JFE-TFA Blog

My Final Comments: An Epilog of Sorts

2009-04-16T10:00:00.010-04:00

Last night was an exhaustion that was fun to try and explain to Lori and Alex. So many memories that it will be difficult to get my head around them until I go through the 1500 or so photos as I build the album for Conner and sort out items for TFA.

This entry may get a bit lengthy and it is 100% my observations and opinions of the past week. My intention is to summarize what we experienced as parents from the outside and what your sons should have taken from the inside.

Why does this “Tour” exist? What is its real purpose? I had no preconceived ideas really, beyond seeing football in another country, site seeing when possible, blogging to all of you because I thought you would like to know and follow along, and full filling my inner shutter bug. The thing is, I got so much more.

Football is religion in England, not simply one of life’s small diversions. Supporters live and die with their sides in every living minute detail. Paul Holdgate, drawing on this religion that took him into the professional ranks as a young man takes from his experiences and uses this basis for a week of teaching boys from the U.S. how the work put into becoming a quality footballer translates into many area of their life. That is to say well beyond the simple tactical and technical aspects of movement on a given pitch.

The real focus of the week is “Professional Preparation”, perhaps not at the true professional level of 5 star hotels and personal physio’s, but a the basic level our sons can learn from more readily: getting the proper amount of sleep and hydration, putting the correct fuel in their bodies for performance, and stretching. They worked on how to become mentally prepared for a match, achieving focus, having a professional appearance in their boots and kits and having a good warm-up toward playing with intensity and pride for their team mates. The final result is judged by their improvement in these areas rather than by the score that separated the sides.

It was impressive how dedicated to this charge, organized and sincere the entire experience is and all the credit goes to PH. As the experience progresses you can see first-hand how the attitude and effort levels change in many of the boys. You can quite literally see the leadership skills rise and show themselves in individual players. Some are very verbal, others use quiet voice and some bear witness through their effort on the field. Those that really get it, use a combination.

Simply put, if your son made or in the future makes this trip and you, as a parent, do not see subtle or even an obvious change in the level of respect they show for the game or a higher level of personal responsibility in their daily life-he did not get it or is unwilling to accept his charge.

The daily journal exercise is brilliant. The first night they tend to write about the trip and what they ate. This style transcends into personal thoughts, aspirations and goals achieved or missed during the week. As a real bonus, they have these journals to reflect on upon their return to the states. PH tells them that the daily journal is something a footballer keeps to record and reflect on their preparation and play in matches throughout their careers. His contains many hundreds of game experiences.

If your son is serious about his soccer and is looking for a quality life experience, DO NOT hesitate to help him begin saving now. If you are looking for a place to send a hyper active 16/17 year old in constant need of attention and self validation on a vacation, try a Disney Theme Park.

Does your son need to be a star on his team? No. Good skills on the field, a high work ethic and manners are however compulsory. The teams and players he will compete against will challenge 100% of his skill, effort, confidence, and determination.

Like I said, I could get lost in what a valuable experience this was for my own son and that is a credit to PH. It is 80% Paul, 10% Barry for the logistics and professional experiences (he played professionally as well) and 10% England. I have known Paul for several years, though after this week, perhaps more intimately than he would have liked-although the Findlay mum’s might have on word on that. You can gather a great deal about a man if you witness his interaction with those closest to him. Paul had his parents with us for several days and his older brother for a day, perfectly lovely people all. They fell seamlessly into the group and Mum Holdgate went beyond the call of duty by taking the kits home to launder one evening. In thanks, our boy’s presented her with flowers and plants for the garden at their home.

I chose to travel with my son for a selfish reason (I had never been to Europe) not because I was hesitant to let him go on his own. I learned so much about the game from eavesdropping on PH and Barry working with the boys. I laughed everyday with many new friends, I had the best “pillow talk” of my life with my room-mate Frank, and I even came to the rescue of “royalty” in distress…twice in one day, and I saw Dr. John dance. Plus I saw more historical sites and Abbeys than I can recount here. Each day we traveled with the team Headmaster as he searched for the perfect “sandy”, wear the necktie well, Jeff.

In the end it was indeed an epic adventure and rates as one of the most memorable in my life. Thank you Paul for offering the Tour and all that comes with it. I may need to start saving for a sequel.

Cheers Mate.

Final Match: TFA vs. Queens College

2009-04-14T12:43:00.005-04:00

As I wrote yesterday Queens is a specialty school for 15-18’s with the emphasis on Science and Sport. Those in the football program learn to play and coach while here. Some may well move up in the ranks of play other may find a career in coaching.

Our boys exhibited a higher standard today. They played faster, with a greater purpose and physicality. At the half they were separated by just two goals, one being by way of a penalty in the area. In the end the final was 4-nill. The result today is then measured by effort given and implementation of tactics learned this week.

