With coaches practice started at most high schools, the excitement for the 2009 MN high school season is upon us. Should be a great year for HS soccer with many very strong U16, U17 and U18 girls club teams.
8:05 - not sure if it's bad (as you chime in 3-4 times daily) but it is a cut below Class AA (which many folks also would describe as "so bad"). I do believe that 2009 is a down year in Class AA since many of the traditional powers are much weaker due to a variety of reasons. In many years the top 3-4 Class A teams could hold their own with the better Class AA teams (not the top 3-4 teams), but this year I don't think the top two state finalists could hold their own with any top 10 Class AA team.
Way to go Cloquet! You deserved to win. ER didn't show up ready to play. Cloquet will definitely give Blake a run for their money. So much for the ER vs. Rogers final!
From an ER parent - Cloquet played a very good game. Their goalie was excellent. And they have some speed. They never gave up driving to our end. They trapped us off side several times. Very smart team play. The parents and fans were also some of the best I have seen this season. The band was a great addition. It was a fun game to watch even on the losing side. Best of luck to Cloquet against Blake - another young and hungry team written off early in the year.
10:02 Afraid to state this for ER loyal following, but this is another instance of a coach with huge self inflicted ego trying to focus the reason for winning game on his decision making. Congrats to Cloquet on an inspired game plan and execution . ER team expections were skewed by too much unneeded adulation by the usual suspects. Players win games by the mental state they are conditioned to respond to. When the conditons they are told are unrealistic top performance are not acheived as a team.
LMAO!!!! You guys can tear ER apart however much you'd like. Fact is in the end their inspired performance silenced all the haters for months. Now at the end, the haters finally have feel they have something to try and base their idiocy on again. Some of you people are such cowardly losers.
To the true soccer fans, ER is not about only the coach. It's more about the girls from rival high schools and clubs, and what they accomplished coming together.
The Cloquet/Blake match up should be a good one. Orono will play the winner in the final.
Caught the ER vs. Cloquet game last night. ER was the more skilled team, but didn't seem as motivated and couldn't ever get much going until it was too late. Cloquet really wanted it bad and has a few nice players. Two very different teams though.
If Blake beats Cloquet I think they win it all. Orono was fortunate to tie Blake earlier in the season when Blake was missing a player or two. Blake is also a very different team now compared to when they played earlier. I don't think there is a more inspired team. Just my two cents, good luck to all!
I was also at the Eastridge Cloquet game last night. I'm not a parent from either school.
IMHO Eastridge was clearly the better team and controlled the vast amount of play. But, Cloquet (who appeared to be better athletes) never gave up and ended up winning on shots from the mark.
I think many of us fans know that this is very un-soccer-like way to end a game will always produce debate and at least one player who feels they lost the game, rather than producing a clear and positive winner. Please don't add to the distaste by putting down a coaching decision, or belittling the efforts of 22+ student athletes.
if it's Blake v Orono in the final - see 8:05am. Neither of those teams could beat one of the top 15 Class AA teams in the state. My how times have changed.
I am not sure what your point is about Class A soccer. There is a reason that Minnesota has 2 classes based on school size. If you don't like Class A soccer, then don't watch it. If you don't watch Class A soccer, then don't post about what you don't know. All these girls are student athletes, many of them playing multiple sports for their schools. For most of them, this is about belonging to a team, enjoying sports, improving their skills, gaining leadership... Please show respect to these kids and their coaches who have worked hard all fall (including some of the worst weather and rampant illnesses) to be the best they can be.
I'm sorry, was anyone watching Blake absolutely dominate Mankato West? I was a neutral spectator, in the freezing rain and saw a Blake team with determined players (and fans), that destroyed a very good Mankato West team. Although Blake would lose to Woodbury, I'm sure they could put up a fight (or maybe even win) against other AA teams.
1:54 - hate to burst your bubble but Blake played one (1) Class AA team this year and lost.... The Class AA powerhouse......Minneapolis South.
Personally, I like both classes of soccer. WDB might be one of the best Class AA teams ever in this state and both Edina & EP have been exceptional for years. IMO (and I am entitled to that I hope) I feel that the overall quality of Class A soccer is down not just a little but substantially over the past few years. This doesn't mean there isn't a lot of talent, it is just young and there have been some significant injuries on many teams this year.
On the issue that is being bantered around by either parents whose daughters arent still playing now having graduated from prior years or eliminated this year i beg to differ. The quality of the final four AA teams playing in metro dome is higher this year than years past for several reasons. Some of the players that played on the 93 region 2 odp champs that played in the national final 4 odp championships in texas are still playing or have been eliminated by by stronger deeper teams. All the teams playing are coached and guided by long standing knowledgeable coaches and programs, one a national coach of the year. Woodbury the favorite to win tournament is number one in the nation, and other three teams are ranked high in region 5 poll. The two W teams defenses are some of the best statistically while the two E teams are scoring machines. I cant think of a better scenario for the tournament. Several of the coaches and players playing on the teams have been starters on state championship teams before or have been in finals before. Most of the starters on teams are at the very least year round premier level players. All the teams playing have quality depth off benches with some very good players that may not get to show their skills . Just because your daughters not playing doesnt mean the quality is lacking this year ,just your nonbias judgement. To win this year as the number one team in the nation or try to beat Woodbury is highest level you could ask for. Its an indication of improving overall level of coaching,players and teams thanks to increased overall involvement and commitment of the minnesota soccer community.
Yes, a quality stat about Blake losing to Minneapolis South. I'm sure the poster was at the game and has all the info. I was at that game and it was a disaster for Blake, AKA a very down game for them on their homecoming. Blake had like 20 shots, and South had 1, Blake lost. Not a big surprise for them to have a down game given their youth. Things like that happen. Obviously Blake has moved on and is now playing some decent soccer at the most important time of the year. Maybe that loss to a subpar AA school was the best thing in the world for them? Agree with posts above, grow up and give compliments whether it is A or AA soccer. Girls on teams read these comments.
Amen to the poster pointing out the fact that all players are student athletes class A and AA. What class A has is,in most cases, is academic rigor. Most of the class A schools are private college prep schools. After soccer practice and games they are going home to 4+ hours a night of homework. All the girls in class A deserve kudos for a commitment to their team and their class work! Who cares if it is good soccer or not. If you want to watch good soccer watch FSN. Support our daughters for what they are - good kids who love the game.
Most class A schools ARE NOT private. Where did you come up with that one? Out of the 111 schools lists in the Class A sections, about 40 are private, academy or charter.
May be the craziest thing I have ever seen on this blog. The private A schools are worn down by homework! A public school would never have girls bogged down with homework.
Wow, Edina is not an Academically rigorous school???? What planet are you from, top 100 in the country buddy! Pay your private school tution. We are laughing all the way to the bank
Yes, Having had family members that attended some prominent MN private schools-they are in no way more academically rigorous than MN publics schools. B as in B, S as in S.
406, that was a unique statement to say the least and i think you probably regret making it at this point.
229, woodbury the #1 team in the country? i'm pretty sure they pollsters meant...of the teams that are currently playing in the fall. teams in ca, tx, il (and many other states) are sitting in the wings waiting to put on their boots and prove the poll wrong.
a v aa...i don't think either group has the right to scoff at the other this season.
Class A soccer is no worse than Class A football, basketball, hockey, etc. It is a small school HS sport. It doesn't exist for the viewing pleasure of anal retentive dolts like the constant complainers on this blog.
Watch Barca if you all you can handle is elite soccer, or watch any level that meets with your lofty expectations. Otherwise, put a sock in it.
Class A results have been fun and unpredictable. Double AA very predictable, but playing in winds and rain makes the game difficult.
Watch the games IF you enjoy them. Stay away and silent if you don't.
7:22 PM - appreciate a moment of sanity among all the dolts that downgrade class A soccer on this blog. But I keep on forgetting that these same individuals are purist and elitists. What a bunch of idiots you all are minus those that are able to provide meaningful discussions without having to demean players and teams.
Any comments from those who saw the Orono/Rogers game? From the stats, looks like Rogers had many more shots on goal than Orono. Was it an evenly matched game?
Woodbury is a good club but nowhere near the best in recent years. You have a short memory. The 2007 LS State Champ was a much more talented team top to bottom. They could beat you any way you wanted to play. They could run by you or pass you dizzy and if you made the mistake of getting chippy they'd flat out bury you. I've only seen Woodbury three times but I've seen enough to make this comparison.
I'm a player, and I don't understand how all the comments made about the difficulty of school is relevant. The school you go to, private or public, doesn't change the fact that you play because you love the game. It doesn't matter how hard classes are, how much homework you have, and whether Class A teams could beat Class AA teams. That's why soccer and school are separate. What matters is the feeling you get stepping on to the field-knowing you will tear it up, play with heart, and give everything you've got because you love your teammates and you love soccer. That's what soccer's about.
10;47...Silent prayer.. Please Lord ..let this astute,... well spoken... wise beyond her years young lady... someday be a coach. Any high school or community club would be privelged to have this philosophy and nature leader representing their program.
Prediction 10:31... Woodbury 09 defense will shut out the rest of opponents Eagan and Wayzata in 2009State tournament in metrodome. Eagan offense scored more goals 83 during the 09 season than the LS 2007 teams that scored 80 at same point in season. . Woodbury will shut Eagan out again a second time this season and then Wayzata and win their second state title in a row not their first. They will end up the number 1# team in the nation not the 16th ranked like LS school finished in 2007. The two losses that LS had that season were against good defensive clubs Apple Valley and Eastville when LS fustrated forwards were shut down as they tryed to beat double teams on their own and before changes were made by coach. Neither of those teams defenses are as good as Woodburys and neither of those teams went as far in post season. Sorry dad from former 2007 LS team, they are not as good. Woodbury 2009 will be the best defensive team ever and defense wins games.
