State Cup Brackets

With all games finally played this weekend, the unofficial brackets are;

GROUP A
LOSC Extreme (Bracket #1 Winner)
ESU Arsenal (Bracket #2 Runner-up)
FC Platinum (Bracket #3 Runner-up)
Sodium (Bracket #4 Winner)

GROUP B
OR Rush Nike (Bracket #1 Runner-up)
Keizer Hotshots (Bracket #2 Winner)
OSA Inferno (Bracket #3 Winner)
WSM Strikers (Bracket #4 Runner-up)

Quarterfinals: April 12, 13, 19, 20
Semi-finals: April 26
Finals: May 3

GO SODIUM!

Sodium Sweeps Bracket

The lady warriors added their 4th shut out in the State Cup Preliminary Round by defeating WUSC 95 Girls 2-0 at Wilsonville HS this evening. The first half started a little slow but Sodium regained composure and fired in 2 goals in the second. Hannah Lautenbach scored on a long right side break-a-way and Jadyn Mcmillan punched in a Payten Sonnen rebound off the far post. Kristin Boone did an OUTSTANDING job in goal as the the WUSC team took more shots than any we have faced all season! Simply put, they played great all the way around. Thanks to Tom who did a great job getting the ladies fired up for this final game.

Up next; State Cup Quarter Final Round! April 12, 13, 19 & 20 (Bracket breakdown to follow)

GO SODIUM!

Sodium's Indoor Season Off to a Slow Start

Ha Ha Ha!! Just kidding! The 8 girls that showed for the game this afternoon pounded the Wy'East team 13-0! I can't even begin to count how many goals Kristin Boone had or describe the all-star keeper play by Emmy Owens and Katherine Kramer. The lady warriors were bigger, faster, stronger and just outplayed Wy'East from net to net. At some points it looked more like a hockey game as Sodium slammed these poor girls into the boards. We knew it was going to be fun when Platinum walked in, saw it was 8-0, and thought the game was almost over. Actually, it was just half-time.

Best bumper sticker sited at a soccer field on a mini-van:
"Trample The Weak, Hurdle The Dead"

Up Next: 11/27/07 - 7:00PM @ Wilsonville HS vs 3rd place WUSC 95 Girls

GO SODIUM!
In It To Win It!

Sodium tops their bracket

The Sodium team put in an outstanding effort Saturday against a former Premier Gold Division, WSM Strikers. The entire game was a hard fought battle and with just seconds to go in the game Bailey Hall rocked the goalie and Hannah Hartford was there to rip the deflection into the back of the net. A true team victory as the girls rest on top of the U12G-4 bracket.

Next up: Night Cap - 7:00pm, 11/27/07, Wilsonville H.S. vs second place WUSC 95 Girls. They finished last in the Silver Division during the regular season but have proven themselves a worthy opponent in the State Cup.

GO SODIUM!

Yes, we're BACK!

BACK IN BLACK! The Sodium girls proved today, beyond a shadow of doubt, that they are BACK! With a 6-0 dominating victory over Premier Gold opponent EMFC '95 Magic, Sodium swept the weekend scoring 9 unanswered goals!

The Magic game started out with Hannah Lautenbach getting her first goal in the fist 3 minutes! Her second score came about 10 minutes later as she stung the back of the net yet again. Just before the half is when the fun really began! Hannah Hartford scored a header goal off a Bailey Hall Direct free kick. The place went nuts! Just after the half Payten Sonnen showed why her nickname is 'Wheels'! After taking the initial pass from Jaydn McMillan, She blew past 2 defenders down the right side and blasted the shot past the goalie. But wait, there's more! Kristen Boone had a header assist to Emmy Owens and, after a break-a-way that involved a pile up with the goalie, a defender and Emmy, Marisa Reid found the back of the net for the 6th (that's right 6th!) and final goal.

Sodium is really coming together, they are playing so well right now and it couldn't happen at a better time. We are proud of you girls, you had us a little worried earlier but all of that is gone as you have shown us you are champions. You are peaking at the right time, hitting on all cylinders. It is really a joy to watch you girls on the field as you are showing the confidence we always knew you had. The next two games shouldn't be taken for granted, these are worthy opponents who will require us to play just as sharp and fierce as the first two. If we can do that, we will have no problem advancing. Great weekend ladies! And to Coach Ronnie, thanks for showing these young ladies how to 'turn it up a notch' in November. They couldn't have gotten this far, or grown and developed this much, without you.

Next up; 11/17/07 @ 9:00AM, WSM Strikers at REC #1.
Don't forget to check the standings to your right.

GO SODIUM!

Sodium Arrives At State Cup on FIRE!

