Chicago Red Stars....I Love You!

This was an incredibly frustrating season to watch. I've admittedly suffered through worse seasons, such as 2002 when my beloved New York Power won a total of 2 games in a 21 game season following their heartbreaking defeat in the league semi-finals the year before. But somehow the pain is worse this time around. It might have something to do with seeing the damage in person. Or the $15 parking at Toyota Park, which costs more than the individual tickets, (Fact: Parking at Disneyland is $12.) putting a hefty dent in my wallet.

With the obvious stated, there is no question that I love this club. I love the team and the spirit of the players. I love the friendliness of the organization and how helpful they've been. (I believe this is when I give Kara a shout-out for all of her help and our many phone conversations.) I also love how much they care about the success of the league and the team. It's just unfortunate that we were met with all the unluckiness in the world given the vast talent of the team.

Whenever things went bad I remembered Saint Louis Edwardsville. The spirit of the fans, a united group of passionate supporters, and how much fun it was to cheer our to team to victory. The flags flying high over our group on that April evening was a sight to see, an image I've carried in my mind (and on the background of my phone) throughout these long months. It's what I think of when the team is down, or when I go to a game and Local 134 consists of about 7 people, and I feel sad.

As it is, I'm transferring schools this coming fall and am planning to spend next summer studying abroad. I won't be renewing my season tickets, and doubt I'll even make it to a single CRS game at TP next season (I will be proudly supporting them in St. Louis, should the schedule work out in my favor, though.) So on Sunday I say farewell to TP and this organization for which I have so much passion for the next few years as my life takes on a new course. (Gosh, I'm making this so dramatic. lol)

But for those of you who will continue to wave your flags proudly at Toyota Park next season, I beg you, for when things get tough: Please remember Saint Louis Edwardsville!