Make that 6 in a row unbeaten...

A great win for us on Saturday night against the Whitecaps.  A fully deserved 3 points and great goals by Emilio.  I was very happy to see a packed Crew Stadium as well! We are rolling and have a big one coming up this weekend against the Sounders!  They are unbeaten in their last 6 as well I believe. So hopefully the weather holds up, the fans come out again, and we win!!!!

We had a season ticket holder appreciation day on Sunday so I was able to meet a lot of awesome Crew fans!  It was sweet to meet em all and I hope to see em again in the future!  The weather's been killin me! Rain Rain Rain, and today we had to train indoors because our field was soakeeddd!  Come on Columbus, its already May, enough of the rain and wind and cold! pleaseeeee! 

Anyway, my family is coming in this weekend with 2 of my good buddies as well, the Bowman brothers.  Will be great to see em all and we have a reserve game Monday against the Revolution that they will be attending too so thatll be good.  Prob go out for a couple nice meals and spend some quality time together!  Things are still rolling along over here,  I feel the best on the ball and in training in general as I have since joining the Crew so that's good.  Gotta keep it up, working hard, and learning!  Appreciate the support, I hope everyone is gearing up for a great summmer!  Bring on the sunshine and fun!  and Go Crew of course!  Be back soon!


EG #16


"One day your life will flash before your eyes, make sure it's worth watching!"

Unbeaten in last 5..

What's up people!?  Just home from training on this thursday afternoon, just put a load of laundry in!  Hope everyone has been well and things are looking up for you!  We have yet to be beaten since our opening game with a win and a tie since we last talked.  We beat a good KC team at home last saturday and had a decent trip to Toronto this weekend!  Our reserve team went 2-0 too, beating the University of Louisville, and then this weekend we beat Torontos reserve team so thats good as well.  We are currently in third place which is very respectable.

We welcome the Vancouver Whitecaps to Crew stadium this saturday!  The weather is actually supposed to cooperate finally so hopefully the stadium is packed!  We have a team appearance Sunday at Crew Stadium so it will be nice to meet some of the best fans in MLS!

I was able to shortly visit home for Easter.  It was lovely seeing my momma and pappa, along with the rest of the family as everyone came over to our house!  I flew home easter morning and then back to columbus the following day, but it was well worth it!  I got my golf clubs too so I hit the range yesterday.  My game needs some work no doubt! :/ but gotta start somewhere!  One of my best friends is coming in town tomorrow and my boys on the Loyola Vball team play Ohio state in columbus this weekend for the conference title.  So hopefully i can see them a bit, GO RAMBLERS!

That's it for now, I apologize this took so long and I appreciate the support from everyone!  I will be back soon. 


EG #16


"Don't tell me the sky's the limit when there are footprints on the moon."

Another week in the books..

I apologize for my absence, been out and about enjoying the nice weather as of late and keeping busy.  Another week of training has come and gone and our first team battles Sporting KC tomorrow night.  I spent some time with KC the last two preseasons so it will be nice to see some of those guys again.  Should be a great game too as they have put together a strong team over there.  But so have we, should be an exciting match.  The reserves play the University of Louisville Sunday morning which will be a good non league test for us as they were the national NCAA runner up last year.  Hopefully a fun, winning weekend on the field for us.

Been hittin the gym regularly now mixing up lifting and some swimming.  It has been fun and it feels good to get back in routine.  Rich, Alex Riggs, Justin, and I all have memberships so we enjoy going there often.  With the weather turning the guys been golfing too.  I just ordered some clubs but I went to the range with Rich and Alex and surprisingly was hitting some good balls.  I am excited to start playin a bit for sure.

Made a bomb salad tonight, grilled chicken, green onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, salt and pepper, and romaine lettuce.  It's one of my favs, I make it a lot but mix it up between chicken, shrimp and sometiems turkey breast.  Feels good in the stomach too :) I believe my ma and pa are coming in tomorrow for the weekend and games so that will be nice.  Everything other than that is going well, enjoying the soccer and team.  Becoming really familiar with Columbus too as far as getting around, I enjoy the city for the most part.  Hope everyone is well and had a good week themselves.  Have a safe and enjoyable weekend and I apologize for the delay again.  Much love and I mean it!



EG #16


Shoutout to Marko, our Public Relations guy here at the Crew ;)

Chivas tomorrow night!

Been another solid week of training for us.  With that first win against FC Dallas last weekend, moods were high as this week went by pretty fast.  The team left yesterday for the west coast and hopefully we can get our second straight win. 

As far as my activities this past week, ive hit the gym twice which felt good to get back in a lifting routine.  Justin and I got a membership over at this gym nearby called Urban Active Fitness so thats good.  We did some bowling on Wednesday again at our favorite Capri Lanes, there was 8 of us.  4 v 4 featuring me, josh williams, shaun francis, and cole grossman vs Andy adlard, rich balchan, dilly duka, and justin meram.  The teams split but I was the best bowler there.  Think i bowled a career high of like 190.  It was nuts.  but sooooooo fun! Made some nice dinners this week too ha tacos being the highlight with cut up tomatos, lettuce, cheese and both tortillas and hardshells.  So good!  Tonight I may stick with lean cuisines I think.  Tryin to clean up the diet completely!

I am going for a short visit home tomorrow after training, didnt make the travel squad so it will be nice to see my brother, mom and dad.  We dont get many chances to go home so sure will be nice to see the friendly confines of my home and maybe see some friends.  That's all for now.  I am truckin along out here appreciating everyones support.  One thing I have learned so far in this experience is how vital it is to have confidence!  Gottaa play like you belong because at the end of the day, I do or else I wouldn't be here.  I find when I don't think and just enjoy the game, try to have fun is when I play my best.  I talk about it with my brother often and it very much is true.  Can't think about NOT making mistakes or trying to impress the coaches.  Everyone makes mistakes its just how you respond to them and come back better.  I try to keep this in mind everyday I train or kick a ball.  Just food for thought.  Enough of my babbling ha Much love!!!! and GO CREW!

EG #16

2 wins on the weekend

We got our first wins of the year as both our first team and reserve team won both matches this weekend.  We disposed of FC Dallas quite comfortably which felt awesome to win at home in front of our fans.  Our reserve team then won the following morning at Crew Stadium against St. Louis Univ rather comfortably as well.  Both scores were 2-0.  Makes for much better moods post games and people were upbeat, which felt good. 

Showed my buddy around Columbus a bit, Alex Boler, and he attended both games so we enjoyed the weekend very much.  Looking forward to the week ahead of training and we play at Chivas next weekend so hopefully we have a good week of training going into it.  That's all i got for now, currently watching Hitch and some soccer highlights at home.  Gonna get to bed at a decent time tonight so I am fresh for tomorrow.  Much love.


EG #16

FC Dalllas tonight

After 4 days of training, it is time for our third game of the season, at home against FC Dallas.  Seems like everyones pumped for our first win of the season hopefully.  Dallas is very talented, as we have noticed on film, but we feel we are ready.  Hope to see a big crowd out there tonight and we give them a good game.  Tomorrow morning is our reserve game against St. Louis Univ. at 11 AM at the stadium too.  Hopefully next time I am back we have two wins under our belt. 

