the officials make the call. If it continues, well, as Tom says; "It isn't a foul unless the whistle blows". I knew I liked Tom from the start!
If we can play our controlled, calculated game we should have no problem finding the net over and over. We can NOT drop to their level of play. If we do that we will lose. Don't get sucked into a pushing match with them. Don't fall back into a REC style bootball game. Stay focused on OUR game and the task at hand. We have beat this team many times and if we get a couple of goals early we need to keep pushing and fighting until we score several more! Never let them think they can play with us. If we get complacent or relaxed they will score. Period. We have to play the entire 60 minutes as aggressive and controlled as we know how. SODIUM STYLE baby. The 'In Your Face' 'Rough and Tumble' 'Never Say Die' style that has brought us where we are today, a Championship caliber team.

Work hard this week lady warriors. When we get passed Keizer we will face LOSC for the Championship game the next day. This weekend will prove what we're made of. 120 minutes of war stands between us and taking home the First Place Trophy in the Oregon Premier League Tournament.

Who's going to be the hero? Who will emerge to lead this team to victory? The E*A*T defense? The cold and calculated mid-field? The 'Score at all cost' forwards? Who is willing to sacrifice? Who will work the hardest and give her all to be the best? You have a chance to make history lady warriors, to be the first to win this tournament. Are you Bad enough? Are you BACK in BLACK?

You are.............. SODIUM

From under the umbrella's the crowd roars: GO SODIUM!

First Weekend of OPL

2008-11-10T11:51:00.001-08:00

The lady warriors completed the first weekend of the OPL with 2 shutouts!

vs Bridlemile Mercury Black
Despite the pouring down rain, the lady warriors came out fired up and ready to dominate! From the opening whistle Sodium had control and never looked back. The scoring barrage started off with Peyton Sonnen's assist to a breaking Emmy Owens for the opening goal! After a handball in the 18-yard box Marisa Reid popped in the PK for a 2-0 lead. Next up came a 20-yard rocket from the left side by Lexi Frey to give Sodium a 3-0 lead. Just before half Emmy was driving deep down the right side when she found Marisa streaking to goal! 4-0 Sodium lead at half! Second half started off as the first had ended. Lexi found Emmy in the box for number 5, then Lexi took it herself on a long break-a-way for number 6! The night-cap was provided by Katherine Kramer off a Hannah Lautenbach rip that deflected off the keeper. Sodium posted a 7-0 win! Hats off to the Sodium mid-fielders who totally controlled the ball and tempo all game.
vs EMFC Magic
The game was held at Smith Elementary School, a closed school that time had forgot. In the mud the Sodium squad seemed about a half step behind the Magic all game. Couldn't have anything to do with the multiple sleep-overs the night before, could it? hmmm. Anyway, the play was back-and-forth all game until, with only about 2 minutes left, Lexi Frey placed a perfect corner kick to the front of the net where Hannah Lautenbach rocketed it in for the 1-0 win!

OPL Results
Pool A - Winner - Sodium with 18 pts
Pool B - Winner - LOSC Extreme with 19 pts
Pool C - Winner - Keizer Hotshots with 17 pts

Next up; OPL Championship Bracket
Saturday 11/15/08 Noon @ PCC
Semi #1 - LOSC Extreme vs EMFC Magic @ PCC #1
Semi #2 - THUSC Sodium vs Keizer Hotshots @ PCC #2

Sunday 11/16/08 Noon @ REC #1
Championship Game
Winner of Semi #1 vs Winner of Semi #2

Bridlemile / Sodium Comparison

2008-11-08T08:45:00.000-08:00

THUSC Sodium
Premeir Gold Division
Fall League - 2nd place
Point Total - 30
Goals For - 24
Goals Against - 10
Overall Record - 9-2-3

Bridlemile Mercury Black
Division 1
Fall League - 5th place
Point Total - 18
Goals For - 15
Goals Against - 14
Overall Record - 5-6-3

See you all at the field.

GO SODIUM!

Thoughts on OPL

2008-11-05T07:32:00.001-08:00

I was thumbing through my playlists on my iPod when I came across a song that, when I listened to it, I couldn't help but relate it to Sodium. The song was by Queen and titled "I want it all".
It chronicles the bands journey to the top of the charts. A journey of ups & downs, of break ups and the addition of new members. Once it was all ironed out, they battled to the top. "I want it all" is dedicated to the attitude that got them there. The belief that they are the best. You can see the similarities between Queen and Sodium. The ups & downs, the addition of news members, the rise to the top. The chorus says; "I want it all...and I want it now!" Now is the time Sodium. With OPL starting next weekend the time is now to set a precedent. We face two teams we have beaten in the past in the first round. Do not overlook these teams. We need to go out and use these games to gain momentum. There is no doubt in my mind that we couldn't come away with a pair of dominating wins. 4, 5, 6 to nothing. Remember last year when I saw the bumper sticker with the soccer ball that said; "Trample the weak, hurdle the dead". It's our turn to trample the weak. The only thing that is standing in our way Sodium is the 'Killer Instinct' to put your cleat on the opposing teams throat. To not let up until the final whistle. To score a goal and then see how fast you can score the next one. Never let up. Our defense is playing with that attitude. It was evident in the fall league when they allowed the fewest goals of any team. They aren't afraid to plant a hard check and take the opposing forward down. Why? Because they know their teammates have their back. To form the wall if a free kick is called. And for Camille to clear the shot. Remember before the State Championship game when each of you set goals for the game? To play physical, to score, to win the 50/50's, to not get beat to the ball. Ask Marisa Reid, she'll tell you. You should be setting the same goals before every game. I know you are playing against some of your friends, but remember this, when we take the field we take it as a team. We take the field as one with a focused goal in mind, to play the best we can. To give 100% from start to finish. Regardless of obstacles, if you all play to your best abilities, you will dominate. "If it is to be, it's up to me"

I would like you to think about what John McCain said in his concession speech; "Americans never quit. We never surrender. We never hide from history. We make history."

Sodium, you have a chance to make history this season. By never quiting, never giving up you have the chance to prove that you are something special. This OPL tournament is just the beginning, a chance to go out and prove how hard you've worked, how much better shape you are in and how far you've come as a team.

You are a dominating force to be reckoned with. You are Sodium.

*****Another Schedule Change*****
11/8/08 vs Bridlemile Mercury Black - REC #4 @ noon
11/9/08 vs Eugene Metro Magic - Smith Elem. @ 11:00AM

GO SODIUM!

Other league play action & OPL Info

2008-11-02T06:32:00.000-08:00

Sodium had a bye this weekend but here are the results;

GAMES

Saturday
EMFC 95 Magic 2 vs OR Rush 3
Keizer Hotshots 1 vs ESUFC Arsenal 1

Sunday
LOSC Extreme 5 vs WSM Strikers 0

STANDINGS
#1 - OR Rush 95G Nike - 37 pts
#2 - THUSC Sodium - 30 pts
#3 - LOSC Extreme - 28 pts
#4 - FC Portland Platinum - 22 pts
#5 - Keizer Hotshots - 19 pts
#6 - ESUFC Arsenal - 15 pts
#7 - EMFC 95 Magic - 10 pts
#8 - WSM Strikers - 1 pt

Next Up:
Oregon Cup
Saturday - 11/8/08 @ 12 pm vs WSM Strikers - REC #4
Sunday - 11/9/08 @ 12:30 pm vs Eugene Magic - Smith Elementary

Semi Finals
Saturday 11/15/08 @ 12 pm - PC Rock Creek

Championship Game
Sunday 11/16/08 @ 12 pm - REC #1

From the sidelines we yell: GO SODIUM!

Kudos to Sodium Defense

2008-10-27T10:47:00.000-07:00

After taking a closer look at the standing [and reading a couple emails, thanks!] I noticed an interesting fact; Sodium has allowed fewer goals than any other team in the Premier Gold Division. As a matter of fact, that statement holds true if you take a look at last year too. [There was a Washington team with a few less but they weren't in our bracket]
So, with that said, I have to congratulate Taylor Coon, Erika Cook, Lexi Frey and "Stone Cold" Camille Fairbairn for their exceptional play and outstanding defense this fall. I must also add, they couldn't have shined so bright without the mid-fielders playing phenomenally.

I have to include the the series of pictures below to illustrate what happens when an opposing forward gets a little to close to the goal. Editors note: No whistle on this play.

Taylor and Camille double-team Hadley.

"Oh no you don't!" Here, have
an elbow.

'Crunch time' in front of the net!

Another victim of the feared
and fearless E*A*T defense!

Sodium secures 2nd place by beating FC...again

2008-10-26T08:04:00.000-07:00

The Sodium girls hit the field Saturday with confidence, determination and attitude against neighborhood rivals FC Portland Platinum. For the second time in fall league play the lady warriors pounded a much improved FC club 3-0. Platinum, just coming off an impressive win over LOSC, was just no match for the Sodium firepower.
Katherine Kramer started things off with a first half rocket off the head of a FC defender! First half ended 1-0 with Sodiums relentless pressure beginning to wear the Platinum team down. The second half was domination as the lady warriors had settled into a confident Sodium Style of play that has proved to the downfall of many a team. After a hand ball in the box, MAC Kearney [a member of the feared 180's!] lined up the PK, eyed the keeper as if to plainly say; 'Never' and rocketed the shot passed her for a Sodium 2-0 lead! The FC girls were just no match late in the game as the Sodium conditioning took over. Shot after shot. The pressure proving to be too much to handle. Later in the half, as if to emphasize an earlier blog post about Sodium needing to boost their killer instinct, Emmy Owens would not be denied as she split the defense in route to ripping the back of the net for a 3-0 Sodium win and securing the second place spot in the league bracket.

I know I don't often get a chance to mention everyone in the blog and for those who have gotten little 'ink' I apologize. I am going to try to get photos of everyone posted [with captions] of the last 3 games over the period between now and OPL. Keep looking, your bound to see yourself!

Great job ladies. You had a great fall league and we are all very proud of you!

With heads held high, the loyal Sodium fans yell: GO SODIUM!

FC Portland notes

2008-10-25T09:59:00.001-07:00

As I listening to my iPod this morning, Back In Black came on and I realized that this was going to be one of the very few games I am going to miss this season. :(
I wanted to leave you guys with some insight. Given this is our last fall league game it shouldn't diminish its importance. Rush has 2 games left and we can't catch them for first place. LOSC has 1 game left. If we both win, we will retain second spot. FC is in 4th place with no chance for first but, with 2 games left, could overtake LOSC for third. That scenario would mean they would have to beat Sodium. Not happening the way we are playing.
Let's take a look back. The 2007 fall league found Sodium in 5th place out of 8 with 17 total points. In 2006 Sodium finished 7th out of 8 and had 15 points. We have a chance this year to almost double the point total of the last 2 years and finish a very strong second place. You've come a long way in 2 years lady warriors, something to be proud of.
So, that brings me to today. A match against your friends and arch rivals. Last time we met it was a 3-0 Sodium victory. Since then FC has beaten LOSC, a major boost to their egos. They are not going to be as easily pushed over this time around. We will need to attack them as we have in the past. Relentless pressure, big physical defense and ball control at mid-field. All Sodium traits other teams can't ignore. Who will be the hero's today? The 180's? The defense? Our steadfast mid-field? Whichever team wants it more will be victorious today.
The last 2 years Sodium has ended the fall league play with a defeat and a tie. Lets break the string today. Lets go out with a sound victory. Lets go out on top this year Sodium. For the last time this fall season the lady warriors will take the field. One last time to give 100%. One last time to leave it all on the field, to call on your sisters to cover your back. They won't let you down.
Remember what it took to get here Sodium. Remember the sacrifices, the hard work, the extra effort. You have become a premier team in a very short time and today you get the pleasure of taking the field and showing everyone what you do best.
Now lets go out there and kick some FC booty! Lets have some fun, SODIUM STYLE!

