EQS Sports Notepad

[Equestrian States]

Re-tooling this thread as a means for me make notes and stuff without clogging up other threads I use.

[Equestrian States]

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[Equestrian States]

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[Equestrian States]

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[Equestrian States]

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[Equestrian States]

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[Equestrian States]

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[Equestrian States]

The Pony Principality of Equestrian States
National Hoofball Team - World Cup 81 Roster

Introduction
The last cycle of international tournaments has been an unusual one for the Equestrian States' national hoofball teams. Historically, the Equestrians have performed extremely well at the youth level while the senior team has frequently underachieved, but in the last cycle this trend has been reversed with the youth sides making underwhelming group stage exits and the Ponies following up their Cup of Harmony quarterfinals appearance by reaching that same stage in the AOCAF Cup and then in the World Cup itself. However, though casual Equestrian supporters may be distracted from the Little Ponies' disappointments by the senior team finally reaching deeper into the multiverse's most prestigious competitions, the same cannot be said of the Hoofball Association who reacted to the Little Ponies dismal outings in the Under-18 World Cup and Di Bradini Cup by sacking U-18 manager Subtle Trix and by warning U-21 manager Red Dwarf that - despite his history of success - he might share the same fate if player performance continues to decline.

Replacing Subtle Trix as manager of the Little Ponies for this edition of the Under-18 World Cup is senior team assistant Lunar Dusk, whose stellar record with Crystal Fair HC and the national team offers fans good reason to be optimistic about the Little Ponies chances of making an impact in the tournament. Despite her young age, Lunar Dusk has already accomplished much as a manager, leading Crystal Fair first to promotion from the second tier and then into regularly qualifying for the Globe Cup, firmly establishing the Grounders as one of the United League's better teams in recent seasons. Powering Crystal Fair's rapid ascent: Lunar Dusk's brilliant tactical mind and, most importantly for her role with the Little Ponies, her ability to inspire excellence from young players.

As for the Equestrian U-18 team itself, the Little Ponies have seen a fair bit of turnover in the squad from the last tournament, particularly in the back where just one defender - Quake - remains with the team. The Equestrian States' relative inexperience on defense will be made up for by a fresh infusion of attacking talent backed by an exceptionally gifted midfield that has followers of the Little Ponies looking forward eagerly to they day they might appear for the senior team. In the more immediate future, however, the Equestrians are aiming to impress in the Under-18 World Cup and reassert their place as one of the multiverse's better cultivators of young talent. Lunar Dusk has asserted that her team is entirely capable of lifting the trophy come the end of the tournament, a bold claim given the Little Ponies' dismal outing last time around, but if there's anypony capable of staging such a turnaround in fortunes for the Equestrians, it would have to be Lunar Dusk.

Quick Facts
KPB Ranking: 17th (28.57 pts.)
Style Modifier: -1.75
Nickname: The Ponies
All-Time Record: 264-105-76 (0-0-0 at World Cup 81 Qualifying)
Achievements: Champions (Runner Cup 3, Market Cup 5); Runners-up (Equestria Cup 2); Third Place (Equestria Cup 1, Market Cup 6); Semifinals (Cup of Champions 4); Quarterfinals (World Cup 80, Cup of Harmony 71, AOCAF Cup 55, VIII Olympiad Women, VIII Olympiad Men); Round of 16 (World Cup 67, World Cup 70, World Cup 72, Cup of Harmony 51, Cup of Harmony 53, Cup of Harmony 60, AOCAF Cup 56); Qualified (World Cup 64, World Cup 65, World Cup 66, World Cup 71, World Cup 73, Cup of Harmony 52, Cup of Harmony 54, Cup of Harmony 55)

Kits

Home - Away - Reverse

The national team receives its kits from two different companies, though the design for each is the same. Kits for the humanoid players (see above) are provided by Kirola Sportswear of Audioslavia, while those for equine and other non-humanoid players are provided by Generosity Sporting Equipment. The Equestrian kits were designed to be simple and easy to identify, using the national colors of purple and orange.

