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I think areas like Orangeburg that probably don't have any competitive soccer options are at a disadvantage. It takes alot of guts for them to even field a team and to the get beaten game after game by such large margins. The next year they'll say why bother.



As I was walking to my car after IRMO defeated OW by a score of 16-0 I found myself walking next to the OW keeper who after some small talk told me playing teams like IRMO will make them better.

Kids don't need a mercy rule, they need to know they have to get better at whatever they do in life. This young man saw the exposure to a far superior team as a challenge to learn and improve. In fact, the whole OW team shook hands afterwards and were quick to acknowledge the display of talent they had been subjected to. Does such a game elevate the level of play for a team like IRMO? Not in my opinion, but it's nice to see young players embrace a win or a defeat for what it is. Both have benefits and shouldn't be manipulated by silly rules in an attempt to protect feelings.

It is what it is. Accept it and move on.

Imagine. Believe. Achieve.