I will be there in spirit.

From somewhere South on I-5, I will be yelling: GO SODIUM!

4 game wrap up

2008-10-20T15:53:00.000-07:00

Sorry Sodium fans for taking so long to catch you up on the league play, been busier than a one legged man in a butt kick'n contest so I will do my best now. I will post pictures later this week from all the games but for now, a recap will have to do. I will start with a little editorial then game summaries. So, pull up a chair, grab a diet coke and enjoy!

From the sidelines
The lady warriors really elevated their game over the past few weeks. They handled an always tough Keizer team, put away Strikers with ease, tied a very physical Rush and also tied a very beatable Arsenal team.

The good, bad and ugly.

Good - I think this years team knows how to win. The defense plays with confidence, the mids can handle pretty much any situation and we have many combinations to throw at opposing defenses at the forward spots. Any of of which have proved they can score. The passing and communication are getting better and thus are starting to create more chances to score. When we are down we don't loose our cool. We maintain control, create chances and score.
Bad & Ugly - Not really much to say here except that we lack the killer instinct. I have seen in the past months a Sodium that, when we have a lead, starts playing 'not to lose' instead of playing 'to win'. Let me elaborate. Let's say we are playing Oregon Rush. We score in the first half. We begin the second half and start playing a little tentative, like we are suddenly defensive minded instead of attacking [like the first half]. This gives Rush more opportunities to score and of course, they do, to tie the game. Another example is Keizer. We were up 2-0 in the second half and started to play tentative. Not attacking as hard as we could, not winning as many 50/50's, not being as aggressive. Suddenly Keizer scores. Now it's 2-1 and I can sense a little panic creeping in. The playing the latter part of the second half was all in our end. When the final whistle blew Keizer was about to line up a corner kick. A dangerous place to be.
What to do about it? - Coming from a coaches standpoint the lady warriors haven't quite developed their 'Killer Instinct' yet. That; "Smell blood and go for the throat" attitude. When you score on a team, the most demoralizing thing you can do to them is score again quickly. You don't want to let them back in the contest buy them controlling the ball in your end. If you score, you create that moment of doubt in their minds and from a competitive standpoint, you want to exploit that to the fullest, and the best way to do that is to pound their goal.
Let me explain it differently. In the sport of boxing you have two athletes competing. If one lands a couple good punches, wobbles his opponent, and feels he has won the round, he doesn't just sit back and wait for the bell. If he does that, his opponent might land a couple punches of his own and turn the momentum. No, instead, if he wobbles his opponent, he attacks him with everything he has so he can exploit the fact his opponent is weak and possibly knock him out and end the fight right there.

That, lady warriors, is what I'm talking about. On the field, if you score and know the other team's confidence is shaken, you have got to attack that much harder! Don't be satisfied if we have a 1-0 or 2-0 lead. You should want a 4, 5 or 6-0 lead! You can't sit back and wait for time to run out. In field sports, soccer especially, time can turn into your enemy very quickly, and you always want the clock on your side. You have got to develop the drive to dominate. When I was playing varsity football my goal was to have the guy I was playing across leave the field crying. If I accomplished that, I won. [regardless of the score] That meant I totally dominated him, I owned him and he knew it. He didn't want to stay in for another play.
Another example - Remember the Mia Hamm quote; "You can't just beat a team, you have to leave a lasting impression in their minds so they never want to see you again". Do you think she is talking about playing soft with a 2-0 lead? NO WAY! She is talking about running the score to 5, 6 or 7-0. We let Keizer back in so they think they can play with us. We let Arsenal think they can compete.
Do you think FC Portland was OK with a 1-0 lead over LOSC? Or do you think they smelled the fear coming from Extreme and jumped all over them to deliver a 3-0 whooping?
The truth is, we need to dominate, or we will be dominated. We have the skills, we have the players, we have the talent to deliver on this task. We have the mental toughness, we just need that killer instinct to put teams away. We can do it, I've seen it first hand. We know this Sodium team can and will do great things.
You have the heart of lions and the determination of soldiers. You are lady warriors, you are Sodium.

OK, I'll pull the coach/motivational speaker hat off and get to some facts & stats.
I'll start from the most recent and work back.

10/19 vs. ESUFC Arsenal
What was viewed to be a easy win, the much improved Arsenal team came out fired up. As the second half came underway the Arsenal team scored on a defensive miscue to take a surprising 1-0 lead. As any great team will do, Sodium remained patient and focused. Within minutes Laura Camp fed a perfect lead pass to Hannah Lautenbach streaking in from the right side. The goalie committed and Hannah launched a perfect shot over her head, off the far post and into the net! To put a little exclamation on it, Sodium actually had two players IN the net waiting for the ball!!
After that, smelling a little blood, Sodium began to pick apart the Arsenal defense. From the sidelines it was great to watch the calculated way Sodium would move the ball up from defense, to mid to Emmy Owens in the center. Patiently Emmy would dissect the situation and find an outside forward or take herself. In the last 5 minutes of the game Sodium out shot the ESUFC team 5-1. The final whistle blew and contest ended 1-1.

10/18 vs OR Rush 95G Nike
When Sodium takes on the "Beast from the East" it is always a barn burner! On fields that were 100 times better than last year Sodium knew it was in for a battle. An early team breakfast followed by a walk to the fields and a pep talk from Tom fueled the lady warriors for the showdown at high-noon. At just before the half Taylor Moscoe, who had an outstanding game, beat the defender and was streaking down the right side. Alertly she spotted Emmy Owens flashing in the 6-yard box. Taylor fed Emmy a perfect cross which she ripped passed the Rush goalie for a 1-0 Sodium lead!
Play continued to be physical as, after a Rush free kick, Camille Fairbairn was clearing a goal kick but had to dodge two downed Rush players in the 18-yard box! With just minutes left Rush was awarded a corner kick. A mosh pit ensued and the ball was booted past a diving Camille to tie the score at 1's. The clock ran out as Sodium was pushing towards the goal.

10/12 vs WSM Strikers
Sodium has never had an issue with the last place Strikers and today was no different. Sodium dominated the play the entire game. The first goal came, after 4 or 5 headers in front of the WSM goal box, when MAC Kearney decided she'd had enough and headed the ball in the goal! MAC has proven to be an exciting player for the lady warriors this year and has had several outstanding performances. Later in the second half Laura Camp had penetrated into the right side of the 18-yard box. She loaded up and fired a rocket that careened off an unsuspecting Defenders back and into the goal for the 2-0 win! On a side note, Hannah Lautenbach stepped up to play keeper as Camille Fairbairn moved to forward. Hannah provided us all with a few exciting moments! Way to go Hannah!

10/11 vs Keizer Hotshots
Traveling to Keizer always proves to be an adventure. The often overlooked Hotshots are one of those teams that can play giant killer. Of course, that didn't happen today. Even though the Hotshots are big, aggressive and physical, the conditioning of the Sodium team proved to be the difference. This year Sodium finds all kinds of different ways to score. The first came on a Laura Camp free kick that found Hannah Lautenbach 'posting up' strong in the 6-yard box to fire a bullet passed the Hotshot keeper. The second score came off a Lexi Frey corner kick that rocketed in! Lexi has proved to be a force from the corner this season. A late rush produced a Keizer score but it proved too little too late as the final whistle blew giving Sodium the 2-1 edge.

Again, sorry for the late updates and I will post pictures by the end of the week.

From a stool at the Niblick & Greenes we shout: GO SODIUM!

Weekend Split for Sodium

2008-10-10T12:56:00.000-07:00

Last weekend ended in a split as Sodium handed the Eugene Magic a 2-0 beating while being on the receiving end in Sunday's match against LOSC. The lady warriors fought hard but Extreme proved to be the better team on that day handing Sodium their second loss in league play 2-0.
On a brighter note Coach Tom sent out a great reassuring email to the team to "Keep the Faith" noting that, at this point, this years Sodium squad has scored more goals than last years team had! Impressive to say the least!

Some highlights!

After several headers MAC Kearney finds Elianna Beard for the go-ahead goal against Eugene!

Laura Camp delivers a goal from a 25-yard free kick to put the Lady Warriors up 2-0!

The E*A*T'em up defense shows their stuff as Taylor Coon shuts down a Eugene forward.

Lexi Frey on the attack against Eugene.

Camille Fairbairn 'airs-one-out' from the goal box against LOSC.

Emmy Owens splits the Extreme defenders on her way to the goal.

Jadyn McMillan giving her all as she "Crashes the Box" against the LOSC keeper.

Erika Cook clears the ball as she has proven to be a vital part of the feared E*A*T defense.

Lights Out!

2008-10-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

Today is the day lady warriors, we face our biggest rival LOSC. It's time we went into their house and took one from them.
I know the defense will be fired up. Taylor Coon knows she needs to stop their center forward. One-on-one, body-on-body. You think she's fired up knowing Lexi and Erika have her back? She already has her uniform on.
It's time we bring it up a notch. Mids need to win one more 50/50, forwards need to take one more shot, or sprint to goal one step faster.
We can't let LOSC think they can beat or tie us every time. It's time Sodium earned some respect. This rivalry has been cultivating for years, it didn't just start in 2007 and it didn't just start with soccer. But today, in a few short hours, it's time put their Lights Out! I'm talking about giving it one more than you thought you could. Run a little faster chasing a ball, giving just a little more to stop a LOSC player from getting around you. Throwing the ball a little further on the throw in. No reserves today lady warriors, nothing left, 100%, it's time we take one from Extreme. Sodium, you can beat any team in our league. You've proved it to us, your loyal fans, to the rest of the teams in league, and now, today, it's time we prove it to LOSC. It's time to show them what the new Sodium Style is all about. The time is now to rise up and kick a little Extreme booty, to take one from them in their own house. This game today is for sole possession of FIRST PLACE in the Premier Gold Division. Let's knock LOSC out of that spot today!

Your back lady warriors, BACK IN BLACK! Who's going to be the hero's today? The defense? The 180's? The Mids? It's all for one and one for all today Sodium!

If it is to be, it's up to me.