Group Z - Finals
#00 - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)
#00 - Equestrian States (00.00 pts.)
#00 - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)
#00 - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)

Group 0 - Qualifying
#17 - Equestrian States (28.57 pts.)
#00 - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)
#00 - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)
#00 - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)
#00 - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)
#00 - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)
#00 - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)
#00 - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)
UR - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)
UR - To Be Determined (00.00 pts.)

Tournament Schedule

Pre-Qualifying Friendlies
Pre-Qual I: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Royal Equestria Stadium (cap. 98,625) in Canterlot, Equestrian States
Pre-Qual II: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
Pre-Qual III: Equestrian States 1-0 Apox at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Equestrian States (Win)
Pre-Qual IV: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Equestrian States

Qualifying - Group 0 (First Half)
MD1: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD2: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD3: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD4: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD5: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD6: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD7: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD8: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD9: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD

Mid-Qualifying Friendly
Pink & Purple Cup I: Cassadaigua vs. Equestrian States at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Cassadaigua

Qualifying - Group 0 (Second Half)
MD10: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD11: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD12: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD13: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD14: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD15: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD16: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD17: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD18: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD

Post-Qualifying Friendlies
Post-Qual I: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
Post-Qual II: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
Post-Qual III: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD

Group Stage - Group Z
MD1: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD2: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD
MD3: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD

Knockout Stage
Match: Equestrian States vs. TBD at Venue TBD (cap. Unknown) in City TBD, Nation TBD

Qualifying Roster Pool

Goalkeepers
With the Equestrian States renowned for producing exceptional goalkeepers like Gentle Breeze, it's no surprise that the Little Ponies boast depth and talent in goal. Storm Raider, the current backup keeper for Stalliongrad HC, earns the starting job for this edition with her exceptional ability and strength in the air putting her ahead of Petunia and Winona. Of course, that's not to say that the two backup goalkeepers for the Little Ponies aren't skilled. Petunia's reflexes are excellent and she rarely makes mental mistakes, a highly-coveted skill for such a young player. Meanwhile, Winona might be the best goalkeeper outside the box that the Little Ponies have ever had, but her lack of experience shows as it's led to some embarrassing miscues in her limited minutes with the Whitetail Foresters.

#1 - Gentle Breeze (Pegasus - Female)
Position: Goalkeeper | Age: 30 | Debut: vs. Qazox (WC62 Qualifying)
Club: Celtic Noviodunim | League: COTEFA Terranean League West
International Caps: 151 | Assists: 1 | Goals: 1
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#21 - Marilyn Peterson (Human - Female)
Position: Goalkeeper | Age: 26 | Debut: vs. Urain (VIII Olympiad)
Club: Kings Park | League: Schottic Premier League
International Caps: 28 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#24 - Silver Charm (Pegasus - Female)
Position: Goalkeeper | Age: 23 | Debut: vs. Crystal Empire (Post-WC70 Friendly)
Club: Manechester City HC | League: United League
International Caps: 9 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#22 - Nightflame (Unicorn - Male)
Position: Goalkeeper | Age: 29 | Debut: vs. Yesopalitha (WC63 Qualifying)
Club: Canterlot Royals | League: United League
International Caps: 29 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#37 - Starshine (Crystal Pony - Male)
Position: Goalkeeper | Age: 28 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Crystopolis City | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#45 - Amberlocks (Crystal Pony - Female)
Position: Goalkeeper | Age: 31 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Canterlot Stars | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#58 - Mac Stevenson (Human - Male)
Position: Goalkeeper | Age: 32 | Debut: vs. Jeptier (WC61 Qualifying)
Club: Norrion Rovers | League: ICEL Premier Division
International Caps: 9 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#53 - Keelie Gold (Earth Pony - Female)
Position: Goalkeeper | Age: 24 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Crystal Fair HC | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

Defenders
As mentioned earlier, the only defender returning to the tournament for the Little Ponies is 18 year-old Quake, who was the lone standout in a back line that gave up a humiliating 11 goals in three matches, often seeming to be the only member of the defense that knew what he was doing with his physical play style well suited for breaking up attacks. Joining Quake in the middle of the defense will be Faraday, whose skills on the ball have earned him high praise in the Second League and the attention of Crystalline giants Crystopolis City who reportedly will target him next transfer window. On the flanks, the Little Ponies boast a pair of attack-minded fullbacks in Starsong and Malena, both quick to surge up the pitch and join the counterattack when needed. The Equestrians also have some notable talent on the bench, Sunstreak in particular for her excellence in the air and Juliette Séverin as a especially promising agile fullback with ambitions of becoming the next Brix Hamilton someday.

