5-0 Senior Day Win vs. Z.West....

Kudos once again to our six seniors for not only their positive contributions today (all seniors on the final score sheet, etc.) but more importantly for their blood, sweat, and hard work in helping blaze a new trail for our Hamilton boys soccer program from here on out.

I'm proud of you guys. We are indebted to you, as a program, always!

3-2 Loss at H.C.

Gentlemen,

I loved the overall effort from the squad today vs. a talented H.C. team...on enemy soil at that. You should be proud of the play on the field, the support from the sidelines, and the step forward we just took as a program...never mind the scoreboard.

At this point, how can we NOT believe that we can hang with anyone...and beat anyone?!

BELIEVE IT! VISUALIZE IT!

See you tomorrow for practice...and then for the team dinner at the Pax household (630 PM)!

Upcoming Weekly Schedule.....

Hey, guys.....

First, I hope you enjoy your weekend...rest, heal, relax, get school work done, etc.

Second, congrats to Aaron Smit for his peers today voting him as the individual to have made the most "positive" impressions from today and this past week.

Now, please check out the schedule below regarding the upcoming schedule for the week:

**Monday...game @ H.Christian...wear black jerseys in school....meet in my room directly after school...bus leaves at 430 PM...food/beverages on the bus when we arrive at H.C.

**Tuesday...practice 3-5 PM...team dinner at the Pax household at 630 PM.

**Wednesday...last home game vs. Z.West....meet in my room after school...all Varsity parents invited to walk out/be introduced with players just before the start of our game.

**Thursday...practice 3-5 pm

**Friday...no practice(??)...participate in the Homecoming parade (??)

Miscellaneous: Our team theme will continue to be "positive contributions" on the field and/or off. I hope EVERYONE is striving for that each and every day...and striving to be that next team captain as well!

H.C., here we come!

5-1 Win vs. Otsego...

Hey, boys.....

Here's what I told the press today after the game...can't say it any better at this point:

Coach Comments: "As I told the team after the game, the final score was as misleading as I can remember as a coach. Now, we had multiple chances on net throughout the game, and we hung tough physically. We simply weren't sharp overall. A win's a win, but we'll have to be much better in a huge conference game vs. Holland Christian this coming Monday at their place."

See you tomorrow for a hugely important pre-game practice!

Wear black team shirts...

4-1 Win vs. Byron Center...

Gentlemen,

Kudos to ALL 18 of you for your collective positive contributions on the game field tonight! I'm proud as a coach to see you all leave a lasting imprint in an important "team goal" game. Let's keep this ball rolling in the right direction tomorrow vs. a game Otsego squad!

7-3 Loss to Holland....

Guys,

Here's what I told the press regarding tonight vs. Holland:

Coach Comments: "We certainly did not play up to our potential overall today-- from the back end, to the midfield, and up to forward. Despite going up 1-0 early on, we simply were a step behind and lacked inspiration as a team for much of the match. Hamilton is trying to take that next step as a boys soccer program no matter the opponent, and we're confident we'll get there despite this outing."

Enough said? Bounce back time...

See you tomorrow for practice! Still believe in you all WHOLE HEARTEDLY!

Schedule for this upcoming week...

Hey, all!

First, congrats to Adam Immink for his upcoming alternating captain role as decided by his peers today for his "clutch" play overall.

Please make note of the schedule below for the upcoming week:

**Monday: home game vs. Holland...wear white jerseys in school...meet in my room at 245 for team meeting/food and beverages...Dayton, be ready for vid for the JV game.

**Tuesday: practice from 3-5 PM

**Wednesday: home game vs. Byron Center...meet in my room at 245 for food/beverages/talk...more details to come.

**Thursday: home game vs. non-conference Otsego...meet in my room at 245 for food/beverages/talk...more details to come.

**Friday: practice 3-5 PM

Miscellaneous: Our team THEME for the remaining weeks of the season will simply involve your guys' nominations for individuals who simply do something/anything positive at some point during that respective week...on the field or off!

Looking forward to a great week coming up here of TAKING THAT NEXT STEP AS A TEAM! Remember to continue VISUALIZING SUCCESS in all aspects of your life.

"Your life will go the way your thoughts go."

4-0 Loss vs. Unity...

Guys,

You should be overall very proud of your effort today...ESPECIALLY that first half. From here on out, visualize that type of success--playing together, playing physically tough, communicating, making "clutch" plays, etc. If we replicate that first half effort again and again vs. other teams (including Unity again), we will have much success from this point on!

I'm proud of you guys....and know we will continue to get better.

See you for practice at 310 PM tomorrow...soccer order people, will see you in my room directly after school!

3-0 Win at Zeeland West...

Boys,

As I mentioned after the game tonight, I thought it was a solid win with positive contributions from A LOT of folks...job well done! Feels good to get back in the win column, huh? I feel like it's been a while....too long!!

Now comes the heart of a tough conference schedule. Get up for Unity!

See you all tomorrow at 3, wear black, done at 5.

Keep taking steps forward....and be "clutch"!

PS. Schedule change = Sept. 23 is now HOME vs. Holland and Oct. 9 is now AWAY vs. Holland.

Next Week...

Hey, all!

Hope the weekend's treating you well?

Here's the lineup for this coming week...a VERY important week, in my opinion...as in "crossroads"/what path do we take from here???

**Monday...game at Zeeland West (team goal game)...wear black jersey in school...meet in my room after school at 245...gold shirts for warmups...bus leaves at 4 PM...food/beverages on bus upon arrival.

**Tuesday...practice from 3-5 pm.

**Wednesday...home game vs. Unity...meet in my room for food/beverages and team talk.

**Thursday...practice 3-5 pm.

**Friday...practice 3-5 pm....GK training with MS players for initial portion.

Miscellaneous: Congrats to Luke for his alternate team captain pick for being a consistent "student" of the game.

Theme for next week: "Clutch"...as in who makes winning plays in crunch time/high pressure situations. Let's all strive for it!

Reminder: I will be checking grades at the end of this coming week...take care of business in the classroom, guys!

Take care, all...please let me know if you need anything at all! Time to move forward...and forward...and forward.

2-0 H.C. Loss...

Boys,

Although I loved the overall effort for the last 50 minutes of today's contest, it's very disappointing that we came out so flat...for a long period of time...against a rival...and against a "team goal" opponent. The good thing though is that, knowing your guys' overall character, this will be a lesson learned as we move forward to our next conference opponent (Zeeland West) on Monday! It's GOT to be a full 80 minutes EVERY CONTEST!!

See you tomorrow for practice from 3-5 PM...wear gold...7 PM Hope vs. Grace game afterward!

2-2 Double OT Tie vs. B.Center....

Guys,

I thought we fought hard today overall....a fittingly tough conference opening game. In my opinion, we had the run of play for most of the second half and both overtime sessions, and that's a tribute to you guys! A "tie" isn't as good as a win, but...better than a loss...and we move on...and keep building.

Time for HC in the very near future! Another team goal........:)

See you guys soon!

Next Week: When Boys Become Men...

Guys,

It's time to decide exactly what we are as a team: the kind that resorts to past habits and gives in to traditionally better programs??....or the kind that shocks the world and blazes a new path for Hamilton Boys Soccer from here on out?? I don't know about you, but I passionately vote for the latter! Let's take this team from "good" to "great"! But it's up to you guys essentially....every day...no matter the endeavor...on the field and off.  Get 'er done!

Here's the schedule for next week:

**Monday: game at Byron Center (team goal)...wear black team shirts to school and for warm-ups...all black uniforms for the game...meet in my room at 245 PM for team talk/vid...board the bus at 345...food/beverages on the bus once we arrive at BC.

**Tuesday: practice 3-5 PM...team dinner at 630 PM at the Walker household...make every effort to attend on the eve of a big game!

**Wednesday: home game. vs. Holland Christian (team goal)...meet in my room at 245 for food/beverages/team time...ball boys/vid, be ready.

**Thursday: practice 3-5 PM...attend (for free) 7 PM Hope vs. Grace game in Holland...more details to come.

**Friday: practice 3-5 PM...with 7th/8th graders...more details to come.

Miscellaneous: Congrats to Scott Scholten for being named by his peers as the alternate captain for next week's games due to his "mental toughness"!

Theme for next week = "student" of the game

Take care, all!

8-0 Mercy Win vs. Wayland...

Gentlemen,

As I mentioned after the shortened game today, I/we cannot complain at all with an 8-0 shutout. We "took care of business" and moved another step forward with our team goals. Job well done. Now it's time to put in some more hard work in practice tomorrow, keep getting better, and take yet another step vs. Byron Center and the start of conference play this coming Monday!

Mental toughness....from here on out.

