Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Friday, February 22, 2013

CHARLESTON S.C. -- It has been a fantastic week of soccer at Blackbaud Stadium and this weekend should bring more of the same as we wrap up the final matches of the Carolina Challenge Cup. The Charleston Battery are set to take on Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo at 7:15 p.m. on Saturday night in what should be an exciting and fast paced game.

The Battery lost a heartbreaker on Wednesday night against the tournament leaders, Chicago Fire. With the score tied as the game entered stoppage time, Fire midfielder Alex blasted a shot from outside the penalty area into the right side of the net, giving the Fire a 2-1 victory.

Charleston will be looking for its first win of the Challenge Cup as they head into the weekend; the Dynamo (currently in second place) will be gunning for the top spot and a third Carolina Challenge Cup championship.

The Dynamo have looked good throughout the tournament and have had really nice production from returning players, Cam Weaver and Adam Moffat. The Dynamo started the tournament with a 3-2 loss against Chicago but turned things around on Wednesday with a solid performance to beat the Vancouver Whitecaps 2-1 in the second round of play.

Charleston has not had the start they were looking for in this preseason outing, although they have held both Chicago and Vancouver to close games, the end result has not been favorable. The crushing 2-1 loss in Wednesday’s second leg will surely fuel the Battery’s efforts come Saturday.

Saturday’s game will mark the third meeting between these two teams in the Carolina Challenge Cup tournament. With two rounds of play in the books, both sides should know what to expect from the opposition and will be looking to capitalize on the others weaknesses.

Chicago will take on Vancouver in the opening match of the night at 5 p.m. with the Fire able to clinch the championship with a draw after winning their opening two games of the tournament. That contest will bbe followed by the Battery facing the Dynamo at 7:15 p.m. All games will be played at Blackbaud Stadium on Daniel Island.

Tickets and Schedule: Single day tickets (includes two games) start at just $15; for more information or to purchase tickets please call (843) 971-GOAL (4625) or visit www.charlestonbattery.com.

2013 Carolina Challenge Cup 

Saturday, February 23
Chicago Fire vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC, 5 p.m.
Charleston Battery vs. Houston Dynamo, 7:15 p.m.

All games played at Blackbaud Stadium, Daniel Island, S.C.

Seattle Sounders Women News Release - www.sounderswomen.com

Friday, February 22, 2013

TUKWILA, Wash. – The Seattle Sounders Women announced the hiring of Hubert Busby Jr. as the club’s new head coach and general manager. Busby, an experienced pro coach and former Jamaican National Team player, takes over for Michelle French. The club and French mutually agreed to release her from her contract so she can pursue her youth coaching passions and a role with the U.S. U-20 National Team.

Busby brings more than 13 years of experience coaching some of the highest levels of women’s soccer in North America, and his resume features contributions to WPS and the W-League during the past decade. Most recently he has been involved with the Western New York Flash (NWSL), and the Vancouver Whitecaps Women. He has also served as a National Training Center coach in Canada.

“I am both pleased and honored to be joining the Sounders Women organization," Busby said. "It is a club with a great history and reputation for developing players."

French had kind words for her successor.

“Hubert is a great hire for the Sounders Women," she said. "He has had an impact on a number of different coaching levels. His previous coaching experiences and knowledge of the landscape of women’s soccer will be a tremendous asset to the Sounders Women organization.”

Not only will Busby provide insights from his coaching experience, he also played professionally for club and country for 12 years. As a player, he spent time with Telstar FC (Holland), the Toronto Lynx, the Montreal Impact, the Vancouver Whitecaps, Oxford United, Crystal Palace (UK) and Caldas Sport Clube (Portugal). He was also a member of the Jamaican National Team during FIFA World Cup qualification in 2002.

“Although club philosophies may vary, one key ingredient is common in all successful clubs; it's the people involved," Busby said. "I will use my past experiences to create an environment that allows for input and shared responsibility. Everyone has a role to play if we are to achieve our goals.”

Busby will act as head coach for the Sounders Women and also oversee as general manager. He will work with Technical Director Lesle Gallimore to recruit players and grow the Sounders Women brand in the community.

“We’re thrilled to add Hubert to our staff. His professionalism and enthusiasm for the job has bread success everywhere he’s been,” Executive Director Jon Billings said. “Between Hubert and Lesle Gallimore, we have an incredible amount of coaching acumen, management experience, and player recruiting networks to lead our team.”

Busby began his professional coaching career in 2003 with the Ottawa Wizards, where he led them to a Canadian Professional Soccer League (CPSL) title. In 2004, he lead the team to the league championship again and an undefeated season. In 2005 Busby was named the head coach for the Toronto Lynx of the USL First Division.

Busby has coached at the highest level of the women’s game, playing an integral part in the Los Angeles Sol of the WPS winning the regular season title in the league’s inaugural season. Having seen soccer throughout the world and various leagues, his style of coaching is a melting pot of ideas.

“My mentality for managing players is that they will be supported and encouraged to express themselves on the field,” Busby said. “With empowerment comes responsibility. That’s one of the main things we will try to develop and enhance in our younger players.”

From 2009-11, Busby was the women’s director of coaching for the Vancouver Whitecaps, and W-League head coach. In 2010 Busby led the Whitecaps to the W-League final and was named W-League Coach of the Year. His team had great battles against the Sounders Women in those two years.

“Having competed against the Sounders, the games were always competitive,” Busby said. “Although we were fierce rivals there was always a mutual respect for each other. The Sounders organization, as a whole, has set a benchmark for soccer in the Northwest. Their Sounders supporters groups are also the most passionate fans in the country. I look forward to meeting the infamous Jet City Auxiliary.

