Sept. 8, 2000

Christian Lewis Men's Soccer Journal #1

It is an exciting time to be part of Terrapin Soccer. The team is off to a 2-0 start and faces the two-time defending national champions Indiana on Friday night. We just finished our final practice before the game and everyone is ready to play.

We got off to a good start last weekend with two wins. More importantly we had four days to spend together and get to know each other. Most underclassman roomed with upperclassman giving everyone a chance to hang out with different people. Aside from the games, we also had a chance to spend some together as a team outside of soccer. On Saturday afternoon, we went to see Wesley Snipe's new movie The Art of War. We probably could have made a better choice but it was still fun. Also, team meals gave us a chance to have fun as a team and learn more about eachother. The only bad moment seamed to be what Aunt Sarah's pancakes did to our stomachs. As for the soccer, we showed that we can replace the loss of most of last year's scoring. The main difference is that last year we had a couple of players we relied on, but this year we have so many different scoring options. I was also really impressed with how well the freshman did in their first collegiate games. They didn't seem nervous and played with a lot of hear.

This weeks practices went pretty well. It seems as though everyone has little bumps and bruises, but there were no major injuries. Our injured players are also working very hard with their rehab and hope to be back as soon as possible.

It was a very busy week for everyone on the team. We had our first full week of class and the work load is starting to pile up. It isn't easy to miss two of the first three days like we did last week. There is also a lot going on on campus. All week people have been running into me wishing us good luck this week, even my professors. It will be great to have a big crowd for our home opener. I am pretty excited about my senior season and the team in general. It should be a great year and a great weekend for the Terps.