Happy Holidays!

Hoping everyone a happy and safe Holiday Season!

Here's to a 2011 filled with great competition, exiting opportunities and most of all, FUN!

GO SODIUM!!

Congratulations to Sodium Players

Congratulations to the '95 & '96 Sodium players who made the rosters (and alternates) for the Oregon ODP Regional Championships in Phoenix, AZ.

Best of luck representing Oregon!

GO OREGON!!



GO SODIUM!!

Great Story

As many of you know, I am a huge Green Bay Packer fan. Since I was 8 yrs old I watched the highs and lows of this team. From Bart Starr & Lynn Dickey to Brett Favre and now Aaron Rogers.
I studied not only the team, but the organization. They never cease to amaze and awe me with the sense of unity they instill in themselves and their community. This year I was blessed with my first (and probably my last) opportunity to visit the legendary Lambeau Field. It was a day beyond belief.

The story below is just one example of this teams commitment to the fans who love them. I wanted to share this with you before the Holidays. It was sent to me by a good friend and fellow Packer fan, John Coleman.

Subject: This is Green Bay ------PACKERLAND
This is from a friend who is a retired teacher and who is involved with the Boys & Girls Club. Someone from the Packer organization called a guy at the Boys & Girls Club and told him to bring 75 kids from the Boys and Girls Club to the new bowling alley in Howard and they would get soda, pizza and free bowling. They got a second call upping the amount of kids to100.
When they all got there, there were about 15 Packers players there to visit and bowl with them. When they were finished, all the kids were each given $100 to go to Shopko for Christmas shopping, accompanied by the Packer players. And it was all funded by Aaron Rodgers. There was no publicity, no television cameras. We are lucky to have him in Green Bay .

The true meaning of Christmas? I think so.

GO PACKERS!!

GO SODUM!!

Sunday Summary

In an early morning monsoon the Sodium squad faced Eastside FC 95 Red, the reigning Washington State Champion. Play was fast and furious as the rain crashed down and the wind howled around the lady warriors. Midway through the first half the FC forward took a deflection down the right side and let fly a rocket from 25 yards out. Luty took the shot in her sights, leaped, but was just unable to punch it clear as the shot squeaked in just under the far crossbar giving Eastside a 1-0 advantage. The 'Never Say Die' Sodium team kept the pressure throughout the first and into the second half. With just over 10 minutes remaining Willy ripped the ball to dead center top of the 18 yard box where a streaking McKayla headed the ball to a crashing Dani who found the far side net for the equalizer. Sodium kept the pressure throughout the remainder with several quality attempts. Time ran out and a hot shower awaited the soaked and cold team back at the hotel.

In a bizarre note, the Eastside team was awarded a free kick just outside the midfield circle, as the girls were setting up, a tent blew in from the other field and almost took Luty's head off! Play was stopped as she was attended to on the turf and the tent, shattered and mangled, was removed from the field. Luty rubbed her head, gave the thumbs up and play resumed. Never saw that one before.

Up Next;
Practice resumes next week then the club takes a break for Christmas and New Years. There will be a practice schedule for those players remaining in the vicinity who want to get in some training between meals.

Have a great Holiday Sodium faithful and we'll see you back here in 2011!

GO SODIUM!!

Game summary

Sodium let one slip away yesterday versus Northwest Nations. With a 1-0 at the begining of the second half Sodium let a National forward slip behind them for the equalizer. Towards the end the Nationals were awarded a free kick from the 20 yard line. The Sodium wall flinched and the shot deflected off them and past a diving Luty for a 2-1 Nationals victory.

Sodium faces Eastide FC this morning. More to come.

Go Sodium!!

@ Half

Sodium 1, Northest Nationals 0

Jadyn lofted a corner kick and Taylor C was there to rip it in!

More to come.

Go Sodium!!

oops

I was watching this game the other night (no, I really don't have a life) and a this strange goal happened. I get onto Yahoo in the morning and it's front page! Watch it here. Uh humm, Ms Luty, I don't expect to see this happen any time soon! LOL!!



Best of luck this weekend as Sodium heads North to Seattle to take on NW NAtionals and Eastside Red!!

GO SODIUM!!

Back to Black

Now that the high school season is behind us, and congratulations go out to Dani and Lexi from all of us, it's time to turn the attention back to the Sodium black. It's time to reminisce about playing up a year and winning the Cascade Cup. About mowing our way through Beaverton Cup and ending the local tournament season by defeating LOSC in their own tournament. Then off to an appearance in the finals at Mustang Fury. What a great run to end the season. What a great way to start this year.

The NWCL will start fast and furious with games on December 11th against Northwest Nationals 95 Red (Who we beat at Mustang in OT) and December 12th with Eastside FC 95 Red, the Washington State Champion, who we faced in US Club Regionals last year. These are very good teams and shouldn't be taken lightly. They will be taking the pitch with a vengeance. But this years talented Sodium squad will be a little different from the previous couple years. I have a feeling this years squad will more closely resemble the U12 team that won state with one exception, their skill level has greatly increased. The 2011 Sodium team possess more attitude, more tenacity and that in-your-face "Sodium Style" of play that accentuated the U12 season and carried the team to it's second state cup. Maybe it's the addition of Dani, McKayla and Willy that caused the girls to walk with a little more swagger. Maybe it's the confidence, the never back down attitude that Kerri brings that has ignited Sodium from within, or the force Julianna will add to the mix. Maybe it's the wily veterans who gained even more confidence from the high school season. Can you feel it? The solid rock players who have been the backbone for many years are all bigger, more experienced. I know the defense is itching to take the pitch. I know the forwards and midfielders can't wait to showcase their stuff. This talented class of freshman left nothing to the imagination as they had a huge impact on the local high school scene this year. And now it's time to get back to business.

I don't know about the rest of the Sodium faithful, but this fan can't wait until the lady warriors stride onto the pitch in Washington.

GO SODIUM!!

The 212 Project

At 211 degrees water is hot.

At 212 degrees water boils and creates steam.

And with steam, you can power a train.

One extra degree makes all the difference.

This would be a great theme for Sodium this year, work hard to elevate your game one degree and watch the train roll.


GO SODIUM!!

Sodium players in the news...

Found the following article on Oregonlive.com;

Jesuit 5, Centennial 0: Metro League leading scorer Annie Jonsson set up freshman Dani Brown on a through pass in the 17th minute to give the host Crusaders (15-0-2) the lead, and the Beaverton team rolled to the Class 6A second-round playoff victory over the visiting Eagles (9-2-5) of Gresham. 
 




GO SODIUM!!!

A little inspiration for the coming season

Click the 'Pause' on the player below right.

GO SODIUM!!

Sodium on the move...

Who said the players from Washington don't get "down & dirty"??

very nice Easton...

GO SODIUM!!

Impact Players

Sodium players across the map have been making an impact at the High School level.

Eli Beard controlling the play for St. Mary's.

Easton Kawawaki battles through traffic for Columbia River.











If you have photo's of your favorite Sodium player in High School action, don't hesitate to send them to me via email and I will post them.

GO SODIUM!!

Check out this video. People truly are awesome.

GO SODIUM!!

click the 'pause' on the music player to hear

The return of the Praying Mantis

Didn't Tom mention this particular move during the u13 season? I see SOME people have been practicing! LOL!

Can you feel it.........

Now that the high school season is half over I've heard from many of the girls that, even though they are having fun, they are getting antsy to don the black and get back to Sodium. This season has been fun. A time to 'hang loose', to play wild and free and not really worry about silly things like whistles, yellow cards or red cards! LOL! But mainly it's about keeping your skills sharp, making new friends, playing under the lights and representing your school. Oh the memories...