"The goal for this season is to continue being a club that connects with its fans and community by playing a brand of soccer that epitomizes what it means to be a Sounder. We will look to maintain the lofty standards from previous years and set our sights on the post-season.”

Busby has a B.A. in sociology. He also holds a USSF “A” license and NSCAA Premier Diploma.

For more information about the Sounders Women and Hubert Busby Jr., visit www.SoundersWomen.com.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Friday, February 22, 2013

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Riverhounds are pleased to announce the signing of Jhonny Arteaga for their inaugural season at Highmark Stadium, pending USSF approval. Arteaga, the 2011 Goal and Scoring Champion in USL PRO, will enhance the Riverhounds’ attack with his size, speed, strength, and finishing ability in the final third.

“I’m really happy with this signing,” said Head Coach Justin Evans. “I believe a player with Jhonny’s ability in the attacking third will prove to be a massive piece of our 2013 campaign. I’m very pleased that we were able to agree on this multi-year deal and I’m eager to see how he jells with the other players that we have put together this off-season.”

Arteaga returns to the USL PRO after spending the 2012 season with the New York Red Bulls of Major League Soccer. During his stint with the Red Bulls, Arteaga gained valuable experience playing, training, and learning from four world-renown strikers in Australian National player Tim Cahill, French National player Thierry Henry, and United States National Team players Juan Agudelo and Kenny Cooper.

"I am really excited to join the Pittsburgh Riverhounds," Arteaga said. "It is a great opportunity to be a part of this new project the Club has put together and I look forward to a successful season. With all the previous experiences in my career including those in USL PRO and in MLS, with the New York Red Bulls, I am looking forward to contributing to the organization as we work towards bringing a championship to Pittsburgh."

Arteaga will arrive in Pittsburgh soon, and is set to join a powerful lineup of players carefully assembled by Evans over the past six months, including several with quality MLS minutes under their belts. The team, which opens its 2013 USL PRO season at Richmond on April 6th, will look to call upon these key off-season signings as they open a new chapter in Pittsburgh soccer history. With Highmark Stadium set to roll out the red carpet for the Riverhounds on April 13th in downtown Pittsburgh, the stage is set for Evans and his team to build a professional soccer brand in the Steel City.

Carolina Dynamo News Release -- www.carolinadynamo.com

Friday, February 22, 2013

GREENSBORO, N.C. -- Just over six months since his passing, the Columbus Crew and the University of North Carolina will join forces to honor Kirk Urso in the first annual Kirk Urso Memorial Match in Greensboro, N.C. on Sunday. The match will be played at Macpherson Stadium, home of the Carolina Dynamo, the PDL club Urso played with while at UNC.

Though it will be an emotional time for everyone who knew Urso, the game will bring back memories of Urso's character on and off the field.

"It's difficult to explain. Obviously, it's still fresh in our minds," Crew Head Coach Robert Warzycha said. "Kirk was a teammate who everybody liked. We miss him. We're going to North Carolina to honor his memory. That's the least we can do."

"It's a very special event for us," UNC Head Coach Carlos Somoano added. "It's going to be an emotional experience, which is hard to put into words. We're proud to be able to do it. We definitely want to thank the Crew for coming to North Carolina to do this and make this happen. It's pretty unique that we're able to have the Crew, North Carolina and in some ways, the Carolina Dynamo represented, which are three of the teams Kirk recently represented."

During his time as a student-athlete at North Carolina, Urso exhibited leadership on the field while also being a role model in the Chapel Hill community. During Urso's senior season, he captained the Tar Heels to the 2011 NCAA Championship.

"[Urso] was one of those once in a generation type of guys," Somoano said. "I don't think it was a coincidence that while he was here, we went to four Final Fours and won a championship with him as the captain."

Urso's parents, Michael and Sandy, along with his older brother Kyle will be in attendance Sunday. Though the family is still in the grieving process, it gives them joy to continually see the impact Urso had on those he encountered.

"To have these groups of people in the Columbus Crew, UNC and the Carolina community come together in his honor gladdens our hearts, knowing how much all these people meant to him," Urso's mother, Sandy, wrote in an email. "His loss has not gotten any easier and we have looked on this game with excitement, knowing we will get to see so many who shared in his life and feeling that Kirk will once again be a part of the teams.

"We appreciate all the hard work that was put in by everyone who made this event possible. We hope that this game can be successful for heart research so that what happened to Kirk never happens to another. While we know it will be bittersweet, we also know Kirk will be looking on with that smile of his, humbly impressed to be honored in such an amazing way."

Tickets for the match will be available at the gate. Adult tickets are $15, and student tickets are $10. There is a $5/car fee to park. Kick-off is at 1:00, with the gates opening at 11:30. All seating is general admission. All proceeds will benefit the Kirk Urso Memorial Fund.

Super Y-League News Release

Sunday, February 24, 2013

BRADENTON, Fla. - The 2013 Super Y-League Boys ODP National Camp concluded on Sunday afternoon at IMG Academy with the top performers from the week of training and scrimmages facing off in the Select Team scrimmages. VSI Pinellas' Oswald Francis capped his weekend with the only goal in the U15/16 Select scrimmage, giving the Select 'A' squad victory against their Select 'B' counterparts.

"All of the coaches in the 15/16s, every one of those coaches were college coaches at outstanding schools, so to hear them say the level really impressed them was pleasing," USL National Technical Director Peter Mellor said.