Big 3-2 Win vs. Hudsonville....

Boys,

Congrats again on an overall job well done today! I truly mean it when I say that we've got a chance this season to convert from "good" to "great"...and today was a step in the right direction for sure. Please remember though that our progress as a team gets erased if we get complacent/satisfied in these next two games vs. teams that you guys voted on as opponents we should always beat: Wayland and Byron Center. Now, let's keep working...and working...and working.

Please remember the current weekly theme: mental toughness. You, as a team, certainly showcased that trait today! Keep that up.

See you tomorrow for important training...3-5 PM...wear gold shirts.

Monday/Tuesday...and the rest of the week

Clarifications:

**Monday: optional (suggested) practice at 5 PM...will be done by 7 at the latest! Please make every effort to make it if you can!!

**Tuesday: first day of school (take care of business in the classroom!)...wear white uniform tops, khaki/nice shorts in school...black team shirts for game warm-ups...ball boys (Shi-Wei, Kody) and video guy (Elijah), be ready for JV...meet in my room at 245 for food/beverages...beat Hudsonville!!

**Wednesday: practice from 3-5 PM

**Thursday: first away game vs. Wayland...bus leaves at 345 PM...more details to come.

**Friday: practice from 3-5 PM

Miscellaneous: congrats to Hunter Smith for being awarded by his teammates the alternate captain award for being "physically tough"!!

Have a great weekend, all!

8-2 Bounce-back Win vs. Allegan...

Gentlemen,

Overall job well done in "taking care of business" yesterday vs. a regional rival. And better yet, you partially accomplished one of our team goals!! Bonus. Now it's time to build on that. I really think that this team is on the verge of "good" with the potential to be "great". BUT as I heard a guy I really respect (Gregg Stoel) state today, "the #1 enemy of GREAT...is GOOD". In other words, let's keep moving forward and not simply be satisfied with "good"!

And remember: PHYSICALLY TOUGH at all times (our theme of the week...will vote tomorrow for an alternating team captain).

4-1 Opening Game Loss vs. Grandville

Guys,

Really thought we played mostly solidly all game long today...just couldn't bury the chances we should have at times. Combine that with a couple defensive breakdowns that they capitalized on and bang, there ya go. Again though, the beauty is that we bounce back tomorrow vs. regional rival Allegan!

Overall, please remember: "student" before "athlete", character, hard work, mental/physical toughness (add "communication")...at all times....EVERY member of the team!

See you guys soon...

PS. Check out "game recaps" and "roster" links to the left if/when you get the chance.

7/8 - 0 Win vs. Black River Thoughts...and More

Guys,

Mostly really liked what I saw out of you all with our second exhibition contest of the season yesterday...all things considering (it still being very early in the season, you guys handling business vs. a mostly inferior foe, meeting the challenge of shutting them out, etc.).

Now it's "game time" from here on out...can't wait to see how we respond...and respond...and respond again and again! Each day is a new day to continually prove ourselves...in all phases.

Congratulations to the permanent captain picks officially announced yesterday: Aaron Smit, Kinnon Fast, and Connor Gutuescu. Well deserving....

Congratulations to the alternating captain pick for best representing our first team theme of the season (positive "communication" in all forms): Dayton Pax. Hint hint...next theme = physical toughness!

Here's our tentative schedule for this coming week, gentlemen:

**Monday: practice from 9-noon...wear gold team shirt...bring bathing suit/towel...please be ready and willing to carpool for team building outing at Laketown Beach in Saugatuck! Team dinner at 6 PM at the Smith household...please check email accounts for details.

**Tuesday: first regular season home game vs. Grandville...545 PM (Varsity)...wear black team shirts...meet at 245 PM in my classroom for pre-game meal/talk/video. Ball boys/Video guy, be ready to head out to the field by 345 in time for the JV game!!

**Wednesday: home game vs. Allegan...545 PM (Varsity)...wear gold team shirt...meet at 245 PM in my classroom for pre-game meal/talk/video. Ball boys/Video guy, be ready to head out to the field by 345 in time for the JV game!

**Thursday: practice from 3-5 PM since teaching staff has an all-day meeting in the school.

**Friday: practice 10-noon.....then cheer on the Spartan football team at 8 PM vs. Western Mich.! :)

Miscellaneous: please continue to be looking over "glossary", "team info", "buddy info", "program philosophy" stuff from here on out! Another hint hint.....:)

Take care, all! Let me know if you need anything at all...

Team Goals

Players/Families:

Please see "team goals" below and to the left...decided upon by the team yesterday heading into the regular season!

Always working toward positive things...right, guys??!! Excited to see how you guys respond...

6-1 Scrimmage Win vs. Zeeland East Thoughts....

Gentlemen, you are to be overall commended for the effort last night vs. Zeeland East. Obviously, it was a win on the scoreboard, but there were also several "wins" regarding individual and group play sprinkled throughout the game as well. Now, the perfectionist in me is disappointed that we let in a garbage-time goal near the conclusion and we still certainly need more energy/consistent play throughout, but still...

Let's at this point again remember: COMPLACENCY IS TO BE AVOIDED AT ALL TIMES!!

And we move on...and forward...

Minor Schedule Change

Practice for next Monday, Aug. 26 will be from 9-noon instead of 10-noon. Please bring a bathing suit and a towel along with regular soccer gear!

This Week...(Aug. 19-23)

Hi, everyone! Hope the weekend's been great...

Another "thank you" goes out to those that attended the Sand Soccer tournament and provided nutritional support! Great time had by all....:)

Check out this coming week's schedule below just in case you are confused...and please let me know if you need anything at this point!

**Monday: practice 9-noon (team meeting for both teams during latter portion)...Varsity Rescue Mission volunteering from 4-7ish...meet in HS parking lot at 4 PM...wear gold team shirts.

**Tuesday: practice 9-noon (team pics at the tail end of training)...parent meeting (both teams) in Coach Robinson's room 111 in the HS at 7 PM.

**Wednesday: scrimmage vs. Z.East (home) at 430 (both teams)...both teams meet at the fields at 330 PM.

**Thursday: practice 9-noon...JV Rescue Mission volunteering from 4-7ish...meet in HS parking lot at 4 PM...wear black team shirts

**Friday: scrimmage vs. B.River (home) at 4 PM (both teams)...both teams meet at the fields at 3 PM.

Very much looking forward to getting this thing officially kicked off tomorrow morning!!

PS: Don't forget to turn in $$ for soccer apparel no later than this Wednesday!

Sand Soccer Tournament

Hi, everyone!

As you know from the previous schedule, HS boys and fams, this Saturday, Aug. 17  is our non-mandatory Sand Soccer tournament at Tunnel Park in Holland from 9 am to around noon.

A few details at this point:

**All family members/friends are invited! We'll pick small-sided teams at the conclusion of Friday's training, set up a schedule, and then play on the beach that AM.

**Each student-athlete will be responsible for transportation to and fro. Please let me know if you need directions! A "captain" of each team can also perhaps provide car-pooling options.

**We'll have a cookout afterwards on the Tunnel Park grassy grounds. Would love it at this point (I know it's short notice...sorry!) if a parent or two took the reigns and helped organize who's bringing what. Please let me know if you're interested asap! Otherwise, we'll have the following grade levels be responsible for the following items to bring:

         --Seniors: meat (grill-able and/or deli)

         --Juniors: bread (variety of buns, sandwich bread, etc.), chips, snacks

         --Sophomores: fruits/veggies

         --Freshmen: beverages

As a random estimate, we'll have around 35-40 HS boys eating...plus any fam/friends who would like to join! Sorry, that's not very exact...best I can do at this point.

Either way, we've done this event a few times in the past, and it was a great time all around!

Thanks, everyone...very much looking forward to getting this thing started tomorrow!

Oh, and if anyone's interested in signing up for cell phone text "reminders" from me from here on out, simply text "@jvvarsity" to 616-604-4139 to sign up for free! From then on, you are signed up, and I can communicate with you via text at any point for reminders if that's more convenient for you.

Best,

Coach Robinson

The Countdown Continues!!

Hi, everyone!

I really hope the summer's been treating you well as of late and that you are as excited as we are to get this thing going next Wednesday, Aug. 14...the Iron Man Contest/start to tryouts!!

A few updates/reminders regarding that day:

**Before ANY physical activity, you are REQUIRED to have a physical on file at the HS main office (dated later than April 2013). You also need to sign an athletic code of conduct and pay a small athletic insurance fee at the office as well. Having just checked the list today, there are MANY of you who have yet to fulfill these requirements. Get it done asap, please!

**We'll meet at 8 AM (please arrive a bit early to personally prepare) that day (Wed., Aug.14) in the football field/track area.

