Coyote Soccer Fades into Sunset

Coach Art has left the Building....

After 7.5 yrs of coaching youth soccer...the Coach is hanging up the cleats.

Maybe I will be back after a hiatus...maybe not...

Until then and Unless then....Via con Dios!

~Coach Art

Aggressive Coyotes End Slump

Team Coyote ended the long slump on Saturday morning beating the Warriors by a score of 4-3.  The team was much much more aggressive on the field yesterday, going after the ball, attacking it, and keeping offensive pressure on the opposing team all morning long.  It appears that the offensive drills that we practiced the last couple of weeks paid off.   The Coyote strikers drove the ball downfield and were taking plenty of shots on goal, and the defense also did a great job attacking the ball, breaking up Warrior drives, and stopping most of their shots on goal.

The Coyotes scored first in an evenly matched game before the Warriors tied the score with a goal of their own.  Just before the end of the period, the Coyote strikers found the back of the nets one more time to take a 2-1 lead.

Both teams battled hard in an action packed 2nd quarter, but neither team could manage to score.  The two defenses bent, but did not break as the goalies and midfielders did a great job on both teams keeping the ball out of the goal despite several shots on goal by both teams.  The half ended with the Coyotes holding on to a tenuous 1 point lead.

The Third period saw the Warriors score two goals to take a lead over the Yotes, but the Coyotes answered with a goal of their own to tie the game at 3-3 by the end of the quarter.

In the fourth quarter, the Coyote defense again stood up and blocked every shot on goal taken by a feisty Warrior team, and finally Devin broke away, dribbled the ball down field and scored, putting the Coyotes up by 1 with just a couple minutes to go.  The Coyotes held on...and when the final whistle blew, the Coyotes chalked up victory #2 to move their season record to 2-4.

Last week, the game with the Tornados was rained out, and the make-up game will take place on Wednesday night.  The Tornado team is aptly named...they are tough, fast, disciplined and aggressive.  If the Coyotes come out Wednesday being aggressive like they were yesterday, there is no doubt in my mind that we can not only give the Tornados all they can handle, but we stand a good chance of taking away another win!

Great job yesterday Coyotes!  Keep it up...stay aggressive, attack the ball, and don't quit!  Keep up the offensive pressure and the great defensive work as well!  I see no reason that we cannot win a few more games before it is all said and done if we continue to play like we did yesterday!  Coach Joseph and myself are proud of the way ALL of you played yesterday! 

Here are the stats for yesterdays game:

The Strikers

Akil.....................................3 shots on goal, 1 goal
Kendrick.............................3 shots on goal, 1 goal, 1 assist
Matt....................................4 shots on goal, 1 goal
Devin..................................2 shots on goal, 1 goal
Rebekah..............................1 shot on goal

Midfielders

Devin..................................3 tackles
Rebekah.............................4 tackles
Kendrick............................4 tackles
Nick...................................6 tackles

Goalies

Akil...................................4 saves 
Nick..................................5 saves
Tyler..................................3 saves

Although the stats don't reflect it, Brock and Callie also contributed to the team effort yesterday from their Striker positions!  They were both attacking the ball, dribbling down field, but just could not get in close enough to take a shot on goal...but their efforts truly helped keep offensive pressure on the Warriors!  Great job!

Keep  it up, 'Yotes...let's look to try to improve each and every time we hit the field for the rest of the season!  One day, this could be YOU!

 

Coyotes Slumping ; Shut Out Three Times In As Many Weeks

Team Coyote continues to suffer a losing streak that began back in Week 2.  At the midway point of the season, the Coyotes are nursing a 1-4 record.

The problem is a simple one:  The 'Yotes are simply not attacking the ball and being aggressive.  They are kicking the ball down field and stopping...not following it up...and the results are that the other team is picking up the ball, driving downfield, and scoring at will. 

I will be looking to find drills that hopefully will teach the Coyotes to go after the ball and be more aggressive in the coming weeks.  Parents..please encourage your young 'Yote to follow ball and to attack the ball...don't wait for the ball to come to you and then just kick it downfield and stop....go after the ball, attack it, and follow the ball downfield . 

Last week, the Reds took it to the Coyotes as they dropped their second consecutive game by a score of 4-0.  In that game, the Coyotes actually showed some spark and were "in" the game for most of the game,but just could not find the goal.  Again...it was simply because the Coyotes were not attacking the ball and being aggressive offensively.

Regressing back to Team Rule #1: HAVE FUN!!, I want to stress the fact that the kids seem to be having fun...and that is very important.  At the same time, they also have expressed some frustration.  I want to encourage them to keep their heads up and keep on fighting...and keep on having fun.  If they are having fun, the rest will fall into place in due time.

This  week, it was the Tigers turn to shut out the struggling Coyote team 6-0.  It wasn't even a contest.  The Tigers took the ball and ran up and down the field...keeping the Coyote offense reeling and virtually non-existent.  We did manage to take 7 shots on goal yesterday (compared to only 4 shots on goal the week before), but that is not nearly enough.  The lack of aggressiveness has put a lot of pressure on the Coyote defense, and there is just no way to stop a team that is constantly running the ball downfield.  Our offense has got to find a way to be more attacking....and that will slow down opposing teams.

I have been keeping a new stat for our Midfield position the past couple of weeks, tabulating the number of "tackles" our midfielders make during a game.  That is an important stat, because for every tackle made on the ball by the Midfielders, that is one less shot on goal taken by the opposing offense.

Here are the stats for Games 4 and 5

The Strikers:                      Game 4                  Game 5

Devin                                   4 shots on goal         1 shot on goal
Matt                                     0                             3 shots on goal
Rebekah                               0                             2 shots on goal
Callie                                    0                             1 shot on goal

Midfielders:                       Game 4                   Game 5

Brock                                  4 tackles                  0 tackles
Nick                                    6 tackles                  0
Tyler                                    3 tackles                  1 tackle
Akil                                     0                              3 tackles
Devin                                  0                              5 tackles
Callie                                  0                               1 tackles 
Kendrick                            1 tackle                     0

The Goalies                     Game 4                    Game 5

Akil                                  8 saves                         2 saves
Brock                               2 saves                        4 saves
Addison                           2 saves                          0
Tyler                                 3 saves                         0
Kendrick                          0                                  2 saves
Nick                                 0                                  2 saves

The stats truly tell the story for the past couple of weeks!  Our offense is not showing up!  In two games, we have only taken 11 shots on goal (while our opponents have taken at LEAST 35 shots on goal)

Defensively...we are overburdened (due to a lack of offense), as our Midfielders have combined for a total of 24 tackles, and our goalies have combined for 25 saves.

