By RC HillisAfter the first full day of training at the Vickery Center in Pensacola, the USA National Deaf Men's Soccer Team came to Gulf Breeze to meet the state-ranked Bayside U17 Thunder for an exhibition game. This game also provided much needed practice for the Men's Team preparing for the Taipei Deaflympics in September 2009 and the Thunder's competition in the FYSA President's Cup of Florida through the spring. Team USA consisted of several members of the team which traveled to Greece last summer for the Deaf World Cup (Toby Fitch, Justin Hefflefinger, Chris Jones, Mike Larson, Trip Neil, Mike West) and several players trying out for the squad.
The first half of the game featured a near perfect shot to the upper ninety by Steven Vernali off a Nick Green pass but the ball chipped off the corner to go out of bounds. Later in the half Team USA began to push the ball up field more, creating several scoring opportunities but keeper Tyler Willets turned away all attempts. Early in the second half Team USA broke open the defensive struggle with three quick goals, the last goal coming off a free kick from a foul right outside of the Thunder’s box. A few minutes later Jack Begley scored a PK off a foul in the box during a corner kick to close within 3-1. However, the Thunder was unable to find the back of the net again thanks in part to great goal play from their keeper, who plays for the University of Central Connecticut. Coach McDonald was very pleased with the quality of play from both teams.
The Gulf Breeze Rec Center personnel were instrumental in preparing the field and providing facilities support to make this event a success. Over $250 was collected at the game as a donation to support Team USA. Local rec and select soccer team members as well as GBHS fans attended the game. The Bayside Thunder parents provided an after-game meal to both teams including Firehouse Subs and homemade desserts, and refreshments for their weekend training.
Bayside U11 Ladies and U13 Fury girls teams coached by Ryan Williams played a short scrimmage at half time featuring the future GBHS girls soccer members. Bayside U12 White boys team attended and supported as ball boys for the game.
The Bayside Thunder welcomes a friendly rematch next time they are in town. Anyone interested in finding out more about the USA National Deaf Soccer Teams can visit their website. They are affiliated with the USA Deaf Sports Federation. 
