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Tuesday, February 27 OCELOTS STRIKE FOR GOLD, SILVER & BRONZE AT AAU'S All three Ocelot teams returned from sunny and warm Orlando, Florida with medals. Two Under-12 teams and one Under-16 team participated in the AAU/Disney Championship which was held at the Disney Wide World of Sports. Ocelot Blue won the gold medal in the Under-12 division defeating a determined Ocelot White team 3-1. Both teams played at a very high level of energy and both were clearly the class of that division. Three other teams competed in the Under-12 division and both Ocelot teams went undefeated against them. The Under-16 team came home from the AAU Championship with the bronze medal. With a team comprised of 6 starters age 12 or younger, the Ocelots competed well against the older teams. The lost the silver medal game against Seacoast 1-0 in a hotly contested match. For photos from the AAU Championship visit: http://image.aausports.org/sports/field_hockey/2007/springclassic/webphotos/ Friday, February 16 OCELOTS SET FOR AAU CHAMPIONSHIPS
Although, the teams practices have been hampered a bit recently due to the bad weather in the mid-Atlantic area, the Ocelots will be ready, according to Head Coach, John Kovach. " We were lucky before February with some good weather. That allowed us to practice and train for this event. Recently, its been tough, but all three Ocelot teams have some good athletes, who possess good speed and skills. We are all excited about being in Florida." The AAU Championship Tournament schedule is: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23 8AM - Ocelot Blue vs Aventura I 9AM - Ocelot White vs Aventura III 9AM - Ocelots U-16 vs Blast of Chaos (U-14) 11AM - Ocelots U-16 vs Blast of Chaos (U-16) 12PM - Ocelot White vs Excelsior (Jamaica) 2PM - Ocelot Blue vs Aventura II SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24 8AM - Ocelots U-16 vs Seacoast (U-14) 9AM - Ocelot Blue vs Aventura III 10AM - Ocelot White vs Aventura I 10AM - Ocelots U-16 vs Seacoast (U-16) **the rest of the schedule for all three teams is to be determined after this based on where they stand in their respective pools.** Thursday, November 23 OCELOTS SCORES FROM THE NATIONAL FESTIVAL Thursday: Ocelots 1 No Limit 1 Buckeyes 1 Ocelots 0 Friday: Aim 4 Ocelots 0 Pocono 1 Ocelots 0 Saturday: Nomads 1 Ocelots 0 Ocelots 2 Quik Stix 0 Friday, September 15 OCELOTS HAVE A NEW LOOK
Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach commented on the new team, "this is a new beginning for this group of players. There are a lot of very young players on the roster - we may end up being the youngest team at the Festival, and there are over 2,000 field hockey players at that event! What's exciting to me is the newness and enthusiasm of these girls. As a coach, having patience now with these girls is important, as well as teaching them. The parents and fans of Ocelot hockey, who are used to great results thru the years, will have to be patient too. Great results may not come right away - but they will come! I really like this group - they're gonna be ok." The 2006 Ocelot Under-16 Team roster for the National Hockey Festival: Haley Barker Sarah Bates Emily Cain Dana Craft Danee Fitzgerald Jill Genovese Danielle Grassi Amy Keth Nicky Lertora Pauline Lombardo Erica Marshall Megan Mornini Haley Pegg Allie Pickens Faith Twigg Paige Twigg Idrienne Walker More info on the National Hockey Festival may be found at: www.usfieldhockey.com Sunday, July 2 GRASSI SELECTED TO U.S.A. SQUAD
In addition, the tournament was a "selection" event for the U.S. Men's National and Junior National Teams. Based on Alex's excellent play at the event, he was chosen as a member of the 2006 Men's U.S.A. Under-18 Team. In its first year, the National Championship tournament featured 128 athletes on four men's regional teams and four men's junior teams competing for top honors and for spots on the 2006-07 USA National Squad. "We are really thrilled with the event," said U.S. men's high performance coach Nick Conway. "For the first year of the event, it was better than we could have expected. The quality of play was very high and the athletes had an enjoyable time. We feel it was a great success and now we just have to make sure we use this to move forward productively with the men's program." In addition, Ocelot Head Coach John Kovach commented, " I am very proud of the effort that Alex has continued to demonstrate in the sport of field hockey. He is a player that everyone associated with the Ocelots should be proud of. Alex is a testiment to what can be accomplished with hard work and perseverance." Monday, May 15 THE OCELOTS AND THE CAL CUP
Why do the Ocelots have the close relationship with the Cal Cup that they have? This question, along with others was presented to Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach, with about a week before the team departs for the 2006 Cal Cup, by interviewer Ron Nagaer. Q - Why do the Ocelots attend the Cal Cup each year? A - Ever since my first trip to the Cal Cup in 1998, as an Assistant Coach with the U.S.A. Under-19 Women's Team, I realized that the Cal Cup was a perfect event for our hockey program. When I stood there in '98, and on one field saw International and Olympic players competing and on a nearby field saw both girls and boys playing in the U-9 Division, I knew that this was a perfect match for us. Q - When did the Ocelots first attend the Cal Cup and how did they do? A - The Ocelots attended the Cal Cup for the first time in 1999. When I look back at that team, we had some very good future players - both girls and boys. I mean, 4 of them have represented the U.S.A. and now, several of the members of that team will be playing Division 1 collegiate hockey this fall. Believe it or not, with all that "future" talent, we only came in 5th place in the U-12 Division. At that time though, we thought that was outstanding! Q - Have the Ocelots ever won a Gold medal at the Cal Cup? A - We have been fortunate to have won Gold twice at the Cal Cup. The first was in 2001 with a U-16 Girls team, many of whom were on that 1999 team. The Gold Medal game came down to us winning a penalty stroke shootout. Jamie Perez, our Captain at the time, made the deciding stroke. The second was with the U-12 Team in 2003. That team was nicknamed the "Desert Crew." Q - Where did that name come from? A - That year, I decided to fly the team into Phoenix, Arizona and drive from there to Los Angeles. That meant going through the Sonoran Desert. Along the way, we stopped in a remote spot off of Interstate 10 for a training session. Lets just say it was pretty hot that afternoon. The kids did a great job and after winning gold at the Cal Cup, the name "Desert Crew" stuck with them. Q - And that rock that I've heard so much about next to the Ocelot turf? A - (laughing), Yes, that comes from the same adventure! When we stopped to train in the desert, we couldn't get the goalie bags open, where we had stored the cones that we use as markers for our running. Homeland Security had sealed the bags very securely for the air flight. So, I went and got a rather large rock out of the desert sand to use as a marker. When our training was over, I told the team that we would carry the rock to L.A. and if we won Gold, that we would bring the rock back to Maryland and that it would always have a prominent place by our field. Well, the rest is history... Q - Has the tournament changed at all since 1999? A - I think only is small subtle ways. So many teams want into this tournament, that they now have to have some of the fields at Cal Lutheran University rather than Moorpark. This had an impact when the Ocelots fielded a U-19 team. There is no atmosphere as great as that at Moorpark for a field hockey event. My opinion is that even the USFHA National Festival pales in comparison to the Cal Cup, for what a true hockey tournament should be all about. In the younger divisions, the teams from the Republic of China are still the teams to beat. They are so well schooled and so fundamentally sound - I love the opportunity for my players to compete against them. Q - How do the Ocelots look this year as the Cal Cup approaches? A - Our fitness, for the most part, is in place for the players that I think will have the most impact on any success we have. I have seen some fantastic progress from some of my players throughtout the year. I am hoping that our defense will be sound. In a tournament, that is so important. I named a second year player as Captain today, Erica Marshall. She signifies what I want in a player - someone who puts "team" above all else (especially herself), who works hard 100% of the time and who is not afraid to play hard nosed defense. If we get that from the rest of the team, we'll have a chance... Still, there are more than a few question marks. I'm still not sure where we can get consistent scoring from. The players have above average stickwork as a whole, but some of them still wait too long to pull the trigger. Our goalkeeping is a question mark. Anytime a young goalie starts her first major tournament, you're never sure what to expect. If she plays "hot", then she could carry us far at the Cal Cup. Still, all these players will play hard and are not afriad to get in their "opponents face." As long as that mentality is in place, we'll be ok! Q - What are the plans to the trip? A - Well this trip is quite a bit different than any we have ever gone on! I know we are all excited about it. We will be flying in to Las Vegas and then going to Death Valley to see many of the sights that I have told the team about. The second day there, we will be doing the First Annual Hike 4 Hockey, up Wildrose Peak. The players and the entire 9-12 class has been getting pledges for this hike. The money will help the Ocelots defray many of the skyrocketing costs of attending events like the Cal Cup each year. Wildrose Peak overlooks Death Valley and goes up over 9,000 feet in elevation. I'm not worried at all about the players making this hike - it's more the coaches and staff I'm concerned about!! Q - What about after the hike? A - After the hike, we will spend the night in a desert town and then leave for Los Angeles the next morning. We will practice that afternoon and relax before opening up competition the next day. Q - Final question - what are your hopes for your team? A - I want them, first of all, to really enjoy the first two days around Death Valley. They have earned that! Once we get to the Cal Cup, I want them to play hard and show the rest of the teams what Ocelot hockey is all about. I want them to realize through this experience, the value of hard work and preparation, for anything worthwhile in life. But even more importantly, I want them to enjoy the moment, the great hockey, the team comraderie, and an experience that so many kids their age never get to enjoy! I want this trip to be one that each of them will always remember. For more information about the Cal Cup, visit: www.CalCup.net Thursday, May 11 CALIFORNIA CUP GAME SCHEDULE SET
