More Pictures From the Mank Games

Games in Mank, Austria

     Just returned from the teams first games.  They played club teams in a small community called Mank.  Both teams performed well in very tough weather conditions.  It is very called today -2C (about 28F) with consistent winds in the 25 to 35 mph range.  Both teams controlled their respective games and finished with clean sheets.  I believe the girls finished 9-0 and the boys 8-0.  The level of competition should be greater for the next games in Prague, but both teams were communicating well and controlling possession.  If they are able to improve upon today's performance they should do just fine.

St Polten

The city of St Polten, in southern Austria, has a population of roughly 52,000.  It is argued to be the oldest city in Austria as St Polten sits on the site of what was once the Roman city of Aelium Cetium, which existed between the 2nd and 4th century.

    

Willkommen to Austria

    For those of you who have been anxiously awaiting new of our safe arrival, I can confirm that both groups have arrived and that everyone is settling in.  We had a few minor delays here and there for both groups but in the end everything worked out well.  Here are a few pics of the kids getting settled in at the Sports Complex where they will be staying and training.  In fact, as I am posting this they should be half way through their first training session here in Austria.

   I promise I will post more pics of the Training Facility and from Austria soon. Right now, however, we are all in need of some food and perhaps showers.  So for now, Guten Abend!  (Good Evening!)

The Adventure Begins....

     The day of departure has finally arrived.  For those who are traveling I wish you all safe travels!  More pictures and updates to come as internet access allows....

Final Tuning

Today was our final training session before departure.  Both teams were able to get some game time in to finish sorting things out before we head over seas.  The boys looked much better as a unit.  They were communicating well, moving the ball well and maintaining possession.   The girls also looked good in what was their first team friendly.  They were able to move the ball well and create some good scoring oppurtunities.  The kids all received their "kits" today. It was fun watching them get excited about getting geared up.  Safe travels to everyone!  Next updates will come from the airport most likely.

First Test...

Our departure date is quickly approaching and I know everyone from parents to coaches to players are excited to be partaking in this experience.  Here are some pictures from the boy's first friendly as a team.  They had a bit of a rough start but adapted and adjusted rather quickly.  The second half showed promising signs for the future and while the end result of this match didn't go our way the team took steps forward to being better next time.