“The players were ready to compete”, commented Striker’s U10 coaches. “There were some rough spots, and a Worland (white) team showed us where we want to be as a passing and team-focused squad, but overall we were pleased to see the U10’s showing their energy and passion for the game.” It was typical early season soccer. Touches on the ball were a bit off, passes weren’t always crisp, conditioning is still not quite there, but to-a-player the team spirit showed through. Both the White and Green teams hustled, played their positions, and gave their all during their 4 shortened games. Notable on the day were a couple goals that Noah netted. “His instincts for the far post were good and that’s what helped him with his shots on goal. He’s a courageous player in the face of some larger opponents. That’s what you look for in the younger players.” Spencer was on the field, despite a week of fighting off a virus, again, a sign to the coaches that he is willing to sacrifice for the good of the team. From the more experienced players–Jason(2), Nesto, Daniel (5) and Ethan(5)–we saw what we expected in terms of their growth as players and leaders, and it was beautiful to see some of the newer players to Strikers like Jedediah, Antonio (3), Jim(2) and Rachel contributing to both the goal count and midfield play.
“We rotated through a number of players in the goal. They worked on goalie skills through the past couple weeks and we’re pleased to see that we have a number of net-minders that we can draw from”, added Lander Coaches. “Alyssa, for example, contributed to team in ways she told us that we shouldn’t expect”, said Coach Lobera, “but there she was, very sure-handed and she even assisted one goal with a nice punt out to forward Noah, who calmly collected the ball and went low far-post on their keeper.” All-in-all, a few things to work with, but a great day of soccer for the U10’s. Added the coaches: “When players give their all, we’re both pleased and inspired.” Next up, Casper Jamboree and the first League Weekend.
