FINAL ENTRY: January 2010

Senior Joe Moore kept a blog on OhioStateBuckeyes.com throughout the 2009 season. It is now the blog of a Big Ten Champion. Read his account of the team's drive to the regular-season and tournament championships.

NOVEMBER 18: BIG TEN TOURNAMENT WRAP-UP
"It's the sign of a good team when you don't play your best and you still find a way to win."

That is what my little league baseball coach told me when I was 12 years old and it still rings true today.  We played a very good Penn State team Sunday in Bloomington.  The first half we were outdone, not only in play but also in our desire to win.  This is not typical as the heart of this Buckeye team is found in its love of the game and commitment to each other which drives us to work harder than our opponents. 

Leaving the locker room we huddled on the field before the second half began to have a gut check as to who wanted to win this championship more.  We pride ourselves on outworking other teams and in the second half we did just that.  We were organized, intelligent and played with a conviction that was not present in the first half.  The second half was a huge improvement as we dictated the tempo of the game and felt the momentum of the game shift in our direction. 

As the final minutes of the clocked ticked away we found ourselves creating opportunities to go forward. With under a minute left Sam Scales took a throw-in that he catapulted in to the mouth of the goal and a flick from a Penn State player landed the ball on Dave Tiemstra's foot.  With an unbelievable full volley Dave scored his second goal to win another championship. 

In a repeat fashion our team rushed to celebrate our second championship in eight days.  With hugs being passed around like candy on Halloween we looked at each other realizing that once again we had made history for the school we all loved - The Ohio State University. 

On the bus ride home I was sitting and thinking about what this team had accomplished in the last eight days.  Naturally, I was thinking of the good times when we scored last second goals or beat Indiana but then I looked back to the middle of the season.  There was a stretch of games where it felt like we struggled to come away with any positive results.  In retrospect, this was an essential time that fostered the individual and team growth necessary for us to develop a championship mentality.

"E pluribus unum" is a Latin phrase on the seal of the United State of America.  I can find no better phrase to describe the mentality of this Buckeye team- "Out of many, we are one."

As always it's been another great day to be a Buckeye.

NOVEMBER 14: BIG TEN TOURNAMENT
As a senior, there are few things I would enjoy more than winning the Big Ten Tournament Championship (although getting an "A" in accounting sure would be nice). Following a win at home against Michigan to win the regular season Big Ten Championship we came to Indiana this weekend to defend our regular season title in the conference tournament.

Arriving in Bloomington on Thursday evening we checked into the hotel. After a quick turn-around we were all in our suits and back on the bus heading the annual Big Ten banquet. The banquet is a nice event put on every year by the host school where all the teams gather for a meal, highlight video and awards.  This banquet always has a somewhat formal vibe until Coach Bluem reaches the podium to loosen the mood with a few of his jokes.

Friday brought with it the opportunity for us to set Buckeye history by being the first team to beat Indiana at home twice in the same season.  With nothing short of a good effort from our team, we did just that. 

Saturday has been an easy and enjoyable day as we give our legs/bodies a rest. Watching football and napping, we have spent the day totally relaxing and focusing on the importance the game tomorrow.  I look forward to writing again soon and hopefully it will be with some good news!

As always it's been another great day to be a Buckeye.

NOVEMBER 8: MICHIGAN
In order to properly recap the last few days as an Ohio State men's soccer player I will start from the beginning.  After a win against Indiana last weekend we knew that in order for us to get a stab at the Big Ten Championship Penn State would have to lose or tie on Friday. 

Friday afternoon we arrived at training knowing that by the time we finished we would know the Penn State vs. Indiana result.  The mentality in training was good but often distracting as we all were wondering if our game on Saturday would bring with it a chance to win a Big Ten Championship.  As training drew to a close Coach Bleum sat us down and with very somber and monotone voice told us the news that Penn State had in fact lost and that a win against Michigan would make us outright champions.

After a night of little sleep I woke up Saturday morning and my mind was consumed by the opportunity that lay before our team.  Not only was this going to be a championship game but our foe would be our biggest rival - University of Michigan.  All day the players' phones were buzzing with good luck wishes and prayers for favor and a victory from friends and family.  I must say that a good friend who has been a long time religiously-devoted U of M fan even wished me good luck, for "soccer only," he said.  Winning over even the most loyal of Wolverine fans, we knew that our fate rested in our ability to tactically, physically and mentally outperform our opponent.