In the final scrimmage, the Select 'B' side had the better of the opening half as their midfield carried much of the play. Super Nova FC standout Zebulun Cross created the first good opportunity in the eighth minute, stepping up to win possession before creating space for a shot from 25 yards that was parried to safety. Cross came close again moments later, only to shoot over.

West Pines Strikers midfielder Jean Orvil also had a good first half, and played a clever pass to release Nikolas Touros of the New York Magic - F.A. Euro, only for the shot from the left to slice wide. Select 'A' goalkeeper Greg O'Connell of the Westchester Flames then had to come off his line sharply to deny an effort by the Chicago Fire's Asanti Herring after a good through-ball by Ironbound SC's Dylan Santos.

The Select 'A' team had one good opportunity before the break as Southern Soccer Academy's Tyler Edwards drove a fierce shot just wide of the right post. As the second half moved on, however, the 'A' team began to gain more control, and it could have taken the lead in the 48th minute when Edwards' fired another good shot that was parried, only for Aidan Cronin to send the rebound over the crossbar.

Francis then went close as he ran onto a good through-ball by Edwards on the hour-mark, only for Select 'B' goalkeeper Stanley Purygin to make a good save. With three minutes to go, however, Francis would find a winner as he sent home a flying volley into the right corner of the net after the ball had looped up in the penalty area following a ball in from the right.

The goal gave the game a winner, but ODP camp coach, and IMG Academy staff member and former professional Aidan Davison was happy with what he had seen throughout the event and hoped the players would continue to develop as they take lessons learned in the past four days back to their clubs.

"When I see these kids develop and improve, when you see them in six months or a year or at the college level, or the pro level, it makes your day," Davison said.

While much of the weekend was spent on the field, Mellor hoped the players would also benefit from the off-field sections of the weekend, which saw a seminar on nutrition, college recruiting and mental conditioning, would benefit players as they looked to move into the college, or even professional, ranks.

"What I really hope, based on what we present here, is that those players go away understanding what the next levels are," Mellor said. "They're coming through the youth programs, but it's important to understand that there's a whole new level." 

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Saturday, February 23, 2013

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Chicago Fire claimed their first Carolina Challenge Cup championship after earning a 1-1 draw against the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday evening at Blackbaud Stadium. The Fire finished with a record of 2-0-1, and finished top of the tournament standings as the only side to go undefeated through the 10th edition of the tournament. 

The Fire had gone close to taking the lead in the first half, only to be denied by a fine double-save by Whitecaps goalkeeper Joe Cannon as both Sherjill MacDonald and Chris Rolfe came close to opening the scoring. Chicago finally broke the deadlock in the 57th minute as Maicon Santos found the back of the net with a left-footed blast that nicked the crossbar on its way in.

Vancouver, which needed victory to have a chance at the title, found the equalizer shortly after in the 68th minute as Darren Mattocks converted from the penalty spot after Kenny Miller had been brought down in the penalty area. The Whitecaps pushed for the winner late on, Mattocks being well denied by Sean Johnson after he broke through the Fire's defense with 16 minutes to go, but the Fire closed out the draw they needed to claim the championship.

CHARLESTON 2, HOUSTON 1: A pair of nice goals from Dane Kelly and Austin Savage helped the Charleston Battery to their first win of the tournament as they took victory against the Houston Dynamo, but it was a superb goalkeeping performance from Odisnel Cooper that proved the real story of the final game of the Carolina Challenge Cup on Saturday night at Blackbaud Stadium. 

Houston opened the scoring in the 16th minute as Boniek Garcia floated a cross to Cam Weaver, who was able to cleanly lay it off for Darius Barnes to punch it home. Charleston immediately struck back two minutes later as Kelly caught Dynamo goalkeeper Tally Hall out of position and was able to turn and shoot a low shot that just snuck by Hall’s fingertips.

Cooper made sure he was noticed with a series of exquisite saves, creating a brick wall between the pipes for the Battery. In the 25th minute, Cooper kept the game knotted with a diving save off a Dynamo opportunity from a corner. Shortly after, Cooper came up huge again, stoning Brad Davis’ penalty kick attempt with another beautiful dive to his left in the 36th minute after Weaver had been brought down in the penalty area, and then made another outstanding save in the 42nd minute on a shot from point blank by Will Bruin.

Both teams were finding opportunities in the second half with the Dynamo pressing late in the game. However, it was the Battery who found the back of the net as second-half substitute Austin Savage made his presence known within minutes of entering the game. In the 75th minute, Savage headed the ball home at the back post off a corner kick from Zach Prince to give the Battery a 2-1 advantage.

Charleston maintained the lead to claim its first win of the Challenge Cup and their first win of the 2013 preseason as the Battery moved the ball extremely well and put in some of their defensive work of the tournament.

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Saturday, February 23, 2013

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A first-half penalty conversion by midfielder Jamie Watson and second half strike by forward Dennis Chin was all Orlando needed on Saturday night, with the Lions topping cross-state rival the Tampa Bay Rowdies 2-0 in the conclusion of the 2013 Disney Pro Soccer Classic. In a prelude to the inaugural “I-4 Derby” held on March 9 and 30, Orlando got the best of the Tampa Bay, finishing seventh overall in the tournament.

Despite the 2-0 win, Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath still sees room for improvement moving forward for his club.

“The two-nil win is always nice because it pleases our supporters, but it was not an enjoyable 90 minutes to watch,” said Heath. “I don’t say that very often.”

