Lesson #1: Don't Lose at Soccer Tennis

We had a bet and I lost. Whoever won at soccer tennis would have the pleasure of filming the other player suffer as they did 50 push-ups on the wet court. On top of that, the video would get posted on the internet for all to see. Obviously, I didn't take into account our past matches. I have never defeated the Footy Guru at this game... yet. Just as I defeated Fleck in the 1 v 1 side netting challenge, I will eventually overtake him in every aspect of the game. This defeat will only motivate me to push harder to reach new heights.

No Soccer in the House?

Commercial definitely reminds me of my current living situation. Every night my roommates and I are either trying to nutmeg each other, playing MUFF in the spare room, or competing in a hallway passing game. We have not broken anything major yet... but it is bound to happen eventually.

Soccer House Hallway Game

Our Hallway Game is simple.

Each player stands on opposite sides of the hallway. One ball is used in the game. The aim of the game is to one touch pass the ball back to your opponent without the ball touching the walls. If you hit the ball against the wall the other player gets a point. It can be incredibly challenging to return a serve.

First player to score five points is the winner. You can score points whether you are serving or not. You have to win by two and we have a rule that you can't lose on your own serve. This allows you to be aggressive with your serve if you are about to lose the match.

We take all challengers. So come on over and get ready for some hallway action.

Official Preseason SPL Rankings

After a series of preseason rankings matches over the past week, the commissioner of the SPL (Soccer Pong League) has prepared the rankings for the upcoming season. Players needed to play a minimum of 3 rankings matches to be considered. Regular season matches will commence in the coming weeks leading up to the inaugural knock-out tournament. These rankings are fact, and therefore non-negotiable.

1. Bryan: A fierce competitor with impeccable shooting form. He holds an unblemished record, but he has been known to extend his elbows past the 18 yard box. In the regular season the officials will need to clamp down on this tactic. Bryan was also the inventor of the 4-4-2, using the diamond midfield. This formation has revolutionized the way teams play in the SPL.
2. Joe: Often playing as Bryan's teammate, Joe has only lost a single match. He sits at #2 due to playing fewer rankings games. It may prove difficult for Joe to retain his high ranking in the coming weeks. Joe has been known to show the Situation in hopes of distracting his opponents.
3. Drew: Came into the weekend as an unknown. Served as a key contributor for every team he played for. His behind the back trick shots could use work.
4. Ross: Had a few solid performances over the weekend. Tallest player in the field allows for an unparalleled arching shot.
5. Fogg: An unconventional player. Perhaps one of the deadliest shooters in the field, but is known for tipping over his defenders during play. He also takes naps against the back wall demonstrating a lack of desire. Fogg is the only player in SPL history to hit a behind the back shot in regulation, and he played Bryan to a double OT thriller.
6. Juan: Shows plenty of heart on the pitch, but he has yet to find his stroke. Often relies on the bounce shot to get his points. This usually requires bush league tactics to distract the other team.

Bryan's 4-4-2. Has become the formation of choice.

Standard 4-4-2

3-5-2

3-4-3. With 2 withdrawn forwards.

Trophy Room Contest

As you all know I moved back to LO this past week with some buddies and we have a special room dedicated for our trophy collections. It just so happens we have 4 quadrants in the trophy case, so each roommate will have their own section for display. Right now its a tight race between myself and Joe for top honors. You be the judge. For a full list of medals, achievements, and souvenirs featured in each case you will have to schedule a house tour.

Footy Guru

Fogg Machine

Introducing the LO Soccer House

Today I started moving some of my possessions back to Lake Oswego. I'll be living with three of the coolest people I know (holding tryouts for a fourth in the coming months) and the house is all about the sport of soccer. We all play, we all support different clubs, and some of us even work around the sport. The backyard is sure to have some intense small sided footy games go down. We may need to invest in some small goals to set-up on each side of the lawn. Freestyle sessions are sure to go down in the courtyard as well. Check the video out for a look at the space we have available for activities.

Courtyard features an outdoor fireplace and awning to cover a pong table.

Trophy room will feature all our youth medals from the olden days. Indoor tourney trophies are sure to start piling up once we can all practice daily in the backyard.

I'll leave you with a quote from my mom when she told me we could move into the house. Every time I tell my future roommates they start cracking up, but what she says is true. We should all be moved in by early next week. Looking forward to it.

"You are going to have a good life there Mikey"

- Mrs. Fogg