From the fancy schmansy Lakeridge Stadium the Sodium faithful scream: GO SODIUM!

Something new for the blog.

2008-10-04T09:47:00.000-07:00

In conjunction with the Sodium paparazzi [aka Wade & Dan] I am going to start posting action shots along with the editorial. I am going to try to balance it out where I get forwards, mids and defense. If I don't get everyone please be patient, this is a work in progress and I will try to get everyone in. Thanks and with that, I post the following;

Katherine Kramer ripping the net against Arsenal! A 17 2/3 yard shot!

The result of a perfect Lexi Frey corner kick! GOOAALL!

Marisa Reid puts the finishing touches on an outstanding break-a-way!

Elianna Beard heads the ball past the FC goalie for a 2-0 Sodium lead!

My apologies go to MAC Kearney who scored the final goal against FC Saturday. We'll get you next time! Keep up the great hustle!

GO SODIUM!

Elsewhere around the league...

2008-09-30T16:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday 9/27
Keizer Hotshots 1 vs LOSC Extreme 0 [yeah baby!]
OR Rush 95G Nike 3 vs EMFC 95 Magic 0
FC Portland Platinum 2 vs WSM Strikers 1

Sunday 9/28
OR Rush 95G Nike 6 vs ESUFC Arsenal 2
Keizer Hotshots 0 vs LOSC Extreme 3
EMFC 95 Magic 1 vs WSM Strikers 0

Current Points Standings
LOSC Extreme 16
THUSC Sodium 16
OR Rush 95G Nike 15
Keizer Hotshots 12
FC Portland Platinum 9
ESUFC Arsenal 4
EMFC 95 Magic 3
WSM Strikers 1

GO SODIUM!

Sodium Sweeps Weekend League Play

2008-09-29T15:14:00.000-07:00

Sodium is firing on cylinders as the lady warriors roll through the 4th weekend of league play with a pair of wins.

vs ESUFC Arsenal
When it's working, it's working. Sodium is playing very well and when the lady warriors took to the turf at Gresham H.S. Saturday, you could just feel it was all business. Arsenal has always been a team that, if taken for granted, will bite you in the rear end. Not so today. In the first half, as in so many games, Sodium dominated. The play was confined to the Arsenal side of the field. And to prove she's a player, Katherine Kramer wanted her first goal of the season to be spectacular, and she didn't disappoint anyone! From Emmy Owens came a perfect lead pass that Katherine one touched just inside the 18-yard box. She took aim and blasted a perfect shot just out of reach of the Arsenal keeper that stung the upper left corner of the net! The crowd went nuts as the girls swarmed Katherine to show their appreciation! That proved to be all there was in the first half as Sodium took a 1-0 lead into the break. Midway into the second half Lexi Frey wasn't to be outdone. On a patented left footed corner kick Lexi 'Bent it like Beckham' just under the cross bar for a 2-0 lead! The corner kicks from Lexi and Laura Camp have proved that Sodium can score any time, from anywhere on the field. ESUFC made a late run and scored but it proved too little, too late as the final whistle blew giving Sodium a 2-1 victory!

vs FC Portland Platinum
The forward package dubbed The 180's [because their combined weight almost reaches 180 lbs] comprised of Marisa Reid, Elianna Beard and MAC Kearney caught fire against FC Portland this morning. These three warriors were responsible for all three goals scored in the match. The first goal against the big, physical Platinum team came in the midway point of the first half. Marisa Reid took a long lead pass deep down the right side, stopped, cut back and left the FC defender holding her shorts! Marisa took the ball cleanly to the goal where she rocketed a shot pasted the diving keeper! The crowd was totally awestruck by the move and filled the field with cheers!
The score remained 1-0 as the half concluded.
The second half started wild and woolly as Sodium controlled the ball, the tempo and the field position. Laura Nguyen chipped a ball into the 6-yard box where a driving Elianna Beard, after the first bounce, headed the ball over the outstretched arms of the FC keeper for a 2-0 Sodium lead! The crowd went nuts! But were The 180's finished? NO WAY! In the closing minutes the lady warriors had yet again penetrated the Platinum defense. An alert Elianna Beard found a crashing MAC Kearney who, after hurdling at least one defender, ripped the net with a close range missile! The crowd roared! Game, set, match as the final whistle blew and Sodium handed FC Portland a 3-0 beating on their home turf.

The girls are coming together and confidence is building as the team forges ahead in league play. You never know who the 'Hero' is going to be but with the talent spread amongst the entire team, it could be anyone of them as this weekend showed us. Tom has taken a team that, very easily, could have folded under the loss of so many players and, with the addition of equally talented superstars, turned them into a well oiled machine. The new players are playing awesome, the veterans have stepped up and never lost a step as Sodium continues to dominate and elevate their game. It is evident that these lady warriors are giving 100% every time they take the field. This team has crushed any rumors that weren't going to be just as tough, just as physical and just as emotionally charged as last year. They are definitely playing Sodium Style ball right now and have proved they are BACK IN BLACK!
I find myself barely able to sleep Friday nights in anticipation of the next game and to find out who will emerge to take charge.

Next up:
10/4/08 vs EMFC 95 Magic @ PCC - 1:30pm kick off
10/5/08 vs LOSC Extreme @ Lakeridge H.S. - 12:30 kick off [possibly for first place]

As The Stones 'Paint it Black' plays in the background we yell: GO SODIUM!

Around the league

2008-09-22T14:09:00.000-07:00

In other matches here is how the rest of the games shaped up;

Saturday 9/20
LOSC 3 vs FC Portland 1
WSM 0 vs Arsenal 1
Hotshots 1 vs Magic 0

Sunday 9/21
Arsenal 0 vs WSM 0 [yes, they played twice]
LOSC 3 vs OR Rush 1 [woo hoo!]
Hotshots 2 vs FC Portland 1 [woo hoo #2!]

Current Points Standings:
LOSC 13
Sodium 10
OR Rush 9
Hotshots 9
FC Portland 6
Arsenal 4
Strikers 1 [ 2 yellow cards?? ]
Magic 0

GO SODIUM!

Sodium Splits Weekend Contests

2008-09-22T08:16:00.000-07:00

"Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining"

vs OR Rush 95G Nike
Sodium knew going in it was going to be a war, and what a battle it was. Rush always has given Sodium problems. Even though the Lady Warriors elevated their game, the final score was 3-0. Don't get discouraged, they played great! Even the Rush coach approached Tom and said; "You guys kicked the crap out of us, sorry." With that said, Sodium kept their heads up. We will see this team many more times and into the post season. What is important is not the score but what we learned. Playing Rush is about finishing. Yes, they scored 3 goals on about 6 shots. We scored 0 on about 20 shots. The opportunities will present themselves, we just need to take advantage. The passing is there, the ball movement and communication are there. The defense played well and, by sheer shot count, the mids and forwards played well. We just need to find the net. Plain and simple. This chapter is far from over vs OR Rush. But the next installment will be up to you.

vs EMFC 95 Magic
After a long drive South on a drizzly, cold morning the lady warriors took the field against Magic, a much improved Eugene team. In typical Sodium Style they cut the field of play in half and never left the Magic side. What could have been a double digit game turned into a 1-0 victory for Sodium. The same situation plagued them as the game before, finishing. How many balls went right to the Magic keeper or off the post before Laura Camp's corner kick [which has turned into a great weapon for Sodium!] was headed in by Hannah Lautenbach? Sodium was patient, communicating, passing and attacking when the opportunity was right. A sign of greatness. A sign of a great team.

The main points here, in my humble opinion, are that we don't get discouraged. Look at the last 2 seasons and how they ended. Look at where we are now in comparison. The Fall, indoor and Spring seasons will have peaks and valleys but in comparison, we are ahead of where we were those last two years. If we can confront the finishing hurdle now and deal with it, the rest of the year will consist of refining greatness. Last year, if you recall, we just conquered the finishing phobia right before State Cup. This year we are addressing it in the Fall! Nothing to worry about. If you get a chance, go back and read the 2008 season blog. Sodium didn't win a game in October!! So ladies, keep you heads up, keep practicing hard and giving 100% at game time and we will be in the hunt come State Cup time.
This season has just begun and there is a ton of soccer ahead. You have a great coach and an extremely talent packed team. From here on it's about work. It's about working harder to get better than the other teams are. It's about what you do off the field that will make you better. OR Rush, LOSC, FC, none of them are as dedicated, passionate and willing to sacrifice as you are. We are able to run these teams into the ground late in the games because we condition harder. Remember playing the Strikers and how their team was standing around exhausted the last 8 minutes of the game? We win with our hearts, our minds and our feet. We may not always have the biggest team, but we have the biggest hearts filled with dedication and commitment to our team. You can't teach that lady warriors.

If it is to be, it's up to me.

From under the umbrella's we yell: GO SODIUM!

Tomorrow

2008-09-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow you will take the field against a worthy adversary. A team Sodium has never beat. A big, physical team that will come at you all game long. Tomorrow our defense will be called upon to elevate their game to untold levels. Our mids will have the battle of their careers and the forwards will be asked to give everything they have. Tomorrow lady warriors, will be a war.
The OR Rush team will be coming to our house, the 'House of Pain' for many teams, and tomorrow, they will join the ranks.
This is a game that needs no introductions. You know what to do. Motivation will be the key. You will need to look across field 5 and see RED. They are coming into our house to take this game away from us on the same field we won the State Championship. If that doesn't get you motivated, get your blood boiling, make you mad as heck, then I don't know what will. Tomorrow will be a huge test of our will to win. This OR Rush team has never stepped foot on the field with the New Sodium team, and they're in for a rude awakening. If ever a league game will be watched, it's this one. Everyone will be waiting to hear the outcome. This game will set the precedence for the rest of league play. A win will establish Sodium as a contender, a position we know well, and OR Rush as a beatable team.
Tomorrow you will be called upon to dig deep, to bring out the passion you have for the game, for your team. Tomorrow you will elevate your play to the level of true champions. Like the scene when the Spartans [300] were facing the army of the Immortals [thousands]. They were smaller, fewer in numbers but they had heart, anger, the will to win and a never give up attitude. The same attributes I've seen played out by this team time and time again.
Tomorrow you will asked to give 100% for 60 minutes. To leave everything you have on the field, to be a hero. You will have 10 others on the field who will have your back. The time is now to cut loose, to take it to the limits. I know you can do it, I've seen it many times before.

Tomorrow, as you walk on the field of battle, ask yourself, "Who will be the hero?" Every game has one.

As I write this the song, "Fear of the Dark" just came on. How appropriate.

If it is to be, it's up to me
To read the origin of this saying, click here.

GO SODIUM!

