MIDDLETOWN – Coach Florin Martin of the West Virginia U14 Lady Stingers says that the four and a half hour drive to Middletown for the 2006 Midfest Classic was well worth it. You might say that is a great statement since they are the U14 Silver Division Champions for this year.
Martin says that he brought his team up to the Midfest in Middletown, Ohio because, “It’s great competition…well organized. We came last year.”
After losing 1-0 to the Elite FC U14 Girls team in the third round, Martin told his team, “There is no tragedy in losing.” He went on to ask the girls if they felt they played their hardest; if they were at peace with themselves. He added that once you feel a peace with yourself, you played your best and that’s all there is.
His speech influenced the girls because they were in for a treat. The Stingers had to take on the Elite FC team again in the final match.
The West Virginia Stingers took the lead in the overtime with a goal from Savannah Thomas, assisted by Nicole Martin. The Elite tied it up but Nicole Martin put the winning goal for the Stingers into the back of the net with less than three minutes remaining in overtime.
Martin reflects, “It was a great match. It’s fun to come all the way from West Virginia to play meaningful soccer. Winning is icing on the cake and everyone was happy. We couldn’t ask for a better end of parents. They felt the effort, and travel, was well worth it.”
PHOTO: Coach Martin gives his girls a post game speech after their loss to the Elite FC U14 Girls 1-0. Martin’s speech had strong influence on the girls as they won the championship game in overtime later that day.