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U13 SYL Finals Allocations Announced

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Super Y-League News Release

Thursday, June 6, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – United Soccer Leagues released the U13 age group qualification allotments today for the 2013 Super Y-League North American Finals, presented by Nike. A total of 16 boys’ teams and eight girls’ teams from the Mid Atlantic, North Atlantic, South Atlantic, New England, Midwest and Southeast divisions will meet at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, from December 5-9 to compete for the Super Y-League championship.

The 2012 U12 boys runner-up, Alpharetta Ambush Soccer Club, is back to compete in 2013 in the South Atlantic Division, hoping to once again earn a berth at the North American Finals. Also hoping for a return trip is Orlando City SC, a 2012 semifinalist from the Southeast Division. Six teams out of the North Atlantic Division will receive berth allocations for the 2013 finals, along with three teams from New England, two from the Midwest, Southeast and Mid Atlantic, and one team that will emerge from the South Atlantic Division.

For the girls, 2012 U12 runners-up the Kalamazoo Kingdom of the Midwest Division and 2012 semifinalists Rage SC out of the North Atlantic Division will be two of the teams to watch. The New England and Midwest divisions will be allotted two finals berths each, while the Southeast, South Atlantic, Mid Atlantic and North Atlantic divisions will have one finalist emerge.

IMG Academy, a division of IMG Worldwide, the global sports, fashion and media company, is the world’s largest and most advanced multi-sport training and education complex. IMG Academy hosted a myriad of soccer team training camps in 2012, including clubs such as the Seattle Sounders, D.C. United, Columbus Crew, Sweden’s Malmö FF, and the U.S. Women’s National Team preparing for the London Olympic Games.

For more than 30 years, IMG Academy has helped countless youth, adult, collegiate and professional athletes reach their full potential in and out of sport, by providing world-class coaching, tailored programs and professional facilities within an energetic environment across a 450-acre campus.

The remaining bid allocations for the U14-U17 age groups will be released during the next week.
 

Boys 

Division Bids
South Atlantic 1
Mid Atlantic 2
North Atlantic 6
New England 3
Midwest 2
Southeast 2
Total 16

 

Girls

Division Bids
South Atlantic 1
Mid Atlantic 1
North Atlantic 1
New England 2
Southeast 1
Midwest 2
Total 8

 


Seattle Holds Off LA Strikers

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Sounders Women News Release - www.sounderswomen.com

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

LOS ANGELES – The Sounders Women started a three-match road trip in Los Angeles with a 2-1 win against the LA Strikers. A first-half corner kick, converted by Sara Campbell and a second-half cross-turned-shot from Morgan Johnson were enough to hold off a late Strikers push.

The win gives the Sounders seven points from their first three matches, to sit on top the Western Conference table.

The match was a physical battle, yielding multiple free kick chances for each side. After a strong beginning from the home side, the Sounders were first to convert on a set piece. Brigit Reder rose to meet a Melissa Busque corner kick. Reder nodded the ball down toward the net where it was eventually pounced on by Campbell. The energetic attacker volleyed the ball home.

As Los Angeles fought back toward an equalizer, Sounders’ goalkeeper Erin McNulty rose to the occasion. Multiple chances fell to LA Strikers’ feet, and each time the Canadian GK came up with big saves. In the late moments of the first half, a deflected pass fell to LA’s Tanya Samarzich. The Mexican national-teamer drove a low shot that McNulty quickly sent wide of the post with her right foot.

In the second half the Sounders began to control the match and generate more chances. In the 60th minute, Texas Tech duo Jaelene Hinkle and Janine Beckie teamed up to create a tremendous chance. Hinkle’s pace earned her enough space down the left to cross to Beckie, wide open in front of goal. Her shot skipped wide of the post.

Then in the 76th minute, it was the third Sounder from Texas Tech who scored a vital cushion goal. Jphnson, a right back, raced down the right side and attempted a hard cross. Her attempt ended up in the back of the net as it had pace and direction to beat the Strikers’ goalkeeper.

In the final 10 minutes of the game Los Angeles added forwards and poured players into attack. Their pressure paid off when the official whistled for a penalty kick on a Shannon Woeller hand ball. The Strikers’ Victoria Boardman was clinical in finishing the chance to pull a goal back.

The Sounders held on for the goal advantage to take six points from the home-and-away matchup with the Strikers.

The Sounders Women stay in Southern California for two more matches this week. Next up is a Friday night game at 5 p.m. against the Santa Clarita Blue Heat before a 3 p.m. match on Sunday against the Pali Blues.

Sounders U-23 Edge Past SeaWolves

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Wednesday, June 5, 2013

SUMNER, Wash. -- The Sounders FC U-23 defeated the North Sound SeaWolves 1-0 after a dominant second half that yielded the only goal of the match. Blake Wise took a cross from Steve Mohn to put the go-ahead goal away at the midway point of the half, and the SeaWolves were not able to draw level late in the contest.

Photo courtesy SoundersPhotos.comNeither side had many chances in the first half. For most of the half, the Sounders U-23 maintained control of the ball, and were able to win a majority of the contests in the middle of the pitch. Despite the Sounders' long spells of possession, the side was not able to create any real chances on goal before the break. 

Just before the end of the half, the SeaWolves managed to put themselves into position for a handful of goal-scoring opportunities. In the 42nd minute, the SeaWolves earned a free kick from four yards beyond the top of the penalty area. Although the free kick was sent directly into the wall, the referee awarded a penalty kick for a hand ball.

Andres Suazo went to the penalty spot to face off against Sounders goalkeeper Zach Lubin, with a chance to take a 1-0 lead into half time. Suazo's shot bounced high off of the top left corner of the frame and the Sounders cleared the ball out of play, keeping the game scoreless.

The SeaWolves regrouped after the failed penalty opportunity and on a resulting throw-in nearly took a 1-0 lead anyway. The throw-in came to SeaWolves forward Braxton Griffin, who flicked the ball up in front of goal where it took a high bounce off the turf and set up David Durrant for the shot. Durrant put it in the net with ease, but was immediately whistled for a foul after pushing off of the Sounders' defender to get to the ball in the penalty area.