A word regarding referees in England, EXCEPTIONAL. They work for the boys and the game. They call the game fairly and work with the players, complementing them on challenges and defending when the play gets physical. They call the players by name as the game unfolds and communicate with the coaches. It is the polar opposite of U.S. referees. You would never find a referee drawing attention to him and thereby away from the game. Really, very impressive.

Off to the hotel we are. The second leg of the Chelsea vs. Liverpool Champions League match is on tonight. With that we will fit in dinner, Journals, and a final team meeting. We’ll have an early alarm tomorrow morning and then off to Heathrow.

See you stateside.

St. Albans

2009-04-14T12:41:00.002-04:00

If you don’t like to wander around perfectly charming small English towns looking at historical sites, eating in small cafes and supporting independent shops under partly sunny skies and 60 degree weather then a day like today may not be for you. For the rest of us it was bloody right indeed.

The St. Albans Cathedral founded in 1509 was an architectural masterpiece, absolutely stunning to look through. When your son comes home with an interest in the architecture of 2, 3, even 6 hundred year old structures, don’t be a bit surprised. They have made particular mention of these sightings in their Journals and asked why everything where they live is so new? They now understand that those who built cities like Chicago, NY, and Boston had their beginning right here.

It almost seems redundant to say the boys shopped in St. Albans, but they did-if briefly, some for themselves, but most for family members. We had a bite of lunch, a good look around and now are in the coach on the move to Queens College for the match.

The boys have been preparing since last evening for this match as a professional side would. A team meeting, stretching and a good night’s sleep, first steps all. Today, limited activity, a decent meal, and a good warm-up are all part of the ongoing plan. We will pick up their kits on the way, washed and pressed and will precede them into the dressing room and set up their kits as would be done for a professional club. All part of teaching them the preparation that goes into any worthwhile effort for which you work toward a positive result. As I mentioned earlier, this week is about much bigger things than simply playing football.

Seems like just yesterday we were all Americans

2009-04-14T12:40:00.001-04:00

Our last full day in the UK, It feels like we have been here forever which is usually a bad sign but in this case it is brilliant. Our trip has included just enough of America to keep us in touch, but the vast majority of everything is very European. I’m happy to report that no one has turned to the dark side and tried on skinny jeans, dressed in all black or started having a go at any other very English daily rituals.

Our first stop this morning was to drop off the team kits for laundering before the match this afternoon. Then we did our 4th and final stop at Sports Direct (thank God!) All this time I was under the impression that I was blessed with a daughter first then a son. Apparently I have two daughters and there are 14 on this trip, these kids love to shop.

Fashion News: Dakota Strugarek easily wins the GQ award for the week. He has his very own style, quality as they say here. This morning he came to breakfast is fashionable jeans, a blue dress shirt, red necktie with proper English triangle knot, and ¼ zip top sweater. His dress shirt was appropriately un-tucked. Quality indeed! Pair that with his personality and manners- like holding the doors for the Mum’s-enough said. Well done Dakota.

Currently on the coach again, we are on our way for a couple of hours walking of St. Albans, a perfectly lovely if smallish version of Cambridge. Here, we’ll break up, see what we can, pick up the last of the important souvenirs we might need and get our last true English experience.

After I post tonight I will log one final entry back in the states. I think it is important to wrap this week up properly as it is deserving of an epilog if you will. This week has been about far more that football and shopping.

Please carry me to my Suite

2009-04-13T14:18:00.002-04:00

Finally we are back at the hotel 6:58 pm. This had been the most exhausting week of my life. We have had way too much fun, but there is literally no down time other than when you actually get to bed. The boys are on a very short leash from wake up to Journal readings, and 11 pm room check.

The Eye was spectacular for our trip. We scheduled for 5 pm and went off just a bit early. Our full group of a 20+ was able to ride together which included Paul’s Mum and Dad, and his brother. M & D have spent several days with us this week. They have been a delightful addition to our adventure. All I will tell you is that the views are spectacular of many of the historical buildings we saw in person. It never stops so you have to hustle a bit to fill your pod when the time comes. 16 pounds for an adult and 8 for children, which Barry priced the boys at, although it is no reflection on their behavior this week. In general they have been stellar.

Honestly I am too tired to write any more today, plus I may have to walk her majesty to the Ladies room or shoo away another panhandler before this day ends.

Tomorrow we will wander St. Albans for a few hours then watch the boys in their final match vs. Queens School.

Did you know that the original portion of Westminster Abbey was dedicated in 1065?

Training Session at Queens

2009-04-13T14:16:00.004-04:00

An hour and a half was spent today with Dave Reddington, the Director of Coaching at Queens School who is also attached to the Professional side, Chrystal Palace as a scout. He is also a staff member of England’s U 21 National Team.