We got Xbox live hooked up now at our apartment so if anyone wants to take on Justin and I in FIFA, Step up! ha My go to team is usually Bayern Munich and his is Real Madrid.  Addicting game I tell ya.  Went over to Josh Gardners house yesterday night and had some dinner with him and his wife.  Much appreciated big fella. We had some rice, crab cakes, and a bomb salad with peppers, mushrooms, avocado, and poppy seed dressing. 

My buddy Alex Boler is coming in to town to stay with us for the weekend which I am excited about.  He's one of my best friends, so gonna go to the game today and tomorrow and show him around Columbus a bit.  Other than that, that's about it.  THings are moving fast, can't believe it is already April.  Hopefully the weather starts turning for a bit.  It snowed this past week, it was ridiculous.  Hope everyone reading this is well and know that I am thinking of all my friends and family a lot.  Much love from Columbus and I will be back soon!



EG #16

The sun is shining...

Finally seeing some sun out here in Columbus, although its still a bit cold.  Sun does wonders tho, love seein it.  We wound up tying our home opener 0-0 which I am sure everyone noticed.  Without a doubt the better team, just couldnt find the back of the net.  But it was good we created chances, the finishing will come hopefully.  We got a good FC Dallas team coming in Fri night for our next one.  Should be a great game, and hopefully the weather is a tad warmer and we see a bit more Crew fans. 

Hung out with the team a lot this past weekend, it was a lot of fun.  My family was in town too! :) So it was awesome to see my parents, Greg and his gf Becky, and Casey Bowman also visited me.  We had game then we all went out to dinner at Longhorn Steakhouse.  I had an amazing Prime Rib, pops and I both.  We thoroughly enjoyed it.  Saw them off Sunday, and then watched the NCAA bball tourney.  Crazy man how Butler, reppin the Horizon league, and VCU makin it.  Hope Butler takes the whole thing, what a team they have.  SO likeable with Coach Stevens, and Shelvin Mack just torchin teams.  Dude is averagin 28 a game in the tourney. That's unbelievable.  Got some Chipotle with Justin and picked up some groceries, and the weekend was complete.

Trained this morning, then made lunch and beat Justins butt in FIFA.  We got the updated rosters so it was the first time we played with the current Crew team and ourselves.  Crazy man!  Fifa got my golden locks and everything, it nuts. Training the rest of the week and like i said earlier FC Dallas Fri night, and a reserve game Saturday.  So thats it for now.  Much love, gonna go make dinner.  Be back soon.


EG # 16


Shoutout to the band Rebelution, a reggae band who I have come to love!

Home opener vs NY Saturday!!!

What's up yall!  Just home from training, and it was prettty fricken cold :( weather was a tease for a few days.  We trained today at Crew Stadium, the surface looks great!  Two days away from our home opener and I think everyone is eager for it!  Should be a good game, we are motivated as a team to rebound from DC.  Hopefully Crew Stadium is poppin!  My family and a buddy is comin in for it so I am excited to see all of them. 

Our apartment is officially complete, and it really is a cozy lil pad.  Between the living room, basement, and my room itself Justin and I are very happy with the way everything turned out.  It's nice to come "home" too :)  We have had training all week since Tuesday, had Monday off so I was able to organize some things.  Our neighborhood is called Little Turtle, ha that was pretty funny.  It's nice though, in a nice wooded area with a golf course so should make for a sweet summer. 

Gonna watch the NCAA sweet 16 tonight with a few teammates, should be fun.  Butler repping that horizon league, pretty remarkable how they get it done game after game.  I'm excited to see how the rest of the tourney unfolds.  That's pretty much it for now, hope everyone is well.  Appreciate the texts and calls I am still getting, everyone knows I am a big family and friends guy.  Much love.  I will be back soon hopefully with a WIN after Saturday.  Black and Gold!

EG #16

Shoutout to my high school, Lake Central for providing me with 4 of the best years of my life! Indians!

Setback in DC

We lost both our first team game and our reserve game this past weekend.  3-1 and then 3-2, so it was not a good start for us.  I think we all know we are capable of better, for sureeeeeee. We have been playing so much better lately too, its rather unfortunate.  But with that being said, the season just started and its only one game.  DC was packed too, they were fired up and the crowd was raucous. RFK was rockin.  Our hotel was super nice, it was the Renaissance Hotel in downtown DC.  Pittsburgh basketball was staying at our hotel, it was pretty crazy how much coverage and support they got.  However, they did lose to Butler ha.  Bummer. 

We just got back today to Columbus and it feels good to be back. Startin to feel like home, once again love the group of guys we got man. The more time we train, travel, chill together the closer we get.  I think it's gonna translate into good things both on and off the field this year.  Whether its veterans or rookies, we are starting to build a solid team chemistry.  We got a weeek ahead of training and then our home opener against Red Bull, which will be exciting.  Hopefully the fans come out and make the place crazy!  Lookin forward to it.  We are off tomorrow, think I might be some apartment things to decorate the place a bit.  Justin Meram and I are settling in quite nicely out here in New Albany.  That is all for now.  Much love people!


EG # 16

Been awhile, and I am sorrryyyy

Ever since we got back from Atlanta, things been hectic.  In the process of moving into new apartment and taking care of all that so, been always on the go and of course training everyday.  Everything is well and I will be back soon with pics and updates! We fly to DC this weekend for both first team game sat night and reserve game sunday morning!  Hope everyone is well!  Much love!


EG # 16


Shoutout to the Indiana Magic for allowing me the opportunity to coach young kids with my brother.  No doubt in my mind the club will continue to do great things and I look forward to returning to help out at some point down the road!

Crew 3 Revolution 1

We pulled off a very nice win last night, as we beat the Revs 3-1, this time in Atlanta.  I started at center mid and switched to center back in the second half, so it felt good to go the full 90. I had some early nerves as I was basically matched up with Shalrie Joseph, who some consider to be among the MLS's best.  Overall though, I did quite well.  I thought defensively him and the other midfielder I did very well.  First half consisted of me connecting our defense to attack and then in the second was more ball-winning and instruction from the central of defense.  Overall, a very good game and like I said, it felt good to get a comfortable win.  I think anyone that watched the game knows who the better team was without a doubt.  We played some very good soccer, with two goals from Tommy H and one from Bernado.  The playing surface was lovely too, it had rained all day so it was slippery, but nothing bad at all.  The weather turned out to be pretty good come gametime so all in all, a very good night I thought.


Passed few days have been the usual training and then relaxing in our hotel.  The hotels been putting on almost all of our lunch and dinners so I don't have many sweeet food updates.  Pretty sore today, that's for sure.  We close out preseason tomorrrow night with our last preseason game against the Houston Dynamo.  Should be a good game as they have a quality team, and last time we played them in Arizona it turned out to be a physical heated battle.  We fly home Saturday morning and we can move into the apartments so that will be exciting. Hope everyone is well back home, miss you guys.  Almost completed preseason so.  Been a long but fun month and a half so gotta keep it going!  I will be back soon!  Much love.


