Power Soccer... Indescribably Awesome

It took me a while to think of a title for this post. 
In the end, I just decided to call it what came to mind: indescribably awesome.

The experience that I shared with my teammates Jess Bentley and Keki Elliott, and Head Coach Kiley Cirillo and Assistant Coach Ryan Baca, left me without words. 

Two weeks ago I didn't know Power Soccer existed. I know I've said it was indescribable, but I'm leaning now on the brief description from the United States Power Soccer Association site to shed some light and give you a quick intro to the sport:

The USPSA is the governing body for Power Soccer in the United States. Power Soccer is the first competitive team sport designed and developed specifically for power wheelchair users. Athletes' disabilities include quadriplegia, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, and many others. The game is played in a gymnasium on a regulation basketball court. Two teams of four players attack, defend, and spin-kick a 13-inch soccer ball in a skilled and challenging game similar to able-bodied soccer. 

You also need to watch this introductory video from the USPSA site. 

 The beginning of a typical power soccer practice.

So why is this relevant to us, or our team? I'm glad you asked. The five of us (Jess, Keki, Kiley, Ryan and I) got to meet elite power soccer players, including some members of the U.S. National Team. 

These players are part of the Power Soccer of Indy teams, specifically on the Circle City Rollers. We were able to meet five of the athletes: Chris Parsons, Kevin Perry, Michael Archer, Natalie Russo and Case Calvert. Three of them will be competing in the World Cup next year: Michael, Natalie, and Case. 

 Just talking to U.S. World Cup athlete, Natalie Russo... no big deal.

After watching their practice, we were allowed to use the power chairs to experience what it's like to play. We weren't even on the highest speed and I felt like I was out of my element. The game is so tactical and technical, it was incredible just to watch the highest caliber athletes in the game, let alone try to do what they do on the court.

Keki and I learning tactics from U.S. Head Coach, Mike Hayes,

and Dominic Russo, the President of the U.S. Power Soccer Association.

 

 Jess getting some tips from U.S. World Cup Athlete, Case Calvert.

Hopefully for UIndy Women's Soccer, coming to watch this practice was only the beginning of our involvement with Power Soccer. With the Greenwood Power Soccer tournament coming up on January 10th, we'll have some of the best teams in the country playing right in our backyard.

Thank you to the athletes, Head Coach, Mike Hayes, and President of the U.S. Power Soccer Association, Dominic Russo, for letting us come watch a practice and giving us a quick Q&A and tutorial afterwords.

We can't wait to see you all again!
And for the rest of our fans reading, I'll keep you updated on what's up-and-coming for both teams.



Check out these links to learn more:
Keep in mind, some of them are already linked in this post.

Circle City Rollers Facebook Page
Power Soccer of Indy
United States Power Soccer Association Site

And follow them on twitter:
Circle City Rollers: @ccrpowersoccer
U.S. Power Soccer Association: @powersoccerusa
U.S. Power Soccer Team: @usntpowersoccer

As always,
GO HOUNDS!
Lindsey #13