Rochester Rhinos NEws Release -- www.rhinossoccer.com

Friday, March 21, 2014

ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- The Rochester Rhinos have agreed to terms with five more players for the 2014 season. The Rhinos have added forwards Alex Dixon and Colin Rolfe, defender Pat McMahon, returning goalkeeper Brandon Miller, and midfielder Mike Garzi. All five players have been on trial with Rochester since the beginning of preseason on March 1, 2014. Terms and conditions of the contracts will not be released. All five contracts are pending USL and USSF approval.

“We kick off the 2014 season in Orlando on April 5th, so it's time to start finalizing our roster for the upcoming season,” Rhinos head coach Bob Lilley said. “We've had a chance to evaluate these five players thoroughly over the past three weeks, and we have been able to develop a good idea of how each one of these players will be able to help us this season.”

Dixon is coming to Rochester after spending three years with the Houston Dynamo (MLS). Last year, he started against Stoke City in the Dynamo Charities Cup as well as making appearances in both first team and reserve games. He also started eight of 10 games for the Dynamo Reserves. In 2012, he helped the Dynamo Reserves win the Reserve League division title tallying two goals and three assists. As a rookie in 2011, Dixon scored a game-winning goal in stoppage time against Real Salt Lake. Before signing with Houston as a homegrown player, Dixon spent three years as a standout with the University of North Carolina where he helped the Tar Heels reach the NCAA College Cup all three years.

Rolfe was drafted with the No. 18 overall selection by the Houston Dynamo in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft. He did not debut with the first team, but did make nine appearances – with two starts – with the Dynamo Reserves in 2012. At the University of Louisville, he was named a finalist for the M.A.C. Hermann Trophy as the nation’s top player in 2010. He appeared in 87 career games, starting 79, and finished with 33 goals and 21 assists for a total of 84 points.

McMahon played with the Swedish club Ljungskile SK during the 2012-13 season after playing for the previous two seasons in Australia. During his collegiate career at the University of Illinois at Chicago, McMahon started in every game during his four year career and holds the school record for consecutive starts at 85.

Miller is returning to the Rhinos for this third year. Miller was the back-up goalkeeper to Kristian Nicht in 2011 and 2012. Last season in USL PRO Miller recorded two wins, one of which was a shutout of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.

Garzi played previously for Colgate University and the New England Force. At Colgate, Garzi was a standout midfielder who made appearances in 71 games for the Raiders. He notched 16 points on four goals and eight assists during his collegiate career.

The Rochester Rhinos continue their preseason schedule this weekend. On Sunday afternoon, Rochester hosts Cornell University at 4 p.m. The game is open to the public and admission is free.

Rochester Rhinos season tickets, flex packages and group ticket sales 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.

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Friday, March 21, 2014

CHARLESTON, S.C. – Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced today that striker/winger Omar Salgado has been loaned to the Charleston Battery – pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate and USSF approval.

“Omar is a young player with a lot of potential and this loan is a natural step following two seasons with limited playing time,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson. “Our partnership with the Battery provides the opportunity for Omar to earn first team minutes, with a number of his peers, during this stretch of our MLS season.”

Salgado, 20, joined Whitecaps FC in advance of the club’s inaugural Major League Soccer campaign after being selected first overall in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft. After appearing in 14 MLS regular season matches in his rookie campaign, a fractured foot limited Salgado to just seven appearances over the past two seasons.

The 6-foot-4, 210-pound striker becomes the sixth Whitecaps FC player on loan at Charleston, joining midfielders Aminu Abdallah and Andre Lewis and striker Mamadou Diouf from the MLS roster, in addition to U-18 defender Jackson Farmer and U-23 striker Marlon Ramirez. Whitecaps FC MLS SuperDraft picks Adam Mena and Michael Kafari are also members of the Battery.

The Battery are set to open their 2014 USL PRO campaign on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET against Orlando City SC – a team that features former ‘Caps players Corey Hertzog and Brad Rusin. The match will be streamed live on charlestonbattery.com.

Seattle Sounders Women News Release - www.sounderswomen.com

Friday, March 21, 2014

TUKWILA, Wash – The Seattle Sounders Women have signed Megan Kufeld and Annie Sittauer to return to the Sounders Women for the 2014 W-League campaign. University of Washington stars, goalkeeper Kufeld and defender Sittauer return to the Sounders for their third year in rave green.

Kufeld joins the Sounders Women following a fantastic year at U.W. in which she earned All-Pac-12 Honorable Mention while also earning UW’s prestigious President’s Medal as the university’s top student in her class. The redshirt-sophomore played nearly every minute for the Huskies last fall, notching eight shutouts and 88 saves.

Kufeld has also represented the United States on the youth national team levels of U-14, U-15, U-17, U-18, U-20 and was called into the U-23 National Team pool last year.

"Megan is one of the best keepers in the country," said Sounders Head Coach Hubert Busby Jr., a former Jamaica National Team goalkeeper. "She continues to go from strength to strength. It’s been great to see her get better each year. More importantly, she looks to improve each time she steps on the field.”

Kufeld burst onto the Sounders scene following her redshirt season at U.W. when she earned a start in the 2012 Western Conference Championship recording six saves in a narrow 1-0 loss. During the past two years she’s backed up current professionals Hope Solo and Erin McNulty. Kufeld is the frontrunner for the starting goalkeeper role in 2014.

“Her calming influence on the backline will be valuable once again," Busby added.

Sittauer developed into an exceptional player during her career at Washington. With no starts during her freshman season, the Everett, Washington native earned double-digit starts in her sophomore season and was a rock during her junior and senior years. The graduating senior can play left or right back, and occasionally featured in the midfield for the Huskies.

"We are pleased to have Annie back with the squad this year,” Busby Jr. said. “Her technical qualities and versatility enables us to play her in various positions. She will also be another leader for this group.”

In her first season with the Sounders in 2012, Sittauer played 12 matches and served three assists. Last W-League season she scored two goals in five matches despite missing most of the season while the Huskies took a summer trip to Italy.

