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Roldan Ready For SuperDraft

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MLS Combine Notebook

Monday, January 12, 2015

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The countdown is on for this Thursday’s MLS SuperDraft, and for potential top selection Cristian Roldan, the ceremony in Philadelphia can’t arrive soon enough.

“I think if someone would have told me two years ago that I would be in this situation, I would have been like, ‘you’re lying’,” Roldan said after Sunday’s scrimmages. “It’s definitely a life-changing experience. I can’t wait;, Thursday is way too far away.”

A former Washington Crossfire standout, Roldan has lived up to his Generation adidas billing in the opening two games at the Central Broward Regional Park. A consensus top-two selection alongside Cyle Larin, the University of Washington standout has done nothing but leave a strong impression on those in attendance.

For his part, Roldan said he appreciated what the Crossfire offered him both as a youth player and in the PDL. The standout scored six goals in 13 appearances across during the past two seasons, and appreciated the additional minutes of game action and practice he was able to accumulate as he continued to progress toward the professional ranks, where he hopes to follow in the footsteps of fellow Crossfire alum and current New England Revolution standout Kelyn Rowe.

“I can’t emphasize how much PDL has prepared me for not only here, but the college season,” Roldan said. “It’s a good transition., I know I used it when I went from high school to college, I used PDL to level that transition a little bit more, so I’m glad I took the opportunity and made the most of it.”

ALASHE AIMING HIGH: In addition to competing for the Crossfire in the PDL, Roldan was also part of the Portland Timbers U-23s representative team that competed in the MLS Homegrown Game at the All-Star Game this past summer.

Alongside him in the Timbers line-up was Michigan State midfielder Fatai Alashe, who spent the summer in the Pacific Northwest to help prepare for his senior season with the Spartans. Alashe said getting the chance to go up against the young professionals at Providence Park was a highlight of his time with Portland.

“It was really fun,” Alashe said. “That’s an experience that you don’t usually get when you’re playing in college - to play against a bunch of guys that are already pros, you know - and it was a very big learning experience for us. It was humbling to see those guys that have come up through the ranks being homegrowns, and just to be able to test yourself against those guys ahead of your senior season., Tthose are the guys that you look at that you want to be in a year from then.”

Alashe was nursing an injury in Fort Lauderdale, and sat out both of the scrimmages as a precaution, but the powerful midfielder is considered a solid bet to be a first-round selection on Thursday. Wherever he ends up, Alashe said there are lessons he took away from this time in Portland that will hopefully help in his rookie season.

“I think it will be a little bit different, because we were a U23 team, but I think it’s a good building block,” Alashe said. “It’s something you have to see, and they did well to teach us a lot of the professionalism aspect of it. Simple things like how you handle yourself in the locker room - you’ve got to show up on time - stuff like that. I think that all goes to making yourself a better professional, and that’s something they taught us up there.”

MONTAGUE MAKING MOVES: Adam Montague put in a solid shift in the second round of scrimmages on Sunday, flicking home a good near-post finish as his Navito side was edged out 4-3 by Predator.

For the 6-foot-3 forward, who played both for the Chicago Fire U23 and Michigan Bucks in the PDL, getting a chance to add to his resume in front of the scouts in attendance was a big part of this the weekend’s event.

“I think first and foremost I want to show off what I can do, and maybe find a team that there’s mutual interest in,” Montague said. “I’m a guy that’s going to work hard until I get dragged off the field, and I hope a team sees that and gives me a shot. I think I can bring a lot to the team early coming off the bench early as a rookie, and hopefully developing as a player and becoming a lifer.”

Montague enjoyed playing for the Bucks in 2012, but this summer went to Chicago to compete for the Fire U23, where he made six appearances this summer. With a deep squad, the competition for playing time was intense, and Montague enjoyed the opportunity to work in an MLS environment before his senior season at Michigan State.

“It was great;, you’re playing and training right in Toyota Park,” he said. “You’re playing under guys that have coached the Fire, and know what they’re looking for in a professional environment. Obviously, it’s a lot of Chicago guys, and every day was a battle - you’re trying to make a roster for the weekend - so I think it definitely prepared me going into the college season and just gave me a glimpse of what a professional environment could be like.”


