Opening Ceremony- The Rey Cup Has Begun!

After several days of acclimatization and tourism,  Wednesday was about soccer.  After breakfast we walked to the second largest stadium in the Rey Cup complex, the site of the Opening Ceremony this evening.  We warmed up well and had a friendly scrimmage with the team from Burlington, MA.  Our first half was mediocre, and we were lucky not to concede.  We calmed down and played better soccer in the second half, and won 1-0.  Jacob Kubik-Pauw scored our only goal on a nice individual effort, stripping the keeper and walking the ball o to the goal.  Our defense was stout in front of Jack Maynes in goal. Zane Schiffman had a great volley off a Max Ritter corner that was clocked by a defender, preventing a highlight goal.

After lunch of panini sandwiches and smoothies, we combined pool and nap time until it was time to move into our new quarters in the main school building nearby.  Definitely an improvement!  We had a barbecue supper prepared by Larus and Hulda, changed into our spiffy uniforms designed by Larus, and assembled with nearly 2,000 other players for the march into the stadium.  I can be cynical and jaded at times, but this was impressive and moving for me.  We were a sea of color, with bright uniforms of every color.  There were teams from England representing the pro clubs, Scotland, Norway, Chile, Kenya and the US.  James Kirkpatrick and Zane carries our US glad proudly and respectfully.  Noi Larusson, Isak’s brother,  carried our team sign.  Very much like the Olympics.  As we marched, we heard other teams singing.  Not to be outdone, the boys sang a good version of the Star Spangled Banner, topped off by a lusty version of “I want it that way”.  Much appreciated. We filled  the huge grandstand, and heard every team introduced.  The host threw shade at the teams that were too cool to respond.  Not a problem for us!  But the young pros from Brighton Hove Albion?  Just too cool.  After several speeches we applauded a dance by four elaborately costumed students from Chile.  We were seated in the back, and were able to filter out quickly.  Now it’s time for bed with two games on tap for tomorrow.  This experience has already surpassed our high expectations. We have made many new friends.  I had an especially good conversation with two coaches from Kenya.  I am sure their young U14 boys will be the hit of the tournament.  Could be us, though!  Stay tuned.