Sailors assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and shipbuilders from Newport News Shipbuilding, gathered at Nike Field for the 2nd annual Newport News Patriot Soccer Tournament, March 28.

In 2014, the tournament evolved from the shipbuilders' search for opponents for recreational soccer matches. Now the Newport News Patriot Tournament is a morale and team-boosting event for Lincoln Sailors and civilians.

"This is a valuable relationship to have because if we are able to get along and work together it creates a better atmosphere on the ship and in our personal lives," said Information System Technician 3rd Class Megan Green, a member of Lincoln's soccer team. "

According to Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Danian Douglas, head coach of the Lincoln soccer team, participation in the tournament was a stepping stone towards team building; being on the same team is a first step in that.

"Despite being from different departments, the act of training on a sports team forces them to learn each other's names, call each other frequently and partner up for drills," said Douglas. "Playing together in a tournament naturally elevates their camaraderie to the point where they start relying upon each other to succeed."

Outside of Lincoln's organized sports the ultimate goal is to complete Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH). In order to complete that mission, every member of the crew needs to be connected in and out of the job, added Douglas.

"It is important for Sailors and shipyard workers to interact outside of the workplace because not only do we work together, but we live in the same community as well," said Green. "When we build good relationships it helps us come together and complete the RCOH mission more efficiently."

Lincoln is currently undergoing Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH) at Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Lincoln is the fifth ship of the Nimitz class to undergo an RCOH, a major life-cycle milestone. Once RCOH is complete, Lincoln will be one of the most modern and technologically advanced Nimitz-class aircraft carriers in the fleet and will continue to be a vital part of the nation's defense.

For more news from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), visit www.navy.mil/.