Talk about coming out of the gate HOT! The ladies warriors scored more goals in the opening game of the State Cup than they did in the month of October! Sodium came out strong hammering the Aloha Xtreme goalie with shot after shot in the 3-0 victory. The first goal came off a Hannah Hartford header that deflected off the cross bar with Emmy Owens there to punch it into the back of the net. With minutes left in the first half Sodium was awarded a Direct free kick for a mugging that occurred about 15 yards outside the box. Laura Camp lined up the shot with forwards and mids looking to crash the net when BANG! Laura sticks it in just inside the far post! The crowed erupted as Sodium was really showing its stuff. The second half started as the first had ended. Hats off to the Xtreme goalie, she blocked so many tough shots this morning it was amazing. The third and final goal came with about 5 minutes left in regulation. As was the story all game Sodium had Xtreme on their heels and was swarming the net when a Erika Cook's shot deflected off the goalie and again, Emmy Owens was there to seal the deal!
WOW, what can you say about a performance like that. Sodium played today with purpose, patience, and a tenacity we haven't seen in a while. Great job to coach Ronnie and the team. You can really see that the hard work these girls have put in is starting to pay off. In a word; AWESOME!

Next up; Our foes from the Premier Gold Division, EMFC '95 Magic. The game is Sunday on REC #1 at 1:30pm. Sodium was 1-0-1 against Magic in the regular season and this will be our toughest competition in our bracket.

GO SODIUM!

The 2007 State Cup Schedule

Thanks to Kristina Cook for her watchful eye on the schedule (and proofreading the blog!) and letting us know it was posted. Thanks!

11/10/07
vs Aloha Extreme
REC #5 - 10:30AM start

11/11/07
vs EMFC '95 Magic
REC #1 - 1:30PM start

11/17/07
vs WSM Strikers
REC #1 - 9:00AM start

12/01/07
vs WUSC '95 Girls
West Linn HS Stadium - 1:00PM start

Here it is, ours for the taking. We have a relatively easy bracket girls but that's no reason to let up. We had a great set of practices last week so keep it up this week and build momentum into the first two games this weekend. None of these teams are pushovers so we will have to play hard and stay focused all game. The time is now to "Let it all hang out" these coming weeks. This is what you have worked so hard to get to, so hard to achieve, and now we are here. The time is now to start letting people know we are here to play and why we are feared. The time is now to start unleashing the 'BACK IN BLACK' attitude we had at the United Cup.

The time is now.

"No reserves"

GO SODIUM!

From one Extreme to Another

OK, so I goofed in the last post. I was a little excited. And yes, there is a BIG difference between LOSC Extreme and Aloha Extreme. (Only 1 Division is all). Here is the REAL bracket by seed.

#1 - Sodium
We all know about these rock stars! BACK IN BLACK!

#2 - EMFC 95 Magic
Finished 6th in the Premier Gold Division with a record of 4-6-4. Sodium beat them 1-0 early in the season and tied 0-0 late in the season.

#3 - WSM Strikers
Finished 5th in the Premier Silver Division with a record of 4-8-2.

#4 - WUSC 95 Girls
Finished last (8th) in the Premier Silver Division with a record of 2-10-2.

#5 - Aloha Extreme
Finished 4th in Division 2 with a 6-5-3 record.

Notes
My only fear is that Sodium plays to the level of its competition. If we can play our game and stay focused on the end goal, we should sweep the bracket! These are all very beatable teams if we show up with our "A" game. Best of luck ladies, we will be there backing you all the way!

GO SODIUM!

State Cup Brackets Are In!

The following is a breakdown of Sodium's opponents for the 2007 State Cup. They are placed by seed.

#1 - Sodium
We all know about these rock stars!

#2 - EMFC 95 Magic
Finished 6th in the Premier Gold Division with a record of 4-6-4. Sodium beat them 1-0 early in the season and tied 0-0 late in the season.

#3 - WSM Strikers
Finished 5th in the Premier Silver Division with a record of 4-8-2.

#4 - WUSC 95 Girls
Finished last (8th) in the Premier Silver Division with a record of 2-10-2.

#5 - LOSC Extreme
Our good friends from the 2006 season. Finished 1st in the Premier Silver Division with a 12-0-2 record.

Notes
Sodium will play EMFC 95 Magic and WSM Strikers at home (Tualatin Hills) and will play WUSC 95 Girls and LOSC Extreme away. It is extremely (pardon the pun) important for Sodium to get out of the gate HOT. We have 3 games against very beatable teams. The Extreme game, in my opinion, will be the tell tale game to determine the Quarterfinal Round Seedings. There is no doubt we will see Extreme at least 2 times in the State Cup so our need to come out hot, focused, fired up and on top of our game is essential. Bring your "A" game ladies and you can't be beat!

GO SODIUM!

League Play Comes To An End

The last two games of the regular season were played out this weekend. The lady warriors took on first place Royal at home on Saturday. Play was fast and furious as Sodium gave it there best shot but fell just short in the 1 - 0 game. Sundays game was played at the new PCC field in the early morning. The girls passed well and out-shot ESU Arsenal all game. The 0 - 0 tie ended the 2007 regular season giving Sodium a 4-5-5 overall record and solidifying 5th place in the Premium Gold Bracket.
The second half of the regular season turned out to be challenging for Sodium, but the girls showed what they were made of and never gave up, they played hard, they kept their heads up despite their obvious disappointment gave it their all. We are all very proud of these girls and will be there for them as they head into the State Cup Tournament.
The last couple of practices that Tom has attended have been really good for the girls. A new perspective is always welcome when a high caliber team needs to get back on track . Thanks for the help Tom!
As soon as the State Cup brackets are released I will be posting the schedule so keep a close watch in the near future. (Come on, I know no one reads this, who am I kidding!) HA HA!