I am a Blake parent and I am proud of our team and my daughter. I appreciate the respect that the coaches in Class A (particularly the Tri Metro) have for each other. I know that our team (led by the coaches) and other teams in our conference have sent letters of support to the SPA coach (who, from all opinions, is a good guy and good coach who is struggling with illness in his family.) I am proud of the soccer experience and the life lessons that the schools in our conference (SPA, Blake, Minn Acad. etc.) have. There are some great coaches and people in Class A.
so if i understand this correctly, if wdb goes on to win state they would then be 2x state champs and undefeated over the last two years but the LS 2007 that lost two games during the year they won the title would still be considered better? if "they could beat you anyway you wanted to play" then how did they ever lose not once but twice that year?
Well you won't have Woodbury to kick around next year.You probably will never hear from them again. That leaves just the Univ of EP a school that values sports over education.
agreed, they will almost be a contender, but neither them nor East Ridge will be a truly dominant force. Edina will also take a big hit next year so not sure who else will be able to challenge U of EP. Wayzata returns a good group.
I'm not an EDP parent, but Eden Prairie is not far behind Wayzata, Minnetonka and Edina in the national testing results for academics. So, next time you rip Eden Prairie for it's athletic prowess, realize that academics are much better at that school than quite probably at the school where your child goes. Academics and athletics CAN and do go together. Source is schoolmatters.com
At least the '07 LS team did something wdbry could not beat EP!
With that said, the dominance WDBRY has showed in the past six years is amazing, that is why they are ranked #1, it is the strength the program has shown, not the strength of the current squad.
Comparing two teams who never played and will never play is a lot like banging your head against the wall- it is really hard to understand why you are doing it and in the end all you get is a headache.
National rankings are a joke and the dominance LS showed ovber EDINA in the '07 final will be hard for WDBRY to beat this year when they face EDINA in the final.
On the the '07 LS team- EVERY STARTING PLAYER WENT ON TO COLLEGIATE athletics in either soccer or track except the keeper and current EDINA midfielder HW. (Six DI soccer, 2 DI track, 1 DIII soccer)
The '07 LS team did not have a weakness (maybe the bench but they were so fit they played 12 girls in the final and no one was tired)
The '07 LS team gets the nod as WDBRY offense is just OK.
either woodbury or east ridge will be a dominating soccer team in the future. The reason i say this is, is in 2 years from now both schools will have open enrollment and imo the better players will join forces and pick out one school to go to. the schools are about 5 minutes away from each other so travel time to school will not be a issue. it will be interesting as what school will draw the better players. don't forget the park players as that school is about 10 minutes away also.
My judgements are based only on what I see at the dome. I don't put much stock in regular season records as they are influenced by strength of schedule, coaching philosophy, injuries etc. The test comes at the dome. I will agree that LS 2007 was the best offensive team I have seen this decade. But on defense I would go with WDB 2003. WDB 2009 need to wait and see. Interested in what others think, but please be more objective than the parents who posted earlier. It could be an interesting discussion if reasonable.
Back to 2:07...yeah, thats why Eden Prairie education stinks...and they had the state record in National Merit Semi Finalists this year, 28...because district doesn't value education.
Like anything, the institute you receive your education from will only be as good as the effort and attitude the student puts forward towards learning and gaining knowledge.
Just like a player - you will get out of the game what you, yourself, put into the game.
life lessons, your environment is only a barrier if you allow it to be.
Great article and perspective from a former MN HS player finishing career at Iowa State.
Gleason Reflects on Stellar Career AMES, Iowa—Arguably the top goalkeeper in Iowa State soccer history will don the Cyclone goalkeeping kit for the final time Friday at Nebraska, but for Ann Gleason the enduring memories far outweigh the emotions of knowing her career is rapidly coming to a close.
While playing soccer for ISU has clearly made its mark on the Stillwater, Minn., native, Gleason has made an impact on the Cyclone soccer program. Gleason ranks first all-time in program history in career wins (26), shutouts (16) and saves (398). Furthermore, Gleason boasts the top season marks in save percentage (.864) and goals-against average (.890), both from her 2007 campaign.
For Gleason the records are not what is important, as she holds dear the multiple memories made both on and off the field.
“This season, our wins over OSU and Texas were such great team efforts and we really had to battle the whole way through those games,” Gleason said. “I will definitely remember those two. Just our team playing well together and remembering the emotions of how great it feels to defeat teams like that.
“My sophomore year when we got to go to the Big 12 Championship was another time that sticks out. Going down to San Antonio to play Texas A&M and forcing it all the way to penalty kicks when we were the eight seed and they were the one seed in the tournament stands out. It was an exciting accomplishment at the time to force it to that point. I remember our team fighting hard and playing really well together. I thought I made a couple of good saves that game I will personally remember. Amanda Nimtz scored a goal toward the end to force overtime which was extremely exciting.
“Most of all, the memories of being with the team, doing team activities, all the bus trips, all the traveling and all the funny moments will stay with me for a long time. Just being around these people, they really become your family.”
While Gleason is proud of what she has been a part of the past four seasons at Iowa State, she has come to grips with her career clock slowly making its final ticks.
“I knew it was coming, but it is hard to believe it is actually here,” Gleason said. “I hope we go out on a good note. I want us to play hard. I want us to enjoy the game because we all play because we love the sport. I feel like it is probably going to get a little emotional afterwards. I’ve put a lot of time and effort into the program. It is going to be sad not to be able to see these girls every day, practice, work hard and compete with them any more. I’ve made a lot of good memories and it’s going to be sad knowing it’s all over.”
Gleason’s efforts while at Iowa State have extended far beyond the soccer field, as she has a 3.95 cumulative grade-point average, while majoring in chemical engineering. Gleason is a two-time first-team Academic All-Big 12 and ESPN the Magazine Academic All-District VII recipient.
For Gleason, all the work put in for the soccer team and in the classroom was clearly worthwhile.
“It’s a lot of hard work and at times you might question why you do it,” Gleason said. “In the end, looking back on it, it is worth every minute. It is worth all the sweat, all the time and all the 6 a.m. workouts. Those little things pay off, and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. The experience is something I will always remember and be proud of. If I have kids some day I can tell them I played Division I soccer and not a lot of people can say that.”
I am going to have my daughter read that article on Gleason. What a wonderful example of a player on and off the pitch! Thank you for the beautiful, non critical post.
Perhaps AA should be reduced to 48 teams and the 16 smallest schools placed in class A. The enrollment disparity in A would be less than the difference between EP and Wayzata is currently with the smallest AA schools. The quality of soccer in AA would be unchanged and A would improve at least a bit. If you went to 32 in AA you could improve class A substantially and still not have the enrollment differences you see now in AA.
1223 you are on the right track but you don't go far enough. Put the 32 largest schools in AAA. This would not alter the quality of the largest class. Other than Lakeville South in 2007 I cannot think of a single instance where one of the smaller AA schools made an impact at state. Put the next 64 in AA. This would improve this class greatly over what A is now and as 1223 said decrease enrollment differences. Put the rest in Class A. This would not be a strong class but 2 out of 3 isn't bad. If we can have 3 classes in a small number sport lik VB we certainly can in soccer.
4:56 - for those who don't know he/she or maybe it is a he/she is the best soccer player in the world. So good in fact that they have to lower them self to go watch a lowly class a (you shouldn't capitalize "a" in order to emphasize your point) soccer game. Save your money and go buy a pump you tool :):):)
Spring soccer doesn't work in MN - even though the weather was lousy this October, spring is too unreliable, and the fields get ruined.
Two classes is fine - no changes are necessary. I watch both A and AA, both are entertaining to me, but that is irrelevant. They are not about me. The players seem to be having a great team sports experience. That is the point.
Also, for those of you that don't think high school soccer coaches can't have a real impact on their team, I beg to differ. For example, the coaches at Blake are the epitome of what high school sports are suppose to be about. Those two can build a team, both in terms of skill, tactics, and cohesiveness year after year. But most importantly, the girls that leave their program have learned life lessons and experienced something that makes them better people. Hats of to them and all the high school coaches that invest so much time in their teams.
Class A soccer is so poor...some of these teams that make it to the state tournament would be well below .500 in some of the tougher conferences like the Lake, etc. Skill level of these girls is brutal. It's like having a JV state tournament. Pretty pathetic. I agree....1 class please!!!! Also, a private school like Blake who can recruit should get some balls and play up with big schools. No way you should be able to recruit metro girls and play in Class JV....mount up to the AA!
bad team v bad team usually makes for an entertaining game if you're wanting to see kids run around and have fun.
let's have classes based on hair color! or height! no weight classes please... or classes based on coaches personalities! that would be a good one. little dink class, ego maniac class, non-american coach class, over-his-head class...the list goes on.
as usual, the red star screwed up their all metro team(s)...200 forwards, through in some mids...3 defenders. THAT's why soccer coverage is so terrible...they don't have a clue!!!
