Here's a story:

Once upon a time 

there was a soccer team of 11 and 12-year-old girls.

They played together for several consecutive seasons.

The coach never talked about winning.  

She emphasized passing, and working together as a team.

Two seasons ago their record was 0-8.

After that, their coach bumped them up to a higher division "to challenge them."  I'm pretty sure I wasn't the only parent wondering quietly if she was crazy?!?... 

Again, the following season their practices were not focused on making goals.  They were training to help each other 

and to hone their skills.

The subsequent season their record was 0-8 again.

That coach had a contagious positive attitude.  Despite consecutive losing seasons, the focus was NOT on wins or losses.  They liked playing soccer as a team, they recognized improvements and working together was fun.

Then that crazy coach bumped them back down a division and continued to focus on teamwork.

THIS season, their record was 8-0.

There were no single superstars.

EVERY.GIRL.SCORED.

On Saturday they competed 
in a lively tournament.

Speaking of 8's, they play 8 v 8 in their matches all season, and there are only 9 girls on the team.  On a good day, this meant ONE sub.  When injuries occurred, often this meant playing NO subs, or even playing one girl short of a full team on the field.

They worked HARD!

They won their first three games, 

and qualified for the championship match.

 Any guesses as to who clinched the title?

 It was an amazing 

(and lengthy) 

road to travel with these girls.

 Congratulations 

to the 

Nashoba Cup U12 Girls Champions!!

 And to a coaching staff with vision.

 I happen to be a fan with a favorite player.

CONGRATS Rooney!!!

 In my book, you're a SUPERstar.