Next Up: State Cup!

GO SODIUM!

About Pride

With 2 ties this weekend (very beatable teams) the best Sodium can hope for is a strong finish next week and an outside shot at third place in the bracket. The bright spot being that both OR Rush and Royal were beaten last week. Proving they are both beatable teams. Next weeks games, Saturday against Royal and Sunday against Inferno are more for pride than anything. If the girls can bring their "A" game and play to their ability we should end the regular season on a high note.
I know you guys are disappointed. Keep your heads up, as long as you can look yourself in the mirror and know you gave 100% for your team, you have nothing to hang your head about. Remember last year? Did the 2006 team give up or lose faith? Heck no! We still have a lot of soccer left this year ladies and it's time to turn it up and have some fun! Even though we tied on Sunday we didn't play bad. Look at the number of shots on goal and opportunities we had. Those balls are going to start finding the net girls, believe me, and when they do, LOOK OUT! I'm just waiting for another 10-0 shut out. You know you can do it, you just gotta believe. You gotta believe that on Saturday afternoon, when we march on to REC #5, that we are unstoppable, that we are champions and that no team can take that away.
When I was a football coach I used to teach my defensive players and little saying to keep in mind. That saying was; "If it is to be, it's up to me." And what that saying means is that if each player plays with the attitude that the team victory rests on their shoulders and that the only way the team can win is if he gives 100% every play, miracles happen. If we can adopt that same attitude as we march onto the field Saturday and Sunday, there is no doubt we will come out victorious.

"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

Coach Ronnie has done an outstanding job this year with Sodium and I know she is frustrated right along with you. But girls, lets take the long hours, the sore muscles, the tears and cheers from the season to this point and give it all we can this weekend. You owe it to yourselves to know you gave it your best shot, you busted your behinds to get where you are and you are true champions.
We will be there cheering for you every second because, from up in the stands, we believe. We believe in your hard work and dedication, we believe we have the best coach and club and will stand behind you no matter what. We are proud of each and every one of you. We believe in Sodium.

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


GO SODIUM!

Sodium hangs with the 'Big Girls'

The Sodium girls got quite a treat this week as they got to meet and get autographs from the US Women's National Team member Leslie Osborne. After that the girls went to (of all places) Chuck-E-Cheese for dinner and an an impromptu celebration of Hannah Hartford's birthday! Happy Birthday Hannah! The following night the US Women's National Team crushed Mexico 4-0.
Hope the girls paid attention to how the 'Big Girls' finish! Ha Ha!

Next up: 6th place ESU Arsenal on REC #5 at 12:30 Saturday. Be there or be square!

GO SODIUM!

Sodium Struggles

Tough to put a finger on the inconsistent play this weekend. Against Oregon Rush Sodium played well with good communication, passing and shots. Emmy Owens scored on a cross from Erika Cook that was set up nicely by Katherine Kramer. A great effort in the 2-1 loss. Next we take the turf against last place Cascade FC Dynamo and failed to get the job done. I don't think Dynamo even took one shot all game. Frankly, I do not feel we played that badly, we just couldn't find the back of the net. A problem that has plagued Sodium all season. The 0-0 tie Sunday didn't help the standings as we dropped to 5th place.

One thing to keep in mind;
Look at where Sodium was at this same period last year and look where they ended the season. We can do it if we continue to believe.

We have a great team, that much we know. We don't have a bunch of individual players or a couple of all stars that we count on every week. We play together. We cheer when we win, we cry when we lose. We are a team. How we handle diversity and challenge will sculpt out the rest of the season. We can roll over and tell ourselves that last years championship happened because we were lucky, or we can pull together as a team, rise above this little setback, and keep pushing ourselves to be better every game, every practice, every day. Girls it's all about determination and want from here on out. How determined are we to bring the "A" game the last 5 games? How bad do we want a winning season? It's up to each individual player to dig deep and ask these questions.
I use the term "we" quite a bit. I do this because I feel, as parents, we play a vital roll on this team. We come to the games and cheer, we support our players and coach Ronnie, and we feel the agony when we lose games we should have won. I know there was more than a few players who shed tears after Sunday's loss. What that proves is that we are competitive, we are a team and we are proud to be Sodium.

"Failure happens all the time. It happens every day in practice. What makes you better is how you react to it."
~ Mia Hamm

So lets put this weekend behind us and learn from it. Lets look at the remaining 5 games as a new season, another opportunity to bring the "In Your Face" style of play we know and love. Lets set a goal and achieve it.

We know you can, we believe in you and we're proud to be part of it.

GO SODIUM!

Remaining Game Recap of Top 4 Teams

This post outlines the remaining games of the teams in the top 4 positions in the Premier Gold bracket. They are listed from toughest to the easiest (in my opinion).