Sittauer and Kufeld’s teammates from throughout the nation will be announced throughout the spring. In addition, the Sounders Women hold open tryouts this weekend (March 22-23) in search of undiscovered talent. Registration for tryouts is available at SoundersWomen.com.

Season Tickets for the 2014 Sounders Women season are on sale on SoundersWomen.com for as low as $100.

Sounders FC U-23 News Release -- www.soundersu23.com

Friday, March 21, 2014

TACOMA, Wash. – The Sounders U-23 have announced the signing of local talents, Ryan Herman, Darwin Jones, and Chase Hanson for the 2014 PDL season. All three young men are returners to the Sounders U-23, and are looking to follow up on their extraordinary 2013 seasons at the University of Washington and Seattle University.

Both the University of Washington and Seattle University made school history with their NCAA Tournament appearances last fall. Washington earned a No. 2-seed, and advanced farther into the tournament than any other UW team, before a season ending loss to New Mexico in the Elite Eight. The Seattle U men’s soccer team was the first since the 1969 men’s basketball team to qualify for a NCAA Division I tournament.

Herman, a 6-foot 7-inch goal keeper at Washington, carried out his redshirt sophomore season in 2013 appearing in 21 games and starting 17. His most notable game was shutting out Stanford 1-0, leading the UW to their appearance in the Elite Eight. Herman is a former member of the Sounders Academy, and backed up Doug Herrick for the Sounders U-23 during the 2012 PDL season.

Also a product of the Sounders Academy, Jones is a dangerous forward that poses a tough matchup for any defender because of his speed. During his junior season at Washington, he scored seven goals and notched four assists in 22 games. Jones played in nine games for the Sounders U-23 during the 2012 season, scoring four goals and notching two assists.

Hanson returns to the Sounders U-23 after his junior season at Seattle U. The midfielder/defender played in 24 games for the Redhawks and scored his first career Seattle U goal in a loss at Washington in the NCAA Tournament. Hanson appeared in seven games last season for the Sounders U-23.

Season Tickets for the 2014 Sounders U-23 season are on sale on SoundersU23.com for just $60. The 2014 Season Ticket Flex Pack eliminates the risk of missing games. Instead of one ticket specifically associated with each match, with the Sounders U-23 Flex Pack, fans will receive eight tickets, and each of those tickets will be accepted at any match during the 2014 season. Have to miss a game? No problem, just use that ticket for a friend at the next one. Flex tickets may also be combined for multiple admissions to the same match -- for example you can bring multiple friends to one game, or any other combination of friends to multiple games. It's the ultimate in flexibility.

W-League News Release

Friday, March 21, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – Braddock Road Youth Club (BRYC), one of the oldest and most prominent soccer clubs in the nation, will own and operate the Braddock Road Stars Elite, it was announced today. Set to begin play in the 2014 W-League season, the Stars Elite will be coached by BRYC’s Larry Best, the 2013 USYS National Competitive Coach of the Year.

Based in Fairfax, Virginia, BRYC’s alumni list includes Mia Hamm, Jill Ellis, Megan McCarthy, Wendy Gebauer Palladino, and current UCLA Head Coach Amanda Cromwell, who captured the 2013 NCAA Division I title.

“Having Braddock Road Youth Club operate the Stars Elite is a great addition that will strengthen the league’s profile in the Atlantic region of the United States,” W-League Senior Director Amanda Duffy said. “With both the club’s and Larry’s rich history and success at the highest youth levels, I am confident the Stars Elite will immediately become a W-League contender.”

As previously announced, the Stars Elite will join the Northeastern Conference, hosting W-League powers such as the Washington Spirit Reserves and Long Island Rough Riders at Samuel J. Coffey Stadium.

“Braddock Road Youth Club and our newly formed Braddock Road Stars Elite team are excited and honored to be joining the W-League for the 2014 season,” Best said. “Our club, coaches, and players see the W-League as wonderful opportunity to expand our development model by adding a ‘Post-Graduate’ level of competition that will challenge our players to be the best they can be.”

BRYC features 35 club teams and 22 top coaches, and has a recreational program with a membership of 1,494 players. It features a development model that includes a Micro Academy for ages U5-U8 and other Academy levels up to U18. BRYC teams participate in multiple regional and national competitions, including the USYS National League and the Region I Premier League.

Founded in 1966, BRYC has captured four national championships, 40 regional championships and a pair of USYS National League titles in its history. Among the top teams developed by the club is BRYC 95 Elite, coached by Best, which captured the 2012-13 USYS National Championship.

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Friday, March 21, 2014

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery square off with Orlando City on Saturday night at Blackbaud Stadium in the USL PRO season opener; gates open at 6 p.m. ET with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ($10 - $18, (843) 971-GOAL / charlestonbattery.com). Orlando City is the defending USL PRO champion, and is playing its final season in USL PRO in 2014 before moving up to Major League Soccer for the 2015 season.

Saturday’s game will be available locally on SportsRadio 1450 AM and will also be streamed live via the Charleston Battery website. Immediately following the match on Saturday there will be a season-opening fireworks spectacular.

In 2013 the Battery played Orlando twice in the regular season, as the teams tied 1-1 at Blackbaud Stadium before Orlando took a 2-1 in the reverse fixture played in Orlando. After progressing to the USL PRO Playoffs semifinals the Battery were eliminated by Orlando, losing 3-2 at the Florida Citrus Bowl.

Orlando defeated the Charlotte Eagles 7-4 in the USL PRO Championship Game to claim its second title. In the past four years only two teams have won USL championships, Charleston Battery (2010 & 2012) and Orlando City (2011 & 2013).