Before the game began our program honored us three seniors who have spent some of the best years of our lives playing for the Buckeyes.  Being warmly applauded by our fans we walked back to the huddle and made it clear to the team that our last game at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium would not be a loss. 

The message must have been clear as we came roaring out of the gates with a flurry of good scoring opportunities.  As the game progressed it also settled down with both teams piecing together good attacks.  The half was drawing to a close when we scored with a second left on game clock to put us up by one going into halftime.

Knowing that we had to get a shutout we fastened in on defense and did our best to neutralize every fronting attack.  The minutes ticked away and neither team had scored but the intensity of the game had elevated.  Both teams doing everything they could to win resulted in an increased number of fouls and scuffles. The game was drawing a close and we could taste the victory.  Stopping the last few efforts by Michigan we watched the clock tick down to zero.

BIG TEN CHAMPIONS came over the loud speaker and the team was huddled and jumping on the field celebrating our new title.  After receiving our t-shirts and hats and hugging everyone in sight we made our way over to our fans.  The response of Buckeye Nation to our many attempts to get people to the game was fantastic.  Thanks to all who made it out to support us.

It's a funny thing to achieve a goal that we set four months ago sitting in the basement of an on-campus dormitory.  That all the ups and downs felt throughout the season have culminated to this one point where regardless of relationship hugs are in order. In my life there have been a few moments of pure joy where worries fade and the emotions felt at the moment become reality.  Though these moments are few and far between what is most important is that you fully surrender yourself to sharing in something so special.  As we told our team, one day when we are old and unable to play sports anymore, we will think back to that night where we fought with everything we had to win a championship and did.

Speaking for the three seniors, it has been one of the great joys of our lives to play under the Buckeye banner.  To our coaches, we want to say it has been an honor and to our parents we want to say thank you.

As always its been another great day to be a Buckeye

NOVEMBER 5: SPECIAL EDITION
Normally, I am not a very big "special edition" fan, unless it has to do with clothes branded by a certain former Chicago Bulls player or Ohio State.  Fortunately, the latter is the reason I am writing this.

This Saturday has the potential to be a very special night for the Buckeyes.  I say Buckeyes in the broadest sense.  Whether a native of Ohio or a recent convert, you understand that being a Buckeye is not just about football, although that is a huge part.

A Buckeye is someone who loves all things Ohio State, from Gordon Gee's bowtie to Carmen Ohio, and holds a strong distaste for anything from the University of Michigan.

Saturday night the Big Ten Network is coming to Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium to show on national television that this rivalry is not limited to one sport.

I am asking every Buckeye to dress up in your craziest gear, bring your loudest voice and come behind the men's soccer team as we represent YOU. 

"Our honor defend, we will fight till the end for O-H-I-O"

 As always it's been another great day to be a Buckeye.

NOVEMBER 1: Indiana
Saturday morning the team gathered in the locker room before we left for Indiana.  This was no ordinary road trip because we would be in Indiana for Halloween.  Understanding that costumes would not be a very good representation once we arrived, we decided to wear our costumes on the bus.  The costumes were exemplary this year and each of them produced just what we had hoped - laughs. Whether it was players dressed and acting like coaching staff, girls, dirt or even other players it was a good time for everyone.

The game at Indiana was important, not only for bragging rights but also for an important Big Ten win.  Both teams knew that a loss would certainly put them out of the race, while winning would put you in a position for the championship.  Playing, in my opinion, one of the best games we have played all year, Indiana held their own neutralizing any scoring opportunities throughout regulation.  At halftime we discussed the importance of continuing our disciplined defensive effort and trying to be creative on offense.

Though we did not score during regulation, the team pulled together under the understanding that a tie was not going to be good enough for us to accomplish our goals.  Overtime at Indiana in the face of brutal fans, Andrew Magill and Eric Shrigley connected for the golden goal that gave us the victory.  As I have mentioned before, our celebration was not lacking in joy nor passion as 20 guys who had just given everything they had for a victory were rewarded.