The Sounders narrowly escaped the first half without conceding a goal, even though they were firmly in control for the first 42 minutes of the match. Early in the second half, however, it was clear that the Sounders were starting to find their momentum, and were getting multiple chances to take the ball up the pitch and put it in for scoring opportunities.

In the 51st minute Mark Lee settled the ball down at the top right corner of the penalty area. He hit a driving cross into the front of goal, where Aodhan Quinn met it with his head. Quinn's header angled quickly to the lower far corner of the goal, and required a diving save from SeaWolves keeper Ryan Herman to keep it out of the net.

The Sounders' control of the match finally came to fruition in the 68th minute when Steve Mohn took the ball unmarked up the right-hand side of the pitch. Mohn crossed the ball over into the middle of the penalty box, where Wise shot it with his right foot past the diving keeper and into the lower-left corner of the goal.

With the SeaWolves doing everything they could to create a chance to equalize, the Sounders were able to keep the ball away from them, and create more goal-scoring opportunities for themselves. The Sounders took a total of 12 shots in the second half, and continued to eliminate any offense the SeaWolves could create with counter attacking play up the pitch. The Sounders U-23 were able to hang on to their narrow lead until the final whistle, taking the victory 1-0.

The win marks three victories in a row for a Sounders U-23 side that had gotten off to a slow start early in the season. Next up is a Sunday afternoon showdown with rival club and current Northwest Division leaders, the Portland Timbers U-23s. For more information and to purchase tickets to the Timbers U-23 match, visit SoundersU23.com.

Eagles Strike Late To Tie Battery

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Wednesday, June 5, 2013

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery were held to a 2-2 tie by the Charlotte Eagles on a rainy Wednesday night at Blackbaud Stadium. Charlotte scored early to open the game up and once more late in stoppage time to tie the game. Battery midfielder, Heviel Cordoves, had a goal and assist for the Battery as they rallied from a halftime deficit, but were unable to hold on to claim all three points.

The Battery’s record turns to (6-3-2) as they move into sole possession of fourth place in the USL PRO standings. Charlotte goes to (3-2-5), the Eagles remain in eighth place of the USL PRO table.

“You really want to get those three points at home and sometimes, especially for the players, it can be harder to swallow than a loss," said Battery coach Mike Anhaeuser. "But it’s not a loss and we will move on and work on our mistakes.”

The Eagles found the back of the net early in the match with a goal in the 14th minute. Midfielder Juan Guzman was able to slot a pass in behind the Battery defense for Stephen Okai, who chipped it over Charleston goalkeeper Odisnel Cooper for the goal.

The Battery were able to hit back in the 61st minute as Cordoves powered a beautiful shot into the upper-right corner of the goal from distance to even things up for the Battery. The goal was Cordoves’ second of the season. Dane Kelly tallied his team-leading fourth goal of the season eight minutes later as Cordoves played a lovely ball through the middle of the pitch for the Jamaican, who beat the last defender and lobbed it over Charlotte goalkeeper Eric Reed to give the Battery a 2-1 advantage.

The Battery held onto the lead up until the end of regulation before Charlotte played a hopeful ball into the box which was deflected once and then headed home by Drew Yates close to the left post to tie up the score 2-2 in stoppage time. Charleston attacked in the remaining moments of stoppage time and earned a late corner kick, but the final attempt came back off the crossbar, leaving the game deadlocked.

The Charleston Battery will be back home on Saturday night as they host Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo Reserves; gates open at 6 p.m. with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. (1450 AM WQNT). 

Harrisburg Gets Past Wilmington

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Wednesday, June 5, 2013

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Harrisburg City Islanders took their third consecutive victory as they defeated the Wilmington Hammerheads 2-0 on Wednesday night at the Skyline Sports Complex. The victory moved the Islanders within a point of Orlando City at the top of the USL PRO standings.

Neither side was able to gain the upper hand in the first half as both the City Islanders and Hammerheads looked to control possession. The City Islanders had a number of chances to take the lead, working combinations around the top of the penalty area, but were unable to finish. The Islanders had six shots on goal while the Hammerheads had only two.

The City Islanders gained the upper hand early in the second half as a defensive clearance from a corner deflected off Wilmington goalkeeper Phil Tuttle and into the net, giving Harrisburg a 1-0 lead. The game would increase in physicality as it progressed, and with 20 minutes to go the Hammerheads were reduced to 10 men as Daniel Steres was sent off for pulling down Harrisburg's Stephen Basso.

Five minutes later, Coady Andrews added a second for the Islanders as he was able to recover the rebound of his header off a corner by Cris Hernandez and fired home a finish into the left side of the net. Harrisburg was able to close out the game, and earn their eighth victory of the season, as they neared the midway point of the season.

The Islanders play their next four games at the Skyline Sports Complex, with the next contest coming on Saturday night as they host the Colorado Rapids Reserves at 7 p.m. ET. For tickets and more information visit the website at www.cityislanders.com or phone the box office at 717-441-4625.

U14 SYL Finals Allocations Announced

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Super Y-League News Release

Thursday, June 6, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – United Soccer Leagues released the U14 age group qualification allotments today for the 2013 Super Y-League North American Finals, presented by Nike. A total of 12 boys’ teams and eight girls’ teams from the Mid Atlantic, North Atlantic, South Atlantic, New England, Midwest and Southeast divisions will meet at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, from December 5-9 to compete for the Super Y-League championship.

The boys U14 Long Island Rough Riders will return to the Super Y-League in 2013 to defend their 2012 U13 title. Three teams out of the North Atlantic Division will receive bids for the 2013 finals, along with two teams from New England, the Midwest, the Southeast, and the Mid Atlantic divisions, and one team from the South Atlantic Division.

For the girls, 2012 U13 semifinalists Virginia Alliance, Internationals Soccer Club and Alliance Academy will all be back to vie for the 2013 championship. Two teams apiece out of New England and the Midwest will receive finals bids while one team from each of the four other divisions will make it to the finals at IMG Academy this winter.