Sodium crushes WSM 5-0

2008-09-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

In the morning game the lady warriors pinned theirs ears back and were off to the races. The play was, literally all game, on Striker's side of the field. The scoring onslaught began when a drop back pass to Lexi Frey was drilled in from 20+ yards. At about the mid way point Hannah Lautenbach took a pass at the top of the 18-yard box, sliced and diced her way passed 3 WSM defenders before sizzling the back of the net. The crowed cheered as the half came to a close.
The second half started as the first had ended. a midfield pass was taken by Emmy Owens who broke through the Srtiker defenders on her way to the goal. A couple quick touches and Emmy ripped the net. A little past the mid point Hannah again penetrated the WSM defense down the left side. Instead of playing defense the Strikers resorted to getting physical. On this instance, even though she had to leave the game, Hannnah wouldn't take it. On her way to the turf she blasted a rocket off the near post and IN! A little salt with that wound?
Later, just before the final whistle Mac Kearney put the icing on the cake when she took a pass from Laura Nguyen and rifled it passed the WSM goalie. This win was just what the doctor ordered for Sodium after a tough tie the night before.

A great weekend for the lady warriors!

Next up;
The beast from the East; OR Rush 95G Nike on 9/20/08 @ 3:00pm - REC #5

GO SODIUM!

Sodium takes it to LOSC

2008-09-14T07:13:00.000-07:00

What a battle! I can't say much more. When LOSC comes to town you always know the lady warriors are going to bring it! And Saturday was no exception.
The scoreless first half was controlled by the Sodium offense who was relentless in their attack. Midway through, a questionable offsides call negated what would later prove a crucial goal. In the second half it fell on the defense to prove what they were made of. After Sodium took a 1-0 lead off a Lexi Frey free kick from 25 yards out that scorched the far post net, the LOSC offense took fire.
As the Sodium defense will attest, this was nothing shy of a smash-mouth, in your face, second half battle. Bodies flew, whistles blew and the LOSC fans got ugly. By the end of the game the defense had nothing left. Bleeding, bruised and exhausted, the Sodium defense held Extreme to one goal and took home a 1-1 tie.

I am very proud of the team. They pushed themselves to the limit. And even though the score was 1-1 the Sodium team should hold their heads high and know that they gave it their all.

Next up;
WSM Strikers @ REC #2 - 9:00am

GO SODIUM!

Congratulations to Emmy Owens

2008-09-14T06:58:00.000-07:00

A heartfelt CONGRATULATIONS goes out to Emmy for being selected onto the USClub Regional Player Identification Program for promising young players. She will travel to Los Angeles in October and participate at the National Training Center home of the LA Galaxy.

WAY TO GO EMMY!

We are very proud of all our Sodium players and when one of them gets some well deserved special recognition, we should all revel in their accomplishments.

We have a special group here and the chemistry is starting to happen. You can feel it on the field. The communication, the passing to a spot you know your teammate will be without thinking about it. The subtle little things that we don't see up in the stands. This sort of thing didn't start to happen really until after the fall season for the team last year. And boy is it fun to watch!!

Next Up;
Sodium vs LOSC Extreme @ PCC #2 - $:30PM kick off.

GO SODIUM!

Sodium starts league play with a victory!

2008-09-08T13:11:00.000-07:00

The lady warriors faced a tough competitor Sunday in the Keizer Hotshots but crisp passing and total ball control proved to be too much for them.
Sodium hadn't faced the Hotshots since last years semi-finals of the State Cup but the outcome proved to be the same.
Sodium controlled the tempo and the ball as the Keizer team, known for their "kick and chase" style never could mount an attack. With shots bouncing off their goalie, the cross bar and everything else, the Keizer team couldn't handle the quickness and stamina of the improved Sodium team.
With the first half ending scoreless Sodium came out of the blocks in attack mode. The forwards penetrated the Hotshot defense from both the left and right sides. In one of the attacks, originated by Laura Camp, Hannah Lautenbach drove hard down the left side into the box. Her rocket nearly knocked the Keizer goalie down and was just too hot to handle as Emmy Owens was right there to clean up with a goal! If Emmy hadn't finished Payten Sonnen was there, literally in the net, to make sure this one wasn't going anywhere but in!
The defense and mids had another outstanding game shutting the Hotshots down all morning.

An outstanding effort by the entire team as every player contributed to the victory!

In other games:
LOSC-Extreme defeated ESUFC Arsenal 1-0
FC Portland defeated WSM Strikers 2-0

Next Up:
Sodium vs LOSC-Extreme @ PCC #2. 4:30pm on 9/13/08

Proudly we're scream'n: GO SODIUM!

Fall League is upon us!

2008-09-02T17:16:00.000-07:00

Sodium opens the fall league this Sunday against Keizer Hotshots at 10:30AM @ REC #1.
Sodium hasn't seen Keizer since the semi finals of last years State Cup. Playing on turf has always favored the lady warriors but this year they haven't played a game on turf since, well, forever!

After a little rest since the Chinook Cup and a holiday weekend, Sodium is back on the practice field hot & heavy this week getting back into game shape.

The defense will have their work cut out for them because because Keizer is big and always plays a physical game. Their style is more of a "boot-ball" game where they send the ball towards the goal in hopes their forwards can run it down. Didn't work last year, probably won't work this year but they have beat some good teams. Either way, we'll be there screaming for our sodium!!

From the stands we'll yell: GO SODIUM!

Cinook Cup Results: Day 3

2008-08-26T09:04:00.000-07:00

I am sorry it took me so long to get these posted but I have been traveling. I know, I know, where are my priorities!!

Also, this will not be a popular post given the level of play witnessed on Sunday. Sorry if I offend anyone but hey, just reporting on what I saw.

The Emerald City squad just flat-out outplayed the Sodium girls today to hand them their second and final loss of the Chinook Cup 3-0.
Afterwards Tom stated that he was more disappointed with the effort he saw on the field than the loss itself. It was very apparent that the girls were just not there today. I will have to tip my hat to the Sodium defense for not letting it get any worse than 3-0. Erika Cook, Alexis Frey, Taylor Coon and Camille Fairbairn battled all day as Emerald City just kept penetrating then dropping the ball back & firing at will.
There was a lot of standing around and no 'Team Defense' that Tom has been working on all season. I will admit that with so many guest players it's hard to gel but their was really no excuse for the lackluster effort we witnessed on Sunday.

Heads up ladies. You can't expect to win every game or every tournament. You can though, expect a little more from each other. All day I heard yells from the defense for the mids and forwards to pick up the "drops" but never saw any effort to do so. You are a team. You win as a team, you lose as a team. You go into battle expecting to have someone there to cover your back so you can give 100% without hesitation. From the sidelines, we didn't see that today. We have witnessed it in the past and we will see it again in the near future. You are a great team with great players. Every great team experiences 'bumps' and we can chalk this up to one. But the important thing here is that we learn. We learn from this that when you, as an individual, are unwilling to give 100% for the team, the entire team suffers. Remember; If it is to be, it's up to me? Sodium is not, like other teams, blessed with one or two stand-out players that carry the team. We are a cohesive unit that needs to play at an elevated level. We need every position to give it there all to be champions. Sodium relies on the entire team to win, not one or two specific players. That means that we ALL must give 100% at every position, every game, every practice. And you will, because you are Sodium and that is 'Sodium Style'.

Overall I will applaud the guest players who came out and gave a great effort this weekend. THANK YOU ladies for playing for us, you did a great job and I'm sure you will get calls in the future should the situation arise again!

Next Up:
A break from the action.

GO SODIUM!!

Chinook Cup Results: Day 3

2008-08-24T06:49:00.000-07:00

vs FWU Reign Purple (early game)
The Reign came down Saturday morning as the powerhouse team from Washington handed Sodium their first defeat in 10 games. The win streak was snapped as a Purple forward floated a shot just out of the Sodium keepers reach to break the 1-1 tie late in the game. Hannah Lautenbach scored Sodium's only goal off a Jadyn McMillan shot deflection. As with most of the games, Sodium out-shot their opponent 3 to 1.

vs Columbia Timbers Red (late game)
The Washington teams are proving to be big, fast and pretty skilled. The lady warriors battled the Timbers Red squad all night. Physical play was the norm as bodies hit the turf and the rookie officiating staff had it's hands full. Just before half Laura Camp lined up another deadly corner kick. She took aim and lifted a perfect shot as the Sodium players crashed the net. Camp's shot proved to be accurate as it caught the net just inside the far post for what would later prove to be the winning goal!

With the guest players giving it their all the Sodium squad is playing pretty well. The next opponent, Emerald City, was with Sodium in Hawaii representing Washington and should prove to be a worthy foe.

GO SODIUM!

Chinook Cup Results: Day 2

2008-08-22T14:09:00.000-07:00

Wow, the Synergy FC Morse is HUGE! Do you think that bothered the lady warriors, not hardly.
Sodium fought a courageous battle against a worthy foe this afternoon. The Synergy was big, physical and had a couple players with tremendous skills. "Oh well" was the reaction from our defense. They shut the Synergy team down all game. Just once did Sodium allow penetration and a score. The midfield play was great, the forwards had the Synergy defense on their heels all day. You have got to love the patience of a championship team. Sodium hammered and hammered and hammered at the goal. The methods Sodium use to traditionally score weren't working so, what do the forwards & mids do? IMPROVISE! If we can't score like we always do, we'll find another way! After a scoreless the first half the play resumed as it had left off, in the Synergy side of the field. In the first minutes Laura Camp ripped a corner kick that was just too hot for the Synergy keeper to handle as it blistered the back of the net. At the mid-way point Payten Sonnen found herself cut off deep on the familiar right side, what does she do? She gives a perfect feed to a waiting Taylor Moscoe who ripped the net on the far post from 20+ yards! Spectacular! That score broke the tie and gave Sodium the advantage. Were they finished? NO WAY! Again, Laura Camp found herself in the coffin corner for a corner kick. Again, perfect. The kick floated into the box where a hustling Hannah Lautenbach was there for the header finish! The crowd went wild! A 3-1 victory! Sodium had won their second match in as many days!
The most impressive statistic you ask? The fact that Sodium is missing a ton of girls and this is the first time this group has ever taken the field, EVER. Sodium is comprised of original team members, players from Lexi Frey's old team the Eugene Magic and from our own U12 Mercury team. THAT folks, makes these victories even more impressive AND sweet!
Great job ladies!

Back Side Run
This is where I get to editorialize for a minute.
From a reliable source I understand the Synergy coach (with clipboard in hand) and a couple of their players were at the Sodium vs Courage game yesterday. They left early with the coach saying; "No problem from these guys." (or something like that) I personally LOVE to be underestimated! Makes victory so sweet!
Secondly, I have to give some special thanks to our gust players.
Eugene Magic - Ashley, Aubrey & Lauren.
THUSC Mercury - Lindsay & Jamie.
These guys came out today and played their hearts out. How many girls would give everything to play with a repeat State Championship team? They didn't have to give 100%, they didn't have to put up with the abuse from the Synergy team, but they did. What does that tell you Sodium? It's all about respect. It's about going out there on the field and giving everything you have. Whether it's for your own team or with a team you're going to be playing against in regular season. It's all about the love of the game and your team. A heartfelt 'THANK YOU' goes out to these ladies, these lady warriors.