Postgame events were fantastic as we walked out to our bus hungry, tired and ready to talk about the game.  We were received by all the families that had made the trip to watch a historic win for the Buckeyes.   Many thanks to everyone who made the trip and made our trip home that much more enjoyable.

As always it's been another great day to be a Buckeye.

OCTOBER 18: Penn State
Motivated by the loss against UIC, the pregame intensity for the Penn State match was not lacking.  Understanding our Big Ten Championship hopes were tied to the outcome, this game demanded an even greater focus. 

The game got off to a difficult start as we gave up a couple dangerous shots and corner kicks.  After 10 minutes we began to settle in and play some good soccer.  Our defense was tight and solid while our midfield and forwards were dangerous in their half creating opportunities at will.  We had the momentum when Austin hit a full volley into the upper left hand corner of the goal to put us up by one.  The ensuing celebration was nothing short of a marathon (slight exaggeration) as we chased Austin down to celebrate with him. 

The second half was back and forth as both teams yielded some goal scoring opportunities.  We struck first as Konrad hit a great shot from about 20 yards out into the lower right hand corner of the goal.  Penn State responded with a goal of their own 10 minutes later.  With a one-goal game at hand we buckled down on defense, winning balls in the air and neutralizing attacks as our offense was still countering and creating opportunities.  After a hard fought game we left the field with an important win.  Moving up in the Big Ten rankings, this was one necessary step toward a Big Ten Championship.

As a side note I would like to comment on the celebrations that take place after a goal is scored.  It has been brought to my attention that some skeptics think that the theatrics soccer provides can sometimes be excessive.  First, I would like to point out that in general soccer players like to have a good time and this is especially true of our team.  If you spend any time around our team you are sure to hear jokes and laughing at every turn.  Secondly, there are few times in life where you experience moments of pure joy.  Scoring a goal is one of them as the tireless labor of 11 guys who have been battling for one thing are rewarded.  Sharing in a celebration like that is truly something special.

Lastly, the critics' are right, we do show excessive emotion.  We play a game that is full of heartache when you lose and joy when you win but the intangible emotions shown in the midst are just as real as the players themselves.  Soccer is an honest game as each players emotions are worn on their sleeve whether yelling, crying or celebrating it is a game of passion.
As always, it's been another great day to be a Buckeye.

OCTOBER 14: UIC
Coming off of two good wins, we played UIC Wednesday night.  UIC is a team that has not had great success this season but do not let that deceive you as they are an excellent team.  Graduating a few players from last year we knew they would be experienced and hungry for a win.

The game began with UIC jumping out to a quick start putting us under pressure at any and every opportunity.  Normally, this would not be a problem, but for some reason we could not gain our composure and confidently knock the ball around.  Giving up a goal in the early part of the half, off a set piece, left us with an uphill battle. The second half was full of hard work and creativity as we began to piece together what we could not find in the first half.  Unfortunately, the perseverance and effort was fruitless as the game ended in a 1-0 loss. 

Although the outcome was disappointing we could not dwell on the loss for long as we had an even bigger match approaching against Penn State.

OCTOBER 9: Cleveland State
Playing home games has its advantages and disadvantages when it comes to playing soccer.  On one hand you get to sleep in your own bed (my favorite) and follow your own game-day routine. While on the other hand if, like me, you have classes all day it can be quite distracting trying to learn when the only thing you're thinking about is the game to come.  Blessed with a mind that can daydream about soccer and a face that can simultaneously look very interested in the subject being taught helps get me through days like these.

One other thing before we move on to the game.  Much to the dismay of my mother and fiancée I have been growing a mustache.  I am not alone in my quest to show my manhood through facial hair as many of my teammates have been taking the voyage with me.  Whether my thin long blonde attempt at a goatee, Matt Gold's thick red Dr. Phil like mustache, Ryan Dalton's soul patch or even Doug Verhoff's patchy beard  we all understand that when "you look good, you play good."  I do give partial credit of the last few wins to the camaraderie we have found in our common pursuit.

