SODIUM

New Sodium Blog

2008-06-20T20:41:00.001-07:00

The 2007-2008 came to an end in grand fashion. The "New" Sodium team's blog can be found here. Please bookmark the new blog address.

Thanks Sodium for a great season, great players and great memories. May you always have a warm spot in your heart for this "Dream Season"

Proudly we yell: GO SODIUM!

"If it is to be, it's up to me"

All great things...

2008-06-19T00:45:00.001-07:00

We always knew it would happen but never talked about it. All of us never wanted it to end, we didn't want to face the inevitable. Sadly, the 2007-2008 Sodium Dream Season came to an end today in Honolulu. I would like to take this opportunity to say a few heartfelt thanks.

Thanks Coach Ronnie: for staying with the team this year and taking our girls to levels they didn't know they had. For bringing out the best in them time and time again. For being their mentor and friend. For teaching them how to be true champions, and much much more.

Thanks Parents: for the support even when the chips were down. For the carpools, the time, the money, the laundry. But mainly for being there week after week, cheering, high-five'n, the hugs, the tent, the on and off field encouragement. And for being there to dry tears and apply band-aids.

And mainly,

Thanks Sodium: for the commitment, the sweat, the tears. For giving it everything you had, and one more.

Good Byes: A huge Thanks go out to the following players for their commitment and dedication to the team. We could not have accomplished this Dream Season without each and every one of you.
Co-Captains Bailey and Bethany Hall, Taylor Crowell, Kristin Boone, Hannah Hartford and Dayna Carlson. You will always have a place in our hearts and memories.

On the beach, with tears in their eyes, their heads held high and their hearts filled with pride, the girls circled up and you could hear our beloved coach Ronnie for the last time say; "Team on 3..."

Keep these memories you've made close to your hearts lady warriors, for we will never forget you.

Proudly, we all yell: GO SODIUM!

Utah outlasts Sodium

2008-06-19T00:09:00.000-07:00

In the 86 degree heat (+ 100% humidity) the lady warriors fell to the Utah Sparta 96 Premier club 3-1. As with previous Regional games this one proved to be just as physical as the rest. I'm sure there a couple Sparta forwards who feel they got run over by a MAC truck right about now. Kristin Boone was kept busy all day as Utah found ways to attack the goal. The intense heat and the extremely physical games going back to back to back proved to be just too much for the Sodium girls. They gave everything they had left in the tank tonight but fell a little short. Tom & Ronnie made a few line-up changes to shake things up putting Dayna Carlson and Taylor Coon at forward with Emmy Owens. This combination produced a goal by Dayna but it was just a little too late in the contest. Hats off ladies for coming to Regionals and showing that Oregon can compete with the best of them.

The team had a nice picnic at one of the local beaches where they presented Coach Ronnie with a scrapbook they had put together. There wasn't a dry eye on the beach.

Next up:
Rest, play in the ocean for those who remained in Hawaii, and time to start thinking about the United Cup for those continuing the Sodium tradition next year.

Colorado takes a beating

2008-06-17T18:21:00.000-07:00

At the end of the first half it looked like Colorado was going to be in for a long afternoon. The lady warriors of Sodium came out very much like they did against the Slammers, FULL THROTTLE!
Within the fist 5 minutes Hannah Lautenbach streaked down the left side and rifled a crossing shot off the far post for the opening score! Again the Sodium faithful, yelling and waiving banners, went nuts! Midway through the first half Sodium struck again. This time it was Emmy Owens on a pass from Payten Sonnen finding the back of the net. The patient play of the Sodium team was a thing of beauty. They attacked and pulled back, attacked and pulled back. Finally, Sodium forwards penetrated deep into the Colorado box, dished the ball back out to Bailey Hall waiting at the 25 yard mark. She loaded up and fired a rocket into the upper right corner of the net! GOAL!
After half Sodium fell into the rut of the previous game, they let Colorado have a quick score and get some momentum built. They battled and battled, tough and physical.
The last Colorado attempt to tie came with just under 3 minutes left when a break-a-way was broken up by Taylor Coon and Bethany Hall. They looked like a pair of linebackers zeroing in on a helpless receiver. Bethany hit her low, Taylor hit her high and she went down hard. The PK sailed high over the crossbar and game ended 3-2.
Injuries could play a key roll in tomorrows match against Utah. Hannah Lautenbach, Bethany Hall and Taylor Crowell all felt the effects of today’s physical play. A good nights rest, a couple Advil and plenty of water should be just what the doctor ordered.

Notes:
Points standing as of today:
Cal South SlammersFC - 6 pts
Colorado – 1 pt
Utah – 1 pt
Sodium – 3 pts
For tomorrow; Slammers will almost assuredly take care of Colorado, leaving them with 9 points and Colorado with 1. If Sodium beats Utah they will advance with 6 points and Utah will remain at 1. If Sodium ties Utah then Sodium will advance with 4 points and Utah will have 2. If Sodium loses to Utah, it’s all over. Utah will have 4 and Sodium 3.

So, our destiny is in our hands. We can come out fired up, play for 60 minutes and advance or we can roll-over and go home. The choice is ours.

As a side note, the Oregon wildcard team, FC Platinum, lost today. They will not advance to the next round.

From the 150yd marker the dads yell: GO SODIUM!

Champions for a half…

2008-06-17T18:18:00.000-07:00

In the first game of the 2008 Region 4 playoffs, the lady warriors faced the tournament favorites, So Cal SlammersFC. Sodium came out hot, unfazed by all the hype that the Slammers were favored to win the tournament. Sodium attacked them from the opening whistle. They elevated their play to new heights. The Slammers were fast, big and played an extremely physical game. The first half play was confined mainly to the Slammer half of the field as the midfielders and forwards controlled the tempo. Sodium defense was fine-tuned to the Slammers as they punished them every time they came within range. About the midway point of the first half, in yet another Sodium attack, Emmy Owens shot was deflected off the goalie, then a Slammers defender, Marisa Reid came flying into the mix taking out the goalie! The ball squirted by for a Sodium score! The crowed erupted as stunned Slammer fans sat in amazement. Sodium is for REAL and they had nothing to lose this afternoon. The Sodium defense took over and dished out the Sodium style of rough and physical play we know and love. The whistle ending half time blew, the Sodium faithful erupted again. Could this be the David & Goliath story you read about? Could our girls actually be considered a contender for the Region 4 Championship? Well, maybe…

The Slammers came out in the second half and scored 5 unanswered goals of their own.

As Tom said, “Let’s put this game behind us and focus on the next one.”

Next up: The Wild Card Team from Colorado
(I have a feeling there’s a pounding in their future)

From the balcony of the Big Kahuna the parents yell: GO SODIUM!

Sodium invades the Big Island!

2008-06-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

The first wave of lady warriors departed today for Honolulu. Coach Ronnie, Erika Cook, Baily & Bethany Hall and Payton Sonnen took off for Regionals today (man their arms are going to get tired!). The next wave (Friday) will consist of Taylor Crowell, Jadyn McMillan, Hannah Hartford, Taylor Coon and Emmy Owens. Saturday Laura Camp, Marisa Reid, Kristen Boone and Dayna Carlson followed by Hannah Lautenbach, Katherine Kramer and Laura Nguyen arriving Sunday. The parents will be arriving sometime Sunday with the cruise ships! Just kidding. LOL!

