Thursday, April 25, 2013

Back with Leo - and the boys are excited.  They knew what to expect, and new it wasn't going to be easy.  And it wasn't.  Practice was a struggle, the day off felt good and the return to exerting oneself, was a tough transition.






Then a little perspective on life as the boys were taken to the American Cemetery.  It really made the team think.  There were numerous discussions about their heritage, and many boys sought out the Vermont veterans, as well as Medal of Honor winners. 8,301 Americans buried here.  1700 of them unknown soldiers.  26 of them Vermonters.  Made us all pause and be grateful for what we have because of their sacrifice.  The dutch bus driver left an impression on the boys when he turned off the music out of respect, as the bus turned into the cemetery.





Then it was back to the practice pitch.  Another session with challenges and pushing their fitness.  And back to the hostel for some rest, shower, etc.  before game time at 6 pm.







The team struggled to get into a rhythm, and the competition was tough.  After a rough first half, the boys played better in the second.  They battled, but in the end it just wasn't enough.  The boys fell 4-0.



In the clubhouse or more specifically out on the patio of the clubhouse overlooking the turf pitch, the boys mingled with their hosts.  Coaches mixed in as well and these are some of the unique and memorable interactions that this trip has provided the boys.



Then it was back on the bus to the hostel.  A nice dinner.  Team meeting and an evening stroll into Maastricht.  Along the way we visited... yes a McDonald's and a local gelado shop.  Then back for some needed rest, as it all begins again in the morning.




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