They started with drills focused on getting their bodies opened up to the pass in a proper manner which puts them in a position to play the ball forward and away from pressure, quickly. They then spent time on finishing drills that create space for the player based on a movement that gains an advantage. By making one movement he creates an opposite movement by the defender thereby creating space to take the ball in the opposite direction and attack the goal.

One other drill which the coaches called ”center and miss drill”- is designed to draw a ball back to the center from the wing by playing back against the flow of play. The final ball is to be played into goal of course, just not by the TFA boys today. That skill set was not visible. Their energy was B level at best; perhaps they are as tired as I am today? Finally they played about 30 minutes of a small sided game and we wrapped it up.

Now it is time to ride our luxurious coach to find some lunch for all. Then we head into London to meet up with a few of the parents, who chose to see some sites this afternoon, for our trip to the London Eye. Seriously, if you don’t know what it is, Google it.

Monday After Easter

2009-04-13T14:14:00.002-04:00

This morning the outing is to Wembley Stadium. This is the country’s national stadium and home to Team England when they are playing. Wembley hosts national team games, the FA Cup finals and special league matches throughout the year plus National Rugby, and various big time concerts.

The boys are getting the VIP Tour today, with unlimited access to all areas including the dressing rooms. The only thing they will not be able to do is walk on the field. No one outside of the teams is afforded that privilege.

Last evening, as you know by now we had a late dinner just after the boys read their journals. They did an exceptional job yesterday, in fact, the best of the week. Following the meal the boys did a team stretch in their hallway on the 3rd floor, quietly, since one of the guests was offended by their talking outside of his door. Keep in mind the rooms at this hotel are smaller than many dorm rooms at U.S. Universities, so it was like he was part of the group, though he did not seemed pleased with his place.

Stella.

Great tour! It takes about 90 minutes and we saw everything from the Royal Box, to the dressing rooms and interview theatre. The history lesson on Football was worth the trip alone. The boys were able to get their photos with the FA Cup and sitting in front of their favorite National Team Players shirt hanging in the locker among other stops.

Jitterbug.

The boys are stopping in to pick up their training gear and then are off to train with the U21 National Team coach. Some of the parents just hopped off the Coach to head into London for an afternoon of sites before we meet at the London Eye, the can’t miss stop in the area. Google it.

All Hail Findlay Moms- you know who you are and why.

Think about this and get back to me if you have a thoughtful response. Why at every Traditional English breakfast do they serve Pork and Beans? If you need to, break up into small groups and discuss.

“Hey kids look, there’s Big Ben and the House of Parliament” Name the Movie.

HAPPY EASTER

2009-04-12T15:18:00.005-04:00

I hadn’t actually remembered until Kim Cosiano wished us all a Happy Easter after we boarded the Coach. So Happy Easter from all of my fellow travelers.

Speaking of the Coach today we have a new version. Our favorite driver Paul is back this morning and he brought with him the Mercedes Coach used by Luton Town FC, a professional side. I’m writing this morning from my table in the Coach under electric power sitting at the pitch. Today’s matches are being played at Grays Athletic Field (Grays, Essex) Keep in mind, that pulling in, spectators can see the Luton FC Badges on the sides of the Coach and are wondering just who they are playing today. It’s a three way today, each team will go 30 minutes vs. each side twice. The boys had better be up to a high standard today. Following their training match two days ago and the Chelsea match yesterday they should be closer to a form that will allow them to show well. Today TFA has time for a solid warm up before playing in the stadium for the first time. I’m off to scout the grounds and have a coffee. More on the way to London.

Today’s fixture included TFA, Leyton FC (London, England), and Grays Athletic (Essex, England). A fixture refers to the tournament not a shelving unit in a retail store, by the way. Four games finished. In the first 3, our boys played like they wanted to be back in the hotel in bed. Some good things today, but mostly not so good. So much so that between the 3rd and 4th PH had a private talk with the boys liking for leadership, effort, and anyone who would show a measure of pride for their badge.

In the fourth match the boys went hard and played very well. Up 1-nill until a very late finished corner won the draw for Grays. These are some of the things we have quickly learned this week: football is LIFE in Europe, the lads on every side play as if this is their last chance to impress and all are looking to move up in division. The tackles are frequent, hard and fair. On field communication is required for success. Respect is earned for the exhibited on field skills and effort on behalf of gaining a positive result for your side. Play simple football with excellent first touch while opening up to the ball and having a forward first touch. Balls in the air are always to be challenged in England and the challenger is always to attack the ball, that is, not stand idle and wait for the ball to reach their head.

To be kind, our boys and American footballers in general are soft compared to their counterparts here. Not to be read as weak or unskilled, just not to the physical standard that is played in England. The referees here allow a much more physical game than in the U.S. and this has been unsettling for our players.

We are waiting for our boys to finish showering. We’ll then head to find some lunch as it is already 3 pm. Following that we’ll be doing a little sightseeing although I’ll have to let you know more on that as it develops.