Have a safe flight everyone. Keep hydrated and we'll see everyone very soon!

ALOHA!

With an umbrella drink, sitting in a lounge chair, the parents yell:
GO SODIUM!

Happy Anniversary Coach Ronnie!

2008-06-08T20:58:00.000-07:00

Coach Ronnie and Ron celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary today!

CONGRATULATIONS!

From the parents and players of the 2007 - 2008 Sodium Team

Thoughts from the blogospere...

2008-05-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

I was reading some posts about Cal South and some of the '95 ODP games. I found that most mentioned the physical play of the Cal and Washington teams in comparison to Oregon. I tend to agree. The play we saw with the BC White Caps last weekend is pretty much going to be the way it is from now on. All the teams we face are going to be, like Sodium, 'The Best of The Best'. Fast, physical play is going to be the norm. We need to realize that and play to it. Lady Warriors this is a strength of ours, we can mix it up with the best of them. Look how we competed at the U13 level this year? You can't tell me any of those teams weren't bigger, faster and physical. We need to bring it 'Sodium Style' every game. The Cal South team is beatable. Our defense is playing great right now so if we can put some points on the board early, we can win. I always liked being considered the "Underdog' in any game. That meant the other team often looked past us or didn't prepare as hard as we did. I can't tell you how many games we won by surprising the other team that way. Come out and knock their block off early, surprise them, keep them on their heels and never look back. We can do this Sodium, you can do this. You are a team of champions with a champion coach. Just stick to what got you here, make adjustments on the fly and play aggressive. SODIUM STYLE Just remember all you've been through together. This just a new chapter in the legacy that is Sodium.

If it is to be, its up to me.

With a Mia Tia in hand, all the parents yell; GO SODIUM!

Regional Meeting Update

2008-05-27T20:59:00.000-07:00

OK, first, thank you Caryn for organizing all of this. You Rock!!

Things to do & remember;

Bike & Hike Sign Up click here.

Put State Championship badge on right sleeve of black jersey.

When girls fly in, wear State Champion t-shirt and NO FLIP FLOPS.

Deflate soccer balls if not with carry on items.

Don't pack soccer gear, carry it on to avoid getting lost.

Pins, if you want more to trade contact Tursi's or OYSA. $2/each(I think)

I am making tatoo's for the girls and will make some cool Oregon ones to trade as well.

Let me know if I missed anything and I will add.

The Bracket/Schedule

View the actual bracket with fields and game times here.

Going to be a barn burner right out of the gates!!

With hula skirts on we yell: GO SODIUM!

Bracket update

2008-05-19T09:48:00.000-07:00

As far as I can find out, we are playing Sparta Premier (Utah), and I think Pride Predators '96 (Colorado) and of course Cal South. The official line up will be posted June 1st according to the website. I will be posting all the important info at that time. Now, directly from his trip to So. Cal, the official unofficial scouting report from Scott Hall!!

Cal South:
- Run & Gun all day long!
- Crashing the goal, mostly on corner kicks
- They have a patented "cross over scissor kick" move that Bailey & Beth will show the team.
- They are extremely AGGRESSIVE!
- The goalie comes WAY out of the box and defenders cover. A very effective move. Their goalie only had 2 (that's right, I said 2!) goals scored on her ALL SEASON! (including playoffs)
- Coaching: "If you can't get it done, I'll find some who will" approach. No concern about hurt feelings, just winning.

If we play our game, aggressive, good passing, don't panic, kick the ball to someone instead of just clearing it, we have a shot to beat these girls at their own game. There are a lot of similarities between the clubs and if we can 'Bring It' Sodium style, these girls won't know what hit'em!

Thanks Scott!

Will keep you posted.

GO SODIUM!

Regional Brackets Announced

2008-05-12T15:12:00.000-07:00

Here is the bracket and teams Sodium will face in the first 3 games. The actual game schedules haven't been posted yet to the best of my knowledge.

FLIGHT B
Sodium
Cal South
Utah
Colorado (Wild Card)

I am waiting for the scouting report from Scott Hall on Cal South. Stay tuned!

Up Next:
Monday, May 12th - Last Try-Out, 6-7:30pm @ REC #1
Monday-Thursday, May 19th-22 - UNITY WEEK
Saturday, May 24th - Scrimmage against Vancouver BC, 4-6:00pm, Powerlines #1
Saturday, May 31st - 3v3 Tournament
Saturday, June 7th - Scrimmage against Vancouver Courage, Noon-2:00pm, Gutherless

GO SODIUM!

The 2008 Oregon State Champions!

2008-05-05T20:42:00.000-07:00

Congratulations 2007-2008 Sodium!
Couldn't have happened to a more deserving team or coach!
GO SODIUM!

Thanks for the memories!

STATE CHAMPIONS!!

2008-05-03T17:25:00.000-07:00

The Skinny
Sodium beat FC Platinum in regulation, 2-1, to capture its second State Championship! The ladies put together 60 minutes of the best soccer this proud parent has ever seen. Overcoming the elements (rainy, cool, overcast all day), the field (haven't had a game on grass in how long?), and the color (wore whites instead of favorite BLACK) to beat an incredibly improved FC team, was quite an accomplishment. Can you say Total Domination! Sodium kept the pressure on the FC goalie and forwards all day. Emmy Owens delivered another outstanding performance as she kept punishing the FC defenders with physical play. And talk about setting and achieving goals! The team submitted individual goals (via email) they wanted to accomplish during the game. Marisa Reid had 2. First was to be more aggressive. Second was to score. Well Marisa, looks like your hard work and focus paid off handsomely! Around the 10 minute mark of the first half Sodium had penetrated deep into FC territory, attack initiated by co-captain Bailey Hall. From the left side Emmy found herself in a swarm of defenders. She punched a crossing ball where a sliding Marisa Reid put it the only place she could. Just out of the reach of the diving FC goalie she delivered a bank shot off the far post! The near capacity crowd erupts! Marisa is mauled by her teammates! Off in the distance you could hear the faint creak of the flood gates beginning to open. Oh they weren't done yet.You kidding me? This is FC and we're playing for the Championship! With several minutes left in the half, Sodium was again pounding the FC goal. Dayna Carlson, in typical fashion had beaten her defender and was flying up field. Taylor Crowell, who had another awesome game, freed herself for the up field pass. As all great players do, Taylor spotted a streaking teammate and placed a perfect lead pass. Breakaway, one touch, two touch, shoot, SCORE! Marisa Reid again finds the back of the net! The crowd goes NUTSO! (is that a word?) The half ended with the score 2-0.
The second half started a little tentative for Sodium as FC had a couple rallies that were stopped by the outstanding goal play of Kristin Boone. Kristin has played amazingly this State Cup series. Near the 15 minute mark FC put together an offensive flurry that made us realize how they got there. Crisp passes and strong legs capitalized on a momentary Sodium defensive lapse as FC found the back of the net. Despite efforts by Kristin to call attention that FC might have been offsides, the goal was logged. Murmurs in the crowed were of the 2007 State Championship where Sodium watched a 2-0 lead dwindle into overtime & PK's before defeating LOSC. The killer Sodium defense would not let that happen. Led by co-captain Bethany Hall, the fantastic four which includes Laura Nguyen, Laura Camp & Taylor Coon, looked at each other with approving nods as if to say: "If it is to be, it's now up to us!" And up to them it was. The defense stepped it up and put the hammer down on the FC forwards. You could tell that they were a little leery to get into range of our defenders. Ella, I believe leading scorer for FC, was shut down. Several times she was slammed by multiple bodies with Sodium double teams. I'll bet the FC forwards are a little sore this morning. The final whistle blew, the crowd exploded and poured onto the field as cheers and tears filled the Sodium faithful. Hugs were flowing freely and a little ice water christened coach Ronnie the 2008 U12 Oregon State Champion Coach. A well deserved honor indeed.

