We trained this afternoon in preparation for our match against Japan tomorrow. We went out for about an hour and went through a technical warm-up and a walk-thru to familiarize ourselves with Japan’s style and system of play. The team is upbeat and ready to take the next step towards earning three points in our group.

 

At every training site the local support staff has been very helpful and welcoming. There are almost thirty Olympic support personnel at every training session so we have plenty of assistance when we have to move the cast iron goals around the field! Before we load up to leave, the team will pose for pictures with them and then get on the bus to start “the wave” game. It has become easy entertainment and gets pretty loud and amusing - each side of the bus will see how many people will wave back at them and then scream out a running total. The game is evolving as there are now bonus points for a blown kiss or a salute. Bottom line – these guys will make anything a competition.

 

Tonight our GM, Cheryl Bailey, organized a sundae bar for the players and staff so we could sit around and be together for the opening ceremony. We had a big projection screen in our meal room and sat and soaked in the Olympic festivities. Not quite the same as being there, but some of the players dressed up in their Ralph Lauren “opening ceremony” outfits and got into the spirit. It was a spectacular opening and there was plenty of clapping and oohs and aaahs from the team. As our broadcast was all in Chinese, our liaison Sherry, gave us a loose translation and we sat and waited till the US team marched in.