Battery defender Colin Falvey will be unavailable for selection on Saturday as he serves a one-game suspension after receiving a red card in the semifinal match last season against Orlando. The Battery could have some new faces in Saturday's starting line-up, as returning goalkeeper Odisnel Cooper and midfielder Jared van Schaik could be joined by players such as Mamadou Diouf and Adam Mena, who are among those on loan from the Battery's MLS partner, the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Orlando City has already begun its squad preparation for the 2015 MLS season and has signed several players with MLS experience in advance of its final USL PRO season. Defender Brad Rusin and forward Corey Hertzog both joined Orlando from the Whitecaps, while midfielder Yordany Alvarez, the 2011 USL PRO Most Valuable Player, returns to Orlando from Real Salt Lake.

Orlando City are the official USL PRO affiliate of MLS’s Sporting Kansas FC, and could also feature former U.S. U20 international Mikey Lopez, who was sent on loan for the season earlier this week.

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

LA Galaxy II News Release -- www.lagalaxy.com

Saturday, March 22, 2014

CARSON, Calif. – The LA Galaxy II kick off their inaugural season against the OC Blues FC at the StubHub Center Track and Field Stadium on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. PT. The match will be shown live on lagalaxy.com.

Saturday’s match will mark the first time that the LA Galaxy II will play the OC Blues, who recently rebranded from Los Angeles Blues to the Orange County Blues Football Club. The two clubs are scheduled to play each other three more times during the USL PRO regular season. The LA Galaxy II’s 2014 USL PRO schedule can be found here.

The LA Galaxy II are the first Major League Soccer club to own and operate a lower division professional team within the club’s player development structure. A number of LA Galaxy first team players will help make up the roster for LA Galaxy II Head Coach Curt Onalfo’s club as well as players independently signed specifically to the USL PRO club. A first of its kind program in MLS, LA Galaxy II will provide playing time and development opportunities for players within the LA Galaxy player development structure.

On Friday, it was announced that Oscar Sorto, Kyle Venter, Kofi Opare, Kenney Walker, Rafael Garcia, Bradford Jamieson IV, Jack McBean, Raul Mendiola and Charlie Rugg will feature on LA Galaxy II’s roster for this match after being loaned from the LA Galaxy first team.

One of Galaxy II’s California rivals, the OC Blues feature a number of players that were with the team during last season’s playoff run, including defender James Turner and forward Chris Cortez, who tallied nine goals for the Blues last summer. The OC Blues also added former MLS goalkeeper Patrick McLain in the offseason.

Tune in to watch all the action live on lagalaxy.com and youtube.com/lagalaxy.

Throughout the 2014 USL PRO season, live games and on-demand content will be available for free on each team’s YouTube channel, with archived games available shortly after each game’s completion.

LA Galaxy II Season Ticket Memberships begin at just $72 for all 14 regular season home games. Group and single game tickets will go on sale to the general public on February 18. For more information on LA Galaxy or LA Galaxy II memberships, visit www.lagalaxy.com or call 877-3GALAXY (342-5299).

LA Galaxy II News Release -- www.lagalaxy.com

Friday, March 21, 2014

CARSON, Calif. – The LA Galaxy announced Friday that the club has loaned Rafael Garcia, Bradford Jamieson IV, Jack McBean, Raul Mendiola, Charlie Rugg and Oscar Sorto to the LA Galaxy II. The LA Galaxy II kick off their inaugural season against the OC Blues FC at the StubHub Center Track and Field Stadium on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. PT. The match will be shown live on lagalaxy.com.

In addition, Bruce Arena has loaned Galaxy players Kyle Venter, Kofi Opare and Kenney Walker to Galaxy II for the USL PRO side’s home opener.

A number of first team players will help make up the roster for Curt Onalfo’s club that will include both Galaxy first team players as well as players independently signed specifically to LA Galaxy II. The first of its kind program in MLS which offers playing time and development opportunities for players within the LA Galaxy player development structure will open up their inaugural 28-game campaign tomorrow night against the Blues.

McBean, 19, has spent the last three seasons with the Galaxy since being signed as the second Homegrown Player signing in club history in January of 2011. After making just two appearances in his first two seasons with the club, the forward made career-highs in appearances, starts and assists in 2013 with 15 games played, seven starts, one goal and two assists. McBean became the youngest player in club history to start a game and score a goal in the 2011 season finale when he scored against the Houston Dynamo at 16 years and 312 days old. During his three seasons with the Galaxy, the Newport Beach, Calif. native has excelled in CONCACAF Champions League play with five goals in eight appearances. A frequent contributor to Onalfo’s back-to-back MLS Reserve League West Division winners, McBean has tallied six goals in 14 appearances with the reserves. 

Garcia, 25, has made 10 regular season appearances with a single start in two seasons with the Galaxy since being drafted in the second round of the 2012 MLS Supplemental Draft with the 38th overall selection. In 2013; Garcia made a career-high 16 appearances in all official competitions for the Galaxy including his first career MLS start on June 19. The defensive midfielder was also a regular in Onalfo’s Reserve League sides that won consecutive West Division titles. During his two seasons with the club, Garcia has been a frequent contributor to the club’s CONCACAF Champions League campaigns making a total of six appearances. Prior to being drafted by the Galaxy, the former member of the club’s U-20 side spent four seasons at Cal-State Northridge winning All Big-West honors in his senior season in 2011.

Jamieson IV, a former U.S. U-17 international, was the sixth Homegrown Player to be signed from the LA Galaxy Academy.  A native of Los Angeles, California and senior at Santa Monica High school, Jamieson IV has tallied three goals in 11 appearances for the LA Galaxy Academy U-18 side in the 2013-2014 U.S. Soccer Developmental Academy season. The forward also made three appearances for the LA Galaxy during the 2013 MLS Reserve League season as LA retained their West Division crown for a second straight year.  Prior to joining the Galaxy Academy, Jamieson IV completed four semesters with the U.S. U-17 Residency program, making 25 appearances for the youth national team and a two-time NSCAA All-American selection. Jamieson IV was accepted into the Residency program in 2011, following a successful stint with the U.S. U-15 Boys National Team and an illustrious youth career with Santa Monica United FC and LAFC.