Demba Ba Helps Launch Miami Club

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PDL Feature

Monday, January 12, 2015

MIAMI, Fla. – When the FC Miami City Champions were confirmed as a new PDL franchise for 2015, they brought with them a clear objective of creating a bridge between youth soccer in Miami and the highest levels of professional soccer.

After forming an academy last spring the management group, led by President Ravy Truchot and a number of former professional coaches, players and agents, got to work planning the next phase of development, which includes providing the academy players with unprecedented access to the top levels of the sport.

On Friday, the club held its first tryout for the new PDL side, and already had several prominent figures involved in the tryout. Besiktas forward, and former Premier League star, Demba Ba made a special appearance at the tryout, where he led a training session and interacted directly with the prospects.

“To make the step to the next level, it’s first working hard,” Ba said. “I know there is a lot of talent and a lot of players, and if you do it the right way you can make the next step and go to a better league in Europe and achieve some big things.”

The former Chelsea, West Ham, and Newcastle goal-scorer is among an impressive group of professionals involved with the club as Patrons, including the likes of Didier Drogba and Eric Abidal, and FC Miami City plans to have regular visits from the players as they provide wisdom and advice for the aspiring young players.

“We have 50 patrons, and the idea is that they’re supporting the academy and they’re going to come every month - I would say - to play with the young players, but also to coach, to help select the good players, and to help them mentally and share their experience,” Truchot said.

Ba was the first of the notable players to visit the club, as he spent part of the Turkish League’s winter break period in Miami, and he offered some simple advice for the players.

“Just to enjoy what they’re doing and to work hard if they want to achieve something,” Ba said. “Football is basics, and the difference between top leagues and the other leagues is just details. It’s not much.”

The PDL team is led by head coach Wagneau Eloi, who spent years in Ligue 1 and made a number of Champions League appearances with AS Monaco. He was joined by former Liverpool player Florent Sinama-Pongolle at Friday’s tryout, as the staff observed more than 100 prospective players. Club officials expect another 150-200 players to attend the second tryout, which takes place January 17 and 18.

The Miami club will put a strong emphasis on its academy and player development as it tries to leverage its numerous connections overseas to help players reach the professional level.

“The idea is when you come into the academy - even if you’re five or six years old - you can say ‘If I’m good enough, I’m working on my skills, then I can play soccer at the highest level in Miami’,” Truchot said.

Blues Open Invitational Training Camp

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Orange County Blues FC News Release - www.ocbluesfc.com

Monday, January 12, 2015

IRVINE, Calif. - Orange County Blues FC wrapped up day one of the week long invitational training camp; coached by the newly appointed head coach Oliver Wyss.

The camp opened up with high spirits and nerves. Players arrived bright and early.

Wyss kicked off training with an introductory speech: “Starting the camp in early January, I want to set the standard for what we are expecting.” Wyss mentioned hard work and skill level would be necessary as well; “discipline and commitment [to the Blues] needs to be high.”

Day one of the camp was challenging for a lot of the players. Coaches worked the participants hard and tested the players' endurance, especially since many were coming from the offseason.

Returning OC players were not excused from working hard and had to display commitment and desire to be back on the pitch as a Blue. Today, for many, was the first chance to meet Wyss and they were elated with the way he and the staff ran the training.

“I like him a lot, Oliver will be a great coach,” said Christopher Santana.

Camp ended early afternoon, with players given directives to recover and be ready for more intense sessions throughout the rest of the week.

Season tickets for the 2015 OC Blues FC campaign in USL PRO are on sale now. Call (714) 738-8011 Ext. 204 or email blane@bluessoccerclub.com. For media inquiries, email luisa@bluessoccerclub.com or call (310) 995-5453.

Louisville Adds West, Reynolds

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Louisville City FC News Release - www.louisvillecityfc.com

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Louisville City FC, the new USL PRO team that will start play in March of 2015, announced today two more signings that will suit-up for the city's new soccer team this upcoming season. Longtime pro Adam West, formerly with FC Edmonton, and Sean Reynolds, formerly with FH-Ingor of Iceland’s Urvalsdield, join Louisville City as defenders with a plethora of professional experience. 

