UNDER 9 SEASON

Fall 2007 Season - The Under 9 Demolition Divas won the hearts of many who watched them mature during the fall season. They came in as individual players and finished the season as a team … a winning team. The LMSC Demolition Divas (U9- Div. 4) finished the 2007 Fall Travel Team season with a winning record of 5 wins, 3 losses and 2 ties, an extremely respectable record considering they only had ten players, some of whom had a limited knowledge of soccer at the start. As a “C” team not much was expected from them except to have fun and learn. They went beyond that goal and also found a formula to win in a schedule comprised mainly of A and B teams. In every game the Divas never were routed. They played tough and were not intimidated by seemingly better teams.

What was their secret? Fundamentals, positive attitude and focus. During the season coaches Matthew Shein and Eleni Costa stressed playing strong defense and mid-field. Learning to pass, playing positions and shooting properly were key elements to the team’s success. Most of all, they learned to be aware of their roles on the field and how they fit into the game. Instead of playing “chase the ball” they learned to play in position and move the ball up and down the field. The Divas practiced twice per week on these different aspects of the game,

creating fun practice drills to simulate real playing situations. Sometimes they practiced after practice until it was so dark that you couldn’t see the ball. They were learning to love soccer. It showed during games.

As the season progressed it was obvious that all the practice was paying off. In the last five games of their schedule, they shut out three teams. Meanwhile, the Divas scored sixteen goals on their opponents. Many of the opposing coaches commented on how poised the Demolition Divas were. They remained focused throughout every game.