MacDill Reservist rallies for spot on Women's U.S. Military World Cup Team

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Peter Dean
  • 927th Air Refueling Wing/Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  "Aaaawh, I love soccer, I grew up playing it, I played it in community college, and I later went on to coach high school soccer," said Staff Sgt. Jackie Kvilhaug, 45th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, aeromedical evacuation technician.

Kvilhaug along with 37 other athletes took to the field at the Haley Sport Complex, Brandon, Florida, September 14-25, to demonstrate they have what it takes to be one of the 22 players on the 2015 Women's U.S. Military World Cup Soccer Team.

"It's tough competition out there," said Kvihaugs "Many of these girls are fresh out of the academies. Although I stay in shape it has been a while since I have played on a team."

Unlike the Men's U.S. Military World Cup Soccer Team, which is comprised of member's from one specific branch, due to the limited number of players that possess the necessary skills, the women's team encompasses all branches of the U.S. Military.

"We have an amazing amount of talent out here competing," said Head Coach Dale Buterbaugh. "To be selected for the tryouts you have to be an exceptional player. But to be selected for the team, they will not only have to out shoot and out defend the other players, they will also have to possess the mindset that we are not going to Korea to compete, we are going there to win."

The Military World Games is a multi-sport event for military sportspeople, organized by the International Military Sports Council (CISM). Founded in 1948, the CISM is one of the largest multidisciplinary organizations in the world. CISM organizes various sporting events for the armed forces of 134 countries. In accordance with the philosophy and the ideals, which were set in CISM's mission statement in 1998, signed by all the member countries, soldiers, who may previously have met on the battlefield, now meet in friendship on the sports playing field.

"It's a big deal," said Kvilhuag "It's comparable to the Olympics, but specifically for the military throughout the world. And much like the Olympics, nations bid on hosting the games, this year's games will be held in Korea, I'm super excited."

The two-week long camp was not only to select the best of the best but also for the players to bond and develop camaraderie and teamwork.

"Other [nation's] teams work and train together throughout the year, building that connection and continuity," said Team Captain Kevin Davalos. "Budget restraints only allow us to fast-track a team. Even with the short turn around, we will be ready to represent!"

Unfortunately Kvilhuag's blood sweat and tears did not earn her a spot on the 2015 U.S. Woman's Military World Cup Team, and she will be cheering the team on from the sidelines.

"Like I said, it was tough competition, their is a lot of talented players out there," said Kvilhuag. "No doubt these girls are taking home the gold."

Follow and cheer on our teams at http://armedforcessports.defense.gov/Home.aspx