Starting the Experience - Coach DeVries
The experience of Brazilian Soccer started today. Natal is considered the "Sun City" for Brazil; unfortunately for the guys they have not seen the sun yet. For a day and half we have had rain, mixed in with some rain, followed by more rain. The nice thing about the rain in Natal is there is no thunder or lightning and the it fairly warm, thus we can practice.
Despite all the rain we had our first training session today followed by our first game in the afternoon. The training session was an introduction to many of the ball skills that are used by Brazilian players. Most of the guys have seen these exercises in our own training sessions back in Morris but the presentation was different and effective.
Our first game of the tour was against a mix of players in the ABC FC developmental program. Every player got a chance to be on the field today and it gave Coach Turnbull and I a chance to evaluate the players and found out what positions they will best be suited for at UMM this fall. We played a close first half conceding one goal in the 35th minute and we have a few quality shots on goal. The second half our tired legs began to effect us and we let in 3 more goals but were able to put one away in the final minute. Despite the 4-1 loss I was happy with the effort I saw.
My observations off the field the field are note worthy. First, as we were playing our game just about every player in the youth program came out in the rain to watch the game, it was a pleasant surprise to see the interest in a friendly competition. Secondly, there was a new high rise apartment complete being built right next to the field. Ever time you looked up you saw different groups of construction workers peering out of their work places and watching the game below. Finally after the game we had t-shirts to exchange with our competitors. Once we brought the shirts out I think every player, whether he played in the game or not, wanted a shirt. There must have been 30 guys asking for a shirt. Many of the players also gained a better appreciation for the things they have; at least 5 UMM players commented to me about how their competitors wanted to exchange shoes (or be given free shoes), GK gloves, travel tops and game uniforms. I was later informed on Alina, (one of our hostesses) that the Brazilian players want anything from America and especially anything that has the US Flag.
Even with all the rain it was was a great day to be playing soccer. I will post more entries from the players tomorrow evening.
Coach DeVries
FINAL NOTE: We just found out that we will be playing a second preliminary game against the other professional club in Natal, America FC. That game will be played on Saturday afternoon.