Mendiola, 19, signed a Homegrown Player contract with the Galaxy in February 2014 after spending the past three seasons with the Galaxy Academy. Mendiola, who featured in nine MLS Reserve League games in 2013 including two starts as the Galaxy repeated as the Reserve League West Division champions with a 5-1-4 record, was the back-to-back U-16 Development Academy Player of the Year in the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 seasons. The 19-year-old forward was named to the Development Academy Starting XI for the third time in 2013, and is the seventh player overall signed from the LA Galaxy Academy. Mendiola, a native of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, scored 13 goals in 26 games en route to the team’s second consecutive division title and a 20-7-4 record, earning USSDA Western Conference Under-17/18 Starting XI honors in the process during the 2012-2013 USSDA campaign.

A product of Roslindale, Mass., Rugg was drafted 19th overall by the Galaxy in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft from Boston College. In his first season as a professional, Rugg, 23, made six appearances in all official competitions for the Galaxy with four games in MLS, one in U.S. Open Cup, and one in CONCACAF Champions League. Rugg started in two of his six MLS appearances for the Galaxy and once in Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play. Rugg’s rookie season saw him score his first professional goal which helped the Galaxy earn a surprising 2-0 victory away to Real Salt Lake on April 28. Prior to being drafted by the Galaxy, the 23-year-old scored 28 goals and added 18 assists in 76 games and helped his team qualify for the NCAA Tournament during all four years of his college career. He ranks fifth in Boston College history with 28 goals and he was the first player in school history to earn a spot on the All-ACC First Team in three consecutive seasons as well as a three-time All-ACC First Team selection while with the Eagles.

Signed in January 2013, Sorto became the first defender signed from the Galaxy Academy after a successful academy career that included helping LA Under-18’s win the 2011-12 SoCal Division title. The 19-year-old Sorto made a pair of appearances for the Galaxy first team in his rookie season, both starts which came during the group stage of the CONCACAF Champions League. Sorto was an integral member of Onalfo’s Galaxy reserves side in 2013, making eight starts as the team won the Western Division for a second consecutive season. During his rookie year, Sorto was also a member of Tab Ramos’ United States U-20 side at the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Turkey. The Los Angeles native made a pair of appearances during the campaign.

USL PRO Game Report

Saturday, March 22, 2014

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery and Orlando City shared the honors in the opening game of the 2014 USL PRO season on Saturday night at Blackbaud Stadium as they played to a 1-1 draw in front of 3,773 fans. The Battery took the lead in the 65th minute through Mamdou Diouf, but Orlando’s Austin da Luz leveled 10 minutes later to salvage a draw for the 2013 champions.

Neither team was able to pull ahead in the first half despite chances for both. Charleston’s Amadou Sanyang provided the best chance of the half in the 32nd minute when he glanced a header from a corner kick just wide of the goal.

Orlando threatened with two good chances of their own at the end of the first half, but goalkeeper Odisnel Cooper saved well to deny Kevin Molino and Darwin Ceren and keep the game scoreless at the break.

Cooper was back in action in the 55th minute after some good build-up play from Orlando saw the ball crossed into the box and headed on frame by Corey Hertzog.  Cooper dived across to his left and managed to make the save.

Charleston took the lead just after the hour-mark through Diouf as the loanee from the Vancouver Whitecaps made his professional debut. Diouf received a pass on the left side from substitute forward Omar Salgado, cut past his defender 12 yards from goal and fired a laser just inside the near post.

Orlando fought back and leveled the score in the 75th minute. Charleston failed to clear the ball properly from the penalty area, and the ricocheted pass fell to da Luz, who drilled his shot past Cooper into the left side of the goal.

Both teams would have chances to find a winner late on as the game became stretched, and Charleston was reduced to 10 men in stoppage time as Quinton Griffith was sent off for a strong challenge. However, neither the Battery or the Lions were able to find a decisive finish, and both took a point from the opening game of the season.

The Battery continue their season next Saturday, March 29th at Blackbaud Stadium with a match versus the Richmond Kickers; kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. The Lions, meanwhile, return home to face the Pittsburgh Riverhounds at the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex next Saturday, March 29 at 7:30 p.m. ET.

USL PRO Game Report

Saturday, March 22, 2014

CARSON, Calif. – Kenney Walker scored a goal and recorded an assist as LA Galaxy II defeated the Orange County Blues 3-1 in their inaugural match at the StubHub Center Track and Field Stadium.

Head coach Curt Onalfo’s side looked assured in their home opener against their cross-town rival as they controlled the run of play throughout their 90 minutes. All nine players loaned to the USL PRO side from the parent club made appearances in the victory.

“The atmosphere was excellent,” said Onalfo after the team’s first win. “The LA Galaxy organization did an excellent job putting resources into this and making this first class.”

Rugg opened the scoring for Los Dos after 40 minutes when he collected the ball from 22 yards from goal and ripped a curling shot that settled neatly into the corner of the net.

“It was a good chance in the box and it just came out to me,” said Rugg. “I tried to take my time and keep focused on my technique and it worked out.”

But Galaxy II’s lead was short-lived as Orange County midfielder Stephen Okai leveled the match with a perfectly placed free kick just three minutes later. A topsy-turvy end to the first half reached a crescendo when Walker swept home the rebound from a chance by Rugg to give Los Dos a 2-1 lead heading into the break.

The Galaxy II picked up where they left off in the second half when defender Daniel Steres headed home a Walker corner kick to double their lead. With Galaxy II ahead, Onalfo inserted Bradford Jamieson IV, who was lively in his 30-minute cameo that saw him make his professional debut.

Largely untested, Galaxy II goalkeeper Cody Laurendi made the best save of the evening when he dove dramatically to palm Enrique Cardenas’ effort around the post. Still up by two goals, the Galaxy nearly added their fourth of the night when Rugg launched a long-range chip in the 75th minute that was the final chance of the match.

“We’ve had a clear emphasis on how we want to build out of the back and a lot of that stuff came out,” said Onalfo. “We weren’t as sharp as I wanted us to be in front of the goal with that being said we still scored three goals but I feel like with a little bit more precision and more concentration we could have had two or three more.”

