The Rigors of Playing at a Mile High

Denver sits at an elevation of exactly 5,280 feet. That's quite a difference compared to the 704-foot elevation level of Duluth, MN.

These unfamiliar conditions require some familiar coping techniques: adaption, preparation and, as always, dedication.

To speed acclimation to the thinner air in Denver, the University of Minnesota Duluth soccer squad is taking the necessary steps. This, in turn, will hopefully lead to less of a physical and mental shock to the 21 Bulldogs, when Friday afternoon's NCAA II Central Region First Round match up against rival Minnesota State, rolls around.

Plenty of water, mid-day naps and a strict diet are the formula UMD is following, in hopes of gaining an edge on Friday over their fellow Minnesota-based opponent. The change in scenery has not gone unnoticed to some of the Maroon and Gold pitchsters, however.

"People during the warm-up at practice today seemed to get winded a little faster than usual," said junior defender Maria Leider.

Having said that, there is a level of confidence going into the match from the Bulldog squad and the elevation issues may be more of a mental issue than a physical one.

"It's nothing we can't handle, we are still going to go out and play our best game," Leider, a Duluth, Minn., native said. "For both teams, it's a place that we're not used to, but If we play our game, we feel we can beat anyone."

The weather can certainly be a physical issue, and may be more of a worry at this point for the UMD staff and players. Temperatures reached the mid-70's during the team's Thursday practice session at Auraria Field, but those unusual November levels are not expected to hold. The forecast calls for a high of 46 degrees, with a 70 percent chance of precipitation (expected to be a rain/snow mix) at game time Friday afternoon.

No matter the elements, it appears the Bulldogs will bring their best Friday afternoon.

Followers are reminded that a video feed of Friday afternoon's game will be broadcast free of charge, via Penn Atlantic. The link for the feed can be found here. On top of that, a live, in-game blog of UMD's second NCAA playoff game in team history will be provided. Check out www.umdbulldogs.com for more information and a link to this blog, as the contest draws near.

Good night to all, wherever you are, from Denver!