Sodium - 1) Rush 95G Nike 2) Dynamo 3) Arsenal 4) Magic 5) Royal 6) Inferno
Rush 95G Nike - 1) Sodium 2) Royal 3) Inferno 4) Dynamo
Royal - 1) Inferno 2) Rush 95G Nike 3) Magic 4) Arsenal 5) Sodium
FC Platinum - 1) Magic 2) Inferno 3) Dynamo 4) Arsenal

The problem here, as I see it, is that the current #1 team in the bracket, Royal, has the next to easiest schedule and will be hard to catch. The second problem is that FC Platinum HAS the easiest schedule and may be the 'spoiler'.
Theoretically, given the fact we have the most games remaining, we could amass the most points of the top 4 and have a fighting chance for the coveted number 1 position.
With hard work, dedication and focus, I know our girls will give it everything they have in the coming weeks. They have the hearts of lions, we've seen it time and time again, and I know they will rise to this challenge like the true champions they are. We are very proud of them and will stand behind them regardless of the outcomes.

I am proud to say; GO SODIUM!

bye bye weekend

Sodium has a bye this weekend to rest up for 6 home games in a row! Just in time to beat the Pacific Northwest weather. Wouldn't it have been fun to play in Bend the last week in October? burrrr...

Coach Ronnie was contemplating a game Tuesday, please check your email boxes for updates.

Blog Updates;

• Birthdays! - Every month I will post the birthdays of the Sodium players for that month. Check the right hand side box in the next week or so for this new feature.


• TEAMCHAT is going away. Since this blog is an ever changing animal, with features that come and go and evolve, the TEAMCHAT feature will be removed to make room for the birthday list.

"True champions aren't always the ones that win, but those with the most guts."
~Mia Hamm


GO SODIUM

Despite conditions, Sodium plays great!

In the early hours Saturday morning the lady warriors met OSA Inferno at Portland State. Despite the freezing temperature and turf field, Sodium put together an outstanding game in the 2-1 victory. Goals were scored by Emmy Owens and Dayna Carlson. Emmy's came right out of the box on a perfectly executed break a way. The second half started off with bang. A corner kick in the opening seconds by Bailey Hall was pumped into the net by Dayna. The game ball was given to Baily Hall for another solid, team leading performance. Overall a great game was delivered by all!
On Sunday Sodium delivered what could have been their best game of the season thus far. In the cold and pouring rain, the girls met an undefeated CPSC Royal team. The game was fast, extremely physical, and a battle from the opening whistle. Bodies, elbows and hips were flying all game resulting in several penalty kicks (could have easily been double that) and several girls having to leave the field. Sodium attacked the Royal goal all morning with shot after shot sailing over the post, wide or stopped by an extremely talented Royal goalie. Several opportunities were stopped in front of the Royal goal as black jersey's crashed the net. Sodium just couldn't find the back of net despite many opportunities. Bethany Hall was awarded the game ball and applause needs to given to coach Ronnie and all the girls for an exciting, hard fought game where every player gave 110% despite the 1-0 loss. Great job Sodium!
NOTE:
October 6th & 7th Sodium has a bye weekend.
Next Up: A 6 game home stand! Starting October 13th with OR Rush '95 Nike @ rec #5 and October 14th with FC Dynamo @ rec #1
GO SODIUM!

Weekend Split for Sodium

The girls came out fired up against their cross town rivals FC Platinum. You could see it in their eyes that they knew the importance of this game. FC was coming to OUR house this time and a tie just wouldn't do.
From the starting whistle Sodium started the attack. Their passing was crisp, they were aggressively winning the 50/50's and the play never seemed to get passed mid-field.
The rookies handled the scoring with Taylor Coon scoring on a break-a-way in the first half and Erika Cook scoring on a perfectly executed corner kick in the second half. Taylor Crowell was the recipient of the game ball Saturday. Way to go Sodium, great game!

Sunday's game against ESU Arsenal was a battle. As Ronnie has stated all season, since we are the defending State Champions, teams are 'gunning' for us and going to bring their "A" game every time. Case in point, Sunday. Arsenal, a 2 - 2 team, brought their "A" game against us. They played hard, won the 50/50's and consistently beat us to the ball. I won't use the terminology Ronnie used to describe the play but it wasn't pretty.

Notes
Check the standings, FC Platinum BEAT OR Rush 95!!!! The 'sneaker' team is CPSC 95 Royal. They have played consistently all season and now is on top. Next week will be extremely important for Sodium. We play OSA Inferno (who TIED Royal this week) and CPSC Royal. This weekend will be a pivotal point in the points standing. If we can win both games, we should be on top of the league. If we can have a great week of practice, stay focused and bring our "A" game, there is no doubt we can accomplish this.

Next up: OSA Inferno (0-3-2) at PSU - Saturday and CPSC Royal (3-0-2) at Fort Vancouver H.S. - Sunday.

GO SODIUM!

The Battle at Eagle Crest

Today Sodium fought one of the Gold Bracket's toughest teams, Oregon Rush '95 Nike. Despite some unsportsmanlike play and some field conditions that were less than favorable, Sodium never gave up. Within the first 5 minutes Rush posted it's one and only goal on a break-a-way (which all of us on the sidelines concluded was off-sides). They rest of the day the lady warriors sent shot after shot high, wide, over and off the cross bar. Never able to get to the back of the net despite out-shooting Rush by a dozen or more shots. Outstanding was the effort and everyone gave 110% for the entire game. Erika Cook earned the game ball for her hustle and physical play at forward but it could have went to anyone on the team. We are looking forward to the rematch on October 13th when Rush comes to our house and gets a taste of a little Sodium style futbol! They are a beatable team if we can get out of the blocks early and attack their goal.
Battered, exhausted and bruised the girls headed back to Portland after the game. I'm sure there was some serious snoozing going on in the back of the car on this drive!
We are proud of you girls for pushing yourselves, giving everything you had and never giving up. The sign of a true championship team.