What happens now?
Sodium will take a well deserved break after tryouts. Then it's back to work before a friendly against a Vancouver, Canada team May 24th. A team trip to Sunriver is also in the works for either May 16th thru 18th or May 30th thru June 1st. Watch email for details.
Planes take off June 13th for Regionals in Honolulu.

Try-outs will be interesting this year. With the leaving of key players there will be big shoes to fill on both the offensive and defensive sides. Current roster of superstar players will be able to pick up the slack and fill the positions but the new crop of players (just like last year) will be asked step up big. Sodium now has a reputation to uphold. Fast, physical, calculated play will be the norm. An 'In-your-face', 'Bring your "A" game every time' attitude is the style of play we are accustomed to and will be looking for in new players. Sodium will definitely be looking to THREE-PEAT in 2009!

ALOHA!

GO SODIUM!

Hawaii yes, but...

2008-05-01T14:02:00.000-07:00

Sodium MUST not forget the importance of Saturdays game against cross town rival FC Platinum. Rumors swirl about FC maybe not putting as much emphasis on the State Championship as on Regionals but I would not bet one thin dime any of them are true. You saw how hard they played in the Quarter Finals, you witnessed how fiercely they went after the ball. Well lady warriors, we need to show them we play harder, fiercer, when the game is on the line.
We need to practice harder this week, we need take one more lap, shoot one more PK and give one more percentage of effort than they will to be #1 and represent Oregon U12G at Regionals. Hundreds of teams were fighting for this one shot, we have an opportunity to make history Saturday. You've worked too hard to let FC come in and take this dream away from you. As we saw in the video clip Bailey & Beth sent out; "The tank has to be empty when we leave that field". No truer words were spoken.

It's ALL or NOTHING Saturday Sodium. We have to remember what got us here, BACK IN BLACK!
Are we going to REPEAT? or settle for #2?

We've said all we can say. Ronnie's taught you all she can to this point. It's time to lace'em up, tie your hair back, put on your game face and go prove who's the best team in the State.
Ask yourselves: Who's gonna be the hero today?

If it is to be, lady warriors, it's up to YOU! Each and every one of you.

With pride and confidence we yell: GO SODIUM!

Sodium heads to Honolulu

2008-04-29T13:30:00.001-07:00

Regardless of the outcome Saturday (of course we know Sodium is going to give it there ALL to repeat as State Champs!) the lady warriors will be off to play in the Regionals in Hawaii! The team is pumped up for coach Ronnie's first trip and to be part of such a spectacular event.
Best of luck Sodium, you deserve it after such an outstanding showing at the State Cup. You've worked long and hard this season to represent U12G in Regionals! We will be rooting for you!
Saturdays game matches Sodium with their Beaverton rival FC Portland Platinum in what is shaping up to be a barn burner! Even though Sodium has handled FC most of the season, they are an improved club and will not go down easy.
The stands will be packed and all eyes will rest on this game to see who will go to Hawaii the number 1 seed. If Sodium can continue to play as awesome as they have been lately I think they can sweep the State Cup undefeated.

They will continue to be #1 in our eyes so with that I say GO SODIUM!

If it is to be, it's up to me

Sodium to play for State Championship!

2008-04-26T16:49:00.000-07:00

In an incredible showing of heart, determination and desire, the cardiac kids of Sodium showed why they are champions. With under 50 seconds left in regulation play, Payten Sonnen penetrated deep into Hotshot territory (again). Fighting off the double-team she passed to Dayna Carlson who, with incredible agility, tipped the ball to Bailey Hall who one-touched and fired it passed the Keizer goalie for a 1-0 win!
Don't let the score fool you. Sodium goalie Kristin Boone touched the ball only about 6 times all game. The lady warriors were relentless in their attack, keeping the ball on the Keizer half 90% of the game. After Sodium calmed their pre-game jitters it was crisp passes, communication, solid defense and total domination of the field.
These ladies are playing at a level unseen this year, every game strengthens their game and boosts their confidence. Congratulations Sodium, you ROCK!

Next up: The State Championship against FC Ptld Platinum! 3pm @ REC #5 on 5/3/08

I am so proud to say GO SODIUM!

If it is to be, it's up to me

Win forever...

2008-04-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

I wasn't going to post this until game day but after reading Loc Nguyen's touching email this morning I feel the timing is right.

While searching on a little, unknown site some of you may have heard of, YouTube, I was searching USWNT (US Womens National Team) and found some very cool inspirational videos with titles like Working Hardest, Finishing School, GameDay and We Are.... One in particular hit home to me, it was titled Win Forever. What I got out of this I will convey to you and how it relates to Sodium.
The lessons learned over the past seasons will live strong in your hearts forever. The friendships formed, the victories and the agonies suffered all play a role in the bigger picture. Take from these seasons the best they have to offer. Remember how good it feels to be with your sisters, your coach, your TEAM. Cherish this time you have together, Sodium players and coach Ronnie, for they are fleeting. They will be over before any of us want them to.
And win, lose or draw Saturday, your fans, parents and coach will always love you and hold you close to our hearts. In our eyes you will win forever.

Best of luck on Saturday Sodium, I want to see Ronnie in a grass skirt!

GO SODIUM!

If it is to be, it's up to me

Keizer, how they got here

2008-04-21T15:34:00.000-07:00

I know you are all wondering how the Keizer Hotshots got to be playing in the State Cup Semi’s against our beloved Sodium. Below is a seasonal breakdown of how they got here. And yes, I have too much time on my hands currently.

2007 PQT U12G
Keizer 2, Sherwood Force 0
Keizer 0, OR Rush 95G Nike 1
Keizer finishes second behind OR Rush.

2007 QT U12G
Keizer 2, WUSC 0
Keizer 0, LOSC Extreme 0
Keizer 3, Canby 0
Keizer 1, RSVC 0
Keizer 0, CPSC Royal 2 (remember these guys?)
Keizer 4, Thelo 0
Keizer finishes third behind CPSC Royal(1) and LOSC(2)

Fall U12G-Premier SILVER
Keizer 1, Orch Hrtbrkers 0
Keizer 4, WUSC 0
Keizer 0, Thelo 1
Keizer 2, WUSC 0
Keizer 0, LOSC 1
Keizer 1, LOSC 2
Keizer 4, CPSC Navy 0
Keizer 4, Orch Hrtbrkers 0
Keizer 1, SSC Hotspur 1
Keizer 1, Thelo 0
Keizer 0, WSM Strikers 0
Keizer 1, SSC Hotspur 0
Keizer 1, CPSC Navy 2
Keizer 2, WSM Strikers 0
Keizer ended in third place behind LOSC Extreme(1) and SSC Hotspur(2)

OR State Pre U12G
Keizer 2, OR Cty Fireballs 0
Keizer 0, ESU 1
Keizer 6, SSC Synergy 0
Keizer 1, Cascade Dynamo 0
Keizer was first in their bracket beating ESU by 1 point.