From our private coach on the way out of Westminster 7:15…did you know: that the name Big Ben does not in fact refer to the Clock, but rather the very large Bell inside? If you said yes, when was your trip to London? Recently you say? I am doubtful, Big Ben is not in London actually. It is in Westminster as are most of the historic landmarks. London proper is very small, only 1 square mile and is covered by financial and insurance institutions among other large firms.

We stood in front of Buckingham Palace this afternoon, along with The House of Lords, Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and a fine statue of Abraham Lincoln. The architecture of the city is amazing. More importantly the boys tied the TFA record for the number of players to fit into a Red London Phone Booth (11). We actually had 50 people around taking stills and video. It was fun that you simply cannot pay for, although we did drop a hat and watched people fill it with coins which the adults will use to sample a few pints as a way of taking the edge off of another very long day.

At this point we are working our way back for a 9 pm dinner- so you can see we really are only putting in half days.

Big Saturday

2009-04-11T16:05:00.002-04:00

No football played by our side today. It was moving day, St. Ives to London (Watford) Breakfast by 8:30 then off for our 90 minute ride to London.
The first area we had a look at today was the 2012 Olympic Park under construction. This is a formerly run down area of the city that will host all of the Olympic events. Stadiums, housing and the like are currently full steam ahead.

Next, was a tunnel crossing of the Thames. One of the oldest under water tunnels currently in use I was told by our highly skilled and ultra entertaining tour guide Barry.

From there we took a trip over the City Bridge (The London Bridge as we think of it). Although the actual London Bridge is a small and insignificant bridge found elsewhere. After crossing the bridge it was a left turn and a stop in from of the Tower of London. We left the coach for about 45 minutes to take photos of the group with the City Bridge and Tower in the background. It was overcast as you would expect in London which again makes for a better photo and story. A small bit of trinket shopping, a quick ice cream cone and we boarded for the short ride to Stamford Bridge, home of Chelsea FC.

We arrived a full 90 minutes before kickoff which left us time for plenty of photos, lunch and watching the sides go through their full warm up program. I have watched hundreds of hours of EPL matches with my son, being there live was somewhat surreal. The crowd interaction, the cheers, the skills in effect on both sides were exceptional. If you watched on Fox today you will already know that Chelsea went out to a 4-nill lead 20 minutes into the second half. Bolton then scored 3 unanswered in regulation. The action in the end was fast and furious, including the 4 minutes added. In the end Chelsea prevailed 4-3. Our seats were in the second tier on the East Side and provided a full view of the action. The boys were clad in Chelsea gear if they had it or their red TFA pullovers. I must say we drew many stares during our stay on the grounds as red is not a color loved by Chelsea supporters. I would suppose that the split flag answered their curiosity. It was interesting to see several other teams traveling this week, some from around England other included a Canadian national team and those were just the groups on our side of the stadium.

Currently we are on the coach traveling to our new hotel in Watford for check-in, dinner, and the required two pint minimum.

Tomorrow we were scheduled to play a single match and do a bit of site seeing around London. We are now playing a round robin schedule with 3 teams- during which TFA will play Grays Athletic and Layton. The matches will be played in the Grays Athletic stadium (a fifth division pitch) and the boys will play each side twice for 30 minute periods. That should wrap up in early afternoon and then we will see the sights of London like Parliament, the House of Lords and the Eye if we can get on along with anything else we can fit in.

For those of you hoping for souvenirs…you should know that packing for the move was challenging for many of the boys. I don’t know what that means, but I do know none of it was for me.

Friday's Final Thoughts

2009-04-10T17:02:00.006-04:00

Tonight following dinner PH invited all of the parents to come into the team room and listen to the boys read their daily journal entries. What a treat. The different insights, seriousness, and thought is quite impressive indeed. As I mentioned in my own words I felt like they were all moved by the Cemetery visit. To a man, each mentioned the stop in their daily notes and a variety of adjectives from inspirational, to sad, to moving were used. I thought as much.

It was interesting to listen to their thoughts on the team they played against this morning: huge, fast, skilled, fast, and intimidating were some of their descriptions. Yes they felt like they were out played, out skilled, out hustled, but each relished the experience to learn even if the hard way.

Paul then led a discussion of comparing and contrasting the two opponents, skills, value, differences, etc. In a roundtable type setting the players comments were telling of each of their different personalities and comittment to the game of football. The first side was a fun if talented group, today it was all business as these players are all looking for a spot on their first professional roster. The clinic was worth the effort all agreed.

Following that the boys presented Paul's parents with thank you gifts for spending time with us for the past 3 days and for Mrs. Holdgates time as she did all of the boys kits last evening. Thanks again Mum Holdgate.