Galaxy II return to action next weekend when they host intra-state rival Sacramento Republic FC on March 29 at 7:30 p.m. PT. The Blues next host their home opener at Anteater Stadium on the campus of UC-Irvine on Saturday, April 5 at 7 p.m. PT. 

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

Monday, March 24, 2014

DAYTON, Ohio -- The Dayton Dutch Lions FC are proud to announce the return of three players for the 2014 season. Midfielder Eddie Hertsenberg, goalkeeper Matt Williams and midfielder Irakli Khutsidze have all re-signed with the club. The club also announced the addition of defender Taylor Bowlin.
 
"All three are players I am happy to see return,” Dayton Dutch Lions FC head coach Sid van Druenen said. “Matt is one of the best goalkeepers in the league and Ika and Eddie are both very creative midfielders that fit our style of play perfectly."

Hertsenberg is a Cincinnati, Ohio native that has been active in both indoor and outdoor game.

“It is great to be back with the Dutch Lions for this upcoming season,” Hertsenberg said. “I love the people here in Dayton and being close to my hometown, family, and friends.  My time spent with the Dutch Lions, on and off the field, has been great. It’s going to be an exciting year and I am happy to be a part of it with the Orange Family.”

Hertsenberg will wear number 18 for the Dutch Lions and can be found on Twitter @hertsenc.

Williams is the Dutch Lions’ all-time leader in games played, wins, saves, and goals against-average. He appeared in every game in the 2012 and 2013 season, and finished with 10 shutouts and led the league in saves. The Portland, Maine native is a USL veteran, having played for the Wilmington Hammerheads and GPS Portland Phoenix. 

"I'm excited to be back for another year,” Williams said. “We have taken steps every year to improve our team and I'm excited to be on board for another campaign. I think we have some unfinished business after our loss in Richmond last year left a sour taste in all our mouths. We've earned our respect from other teams in the league; it's time to take it one step further and try and win a championship."

Williams can be found on Twitter @willibeats. 

Khutsidze made 25 appearances in 2013, adding four assists and one goal to the Dutch Lions' attack. His 1,730 minutes played ranks among the Top 10 on the squad. 

The Kutaisi, Georgia native is no stranger to the beautiful game, having played for FC Gagra and FC Torpedo in his home country.

“I’m really exited to be back in the Dayton Dutch Lions jersey,” Khutsidze said. “I really enjoy the Dutch style and it’s definitely my style.  Last year we made the playoffs and that was great, but this year with most of the guys coming back and the affiliation with Columbus Crew,we can be a more dangerous team.  With hard work we can do better then just making the playoffs.”

Bowlin, a rookie, has a wealth of experience at different levels. His collegiate career included time at UNLV and Cal State Northridge. Bowlin would also see time with the Real Salt Lake U-18s, Real Salt Lake Reserves, and the Kansas City Brass in the PDL.

"I saw Taylor at the USL PRO Combine and was very impressed with his offensive capabilities as a full back,” van Druenen said. “He can play on the right and left and gives us quality depth in those positions."

The 24-year-old has also spent time in Santiago, Chile with AC Barnechea. 

“I am thrilled to be part of the Dayton Dutch Lions for the upcoming season,” Bowlin said. “It was easy to see that the organization's professional culture breeds success and I can't be happier to be a member of the family. I am honored to represent the city of Dayton with high hopes for us in 2014.”

Charlotte Eagles News Release -- www.charlotteeagles.com

Monday, March 24, 2014

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Charlotte Eagles have announced the addition of five new players for 2014. The Eagles have signed midfielders Fred Owusu Sekyere and Felix Obilo as well as defenders Gui Brandao, Tolani Ibikunle and Chase Wickham.

Ibikunle is a native of Wynnewood, Pa., and played his college soccer at Wake Forest University. In his four seasons at Wake he started 55 of his 70 career matches. He finished his Demon Deacon career with three goals and three assists. Ibikunle was selected by the Colorado Rapids with the 11th pick in the 3rd round of the 2014 MLS SuperDraft by the Colorado Rapids. Ibikunle played in the PDL for Reading United in 2011 with current Eagle Ben Newnam and former Eagle Stephen Okai. Ibikunle is also the third Demon Deacon to join the Eagles this season with Newnam and fellow first-year Eagle Wells Thompson.

Brandao, a native of Brasilia, Brazil started his collegiate career at Belhaven University before going to play for Jacksonville University in his '13-'14 season. Brandao played for current Eagles Assistant Coach Dave Dixon at Mississippi Brilla in 2012. While at JU he started in 16 matches and was awarded All-Atlantic Second team honors. In the 2013 season he posted one goal and three assists.  Brandao will add great depth in the midfield and can even fill in on the backline if needed.

Obilo, 23, a native of Nairobi, Kenya, played his collegiate soccer for Bethel University in Tennessee.  He was also named First Team NAIA All-American in 2010. In his PDL career for Reading United he tallied one assist in nine games. Obilo was also a member of the Kenya U20 National Team. Obilo will add some defensive midfield depth.

Wickham, 23, a native of Vancouver B.C., played for the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Before playing for UAB he played one season at Trinity Western University where he recorded three goals in 15 games. Over his two seasons at UAB he recorded eight goals and seven assists and was named to the All-Conference USA Third Team. Wickham will add depth to both the outside backs on the wings in the midfield with his pace.

Sekyere is a native of Ghana and played collegiately for three seasons at Virginia Commonwealth University. Sekyere will look to add some scoring depth to the midfield for the Eagles.

The Eagles open their season at Queens Sports Complex against the Dayton Dutch Lions on Friday April 4th at 7pm! Get your tickets HERE.

Dayton Dutch Lions News Release - www.daytondutchlionsfc.com

Monday, March 24, 2014

DAYTON, Ohio – Shan Jones, the 2014 W-League Most Valuable Player and a former Middle Tennessee State standout, has signed with the Dayton Dutch Lions for the 2014 W-League season.