**Please bring water, running gear for track events, and soccer gear for field events that day.

**The AM session will end at 11 AM. From 11-1 PM, you're free to do whatever, but obviously, you'll want to hydrate and eat something. Anyone is more than welcome to hang out in Coach Stieper's classroom in the junior hallway of the high school during that interim period. I'd offer my room as well, but i'll be tallying the Iron Man Contest points for each individual during that time in there!

**From 1-3 PM that day, we'll do a lot of scrimmaging as part of the first day tryout process so that we can evaluate you in live soccer action on top of the Iron Man events. The next two days after that (Thursday/Friday of next week) will also be tryout days but conducted more like practice sessions (9 to noon each day). We'll meet at the practice field for those days.

**JV and Varsity teams will be determined by the end of training on Friday, Aug. 16.

I think that's it for now, everyone! Please let me know of any questions/comments/concerns from here on out!

As always....lookin' very much forward!!

Schedule Change #101...sorry!

Everyone,

Due to the recent official release of the school calendar for this upcoming year, we'll practice from 3-5 PM on Thurs., Aug. 29 instead of the previous time of 10-noon. The teaching staff has a full day of school work that day. Thanks for being flexible!

Another Schedule Change!

Please make note: instead of AM practice on Wed., Aug. 21, we'll instead play Z.East at home at 430 PM...both teams at the same time.

Another Schedule Change

First, everyone, please see below this post (the original "schedule change") that I entered earlier today if you haven't already.

As of later today, I have another schedule change to announce for August. Sorry! Here goes:

Instead of Parent Night being held on Monday, Aug. 19, we'll move that meeting to the very next night still at 7 PM at the high school. On Monday (the 19th) at 430 PM (after practice earlier in the day...leave at 4 PM from the HS), the Varsity team will be touring and then serving at the Holland Rescue Mission. And then the JV team will follow the same plans on that Thursday, Aug. 22 after practice.

Sorry for the changes/inconvenience! Please let me know if you have questions.

Schedule Change

Please make note of a schedule change to the August calendar:

Instead of 9-noon practice on Friday, Aug. 23, we will instead scrimmage Black River at home. Varsity will play at 4 PM on the game field. JV will play at 4 PM on the practice field.

Hope the summer is treating everyone well! Hope to see you out for summer scrimmages (starting tomorrow/Tuesday) and Thursday AM training sessions! And don't forget about Iron Man Contest training......

THANKS...

...for all of you who attended the kick-off meeting this morning. We appreciate the sacrifice.

Now, at this point, be on the lookout via your school email accounts for further notes, reminders, documents, etc. in the near future as we move toward the start to summer.

And, again, please pass the word to others who were not at the meeting! Thanks ahead of time.

Lookin' forward to a great start here, gentlemen. Take care and please do not ever hesitate to contact me!

Welcome!

Greetings, everyone! By now, I hope you've all checked your school email account in order to be updated on the next phase of Hamilton Boys Soccer. We, as a united middle school/high school soccer staff, are VERY excited with work with you all this summer, into next fall, and beyond. Obviously, there is much more to be said and done at this point, but we'll officially kick this thing off with a very important meeting:

Thursday, May 30 at 7 AM in my classroom (rm. 111).

Hope to see you all there!

GK Camp

Please pass this along to any GK who may be interested in a summer GK camp that I, along with a fellow ex-MSU GK, will run this July 2013. http://elitegoalkeepingcamp.blogspot.com/

IMPORTANT Meeting...

Guys, we'll have a meeting in my classroom on Wednesday, May 11 at 7:25 A.M. for any male soccer player.

Please make every effort to attend. If you are unable to attend, please contact a fellow player and/or Coach Stieper and me regarding relevant information.

See you there!

Skill Session Sign-up

Starting on Thursday, Jan. 27 (and on each successive Thursday in the middle school balcony area), the following groups of 4 will meet with either Coach Malefyt or myself:

3:00-3:30 PM (Robinson)...Morgan Stillson, Tyler Immink, Aaron Polet, Deban Scholtehn
3:00-3:30 PM (Malefyt)...Shannon Blourne, Emily Grady, Libby Stafford, Sidney Grady
3:30-4:00 PM (Robinson)...Nicole Brigert, Jessica Holst, Cody Weber, Travis Williams
3:30-4:00 PM (Malefyt)...Ambre Couturier, Megan Dangremond, Amelia Ruiz, Hannah Krause

Mark it down on your calendars, show up early to your session to warm up and stretch on your own, wear indoor soccer/tennis shoes, and bring water!

See Coach Malefyt or myself for questions or concerns. Lookin' forward to working with you all!

OFFICIAL off-season training...

A note from Coach Malefyt...

Hello everyone!
Here is the information for this years winter training schedule. Availability in the middle school balcony is not ideal so we are making the best of what we have. There are really four different things that we have planned for you:
1. One Structured day per week for circuit training in the middle school balcony. This will happen 3-4 on Mondays. The first date for this will be January 24.
2. One structured day per week for a running program that Coach Wandel has put together. This will happen at the High School Indoor Track. This structured day will be on Tuesdays. However, the first available day will be on a Wednesday...January 19.
3. Along with the Tuesday structured day...you should do the running program one more day. However, this day is up to you. Each Tuesday you will get the workout for that week and you would do the same workout on your own time. This could even be done at home.
4. Coach Robinson and myself are offering ball workout sessions on Thursday's after school. Signup with Coach Robinson!

Click here to see all of this in scheduled form! (This will tell of day's off as well)

Hopefully when you look at the schedule and read the email it will make sense to you. Please let me know if you have any questions!

Coach Malefyt

Off-Season Training

Stay tuned, everyone, for an upcoming announcement regarding off-season skill work/conditioning sessions that we plan on offering around the second week of January.

Hope you're all having a great break!

Stay Tuned...

...for off-season training opportunities.

Thanks again for a great, rewarding season, everyone! PLEASE let me if you need anything at all. You know where I am and how to contact me!

PS. If you're interested (males and females), the winter holiday indoor soccer tourney is on again. See me for a sign-up sheet if/when you're ready!

JV rescheduling....

All JV players, in light of our canceled school day today (Tuesday), we'll instead have our end-of-season meeting in my room NEXT Tuesday, Nov. 2 directly after school until about 4 PM. Be sure to bring all of your uniform items to my classroom!

Reminder: Our soccer banquet is on Monday, Nov. 1 at 7 PM in the HS cafeteria. Dress is business casual. Please bring a dessert to pass and beverages/utensils for your family. See you there!

End of season items...

1.) GREAT job this season, boys. The win/loss columns perhaps don't reflect the true growth of this team and this soccer program, so let's focus on the positives of this season: true teamwork, positive attitude, and solid work ethic....a job well done all around!

2.) We will meet in my room this Thursday directly after school for our last team meeting. Please be sure to bring ALL uniform items to turn in: both sets of jerseys, warm-ups, and backpacks.

3.) All JV players: meet in my room on Tuesday of next week directly after school for "exit interviews" with the coaching staff. Plan on being there until 4/430 PM. See Coach Stieper or myself with any questions/concerns.

4.) Our end-of-season banquet is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 1 at 7 PM in the high school cafeteria. Dress is business casual (collars...no jeans!). Please bring a dessert to pass, utensils, and beverages for yourself and family members.

5.) Keep your heads up, guys! Thanks for a great season. You have made us coaches proud!

A number of things...

...on the eve of Districts:

1.) I forgot to remind you guys today at practice, but we still have our last team dinner this Sunday, Oct. 15 at 6 PM (at the Immink's...check your map). Hope you can make it. Remember your food responsibilities if you come!

2.) We will meet in my room on Monday at 4 PM for a brief team meeting and PROVIDED food/beverages before boarding the bus at 445 for Zeeland East. Come to my room dressed and ready to go.

3.) We'll "dress up" in school and wear BLACK t-shirts for warm-ups. Gold looks too much like East, right?!

4.) Be ready to discuss the seniors, as well how each and every one of us is going to contribute to a winning effort this coming week in my room on Monday.

5.) Our overall 4th place finish in the league after our 4-2 loss to Wyo. Park in the 3rd place game is still something to be proud of, boys. We are 9-9-1 overall currently...on the cusp of double-digit wins.

6.) HEAL/TAKE IT EASY this weekend, everyone! We need everybody next week!

7.) Let's simply get it done on Monday. It's time to rise up and meet a tall challenge, like we did the LAST time we played East!

Unity loss...and what's next

Guys, a 5-0 loss is never something to celebrate...not at this stage of our soccer program's growth and progress. With that said, in retrospect, I did see some good things last night in the game. For example, I didn't see anyone backing down or looking intimidated by the #1 team in the state, and I thought battles were fought all over the field. THOSE are things to celebrate. That said, we've GOT to play FASTER, we've GOT to play even HARDER FROM THE OUTSET, and we've GOT to be playing our BEST at this late point of the season. After all, it's MONEY TIME for ALL TEAMS!