EG #16


Shoutout to the little guy's hand I held when we walked out on to the field last night before kickoff.  His name was Jackson, cute little fella he was!

Revolution 2 Crew 1

We lost last night 2-1 to the Revs, in front of about 5,000 people up in Chattanooga.  The atmosphere was rockin, the fans were really into it.  Literally, outplayed them from start to finish, and fell asleep on two set pieces, which in soccer are very important.  You can kill a team and lose, so that was not good.  Other than that, the soccer we played was really good, we were really moving the ball from the back to the front and had numerous chances.  I started the second half at Center back and finished the match.  I was nervous heading into the game but once the half got underway, I just played, and played well at that.  Organizing, passing, tackling, heading, it all felt really good for me.  I was just having a lot of fun man, felt good to get out there.  I was pleased with my personal performance, and the teams for that matter.  Just gotta be sharper on set pieces.  The team's got a very bright future ahead for this season I would say.


After the game we headed back to Atlanta and pretty much relaxed till sleep.  We had training this morning, although it was really light and actually spirits were high.  Played some handball and then some 11 v 11 to goals with everyone playing in different positions ha.  I was up top with Sebastian Miranda with Chad Marshall at attacking mid.  We all had fun with it, and then got outa there.  Nice little workout, regeneration session.  We had a team lunch when we got back and that brings me to now.  Laying in my bed, showered, and comfy.  May do some bowling later with Josh, Cole, Justin, Chad, and a few others later.  Dinner is on our own so.  Hope everyone is well, and Crew fans be excited for this season!  We got a prettty sweet group coming together and I think it's gonna be a fun season.  Much love!


EG #16


Shoutout to the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, making me so proud these days! Let's keep pushing to the playoffs baby!

Greetings from the ATL

We got in last night, after a  nice 1 and 15 min flight aboard delta.  They had Wi-fi so I was on my computer the whole time.  A short bus ride later we reached our hotel, the Doubletree, which is pretty nice.  The beds are money which is big, and overall its a clean, big hotel.  We trained this morning at the Atlanta Beat of the WPS facilities and I must say, pretty darn nice.  We play the Revolution tomorrow in a preseason match up in Chattanooga, Tennessee.  Sounds like I will be playing some center back for about half the game so I am looking forward to it.  Between injuries and personnel available right now they are putting me there, which is fine because I have played it before.  It will be my first game with a significant amount of playing time so I am excited, plus I can show that I can play in different positions, not just defensive mid.  So should be fun, hope it goes well.

Training today consisted of some technical work, which is vital.  Always gotta focus on the small stuff because that's where you become technically sharp and warmed up.  We then went on to some finishing while some guys did some 6 v 6 to goals.  Finished with 11 v 11 scrimmage and we were donezo.  Our goalie Will Hesmer bought our van some Bojangles for lunch, which is a good chicken place.   Thought that was pretty nice of the big fella.  After that, my roomate and I, Josh Gardner once again ha just watched some College bball.  Crazy games between West Va vs Louisville, and ND vs UCONN.  I am an indiana boy so I love seein the golden domers do well, wish the Hoosiers would pick it up a bit :/ 

We then did some pushups and abs, little workout, and then the hotttub and pool.  Leads me to right now, which we are leaving for our Team Dinner tonight.  Hungry, so I am looking forward to it!  Really starting to settle in with the Crew, and very much enjoying it.  I love it.  Appreciate the love from home, whether via message, text, email, etc...means a lot.  Can't stress it enough.  I will be back tomorrow or Monday with hopefully a good report from the game.  Much love.


EG #16


Shoutout to one of my good buddies back home who I have become close with over the past 6 years Shane Cloutier, keep battling with the knee bro.  You'll be back stronger than ever once all the hard work is done and use this setback to fuel you even more! Love you my man

Atlanta tomorrow

Well the game didnt go as planned obviously.  Real Salt Lake is very good at home and it showed.  Plus, injuries and the altitude didn't help the cause.  It's ok though, the team fought hard.  Now we can move on and focus on to the beginning of the regular season.  We leave for Atlanta tomorrow, and we will be gone 10 days playin the Revolution twice, Dyanmo once, and lots of training.  It basically is the conclusion of our preseason so, should be a good week and a half of some hard training.  Lookin forward to it very much so. 

Guess what the fellas and I did last night? Yep, went bowling again ha.  This time it was Rich, Cole, and I vs Korey, Justin, and Josh.  My team went 3-1 :) So it was fun, we went downtown for a little afterwards.  Columbus has a nice little downtown area, met some cool people.  Today we just woke up, showered, and then went back out to Easton to the huge mall area.  Had some lunch, hit the bank, and nowww I am back here.  Skyped a bit today with my father and brother.  It was great to see them.  My pops is a legend.  Finally checkin outta this hotel tomorrow before we depart for Atlanta so thatll be nice to get out.  Believe we moving into our apartment when we return from the trip so it'll be awesome to finally get the "home" feeling and deck it out.  That's about it for now though, gonna get some panera tonight and lay low with the fellas.  Appreciate you checking in, and I hope everyone is having a good week!  Almost the weekend!  Much love!


EG #16


Shoutout to Gino Sciortino, who coached me at Loyola and has turned into a brother to me. Love ya big guy!

Crew Real Salt Lake 10 ET on FSC

Tonight's a huge game for our team.  With the first leg a scoreless tie at home, a goal on the road would be huge! Tiebreaker could be away goals so. We trained well this past week, and its gonna be a great game!  Hopefully, we can come away with a good result and advance to be the first ever american team to make it this far in the competition.  Game is being televised on Fox Soccer Channel at 10 eastern time so hopefully everyone tunes in! 

Been training hard the past few days, feelin better and better every day definitely.  I am starting to get in a nice routine of going to "work" everyday and giving it everything I have. I have been leaving a bit tired but fulfilled knowing I am working hard and getting better.  Gotta keep it goin.  Hope everyone is well especially back home to my friends and family.  I will keep this one brief for now.  Let's go Crew! Be back soon.


EG#16


Shoutout to Crew fans!  I have been fortunate to meet a few since I have been here, you guys are awesome!

This weather is atrocious

We got snowed out yesterday so we just had workouts sent to us to do on our own.  It basically was a long treadmill and light lift work out but it got a nice sweat going so that was good.  Did some shopping out at this huge mall in Easton, its lk half outdoor, half indoor.  It's real sweet.  Bought a beanie, grey cardigan, and a pullover hoodie thing.  Satisfied with my purchases.  We went bowling again too last night haa it's so fun.  Another night of battles with a ton of spares and strikes.  We dined at Mongolian BBQ too last night, so good.

Today we didnt train till 7 at night so we slept in a bit, then got some subway with Josh and Justin.  I had a tasty flatbread BMT.  So good.  Came back to hotel after that and laid down a bit, watched BYU game.  Jimmer Fredette is the real deal.  Kid's got in the gym range!  We then trained at Ohio States indoor facility.  Place is legit man, what a program they got there.  Technical work, some posession, scrimmage, and crossing and finishing and that was all she wrote.  I felt sharp, enjoyed it very much.  Found out I am not traveling to Salt Lake for the CCL game.  Only 20 travel, but it's all good.  Just gonna continue to work hard, and play well consistently so.  Just do all I can in my control and hopefully it'll pay off.  Usually does.  We got practice tomorw morning so gonna hit the hay soon! Thanks for checkin in.  Much love people, I mean it.