Talk to you in London

Today's Adventure

2009-04-10T13:38:00.006-04:00

Traffic was miserable leaving the match around noontime here so it took us 2x as long to get to Cambridge and then on to the Cemetary. We did make it however for a late lunch and MORE SHOE SHOPPING. Girls have nothing on this lot. I would almost be moved pay a small admission just to follow them around and listen to each other citique the planned purchases and who is good enough to pull off the very bright shoes. It is funny to hear one tell the other the red is better than the bright yellow because it is more subtle yet "sweet".

Be prepared our U16's are set on setting fashion trends back in Ohio with "trainers" (tennis shoes for you Yanks) but with velcro straps. Yes just like the ones they wore before learning to tie their own.

Cambridge today, because of the holiday was packed, much different looking then yesterday, reminiscent in fact of a day in NY or Chicago with all of the different people, dress codes and languages being spoken. Perhaps the most wonderful occurence of the 3 hours in Cambridge was the rain. A steady soft rain in overcast very dreary light. It was wonderful really, a fine point on another great adventure. Nobody complained, it was just a welcomed and accepted part of the experience. For the record, we all left our Gortex in the Coach as is was sunny when we arrived. No worries though.

Finally, the trip to The American Cemetary. A very moving Cemetary and Park not unlike Arlington where the remains of several thousand U.S. Military men who served and died in England between 1941-1945 both rest and are honored. You will be proud to know that to a man each of the boys was respectful and asked questions about the significance of the stop and the visit. Many photos were taken and everyone made a full trip around the Cemetary in small groups. Grandpa Frank and Nate Kahle spent some extra time as Frank provided background and personal experiences about the time and conflicts. For someone close enough in age to that time in history and a military veteran himself it was a moving visit. PH was very pleased with the respect our son's gave.

Tomorrow we are off to Watford (London) for a riding tour, then the Chelsea match at 3pm which you may be able to watch live on Fox Soccer in the states. We will then check in to our new hotel for the balance of the trip.

I hear a Pint of Carlsberg calling my name...

Match 2 vs. Barking Abbey School

2009-04-10T13:33:00.004-04:00

What an experience this was. BA is an academy where the boys take classes half days and train for football half days…year round. The starting center backs were 6’5” and 180 lbs. His mate was 6’4” and went a solid 195. The size difference with many of the players to ours was like Conner standing next to me. Notice it next time we are together. These boys were all 16-17 years old and had exceptional skills to a man. The pitch may well have been the nicest our boys have played on; certainly this was the most skilled team our sons have faced, ever.

The weather is perfect today, partly sunny and around 60 degrees.

In the first half TFA held their own, one fluke goal, one good goal and some exceptional saves by Michael. I must say for our two matches to date he is (MOM) Man of the Match. Yet we found our side down 2-0. In the second, we came out pretty well and after 5-10 minutes we flat ran out of gas. The match got away at that point. It turned into a bit of a clinic on moving forward, simple passing, challenging each other for excellence…very impressive. Following the match both sides again met at mid field shook hands, spoke to the players, addressed the parents, players, everyone. Very polite and highly professional the entire experience. BA also presented PH with a team jersey signed by all of their players. Wish you all could have seen it and what an experience for our boys.

The boys are showering and heading back to the bus (sorry, Motor Coach and it is very fancy) for our trip to the American Cemetery and then back to Cambridge for more site seeing.

Good Friday

2009-04-10T13:32:00.004-04:00

Turns out most of the country shuts down on Good Friday witness by the crowds in the Pubs last night. Loud and fun with many Pints joined in toasts to almost anything.

A correction from yesterday concerning the meals is necessary. I noticed last evening that we actually take a selection from the “Buttery” not the Buffery. The boys seem to be enjoying the choices and plates are generally empty in the end. Each gets a menu with 4 appetizer selections and soup of the day. The Potato Leek is a big hit. Then we have a selection of 8 main course choices from The Buttery plus a choice of cooked vegetables, potatoes, mushrooms, gravy’s and the like. Then they wheel a desert cart over and they get a choice of several very nice treats. Last evening it was Tiramisu, White Chocolate Cheesecake, Vanilla-Raspberry Tort, and something very chocolate.

We were wheels up about 10 minutes ago at 8:30 am. We play at Barking Abbey School at 10 am. From the looks of breakfast this morning and the quiet bus, the lads may be a little on the tired side today. PH tells me that this side will be more talented than yesterday’s test. The head of this team is also the director of the England U21 team. He or an assistant will be hosting the boys training on Monday. What a great experience that should prove to be for TFA.

What an epic adventure…more later.

Game 1 at Abbey College HS

2009-04-09T13:00:00.003-04:00

Game one is in the books. The boys showed very well this afternoon at Abbey College HS under cloudy skies in cool and windy conditions.

Abbey is a state run secondary institution that has grades 7-11 which completes the compulsory years for English schools. Most students then move to another school for their final two year program of grades 12 & 13. Abbey College lays out over several acres and comes complete with the long history you might expect. The original stone Abbey stands impressively on the grounds and continues to be used for daily classes.

