This week, I wanted to do some more introductions even though we had two very important and disappointing games this past weekend (both of which I will blog about later). Literally half of our team is made up of the sophomore class. Coming in with eleven freshmen last year was a bit hard at first, but we have all grown so close and I would not have it any other way. I am so happy all of the sophomore class decided to return this year as well. I wanted to introduce you all to three of the amazing eleven this week.

Courtney Ball	Ashley Smithberger	Andrea Fisher

First is Courtney Ball (aka Ballsy, Ball, Balls, or Court). Courtney was a late recruit last year when we found out the keeper coming in backed down. I know without a shadow of a doubt that it was all God’s plan in having everything work out so Courtney would be a part of our team. She brings so much energy, hard work, determination, and such a Godly spirit to the team. Being one of the keepers on the team even though she usually doesn’t play much, I am so amazed in seeing how much work she still puts into every practice and any chance she gets to play. I have grown so close to Courtney and just love her. Being in my small group this year, I have seen how close she is to God and how much value she places on her relationship with Him, and it truly amazes and inspires me. She is an irreplaceable player, person, teammate, and friend.

Next is Ashley Smithberger (aka Smashley, Ash, or Berger). I don’t even know where to start describing Ash. She is just 100% all of the time and I love that about her. Whenever she gets the chance to come out onto the pitch, she truly gives it her all and leaves everything she has on the pitch. Off the field, she is such a tender-hearted, caring, generous, and probably one of the most grateful girls I have ever met. She is always looking for ways to help anyone out, even if she already has a ton on her own shoulders. I admire how Ash always keeps an awesome attitude even through not playing very much because of her many multiplying injuries. She always has a smile on her face and a free hug to give away to anyone who needs it. She brings such a joy and a sense of fun and love to our team. It wouldn’t be the same without her.

And now onto Andrea Fisher (aka Fish, A-fish, or Fisher). Fisher, Fisher, Fisher…where to begin? Even with her 5-foot stature, Fish is such a fireball of fun. She is non-stop crazy all of the time. On the pitch, Fish gives all of her effort all of the time. Whether she’s trying to pull a new cheeky move on an unsuspecting defender or if she’s trying to get the ball back from the other team, she never gives up and never slows down. I love seeing Fish always looking to make herself better and always looking for anyway she can help. Even with her random comments, crazy laugh, or her hyper attitude, Fish is a real sweetheart. She even made bracelets for everyone on the team last year, just as a gift. I love being teammates with her, and have loved even more growing so much closer to her this year. I look forward to the rest of this year and my senior year just to see what other random things Fish can come up with. She’s a blast!

All three of these girls have had such a huge impact not only on the team as a whole, but also on me personally. I have learned something important from each and every one of these amazing girls. I am so blessed to call them my teammates, sisters, and close friends. I love them with my whole heart, and I love watching them grow on the pitch as well as spiritually. They are such blessings and individually bring their own uniqueness to our team.