Next Up: The REMATCH! FC Platinum @ REC 5
(at home, a grass field, it just doesn't get any better!)

GO SODIUM!

Weekend starts with an unimpressive win

Sodium started their Southern road trip with a very lack-luster win over EMFC '95 Magic. The first half looked like an underwater scene from a bad "B" movie. Even though most of the play was in the Magic's 18 yard box, there was a lot of standing around and 'slow motion' action.
After the break it got worse. Not only were we standing around, most of the action was in our quarter of the field! Kristin Boone did an outstanding job in goal shutting down the Magic attack. Finally, in the last 2.5 minutes of the game, Hannah Hartford had a break-a-way down the left sideline, ripped a shot that the goalie deflected (in an exhibition of self preservation) and a very alert Emmy Owens was there to slide tackle the ball into the back of the net.
Now, I know this entry seems harsh but after last Sunday's awesome display of the potential this team has, today's game was nothing to write home about.
If history can repeat itself, and we come out Sunday with our "A" game, we stand a chance to beat a very good Oregon Rush '95 Nike team. If we play like we did today, sorry. Check the standings (to the right), you'll see OR Rush '95 Nike hasn't allowed a goal all season and has only scored one less goal. A formidable foe to say the least. Good luck tomorrow girls, If you bring IT, you will win.

(We believe in you guys!!) GO SODIUM!

League play starts off strong!

Saturday was the start of league play for Sodium who met a tough FC Platinum on their home turf at Liberty H.S. Play was a little sluggish as the girls dusted off from the few weeks off. Once Sodium got it together they scored to take the lead late in the first half. Scoring to start the season off was Taylor Coon. The second half opened with 2 quick scores by FC to put the lady warriors behind. As seasoned veterans will always do, they played their game, kept their poise and Bailey Hall drilled one in to tie the score. A defensive battle ensued ending the game in a tie.
Sunday's game was a different story all together.

Sodium came out of the blocks strong against Cascade FC Dynamo. In the sweltering heat of the day Sodium showed no signs of fatigue. Emmy Owens blasted her first goal just as play was under way, setting the tempo for the rest of the game. Offense was definitely the name of the game Sunday with Emmy getting her second, Payton Sonnen crushing a long ball from the right side coffin corner and Marisa Reid adding the fourth. Both Hannah Hartford and Kristin Boone played exceptional in goal allowing only one all day. And in the true meaning of the word "TEAM", recognition needs to be given to Dayna Carlson who assisted EVERY goal in Sunday's game. Sodium showed they came to play with crisp passing, great communication and constant pressure on the opponents goal. They truly brought their "A" game to the field Sunday. Hats off to coach Ronnie and the girls for an outstanding performance.
Up Next: Road trip! Sodium heads to North Eugene H.S. to take on EMFC '95 Magic and then to Eagle Crest to face a tough OR Rush '95G Nike.

GO SODIUM!

A little adult fun

Tonight the parents (who brought you Sodium), are meeting at coach Ronnie's for a little food, frolic and libations. A fun time will be had by all! I will keep you posted as the night progresses. If I can get pictures I will post them. (within reason of course, the rest will be posted at pay sites!).
Tomorrow is the opening of the 2007 league play. Many of the lady warriors have friends who play on FC Platinum so not only are we playing for wins & loses but bragging rights at school too!
Watch the blog for future updates. I am going to try and add a slide show featuring all the girls in action shots (in their black uniforms of course!).

GO SODIUM!

The 2007 Fall Schedule

Date / Time / Location / Home Team / Away Team

9/8/07 / 3:00 PM / Liberty HS JV / FC Ptld Platinum / Sodium
9/9/07 / 3:00 PM / CFC #7 (CBYSC) / Cascade FC Dynamo / Sodium

9/15/07 / 2:30 PM / North Eugene HS / EMFC '95 Magic / Sodium
9/16/07 / 12:00 PM / Eagle Crest Resort South / OR Rush '95G Nike / Sodium

9/22/07 / 5:00 PM / Tual Hills Rec 5 / Sodium / FC Ptld Platinum
9/23/07 / 9:00 AM / Clackamas HS - Turf / ESU Arsenal / Sodium

9/29/07 / 10:30 AM / W. Hills Christian School / OSA Inferno / Sodium
9/30/07 / 9:00 AM / Peter S. Ogden Elem.2 / CPSC 95 Royal / Sodium

10/6/07 Bye Week
10/7/07 Bye Week

10/13/07 / 12:30 PM / Tual Hills Rec 5 / Sodium / OR Rush '95G Nike
10/14/07 / 12:00 PM / Tual Hills Rec 1 / Sodium / Cascade FC Dynamo

10/20/07 / 12:30 PM / Tual Hills Rec 5 / Sodium / ESU Arsenal
10/21/07 / 12:00 PM / Tual Hills Rec 1 / Sodium / EMFC '95 Magic

10/27/07 / 2:00 PM / Tual Hills Rec 5 / Sodium / CPSC 95 Royal
10/28/07 / 9:00 AM / Tual Hills Rec 1 / Sodium / OSA Inferno

Proving that yes, he IS The Man!