And so, as the 2nd half of the season kicks in, let us hope we can find a way for our offense to kick in again as well.  Coach Joseph and I will be looking for some drills that will hopefully bring it out, and that will get the kids to attack the ball.  Please encourage your Coyote to go after the ball, attack it, and don't give up fighting for the ball...and to HAVE FUN....If we can find a way to do that, we will pull out a couple more wins before it is all said and done!

Don't give up, Coyotes!  Let's get out there and give it a good fight for the rest of the season...one week at a time, beginning this next week.  I am not sure of which weeks they are, but I know that we have at least 2 more tough,  well coached teams to play.  It doesn't matter when that is...let's just take it a game at a time and get out there and play hard.

Parents..please try to instill in your Coyote's mind the importance of paying attention during practice.  Introducing new drills can get confusing (especially at this age), so it is imperative that they pay attention so that they can understand what it is we are trying to teach them.  And most importantly...encourage your kids to keep their heads up, play hard, and have fun....if they are learning the game....and are having fun doing so, that is what it is all about.

Panthers Maul Coyotes 13-0

It was billed as a Cat and Dog fight:  Panthers vs Coyotes.  It turned out to be a Cat mauling...the Coyotes did not have a chance.  They were outgunned, out ran, and out manned all day long.  The Coyote offense was virtually nonexistent, and the defense was porous and stunned.

It was an unusually hot day (considering it was the last day of March), and the game did not kick off until noon.  The heat and the late start might have had something to do with the Coyotes play...but that is no excuse...it was hot and late for the Panthers as well.


The Panthers simply overpowered the Coyotes and dominated them from the opening kick to the closing whistle.  You know you had a bad day when all you could manage was 9 total shots on goal for yourself, and allowing the opposing team to take shot after shot on goal all day long.  You know you had a rough day when, despite 12 saves by the goalies, the Panthers managed to score and find the back of the Coyote nets 13 times. You know you have been soundly beaten when you come away empty in the score column and you can't seem to find an answer to stop the bleeding.

Despite the mauling, our young Coyotes held their heads and tail high, displayed great sportsmanship, and never stopped trying.  They gave it their all, and they played with great heart and spirit.  It seems that every time the 'Yote offense showed a glimmer of fire, the Panthers were there to quickly extinguish the flame.  Matt kept trying..taking 5 shots on goal, but the Panther goalies were on their game.  Actually...3 of Matts shots got past the goalie...but they bounced off the goal frame....try as he may, he just could not find the back of the nets.

All of our Strikers played hard...but at times lacked aggressiveness.  I was very pleased to see Addison go after the ball (it was the first time she ever played in the Striker position), and Rebekah, Brock, Akil, Nick, Tyler, Kendrick and Callie also did well playing at that spot.

Defensively, Nick was a wall back there...making 4 tackles on the ball...Rebekah and Addison also combined for 5 more tackles from the Midfield (or Defensive) positions.  The trouble was simply that the Panthers were constantly on the attack...and they slipped by our defense more than we were able to stop them.

One of the Panther players was big for his age...and he had the speed and the power and the skills to go along with his size.  He was simply unstoppable.  And while it would have been more sportsmanlike for the other coach to put him in a defensive position in the 2nd half instead of letting him continue to run up the score (I am guessing he scored at least 95% of the Panther goals) when it was obvious the 'Yotes were not going to mount any kind of a comeback, would have been nice.  But, the other coach did not pull back his offense at all.  Despite that...our team kept their cool and their heads...and just played the game.  This coach is proud of the gamesmanship and sportsmanship displayed by Team Coyote!  Great Job 'Yotes!

Next week, Team Coyote will face another well coached team.  I have complete confidence in the skills and abilities of our team to match up with them completely.  We have got to find a way to get more aggressive on the ball...attack it constantly and don't back off.  We were able to do that in week #1...so I know it is possible.  Defensively, we have got to get our young Midfielders to also be more aggressive and attacking the ball whenever it ventures past the center line.  Our goalies are doing an outstanding job thus far...keep up the good work!  Our Strikers especially need to attack the ball more..not just kick it down field and stop...but kick it, dribble it, pass it, and take power shots.  We will try to work on that this next week in practice.

Ok, 'Yotes...lick your wounds this week..rest up...and let's come out on Saturday and be aggressive and relentless.  Let's go against our next opponent and show them what Coyote soccer is all about! We got beat...but we aren't done yet!  Next week is a new game!

Here are yesterdays Stats:

Strikers:

Matt..............................5 shots on goal
Rebekah........................2 shots on goal
Brock............................1 shot on goal
Callie.............................2 shots on goal

Midfielders:

Nick.............................4 tackles
Rebekah.......................3 tackles
Addison........................2 tackles

Goalies:

Akil..............................3 saves
Brock...........................3 saves
Callie............................3 saves
Tyler.............................3 saves

The mauling by the Panthers left the Coyotes with a 1-2 record on the young season...with 7 games left to play, there is plenty of time for the 'Yotes to come out with a decent record.  Let's hope it starts next week!

GO COYOTES!




 

FireBalls Burn Coyotes

After coming out the the gates swinging and taking care of business by icing the Polar Bears in week 1, Team Coyote got burned by the FireBalls in their second outing of the season.

It wasn't pretty.  The Fireballs came out and immediately took it to the Coyotes, scoring a quick 3 unanswered goals by the end of the 1st period.  The FireBall team was quick, running up and down the field, and gave the Coyotes a taste of their own medicine, as they kept the 'Yotes off balance and reeling back on defense the entire quarter.  Last week, the Coyotes didn't get a lot of work on defense, this week, it seemed the whole game saw the Coyote "D" tested constantly.

