This week I want to dedicate this column to the ISL teams that will be playing this Thursday.

Four teams will be battling for position in the Cellular One Blue Division, and in the first game between the Titans and Apex, the losing team will not make the 2009 play-offs.

There is even more riding on the second game between Storm and Knights with the winners being crowned Division champions, and getting a bye straight into the play-off semi-finals in the process.

I am writing this piece then for the players who are involved to make sure they understand what they need to be prepared for.

My question for the players is simple. Are you prepared? Have you prepared yourself for what is ahead, not just the battle but what comes with the battle, the mindset, the challenge, the respect, the passion, the love and most of all the attitude.

We all know that there will be a winner at the end of the day and we all sit home hoping to be that winner. But, do you know what you are in for, are you preparing your mind knowing that it controls your body and the least mistakes made will determined the winner. How you react will determined the winner, how you think will determined the winner.

The win will not just come from the result but the lasting impression you leave, you are dealing with something that is bigger than the game.

You will be challenged on Thursday and your emotion will be high, your will to win will be great which means your focus has to be greater. Is your mind strong enough for the high you will get from a win or the low that comes with a loss. Are you professional enough to control your emotions and leave the greatest lasting impression on the game, are you willing to believe that you could accomplish greatness at the same time.

As I watched you all play last weekend I saw players with plenty of talent, plenty of passion and of love, with a will to win that is beautiful and a never-say-die attitue that is refreshing.

Your integrity runs deep inside you and losing for some is not an option, but I will tell you this, someone will not be the winner on that night and your reaction as a winner and a loser will determined who you are.

Remember, to be great you have to think great, and when we understand that we only have second chances at greatness if we stay focused and look at the big picture. We all will have our time to shine.

As I have been playing for many years and had to swallow the knowing that each year may not be my time to win, I had to develop my mindset that no matter what the outcome, I will lift the trophy some day. Twelve years later it happened and it has happened four years out of the six I have been in Baltimore. I am now a champion.

Players, coaches and referees, you will be in a battle on Thursday night, one that will call for respect, patience and honor. I wish you all the best and could only ask you to be prepared for your task at hand.

You all want the same prize and know in the back of your mind that only one will get it, which will have great affect on your emotion, you will be in charge of your destiny.

Remember no matter what the outcome, you hold the key for having a second chance.

Until Next Time!