Des Moines Menace Soccer

Weekend Wrap up!

I took to the road this past weekend with my Menace teammates to face Creighton University in Omaha, Neb. The vans were full of unfamiliar faces due to the fact that many of the current Menace players are still under obligation to their respective colleges.  Excitement filled some, while nerves were present in others. For me, it was the first time I had put on my Menace jersey for the 2008 season and I could not have been more proud. For others, it would be the first time they would have the honor of wearing the red and black. 

I had many thoughts and emotions running through my head before kick-off. I was excited about being on the field again, but I was nervous since I had not played an actual game in a month. I knew Creighton was going to be a tough challenge and would give us everything we could handle. They had been practicing since the beginning of the new year and have been training hard together ever since.  I do not want you to think that these are excuses, but just my understanding and recognition of the great challenge that was presented to us by taking on this game. 

The game was an overall success for the Menace even though we were outscored 2-0. Our play and outcome was far from a victory but seeing that we have to keep working hard to be ready for Opening Day left us more motivated.  We were able to judge ourselves against one of the best college programs in the country.  We were able to see that we have to keep putting in the work to become fit.  I was happy to see that I could play all 140 minutes of the game, but it left me knowing that is there is a lot more work to be done.  I am not satisfied in my fitness level, but I will continue to put in the work everyday to become the fittest Menace player.         

One of my best friends and Menace teammates, Ross Moffat, led us in the second game of the weekend scoring two goals in our 5-1 victory over the Creighton Alumni.  This game was just another way of getting our guys “game fitness.”  “Game fitness” only comes with playing games and can not be replicated.

I know I have a long month ahead of me to get as fit as possible but I love the challenge.  I promise I will be ready!

I hope to see everyone this weekend at Valley Stadium when the Menace will take on Grand View College and Graceland University in our college exhibition. Game times are 6:00 and 7:30 p.m.  Admission will be free to the general public.  

Joe Klosterman #2