7:57 LOL..... Did you see the first game they played? You cant win a game if you dont get any good shots on goal and dont score any goals. Royals defenders shut down all futile attempts by the mildcats... Even if match were to unlikily go to shoot out, Woodbury Royals senior shooters WOULDNT wilt under the pressure. Prediction in 3 days Woodbury Royals will shut out eagan mildcats, then conquer wayzata trojanettes.. Royals will claim their 2nd straight Mn. AA H.S. title and lay claim to the greatest Mn. H.S. team ever assembled and number 1# team in the nation. There is added incentive for some of the players who can do what very very few players can say historically. They started and played on two state single class or AA state championship teams. In the 30 years of the tournament including 2009 approximatily 33O players will be able to say they started and played on a state championship team out of over 30000 players to have entered the state tournament. Out of the 330 players presently and by thursday less than 20 can say they started and played on two state championship teams since 1980.
the class A state final was a FAR better match than the AA game last year... the AA game was a horrid kickball affair, the A game featured real possession and rhythm.
Last year's AA final, which people on here seem to think is the true high level soccer (which is an absurd statement, NO HS soccer is "high level," period) was hard to watch... brutal showcase of your so called "varsity class."
The AA lovers on here want one class so they can rack up wins against schools with 1/8th their enrollment and feel good about themselves
10:04..... Doesnt matter whether the wayzata trojanettes or edina buzzered win game. trojanettes will swat buzzered 2-0. Their likely boring game is insignificant in determining state champ after Royals declaw mildcats 2-0. Royals then will whip the trojanettes 4-0, and be two time reigning crowned state champs. THE best team ever. Only third team to defend and win back to back state championships. Royals 2003 and 2004 teams being a close second for overall best team ever.
My god is Class A hard to watch.....do the kids even feel good about themselves playing in the JV state tournament? Do you think they even care? Wow....hard to watch
Hope Orono loses Thursday, they do not deserve to be in the state tournament especially the championship game. They have no skill apart from maybe the 7th grader (should tell you a lot if a junior high student is the best player on your varsity team.)
Hats off to an underrated and gutsy Cloquet team that gave Blake about as much as they could possibly handle today in the second semifinal game. Not sure Blake has seen a team play with as much intensity this year. Although Cloquet had more control of the ball, Blake made their limited chances more dangerous and finished two of them. Looking forward to a rematch of Blake and Orono on Thursday.
Can we please stop talking about the JV league Class A? I had to watch two first round games the other night. BAD SOCCER. Agreed on the one class format. Cloquet and East Ridge....come on! Painful. Class A parents please sut up. Only want to hear about the Varsity league.
3:20 get a life and stop commenting how bad A is you clearly have never played on a varsity sport or been to a state tournament. Yes granted the better class A schools did not make it to the tournament this year the teams in the tournament are very poor and untalented.
WANT TO REDIRECT QUESTION ABOUT BEST SOCCER HIGH SCHOOL TEAM HERE IN MINNESOTA, EARLIER STATED THAT BEST HIGH SCHOOL TEAM WAS 1987 SPA YES LOCALLY. IF YOU INCLUDE SSM TEAM FROM LAST YEAR RECRUITED FROM ALL OVER COUNTRY THEY WERE BEST HIGH SCHOOL TEAM EVER TO PLAY IN MINNESOTA BUT WERE BOUGHT AND PAID FOR RECRUITS TO BUILD SCHOOLS IMAGE.
I am looking forward to the AA tourney. No dominant team that I can see but 4 very good ones. Eagan may be a notch below the other 3. Expect close games both on the scoreboard and in the run of play.
120 - yawn...hi dad. i know who you are, nice try. she is just an average player at her age. what has she done in ODP? how about out of state? so she can excel on a single A team... so can the 7th grader at orono who is far more talented. let her have fun and quit trying to promote her. travelling out of state with the older MTA team will not be worth the money - stick to your team.
7th grader at Orono is physically as big as the seniors - excellent shot from distance, good vision on the plus side - below average speed and quickness on the minus side.
The game was very even - La Crescent and Orono both controlled play for periods. La Crescent was faster and more dangerous in the run of play, Orono generated more corners. Both Orono goals were on set pieces - beautiful volley off a corner to win.
I haven't been able to make it out to the tournament yet, I'm wondering how the fan situation was. Any particularly interesting fan incidents? Good fans? Bad fans? I'd love to know, the fans help create the atmosphere at the dome.
Great fans so far - showing good sportsmanship and respect. The pep bands have been nice too. I think the games have been well attended so far, considering they are during the day.
If we are going to promote the youngsters on the single A teams, lets start some recognition for those on AA. Mounds View had a talented freshman that plays for TC Fire. Or, MTA blue players who did not even make Varsity on AA teams because of the competition? There was a LN freshman who almost scored against Woodbury and had a tremendous season, or the Centennial freshman that scored the only two goals to clinch the section championship? There was a starting freshman on the SLP team who made a difference. AA schools form 3 to 4 teams, cutting some. Again, put things in perspective.
I agree,818. One of the most talented freshman this year plays for Wayzata, and is just another player on the field. If she were on a single A team, she would be a Super Star....
7:12- Lydia Sutton is a genuinely great soccer player- she has a ridiculous amount of natural athleticism, plus a lot of grit and tenacity. She would probably excel in AA as well.
Also, I am confused as to how the presence of Class A affects the Class AA teams? Oh right, it doesn't. Smaller schools are at a disadvantage in terms of depth, and they should not have to compete with schools that have some 1,500 girls to pick from. Admittedly, Class A soccer is of less quality than that of Class AA, but does it really matter if there are two classes? Maybe the problem is that the Class A and Class AA forums are combined on this site?
I watched the Woodbury vs Eagan game and towards the end of the first half Eagan was completely dominating, but second half woodbury clicked the on button and dominated the whole 40 minutes.
Also saw Wayzata vs Edina. Wayzata does not stand a chance against Woodbury.
Flip a coin for the Class A title. Saw these two teams play earlier in the season and it was an even match. Both Orono and Blake were fortunate to win the semis. Not sure if Orono is still riding the steam of beating BSM, but Blake seems to be peaking with their young squad. I don't think Orono is a big surprise to be there, but no one expected Blake to be back in state again this year.
the pk portion of the game is just that... a portion of the game. if you don't put it in the net during reg...you live or die by a 'good guess' or a 'bad shot'. rough way to lose, unfulfilling way to win.
Wayzata's talent is consistent top to bottom. They can compete in all areas, but they don't have any "game changers." Wdby is two notches above Wyz, but the loss of CS likely makes the game low scoring and not a blow-out. If Wayz's keeper stays hot, they may have a chace to win in OT or a shootout.
Agree with 1118. If you saw the game you would agree. Run of play, shots, corners about the same. Diference is Woodbury put their opportunities in the net.
Benilde should be in the championship for A if Wayzata is in it for AA. Benilde took Wayzata to double OT and lost because the ref called a direct kick, let Wayzata kick it 10 yards up the field from the foul, and while the ball was moving. Also, Benilde dominated Orono in the section final. Orono didn't have any attack, or any real chances on goal, got lucky with an own goal.
No kidding, why would games even be played if the favorite always won. If Benilde was so good they shouldn't have put themselves in a situation in which they could shoot themselves in the foot. When it comes down to it, being lucky is overrated. The "best" team doesn't always win, just the team that was "best" on that given day.
4:51 if Benilde dominated Orono, one would think that they would have had more than 2 good opportunities at goal. That is all they had and they couldn't close the deal. Orono D might be pretty good.
Regardless, Orono and Blake are two of the best class A teams in state. There might be better teams, but those teams didn't step up to the plate and survive the journey through sections and state. Good luck to both teams tomorrow morning, they earned it!
No. 4 defeated No. 2 for third place in this game. The Wildcats of Eagan (20-3-1) defeated the Hornets of Edina (17-3-2) 2-1 for third-place honors. Neither team scored in the first half. Senior forward Courtney Vallarelli didn’t waste much time to put the Wildcats ahead, scoring unassisted at the 41:43 mark. She scored again at 56:47 with an assist from junior forward Molly Sparks. Hornets senior forward Jess Reiersgord scored unassisted at 72:03.
I have wacthed the Lakeville HS teams for years. In that span, let's say ten years, I have seen at least one girl a year tear her ACL. Some years there are multiple girls NOT ONE OF THEM TORE IT IN THE HS SEASON. Everyone tore it during the club season.
There is a definite problem with youth sports in our country. We take them too seriously and treat these kids like they are professional athletes.
Some of these girls take less time off then professional athletes! If a girl is playing in the state final today and plays for a high level club, she will start club ball within a week or ten days, she will then play club ball until possibly a week or two before next year's HS season starts.
She may have a month total off in a year, there is something wrong with that. On top of that, she is playing one sport at all times. Your muscles need variety to remain strong and healthy, if you do not think that overruse and repitition is a major cause of some of these injuries, you are fooling yourself.
The worst part of it is that there will continue to be more and more pressure applied to these kids to skip HS ball when that is the only time they are really enjoying the game.
I had a daughter play for Bangu and she always dreaded the end of HS ball and beginning of the club season.
We should all remember why these kids are playing and parents should invset all the money they dump into soccer, they could pay for college three times over and not worry about the all important scholarship.
HS was dreaded but club was not - in fact the girls couldn't wait to get back to a level of soccer that was more even across players, had better coaching that made sense to them (this is what they said)compared to HS.
Also, our experience from our daughters club teams was that the girls that tore their ACL (there were 5)-all but one did it during HS season where they are actually playing everyday and don't have the requistite injury-lessening training like plyometrics that the clubs insist on now.
A lot of girls on our daughters club teams played other sports while they participated in club soccer, HS basketball, HS hockey, and HS track. So the cross training was there.