EG #16

Shoutout to Coach Brett Hall at Chicago Sockers.  He may never read this ha but he is one hell of a dude.  Pleasure to have met him and get to know him well.

Truckin along...

Welp last time I was here we were getting ready for our game.  A 0-0 tie was how it ended and I thought overall not a bad result for not having much time to prep for it.  The team fought real hard, weather conditions were a nightmare.  But all things considering, not a bad scoreline.  I didn't play but we trained before and my bro was able to watch a bit so that was cool.  The return leg at Rio Tinto Stadium is next Tuesday so, it should be a good match.  They haven't lost at home much, think its like zero times in last thirty so it'll be awesome if and when we win. 

We trained today at Obetz, and it went pretty well.  Warmed up, played possession, and then some 8 v 8 to goals.  I enjoyed it very much.  The fellas and I went to Chipotle afterwards, always consistently amazing.  Leads me to now where I am chillen at the hotel watchin some tv, relaxingggg.  Think we may get dinner and see a movie tonight so should be lovely.  Last night we went bowling.  Lemme tell ya, epic battles.  It was Cole and I vs Justin and Josh.  We went 4-1 and there was some competitive games goin. Think almost all of em came down to the final frame.  It was so fun, I think Andy and Rich are gonna get involved too so we are gonna go again soon to get a little three way going.  Very confident in Cole and I :). That's all I got for now really, very much enjoying things so far.  Thankful to be here and am really loving the group of guys we have on this team.  Hopefully things keeep looking up.   Thanks for checking in.  Appreciate the love.


EG #16


Shoutout to Cole Rainwater, keep working hard my man and listening to Coach Greg and your dad.  Gonna do big things!

Gameday

We have had two training sessions since arriving back in Columbus.  One at our training facility Sunday, and then yesterday at the Stadium.  Pretty neat in the stadium, the field was wet, so the ball was being knocked around pretty good.  I was enjoying it, coulda stayed out there for hours just hittin balls.  Tonight's match should be a good one, Real Salt Lake obviously will be good but so will we.  Got faith in the team.  Excited to see how it unfolds.  Snowed a good amount last night, pretty crazy.  Should make the surface that much more fast.

Cole, Josh, Justin, and myself have been hangin out mostly past few days.  We are all in the hotel together so, we have been having some nice dinners and passing the time with a plethora of activities.  Hitting target to purchase slash walk around ha, some card games, and we visited some apartments that we are potentially going to live in.  So far, we like what we see.  My family is flying in today for the game, so that will be nice to see them.  My brother is excited to see me and meet some of the guys.  And of course my parents are just crazy excited to see me again.  They are always full of support.  I will probably grab some lunch with them and then gotta head to Stadium around 6.  That is basically it for now, gotta get in the shower.  I will be back with a result and some more updates tomorrow or Thursday.  Much love to everyone.  Thanks for checkin in!

EG #16

Shoutout to my current Columbus Crew teammates, as we play tonight! Let's go fellas!

Back to hotel life...

I am now in Columbus, having drove here today.  Took me about 5.5. hours.  It wasn't that bad, I had a serious jam session going on in the car with my ipod.  Cruiseddddd!  Stopped in Fort Wayne about half way to get gas and of course Taco Bell snagged me so I had to get some food there.  But yea had a nice visit home for sure.  Yesterday I packed during the day and hung with momma.  Then we all went out to eat, my whole fam for dinner to UNO's. About 12 of us total.  It was great to spend time with everyone before I left and see em.  I then went up to Chicago to hang with some buds before leaving.  It was a good time.

We have training tomorrow at 10:30 in preparation for our concacaf champions league match against Real Salt Lake on Tuesday on FSC!  The winner is the first american team to ever make the final 4 of the competition.   Should be a good one.  Freezing out here man, big difference from Arizona.  That's for sure!  Gonna be interesting out there tomorw! ahhhhhhhh  Josh is once again my roomate out here.  Hes a good guy man, have spent a good amount of time with him.  All of us young guys call him Daddy,  with him being older and stuff.  We get 14 days paid in this hotel, so hopefully in the near future here we can figure out our apartment situation.  I am living with Cold and Justin, as I mentioned before, just gotta figure out final plans.  Should be fun!  Hope everyone is well! and if anyone wants to hear other things talked about in my blog, commentttt!  I will answer questions or whatever too!  Much love!  Be back tomorrow or Monday!

EG #16

Back home for a few days..

Got in late last night, from Pheonix.  The team flew me home last night so I can get my things and car and move out to Columbus Saturday, before we are back at training in Columbus.  Our champions league game is on Tues night at Crew Stadium! Huge Game! Should be nuts! Lookin forward to it very much.  We finished up our first part of preseason yesterday with a 4-2 loss to Houston Dynamo.  It was a very physical game from the start and I got in for the last 20 min.  I was much more comfortable yesterday and coulda gone on for another 90! But I was happy to get some minutes and play well for the most part.  Our preseason continues in Atlanta after our champions league ties with Real Salt lake, believe we leave around March 4th.

Got home real late like I said last night, and stayed up and talked with my family.  Felt very good to be home and see them, including my brother Greg.  Today I have just been packing, spending time with momma and did a light work out.  Tonight I am going out to dinner with my whole family to UNO's.  Should be a good time and then i am off to Chicago to spend some time with my buddies before moving out to Columbus tomorrow.'

Once in Columbus, I got 14 days paid hotel from the Crew to find an apartment.  It looks like I will be living with Cole Grossman and Justin Meram.  We got quite close over the last three weeks so it should be a blast.  Andy and Rich are going to be our neighbors so it'll work out pretty sweet.  I am looking forward to it all, be nice to see the facilities in Columbus, the stadium, etc....Glad to be apart of the Crew!  Lots of hard work ahead!  Much love to everyone again! I will be back soon, probably on Sunday after training!

EG #16

What a last few days...

First, wanted to apologize for my absence and lack of blogging.  Like I said, crazy but great last few days.  The Columbus Crew officially offered me a contract on Tuesday Feb 13th, in which I signed yesterday.  Didn't think Valentines Day would turn out so good! ha But yes it's awesome man, I am super pumped.  It has been a long time coming, with my experience last year with Kansas City, back to school and graduation...and then a LOT of hard work and training.  Between the weightroom, running, and lots of training this fall..it all paid off.  BIG TIME.  Been dreaming of being a pro soccer player since I was very young, looking forward to the challenges and experiences ahead.  Gonna continue to work my butt off, can't get complacent whatsoever.