IMG Academy, a division of IMG Worldwide, the global sports, fashion and media company, is the world’s largest and most advanced multi-sport training and education complex. IMG Academy hosted a myriad of soccer team training camps in 2012, including clubs such as the Seattle Sounders, D.C. United, Columbus Crew, Sweden’s Malmö FF, and the U.S. Women’s National Team preparing for the London Olympic Games.

For more than 30 years, IMG Academy has helped countless youth, adult, collegiate and professional athletes reach their full potential in and out of sport, by providing world-class coaching, tailored programs and professional facilities within an energetic environment across a 450-acre campus.

The remaining bid allocations for the U15-U17 age groups will be released during the next week.
 

Boys 

Division Bids
South Atlantic 1
Mid Atlantic 2
North Atlantic 3
New England 2
Midwest 2
Southeast 2
Total 12

Girls

Division Bids
South Atlantic 1
Mid Atlantic 1
North Atlantic 1
New England 2
Midwest 2
Southeast 1
Total 8

 

Riverhounds Set To Host Toronto

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Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Thursday, June 6, 2013

PITTSBURGH -- This Friday, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds welcome the Toronto FC Reserves of Major League Soccer to Station Square for ‘White-Out’ night, sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. Carrying a six-game undefeated streak in league play into the match, the Riverhounds are focused on maintaining this form against Toronto. The match is slated for a 7 p.m. kick off at Highmark Stadium.

In January, MLS and USL PRO officials made a formal announcement regarding a multi-year partnership between both leagues. This year, the partnership includes interleague play between the MLS Reserve teams and USL PRO franchises, along with the establishment of several exclusive team affiliations. The partnership is aimed to enhance the development of professional players in North America, strengthen the competition in both leagues, and establish a solid foundation for future collaboration.

On Friday, the Riverhounds and Toronto FC Reserves will clash at Highmark Stadium for the first leg of a two-game series. Both the Riverhounds and Toronto come into the match with unbeaten streaks on the line, raising the intensity of this historic night in professional soccer in Pittsburgh.

“In regards to the game on Friday it is tremendous to welcome the MLS to Pittsburgh,” said Head Coach Justin Evans. “But for our team, we are completely focused on the task at hand, winning and moving up the table in the USL PRO.”

The Riverhounds enter the match with a full squad of healthy players, while Toronto will be elevating their personnel with the services of two First Team members. Forward Danny Koevermans and midfielder Terry Dunfield both expected to be making rehab starts, with both coming off knee injuries.

The Riverhounds return to Highmark Stadium next Saturday, June 15, when they host the defending league champions, Charleston Battery. Following the game, a fireworks display provided by Pyrotecnico will light up the Pittsburgh skyline. In honor of Father’s Day weekend, the Riverhounds are currently promoting the “#1 Dad of Pittsburgh” contest. The winning father will receive an Infiniti JX for a weekend provided by Cochran Infiniti, a family-pack of tickets to an upcoming Riverhounds game, and a $100 GetGo giftcard.

Nominations are being taken at media@riverhounds.com. The winner will be announced at the June 15 game.

K-W United Eager For Home Opener

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K-W United News Release -- www.kwunitedfc.com

Thursday, June 6, 2013

WATERLOO, Ont. -- After four long, tiring games on the road, K-W United FC's PDL squad is happy to be returning home for their inaugural home opener, but not without some high expectations. A big half-time performance as well as a very exciting day are planned for United.

Friday is expected to be a big game for the black and blue, who will kick off at 7 p.m., at University Stadium against the River City Rovers. United played the Rovers in their first game of the season on May 23, playing to a scoreless draw.

United are 0-3-1 in their first four games, while the Rovers sit at 2-1-1, which includes a stunning last-minute win over the first-place Michigan Bucks. However, the Rovers will be without leading-scorer John Manga, as well as last week's 'Man of the Match' Napo Matsoso and veteran Ace Gonya.

With the home crowd behind them, which is expected to be a large audience at hand for the inaugural appearance of the PDL team, K-W United FC will look to crack the winless season they've had thus far. United will rely on striker Evan James and Liam Collins, who have played every minute this season, as well as two-time 'Man of the Match' Jack Warburton for experience in the middle of the field.

Goalkeeper Nathan Ingham will look to find to strength in his back four as well as use home field to his advantage as he starts in net for the black and blue.

And special to Friday's inaugural home opener, will be a half-time performance from Juno award nominated band Hollerado. Hollerado will play between halves on University Stadium's field for all fans.

Tickets for this exciting home opener are available at the gate as well as online at kwunitedfc.com for $10. You can follow along for updates at @KWUnitedFC or follow K-W United FC on Facebook.


Rhinos Set For Impact Reserves

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Rochester Rhinos News Release -- www.rhinossoccer.com

Thursday, June 6, 2013

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – The Rochester Rhinos host the Montreal Impact Reserves at Sahlen's Stadium on Friday night at 7:35 p.m. The Rhinos enter the match trailing the Charlotte Eagles by eight points for the eighth and final spot in the 2013 USL PRO Playoffs with 15 matches left to play. The Rhinos will host 11 of those 15 matches at Sahlen's Stadium.

The Rhinos home-and-home series with the Impact Reserves this season is a result of Major League Soccer's groundbreaking affiliation with USL PRO that was announced by the two leagues in January. Every USL PRO team is scheduled to play two matches against MLS Reserve sides during the 2013 regular season. The results from the two matches will be reflected in the standings this season. The Impact's Reserve side contains a collection of recent MLS SuperDraft selections, new signings trying to break into the first team, and Impact Academy players trying to make the jump into professional soccer.