I always give my DD a choice on starting club right after HS ends. If she needs a break I just flat out tell the coach she needs some down time. The coach should understand and if they don't there is plenty of time to switch clubs. As the club season goes along the practices become more mandatory, but parents who are sometimes over-the-top (like me) need to step in once-in-a-while and put soccer into perspective. Missing practice in November and missing practice in April are not the same. Also there is usually a break during Christmas and I usually pull her out of the last practice or two before the break to give her an extra week off.
For some teams there is never a break when they truly need it. Right after HS soccer should be a given but for some, starts practically the next day due to upcoming tournaments. If player misses, will get benched and chastized.
Today's winner a no-brainer. With KK directing the defense nothing will get through. Even without CS on field, given the competition, anyone on Woodbury can score.
KK starts the onslaught from the back. Has brought Woodbury through 4 winning seasons. Also a lot of great younger players on the team that have stepped up and taken her lead.
Congrats to Orono on winning it all and to a Blake team that surprised a lot of people this season. Too bad they didn't bring their A game today, but Orono played quite well and had some great finishes.
Woodbury dominated, had plenty of chances just did not finish when it counted most. When it comes down to it this is all on woodbury(us) , we just didnt get it done
Both the A and AA matches today show why the game is played. Orono vs. Blake was suppose to be a good match, and it wasn't. Woodbury was suppose to dominate, and didn't. What a great game to play!
And the Woodbury dynasty comes to a screeching halt. Likely the AA winner comes out of the west subs for some time now. Other than Woodbury, there really hasn't been a strong program in the east. No one in the south looks promising and the north has always been weak.
Yes two of largest remaining schools Wayzata and University of Eden Prairie will rule the state along with the Orono class A champ that is beginning its dynasty. Conference race in new western burb will be brutal with wayzata eden prairie edina minnetonka playing each other twice.
agreed regarding the western burbs. unless they reshuffle the sections, orono will always have to contend with bsm. in a few years, orono (just like stma and soon rogers) will outgrow class A and have to move up.
Decade is over and my vote goes to WDB 2003 and LS 2007 for best teams I have seen at dome. WDB 2009 may have had a chance but obvious losing CS was a big loss. EP and WYZ early pick for next year's finalists.
Hey 1:24, Should have been 2-0. Woodbury was "gifted" a pk to tie the match. From my seat, both teams played well, but Wayzata finished. Two quality goals. Congrats to the Trojans. State Championships, Wayzata 5, Woodbury 4.
Agree western suburb teams will now take over. Other than Woodbury the Sub East has always been weak at soccer (hence WDB gaudy records) and without them the Classic Lake will dominate for a few years.
Hey 1:57, Should have been 2-0. Woodbury was "gifted" a pk to tie the match. From my seat, both teams played well, but Wayzata finished. Two quality goals. Congrats to the Trojans. State Championships, Wayzata 5, Woodbury 4.
It is how you play at the dome that matters. WH at EP was the master of that. His teams would always use the regular season to experiment and build depth. They would usually lose a game or two or three in the process. But when tourney time rolled around they got the job done.
Congrats to wayzata for the biggest upset in the history of MN girls soccer
and how many title did the lil general win at EP? Would not site him as the master of the dome, just played a tough schedule- not easy to go undefeated in the LAKE
Wayne's sleazy legacy has left a bad odor around here that will take a while to go away. The threats he made to those HS kids was totally slimy and inexcusable.
I referenced http://www.mshssca.org/historical_records.html for my stats which actually shows Woodbury with only three, but "I spotted Woodbury one". While you're there check out Coaching records specifically "Highest Winning Percentage".
Further research indicates you are correct at 5 apiece. MSHSSCA's bad. Better get that stat corrected.
the thunder has let most of its employees go in the last couple of months...still owes thousands upon thousands of dollars in back wages...I predict bankruptcy filing in the near future.
New Mexico Women's Soccer Player Suspended Indefinitely
Lambert apoligizes for her actions.
Nov. 6, 2009
Mountain West Conference Response
University of New Mexico head women's soccer coach Kit Vela announced today that junior defender Elizabeth Lambert has been suspended indefinitely for her actions in Thursday's match against BYU in the semifinals of the Mountain West Conference Championship in Provo, Utah.
Effective immediately, Lambert is prohibited from participating in all team practices, competition and conditioning activities.
"I am deeply and wholeheartedly regretful for my actions," said Lambert. "My actions were uncalled for. I let my emotions get the best of me in a heated situation. I take full responsibility for my actions and accept any punishment felt necessary from the coaching staff and UNM administration. This is in no way indicative of my character or the soccer player that I am. I am sorry to my coaches and teammates for any and all damages I have brought upon them. I am especially sorry to BYU and the BYU women's soccer players that were personally affected by my actions. I have the utmost respect for the BYU women's soccer program and its players."
"Liz is a quality student-athlete, but in this instance her actions clearly crossed the line of fair play and good sportsmanship," said Vela.
"Liz's conduct on the field against BYU was completely inappropriate," said UNM Vice President for Athletics Paul Krebs. "There is no way to defend her actions."
Why didn't Kit Vela do something during the game? There is no way the UNM bench area was not aware of her vicious play.
Though she is entirely responsible for actions on the field, the action taken against her was far too late by the coach in my opinion.
Loved her intensity, but she needs to learn to channel it away from the dark side......or become more subtle and professional in her fouls ;-)
How bad of refereeing was it to let junk like that go unnoticed or not address the brewing conflicts and animosity that had to be permeating on the field.
I heard the Scottish Premier League was interested in signing her on a trial basis
1,477 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 1201 – 1400 of 1477 Newer› Newest»Class A soccer is so bad.
8:05 - not sure if it's bad (as you chime in 3-4 times daily) but it is a cut below Class AA (which many folks also would describe as "so bad").
I do believe that 2009 is a down year in Class AA since many of the traditional powers are much weaker due to a variety of reasons. In many years the top 3-4 Class A teams could hold their own with the better Class AA teams (not the top 3-4 teams), but this year I don't think the top two state finalists could hold their own with any top 10 Class AA team.
Way to go Cloquet! You deserved to win. ER didn't show up ready to play. Cloquet will definitely give Blake a run for their money. So much for the ER vs. Rogers final!
From an ER parent - Cloquet played a very good game. Their goalie was excellent. And they have some speed. They never gave up driving to our end. They trapped us off side several times. Very smart team play. The parents and fans were also some of the best I have seen this season. The band was a great addition. It was a fun game to watch even on the losing side. Best of luck to Cloquet against Blake - another young and hungry team written off early in the year.
Wow - someone with some class on this site. Nice commentary, 9:28.
Any other game recaps from last night? How did the Orono/Rogers game go?
10:02 Afraid to state this for ER loyal following, but this is another instance of a coach with huge self inflicted ego trying to focus the reason for winning game on his decision making. Congrats to Cloquet on an inspired game plan and execution . ER team expections were skewed by too much unneeded adulation by the usual suspects. Players win games by the mental state they are conditioned to respond to. When the conditons they are told are unrealistic top performance are not acheived as a team.
LMAO!!!! You guys can tear ER apart however much you'd like. Fact is in the end their inspired performance silenced all the haters for months. Now at the end, the haters finally have feel they have something to try and base their idiocy on again. Some of you people are such cowardly losers.
To the true soccer fans, ER is not about only the coach. It's more about the girls from rival high schools and clubs, and what they accomplished coming together.
The Cloquet/Blake match up should be a good one. Orono will play the winner in the final.
Caught the ER vs. Cloquet game last night. ER was the more skilled team, but didn't seem as motivated and couldn't ever get much going until it was too late. Cloquet really wanted it bad and has a few nice players. Two very different teams though.
If Blake beats Cloquet I think they win it all. Orono was fortunate to tie Blake earlier in the season when Blake was missing a player or two. Blake is also a very different team now compared to when they played earlier. I don't think there is a more inspired team. Just my two cents, good luck to all!
I was also at the Eastridge Cloquet game last night. I'm not a parent from either school.
IMHO Eastridge was clearly the better team and controlled the vast amount of play. But, Cloquet (who appeared to be better athletes) never gave up and ended up winning on shots from the mark.
I think many of us fans know that this is very un-soccer-like way to end a game will always produce debate and at least one player who feels they lost the game, rather than producing a clear and positive winner. Please don't add to the distaste by putting down a coaching decision, or belittling the efforts of 22+ student athletes.
Congrats to all the girls from both teams.
if it's Blake v Orono in the final - see 8:05am.
Neither of those teams could beat one of the top 15 Class AA teams in the state. My how times have changed.
I am not sure what your point is about Class A soccer. There is a reason that Minnesota has 2 classes based on school size. If you don't like Class A soccer, then don't watch it. If you don't watch Class A soccer, then don't post about what you don't know. All these girls are student athletes, many of them playing multiple sports for their schools. For most of them, this is about belonging to a team, enjoying sports, improving their skills, gaining leadership... Please show respect to these kids and their coaches who have worked hard all fall (including some of the worst weather and rampant illnesses) to be the best they can be.
I'm sorry, was anyone watching Blake absolutely dominate Mankato West? I was a neutral spectator, in the freezing rain and saw a Blake team with determined players (and fans), that destroyed a very good Mankato West team. Although Blake would lose to Woodbury, I'm sure they could put up a fight (or maybe even win) against other AA teams.
1:54 - hate to burst your bubble but Blake played one (1) Class AA team this year and lost....
