Jeff Alexander

Past Entries

Entry 1

Entry 2

Entry 3

September 27, 2004

Last week was a great week for Emory soccer. We bounced back from our first regional loss since 2002 with three great results. We were sharp and focused in practice (especially during soccer tennis) and it showed in each of our victories. As a team, we are getting healthy and looking to peak at just the right moment.

Games are rarely as intense and fiery as Tuesday night's match against Piedmont College (Ga.). In the past few seasons we have developed a healthy and competitive rivalry with our in-state adversary. Coming out strong and getting a solid team result against them, especially after coming off a loss three days earlier, will prove to be one of the many special days for our team this year.

I was planning on saving my truly introspective entries for November, but this week was a very special week for me on a personal level.

Standing at the center line, hearing my name announced as a starter Tuesday night was a moment of true pride for me. As I gazed out into the crowd, side by side with my teammates, I was overtaken with emotion and I thought back to a day approximately three years ago.

Sitting in Coach Rubesch's office after my freshman season, having played in just one game, I was unsure of myself as a player and unsure of my place in the Emory soccer program. But Coach Rubesch looked me in the eye and said, "Jeff, you are a big part of this program and you are most definitely a part of our team plan."

So, to Coach Rubesch for believing in me and to Coach Derek Marinatos for continually giving me the confidence I needed to reach my goals, I thank you both. Starting for the Emory soccer team was an honor that I will cherish long after I'm done playing.

To the fans that have come out and supported us so far this year, I speak on behalf of the team, when I say "Thank you!" Our home field has an energy this year I have rarely seen or felt at Emory. You have made our home games memorable events for each of us.

This coming week we travel crosstown to Oglethorpe University (Ga.) on Wednesday and prepare for the start of the UAA competition Saturday. In the next days, weeks, and months we will face many challenges as team. I can not wait to see how we respond.

Jeff Alexander is a senior from Livingston, N.J. He would love to answer e-mail questions from Emory recruits and fans.