Derby

As the days grew closer to the weekend derby against Torgelower, our trainer grew more and more anxious. A win bonus was added to the game, and throughout the week he would pull players aside and remind them of the importance of the Sunday game. He even put together a board with colored pictures of every opponent and their position. He put an exclamation mark next to their forward, explaining to us that this was God's gift to the Oberliga. He was doing his best to put the pressure on us. But as the saying goes, you can either play 15% better or worse under pressure.


Despite the trainer freaking out, my head was clear going into the match. In the second minute of the match I scored my first goal and eventual game winner of a 3-0 drubbing of our rivals. The goal was nothing flashy, it was a centerback goal. Regardless, I was happy with it and before I could do my end zone dance I was mauled by teammates. A game winner, and a tight defensive effort against the league's best offense - a good day at the office.

Münchkens

I met up with a friend from UCSB, Leigh (right), and her friend Ginna (holding the camera) when I was down in Munich sorting out my visa. The picture was taken at the English Gartens, a large public park. Apparently, it is normal there for people to sun bathe on their lunch breaks. Today, the gentleman over my left shoulder was the only one. I kinda feel like we captured Big Foot on camera.

My First* German Club

My goal is to play 3rd division and higher in Germany (professionally). So when I began, I never expected I would be happy to settle in the 5th league. However, I have found it's not easy to break in over here. After 6 months of searching, I feel that I have found a place where I can grow and develop as a player. So I am excited to have been offered a contract with TSG Neustrelitz. My foot is finally in the door.



*Technically, D/A was the first place I played over here. But that was set up as a temporary situation for the end of last season.