West, the 28-year-old out of Gig Harbor, Wash., comes to Louisville City after making 10 appearances with FC Edmonton in 2012. In 2011, West nearly won a league title with the Fort Lauderdale Strikers a year after he was part of the USSF Division 2 Pro League regular season championship squad with the Rochester Rhinos. In his first year as a pro West was part of the 2007 USL First Division Champions, Seattle Sounders, and returned to the Sounders development team in 2013 and 2014 to regain form after a few injuries.

"Adam was without a doubt one of the best players at the professional combine we hosted in November," head coach James O'Connor said. "He will provide a great attacking threat for us from left full-back, and we are extremely pleased to have someone of Adam’s ability on board for our inaugural season."

Another defender bringing in quality experience, the 24-year-old Reynolds competed in the top league in Iceland and European competition last season in the Europa League. Before playing a season with FH-Ingor, the Fort Walton Beach, Fla/ native was a member of VSI Tampa Bay FC where he scored his first professional goal in a 3-2 win against the Los Angeles Blues. Reynolds spent three seasons in the PDL prior to becoming a professional, including one season with the Orlando City U23 squad.

"Sean gained great experience while playing in the Premier League in Iceland and the Europa League," O'Connor said. "He can play a number of positions and will be a great asset that gives us flexibility in our first season."

West and Reynolds are the fourth and fifth players that have officially been announced by the club and added to the 2015 roster.

Heat Name Galvan As New Coach

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Laredo Heat News Release - www.laredoheatsc.com

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

LAREDO, Texas - The Laredo Heat have announced the promotion of former standout player and assistant coach Daniel Galvan to head coach for the 2015 PDL season.

Galvan replaces Fernando Hernandez at the helm of the club and will be responsible for all recruitment, training and player development for the Heat.

Hernandez will remain with the team in 2015 and will serve as an assistant coach and advisor to Galvan.

“I have been dealing with Dany for many years now, both as a player and an assistant coach and after last season, I felt we needed to shake things up a little at the top and I felt that Dany developed well as an assistant coach and would be ready for this challenge,” said Heat Owner and President Shashi Vaswani. “Dany understands my expectations for the club, both on and off the field and after several conversations before the season ended in 2014, he let me know I could count on him to lead the team.”

Outside from being the PDL’s Heat new head coach, Galvan is also one of the Laredo Heat’s Youth Soccer Club and Academy coaches, directing all age groups from Under-6 to Under-12, a position he has held for more than six years.

“As we enter our 11th season in the PDL, we want to continue with our streak of not missing the playoffs since entering the league and we want to go beyond the conference finals and back to the league finals and with Dany at the helm, I feel comfortable that he is up to the challenge,” Vaswani said.

Galvan began playing with the Heat in 2006 after an extensive career in Mexico with the well-known Rayados de Monterrey. Galvan gained valuable experience at the top level for the club prior to coming to the U.S. to play.

“I’m confident beyond any doubt that I am ready to perform as the head coach of the Laredo Heat,” Galvan said. “I know how the PDL works because of the many years that I have been involved with Laredo and this aspect is very important to be successful.

“Since I have been involved with the Laredo Heat both as a player and a coach, I can honestly say that the talent level in the PDL is top notch and that the teams that participate in the PDL are as competitive as I have seen in my many years. Getting that talent down here to Laredo and incorporating it with our local players and become successful on the field will be a top priority for me.”

Townsend Joins Up With Energy

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OKC Energy FC News Release - www.energyfc.com

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

OKLAHOMA CITY - OKC Energy FC has signed forward Casey Townsend, general manager Jason Hawkins announced today. Townsend was the fifth overall selection by Chivas USA in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft on January 12, 2012.

“We’re very excited to have Casey on board,” said Energy FC Head Coach Jimmy Nielsen. “He’s a player we’ve been following for a long time. He brings a lot of MLS experience and comes to OKC with a lot of hunger.”

He spent the 2014 season playing with the Tampa Bay Rowdies where he appeared in 12 games, scoring two goals. Townsend played in nine games with three starts for D.C. United during the 2013 season. He also saw time with the Richmond Kickers, where he scored two goals in four games. He saw action in 17 games, including 10 starts, for Chivas during the 2012 season.

“I am extremely excited to join Energy FC,” Townsend said. “I believe in the organization and [Jimmy Nielsen]. I am looking to make my mark, score some goals and contribute to a big year for the team in 2015.”