#12 - Brix Hamilton (Human - Female)
Position: Defender (LB/CB) | Age: 30 | Debut: vs. Argo Islands (WC63 Qualifying)
Club: Handon United | League: Schottic Premier League
International Caps: 131 | Assists: 15 | Goals: 4
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#8 - Andrea Molovi (Human - Female)
Position: Defender (CB) | Age: 33 | Debut: vs. Euskirribakondara (WC61 Qualifying)
Club: Crisisbless | League: NFA Premiership
International Caps: 223 | Assists: 6 | Goals: 3
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#3 - Flitter (Pegasus - Female)
Position: Defender (CB/DM) | Age: 34 | Debut: vs. Waspeaters (WC60 Qualifying)
Club: Crystopolis City | League: United League
International Caps: 258 | Assists: 19 | Goals: 10
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#19 - Krysia Bailey (Human - Female)
Position: Defender (RB/CB/DM) | Age: 25 | Debut: vs. Iturributa (WC68 Qualifying)
Club: Avenida Leal | League: FARF Freitball Ligá
International Caps: 87 | Assists: 12 | Goals: 1
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#4 - Rumble (Pegasus - Male)
Position: Defender (CB/DM) | Age: 24 | Debut: vs. Jeckland (Pre-WC68 Friendly)
Club: Cloudsdale Flyers | League: United League
International Caps: 73 | Assists: 4 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#14 - Sunlight (Unicorn - Female)
Position: Defender (RB/CB) | Age: 26 | Debut: vs. Saint James Islands (Pre-WC69 Friendly)
Club: Ponyville United | League: United League
International Caps: 42 | Assists: 1 | Goals: 1
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#23 - Nightshade (Bat Pony - Female)
Position: Defender (LB) | Age: 21 | Debut: vs. Estenia (WC71 Qualifying)
Club: Oldem Knights | League: Apox National League
International Caps: 16 | Assists: 2 | Goals: 1
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#20 - Arctic Lily (Crystal Pony - Female)
Position: Defender (CB) | Age: 28 | Debut: vs. Darmen (Pre-WC80 Friendly)
Club: Ponyville United | League: United League
International Caps: 6 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#27 - Rose Petal (Pegasus - Female)
Position: Defender (LB/LM/DM) | Age: 21 | Debut: vs. Estope (WC63 Qualifying)
Club: Ponyville United | League: United League
International Caps: 17 | Assists: 4 | Goals: 1
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#29 - Erauso Iburrusteta (Human - Male)
Position: Defender (CB) | Age: 24 | Debut: vs. Osarius (Pre-WC69 Friendly)
Club: Santos Luega | League: SuperLiga
International Caps: 46 | Assists: 1 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#56 - Ironhoof (Unicorn - Male)
Position: Defender (CB/RB) | Age: 21 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Canterlot Royals | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#44 - Blackmane (Earth Pony - Male)
Position: Defender (CB/RB) | Age: 32 | Debut: vs. Bitternea (WC61 Qualifying)
Club: Manehattan Manticores | League: United League
International Caps: 86 | Assists: 2 | Goals: 1
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#40 - Crimson Mesa (Zebra - Male)
Position: Defender (CB/RB) | Age: 23 | Debut: vs. San José Guayabal (Pre-WC71 Friendly)
Club: Canterlot Stars | League: United League
International Caps: 14 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#34 - Horus (Unicorn - Female)
Position: Defender (LB/CB) | Age: 31 | Debut: vs. Megadia (WC63 Qualifying)
Club: Everfree Forest HC | League: United League
International Caps: 51 | Assists: 1 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#48 - Rose Quartz (Crystal Pony - Female)
Position: Defender (CB/LB/LM) | Age: 27 | Debut: vs. Darmen (Pre-WC80 Friendly)
Club: Canterlot Royals | League: United League
International Caps: 2 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#54 - Amethyst (Crystal Pony - Female)
Position: Defender (CB/DM) | Age: 21 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Crystal City United | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#57 - Hammerclaw (Griffon - Male)
Position: Defender (CB/LB) | Age: 22 | Debut: vs. Eshan (Pre-AOCAF 56 Friendly)
Club: Whitetail Foresters | League: United League
International Caps: 1 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#62 - Melon Frost (Pegasus - Female)
Position: Defender (CB/LB/DM) | Age: 17 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Cloudsdale Flyers | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#88 - Zeorge (Dragon - Male)
Position: Defender (CB) | Age: 19 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Manechester City HC | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#51 - Cherry Blossom (Earth Pony - Female)
Position: Defender (CB) | Age: 30 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Ponyville Galaxy | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