October 24th starts the first Sunday practices which will run through November.

November 18th - first Sodium team dinner @ McMillans.

Can you feel the excitement in the air? Can you feel the energy quietly building? I know the girls can. They are itching to get back on the pitch and start to train. To push each other and themselves. To take their games to the next level. To defend their titles and fight for new ones. This year is going to be something special. I use the term 'Epic' on occasion. But that is the only word I can think to describe what this 2011 season will be about. The talent on this team will be rivaled by none. The tenacity, the willingness to sacrifice, the heart and fire in these players will drive this team to new levels of greatness. The bond these girls have will pull and push each and every one of them to heights even they didn't know they were capable of.

Can you feel it....  

GO SODIUM!!

And as with every great team there is going to be turnover. Sadly, at the end of last season we saw several of our friends leave to embark on new journeys, to open new chapters in their lives. To those girls you will always remain lady warriors. Thank you for the sacrifices you made, the tears, the victories and the memories. Thank you for making the legend that is Sodium what it is today. You will always have a spot on our bench and in our hearts.

Awesome Goal

OK, so maybe Sodium fans can get rowdy on occasion, but as you watch this video clip of an incredible shot from almost midfield, listen to the crowd. Classic.




GO SODIUM!!

Start early and often....

Laura found a great article that, as we get closer to college showcases, seems to fit into the scheme of things.

Link to ESPN article


GO SODIUM!!

Amazing Goal

This goal was scored by a 17 year old (Only 2 years older than our girls) in the U17 Woman's World Cup Semi's.





GO SODIUM!!

Sodium Players Make The News

Check out this link in the Valley Times. Can you spot all the Sodium players named?

Click here for the article.


GO SODIUM!!

Stay Strong,

Stay True,

Because in the end,

it all comes down to you......


Never give up. Never back down. Never lose faith.


GO SODIUM!!

Don't celebrate too soon...

Always play to the final whistle....

More fun from Westview

Taking time to ham-it-up is always a priority!


Go Cats!

For the Players

For most, the 2010 high school soccer season starts tonight. For some, it started Tuesday night. I want to reach out to the players and give them a couple words to think about.

I know you guys worked your butts off to get here. I know the sacrifices you make to be the best at the sport you love. The beautiful game.
The 2010 freshman class is a very special class indeed and every team you are a part of is fortunate to have you. Not only for the talent you possess but for the contagious work ethic you bring. For your ability to light a fire under your teammates when the chips are down. For the never give up, never back down, never lose faith attitude you instill in your team. Tonight may be the first time you will take the field in a different color. Regardless, we know you will give nothing less than everything you have for your team. For we know your roots run deep.

We will be there with each and every Sodium player. If not in the stands, in your hearts. We know that no matter what color you wear, red, purple, orange, blue or white, underneath you are true to black. So when you take the field tonight or in the future, look across the pitch, chances are you will see a teammate warming up. Give her a wave or a hug.
Because we all know what happens when the whistle blows.....

Have an outstanding season lady warriors.

Behind the lights and in the background of all the screaming students, you will faintly hear the whisper of your loyal fans; GO SODIUM!!

Players (Sunset)

Emmy scores the first goal of the 2010 season, as a Freshman!

Taylor rocks a free kick towards the goal

Luty stops the only shot on goal all day

If any Sodium parents want to send me photos of players (with captions), I will gladly post them.

GO SODIUM!!

Sodium makes an impact on High School teams

Following are links to High School schedules where you can find Sodium players. Great job lady warriors!

Sam Barlow High School (1)
Beaverton High School (1)
Columbia River High School (1) (.pdf)
Grant High School (1)
Jesuit High School (2)
Sandy High School (1) (.pdf)
St. Mary's Academy (1)
Sunset High School (4)
West Salem High School (1)
Westview High School (5)


Best of luck to Aliyah Chance who will be in her 8th grade year. You ROCK girl!

Check the schedules to see when/if these teams play each other and come out and cheer on the lady warriors as they don their school colors and do battle on the pitch!

GO SODIUM!!

Nikki

Don't forget to send a "Friend Request" to Nikki on facebook. I'm sure it gets awfully lonely in Idaho without her favorite team to cheer her on.

GO SODIUM!!

GO NIKKI!

ODP Rosters Announced

Congratulations to those chosen for this years ODP pool.

'95 Pool;
Taylor C
McKayla C

'96 Pool;
Eli B
Willy
Jadyn M
Lexi F
Mac
Aliyah C
Dani B

And a huge "Thanks" goes out to all who tried out. We recognize your efforts and hard work and look forward to seeing you out there next year. (I know a couple players who it took many, many tryouts before they made the pool.)

Heads up and remember; Never Give Up. Never Back Down. Never Lose Faith.

GO SODIUM!!

A little R&R

I suppose you are all wondering what exactly Sodium players do when they are not playing soccer?

Just ask Jadyn, Payten, Taylor and Emmy.

Nice job ladies.

GO SODIUM!! or weird funky clowns or whatever.. *)

Mustang Wrap Up

Wow, what a weekend. Sodium proved, without a doubt, they are the premiere U15 team in the state of Oregon and beyond. These tough as nails warriors battled the Santa Rosa team down to the wire and, with the help of two blown calls in a row, ended up taking home the second place trophy. A great accomplishment for a great team.
When you get to the 6th game in three days with temperatures hovering around the 90's, all you have left is heart, desire and adrenalin. You are tired. Your legs are spent. But you press on. Sodium never backed down, never gave up and never lost faith. Even after the blown call gave Santa Rosa a PK and a 2-1 lead Sodium seemed to ratchet up the intensity. They knew what had to be done and who was going to step up. Tom shifted the formation to push all the heavy artillery up front. Taylor and Payten flanked Luty on defense and all eight remaining pushed, pounded and attacked the Santa Rosa team. A break-a-way went high, another off the post. In the last 3 minutes Sodium compile more shots on goal than in the entire game. In the end, it would prove that on that day, that Sodium will have another tournament in their horizon to shoot for. When the final whistle blew there was nothing left. It had all been left on the field. Several players laid down, too spent to make it the bench. Others staggered over and poured water down their heads. You just couldn't have asked them for anything more.

Heads up Sodium, you should be proud of your team and of yourselves. What an outstanding way to end the summer tournament season, winning 3 of 4 tournaments.

Remember this weekend as you forge forward into high school seasons and tryouts. You will be on the winning side of many, many more games, many many more tournaments.

Best of luck at both Club and High School tryouts. Your loyal fans will be here when you return.

From the bleachers of the local high schools, proud Sodium fans will yell: GO [insert High School]!!!

[Note] By "blown call" above, I was referring to the corner kick that lead to the handball. The handball itself was unlucky.

Sodium plays for Mustang Championship!

Sodium defeated NW Nationals in OT 1-0 to advance to the Mustang Stamede U15 Championship.

Sodium will take on Santa Rosa from California at 2:30pm today.

GO SODIUM!!

Sodium advances to Mustang Semi's

Sodium handed their Eastern Oregon rivals a 2-0 defeat in the quarterfinal match of Mustang Stampede last night. After an hour delay in starting the game the Sodium squad came out fired up to prove a point. Early in the match Lexi delivered a corner kick that Emmy tried to finish. The deflection found Easton in the box and a 1-0 Sodium lead! That score held through half time.
The second half found Sodium with several free kick attempts. Late in the second half Lexi lined up her third attempt from about 22 yards out. On the sidelines the fans were hoping she would go for the net because it was well within her range. Lexi lined it up, let it rip and the ball sailed past the keeper into the upper far post net! The fans went wild! The lady warriors smelled a victory and for the last 5+ minutes produced a relentless attack on the Rush goal. Time ran out and place went wild!

