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JBSA News
NEWS | Aug. 28, 2013

Warhawks gear up for Defender Cup tourney

By Jose T. Garza III JBSA-Lackland Public Affairs

After a first round exit in last year's Defender Cup Varsity Soccer Tournament, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland Warhawks Coach Nana Saahene realizes how important it is to field the best competitive Air Force soccer team possible.

Since June, Saahene and his coaching staff have been looking for experienced skilled players who are ready to instantly contribute and help the Warhawks go far in this year's tournament, which takes place Friday to Saturday.

They don't want players who are looking to learn how to play soccer.

"We want people who know how to play," Saahene said. "The competition is high. We need very good players who know how to control the ball."

Practices have amped up from one to two per week as the tournament nears. The Warhawks also compete in the San Antonio Soccer Association on weekends.

During practice and competition, the team works on ball control and cohesiveness. Lack of team chemistry hurt the Warhawks last year, Saahene said.

"When you're playing six or seven games in a span of three days, we need good teamwork."

Saahene believes the Warhawks can reverse its fortunes and go deep in the tournament this year.

The team just needs to stay healthy in order to succeed.

Assistant coach, and Warhawks previous head coach, Spencer Spriesterbach pointed out injuries that have occurred during past Defender Cup tournaments.

He said he does not encourage the Warhawks to over practice and allows them to take time to treat injuries.

"Hopefully, we go into the tournament well rested and better prepared," Spiesterbach said.

"This is the time where it gets serious. The players want discipline, and I think we will be okay."