The Class AA powerhouse......Minneapolis South.
Personally, I like both classes of soccer. WDB might be one of the best Class AA teams ever in this state and both Edina & EP have been exceptional for years. IMO (and I am entitled to that I hope) I feel that the overall quality of Class A soccer is down not just a little but substantially over the past few years. This doesn't mean there isn't a lot of talent, it is just young and there have been some significant injuries on many teams this year.
On the issue that is being bantered around by either parents whose daughters arent still playing now having graduated from prior years or eliminated this year i beg to differ. The quality of the final four AA teams playing in metro dome is higher this year than years past for several reasons. Some of the players that played on the 93 region 2 odp champs that played in the national final 4 odp championships in texas are still playing or have been eliminated by
by stronger deeper teams. All the teams playing are coached and guided by long standing knowledgeable coaches and programs, one a national coach of the year. Woodbury the favorite to win tournament is number one in the nation, and other three teams are ranked high in region 5 poll. The two W teams defenses are some of the best statistically while the two E teams are scoring machines. I cant think of a better scenario for the tournament. Several of the coaches and players playing on the teams have been starters on state championship teams before or have been in finals before. Most of the starters on teams are at the very least year round premier level players. All the teams playing have quality depth off benches with some very good players that may not get to show their skills . Just because your daughters not playing doesnt mean the quality is lacking this year ,just your nonbias judgement. To win this year as the number one team in the nation or try to beat Woodbury is highest level you could ask for. Its an indication of improving overall level of coaching,players and teams thanks to increased overall involvement and commitment of the minnesota soccer community.
Yes, a quality stat about Blake losing to Minneapolis South. I'm sure the poster was at the game and has all the info. I was at that game and it was a disaster for Blake, AKA a very down game for them on their homecoming. Blake had like 20 shots, and South had 1, Blake lost. Not a big surprise for them to have a down game given their youth. Things like that happen. Obviously Blake has moved on and is now playing some decent soccer at the most important time of the year. Maybe that loss to a subpar AA school was the best thing in the world for them? Agree with posts above, grow up and give compliments whether it is A or AA soccer. Girls on teams read these comments.
2:29 - i think the issue is Class A, not the quality of Class AA. i believe 2:09 commented on that.
Was in response to 30/10/09 8:42 A.M.
Amen to the poster pointing out the fact that all players are student athletes class A and AA. What class A has is,in most cases, is academic rigor. Most of the class A schools are private college prep schools. After soccer practice and games they are going home to 4+ hours a night of homework. All the girls in class A deserve kudos for a commitment to their team and their class work!
Who cares if it is good soccer or not. If you want to watch good soccer watch FSN. Support our daughters for what they are - good kids who love the game.
Spare me the private school rhetoric. Our lowly public school girls have homework too. Certainly not the same as your dd though.
Maybe my dd will be fortunate enough to work for your dd some day.
Gag me with your elitist silver spoon.
Most class A schools ARE NOT private. Where did you come up with that one? Out of the 111 schools lists in the Class A sections, about 40 are private, academy or charter.
seriously, you can't make this stuff up!
4:06
May be the craziest thing I have ever seen on this blog. The private A schools are worn down by homework! A public school would never have girls bogged down with homework.
What a world view! What egomania! I LOVE IT
Wow, Edina is not an Academically rigorous school???? What planet are you from, top 100 in the country buddy! Pay your private school tution. We are laughing all the way to the bank
Yes, Having had family members that attended some prominent MN private schools-they are in no way more academically rigorous than MN publics schools. B as in B, S as in S.
406, that was a unique statement to say the least and i think you probably regret making it at this point.
229, woodbury the #1 team in the country? i'm pretty sure they pollsters meant...of the teams that are currently playing in the fall. teams in ca, tx, il (and many other states) are sitting in the wings waiting to put on their boots and prove the poll wrong.
a v aa...i don't think either group has the right to scoff at the other this season.
ems
Class A soccer is no worse than Class A football, basketball, hockey, etc. It is a small school HS sport. It doesn't exist for the viewing pleasure of anal retentive dolts like the constant complainers on this blog.
Watch Barca if you all you can handle is elite soccer, or watch any level that meets with your lofty expectations. Otherwise, put a sock in it.
Class A results have been fun and unpredictable. Double AA very predictable, but playing in winds and rain makes the game difficult.
Watch the games IF you enjoy them. Stay away and silent if you don't.
7:22 PM - appreciate a moment of sanity among all the dolts that downgrade class A soccer on this blog. But I keep on forgetting that these same individuals are purist and elitists. What a bunch of idiots you all are minus those that are able to provide meaningful discussions without having to demean players and teams.
Any comments from those who saw the Orono/Rogers game? From the stats, looks like Rogers had many more shots on goal than Orono. Was it an evenly matched game?
I agree. Hockey players are better athletes. Cloquet sent their hockey team and won.
Woodbury is a good club but nowhere near the best in recent years. You have a short memory. The 2007 LS State Champ was a much more talented team top to bottom. They could beat you any way you wanted to play. They could run by you or pass you dizzy and if you made the mistake of getting chippy they'd flat out bury you. I've only seen Woodbury three times but I've seen enough to make this comparison.
I'm a player, and I don't understand how all the comments made about the difficulty of school is relevant. The school you go to, private or public, doesn't change the fact that you play because you love the game. It doesn't matter how hard classes are, how much homework you have, and whether Class A teams could beat Class AA teams. That's why soccer and school are separate. What matters is the feeling you get stepping on to the field-knowing you will tear it up, play with heart, and give everything you've got because you love your teammates and you love soccer. That's what soccer's about.
10:31 - you could set your watch to your response.
10;47...Silent prayer.. Please Lord ..let this astute,... well spoken... wise beyond her years young lady... someday be a coach. Any high school or community club would be privelged to have this philosophy and nature leader representing their program.
Prediction 10:31... Woodbury 09 defense will shut out the rest of opponents Eagan and Wayzata in 2009State tournament in metrodome. Eagan offense scored more goals 83 during the 09 season than the LS 2007 teams that scored 80 at same point in season. . Woodbury will shut Eagan out again a second time this season and then Wayzata and win their second state title in a row not their first. They will end up the number 1# team in the nation not the 16th ranked like LS school finished in 2007. The two losses that LS had that season were against good defensive clubs Apple Valley and Eastville when LS fustrated forwards were shut down as they tryed to beat double teams on their own and before changes were made by coach. Neither of those teams defenses are as good as Woodburys and neither of those teams went as far in post season. Sorry dad from former 2007 LS team, they are not as good. Woodbury 2009 will be the best defensive team ever and defense wins games.
I am a Blake parent and I am proud of our team and my daughter. I appreciate the respect that the coaches in Class A (particularly the Tri Metro) have for each other. I know that our team (led by the coaches) and other teams in our conference have sent letters of support to the SPA coach (who, from all opinions, is a good guy and good coach who is struggling with illness in his family.) I am proud of the soccer experience and the life lessons that the schools in our conference (SPA, Blake, Minn Acad. etc.) have. There are some great coaches and people in Class A.
so if i understand this correctly, if wdb goes on to win state they would then be 2x state champs and undefeated over the last two years but the LS 2007 that lost two games during the year they won the title would still be considered better? if "they could beat you anyway you wanted to play" then how did they ever lose not once but twice that year?
wdbry fan, it may be wise to focus on your next two games before reaching for the stars (no pun intended).
not much of a comeback LS fan....
Well you won't have Woodbury to kick around next year.You probably will never hear from them again. That leaves just the Univ of EP a school that values sports over education.
agreed, they will almost be a contender, but neither them nor East Ridge will be a truly dominant force. Edina will also take a big hit next year so not sure who else will be able to challenge U of EP. Wayzata returns a good group.
I'm not an EDP parent, but Eden Prairie is not far behind Wayzata, Minnetonka and Edina in the national testing results for academics. So, next time you rip Eden Prairie for it's athletic prowess, realize that academics are much better at that school than quite probably at the school where your child goes. Academics and athletics CAN and do go together. Source is schoolmatters.com
At least the '07 LS team did something wdbry could not beat EP!
With that said, the dominance WDBRY has showed in the past six years is amazing, that is why they are ranked #1, it is the strength the program has shown, not the strength of the current squad.
Comparing two teams who never played and will never play is a lot like banging your head against the wall- it is really hard to understand why you are doing it and in the end all you get is a headache.
National rankings are a joke and the dominance LS showed ovber EDINA in the '07 final will be hard for WDBRY to beat this year when they face EDINA in the final.
On the the '07 LS team- EVERY STARTING PLAYER WENT ON TO COLLEGIATE athletics in either soccer or track except the keeper and current EDINA midfielder HW. (Six DI soccer, 2 DI track, 1 DIII soccer)
The '07 LS team did not have a weakness (maybe the bench but they were so fit they played 12 girls in the final and no one was tired)
The '07 LS team gets the nod as WDBRY offense is just OK.
WDBRY still needs to win it all to be in the conversation of best team, have this discussion after next week
either woodbury or east ridge will be a dominating soccer team in the future. The reason i say this is, is in 2 years from now both schools will have open enrollment and imo the better players will join forces and pick out one school to go to. the schools are about 5 minutes away from each other so travel time to school will not be a issue. it will be interesting as what school will draw the better players. don't forget the park players as that school is about 10 minutes away also.