Saturday, May 27: Ocelots vs Cool Cats - 8:30 AM Ocelots vs Black Hawks - 1:30 PM Sunday, May 28: Ocelots vs Junior Flyers - 12:30 PM Ocelots vs Wizards - 5:30 PM Monday, May 29: Ocelots vs Republic of China - 9:30 AM The medal games for the U-13 Division will take place at 1:30 PM. Results and photos will be available at this website as well as the Hike4Hockey website as they become available each day of the tournament. For a complete schedule of all the Cal Cup games in all divisions, visit the tournament website at: www.CalCup.net Friday, April 28 THE 2006 CAL CUP TEAM
Friday, April 28
OCELOTS BEGIN CAL CUP PREPARATIONS The Ocelots have begun preparations for the 2006 California Cup, which they will be attending for the 8th year in a row. The International Tournment, which features teams from all corners of the world, is held at Moorpark College, near Los Angeles, over Memorial Day weekend. The Ocelots will have one team entered this year - an Under-13 Team. The Cal Cup features a variety of age group teams, from under-9, all the way up to Olympic level Super Division Teams and also a Veterans Division. The team will be traveling from Baltimore to Las Vegas and then driving directly to the Death Valley area, to embark on the First Annual "Hike 4 Hockey" on May 25th. This hike will help raise funds for the yearly Ocelot activites. From there, the team will travel to Moorpark, for a day of practice and "settling in" before the games begin on May 27th. The Under-13 roster includes: Allie Pickens Danielle Grassi Sam Gasbara Tyler Hockensmith Alex Grzybowski Robin Van Houtten Joe Boarman Erica Marshall - Captain Sarah Bates Amy Keth Haley Barker Nicky Lertora Idrienne Walker More information to follow about the Cal Cup in the near future. Results and photos will be here from CA, from both the Cal Cup and the Hike 4 Hockey from May 24-May 29. Also check: www.eteamz.com/ocelots-hike4hockey Monday, March 6 OCELOTS ARE GOLDEN AT AAU'S
The Under-12 Team beat Aventura I by the score of 3-1, to defend their Gold medal won in 2005. A strong effort was put forth by the team to go undefeated during the 3 day event. At the same time, the Under-14 team was defeating SeaCoast U-14's by a score of 1-0. This is the second straight year that the U-14's have defeated SeaCoast for the AAU title. During the course of the 3 day tournamnet, the team lost only one game and outcorned their opponents 52-21 on their way to Gold! Congratulations to both teams for a job well done! Friday, April 21
Tuesday, March 7 THE 2006 AAU FIELD HOCKEY CHAMPIONS
Saturday, March 4 OCELOTS GOING FOR GOLD
The Under-12 team had two impressive victories on Saturday. They first defeated the Cardinals (PA) by a 6-1 score. In the playoff semi-final game that followed, the team defeated Aventura II by a 7-0 score. The Gold Medal game is at 10:00 AM. The Under-14 team achieved two wins and a tie on Saturday, that cliiched a berth in the U-14 Gold medal game. The first game was a 3-0 win over Blast of Chaos (PA). That win was followed by a 2-0 win over Sea Coast U-14. In the final match, the Ocelots and Sea Coast U-16 tied 1-1. The Ocelots will play the winner of the Blast of Chaos vs Sea Coast U-16 at 10:00 AM tomorrow. Friday, March 3 OCELOTS BEGIN AAU CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Under-14 Team opened with a 2-1 loss to Shore Under-16 Team. The Ocelots performed well and played with great intensity against a much older team. In the loss, the Ocelots out-corned the Shore team 8-2. In the second contest of the day, the Ocelots tied the Sea Coast Under-16 team 0-0. Competition continues tomorrow with the U-12's having 2 games and the U-14's having 3 games. Thursday, February 16 3 OCELOTS INKED FOR COLLEGE
Annika Alexander-Ozinskas has signed with Stanford University, Christina Boarman has signed with Towson University, and Jamie Perez has signed with Towson University. All three of these players began playing at age 6 in what became the Ocelot program. They were all members of the first Ocelot team that travelled to the 1999 California Cup and won gold medals at both the Cal Cup and the National Hockey Festival during their time on the squad. All three have been the recipients of honors during their high school field hockey careers. Alexander-Ozinskas played at Garrison Forest School, Boarman at St. Paul's School for Girls and Perez played at Glenelg Country School. Ocelot Head Coach John Kovach commented, " I am very proud of these three outstanding student-athletes." All are original Ocelots, and it has been rewarding to watch them grow as players and as people. I feel that all three have their best days ahead as players, and they should be positive assets to the programs that they are joining next fall. The fact that they are continuing to play at the Division 1 level, is a great motivator for my younger female players, who are now just beginning to get serious about the game. I am very proud of all three, and all of us in the Ocelot "family" wish them the best for their collegiate experience." Thursday, February 16 NEW ERA BEGINS FOR OCELOTS A new generation of Ocelots will embark on their first tournament without an "older" team in place above them, as the 2006 U-14 and U-12 Ocelot teams travel to Orlando, Florida for the 2006 AAU Disney Classic. The U-19 team played its final tournament together at the 2005 National Hockey Festival in West Palm Beach, Florida over Thanksgiving. Now, these young Ocelot players will begin the journey to make their own mark and to follow in the footsteps of some of the excellent players that have preceeded them. The AAU Championship will be played at the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex at Disney World. The tournament begins on March 2nd and runs through March 5th. Teams from various different regions of the United States are expected to attend. The Under-12 team will be coached by Lynette Mitzel, Head Field Hockey Coach at Towson University. The Under-14 Team will be coached by John Kovach, Assistant Field Hockey Coach at Towson University. He will be assisted by Vicki Sutton. Kovach commented on the tournament," we are excited about attending the AAU's again this year. This is a great opportunity for all of our players to gain valuable experience and have a great time in Florida. There will be many young players on both squads. This group has been working hard and had a great week of practice before the blizzard hit last weekend. Although our practice time will be limited in the next two weeks, I know the players will be ready when we get to the warm weather in Florida." Kovach continued," I am especially anxious to see how this group of girls perfoms that are on the U-14 team. Our goal is to "push up" into the U-16 division later this year, if these younger players progress in a positive manner. Only time will tell about that, but this tournament will be an excellent barometer of where we are, and where we need to go in the next few months." Information about the AAU Disney Classic can be found at: www.aausports.org Friday, February 17 OCELOT AAU ROSTERS ANNOUNCED The Ocelot rosters for the 2006 AAU Disney Classic: Under-14 Team Paige Twigg Kelly McCabe Allie Pickens Danielle Grassi Sam Gasbara Erica Marshall Idrienne Walker Haley Barker Nicole Lertora Amy Keth Elaine McCabe Joe Boarman Sam Harris Jill Genovese Robin Van Houten - inj Emily Cain - inj Under-12 Team Tyler Hockensmith Alex Grzybowski Sarah Bates Griffin Alcorn Isaac Gasbara Joe Pickens Justin Weathers Justin Bates Stephanie Histon Lizzie Brown Jake Ryan Jacob Harris
Saturday, July 17 OCELOTS ATTEND TEAM CAMP AT UNC
Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach commented, "the girls had a great week at camp. Their head coach, Cindy Werley, was one of the greatest collegiate players ever. She is currently as assistant at Carolina. The girls also loved working with Karen Mann, a current player for Carolina. Our team will benefit from the high intensity of some of our games and the pressure that we were put under for 60 minutes. I feel the each and every player greatly benefitted from this experience." **see photos from the UNC Camp below**
Tuesday, July 6 OCELOTS ACHIEVE HIGH HONORS
Samantha Nelson, Ocelot goalkeeper and member of the U.S.A. Under-16 Team, was selected as a 2004 Junior Olympian. She will play at the 2004 Junior Olympics which will be held in Des Moines, Iowa in August. Samantha was also the first Ocelot to be selected to B Camp, which is a National Team selection Camp, which will be held in late July. Also, Christina Boarman and Ocelot GK Julia Young will join Nelson at the Junior Olympics. Both were selected based on their play at the National Futures Tournament. Finally, Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach, was recently named as one of the coaches at the Junior Olympics. This will be his third stint as a Junior Olympics coach, having previously coached at the Junior Olympics in New Orleans, LA and Charlotte, NC. For more information about the Junior Olympics go to: www.aausports.org PAIN IS WEAKNESS LEAVING THE BODY The question isn't how much more can you take... But how much more can you give... Just when you're ready to quit, your mind says push harder... You listen sensing an inner strength that wasn't there before... And suddenly you discover...you no longer feel the pain... Now you know the training has paid off.