Orlando got off to a quick start, with no more than 20 seconds into the match a through ball by Chin found a streaking Watson on the left side of the pitch. Chasing down the pass, Watson was tripped inside the penalty area, giving the Lions a penalty kick. The midfielder confidently took the penalty, beating Tampa Bay goalkeeper Andrew Fontein in the lower left-hand corner to give Orlando the early 1-0 lead.

The Lions kept up the pressure on the Rowdies, with key attacks from Chin, Adama Mbengue and Watson keeping Tampa Bay on its heels. City nearly got another score before the halftime whistle blew, with forward Long Tan’s header going off the crossbar before it was cleared by the Rowdies' defense in the 45th minute.

Orlando’s defense, led by goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo, continued its top play in the 2013 preseason. The team-captain Gallardo made key saves in the 48th and 57th minutes, keeping the score-sheet clean for the Lions. Another key play came in the 72nd minute, when a free kick just outside the penalty area for Tampa Bay was punched up and over the post by the native of Torreon, Mexico.

The Lions consistent attacking paid off later on in the second half, with Oviedo native and 2012 USL PRO leading scorer Chin converting the second goal. The forward raced by the Rowdies defense in the 76th minute, beating Fontein in a one-on-one in the lower-right corner to give City a 2-0 lead. The Lions continued to push, nearly converting on more chances before the final whistle blew with the final tally 2-0 in favor of Orlando.

The two teams meet again for the first leg of the inaugural “I-4 Derby” on Saturday, March 9, at the Florida Citrus Bowl with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. The second leg will be held on Saturday, March 30, at Al Lang Stadium in St. Petersburg, Fla. Tickets are on sale for both matches, and can be bought by calling 855-ORL-CITY. For more information leading up to each match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Super Y-League Feature

Saturday, February 23, 2013

BRADENTON, Fla. – Southern Soccer Academy’s Andrew Carleton may be the youngest of the 160 boys gathered at IMG Academy this weekend for the Super Y-League Boys ODP National Camp, but he might also be one of the most experienced.

Only a couple of weeks removed from an 11-day trial with reigning English Premier League champion Manchester City’s youth academy, Carleton, 12, is fitting right in with his older teammates as he takes the opportunity to absorb as much as he can. A U12 All-Tournament Team selection at the Super Y Finals in December, Carleton said the roster of assembled coaches have helped him settle in.

“At first I didn’t feel like I had any friends because I only knew one or two people here, but everybody’s been good and the coaches have been great and showing me around,” Carleton said. “Practices have been really good. They’ve done it well so in the morning you’re not going so hard so in the game you have your full energy and you’re ready to play.”

One familiar face who has helped Carleton feel comfortable at the camp is Southern Soccer Academy Director of Soccer Steve Gummer, who is one of the many experienced coaches leading the players through their paces.

“I think the level of play progressively over the last couple of years has gotten better and I think the league does a fantastic job in the summer,” Gummer said. “It’s great to see the kids from different parts of the country meshing well together in this three- or four-day environment. There are some good players with a lot of future in the game.”

Gummer said Carleton is a special player with a bright future.

“He used to play up but we brought him back down to his age group a year or two ago. We like to play through all departments and our team is built to play through him,” Gummer said. “He has that kind of role where he affects the game. When Andrew plays well the team plays well.”

SSA, which has also joined USL’s Next Generation Series for 2013, has three alumni currently playing in MLS including the Philadelphia Union’s Jack McInerney, and Gummer sees no reason why Carleton won’t reach similar heights.

“He works tremendously hard and for us he’s one of our complete players because he’s got a little of everything,” he said. “He’s very good technically, his work rate is fantastic and for a player that’s 12 years of age he understands the game really well. With his vision, he does things on the field that make me think we’ll see him on TV some day.

“It’s great for the kids to have opportunities in this country, certainly with USL and MLS and then any opportunities in Europe are what we’d like to push for. Obviously they have to be good enough, but we’ve had a good success rate over the last four or five years. We’ve put a lot of players in college as well but we’re quite proud of the fact that we’ve got three or four who are playing in the professional ranks.”

Carleton’s opportunity with Manchester City saw him train with the club’s 13-14 academy team and play in a game against the Blackburn Rovers academy. He also got a chance to see City’s superstars in action.

“I had a great time meeting all the new players and hanging out with them, and the facilities were excellent,” Carleton said. “We got to see the first team play and the speed of play was really good. They pass really fast and their touch was really good. I learned to play one step quicker because that one step can be the difference in scoring a goal or getting a goal scored against you.”

Gummer said it’s possible we could hear more about Andrew Carleton and Manchester City in the future.

“It was an experience kind of thing but I think Manchester City are quite interested in him and all we hear is real good reports from them.”

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Monday, February 25, 2013

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- After a tough week of contests with three top MLS clubs in the Carolina Challenge Cup, the Charleston Battery will definitely have their wits about them heading into the heart of preseason. The Battery start with a game against College of Charleston on Thursday, February 28 at Patriots Point to kick off a nine-game preseason schedule in preparation for the beginning of the USL PRO season in April.

“I think the team has progressed nicely under the circumstances and we have gained some valuable experience playing against quality MLS opponents that will really help us going into the season,” said Battery head coach Mike Anhaeuser.

The Battery’s next home game will be on March 5 against Georgia Southern at 8 p.m.. The match will be the first of five preseason home games for the Battery, including a highly anticipated rematch of last years USL PRO Championship Game with nearby rival the Wilmington Hammerheads on March 23.

The final preseason game is on March 30 against the Carolina Railhawks as the Battery prepare for their USL PRO opener on Saturday, April 13 on the road against the Richmond Kickers. The Battery’s regular-season home opener is set for Saturday, April 20 against Antigua Barracuda FC at Blackbaud Stadium.