OR State Cup U12G
Keizer 2, OSA Inferno 1
Keizer 3, WSM Strikers 0
Keizer 0, OR Rush 95G 1
Keizer ends up second behind OR Rush.

Notes:
Like Sodium, Keizer looks like they are hitting their stride into the State Cup. They are big and physical, their mids and forwards use their bodies to shield passes and keep the defense away. This may also prove to be their Achilles heal. After watching them play you can tell that their defense isn’t really used to defending. They get surprised by fast breaks and are easily penetrable. Their goalie is good but not the best we’ve seen yet by any stretch. Currently our defense has come to play, they have proven that they can match bodies with anyone so I don’t think Keizers forwards will present a problem. What that means is that our forwards will have a field day. If they can attack like they did LOSC we should be scoring all day. We learned a lot about ourselves last weekend. We learned that when we need to, we can elevate our play to new levels, the levels we need to win.
The main thing is we can’t be looking ahead. We need to stay focused on the game and team that lies in our way. We need to focus on Keizer and doing what it takes to beat them. ‘Let the bodies hit the turf’ ladies.

If the Keizer team thinks they know Sodium.

THEY AIN’T SEEN NOTHIN’ YET!

GO SODIUM!

If it is to be, it's up to me

Sodium emerges victorious after PK's

2008-04-20T18:51:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a battle. Sodium and FC played an incredible game this afternoon. In front of a large Cedar Mill based crowed they battled to a 0-0 tie at the end of regulation. Each squad had opportunities to score but the goalies really showed why they were there, stopping everything that came their way. Kristin Boone, who deservingly was awarded the game ball, kicked, scratched and clawed for stops made in a crowed and stopped blasts from the FC forwards. By far the most memorable stop was on about the 5th or 6th PK when the FC player's shot was heading for the left high corner. Kristin, fully outstretched, got enough glove on the ball to get it deflected off the crossbar for the winner! The crowed went wild in appreciation of the great battle they had just witnessed.

What it all means now
FC will now represent the "A" bracket in the number 2 position behind Sodium and play OR Rush 95G Nike, the bracket "B" winner.
Sodium will face Keizer Hotshots who finished number 2 in the "B" bracket behind OR Rush. All teams will face off on April 27th.

The winners will meet for the State Championship May 3rd.

(the winners of the April 27th games will both advance to Regionals in Hawaii)

Hats off to FC, they are a powerhouse. Nobody thought this would be an easy game by any means but these girls came out fired up and played great. Could this be foreshadowing of a future match-up? (May 3rd?) Wouldn't THAT be awesome?!

Great job Sodium! You took first in your bracket, showed you could beat the best and now you can feel proud heading into the Semi's with a full head of steam.

I will be posting additional information about Keizer as I amass it.

Keep working hard Sodium, keep fine tuning your skills, listen to your outstanding coach and keep your eye on the brass ring, you deserve it.
Always remember, 'If it is to be, it's up to me' It will take you a long way.

Proudly we say; GO SODIUM!

Impressions...

2008-04-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

The memories you have when you hear a song, or smell or taste that reminds of you another time - NOT!

I'm talking about the impression made on the face of your opponent when she gets hit by the ball, or the bruise on the ribs of a forward trying to penetrate our defense or the strawberry on Hannah Hartfords knee as she dove for a ball going out of bounds and landed on the concrete! THAT's WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT! Hannah, who came off the bench and played awesome! Taylor Crowell who went out with a knee injury, later to come back in and battle even harder. Bethany and Taylor crushing the LOSC forward to squash a rally. (there was a whistle but hey, they made a point)
Remember the Mia Hamm quote; "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”
Do you think LOSC will remember us? This holds true now, more than ever as we face FC today. We have to put the 'Pedal to the Metal' against these guys. They want it bad (according to a few FC parents I ran into last night) but we want it worse! (I almost said badder!) I feel we are more prepared, better coached and a more physical team.

The time is now for me to stop talking and for Sodium to put their cleats where my mouth is! (sort of, I guess) What I'm really saying is this; "This what you've worked so hard for, let's go out this Sunday and leave it all on the field, no regrets, no remorse, no reserves, and leave an impression on FC they won't soon forget. But mainly, let's have some fun!"

I hold my head up proudly when I talk about about this team, the players, their sacrifices, their coach and club. Whatever the outcome I always will.

You ARE the team. You are SODIUM!

If it is to be, it's up to me

Hard work and dedication

2008-04-19T16:07:00.000-07:00

Today Sodium was firing on all cylinders as they handed rival LOSC their second loss in the State Cup bracket. All the girls played exceptionally well as they pounded LOSC on their home turf 2-1.
It was the Payten Sonnen, Jaydn McMillan show on offense. Both girls had goal and were attacking all game. Bethany Hall had a couple chip shots from about 25 yards out just miss the goal.
LOSC's only goal came on a controversial call as the LOSC forward kicked the ball out of Kristin Boone's hands. The team protested on the fact the forward was offsides as well as the fact Kristin was holding the ball. Arguments fell on deft ears as the official signaled the goal counted.
At one point late in the second half the LOSC offense looked like it might be getting some momentum. They made a couple quick, crisp passes, and were moving the ball. The Sodium defense quickly smashed any hope as Bethany Hall and Taylor Coon double-team the LOSC foward, crushing her into the turf. Yes there was a whistle, but any momentum they had was gone for good.
Great job today girls. You are playing great and beating some good teams. The girls coming off the bench with fresh legs and killer attitudes are keeping us in the mix all game. Tomorrow will be the toughest test yet, FC Platinum. We have beaten them in the past and must continue to beat them to the ball, win the 50/50's and play hard and aggressive. This for more than just the win, this is for bragging rights. You all go to school together and have to face each other. You can do it, you have the fire, the passion and the momentum to carry you to the finals. Keep the faith and never give up. You are the team. Who was the hero today? T*E*A*M. Who will be the hero tomorrow?

You are Sodium!

If it is to be, it's up to me!

Other bracket news
I watched Keizer Hotshots and WSM Strikers this afternoon. Of the two, Keizer I believe will be the team to watch. Their forwards are big, they use their bodies to get position and their not afraid to bang around. At half it was 2-1 Keizer but that includes an 'own goal' by WSM. Keizer looks like they aren't used to playing a lot of defense. When WSM had the ball deep, they missed a few opportunities.
OR Rush played OSA Inferno and beat them 1-0. In my opinion, OR Rush is not is not playing great right now and looks very beatable. They played teams that they were beating by 3 or 4 goals and now just squeaking by.

You gotta believe! GO SODIUM!

(rumble rumble crash! wait...can you hear the waves??)

...be afraid of the dark

2008-04-18T15:17:00.000-07:00

"Once you invoke fear in your opponent, the battle is won"

Based on Sodium's play and what we saw last weekend from LOSC, I'd say they should be shaking in their boots about now.

Sodium takes the field of battle against arch rival LOSC Extreme this Saturday, a rematch of last years U11 State Cup final. Difference is, the Sodium team that will take the field is a much improved, bigger, faster, more confident team. A team that is playing near its peak. A team that knows how and what it takes to win.