On a good note, the Coyote "D" made some great plays on the ball, from the Defensemen and the Goalies, or the score might have been much worse.

In the second quarter, the 'Yotes defense tried to stop the bleeding, and were successful at slowing down a hot FireBall team, despite the fact that the Fireballs were still dominating on offense, keeping the pressure on the Coyotes.  The Fireballs found the Coyote nets one more time in the 2nd period, to take a 4-0 lead into halftime.

It was midway into the 3rd quarter before the Coyote Strikers could find the back of the FireBall nets.  That is not to say that the 'Yotes were not trying....they gave it a valiant effort, and began to pick up the pace in the 3rd quarter as the offense started showing signs of life, while the 'Yotes defense continued to frustrate a hot FireBall squad by blocking most every shot they took on goal.  On a beautiful breakaway play, Kendick and Akil dribbled the ball through the Fireball Defense before Akil took a shot the slipped past the Fireball Goalie, and the 'Yotes were back in the game, down 4-1.

But the FireBalls were having none of it...and took the 4th quarter to add two more goals against the Coyotes, while at the same time keeping the 'Yotes from adding any more points against them.  When the final whistle blew, the Coyotes found themselves on the losing end of a 6-1 thrashing by a good, tough FireBall team, to even the season record at 1-1.

Next week, the Coyotes will again face another seasoned team, but I feel that if they come out to play hard and fast, they stand an excellent chance of winning their 2nd game.  Despite the loss yesterday, the Coyotes DID have some great plays...especially on Defense.  Nick, Akil, and Tyler all did a GREAT job at the goalie position, combining for a total of 13 saves!  Tyler, Rebekah, Brock and Callie also broke up several plays by the FireBalls from their Defense positions. Matt and Kendrick did an outstanding job at winning the ball away from the Fireballs, taking a combined 12 shots on goal between them, but just could not get the ball into the nets.  Our big problem yesterday was a lack of offense early on (and that is why we found ourselves in a hole that was hard to climb out of), and at times, a hesitancy to go after the ball.  I think we need to work on being more aggressive and also work on making some passes as we go down field.  All in all, the Coyotes played a good game....it was just our turn to take it on the chin.  But, hold your heads high, Coyotes...there will be days like that...it happens!  We just gotta regroup and come out harder next week!

Here are the Stats for Week #2:

The Strikers:

Akil.................................1 shot on goal; one goal
Kendrick.........................7 shots on goal
Rebekah..........................1 shot on goal
Nick................................1 shot on goal
Matt................................5 shots on goal

The Goalies:

Akil..................................5 saves
Nick.................................6 saves
Tyler.................................2 saves

Hand it to the FireBalls...they blocked 14 of 15 shots on goal by the Coyotes, while keeping their own offensive pressure on our team.  Next time we play the FireBalls...we are gonna bring a couple of Fire Extinguishers!

********UPDATE: Due to an overlook error on my part, I completely missed Matt's stats at the Striker position.  Matt had 5 shots on goal yesterday, but unfortunately, none found the net...but several did come close, or were saved by the FireBall goalie.  My apologies to Matt for omitting his stats....these old Coyote eyes ain't as keen as they used to be sometimes......

The stats above have been corrected to reflect my oversight error.  Great job Matt!

Coyotes Ice Polar Bears in Season Opener

On a beautiful day for soccer down at Heartland Soccer Park, Team Coyote emerged from their winter dens ready to rumble.  The first game of the season found the Coyotes matched up against the Polar Bears, and it looked as if the canine pack caught the snow bruins still groggy from winter hibernation....or...do polar bears hibernate?  Whatever the case, the Coyotes looked fresh and ready, while the Polar Bears looked disarrayed and caught in the headlights.

Even the newest members of Team Coyote got into the game and played well...given that 3 of the young 'Yotes had never before played a game of soccer!  Addison did a great job at the Defense position in the first quarter, getting her leg on a couple of balls, stopping the Polar Bears from advancing down field.  In the 4th Quarter, Addison did a good job of protecting the goal as Goalie...even though the team kept the Bears from taking too many shots on goal.

Tyler and Brock both did great jobs on defense, and both did very well at the Striker position in the 3rd quarter...given that neither of them had ever played the positions before yesterday.  GREAT JOB young Coyotes!  You were tested early, and proved you are ready to learn the game....and with more practice and experience, there is no doubt in this coaches mind that you will all do great this season!

The Polar Bears were seen licking their wounds after the game from the good old fashioned whooping that the Coyotes laid on them.  The first quarter started off tentatively for both teams as they felt each other out and got into the flow of the game.  The two teams traded punches, but neither one could find the goal ending the quarter 0-0.

As the 2nd quarter got underway, so did the Coyotes...as Rebekah, Kendrick, and Matt began dominating play from their Striker positions, keeping the Polar Bears totally on defense as the 'Yotes peeled off 5 unanswered goals to take a 5-0 lead into the halftime break.  The downside was that our young defensive players didn't get a lot of action or opportunity to block any shots on goal, as the Bears were unable to get into position to even attempt any shots on goal!  The Coyote offense was tenacious and unrelenting, constantly attacking the ball and preventing the Bears from even crossing the center line for most of the quarter.

The 3rd Quarter started with the Coyotes fielding 2 of our newer inexperienced players in the Striker position, with the more experienced 'Yotes in the Goalie and Defense position, so the newer players could get exposed to offense.  As I pointed out above, those newer players did a GREAT job, and got right into the flow of the game, attacking the ball and again, keeping the Bears confused and dazed.  The Polar Bears did manage to slip one past the 'Yote defense and Goalie and the quarter ended with the Coyotes holding on to a commanding 5-1 lead.

In the 4th Quarter, the Coyotes continued the pace as they took shot after shot on goal, but the Bears defense continued to stiffen, keeping the Coyote kicks out of the net.  Again, the Polar Bears found the back of the nets one more time, but it was too little too late...as the Coyotes held on to a dominating win 5-2 over the Polar Bear team.