All preseason home games are free to attend except for Saturday, March 23 against the Wilmington Hammerheads; tickets for this game will be $7 for bleacher seats and $12 for club seats. Group discounts are available through the Battery ticket office.

To purchase tickets or for more information please visit www.charlestonbattery.com or call (843) 971-GOAL (4625).

Charleston Battery Preseason Schedule

Thursday, February 28 at College of Charleston, Patriots Point, 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 2 at Clemson University 3 p.m.
Tuesday, March 5 vs. Georgia Southern, 8 p.m.

Thursday, March 7 vs. Coastal Carolina, 6 p.m.
Friday, March 15 at Carolina Railhawks, TBD
Tuesday, March 19 vs. College of Charleston, 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 23 vs. Wilmington Hammerheads, 6 p.m.
Tuesday, March 26 at Coastal Carolina, TBD
Saturday, March 30 vs. Carolina Railhawks, 2:00 p.m.

Wilmington Hammerheads News Release -- www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com

Monday, February 25, 2013

WILMINGTON, N.C. – The Wilmington Hammerheads are beginning to make headway towards completing their 2013 team roster and are pleased to announce the re-signing of Hammerheads players Steven Perry and Cody Arnoux for the 2013 USL PRO season. After making their debut appearance with the Hammerheads in 2012, both strikers will return to the pitch at Legion Stadium for their second season under the instruction of Head Coach David Irving.

Perry was first signed to the Wilmington Hammerheads in 2012 following his collegiate career at the University of Notre Dame and with Finnish third division club Ekenäs IF. During his time at Notre Dame, Perry also played for the Indiana Invaders of the USL Premier Development League. In 2011, Perry was drafted in the third round of the 2011 MLS SuperDraft by New England Revolution.

"I am very excited to be joining the Hammerheads for another season. You can't ask for a better place to play than Wilmington,” said Perry. “Personally, I am looking to have a productive year and, as a team, I hope we can build upon our success from last year."

Perry appeared in 12 matches collectively during the 2012 season amongst being injured with exercise induced compartment syndrome, inhibiting his intense play level to no more than 15 minutes. Two months after undergoing surgery and rehabilitation, Perry played the final 10 games of the regular season, including playoffs.

Arnoux, a Wilmington native, filled a late slot in the Wilmington Hammerheads’ roster in July of the 2012 season after having previously signed with MLS’s Real Salt Lake and Vancouver Whitecaps, as well as a stint with Everton of the English Premier League prior.

“It is really exciting to be back on the field with the Hammerheads and some familiar faces,” said Arnoux. “This year will be about working harder to secure that championship and to succeed where we fell short last season.”

A hometown favorite, Arnoux began playing soccer in Wilmington during his youth with Cape Fear Soccer Club and then for New Hanover High School whom to this day still plays their home matches on the turf at Legion Stadium. Arnoux returns to the same field that opened a wide range of opportunities that jump-started his soccer career almost seven years ago.

For further information regarding the Wilmington Hammerheads, please call (910) 777-2111 or visit www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com.

Jersey Express News Release -- www.jerseyexpresssoccer.org

Sunday, February 24, 2013

NEWARK, N.J. -- The Jersey Express are pleased to announce the appointment of former Jersey Express player and current assistant coach of St. Johns University, Jeff Matteo, as the new Head Coach of the Jersey Express.

Matteo is in his sixth season as an assistant coach at his alma mater, St. Johns University. Matteo returned following a five-year professional career that included time spent in both the United States and Italy.

Matteo concluded his professional career with a three-year stint in the USL First Division. The midfielder spent the 2006 season with the Charleston Battery and Miami FC already having spent with the Minnesota Thunder (2004-05). Matteo earned second team All-League honors in 2005 with the Thunder.

Prior to his USL career, Matteo spent two seasons in Major League Soccer as a member of the Columbus Crew and the Metrostars. Drafted by Columbus as the 20th overall selection in the 2002 MLS SuperDraft, Matteo first traveled abroad to play in the Italian Third Division (Serie C1) with Monza.

“I’m very honored to be part of the Jersey Express organization again," said Matteo, who played with the Express in 2010. "It is one of the premier PDL programs in the country and I am excited for the season.”

“Jeff was always a standout player during my time with the Brooklyn Knights and the Jersey Express," said Jersey Express General Manager Gali Maimon. "He was not only a leader on the field but a mentor to all the younger players. We look forward to having him back to continue his leadership and mentorship in his new role as head coach.”

Matteo will begin his career as Head Coach against the new PDL franchise, the F.A. Euro - New York Magic on Sunday, May 19th at 5 p.m. The game will take place at NJIT Stadium, the home of the Jersey Express. If you are interested in trying out for the Jersey Express 2013 season, click here. 

USL News Release

Monday, February 25, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Super Y-League announced its 2013 Boys Olympic Development Camp Select Teams today, honoring the players in the 96/97 and 98/99 age groups that had standout performances at the annual SYL ODP National Camp that was held this past weekend at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla.

The select teams were chosen from a pool of more than 160 total players in attendance by the coaches who led the players for the four-day camp under the supervision of USL National Technical Director, Peter Mellor. The select teams competed head to head in showcase games on Sunday.

Ironbound SC (NJ), Black Watch Soccer Club (NY) and the Long Island Rough Riders (NY) led the way with three players selected in the U13/14 age group, with FC America (FL), FC United (FL), Florida Fire Juniors (FL) and National Soccer Academy (NJ) each having two.