The Rhinos enter the match with Montreal in 12th place in the USL PRO table. Last weekend Rochester played back-to-back matches, and was able to rescue a valuable 2-2 draw with the Los Angeles Blues on Friday night when striker Tam McManus scored the game-tying goal in the 88th minute. However, Rochester's bus broke down on the overnight drive to Pittsburgh, and the team did not arrive at their hotel until 6:30 a.m. Saturday morning. The road-weary Rhinos could not build on their momentum from the night before, and they lost 3-0 in Pittsburgh. Despite the Rhinos' slow start, they remain eight points behind Charlotte for the eighth and final playoff spot in the USL PRO table with 15 matches left to play.

The Rhinos will have a full week off between matches for the first time in three weeks, and the break should help Rochester recover from a variety of injuries that left them short-staffed all of last week. The injury crisis started on May 25th in Charleston when captain Troy Roberts and right back Bilal Duckett both had to leave the match in the first 24 minutes due to injury. The New England Revolution recalled their loans on left back Tyler Polak and winger Gabe Latigue leaving the Rhinos with 13 players on their roster under contract for their 5-1 loss to New England in the Third Round of the U.S. Open Cup on May 28th. The signing of forward George Tor as well as the return of Polak and Latigue gave the Rhinos 16 healthy players on their roster for last Friday's game with Los Angeles. However, an injury to Ross LaBauex left the Rhinos with 15 healthy players on the second leg of their back-to-back weekend last Saturday night.

The Montreal Impact Reserves enter the match coming off of a 5-1 victory against the FC Dallas Reserves on Tuesday afternoon. Impact midfielder Blake Smith scored two goals, while Paolo Del Piccolo, Andrew Wenger, and Academy striker Victor Ndiaye added one goal each. The Impact won their only other match of the Reserve League season 3-0 over Red Bulls Reserves back on March 24th. Wenger and Smith were once again on the score sheet with one goal each, and Academy midfielder Kevin Luarca scored the third goal of the match. Montreal keeper Evan Bush was in goal to keep the clean sheet. Smith was the Impact's first round selection in the 2013 SuperDraft, having previously played for the PDL's Austin Aztex while Wenger (Duke, Carolina Dynamo) was the No.1 overall selection in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft.

Individual tickets are currently available, and they can be purchased by calling (585)454-KICK (5425), by visiting the MVP Health Care Box Office at Sahlen's Stadium, or by visiting ticketmaster.com. Individual tickets, group tickets and flex packages for the 2013 USL PRO season are also on sale now.

Real Colorado's Gore Honored

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PDL News Release

Thursday, June 6, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – The PDL announced today its Team of the Week for the fifth week of the season, with Real Colorado Foxes forward Oliver Gore being honored as the Player of the Week. Gore, a rising senior at Rocky Mountain College in Montana, scored all four goals as the Foxes took a 4-3 victory against the St. Louis Lions on Sunday afternoon.

In a back-and-forth contest, the Lions took a 2-0 lead before Gore struck for the first time in the 39th minute. He then brought the Foxes even just before the halftime break, and gave his side the lead eight minutes into the second half. Gore, a native of Stafford, England, capped his performance with an insurance goal with 13 minutes to go, which would prove necessary as the Lions struck again late, only for Real Colorado to hold on for all three points.

Orlando City U23s’ Tyler Blackwood and the Jersey Express’ Jake Keegan joined Gore on the Team of the Week attack after both bagged hat tricks. Blackwood’s came in a 5-0 win against the SW Florida Adrenaline, giving him six goals this season, while Keegan’s came in a 6-0 win against the NJ LUSO Rangers on May 29.

Portland Timbers U-23s goalkeeper David Meves was selected after recording a pair of shutouts in his club’s two games during the weekend. He was joined on the Team of the Week defense by Paul Dillon, who had a goal and an assist for Thunder Bay in its 2-0 win against the Des Moines Menace, and Alexis De Carolis, who had the same as FC London edged out the Chicago Inferno 3-2. Rounding out the trio was Fresno’s Eddie Gutierrez, who played a key role as the Fuego shut out the Ventura County Fusion in a 2-0 win.

The Team of the Week midfield was led by Ocean City’s Abe Keller, who had a goal and two assists in the Nor’easters’ 4-3 win against the Westchester Flames, and he was joined by Ocala’s Kyle Breitmeyer, who had a goal and an assist in the Stampede’s 2-0 win on the road against the Panama City Beach Pirates on Sunday. River City’s Napo Matsoso was also selected after playing the key role in the Rovers’ 3-1 win against the Chicago Fire PDL, while Michigan’s Matt walker rounded out the quartet with a pair of assists in the Bucks’ 3-1 win against K-W United.