[Equestrian States]

Midfielders
Without question, midfield is where the Equestrian States' greatest strength lies on this roster, with a deep pool of skilled, experienced, and extremely promising young talents for Lunar Dusk to draw from. Headlining the Little Ponies' midfield is Sunny Day, an all-around excellent center midfielder who has already displayed a natural gift for leadership and could well be the very best player of her generation as evidenced by her already having appeared for the U21s at the last Di Bradini Cup. Coming in a close second behind Sunny Day for the Little Ponies' most-hyped young player title is Indigo Zap, a lightning-quick agile attacking midfielder who reminds many of Rainbow Blitz, also a product of the Cloudsdale Flyers academy. Meanwhile, Sugar Wing is also drawing attention after enjoying a breakout season with Mriin's AFC Hosingr, earning her fourth place in the league's best foreigner award at the age of 17, no mean feat for such a young player having moved abroad for the first time. Red Rose and Cosmic Shine complete the Little Ponies' starting midfield, the latter already a regular starter in the United League for the Whitetail Rangers, and the former a valuable depth piece for reigning league champions Crystopolis City. Of course, the Equestrian bench also boasts exceptional midfield talent with Apple Cider and Moondrop representing the best of the bunch. Also of note is Light Aurora, the Ponyville Galaxy's 16 year-old prodigy with a gift for precise passes and controlling the ball.

#9 - Rainbow Blitz (Pegasus - Male) - VICE-CAPTAIN
Position: Midfielder (AM/ST) | Age: 30 | Debut: vs. Slembana (Pre-WC63 Friendly)
Club: Makosile United | League: V-League Declasse Division
International Caps: 214 | Assists: 90 | Goals: 82
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#2 - Cloudchaser (Pegasus - Female) - CAPTAIN
Position: Midfielder (CM/AM) | Age: 34 | Debut: vs. Khytenna (Pre-WC60 Friendly)
Club: Mallox | League: FSF Härlighet Ligan
International Caps: 282 | Assists: 110 | Goals: 62
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#5 - Apple Cobbler (Earth Pony - Female)
Position: Midfielder (AM/RM/CM) | Age: 24 | Debut: vs. United Gordonopia (VIII Olympiad)
Club: Jungle Strike FC | League: V-League Stellar Division
International Caps: 122 | Assists: 47 | Goals: 14
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#16 - Luminesce (Unicorn - Female)
Position: Midfielder (CM/LM) | Age: 22 | Debut: vs. Bears Armed (Equine-Ursine Cup 12)
Club: Lexington Victory | League: COTEFA Terranean League West
International Caps: 59 | Assists: 15 | Goals: 6
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#17 - Rosie Tyler (Human - Female)
Position: Midfielder (CM/DM/LM) | Age: 26 | Debut: vs. Colombian Britannia (Pre-WC66 Friendly)
Club: Willox Street Pirates | League: Christopheran Super-League
International Caps: 89 | Assists: 18 | Goals: 11
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#11 - Krystal (Unicorn - Female)
Position: Midfielder (CM/LM/AM) | Age: 29 | Debut: vs. Manetreal (Equestria Cup 4)
Club: Crystopolis City | League: United League
International Caps: 132 | Assists: 27 | Goals: 15
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#15 - Elaine Everdeen (Human - Female)
Position: Midfielder (AM/LM) | Age: 30 | Debut: vs. The Inevitable Syndicate (WC65 Qualifying)
Club: Anomalies FC | League: Chromatik Premier Division
International Caps: 92 | Assists: 13 | Goals: 7
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#25 - Aarón Aiza (Human - Male)
Position: Midfielder (RM/AM/CM) | Age: 28 | Debut: vs. Osarius (Pre-WC69 Friendly)
Club: Herzegovina City FC | League: Banijan Soccer League
International Caps: 41 | Assists: 12 | Goals: 4
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name. In 3 seasons in Banija (4 total, 3 w/ records), Aiza has 64 goals, 49 assists, an MVP win, two MVP runner-ups, two Silver Boots and a Silver Boot runner-up, and three Team of the Season selections.