Gotta thank many people, including my family.  Mom and Dad been more than there for me every step of the way.  It is ridiculous, I love you two very much.  Never could explain how much.  My brother Greg, who could be a pro too, seriously...we been training and battling together since we were 6 on the orange cobras.  You're the man.  My coaches over the years, including my Dad, back in the day...Coach Rainwater at LC, what memories we have from the four years...jealous you got your ring! but well deserved! and lastly the staff at Loyola.  Coach Brendan Eitz, Tim Mcbride, and Gino Sciortino...you guys all have done much for my career and once again, unforgettable memories up at Loyola...Records!  My teammates, been plenty of em but you all have been a joy to play with too! Nothing better than going to battle with your brothas!  And my boys, you know who you are, wouldnt trade you guys for the world...like brothers to me!  The list can go on and on but thats all I got for now...

We got one day left of training tomorrow, and then a game against Houston on Thursday.  I will be flying home following the game to get my stuff and see my family before moving to Columbus, driving back Saturday!  I will figure out my number and all that back in Columbus.  Hope to see some Gehrig jerseys out there soon!  Thanks again for checking in, I am unbelievably thankful for all of the support I have received.  It really means so much.  I will be back soon! MUCH LOVE!


EG

Shoutout to EVERYONE who helped me get to where I am today!

Apologize for my absence

Been a wild few days so I apologize for not updating sooner!  We had training yesterday then had our team dinner.  Currently getting ready for our Colorado Rapids Preseason game so this must be quick!  I will be back soon with updates and news!  MUCH LOVE to everyone!

EG

Some pics!

 Andy, Me, and Justin at the Hawks Coyotes game

 

 

 

 

Place was pure Hawk fans and I loved it

Our first hotel in Phoenix

Nice little living room

Sleeping quarters for me and my rooomie

What we are playing for

Second hotel in Glendale

And again from other side

Sunny Saturday..

Weather continues to be perfect, not to rub anything in I swear but it's ridiculous out here.  We had training this morning at 11.  We warmed up with some technical work in groups of four, Cole, Rich, Justin and I.  We then broke into some small 6 v 6 possession, everything under 3 touch.  Felt real good during it and the ball was really moving.  Coaching staff was pleased with our effort.  We then went on to some fitness and finished with some finishing.  Overall a solid training session, that I was pretty pleased with.

We yet again went to Wich Wich for lunch, and I got the Italian this time.  Consistency with that place man, great sandwiches day in and day out.  Went back to Cabelas with Justin Andy and Cole for some moreeee Buckhunter, I of course won again.  Beat Cole by a few bucks ;)  That leads me to now, sitting with my roomate Josh watching Shooter, waiting for some laundry to get done.  We threw in a load because we literally are running on empty.

Andy, Justin, and I gonna try and scalp Blackhawks vs Coyotes tickets tonight so we are heading there soon.  It's awesome to see all the Hawk jerseys out here in Pheonix man!  Love it!  Tomorrow we are back at training with a preseason game vs the Colorado Rapids on Monday!  Enjoying the ride very much so, just doing all I can to make this final roster!  Appreciate the support and love from family and friends.  Means more than you know.  Be back tomorrow!

EG


Shoutout to my U-10 boys, heard we had an OT winner today from Coach Greg!  Thats how we do it!  Keep it up and I am thinking of you guys!

An eventful but light day...

Today we woke up and our team got divided into two groups for some light weight and fitness stuff here at the hotel fitness center.  Some treadmill, weights, and stretching was basically all it consisted of and it wasnt too bad.  It was a way for us to flush out the muscles and stretch a bit.  We were done in no more than an hour and then off the rest of the day.

We went to cracker barrel after and had a nice big breakfast.  Rich, Cole, Alex, Andy, and I.  I had the "Sunrise Sampler" - two eggs, bacon, taters, and some pancakes.  Twas quite good, very much enjoyed it.  We then literally spent an hour in Cabelas walkin around and even played some Buck Hunter, the arcade game.  I battled Cole to like 4 games and smoked him!  Killed 22 bucks to his 12 :).  I was a natural! We then went to the pool, because it was yet again soooo nice out.  Little kids and their families were there, I guess they were playing in a tourney around here so they were all excited the Crew were at the hotel.  Signed some autographs and took some pics ha reminded me when I was little man.  I used to get SO excited.  Still gotta tune up my signature with my brother, it looks pathetic! 

Justin, Josh Williams, and I then went to this barber who heard the Crew were in town and was offering all of us free haircuts.  I guess he used to live in Ohio and lovesss the Crew.  The dude was legit too, I of course just got a trimmy trim but he knew what he was doing.  We ended the night at this Steakhouse, forgot the name, but it was really good.  I got a chicken wrap with a loaded baked potatoe.  It was real good.  Josh W., Justin, and Cole went and it was a good time.  I am nowwww in my bed! Pretty tired with training in the morning 11 AM.  I wanna have a good session so I am going to hit the sack! Much love back home and thanks for checking in! Let's keep it rollin!

EG


Shoutout to my strength and conditioning coach Ryan Carroll back at Loyola for helping me prepare for all of this! Thanks big guy!

Pic of me and the fellas out today

Me, Alex Riggs, Andy Adlard, Justin Meram, and Rich Balchan

Columbus Crew 3 Seattle Sounders 0

Today was a long day but a good day.  The day started with our third preseason game against the Seattle Sounders.  It was a good matchup, as they have been one of the better MLS teams over the year.  We came out strong and played well.  We scored some nice goals and came away with a 3-0 win, pretty convincingly too.  Almost everyone got in, including myself, and it felt good to get the feet wet.  Got some touches on the ball and I was happy to get the first experience of mls action underway.  Everyone looked pretty good too, including my two buddies andy and rich.  Overall, a great game for the Crew.

After the game, we went to Wich Wich for lunch.  Rich and I got their buffalo chicken sub for the second day in a row. SO GOOD.  We walked around a little after and then went back to hang at the hotel.  We laid down a bit when we got back, ordered a movie.  Unstoppable with the king denzel washington about a crazy runaway train.  Rich and I were on the same page and thought it dragged on a bit, andy didnt seem to think so.  Good movie either way I suppose.  We dipped in the hottub after but its not hot enough so that was short lived.  

We just now returned from the Yardhouse yet again, about 6 of us went there for dinner and it was pretty good.  Good group of youngins we got here, always find ourselves crackin up and rippin jokes. It's good times.  We have a regeneration session tomorrow and that's it so.  Sun beat me up today, face is roasted.  Lookin forward to a goodnights sleep.  I will be back tomorrow.  Much love everyone, thanks for checking in.

EG

Shoutout to Mrs Adlard and Mrs Balchan! Im takin care of your boys and glad you enjoy the blog!

New location

We moved hotels yesterday, as our training camp switched to Glendale.  We are in a nice hotel, its more business like I feel like but its real nice.  We are right across the street from the University of Phoenix Stadium where the Arizona Cardinals play.  It looks pretty neat.  We loaded up a uhaul with all our team gear and personal suitcases before our game yesterday and came straight here after the game.

We lost our game 2-1.  Vancouver had the likes of Shea Salinas, Jay Demerit, John Thorrington and a few others.  They seemed like a quality side.  Eddie Gaven scored for us on a penalty kick and we played most of the guys in training camp. I, however, didn't get in.  Just gotta keep battling in training and hopefully that will change.  We train today at 11 and that's it.  We have our third preseason game tomorrow against the Seattle Sounders.  Should be a good game.  Only two weeks away from our first actual game against Real Salt Lake in the Concacaf Champions League quarterfinals.