On the lower field NW Nationals (WA) were giving Mustang Fury (Far West Regional Champions) all the could handle. In PK's the Nationals pulled out a victory and will meet Sodium in the SemiFinals this morning at 9:30am.

It has been a great journey and it's about to get even better! 4 down, 2 to go!

Never back down. Never give in. Never lose faith.

with voices horse from yelling, the Sodium faithful scream: GO SODIUM!!

Mustang Stampede Update

Sodium split the first day of competition in Mustang Stampede with a 4-1 victory over San Juan Spirits 96 and a 1-1 tie with D Anza Force 95G Blue. The second day we opened with a 0-0 tie against PVSC but it was good enough to boost them into first place and on to the quarterfinals. Here's the details;

vs San Juan Spirits 96
Right out of the gate Sodium scored on a Lexi free kick that was deflected by Aliyah to Erika for the opener. Moments later Erika found a streaking Emmy with a long lead pass. Emmy two touched and found the net past the diving keeper for a 2-0 Sodium lead after only 5 minutes.
The Spirits got on the board after a corner kick was deflected into the net past the Sodium defense to make it 2-1.
just before half Lexi lined up another free kick from 25 yards. The ball was deflected and found Erika's feet where she promptly ripped the back of the net for a 3-1 Sodium lead at half.
with about 8 minutes left in the match the ball again found its way into the San Juan 6 yard box where a crashing Emmy ripped the back of the net for the 4th and final goal giving Sodium a 4-1 opening victory.

vs De Anza Force 95G Blue
This game was the tail of two halves. The first half the lady warriors and Force were locked in a matched dominated by midfield play. De Anza kept Sodium's defense very busy as Taylor Luty came up huge many times. Before half Sodium took the lead as Aliyah drove inside the box and found the far corner! Half found the team from Oregon nursing a 1-0 lead.
Late in the second half Force lined up for a free kick from left side. The kick crossed the front of the goal and was controlled by an unmarked Force forward. She popped a chip up and just over the outstretched arms of Taylor for the tying score.
With minutes left Ei lined up a corner kick. With wind at her back Eli chipped a perfect shot. Lexi, in a crowed, lept above the rest to get a head on Eli's ball. The header bounced off the crossbar and out of the box as the Sodium players crashed in. The ended deadlocked at 1 each

vs PVSC Exiles Black G95
Sodium played this squad very hard and towards the end of regulation the lady warriors found their stride and peppered the Exiles keeper. Nonetheless, the score ended 0-0.

De Anza ended up losing 1-0 to San Juan and thus Sodium, on points, advanced as the #1 seed in their bracket.

Next Up
Quarter Finals = 6:45 vs "The Beast From The East" Oregon Rush U15G Nike.

From the sidelines of the Mustang Valley Soccer Complex we will all yell: GO SODIUM!!

Mustang update

After defeating San Juan 4-1 Sodium faced De Anza and tied 1-1. In todays action Sodium is tied 0-0 at half against PVSC. Winner advances to quarterfinals.

Go Sodium!

Mustang Update

Sodium up 3-1 over San Juan Spirits at half. Eli Beard labeled "Reckless".

More to come.

Go Sodium!!

A great Message

In HS football this period of time, between summer workouts and the starting of school practice, is called dead week. A time to get ready for school, heal wounds and mend soreness.

This week the new Sunset High School coach, a longtime friend and former coach, Faustin Riley, sent this video to the players. The song by Kenny Chesney that accompanies the video is called 'Boys of fall' but I thought it was appropriate as Sodium heads into the last Summer tournament and then the girls thoughts turn toward High School. Watch it, and I won't believe any of you dads who played football if you tell me it didn't stir up some deep emotions.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

Pause the music at the lower right to listen to the audio.

Best of luck this weekend lady warriors!

GO SODIUM!!

How Sweet It Is!!

This photo says it all. Any questions?

Sodium Captures 2010 Oswego Nike Cup

In the morning SemiFinal game Sodium was firing on all cylinders again. As play commenced Easton found herself closing on a ball in the 18-yard box. As the GRFC keeper came out and dove Easton alertly drilled the ball into her. The deflection was ripped into the net by Aliyah for a 1-0 Sodium lead. The lady warriors never looked back. Just before half Lexi punched a long lead pass to Emmy who was flashing right up the middle of the field. Emmy flat out beat the defender and ripped the net to make it 2-0 Sodium at the intermission.
In the second half we witnessed more of the same. Hannah had the ball just inside the 18 box where she reversed around her defender and blasted a shot just inside the far post! Sodium up 3-0. Next McKayla poked a beautiful lead pass to Marisa who finished it perfectly! Sodium up 4-0. Just before the closing whistle Marisa found Eli just outside the 18 where she found the back of the net to give Sodium a 5-0 win! Both the VUSA Timbers and LOSC Extreme were watching this game from the side. I wonder what was going through their minds.......

The afternoon Championship pitted rivals LOSC Extreme and Sodium. Readers Digest version, these teams do not like each other at all. Period.
Todays match was a typical performance for these teams. Extremely hard fought, physical, low scoring, defensive battles. It was back and forth all game with both Bella (LOSC) and Taylor making outstanding saves. Hats off to the Sodium defense for averting some enormous LOSC offensive attacks. Whether it was Taylor L diving, recovering and diving again to make another save, or Taylor C rushing into the box and blasting the ball out of the net a couple times. Great job defense! At the end of regulation the score was locked 0-0 and we were on to 2 x 5 minute overtimes. at the end of the first overtime Sodium was attacking the LOSC goal once again. Emmy was driving deep down the right side where just before the end line she ripped a cross curving away from the LOSC keeper and right into a crashing Aliyah who finished it into the net as the crowd erupted! The next 5 minute OT found Sodium playing conservative, keeping the ball at the Extreme end of the pitch and running the clock out and claiming the Championship!

From the Sidelines
After a slow start it was great to see Sodium finish the tournament strong. A well deserving few days off await to recharge, heal injuries and get fired up for Mustang Stampede in Cali.

"Great Job" goes out to the entire roster as each player played with passion, determination and desire to bring home the hardware.

Never give up. Never back down. Never lose faith.

GO SODIUM!!

LO Cup Half Time Update

0-0 with Sodium unable to capitalize on multiple opportunities.

More to come.

Go Sodium!!

Sodium advances to finals

Sodium put together a great effort in defeating GRFC 5-0 this morning.

LOSC is currently playing VUSA Timbers to see who will face Sodium in the championship.

I will post details later today.

Go Sodium!!

Nike Oswego Cup Update

Day two proved to be full of surprises. The game against VUSA Timbers was strange indeed. Sodium, after outscoring their opponents 35 to 5 in the Cascade and Beaverton Cups, can't seem to find the net. It certainly wasn't for lack of effort or opportunity. It was a hard fought match that ended 0-0.