#18 - Stardust (Pegasus - Female)
Position: Midfielder (RM/CM/AM) | Age: 29 | Debut: vs. Blouman Empire (WC63 Qualifying)
Club: Whitetail Foresters | League: United League
International Caps: 115 | Assists: 23 | Goals: 11
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#39 - Fleur de Verre (Crystal Pony - Female)
Position: Midfielder (CM/LM) | Age: 29 | Debut: vs. Darmen (Pre-WC80 Friendly)
Club: Ponyville United | League: United League
International Caps: 3 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#28 - Sparrow Body (Human - Male)
Position: Midfielder (RM/CM/AM) | Age: 24 | Debut: vs. Gloriax (Pre-WC69 Friendly)
Club: Ramusok United | League: FSF Härlighet Ligan
International Caps: 30 | Assists: 3 | Goals: 1
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#33 - Lunar Shadow (Bat Pony - Female)
Position: Midfielder (CM/AM) | Age: 23 | Debut: vs. Devonta (Pre-WC70 Friendly)
Club: Eastal Lunar | League: V-League Stellar Division
International Caps: 13 | Assists: 2 | Goals: 2
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#41 - Sapphire Rose (Crystal Pony - Female)
Position: Midfielder (CM/LM) | Age: 30 | Debut: vs. Baker Park (Pre-WC80 Friendly)
Club: Cloudsdale Flyers | League: United League
International Caps: 2 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#31 - Dizzy Doo (Pegasus - Female)
Position: Midfielder (LM/CM/AM) | Age: 23 | Debut: vs. Carpathia & Ruthenia (WC63 Qualifying)
Club: Whitetail Foresters | League: United League
International Caps: 16 | Assists: 2 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#32 - Jermaine Poole (Human - Male)
Position: Midfielder (CM/RM) | Age: 28 | Debut: vs. Mizuyuki (Pre-WC69 Friendly)
Club: Canterlot Stars | League: United League
International Caps: 41 | Assists: 11 | Goals: 2
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#47 - Sugar Glass (Crystal Pony - Male)
Position: Midfielder (AM/CM/RM) | Age: 26 | Debut: vs. Freeport (Pre-WC80 Friendly)
Club: Crystal Fair HC | League: United League
International Caps: 1 | Assists: 1 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#36 - Boskenna Penhallow (Human - Male)
Position: Midfielder (CM/AM) | Age: 24 | Debut: vs. Saint James Islands (Pre-WC69 Friendly)
Club: Kingsgrove | League: A-League
International Caps: 17 | Assists: 1 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#49 - Lightning Streak (Pegasus - Male)
Position: Midfielder (LM/AM) | Age: 29 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Canterlot Royals | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#50 - Ironhide (Dragon - Male)
Position: Midfielder (AM) | Age: 31 | Debut: vs. Vindesby (WC61 Qualifying)
Club: Everfree Forest HC | League: United League
International Caps: 62 | Assists: 8 | Goals: 9
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#43 - Youngheart (Buffalo - Female)
Position: Midfielder (DM/CM) | Age: 26 | Debut: vs. Footballand (VIII Olympiad)
Club: Appleoosa HC | League: United League
International Caps: 3 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#46 - Sunny Day (Unicorn - Female)
Position: Midfielder (CM/AM) | Age: 17 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Canterlot Royals | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#55 - Josef Lawerenz (Human - Male)
Position: Midfielder (RM/RW) | Age: 19 | Debut: vs. Baker Park (Pre-WC80 Friendly)
Club: Herzegovina Phoenix | League: Banijan Soccer League
International Caps: 1 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#60 - Sugar Wing (Pegasus - Female)
Position: Midfielder (RM/RW) | Age: 18 | Debut: vs. Darmen (Pre-WC80 Friendly)
Club: AFC Hosingr | League: MNL Premier Division
International Caps: 1 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#59 - Indigo Zap (Pegasus - Female)
Position: Midfielder (AM/CM/ST) | Age: 18 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Cloudsdale Flyers | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#42 - Hakan Abt (Human - Male)
Position: Midfielder (DM/CM/CB) | Age: 27 | Debut: vs. Matthewsiania (WC71 Qualifying)
Club: Iskara Daii | League: Liga Starblaydia
International Caps: 8 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

