Hats off to the U.S. Women's Soccer Team and their thrilling victory over Brazil for the gold medal today on two scores from the young players - not the vets. I confess that I've been a huge women's soccer fan since my days as a graduate student at the University of North Carolina, and seeing the so-called"Class of 1991" win the gold was a fitting way to say goodbye. It also signaled something that may take some getting used to for American fans - losing. Brazil was clearly the better side today, and their younger players are going to be tough to beat for the next few years. Along with the Germans and Norwegians there are now four pretty comparable teams at the top of the women's soccer world.

Still the U.S. has a lot to be happy about with their younger players (many of whom are Tar Heels!) especially Lindsey Tarpley who's rocket in the first half put the U.S. up 1-0 and Abby Wambach who's header gave them gold. Adieu Mia, Joy, and Julie. Thanks for the memories.