Next Up:
Cooks Park #3 - Victim Unknown @ 10:30AM
3PM - Location TBD - Victim Unknown

GO SODIUM!

Chinook Cup Results: Day 1

2008-08-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

The lady warriors defeated their first opponent, WSA Courage, in the first game of the Chinook Cup. Even though I wasn't there I'm sure Sodium took it to them from the opening whistle.

Next Up:
vs Synergy FC Morse (lost 3-2 to ESU Arsenal) @ Cook Park #4 - @ Noon Friday 8/22

GO SODIUM!

US Woman Bring Home GOLD!

2008-08-21T09:14:00.000-07:00

Early this morning the US Women's Soccer Team beat Brazil 1-0 to bring home the GOLD MEDAL!

Congratulations to the girls!!

USA, USA, USA, USA!!!

Sodium 'Perfect' in QT's

2008-08-18T08:32:00.001-07:00

The lady warriors of Sodium finished the Qualifying Tournament a perfect 8-0 with a 1-0 win over ESU Coventry Sunday. In typical Sodium Style the girls played to the level of their competition only scoring 1 goal on many, many chances. I will say it was spectacular as Lexi Frey headed in a Laura Camp corner kick in the first half for what would prove to be the winning goal. There were really a ton of outstanding performances but to name a few there was Taylor Moscoe, Lexi Frey, Payten Sonnen, Emmy Owens, Elianna Beard, The Laura's, and on and on and on. Really, I could name them all. They really went out and proved in QT's that they are BACK IN BLACK!

Gold Division Teams:
THUSC Sodium
Oregon Rush 95 Girls Nike
Keizer Hotshots
WSM Strikers
FC Portland Platinum 95
LOSC Extreme
ESU Arsenal
EMFC 95 Magic

GO SODIUM!

Corrections
If I have posted anything that is incorrect or not accurate, please send me an email and I will make the corrections. I am only one guy and I miss a few things. There have been goals that were made before I could even get my big fanny in the seat! I try to ask the fans around me what happened and make an assessment from that. So, for the future, just send me an email. On this blog there are no "right or wrong" posts. I call it as I see it. Sometimes my failing eyes don't see it exactly as it happened. In those cases I need a little help from my friends. Thanks loyal Sodium fans! See you at Chinook Cup! Ed

iScout Report

2008-08-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

Following is the scouting report on ESU Coventry's game against WUSC Flamengo.

You have to wonder about a team where the crowed cheers when they put a string of 2 or 3 passes together.

Average in size. 2 or 3 girls are stout.

Flamengo scored on a poorly executed corner kick. A lot of ESU standing around.

#24 midfielder is big and physical. No one to help her out though.

Defensive players are average. Middle is big but not aggressive. #12 is fast but lacks foot skills.

#3 forward is not big but plays physical and has good foot skills. Again, no one there to compliment her skills.

ESU scored on a corner. No real plan of attack just a mosh pit in front of goal with swinging legs.

Keeper is small but pretty fast.

WUSC scored on a PK.

#23 forward is big but lacks skills.

Girls real sluggish in spite of water breaks every 15 minutes.

WUSC over ESU 3-1 final.

Summation
Conditioning. Sodium is in far better shape and will wear the ESU club down with physical play that will last all game. Look for some late scores.
Attack from forwards. Their defense looks young and inexperienced. Our forwards should attack them head on, get physical and they will crumble. Their middle defender is big but slow and unskilled. Score early and they will deflate.
Midfield. If we can contain #24 and #3 we will take away their entire offense. They have a tendency to make wild kicks. If Sodium can control the ball and tempo (something the Laura's are exceptional at!) we will control the entire game.
Defense. What can I say, "EAT'em Up"! We are 4 inches taller and 15 lbs heavier on average. Stop #3 & #24 (she is physical) we will shut down their offense. Set the stage early with physical defense and the ESU forwards will not want to go near our goal.

You should be chomp'n at the bit to get on the field against this team. Don't under estimate them, but if you give 100% for 60 minutes, you should come away with a victory!

GO SODIUM!

Sodium continues roll through QT

2008-08-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

Friday, 8/15 vs WUSC Flamengo
The lady warriors won their 7th game of the 2008/2009 Qualifying Tournament (6 by shutout!) to lead all brackets with a perfect 10 points!

The game opened up in typical Sodium Style as Emmy Owens took a pass and streaked the distance for the opening goal! The fans hadn't even settled in their seats yet as she ripped the net in the first 30 seconds! As was the case in games past, 90% of the play was confined to the Flamengo end. Twice during the game Flamengo's had free kicks. the first was deflected over the cross bar by Laura Camp. The second was deflected off the cross bar by Sodium keeper Camille Fairbairn and cleared by Taylor Coon. Sodium dodged a couple bullets but kept the pressure where it belonged, on the WUSC goalie. The second half started with Sodiums lead still 1-0. That's when Payten "Wheels" Sonnen caught fire! Twice during the second half Payten out-hustled the WUSC defense to rip the net. The Sodium front line delivered an outstanding job all game long! The newly crowned 'EAT' defense shut the Flamengo forwards down in typical, physical Sodium Style. Special recognition goes out to both Lexi Frey and Mac Kearney as they showed exceptional hustle and guts on a blisteringly hot afternoon. Hats off to the entire team, they played great and showed why they put in those hours of extra conditioning as the Flamengo showed signs of wear & tear at the end.

Next Up:
Sunday, 8/17 vs ESU Coventry @ Rec #5. 1:30pm.
See the scouting report to follow.

GO SODIUM!

Men's US Olympic Soccer Team

2008-08-13T18:39:00.000-07:00

The US men's team was knocked out today by Nigeria. Within the first 3 minutes a US player received a red card for a cheap elbow. What I want to comment on here is not the first 3 minutes where errors in judgement were made, but what happened the next 87.
Given the fact they played with 10 players, the team never gave up. Granted, some couldn't walk off the field. They played the last 4 minutes as hard, if not harder, than the first 4. They Scored late in the game and had numerous opportunities fall short to tie the game. This team ran on heart and emotion, on guts and a belief that they could/would win regardless of their situation. They never gave up or backed down to their opponent.

This, lady warriors, is what I try to convey to you week in and week out. To never stop giving 100%. If you are down by 5 or up by 5, never let up or give up. Put the pedal to the metal the entire game. I saw you do it against PCU Impact. Down by a goal early you never let up. You pushed yourself again and again until you had scored 2, and won. That is a sign of a true team. A true champion.

Just like the men's team, never stop believing, never stop pushing, never stop giving 100%. I am so looking forward to this coming weekend.

GO SODIUM!

PQT Breakdown

2008-08-12T19:38:00.000-07:00

The moment you've been waiting for, the who what & when of PQT for Sodium!

WUSC Flamengo OK, right off I'm thinking not a real aggressive, fierce bird. Couldn't they have been the Hawks or Scream'n Eagles? Anyway, in the QT they were 3-2-0 with 5 goals for, 6 against and a total of 26 points. They were in the A bracket with OR Rush Nike, Sherwood Force and our own THUSC Platinum. They were 3rd out of 6. I'm thinking if we bring our 'A' game, no sweat. If we play to their level, sweat.

ESU Coventry We played these guys in the past, no contender. But, on any given day, who knows. That's why we play the game. They were 1-2-2 at QT with 4 goals for and 8 against for a total of 19 points. 4th place out of 6 in their bracket with LOSC Extreme and (Lexi's old team) EMFC Magic from Eugene.

Schedule
First game; vs WUSC Flamengo's on Friday, 8/15 @ 1PM at REC #4.
Second game; vs ESU Coventry on Sunday, 8/17 @ 1:30PM at REC #5.

Here we go lady warriors, the brackets are set and we are looking good. Keep up the intensity from last weekend and we will roll over these teams into the Gold Bracket!!
Don't take anything for granted! Play Sodium Style all weekend and we will be victorious.

Remember, 15 girls giving 100% for 60 minutes. We are bigger, faster, stronger and fiercer than these two teams. You have to want it more, you have to smell their fear and make their nightmares come true. Score early and often and take no prisoners at any time. "Trample the weak and hurdle the dead" was a great bumper-sticker I saw, but it couldn't hold truer this coming weekend. Be "In It To Win It" Sodium, and you will.

You gotta believe in Sodium. We do.

QT Wrap Up

2008-08-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

Here is a summation of just how well Sodium did last weekend at QT's.

Sodium had the highest number of points of any team with 56.

Sodium was the only 6 game team that was undefeated.

Sodium scored 27 goals.

Sodium allowed only 1 goal all weekend.

Sodium only trailed once in 6 games.

No red or yellow cards.

Awesome job ladies!!

Next up:
PQT's at the REC next weekend. I will post when the schedule is complete.

This will be our hardest test yet. I think we are playing good at the right time but this weekend will test our metal against some really good teams. If we play Sodium Style of ball, get out and score early, we can take this team to the next level. Stay focused lady warriors, maintain that killer instinct and attitude and you will emerge from this weekend victorious. Think of the hard work you've put in, of the commitment and sacrifices you've made to get here. Take all the faith we have in you and believe, believe you are the best, believe you can do miraculous things. Believe in yourself and your team.

You are Sodium.

QT Results Day 3

2008-08-10T15:45:00.000-07:00

Salmon Creek Nemesis 95:
What was thought was going to be Sodium's toughest challenge thus far, the lady warriors took on the Nemesis. Right out of the gate the battle was on! Sodium's fast acting offense was relentless in it's attack of the goal. Just before half Hannah Lautenbach worked the ball down the left side. A perfect cross to Payten Sonnen who was flying in from the right side resulted in a 1-0 Sodium lead at half. The second started off with Sodium being awarded a corner kick. Laura Camp lined up and delivered
a great ball to the net. Alertly she followed her kick and, after the ball being bounced around, had a second opportunity that she capitalized on! Sodium up 2-0! The Sodium defense, dubbed the EAT defense because of the way they chew up and spit out offenses (it also stands for Erika, Alexis and Taylor) had another outstanding day, totally shutting down the power-packed Nemesis offense. Midway through the second half Sodium's forwards were blistering the Nemesis keeper. One deflected off the goalie and Mac Kearney was there to blast it home for a 3-0 lead! The crowed (and players) were sensing another shut out and going wild! To put the exclamation point on the game, Payten Sonnen drove the ball deep down the right side, reversed direction, then cleared a perfect cross to an awaiting Marisa Reid who drilled it home! Marisa's goal proved to be the last as time ran out and Sodium posted yet another shut-out!

WSM Firestorm:
Sodium deserved a little time off after 5 straight wins. They found it with WSM. Boy, where do I start. I will list the goals as they occurred;
1) Laura Camp corner kick to Lexi Frey
2) Laura Camp pk to Lexi Frey
3) Lexi Frey cross to Hannah Lautenbach
4) Jadyn McMillan assist to Camille Fairbairn (powered it in!)
5) Payten Sonnen on a break
6) Taylor Coon assist to Laura Nguyen
7) Erika Cook on a break
8) Taylor Coon in front of goal
9) Laura Nguyen in front of net
10) Marisa Reid assist to Camille Fairbairn

That's right folks, 10-0 was the score!!! We haven't scored 10 goals in one game since we beat Hillsboro Crush in last years QT tournament! We had so many players playing in so many different positions. We had the speed package, the 'Big Kahuna' package. The Mighty Mights and any and all other combination you can think of. We threw all these packages in and STILL scored. Tom finally told the team they had to have at least 5 touches before they shot!