Forwards
Lunar Dusk has opted for youth in her attack by selecting four forwards, none of which are over 17 years-old. That hardly means the Equestrian States will lack a skilled striker as Twinkleshine just barely beat out Triss Merigold for the starting job with the unicorn's finishing ability providing the edge. Merigold will almost certainly still appear for the Little Ponies this tournament and likely earn at least one start in the group stage to give her a chance to shine. Also making the final cut are Krysaline and Lindsey Christiansen, the former the most recent highly-rated forward to graduate from Crystal City United's academy and the latter perhaps the best striker to come out of Appleoosa in a generation.

#10 - Pristina Shine (Unicorn - Female)
Position: Forward (ST) | Age: 27 | Debut: vs. Footballand (VIII Olympiad)
Club: 1830 Cathair FC | League: National League Division 1
International Caps: 133 | Assists: 21 | Goals: 93
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#7 - Rosewing (Pegasus - Female)
Position: Forward (ST) | Age: 26 | Debut: vs. Laiyenda (WC69 Qualifying)
Club: Tir Snake Strike | League: COTEFA Terranean League East
International Caps: 30 | Assists: 2 | Goals: 15
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#6 - Wither (Bat Pony - Female)
Position: Forward (ST) | Age: 30 | Debut: vs. The Pazhujeb Islands (WC63 Qualifying)
Club: Whitetail Foresters | League: United League
International Caps: 74 | Assists: 6 | Goals: 36
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#26 - Decima (Sphinx - Female)
Position: Forward (ST/AM) | Age: 22 | Debut: vs. Osarius (Pre-WC69 Friendly)
Club: Ponyville United | League: United League
International Caps: 21 | Assists: 2 | Goals: 8
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#13 - Midnight Strike (Bat Pony - Male)
Position: Forward (ST) | Age: 21 | Debut: vs. Matthewsiania (WC71 Qualifying)
Club: Jungle Strike FC | League: V-League Stellar Division
International Caps: 10 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 8
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#38 - Silver Moon (Crystal Pony - Female)
Position: Forward (ST/RW/AM) | Age: 23 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Crystal Fair HC | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#30 - Sonar (Bat Pony - Male)
Position: Forward (ST/LW) | Age: 30 | Debut: vs. The Scandinavian Islands (WC62 Qualifying)
Club: Ponyville United | League: United League
International Caps: 83 | Assists: 8 | Goals: 33
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#69 - Dûsh Bagg (Human - Male)
Position: Forward (ST/LW/CB) | Age: 21 | Debut: vs. Razenthuria (Pre-WC80 Friendly)
Club: Manechester City HC | League: United League
International Caps: 2 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 1
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#35 - Crystal Arrow (Crystal Pony - Male)
Position: Forward (ST) | Age: 33 | Debut: vs. N/A (Uncapped)
Club: Crystopolis City | League: United League
International Caps: 0 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 0
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

#52 - Cornflower (Earth Pony - Female)
Position: Forward (ST/AM) | Age: 26 | Debut: vs. Crystal Empire (Post-WC68 Friendly)
Club: Appleoosa HC | League: United League
International Caps: 2 | Assists: 0 | Goals: 1
Insert a few sentences here about the player, their background, their key skills and weaknesses, playing style, their past/present/future role on the national team, potentially information about previous tournament performances, including youth tournaments (if applicable) and possible future retirement and perhaps even coaching future. Link to factbook/dispatch if player has one of those under their name.