"Any time you bring in the reigning league MVP you have to be happy, and we couldn't be more excited to have Shan join our team for the 2014 campaign,” Dayton Dutch Lions FC head coach Gavin MacLeod said. “I think it speaks volumes for what we are trying to do with this team and the type of players we are looking to sign. Shan obviously had a fantastic 2013 W-League season, but since then she has crafted her game even more playing in Europe and will add a dynamic cutting edge to what is shaping up to be a very strong squad."

The Welsh striker won nearly every possible award in the W-League in 2013, including League Rookie of the Year and MVP in addition to being named to the W-League All-Conference and All-League teams.  She also led the league in points (24) and goals (11). Her success in 2013 landed her a professional contract in Austria with Luv Graz, where she played from August to November, 2013.

Jones also played three seasons with Welsh side Caernarfon Ladies FC, being named Player of the Year in 2007.

"I am delighted to be a part of the W-League for a second year running,” Jones said. “Last year was certainly a high point in my soccer career, playing for the Virginia Beach Piranhas, and I am confident that playing for Dayton Dutch Lions will add to my experience and greatly improve my chances of reaching the next level." 

Jones is best known for her time with the Wales National Team, having represented the Red Dragons at the U-13, U-16, U-19, and senior levels.  She also had the honor of representing her country in the 2013 Algarve Cup. 

At Middle Tennessee State she finished as one of the top players in program history.  She won a laundry list of awards during her time in Murfreesboro, being selected Sun Belt Freshman of the Year (2008),  All-Sun Belt First Team (2008 and 2009), NSCAA All-South Region Third Team (2009),  Preseason All-Sun Belt Team (2009 and 2010), and Sun Belt Player of the Week (August 2009). 

Wilmington Hammerheads FC News Release -- www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com

Monday, March 24, 2014

WILMINGTON, N.C. – Wilmington Hammerheads FC announced today their partnership with Tourbeau Sports Group. The video streaming production and sports development company, known especially for their work in the soccer industry will stream all Hammerheads FC home matches in HD quality in 2014, free of charge, via the team's YouTube Channel.

“We are excited about our partnership with Tourbeau Sports as it is another way Hammerheads FC will be elevating our product and professionalism this season,” said Wilmington Hammerheads FC General Manager Jason Arnold. “Tourbeau Sports are leading experts in the sports production market and we are pleased to be aligned with them for the 2014 season.”

Tourbeau Sports Group has produced live broadcasts of U.S. Soccer, and USL matches, including the 2013 W-League Championships, amongst several other collegiate leagues, conferences and national championships throughout the United States.

"We are very happy to have worked out such a great working relationship with Wilmington Hammerheads FC,” said Tourbeau Sports Group President Chase Neidig. “The Hammerheads have a strong following and brand in the men's professional soccer industry and Tourbeau Sports is honored to assist the club in their video streaming productions for the 2014 season.”

"As a soccer-specific production company, we see this exclusive partnership with the Hammerheads as the next step in our desire to provide professional video streaming services to soccer organizations at the professional level for a fraction of the price,” added Neidig. “We not only look forward to providing high quality video content for Wilmington Hammerheads FC in 2014, but for years to come in and around the entire USL PRO league.”

The Hammerheads are also pleased to announce that Chris Libert will be live commentating each broadcast for his fourth year with the team.

"I am looking forward to being in the broadcast booth once again,” said Libert. “There is a tremendous buzz with the team this year because of the new ownership and partnership with Toronto FC. Now with Tourbeau Sports Group in the mix, the fan experience will be even greater for those unable to attend the match.”

This season is the first year Wilmington Hammerheads FC and USL PRO teams will be using the YouTube Live Streaming Channel Platform. As a result, fans across the world will be able to tune into every match from every club across the league for free of charge. Features include DVR, chat, archived video content, game highlights and social media interactivity.

To subscribe for free to the Wilmington Hammerheads FC YouTube Channel, click here: www.youtube.com/WilmHammerheadsFC.

Seattle Sounders Women News Release - www.sounderswomen.com

Monday, March 24, 2014

TUKWILA, Wash. – The Seattle Sounders Women have signed a pair of Elon University stars for the 2014 W-League season. Senior midfielders Olivia Mackey and Kimmie Krauss join the Sounders after leading Elon to a second-place finish in the Southern Conference.

Mackey, 22, led the Phoenix with eight assists. The 5-foot-3 midfielder also scored two goals. Krauss, 21, finished second best on the team with seven assists. Krauss and Mackey led in minutes played this past fall for their North Carolina-based university.

“We've been monitoring the progress of Olivia and Kimmie for awhile,” Head Coach Hubert Busby Jr. said. “We are pleased they are joining us this season in Seattle. Both come from a good program that produces quality players and people. They are technically sound players that will add depth to our squad.”

Mackey, a Virginia native, started all four years at Elon, totaling 16 assists in her career.

“Signing with the Sounders is very exciting," Mackey said. "I've waited my entire soccer career for an opportunity like this, and I can't wait to get out there and get started. I feel very lucky.”

A New Jersey native, Krauss was a regular starter for four seasons at Elon, capping her career by starting every match and leading field players in minutes played during her senior year. She totaled five goals and 15 assists in her career.

The two East-Coasters are eager to be a part of the soccer passion in Seattle.

“I've heard that Seattle has an incredible soccer environment, with a lot of fans both on the women's and men's side," Mackey said. "I'm excited to play in an area that's as passionate about the sport as I am.”

“I have heard the Sounders are one of the best teams to play on partly because of their fans," Krauss said. "I cannot wait to feel that adrenaline rush seeing the wonderful support Seattle has at the Starfire Stadium.”

Mackey and Krauss are expected to join the team in early May.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Monday, March 24, 2014

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Riverhounds are proud to announce that three Houston Dynamo players – Anthony Arena, Jason Johnson and Bryan Salazar – will join the club for the start of the USL PRO season, pending USSF approval.