Thursday, June 3 OCELOTS U-13 EARN CAL CUP SILVER
The Under-13 Team began the Cal Cup with a very convincing 10-0 win over the Roadrunners. The team was led by Alex Grassi and Nathan Kam, who both played with spirit and determination. In the second game of the day, the Ocelots were matched up against the team that they had defeated for the 2003 Gold Medal - West Vancouver(Canada). West Vancouver scored an early controversial goal, which stood up for the rest of the game, as the Ocelots fell 1-0. Coach John Kovach commented about the team after the game, "the team was really feeling bad after that one. I pulled my Captains together privately to remind them that the medals in tournaments are not won on Saturday, but are won on Monday. As long as we still had a chance to be one of the top two teams in our pool, we still had a chance. It was the Captains job to make that message clear to their team." When the Ocelots played their first game on Day 2, it was obvious that the Captains had done their job! In the first game, the Ocelots defeated Kaos 8-1. Ian Kingsley led the way with a "hat trick" and played with great passion. Other key players were Kelly McCabe, Malcolm Belin, Alex Grassi, Paige Twigg and Kevin Ngo. All that was left was for the Ocelots to win their last game against the Surfers, and the team would return to the Medal Round. In that last game the team turned in a solid workman-like 7-0 win. All the players on the team contributed, including Neal Hassel, Taylor Nelson, Tyler Crowe and GK Emily Cain. Cain, who had recently been selected to the National Futures Tournament as a 12 year old (in the Under-16 Division) was solid throughout the entire tournament in allowing only 3 total goals. In the medal round, for the second year in a row, the Ocelots rolled over the Raptors in their semi-final game. The final score was 5-0 and the game was never in doubt. For the third straight year, the team was headed to the Gold Medal game. In the other semi-final, Taipei defeated West Vancouver 1-0. Against Taipei, the Ocelots were facing a skilled and fit opponent. The game turned out to be a classic Gold Medal battle between two heavyweights. The first half was scoreless, with both teams trading great scoring opportunities. Alex Grassi was all over the field creating great chances for the Ocelot forwards. In the second half, the trend continued - Grassi or Nathan Kam would create chances and the Ocelots "just failed to click" on numerous occasions. With about 12 minutes to go in the game, Taipei scored a goal on a hard shot to the long side of the goal. With a 1-0 lead, the Taipei players began to just send the ball upfield, creating very few additional scoring chances for them, but using a lot of valuable time in the process. On the other hand, the Ocelots continued to attack. Time after time, scoring opportunities were just missed and the last 2 minutes were frantic. The Ocelots missed one final golden opportunity as time expired, as the Ocelots fell 1-0. On the sidelines, both teams agreed that the Gold Medal game was one of the best games ever held at the Cal Cup in the Minor Divisions. The Ocelots were also the closest team to nearly beat Taipei for Gold at the Cal Cup. Head U-13 Coach Vicki Sutton commented to the team, "I am proud of all of you and you should all hold your heads up. You played a great game and left nothing on the field..." 2004 California Cup Results: Under-11 (Coach Lynette Mitzel): Ocelots 2 Bulldogs 0 Wizards 3 Ocelots 2 Ocelots 9 Bay Cool Cats 0 Taipei 3 Ocelots 1 Surfers 2 Ocelots 0 Under-13 (Coach Vicki Sutton): Ocelots 10 Roadrunners 0 West Vancouver 1 Ocelots 0 Ocelots 8 Kaos 1 Ocelots 7 Surfers 0 Ocelots 5 Raptors 0 Taipei 1 Ocelots 0 (Silver Medalists) Under-19 (Coach John Kovach): Ocelots 6 San Jose 0 Ocelots 5 Hollywood 0 Ocelots 4 Falcons 0 Ocelots 5 Flyers 0 Camarillo Cougars 1 Ocelots 0 (medal round play-in game)
Thursday, June 3 6 OCELOTS SELECTED TO NATIONAL FUTURES TOURNAMENT Congratulations to the following Ocelots who were chosen to compete at the United States Field Hockey Association's 2004 National Futures Tournament in Virginia Beach, VA in early July: Under-14 Division: Julia Young (GK) Under-16 Division: Annika Alexander-Ozinskas Christina Boarman Emily Cain (GK) Samantha Nelson (GK) Under-19 Division: Alison Bullock
Wednesday, October 26 OCELOTS ATTENDING NATIONAL HOCKEY FESTIVAL
The "face" of the Ocelots will be very different than in years past. Seven of the fourteen players on the roster are first-timers on the U-19 team. The roster includes an "age range" of players from ages 10-17. The roster includes veteran Ocelots and team Captains, Christina Boarman and Jamie Perez, as well as U.S.A. Under-21 National Team goalkeeper, Samantha Nelson. Boarman and Perez, both original Ocelots, who both recently verbally committed to play collegiate field hockey at Towson University next fall, will be playing in potentially their final "major" tournament as Ocelots. The roster also includes tournament tested players, Alicia Thompson (12th grade), Pauline Lombardo (10th grade) and Jen Ginolfi (11th grade). The rest of the roster includes both young Ocelots (who are moving up from the U-12/U-14 team for this event) and Ocelot "newcomers." They include, Paige Twigg (8th grade), Kelly McCabe (7th grade), Danielle Grassi (6th grade), Allie Pickens (6th grade), Jill Genovese (GKer-6th grade), Sarah Bates (GKer-5th grade), Sophie Daly (11th grade), Melissa Pazornik (11th grade), and Christine Knauss (9th grade). Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach, assessing the team for the 2005 Festival commented, "this is a very different look than we have ever had for a major tournament. The U-19 team is in a transition phase, which means that we have several veteran players on the roster and then quite a few young players. Several of the young players, will be part of the core of our upcoming Under-16 Team, which will begin play later this spring. I am excited for my senior players - Jamie, Christina and Alicia. I want them to have a great time at this event, and for them to help show the younger players, what it takes to be successful on the field. This is also a very important event for my high school underclassmen. I'm sure that many eyes will be on them from college coaches - it will be their time to shine! Although we never have the time to prepare the way I would like for this event, I know the girls will be ready to compete." For more information about the National Hockey Festival, visit: www.usfieldhockey.com Tuesday, July 26 NELSON SELECTED TO USA UNDER-21 SQUAD
Nelson is the second, and first female goalkeeper, to be selected to a U.S.A. Under-21 team. Last winter, Ocelot goalkeeper Andrew Zayac was selected to the men's Under-21 National Team. Zayac was also 16 years old at the time. The Ocelot program is the first ever to have two goalkeepers representing the United States on an Under-21 team at the same time - on both the men's and women's teams. Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach commented, "Samantha came to my goalkeeper camp at Ocelot turf field early this afternoon and told me the news. Obviously, I am very proud of her and this accomplishment. As we discussed at that time, she still has lots and lots of work and challenges ahead of her. The pace of the game will be a major adjustment for her, but with time and experience she will be a quality goalkeeper at the elite levels. She has an inner drive and determination that are great qualities for a goalkeeper. I saw those traits in her as far back as when she was on our Ocelot under-12 team. She is a great role model and inspiration for all of the very young Ocelot goalkeepers that hope to follow her path in the future. We are all happy for her and proud of her." Saturday, June 4 OCELOTS ACHIEVE CAL CUP SUCCESS