Coaches & Staff

Manager - Pearly White (Earth Pony - Female) - 47
Appointed interim manager of the national team by the Hoofball Association following the resignation of Twilight Striker - the Ponies' long-time boss of some 12 World Cup campaigns - Pearly White secured the position on a permanent basis with a number of impressive performances against higher-ranked opposition in her first games at the helm, including a stunning upset of then-defending world champions Vilita in the 3rd Cup of Champions. Since then, Pearly White has done nothing to give her employers any doubts that she's the best pony for the job, leading the Equestrian States on a Runner Cup title run without dropping a single point and reaching the 4th Cup of Champions semifinals before capping it all off with a second round appearance at the World Cup finals.

Assistant Manager - Dreamy Skies (Pegasus - Female) - 43
Not very long ago, Dreamy Skies was a rookie manager taking the reins of Second League club Whitetail Foresters. Her arrival had a near-instant impact on the club's fortunes as they were promoted to the United League the following season and now regularly contend for UICA berths, an incredible improvement in such a short period of time for a team once known largely for producing talent which was then poached by bigger clubs, at the Foresters' expense. When Pearly White first took charge of the Equestrian senior team, she managed to convince the HA that the still-young pegasus would be a strong addition to the Ponies' coaching staff, and thus far it has paid-off spectacularly. Players routinely praise Dreamy Skies for her enthusiastic optimism and superb work ethic which makes her a popular figure in the locker room and on the practice field.

Assistant Manager - Lunar Dusk (Bat Pony - Female) - 43
The newest addition to the national team staff is Lunar Dusk, somepony few Equestrian hoofball fans were aware of just a few years ago but is today one of the best-known coaching talents in the Pony Lands. Like Dreamy Skies, Lunar Dusk's managerial career started in the second tier with Crystal Fair HC, a previously unremarkable side from the Crystal Empire which she transformed into a legitimate force within a few seasons thanks to a focus on quickly developing the Grounders' budding young stars into hoofballers capable of hanging with the best. After shattering numerous Second League records and earning promotion, Crystal Fair survived a relegation battle in their first ever United League campaign, broke into the top half the following season, and last year defied all expectations to come within a tiebreaker playoff of ending Crystopolis City's previously unchallenged monopoly on the Crystal Empire's Champions' Cup berth. With Lunar Dusk's undeniable talent for inspiring young players alone makes her a valuable addition to the staff, but her brilliant tactical mind makes her appointment by Pearly White a no-brainer.

Goalkeeping Coach - Fire Blossom (Unicorn - Male) - 52
Responsible for training the Ponies' goalkeepers is Fire Blossom, whose exploits as a keeper in the old Equestrian Premier League earned him much respect amongst early Equestrian hoofball fans and eventually a job with the national team. Fire Blossom's prophetic praise of a teenage prospect named Gentle Breeze and his subsequent push for her initial selection to the senior team for World Cup 62 qualifying have since earned him a reputation as a natural judge of potential, not to mention a considerable amount of credit for Gentle Breeze's many successes.

Scout - Diamond Star (Unicorn - Female) - 50
Originally chief scout under Twilight Striker with the Canterlot Royals, Diamond Star was later hired for the national team by the Royals' and Ponies' manager to help identify young Equestrian players with international potential, and the unicorn scout did not fail in her task. Among the current national team stars first scouted by Diamond Star are Thunderlane, Cloudchaser, Rainbow Blitz, and Pristina Shine. Now the manager of Stalliongrad HC, Diamond Star has seen her national team role diminished, though she still provides valuable advice to Pearly White regarding her observations of potential internationals within the United League.