Overall, this coach is proud of our team!  They came out kicking and attacking and did not let up, keeping the pressure on the Bears all game long.  GREAT job, Coyotes!  All that being said, we still have lots of room for improvement, and we will work on some things in practice this coming week.

Here are the Stats for Game 1:

Strikers:

Akil................................1 shot on goal
Kendrick........................4 shots on goal, 1 goal, 1 assist
Matt...............................8 shots on goal, 3 goals
Devin.............................1 shot on goal
Rebekah.........................3 shots on goal, 1 goal
Nick..............................1 shot on goal, 2 assists
Callie.............................2 shots on goal

Goalies:

Callie...........................1 save

You can clearly see from the stats how dominating our Coyote offense was yesterday!  I don't think the Polars Bears managed to take more than 5 shots on goal, 3 of which went wide and out of play.  GREAT JOB COYOTES!!!  Keep it up....next week, we play a more seasoned team, and so we need to keep on top of our game and practice hard to prepare.  Both Coach Joseph and I are proud of the way you ALL played yesterday, and look forward to a good practice this week.

Welcome Back Coyotes!

Welcome back, Team Coyote!  Coaches Art and Joseph have been recently seen sitting atop the hills overlooking Heartland fields, eagerly awaiting and calling for the return of the Coyotes to the playing fields.

This Spring, the team returns 6 Coyotes from last season and previous seasons:  Rebekah, Akil, Devon, Nick, Callie, and Matthew.  New to the Pack are Tyler, Brock, and Addison!  We are glad you are all on our team, and look forward to another fun sesaon of Coyote soccer.

As usual, the team rules are very simple:  Have FUN!, be GOOD SPORTS (Coyotes as well as parents), and do NOT confuse the old Coyote!

For you new Coyote parents,as well as you returning parents, let me assure you that YOUR child's safety and security is always  first and foremost in my mind.  We will NEVER post a child's full name on the blog or the web.  And, when I email you, I use the BCC feature to protect YOUR

privacy as well.  If you want to give your email address out to others, that is your business, not mine.

My philosophy of coaching at this level is very simple....first and foremost, I want the kids to have fun.  I also want to teach them the basics of the game and help prepare them to move up to the upper leagues.  I stress good sportsmanship and fair play, and try to instill the teamwork concept in their young minds.  We are a TEAM...and I try to teach the kids to play as such.

Coach Joseph (see photo at the left) and I also try to keep accurate stats on all the games.  This is a "Rec" league, and scores are not officially kept...however....the KIDS all know the score, and I like to keep the stats to help me to decide what position a child best plays at.  Each team member will play ALL positions throughout the season, so that they will be exposed to each position of the game.

Last season (Fall), the young Coyotes experienced a tough season.  It was the first season for them at the U6 level, and we were one of the newest teams at that level.  We played several "seasoned" teams last Fall....and we played hard and well.  It was a learning experience for Team Coyote, and hopefully, those lessons will be carried over this Spring season as the now experienced Coyotes take to the fields.

Coach Art (seen in the photo at right) has been on the hunt in the offseason, and is ready to rumble.  I hope that you all have fun and enjoy being part of Team Coyote!  Feel free to comment to any post on the blog (of course, I do retain "editing" rights).  I try to keep the blog updated at least once a week during the season, and will always notify you via email when it has been updated. 

Our first practice of the new Spring Season will be held this coming Saturday at 2 pm...and Coach Joseph and I look forward to meeting all our new players and parents, and welcoming back our returning players and parents!  

GO COYOTES!

Coyotes Go Gator Hunting

On a beautiful fall day down at Heartland fields, the Coyotes took to the fields on a rematch on the first game of the season against Team Gator.

The last time these two teams met (in game 1), the Gators, who are a well coached,experienced team, came out on top of the Coyotes in a tough fought battle by a score of 4-0. This time around, the Coyotes came out ready to play, using the experience they have gained throughout the season to take the Gators down by a decisive victory, 7-1.

Both teams looked ready to play, and battled tough in the 1st quarter as the Coyotes jumped out to a 2-1 lead by the end of the period. It appeared to be shaping into a close, tough game as both the Coyotes and the Gators held each other scoreless in the 2nd quarter. At halftime, the 'Yotes were holding on to their 1 point lead.

But as the 3rd quarter got underway, so did the Coyotes, as they looked like they were putting on a clinic out there with ball control, speed, and aggressive offense. Defensively, they barely allowed the Gator offense to even cross the center line. The aggressive play saw the Coyotes peel off 4 more goals in the 3rd quarter to jump out to a 6-1 lead going into the final period.

The coach of the Gators commented several times to coach Art that the Coyotes looked like a different team out there today, as they took control of the game and kept the Gator team off balance and playing catch up all day long. No doubt, the Coyotes have improved throughout the season...and the experience (even in the losses) has helped to mold the team into a team to be reckoned with! I have said all along that the Coyotes possess both the talent and the skills, and the only thing they lacked was the experience and the consistancy. When the 'Yotes put it together, they are tough to beat!

As the 4th quarter got going, the Coyote defense kept up the clinic, stopping every breakaway and blocking every shot attempt on goal by the Gator offense. Offensively, the Coyotes added another goal to seal the victory, as they emerged to avenge the early season loss by a score of 7-1. Great game, Coyotes! You were looking good today...good enough to draw the praise and admiration of the Gator coach...and that is saying something! Needless to say, Coach Art is very proud of all of you! The win improved the Coyote's record to 2-5-1 on the season.

Coach Joseph was unable to make the game today, as he was home resting and doctoring himself up from a bad cold. The news of the impressive victory by the Coyotes made him smile and feel better.

Here are the stats on the day:

The Strikers

Cole 9 shots on goal; 3 goals
Nick 1 shot on goal
Rebekah 7 shots on goal; 1 goal; 1 assist
Matt 3 shots on goal; 2 goals
Callie 1 shot on goal; 1 goal
Tyler 3 shots on goal

The Goalies

Cole 1 save
Savannah 2 saves
Tyler 2 saves

I try to keep accurate stats on the game, and if my stats are correct today, the Coyotes totally dominated the Gators! The Coyotes had some 24 shots on goal compared to 6 shots on goal b the Gators! When you have stats like that, the results can only be positive! Great job Coyotes!! Keep it up! Only 2 more games to go this season...let's finish out with a bang!