After the game, some of the guys and I went to the yardhouse for some late lunch.  Pretty cool place, located in a huge open mall area, also located across the street.Weathers been great last four days so that's be nice.  Nothing but sun and 70s.  Watched IU lost to Purdue with Rich and Andy which stunk then we chilled for rest of day.  Went to Cracker Barrel late night for some food with Cole Grossman, Justin Meram, and my roomate Josh.  Had a nice little meal.  That was basically it.  Gotta keep grinding.  Appreciate ya checkin in.  Ill be back tomorrow sometime.  Much love.

EG

Back to training...

Had a nice day off yesterday and sadly saw the Packers won, but they are really good.  I knew once my bears let em in the playoffs during week 17 that it could come back to haunt us.  Sure did! oh well.  We trained this morning, started with some technical warmup, then on to possession, some finishing and finished with 11 v 11.  We then had lunch on our own, some of the younger guys and I had sandwiches from the hotel restaurant then sat out by the pool for a few hours.  Threw a football around and laid in the sun.  Weather was gorgeous today too, about high 70s and straight sunnnn! I got pretty pretty burnt, got me a nice tan going.

We had team dinner tonight provided by the hotel.  It was pretty good I had fish, steak, salad, taters, rice, and some veggies.  Topped off with some fruit and whip cream and I actually ordered some ice cream brownie thing with room service and it was super good.  Andy and I indulged.  Good group of young guys here at Columbus between Rich, Andy, Cole Grossman, and Justin Meram.  Been hangin with them a lot and we usually laugh our butts off.  I enjoy bein with them. 

We play our second preseason game tomorrow against the Vancouver Whitecaps.  It'll be interesting to see how it plays out, watching it and whether I will get in or not.  Either way I will be ready.  We are also switching hotels and cities tomorrow as we will be moving camp to Glendale Arizona.  Hope this nice weather continues.  That's it for now I suppose, appreciate the support and wishes.  Means a lot.  I will be back tomorrow with the game result and review of my day ha.  Thanks for checkin in.

EG

happy 78th birthday to my lovely oma today. love you grams

Superbowl sundayy...

We tied our game yesterday, 2-2..KC came out fast but it seemed like we slowly took over the game and control.  Robbie Rogers scored a PK for us and one of our trialist centerbacks got a header off a corner.  I didn't get in, but we ended up playing only 23 of our guys out of the 30 or so that are here.  KC played about 35 guys it seemed, we played three 30 minute halfs so.  Just gotta be ready when I am called, and that's all you can do.  Spoke with some of the KC coaches and training staff after the game, it was good to see them again.  They had some nice things to say so that was cool.  The Crew cut some guys too yesterday, sad to see them go too.  As we train and hang out, we all become close so it's always too bad when you gotta see someone go.  As for me, I am still here so that's a good thing.  Just gotta take it day by day and do what's in your control, and that's what I have been doing.  Keep the positive vibes comin my way please!

After the game, my roomate Josh, Rich, Andy, and I went to this burger joint Josh claimed was amazing.  Whataburger, ha I guess it was pretty good.  Had myself a nice burger and some fries.  We just chilled rest of the day, watched Indiana blow it against Iowa, which Rich, Andy, and I were not too thrilled about.  Superbowl today and it should be a good game man.  Still devastated my bears arent in it :( but oh well!  I would like to pick the packers to win it but as a die hard bears fan I just can't bring myself to do it!  Steelers 27 Packers 24!  We will see what happens, I just wanna see a good game!  That is all for now.  It's sunday morning and I'm gonna grab some food here in a bit and then just veg out with the fellas and watch the game (and commercials!)  We are off today so, got one training session tomorrow and then we play the Vancouver Whitecaps on Tuesday in our next preseason game.  Hope everyone is well, thinkin of you all back home!  Be back later!


EG

Shoutout to my family on this superbowl sunday, ma, pa, greg, opa, oma! enjoy the game and I miss you guys!

preseason game vs KC tomorrow...

Training went pretty well today, we opened with some organized warm-ups with ladders, hurdles, and cones.  We then went into 7 v 7 with passing into end zones to score goals.  Fairly tight space so you had to have good touches and good ball movement.  We finished with 11 v 11 and I got in the second part at central midfield.  Didn't give any balls away, and had some good passing so I felt good about it.  It was good to get the feet wet a bit in a game like situation before tomorrow in case I do get a chance to play.  Plus it will be against KC, who i trained with last preseason so it'll be fun.  We shall see. 

We had team dinner tonight the hotel put on for us.  They had real good tilapia and steak, and I made a nice big salad.  Got some goodies from 7 eleven for dessert with Rich, so that was a nice little treat after dinner.  We just laid low after that for the rest of the night, watched some sweet youtube videos and now I am here.  Feeling pretty tired and lookin forward to a goodnights sleep.  Gettin a nice little tan too it seems in the face lol I was casper white when I get out here.  The weather was nice today so that was good.  Hope tomorrow goes well.  Night everyone.

EG

Shoutout to a great man, Mr. Berrier, who sadly passed away this week.  RIP Love you casey and the rest of the family. Love you pappa B, you are with me out here.

daily doublee....

Sorrry I didnt post yesterday, was a bit tired so I just went to bed.  We had two training sessions yesterday and overall they went well.  In the morning, we started training with some technical drills different variations of passing with a group of about 8.  It was fun, I like getting good clean touches on the ball.  That stuff is where you really keep your touch sharp and keep things clean.  We went on to some 8 v 6 attackers vs defense. I played in front of the back four and was able to break up a lot of incoming passes and made it difficult for the attackers to score.  Thought I did well.  We then finished with some finishing and once again, I thought I was hitting some fluid shots, scored a couple nice goals.  We had a lunch break and then were back at it in the afternoon.  This training was strictly different patterns of crossing and finishing.  I basically was just pinging balls out wide to the crossers and then joined in on some crossing myself.

For the rest of the night I chilled with andy and rich again, I enjoy being with those fellas.  We ordereed some pizza for dinner and some wings, and watched college bball and some nba.  All along with rippin on eachother and cracking jokes.  Good times. 

Overall, it really has been a solid week, I am just trying to do my best, and do what is under my control.  And when i go back and think of all the things I have done, all things considering, I think I have done fairly well.  We got one training session today, and then first preseason game against Kansas City tomorrow.  I am not sure if i will get in, but I do know if I do get a chance, I will be ready.  That is all for now, I will be back this evening I am sure.  Take it easy everyone.

EG

Shoutout to my man Tony Deluca, lots of good memories brotha from our glory days at Loyola, can't wait for the wedding!

40s and windy out..:(

Today it was unusually cold out here in Phoenix as it was low 40s and windy all day basically.  We had our one training session at 11 after breakfast and we originally had planned on doin fitness and then some possession type drill.  We were all literally in pants and jackets with hoods on because it was pretty cold.  Once we got goin I guess it wasn't so bad but it sure was windy and that was annoying.  We started with some warmup with the ball and then on to the fitness, which was an obstacle course the coaches planned out.  It covered the whole field and we had to do it under 3 minutes, a total of six times.  Everyone did really well and the coaches seemed pleased.  The coach then even went on to call the training session and that was it.  I think the combination of us doing well and the weather prompted it.

