Girls,

Great effort today.  I'm not going to even discuss the areas we need to improve on.  I am just happy you competed.  I know you all want to win, and aren't satisfied with losses--and you shouldn't be.  Just understand that we are playing in a U14 Division 1 league, with 3 Divisions lower than us.  We competed today against a very good team.  Next week will be even tougher, as we play the top undefeated team.  And I have not doubt you girls will compete again.  Girls, we are also missing two of our defenders (Hannah and hope, and our full time goalie!).  Seriously, if we have our full time goalie, and we finish on a few missed opportunities today, it's a whole different ball game!  Great second half by the way.

Girls, earlier today, before our game, I watched my oldest daughter's team play in the lowest division of the U16 league.  Yes, they are winning all their games, and they won today 7-5 today; BUT most of them gave about 50% effort.  It was very ugly soccer.  Trust me, when these girls play outdoor, they won't be used to the faster competition.  They are creating bad habits playing against weaker competition.   Madalyn even said after watching our team play today--"You guys play so much better and harder than my team".

When we play outdoor, I truly believe the game will seem so much slower.  First, because it's outdoor, and outdoor is a little slower than indoor.  But most importantly, you girls will be conditioned to playing against top u14 teams.  We will be well prepared at the U13 level.

This email is not intended to give excuses for our loss.  I just want you to know I know you are working hard.  So, keep your heads up, ENJOY THE GAME, and ENJOY THE COMPETITION!  Thanks for working so hard today.

Brian