Is this team "PERFORMING" or "STORMING" right now? Let's go.

Updates:

**We play AT Wyo. Park tomorrow (wed.) at 5 PM (JV) and 645 (Varsity) in the tournament 3rd place match.

**It's the last game of the season for the JV team...be ready to support them and cheer them on!

**The bus leaves at 330.

**There is NO TEAM MEETING in my room beforehand (we'll talk and eat snacks on the bus).

**We'll be wearing black shirts again.

**The weather is calling for rain and low 60's/high 50's...come prepared.

Monday Changes

On Monday at Unity, our JV game will be played at 530 with the Varsity to follow.

The bus will now leave at 415 PM that day, and the Varsity team will meet in my room at 345 PM.

1-0 Double OT win vs. Rogers

Guys, way to stick it out last night vs. Rogers. It was kind of a "blah" game for both teams, but it's great to see us continue to confidently press in the latter stages of games with COMPOSURE. Always remember what "winning plays" consist of...hustle, effort, scrapiness...THAT'S what ultimately got us the win. Job well done.

Now, it's time again for a tough Unity squad on Monday. We need to go into this game with the "nothing to lose" mentality. In other words, RELAX...but PLAY HARD at the same time, if that makes sense. The pressure is NOT on us...have fun with it!

Updates for the Unity game:

**Game times on Monday = 530 PM (JV) and 715 (Varsity)

**Game is AT Unity.

**The bus leaves at 415 that day.

**We will meet in my room at 345 that day for drinks/beverages/talk.

**We'll wear black jerseys/warm-ups to school that day.

District Game (first round)

Our first round district game will be at Zeeland vs. Zeeland East on Monday, Oct. 18 (6 P.M.). A win will match us up with the winner of Byron Center and Middleville to be played at Unity's field on Wednesday (5 P.M....semifinal). The district championship will be played on Friday (7 P.M.) at Unity's field as well.

More details to come...

0-0 Wayland tie

Guys, we've GOT to do something about our slow starts to games...especially with important, tougher conference and district games coming up in the near future. Thoughts?

That said, the second half today was much better than the first...more building...more varied chances...smarter, harder play...etc. Let's capture that type of play for the full 80 minutes!

Rogers is next....REMATCH. Be ready.

Next Week...

Here's the lineup for next week, guys:

**Monday: Home game vs. Wayland...Parent Night (we'll line up at the BEGINNING of our 20 minute game field warm-up with parents to be announced and have pictures taken)...dress up for school...black shirts for warm-ups. WE'LL MEET IN MY ROOM AT 315 PM FOR SNACKS, BEVERAGES, AND A TALK.

**Tuesday: practice from 3-515 PM...gold shirts

**Wednesday: Game AT Rogers (first round of conference tournament)...VARSITY WILL PLAY FIRST AT 4 PM...bus leaves right after school. If we win, we'll most likely play AT Unity on Monday in the second round. If we lose, we'll play at home that day most likely vs. Byron Center.

**Thursday: practice from 3-515 PM

**Friday: NO PRACTICE...Homecoming Parade.

It's another big week, guys, and we don't have too many of them left! Let's keep playing hard...

Proud...

...is what we should be for our overall effort tonight vs. H.C., fellas. Again, I despise "moral victories"...to me, a win is a win and a loss is a loss...and I personally LOVE to win. But THIS occasion, i'll allow for one, because as I mentioned after the game, tonight was probably the best effort of the season all around. And perhaps Coach Ayres was right in saying it was the best we've seen at Hamilton in a long time...possibly ever.

The 3-0 final score certainly wasn't indicative of the competitiveness of the game. I think we'd all agree on that.

Positives to take away from tonight's game and to carry into the near future:

1.) TEAM play
2.) PHYSICAL/FEARLESS play
3.) FAST play
4.) SMART play
5.) VARIED play

Way to go, guys. Now, let's actually WIN one of these! :)

Tough OT loss to Rogers...

Gentlemen, there should be absolutely NO shame in your overall effort today. The first half was its oen sub-par entity, but the second half and OT were MUCH better. And again to the shooters and goalie in the shootout, my hat's off to you for taking on the pressure AND DOING YOUR VERY BEST!! We all support you fully.

Now it's a HUGE game at H.C. on Wednesday...a gigantic challenge...but one that we CAN HANDLE. It's up to all of us collectively how we proceed from here.

Let's get back to work, guys, and keep pushing!

Next Week...

What an important week we've got coming up, gentlemen. Let's make something POSITIVE happen and truly PERFORM--each and every one of us!!

Reminders/Updates:

**Monday: game vs. Wyoming Rogers...we'll wear anything Hamilton soccer-related for school, wear gold shirts for warm-ups, and meet in my room at 3:15 for snacks/drinks/talk...A.K. and Zach, be ready as ball boys that day.

**Tuesday: practice from 3-515 PM...team dinner at Connor's at 6:30 PM...see handout for details.

**Wednesday: game at Holland Christian...bus leaves at 4 PM.

**Thursday/Friday: practice from 3-515 PM.

NOTE: PARENT NIGHT IS ON MONDAY, OCT. 4 FOR OUR GAME AT HOME VS. WAYLAND AT 5:30-ISH PM. I HOPE ALL PARENTS CAN MAKE IT!

Rest up and get re-focused this weekend, guys, and let's prepare for success!

2-1 Wyo. Park Loss...

Overall, guys, it just wasn't a good effort last night in a crucial conference game. Increased expectations HAVE to lead to increased focus, intensity, and performance. We simply cannot just "stay the same" as players and as a team. But, hey, there's a lot of season left to be played, and it's best we keep a healthy perspective on this.

We NEED to get back into gear, and it starts with IMPROVEMENT in PRACTICE. Let's get going, everyone!

PS. Our first "grade check" will happen either today or tomorrow. Make sure your classes are your FIRST priority, everyone.

Updates/Reminders...

...for tomorrow's game vs. Wyo. Park:

**We'll wear white jerseys in school.

**We'll meet in my room at 315 PM for snacks/beverages/talk...spread the word since it was not mentioned at the end of practice today.

**Connor and Schreur, be ready for ball boy duty.

**I'm looking for a volunteer to videotape the first half the JV game PLEASE! Let me know.

Let's take care of business (again) tomorrow vs. a dangerous Park team!

3-2 Byron Center WIN

Guys, way to step up today (especially in the second half) to win a game in a semi-adverse situation...job well done. We certainly "took care of business", although it certainly wasn't always pretty.

Either way, you all deserve a CONGRATS for already meeting an important team goal with many games still remaining!

Let's keep this thing going...

Next Week...

Gentlemen, next week is KEY in terms of "handling business" and making sure we are IMPROVING every single day. Let's keep this positive roll going!

Reminders/Updates:

1.) We will dress up for school on Monday.

2.) The bus leaves directly after school for Byron Center on Monday...hustle to get on!

3.) We'll wear black warm-up shirts and full warm-ups if necessary.

4.) Tuesday/Thursday/Friday = practice from 3-515 PM

5.) Wednesday is a home game vs. Wyo. Park...ball boys (Connor,Schreur), be ready!

Have a good weekend, everyone! Take care of yourselves...mentally and physically. And by the way, if you haven't noticed, we have the chance on Monday to meet one of our team goals...let's do it!

Zeeland East thoughts...

Gentlemen, what a great job by EVERYONE tonight. And I mean EVERYONE. I know not everyone actually played game minutes, but tonight was a total team effort. In other words, players on the field played their hearts out, and the guys on the bench "supported their hearts out", if that makes sense. I loved the focus all-around. It was just a great sight to witness: a quality soccer game that was won by the better, more deserving team on the night. If we all don't gain a huge handful of confidence from this one, I don't know what will...

Way to go, everybody!

Now, it's time to keep the foot on the pedal...especially now that the conference schedule gets just a bit lighter in the near future (Byron Center and Wyo Park next week). Let's take care of business, fellas. We will NOT settle for mediocrity!

Oh, and by the way...we just matched our overall win total from last season...nice!

Tomorrow:

**we wear black

**practice is from 3-515 on the upper field.

**get to the trainer quickly if you need it!

**practice the next two days needs to be AT GAME PACE and with 100% effort...let's keep pushing to get better every day!

Reminders...

...for tomorrow (Wednesday):

1.) Varsity wears anything Hamilton soccer-related to school...JV = dress up.

2.) Varsity will meet in my room at 330 PM tomorrow for snacks, beverages, and a brief team meeting.