Kyle Boyd opened the scoring 1:30 into the match and we were off. Late in the first the Abbey side scored on a PK to take a 2-1 lead into the half.

As Director of Team Communications I was privy to PH’s halftime notes to the boys in which he praised their efforts, encouraged them to be more aggressive as they found the English side, and keep working hard for a good result. Michael Cosiano in goal for the full 80 did an exception job in turning away a variety of shots from Abbey and in the end held them scoreless for a 2-1 final.

Following the match both sides met at mid field for a handshake and congratulations- we then put them together for a group photo.

The boys had some positive runs and passing today. For a first effort they seemed to enjoy the challenge. They are currently having a shower in the school while we chat on the bus then we’ll head back to The Dolphin for a 7pm dinner. It sounds like another Pub visit may be in order. Although the boys have a 8 pm team meeting with Paul, Barry and their journals. That and we have an early call for tomorrows 10 am game

Thursday Morning in Cambridge

2009-04-09T12:54:00.003-04:00

Who can guess how long Cambridge University has been in existence? If you guessed 200 years you didn’t even try, go directly to the Cartoon Channel. If you guessed 400 years, not bad, but you only get to watch The Food Network, or HGTV. Now for those of you who guessed 800 years, whatever! Truth be told you would have in fact been correct.

Founded in 1209, 2009 will be celebrated as the 800th anniversary. The city is amazingly beautiful, historic, interesting, photogenic and about 1000 other adjectives. I personally had no preconceived expectations for our trip but I can certainly say I’m glad we were able to see this town. Three hours or so walking the streets with such history, 17 colleges and universities, a bridge built in the 1500’s with no fasteners of any kind that not only stands, but is in daily use, Bloody Brilliant! (a new term that I am entitled to use after 48 hours in the Country)
The boys hit the soccer store again and carried many bags to the bus. Less shoes this time, but they have selections picked out for either tomorrow or when we arrive in Watford. Some even made purchases for siblings and were very excited to do so. (Note to self: still unable to find just the right thing for Lori)

After our time in Cambridge we stopped back at home base to gather the boys gear and Gortex for this afternoons match vs. Abbey College (high school). After an extended warm up they are to go off at 3 pm. Everyone should be in good form, lots of sleep was made up yesterday afternoon and last night.

PH had a team meeting with the boys last night to go over their journals and he told us this morning that they took it very seriously and did a great job. Conner is still taking head counts and so far we have not lost any sheep. I will say that he, Brad and Ross were 3 minutes late at the meeting place for the return bus trip at 12 noon and heard about it. Well done Paul!

The weather is heavy, today, a bit overcast and rain threatens for this afternoon. Perhaps we will get lucky.

The End of Day 1

2009-04-08T17:00:00.003-04:00

As planned we had dinner at the hotel tonight. It was pretty darn good with many quality choices from the Buffery and even more impressive choices in the Pub. After dinner all walked over to the Golden Lion Pub for the Liverpool vs. Chelsea match where we had the two premier tables right in front of the giant screen. Not bad for a bunch of Yanks. Well done Barry!

The last order of business for the day, PH is currently meeting with the boys now- 10 pm to go over their daily journals and outline training and match plans for tomorrow in Cambridge.

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't exhausted...can't wait for tomorrow.

Our First English Adventure

2009-04-08T08:12:00.005-04:00

Our guide Barry met us at the airport and had a plan for us on the way to St. Ives. We rode to a town about 40 minutes from the airport to stop for breakfast and let the boys "stretch their legs." We enjoyed a short walk to our first McDonald's in England which used to be a local pub, imagine that. While there were no visible liabations the boys were excited to have Mickey D's breakfast with a slight twist.

Following a relaxing few minutes with breakfast while each of us tried to decide whether a nap, shower, nap, or a good tooth brushing was in order-we instead did what any good tourist does...shop.

We went to to a store called Sports direct.com. It was like watching young girls shop for prom dresses only in our case it was young men and soccer jerseys and boots. The store clerks are very patient and pleasant with 14 boys that can't make up their mind on which side to support or which boots in which wild colors were the best deal. We used the iPhone converter application to help with the conversions.

Fair warning, I did see at least two cards run through the machine and leave a small amount of smoke. I had to talk two other boys off the ledge of buying 3 pairs of new boots on the first day reminding them that we have 7 shopping days left until they must go home to the card holder. Seriously though, they had a blast and nobody went crazy and the bargains in most cases were substantial. For example I picked up a England Team jersey at 90% off or just over 4 pounds. We could have sold tickets to watch these guys go from one rack to the next and call someone over to see the next big find. The good news is that there is another in Cambridge for them to rummage through in a couple of days time.