The game against Cleveland State found us once again coming out of the gates strong.  Scoring in the first 3 minutes put us in a good position to dictate the pace and level of the game.  As the game progressed and the sloppy conditions worsened we did a good job stringing together some good passing sequences that led to quality scoring opportunities.  Finding the back of the net for a second time in the first half we were confident that the game was in our control.  Fighting through the fury of yellow cards given to CSU in the second half we battled our way to a 2-0 victory.

This has been a strong week for us picking up to two good wins.  Building on these wins we will enter next week look for two more quality results against UIC and Penn State.

As always, it has been another great day to be a Buckeye.

OCTOBER 7: at Oakland
After a rough week with a loss at Akron and a loss at home to Northwestern, we needed to rebound.  Knowing that our goals of a Big Ten championship and an NCAA tournament berth hung in the balance we banded together to do what Ohio State teams do best-win. 

After strong practices on Monday and Tuesday we hit the road again and headed north to play Oakland University.  Oakland is a team that has been having an up and down season but make no mistake about it they have some very talented/dangerous players on their team. 

The game began with Oakland giving up the first goal early in the first half.  Although this would prove to be the lone goal of the game it was most definitely not the only chance.  Naturally, as the game went on Oakland began to push for a goal and our goal scoring opportunities came mostly from counterattacks. 

Not backing down we relied on our defense to continue to neutralize Oakland's attack.  The game became more physical as it drew to a close and we left the field not only with a win but also with a renewed sense of confidence and hope for the season.

As always, it has been another great day to be a Buckeye.

SEPTEMBER 27: at Michigan State
First, I must apologize to my faithful blog fans as I have not written in a while.  Since school has started and my accounting class is in full swing, blogging time has taken a hit.  Rest assured that I have reevaluated my priorities and my blogging will now receive the time it deserves (mostly that was a joke).

This weekend was the beginning of our Big Ten schedule.  Going into the weekend undefeated we knew that we were yet to prove ourselves amongst the nation's elite.  This would be our chance to make a strong showing by beating a good team and give evidence to support our current record. 

We boarded the bus on Saturday morning after practice.  This particular practice was a little different than normal because the football team had a game later that afternoon.  What this meant for us was that we would have a small gathering of Ohio State football fans watching us practice.  After leaving our football (and now soccer fans) we began our trip to Michigan State.

The bus trip was similar to past trips with some sleeping, listening to music and others watching movies.   The trip there seemed to go by fast but that could be attributed to my sleeping the whole time.  We checked into our hotel and relaxed for an hour or two before making a trip to the game field. 

While walking the field we made jokes about whatever came to mind, which trust me can be unbelievably entertaining.  By the end of our time on the game field we were playing a game of keep away-the whole team vs. Doug-with his wallet. 

Dinner was the next order of business and it did not disappoint.  We ate at an old mom and pop Italian restaurant where everyone ordered some variation of pasta.  After getting our fill of carbohydrates we had a team meeting to refocus before we all retired to our rooms for the night. 

Sunday morning we met downstairs for a team breakfast.  Shortly after breakfast we boarded the bus for the game.  Arriving early we took our time getting taped and getting a good warm up before the game.  The game gave us our first and only goal in the early part of the first half.  Having most of the opportunities in the first half we knew that the Spartans would come back fighting in the second half.  Fending off most of the Spartan attacks we relied on our defensive discipline and ability to hold the ball to finish the game.

This was our first Big Ten game and it proved once again that our conference will be strong.  It was an eye-opening game for the freshmen and a reminder to the rest of us just why we all came to Ohio State.  These are the intense games that make being a Buckeye a one of a kind experience. 

As always, it was another great day to be a Buckeye.

SEPTEMBER 13: Penn State Classic
We awoke this morning to a wake-up call at 9.  Rolling out of bed my roommate (Joshua Breto) and I let out a sigh as our sore bodies reminded us that we had a game yesterday.  We met as a team for a brisk walk and a meeting to discuss last night's game.  Finishing our meeting some of the guys went back to their rooms to watch the Liverpool game while another group of us grabbed some breakfast. 

