Another day with Leo, and the start of the first practice was showing a little fatigue... natural enough with the workouts, but the expectations the coaches have are higher.  And after some calling out - the boys responded with an excellent conclusion to the practice.

This was what the coaches were driving towards, focus and physical play even while fatigued.  This was to be a day of exactly that.  The second practice of the day was similar - good energy, but then it dropped off and after getting on the team - they responded...

This was the perfect setup for the match at De Valk FC.   The team rented bikes for the full Dutch Experience - biking to the game.  This was a wonderful 15 minute ride through town as a team, and added to the magic of the day. 

Yes that's right the locker room door sign says "Field 3"  "Americans"...  Awesome

At the game the boys played their best soccer to date, and were dog tired doing so.  It was a complete team effort with great midfield work and linked play in particular "Captain" Thomas Pierce, Jack Battistoni, and Joey Franceschetti was noteworthy.  Also worth particular mention was keeper Brenden Hinman who punched away a number of shots, and his goal kicks and punts were all huge.  Again ALL 11 played very well.  Focus was there for the full game, and the technique was a high level, even with exaustion.  The final score was a 0-0 draw.

The boys then were invited into the clubhouse and they boys again thrived.  They mixed in among the home team and the chatter continued until we had to leave.  The coaches were also most gracious and a wonderful time was had by all.  But with the  Bayern Munich v. Barcelona game for the Semi's of the UEFA Championship and impending darkness, the boys had to hop on their bikes and head back to the Hostel.

From one bystander - this was the best day yet, as far as soccer development goes...  This will be one they remember.