In scheduling, we knew there was only one way to find out how good we are and that is to play the best. We have a tremendous opportunity this fall to test ourselves. Between the Big Ten being one of the best conferences in the country from top to bottom and the quality of our non-conference opponents, we'll see where we stand. The goal is to be playing into late November.

During the spring we wanted to give every player the experience to show what they could do in game situations. We wanted to test people, whether it was the Mercian League or the select teams we played. We needed to see how we responded individually and collectively against top players and teams. We were happy to see how we responded as a team.

I am really proud of the way the team competed throughout the league. We showed tremendous growth in our three competition dates. The league is an integral part of our spring season. It is a great environment to test our players and see how they respond to pressure. Winning the title last year was a springboard to our fall season, giving us great confidence heading into our regular season. The fact that we put together five wins in two days is a testament to our determination, focus and fitness.

This is a well-rounded class that suits the needs of this team. The class of 2010 adds speed and versatility for our offense along with strong, resilient defenders.

If we play with the type of tempo that we did in the first half, then we're going to be tough to beat. We were really hustling and beating them to the ball. In the second half they really upped the pressure on us and we had to adjust. But this win is great for our kids. They have been so consistent all season and have really worked hard.

We need to have anchors on every line on the field, from forward to back to goal; players that have the fitness and skills to help the team build play and have the mental and physical strength to ride through a game's tough moments. Coming away from the spring, we were pleased with the number of anchors that emerged.