Sodium is coming off a big win against ESU, Extreme is coming off a loss against a lesser FC opponent.

The time is upon us as a team to rise up, to BRING IT each and every game. To invoke fear, to inflict pain, to be the best you can be. There is no tomorrow when you take the field from here on out ladies.

Nothing more needs to be said, nothing more to learn. The time has come to prove a point. To show everyone how far you've come. I know you will succeed, I've seen it in your eyes since day one. I saw it when you won the first United Cup and we coined the phrase "BACK IN BLACK". The fire, the desire, the passion to win as a team. Your destiny is in your own hands. Strong hands. Confident hands.

You are the team. You are SODIUM.

If it is to be, it's up to me
Every game has a hero. Who is it going to be?

Quotes...

2008-04-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

We were told it couldn't be done, we were told it was a battle that couldn't be won. You're too young, to small, to inexperienced, you'll never make it. We took these comments to heart. We made them our battle cry as we went to battle and accomplished the unthinkable. Teams fell one after another, defeated at our hands. Hands that were too young, small and inexperienced. The championship is within our reach...
~can't remember where I read this.

The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital.
-Joe Paterno

How you respond to the challenge in the second half will determine what you become after the game, whether you are a winner or a loser.
-Lou Holtz

It's not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog.
-Archie Griffen, two-time Heisman winner ( 5ft 9)

Ask not what your teammates can do for you. Ask what you can do for your teammates.
-Magic Johnson

Set your goals high, and don't stop till you get there.
-Bo Jackson

I learned that if you want to make it bad enough, no matter how bad it is, you can make it.
-Gale Sayers

If you can believe it, the mind can achieve it.
-Ronnie Lott

You have to perform at a consistently higher level than others. That's the mark of a true champion.
-Joe Paterno

I will always be someone who wants to do better than others. I love competition.
-Jean-Claude Killy

As ye sow, so shall ye reap.
~God

If it is to be, it's up to me.
~SODIUM 2008

GO SODIUM!

LOSC vs FC Platinum

2008-04-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

Well, FC won 1-0. FC scored on a long cross to an unmarked forward (Ella) who kicked it in. LOSC played a very sloppy, unmotivated game. Even our girls were commenting on how sloppy the play was. Anyway, we found ourselves in a peculiar situation. Actually rooting for LOSC to score! Can you believe it!? The outcome we were hoping for was a tie so each team would only receive 1 point in the standings. It was close. LOSC had several opportunities they did not capitalize on. The LOSC forwards are fast, their mids handle the ball very well so our defense better bring it all game next Saturday. They had a little play on a couple corner kicks where they pasted it in short and the 2 girls passed it back & forth until they got close to the goal.
FC's forwards, Ella & McKenzie Spooner, are big. Ella has the most experience and plays more aggressively and is just slightly faster. Last year Ella played for FC Ruby, McKenzie for our own THUSC Platinum. Both can battle their way in and cause problems if we don't lay a body on them or leave them unmarked.

So, to recap; to beat LOSC we need to play aggressive offense, attack all game. Defense needs to neutralize their speed and ball handling of #17 by taking good angles and aggressive double teams. If we can do that, in my most humble of opinions, we should beat LOSC. This, of course, has no ground in any professional capacity so we'll leave the coaching to Ronnie. She has done a spectacular job thus far and will continue to take us far as we can go!

GO SODIUM

Other State Cup Results...

2008-04-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

Keizer Hotshots beat OSA Inferno 2-1. No surprise there. I am going to see if I can scout Keizer next week because I feel they may be a sneaker.

OR Rush 95 Nike beat WSM Strikers 1-0. WSM may be the spoiler of the 'B' bracket if they can take care of Hotshots and Inferno.

Several of us are going to watch the LOSC vs FC Platinum game Sunday. Check back because I will post the results.

GO SODIUM!

Sodium kicks a little ESU booty!

2008-04-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

The score was no indication of how hard they played or how dominating Sodium was in the opening State Cup game this morning. In the 1-0 shut out of ESU Arsenal the lady warriors dominated from the first whistle to the last. When you out-shoot your opponent 8 to 1 (or more), you're bound to get one to drop. All game long the play was in the ESU side of the field with Sodium forwards running freely and shooting almost at will. The first half ended 0-0 but you could tell the Arsenal team was shell-shocked. Late in the second half during one of the many free-for-alls in front of the ESU net a Payten Sonnen to Katherine Kramer to Emmy Owens off the far post shot hit the back of the net in what would prove to be the game winner! The crowed erupted with cheers as the deserving trio (mobbed by the rest of team) hi-five'd and hugged.
The solid defense held to the end for an opening win!

Next up: 4/19/08 - 12:00pm @ Lakeridge HS #2 vs LOSC Extreme.

I will update the rest of the bracket when the OYSA website comes back online.

Great job today! GO SODIUM!

Today (Saturday April 12th, 2008)

2008-04-11T08:39:00.001-07:00

To the lady warriors;

Today you begin the journey you have been preparing for since June of last year. Today you take the field for State Cup. But unlike where you were then, today you are a team. Today you will remember the blood, sweat, tears and exhaustion you endured. Today you will remember the sacrifices you made, how hard you have worked & fought and the lessons taught by Ronnie. Today, when you get to the field, look around you and see how far you’ve come, be proud. Rejoice in your fans who love and admire you. Embrace your teammates and know that each and every one of them will have your back today, and you there’s. Today balls will hit the net, and bodies will hit the turf.

Today you will be unstoppable. Today you are a team. THE team.

Today, you are SODIUM.

Thoughts on Motivation

2008-04-08T09:12:00.000-07:00

Back in late October when Sodium was in a little slump (I think we went a month without a win) I put together a post entitled "Motivation". I never posted it for some reason. Now that we are on the cusp of the State Cup I went back and read it again. I stepped up on my soapbox, pulled on my coaches cap (after dusting it off) took the relevant information, added a few gems of wisdom and this is what developed.
Sit back, enjoy and hopefully this will pump you up a little.

mo•ti•va•tion [moh-tuh-vey-shuhn] - noun

1. the act or instance of motivating
2. the state or condition of being motivated
3. something that motivates; inducement; incentive

In competitive sports you find many avenues of motivation. Some are personal (I did it for my father), some are emotional (they're coming into our house),some are psychological (big pay check) and some are both (I want to win a state championship for my teammates who worked so hard all season to get here). For Sodium, emotional & personal play the biggest roles and that is what I will address. I will touch on a few things then end with a couple little stories/examples.

I don't even really think I need to tell you how important getting motivated or 'psyched up' for the upcoming games is. Let me touch on a few areas;
First, two of the three games in the first round are being played at our home field, REC #1. This means that both ESU Arsenal and FC Platinum think they can come into our house and beat us. That alone should motivate Sodium to want to beat these teams.
ESU thought they could come with us and compete at the U13 level. They currently occupy the bottom of the ranking with zero wins (one was a 3-0 shut-out we gave them). Sodium is fourth out of eight playing U13. FC has always thought they could play with us. We were 1-0-1 against them in the regular season but have crushed them in indoor every game. They have posted a very mediocre 4-3-1 record playing U12 this spring. You girls have friends (and enemies) that play for FC. I don't think I need to touch on bragging rights at school as a motivator.
Second, I don't think I need to rekindle the hatred Sodium has for Lake Oswego. They play dirty, their fans are rude. We need to attack them on their home field with a vengeance. Remind them of the taste we left them with last year.