PDL Team of the Week

Pos

Player 

Team

Highlights

GK

David Meves

Portland

Two shutouts as Timbers U-23s remained undefeated

D

Paul Dillon

Thunder Bay

Had a goal and assist in victory against Des Moines

D

Alexis De Carolis

London

Helped side past Chicago Inferno with goal, assist

D

Eddie Gutierrez

Fresno

Held defense together as Fuego shut out Ventura County

M

Abe Keller

Ocean City

Had a goal and two assists in victory against Westchester

M

Napo Matsos

River City

Scored game-winning goal, and commanded midfield, vs. Fire

M

Matt Walker

Michigan

Pair of assists led Bucks past K-W United

M

Kyle Breitmeyer

Ocala

Goal and assist capped Stampede’s two-win road trip

F

Oliver Gore

Real Colorado

Had all four goals as Foxes took 4-3 victory against St. Louis

F

Jake Keegan

Jersey

Hat trick led Express to victory against Rangers

F

Tyler Blackwood

Orlando

Moved to six goals this season with hat trick against SW Florida

Honorable Mention – Austin: Kris Tyrpak, Zack Garcia; Boston: Cole DeNormandie; BYU: Garrett Gee, Alex Neff; CFC Azul: Mario DiMiceli; Chicago Inferno: Isaac Kannah; Des Moines: Husref Jupic, Karl Chester; El Paso: Hugo Samano; Fresno: Paul Islas, Jose Caceres; Houston: Jaimy Schaap, Kyle Herbison; Kitsap: Sebastiaan Jansen; K-W United: Evan James, Jack Warburton; LA Misioneros: Angel De Alba, Brian Behrad; London: Jordan Ayris, Tom Owens; Long Island: Marco Joergensen, Tyler Botte; Michigan: Zach Steinberger, Nick Walker; Mississippi: Victor France, Cedric Muteshi; Northern Virginia: A.J. Sheta; Ocala: Jack Bailey, Kevin Ireland; Ocean City: Tapiwa Machingauta, Tony Asante; Oklahoma City: Niall Crick; Ottawa: Chad Bush, Yannis Becker; Panama City Beach: Sean Lewis, Taian de Souza; Portland: Zach Barnes; River City: Dylan Terry; SC United: David Kenga; Sounders FC U-23: Blake Wise, Luis Esteves; So. California: Aurelian Norest, Josh Ault; Tampa Bay: Ricardo Webb; Thunder Bay: Pedro Adan, Abraham Villon; Toronto: Mackenzie Wilde; Virginia Beach: Devin Pierce, Patrick Thompson; Westchester: Dwayne Reid, Sikele Sylvester; Western Mass: Warren Gross; West Texas: Kal Herbert, Juan Nava; West Virginia: Matthew Brown, Tyler Atwell; Winnipeg: Ali Musse.

Q&A with the Bucks' Dan Duggan

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Friday, June 7, 2013

The Michigan Bucks are, simply put, one of the most successful team in PDL history. No other franchise has won as many games as the Bucks, who are in their 18th season in the PDL. It’s also safe to say that the Bucks are one of the PDL leaders in player development, with more than 30 alums having been drafted into MLS.

Bucks CEO and Chairman Dan Duggan recently took the time to answer our questions about owning and operating a PDL franchise.


What inspired you to acquire a USL franchise?

The original goal was to put together an organization that could bring professional soccer back to the City of Detroit.

What is your favorite aspect of owning a USL franchise/team?

Winning and helping young prospects get the opportunity to realize their dream of playing professional soccer after their time with the Bucks.

What differentiates your franchise from others?

Our franchise goals and objectives are made very clear to everyone from Day 1. Everyone understands we want to have a first-class reputation both on and off the field.

What words of advice would you provide to potential franchise owners?

Spend time with other veteran owners that have been around running this level of a franchise and soak up as much information as you can get. Watch every dollar you spend in the early years and make sure you stick to your corporate plan for your particular team's market, regardless of what might be happening elsewhere in the league.

Where do you see your franchise in 3-5 years?

I would hope the Bucks would own every PDL record there is and have several more huge wins in the league and U.S. Open Cup. We expect to have a USL PRO team over the top of the Bucks PDL to complete the soccer pyramid in Detroit.

What is the most challenging aspect of your franchise/team?

Managing a team in Detroit while living in Cleveland and traveling the world.

What is your franchise's greatest accomplishment to date?

We are very proud to be the first and only team [to date] to win over 200 games in the PDL. Our greatest moment(s) have to be the unprecedented two U.S. Open Cup wins over Major League Soccer teams (New England in 2000 and Chicago in 2012).

What traits do you find valuable when adding members to your staff?

Loyalty, passion and hard work. I expect everyone in the organization to be willing to work as hard as I do at this and as hard as our coaching staff. Anything less is not good enough. They have to enjoy the sport and the challenges we encounter to really be a successful part of our organization.

How does your previous employment/business experience translate into running a successful sports franchise?

As President of a large direct sales company, the qualities I teach every day - being positive and outworking the competitor - will usually get you to the top of your organization. That translates the exact same in our front office, with our coaching staff and with our players. Attitude is critical to success.

Who has been the greatest influence in your career?

My wife, Sharlene. Not only does she put up with me traveling over 250 days a year and endless hours with the Bucks, she continues to host the team each summer and is as excited about the success of the team as I am. There are many great soccer people that would be in a much better position if they had the kind of support behind them that I have behind me.

Dayton's Bal Signs New Contract

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Dayton Dutch Lions News Release -- www.dutchlionsfc.com

Thursday, June 6, 2013

DAYTON, Ohio -- Head Coach Patrick Bal and the Dayton Dutch Lions FC have agreed to a new contract keeping the current Head Coach of the Men’s Professional Team and Academy Coach of two teams with the club for at least another year.

Bal joined the organization in November 2011 and was appointed Head Coach of the club’s USL PRO side after assisting Ivar van Dinteren in 2012. The team is currently 4-2-2 and off to the best start in three years in USL PRO.

“I’m very pleased with the extension of my contract," Bal said. "I’m also grateful to DDL FC for giving me the opportunity to be the coach for the PRO Team for this and next season."

Besides being Head Coach for the club’s USL PRO team, Bal will also be coaching two youth teams.

“I believe in the direction we are going and really enjoy working with our academy and the progress that I see with every team," he said. "I’m looking forward to continue working with our academy for 2013/2014 season.”

“After Sid van Druenen accepting the position as Technical Manager it is great for the club to secure a second key position in the club with someone that is not only very competent but also has a Dutch Lions heart," President Mike Mossel said. "Patrick also knows where we stand as a club today and where we want to go in the coming years. I believe he is doing a great job as a Head Coach so far in connection with Jack Hermans and the feedback from his academy teams has always been very good as well. It also brings stability in our coaching staff towards next year.”

U15 SYL Finals Allocations Announced

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Super Y-League News Release

Friday, June 7, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – United Soccer Leagues released the U15 age group qualification allotments today for the 2013 Super Y-League North American Finals, presented by Nike. A total of 12 boys’ teams and eight girls’ teams from the Mid Atlantic, North Atlantic, South Atlantic, New England, Midwest and Southeast divisions will meet at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, from December 5-9 to compete for the Super Y-League championship.

The 2012 U14 champion Ironbound SC returns for the 2013 U15 Boys’ season. Also returning is the Ottawa Fury, whom Ironbound defeated 5-4 in the finals last year. The North Atlantic Division, featuring 13 teams, will recieve four finals bids, while the New England, Midwest and Southest divisions will receive two bids each and the South Atlantic and Mid Atlantic will receive one.