In other bracket action:
Eugene 1 vs VUSA Timbers 2
ESUFC 0 vs LOSC 2
LOSC 0 vs GRFC 1
FC Portland 1 vs ESUFC 0
Eugen 1 vs Westsound 1

Sunday Semi-Finals
GRFC vs Sodium
VUSA vs LOSC

Final @ 1pm

From the sideline
As I posted in the Beaverton Cup, never underestimate your opponent. Just ask LOSC. They were joking and singing on the sidelines before their match with GRFC. And look what happened.
Sodium can not take anything for granted tomorrow. From here on out it's win or go home. Nothing but 100% will be accepted. It's time to make history Sodium, time to set your sites on what it will take to win 3 consecutive tournaments.

It is time to make your move Sodium.

Never give up. Never back down. Never give in.

GO SODIUM!!

Nike Oswego Cup Update

The morning match against EMFC Magic proved to be just what was expected, a hard fought battle. The keepers barely touched the ball as the mids controlled the play. The contest ended locked at 0-0 and each team receiving 1 pt.

The afternoon game against Westsound 95 Cullip turned out a little more Sodium Style. The first half was back and forth, each team feeling out the competition, looking for a weakness. Sodium had a couple just wide and off the frame and right before the intermission Emmy pushed hard into the box and poked a great pass to Lexi who had crashed hard from her defensive spot. Lexi finished it in fine fashion as the whistle blew for break just a minute later. In the most bizarre moment, just after the half whistle blew, the Westsound coach stormed the AR arguing that Lexi was offsides. He was so aggressive that ref had to stand between the two and direct the coach back to his bench and team. During the half you could tell, by watching the body language, that Coach Tom was giving the lady warriors a stern 'pep talk'. Well, it worked.
Sodium came out with a little more fire and purpose. minutes in Sodium again was on the attack and it found Dani dishing to Mac in the box who drew two defenders, tapped the ball back to Dani who ripped a cross at the far post. Emmy came flying in to finish it past the keeper and notch Sodium's second goal. The attack didn't let up until the end. Just before the final whistle Dani took the ball at midfield and dropped a heads up pass to Mac who streaked the remaining 20 yards and found the net for the final goal making it 3-0.

Next Up
11:45am Sodium vs VUSA Timbers G95 Red

This game will be a must win for Sodium in order to advance. If they can gel as they did in the last two tournaments, there shouldn't be a problem. I will post the points standings after todays game.

Never give up. Never back down. Never lose faith.

GO SODIUM!!

Nike Oswego Cup Schedule

The schedule is posted;

Friday, 7/23/10 - 10:30am at Alder Creek MS Turf #1. Sodium vs Eugene Metro FC (Magic)
Anyone who has followed Sodium knows the rivalry between these clubs. I wouldn't really call it a rivalry, more of a friendship. These teams have played each other since U11 and the players have developed a great friendship off the pitch. They guest play for one another, have sleepovers, Facebook etc. But on the field, oh boy watch out. Last years LO Cup found Eugene the victor, a fact none of the Sodium squad has forgotten. The lady warriors will looking to settle the score with a vengeance... Then it's off the PeachWave for frozen yogurt together! LOL!

Friday, 7/23/10 - 2:1pam at Alder Creek MS Turf #1. Sodium vs Westsound 95 Cullip (WA)
Last month at US Club Regionals LO beat these guys 6-1. They had 0 wins, 1 loss, 2 ties for 2 points. Last year they won LO Cup by beating Placer United from Cali. So, I think Sodium will need to bring their "A" game to advance.

Saturday, 7/24/10 - 10:30am at Alder Creek MS Turf #1. Sodium vs VUSA 95 Timbers Red
The Washington site, wsysa.com is down, so as soon as it comes up I will fill in more info on both the Washington teams.

Keep checking back.

GO SODIUM!!

Beaverton Cupdate

Friday, 7/16/10 vs PCU Impact @ REC # 3. 8:00pm kickoff
Sodium has always played PCU teams tough, this was no exception. The scoring began early with Aliyah driving down the right side and finding Mac in the box for the finish. 1-0. Within minutes Hannah, working on her favorite left side, drove a perfect cross to McKayla who ripped the net for a 2-0 Sodium lead. The relentless pressure continued as the was alertly pass back where Kelly was waiting. From about 33 yards Kelly wound up and found the top of the net. Sodium was rolling to a 3-0 advantage. Just before intermission Kelly found Eli open at the 20 yard line. Eli found the net and Sodium found themselves up 4-0. After the break the onslaught continued. Emmy down the right was looking for some to cross to, when no one showed, Emmy showed the keeper she can score too! She found the top left corner to make it 5-0. Emmy again took the ball deep where she fond McKayla muscling a defender out of the way. McKayls broke loose and popped in the 6th! Late in the match an Impact forward lofted a ball from about 22 yards out just over the 72" frame of Sodium keeper Taylor Luty. The lady warriors brushed that off when Lexi launched a corner kick which was deflected by Taylor Coon to a waiting Elly "Willy" who found the net. Game, set, match as Sodium notched the opening win 7-1.

Saturday, 7/17/10 vs RCSC G95 Black@ REC # 5. 8:00am kickoff
The squad from River City SC were tough. There mids and defenders were big and physical, their forwards skilled. with about 10 minutes remaining in the first half Emmy drove down her patented right side, found Aliyah streaking goalward and Sodium was up 1-0. Just before half Lexi found herself staring at at a 30 yard free kick. In Laura Camp-esc style she lined it up, took a run and ripped it beautifully passed the RCSC keeper. Sodium up 2-0 at half. Second opened with RCSC flurry. they attacked and attacked and at around the halfway mark found the back of the net to narrow the score to 2-1. Calmly the lady warriors regrouped. They got back to basics and began their attack. With minutes left Mac drove the ball hard down left sideline. She turned the corner into the box and ripped what we all thought was a beautiful cross but instead, it found the top far post net! The crowd went wild! Moments later the whistle blew and Sodium had notched it's second victory. 3-1.

Saturday, 7/17/10 vs WSM Venom @ PCC Rock Creek. 2:00pm kickoff
The afternoon game proved to be another scoring barrage for Sodium. Against their cross town rivals WSM Sodium always brings a good game. The first half started out more like an episode of 'So You Think You Can Dance' with each team finding its comfort zone. A dance that would end with some bruised toes. Just before the intermission Eli took a drop at about 25 yards and ripped the back of the net to give Sodium a 1-0 advantage before the break. Tom must have given the girls a little added incentive because they came out hot in the second half. Lexi lined up a corner kick that was fired passed the keeper by Kerri. 2-0. Minutes later Lexi found herself again on the attack. She dropped a pass into the box to Kerri who tangled with the diving WSM keeper. The squirted loose where Kerri popped it in! 3-0. Once the the dynamic duo hooked up. Lexi dropped a perfect lead to Kerri who ripped the net. Sodium up 4-0. With 10 minutes left, newcomer Elly "Willy" Williams drove the ball herself from 35 yards out fire a shot past the WSM keeper. 5-0. Not be outdone, Lexi found herself behind the defense from about 30 and waltzed in the 6th goal. Taylor found herself too storming the keeper but a collision in the box caused the ball to squib wide. To make up for it, the next drive found Taylor down the right side, past her defender, for a perfect cross to Lexi for the 7th and final goal.

Sunday, 7/18/10 FINAL vs RCSC @ REC # 5. 11:00am kickoff
Talk about a tale of two halves. Sodium came out in the Beaverton Cup Championship very sluggish. They weren't crisp, communicating or passing effectively. The River City squad on the other hand, did. They attacked Sodium from the opening whistle. They had nothing to lose and everything to gain. Sodium was on there heals more than once during the first half and had fight for the score to remain 0-0 at the break. You could tell by the body language that coach Tom was giving them a lesson in underestimating their opponent and mental preparation. Well, it worked. The lady warriors came out like the team we have seen play the last two weeks. Relentless pressure, wearing down the opposition, looking for opportunities to score. halfway through the half that opportunity presented itself. Aliyah, who had owned the right sideline for much of the game, powered past the defender and lofted a great cross where Willy was flying in to shin the ball into the net for what would prove to be the game winner. Many other opportunities went high or off the frame before the final whistle and the crowing of the Beaverton Cup Champions.