During a scrimmage with Zinc, Bethany Hall's ball trickled into Commonwealth Lake. Now, for those of you who grew up in the area remember, Commonwealth Lake lies just South of the Willamette River after a heavy rain when it comes to cleanliness. Add the ever growing population of water fowl and you have a recipe for a biology experiment.
NEVERTHELESS, our own fearless Dan Lautenbach dove in to save her ball from a certain, gruesome demise! And of course we caught it on film! - Way to go Dan!
Dan braves the water








Keep your mouth closed!








A hasty retreat

While you were gone...

During the break the popular 'Game Ball' was still hard at work. Thanks to Kristin Boone and family for keeping us informed on the whereabouts and activities of this hard working team member.
Below find a pictorial documenting its adventures!

Wish you were here








Dreaming of Sodium Superstars








Got my Groove on!







I'm call'n the shots!








Revvin' up!








Catch me








It's not all fun & games!








Looking for 'High Class' rapids!








Press on Sodium!








Workouts aren't just physical








Somebody bounce me!








Bring it on!








Where are you guys? It's awfully lonely out here...

PQT Results Are In !!

The lady warriors of Sodium played outstanding today beating the BSC Silverbacks from Bridlemile 8-0. The scoring barrage started fast and furious and kept up all game. Goals were scored by Emmy Owens, Erika Cook, Marissa Reid, Payten Sonnen, Kristin Boone and Hannah Hartford. If I missed anyone, please let me know. A milestone was accomplished in todays game. We had two different goalies score! Hannah Hartford and Kristin Boone each played goalie AND contributed to the goal scoring onslaught. Great job goes out to Coach Ronnie and the girls for an all out team effort and an awesome tournament. The results are;


2007 Gold Bracket;

United Sodium
CSPC 95 Royal
OSA Inferno
FC Portland Platinum
Oregon Rush 95G Nike
EMFC 95 Magic
Cascade FC Dynamo
ESU Arsenal

Note: LOSC Extreme did NOT make the Gold Bracket. Rival SSC Hotspur was knocked out by a Cascade FC Dynamo victory over SSC Synergy. In watching the other teams I think our biggest challenge will be Oregon Rush. They are big, fast, physical and give 110% in every game. But as we have all learned, we love a challenge!

The girls are taking a well deserved break to reflect, relax and start thinking about the upcoming season. Great job this tournament girls, thanks for the excitement, the all out effort and the confidence you've built in yourself and your biggest fans. Have a great break.


GOOO SODIUM

PQT starts off with a Shut Out!

In a word, the girls played AWESOME! A 4-0 shut out of Thelo Aftershock was a great way to start the weekend. Every girl played great. Crisp passing, communication, patience with the ball and we were finishing very well! First out of the gate was Marissa Reid, and the girls never looked back. Laura Camp scored next on a rare PK. The officials were very active today, calling every bump & bang. They girls adjusted quickly and kept the pressure on.
As the second half got underway, Sodium scored quickly on a Taylor Coon breakaway which was followed at the midway point by Emmy Owens finding the back of the net.

The girls are on a roll. Spirits are high, confidence is higher and the girls are bringing their "A" game! Coach Ronnie is doing a great job keeping emotions in check and heads on an even keel, not letting the girls get to excited. I know of one player who had her jersey on before noon today (2:40 game time) and I am sure she wasn't the only one. On a serious note, Hannah Lautenbach left the game with an arm/wrist injury. She returned to the bench to hugs from her teammates and applause from the fans to start the second half. Lets keep her in our thoughts for a speedy recovery. She is an important part of the Sodium team.

Next up: a red eye 8:00AM game against BSC Silverbacks.

GO SODIUM!

Posts from the captains

A great email was sent from the Sodiums captains this evening reminding the team they need to bring their "A" game this weekend. The importance of giving 110% every game was stressed. We tied Thelo earlier in a game where it was evident we weren't playing to our full potential. We can easily win both games this weekend if we focus and attack these teams with the physical, complete game we know we can play. "Bring It" this weekend girls, stay focused and leave it all on the field.

There was line in a great movie that said, "Always bet on black" and for my money, this weekend, I'm betting black all the way!! BACK IN BLACK

GO SODIUM

BACK IN BLACK - credit due

Some of you have applauded the "Back In Black" reference from the previous post. I can not take credit for coining the phrase "Back In Black" when referring to the team. Although I believe we look and play better in black (of course who can argue with a 10-0 shut out in white?) I can not take any responsibility.

The "Back In Black" label was coined, to the best of my recollection, by none other than team co-captains Bailey & Bethany Hall. We were walking across field #5 at the REC after the first shut out victory in the United Cup. I looked at the girls and said something like, "Well Sodium is definitely back this year!", they both looked at me and said, "We're Back In Black!"
BANG! - how perfect! A reference to a Hard Hitting, In Your Face, Never Give Up rock and roll band describing our team. (I hope) We all remember the rock band AC/DC who sang this tune. They were loud, hard hitting, relentless, fearless and in your face. They gave 110% every show. Much like the way we play.
So, thank you Bailey and Bethany, for another addition to this great team.