On the girls side, 2012 U14 runner-up Mequon United returns to the SYL for the U15 season, and they will be joined by familiar foes out of the New England Division - the MPS Bulldogs/Renegades - who finished as 2012 semifinalists. The Mid Atlantic, North Atlantic, and New England divisions will receive 2 bids each, and the Midwest and Southeast divisions will get one.

IMG Academy, a division of IMG Worldwide, the global sports, fashion and media company, is the world’s largest and most advanced multi-sport training and education complex. IMG Academy hosted a myriad of soccer team training camps in 2012, including clubs such as the Seattle Sounders, D.C. United, Columbus Crew, Sweden’s Malmö FF, and the U.S. Women’s National Team preparing for the London Olympic Games.

For more than 30 years, IMG Academy has helped countless youth, adult, collegiate and professional athletes reach their full potential in and out of sport, by providing world-class coaching, tailored programs and professional facilities within an energetic environment across a 450-acre campus.

The remaining bid allocations for the U16-U17 age groups will be released during the next week.

Boys                                                                                                         

Division Bids
South Atlantic 1
Mid Atlantic 1
North Atlantic 4
New England 2
Midwest 2
Southeast 2
Total 12

Girls

Divsion Bids
Mid Atlantic 2
North Atlantic 2
New England 2
Midwest 1
Southeast 1
Total 8

 

Southern Clubs Clash

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Friday, June 7, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – The second weekend of action in the inaugural W-20 season starts tonight. W-20 features 21 teams aligned in four regional divisions - North Atlantic, Midwest, New England and South Atlantic - playing 8-10 regular season matches from May through July, with a national championship set at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla.

A total of 12 teams will receive bids to the national championship. Here is a look at the teams that will compete for the three South Atlantic Division bids this year.

CAROLINA ELITE COBRAS
An extension of the Carolina Elite W-League squad, the Cobras will be led by Andrew Hyslop during the 2013 W-20 season.

Several players already rostered for the W-League squad will aso suit up for the W-20s, including CESA youth club standout Savannah McCaskill, a midfielder who is committed to the University of South Carolina for 2014. Defender Kaleigh Kurtz is also rostered for both teams, and will bring her talents to the University of Richmond this coming fall.

Between the pipes, the Cobras will look to Maggie Grisell, who just completed her freshman year at Furman University. Furman teammate Emily Graves, also coming off her freshman year and also a CESA youth alum, appeared in 20 games on defense for the Paladins in 2012 and should help anchor a tough Cobras back line.

LAKE NORMAN SC
Stephen Chaconas’ Lake Norman squad includes a number of college-level talents.

Emily Rusk, a freshman from the University of Alabama, will spend some time between the pipes for Lake Norman this summer. Rusk posted two shutouts while at Alabama, and will benefit from the experienced cover of sophomore defender Lindsey Byrne from UNC Wilmington. Byrne had three assists last year with Seahawks.

Emilee Engelhaupt joins Lake Norman SC from Eastern Tennessee State University. A versatile midfielder, Engelhaupt started 17 games for the Bucs and tallied an assist.

The attacking standout, Megan Curan, hopes to bring some of her success at Gardner Webb to the club table. A sophomore with the Runnin’ Bulldogs, Curan has five goals and four assists in her collegiate career.

Ashley Hartert will try to aid Lake Norman going forward after putting in several good shifts for Campbell University and notching three points.

SOUTHERN SOCCER ACADEMY
Jim Belay will lead Southern Soccer Academy through this year’s W-20 season. A relatively young squad, SSA will be powered by fresh legs such as Rebecca Calder, Sarah Whitney, Carlie Couch, and Claire Belay.

Calder recently finished her freshman year at the University of Louisiana Monroe. With the Warhawks, Calder proved to be a defensive bulwark and tallied an assist from the back. Whitney is a rising goalkeeper out of Garfield High School who put together six shutouts last year.

Couch, a forward, entered her senior year at Tift County with 100 goals and 29 assists in her career, and even though she just finished her last year in high school, Couch committed to Furman University to play soccer in her sophomore year.

Midfielder Belay recently capped off her first year with the Columbus State Cougars. She was on the field for 23 games and found the back of the net twice while putting together four points as a freshman.

TRIANGLE FC
Triangle FC will bring together some of the best talent in North Carolina this summer. Starting up top, Rachel Harris, a redshirt freshman from North Carolina State, will bring her experience to the Triangle FC attack. After missing out on the entirety of last season, Harris bounced back and recorded three goals, two assists, and eight points in just 386 minutes with the Wolfpack.

Harris will have her chances paved for her by the industrious Megan Fish. Fish just finished her second season with the University of Central Florida, where she provided three assists from her role in the midfield.

Cydney Smith and Melissa Periere will team up at the back to close down the gaps. Smith is coming off an impressive year with Campbell University, where she took in 17 starts in a primarily defensive position. Periere just finished out her year with Belmont Abbey, where she found time in 18 games and took home an assist.

United Set To Host Partner Union

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Reading United News Release -- www.readingunitedac.com

Thursday, June 6, 2013

READING, Pa. -- On a map, Reading and Philadelphia are seperated by 60 miles. On the soccer field, the two cities are much closer. Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union partnered with Reading United A.C. of the Premier Development League in 2009. The two player development partners now share a close bond on and off the field, with each side growing stronger because of the partnership. The unique relationship shared by the clubs will be on full display Friday evening as the Union travel to Reading for their annual summer friendly.

As one of the top clubs in the Premier Development League, Reading United has had tremendous success in developing professional soccer players. Currently, United have twenty-five former players playing the beautiful game in leagues throughout the United States and Europe. Three of those alums, Ray Gaddis, Leo Fernandes, and Aaron Wheeler, play just down the road at PPL Park, proudly pulling on a Philadelphia Union jersey during the MLS season. For these pros, Friday represents a homecoming.