3.) The bus leaves the school at 4 PM...be on time!

4.) JV starts its game at 5 PM and Varsity is slated to follow at 645 PM.

5.) There is a chance of rain/thunderstorms tomorrow evening..."be prepared for rain!"

Let's bounce back tomorrow, everyone, in another important conference game!

UNITY aftermath...

Guys, it's best we let this one go as soon as possible. I honestly thought that overall, the effort was there, but we were simply overwhelmed by the skill and pace of play. Let this be a lesson that we need to a.) play with much more pace IN PRACTICE in order to get better as a team and play with the "faster" teams and b.) take it to every team PHYSICALLY.

We'll see you out for practice tomorrow on the practice field with black t-shirts.

Hudsonville recap and more...

Guys, our game the other night was a good effort, but we didn't seem to be on the same page and lacked a bit of that "gusto" that we had the night before in the win over ZW. We've GOT to recapture that spark for our two important conference games vs. Unity and ZE. Keep in mind our TEAM GOALS and WHAT WE'RE SUPPOSED TO BE STANDING FOR AS A TEAM!!

That brings us to our THEME for the upcoming week: TOUGHNESS...and in this case, PHYSICAL TOUGHNESS. I meant what I said yesterday at the end of practice in our talk: the only way we have a chance to knock off Unity (and ZE for that matter) is if we OUT-TOUGH the opponent. In other words, we simply cannot back down to any given "fight" in the course of play....50/50's, sacrificing our bodies, whatever. We've got to be scrappy and simply out-will the opponent to have a chance. And again, that's the thing: THERE'S ALWAYS A CHANCE IN THE GAME OF SOCCER!! BELIEVE! ALL OF US!!

Reminders/Changes for next week:

**School wear on Monday...JV= gold jerseys (remember to wear your WHITE socks for the game) and Varsity = white jerseys.

**Meeting times on Monday...JV= dressed and ready to warm up by 3 PM on the game field (wear gold t-shirts for warm-ups) and VARSITY = MEET IN MY ROOM DIRECTLY AFTER SCHOOL (NO NEED TO BE DRESSED FOR THE GAME) FOR A BRIEF MEETING AND SNACK. We'll wear gold t-shirts for warm-ups as well.

**Tuesday = practice from 3-515 PM. We all wear black.

**Wednesday = game at Zeeland East...bus time TBD.

**Thursday/Friday = practice from 3-515 PM

Let me know if you have any questions, comments, and/or concerns! Have a good, restful weekend, guys. Get ready for a great day on Monday!

PS. I sent a few emails out already this weekend, guys, so check your accounts if you have one just in case. Check on Sunday as well.

Big 4-0 ZW win...

Guys, GREAT job tonight. I was proud of the WHOLE SOCCER PROGRAM really. Everyone, of all ages, put up a true Hawkeye effort, and it was fun to watch.

Conference play is so important and to get off to a 1-0 start is a very encouraging sign. That said, Hudsonville will be a quality opponent tomorrow, so let's remember what got us to success tonight: possession, 50/50's, positioning, and finishing ability!

Way to go, gentlemen...enjoy it tonight and be ready tomorrow.

Reminders:

**The bus leaves at 330 PM tomorrow.

**We'll wear black jerseys to school.

**Wear gold practice shirts to the game just in case it's warm enough.

Updates/Change

**Varsity players will meet tomorrow (Wednesday) in the HS cafeteria after school for the pre-game snacks and beverages. Be sure to clean up after yourselves, guys! And, of course, be respectful and represent the program well.

**JV players, be dressed and ready to go for warm-ups tomorrow (Wednesday) on the game field at 3 PM sharp.

**Ball boys for tomorrow (A.I., Smitty, Luke, and Trevor), be ready!

**Our bus leaves at 330 PM on Thursday for the game at Hudsonville.

Next Week...

Here's the daily lineup, guys, for a very important upcoming week (school, conference season, etc.):

**Monday: Labor Day...off.

**Tuesday: 3-515 practice (wear gold)...best "communicator" will be chosen (Smitty, please bring your captain band)...team dinner at the Guillozet's at 630 PM.

**Wednesday: first day of school (we'll determine what to wear to school on Tuesday)...home game (and first conference game of the season) vs. Zeeland West...we'll meet in my room at 315 for snacks, talk, etc...ball boys, be ready. Note: food and/or beverages can be either brought to me or given to Connie at school today and tomorrow.

**Thursday: away game vs. Hudsonville...bus leaves at a yet to be determined time but it is a later game (645 varsity) than usual.

**Friday: 3-515 practice...end of the first week of school!

I hope you are all enjoying the long holiday weekend. Let's get geared up for this important next week!

Otsego Reflections...

Let's learn from a game like last night and realize that we simply are NOT the type of team that can dig ourselves a hole and easily climb out of it. The first half was, simply put, not good soccer in all areas on our part. The second half was better but a little bit of "too little, too late", especially with our inability to finish on net.

Either way, i'm excited to see how we face the heart of the season coming up next week. It's conference play time (vs. Zeeland West) and then another tough non-conference game at Hudsonville soon thereafter.

What is this team really made of, guys?!! We'll see soon enough...

Reminders:

**We wear black tomorrow for our last 10-noon practice.

**Please keep in mind the team dinner at the Guillozet's next Tuesday evening and your food/beverage responsibilities.

**To clarify, we do NOT have practice on Labor Day next Monday. And practice on Tuesday is from 3-515ish...we'll wear gold that day and meet on the game field.

**Keep in mind our THEME for this week: COMMUNICATION...on the field and off. We can ALL be better communicators (myself included)!

Hopkins reflections...

The 6-0 win today was a true all-around effort, guys...a lot of players contributed to team success and we seemed to pay attention to a lot of the DETAILS that are so important to heed...job well done. This sets us up nicely for a rematch with an Otsego team that ultimately handled us this past season 3-1. It's time for a bit of redemption! Let's not let complacency set in...

Reminders:

**We meet in my room at 315 PM tomorrow before the JV game.

**Bring the snacks and drinks to my room.

**We wear black practice shirts and the rest all white.

**Ball boys, be ready to run for the JV game and HAVE BACK-UPS READY FOR THE SECOND HALF WHILE WE WARM UP.

**Be prepared for possible rain and/or thunderstorms.

See you soon!

Bus time for Hopkins...

The bus will leave the HS at 330 PM tomorrow (Tuesday) for the game at Hopkins. Remember, the JV does NOT have a game, so it'll just be us. Be on time!

"Bounce-back" at Allegan...

Guys, overall I was really proud of the effort last night vs. Allegan in the gutty 1-0 win. The ADVERSITY that we faced being short-handed really brought out the best, especially during the second half. Plus, after having a game (and a loss) the night before, it could have been easy to just go through the motions with tired legs and all...you certainly didn't do that...and you should be proud. Let's keep the ball rolling!

Reminders for Monday/next week:

1.) We practice from 10-noon on Monday and we'll meet on the GAME FIELD.

2.) We'll wear BLACK tops on Monday.

3.) Please take care of yourselves this weekend and get/stay healthy! We need everyone's help.

4.) We play at Hopkins on Tuesday at 4:30 PM with a bus arrival yet to be determined.

5.) We play at home against Otsego at 530 PM (meet in my room 315 PM that day for food/video/talk) on Wednesday...BALL BOYS be ready!

6.) Practice on Thursday and Friday is from 10-noon.

7.) Keep in mind our theme for the week: DETAILS! Pay attention to them in your everyday life and strive for the small things because that leads to success in the BIG things!

8.) Enjoy your last full week of summer freedom!

See you guys soon enough....

Thoughts on Grandville...

Gentlemen, I meant it when I said after the game last night that I really don't think that we got mentally out-toughed in general...so consider that a mini-win and carry it on into our next game vs. Allegan. Plus, you guys all played hard until the final whistle and without any finger-pointing. That's not always easy to do in that game context, so nice work with that as well.

Let's be honest though: we really let a golden opportunity to continue an undefeated season slip away vs. Grandville. That was a winnable game...and with a just a few lapses, bang, all of a sudden it's an ugly 4-2 loss. Let's learn from this one, guys!

Check out the "game recap" link to the left if you so choose....

And also, re-read the "reminders" below in preparation for the Allegan match.

Let's bounce back, guys!

Reminders...

...for the next two game days:

1.) We wear black each day...gold t-shirt for tomorrow (wed.) and black for thurs.

2.) Bring your whole warm-up suit just in case both days.

3.) The bus leaves promptly at 4 PM each day. The Grandville game will be a later return time due to a greater distance to the game site and a later start time (7 PM for varsity). ARRIVE EARLIER IF YOU NEED TO SEE THE TRAINER!!!