The girls are firing on all cylinders and really playing well. Sodium is passing the ball better than we have seen in awhile. Communication is outstanding! The offense is showing patience, not panicking when behind, picking apart defenses and attacking the goal. The defense is melodic as they collapse, double team and disassemble opponents offenses. It is really a thing of beauty.

Next up: PQT next weekend at REC. Schedule will follow.

In awe, your fans and parents yell: GO SODIUM!

QT Results Day 2

2008-08-10T15:17:00.000-07:00

PCU Impact:
I thought Sodium plays physical, WoW. The Impact team was the most physical team, in every position, that Sodium has faced thus far. The lady warriors battled and battled them giving them a taste of their own medicine. On one occasion Impact penetrated to just outside the drew a pk. Sodiums wall couldn't stop the PCU's forward from finding the net and leaving Sodium with an 0-1 deficit at the half. Three minutes into the second half Emmy Owens, breaking deep into Impact territory, sliced a shot into the net! The crowed went wild but PCU did not. Moments later they were back at it. Bodies were hitting the turf hard. With under 2 minutes left in the game Laura Camp set up on the left hand side to deliver a corner kick. She waited for her teammates to get set, then delivered an incredible right to left breaking corner kick into the upper part of the net for the WIN!!! Sodium's come from behind victory gave them three in a row! The crowed went wild!
OSA Shock:
There were so many missed shots during this game I lost count. I would say it was in the 30 range. In the first half Payten Sonnen drove deep into Shock territory before drilling a shot off the keeper that an alert Hannah Lautenbach finished into the back of the net. After the half Sodium struck quick. Laura Nguyen fed a perfect pass to Mac Kearney drilled it past the OSA keeper for a 2-0 lead. After missing another 10 or 15 shots Jadyn McMillan was working the right when she fed Erika Cook at the 20 yard mark. Erika loaded up and fired a perfect shot into the upper right corner of the net for the games third and final goal. Camille Fairbairn only the touched the once in the first half as the defense dropped it to her to clear and Laura Nguyen only touched it once in the second half when OSA cleared it from mid-field.

Sodium is on a roll with 4 tournament wins, 3 by shut-out.

Next Up:
Salmon Creek Nemesis @ 10am - field #3
WSM Firestorm @ 1pm - field #3

GO SODIUM!

2 teams plagued with 'Black Death' at QT's

2008-08-09T06:32:00.000-07:00

The lady warriors of Sodium (aka Black Death) proved to the Smack Talk'n SSC Hotspur team that yes, we are your worst nightmare. No need for additional motivation when the other team is already talking about you. Every year Sodium, when faced with an opponent who is talking trash before the game, has risen to give that team a well deserved beat down. Well, this years team is no exception.
Sodium dominated play from the opening whistle and never looked back. Our defense is running on all cylinders and our offense has had more opportunities to score than ever. The girls are coming together as a team and their play is reflecting it. During one of the mad rushes at the Hotspur net the ball came across goal where an alert and waiting Hannah Lautenbach rocketed the net with authority, giving Hotspur a little 'in your face' exclamation. Sodium again controlled the second half as time ran out giving them a 1-0 win and 8 tournament points.
In the afternoon game Sodium faced a newly formed Alameda NEU Fusion team. Before I could pull out my blackberry and put my fanny in the folding chair Jadyn McMillan had scored her first goal! The flood gates were opening folks, you could hear it. Minutes later Emmy Owens was penetrating deep into the right corner (normally reserved for Payten Sonnen) when she ripped a cross box shot into the net passed the diving keeper. The crowed went nuts! We could feel that this was going to be a 'Break Out' game from the start. Remember there is only 20 minutes halves during this weeks QT games so, with about 7 minutes left, Taylor Moscoe lined up a corner kick. She ripped the ball to the net, a scrum ensued, the ball squirted into the air where a jumping Jadyn one-touched it into the net! With big smiles Sodium raced back to midfield, they smelled blood and wanted more! A group of aggressive forwards were pounding the Fusion defense when the whistle blew for a pk. From 25 yards out a confident Erika Cook lined up the attempt. The goalie looked nervous as Erika approached the ball. BOOM! A perfect right to left rotation past the outstretched keepers arms and into the upper the left corner of the net!! A perfect shot! Again the Sodium faithful were on their feet going crazy!! Hugs all the way around as the whistle blew indicating half.
Second half same as the first. Right out of the gate Hannah Lautenbach chipped one in from the right side. Then, minutes later, Lexi Frey (who moved from defense to mid) intercepted a Fusion pass-back to goalie. One touch and a head fake past the goalie and Lexi was looking at an empty net as she escorted the ball into it. Lexi has proved she is a great addition to the squad. To add "Salt" to the wound the 7th and final goal came on a Taylor Moscoe corner that glanced off a Fusion player into the net for an 'own goal' to end the game. Sodium 7, Alameda 0 for an additional 10 tournament points and 18 points for the day to lead the bracket. Overall the ladies are playing great!

Next up:
PCU Impact (lost 3-0 to WSM Firestorm) - 1PM @ Whitaker #C
OSA Shock (tied Fusion 0-0) - 6pm @ Whitaker #D

From the pastures we yell: GO SODIUM!

Goals for QT

2008-08-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the Cook's for hosting the team dinner last night! What a great time.

Goals:
Of the goals listed on the board by the lady warriors the top 3 were;

1) Be aggressive!
2) Give 110%!
3) Win the 50/50 balls!

Wow. If every player plays aggressive, gives 110% and wins the 50/50 balls, we will be unstoppable in the tournament. The time has arrived Sodium to set the tone for the season. Let's show these teams why we are champions, why we went to Hawaii, and why we are committed to do it all over again!

A little "Black Death" anyone?

From the other side of the pasture in Keizer we'll be yelling: GO SODIUM!

A Thought Before QT's

2008-08-06T23:29:00.000-07:00

As we head into the battles before us I wanted to touch on a few things. I was motivated to write this after viewing a picture on Rival.com's website of Austin Hall (Bailey & Bethany's big brother who plays for the OSU Beavers football team). He was kneeling down at practice and on the back of his pads was inscribed; Isaiah 41:15.
Not being a real religious guy I looked it up, and what I read inspired me. And I quote ; "I am going to make you into a new threshing sledge with sharp, double-edged teeth. You will thresh the mountains and crush them into dust. You will turn the hills into straw."
My interpretation of this verse and how it relates to Sodium.
What this tells me is pretty simple. If you believe, whether in a higher power, yourself or coach, then you can accomplish the impossible. You can turn mountains into dust. If you believe in yourself, your team and your coach, you can accomplish anything. I believe these statements to be true.
If you walk on the field and believe, and know, that you have given 100% at practice, that you have worked the hardest you can to improve and help your teammates improve, then you will walk off the field victorious. If we have 15 girls giving 100% for 60 minutes, I believe there isn't a team that can beat us. And you should believe it too.
Sodium, you are made up of a great group of veteran players and an outstanding group of new players. You know what it takes to win, to sacrifice, to run the tanks to empty. You know the true meaning of the word TEAM. This weekend will be the first test of your metal as a team, the outcome is in your hands. No one will ever doubt you if you give everything and fall short. If you give it your all, you will always walk off the field with your head held high.
We believe in Sodium. We believe in your ability, your spirit, your heart. And we know the sacrifices you've made and the pains you've endured. Whatever happens always know you are our champions.

You are the team. You are Sodium. If it is to be, it's up to me.

You will hear the battle cry: GO SODIUM!

[sorry if the biblical reference offended anyone]

QT Bracket Breakdown

2008-08-05T17:31:00.000-07:00

In case you were wondering, the answer is yes, I have too much time on my hands currently. That said, here is the bracket breakdown for QT's and a little history.

SSC Hotspur Friday, 8/8 @ 1pm.
Didn't make the semi's in the Oswego Nike Cup. Finished bracket with only 4 total points. had an 0/1/2 record with 4 goals for, 10 against.

Alameda NEU Fusion Friday 8/8 @ 4pm.
This is team is made up of the combination of Alameda SC and Hollywood SC. Finished 5th in the PCU Summer Classic with a 1/3/0 record. 4 goals for, 10 against. I believe this was a second tier tournament.

PCU Impact Saturday 8/9 @ 1pm.
Finished 2nd in the PCU Summer Classic. They were 2/1/1 with 12 goals for, 4 against. Don't be fooled, their bracket consisted of Alameda NEU Fusion, ESU Coventry and LOSC Harambee.

OSA Shock Saturday 8/9 @ 6pm.
OSA 'B' team behind our favorite Inferno team.

Salmon Creek Nemisis 95 Sunday 8/10 @ 10am.
Didn't make the semi's at Oswego Nike Cup. Finished bracket with 1 point. 0/2/1 record with 1 goal for and 6 against.

WSM Firestorm Sunday 8/10 @ 1pm.
WSM 'B' team behind our rival Strikers team.

This appears to be a relatively easy bracket at first glance. Never under estimate teams like Hotspur or Nemisis. Always be prepared to give 100% every time you take the field and we shouldn't have a problem. The QT's set the tone for the remainder of the season so we need to remain focused on the team in front of us and bring our 'A' game day in and day out. With everyone firing on all cylinders you are an unstoppable force. You can do amazing things when you put your mind to it. We have seen it and we believe.

Believe in yourself, believe in each other, believe in Sodium.

With tent in tow we yell: GO SODIUM!

Sodium pulls off a win!

2008-08-04T21:10:00.000-07:00

The lady warriors gave FC Platinum all they could handle in a 2-1 win Monday night in a tune up game before QT's. FC has 8 new players who are big and physical! Like Sodium, they lost a few, some moved down AND they have a new coach. I have a feeling they will be a much bigger threat once the dust settles.
Tom said he say some great things, and some not so good things in tonight's performance. From a bystanders standpoint I think they played well. Not great yet but well given they new players and coach.
Scoring was lead by Jadyn McMillan and Emmy Owens with Mac Kearney & Payten Sonnen keeping the pressure on all game. Keep shoot'n guys, they're going to fall soon!

Next Up: a little team bonding at the Coon's. Look to your inbox for details.

Great job ladies! GO SODIUM!

Sodium vs FC in a Friendly

2008-08-04T08:38:00.000-07:00

Die-hard Sodium fans know that anytime they take the field against FC it's anything but friendly! Remember ladies, they are going to be gunning for you. I'm sure they are still hurting from last years State Championship game!