The University of Maryland standout was the Terrapins captain as a senior and one of the nation’s best goal scorers after notching 17 goals that season. He was a NSCAA Second Team All-American, a MAC Hermann Trophy semifinalist, named to the first team All-ACC team for a second straight year and a Soccer News Second Team Preseason All-American.

He was named national player of the week by College Soccer News and TopDrawerSoccer.com after recording a hat trick against West Virginia during the NCAA Championship his senior year. He also earned various honors, including national player of the week accolades from the NSCAA and Soccer America. He earned ACC Championship All-Tournament team honors as a junior and freshman and was named to the All-ACC Freshman team in 2008.

In four years at Maryland, Townsend scored 43 goals and 12 assists for 96 points. The native of Traverse City, Michigan also has international experience, playing four games for the United States U18 squad in 2006 and three games with the U20 squad in 2008. 

Bucks' Duo Thrilled By Title Run

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PDL Feature

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - A trip to owner Dan Duggan’s lake house for some rest, recreation and team bonding been a ritual for the Michigan Bucks each year.

This past season, it provided the impetus that helped the team claim a PDL championship.

“I think after that trip this summer we didn’t lose a game,” said Bucks midfielder Zach Steinberger recently. “After that trip we made a run, and that’s what soccer’s about. It’s not about necessarily the talent you have on a team, but getting together and putting together a string of good wins, and eventually it got us a championship.”

“I think we just bonded as a team during that trip,” added Bucks forward Dzenan Catic. “Even throughout the summer we all lived in the dorms together and got to know each other a little better, and I think that’s what kind of helped out and how we developed the team chemistry and got it done.”

Michigan’s run to its second PDL championship, led by Catic’s MVP performance, began on July 8 with a 5-0 win against fierce rival FC London. Seven consecutive victories later, the side was celebrating a 1-0 win against the Kitsap Pumas and lifting the trophy in front of its home crowd.

“It was awesome,” Steinberger said. “I spent three summers there, and it was good to bring home a championship to the owner, to the staff that had worked so hard, and especially the fans that show up every game for us.”

Catic, who was also the PDL’s Golden Boot winner with 16 goals in 14 regular-season contests, proved the catalyst for much of the Bucks’ success. His path to Michigan was a circuitous one, having turned professional out of high school to sign with Kaiserslautern in Germany.

“After sitting down and talking with my parents I just felt like it was one of those opportunities that was only going to come once in my life,” Catic said. “Thinking back on it, it was an opportunity that I had to take. I really wanted to be a professional soccer player and take that next step in my life. Unfortunately it didn’t work out, but it was probably the best learning experience of my life.”

His professional status meant Catic couldn’t be considered by NCAA schools when he returned to the U.S., but the NAIA’s Davenport University provided an opening that the native of Serbia took advantage of as he became a prolific scorer for the Panthers. After 63 goals and 14 assists in 47 appearances, coupled with his standout season this summer for the Bucks, Catic arrived at the MLS Combine with a great chance to revive his professional dreams.

“It’s been strange. I’ve been up and down, but like everybody else I’m just happy to be here and show what I can do,” he said. “I’ve had a good six months, and I’m feeling confident enough that I can take the next step and hopefully it happens after this weekend.”

Steinberger, who joined Catic on the PDL’s All-League team this summer, has similar hopes. One of the later additions to the combine’s roster, the technical midfielder has had some bright moments as he pursues a chance in the professional ranks, and believes his time with the Bucks in addition to his experience at Butler has helped his progression.

“I think the biggest thing for me was it prepared me for the next level,” Steinberger said of his time with Michigan. “It’s a really professional environment, and you’re not going to find too many PDL teams with that kind of professional environment - the kind of dedication they demand from every player. It really prepared me for the next step to become a professional athlete.”

After the success of FC Dallas forward Tesho Akindele - who claimed this past season’s MLS Rookie of the Year award after competing for the Real Colorado Foxes and Division II’s Colorado School of Mines - a lot of eyes will be on Catic this spring to see if his scoring touch translates to the professional ranks.

Saint Louis Welcomes Ambersley

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Saint Louis FC News Release - www.saintlouisfc.com

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

ST. LOUIS, Mo. - Saint Louis Football Club has announced the first player signing in club history, welcoming Mike Ambersley back to his hometown for the 2015 USL PRO season.