Sometimes motivation is ignited by anger. Remembering how it felt to miss an opportunity or to allow a goal? Remember how it felt not to win a game in almost a month or tie the last place team? In these instances when anger wells up you have to say to yourself; "NEVER AGAIN!" You look at the team across that field and say 'NEVER AGAIN' will I lose a 50/50, 'NEVER AGAIN' will I get beat to the ball. 'NEVER AGAIN' will I let my team down by not giving 100% every second I am on the field. 'NEVER AGAIN' will I take the field without knowing in my heart that I will leave everything I have out there for my team. Do you think Mia Hamm ever said that? Oh I think she did, I KNOW she did. Every champion has and will.
As a coach and fan I have seen many examples of motivation and heart. Here are two examples.
First came just last year, in 2007. A group of girls are thrown together on the soccer field. Not good enough (they thought) to make the 'A' squad and barely able to field a full team, they struggled. But, with constant encouragement from their loyal fans and coach they start to believe in themselves. They become motivated to take the field and play their hearts out. Several games found girls stumbling off the field, crying from exhaustion. They had players dropping from heat exhaustion, they played with pain because they knew there was no one on the bench, but they played with fire. Once, in a pre-game discussion with the coaches and officials the opposing coach said once he gets up by several goals he will pull a player to make it even with 10. With fire in her eye this little teams coach looked him fiercely in the eye and said; "You'll never be ahead", and she was right. Only until the last 30 seconds did the other team score to win 2-1. And they played with 11 all game. Motivated with the knowledge that they HAD the skills, the drive and the heart, this team ended the season with a 4-0-1 run. This team was 2007's THUSC Platinum. Two of those players are your teammates.
This next example is in parts. It starts in a bygone era. A rag-tag bunch of school boys find themselves on the football field. No one has played before, no great stand-out athletes, nothing special. What makes this team memorable is the way the coaches motivate the players. They instill a belief in them that they can't be beat. If each and every player, on every play, gives it everything they have, they will win. The head coach teaches them a saying they repeat every game, every play. 'If it is to be, it's up to me' is that saying. What that means to these boys is that the success of the team rides on each and every players executing to the best of their ability every play. This team was the 1977 Cedar Park varsity boys football team. They were undefeated and still hold records to this day.
Some 9 years or so later an alumni of that team strolls into Cedar Park. He agrees to help out with a struggling football program. He teaches them a little saying and the importance believing in yourself and your teammates. Before the first game he buys the team t-shirts to wear under their pads every game. The slogan on those shirts? You guessed it; 'If it is to be, it's up to me'.
The boys varsity team went undefeated that year. The last time that happened, 1977.

Tom brought up a good point Sunday in Bend. He said along with the wins, the loses have to hurt. In other words, take it personal. If you are out there giving it 100% and you see a teammate that isn't, you'd better be in her face. You'd better let her know that to be part of this incredibly special group of girls, they'd better give until it hurts for the team. Every time you take the field of battle you have to be prepared mentally. You have to motivate. These next few games are vital to the success of the team. Getting motivated and staying motivated throughout the game, giving all you have, no excuses, will only make this team stronger. Invincible.

From here on out we have to look at every game as if it were our last. ESU, LOSC, FC, these initials need to burn. When you take the field Saturday you should see RED when you look at them across the field.

I could ramble for days (time to remove the coaches hat). I hope this didn't bore everyone too badly.

I am REALLY excited for the games this weekend, I hope you all are too.

GO SODIUM!

If it is to be, it's up to me

side note: The player then coach at Cedar Park, was yours truely. Thanks for letting me stroll down memory lane...

Favorite Sayings

2008-04-07T07:07:00.000-07:00

As we approach the first State Cup game I wanted to post a couple sayings we have adopted throughout the season;

"TEAM"
"Back In Black"
"Let the bodies hit the turf!"
"In It To Win It!"
"Trample the weak, hurdle the dead!"
"Every Game Needs a Hero - Who will it be?"
"If you're not training, somebody else is training to kick your butt!"
"If it is to be, it's up to me"

"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

I would like to take you back to read a previous post when things weren't going so well for Sodium. It kind of brings things into perspective. It was called; "about pride" and you can read it here

I will be submitting a post this week called "Motivation". I recommend we all read it.

Proud as ever to say; GO SODIUM!

Bend Weekend Round Up

2008-04-06T18:15:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Shannon, Bailey, Bethany and Scott Hall for hosting dinner Saturday night at their home in Bend. A great time was had by all! Thanks to Tom for coaching the girls Sunday against a high caliber U13 Bend Storm team. Sodium was just out-played by the bigger, faster, stronger first place team from Bend. The girls played hard in the frigid temperature allowing only one goal in the second half, but the Storm proved to be just too tough as they put three in the net the first half.

Take Aways
Tom brought up some good points after the game that I think need to be revisited;
First - We need to play harder and take the games more serious. We need to celebrate wins but also get a little pissed when we lose! Take it personal in other words. No more excuses. From today forward EVERY game should be played as if it were our LAST!
Second - We need to double team more and not get beat at midfield and close to the goal. We let Storm have WAY too many opportunities that could have been avoided with smarter play and execution.
Third - Don't ride the coattails of last year. Yes, we are the defending State Champions (U11) but that won't win us any games! We have to go out and play better, get better and work harder every practice and every game to be better. Being cocky is no substitute for being the best you can be EVERY game and beating other teams into the ground. We need to lead by example and our reputation will take care of itself.

Up next; 4/12/08 - Rec #1 @ 11:00AM vs ESU Arsenal. The first game of STATE CUP!!

GO SODIUM!

thoughts...

2008-03-20T10:06:00.000-07:00

"EVERY GAME NEEDS A HERO - WHO WILL IT BE?"

State Cup Begins

2008-03-19T15:56:00.000-07:00

OK folks, the time we've all been working for is upon us. Looks like the State Cup is here again! Below is the bracket, teams, locations and times we will need. The girls look so ready, it is obvious the choice to play up in age did wonderful things for the team!

4/12/08 - 11:00AM - Rec #1 - vs ESU Arsenal
4/19/08 - 12:00PM - Lakeridge HS #2 - vs LOSC Extreme
4/20/08 - 1:00PM - Rec #1 - vs FC Portland

The Skinny:
ESU Arsenal - Although they finished ahead of us in the fall season, this is a very beatable team, evident by the pounding we gave them this spring and the fact that they are 0-5 thus far playing U13. They finished second in the State Pre's behind Keizer Hotshots with a record of 2-0-2.
LOSC Extreme - Thus far this spring season LOSC is 5-1 playing U12 (their only loss was to OR Rush 95G Nike). They finished the State Cup Pre with an identical record as us (4-0-0) but scored fewer goals. Having Sodium play U13 this fall will prove the edge we need to eliminate LOSC.
FC Ptld Platinum - Always a good time beating FC. Currently they are 1-3-1 in the U12 spring season and are a very beatable team. They finished their State Pre bracket with a 2-1-1 record just behind OSA. Sodium has always dominated FC and the trend will likely continue.