After training I took a nice hot shower, and got some pizza with my buddy Andy Adlard.  It was pretty good, we got room service because we didnt wanna move ha.  We watched Cast Away that with Rich Balchan, it was on HBO.  What a movie!  I have seen it before but it get's me everytime.  Sad man, couldn't imagine! Tom Hanks is class too!  Andddd that leads me to now, gonna lay low for the rest of the day and grab some dinner soon.  We have two training sessions tomorrow so it will be nice to get some good hard ball work in, both with the team and individually.  Heard the snow has finally stopped back home so I hope everyone is doing well and staying warm!  Miss everyone!  Love you too! I will be back sometime tomorrow evening.  Talk soon.

EG

Shoutout to Billy the Nightrain Langevin for being a true friend man.  Love you buddy!

Day 2 in Arizona...

We had one training this morning and then a light session to work the goalies a bit.  This morning we started with a warmup and then we got divided into three teams.  Two teams played 2 v 2 to goal, then on to 3 v 3 and eventually 4 v 4.  The team sitting out did fitness.  My team was solid with Eddie Gaven, Andy Iro, and Dilly Duka to name a few.  We played first, then fitness, and played again.  The first time we played we defended the big goal and I made some good tackles and blocks.  For fitness I felt very good, we did some diagonal running to half and then strided it out to finish the full length.  I was pleased with how I felt fitness wise.  We then went on to attack to the big goal, which I made some good runs and made some nice passes.  Had a nice shot on goal too that the goalie stopped.  Overall, I was satisfied.  We finished training with some 7 v 7 to goals.  My team ended up winning and we had some nice combinations going. 

We then had team lunch, at the hotel.  I made a nice big sandwich and had some pasta ha. It was good.  This afternoon they had the other trialists and I work with the goalies and we basically just whipped balls in and provided some crosses.  It was crazy windy so it was a challenge gettin the crosses in but that was all we did.  It was a rather light session, didn't do any shooting or finishing so.  And that basically leads me to where I am at now, waiting to go out to dinner with a few of the guys.  Heard there is a HUGE snow storm back home, too bad I gotta miss it ha ;).  I love snow actually though, I feel like if it's gonna be winter in Chicago, let it SNOWWWWWW!!!!  Hope everyone is safe and keeping warm.  We just have one training tomorrow at 11 and that's pretty much it for the day so I will be back sometime tomorrow afternoon.  Keep the positive vibes comin my way! I appreciate the support.


EG

Shoutout to all my former teammates, from Lake Central to Loyola.  Love you guys like brothers.

Good start...

Welp, long day it surely was...flight left Chicago at 8:30 got in about 11:30.  The director of soccer operations for the Crew, real nice guy named Tucker, picked me and we headed to the Embassy Suites, which is where we are staying.  Real nice hotel, living room, little kitchen, and a bed room, two flatscreens.  We got there and the team was having lunch so I strolled in, met the staff, and introduced myself to the guys.  Little nerves at first but I soon found out everyone was real cool.  We got our gear for training shortly after and we left for the fields around 3:15.  Training started at 4 with some 5 v 2, then on to some finishing, and then we played a little 10 v 10.  Boy it felt good to be outside again and on GRASS.  So sick of all the turf and the cold, so it was refreshing.  Between the travel and not being used to the big field, it took a few runs to catch my breath but I played pretty well.  Played defensive mid, and I thought I showed very well for my first day.  The Jabulani ball is something man, thing moves all over the place.  When we were shooting, I hit some bombs too.  I can understand why goalies hate that ball so much.  After training, we had dinner on our own, me and a few of the guys went to Olive Garden and feasted.  So full right now and for sure tired.  I gotta get to bed.  We got two sessions tomorrow, training in morning, and it sounds like lifting in the afternoon so, rest is vital right now.  I am very happy though to be with the Crew right now and am enjoying it.  I hope it continues.  Miss my family and friends but I will see them soon enough.  Hope everyone is well, I'm hittin the sack.  Night!


EG

Shoutout to my mom and dad, LOVE you guys.  I'll be back tomorrow!

One day away..

Welp, I am flying out in the morning.  8:30 flight to Pheonix, Arizona and I printed off my boarding pass, probably the highest boarding number I have ever had. A02, seems the Crew purchased business select, which is sweet, because I will prob be sitting right in the front since I am the second passenger on the flight.  Lot different from the usual C group and finding the last middle seat on the flight ha but it's all good.  Pretty much finished my packing I think.  Got some socks, some boxers, the toiletries, pair of jeans, couple shirts, bathing suit, one long sleeve, soccer shoes, shinguards, and that should about do it.  They provide all the training gear so I should be good to go.  Finished my book today too, so I will be starting my next one, Michael Ballacks autobiography.  Really lookin forward to it as I'm a diehard german and he has been the general of the national team for years now.  Ma and Pa picked up some steaks for dinner tonight so that'll be yummy.  I will probably find a good movie hopefully after and that'll be it for tonight.  Looking forward to a nice sleep tonight, as tomorrow I will have a long day.  I get in around noon and I am training in the afternoon so there's no time to shake off the jetlag.  But I will be fine.  I'm ready!  Can't wait!  I actually am close with a few of their players they drafted, Rich Balchan and Andy Adlard.  Two very good players who starred at Indiana University.  It will be nice to see and play with some people I know.  That's about it for now, I will be back tomorrow night and I will fill y'all in on how my day went and I hope it goes well!  Thanks again for keepin up with me, appreciate it tremendously.  Much love.

EG

Shoutout to Alex Boler, who I have gotten to know quite well over the years and I consider him one of my best friends, even though he gets on my nerves sometimes ;) love you buddy

Headin to the desert..

Received a call from the Columbus Crew tonight and it looks like I will be flying out to Arizona for preseason Monday morning.  Training will begin Monday afternoon so it's time to get after it.  I was relieved to get the call because now I actually know when I am leavin and can focus now on the most important part: the soccer.  And it's not that I havent been focused on the soccer, just anxious I guess to find out when I will be going.  So I'm pumped and can't wait to get started! Let's go!

Didn't train today, I did however run 4 miles on the treadmill and then on to 10 minutes of jump rope.  Lifted some shoulders and that was it.  Fitness is feeling good and overall body feels good, and now I have a few days to fully rest and be 100% heading to preseason.  Went to Cracker Barrel with the family tonight for dinner, and we usually NEVER go there, but I went there not too long ago before my combine in Omaha...lemme tell ya...their Grilled chicken tender loins with mashed taters, gravy, green beans, and corn is AMAZING.  For real though, anyone out there interested in a filling, somewhat healthy meal...boom! After dinner I got some DQ and then watched my brothers Under 16's team he coaches at a nearby arena I grew up playing at.  Reminds me when I was little man, boy have the years passed.  It's pretty crazy.  I am a very fortunate young man that's for sure, had a great upbringing with a great family, and have met some amazing people over the years.  Lots of unforgettable memories over the years, and thanks to everyone who made them possible.  Truly does mean a lot to me.