It is that time of year again....you never know what you might find in a pumpkin patch on any given night:

Tigers Rally Late to Upend Coyotes

It was a cold fall morning as the Coyotes took to the fields hoping to continue the momentum they had gathered the week before, coming off their first victory of the season.

The Coyotes came to play, and jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the 1st quarter. The 'Yote Strikers were running up and down the field, taking shots on goal, while the 'Yote defense kept the big cats frustrated at the opposite end of the field.

Team Coyote kept the pressure on the Tigers as the 2nd quarter got underway, keeping the cats out of the nets and out of the scoring column. But the Tigers also stiffened their defense, and held the Coyotes scoreless in the 2nd quarter as well. At half, the 'Yotes were hanging on to a precarious 2-0 lead.

As the 3rd quarter got undeway, the game continued with both teams playing tough defense, but the Coyotes managed to sneak another ball into the Tiger nets to take a 3-0 lead going into the 4th quarter. The game looked to be securely in control of Team Coyote...but the big cats were not done.

It should be noted, once again..that the Coyotes were playing down 4 players..with only 6 Coyotes hitting the field...while the Tigers were at full strength with 10 players. Understandably, the Coyotes were getting tired out by the time the 4th quarter got underway, while the Tigers were relatively fresh because they were able to keep substitutes in the game. That being said, as the 4th quarter got underway, the undermanned Coyotes began to show signs of being tired. They backed off offensively, not being quite as aggressive as they had been throughout the game...and it showed. The tigers took advantage of the fatigue factor, and began finding the Coyote nets..scoring 4 unanswered goals to take a 4-3 lead as the final whistle blew.

The heartbreaking loss dropped the Coyotes record to 1-5-1 on the season. But, again...the loss was not indicative of the way the team played! They played their little hearts out, and but for the lack of substitutes, the 'Yotes could have (and would have...in my opinion) held on to their 3-0 lead and pulled out the win. They have nothing to be ashamed of...they played very well! Good job, Coyotes!

Here are the stats:

The Strikers

Cole 7 shots on goal; 2 goals
Nick 1 shot on goal
Rebekah 3 shots on goal; 1 goal
Matt 2 shots on goal; 1 assist
Callie 3 shots on goal
Savannah 3 shots on goal

The Goalies

Nick 10 saves
Matt 6 saves
Savannah 1 save

The Coyotes took 17 shots on goal, while the Tigers took 21 shots..so it is easy to see that our kids played tough and toe to toe (or paw to claw, as it were :-) )with the Tigers! Great game...nothing to hang our heads at over the effort of our young Coyotes!

Coyotes Stroll to Victory!

Coach Joseph and Coach George took the helm as Coach Art was out of town last weekend, and the Coyotes continued with the momentum they had built up the week prior....and finally "strolled" to a victory!

The reports from Coaches Joseph and George indicated that the Coyotes came out loaded for bear, and took the ball up and down the field, scoring almost at will!  Cole had an outstanding offensive game, scoring on 8 trips to the other teams goal (the other team did not have a team name....or, at least Coach Joseph did not catch what it was if there was one).  Great job Cole!!!

Apparently, judging from the stats, they Coyotes took way more shots on goal than the other team...outshooting them 18 to 4!  Way to be aggressive Coyotes!

After all the games this season that the Coyotes just did not play up to par, and after all the losses...some by large margins...it feels good to finally put one in the "W" column!  And what is even more satisfying is the level of consistancy and aggressiveness displayed by the 'Yotes in the last two games!  At the risk of being overly optimistic...perhaps things are beginning to click for the team and some of the things we have been working on over and over in practice are starting to pay off.

As I write this blog, with tonights practice fresh in mind, I am beginning to see more "team" work in the Coyote's play...they are beginning to understand passing and power shots...and we will continue to work on those aspects each week.

Here are the stats from the game:

The Strikers:

Cole                           9 shots on goal; 8 goals
Rebekah                     3 shots on goal; 3 goals
Matt                           2 shots on goal; 1 goal; 2 assists
Callie                         2 shots on goal
Savannah                   1 assist
Tyler                          2 shots on goal; 1 goal

The Goalies:

Jack                         1 save
Matt                        1 save

Perhaps Coach Art needs to go out of town more often !?!  I am proud of the way the Coyotes played last week..and I thank Coaches Joseph and George for taking the helm and leading the kids to victory!  The final score....or, as Dave Walsh..the "Voice of the Wyoming Cowboys" (my Alma Mater) says...."The score...ohhhh...the score!..."  Coyotes 13  Maroon Team 2!

You might say the last couple of weeks the Coyotes have put up a couple of "Thrillers"......

Coyotes Get Mashed at the Monster Bash

A full month and a half before Halloween, the Coyotes took to the field against "The Monsters" in a game in which the team showed great improvement over the week before.

The Coyotes started slow, allowing the Monsters to score two unanswered goals in the 1st quarter, and 2 more unanswered goals in the 2nd quarter to find themselves down 4-0 at half.

But, as is sometimes the case, the score was not indicative of the way the Coyotes were playing.  The team was playing hard, and taking plenty of shots on goal...but just could not slip the ball past the Monster goalies.

The Coyotes began to find their pace in the second half, and returned the "favor" by shutting out the Monsters in the 3rd and 4th quarters.  In the 3rd quarter, Rebekah finally found the goal after breaking out of the pack and dribbling downfield and slipping one past the Monster defense and goalie.  At the end of the 3rd, the 'Yotes were down 4-1.  Rebekah's shot on goal was not the only shot the team took in the period..it was just the only one that got past the goalie.

As the 4th quarter got underway, the young Coyotes picked up where they left off by keeping the pressure on the Monsters and taking shots on goal.  With time running out, Matt took a great power shot that had the Monster goalie ducking, and the ball found the back of the net for the 'Yotes second and final goal of the game.  The final score would stand at Monsters 4 Coyotes 2.

