End of Soccer and Pizza Party

The Hammers were up against a formidable appointment in the semi-final, Bayern Munich.  There was one player, Luca, on their team that was basically unstoppable on offense and capable of getting back and defending the Hammer's offense.  Because he was so good on offense,  some of the strikers had to play back and the offense never really got in sync.  We are so proud of the Hammers for making it to the semi-finals.

Several of our friends suggested Coach Jason.  He was a great source of information for the boys and they learned so much.  Besides game time, the boys always looked forward to practice.  He kept them busy and active with drills that were fun and taught them new skills.

Connor progressed every game and what once started as a humongous field became more manageable.  Jackson struggled with some kicks to his body and face that left him a little cautious. At times, he was a fierce to be reckon with dribbling down the sideline.  Other times, Jackson exhibited his typical not really paying attention.  He and Coach Jason definitely did some unspoken bonding. Both boys need to be a little more aggressive if they want to get the ball in the goal.  They had several opportunities but never came away with a goal.  Next year, they will be ready.  We have to remember that they made the cut off by 3 days...

Coach Jason invited the entire team out to Pepe's for pizza and the boys were super excited to spend some more time with their soccer pals.  We are happy to catch up with some of boys at Indoor Soccer at Friends, which starts up soon.

Jamie and Connor. Jamie had a rough soccer season.  He started off in the goal and was pulled in favor of Nolan.  Jamie seemed to struggle getting in the offense after spending some time in the goal. He was willing to help the team whenever and wherever.

Matt, who missed most of the season with a broken arm, and Chase

Nolan, our defenseman turned Goalie.  You could tell that Nolan wanted to get in the offense but after he showed  how good he could control the goal, Jason needed him back there.

A happy smiling Henry who always welcomed our boys.  He was a defensive stopper that always accepted his role in the back and could clear the ball to the other side and help start the offensive attack.   Missing is Will, who refused a picture, but was probably the fastest runner on the team and joined Henry in the defense.  Just like Henry, Will cleared almost anything that passed midfield on his side. Will occasionally got in on the offense with some serious dribble attacks.

Jackson was ALL about the newspaper.  We may need to consider getting a subscription to the Baltimore Sun.  He wasn't ready to leave despite all his teammates leaving...