In the U15/16 age group, New York Magic - F.A. Euro (NY) and VSI Pinellas (FL) each had three players selected, while FC United (FL), Force Football Club Academy (MI), Soccer Plus Academy (NY), Super Nova FC (PA) and the Westchester Flames (NY) each placed two players on the select teams.

U13/14 Boys Select Team A

 U13/14 Boys Select Team B 

U15/16 Boys Select Team A

U15/16 Boys Select Team B

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Monday, February 25, 2013

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando City SC, in cooperation with Fluminense Football Club, is proud to announce an international friendly between the two teams on Saturday, June 22, at the Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The announcement comes off the heels of new Brazilian Owner Flavio Augusto da Silva making a significant investment in Orlando City last week, exhibiting the Lion’s strong new ties with the country of Brazil.

“We are delighted to be hosting the reigning Brazilian Champions, Fluminense,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “They are one of the very best teams in all of Brazil and have a host of world-class players in their squad. I’m sure it will be a great spectacle for our fans.”

Fluminense FC competes in Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A, the top level of Brazilian soccer. This year they are also one of the sides representing Brazil in the prestigious Copa Libertadores. Led by Head Coach Abel Braga, who began his professional career with the club, Fluminense boasts some of the top talent from the country of Brazil and beyond. Midfielder Deco and forward Fred headline the club’s players coming to Orlando for the friendly.

“We are honored to have been invited to participate in this international friendly match and, most importantly, of the new relationship being built with Orlando City,” said Fluminense's president Peter Siemsen.

The match adds to the list of top-level clubs Orlando has played in the Central Florida area, which includes: English Premier League clubs Newcastle United, Stoke City, Bolton Wanderers and A.S. Roma of Serie A. The ability to draw major franchises from top-level leagues is something Rawlins says is an important factor in Major League Soccer’s considerations of who gains entry into the league.

“Arranging this took a lot of work and several meetings with Fluminense but it once again shows our commitment to bringing the very best in club soccer to Orlando,” Rawlins added.

The Lions announced last Monday that the Rio de Janeiro native da Silva had invested in Orlando City, funding the club’s share of a private/publicly funded multi-purpose soccer stadium in downtown Orlando and future acquisition of a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise. The new owner also told those in attendance that his Brazilian contacts with major companies and soccer franchises will be important moving forward, with the Fluminense release displaying just that.

Fans can buy their tickets to the friendly beginning Tuesday, February 26, at 12 p.m. Tickets start at just $15 and can be bought online by going to Ticketmaster.com. Fans can also buy Orlando City 2013 season tickets, which start at just $125. The Lions kick off the regular season at home on Sunday, April 14, at the Florida Citrus Bowl against the Rochester Rhinos. For more information on tickets, fans can call 855-ORL-CITY.

Pacesetter SC News Release - www.pacesettersoccer.net 

Monday, February 25, 2013
 
TOLEDO, Ohio - Pacesetter Soccer Club is excited to announce a partnership with Aston Villa Football Club of the English Premier League. It is the first agreement of its kind for Pacesetter and Aston Villa, with the Pacesetter Villa Super-20 League team kicking off its inaugural season in May of 2013.

As the premier U20 men’s league, the Super-20 League provides the platform for top 17- to 20-year-olds in the United States and Canada to compete at the elite level. While serving as a reserve team system for Major League Soccer and the PDL, the Super-20 League features teams competing in regional divisions consisting of 7-10 regular season matches throughout the summer months. 

The 2012 Midwest Division included teams from the Columbus Crew and Chicago Fire of Major League Soccer along with the Toronto Lynx, Dayton Dutch Lions, WAZA, Cincinnati United Premier, Alliance Academy and Kings Soccer Academy. The Super-20 League is the leading avenue for players to progress to the professional ranks.

"The partnership is an exciting opportunity for both Pacesetter Soccer Club and Aston Villa" said Jimmy Walker, Executive Director of Coaching at Pacesetter Soccer Club. "Aston Villa Football Club is one of the oldest and most successful football clubs in England and was a founder member of the English Football League, established in 1874. They have had a massive history winning the European Cup, the English League Championship along with multiple FA and League Cups. Aston Villa is one of the top five teams in the history of the English Premier League and it is fantastic for the Ohio community and American soccer that this link has been formed."

The Partnership will include Pacesetter Villa wearing the official Aston Villa uniform. The inaugural season will kick off in May and the agreement will also serve as a potential scouting network between top American under-20 players and Aston Villa, with the hopes of one day seeing a local player in the English Premier League.

“We’re very happy to support Pacesetter Soccer Club and we wish Pacesetter Villa Super-20 every success when the season kicks off in May," Aston Villa Chief Executive Paul Faulkner said. "James Walker and his family have had a long association with Aston Villa and this new venture is really exciting. The club already has strong links with the U.S., with Brad Guzan our current No. 1 goalkeeper and Brad Friedel, amongst others, also having played an important role for us in recent times, and we hope that an association such as this could pave the way for other American players to join Villa in the future.”

Pacesetter Soccer Club is ranked the No. 1 club in Ohio North featuring boys and girls teams from the ages of 8-20. Since 1980 the Pacesetter Soccer Club has fielded teams that have competed on regional and national levels. The club has provided soccer expertise and excellence to Ohio Soccer players during the past 30 years. Many Pacesetter alumni have gone on to play in college, professionally and at the national team level.