4.) Please remember food and beverage responsibilities each day.

5.) Do your best to stay on a similar wake-up/daily routine each day...and eat/drink right!

6.) Be ready to win two games and give efforts that you'll be proud of! Remember, we will NOT get complacent!

PS. Another "congrats" goes to Zach Beyer for his "soccer cleat award" today. Let's all strive to be MENTALLY TOUGH like Mr. Beyer each and every day!

Parents...

...your sons should have an updated "Parent Food/Beverage List" in their possession as of today's (Monday) practice. Ask them for it if they haven't given it to you!

Thanks so much ahead of time for the help on this...I know the guys appreciate it...as do I. I took care of simple snacks and beverages this past season, but a handful of guys stated that they'd like more for pre-game stuff...hence, this new set-up.

PS for everyone: our bus leaves at 4 PM sharp this Wednesday and Thursday for our away games.

PPS: check out the newly added "roster" info below as well as the "game recap" link.

First day REFLECTIONS...

Guys, it was a job well done today overall. A lot of players put in quality minutes in contributing to the 3 shutout (2-0, 1-0, 2-0) wins. Our last game vs. K-ville was a bit of a downer, but the end result was satisfactory. Let's learn to do a better job of "taking care of business" in the future!

Now, as we move on, here's the challenge: can we keep the ball rolling in the right direction, so to speak, and realize that all we did today was fulfill the EXPECTED? In other words, those were 3 games that we SHOULD have won in all honesty...let's keep that in perspective as we head into another game week with Grandville and Allegan on tap. That brings me to my next point...

**THEME FOR NEXT WEEK: MENTAL TOUGHNESS....thus far, we really need to do a better job of truly and wholeheartedly competing on the practice field and game field while blocking out other non-controllable factors such as referees, weather, opponents, etc. At the end of the week, we'll vote for the individual who frequently and consitently stays the most even-keeled and composed NO MATTER THE CIRCUMSTANCE. Let's ALL shoot for this great quality!

Reminders:

1.) We'll meet outside on the practice field at 9 AM for Monday practice until noon.

2.) We'll wear gold shirts.

3.) Our bus leaves on Wednesday and Thursday at 4 PM sharp for our two away games.

Have a good rest of the weekend, guys!

PS. Feel free to check out the newly added "JV Boys Blog" link on the left.

PPS. Two "roster" links will be added to the blog shortly as well as a "game recap" link with highlights, etc. of our matches.

First game day REMINDERS...

*Meet dressed and ready to go at the game field by 9 AM tomorrow (sat.)

*Wear your black practice shirts for warm-ups.

*Bring both sets of jerseys...although we WILL wear white for at least the first game.

*Snacks, beverages, and lunch will be provided.

*We're still looking for two ballboy/ballgirls who can work the upper field all day and will be paid $25 for the day's work. Let me know if/when you find helpers!

*Prepare to start the season off on the right foot tomorrow, fellas!

PS. Check out the newly updated "team principles", "team goals", and "team rules" on the left.

PPS. Congrats again to R.J. Flowers, Connor Hagen, Adam Schreur, and Cam Perkins for their selections as permanent team captains for the season. Also, another congrats goes to Connor for earning the first "soccer cleat" award for the week's theme: TEAM COHESION.

Volunteers needed...

If any varsity parent is interested in helping run a concession stand at home soccer games (starting this sat. at one hour increments...10, 11, 12, 1 PM) near the home stands, it'd be much appreciated if you contacted Mrs. Immink somehow to set up specifics. I say "somehow" because i'd like to avoid posting personal contact information on an online, public site for obvious reasons...so you can always email/call me and I can get back with you regarding that information.

By the way, this should have been mentioned at the parent meeting the other night (sorry!), but THANKS so much for all the help from various parents (especially the Rouwhorsts for organizing it all again) for the help at this past "sand soccer" Saturday! You all make our jobs so much easier! And, of course, the guys love it...thanks again.

Players, please see the recent post below if you haven't already...

PS. We also still need a volunteer to run the clock for the tourney games this sat. as well (you get in free!)...and, of course, any ball boys/girls we can gather would be great! Just let me know please.

Reminders...

Guys,

**Review your soccer guides and continue to bring them to meetings in the morning.

**Study up on the "player questionnaire" packets that you received this morning...hint hint...get to know each other!

**Team pictures are tomorrow (wed.) at 1230...we will wear all white.

**We will leave at 4:00 from the HS parking lot for our volunteer work on Thursday And plan on being back to the high school around 6/630 instead of 7 P.M. that day as well. You should wear anything Hamilton soccer-related that day for the volunteer work.

**Plan ahead for the team dinner on Friday at my house. Let me know if you have questions!

**Visualize success for our games this Saturday!

Keep working hard, guys...

After Tryouts and Beyond....

Hey, guys.

First, thanks again for the effort these past few days...great all around.

Here is our schedule for the next week as of tonight (Friday):

**Saturday, Aug. 14: Sand Soccer Tourney at Tunnel Park in Holland from 9 AM - noon. If you can remember to bring your own beverage, that'd be great.

**Sunday: off

**Monday: practice from 9-noon (varsity will meet in Coach Robinson's room at 9). Both teams will wear their GOLD practice shirts. That evening at 7 PM, we will have our parent meetings...varsity in Coach Robinson's room and JV in Coach Stieper's room.

**Tuesday: practice from 9-noon (both teams will wear black shirts this day). The JV team will have a community service road trip to the Holland Rescue Mission from 4-7 PM. Meet at the HS at 4 PM for provided transportation.

**Wednesday: practice from 9-noon (both teams will wear gold shirts). Team pictures for both teams are this day with JV at 12:15 and Varsity at 12:30 IN THE HS CAFETERIA.

**Thursday: practice from 9-noon (both teams will wear black shirts). The varsity team will have a community service road trip to the Holland Rescue Mission from 4-7 PM. Meet at the HS at 4 PM for provided transportation.

**Friday: practice from 9-noon (both teams will wear gold shirts). The varsity team will have a team dinner at Coach Robinson's house at 630 PM...details to come.

**Saturday: Varsity (home) with games at 10 AM vs. Allendale, 1130 AM vs. Hastings, and 1 PM vs. Kelloggsville... JV (away) tournament with details to come.

REMINDER: Insurance $$ should be paid promptly and $$ for practice shirts and socks (for some) is DUE BY NEXT FRIDAY, AUG. 20.


That's it for now, guys. Please let one of us know if you have any questions/concerns at all.

Lookin' forward to a great, official start to the season!

Official Tryout Info...

...for next Wednesday, Aug. 11:

We will meet at the HS track at 8 AM sharp (arrive early!) to start the Iron Man Contest. Scroll down a bit below to review Iron Man Contest rules, etc. The morning session will last from 8 to about 11 AM. Then, after a two-hour lunch break (you will be responsible for your own lunch and you can hang out in either Coach Robinson's or Coach Stieper's classroom if you'd like), we will train from 1 to 3 PM and use this time mostly to scrimmage full field. At the end of the afternoon practice, you'll receive your official Iron Man results, and the top 3 winners will be recognized. This means that for the day, you'll need to come equipped with running shoes, field soccer equipment, and water (AND PLENTY OF IT SINCE IT LOOKS TO BE A VERY HOT FIRST COUPLE DAYS OF PRACTICE).

Refer to any other first week and beyond details in your packet that you should have received near the end of this past school year.

A BIT OF CLARIFICATION: THE TRYOUT PROCESS WILL LAST THROUGH NEXT FRIDAY'S (AUG. 13) PRACTICE. YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED OF YOUR STANDING IN THE PROGRAM IMMEDIATELY AFTER TRAINING THAT DAY. "CUTS" ARE A POSSIBILITY THIS YEAR WITH THE # OF INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE BEEN PLANNING TO COME OUT FOR SOCCER....BE READY!

We're looking forward to starting! We hope you all are too....

PS. See the post below for important information regarding physicals and insurance $$.

Insurance $$/Physicals UPDATE

Gentlemen, below is a list AS OF TODAY of prospective boys soccer players for this upcoming season who have yet to take care of one or both of the above items, according to the HS main office. Get this taken care of BEFORE Wed., Aug. 11 or you will not be allowed to participate! If you have questions/concerns, you should contact Connie in the main office. She's the one who has to have each of those officially on file.