The Ocelots had two Under-11 teams, one Under-13 team and one Under-19 team entered in the tournament. The teams came back with one silver medal and one bronze medal. The under-13 team had an outstanding tournament, making it all the way to the Gold Medal game. In the final, the Ocelots lost to Taipei 4-0, but played hard and had outstanding efforts by all of the players. In the most exciting game of the tournament, the U-13's defeated the Bulldogs in the Championship semi-finals in a penalty stroke competition. The game ended regular time tied at 2-2. In the first set of strokes, the Ocelots found themselves trailing 3 strokes to 1 stroke, with 2 strokes left for both teams. A great low shot by Kevin Ngo, kept the Ocelots alive, which was followed by a save by Emily Cain. Then, Ian Kingsley scored on a hard shot that snuck between the Bulldog goalkeepers pads. Still, the pressure was on, but Emily Cain once gain thwarted the Bulldogs. The first round of strokes ended up tied 3-3. In the second "best of five" round, the Ocelots took an early lead on an outstanding stroke by Paige Twigg and then Cain closed the door with solid saves from there. Coach Vicki Sutton was animated and vocal throughout the stroke competition and savoured the come from behind victory - one of the greatest comebacks by any Ocelot team in tournament play. The Under-11 Blue team earned a bronze medal, defeating the Surfers in the Bronze medal game 1-0. Two teams from the Republic of China took the Gold and Silver. In the same division, the Ocelot White team achieved a 5th place finish. John Kovach commented, "both of these U-11 teams did an outstanding job at the Cal Cup. Out of 12 teams, we had a 3rd and a 5th place finish. No U.S.A. team ended up ahead of us for a medal. What was great about this event for us, is that so many young boys and girls got to experience it. The Cal Cup is "second to none" as a field hockey tournament. I couldn't be prouder of these kids - they all played very hard and with high energy and passion." The one disappointment was the result of the U-19 team. The squad ended up with a 3 win and 1 loss record, and with the exception of one game, could have beaten any opponent in the U-19 Division. Still, a 2-1 loss to Quicksilver in the second game, cost the Ocelots a shot for the medal round. This was the second straight year that the Ocelots have fallen one goal short of the medal round at the Cal Cup. Kovach commented," I know that I reflect the feelings of all the girls that we are disappointed. Still, the girls have learned lessons from this, and that is important. They trained hard for this event and I am proud of the girls that made this trip for their committment and their devotion to the preparation. It wasn't easy, we had many early workouts in the cold of winter. Still, all of this work only puts a team in a position for success; it doesn't ever guarantee that success. Hopefully, this will be a life lesson for this outstanding group of players." Tuesday, May 10 OCELOTS PREPARING FOR 2005 CAL CUP
The Ocelots will send two Under-11 teams, one Under-13 team and one Under-19 team to the tournament. Last year, the Under-13 team came home with the Silver Medal, loosing a hard fought Championship match to Taipei. A very young Under-11 team came in 4th place at the 2004 Cal Cup. Many of those players return this year, for a chance to advance to the medal round. With those players, are a large group of 9 and 10 year old boys and girls, who will competing in their first Cal Cup. John Kovach commented," this is a year of change for our younger teams. We have many new players on those teams, and this is a chance for them to grow as players and to gain experience. Gone are some very good veteran players, and it will be up to some of these younger players to really step it up at the Cal Cup." On the other end of the spectrum in the Ocelot Under-19 team. This is a veteran team, with players who have a great deal of tournament experience. Last years team, left the Cal Cup in disappointment, failing to reach the medal round. They are hoping for better results, this time around. Kovach said," I know that every member of this team is anxious for the Cal Cup. Our preparation began in December. We spent many cold Thursday nights practicing and training indoors in the winter, we have concentrated on both our fitness and our skills. Rather than playing in an indoor league, we practiced and trained. Now that the weather is warmer, the girls are getting used to 6:30 AM weekend practices and fitness training! Every one of the girls that is making this trip has made unselfish sacrifices for the team. This is extrememly important for their development as young adults. Our team is different than most club teams - the investment in their team that these girls have made will be a factor in their success in California. We all welcome the challenges that lie ahead at the Cal Cup." For more information about the 2005 California Cup, please visit: www.CalCup.net 2005 OCELOT CALIFORNIA CUP ROSTERS: OCELOT UNDER-11 BLUE: Jill Genovese - GK Erica Marshall Allie Fales Joe Boarman Amy Keth Robin Van Houten* Haley Pegg Sam Gasbara Tyler Hockensmith Brian Tien Street Nicole Lertora OCELOT UNDER-11 WHITE: Sarah Bates - GK Griffin Alcorn Danielle Grassi Isaac Gasbara Pat Schlosser* Joe Pickens Haley Barker Idrienne Walker Allie Pickens* Alex Grzybowski Luke Chopper OCELOT UNDER-13: Emily Cain - GK Kevin Ngo* Malcolm Belin Taylor Nelson Ian Kingsley Paige Twigg Kelly McCabe* Neal Hassel Erika Heikkinen David Young OCELOT UNDER-19: Samantha Nelson - GK Annika Alexander-Ozinskas Pauline Lombardo Christina Boarman Alison Bullock Jamie Perez* Allison Dulin Riley Foster Alicia Thompson Christine Suggs Jen Ginolfi Laura Schnell Kimberly Schnell Julia Young - GK * DENOTES TEAM CAPTAIN(S) Monday, February 28 OCELOTS EARN AAU GOLD & SILVER
The Under-12 White Team won the gold medal in the U-12 Mixed Division, while Ocelot White claimed the silver medal. In the Under-14 Division, the Ocelots went undefeated and claimed the top prize. They played the gold medal game in a driving rainstorm on a very sloppy wet field. In fact, the championship game was called at halftime, as the umpires ruled the field was unplayable. The Ocelots beat the Shore Team from Easton, MD for the gold. In the Under-19 Division, the Ocelots lost to Mexico 1-0 in the final. This game was also played on a very sloppy field in a driving rain. The During the three day event, the Ocelots claimed victories over the St. Louis Rams, Hymax, and Lanco Premier during "pool play" losing only to Mexico in the last game. In the medal round, the Ocelots won a "heart stopper" against the St. Louis Rams in penalty strokes. The game was tied 0-0 after regulation, so the outcome was decided by a stroke off. The Ocelots won the stroke-off 3-1, with great strokes by Allison Dulin, Christina Boarman and Kate Effland. The next major event for the Under-19 team will be their annual trip out west, to compete in the 2005 California Cup in late May near Los Angeles. Thursday, February 10 OCELOT ANDREW ZAYAC AT JUNIOR PAN AM GAMES Ocelot goalkeeper Andrew Zayac is currently in Havana, Cuba with the rest of the U.S.A. Under-21 Men's National Team, as they compete in the Junior Pan American Games. The games will be begin on February 16 and will conclude on February 27. The Junior Pan Am Games serve as a qualifying event for the Junior World Cup, which will be held from June 29 to July 10 in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. The USA men will start the competition in Pool A with defending Junior Pan Am Champion Argentina along with Barbados, Cuba, Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Pool B features Canada, Chile, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Trinidad & Tobago and Venezuela. The U.S. team opens play on February 16 against Barbados. Argentina and Chile men placed 1-2 at the last Junior Pan Am championships in 2000 while the U.S. men narrowly missed a spot in the Junior World Cup with a fourth place finish. Canada placed third in the tournament in 2000. Argentina has won all seven previous Junior Pan Am tournaments while the best USA finishes have been fourth place showings in 1981, 1985, 1992 and 2000. The USA men's only previous Junior World Cup appearance was an 11th place finish at the 1989 Junior World Cup in Ipoh, Malaysia. Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach commented, "this is an outstanding opportunity for Andrew. The chance to travel and participate in a tournament of this magnitude, will give him experience that can't be matched. I competed in the Junior Pan Am Games in Mexico City when I was a goalkeeper for the U.S. Under-21 Team, and it was an unforgetable experience. I am very proud that we have an Ocelot representing the United States at these games."