Looking at the U13 bracket I was pleasantly surprised to find Sodium (3-3), one of two U12 teams playing up, was (in my opinion) holding either 3rd or 4th spot depending on how you calculated it. Not bad in a field of 8. The other U12 team, ESU Arsenal, was dead last at 0-5.

The "B" bracket consists of powerhouse OR Rush 95G Nike, Keizer Hotshots, OSA Inferno and WSM Strikers. WSM(2-1-1) finished second in our State Pre bracket, OSA(2-0-2) finshed on top of theirs, OR Rush(3-1-0) finished second to LOSC in their bracket and Keizer(3-1-0) finished on top in their bracket.

As the brackets are updated, I will update or link to them.

GO SODIUM!

Remember...

2008-03-17T11:45:00.000-07:00

"When we're not training, somebody else is training to kick our butts!"

(taken from some sports magazine I think)

Several Week Recap (or "Get your priorities straight!")

2008-03-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

Tri-Cities
In two of the best, most exciting games we’ve seen Sodium play, the lady warriors destroyed the strong Boise Les Bois team 5-1 and beat up on the U13 FC Willamette Atletica team 3-1.

In Pasco the girls started off a little slow, dropping the first two games to powerhouse local Washington teams, 2-0 and 2-1. The only goal scored Saturday was on a cross that was slam dunked by Dayna Carlson. The raging wind and bitter cold played havoc with all the teams on Saturday. Sunday brought an entirely new team to the field. With a little fire the Sodium squad took the field against a tough Les Bois team from Boise, ID. The tone was set early, shoot early and shoot often as the lady warriors rocketed shot after shot at the helpless Les Bois goalie. Dayna Carlson, Marissa Reid, Payten Sonnen and Bailey Hall all scored for the lady warriors. To add insult to injury, one of the 5 goals was an own goal off the defenders hip.

Sodium Blows Up against Atletica
After suffering a shut out earlier this season at the hands of FC Willamette Atletica, Sodium showed up ready to take the field with a vengeance. Being a year younger, a year less experienced and a little lighter than Atletica never became an issue as the lady warriors took it to them from the initial whistle. The battle was ON as bodies flew, tempers flared and Sodium scored. First was a textbook break away by Payten Sonnen flying down her favorite right side. From our vantage point I still don’t know how she shot the angle but she did and rocked the back of the net for the initial score! Atletica answered quickly on a direct kick that just got passed the dive of stand in goalie extraordinaire Erika Cook. (Who did a great job!) On a move that will go down in Sodium history, the next goal was scored just after half time by Emmy Owens. After taking a pass in traffic Emmy not only split two defenders but totally left the Atletica goalie holding her jog bra with a head fake and rocket into the net. The slack-jawed crowed, after we digested the move we just witnessed, exploded from the sidelines! I think even Ronnie and Tom were impressed by this move. To put the nail in the Atletica coffin, late in the second half after Sodium had penetrated deep into the box, the ball was dropped back to Bailey Hall who took aim and drilled a laser into the upper right corner from 25 yards out. Overall these last two games have been the best back-to-back games Sodium has put together all season. They kept their cool against the bigger, older Atletica team and even though things got very physical, they were patient and took advantage of the opportunities given. A sign of a true championship team.

ESU Arsenal (Hat-Trick for Jadyn!)
Jadyn McMillan scored all 3 goals against ESU Arsenal this Sunday in the 3-1 victory. In this preview of the next round of the State Cup, Sodium again dominated the ESU team. Playing with only 11 players the lady warriors flexed a little muscle and showed Arsenal what to expect April 12th.

What a difference a year makes (A little humble pie)
To play a team that is expected to win state in their division is one thing (we’re always up for a challenge), if that team happens to be in the age bracket above you? Well, that’s a whole new ball game. Thus was the game Saturday against FC Portland Marine at PCC. Marine was fast, big and well coached. The 1-3 score is not indicative of how well Sodium played against FC. “Let the bodies hit the turf” was definitely the theme of this match as Sodium battled all game. In the second half Sodium really played tough as Jadyn McMillan, who is scoring at will these days, scored yet again and battled Marine to a 1-1 half. After the game the FC team looked a little battered and beaten. They knew they had just played one of the best teams in the state and I think they are thankful Sodium isn’t a year older…

Back with a vengeance (Sodium vs BSC Black Magic)
Different day, different outcome, same great team. Sporting a full roster the lady warriors took the field against a much bigger Black Magic team. Sodium came out fired up, they took it to BSC right out of the gate. The defense held strong as the faster Black Magic pulled out all the stops and eventual squeaked one in pasted the diving outstretched arms of Kristin Boone, who is doing an outstanding job in the goalie box and normally shares time with Hannah Hartford who is sick (and was on vacation too!). Patience, persistence and great passing, all signs of a veteran team. Sodium exhibited all three as they just kept plugging away at the BSC goal. Coach Ronnie even changed things up a bit when she moved Taylor Coon to forward and went with a 3-4-3 alignment. The girls reacted to the new scheme perfectly because with under three minutes left, a collision in front of the Black Magic goal produced a Bailey Hall header to Marisa Reid who found the back of the net! GAME ON! The cheers from the Sodium crowed lit up the OES field. A deflated BSC team played ‘not-to-lose’ the remaining minutes and, at the final whistle, Sodium knew they had a just won a huge moral victory! The lady warriors floated off the field, heads held high with Coach Ronnie proudly following.

Notables:
I have to say, from the perspective of a fan/parent, that our team is playing exceptionally well right now. We are playing at a new level just in time for State Cup. After looking at the bracket Ronnie sent out, in my opinion, I don’t think we will have any problems advancing. As a former coach I have learned never to underestimate my opponent so we need to address them one game at a time. But, having said that, if you base things on past games and the fact that we are playing so much better now, well, you decide. I will post links to the brackets when they come available. I cannot find them through OYSA because it states they will not be available until March 19th. If anyone knows a little backdoor, please let me know.

Next up; Bend Storm - April 6th in Bend. See Ronnies email for details.

Until next time: GO SODIUM!

Sodium plays up, and plays very well!

2008-02-24T17:20:00.000-08:00

The lady warriors have chosen to play the U13 Gold bracket for the Spring '08 portion of the season. A move we all agree is going to be nothing short of fantastic for the girls as everything from this point on is in preparation for the second half of State Cup. Playing up allows the girls to play against U13 Premiere Gold opponents who are bigger, often faster and have an additional year of experience.
Sodium played its first game last weekend against Atletica, an FC Willamette team. They played very well despite the 3-0 loss. This weekend Sodium split against rival LOSC Dynamite and OSA Milan. In the 2-1 loss to LOSC the girls played hard physical ball all game, ending the first half locked at 0-0. The second half was just as rough as Sodium adjusted to the age and height differential. Nearing the half-way mark Jadyn McMillan took a cross and found the back of the net for the go ahead goal. Fatigue took its toll late in the second half. Sodium could only field 11 players Saturday and it proved to be there downfall as the fresher legged Dynamite scored twice at the end of the second half to take home the victory. The score was no indication of how good Sodium played. All game long the play centered in the Dynamite end of the field.
It turned out that Saturday's game was just a warm up. Sunday Sodium faced OSA Milan, a bigger more experienced team. Right out of the gate you could see Sodium, having two games against U13 opponents, knew exactly what it would need to do take home a victory. Crisp passing, communication and a strong defensive effort proved too much for OSA. The play all game was centered around the Milan goal. The Milan goalie played a great game, deflecting and grabbing shot after shot. Finally, just passed the midway point in the second half, on a Bailey Hall corner kick, Payten Sonnen rocked the goalie. The ball deflected off and Emmy Owens was there to fire it into the net. The defense held as the score remained 1-0 at the final whistle, solidifying a Sodium win.