My judgements are based only on what I see at the dome. I don't put much stock in regular season records as they are influenced by strength of schedule, coaching philosophy, injuries etc. The test comes at the dome. I will agree that LS 2007 was the best offensive team I have seen this decade. But on defense I would go with WDB 2003. WDB 2009 need to wait and see. Interested in what others think, but please be more objective than the parents who posted earlier. It could be an interesting discussion if reasonable.
Back to 2:07...yeah, thats why Eden Prairie education stinks...and they had the state record in National Merit Semi Finalists this year, 28...because district doesn't value education.
Like anything, the institute you receive your education from will only be as good as the effort and attitude the student puts forward towards learning and gaining knowledge.
Just like a player - you will get out of the game what you, yourself, put into the game.
life lessons, your environment is only a barrier if you allow it to be.
Great article and perspective from a former MN HS player finishing career at Iowa State.
Gleason Reflects on Stellar Career
AMES, Iowa—Arguably the top goalkeeper in Iowa State soccer history will don the Cyclone goalkeeping kit for the final time Friday at Nebraska, but for Ann Gleason the enduring memories far outweigh the emotions of knowing her career is rapidly coming to a close.
While playing soccer for ISU has clearly made its mark on the Stillwater, Minn., native, Gleason has made an impact on the Cyclone soccer program. Gleason ranks first all-time in program history in career wins (26), shutouts (16) and saves (398). Furthermore, Gleason boasts the top season marks in save percentage (.864) and goals-against average (.890), both from her 2007 campaign.
For Gleason the records are not what is important, as she holds dear the multiple memories made both on and off the field.
“This season, our wins over OSU and Texas were such great team efforts and we really had to battle the whole way through those games,” Gleason said. “I will definitely remember those two. Just our team playing well together and remembering the emotions of how great it feels to defeat teams like that.
“My sophomore year when we got to go to the Big 12 Championship was another time that sticks out. Going down to San Antonio to play Texas A&M and forcing it all the way to penalty kicks when we were the eight seed and they were the one seed in the tournament stands out. It was an exciting accomplishment at the time to force it to that point. I remember our team fighting hard and playing really well together. I thought I made a couple of good saves that game I will personally remember. Amanda Nimtz scored a goal toward the end to force overtime which was extremely exciting.
“Most of all, the memories of being with the team, doing team activities, all the bus trips, all the traveling and all the funny moments will stay with me for a long time. Just being around these people, they really become your family.”
While Gleason is proud of what she has been a part of the past four seasons at Iowa State, she has come to grips with her career clock slowly making its final ticks.
“I knew it was coming, but it is hard to believe it is actually here,” Gleason said. “I hope we go out on a good note. I want us to play hard. I want us to enjoy the game because we all play because we love the sport. I feel like it is probably going to get a little emotional afterwards. I’ve put a lot of time and effort into the program. It is going to be sad not to be able to see these girls every day, practice, work hard and compete with them any more. I’ve made a lot of good memories and it’s going to be sad knowing it’s all over.”
Gleason’s efforts while at Iowa State have extended far beyond the soccer field, as she has a 3.95 cumulative grade-point average, while majoring in chemical engineering. Gleason is a two-time first-team Academic All-Big 12 and ESPN the Magazine Academic All-District VII recipient.
For Gleason, all the work put in for the soccer team and in the classroom was clearly worthwhile.
“It’s a lot of hard work and at times you might question why you do it,” Gleason said. “In the end, looking back on it, it is worth every minute. It is worth all the sweat, all the time and all the 6 a.m. workouts. Those little things pay off, and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. The experience is something I will always remember and be proud of. If I have kids some day I can tell them I played Division I soccer and not a lot of people can say that.”
I am going to have my daughter read that article on Gleason. What a wonderful example of a player on and off the pitch!
Thank you for the beautiful, non critical post.
For some reason I got talked into to going to watch the Class A state tourney the other day. Wow, bad soccer. 1 class please!!!!!
Perhaps AA should be reduced to 48 teams and the 16 smallest schools placed in class A. The enrollment disparity in A would be less than the difference between EP and Wayzata is currently with the smallest AA schools. The quality of soccer in AA would be unchanged and A would improve at least a bit. If you went to 32 in AA you could improve class A substantially and still not have the enrollment differences you see now in AA.
1223 you are on the right track but you don't go far enough. Put the 32 largest schools in AAA. This would not alter the quality of the largest class. Other than Lakeville South in 2007 I cannot think of a single instance where one of the smaller AA schools made an impact at state. Put the next 64 in AA. This would improve this class greatly over what A is now and as 1223 said decrease enrollment differences. Put the rest in Class A. This would not be a strong class but 2 out of 3 isn't bad. If we can have 3 classes in a small number sport lik VB we certainly can in soccer.
Maybe go to the three class system and make soccer a spring sport.
12:07 - what was so bad about the soccer game you saw in the state tournament? Please back up your statement of bad soccer in class A.
it is class A, enough said right there
4:56 - for those who don't know he/she or maybe it is a he/she is the best soccer player in the world. So good in fact that they have to lower them self to go watch a lowly class a (you shouldn't capitalize "a" in order to emphasize your point) soccer game. Save your money and go buy a pump you tool :):):)
GO BLAKE BEARS!!!!
Spring soccer doesn't work in MN - even though the weather was lousy this October, spring is too unreliable, and the fields get ruined.
Two classes is fine - no changes are necessary. I watch both A and AA, both are entertaining to me, but that is irrelevant. They are not about me. The players seem to be having a great team sports experience. That is the point.
8:07 - well said
Also, for those of you that don't think high school soccer coaches can't have a real impact on their team, I beg to differ. For example, the coaches at Blake are the epitome of what high school sports are suppose to be about. Those two can build a team, both in terms of skill, tactics, and cohesiveness year after year. But most importantly, the girls that leave their program have learned life lessons and experienced something that makes them better people. Hats of to them and all the high school coaches that invest so much time in their teams.
Go Orono Spartans!
Class A soccer is so poor...some of these teams that make it to the state tournament would be well below .500 in some of the tougher conferences like the Lake, etc. Skill level of these girls is brutal. It's like having a JV state tournament. Pretty pathetic. I agree....1 class please!!!! Also, a private school like Blake who can recruit should get some balls and play up with big schools. No way you should be able to recruit metro girls and play in Class JV....mount up to the AA!
Amen!! Class JV is brutal...
does eagan have a shot to beat woodbury?
bad team v bad team usually makes for an entertaining game if you're wanting to see kids run around and have fun.
let's have classes based on hair color! or height! no weight classes please... or classes based on coaches personalities! that would be a good one. little dink class, ego maniac class, non-american coach class, over-his-head class...the list goes on.
as usual, the red star screwed up their all metro team(s)...200 forwards, through in some mids...3 defenders. THAT's why soccer coverage is so terrible...they don't have a clue!!!
ems
throw...duh
ems
7:57 LOL..... Did you see the first game they played? You cant win a game if you dont get any good shots on goal and dont score any goals. Royals defenders shut down all futile attempts by the mildcats... Even if match were to unlikily go to shoot out, Woodbury Royals senior shooters WOULDNT wilt under the pressure. Prediction in 3 days Woodbury Royals will shut out eagan mildcats, then conquer wayzata trojanettes.. Royals will claim their 2nd straight Mn. AA H.S. title and lay claim to the greatest Mn. H.S. team ever assembled and number 1#
team in the nation. There is added incentive for some of the players who can do what very very few players can say historically. They started and played on two state single class or AA state championship teams. In the 30 years of the tournament including 2009 approximatily 33O players will be able to say they started and played on a state championship team out of over 30000 players to have entered the state tournament. Out of the 330 players presently and by thursday less than 20 can say they started and played on two state championship teams since 1980.
919 is the reason they should limit sugar in breakfast cereal.
ems
9:19 Why are you overlooking Edina? What makes you think that the trojanettes (in dresses) will beat the Hornets?
the class A state final was a FAR better match than the AA game last year... the AA game was a horrid kickball affair, the A game featured real possession and rhythm.
Last year's AA final, which people on here seem to think is the true high level soccer (which is an absurd statement, NO HS soccer is "high level," period) was hard to watch... brutal showcase of your so called "varsity class."
The AA lovers on here want one class so they can rack up wins against schools with 1/8th their enrollment and feel good about themselves
Edina will give Woodbury a game
Anyone sho takes rankings of HS teams seriously has a major grasp of reality problem.
10:46 - agree with your assessment of last year's finals. Class AA was tough to watch.
10:04..... Doesnt matter whether the wayzata trojanettes or edina buzzered win game. trojanettes will swat buzzered 2-0. Their likely boring game is insignificant in determining state champ after Royals declaw mildcats 2-0. Royals then will whip the trojanettes 4-0, and be two time reigning crowned state champs. THE best team ever. Only third team to defend and win back to back state championships. Royals 2003 and 2004 teams being a close second for overall best team ever.
How did Orono score in OT?
My god is Class A hard to watch.....do the kids even feel good about themselves playing in the JV state tournament? Do you think they even care? Wow....hard to watch
Hope Orono loses Thursday, they do not deserve to be in the state tournament especially the championship game. They have no skill apart from maybe the 7th grader (should tell you a lot if a junior high student is the best player on your varsity team.)
GO BLAKE!!
wow 12:33 have you ever played in a state tournament game?
12:41 makes a good point I watched Orono play they just stack there defense and play kick ball and hope there non athletic players can score a goal.
Lydia Sutton, the eighth grader on Blake's team is a monster. She is scary good.
