Ode To The Keeper

By Barbara Stoll-Frank, Black Mountain FC

Melanie Frank broke her nose last winter season during a game, while defending her goal. As an opponent sought to head the ball into the goal, Melanie tried equally hard to head it away — the two players collided and Mel's nose was broken.

Mel missed one game, wanting desperately to return to her place in net.

"I'm playing the next game,” Mel said.

"Not without a nose guard"!  replied her doctor.

Mel is the definition of "NO FEAR!” Melanie has played keeper since U-8. She began with Silver State Girls Soccer League at U-6, and currently plays for Black Mountain FC95 at the U-14 level. Mel hopes to play for Coronado High School's team by her sophomore year.

Below is a poem written by Melanie about her experiences with, and love for, the beautiful game of soccer, and the role of the keeper.

Ode to the  Keeper
by Melanie  Frank
One kick, two kicks, three kicks, four
I’m always determined, “they” can’t score!
Five kicks, six kicks, seven kicks, more
No more kicks, I’m awfully sore!
Downtown, Heat, more Premier woes
I’m ready, I’m steady, I’m on my toes!
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday Nights
I’m guarding the goal, under the Lights!
Teams are built, games are played
Players are groomed, success is weighed!
End of season,Tournament  time
Glory to the Team, but the Shut Out’s mine!

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