Playing against these older, more experienced teams will prove to be a great tool in developing Sodiums skills. Add to that a confidence boost by beating these teams and it will prove to be an invaluable experience as we prep for State Cup.

Next up: Blue Mountain Exchange - Feb 29 thru Mar 2 in Richland, WA.
(I will try to post the background on the teams we play)

GO SODIUM!

OSU Tournament Results

2008-02-02T18:07:00.000-08:00

Let me editorialize for a moment. I don't think I have ever seem a team play as well as this team is playing right now. I have coached many teams, I have played on State Champion teams, but I have never seen a team gel together, even when playing as two separate units, as 2007 Sodium. When Ronnie mentioned this team is 'Special' I think we all know exactly what she is talking about. Have we ever seen passing this crisp? or patience with the ball? or attacking the goal and FINISHING!?! Can't you just sense a great feeling of pride every time they take the field?! ALOHA! Anyway, the recap;

Sodium 1 Tournament Champions Record: 6-0-0
Name & Goals
Hannah Hartford 3
Bailey Hall 5
Laura Camp 4
Laura Nguyen 2
Emmy Owens 5
Taylor Coon 1
Katherine Kramer 3
Jadyn McMillan 8
Team Total Goals: 31
Goals Allowed: 4

Sodium 2 Tournament Co-Champions Record: 4-1-0
Name & Goals
Kristen Boone 1
Bethany Hall 1
Taylor Crowell 3
Hannah L. 4
Erika Cook 3
Payten Sonnen 6
Marisa Reid 4
Dayna Carlson 1
Total Team Goals: 23
Goals Allowed: 5

NOTES: Sodium 2 actually allowed fewer goals. (total includes Sodium vs. Sodium game) Sodium teams combined outscored their opponents 10 to 1 (50 to 5)(excludes Sodium vs. Sodium)
I would have to say that right now these lady warriors are nearing their peak. They are playing so good it is a joy to watch them take the field. They are confident, patient, relentless and dominating.

Next up: February 16th vs (FC)Will Atletica. 10:00AM at Salem Indoor Soccer.

Note from the sidelines; Click here to see who is ranked as the top U12 Girls team in the State of Oregon! (as of November 2007)

With pride I say; GO SODIUM!

Sodium Tunes Up For OSU Indoor Tourney

2008-02-02T17:55:00.000-08:00

Sodium vs. Lightening - that is the closest it was all night.
Within the first 2 minutes of the last indoor game of the season, the lady warriors drew first blood. Smelling fear, Sodium dominated Lightening ending the first half 7-0.

As they took the field for the second half you could see that gleam in their eyes. That look that says "I own you", and own them they did. So many Sodium players scored I stopped keeping track after awhile. Even the official quit adding the scores to the scoreboard. The highlight was a Laura Camp header goal in the second.

After the dust settled, Sodium walked away from Soccerplex with a 16-1 victory.

They have really elevated their play.

Next up: OSU Indoor Tournament

GO SODIUM!

Sodium Kicks a Little L.O. Booty!

2008-01-28T09:35:00.000-08:00

As always, Sodium loves to play arch rival Lake Oswego anytime, anywhere. The lady warriors came out fast and furious and just blew the doors off any hopes of an L.O. upset. Leading the pack was Jayden McMillan who dished out a "Hat Trick" in the first half. Bailey Hall fired in two of her own and both Katherine Kramer and Emmy Owens rocketed in one each in the 7 - 1 beating.

Always a good day when Sodium smokes a team from Lake Oswego.

Next up:
Friday 2/1/08 @ 5:40 - Sodium vs. Lightening (Indoor)
Friday 2/1/08 after game - End-Of-Year Pot-Luck at Carlson's!

Saturday 2/2/08 - OSU Indoor Tournament (4 games)

Check out the calendar of Sodium events to the right - Thanks to Caryn Camp!

GO SODIUM!

Sodium keeps cool, wins indoor match

2008-01-10T15:24:00.000-08:00

After playing an outdoor game (scrimmage) against Vancouver Courage in the cold, drizzle and snow, the ladies warriors had to hightail it back to their own 'house' to take on OSA Inferno in an indoor match. OSA came out fast and scored 2 goals, 1 at the start and the other midway through the first half. Being the champions that they are, Sodium wasn't fazed. They came back with a Katherine Kramer rocket to the back of the net to end the first half. With confidence and a gleam in their eyes, the lady warriors took the field to face Inferno and start the second half. Hammer time. The second half was a little different story. The Inferno was getting a taste of BACK IN BLACK!
(Maybe a little foreshadowing of Saturdays game?) About a quarter of the way through Payten "wheels" Sonnen slammed in a goal off a rebound. What seemed like just minutes later Katherine was it again as she put the icing on the cake with her second goal. Poise, Passion, Power. Nice job ladies.

Next Up: 1/12 @ 10:30AM, Field #2 - OSA Inferno
1/13 @ 10:30AM, Field #2 - United Sapphire (U13)

GO SODIUM!

Sodium Wins Indoor Tournament

2008-01-05T08:03:00.000-08:00

The ladies strutted their stuff in a local 4 game indoor tournament held at SoccerPlex. Sodium scored 24 goals (I think, I lost count) and allowed only 1 on there way to taking home the first place trophy. We had to keep coach Ronnie's streak alive so the girls really brought their "A" game. Goals were scored by virtually everyone so instead of posting the team roster, I will just say "GREAT JOB!"

Next up: Scrimmage with Vancouver Courage - 1/5/08. Be there at 9:30

GO SODIUM!

State Cup Brackets

2007-12-01T16:07:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-27T22:46:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-23T22:51:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-20T08:06:00.000-08:00

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!

2007-11-11T15:37:00.000-08:00

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!

2007-11-10T13:25:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-05T06:05:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-01T18:55:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-11-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-29T22:33:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-22T14:54:00.000-07:00

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'

2007-10-19T16:55:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-14T13:48:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-09T20:11:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-09-30T11:37:00.000-07:00

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

2007-09-24T06:55:00.000-07:00

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

2007-09-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

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

2007-09-15T19:17:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-09-10T13:51:00.000-07:00

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

2007-09-07T18:43:00.000-07:00

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

2007-09-03T13:55:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-09-03T09:18:00.000-07:00

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...

2007-09-03T08:57:00.000-07:00

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 !!

2007-08-12T21:33:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-08-11T17:00:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-11T00:16:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-06T17:59:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-05T21:10:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-04T17:41:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

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

2007-07-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

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

2007-07-30T10:48:00.000-07:00

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

2007-07-27T22:41:00.000-07:00

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

2007-07-23T06:43:00.000-07:00

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

2007-07-23T06:29:00.000-07:00

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

2007-07-23T06:25:00.000-07:00

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

2007-06-30T08:57:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-06-25T21:47:00.000-07:00

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