The three players will join the Riverhounds ahead of their season opener on Saturday at Orlando City. The Dynamo and Riverhounds formed an affiliate partnership for the 2014 season last November. Pittsburgh spent a portion of its preseason training at Houston Sports Park and played the Dynamo in a preseason scrimmage on Feb. 19.

Arena, 23, was selected by the Dynamo in the 2013 Supplemental Draft out of Wake Forest University. The central defender made his MLS debut at Columbus last June and also appeared in a 2-0 win over FC Tucson in the U.S. Open Cup. The Kenmore, Wash. native appeared in 79 games in four seasons at Wake Forest.

Johnson is also in his second professional season after the Dynamo selected him with the No. 13 overall selection in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft out of Virginia Commonwealth University. A member of Generation adidas, Johnson appeared in 13 regular season games (four starts) and scored one goal last season. The 23-year-old has made three appearances for the Jamaica national team, including two appearances last November. Johnson also made five appearances (four starts) and scored one goal in the CONCACAF Champions League and added two more starts in the U.S. Open Cup last season.

Salazar signed as a Homegrown Player from the Dynamo Academy last February and joined the club full time in June after graduating from Fort Bend Bush High School in Houston. Salazar, 19, made his professional debut against FC Tucson in the U.S. Open Cup last May. Prior to signing with the senior team, Salazar spent six years in the Dynamo development program, progressing from the Junior Academy at age 13 to the U-18 squad.

The Riverhounds kick of the start of the 2014 season this weekend with a match against defending USL PRO champions Orlando City. The Hounds’ home opener at Highmark Stadium is set for April 12 against the Wilmington Hammerheads. For tickets and stadium information, go to Riverhounds.com.

Sacramento Republic FC News Release -- www.sacrepublicfc.com

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Sacramento Republic FC announced the signing of defenders Jack Avesyan and Jose “Cristian” Gonzalez and midfielders Ivan Mirković and Octavio Guzman, pending USSF approval.

“This group are squad players in whom Preki has seen potential,” said Republic FC Technical Director Graham Smith. “If they realize their potential, they can stake a regular claim in the team.”

Avesyan joins Republic FC after spending last season with the Ventura County Fusion. Prior to playing with the Fusion Avesyan spent time with the Wilmington Hammerheads appearing in 29 matches and scoring four goals.

Gonzalez was a member of the Houston Dynamo Academy for the last three years. He was named the Dynamo Academy's Player of the Year in 2011. Gonzalez started five of six matches on the Dynamo Academy U-17 team that competed in the Eurovoetball Tournament in the Neatherlands.

Mirković joins Republic FC after appearing in 20 matches for the Ventura County Fusion last season. Mirković appeared and started in 39 matches for Fresno Pacific University, prior to playing for the Fusion.

Guzman comes to Republic FC after spending the last three years playing for Chico State Men’s Soccer. Guzman scored 14 goals and recorded 15 assists while at Chico State. As a senior Guzman was First Team All-CCAA, All-West Region and CCAA Player of the Week.

Sacramento Republic FC’s inaugural USL PRO match will be played versus LA Galaxy II on Saturday night at StubHub Center Track and Field Stadium in Los Angeles. For a full schedule, or to watch Republic FC matches live, visit SacRepublicFC.com.

Lane United FC News Release -- www.laneunitedfc.com

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

EUGENE, Ore. -- Lane United FC has announced the commitments of three more players, all three with excellent youth training resumes, for the 2014 inaugural season in the PDL. Amer Sasivarevic of Salt Lake City, Tarik Salkicic from the University of Tulsa, and Duran Lee from Toronto — the latter pending league approval — will be joining the Reds in May.

Meanwhile, Coco Navarro of Marquette, who had been expected to play for Lane United in the upcoming season, has received an invitation to train with MLS club Real Salt Lake over the summer and hence will not be coming to Oregon.

Regarding the three latest players, head coach John Galas was full of praise, noting that all three had top pedigrees for training at the youth level. Sasiveravic, Galas said, "is a neat story." Sasiveravic, pictured, was born in Germany to Bosnian parents but emigrated to Utah in 1999. Galas mentioned that "at RSL (Real Salt Lake, where Galas was a youth academy coach), we saw him at an ID camp and he was one of the few players that stood out. We invited him to the RSL residency program and within a month he was getting big minutes."

Galas repeatedly praised Sasiveravic's versatility, saying that "as a left-footer with great all-around skills, he can play at fullback, as a left-sided midfielder, or as a winger in a front three. He's played in a lot of different positions in the past few years, competently at all of them." He currently attends Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Ariz.

Another player of Bosnian descent, Salkicic, also earned high praise from Galas for his exploits at the youth level. Salkicic too was born in Europe and moved to the U.S. as a child, ending up in Florida. For two years in high school, Salkicic was part of the U.S. U-17 national team residency program, traveling to Mexico in 2011 and playing in the U-17 World Cup. "As a national residency player, he was obviously one of the top college recruits in the country coming out of high school," Galas said, adding that Salkicic can play "as a number six or as a center-back."

Salkicic matriculated to the University of Tulsa, where he earned regular playing time over the past two years. He will transfer to Oregon State in the fall of 2014 after his campaign with Lane United.

Lee comes out of the youth academy of Toronto FC, another MLS club. Galas noted the high quality of Toronto FC's youth academy and coaching and said, "I know that he's a big, strong center-half who nonetheless has good technical ability and is composed on the ball," Galas said. "He should be able to help us play out of the back, which is what we're really trying to do this year, with his good ball skills." Lee spent the 2013 college season at Western Texas College, a junior college in the small town of Snyder, Texas, but may be looking to transfer, Galas said. "Playing in the PDL is a great opportunity for him to showcase his talent in the Northwest," he added.

Regarding the one that got away — Coco Navarro, who has been called up to train with the Real Salt Lake first team for the summer — Galas stressed that "this is a really positive development. Coco obviously has the goal of going pro one day soon, so to get a trial with the first team of an MLS club is excellent for him. Galas added that, contingent on the alignment of the clubs' respective schedules, Lane United may still take Navarro on loan for a few matches in the PDL season.