Despite the loss (which dropped the season record to 0-4-1 at the halfway mark of the season), Coach Art was pleased with the effort of our kids.  They played hard...harder than the week before, and were being much much more aggressive on the field...taking many more shots on goal than the other team, but unfortunately coming up short on the scoring end.  The 'Yotes had nothing to be ashamed of...and this coach felt that if they could just maintain that level of effort, they could and would find themselves on the winning end of some games.  All season long, the problem has been a lack of aggressiveness and consistancy.  On Saturday, September 17th...the Coyotes were both aggressive AND consistant.  They played very well!   Good job 'Yotes!

Here are the totals:

The Strikers:

Cole                            3 shots on goal
Rebekah                      4 shots on goal; 1 goal
Matt                           11 shots on goal; 1 goal
Savannah                     6 shots on goal
                                  ____________________
                                  24 shots on goal   2 goals

The Goalies:

Cole                          1 Save
Kendal                      1 Save
Savannah                  6 Saves
Tyler                         1 Save
                                 ______
                                  9 saves

If you do the math, the Coyotes took way more shots on goal (24 to 9), but just could not get the ball into the nets...the Monsters were very fortunate to come out on the winning side with odds like that!

Overall....a GREAT game and effort by the Coyotes!  This coach is proud of the way they played on that Saturday morning two weeks ago!

Tornados Blow Away Coyotes

On what was a beautful early fall day weatherwise, quickly turned into a storm on the fields at Heartland Saturday morning, as Team Tornado blew in and blew away Team Coyote. 

The 6 point loss dropped the Coyotes to 0-3-1 on the season, as the Coyotes came out flat footed and not playing very aggressively.  Last year, the Tornados shut out the Coyotes by a score of 12-0 (on a make up game where the Coyotes only had 4 players show up), this year, the Coyotes managed to score a few goals against a very good Tornado team.

The lack of aggressiveness resulted in the Coyotes allowing the Tornados way too many shots on goal, while the 'Yote offense was not reciprocating at the other end.  In the 1st period alone, Tyler had 13 saves on goal, but the Tornados still managed to get 3 shots into the net to take a 3-0 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Rebekah came to life in the 2nd quarter and scored her first goal of the season as she hustled down field dribbling and controlling the ball, taking a great shot and zipping past the tornado goalie. Rebekah played hard and hustled the entire game, and was attacking the ball more consistantly.  Great job Rebekah! The Tornados responded by adding 2 more goals of their own, as the half time score was Tornados 5, Coyotes 1.

The Coyotes continued to allow the Tornados way too many shots on goal in the third period, while the Tornados held the Coyotes scoreless again even though the Tornado coaches pulled back their better players and told them that they were not allowed to take shots unless they passed the ball first..which they did...resulting in 2 more scores to increase their lead over the 'Yotes to 7-1 by the end of the quarter.

The Coyotes showed sparks of life in the 4th quarter, as Cole and Callie began to combine for some great play!  First, Cole made a heads up pass to Callie in front of the Tornado goal, and Callie put the ball in the nets.  Later in the same period, Callie returned the favor, and found Cole open in front of the nets, passed him the ball, and Cole scored his first goal of the season!  Great job Cole and Callie!

The two goals by the Coyotes in the 4th quarter were answered by 2 more goals from the Tornados...and when the final whistle blew, the Coyotes were at the losing end of a 9-3 game.

If there were some kind of magic bullet to get the team to be more aggressive and consistant, I would love to know where it is!  The Coyotes have the potential and the talent...the problem is aggressiveness and consistancy.  Anyone with any suggestions to help in those areas, Coach Joseph and I are open and tuned in!

Here is how it broke down Saturday:

The Strikers:

Cole                             3 shots on goal, 1 assist, 1 goal
Rebekah                       3 shots on goal, 1 goal
Matt                             1 shot on goal
Callie                            3 shots on goal, 1 assist, 1 goal

The Goalies:

Jack                             1 save
Nick                             4 saves
Matt                             3 saves
Tyler                            13 saves

As you can see from the totals above, the Coyotes are giving up way too many shots on goal...which indicates a lack of offense and aggressiveness.  The Tornados managed to take at least 30 shots on goal compared to the Coyotes 10 shots!   It is hard if not impossible to come out on the winning end when you are being outshot on goal 3:1.

Oh well...back to the den to lick the wounds and prepare for next weeks matchup!  Perhaps we will come out more aggressive next week! 

Here is a link to a good video to teach how to pass the ball....


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9e5x15Hik2Y

Team Coyote Pauses to Remember

On September 11, 2001, life as we know it changed forever in this Great Country.  We were ruthlessly attacked by radical Islamists who hijacked and flew civilian airliners into the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington D.C.  Another airliner crashed in a field in Pennsylvania, as the passengers on board tried to re-take the plane from the terrorists who had hijacked it.  That plane never reached its target...which was probably the White House or the Capitol building in Washington.

While we gather to play soccer this weekend, let us pause for a moment and reflect on that day in September 10 years ago.  Let us never forget those who lost their lives on that day....whether innocent civilians, or the first responders who were attempting to rescue them.

Team Coyote pauses....and remembers.  God Bless the USA, and God bless and console all those who lost loved ones on that September morning ten years ago.

Coyotes Battle Rattle Snakes to a Tie

Team Coyote came out of the den yesterday with the hairs on their backs raised, ready to do battle with whomever took the field with them.  That somebody was a team called the Rattle Snakes.

Despite the gruelingly hot day, the 'Yotes took to the field running and hustling, going up and down the field keeping pressure on an evenly matched Rattler team. 

On what was a bogus call, the Rattlers drew first blood as the ref awarded them a goal...even though the Coyote goalie (Jack) not only stopped a shot, but had it picked up and was holding the ball.  The ref claimed that because he turned into the goal and crossed the goal with the ball (in his hands, no less), it counted as a goal, and the Snakes were up 1-0.

