Our new Club

The rumors abound. And, as providence should have it – that which has us joining the mighty Andrew Collins and his legendary Breakers, is true.

We are, thusly, proud to call ourselves JBS Shockers Nation.

We’ll be flying new colors as well. Gray to be clear about it, with our traditional yellow tye-dye socks.

We’ll be training at the beautiful Chukkar Farm Polo Fields in Milton.

And, we are accepting challenges for “friendlies” to prepare for the up-and-coming Fall season.

Coach Brian

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Transitions

Last night during scrimmage our Shockers proved their performance in the final match at the Lanier tournament was no fluke.

They came ready for practice and were clearly determined to comport themselves with valor in drills and on the pitch.

Focus combined with grit always tells.

We had several mutely awed parents in attendance that were witnesses.

We put them on the field without a goalie in the net. I asked them, simply enough, to protect the goal.

My only real advice?

“Keep the ball at the other end of the field.”

They did that very thing.

The few times our opponents managed a fast break they broke on “the wall” now formed by a legendary defense.

Our girls added new meaning to “wanting the ball”.  Not one Shocker, I tell you, failed to fight with all their might for every single ball.

These girls are fighters; winners; possessed of great character; and the object of tremendous pride on the part of their coach (whom it should be noted has no voice this morning).

By the way…  Alex Rodriguez at Totally Soccer thinks we will have the rest of our gear by Friday. So, be on standby to meet off Post Road for a quick distribution.

Coach Brian

Notes for Thursday Practice

Our skills sharpen each practice – as does confidence and team unity.

Erin joined us last night, and she fit right in – mostly because the girls have big hearts and Erin put forth a solid effort.

Our Defense needs to FOCUS.

Our Forwards are being encouraged to SHOOT.  But, also to fearlessly dribble the ball through opposition.

It’s okay to bring the ball back and consider a smarter attack.

After some sustained chatty moments during team council, I admonished the girls that if there is talking or silliness while a coach is speaking, the next practice is ALL SPRINTS.  I think that got their attention (KC went all bug-eyed).  We shall see Thursday.

This is a reminder that we need to come to practice Thursday in full kit (white jerseys mind you) for a team photo.

NOTE:  We had, not a few, light moments Tuesday with me explaining what is meant by “kit”, “kit bag”, and “boots”. Some did know what a “pitch” is.

Kit = Uniform and other related apparel.

Kit Bag = Team bag.

Boots = Field Cleats or Turf Shoes – but, shoes in general.

Pitch = Soccer Field.

Soon, I may throw them all for a loop and begin referring to “THe Beautiful Game” as “Football”.

Thanks for being part of this.  We are only just beginning.  But, what we take away from each and every day should last a life-time.

Coach Brian

Kits and Tournament Preparation

Our new “kits” (United Kingdom vernacular for uniforms and that related) have arrived.

Each player will be issued Fusion blue Adidas shorts, and Two Adidas jerseys – Fusion Blue (Home) and White (Away).

With some luck, we are hopeful Alex Rodriguez at Totally Soccer, will have our sweatshirts, custom tie-dye socks (yellow I think), and team bags (possibly our pennies) ready as well.

We will distribute the kits Tuesday evening at Central Park.

We then need the players to muster for Thursdays practice in full kit for a team photo to be displayed on the tournament website and our team page.

We have two more practices before the tournament (the weekend of February 21st and 22nd). We have had terrific turnouts for practices. However, I need to know it, if in the event, a player can’t make it in this coming week.

By the way…  This Blog site aside, all members of this team – parents and players alike, should always feel free to call or email me, for any reason.

Coach Brian