The balance of the day (1:30 local now) is for relaxing and perhaps a walk around the town of St.Ives. We have dinner planned at the hotel at 7 after which PH and Barry will be walking us to a local tavern as a group to watch a live EPL game on the telly. Warning: this will no doubt lead to the consumption of a "wee pint" or two by the adult chaperones.

You will also be pleased to know that PH gathered the boys following check in and set the ground rules about behavior, courtesy, traveling in small groups as opposed to all 14 at once and leaving St. Ives as they found it-including their hotel rooms.

We're in England

2009-04-08T08:10:00.002-04:00

Here’s something I’ve never typed: “Greetings from England”. The flight went off without a hitch and with the tail winds we actually arrived early. All of the luggage made it and once we reminded Ross what color his bag was we were on our way.
It’s 8:32 am and we are on the bus with our host Barry on the way to Cambridge (St. Ives). Travel time is anywhere from 2-4 hours depending on London rush-hour traffic, which at this point is 25 mph. Our plan is to stop in about an hour for breakfast and stretching a bit- then complete the 90 minutes left to the hotel.
From the conversations I am hearing in the back of the bus most of the boys did not sleep on the way over. Mid day today should prove interesting as they hit the wall or try hard not to.

For the record we are 5 hours ahead of Toledo and I am writing this with my sunglasses on.

In an effort to not forget, I will say “thanks, I had a great time” now. On behalf of all of my traveling partners, thank you to all the moms, dads, husbands, wives and siblings that made it work for all of us. I travel all the time and fly 2-4 times most months, but this is my first trip to Europe and I can’t wait to photograph the week.

The M25 looks like the Ohio Turnpike only the folks here drive on the wrong side. Apparently that is acceptable here and to remain consistent with that plan all of the local drivers sit in the passenger seat to operate their vehicles. With all the help I get driving at home from Lori, driving here would be a disaster for me.

Gate 38

2009-04-07T16:23:00.004-04:00

First step complete. We all made it to the airport and weathered the lengthy check-in process, but breezed through security.

The boys are very excited...off eating McDonald's as you might expect and throwing barbs at each other a mile a minute. I had to discipline Ross already (just kidding Lisa). So far so good.

We board in about an hour and depart at 6:05 pm. Arrival tomorrow morning as planned in the 7am hour. We then have anywhere from 2 to 4 hours travel north to St. Ives, depending on London traffic. With arrival, customs, luggage, and travel it looks like anything before noon time will be a bonus.

Looks like our boys could take over a very large aircraft, at check-in there were 112 seats open for purchase.

Keep your fingers crossed.

Really? Snow in April!

2009-04-06T10:53:00.005-04:00

Perhaps this is just PH's way of getting us all ready for the "balmy" UK weather what with the snow and cold rain today. Can you say Gortex? Perhaps you should remind your player to pack a large garbage bag to keep his soccer bag in while playing or training should the weather be less than sunny, warm and dry.

50 Pounds, no, not the currency, rather the weight that your checked luggage must be under. Just a reminder.

See you at the airport tomorrow, 3 pm sharp!

Not that I'm clairvoyant, but I do see a dimly lit, smallish pub and several "wee pints" in my future.

Cheers

Welcome to Schneider in the Spring

2009-04-04T10:29:00.006-04:00

If you traveled with your son to the scrimmage last night and were right minded enough to stay in your car and watch...raise your hand! Everyone, right then. It may have been the first such match I did not bear the elements when one of my kids was playing, but I just could not do it. Why is it sunny and 60 in Toledo but always windy and 40 at Schneider Field, the weather vortex of the soccer world?

Not a bad match considering the conditions (major windage) and that the 18's "stretched the rules by employing the skills of one Trey Bracey, formerly of the 16's. Loved by all, Trey managed to put one in the back of the net off the left post last evening much to the chagrin of his fellow Findlay mates. Good to see him and wish he were still on the roster. Does his appearance mean that you are in contract talks with him PH? If you missed the tune up match our side was on the short end of an 0-3 final. All 14 players were able to make it and I'm sure it was worth the effort in advance of the trip.

Errands today: Macino's to pick up repaired boots and Dick's for some players gloves, but not the "cheap kiddie knitted kind", I am told by my player. Do any of the other players on your families child welfare programs get so specific with their must haves?

3 days to travel...wear comfortable shoes!

Cool Gear Paul!

2009-04-03T15:29:00.006-04:00

So I have been in Denver all week paying for my trip to the UK and I get home this afternoon and find my team T-shirt and Fleece with "official" TFA logo. Pretty cool considering I walked in holding my UK currency fresh from pick-up at AAA. I laughed seeing other familiar names on the pick up list. How much you in for Evola's?

I made my packing list on the plane today when the woman sitting next to me stopped bouncing around long enough to write) and will pare back over the weekend. DO NOT forget your passports. (public service announcement) If I were not so excited about this trip I would get all English and say, "I'm over the moon" with anticipation.