The Coyotes pinned their ears back and went on the attack, with Savannah dribbling downfield and taking a beautiful shot, leaving the Rattler goalie standing in his cleats to put the first goal of the season into the nets for the 'Yotes!  Great job, Savannah!  The first quarter came to an end, with the teams knotted up at 1-1.

As the 2nd quarter got underway, the young Coyotes kept up the pressure, aggressively taking shots on goal and winning the ball defensively from the Buzz Worms whenever they tried to attack the Coyote goal.

The Coyote Strikers managed to find the back of the Rattler goal twice more in the quarter to take a 3-1 lead into halftime.

As the third quarter got started, the 'Yotes began to show signs of tiring in the hot sun, and were held scoreless throughout the quarter, while the Rattlers cut into the slim lead by a goal.  Combine the heat of the day with the fact that the Coyotes were playing down three players, and it should be appreciated how well our kids hung in there and kept fighting.  The quarter ended with the 'Yotes holding on to a slim 3-2 lead.

The 4th quarter saw the Coyotes gain back the goal they had given up in the 3rd, but they just could not manage to hold on to that lead, as the Buzz Worms added two more goals of their own to tie the game with less than a minute to play, and that would be the final score:  4-4.

This coach is very proud and pleased with the efforts that our young Coyotes put out yesterday!  It appeared to me that some of the things we have been working on in practice were coming to light and producing results on the field.  Cole made a heads up pass to Savannah at one point, and Callie also passed the ball to Rebekah.  The 'Yotes were taking shots with more power and velocity on the ball, and the dribbling and ball control looked good!  Hats off to our Coyotes for a well played game!  The tie brought the season record to 0-2-1.....maybe next week we can chalk one up in the "W" column!  If the kids get out and play next week like they did yesterday, they definately have a fighting chance of doing just that.

Here is how it broke down:

The Strikers:

Cole                          3 shots on goal
Rebekah                    1 shot on goal
Matt                          4 shots on goal/  1goal
Callie                        1 shot on goal/  1 goal
Savannah                  7 shots on goal/  2 goals

The Goalies:

Jack                        3 saves
Cole                       7 saves
Callie                     1 save
Savannah               1 save

Great job, Coyotes!!  Also, Jack played very well in the Striker position, getting involved in the play and getting his foot on the ball!  It was good seeing him get aggressive...keep it up, Jack!  Kendal cleared the ball a couple of times from the midfield position, and was also getting more involved offensively in the Striker position!  Keep it up!  Savannah and Rebekah were putting on a clinic from the midfield position, constantly disrupting the Rattlers on any breakaway attempts, and Cole was on fire in the goal...frustrating the snakes 7 times by denying any goals while he was guarding the "house".

It seems to me that we are headed in the right direction!  We should all be proud of our young Coyotes...they battled against the heat, and no one complained when called on to get into the game as they had to play longer than usual since we were short handed.  Good job, 'Yotes!

A reminder:  Vanderbilt University is having an NYSA appreciation night this coming Friday night at the Vandy/MTSU womens soccer game.  The game begins at 7 pm, $5.00 per adult, kids FREE if they are wearing their team jerseys....

Also, don't forget that this coming Saturday (the 10th) is Picture day at the NYSA....our game is at 11 am...so we will need to be at the fields by 10 am for our team photos and individual photos.  I'll send out a reminder towards the end of the week.

Here is a short video demonstrating some great soccer skills....one day this could be YOU!  Enjoy:

Thundercats Dominate Coyotes in Game #2

In what started off as a defensive battle, ended in Team Coyote suffering another huge loss at the hands of Team Thundercat at Heartland Fields on Saturday.

The teams took to the field and exchanged goal saves at either end of the field and battled to a 0-0 tie at the end of the the 1st quarter.  Tyler was a defensive wall in the Goalie position for the Coyotes, saving 8 shots on goal by the Thundercats.

But that was just the beginning of the game.  The Thundercats displayed total domination of the young 'Yotes as they began scoring seemingly at will in the 2nd quarter.  By halftime, the big cats were up 4-0.

In the third quarter, the Thundercats picked up where they left off and continued the domination of the Coyotes, as they peeled off another 4 goals, while the Coyotes still could not find a way to get the ball into the nets.

It was never a contest throughout the game, offensively or defensively...as the Cats pressured, attacked, and took shot after shot on the Coyotes goalies, who played pretty well, but just had too many shots taken on them with no response from the Coyote offense to take the pressure off.

In the 4th quarter, the Thundercats began to pull back some of their better Strikers into defensive positions, but still managed to score one more time.  When the final whistle blew, the Thundercats emerged as victors in a 9-0 shellacking of the Coyotes.

The defeat left Coach Art and Coach Joseph scratching their heads (and fleas) back at the den, as they tried to figure out what went wrong.  The Coyotes were totally dominated throughout the game...even in the 1st quarter when they managed to keep it scoreless.  The Thundercats took at LEAST 8 shots on goal (all of which were saved by Tyler...GREAT JOB!), while the 'Yotes only managed to take 3 shots on goal.

Overall, the Coyotes could only manage 5 total shots on goal for the entire game (compared to at least 29 shots taken by the Thundercats)...but the goalies had a total of 20 saves in the game....or the score could have been MUCH worse!

Here is how the totals broke down:

The Strikers:

Rebekah................1 shot on goal
Matthew................3 shots on goal
Savannah...............1 shot on goal



The Goalies:

Tyler.............8 saves
Rebekah.......1 save
Jack..............6 saves
Cole.............5 saves

Savannah and Kendal also played the midfield positions very well, and Kendal and Nick were involved offensively and getting their foot on the ball throughout the game.  Callie was up and down the field offensively, but just could not get within range to even take a shot.

Somehow, the Coyotes have got to come up with a way to be more aggressive offensively and attack the ball, instead of waiting for the ball to come to them, and they have got to figure out a way to get more shots on goal. 

So, as the 'Yotes head back to the den to lick their wounds, a new week of preparation begins....and hopefully by Saturday, the Coyotes will come out hungry and aggressive.  Until then....lets keep our heads up and just relax...we will improve...it is just a matter of time! 

