(April 12, 2006)

On April 23^rd the Generals say farewell to a good teammate, a good friend and a fine young man when Eero heads back to his home in Finland. While Eero is surely happy to be going home, the Generals must all be asking themselves, “Where did the time go?”

Since the first tryout session last summer, the ‘Blond Bomber’ has let his feet do the talking – and talk they did! Eero quickly became a mainstay in the Generals central midfield, and after 25 matches the Generals are going to miss him. Knowing Eero though, while he left big shoes to fill, he likely also helped teach the boys who will take his place what they’ll need to do to replace him.

Win, lose, or draw, however, Eero has meant much more to the boys – and to the coach and the players’ families – than the sum of his on field contributions. He and his family have given all of us a precious chance to learn about people from another part of our world. We’ve learned that there are differences in languages and customs, but we’ve also learned a bit about the things that can bring us together: fun, friendship, cooperation, and sportsmanlike competition.

There’s been some talk of the Generals making a trip to Eero’s homeland in the future for a soccer-filled reunion. Let’s hope that this dream becomes a reality. What a great way to renew friendships and get the most out of the beautiful game of soccer! (The only downside to this, of course, is that the Generals would take the field with Eero on the other side of the center line!)

Until then, enjoy these images of our Finnish friends.

Farewell Eero, Mikko, and Hanna! Hyvästi!