Official Aston Villa merchandise is available for purchase immediately for all soccer enthusiasts and supporters in the U.S. For all purchasing information click on the following link http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/Shopping. In addition to the online store, you can get all the latest news and information on the Aston Villa official website www.avfc.co.uk and you can also follow Villa on Facebook at www.facebook.com/avfcofficial.

VSI Tampa Bay News Release -- www.vsi-fc.com

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – VSI Tampa Bay FC is pleased to announce the signing of Troy Cole, pending USSF approval, for the club's inaugural season in USL PRO. Cole brings a solid presence to the VSI Tampa Bay FC back line for the upcoming season, having played more than 45 games in the past two seasons in USL PRO.

Cole's knowledge and experience will add strength to the team during its breakout season in the USL PRO. Cole is joining VSI Tampa Bay FC after a successful season with the Wilmington Hammerheads, which included a trip to the USL PRO Championship Game.

The Hammerheads lost in the USL PRO Championship Game to the Charleston Battery last season and this 2013 USL PRO season will find former defenders from both teams uniting under the VSI Tampa Bay FC umbrella. Cole will join former Battery defender Kyle Hoffer, with the duo previously having been teammates under Tampa Bay coach Matt Weston in 2010 with F.C. New York.

"Troy's a real locker room guy," Weston said. "He is a guy who understands and motivates the players and gets things going. Troy Cole is a tremendous, tremendous guy who really lives his life the right way and is a true professional."



Cole's enthusiastic nature is already being felt by his younger teammates and is helping to form the family atmosphere Weston is building at VSI Tampa Bay FC.

"It's great to see the group coming together with guys like Troy Cole making their mark as leaders right away," Director of Soccer Clay Roberts said. "Troy brings a large amount of athleticism to an already young and vibrant group of players. Troy Cole was one of the first players Coach Weston desired for the squad early on. It's great to add another seasoned player to the roster, especially a player like Troy, who is coming off last seasons trip to the USL PRO finals."



Before his time with VSI Tampa Bay FC and the Wilmington Hammerheads and FC New York, Cole was with AC St. Louis in the USSF D-2 Pro League. Cole also spent time with the Atlanta Blackhawks in the PDL, and earned a Bachelor's Degree of Science in Athletic Training from Mars Hill College.

Charlotte Lady Eagles News Release - www.charlotteeagles.com

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The Charlotte Lady Eagles are excited to announce that former Lee University Forward Jamie Achten has agreed to join the team for the 2013 season. Achten, a Franklin, Tennessee native, played for Lee University from 2008-11 and finished her career with 83 goals and an NAIA record 91 assists.

Lee University was the first team ever to win four consecutive NAIA Women's Soccer Championships from 2008 to 2011. Achten was named the 2010 and 2011 NAIA Player of the Year and was also a four-time NAIA First Team All-America selection while playing for the Flames. She was also named Capital One College Division Academic All-America of the Year. The award is given to the top scholar-athletes chosen from the all-divisional team members from throughout the country.

"I'm very excited to be playing for the Eagles this summer," Achten said. "It's perfect timing for me in my journey to try a new team in a new city. All of the staff and players I've spoken with from the team have been extremely encouraging and enthusiastic about this upcoming season. There is a lot of anticipation for the season, and I suspect my high expectations will be exceeded. Mostly, I'm looking forward to meeting my teammates and learning a new team. There are so many dynamics that play into making a great team, and figuring out what works best is half the fun. It should be a great season with lots of solid competition."

"I am so excited to bring in Jamie for the 2013 season," Lady Eagles GM Jeremy Auyer said. "She is exactly the type of person we are looking for here at the Eagles. She is of high character and morals, she has a strong faith in Jesus Christ, and she has excelled on the field. Jamie will be a high level of leadership on and off the field for our team this year."

Los Angeles Blues News Release -- www.labluesprosoccer.com

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

FULLERTON, Calif. — The LA Blues announced today that defender James “Jimmy” Turner has joined the team for the 2013 USL PRO season. Turner joins the team after playing four years for the University of California, Irvine.

“The Blues are excited to have Jimmy join the team,” said Warren Barton, the team’s general manager and technical director. “As captain, he led UC-Irvine to their best record his senior year, and was part of the most successful four-year class in Irvine’s history.”

In his senior year, Turner started in 22 games, scoring two goals and notching two assists as the Anteaters won the Big West Championship and reached the second round of the NCAA Tournament. He finished his Anteater career with 82 matches, with three goals and seven assists. Turner holds the Irvine record for appearances in postseason matches, with 10, including all seven of the program’s Big West Tournament matches.

The LA Blues start the 2013 USL PRO campaign on March 23 at home against Phoenix FC. For 2013 season tickets, please visit lablues.ticketfly.com.

Harrisburg City Islanders News Release -- www.cityislanders.com

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Harrisburg City Islanders will kick off their 10th Anniversary season with a slate of six preseason games featuring top collegiate teams. The Islanders are looking to build on a strong season in 2012 as they open the preseason by traveling to Drexel University on Thursday, March 14th at 7 p.m. The first home match of the preseason for the Islanders will be a match-up with St. Francis University at Millersville University on Wednesday, March 20th at 8 p.m. This is the first of three home games for the Islanders during the preseason.

The following week the Islanders will host the Navy Midshipmen at Cumberland Valley High School on Sunday, March 24th at 3 p.m. This game will be the first ever match up between the Islanders and the Midshipmen. The final home contest for the Islanders will be against the Wildcats of Villanova at In The Net, Palmyra on Thursday, April 4th at 7 p.m.