Wheeler played for Reading while the club was still known as the Rage. Wheeler’s breakthrough 2009 season earned him Most Valuable Player honors and catapulted Reading to the 2009 Regular Season Championship. The 6-foot-4 forward signed with the Union on January 19th and made his MLS debut on Wednesday night against Columbus.

Gaddis spent two summers playing on United’s suffocating backline. He caught the eye of the Philadelphia technical staff at the first United-Union friendly in 2010 and was selected by the Union in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft. Gaddis is now a fixture in the Union’s starting line-up, having started every match for the Union in 2013.

On May 18th, Fernandes made his MLS debut at PPL Park in a 1-0 win over the Chicago Fire. A summer ago, Fernandes suited up for Reading United against Philadelphia. Asked about last year’s match, Fernandes said, “It was a great experience. That was the number one thing I was looking forward to the whole summer was the chance to play against professional soccer players.” At this year’s friendly, he’ll trade in the white jersey of Reading United for a blue and gold Union kit.

The three Reading alums on Philadelphia’s roster aren’t the only ones representing both cities. United Head Coach Brendan Burke also got the call from PPL Park; he joined the Union coaching staff ahead of the 2011 MLS season. “The friendly is kind of a celebration,” Coach Burke shared during in interview shortly after the 2013 friendly was announced.

The Philadelphia Union make their annual trek to Don Thomas Stadium coming off their best all-around performance of the 2013 season. A three goal outburst in the first half and a solid defensive performance powered the Union past the Columbus Crew by a 3-0 score line. The win lifted Philadelphia back into an Eastern Conference playoff spot at the midpoint point of the season approaches.

The Union are led by Jack McInerney and Sebastien Le Toux. McInerney’s ten goals currently lead Major League Soccer. Based on his red-hot form, McInerney was also selected to join the United States Men’s National Team camp ahead of this summer’s Gold Cup. Le Toux, the Union’s franchise leader in goals scored, rejoined the Union in the offseason. The dynamic Frenchman has six assists to lead Major League Soccer.


Super Y-League Top Peformers

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Friday, June 7, 2013

As the Super Y-League kicks off for 2013, the goals have already started to fly in. Players throughout the league have begun to showcase their talent, helping their teams pick up early season points.

Ironbound SC U15 is one team that has gotten off to a hot start, taking seven points from its opening three games, including a decisive victory against F.A. Euro - New York Magic U15.

F.A. Euro - New York Magic U14 has also started well, with a notable 2-0 win against Princeton Soccer Association. F.A. Euro has taken a perfect nine points from its first three games with an impressive tally of 14 goals scored.

Christopher Solis
Ironbound SC U15
 
Solis has emerged as the leading scorer for Ironbound SC this season, netting five goals to go with one assist in the team’s first three games. Solis has been described as both a talented midfielder and a great forward. Not only is he a goal scorer, his vision and passing have been noted by his coaches.

“It is an honor to coach Chris and to watch this young man grow as a soccer player,” Ironbound SC Coach Manny Antunes said. “He has been playing some of his best soccer as of late. I can only wait and see what the future holds for this talented young man if he keeps progressing like he is”.

“The future is his to own.”

John Antunes
Ironbound SC U15

Ironbound SC boasts another top league performer in Antunes. Antunes has gathered four assists in the young season to put an early stamp on the fall. In addition to posting big numbers, Antunes has been described a leader on the field, bringing up the level of play for all of his teammates.
 
“It is an honor to coach and to be involved in this young man’s soccer journey,” Coach Antunes said. “He is one of the most dedicated players I have ever coached.”

Nick Garzon
F.A. Euro-New York Magic U14

Garzon has been tearing it up this U14 season as his team’s top goal scorer with five thus far. Garzon threatened Princeton with his pace and powerful running throughout in a recent 2-0 F.A. Euro win, creating many opportunities both for himself and his teammates. In the end, his pair of goals was enough to secure all three points for his team.

"Nick was our most dangerous player throughout the match. What’s scary is that I would tell you, and I know Nick would agree, that this was not his best performance,” Head Coach Adam Marcu said.

“This could be a pretty special season for Nick."

Steven Fernandez
F.A. Euro-New York Magic U14

Fernandez has been a consistent standout for his F.A. Euro - New York Magic team. This season Fernandez has scored once to go along with the two assists he picked up against the Princeton U14s. Fernandez did not start the match, but contributed instantly, assisting fellow substitute Garzon with his first touch of the game. Fernandez assisted Garzon again later in the match for FA Euro’s second goal. On the ball, Fernandez was constantly a problem for Princeton, displaying superb foot-skill throughout his time on the field.

"Steve was pure class today,” Marcu said. “His skill on the ball is just unreal for his age. He is the player that guys on the sideline depend upon, and just sort of wait to see what he’s going do when he gets on the ball.

“The play of the game on Sunday was probably a near miss for us that Steve set up with a gem of a pass. I often forget that he is really a U13 - he’s an amazing talent."

USL Alumni Called Into U.S. Squad

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USL Feature

Friday, June 7, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – Tab Ramos today announced his selections for the 21-man U.S. squad that will compete in the FIFA U20 World Cup later this month in Turkey. Among the selections were five former USL standouts, all of whom are expected to play a role as the U.S. tries to find success against a tough group in the opening round of the tournament.

Leading the group is former Sounders FC U-23 standout DeAndre Yedlin, one of three PDL alumni to be selected. Now with the Seattle Sounders FC in Major League Soccer, where he is having an outstanding rookie season, Yedlin was an All-League selection in the PDL in 2012, helping the Sounders U-23 claim the Western Conference title. Yedlin appeared in every minute of every game during the regular season, recording a goal and an assist, helping pave the way for the Sounders to offer him a homegrown player contract this spring.

Joining Yedlin is current Portland Timbers U-23s standout Eric Miller, who in addition to starring for Creighton has been a key figure in the Timbers U-23s’ success in the past two seasons. Miller opened this PDL season strongly, starting the club’s first three PDL games this season before making the trip to France with the U20s for the recent Toulon Tournament, where he appeared in three of the four games. Current Sporting Kansas City midfielder Mikey Lopez completes the trio, with the former Orange County Blue Star player having made four appearances in CONCACAF qualifying earlier this year.