GO SODIUM

Inspirational Note

I have played on State Championship baseball teams (3), and coached teams that have come close (1). I have played and coached football for many years and won many league championships (3).

In those years I have learned what it means to be, and what it takes to be, a championship team.

As a coach you dream of having a group of players who share the same work ethics, desires and motivations. Who understand the meaning of getting “Up” for a game and need little help getting there. I would take a team full of heart & desire over one full of talent 365 days a year. This, Sodium players, parents and coach, is what we have before us.
I have seen in the games leading to this point more blood, sweat, tears and heart than in several of the teams I’ve coached. I have seen these girls pull together when the chips were down and never give up. What these girls have is something special, very special. We have a team of winners.

Being a winner is not always about having the best players, but having the players that play their best together. It’s about motivating each and every girl on the team to be their very best. Ultimately, it’s about getting our eleven girls to play better than their eleven. It starts in the heart. It starts in the coach. It starts at home.

The 2007 season is upon us. We are at a time when we can choose our own destiny. We can ride the coattails of last seasons championship, or we can rise above it and prove to each and every team that takes the field against us, that we are CHAMPIONS, we are WINNERS, we are SODIUM, we are BACK IN BLACK!

I will get off my locker room pulpit and hit the showers. But before I go I want to leave you with a quote:

“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


GO SODIUM!

Sodium Finishes First In Bracket

With this mornings 3-0 shut out of the OR City Fireballs, Sodium captured sole possession of first place in the #6 bracket.
Another outstanding performance was delivered by the girls as they were patient and took advantage of opportunities. Goals were scored by Hannah L., Erika C., and Payten S., who were crashing the net all morning. The game ball was awarded to the entire team for another great effort.

Next weekend the lady warriors take on bracket #2's second place finisher Thelo and bracket #3's fourth place finisher BSC Silverbacks.
Wins next weekend would secure Sodiums position in the coveted Premier Gold Division.

GO SODIUM

Sodium Breaks Out Over Crush, Moves to First Place in Bracket

The Sodium girls unleashed their frustration on an unsuspecting Hillsboro Crush team. Sodium walloped the visiting team 10-0 to finish the second day of the Qualifying Tournament. Sodium reminded everyone that yes, they are the defending state champs.
Everyone played extremely well for the third game of the day. Hats off to Taylor Crowell for contributing a mid-field Hat Trick in the routing.
The girls are on a roll, this win boosted them to the top of their bracket over rival SSC Hotspur. Although they both have 30 points, this enormous win gives Sodium the goal scored vs allowed advantage!
The girls never gave up, even when they forgot their "A" game, and now they are back on top. They never stopped believing just as we never stopped believing in them!

Next up: Oregon City Fireballs

GO SODIUM

LOSC Samurai gives Sodium fits

A game that should have been a run away turns out to be a hollow 1-0 victory. All game long Sodium dominated LOSC Samurai. Physical play brought geers from the LOSC faithful (some directly at us) but cheers from the loyal Sodium fans. Hats off to the Samurai goalie who must have stopped nearly 45 shots.
As 'Bush League' as coaches can get, a comment was made to Sodium coach Ronnie by one of the LOSC staff that was quite offensive and unprofessional. Of course, what do we expect from a Lake Oswego team. And, as a side note, LOSC Samurai didn't even make it to the second weekend of the tournament, posting a meager 12 points all weekend. You get what you deserve sometimes.

Next up: Hillsboro Crush

GO SODIUM

QT Starts with a win and a tie

The Sodium girls started off with a 1-0 win against Salmon Creek Nemesis 95 Friday night. The goal came at the end of the first half when Bailey Hall chipped it in from her midfield position. The score was not indicative of Sodiums play though. All game they pounded the goalie, had shots fly over the crossbar and wide. A great game by all.
The second game proved to be a battle against rivals SSC Hotspur. At the half way point of the first half Marissa Reid stung the back of the net to the explosive cheers of the fans. The rest of the game was a back and forth physical match with Hotspur getting the brunt end all day. Several players left crying as Sodium wore them down. At the tail end of the second half Hotspur scored on a corner kick to tie and end the game. A tough tie for Sodium but I have a feeling it will prove even tougher for LOSC Samurai who Sodium meets for the 1pm game. With their game faces on and full of attitude, the Sodium girls know they have to put together a couple of impressive wins to move back to the top of the bracket.

Next up: LOSC Samurai @ 1pm

GO SODIUM

Qualifying Tournament Schedule

An action packed weekend lay ahead of Sodium during the Qualifying Tournament.


Friday 7/3 - 1:00pm vs Salmon Creek Nemesis 95 @ REC #2

Saturday 7/4 - 9:00am vs SSC Hotspur @ REC #3

1:00pm vs LOSC Samurai @ REC #4

4:00pm vs Hillsboro Crush @ REC #2

Sunday 7/5 - 11:00am vs OR City Fireballs @ REC #1


If the lady warriors can bring their "A" game, looks like we just could win the bracket!


GO SODIUM!