Notes from the sidelines
Never underestimate your opponents. I don't care what the score was or how many times you have beat them. The very second you enter a competition thinking you are going to walk over everyone or think just by showing up you will win, you will receive a harsh slap of reality and get beat. With that said, we needed to play the championship game with the same enthusiasm, heart and will to win as we played in with every game to this point. Period.

Now, with that said, Sodium is really starting to fire on all cylinders. Between the Cascade and Beaverton Cups Sodium has scored 34 goals while allowing just 5. I'll take that ratio any day of the week.

Up Next:
Lake Oswego Nike Cup! - I will post schedules and opponents as the weekend nears.

GO SODIUM!!

Represent

Pause the music below on the right side. This is worth it.

GO SODIUM!!

National / Regional Rankings

Just checked National Soccer Ranking.com website and the results are in:

GIRLS U14 NATIONAL RANKINGS [Last Updated 7/6/2010]

#42. Tualatin Hills United Sodium (Beaverton, OR)

and

GIRLS U14 REGION 4 RANKINGS [Last Updated 7/4/2010]

#10. Tualatin Hills United Sodium (Beaverton, OR)

Click Here

We are marching on up the ladder lady warriors, keep up the great work!

GO SODIUM!!

Sodium wins Cascade Cup

In very businesslike fashion Sodium wins the 2010 Cascade Cup from hosting ESUFC Arsenal. The lady warriors (minus 5 ODP players all weekend) took care of business Sunday with a 2-0 victory. Sodium took the field, played the game and when the opportunity presented itself Kelly Priest dropped a nifty lead to Marisa Reid who finished the job into the far post net. Just before intermission Mac Kearney took a pass from Aliyah Chance, dished it right back to her streaking down the right side. Aliyah saw Emmy Owens going to goal and chipped a pass to her. Two touches and Emmy found the back of net.
Play resumed back and forth until the final whistle blew and Sodium was crowned champion.

Notes From The Sidelines
This will not be the last Sodium will face ESUFC Arsenal. They have become a physical presence and have not only gained, but will demand other teams respect. I can't wait to follow them as this year unfolds, they are going to take the U15 by storm.
Since Sodium had 5 players attending ODP they needed some help. I would like to thank Kerri, McKayla and Bree for helping out this weekend. You guys contributed tremendously and I'm sure we will see much more of these young ladies because of the tournament schedule Sodium has over the summer.  

Up Next
Adidas Beaverton Cup - July 16th, 17th & 18th
Friday, 7/16/10 @ 8pm vs PCU Impact at REC #3.
Saturday, 7/17/10 @ 8am vs RCSC G95 Black at REC #5.
Saturday, 7/17/10 @ 2pm vs WSM Venom at PCC.
Sunday, 7/18/10 @ 11am - Championship Game at REC #5.

Notes
RCSC is River City Soccer Club out of Spokane. Can't really find any results for 2010 but am digging.
PCU Impact - Finished 5th in Silver Division
WSM Venom - Finished 4th in Silver Division

In my most humble opinion, Sodium should roll through this tournament as well on their way to Oswego Nike Cup.

GO SODIUM!!

Second Day of Cascade Cup Turns Wild and Woolly!

Did I mention that the true test of a champion is how they respond to adversity? Man, I'm good.

In the morning match Sodium was pitted against ESUFC Coventry, Arsenal's 'B' team. The girls took care of business very professionally handing the Coventry an 8-0 defeat. So many people scored and played great that I will list then for you;
Marisa Reid brought the ball deep down the right side chipped a beautiful cross to Easton on the far post who headed it in for the opening goal! 1-0.
Taylor C took a midfield pass in the 18-yard and fired in #2.
Eli fed Mac a nice lead pass that she two touched before finding the back of the net to make it 3-0.
To return the favor Mac drove the ball in and dished back to Eli to make it 4-0 at half.
The second started out as the first had ended. Aliyah brought the up and found Emmy charging hard. 5-0
Aliyah, on a free kick, found Emmy again for a little flick to the close post. 6-0
Emmy down the right side cross back to Marisa to make it 7-0.
And finally, Mrs Assist herself, Aliyah chance chalked up yet another as she found McKayla who blasted in the 8th and final goal.
Wow, thought my thumbs would fall off from so much typing! And this wasn't even the exciting game!

The afternoon match pitted Sodium against a combination U16 / U17 squad, Willamette United. The U17 girls were from the 2010 State Championship team.
Sodium came out flat. The heat and morning game had definitely taken it's toll. The first half was a battle with both teams unable to find the net. Early in the second the Willamette team scored and put Sodium on their heals. Them, midway through the Willamette squad scored again. From the sidelines we were sensing a feeling of defeat. On the pitch, it was a different feeling all together. Coach Tom made some strategic position chances that instantaneously changed the changed the complexion of the game. The Sodium girls looked at each other as if to say; "Are we going to go out like this?" "HECK NO!" The girls, with under 8 minutes left took fire! They never lost composure but just elevated their game to a new level. Willamette United never knew what hit them. Relentlessly they began a barrage of shots on goal. Pounding the defense over and over. Kerri found the net first to make it 2-1. Instead of celebrating, Sodium grabbed the ball and brought it to midfield. The ensuing kickoff was met with more of the same, punishment. Methodically Sodium brought the attack. Calculating their moves, listening as Coach Tom orchestrated the comeback. With under 5 minutes left their was yet another onslaught in the goal box where McKayla punched in the equalizer! The ever growing crowed erupted in cheer! For the closing minutes the lady warriors never gave up. They attacked and attacked. The game ended in a 2-2 deadlock and on to PK's!

Taylor Luty. That is all that needs to be said. Three stops. Incredible.

Erika Cook strolls up to the spot, takes the ball and places it precisely on the grass. Looks at the official "Yeah, I'm ready" and proceeds to rip the net. The keeper never even had a chance to move. Sodium explodes, the fans ignite and the place goes wild!

The best comeback in Sodium history I will wager. Hats off to all the girls who have played very, very well this weekend. One more left.


Up Next
Cascade Cup Championship.

Sodium vs ESUFC Arsenal. 5pm.  Be There!

A rematch of the 2010 State Championship. Let's have the same outcome, eh?

GO SODIUM!!

First day of Cascade Cup ends in a split

The true test of a champion is how they respond to adversity. 


With the passing of Mercury coach Troy Brown, a huge blow to everyone. The very minimal practice schedule, many guest players due to ODP and what some may call "Regionals Hangover", the Sodium squad was not expected to put its best foot forward in the Cascade Cup. Despite all that, the lady warriors fought long and hard in the sweltering heat right to the end before giving up the winning goal to the U16 ESUFC Fulham club. It was grinding game all day that just wore each team out.

As I strode by the team preparing for the afternoon game I reminded them that they can take adversity 2 ways; either they can roll over, give up and play the victim, or they can take everything to heart, build on it, and get stronger from it. 

Looks like they took the latter.