Here goes:

Connor Hagen...owes $$
R.J. Flowers...owes $$
Dylan Guillozet...no physical/owes $$
Mitch Gage...owes $$
Caleb Cassiday...owes $$
Zach Beyer...no physical/owes $$
Josh Brigham...no physical/owes $$
Cam Perkins...no physical/owes $$
Aaron Kaseumsouk...owes $$
Justin Diep...owes $$
Sam Lohman...owes $$
Andrew Hulsman...owes $$
Tyler Immink...no physical/owes $$
Julio Hernandez...no physical/owes $$
Aaron Polet...no physical/owes $$
Adam Immink...no physical/owes $$
Elijah Walker...owes $$
Aaron Smit...no physical/owes $$
Brady Zomer...no physical/owes $$
Kray Freestone...owes $$
Wyatt Delf...no physical/owes $$
Trevor Edewaard...owes $$
Deban Scholten...no physical/owes $$
Austin Dams...owes $$
Cody Weber...owes $$
Trey DeVries...no physical/owes $$
Blake DeWitt...no physical/owes $$
Kinnon Fast...no physical/owes $$
Anthony Guillozet...no physical/owes $$
Luke Hildenbrand...no physical/owes $$
Ben Pikaart...owes $$
Octavian Condet...no physical/owes $$

Training...first week and two days of August.

This coming week and a half (Aug. 2-10) is officially "off" per your schedules that were handed out to you before.

BUT "off" doesn't mean stop the activity. This week and a half is meant for "conditioning". In other words, there are no official training sessions, but you're all expected to get prepared fitness-wise for Wednesday, Aug. 11 (the official first day of training/Iron Man contest) on your own.

Please contact any of the coaches with any questions/concerns.

And again, remember that you should have your physicals and insurance $$ taken care of BEFORE next Wednesday.

Lookin' forward, everyone!

Training during the week AFTER camp...

...July 26-30.

As many of you know, I will be in E. Lansing working the MSU soccer camp this coming week. Coach Stieper will be covering the Monday and Thursday evening training sessions for you guys. The other AM sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday will be helmed by either Connor or R.J.

We're nearing the beginning of the season (Aug. 11)! We're excited! Hope you are guys are too...

Reminder: get your PHYSICALS/INSURANCE $$ taken care of before Aug. 11!

PS. Thanks again very much to all who helped out with the kids camp this past week. You guys are the faces of the soccer program in Hamilton, and i'm proud to have you represent us in a positive way!

Training during CAMP week...

...is canceled. That means starting Monday, July 19, we will not have regularly scheduled summer training. Take note!

PS. Check out the post just below if you haven't already.

Physicals/Insurance $$

Please be sure to take care of both items above NO LATER THAN WED., AUG. 11 (the first official day of tryouts/practice). You will NOT be able to participate otherwise!

Visit or call the HS office for details/information/clarification since these two items MUST be on file there.

PS. To pay insurance online, go to the webpage www.hamiltonschools.us, choose the high school page, and then choose athletics. At the bottom of the Athletics page, click on Pay Insurance Online. This option is available 24/7.

Dead Period...and other stuff

Hi, all. I hope the summer's going well for everyone!

I just had my knee surgery yesterday and will be hobbling a bit in the near future. Anyway, all went well, and Coach Stieper will be covering today (Thursday. I WILL, however, be at training tomorrow morning from 9-11...be there?

Regarding next week (week of July 4), we DO NOT HAVE TRAINING since that week is designated by us and the MHSAA as a "dead period" in which we are not allowed to officially meet. Please take note. Feel free, of course, to do whatever training on your own!

After today and tomorrow, the next time us coaches will officially see you would be Monday, July 12 from 5-7 PM...come on out...and keep getting better!

Take care, guys. Let me know if you need anything.

No training...

...today, Wednesday (June 23) due to severe weather.

Summer training...

Hey, guys. We hope to see you all out for summer soccer training starting this Monday, June 14 at 5 P.M. Come with full soccer gear and plenty of water. Check out the schedule below or else check the packet that you received at the previous soccer meeting.

Mondays: 5-7 PM (practice soccer field)
Tuesdays: 9-11 AM (practice soccer field)
Wednesdays: 9-11 AM (practice soccer field)
Thursdays: 5-7 PM (practice soccer field)
Fridays: 9-11 AM (track/practice soccer field)

Note: Monday-Thursday, meet directly at the practice soccer field site. Friday, meet initially at the track and then proceed to the soccer field site.

Reminders: Connor Hagen and R.J. Flowers are our summer soccer captains...scroll down this page to review the Iron Man contest parameters.


Take care, everyone! It's time to start preparing for the fall season...and have a little fun while we're at it.

Great Summer Soccer Camp Opportunity...

...brought to the Holland area by Demarcus Beasley, US national team player.

Go to the following site for more info:

http//www.beasleynationalsoccerschool.com/

IRON MAN CONTEST/TRY-OUTS

Gentlemen,

Below is important information regarding the Iron Man Contest which officially occurs the first day of pre-season--Aug. 11. Feel free to check this post all spring/summer and perhaps even copy down relevant information. This is a hugely important contest in terms of helping us coaches determine season cuts, rosters, line-ups, etc.


IRON MAN CONTEST
(Wednesday, Aug. 11…first day of pre-season)

Each player will be tested on the following;

*2-mile run (shoot for 12 minutes or below)
*400 meter run (shoot for 55-60 seconds)
*Push-ups (number of QUALITY push-ups in 90 seconds)
*Sit-ups (number of QUALITY sit-ups in 2 minutes)
*Juggling (consecutive touches without the ball hitting the ground…three chances…top score of the three is your official score)
*Dribbling (amount of seconds it takes to dribble through a simple cone obstacle course)
*Wall-passing (number of passes in 90 seconds against a wall from 10 yards away and alternating feet)
Scoring System

**2 mile run: 8 laps around track

20 pts. =12. mins. or below
10 pts. = 12:01-12:30
5 pts. = 12:31-13:00
4 pts. = 13:01-14:00
3 pts. = 14:01- 15:00
2 pts. = 15:01- 16:00
0 pts. = 16:01-above

**400 meter run: 1 lap around track

20 pts. =60 seconds or below
10 pts. = 1:01-1:10
5 pts. = 1:11-1:20
4 pts. = 1:21-1:30
0 pts. = 1:31-above

**Push-ups: # of QUALITY reps in 90 seconds

20 pts. =70 reps or above
10 pts. = 60-69
5 pts. = 50-59
4 pts. = 40-49
3 pts. = 30-39
0 pts. = below 29 reps

**Sit-ups: # of QUALITY reps in 2 minutes

20 pts. =80 reps or above
10 pts. = 70-79
5 pts. = 60-69
4 pts. = 50-59
3 pts. = 40-49
0 pts. = below 39 reps


**Juggles: after 3 chances, take the highest SINGLE effort of consecutive touches

20 pts. =100 consecutive touches or above
10 pts. = 80-99
5 pts. = 60-79
4 pts. = 40-59
3 pts. = 20-39
0 pts. = 19 touches or below

**Wall Passes: number of passes (alternating feet) from a set distance to a wall in 90 seconds

*Total amount of completed passes = total amount of points earned (i.e. 20 passes = 20 pts.)

**Dribbling: amount of seconds it takes to dribble through a simple cone obstacle course

20 pts. =20 seconds or below 4 pts. = 33-38 seconds
10 pts. = 21-26 seconds 3 pts =39-42 seconds
5 pts. = 27-32 seconds 0 pts. = above 43 seconds


*Your key to this contest is PRACTICING each on a consistent basis! Attending the aforementioned summer sessions will help IMMENSELY!

*THESE SCORES GO A LONG WAY IN DETERMINING WHICH TEAM (IF ANY) YOU BELONG ON AND HOW MUCH PLAYING TIME (EARLY ON) YOU DESERVE!

Meeting aftermath...

Gentlemen, for those of you who came to the meeting today, thanks for the effort. Those that did not make it but still plan on playing soccer this next fall, please see me ASAP for important information.

Reminders:

1.) R.J. Flowers and Connor Hagen will be our summer captains. They will take care of a select amount of workouts during the summer months, and you consult them (or, of course, myself and Coach Stieper) with any questions and/or concerns.

2.) I will be getting back to you in the near future regarding Iron Man contest rules and regulations for this upcoming August 11 (our first official day of the soccer season), but please note that the requirements will be exactly the same as this past August. So consult previous handouts for clarification. Remember, this a significant way in which we, as coaches, can measure your overall ability during the tryout process in August!

3.) As always, please contact me or Coach Stieper with any questions, comments, and/or concerns in the near future.

Take care, guys! We're very much looking forward to getting back into the swing of things with all of you beginning in June.

Good luck with the rest of the school year!

Spring MEETING

To all prospective boys soccer players for the upcoming fall:

There is an important, mandatory meeting in Coach Robinson's room NEXT Thursday morning, April 29 at 7 A.M. sharp. Arrange rides and/or car-pooling accordingly. SEE COACH ROBINSON WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS. Look for signs in the hallways
for clarification.