Hats off to an underrated and gutsy Cloquet team that gave Blake about as much as they could possibly handle today in the second semifinal game. Not sure Blake has seen a team play with as much intensity this year. Although Cloquet had more control of the ball, Blake made their limited chances more dangerous and finished two of them. Looking forward to a rematch of Blake and Orono on Thursday.
Can we please stop talking about the JV league Class A? I had to watch two first round games the other night. BAD SOCCER. Agreed on the one class format. Cloquet and East Ridge....come on! Painful. Class A parents please sut up. Only want to hear about the Varsity league.
3:20 get a life and stop commenting how bad A is you clearly have never played on a varsity sport or been to a state tournament. Yes granted the better class A schools did not make it to the tournament this year the teams in the tournament are very poor and untalented.
People, quit biting on the arguements from bloggers trying to upset you!
Haven't you noticed, it's the same statements over and over.
WANT TO REDIRECT QUESTION ABOUT BEST SOCCER HIGH SCHOOL TEAM HERE IN MINNESOTA, EARLIER STATED THAT BEST HIGH SCHOOL TEAM WAS 1987 SPA YES LOCALLY. IF YOU INCLUDE SSM TEAM FROM LAST YEAR RECRUITED FROM ALL OVER COUNTRY THEY WERE BEST HIGH SCHOOL TEAM EVER TO PLAY IN MINNESOTA BUT WERE BOUGHT AND PAID FOR RECRUITS TO BUILD SCHOOLS IMAGE.
I am looking forward to the AA tourney. No dominant team that I can see but 4 very good ones. Eagan may be a notch below the other 3. Expect close games both on the scoreboard and in the run of play.
That great SSM HS team tried club and was destroyed by the MTA STARS. Matter of fact they were totally dominated. It was more like a scimmage. LMAO
3:46
What did the SSM team do? Nothing! WHat a joke
3:53 - Actually, Wayzata may be a notch below the other three.
120 - yawn...hi dad. i know who you are, nice try. she is just an average player at her age. what has she done in ODP? how about out of state? so she can excel on a single A team... so can the 7th grader at orono who is far more talented. let her have fun and quit trying to promote her. travelling out of state with the older MTA team will not be worth the money - stick to your team.
7th grader at Orono is physically as big as the seniors - excellent shot from distance, good vision on the plus side - below average speed and quickness on the minus side.
The game was very even - La Crescent and Orono both controlled play for periods. La Crescent was faster and more dangerous in the run of play, Orono generated more corners. Both Orono goals were on set pieces - beautiful volley off a corner to win.
I haven't been able to make it out to the tournament yet, I'm wondering how the fan situation was. Any particularly interesting fan incidents? Good fans? Bad fans? I'd love to know, the fans help create the atmosphere at the dome.
Great fans so far - showing good sportsmanship and respect. The pep bands have been nice too. I think the games have been well attended so far, considering they are during the day.
If we are going to promote the youngsters on the single A teams, lets start some recognition for those on AA. Mounds View had a talented freshman that plays for TC Fire. Or, MTA blue players who did not even make Varsity on AA teams because of the competition? There was a LN freshman who almost scored against Woodbury and had a tremendous season, or the Centennial freshman that scored the only two goals to clinch the section championship? There was a starting freshman on the SLP team who made a difference. AA schools form 3 to 4 teams, cutting some. Again, put things in perspective.
WZTA surely bottom of a strong final four- who have they played to warrant any consideration?
WDBRY AND EDINA make an intersting final- can SW finally win the big one? Will wdbry continuie dominance on set pieces?
I agree,818. One of the most talented freshman this year plays for Wayzata, and is just another player on the field. If she were on a single A team, she would be a Super Star....
7:12- Lydia Sutton is a genuinely great soccer player- she has a ridiculous amount of natural athleticism, plus a lot of grit and tenacity. She would probably excel in AA as well.
Also, I am confused as to how the presence of Class A affects the Class AA teams? Oh right, it doesn't. Smaller schools are at a disadvantage in terms of depth, and they should not have to compete with schools that have some 1,500 girls to pick from. Admittedly, Class A soccer is of less quality than that of Class AA, but does it really matter if there are two classes? Maybe the problem is that the Class A and Class AA forums are combined on this site?
Who runs this blog?
With KK on defense and directing the other defenders NO ONE will even score on Woodbury. Woodbury girls all the way!
where can you follow the games online?
Inside Minnesota Soccer is doing an online play by play.
1-0 Woodbury at the half
2-0 Woodbury
3-0 now
I watched the Woodbury vs Eagan game and towards the end of the first half Eagan was completely dominating, but second half woodbury clicked the on button and dominated the whole 40 minutes.
Also saw Wayzata vs Edina. Wayzata does not stand a chance against Woodbury.
Who shot in overtime for Edina and Wayzata?
Now that the finals are set I think the clear thing to do now is pick some winners.
The Matchups are:
Class A: #1 Orono against #2 Blake
Class AA: #1 Woodbury against #3 Wayzata
Who ya got?
Wayzata..again...really? Atleast Woodbury can stop them.
Wayzata got lucky v edina. Eagan missed their chance to win in the first half, after that all royals
royals win BIG
Got lucky? What game were you watching?
Edina had many more scoring chances, especially in OT. It was not the greatest game, but Edina deserved it
agree with 8:18
Shots from the spot no way to end a game
Flip a coin for the Class A title. Saw these two teams play earlier in the season and it was an even match. Both Orono and Blake were fortunate to win the semis. Not sure if Orono is still riding the steam of beating BSM, but Blake seems to be peaking with their young squad. I don't think Orono is a big surprise to be there, but no one expected Blake to be back in state again this year.
9:14 Agree that shootouts aren't the way to end a game.
If Edina couldn't finish, they got what they "deserved"
the pk portion of the game is just that... a portion of the game. if you don't put it in the net during reg...you live or die by a 'good guess' or a 'bad shot'. rough way to lose, unfulfilling way to win.
i look for more of the same thursday.
ems
more of the same with what matchups? Woodbury?
woodbury wins in a walk over
i haven't seen any 'a' matches this year. i hear they're not very good... :)
yes, with way v woodbury
ems
Wayzata's talent is consistent top to bottom. They can compete in all areas, but they don't have any "game changers." Wdby is two notches above Wyz, but the loss of CS likely makes the game low scoring and not a blow-out. If Wayz's keeper stays hot, they may have a chace to win in OT or a shootout.
8:18 and 9:14
Wayzata outshot Edina 15-9 and forced six corner kicks
Looks like Wayzata had the better of it
Eagan/WDB game was very even. Eagan controlled first half, WDB the second. WDB finished, Eagan did not, so eagan goes home.
A 3-0 game is very even?
Agree with 1118. If you saw the game you would agree. Run of play, shots, corners about the same. Diference is Woodbury put their opportunities in the net.
Some of the worst soccer I've seen at the dome in a long time. No creativity at all. Just more bootball. Big drop off in talent last couple of years.
Benilde should be in the championship for A if Wayzata is in it for AA. Benilde took Wayzata to double OT and lost because the ref called a direct kick, let Wayzata kick it 10 yards up the field from the foul, and while the ball was moving. Also, Benilde dominated Orono in the section final. Orono didn't have any attack, or any real chances on goal, got lucky with an own goal.
This is the easiest walk through Woodbury has ever had in the dome.
Will be no challenges to them. Soccer way down.
blah, blah, blah Too bad your school is out.
No kidding, why would games even be played if the favorite always won. If Benilde was so good they shouldn't have put themselves in a situation in which they could shoot themselves in the foot. When it comes down to it, being lucky is overrated. The "best" team doesn't always win, just the team that was "best" on that given day.
4:51 if Benilde dominated Orono, one would think that they would have had more than 2 good opportunities at goal. That is all they had and they couldn't close the deal. Orono D might be pretty good.
Regardless, Orono and Blake are two of the best class A teams in state. There might be better teams, but those teams didn't step up to the plate and survive the journey through sections and state. Good luck to both teams tomorrow morning, they earned it!
BSM guy, please, your team lsot, get over it
BSM guy, please, your team lsot, get over it
Anything on the Eagan - Edina game?
No. 4 defeated No. 2 for third place in this game. The Wildcats of Eagan (20-3-1) defeated the Hornets of Edina (17-3-2) 2-1 for third-place honors. Neither team scored in the first half. Senior forward Courtney Vallarelli didn’t waste much time to put the Wildcats ahead, scoring unassisted at the 41:43 mark. She scored again at 56:47 with an assist from junior forward Molly Sparks. Hornets senior forward Jess Reiersgord scored unassisted at 72:03.
9:34
I have wacthed the Lakeville HS teams for years. In that span, let's say ten years, I have seen at least one girl a year tear her ACL. Some years there are multiple girls NOT ONE OF THEM TORE IT IN THE HS SEASON. Everyone tore it during the club season.
There is a definite problem with youth sports in our country. We take them too seriously and treat these kids like they are professional athletes.
Some of these girls take less time off then professional athletes! If a girl is playing in the state final today and plays for a high level club, she will start club ball within a week or ten days, she will then play club ball until possibly a week or two before next year's HS season starts.
She may have a month total off in a year, there is something wrong with that. On top of that, she is playing one sport at all times. Your muscles need variety to remain strong and healthy, if you do not think that overruse and repitition is a major cause of some of these injuries, you are fooling yourself.
The worst part of it is that there will continue to be more and more pressure applied to these kids to skip HS ball when that is the only time they are really enjoying the game.
I had a daughter play for Bangu and she always dreaded the end of HS ball and beginning of the club season.