Crossfire Ends in Heartbreak

After Sodium posted an impressive 4-1 victory over the hosting Crossfire team, Eastside could only manage a 1-0 victory over FC Vancouver. A margin just shy of the amount needed to send Sodium to the semi-finals. Heads hung and tears welled up as the news came by phone to coach Ronnie Saturday night.

The Sodium team has nothing to be down about as they put 2 very impressive games together Friday and Saturday. If they keep up that attitude, play physical and bringing their "A" game, they should sweep through the upcoming Qualifying Tournament scheduled for next weekend.

Heads up girls, be proud to be part of such a great team and know you have an awesome coach and fans who will be behind you all season!

Next up: Qualifying Tournament played on our home turf!

GO SODIUM!!

First Day of Crossfire Ends in a Split

Sports are 50% mental, 40% physical and 10% luck. The lady warriors of Sodium definitely have the physical part, don't always need the luck, and, as they addressed today, needed a little help with the mental.

After a lack-luster first round loss to a very beatable Eastside FC Red from Washington, the Sodium team sat themselves down and had a little gut-check. They spoke of motivation, who wants it most and what the game means to each player. Who is willing to give 110%? Who will leave it all on the field every game?

The talk must have sparked that inner fire because from the opening whistle the girls had brought their "A" game with a vengeance, and had FC Vancouver Courage on their heels and on defense the whole game. They didn't know what hit them. Sodium battled them from sideline to sideline. They had shots bounce off the cross bar, the posts , wide, high and drilled the goalie on several occasions. Hannah H in goal only touched the ball a dozen times all game.
Although the score was tied at zero at the end, Sodium knew, deep down, that they had scored a victory. Not only was it evident from the girls high spirits but the grin on coach Ronnie's face and the applause of the fans solidified the fact that these girls had Brought It today. The game ball was not given to any individual player, though many deserved it, it was awarded to the team as a whole for coming together in awesome fashion.
Physically exhausted the girls made there way to a Mexican fiesta and a little swim to end their day. A day each player should be proud of.

Up next; Crossfire Premier 95 Schmetzer (WA). If the girls can rally to beat them by 4 or more, and FC Vancouver Courage loses, Sodium has a shot at the semi-finals. The way are playing now, we stand a good chance.


GO SODIUM!

Nike Cup Boosts Confidence

In sports it's not always whether you win or lose. This couldn't have rang more true this weekend.
Sodium started out sluggish in the first game against 2006 rival SSC Hotspur. The girls never gave up after getting scored on early and managed a late second half score to end in a tie.
The second game really tested the girls as the Placer team had added a couple U13 players to their roster. It was a physical battle all day at the mid-field position with bodies flying after every ball. Elbow's, knees, shins and hip checks (looked more like a hockey game!) were crashing all day long. And even though a late goal by Placer got them the win, the girls really brought their game. They had stepped up since their last few games and it showed! Way to go girls! Hannah H., now our full time goalie, played exceptional.
On Saturday you could almost predict what was happening. Bruises healed, sore muscled mended, attitudes back in place. The Sodium girls took the field with an air of confidence against FWV Reign 95 from Federal Way Washington. From the first whistle you could tell the girls were BACK IN BLACK as their passing was crisp, they communicated at every touch, they were patient with the ball. It was a thing of beauty. You could see why these girls were the 2006 State Champions! Even though the game ended 1-0 for Sodium, the moral and confidence boost of these last two games will ride into the Crossfire Tournament next weekend!

Next up: The road to Crossfire!

GO SODIUM!

Portland Cup Split

We started off HOT in the FC Portland Cup shutting out both Oregon City Fireballs & the host FC Portland Ruby. Saturday's game proved to be an eye-opener as we took on a tough California team, San Juan Spirits 96. Turns out they are ranked high in the state for U12 and it showed as we took a 3 -0 beating. (San Juan went on to finish first, only allowing 1 goal all tournament and that was in the Championship Game!)
In the Semi Finals we met a very impressive Oregon Rush Nike team who squeaked out a 1-0 win. The teams were evenly matched throughout the game. We had brought up a new goalie from Platinum to play the tournament and she did a great job for us. Thanks Camile.

Next up, LOSC Nike Cup!


GO SODIUM!

Tough Road in Boise

After battling heat stroke and several tough U13 teams, the Sodium girls came home without a win. Nonetheless they played their hearts outs and got some great experience to take on the road to the Qualifying Tournament. Best of luck warriors as they head to the Portland Cup!



GO SODIUM!

The Battle Begins

Sodium played a rough and tumble first game against a tough ESUFC Sunderland team this morning. Although they came up a little short, Ronnie and the girls played hard and never gave up. Great job by all! The U13 level of play may present some challenges for Sodium since they are playing a year up, but the experience and playing time they will gain will benefit them in upcoming league play.
Next up, Wolfpack United from Idaho at 2pm Sunday in the sweltering heat (94).

Best of luck ladies, stay hydrated and remember...

GOOOOOOO SODIUM!!

Sodium Wins United Cup!

Sodium posted their 4th shut-out in 5 games to win the United Cup Tournament in the Girls U12 Gold division. Hats off to the girls for an outstanding weekend!

Next up: Boise