Fall 2016 Update

Team Red Barons,

I wanted to send a quick update:

Practices

The practices have been going great and I think last Wednesday was our best so far. We're starting to get into a rhythm and the boys are working hard out there. One of the things that's really exciting to me is that I don't see ANYONE walking, when we're conditioning. I've challenged the boys to at least jog when they're tired and they have been doing this. We'll be doing more conditioning as we get closer to game time but please have the kids exercise at home as well. The better conditioned they are, the more fun they're going to have in our games and practices. They should also be kicking a ball around every day!

Game Schedule

The game schedule should be out later this week. As soon as I get it, I'll post it to our blog so everyone can start planning for this Fall. If possible, plan around our games and practices so your son can participate as much as possible. Every boy contributes to our team and when games and practices are missed, it throws everyone off. Especially if we don't have enough boys to run our drills or to scrimmage during practice.

Team Dynamic

I'm really excited about our team! We've got some great kids and they seem to get along really well, so far. I'm not quite sure how the season is going to go but I'm confident, after a few practices, that we're going to be competitive and that it's going to be a lot of fun. As you may know, most of our team is playing up a year. On top of this, the league put us into the 1st division, which means we'll be playing the toughest teams at the U12 level. This season will definitely be a challenge but I think we're all up for it! If it ends up being too competitive for us, we can always ask them to put us into a lower division in the Spring.

Jerseys & Equipment

Everyone should have ordered their jersey by now, unless they already have one from a previous season. If not, please let me know if you have any questions on how to get what you need. As far as equipment - it looks like everyone has cleats and pads. Along with these, it's preferred that you have blue shorts and socks to complete the team/league uniform. Please do your best to get these before our games start. Also, there are a couple boys who don't have a size 4 soccer ball. They need their own ball, not just for practices but for practicing at home as well. Please get them one ASAP, if you haven't already, and if for any reason you can't, please let me know and I can help you out.

Jersey Numbers

Please let us know what your jersey number will be. We have a few kids waiting to pick up their jersey, but can't until they know what the existing jersey numbers are. Please reply to this email with your jersey numbers, ASAP.

Thanks everyone!

Coach Ben