Saturday, January 29 ZAYAC NAMED TO USA UNDER-21 TEAM
Zayac is the first Ocelot ever to be named to an "elite" level U.S. National Team, above the U-16 level. Tuesday, May 11 3 OCELOT TEAMS TO COMPETE AT CALIFORNIA CUP
After a one year absence, the U-19 team will return to the Cal Cup. At the 2002 Cal Cup, the team won the Gold Medal in the U-16 Division. Last year, because of a conflict with Futures for many of the players, the team was unable to return to defend its Gold Medal. Head Coach, John Kovach commented, "the team is excited about returning to the Cal Cup. Although they won a Gold the last time they were here, I don't consider us a defending Gold Medalist. We have some new players and are now in a different age division. This tournament will be a big test for us. We've had some injuries since the Festival that will affect our depth. However, I am optimistic about the perseverance of some of the players on this team. As is always the case in tournament hockey, every teams success will depend greatly on goalkeeping. Samantha (Nelson) has been playing very well and she recently returned from playing in Holland with the U.S. Under-16 Team. If she continues to play at a high level, we should have a chance..." The U-13 and U-11 teams travel to the Cal Cup as teams that will compete in new "age group" divisions. In years past, there have only been the U-12 and U-9 divisions. Kovach continued, "when I was out in California for the U.S. Men's National team trials in January, I was told about the new divisions (U-13, U-11, U-9). Amazingly, we had just enough students in our Upper Elementary class to fill two squads. My Associate Coach, Marcia Perez, had the idea of us taking two younger teams to this years Cal Cup. This is a great opportuntity for all these young players to be a part of a great tournament. The U-13 team has some veteran players, who were part of the "Desert Crew" last year, that won the Gold Medal (in the U-12 division). Because of this experience, the squad should be solid." Coach Vicki Sutton will be the Head Coach of the U-13 Team. Kovach continued, "the U-11 team is a very young and inexperienced group. No player on the squad except Jill Genovese has ever played in an outdoor tournament of any kind. This will be a fun learning experience for them and will help them to develop as players." Coach Lynette Mitzel (Head Coach, Towson University) will be the Head Coach of the U-11 Team. The Cal Cup will be held from May 29-31 at Moorpark College. For more information, go to: www.socalfieldhockey.com The 2004 Cal Cup Rosters: Under-19 Team: (Head Coach, John Kovach) Samantha Nelson Casey Tang Annika Alexander-Ozinskas Pauline Lombardo Christine Suggs Christina Boarman Krissy Carls Alison Bullock Jamie Perez Ellie Atkins Alicia Thompson Danielle Wacker Julia Young Faith Twigg Keri Ann Garrety Sara Runkle Under-13 Team: (Head Coach, Vicki Sutton) Emily Cain Tyler Crowe Nathan Kam Al Grassi Ian Kingsley Paige Twigg Malcolm Belin Kelly McCabe Taylor Nelson Neal Hassel Kevin Ngo Under-11 Team: (Head Coach, Lynette Mitzel) Sarah Bates Sam Gasbara Jill Genovese Danielle Grassi Alex Grzybowski Erika Heikkinen Tyler Hockensmith Allie Pickens Robin Van Houten David Young Coaching Staff for the 2004 Cal Cup: John Kovach - Head Coach, Under-19 Team Vicki Sutton - Head Coach, Under-13 Team Lynette Mitzel - Head Coach, Under-11 Team Marcia Perez - Associate Head Coach, U-19, U-13, U-11 Teams Thursday, August 19 OCELOTS COMPETE AT JUNIOR OLYMPICS
Julia Young was one of the GK's for the Hot Pink team. She helped lead the team to a bronze medal winning performance. Samantha Nelson was one of the GK's for the Gold Team. Although the team did not win a medal, Samantha was selected for the second straight year as a GK for the U.S.A. Under-16 National Team, based on her play at the Junior Olympics. Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach commented, " I am very proud of all three girls that competed at the Junior Olympics. It was great to be able to see them play during that week, and they all did a great job. During one game, both Samantha and Jules were in goal at opposite ends of the field during the same game and that was a thrill for me. Christina did a great job in helping the Blue team win the gold. It was a great experience for all of them." Saturday, March 6 QUARTET OF OCELOTS TO COMPETE FOR THE U.S.A. IN HOLLAND Ocelots boys Alex Grassi and Andy Zayac and Ocelot girls Samantha Nelson and Christina Boarman will be competing in Holland in April as members of the 2004 U.S.A. Under-16 National Teams. Grassi and Zayac were recently selected as members of the U.S.A. Under-16 Men's National Team and Nelson and Boarman were named to the U.S.A. Under-16 Women's Squad last August. Zayac and Nelson are both goalkeepers-perhaps the first time ever a male and female goalkeeper from the same club team have represented the U.S.A. at the same time! CONGRATULATIONS OCELOTS!!!!
