Later when I interviewed Monica for this profile I asked what was the highlight of her Outlaws experience and I assumed it would be that score. Nope. She said her highlight was "After-game celebrations. All of them."
Dozens of Outlaws have said being an Outlaw is like being part of a family. The camaraderie, the caring for each other, the sense of belonging - made this team special. Sharing the happiness of victory, the disappointment of loss. This spirit has played a huge role in the success of the Outlaws as they have stayed together for now eleven years.
And Monica is a big reason for the spirit. In another interview she talked about winning a championship game and the "...feeling we have. Not just me alone. It isn't so much fun for me alone but fun when there are twenty some people sharing the victory."
Running Back |
Quarterback |
Defensive Back |
Holder on Place Kicks |
Passer |
Pass Receiver |
She owns dogs, a horse, a boat. She has just moved into a new home, one suitable for her horse and dogs.
And she plays football.
When the Outlaws were in crisis mode about eight years ago, Monica joined Lily in putting up personal resources to get the team admitted to the NWFA. Of that time, Monica says "I was the positive attitude person - we can do it!" She credits Lily with having the managerial skill to make the team succeed. Lily "wants everybody to be happy but she's willing do the tough love bit." Lily will say what it takes, even if it means making someone unhappy. Monica says she and Lily make a good team, complimentary of each other.
Lily and Monica are best friends. And have been for as long as I've followed the team. Both are responsible for the Outlaw's success, Lily as skilled and effective manager who has and projects a sincere commitment to the good of the players; Monica as an inspiration through her play and her wanting everybody happy.
Lily plays in the offensive line and hears her name on the public address system only during pre-game introductions. Monica benefits by Lily's blocks, has the high visibility. Her name is called frequently during the games.
Well, kinda sorta.
I've heard public address announcers pronounce Monica's name a in a variety of ways. Most common is GAWK. I once asked Monica how to pronounce Gauck. She said if you can say cow, you have it. G-ow-ck. I've never heard an announcer say it correctly. I'm beginning to wonder if I have it wrong. Monica? How do you say Gauck?
1 comment:
gauck is pronounced (gowk), wonderful set of pics great article.
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