Definitely not in the 1000's! Up to five hundred is what I was thinking. Like I said, I'm not a pro but I do want to be able to take better pictures when standing on the opposite side of the field.
Then perhaps the Canon 55-250IS or Canon 70-300IS is for you - both have the range for sports (200mm to 300mm), they have "IS" image stabilization and they are reasonably priced.
here's a soccer pic with the Canon 55-250IS and Canon XSi (450D)
you can get the Canon 55-250IS at Adorama for $199 !