Former Super-20 League standout Wil Trapp also earned selection after playing a key role in midfield during qualification in Mexico. A Super-20 Championship winner with the Columbus Crew Juniors in 2011, Trapp was also a standout at Akron before signing with the Crew’s MLS side prior to this season.

Another key member of the side will be goalkeeper Cody Cropper, a former standout in the Super Y-League. An ODP Camp Select Team selection in 2008, Cropper went on to be part of the U.S. U17 Residency at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla. Since then, he has turned professional, signing professional terms first with Ipswich Town before moving on to the English Premier League’s Southampton.

The U.S. will face Spain in its opening game of the tournament on June 21, followed by games with France on June 24 and Ghana on June 27. The top two teams from the group will automatically advance to the Round of 16, with the four best third-placed teams also advancing. 

2013 MBS Season Kicks Off in Daytona

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MBS News Release – www.majorbeachsoccer.com

Friday, June 7, 2013


TAMPA, Fla. – Even though FIFA’s Beach Soccer World Cup started in 2005, the game has caught on quickly. A popular sport among youth and adult alike, beach soccer has gained steam not only on the sunny sands of Florida and California, but also across the coasts of the Great Lakes and throughout the Northeast.

As the sport has grown, so has the United States’ talent level. On May 12 the U.S. Beach Soccer National Team edged out El Salvador 5-4 in overtime to qualify for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup later this year in Tahiti.

The game may seem young, but has had roots in the States for at least 23 years thanks to the efforts of Peter Mellor. Mellor, now the USL National Technical Director and Major Beach Soccer Director, started the games in 1991 on Clearwater Beach in Florida. There are now nine separate events on the Major Beach Soccer qualification calendar throughout the United States thanks to partnerships with Soccer in the Sand, Soccer on the Beach and the Long Island Rough Riders, but the championship remains on the sparkling sands of Clearwater Beach.

Daytona Beach, Fla. is preparing for a weekend of sand, soccer, and sun as the first MBS tournament of 2013 starts Friday, June 14. The games will begin on Saturday morning and last through the finals on Sunday. It will be about more than just fun, with qualifications for the MBS National Championship on the line.

In its 23rd season, MBS offers multiple ways of qualifying for the finals. Any team that wins its division at an event has booked its ticket to Clearwater for December’s National Championships. Alternatively, teams may qualify by earning points by participating and placing in multiple events. This year’s divisions include U-10 to U-18, co-ed open, over-30 co-ed, and male and female open. Each team is scheduled at least three 30 minute matches, and teams are structured to follow a 5v5 format with a maximum of 10 players per roster. Games are regulated by FIFA Beach Soccer rules, and most importantly, no shoes!

The beautiful white sand and azure waters of Daytona are a perfect match for the beautiful game. Flicks and acrobatic bicycle kicks are the norm in beach soccer, where the fields and goals are small but the action is nonstop. Situated behind the famous Mayan Inn, MBS Daytona will take over the beach with six fields of beach soccer action and a weekend full of parties and entertainment for the entire family. MBS Daytona Beach is supported by Nike, TGI Signage Systems, Farpost Soccer Company, the Daytona Beach Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, and Volusia County.

To register for 2013 Major Beach Soccer tournaments, click here.

This year’s MBS qualification tournaments include:

Location Date
San Diego, California June 1-2
Daytona Beach, Florida      June 15-16
Seaside, Oregon June 15-16
Grand Haven, Michigan June 29-30
Clearwater Beach, Florida July 13-14
Cleveland, Ohio July 13-14
Michigan City, Indiana July 20
Fort Myers Beach, Florida July 27-28
Rochester, New York August 3-4

 

Lions Take Victory Against Brilla

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Saturday, June 8, 2013

CLINTON, Miss. -- The Mississippi Brilla have been getting mixed results so far this season, and tonight’s 1-0 loss to the Orlando City Lions just makes their season more confusing. Coming into the match with a 3-1 record, Brilla was looking to remain atop the Premier Development League’s Southeastern Division standings, however, Orlando City (now 3-2-1) had other ideas.

Tyler Blackwood capitalized on a poor Mississippi back pass to slot the intercepted ball past a helpless Brendan Ledgeway for the game’s only goal in the 27th minute.

Both teams struggled to create many dangerous chances during the game, with the best chances for the Brilla being two Phillip Buffington shots that Orlando City’s Tomas Gomez was able to skillfully save.

Brilla has one more home game before a three-game road trip in Florida. They host the SW Florida Adrenaline this Thursday night at 7 p.m. at Clinton High School.

Mississippi Ready For Orlando U23

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Mississippi Brilla News Release -- www.brillasoccer.org

Friday, June 7, 2013

CLINTON, Miss. -- Two of the perennial top teams in the Southeast Division of the Premier Development League are set to tangle on Saturday night when Mississippi Brilla FC hosts Orlando City U23. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Clinton High School's Arrow Field.

"We are four games into the season, and I think we are starting to come together as a team," said first year Brilla Head Coach Drew Courtney. "The season is a sprint, so every game is extremely important."

The Brilla (3-1) are coming off a dramatic comeback victory against VSI Tampa Bay FC at home last Sunday, while Orlando (2-2-1) is fresh off a 5-0 thumping of the SW Florida Adrenaline.

"Some of our most exciting games each year are against Orlando City U23's," said President Rusty Bryant. "They are one of the top organizations in our league, and we always look forward to hosting them."

With only three points separating the top five teams in the Southeast, the eight-team division is shaping up to be a close race. Mississippi and Ocala currently sit atop the standings with nine points, while Orlando City U23's and VSI Tampa are just behind with 7 points.

Tickets for Saturday's match in Clinton may be purchased at the gate for $5. Saturday's contest is sponsored by CMMC (Central Mississippi Medical Center) and early arrivals will receive promotional giveaways.

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