Coach Yon controlling the ball in the back against Poland

The USA Deaf Soccer Team rolled into the finals after completing group play with a win over Poland 3-1.  The final shaped up to be a rematch of the very first game of the tournament as the US took on their number one rival Russia.  It was a much anticipated rematch and the play certainly didn’t disappoint.  In the end the results were identical to the previous time the two squads met with the score favoring the US 1-0.  Although the Russians put forth a strong effort, they were unable to fight back due to strong play by the defense and goalkeeping of the United States.  The lone goal was just enough to clinch the Gold Medal in the 2012 World Deaf Football Championships and allow the US to defend their title.

The team landed back in the states on July 31 and players returned to their homes.  Good-byes seem to be increasingly hard as the players form strong bonds and relationships in the few weeks they are together.  “It is such an honor to go out and represent the United States in competition,” reflected Coach Yon.  “There is nothing like playing for the gold and knowing that you’re bringing it back home with you!”