Thursday, March 4 U-19 OCELOTS WIN SILVER AT AAU CHAMPIONSHIPS
The tournament opened for the Ocelots with a game against the eventual Gold medalists - the Mexican Under-19 National Team. The game was a fast, hard fought battle with the Ocelots battling back from a 1-0 halftime deficit to tie the game at 1-1. With time expired, the Ocelots earned 5 short corners in a row, but could not convert on any of them. The game ended in a 1-1 tie. In the second game of the day, the Ocelots overwhelmed North Carroll (MD) by a score of 5-0. The Ocelots held a slim 1-0 halftime lead, but in the second half Christina Boarman tallied on three penalty strokes. The Ocelots completely dominated play during much of the second half. On the second day of competition, the Oclots faced Team Gateway (MO). The team knew that a win or a tie would propel them into the Championship bracket of the tournament, while a loss would push them into the Consolation bracket. After a very even and hard fought first half, the Ocelots held a slim 1-0 lead. Both teams exhibited excellent hockey skills and had good scoring opportunities. In the second half, the Ocelots played very inspired hockey and got 2 more goals past the Gateway netminder. The final score was 4-0 and with the win the Ocelots not only reached the Championship bracket, but also one their "Pool" over Mexico with a higher goal differential. In the semi-final match, the Ocelots were matched up with the Shore Team (MD). The Ocelots played inspired hockey throughout and constantly kept pressure of the Shore defense. Finally, when it was all over, goalkeeper Samantha Nelson had her 3rd shutout of the tournament and the Ocelots had a 3-0 victory. The Ocelots quickly that they would have a re-match against the Mexican team in the Gold Medal game. The Gold Medal game was a difficult one for the Ocelots. Although the team got on the scoreboard first with a penalty stroke score by Christina Boarman, the Mexican Team kept constant pressure on the Ocelot defense. The score was tied 1-1 at the half. The team entered the second half without the services of midfielder (and U.S. Under-21 Team member) Christine Suggs. Her wrist was injured in the first half and the coaches decided not to risk further injury, even though Suggs wanted to return. The Ocelots fought bravely throughtout the second half, defending numerous short corners and solid scoring chances by the Mexicans. Hoping to survive the half and send the game to strokes, the Ocelots almost accomplished that amazing feat. However, with just one minute to go in regulation time, the Mexicans scored on a deflected shot off a short corner. The final score ended up Mexico 2 and the Ocelots 1. Head Coach, John Kovach said afterwards, "the team played hard in spite of the difficult circumstance that we were in. Christine was hurt badly and it turned out that her wrist was broken...she was an inspiration that she even wanted to go back in. The rest of the team began to wear down a bit, due to the constant pressure from Mexico. It would have been nice to go to strokes, but, in reality, they were a little bit better team than we were during that match. This experience will help us during the rest of the spring. This tournament is important to us and we will be back next year to win the Gold. However, it's purpose will always be to prepare us for the California Cup and it has done that well this year. We will be a better team in May than we are now and we will have to be reckoned with by the rest of the teams at the Cal Cup this year." 2004 Ocelot Under-19 Team Silver Medalists: Jamie Perez - C Annika Alexander-Ozinskas - C Christina Boarman - C Alison Bullock Ellie Atkins Christine Suggs Casey Tang Alicia Thompson Krissy Carls Samantha Nelson Julia Young Pauline Lombardo Emily Cain Paige Twigg Kelly McCabe Gator Tails at Gator Dockside!
Hockey in Florida - Ocelots Love It On Field or Ice!
Tuesday, February 10 GRASSI & ZAYAC CHOSEN FOR USA SQUADS
Both Grassi (age 13) and Zayac (age 15) were chosen as members of the U.S. Under-16 Squad and Zayac was also chosen as a member of the U.S. Under-20 Squad. Both have the opportunity to possibly represent the U.S.A. in Holland later in the spring and Zayac has the opportunity to join the Under-20 Team in a trip to South America over the summer. Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach commented," this is a proud day for all members of the Ocelot family. Alex has worked very hard to become a good young player and he has a bright future in the game. He possesses great leadership skills and his work ethic is way more advanced than most players I have coached at that age. Andy is one of the most pleasant surprises that I could ever hope for. After taking a couple of years off from the game, he decided to re-dedicate himself to it. Amazingly, it's almost like he never stopped playing! He did a very good job at the "trials" in California. Now, he can continue to get individual coaching here is the east and his skills and fitness will improve dramatically. He has a bright future and I couldn't be prouder!" Both boys will also be competing at the California Cup in May. Grassi will join the Ocelot Under-13 Team at the event, while Zayac will join the U.S. Under-20 Team in the Super Division for the International Tournament.
Friday, December 19 BOARMAN, BULLOCK, NELSON & THOMPSON HONORED
Christina Boarman, who helped lead St. Paul's (MD) to the league championship, was named "ALL-MET" by the Baltimore Sun newspaper. She was the only 10th grader to achieve this honor. She ended up 2nd on her team in goals and scoring. She also recently helped lead the Ocelots to the Under-16 Championship at the USFHA National Festival. In addition, Boarman recently learned that she will be joining the U.S.A. Under-16 National Field Hockey Team for a competitive tour in Holland over Easter, 2004. Alison Bullock (Stone Ridge, MD, 11th grade) was recently named First Team All-Montgomery County by the Washington Post. She was the leading scorer for Stone Ridge during the high school season and recently had an outstanding National Festival in Palm Springs. She was a big part of the Ocelot Championship success in California. Samantha Nelson (Holton-Arms, MD, 9th grade) has been recognized as both Honorable Mention All-Montgomery County and Honorable Mention All-Met by the Washington Post. Generally unheard of for a 9th grade goalkeeper to be honored this way, Nelson will be joining the U.S.A. Under-16 Team for the Easter Tour in Holland and will also be joining the U.S.A. Under-19 Team for a tour to Australia during the summer of 2004. Finally, Alicia Thompson (Francis S. Key, MD, 10th grade)was honored by the Baltimore Sun as 1st Team All-Carroll County. She also received this honor from the Carroll County Times newspaper. Thompson, a newcomer to the Ocelots, has added speed and intensity to the team. She had an outstanding National Festival playing both midfield and forward for the Champion Ocelots. Ocelot Head Coach John Kovach said, "these players have demonstrated tremendous skill and conditioning during the last several months. I am proud of their accompishments, but I am not surprised. Each of these players has a bright future ahead with the Ocelots. Their leadership and work ethic is a positive motivator for the rest of the squad as we move up into the next challenge of a higher age bracket (U-19) in future events." Sunday, November 30 CHAMPIONS! CHAMPIONS! CHAMPIONS!