Game Notes:
Forwards - FC's defense is technique & speed based. They are solid but if you get physical with them, they will crumble. If we attack them, put bodies on them and if you get an elbow or hip you give it right back, they will wear down quickly and get beat.
Defense - Elle & Mackenzie. We have seen them before. We need to set the tone early with big, physical, punishing play. We have held these two in check the last two times we played them but you know they can be dangerous. Double teams, body checks, elbows, throw the kitchen sink at them and they will be afraid to come into the area.

We can beat FC by sheer speed off the ball. We are faster at forward & midfield and bigger & stronger on defense. There is no doubt it's going to be a war out there tonight ladies, but the strongest will survive. You need to dig deep and make sure you give 100% every minute of every play. Leave it all on the field. This game will set the tone for QT's.

Bailey & Bethany will be there (I think) cheering you on and you know they wish they were right there beside their sisters battling FC.

It's a good day for a battle.

If it is to be, it's up to me.

We will all be yelling from the sidelines: GO SODIUM!

Great Day @ PCC

2008-08-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

Tom and Sodium had a great day of practice and scrimmage at PCC. Tom was in a penny and participating right along with the team. Coaching right from within the drill! Amazing. The girls really responded well to this 'Hands On' approach. They worked on several finishing drills that will really be needed as we head into a pre-season showdown with FC Portland Monday and then into QT's next weekend. During the scrimmage with Sapphire Tom would stop play in it's tracks, explain where and why a player should be in this position or that, then play would resume. A really great way to get the entire team involved and everyone listening. Sodium left practice pumped up and ready to take the field Monday.
Earlier this pre-season there were questions regarding Sodium's motivation and commitment this year. Girls seemed not be giving their best efforts at practice OR the games! I think todays practice invigorated them with a renewed spirit to give it their all!
This season will be what you make it Sodium. If you work hard to gel as a team, work hard on improving your game through commitment and dedication, then the sky's the limit!

"I've worked too hard and too long to let anything stand in the way of my goals. I will not let my teammates down and I will not let myself down."
~ Mia Hamm

Be the best you can be Sodium. Do it for yourself and your team. There are 14 girls that will have your back if they know you have theres. Be an example. Set a work ethic at practice and it will spill over into the games, guaranteed. You owe it to yourself and each other. Push yourself and your teammates to be the best. Every practice, every game, every day.

We need leaders to emerge this season lady warriors, who is it going to be? Who is going to step up and push the team to new heights? I realize it's not always the popular position but, then again, it's not a popularity contest. It's a vital position.
I've seem it happen and experienced it. You win a couple of State Championships and think you can relax. Think again. Tom brought up the point that to play Sodium is like playing in the World Cup. Every team we play is bringing their 'A' game. And if/when we lose, it should hurt. Take it personally ladies, remember; "If it is to be, it's up to me".

This team has remarkable players who have accomplished great things in their short careers. We are proud of you and look forward to watching you develop and grow in the coming years . Don't get discouraged. Know that if you give 100% you can always walk away with your head held high, regardless of the outcome. You are a great team with the potential to do amazing things. You have the support of parents and fans who love you and will be there for you always.

To an amazing team: GO SODIUM!

Next Up: FC Portland at 6PM on Monday. Field TBD

QT Bracket is 'live' and interactive

2008-07-28T16:49:00.000-07:00

Click the link to the right and you can visit the bracket. Because the site is interactive, when you get there you will have to click the 'Teams & Schedules' link to the left. Once there, click Girls link and you're there!

GO SODIUM!

Oswego Nike Cup - Day 2

2008-07-27T06:43:00.000-07:00

Sodium, Sodium, where forth art thou Sodium? - The early game.
Well, Sodium forgot to show up to play Three Rivers SC 95 Rage in the morning game. Allowing this very beatable team to advance to the Semifinals against OR Rush Nike. The first goal was a little confusing to those of us on the sidelines. To be honest, it looked like it just rolled in? Like some one had called a 'time out' and everyone was just standing there? Even the Three Rivers fans didn't applaud until Camille walked into the net the grab the ball. Definitely more research needs to be done on that one.
Three Rivers second goal was legit. Corner kick, scrum, instead of clearing it out to a side Sodium squirted it to an awaiting Three Rivers forward in front of the net and she blasted it in. Text book. I will say this, we didn't score but it wasn't for lack of trying! Sodium had shot after shot deflect off the cross-bar, the goalie, wide, our own players. You name it. But again, like years past, we have that early season curse of not being able to finish. Hopefully, with Toms guidance, we can break it early.

Awaken the giant - The late game
After a rather stern 'Pep Talk' from Tom after the early game, the lady warriors woke up and were hungry for a little revenge. In walks the lamb, WSA Crush. The flood gates opened early and often against the unsuspecting yet very determined Crush. Within the first 5 minutes Sodium have drawn first blood. Emmy Owens down the right side deep. Draws the defenders in, then a perfect cross to Hannah Lautenbach who rips the net! Emmy liked that one so much that about 10 minutes later she again found herself streaking down the right side. Wait, wait, now! boom, Emmy sends the cross to a crashing Elianna Beard who does a perfect one touch deflection to Marisa Reid for the score! Do we have a pattern developing here? You bet! But wait, the half isn't even close to being over. At the 3/4 mark of the first half Sodium was knocking on the WSA door. A drop back pass to Marisa who lofted the shot towards the net. Elianna was there in heavy traffic but heads a perfect pass to Emmy who heads it into the net! A double header! (sorry). With first half (yes, the first half) winding down Hannah stole the ball at midfield for a break-a-way, one on one goal to end the half. Sodium heads to the locker room with a 4-0 lead. After icing my thumbs from all the blackberry action in the first half, we were ready to roll for the second. Right out of the gate we had a corner kick. Hannah launched a perfect ball in front of the net, a little action followed and then Emmy, who said 'OK that's enough' ripped it into the net. Now, as defensive strategies go, I've never seen a team pull their defenders clear up to midfield in order to draw us offsides. But, there's still a lot of soccer left in these ladies. So, to combat this new defensive style, Sodium just didn't pass it so there were no offsides. Emmy took the ball at midfield and out ran the defenders and scored. Up next, the mid-fielders get into the action. Not to be out done, Laura Nguyen steals the ball and streaks the length of the half to score. And, to put the icing on the cake, Laura Camp out of nowhere, bursts out of the pack on a break-a-way and scores! Sodium started putting the defenders at forwards, starting with Lexi Frey, but time just ran out. Wow, we haven't had an outing like that in some time. Last tally, Sodium 8, WSA Crush 1.

Game Notes:
You can tell when the lady warriors smell blood. An aggressive Sodium team had at least 17 off-sides calls against them that we counted. I'm sure there were more and I'm sure there were a few that didn't get called. Also, as the game progressed the frustrated Crush team started throwing a few extra elbows, hips and whatever. Past Sodium teams would have returned the favor 10 fold. But, as a class act, we just found more ways to find the net. Mac Kearney took an elbow in the mouth and Payten Sonnen went down late with an ankle injury. Both walked away and are expected to return at full strength.

Up Next: Practice and Scrimmage August 2nd then QT starts the following weekend.

GO SODIUM!

Oswego Nike Cup - Day 1

2008-07-25T22:02:00.000-07:00

The lady warriors took on familiar rival OSA Inferno in the first game of the tournament. The only real bright spots were the defensive play of rookie Lexi Frey and Erika Cook. The forwards attacked the goal all game but just couldn't get the ball in the net. Sodium dominated the play on offense, the defense played well with the exception of one momentary breakdown. Overall I would say they played well. The inabilty to finish has plagued Sodium for several years, but, given how early it is in the season, I wouldn't panic. These girls are quality players and when the excitement of the new season/players/coach wears off, they will settle into the "Sodium Style" of play we have witnessed in the past and have grown to love.

Next Up: vs Three Rivers 95 Rage (beat WSA Crush 7-1) at Lake Oswego H.S. Grass @ 9:40am.

GO SODIUM!

Late breaking tournament news

2008-07-25T09:36:00.001-07:00

Sodium is officially playing in the Chinook Cup. August 21 - 24th. More details to follow.

GO SODIUM!

The scoop on WSA Crush

2008-07-24T07:46:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by our very own Sheri Lautenbach (thank you detective Lautenbach!)

The edited version;

{ WSA is the new combined name. (By combined I mean Camas / Washougal
Soccer club which was strictly Rec and the next step up we
call "Select".) Camas/Washougal merged with FC Vancouver who was strictly a
"Premier" club (another step above select). They / we are now called WSA
(Washington Soccer Academy). We now are all levels of soccer from rec to
premier. The Crush is actually a very good "select" team U-13. At
U-13 girls they have 2 premier level teams "Courage" and "Eclipse", and 1
select team, "Crush" }

So, there you have it. The WSA Crush is one step below a 'Premiere' team.

Hope that clears it up, see everyone tomorrow.

And remember to shout: GO SODIUM!

Sodium's influence runs deep

2008-07-21T17:11:00.000-07:00

Last weekend down in Southern California there was a little soccer tournament going on, the FC Slammer Summer Classic. In the semifinal game of the U13 Premier division two teams met. A team Sodium knows from Regionals named FC Slammers. The other team, West Coast FC United, is comprised of two starters from our own team, Bailey and Bethany Hall. That day the twins were victorious against the Slammers with Bethany (that's right, Bethany) scoring the winning goal with a header. That was outstanding in its own right but it's what happened after the game that was truly miraculous. At mid-field the twins turned to the Slammer bench and proclaimed; "This is for Sodium!"

The look on the players, and parents, faces told them that they remember. They remember the 'War in Waikiki' when a group of girls from Oregon showed them that they knew a thing or two about soccer. And that for a brief half, these girls were on top of the world.

Remember that when you take the field this weekend lady warriors. That the Sodium influence runs deep. Girls from other clubs as well as your own look up to you and know how great you are. Take pride when you take the field, take pride in victory, take pride you are Sodium.

GO SODIUM!

WSA Crush

2008-07-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

This all could find out so far from the blogosphere;

"SodiumFan-
It is either FCV B team or a Select team from that club which is a WSA Club now."

Will post as soon as I find out more.

GO SODIUM!

Oswego Nike Cup Notes

2008-07-16T17:06:00.000-07:00

As it stands currently Sodium has drawn a good bracket for the Oswego Nike Cup.

OSA Inferno - Never given Sodium any problems. They were 3-5-6 in regular season, in Spring ball they were 1-5-1 and in State Cup 1-2-0.

Three Rivers SC95 Rage - They just played in the Crossfire tournament and ended up 1-2-0. They lost to WSM Strikers and NW National GU95 Red. They beat FCV Courage.

WSA Crush - I can't find any information on this squad so far. I will post when I do.

Looks like we may advance but that's why we play the games, anything can happen!

The girls are at United Camp this week and are having a blast!

GO SODIUM!