In the afternoon game the Sodium squad came alive against U16 Pacific FC from Washington. In the opening moments Kerri (playing from ESUFC Arseanl I believe) took a perfect feed from Marisa Reid to open the game with a 1-0 Sodium lead. Just a few minutes later Mac Kearney fought and clawed her way between 3 PFC defenders to find the net for a 2-0 tally. Just before half Easton Kawawaki eluded several defenders down the right side and ripped a shot through to the far post. The shot looked like it was going to go in but an alert McKayla Creamer was there to put the exclamation point on it high into the net. The half found Sodium with a 3-0 lead.  

The second half found several players playing in different positions. Kerri again found a streaking Taylor Coon (normally central defense) who eluded defenders and ripped the net for a 4-0 Sodium lead. With just a minute left in the game, Emmy Owens found Taylor Coon again streaking in from her right midfield position at the top of the 18 yard box. Taylor two touched and ripped a left foot into the upper part of the net for the final goal and a 5-0 Sodium victory!


Up Next:
ESUFC Coventry @ 12:30pm


Since I can't tell by looking at the bracket whether Sodium is in the 'A' or the 'B' bracket, the best I can do is guess.


WIN = Play again @ 3:30pm
LOSE = Play Sunday at either 8:00am or 9:30am


(I think)


GO SODIUM!!

Happy 4th of July!

To all the loyal parents, followers & fans, HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!

GO SODIUM!!

World Cup Action

I don't think I have ever seen a more exciting game than Uruguay vs Ghana yesterday. How much emotion, heart and strength these two teams showed. Each team with opportunities to win and each time victory was denied.

If there was ever a game that exemplified the saying; "Never Give Up. Never Back Down. Never Lose Faith." I have yet to see it.

If you get an opportunity to watch it on ESPN.com or wherever, I highly recommend it.

Looking forward to getting back on the pitch.

GO SODIUM!!

Upcoming Tournaments

Kind of slow right now so I thought I would post our upcoming tournaments.

July
9th thru 11th - Cascade Cup (Gresham, OR)
16th thru 18th - Beaverton Cup (Beaverton, OR)
23rd thru 25th - Lake Oswego Cup (Lake Oswego, OR)

August
6th thru 9th - Mustang Stampede (Danville, CA)
9th thru 12th - THUSC Club Tryouts
23rd thru 26th - High School Tryouts

Best of luck to the teams in the tournaments and to the players during tryouts!

GO SODIUM!!

Far West Regionals Round Up

For 69 minutes and 30 seconds Sodium was the better team. From the opening whistle and for the first 30 seconds, NV Neusport was better, and scored.

The heat sweltering, the battle epic. Sodium pushed and pushed but could not come up with the equalizer. What a match, easily the best of the tournament, probably the best of the year. The 9th ranked (Nationally) NV Neusport squad was big, fast, physical and a powerhouse. These girls were the toughest team we have faced and the girls responded without blinking an eye. Their offense was vicious, our defense answered the call admirably. Their defense was tenacious, the Sodium offense countered with attacks from assorted forwards and midfielders. In the end, defense will get you where you need to be, but offense needs to put in the final nail.

The final whistle was met with tears of frustration and disappointment. The girls knew the outcome could have, should have, been different.

Do not hang your heads Sodium! You accomplished great things this season and have paved the road for successful seasons to come. Keep in mind all the great memories you have made, all the friendships you have bonded this year. And think of the new horizons that lay ahead with high school teams and U15 Sodium this summer. You have the world by the tail and we are so very proud of each and every one of you and all you have accomplished this year.

Neon set the bar high, now its your turn to clear it.....

From the hotel lobby in Albuquerque NM, we yell; GO SODIUM!!

Sodium takes a couple days off in preparation for quarterfinals.

Wednesday's game against West Coast FC really meant nothing to Sodium. Win, lose or draw, Sodium was advancing to the quarterfinals. WCFC, on the other hand, had everything to lose. They needed a victory by 2 points or more to have a shot at the second position in the bracket. WCFC brought the house and, well, Sodium brought their 'C' game and played like a team who was advancing. Players rested their injuries and played it safe, looking forward to Friday, and handed WCFC an lackadaisical 1-1 tie.

From the sidelines
The West Coast FC coach needs to lighten up on his players. I have never heard a coach yell more negatives at his players than this coach. Everything from "Your walking!" to "Your not giving it everything!". One of our players said he even called a player 'Stupid'. Pretty classy. He was screaming at them to "Play Up, Play Up!!" which they did and that is what gave Lexi Frey the opening to score the tying goal! The keeper couldn't get back into position fast enough because she following the coaches orders. Another nice move. But I can understand the desperation when the wheels start falling off for the 2009 Far West Regional Champions. To finish the preliminary bracket in last place, earning 0 wins and just 2 points and trip home early, must be quite a shock to them.

And to the West Coast FC parents; News Flash: Soccer is a Contact Sport!
Every time a WCFC player was bumped or went down, the parents came unglued. Yelling at the refs and players. It was comical. During one such outburst by a WCFC mom I couldn't help but burst out laughing. She then came over and started yelling at ME! The fans to my left, who were waiting for the next game, were even laughing at her. Again, classy. The best part was when I was collecting the team water bottles and overheard the same mom say; "We totally dominated". My response under my breath; "You sure did, all the way home" Ha Ha Ha!!

Bracket Breakdown
Flight A
NM - Elite FC Barcelona - 7pts
HI - Leahi 96 Premier - 6pts

Flight B
CN-F - Foothill MVLA Lightening - 9pts
NV - Neusport 96 Green - 6pts

Flight C
OR - THUSC United Sodium - 7pts
UT - Sparta 96 Premier - 4pts

Flight D
CN - Mustang Fury - 9pts
CS-S - Arsenal FC - 6pts

Quaterfinals
NM - Elite FC Barcelona vs CS-S - Arsenal FC
CN-F - Foothill MVLA Lightening vs UT - Sparta 96 Premier
OR - THUSC United Sodium vs NV - Neusport 96 Green
CN - Mustang Fury vs HI - Leahi 96 Premier

Stay tuned for updates!

GO SODIUM!!
GO OREGON!!

Wish you were here!

Go Sodium!!

A little help from a friend

Sodium parents look for a little devine intervention at Basilica of St. Frances.

Chill'n

Sodium parents chill out to some New Mexican cuisine and a couple of Corona's.  Yee Ha!

Sodium advances to Quarterfinals with win over UT!

With the 2-0 victory over Utah Sparta 96 Premier squad last night the Lady Warriors of Sodium are secured a spot in the Far West Regional Quarterfinal round!

The UT team proved to be a big, tough and physical opponent for Sodium. Not only were their forwards big and lightening fast, their defense also proved to be the fastest the lady warriors have faced. The first was definitely a battle with temps soring into the 90's.

Early in the second half Lexi Frey brought the ball in deep from her defensive position. Lexi took her time and spotted Aliyah Chance streaking from her right forward position and ripped a beautiful lead pass that Aliyah took in stride. Two touches and Aliyah blasted a shot that was too hot for the keeper to handle. The ball deflected back to Aliyah who side-stepped the keeper and popped it in for a 1-0 Sodium lead!! Play resumed as tough and physical as ever with the UT squad pushing hard for the equalizer. Taylor Luty stepped up and had another major league performance.

With under 10 minutes left in the match Emmy Owens drove the ball again deep into the right side drawing the defenders to her. Emmy broke loose and found Eli Beard at the far post who poked in the second and decisive goal! The girls, with what little they had left, mauled Eli and Emmy. The last couple minutes were fast and furious with the defense hanging on tight enough for a 2-0 final.