We should all remember why these kids are playing and parents should invset all the money they dump into soccer, they could pay for college three times over and not worry about the all important scholarship.
Orono in a rout 5-0 over Blake with 10 minutes left.
11:10 Our family has the opposite experience.
HS was dreaded but club was not - in fact the girls couldn't wait to get back to a level of soccer that was more even across players, had better coaching that made sense to them (this is what they said)compared to HS.
Also, our experience from our daughters club teams was that the girls that tore their ACL (there were 5)-all but one did it during HS season where they are actually playing everyday and don't have the requistite injury-lessening training like plyometrics that the clubs insist on now.
A lot of girls on our daughters club teams played other sports while they participated in club soccer, HS basketball, HS hockey, and HS track. So the cross training was there.
ORONO your A champs. Blake lovers, sorry. nice year, tough day to have a bad game
I always give my DD a choice on starting club right after HS ends. If she needs a break I just flat out tell the coach she needs some down time. The coach should understand and if they don't there is plenty of time to switch clubs.
As the club season goes along the practices become more mandatory, but parents who are sometimes over-the-top (like me) need to step in once-in-a-while and put soccer into perspective. Missing practice in November and missing practice in April are not the same. Also there is usually a break during Christmas and I usually pull her out of the last practice or two before the break to give her an extra week off.
Congrats to ORONO!
splitsville
For some teams there is never a break when they truly need it. Right after HS soccer should be a given but for some, starts practically the next day due to upcoming tournaments. If player misses, will get benched and chastized.
Score predictions for Woodbury vs. Wayzata?
get lost! we are conversing about something much more important than predicting today's winner.
really cause this blog is about girls HIGH SCHOOL soccer. so you get lost.
Today's winner a no-brainer. With KK directing the defense nothing will get through. Even without CS on field, given the competition, anyone on Woodbury can score.
lets talk numbers? what do you think 1233?
3-0
KK starts the onslaught from the back. Has brought Woodbury through 4 winning seasons. Also a lot of great younger players on the team that have stepped up and taken her lead.
KS on D is also a force to be reckoned with and has lerned well from KK. Royals will reign again next year! At LEAST 3-0.
No you get lost!
Wayzata 1-0...just to get all you jealous people all riled up!
THAT would be the upset of the decade! Won't happen.
who the heck is KS?
1:24 - so did WDB spot them a goal before the game started to make it more even?
Wayzata COULD win - WDBY should be nervous.
Congrats to Orono on winning it all and to a Blake team that surprised a lot of people this season. Too bad they didn't bring their A game today, but Orono played quite well and had some great finishes.
Wayzata just beat Woodbury 2-1.
Congrats Woodbury. Way to take the dynasty down. Let the excuses and sobbing begin for Woodbury. Haven't they won the last five years...
If WDB doesn't lose their best player just before the tournament they would not have been challenged. No excuses though, part of the game.
That was congrats to Wayzata...whoops.
Woodbury dominated, had plenty of chances just did not finish when it counted most. When it comes down to it this is all on woodbury(us) , we just didnt get it done
Both the A and AA matches today show why the game is played. Orono vs. Blake was suppose to be a good match, and it wasn't. Woodbury was suppose to dominate, and didn't. What a great game to play!
And the Woodbury dynasty comes to a screeching halt. Likely the AA winner comes out of the west subs for some time now. Other than Woodbury, there really hasn't been a strong program in the east. No one in the south looks promising and the north has always been weak.
Looks like the 07 LS versus the 09 WDBRY argument is moot
6:45, you are absolutely correct. I would take the 08 WDBY team over the 07 LS team since they went undefeated and LS lost twice.
Yes two of largest remaining schools Wayzata and University of Eden Prairie will rule the state along with the Orono class A champ that is beginning its dynasty. Conference race in new western burb will be brutal with wayzata eden prairie edina minnetonka playing each other twice.
agreed regarding the western burbs. unless they reshuffle the sections, orono will always have to contend with bsm. in a few years, orono (just like stma and soon rogers) will outgrow class A and have to move up.
Woodbury flat out choked. Stick a fork into Wdby they are all done.
Decade is over and my vote goes to WDB 2003 and LS 2007 for best teams I have seen at dome. WDB 2009 may have had a chance but obvious losing CS was a big loss. EP and WYZ early pick for next year's finalists.
Hey 1:24, Should have been 2-0. Woodbury was "gifted" a pk to tie the match. From my seat, both teams played well, but Wayzata finished. Two quality goals. Congrats to the Trojans. State Championships, Wayzata 5, Woodbury 4.
classic - they chose the backup edina goalie to the all-tournament team....
07 LS team best of the decade, even of they lost to meaningless games.
Agree western suburb teams will now take over. Other than Woodbury the Sub East has always been weak at soccer (hence WDB gaudy records) and without them the Classic Lake will dominate for a few years.
Correction: Sorry 1:24.
Hey 1:57, Should have been 2-0. Woodbury was "gifted" a pk to tie the match. From my seat, both teams played well, but Wayzata finished. Two quality goals. Congrats to the Trojans. State Championships, Wayzata 5, Woodbury 4.
It is how you play at the dome that matters. WH at EP was the master of that. His teams would always use the regular season to experiment and build depth. They would usually lose a game or two or three in the process. But when tourney time rolled around they got the job done.
This is the prediction I like:
"This is the easiest walk through Woodbury has ever had in the dome.
Will be no challenges to them. Soccer way down.
4/11/09 5:40 PM"
You want that crow roasted, fried, grilled?
Congrats to wayzata for the biggest upset in the history of MN girls soccer
and how many title did the lil general win at EP? Would not site him as the master of the dome, just played a tough schedule- not easy to go undefeated in the LAKE
Congrats to Wayzata and probably one of the smartest coaches in the State Tony P.
jeez...give up the WH thing. He's been gone for a year!!!
Wayne's sleazy legacy has left a bad odor around here that will take a while to go away.
The threats he made to those HS kids was totally slimy and inexcusable.
So what happened to Woodbury's defense that was supposedly untouchable and "no ball will get through" ?
weird turn on this blog this year...i guess it goes with the times.
good luck to everyone in their club season.
see you next year.
ems
Woodbury over confident after being voted without earning the Number 1 ranking in the Universe.
Hear that???? It is the sound of a Number 1 Ranked team choking. Ack! Ack!
nothing like a gracious winner.....
what a class act.
WDB State Champs in:
1999
2003
2004
2006
2008
Maybe the excited Wayzata fan should check his/her math.
If the wdbry fans wanted to dish it out, they need to be able to take it.
It's high school folks!! Get a Grip!!
In other news: MN Thunder head coach Gramenz resigns today. GM left last week. Are they folding?
12:21 - good comment. there is another thread for that or mnfutbol should freshen things up since HS is over.
11:11
I referenced http://www.mshssca.org/historical_records.html for my stats which actually shows Woodbury with only three, but "I spotted Woodbury one". While you're there check out Coaching records specifically "Highest Winning Percentage".
Further research indicates you are correct at 5 apiece. MSHSSCA's bad. Better get that stat corrected.
must see tv.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNmPybFK2_o&feature=related
You get a grip LOSER!
Thanks 1:16 - that reminds me of some of the high school games I saw this fall.
the thunder has let most of its employees go in the last couple of months...still owes thousands upon thousands of dollars in back wages...I predict bankruptcy filing in the near future.
what does that mean for MTA? IS it back to wings and bangu to the death?
New Mexico Women's Soccer Player Suspended Indefinitely
Lambert apoligizes for her actions.
Nov. 6, 2009
Mountain West Conference Response
University of New Mexico head women's soccer coach Kit Vela announced today that junior defender Elizabeth Lambert has been suspended indefinitely for her actions in Thursday's match against BYU in the semifinals of the Mountain West Conference Championship in Provo, Utah.
Effective immediately, Lambert is prohibited from participating in all team practices, competition and conditioning activities.
"I am deeply and wholeheartedly regretful for my actions," said Lambert. "My actions were uncalled for. I let my emotions get the best of me in a heated situation. I take full responsibility for my actions and accept any punishment felt necessary from the coaching staff and UNM administration. This is in no way indicative of my character or the soccer player that I am. I am sorry to my coaches and teammates for any and all damages I have brought upon them. I am especially sorry to BYU and the BYU women's soccer players that were personally affected by my actions. I have the utmost respect for the BYU women's soccer program and its players."
"Liz is a quality student-athlete, but in this instance her actions clearly crossed the line of fair play and good sportsmanship," said Vela.
"Liz's conduct on the field against BYU was completely inappropriate," said UNM Vice President for Athletics Paul Krebs. "There is no way to defend her actions."
Many MTA U19 players (Stars) not returning to play club.
Why didn't Kit Vela do something during the game? There is no way the UNM bench area was not aware of her vicious play.
Though she is entirely responsible for actions on the field, the action taken against her was far too late by the coach in my opinion.
Loved her intensity, but she needs to learn to channel it away from the dark side......or become more subtle and professional in her fouls ;-)
How bad of refereeing was it to let junk like that go unnoticed or not address the brewing conflicts and animosity that had to be permeating on the field.
I heard the Scottish Premier League was interested in signing her on a trial basis
8:39
Who? Di not hear that
No MTA by state cup back to Bangu looks like Nike will make some more money with kids having to buy new equipment again =)
I wonder if anything happened to the BYU player that gave her the cheap shot in the first place?
I wonder if anything happened to the BYU player that gave her the cheap shot in the first place?
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