UPDATES

A few things, guys, as we wind the winter "off-season" down...

1.) There are no more "small-group ball sessions", BUT conditioning sessions are still on for the time being. Check with Coach Malefyt for clarification on those sessions.

2.) Stand by for an announcement regarding an official boys soccer meeting that we'll have some time in April or May.

3.) Keep working hard to get better physically and technically!

4.) Good luck to those of you who will be participating in spring sports. Enjoy the time.

Please let me know at any time if you have any questions, comments, and/or concerns!

Good luck in FINAL EXAM week, guys...go get 'em.

Another CANCELLATION heads-up...

Sorry for the late notice AGAIN, guys, but I won't be able to make it to tomorrow's (Thursday, Feb. 25) small-group training after school at the middle school...this time, I, myself, have a doc. appt. for a left knee that's been acting up as of late. I've been trying to change the appt. time but with no success.

So, that means whoever usually trains with me upstairs on Thursdays, do not plan on showing up.

Take care...and keep working hard during the other days!

Cancellation Heads-up

Sorry for the late notice, guys, but I won't be able to make it to tomorrow's (Tuesday, Feb. 16) small-group training after school at the middle school...baby doc. appointment that I want to attend.

So, that means whoever usually trains with me upstairs, do not plan on showing up.

Take care...and keep working hard during the other days!

Training update...

Everyone, please continue to follow the small-group training schedule below until further notice. AND if you cannot make a session and know this ahead of time, contact Mr. Robinson or Malefyt so we can plug someone else in your time slot!

Good job this past week to everyone who participated. Keep it up!

OFFICIAL small-group training schedule:

Be aware that we start with this training next Tuesday (1/19) and Thursday (1/20) on the balcony of the middle school gym. In addition, Mondays and Wednesdays are for general conditioning from 3-4 P.M. and anyone is welcome to participate.

PS: Zach Beyer, Zach Driesenga, Deban Scholten, and Shannon Blourne are "alternates", so if any of you happen to NOT be able to make a session, either see one of them or me (or both) well enough beforehand and we can fit one of them in your slot!

Tuesdays (3:00-3:30):
_________________Sarah Baker___________________________
________________Jenna Brunger____________________________
________________Joslyn Blood____________________________
____________________Carley Geurink________________________

Tuesdays (3:00-3:30):
__________________Frannie Steele (GK)__________________________
___________________Kelsey Whitcomb (GK)_________________________
________________Emily Grady____________________________
________________Sidney Grady____________________________

Tuesdays (3:30-4:00):
___________________Brittany Holyfield_________________________
_______________________Chelsea Adkins_____________________
_______________________Justin Blacklock_____________________
____________________Dylan Guillozet________________________

Tuesdays (3:30-4:00):
_____________________Travis Williams_______________________
___________________Kray Freestone_________________________
____________________Shelby Reaume________________________
____________________Josh Brigham (GK)________________________
(alternate: Zach Beyer)

Thursdays (3:00-3:30):
__________________Tyler Immink__________________________
_______________________Aaron Polet_____________________
____________________Brittany Holyfield________________________
______________________Heidi Mihm ______________________

Thursdays (3:00-3:30):
_______________________Sarah Baker_____________________
_____________________Jenna Brunger_______________________
_____________________Sidney Grady_______________________
_____________________Emily Grady_______________________

Thursdays (3:30-4:00):
___________________Shannon Blourne_________________________
___________________Chelsea Adkins_________________________
_____________________Shelby Reaume_______________________
______________________Josh Brigham (GK)______________________

Training SIGN-UP

We're still looking for players who are interested in small-group training sessions.

SIGN UP on the back of Mr. Robinson's classroom door ASAP!

Remember, the weekly training schedule officially start on Monday, Jan. 18.

Take care, everyone.

OFFICIAL post-break training

Ok, folks. Here it is: beginning on Monday, Jan. 18, we (Coach Malefyt and Robinson) will be having the following weekly training schedule at the middle school upper balcony level until further notice...

**Mondays and Wednesdays (3-4 P.M.) = conditioning for both sexes and for any number of players

**Tuesdays and Thursdays (3-4 P.M.) = small-group training sessions (SIGN-UP SHEET GROUPS OF 4 AND TIMES IS LOCATED ON COACH ROBINSON'S DOOR...FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED!)

Fridays = off

Please contact Robinson or Malefyt for any questions, concerns, etc.

Hope to see a lot of you out for training!

After-break training...

First, I hope the holiday break is treating everyone well thus far! It was good seeing a number of you out for the 5 v. 5 soccer tournament today. Keep taking any opportunity to simply play! And have fun doing it.

Regarding training (skill work AND conditioning) for after our break, please stay tuned for a SPECIFIC announcement on this site regarding the times and places. Coach Malefyt is checking on the exact availability of the middle school upper balcony for January on, so nothing is official at this point.

Tentatively plan on the following weekly schedule though:

**Mondays and Wednesdays: conditioning at the middle school from 3 to 4 PM (for anyone interested, no matter the number of players)

**Tuesdays and Thursdays: small group skill work at the middle school from 3 to 4 PM (for sign-ups only)

**Fridays = off

More later!

Take care, everyone.

Small-group training for next week...

...Dec. 14-18. MONDAY and THURSDAY

3:00-3:30: Sydney Grady, Joslyn Blood, Sarah Baker, Jenna Brunger

3:30-4:00: Aaron Polet, Dylan Guillozet, Chelsea Adkins, Kassi Aalderink

4:00-4:30: Emily Grady, Shelby Reaume, Tyler Immink, Deban Scholten

4:30-5:00: Niki Deneef, Carley Geurink, Dani Klein, Travis Williams (?)

We'll meet in my room. Be warmed up, stretched, and ready to hop right into skill work training!

Please see me with questions/concerns.

4-person skill training...

...for next week (Dec. 7-11)

Monday and Thursday:

*250-330 PM = Sydney Grady, Joslyn Blood, Sarah Baker, Jenna Brunger

*330-4 PM = Aaron Polet, Dylan Guillozet, Chelsea Adkins, Kassi Aalderink

*4-430 PM = Shelby Reaume, Emily Grady...??

We'll meet in the carpeted area just above the cafeteria. Have indoor wear on...and be on time! Also, the latter two groups should be warmed up, stretched, and ready to jump right into training at the scheduled times above.

See you soon!

OFF SEASON TRAINING

Gentlemen, anyone who's interested in a bit of off season (non-summer), small group ball work and training, please let me know when you get a chance. I will be coaching JV girls soccer come early March so any time you'd like to schedule something beforehand, i'm here to help.

Also, don't forget to sign up for the winter break 5 v. 5 tournament if you're interested.

Get a hold of me! And remember: the off season is when real players are made.

Good luck to all of you playing a winter (and/or spring) sport!

Congrats to the SENIORS!

JACOB SWARTZ: Academic All-State, winner of the Travis Hulsman Character Award

HUNTER TOWNSEND: All-Conference (OK Green), All-District

MICHEAL PANDO: Honorable Mention All-Conference

MITCH GAGE: for a GREAT performance as the lead in the school "Fools" production!

Way to go, guys! The hard work definitely paid off.

Program-wide BANQUET

On Monday, Nov. 2 at 7 P.M. in the high school cafeteria, we'll honor the J.V. and Varsity players and their families.

Please bring a dessert to share with the whole group as well as personal beverages and utensils for your families. DINNER IS NOT PROVIDED.

Dress for players is "business casual"; that is, no jeans or t-shirts!

See Coach Stieper or Coach Robinson with questions and/or concerns.

"Soccer Cleat" WINNER

Congratulations to Dylan Guillozet for the "new beginning" he exemplified in the past few weeks. His inspired play out of the back earned him a narrow victory over newcomer Aaron Polet in a team vote.

No Regrets

Gentlemen, you should feel no regrets this morning as you reflect on yesterday's District effort. I know it's not the result we were looking for, but we as coaches are very proud of the overall effort you displayed...and (it may take time) you should too.

Overall, a job well done this season, guys. We really came on at the end of the season. Plus, all you can ask for is improvement (team and individual) over the course of a given season, and I think we can all agree that said improvement took place.

Keep your heads up! Now, the most important part of next season begins today: THE OFF SEASON...WHEN INDIVIDUAL IMPROVEMENT MUST TAKE PLACE FOR US TO HAVE SUCCESS NEXT SEASON! Thank you to the 3 seniors who battled for us and represented us well all season.

We'll be in touch.

Reminder: We have a meeting in my classroom right after school tomorrow (Thursday). Please bring all of your soccer items to turn in--warm-ups, backpacks, white/black shorts and jerseys...don't forget!