In case spring in Lexington wasn't warm enough, Reese got the opportunity to head to Tampa, Florida to play in a USL Cup tournament with her current team and number of very familiar guest players from the younger team. To be specific, two of Reese's favorite people, Emerson and Mary, were playing with this team. So John and Reese headed to Tampa for a four day adventure in March.
It was plenty hot in Tampa and the girls were also coached by two folks who were not their usual club coaches. Coach Michelle was insistent that the girls aid their post-game recoveries with at least 20 minutes in an ice bath. Although they weren't excited about it they figured it would go better if they did it together and timed themselves. It was impressive commitment to their coach's recommendations and they stuck it out.
The team played well and won their first three games handily which qualified them for the championship. Reese did a great job on the field, but this tournament really showcased her abilities to braid hair. Reese's pop-up hair salon became a popular appointment pre-game, and what started as a line of girls stopping by the hotel room spilled over into the hotel lobby on day 3.
Our last day in Tampa saw Reese and her team win the championship for their age group in convincing fashion. They played strong through the heat and for their work got to experience a whole awards ceremony with individual medals and a team trophy. It was a good experience and the team's success certainly made the trip even more worthwhile.
On our way home we had to make sure we took a picture with one of the neat features of the Tampa airport. The sculpture gives you the perspective of watching from below as a giant pink flamingo puts its head under water to catch a fish. Reese and John had a great time traveling together despite the unfortunate misunderstanding regarding a candy purchase on April Fool's Day.
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