The preseason also features two more away matches, with both being played in Maryland. The first is a battle with the American East champions at University of Maryland Baltimore College (UMBC) Retrievers. Along with earning their second conference championship, the Retrievers made it to the second round of the NCAA tournament in 2012. They will host the Islanders on Saturday, March 30 at 1 p.m.

The last tune-up game for the Islanders will take place against perennial ACC contender, The University of Maryland, who made it to the semifinals of the NCAA tournament in 2012. The match will take place the day after the game against UMBC, on Friday, April 5th at 7 p.m. All preseason matches are free for all fans.

During the preseason there will be local talent and former Islanders on display, including UMBC’s Billy Heavner (Hempfield), Maryland’s Alex Shinsky (West York Area), Navy’s Donny Burton (Manheim Township), Drexel’s Josh Grosh (Manheim Township) and Connor Goldsmith (Hempfield), St Francis’ Ty Geesey (Cumberland Valley). Along with players there will be a few local coaching products as well, with former City Islander Nate Baker currently serving as an assistant coach under former Messiah coach David Brandt at Navy. 

The City Islanders’ first regular season game will be on the road against their cross-state foes, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday, April 13th at 8 p.m. The home opener will come two weeks later when they face the Rochester Rhinos at Skyline Sports Complex on Saturday, April 26th at 7 p.m. The 2012 USL PRO Champion Charleston Battery will then come to town on Wednesday, May 1st at 7 p.m.

Both single game and season tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting cityislanders.com or calling 717-411-GOAL.

Washington Crossfire News Release -- www.crossfiresoccer.org

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

KIRKLAND, Wash. – The Washington Crossfire have named Nik Besagno as the new head coach for the 2013 season. The MLS veteran takes over the coaching reins after having competed for the Crossfire in the 2012 PDL season, helping the side reach the Northwest Division playoffs.

"We are very excited to have Nik take on the head coaching roll for this year’s team," said Crossfire General Manager Gary Whitehouse. "Besides being the captain for last year’s team, Nik has become a youth coach with Crossfire Premier. We felt that with our continued direction of having our team made up of more former and current Crossfire Academy players that Nik was our best choice, Whitehouse said."

As one of the most touted young youth players in the country, Besagno became the first overall pick of the 2005 MLS SuperDraft when he was drafted by his former United States Under-17 coach and then Real Salt Lake boss John Ellinger. At the age of 16, Besagno, who signed a Generation adidas contract with MLS, became the second-youngest player in league history to be drafted, behind 2004's number one overall choice, 14-year-old Freddy Adu.

Following his release from Real Salt Lake in 2008, Besagno had a short stint with the Seattle Sounders FC in MLS before signing with the Kitsap Pumas, helping the side claim the PDL championship in 2011. He joined the Crossfire for the 2012 season, making 12 appearances and scoring one goal as the Crossfire reached the playoffs for the first time since their inaugural 2009 season.

Super Y-League Feature

Sunday, February 24, 2013

BRADENTON, Fla. – When it came time for Southern Soccer Academy’s Tyler Edwards to decide whether he wanted to focus on playing soccer or baseball, the decision wasn’t a difficult one.

“I played both baseball and soccer, and it came out to be that I was going to have to play travel baseball or travel soccer, because they were in the same season,” Edwards said last week. “I had to pick soccer, because that was my main passion that I really like. I was like, the way I felt when on the field, it made me feel like more of a complete person. It gave me a lot of motivation to work harder and deal with training my very best.”

After his performance at last December’s Super Y-League North American Finals, and this past week’s ODP National Camp at IMG Academy, it certainly appears Edwards made the right decision. The standout forward scored both goals to lead his side to victory in the final of the Boys U16 Division in December, and this week was named to the 96/97 Select A Team after an impressive week of training and scrimmages at the world-class facilities in Bradenton, Fla.

When he arrived at IMG with SSA in December, while the goal of claiming a championship was at the front of his mind, earning the opportunity to return to this event was also present. After scoring four goals in five games, he earned that opportunity, and is now making the most of it.

“It’s great,” Edwards said. “This is exactly what I wanted, because my coach told me that you could be recognized in this tournament to come back for camp, and that’s what I wanted to do, to show our team what I can do. It’s great. They have a great facility, and I love playing on their fields, and we get the chance to have all the college scouts watch us, and even national team scouts, it’s great.”

Southern Soccer Academy has seen a number of players join Edwards at IMG this week, and he credits the club’s re-energized coaching staff for helping the club improve as a whole during the past year. Now led by Steve Gummer, the club has found success in the Super Y-League and elsewhere, and will also be a founding member of the Next Generation Series when the USL’s new youth development initiative begins later this year. Among its alumni are current New England Revolution defender Bilal Duckett, with Edwards among the current crop of players hoping to follow in his footsteps to a top college, and then potentially to the professional ranks.

To that end, the club has provided Edwards and others a platform to grow as they aim to take the step into the college ranks.

“That’s my goal right now, to go to a top program whether it be Division I or Division II,” Edwards said. “That’s my dream right now, that’s what I’m working for.”

The work Edwards has put in has been immersive. When he’s not training or competing, he is an avid viewer of games from throughout the world, being a fan of Real Madrid and SSA’s Training Development Partner, Chelsea. Continuing that immersion in the sport at IMG this past week, Edwards expected to take home important lessons as he continues to try and maximize his potential.

“That would be great,” Edwards said. “That’s exactly what I want, and that’s what drives me every day to become a better player. We’ve got top coaches here from everywhere, professionals, they’re teaching me everything they know, and you’re throwing your name out there to maybe get picked up one day by a college coach, or even a professional one.”