The team outscored their opponents in 6 games by 22-1, which was the largest goal differential of any team in the U-16 Division. This championship for the Ocelots also marked the first time since at least 1999, that a Maryland team has won a championship in either the U-19 or U-16 Division at the Festival. The Festival began with 2 convincing wins on the first day (Thanksgiving Day), when the Ocelots defeated the Strikers 4-0 on two goals apiece by Christina Boarman and Alison Bullock. Later that day, the Ocelots defeated South Jersey 5-0. Christina Boarman contributed 2 more goals and Alison Bullock, Allison Dulin and Kelly McCabe each scored one goal apiece. On Day 2, the Ocelots were matched up in an early morning game against Aventura, who hail from Miami, Florida. The game turned out to be a difficult one for the Ocelots. Aventura was a quick and physical team, but the Ocelots prevailed 1-0 on a goal by 10 year old Kelly McCabe off of a short corner. Ocelot Head Coach John Kovach commented about the Aventura game, "we didn't have our "A" game this morning - but it wasn't our "B" game either. We played well enough to win. You need some of those "enoughs" - you're not always going to be crisp and we aren't playing solotaire - there are 11 other good players on the other side." In the afternoon game, the Ocelots defeated Hollywood (CA) by a score of 2-0. Christina Boarman scored both goals off of quality assists from Alison Bullock and Casey Tang. Going into Day 3, the Ocelots knew that their first game against Sea Coast United (NH) was the "Championship" game. A win would clinch the title, while a loss could have meant the end of the Ocelot dream of a gold medal. Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach commented," going into the game against Sea Coast, we all knew that we had our destiny in our own hands. Thats the position that all teams want to be in...not to have to depend on help from another team to achieve your goal." The game began with tremendous pressure being applied by Sea Coast. In the first 2 minutes, they had several quality scoring chances, but each time, Ocelot goalkeeper, Samantha Nelson had the answer. This trend continued for much of the half. The Ocelots could have easily been down by 3 goals before halftime, but Nelson performed like a champion between the pipes. The halftime score was tied at 0-0. Kovach commented," I have always said that winning championships begins with quality goalkeeping. I knew that Roman (Nelson)would be called upon to make some big saves in this game. I also knew that there isn't another goalkeeper that I would rather have in goal, when a championship is on the line. Her record in those games speaks for itself. She was the reason that the second half could play itself out the way it did for us." In that second half, the Ocelots came out like a different team. They played stronger, faster and more skilled than the first half and dominated a stunned Sea Coast team. Allison Dulin got the scoring started by scoring a "classic" goal on a deflection off of a pass from Alison Bullock on a short corner option. After that first goal, the flood gates opened for the Ocelots. Christina Boarman scored a "hat trick" (3 goals) and Alison Bullock and Kelly McCabe added single tallies. The final score was 6-1, and in victory, the Ocelots secured the Championship and a Gold Medal in their first trip to the USFHA National Festival. This all happened with still one game left to play for the team! In the Ocelots final game, the team defeated Storm Trooper 4-0. Players had a great time playing different positions and Julia Young and Jill Genovese split the goalkeeping duties. U.S. Under-16 Team goalie, Samantha Nelson, got a rare chance to play in the field and scored the third goal of the game! Alicia Thompson, Alison Bullock and Kelly McCabe also scored goals for the team. Head Coach, John Kovach commented," I am so proud of this team for their efforts at the Festival. We were actually a little banged up for this event, but all of the players played with incredible passion and drive. Alison Bullock, in particular, was a warrior, by the fact that she played so hard less than 2 weeks after sustaining a knee injury. Our newcomers to the team were outstanding - Alicia Thompson (1 goal) and Danielle Wacker are both winners, and have fit in so well with us. Allison Dulin (2 goals) had a fantastic festival and is developing into a high quality player for us. Tarheel (Kelly McCabe)opened a lot of eyes with her play too - I mean a 10 year old scored 4 goals for a championship team! My role players off the bench - Pauline Lombardo, Julia Young and Jill Genovese were solid when they got in. And, Emily Cain too...I mean she is the starting Ocelot U-12 goalkeeper and she did a great job of stepping in and playing a number of different field positions for us. She was a "fast learner" but I told her not to get any ideas...! This championship was all about the importance of veteran leadership. Eleanor Atkins, Casey Tang, Christina Boarman (8 goals), Alison Bullock(5 goals) and my two Co-Captains Jamie Perez and Annika Alexander-Ozinskas gave us that leadership on the field. Overall, the play of my defenders was very strong and this accounted for a large part of our success. We talked about being personally accountable on the field - and they all responded so well. I am so proud of all of them." 2003 USFHA National Hockey Festival Results: FINAL STANDINGS: Ocelots - 18 pts (6 wins, 0 losses) Seacoast United - 11 pts Hollywood - 10 pts Storm Trooper - 8 pts Strikers - 5 pts Aventura - 4 pts South Jersey - 1 pt SCORES: 11/29/2003 Ocelots (Md.) def. Storm Trooper Tornado (Pa.) 4-0 11/29/2003 Aventura (Fla.) ties Seacoast United White (N.H.) 1-1 11/29/2003 Strikers II (Md.) def. South Jersey Devils (N.J.) 5-0 11/29/2003 Hollywood AC (Calif.) def. South Jersey Devils (N.J.) 4-0 11/29/2003 Hollywood AC (Calif.) def. Aventura (Fla.) 1-0 11/29/2003 Ocelots (Md.) def. Seacoast United White (N.H.) 6-1 11/29/2003 Storm Trooper Tornado (Pa.) ties Strikers II (Md.) 0-0 11/28/2003 Aventura (Fla.) ties South Jersey Devils (N.J.) 0-0 11/28/2003 Seacoast United White (N.H.) def. Strikers II (Md.) 4-2 11/28/2003 Ocelots (Md.) def. Hollywood AC (Calif.) 2-0 11/28/2003 Storm Trooper Tornado (Pa.) def. South Jersey Devils (N.J.) 2-0 11/28/2003 Ocelots (Md.) def. Aventura (Fla.) 1-0 11/28/2003 Seacoast United White (N.H.) def. Storm Trooper Tornado (Pa.) 2-0 11/28/2003 Hollywood AC (Calif.) def. Strikers II (Md.) 1-0 11/27/2003 Ocelots (Md.) def. South Jersey Devils (N.J.) 5-0 11/27/2003 Storm Trooper Tornado (Pa.) def. Hollywood AC (Calif.) 1-0 11/27/2003 Seacoast United White (N.H.) def. South Jersey Devils (N.J.) 3-0 11/27/2003 Aventura (Fla.) ties Strikers II (Md.) 1-1 11/27/2003 Hollywood AC (Calif.) ties Seacoast United White (N.H.) 1-1 11/27/2003 Ocelots (Md.) def. Strikers II (Md.) 4-0 11/27/2003 Aventura (Fla.) ties Storm Trooper Tornado (Pa.) 1-1 ***see festival photos below*** Thursday, November 27 2003 OCELOT NATIONAL HOCKEY FESTIVAL PICTURES
Wednesday, November 19 OCELOTS UNDER-16 FESTIVAL TEAM
Thursday, November 20 OCELOTS READY TO HEAD TO CALIFORNIA
The Ocelots will compete in the Under-16 Division, which is divided into 7 pools. Each pool consists of 7 teams and a champion will be decided in each pool. The Ocelots will be competing in Pool X, which includes teams from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida, Delaware, New Hampshire and California. This will be the last major tournament that the members of this Ocelot team will compete together in the Under-16 Division. Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach commented, "the Hockey Festival will be the largest tournament that these girls have ever been a part of. For us, the Cal Cup will always be the "big prize", but for shear size and scope, the Hockey Festival is "second to none." My players will need consistency of concentration at this event...distractions will be omnipresent. My veteran players will be ready to lead and I am excited about where we are as a team. We have had two good "scrimmage events" to lead up to the Festival the last two weekends. We are a little bumped and bruised...but my players know what it will take individually and as a team to be successful. I know that they will be ready at 9 AM on Thanksgiving Day." The USFHA Hockey Festival is the largest outdoor event on the U.S. field hockey calendar. It is a major recruiting event for collegiate coaches. For more information and schedule, visit the U.S. field hockey website at: www.usfieldhockey.com For more information concerning the Ocelots or any individual Ocelot players, please contact Head Coach, John Kovach at: TowsonGkCoach@aol.com Wednesday, October 15 USA NATIONAL TEAM COACH VISITS OCELOTS
Ocelot Head Coach John Kovach commented, "what a honor for our hockey program to be able to bring the U.S. Men's National Coach to Ashton. Coach Jagday was so gracious to agree to spend some time with us today. He was very complimentary about what we are doing here with all the Ocelot teams. He congratulated the U-12 Team on the great accomplishement last May, in winning the 2003 Cal Cup and said that we should all be proud of that. Coach Jagday is recognized as a world class coach and it will greatly benefit my young Ocelot players all of the insight that he provided them today."
Ocelots and Parents Meet the Maryland Governor
Ocelot Goalie Samantha Nelson Selected to National Team Ocelot Goalkeeper Samantha (Roman) Nelson was selected to the U.S.A. Under-16 National Team on August 2nd. Ocelot forward and teammate Christina Boarman was also selected as an alternate for the U.S.A. Under-16 National Team on the same day.
The 2003 Cal Cup Gold Medal Winners with Their Medals The 2003 Under-12 Ocelots back home in Maryland on their home turf with their gold medals.
The Spoils of Victory 2003 The 11 Cal Cup Gold Medals, the Cal Cup with the Ocelot and the Desert Crew Rock.
