RHIAN SOCCER JOURNALS           

GOOD VIBES AS MATCH VS USA APPROACHES  15th September 2011

We had the morning off from training today. However, this did not mean that we had time off. Instead, we went for a walk and a stretch with our medical staff. This was followed by two meetings.

In all, these made for a long morning, but a really good one. Our new coach is very organized and he is making sure that we are as well prepared as possible for our upcoming matches against the United States.

We have been reviewing hours of videotape and breaking down our own play to make sure everyone understands her role, and the role of those around us on the field. It feels good to know that we are becoming so fully prepared for our two game series.

One amazing addition to our coaching team has been baby Ella, our physiologist, Helen's, little girl. She is adorable and already has the entire team wrapped around her little finger. Many of us are far from our families and our own nephews and nieces, so, for the moment, Ella has taken their place. She is really great about being constantly passed around and I personally have enjoyed the sight of the team crumbling into "gooey messes" around her.

Our on-field training session this afternoon was a good one. It was intense. We have plenty of ground to cover and not much time, and I think everyone understands this. The whole squad is showing up as energetic, focused and ready to work hard. There are quite a number of young and new players at camp, and they are all doing very well.

Sincy, Chappy, Brit, and Marie-Eve aren't here but there is some great talent coming through the ranks and I am looking forward to seeing them perform sat the international level.