The field trip of the day was to a little mall in town.  My favorite part of the visits to public places with the team is the stares and conversations you get into with complete strangers. I guess that in a town like State College seeing a group of 15 guys wearing Ohio State gear walking through a mall could turn a few heads and spark a few conversations about who we were.  After visiting some stores and talking about everything from how our football team would fair against USC to being offered Michigan apparel as a joke, I think, we returned back to our hotel ready for the night's entertainment-OSU vs. USC.

Although we have not fared well against USC and against Top 5 opponents in the recent past, there was hope that this year we could turn some skeptics into believers.  The game was entertaining and had the six of us in my room piled on two beds watching and cheering on every play.  Once the game finished we silently went back to our own rooms to reflect on the last-second loss that changed our previously great attitudes. 

After a relaxing day of watching football and hanging out we all went to bed understanding that tomorrow we get another chance to represent the Buckeyes in a way that few do-in competition.

As always, it's been another great day to be a Buckeye.

SEPTEMBER 11: vs. Hartford
After a long day of traveling on Thursday, we woke up this morning rested and ready to play.  For breakfast we went to a veteran's favorite spot right across the street from our hotel.  Following breakfast we came back and relaxed for a little bit before going to the game.  We left the hotel an hour or two before the game and when we arrived we learned that the game had been delayed due to excessive rain.

The game was a battle.  With the heavy rain the ball skipped around making it hard for either team to play pretty soccer.  During the second half the rain let up and the game evolved to a more organized and disciplined style of play.  We had our best chances in the second half and we capitalized on one of them to bring the game to a tie.  The remaining time after the goal was filled with scoring opportunities for both teams but we definitely had the majority of the chances.  Finishing the game in a tie after double over time was not exactly our plan but leaves us with Sunday to improve our record to 2-0-2.

Arriving back at the hotel to a hot shower and dry clothes lifted the spirits of the team.  The disappointed mindset of thinking we just let a game slip away began to give way to our desire to find the teams Euchre (card game) champion.  This revered crown was held by David Schade and Konrad Warzycha.  Challenging them for their position was Doug Verhoff and me.  Losing to Dave and Konrad sent me to bed feeling even worse about the night. 

As always, it's been another great day to a Buckeye.

SEPTEMBER 10: Trip to Penn State
Thursday was not a typical day for the Buckeyes.  With our bus being scheduled to leave at 9 a.m., we did not have much time for the other task of the day - moving freshmen into their dorm rooms.  The moving began at 7:30 and, with help from teammates and various parents, we were finished by 8:30.  This left us plenty of time to grab a quick breakfast sandwich and get on the bus.  Most of the trip was spent sleeping and when we were not doing that we were watching movies, reading, or playing computer games.  Upon arriving in State College, we headed to the fields to get a light practice.

After practice we showered and walked a minute or two down the road to an excellent Italian restaurant.  While walking we heard various cars shouting "Go Bucks".  I guess it is true that no matter where you go, there will be Buckeye fans.  After a dinner spent watching the opening NFL game and enjoying our meals we returned back to our rooms. Getting some rest tonight is important as we are looking forward to a big game tomorrow and getting our first win on the road.

As always, it's another great day to be a Buckeye.

SEPTEMBER 6: vs. Cal State Fullerton // Bert & Iris Wolstein Classic
This morning began the same as most game days do.  For breakfast I met some teammates at Bob Evans where I ordered eggs, sausage and a lively game of hangman on the back of the place mat.  The team met at 12:30 for treatments.  Most of the guys made their way to Jesse Owens to watch Penn St. play Gonzaga.  The result of that game would control whether or not we had a chance to be the outright Bert and Iris Wolstein Classic champions. 

 A convincingly strong pregame speech from Coach Branden Moss and the disappointment of not getting a victory on Friday night left us with only one option-Win.  The game proved to be a battle as yellow cards were flying around and neither team was giving up goals.  After a late substitution and a fantastic effort from Sam Scales and Eric Shrigley we scored with 17 seconds remaining.  This led to our bench and field players having a mosh pit like celebration in the corner.  After being crowned champions of our own tournament once again we met the fans and families for autographs and hugs.

