The Vipers have been a team for a very long time. We have won 7 of the last 8 EPYSA State Championships, 2 Regional Championships, are currently ranked the #1 team in the country, and are now going to face Ohio Elite in the finals of the 2009 US Youth National Championships. The Vipers, especially Mr. Leigh, have had a tough 6 months with John's death and Kimmie's pregnancy, and that has made this season into something more than just our last season together, it has made it more meaningful. Tomorrow's game is going to be played in honor of quite a few things: the memory and history of this team, the bonds this team shares, the years and years of hard work, and especially for Mr. Leigh and Kimmie, and in memory of John Pawlowski.
The Vipers are an absolutely incredible team, period. It has honestly been a whirlwind for me since I joined the team a year and a half ago, and it has been nothing short of amazing. The Vipers are not just a team, we are a group of best friends, a group of sisters. Sometimes we fight, and sometimes we yell at each other, but mostly we laugh, we have fun, we look out for each other, and we love each other. There are so many words to describe the Vipers: crazy, hilarious, unique, skilled, intense, passionate, fun-loving, persevering, sexy (suggestion of Clare), and so many more. For some of the Vipers, this team has almost always been a part of their life and for the rest of us, we have been warmly welcomed. This team is special to every person who has been involved with it: the players, the coaches, and the parents. I know for a fact that my experience with the Vipers has changed me and benefited me both as a player and a person, and I don't know how to properly express my gratitude. I love the Vipers, and I'm sure all the girls feel the same way. No matter what happens tomorrow, there will be tears all over the place...I hope with all my heart they are tears of joy, but whatever they are, remember that this team is incredible. This is certainly not the last we will see of each other, but this game, for all intents and purposes, is the conclusion of our youth soccer careers and it will mean a lot. Let's make it a game we will remember forever, and lets honor all the things that we will be playing for tomorrow.
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