Notes from the sidelines

The Utah team was an excellent team. They were big, physical and technically sound. Much better than the New Mexico squad. Sodium came in and really brought their 'A' game. There were many standout performances, too many to list. Overall the lady warriors played very well.

Remaining Preliminary Game

Tell me the girls aren't pumped up to play West Coast FC (CS). Regardless if Sodium wins/ties/loses they will advance to the Quarterfinals as the #1 seed from Flight C. WCFC is coming off 2 disappointing performances against Utah (5-3 loss) and New Mexico (2-2 tie). Sodium is looking to prove a point in Wednesdays game. 

Bracket shakeout

Fridays Quarterfinals will be solidified after todays games but as it looks now, Sodium will play (NV) Neusport FC 96 Green.

More details as they develop.

GO SODIUM!!

  

A little good mojo

Team Neon beat Utah this morning 3-1 so it just seems right that Sodium's 'big sisters' would donate their winning white jerseys to Sodium to wear in their match this afternoon against Utah. It's all about the bonding.

Team on 3....

GO SODIUM!!

Sodium posts a win in first Far West Reginal match.

Defense wins championships. You hear it nearly every sport. Soccer, in my opinion, is no different.

Sodium took on an extremely tough Rio Vista squad this afternoon in New Mexico. A Rio Vista squad used to scoring an average of just under 5 goals per game in their state championship tournament. Nice job Luty, Coon, Andrea, Lexi, Payton and KJ.

And Sodium mids showed they can hang and play tough. The Rio had some very tough, quick and skilled mids, Sodium shut them down.

Sodium also showed they know how to keep the pressure on. Easton, Mac & Emmy kept pushing and pushing. Kelly came in and showed she can make a great impact. Both physically and technically.

Late in the first half Taylor ripped a long ball to Mac who two touched and lead a perfect pass to Easton who took it home for a 1-0 lead. Late in the game Sodium had many opportunities but one sticks out; There was free kick from about 33 yards. Laura Camp, who is notorious for scoring from this range, lined it up. You heard the Rio coach say; "It's outside her range". Ha Ha Ha! We looked at each other on the sidelines as Laura unloaded a shot that knocked the keeper over as the ball deflected up and over the crossbar resulting in a Sodium corner kick.

The girls will be tested Tuesday as they take on a very tough team from Utah. Defense will be tested. Offense will be tested. It very well could be the toughest match for Sodium. Get some rest, hydrate and come out tomorrow with attitude and fight Sodium. Show Utah what a real champion is made of.

From under the fan tent we will be yelling; GO SODIUM!!

Back home in Portland...

While the lady warriors battle for Region IV supremacy,  back in Portland the Untied Cup pushes on. Pictured below is Dan Lautenbach after sorting through and organizing 500+ metals for the awards ceremony.

We appreciate your help Dan!

GO SODIUM!!

Crest

On the front of the new hoodies supplied by Team Ireland, each team had an emblem representing their team.

This is Sodium emblem.

Many, many thanks to Ireland.

Going Tribal

Team Sodium puts together a tribal cheer for the all team meeting hosted by THUSC Ireland.

Dinner, video, NWR Sweatshirts were all donated by team Ireland.

In a word, awesome.

Go Sodium!!

Dinner

The Lady Warriors getting ready for dinner the first night in New Mexico!

Go Sodium!!

The Wal-Mart Experience

Peter gets his first taste of Wal-Mart in New Mexico. "Overwhelming" was his response.

An eye opening experience for everyone.

Go Sodium!!

Far West Regional Bracket

Keep tabs on how Sodium and the rest of the brackets are playing out by clicking the link below.

Click Here.

GO SODIUM!!

Departure

Excited faces filled the Portland airport as teams from all over Oregon and SW Washington get ready to board their flights for New Mexico.

Current temp is 97 degrees.

GO SODIUM!!

Heart of a lion

I just watched USA's second round game against Slovenia.

The USA boys came out a little lackluster, a little overconfident and found themselves down 2-0 at half. A near insurmountable deficit by World Cup standards. But in the locker room coach Bradley lit a fire in these men. For it's not about the Brandon Donovan's, or Tim Howard's or the Clint Dempsey's, it's about the Red, White & Blue, it's about the USA.

The US came out with such fire in the second half you could sense a miracle was in the making.

Donovan scored right in the face of the Slovenia keeper and the crowd, all decked out with flags and face paint, went absolutely nuts! Yellow cards were flowing like butter as minutes later Jozy Altidore deflected a header to wide open charging Michael Bradley for the tying score!! Fans all over the world screamed as the comeback kids of the USA tied it up with just minutes left in regulation. There was still time, but could they pull it off? Could they pull a miracle like the 1980 US Hockey team? At about the second minute of extended play Steve Churundolo lined up a free kick and let it rip. The 6-yard box looked more like WWF cage match than a free kick with players draped over Donovan and Dempsey like spider monkeys but breaking out of the fray came Altidore who ripped the ball past the Slovenia keeper! Coffee flew wildly all over the Coon living room as I jumped up screaming in celebration! But alas, the center ref, as he had done all match, blew the call and the USA wasn't awarded the goal. Time ran out, the ref ran away and the match ended tied 1-1.

What I want you, Sodium, to take away from this epic game is that the boys never gave up. They were down 2-0 at the half and it inspired them, fired them up, motivated them that for the next 45 minutes they would hold nothing back. For their team, for their coach, for their country they would leave every ounce of themselves on the field. They never backed down. A weaker team would have rolled over, but they were in the face of the Slovenia players. Physical. Aggressive. Relentless. And they never lost faith. You ask any one of the USA players coming out of the locker room after half who was going to win this match and I guarantee you every single one said they would.

Never Give UP. Never Back Down. Never Lose Faith.

Keep this in your mind Sodium as we make our way to the fields in New Mexico.

With vuvuzela horn in hand (just kidding) the faithful Sodium fans will yell: GO SODIUM!!

Slogan...

Slovania, the smallest country to be represented in the World Cup, coined a slogan I thought was blogworthy. It is;

"With 11 brave hearts we will endure to the end"

That about says it all.

GO SODIUM!!

Regional Schedule & Comparisons

OK folks, the moment we've been waiting for; the official Regional Schedule!!!

MON 6/21 - NM (Wild Card) Elite FC Barcelona vs Sodium @ 2pm
TUE 6/22 - UT Sparta '96 Premier D.B vs Sodium @ 4pm
WED 6/23 - Sodium vs CS West Coast FC @ 2pm
FRI 6/25 - Quarterfinals @ 12 noon
SAT 6/27 - Semi-finals @ 10am
SUN 6/28 - Final @ 10am

Notes from the sidelines
How Group 'C' matches up.

NM = Elite FC Barcelona
3-1 in Bracket play, then Semi's & Final [6 games]
Goals for = 27, Goals against = 5

UT = Sparta '96 Premier D.B.
2-0 in Bracket play, Quarters, Semi's, Final [5 games total]
Goals for = 27, Goals against = 6

CS = West Coast FC
3-1 in Bracket play (1 game to PK's), Quarters, Semi's (OT), Finals [7 games]
Goals for = 15, Goals against = 2

OR = THUSC United Sodium
3-0 in Bracket play, Quarters, Semi's, Final [6 games]
Goals for = 17, goals against = 0

Looks like UT team has a lot of firepower. 27 goals in 5 games. Sodium is the defensive favorite but will need the offense to click if they are to advance. WCFC went into both PK's (bracket) and OT (Semi's) to advance.