The final team meeting for the boys went well last night I understand and Connner's job apparently is team mathemetician. I'm hoping that means there was no real chores left when his name was drawn and Paul threw "math" at him. I'm always please (shocked) when he remembers to turn off a light or flush a toilet, never mind taking care of math for a group traveling abroad! Good luck with that PH.

Last week at the tournament, Mr. Kurtz was counting the Pub Crawl opportunities he would have had by Saturday afternoon, next...how many you up to Jeff?

4 days till departure, get some sleep.

Random Thoughts

2009-03-27T09:34:00.008-04:00

Just wanted to share a few thoughts that came up while chatting with other parents recently.

Good Idea #1: send a small laundry bag (like the girls use for delicates) with the players name on it. This way all will get their own socks, UA and the like back after washing.

Good Idea #2: send along snacks in your son's checked bag and carry on for that matter. They eat like sharks, every couple of hours, this may turn out to be helpful in their hotel rooms as they sit up discussing how much they appreciate their Mum's sending them on this trip of a lifetime.

Good Idea #3: if anyone adults/players will be using a credit card in England let your CC company know you will be traveling and while you have them on the line, ask if they charge a fee for international purchases. Some do.

From a frequent, frequent flyer: When passing through security, all jackets must come off, all shoes must come off, anything metal (belts) that may set off the alarm should be taken off. Empty your pockets and put change etc in bin, this would include iPods, which should be in the carry on bag. All laptop computers must be run through in separate bin. ALL travel cosmetic/hygene items carried on MUST be 4 oz. or less based only on the stated size on the packaging. Any items that fit this description must be in a 1 QT size ziplock bag and must be run through screening in a bin with shoes, coat, etc. Finally, no liquids may pass through security OF ANY KIND. You will need to buy water or the like within the terminal. A travel water bottle EMPTY is fine. You should find no problems with medications as long as the users name matches the boarding pass/passport.

If you think you have a helpful tip for the group, you can add it as a comment to this posting.

See you in Cincinnatti

Bavarian Mens Club Friendly

2009-03-26T08:23:00.002-04:00

The boys went against the Bavarian mens's club last night in a "friendly" at Gold Medal Sports. While our players out worked and out skilled the much older men-experience seemed on the BMC side. Called with 10 minutes left due to field limitations our lads were on the short side of a 7-6 match. Many positive things seen during the match especially considering we were two short of the full 14 traveling to England and "Team Findlay" had not played with us since the State Cup run last spring. Of particular note from one of the veteran BMC players a UK expat, he offered that they also went against last years TFA squad and this years version is much stronger. His opinion was that they will show very well in England.

The official trip schedule was released yesterday and I know the excitement is continuing to build in our home. Chelsea vs. Bolton on Saturday (huge) 3 Matches, a QPR match and plenty of time to sight see and sample a wee pint or two.

Players meeting 4/2 at 8pm following practice, pick up your travel gear (and mine Conner) and get last minute instructions from PH.

Just for the record, I spoke with several parents last night about all things TFA/England and whether they were traveling with the group or sending their son, each may be more excited than the boys. When we were 16 a big deal was travling to a state park in Ohio or to a travel baseball game out of state...in Bedford, MI. How times have changed.

One Day Closer/Scrimmage & Practice 2nite

2009-03-25T09:15:00.000-04:00

So, we're one day closer to the trip. Spoke with ATT about phone service in the UK. Make sure your boys keep their phones at home, very expensive. I'll be carrying mine, if you want a contact number reply with an email and I'll send you along my phone number so that you can text me while we are traveling. I will not however be offering tucking-in service or good night kisses for the boys ;-)

Scrimmage tonite for the England group and practice to follow. Many have played together at some level perhaps indoors this winter, plus there is the tournament this weekend in Cinci...at least they'll get a chance to play outdoors getting used to the size of the pitch and speed of play, so much different from indoors.

Two Weeks and Counting

2009-03-24T12:01:00.000-04:00

I spoke with Paul last evening and it looks like we are going to go ahead with the blog(s). I'll be writing from the parent perspective and he'll select one of the players and we'll endeavor to post both. My son is counting down the days until we leave. Nothing packed of course, but plenty of discussion. His biggest concerns are when are the matches, who are they playing, what are the fields like, and when do they get to shop at the mega-soccer store? I have to admit, I'm excited as well- although I'm saddled with the lesser items of importance, remembering the passports, converting some cash, checking the weather, and remembering all of the electronics cords and converters I'll need for the computer and cameras.

Preparing for England

2009-03-03T10:52:00.000-05:00

Just the beginning today. Testing my first blog in anticipation of our trip to England next month. I am hoping that I can post several times daily during the trip so that families with TFA players and parents traveling can follow along.