THE OCELOTS STRIKE GOLD IN CALIFORNIA
After winning Pool A on the first 2 days with a 4-0 record, the team advanced to the "medal round." Amazingly, during those first 4 games, the team outscored its opponents 40-1 and was very strong both offensively and defensively. Once in the medal round, the team continued its "businesslike" approach to the tournament. Head Coach, John Kovach commented," the players on this years team were not only well prepared, but were intent on winning. This was not just a "happening" at Moorpark - they trained to win from the beginning and endured harder tasks than many college players are disciplined to put themselves through. When we got to the medal round, I was more confident than I have ever been..." In the semi-final game, the Ocelots scored early and often and defeated the second place team from Pool B, the Raptors, 9-1. After the Raptors scored to tie the game at 1-1, the Ocelots scored a goal in the next 2 minutes and the Raptors never recovered. Kovach commented, "I told our players about the importance of the 2 minutes after a goal is scored. When we responded to their tying goal by taking back the lead so quickly, the Raptors never seemed to recover." In the Gold Medal game, the Ocelots were matched up against the winner of Pool B - the Vancouver Hawks. From the outset, the Ocelots set the tone with many good scoring chances. The Hawk goalie was outstanding early, but before halftime, Alex Grassi scored a pair of goals. The second was a "classic" with Grassi taking a reverse stick sweep that sailed over the goalies head. The halftime score was 2-0 for the Ocelots. In the second half, the Ocelots never let up. The defense was very strong, led by Ben Hayes, Zach Duffy and goalie Emily (Dawg) Cain. Midway through the second half, Nathan Kam scored a wonderful goal, beating the Hawk goalie. With the score 3-0, the Ocelots were able to enjoy the final minutes of the game. Also having strong games in the final were Jack Welsh, Paige Twigg and Kelly McCabe. Head Coach, John Kovach commented afterward," this was the best game that I have ever seen an Under-12 Ocelot team play. This team was better conditioned and better skilled than any other at the Cal Cup. We outscored our opponents 52-2 and our defense was the key. This team will always be known as the "desert crew" and the four leaders of the team - Al Grassi, Zach Duffy, Ben Hayes and Jack Welsh, will always be known to me as my "desert boys." No other group has ever worked so hard to prepare and when I trained them in the desert in the heat on our way to L.A., I knew I had a special group." After the Gold medals were awarded, Alex Grassi was awarded a game jersey from the Dutch Senior Team that was playing in the Super Division. This jersey signified that he had been named the Championship game "MVP." The 2003 Under -12 Cal Cup Gold Medal Winning team: Alex Grassi - captain Zach Duffy - captain Ben Hayes Jack Welsh Nathan Kam Emily Cain Paige Twigg Kelly McCabe Malcolm Belin Jill Genovese Taylor Nelson Molly Nellis - manager SCORES: Ocelots 11 Bulldogs 1 Ocelots 10 Wizards 0 Ocelots 10 Moorpark 0 Ocelots 9 Simi Valley 0 Ocelots 9 Raptors 1 (semi-finals) Ocelots 3 West Vancouver 0 (finals) Coach K and The Desert Boys Coach K behind the 2003 gold medal winning Desert Boys with their "Game Faces" on (L-R) - Zach Duffy, Ben Hayes, Jack Welsh and Al Grassi.
The 2003 Ocelot Under-12 Cal Cup Team The 2003 Under-12 Ocelot "Desert Crew" - 2003 Cal Cup Gold Medal Winners
Ocelot Junior Olympians Meet the Governor
Which Way to I-95 North? Jamie Perez and Casey Tang decided to take ground transportation from Orlando, rather than flying back to Maryland - (nice sandals Jamie!)!
Goalies Get Hungry Too Ocelot goalkeepers Samantha Nelson and Julie Young enjoying the food choices in Florida.
The Ocelot "Food Crew" Jamie Perez, Casey Tang and Alison Bullock enjoying themselves between games at the Disney AAU Championships.
Funny Face Casey Ocelot Casey Tang being caught "off-guard" at the team breakfast during the AAU Championships
Wednesday, April 2 Coach K and Alice Cooper Coach K, with his favorite golf partner, Ocelot fan and legendary rock star, Alice Cooper.
Monday, March 3 OCELOTS WIN SILVER AT AAU CHAMPIONSHIPS
This year, the Ocelots were entered in the Under-16 Division, along with 6 other teams from various areas of the country. On the first day of the competition, the Ocelots opened with their only loss of the tournament - a disappointing 2-1 setback to Lanco Premier from Pennsylvania. Ocelot Head Coach, John Kovach commented, "this game was against a very good team from Pennsylvania. They outplayed us for much of the contest, but we were still tied at 1-1 with 4 minutes to go. Samantha Nelson (Holton-Arms), our Junior Olympic Goalkeeper, was outstanding in goal, and kept us in the game. It was a shame that we allowed a goal right near the end of the game like we did. As it turned out, a tie in that game would have earned us the Gold Medal. I hope that my players will learn from this, that every minute of every game is so important..." The second game was against Sea Coast White from New Hampshire. The Ocelots had an easier time in their second game, winning it 7-0. In this contest, Alison Bullock (Stone Ridge)and Christina Boarman (St. Paul's School for Girls) led the way with 2 goals each. Other scorers included Christine Suggs (Durhan Academy, NC), Alex Hogan (St. Timothy's) and Casey Tang (Glenelg Country School). Ocelot Head Coach commented, " this was a great way to come back in our second game. We got 2 goals in the first 3 minutes and that seemed to relax the squad. My Assistant Coach, Vicki Sutton, helped with some important adjustments between the first game and this contest, and that was also a big help." On the second day of competition, the Ocelots continued their winning ways. The first game was a 7-0 victory over Aventura Field Hockey Team from Miami, Florida. In the second game of the day, the Ocelots won a very important 1-0 victory over Gateway Hockey Team from St. Louis, Missouri. The lone goal was scored by Christine Suggs (Durham Academy, NC) on a penalty stroke. Amazingly, the Ocelots dominated the game, with a 26-1 advantage in short corners, but could not convert any of them! Afterwards Kovach commented, "that was one one of the hardest games that Vicki and I have ever had to watch. It was so important in the medal race, and we dominated play, but we could never be comfortable with just a one goal lead. I was so relieved when this game was over." Going into the last day of competition, the Ocelots knew that one victory would earn them at least a silver medal. In the first game, the Ocelots were matched up against a very young and inexperienced squad from North Jersey. The Ocelots scored early and often and cruised to a 12-1 victory. Alex Hogan (St. Timothy's) led the scoring barrage with 4 goals, while Christina Boarman (St. Paul's) netted 3 goals and Alison Bullock (Stone Ridge) scored twice. Also, scoring a goal was Jamie Perez (Glenelg Country School). Kelly McCabe (Mater Amoris), the youngest competitor at the AAU's at age 9, also scored 2 goals for the Ocelots. Samantha Nelson (Holton-Arms) and Julia Young (Trinity School) shared the shutout in goal. In the last game of the day, the Ocelots knew that the silver medal was theirs, and posted a 5-0 victory over Sea Coast Blue from New Hampshire. Many of the Ocelots got a chance to play positions that they normally wouldn't get a chance to play. Head Coach, John Kovach commented," this was a fun game for the players. They all got to play in different positions and even Samantha Nelson returned to playing a field position. I'm glad that we had the luxury of doing this for the players." Goal scorers for the Ocelots included Christina Boarman (St.Pauls) with 2 goals and Annika Alexander-Ozinskas (Garrison Forest), Alison Bullock (Stone Ridge), and Christine Suggs (Durham Academy, NC) added one goal apiece. Julia Young (Trinity School) and Emily Cain (Mater Amoris) shared the shutout in goal. 2003 Ocelot AAU Silver Medalists: Jamie Perez* (Glenelg Country School) Annika Alexander-Ozinskas* (Garrison Forest) Samantha Nelson (Holton-Arms) Eleanor Atkins (Glenelg Country School) Christina Boarman (St. Paul's School for Girls) Alison Bullock (Stone Ridge) Casey Tang (Glenelg Country School) Christine Suggs (Durham Academy, NC) Allison Dulin (Hereford) Alex Hogan (St. Timothy's) Julia Young (Trinity School) Emily Cain (Mater Amoris) Kelly McCabe (Mater Amoris) Paige Twigg (Mater Amoris) Ali Goedecke (Mater Amoris) Faith Twigg (Mater Amoris)- Head Manager * - denotes Ocelot Captain 2003 AAU Final Standings: 1st Place - Lanco Premier 2nd Place - Ocelots 3rd Place - Gateway 4th Place - Aventura 5th Place - Sea Coast White 6th Place - Sea Coast Blue 7th Place - North Jersey "Lots" at the Maryland State House
.......AND WITH BUDDY JEWELL
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