|
94 Keeper Gains National Exposure |
By JOSH WESSLER (
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
)
of the Journal Star
Posted Dec 23, 2009 @ 09:42 PM
One of the last things a soccer goalkeeper wants while on the field is to be left exposed to an attacking offense. But exposure is exactly what Daniel Sinclair will be seeking this weekend when he takes to the pitch at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Fla., to compete in the U.S. Youth Soccer Olympic Development Winter Interregional tournament. “I’m hoping to truly see what’s out there in the country competition-wise,” said Sinclair, a Richwoods sophomore coming off his second season in goal for the varsity. “These ODP teams, it’s the best of the best playing each other. I’m looking forward to being exposed to that type of competition and environment.” As one of two goalkeepers selected for the 1994 Region II team, which is comprised of 18 players from 14 Midwestern states, Sinclair will have an opportunity to test his skills against some of the best competition his age group offers.
Although Sinclair doesn’t know exactly what to expect when he and his team kick off the four-day round-robin tournament at6:30 p.m. Sunday against Region I (East), he knows the process a player goes through to qualify for an ODP team will ensure there will be more than enough offensive talent to go around. Players are selected for the ODP teams through a series of trials at the local, state and regional level. “Obviously you have to step up your game as a goalie,” said Sinclair, whose performance at an ODP tournament last summer earned him a spot on the roster. “It’s almost unfair to us at times,’’ he said. “Our defense on the regional team, I thought, was pretty solid, from what I remember. Hopefully we’re not overwhelmed by offense and our defense will hold up.” With a large number of college coaches expected to be attending the four-day round robin, Sinclair also will have the chance to build a reputation among potential suitors. If all goes well, he might even earn a spot on the 1994 US Youth Soccer ODP National Team. A trip to Costa Rica with the Region II team in February also is a possibility. “It’s exciting,” Sinclair said. “If I put on a really good performance in Orlando ... you just never know.” Josh Wessler can be reached at 686-3214 or
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
.
Copyright 2009 pjstar.com. Some rights reserved
|
|
Last Updated ( Thursday, 13 May 2010 21:04 )
|