Once the game finished we moved inside for a meet the team meal.  The most entertaining part of the meal came when the newest members of the team (freshman) provided some post game entertainment.   All in attendance heard an unpolished and laugh ridden version of "Ain't No Mountain High Enough."  Truth be told the effort/talent was there but I would still encourage them to stick with soccer. When the singing stopped everyone laughed and applauded the show. 

With some closing remarks from the coaching staff and some parting conversations with parents and friends the Bert and Iris Wolstein Classic drew to a close.  With a good effort from the Buckeyes and strong support from family and fans the tournament was once again a success.  Thanking all involved is something I feel I must do as a player and beneficiary of all the hard work put in by our support staff.  Thank You.

As always, it's another great day to be a Buckeye.

SEPTEMBER 4: vs. Gonzaga // Bert & Iris Wolstein Classic
Pregame: This morning was relaxed as I woke up at 10 and got my day started with a little reading and a breakfast of pancakes and orange juice. After catching up on the news I did a little background on our opponent for the night to make sure that I knew as much as possible going into the game. The team met at 2:30 for a pregame meal. 

The lunch's biggest event was the practical joke that was played on Captain Matt Gold.  After much of the team perceived him to be less cordial than normal one of our team members  took it upon himself to send Matt a little something to help cheer him up.  The waitress brought in a small cranberry juice with an array of fruits inside.  If the cranberry juice itself was not enough, the team started a slow clap as the waitress entered the room.  Everyone, including Matt, laughed for a few minutes before finishing the meal.

Postgame: After a strong week of practice the team felt mentally, physically and tactically prepared for the game Friday night.  We took the field confident and strong.  The mentality throughout the game did not change as we fought hard for 110 minutes to result in a tie.  We knew that Gonzaga was going to be a veteran team that had the ability to counter at any chance.  After a disappointing result we all went our separate ways to grab a late night meal with our families. Saturday will be a day of rest as we have a now increasingly important game on Sunday.  What hangs in the balance is not only the Bert and Iris Wolstein Classic but also the chance to get a win before we go on the road. 

As always, it's another great day to be a Buckeye.

AUGUST 28: Trip to Ft. Wayne
Pregame: Our first road trip of the year began this morning with the alarm going off at 8 a.m., taking a shower and making some eggs for breakfast.  By 11:30 the team was storing bags and boarding the bus as the freshmen quickly learned the seating chart for road trips.  The seating arrangements leave the freshmen doubled up while the upperclassmen enjoy a more spacious ride.  Doug (Verhoff), Andrew (Magill) and Danny (Irizarry) reminisce of past road trips and the laughs undoubtedly follow.  When the bus begins to move things tone down as a movie begins to play and headphones are put in.

We stopped for lunch at a great little place in Ft. Wayne and the team all ate spaghetti with breadsticks. From lunch we got back on the bus and relaxed by watching a movie, listening to music or in Doug, Konrad and my case playing electronic Yahtzee.  This time before we actually begin our warm up allows each of us to focus and mentally prepare for the game.  Louisville is a quality team that will give us some great competition and a chance to see where we need to improve as a team before the regular season begins.

Postgame: As expected the game was close.  We will take the film from this game and make the necessary adjustments before we host the Bert and Iris Wolstein Classic next weekend.  After saying hello to friends and family we hit the road again to get back to Columbus.  The bus has quieted down as most of the team is falling asleep and I am thinking I will join them.  It's been another great day to be a Buckeye.

"Normally, I am not a very big "special edition" fan, unless it has to do with clothes branded by a certain former Chicago Bulls player or Ohio State.  Fortunately, the latter is the reason I am writing this.

This Saturday has the potential to be a very special night for the Buckeyes.  I say Buckeyes in the broadest sense.  Whether a native of Ohio or a recent convert, you understand that being a Buckeye is not just about football, although that is a huge part.

A Buckeye is someone who loves all things Ohio State, from Gordon Gee's bowtie to Carmen Ohio, and holds a strong distaste for anything from the University of Michigan.

Saturday night the Big Ten Network is coming to Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium to show on national television that this rivalry is not limited to one sport.

I am asking every Buckeye to dress up in your craziest gear, bring your loudest voice and come behind the men's soccer team as we represent YOU. 

"Our honor defend, we will fight till the end for O-H-I-O"

As always it will be another great day to be a Buckeye.