Lane United, with the addition of the latest three but the subtraction of Navarro, now has 17 players committed to the 2014 roster. Most will begin training with the club in the first weeks of May.

Richmond Kickers News Release -- www.richmondkickers.com

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers announced today that four players will appear on loan from D.C. United as part of the two clubs’ affiliation agreement.  Forward Michael Seaton, defender Jalen Robinson, goalkeeper Joe Willis and forward Cristiano Francois will all join the Kickers on loan for the 2014 season.

“We are extremely excited for our players to once again have the opportunity to go on loan in a fantastic professional environment with the Richmond Kickers,” said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper. “To develop quickly as a professional it involves playing in meaningful games, and our partnership with the Richmond Kickers provides the perfect platform to do just that.”

D.C. United and the Richmond Kickers originally entered in to the agreement on January 24, 2013, as part of Major League Soccer and USL PRO’s partnership. Having both benefited from the arrangement, the clubs have extended their partnership in 2014.

“Our first season as D.C. United’s official USL PRO affiliate proved extremely beneficial to both clubs as the overall depth of our squad and on-field product improved while providing significant playing time for several of United’s younger players,” commented Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Director of Soccer.  “Joe, Michael, Christiano and Jalen are great additions to our group and we look forward to them making a positive impact for our team while we build upon last season’s success.”

Seaton, a 17-year-old native of Capitol Heights, Md., signed with D.C. United as a Homegrown player in January of 2013. Seaton spent most of his rookie campaign on loan with the Richmond Kickers. The powerful striker featured in 15 games and finished fourth on the team in goals scored (5) to go along with one assist as the Kickers went on to win the 2013 USL Pro Regular Season Championship. With United, Seaton appeared in three regular season games and started one friendly in which he recorded an assist.

Robinson, United’s 7th Homegrown player to sign with the First team, joined the Black-and-Red on Jan. 6. The 19-year-old Wake Forest University product was named to the ACC All-Freshman Team in 2012 and earned Freshman All-America honors from Top Drawer Soccer and College Soccer News. As a sophomore, he was named to the Second Team All-ACC, Second Team All-South Region and was named the ACC Player of the Week on Oct. 1, 2013. Robinson played and started 19 games, racking up 1,786 minutes for Wake in his sophomore year.

Willis was the 50th selection in the third round of the 2011 MLS SuperDraft. In his third season with the Black-and-Red, the goalkeeper started all nine games he appeared in and finished the regular season with 28 saves in 810 minutes with a goal against average of 2.22. Overall, Willis has played in 23 games (22) starts and recorded six wins and four shutouts in his MLS Career.

Francois, a former University of Maryland product and Haiti U-17 National Team member, was claimed by United via a waiver draft on Jan. 24.  Francois featured in all 24 games for the Terps in 2012, starting three. The dynamic attacking player finished his rookie season with five goals, four assists and a total of 805 minutes played. In 2013, Francois played for the PDL side the Baltimore Bohemians. He played in two games and recorded one assist in 80 minutes.

Don't miss a minute of Kickers Pro action as they kick off their 22nd season on Saturday, April 5.  Richmond Kickers season passes offer unbeatable value, VIP benefits and incredibly low prices to all regular season home games. Guaranteed to see all regular season home games for the best possible pricing, Kickers games are a fantastic way to get together with friends, family and colleagues for an unforgettable entertainment experience - order now!

USL PRO News Release

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – USL PRO named its Team of the Week for Week 1 of the 2014 season on Tuesday with the LA Galaxy II’s Kenney Walker being named Player of the Week as he led his side to victory in its inaugural contest with a goal and an assist.

Walker was a positive midfield influence for much of the Galaxy II’s inaugural contest, with his powerful effort that was parried by Patrick McLain leading to the first goal in club history, scored by Charlie Rugg. Walker was the beneficiary of a rebound just before the halftime break as he scored what proved to be the game-winning goal, and he added an assist early in the second half as his corner kick was flicked home by Daniel Steres to earn a 3-1 win against the Orange County Blues.

Walker was joined by Rugg and Steres on the USL PRO Team of the Week, as both players found the back of the net in the Galaxy II’s inaugural victory. Steres, a 2013 All-League selection for Wilmington, was also solid defensively, while Rugg was active throughout up front as he finished the game with three shots.

The Charleston Battery and Orlando City also each had three players named to the Team of the Week, with the Battery’s Mamadou Diouf, Odisnel Cooper and John Wilson all being honored. Diouf scored the first goal of the USL PRO season with a decisive strike against the Lions, while Wilson and Cooper (five saves) both put in strong performances to help their side earn a point.

For the Lions, midfielders Austin da Luz and Darwin Ceren and defender Luke Boden were selected, as da Luz scored the equalizer that came from a cross from Boden, who was influential down the left side for much of the contest. Ceren also played well, showing off his creativity in the attacking third to open up chances for his teammates.

The Team of the Week is completed by two players from the Orange County Blues, for whom Stephen Okai scored the opening goal of the season with a curling free kick from just outside the penalty area. Okai is joined by defender Fabrice Gautrat, who made a solid debut for the club at left back.

The 2013 USL PRO season continues on Saturday night as the long-standing rivalry between the Charleston Battery and Richmond Kickers resumes at Blackbaud Stadium. Also on Saturday, Orlando City hosts the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in its home opener, while Sacramento Republic FC makes its inaugural appearance as it visits the LA Galaxy II.

Every game of the 2014 USL PRO season can be seen live on YouTube, with live updates also available via Twitter (@USLPRO), Facebook and Google+. Stay up to date with news, previews and match reports from throughout the league via USLPROSoccer.com.

USL PRO Team of the Week

Honorable Mention – Charleston: Omar Salgado, Shawn Ferguson; LA Galaxy II: Oscar Sorto, Rafael Garcia; Orange County: Allan Russell, Gabriel Gonzalez; Orlando: Kevin Molino, Aodhan Quinn.