Crossfire ends on a high note

2008-07-14T07:01:00.000-07:00

Sundays 1-0 victory against the host Crossfire Premiere Black team proved to be a great game on a couple different levels;
1) The girls were patient. The winning goal was scored with under 5 minutes remaining.(Again! Can you say Cardiac Kids!)
2) They never gave up. Even though in the second half the majority of play was in our half, the Sodium team stayed focused and took advantage of opportunities.
3) The girls showed commitment. Taylor Coon was back after missing the first two games due to illness. Camille Fairbairn was in goal and was sick all morning along with Taylor Moscoe and I'm sure others who never said a word.
4) Sodium proved they know how to win. They wore down the Crossfire team and when the opportunity presented itself, they attacked.

I would have to say, when you saw Laura Camp's eyes light up when she saw Payten Sonnen on the far right side getting ready to sprint to goal, it was a thing of beauty. That pass, picture perfect cross field that lead Payten right into the box for a two touch rocket into the far corner of the net, reminded us all that we are Sodium. Several times during yesterdays match we saw signs, foreshadowing possibly, that when this team gels together, great things are going to happen. Triangle passes, give and go's, deflections. When the new additions (we'll call them the Fab 5) get into rhythm, watch out. You could see it Tom's eyes. That gleam a coach gets when he sees things he likes, when he sees potential in his team. Sodium didn't advance to the semi's because of a point differential, but they were there in so many other ways.

Great job Sodium!

The girls are back in Portland to rest Monday and will be attending the United Team Camp July 15th - 17th at Meadow Park Middle School.

Side Line Note: Our favorite WSM Striker team went down in flames 9-0 to NW Nationals Red to end their tournament with 1pt.

Next Up: Lake Oswego Tournament @ Lake Oswego. July 25th - 27th. No need to get Sodium fired up for this weekend given their history with LO!

GO SODIUM!

Sodium Falls to Tough Eastside Squad

2008-07-13T07:47:00.000-07:00

Sodium met with a tough little Eastside squad in the afternoon game Saturday. It was a hard-fought game with the majority of the action in the Sodium end. Hats off to Camille Fairbairn who had an outstanding game in goal. To only allow 2 goals was quite an accomplishment considering the amount of shots.
Sodium needs to fire up. We came out flat in the afternoon game and never regain composure as Eastside took it to us. We need to attack the ball instead of waiting to see what is going to happen. Eastside beat us to the ball every time and won most of the 50/50 balls.
After the game Tom spoke about work ethics, about leaving it on the field and crawling off after the game. We need to get that fire back, to play "Sodium Style" of hard hitting attacking soccer. Not the tentative, re-active game we saw this afternoon. We play the Crossfire Black team next. They are first place in the bracket by accident really. They are a "B" team to the Red squad we played Saturday afternoon. In a fluke they beat the Red squad in the morning. They tied the Eugene team we beat in their second game. This is a situation Sodium has faced many times in the past. Win and move on, lose and go home. This is a beatable team. If we can dominate them and rack up a few goals and hold them to none or one, we could take sole posession of first place or the 'Wild Card' slot.

Sodium doesn't play on its heals, it attacks teams. Sodium brings their "A" game every time they touch the field. Heart, passion, dedication and hard work is what has brought this team victory in the past and will continue to bring it success in the future. The current crew needs to regroup and focus on what it takes to be a team. Team Defense, team offense and a team attitude. Just because we had some players leave, doesn't mean the fire has left with them.

15 girls, 60 minutes, 100%. THAT, lady warriors, is what it is going to take.

Next up: Crossfire Premiere 95 Black @ 2pm.

GO SODIUM!

Sodium stops Magic at Crossfire

2008-07-12T15:05:00.000-07:00

The lady warriors showed what they were made of this morning as they beat the Magic from Eugene FC in the Crossfire opener. Right out of the gate Sodium administered the "Score early and often" tactic as Hannah Lautenbach chipped one in from the 18 yard mark for the early lead. Eugene wouldn't give up as they squeaked one past Camille Fairbairn to tie the score mid-way through the second half. As seasoned veterans always do, Sodium kept there cool and the ball in the Magic end. Pounding and pounding the goal box with shot after shot. On two separate occasions the Magic goalie was completely out of position but despite Sodium throwing the kitchen sink at it, the ball would not go in. With just 4 minutes left in the game Sodium drove deep down the right side. The ball was dished to Taylor Moscoe who placed a perfect cross to a diving Hannah Lautenbach for her second score and the game winner!! The girls looked crisp and are playing really well. Elianna Beard made her debut at midfield and did a great job.

Next up: Eastside FC 95 Red @ 5pm - Field 5

GO SODIUM!

Sodium expands by 2 players

2008-07-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

The invitations were accepted by both Lexi Frey and Elianna Beard to join the Sodium team. Welcome aboard!
The team is shaping up quite well after the exodus of a few key players from last years squad. Lexi, a defender, and Elianna, a midfielder [I believe], will be just what the lady warriors need to get back to championship form. Crossfire has proven to be a tough test for Sodium but I think with the new 'Run & Gun' offense Tom has introduced, we may fair better than in years past. Sodium is certainly faster than the last two years so we should really put defenses to the test.

See everyone tonight!

GO SODIUM!

Preparation

2008-07-08T19:39:00.001-07:00

The Sodium team begain preparation for the Crossfire tournament this afternoon. Today marks the first real practice of the 08-09 team. With spirits high and the addition of a potential new teammate, the lady warriors had a great workout. Alexis Frey, from Eugene, joined the teams paractice as a potential member of the two time state champion. Initial reaction is that Alexis would be a great addition to the team and we would welcome her with open arms should she decide to join the Sodium squad.

Until next time.

GO SODIUM!

Team

2008-07-01T16:24:00.000-07:00

~ 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.

If it is to be, it's up to me.

GO SODIUM!

Notable Quotes

2008-07-01T07:18:00.000-07:00

As the season is just beginning I had a couple people ask me about posting some quotes and people send me some great ones (Thanks Kristina!). So, I pulled some from last year and added some new ones. Hope you like them.

"If you don't think you're a winner, you don't belong here."
"Winning is not a some time thing, it's an all the time thing. You don't do things right once in a while, you do them right all the time."
"The harder you work, the harder it is to surrender."
~ Vince Lombardi

"The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital."
~ Joe Paterno

"Practice as if you are the worst, play as if you are the best."
~ unk

"The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don't play together, the team won't be worth a dime."
~ Babe Ruth

"I am a member of a team, and I rely on the team, I defer to it and sacrifice for it, because the team, not the individual, is the ultimate champion."
~ Mia Hamm

"Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships."
~ Michael Jordan

"Sodium never lost a soccer game, they just ran out of time."
~SodiumFan

"You ain't seen nothing yet!"
~Bachman Turner Overdrive

"If it is to be, it's up to me."
~ Sodium 2007 & 2008 State Champions, Regionals

Looking forward to a great season.

GO SODIUM!

United Cup Exposes Areas of Opportunity

2008-06-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

The United Cup this weekend exposed some areas of opportunity for Sodium. The term 'Team defense' was heard in the Sodium huddle as well as lessons about possession, control and communication. This United Cup proved to be a learning experience. Girls playing different positions, different combinations of players.
Friday: The lady warriors came out a little flat on Friday morning. The 8 day lay-off was evident. Sodium came up short in the 3-2 loss to Esu Arsenal at Gutherless Park. Passing, communication and hustle were a little lacking. Hannah Lautenbach scored within the first minute to give Sodium the early lead. Arsenal scored 3 unanswered goals before Emmy Owens scored on a Hannah assist.
Saturday: (Day)
As was true most of last season, when Sodium tastes defeat, the next team they play falls hard. Thus was the story against Clackamas Elite. A 7-0 spanking was the result. The scoring was led by Emmy Owens (4) Mac Kearney (1), Jadyn McMillan (1) and Marisa Reid (1). What can I say, the play was contained to the Elite side of the field all game.
Saturday: (Evening)
When a player defects to another club it always creates a rivalry. Thus is the case with WSM Strikers. To add to the fire, it was rumored that some of the WSM parents were running their mouths about how Sodium was, "Going down!" at the hands of the Strikers. Open mouth, insert foot. The lady warriors didn't need much more motivation than that to give the WSM team a good old fashioned beating. Sodium dominated them from the opening whistle. Emmy Owens scored on an assist from Bailey Hall to open the game. Laura Nguyen scored off a Bailey Hall corner kick and late in the game Payten Sonnen added the icing on the cake when she slid in and finished a Katherine Kramer cross in major league fashion!
Sunday:
Normally, you don't have to motivate Sodium to play Lake Oswego. Today, someone forgot to. Down 2-0 at half, Sodium had to scramble. On a feed from Hannah Lautenbach, Emmy Owens once again found the back of the net to bring the lady warriors to within one. A tie was just not in the stars as LO fired in 3 more goals before an alert Laura Camp chipped a shot from 20-yards that found the upper part of the net. Tom moved the "Big Kahuna" line-up putting Bailey and Bethany Hall at forward with Emmy. As with other times they have shown this or a similar set, Sodium pushed the LO defense back on their heels and into the 6-yard box. For the final score, Bethany found Payten streaking down the right side where she rifled it in. Minutes later the whistle blew and an irritated Sodium marched off the field with a 5-3 loss.

Game Notes:
Hates off and Thank You go to Erika Cook and Taylor Moscoe for stepping up and going out of position to play goalie. You girls did a great job under the circumstances and can leave the field with your heads held high. No other player could have done a better job and no one else on the team rose up to take the challenge. Thank you.
Also, we saw Laura Camp and Laura Nguyen play some mid-field, Bailey & Bethany Hall, Taylor Coon and Erika play forward and an assortment of other position shifts. I will admit, when we have the "Big Kahuna" line-up in, they are pretty intimidating!

After the last game Tom circled the team and parents. He spoke of not being disappointed but more irritated with the loss. He touched on the positives that came from this weekend and that the girls need to put this behind them, work hard and focus on the areas of improvement.

"Every team we play, it's going to be like their World Cup" was the quote from Tom. No truer words were spoke.

Next Up: Cross Fire Tournament - July 12th thru 14th in Seattle

"If it is to be, it's up to me"

GO SODIUM!

...fade to Black

2008-06-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

The lady warriors are taking a well deserved layoff before United Cup to heal sunburns and bruised egos from Regionals. The schedule has been posted for this weekend:

Friday 6/27 - 9:30AM vs ESU Arsenal @ REC #3 - This team should be fired up since Sodium beat them in the first round of the 2008 State Cup.

Saturday 6/28 - 11:00AM vs Clackamas Elite @ Gutherless - Can't find anything on this team.

Saturday 6/28 - 5:00PM vs WSM Strikers @ REC #3 - A little history here. They now have Dayna Carlson and the last time we beat them was on 11/17/07 during State Cup. Sodium should be highly motivated against this squad.

Sunday 6/29 - Possible Semifinals @ 8:00AM - Field TBD

Sunday 6/29 - Possible Semifinals @ 2:00PM - Field TBD

The new season is upon us, if we can get fired up, bring our "A" games and stay focused on our execution, we should do just fine with the new line-up and Tom at the helm.

GO SODIUM!