Solvang Classic

The Walnut Midnight Express as they will be remembered, especially by the parents and people who came across their paths during the last year of the century, will go down in history to be the first winnigest team of Walnut's sports history. The team is a formidable group of young and well-mannered girls who had devoted their skills to build up the camaraderie only a few will chance to experience in a lifetime. The meaning of the word "team" has been well described by their actions in and out of the soccer field. Each of the girls had played their respective games in a way that augmented the spirit within each of their big hearts, complementing each others to achive the common goal for all. For sure, no one will forget the Spring of 1999 when we have added so much number of friends with whom we experienced the victories, the laughters and the few sorrows of defeats. There was the scary moment when Renay suffered a mild concussion. The next few hours to the next day was unsettling as we waited and pray for her return. She came back, in street cloth, to support and cheer the group she left behind the previous day. Of course, with the group intact-the result was a gold.

Unselfish is one word to describe all the girls in this team. There is Christie Herring, with all her skills and intelligence, didn't think about scoring. She is the "insurance policy" for a victory. Her defensive skill at the back was tremendous. Everyone's at ease when this quiet girl is playing. Janessa, the prolific scorer, keeps the opposing team at bay with her footwork and kicks. Theresa, whether playing the back or at front, is a relief to see because of her speed and shifty moves. Elisa, a very solid defender and excellent in keeping the ball in play. You don't need to worry as she easily weaves away from an opposing player. I could see Vivi streaking in a straight line to the ball and leaving the goalie behind. How about Lauren, the 3 consecutive goals against Chino was outstanding. She set the tone of the game for a gold at the end. The never ending and undying strides of Andrea. Whether she goes down or not, she remains tough and managed a smile at the end. The rampaging train, it's Renay, the front is all hers whether the opponent is tall or wide. Someone who never quit and always standing tall at the end. How many games had Keeks saved when the rest are playing short? "Thank You", are the words especially during the AREA 1B Games. She flew and she dugged for the ball for a gold for the rest of us. One who has a wide base of support when playing, a technician in her own respect is Irene. Very soft spoken but deadly in defense and one who could still the ball at will. The "mighty" Jennifer, who played taller opponents as if they're her size. "Tiger" Tiff, as they call her. One who's dedication to play for her team to win endured the most pain. They have stumped on her foot and put her down so many times but they're unable to put her out. A prolific scorer on a run who scored the very first and last goal of the Midnight Express. Kaboom- Katie who sealed the game against Sta. Barbara. Can't forget that direct and lofty kick. How about the strong legs of Valerie who gives 110% all the times. Her runs and defense during the Arrowhead tournament was excellect. How about the first line of defense before the ball gets to Christie and Keeks? Christine's superb in all respect. Running fast and straight to ball, keeping the ball and opponent way beyond the goal. Individually, we will reminisce these days or we may even visit the sites as grandmas and grandpas. In our mind, we will replay everything and even boost what had happened during these times. Nothing would ever replace the memories, the sounds, the sights of the 1999 Walnut Midnight Express.

Eleventh gold of the year

Christie

The Gang

Pied

Showered

Christine & Joe

Oh Boy!