Scout - Golden Hooves (Earth Pony - Female) - 61
A veteran member of the Equestrian States staff, Golden Hooves has been around the national team for what seems like forever, her longevity speaking to her performance as a reliable scout. While fellow Ponies scout Diamond Star's focus lies primarily upon United League players and her evaluation of their potential with regards to the senior team, Golden Hooves is responsible mostly for scouting Equestrians on foreign clubs and assessing the Ponies' opponents and how their players compare with those available to the Ponies.

Fitness Coach - Craig Jackson (Human - Male) - 50
Hired in the midst of the injury plague which characterized the Ponies' World Cup 63 qualifying campaign, Craig Jackson was the first human member of the Ponies' staff and has done well to keep Equestrian players' injuries minimal in the years since then. While fitness coaches generally don't get much respect or attention from the press, Jackson's gift for keeping players of various biologically-diverse species in near-perfect health throughout grueling tournament schedules which can push them above and beyond their limits is certainly nothing to be dismissed as trivial.

Team Strategy

Note: Players' names and numbers may not be updated, see roster for details.

The Ponies' most-used formation is the slightly modified 3-5-2, preferred by former manager Twilight Striker because of the strength and dominance of the Equestrian midfielders. Thanks to the versatility of the Equestrian States' players, the formation gives the Ponies the ability to shift quickly from the offense to the defense and vice-versa. More recently, however, the Equestrians have begun to shy away from the 3-5-2 in favor of the 4-2-3-1 in order to strengthen the back line and keep their opponents guessing. Aside from the formations themselves, the Equestrians have a number of definitive strengths and weaknesses.

First, the Ponies are among the world's fastest and most durable teams, using their natural advantages to tire out opponents. With those two traits as the defining characteristics of the Equestrian style of play, the squad excels at producing chances in the latter stages of the match. But while the attack dominates the second half, opposing squads have occasionally found success going all-out at the start of the match in an attempt to build an insurmountable lead.

Another area in which the Equestrian States has traditionally dominated is in the aerial battles for headers. While the Ponies are generally shorter than their opponents, the team is often credited with impressive leaping abilities (particularly among the pegasai players). Controlling headers makes the team lethal on corner kicks, and opponents looking to defeat the Equestrians must limit the number conceded to the Ponies or else face a barrage of dangerous short-range shots from the Ponies' attackers.

On Species and Equestrian Hoofball
The Equestrian States is a nation of incredible diversity. When many countries make this kind of statement, they are referring only to racial matters dealing with differences in skin color or culture. But the Equestrian States takes diversity to a whole new level, with dozens of sapient species living alongside each other in harmony. From pegasai to griffons, and humans to dragons, the Equestrian States is among the most diverse nations known to exist. But diversity has also had a unique and intriguing impact on the playing of sports in the Equestrian States, and hoofball is no exception. In the following paragraphs, the natural strengths, weaknesses, and tendencies of each prominent species in the Equestrian States will be explored, offering those unfamiliar with the Equestrian States a chance to explore the wonderful diversity that makes the Equestrian States a great country and gives our beloved national hoofball team a versatility that few others can hope to match.

For the full article (written during WC65, and a highly-recommended read for my opponents), please click here.

RP Permissions
My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes - Only that the player was injured and how they were injured, I will determine actual severity
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes - Same restrictions as above apply
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes - Limited to one per match, player info and species sections give hints on likely candidates
Godmod other events: Yes - No weather-related events allowed in the Equestrian States
Other Notes: Please feel free to contact me via TG or on the #nssport IRC or Discord channels if you have any questions regarding my RPs, requests for more information on the Equestrian States, or requests for exemptions from my RP restrictions. I also strongly encourage my opponents to read through my roster's section on team strategy and the linked article on species to get a better idea of the team's strengths and weaknesses. Please note that Equestrian records do not officially include matches played from WCs 72-78, but achievements from that time period are included for the sake of completeness. Player statistics are updated through the conclusion of AOCAF Cup 56.

[Equestrian States]

Notes

[Equestrian States]

Notes