A Note Of Appreciation For Team USA & Bruins Representing The Stars & Stripes

Well the run came to an end last night in Rustenburg but for many of us it has already been the most memorable World Cup since the incredible run U.S. team made in Korea back in 2002. US Soccer has taken some incredible steps forward since a Bruin goalie saved the federation but we can totally understand the sentiment of having that woulda-coulda-shoulda ("empty") feeling at the end of last night's game. Still I really like the comments and reaction from DeMerit following the game:

"There's always disappointment when a great tournament like this comes to an end," DeMerit explained later. "But I think it's a really special time for U.S. soccer. There's a reason that the United States sold more tickets than pretty much any other country to come here: These people care; these people want to be a part of these environments.

"To show our appreciation as players, win or lose, is the important thing. And when disappointment is at its highest, that's probably the time to show the most appreciation."

They made all of us proud. Especially here in Bruins Nation with deep ties to the soccer team via our Captain (Carlos Bocanegra) and the two other Bruins who left their positive marks in South Africa (Benny Feilhaber and Jonathan Bornstein). Congrats to all of them, their team-mates and the coach Bob Bradley, who happens to be a Dad of a Bruin.

As for rest of the World Cup, please let us know if you would like to have open threads even though the US Team is no longer in it. It certainly has been a lot of fun following this tourney with all of you here.

GO BRUINS.