That's about it for tonight, bed soon for me.  I will probably be back tomorrow, once again, appreciate y'all checkin in.  Go on Columbus Crew!

EG

p.s. Shout out to all my great coaches over the years, from the beginning where my Dad literally had me shooting balls off paint cans, to Coach Rainwater where we shoulda been crowned state champs, and to the Loyola coaching staff where we won the school's first conference titles and won rings baby! Much love!

The waiting game...

So I got in contact with the Columbus Crew last night and the director of soccer operations is figuring out my flight information and when exactly I will be heading to Arizona to join the team.  Once he gets that all figured out I will know what day that will be and hopefully I will know by today.  Course I will let y'all know.  As for yesterday, didn't do much at all really, watched a few movies, shoveled my driveway, lifted, and then had dinner with the family.  Tried to relax a bit and just enjoy the whole process I am going through, even though at times it can be a little nerve-wracking.  But I am glad I am in the scenario I am in and I look forward to preseason with the Crew, hopefully make a big impression on the staff and team when I get there.

It's about 9:30 AM on Friday and I think I will go make some breakfast.  I will be back hopefully sooner than later with more updates.  Shoutout to two of my best buddys, casey and geoffrey bowman, who I have trained with countless hours and they have also helped me get to where I am today...thanks brothas :)

be back soon.

EG

On to Columbus...

A very interesting day it was to say the least.  Woke up about 7:15 AM and hopped in the shower to get clean and wake myself up.  Had my normal breakfast out there of a pb and j, granola bar, banana, and some OJ.  We left the hotel around 8 for the Sporting KC facility to get our gear, tape, etc.  We started training around 9 at the KC Chiefs indoor facility a Arrowhead.  We did more scrimmaging and 11 v 11.  I played holding mid once again, and for the most part played well.  Back spasms started to linger near the end, so that was annoying.  Before ya knew it though, training had ended and now we would find out who was going to preseason.  I felt pretty good about me going, as they had hinted earlier I would be going and I thought I had a good showing. 

Well.....the assistant coach approached me and I found out some interesting news.  The Columbus Crew had claimed me as a discovery player, which to be honest I am still not fully informed on what it exactly is but they too saw me at a combine earlier this year and were interested in bringing me in.

I got this offline regarding a "discovery player" -

"Finally, the MLS also has what is called a discovery period, which means clubs will submit claims on players outside the league (foreigners and USL/NASL) who they are hoping to sign. Essentially, it gives them exclusive MLS rights to negotiate with that particular player, but if there are multiple claims on a player, the club with the poorer record this past season is awarded the rights. Teams are permitted to make as many as 10 claims, and discovery claims are usually kept confidential until a signing is imminent to avoid any potential hurdles."

http://blog.oregonlive.com/timbers/2010/08/building_an_mls_roster_part_1.html

So take that for what you want ha but, it does show that Columbus thought highly of me when they saw me initially in Omaha so, that's good.  I am excited for the new challenge and opportunity, no hard feelings in KC whatsoever.  I understand that at the end of the day, professional sports is a business and I really enjoyed my time in KC, both now and last year.  Players, coaching staff, and administration were all first-class.  Nothing in Columbus is guaranteed, as they weren't in Kansas City, so I will be giving it my all for sure once I get into camp.  I am supposed to receive a call tomorrow regarding specific details but I will be joining the Columbus Crew in Phoenix, Arizona for preseason early next week.  I will update that information as soon as I speak with the Crew of course.  As for now, I am currently sitting in the KC airport, awaiting my flight back home to Chicago.  Will be nice to see the family again and relax a little.  I will be back tomorrow hopefully with some updates.  Once again, thanks for checkin in  Shoutout to any of my little U10 boys checking in that I coached this fall with my brother.  Love you guys!

EG

Day 2

We had training today at noon, so I woke up around 9 and had myself a banana, a pb & j, and a granola bar.  A shower followed that and then we were off to the training facility to get our gear and what not.  Thought I played better today and overall am pleased with the way things went.  We just scrimmaged again playing 11 V 11.  I once again was at the holding mid spot, and connected almost all of my passes, including some switches of the field and some driven balls.  Got in on some 50-50's too in the air and competed well.  Had one shot from about 20 yds out hit the post and then 5 min later I ended up scoring a nice volley from about 30 yards out.  Ball popped out, took a touch and let it rip and thankfully it went far post side netting.  Felt good, that's for sure.  I am happy with the way today went so, we will see.  Tomorrow is our last session for this little invite combine, so hopefully I can close out with a bang and keep it goin. 

After training a few of the guys and I went to Panera located in the Plaza.  The exact Panera I went to when I played out here for Loyola, brings back memories thats for sure of being with the guys and coaches.  We are actually stayin at the hotel next to where we stayed with Loyola too so.  Anyway, back to Panera, I ordered the Chipotle Chicken sandwich, always a good choice.  I also got the cream of chicken and wild rice, WOW, so good.  Very satisfied with the meal and once again those that know me best, know how much I enjoy a good meal.  SO for now I am back at the hotel, pretty tired...I'm thinking I will take a hot shower, read a little bit of my book, Steven Gerrard's autobiography which I highly recommend to any soccer nuts.  Tonight, think we are gonna do Noodle's and Co. for din din and just relax.  Good game on ESPN too with Ohio State and Purdue so I'll prob watch that.  That is all for now, hope things keep rollin and I appreciate all the well wishes..Shoutout to my brother Greg, who help get me here for the last 23 years and was/is a hell of a soccer player himself.  I will be back tomorrow hopefully with some more good news.  Thanks for takin the time to check-in.

EG

Back to KC

What's up friends, glad to be back in KC and hopefully headed to preseason again with Sporting KC.  First, playing in an invite combine for a few days and then if I play well enough they will bring me back in, so thats the goal.   Had our first training session today and things went pretty well.  It was good to see the coaching staff again and it felt like they were happy to see me back so that felt good.  Feels like they want me to succeed and do well so that was nice.  Played pretty well overall, took awhile for everyone to get settled in but once that happened I felt more comfortable.  Played some holding-mid, my personal favorite, and got some good touches early.  Played some nice balls, won some fun air battles, and got stuck in with some crunchin tackles.  Love me some of them.  The dirty work I really enjoy.  Hopefully the coaches saw some good things.  I am eager to get back at it tomorrow, that's for sure.  It's about 5 PM now and we go again tomorrow at noon.  Can't wait.

Looks like I will be blogging all along the way, and hopefully it'll be awhile.  Those of you who know me best, know how much this opportunity means to me and how bad I want it.  I appreciate all of the support and wishes, makes it easier to get through the process and provides me with company.  Friends and family I love all of you.  Been working very hard over the last few months and I want nothing more than to succeed.  So let's make it happen.  Shout out to my roomates, A12, Billy, Styguy, and Tommy.  Brones, you as well out in PA.  And of course my loving family and friends, this is for you too.  Off to grab some dinner and pick up some conditioner, because this freaken hotel doesn't have any lol :(.  Be back tomorrow with some updates.

EG