Going to need to lace 'em up and strap it on to advance past Wednesday Sodium. Practice hard, get plenty of rest and be ready to battle in New Mexico!

From under the 'parents tent' in a lounge chair with an umbrella drink, the parents will be yelling; GO SODIUM!!

Welcome to Oregon

Sunday Sodium took on the U16 NW National Team from Seattle. The score was 0-0 but the most obvious thing that stood out were the conditions. 4 inches of water in at midfield, 2 inches on each side.

Neither team could get a pass on the ground to go more than foot. Every play was emphasized by a 4 foot splash of water. Throw in the fact it rained hard from whistle to whistle and it was almost comical.

After the game the National team went for a swim as the majority of the players turned the Cook Park field into a giant 'Slip-n-Slide'. Too funny.

Onward and upward as the lady warriors prepare for New Mexico!

GO SODIUM!!

Hacked...

Looks like I have fallen victim to a hacker. If you receive an email from my Gmail account with no subject line and just a link, PLEASE do NOT click the link!

Looks like they got into my Google and Blogger accounts as well. I will be checking the blog frequently since it was brought to my attention by Peter that there was a link posted ON THE BLOG that was inappropriate. Thanks for the heads up, that is quite embarrassing as well as extremely frustrating and irritating.

I am taking appropriate steps to not only rid my computer and blog of this menace, but put a stop to them once and for all.

Thanks for your help and patience.


GO SODIUM!!

Notes for New Mexico

The time has come to write your future................



....Go Sodium!

Passion and Pride of the World Cup

I found this on the OPL website. Totally cool and chill inducing.

[pause the music player to listen]



GO SODIUM!!

Annual Club Meeting

Don't forget to attend the Annual Club Meeting on Thursday, 5/20 @ 6:30pm. See your team manager for details and volunteer information.

Not much going on in the way of soccer highlights. Teams are resting from a very competitive State Cup, winners are making arrangements for New Mexico. Tryouts were a big success for THUSC having loads of new faces and skill levels show up. U15 and above are getting excited for tournament and HS season.

Here's to a great summer!

GO SODIUM!!

2010 Far West Regional Tournament

OK, here is what we are looking at in our bracket in New Mexico;

NM - (Wild Card - State Cup held 5/23)
OR - THUSC Sodium
CS - West Coast FC (Baily & Bethany's sister team)
UT (State Cup held 5/29)

Here is a link to the bracket:  click here.

Keep an eye peeled for more info.

GO SODIUM!!

Sodium grabs a Championship, THUSC captures the weekend!

Sodium won it's 3rd State Championship in 4 tries and THUSC was 4 for 4 in the finals!

All 4 womans teams took home the hardware and the invitation to play in 2010 Far West Regional Tournament in Albuquerque, NM .

U13 Mercury defeated SSC Trinidad 2-1
U14 Sodium defeated ESUFC Arsenal 2-0
U15 Ireland defeated FC Portland Marine in double over time PK's
U18 Neon defeated OR Rush 91 1-0

Congratulations go out to all teams for a fantastic State Cup tournament!

From the Sidelines
Sodium looked a little nervous on Saturday as they started slow and felt out the Arsenal squad. Who wouldn't have been nervous! The Championship, the crowd, the podium, medals, shirts and Regionals!
After a scoreless first half the lady warriors came out determined and went to work securing the title. To be honest I don't really remember the first score other than Mac Kearney took it in past the Arsenal keeper. We were jumping up and down and high fiveing everyone. I do know that Arsenal really came on the attack trying to get the tying score. Sodium keeper Taylor Luty had to work more in this match than she had in many, many games. With under 5 minutes left Easton Kawawaki drove the ball to the left side 18 yard box where she rifled a cross to Mac again who found the net for her second score! The crowd blew up and the Sodium team came together with screams and fist pumps as they took a 2 score lead. Once the final whistle blew the team went nuts, the stands emptied onto the field and the celebration began. What a great experience for this team of Champions.

Hold your heads high Arsenal, for I guarantee this will not be your last appearance in the State Cup finals. You are a great team who showed you could play with and beat the best teams in Oregon. We will see you again.

In the most touching moment of the Championship, coach Troy Brown joined the Mercury team on the field in celebration of their State Championship victory. It was touching and very emotional for the team, Troy and their many, many fans. Our prayers are with you Troy.

Many, many proud parents & fans yell; GO SODIUM!!

Sodium 2010 State Champions!

With a 2-0 shutout Sodium captures the crown!

Proud

In a few short hours the lady warriors will take the field to play for the State Championship. I wanted to take just a moment, and I think I speak for the coaches/parents/fans, to say how proud we are of each of you. We know how hard you have worked and the sacrifices you have made for this team. We are proud of your commitment and dedication.

Regardless of the outcome today I want to personally say how great it has been to watch this team bounce back from last years loss in the quarter finals to become a championship caliber team. I have watched the hours they have put in, the disappointment when they lose and the elation at all the victories. To watch as the team found itself and molded into the fiercely competitive Sodium team that will take the field today.

There is one daunting task that lay ahead of you today to complete this season. Bring your "A" game and no one can touch you. Come out fighting Sodium because there is no tomorrow. Everything you have worked for and fought for for the last year comes together today. Stay focused on playing as hard you can for 70 minutes. Win the battles, win the half, win the game.

Never give up. Never back down. Never lose faith.

Today is the day that all doubts are shattered. Today is the day when nothing else matters. Today is the day that it all comes together. Today is YOUR day Sodium.

Proudly we will be screaming; GO SODIUM!!!

Battlefield

As I walk the pitch at field 5 I can't shake the ghosts of a little U12 team as they battled to a championship in 2008. I can see Marisa Reid scoring (twice!), the crowed erupting in cheer. The tense feeling when FC was attacking late in game, the elation and celebration that followed the final whistle. The smiles and the tears as Sodium was crowned champion.

Saturday we will relive the moment. Sodium again will take the field to battle for the championship. This will be their last game as a U14G squad. Where has the time gone?

Remember how it felt lady warriors and put everything you have into capturing that feeling again. You have what it takes; talent, determination, commitment, heart and a deep love of the game.
But most importantly, you have each other. Your team. The bonds you have created this season will last a lifetime. Have fun Saturday, play hard and whatever the result, hold your heads high. You will always be champions to your loyal followers.

GO SODIUM!!

Quotes to think about...

“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

[ So true. Desire | Commitment | Team - United you will stand.]

“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”
~ Mia Hamm

[ You think RVSC wants to play Sodium anytime soon? Lets leave another impression Saturday.]

“I am building a fire, and everyday I train, I add more fuel. At just the right moment, I light the match.”
~ Mia Hamm

[ You've trained, sweat and sacrificed all season for this moment. Make it your shining star. ]

“The vision of a champion is bent over, drenched in sweat, at the point of exhaustion, when nobody else is looking.”
~ Mia Hamm

[ For all the times you wanted to quit, stop or give up, but didn't. ]

“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

[ The goal is to win State Cup. It is within your grasp but it is up to you, each one of you, to give everything you have and more. Who will be the hero? ]

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

[ Sodium is stacked with talent, challenge yourself to prove you have the intellect and teamwork to be a champion. ]

“Practice as if you are the worst, perform as if you are the best.”
~ Author Unknown

[ We know you are the best at what you do. Saturday you will prove it to the State of Oregon. ]

And my all time favorite;

“Sodium never lost a soccer game, they just ran out of time.”
~ A Wise Parent


From the sidelines at field 5 your faithful fans will yell; GO SODIUM!!