Classy Performance by SGV Pistons at BOWS Tournament President's Day Weekend

Even the weather cooperated in the Bakersfield area to make the annual BOWS Tournament a huge success. The 60% chance of rain diminished to nil to enable a thrilling display of soccer in all categories.

With some family support at hand, SGV Pistons ladies were opportuned to be a part of the memorable event in the Open C Division. We took the field for our first game at 9:45AM. All players were in great spirits and, straight from kick-off, the effect of our last few weeks of practices showed. 2-0 in the first game versus Soccer Addicts.

The second game cost us a player. We prayed ahead of the tournament that we not sustain injury; however, going against PSV, it wasn't to be. Natalie, as she ever so often does so effectively, went to win and shield a ball. A PSV player crashed into her - some said it was head-to-head; from across the field where I was, it looked like only this lady's elbow was anywhere near Natalie's head - she was that much taller. Whatever it was, she left Natalie with a gash on the right brow. Alexis got Natalie to the E.R. where the good people of San Joaquin Hospital  took immediate good care of her.

We had scored first, they quickly tied. After the injury, SGV Pistons turned it up and ended the game 4-1 to keep Natalie's spirits up when the team saw her later. She was certified ok and advised to stay off soccer or similar activities for two weeks. She wisely counseled, "it could be worse".

We took the final game of the day 2-0 to lead the group with 27 points.

First game on Sunday was versus the bottom team in the other group, Just For Kicks, and Pistons took that 3-0. In the semi, we again played PSV. The game stayed 1-1 and went to penalties and a PSV victory.

The other team for third place chose to not play and SGV Pistons by default came away with 3rd place in the 2006 BOWS Tournament in the Open C Category.

A coach can't ask for anything more. A class of skillful ladies who enthusiastically offer their talents to the coach's creativity. It was like art. I warmly thank each one of you.  Continue to play the game smartly and I look forward to playing on your team in the 60+ category someday.

Special thanks to Ola for keeping the team statistics and special thanks for Tolu for the pictures and video. Of course, special thanks to Keji for playing! You're the best children any parent can hope for.

Enjoy some pictures here. Click on picture to see larger size. More pictures here.

Thanks, Sherisse, for the following pictures.