Here is a good tuturial video on dribbling tricks.  While most of the tricks are advanced, they are still neat to watch....Enjoy!

Coyotes Get Ready to Rumble in Game #2

As game time for week #2 swiftly approaches, Team Coyote took to the practice fields last night and had a good workout. 

The team concentrated on power shots and midfield defense, as that seemed to be the biggest problem in the loss in week #1.  With the Coyotes taking some 13 shots on goal last week, and none of them finding the net, the problem was not a lack of offense, but a lack of zip on the ball when shot at goal. 

In last night's drills, the 'Yotes also practiced teamwork and passing.  It is a difficult concept to get through to younger kids, but the team seemed to be picking up the idea.  We will keep working on that throughout the season at every practice.

The young Coyotes eagerly took in last night's lessons as they prepared for the upcoming game.  Hopefully, that will translate into some passing and assists offensively along with more zip on the shots on goal, and stronger, stingier defense at the midfield position.

As I was preparing to write this blog, I came across an article on "Soccer Mom's"...being the best you can be.  Following is an excerpt from that article on what you, as parents, can do to help your young Coyote develop the skills that will make him/her a better soccer player:

Here is a true statement: Kids learn by doing.
Why is the US soccer program behind many other countries? Because kids in the other countries grow up with a soccer ball. They play it, live it, and breath it every day. Kids in the US grow up with - yes, you guessed it, a baseball. Perhaps a bit oversimplified but you get the picture.
It is critical that kids (and soccer moms ) get to play with a soccer ball as much as possible.
To Do List:
Buy a soccer ball . One soccer ball (minimum) is a REQUIREMENT around the house at all times. NOT AN OPTION! Read about how to buy a soccer ball.

Play soccer with him/her.  Just 10-20 minutes every other day of passing the ball back and forth and dribbling will greatly improve their ability to pass, receive, and control the ball - and you might become an all-star soccer mom!
Buy some orange practice cones so they can practice dribbling skills in the yard. If you can't afford the cones (4 for about $4), be a creative soccer mom and use whatever you have around the house to use as markers. The cones have a multitude of purposes. Use them to mark a boundary, as goal posts, or to make a square or circle. If you're short on ideas or just need fresh ones, there are many excellent books and videos for the soccer mom or parent that make great references.  Hint - the local "Wal-Mart" or similar store normally stocks these cones.
Make or buy a small soccer goal for the yard . This makes the fun factor go WAY up! Size doesn't matter .  As a soccer mom or dad you should do what makes sense for your situation and yard size. A soccer goal is often a kid magnet for the neighborhood, friends, and teammates. Have fun with it!

You can read the entire article here:  http://www.soccer-for-parents.com/soccer-mom.html

The site is full of good information!

A parent asked me last night what they could do to help prepare her Coyote for the upcoming game.  If you will just get out and play with the child for a few minutes between now and Saturday, having the child pass the ball to you and taking POWER shots at a goal you create...that would re-inforce what we did in practice last night and help the Coyote to develop into a better player.  There are tons of resources on the 'net full of information as well!

So, overall, a good practice last night...the hour flew by!  I wish we would have had another hour or so, but we prepared as much as possible with the alloted time.  See you all on Saturday...game time 11:00 am, Field #6....be there by 10:45 ready to go!

GO COYOTES

Coyotes Play Well in Opening Season Loss

Team Coyote took to the fields on opening day full of hope and expectations, but ended up on the short end of a 4-0 game against a tough, well coached, seasoned team.

The game was actually closer than the final score indicated, with the Coyotes playing with plenty of heart and determination. Offensively, the 'Yotes had a total of 13 shots on goal, but just lacked the zip on the ball to get it passed the opposing goalie.  Defensively, after a tentative start, the Coyote goalies began to respond and had a total of 11 saves on goal.

The Coyotes took the opening kickoff and marched down field with the first opportunity at a shot on goal, which was blocked by the other goalie.  The other team rebounded and went downfield and got one past the Coyote goalie on the other end to go up 1-0.  That is the way the first quarter ended.

As the second quarter got underway, the other team battled a Coyote team that kept trying to find the goal, only to have all their shots blocked.  The other team added two more goals in the 2nd quarter to go up 3-0 at halftime.

Despite the heat of the day, the young Coyotes stiffened defensively in the second half, while continuing to pressure the other team by driving the ball downfield time after time but just coming up short on shots on goal.  Credit is due to the opposing goalies...they did a great job in keeping the Coyote shots out of the goal.  By the end of the 3rd quarter, with the Coyote defense stiffening, the score was 4-0, and that is where it would stay as the 'Yotes defense shut them out in the 4th quarter.

The 4th quarter saw Callie and Rebekah playing the Striker position continually breaking away and driving downfield taking shots...all of which were blocked or came up just short.  In the 4th period alone, Callie had 3 shots on goal and Rebekah had 3 as well.  Defensively, Matthew had 4 saves on goal in the goalie position in the 4th quarter alone!

All of the Coyotes played hard and deserve credit!

The Goalies

•  Kendal        1 save
•  Nick            3 saves
•  Savannah    3 saves
•  Matthew     4 saves

The Strikers (or Forwards)

• Cole           3 shots on goal
• Rebekah     4 shots on goal
• Matthew     1 shot on goal
• Callie          3 shots on goal
• Savannah    1 shot on goal
• Tyler           1 shot on goal

Jonas and Jack contributed in the Midfielder position by helping out the Strikers and the goalie. 

This coach is pleased with the effort of our team, and I see lots of positive points in our play.  I think we need to work on power kicks and the midfield defensive position, but I see lots of potential in our play.  I don't doubt we will be competive out there and give every team we play a run for the money.  So, despite the loss, yesterday's game was a learning experience for Team Coyote..and I think the team did quite well for the 1st time out at the U6 level against a well coached, tough, seasoned team.  Great job, Coyotes!  I am proud of you all!  We have plenty of room to improve, but we I think you all can hold your heads high!  You played hard, and you played well!

Here is the Gummibear Soccer song and video by request..enjoy!: