AUG. 23, 2007 - Hi! I'm Zach Reiser's dad... I saw his trophy on his shelf today and it reminded me that I owe both of you another thank you.

I remember at the initial meeting (under the Pavilion) coach Chuck told the team what mattered was when the team came together, not how they started. He mentioned that the previous season the team had peaked just a bit too early.

I also remember watching the season (all but 1 game) and thinking how it must hurt you two to watch the "bad news bears" game after game.

Still, you saw potential, and you worked with them, over and over and over.

I believe it was the third to last game of the season... those guys really looked like they wanted to win, yet they lost in 'overtime rules'.

They were crushed yet you guys pointed out what they had accomplished, not what they had lost!

I remember the last two games...suddenly... there was a team!  A real team!  They were making their throws, making their catches, they were working together.  It was no longer the 'Eli Show'... it was 'The Dodgers'

And then.. the tournament starts.  And my pessimism set in.  "How could this team possibly beat these guys, again. Not only did they not have the skill set, but also had the mental disadvantage of having already lost".

Still, you guys stayed with them.

Zach's older brother has been on championship teams in baseball, football, and soccer... almost every year.  Yet this season was the most enjoyable for me as a parent.  Perhaps because it was so unlikely, or perhaps because of the stark contrast between the first of the season and how they finished.

When the Dodgers walked on the field for 'the ship', it was clear from every mannerism, they intended to win, they knew they were the champs.

How different from their mid season when they took the field laughing at themselves because it hurt less than caring.

While the kids were truly amazing, I think it is more important to recognize what you guys taught these kids about life itself.  "Your own success or failure is within you all along, it is up to you to decide which one you bring out"

You guys were incredible... Thank you!

Stephen P. Reiser