Game 2 Re-Cap and a Few Coach Ramblings of Gratitude

While the outcome of the game wasn't in our favor, there definitely were some positive moments that I want to highlight.

Passing:
I have particularly pleased with the team's improved passing and ability to trust each other, send beautifully timed passes in appropriate striking lanes and the composure each player had in the face of pressure to make a good pass. Most of our goals were assisted by well played passes.

Challenges:
You'll notice that play at this age group has dramatically crossed over into physical aggression and hard challenges. Go figure. Hormones. Growth. Strength. How can the play not be physical. While some tried hard to pick up a card (eh hem, Austin), most challenges were clean and full of exuberance and great effort. In air challenges were exciting and well timed. Ground challenges were clean and successful.

Sportsmanship:
Something I take great pleasure in each game is our team's overall sportsmanship and each players contribution to a positive experience. While many teams we encounter use foul language, oppressive slurs and jibes, our team maintains an honorable decorum that should make any parent grateful. I especially am grateful I do not have to speak with players about this during games and see a huge difference in the way referees (that aren't deaf, right Ben?) respond to our players. Classy bunch of players!

Faith:
Lastly I want to comment on the faith of our players in each other and a higher power. While we all may not worship in the same way, we each exhibit a faith that keeps us motivated and striving for an improved life. Whether the manifestation of our faith is trying hard on the field and trusting each player will do his part, or believing that God will grant us the safety to play to our abilities, it is the same. I especially want to thank those that prayed for me last night at the onset of a kidney stone (confirmed). The pain, while dull in the beginning, usually takes over my being and I'm completely useless. Last night was the first time I successfully maintained enough poise to coach the game during the onset of the stone. During our prayer before the game, Dooley specifically asked, in faith, that I be healed and through the collective faith of our players and others, I was. The stone was passed this morning without incident and little discomfort.

While we may have been edged out of a victory last night, I can see many victories that were achieved and will yet to be achieved. Hang in there and keep faith alive. See you on Thurs for practice and Sat for another exciting game!