“After I heard the club’s vision, I was very interested and had a decision to make,” Ambersley said. “Given that St. Louis is my hometown, I feel like it’s the right time for me to come home and play for Saint Louis FC.  Not only is it exciting to be able to play in front of famly and friends, but it’s also exciting to be a part of a club with big ambitions.”

Last season, Ambersley played for Indy Eleven, scoring six goals in 26 appearances.

Previously, the St. Louis native was a member of the Tampa Bay Rowdies from 2011-2013. During his first season with Tampa Bay, Ambersley led the team with 19 goals and was named to the NASL Best XI Team. The following season, he helped the Rowdies to the 2012 league championship.

“Mike is an incredibly competitive guy who will be the perfect anchor for a young team looking to succeed,” STL FC Head Coach Dale Schilly said. “Mike’s obvious attributes are his abilities in the final third of the field, but equally important is his professionalism. He holds himself to the highest standard and holds his teammates to the same expectation.”

Ambersley also expressed excitement in the opportunity to be reunited with his former coach, having played for Schilly with AC St. Louis in 2010.

“Getting the chance to play for Dale again was a big part of my decision,” Ambersley said.  “He’s one of the best coaches I’ve ever played for, and I know what he expects from his players."

Ambersley graduated from De Smet Jesuit High School in St. Louis in 2001, where he earned All-American honors and was named Missouri Gatorade Player of the Year for the 2000 season. 

After moving to the collegiate ranks, Ambersley was named the Co-Big Ten Freshman of the Year during his first season at Indiana University.  He also helped lead the Hoosiers to the 2004 NCAA National Championship. 

“Mike is a great guy for our younger players to work with to develop their own good habits,” Schilly added. “For our supporters, he is a tireless worker who puts himself in great positions to score goals. It’s great to have Mike back in St. Louis.”


Inaugural Technical Meetings Successful

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USL PRO Feature

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

TAMPA, Fla. – As has become common in recent years, USL PRO coaches were on hand this weekend at the MLS Combine as they took the opportunity to scout some of the top college players in the country, some of whom could be part of their rosters for the upcoming season.

Among the scrimmages and social events that the weekend brings, however, was a first-of-its-kind meeting of the USL PRO Technical Committee, which saw coaching representatives from all of the league’s teams assemble to discuss the future direction of the league on the field. Chaired by USL PRO Executive Vice President Jake Edwards, USL Vice President of Competition and Operations David Wagner, and Vice President of Developmental Properties Mike Jacobs, the meeting saw a good discussion of current league rules and potential changes that could be made to improve the league’s standard of play.

“It’s imperative that our coaches have a voice,” Edwards said. “They’re in the trenches week-in and week-out. At the very least they need to play a role in assisting league management with our decision-making as we look to make the competition better every year, raise the level and standard of play on the field and the standard of coaching, and some of the competition and alignment decisions that we have to make that we make in conjunction with our competition committee and ultimately are voted on by our Board of Governors.”

The league’s Technical Committee was formed this year to provide recommendations to the Board of Governors about topics that ranged from official rules to alignment and scheduling. Numerous coaches took the opportunity to voice their opinions about the direction the league should take as it enters its fifth season.

“I was very pleased,” Edwards said. “There was a healthy debate on a lot of the issues we covered in the agenda, and all the clubs and coaches were fully engaged in the process. We had some great ideas - great suggestions came out - and one or two surprises came out of the meeting as well which was great. I’m very pleased with the outcome; I’m very pleased with how the meeting went. The feedback from the coaches was really fantastic. They enjoyed the meeting, enjoyed the opportunity to voice some ideas and present some new ideas that we believe we can take to the board for consideration.”

Edwards was also pleased that the meetings - and weekend as a whole - gave the opportunity for all of the coaches to get to know each other off the field. While the soccer world can be a relatively small one, a number of coaches got to meet in person for the first time as the MLS Combine provided a perfect setting for a balance of work and social time.

Getting teams together is imperative, according to Edwards, as the league looks to continue to grow and provide a strong foundation for soccer players and clubs in North America.

“It’s really important that we have these meetings,” Edwards said. “Whether it’s the coaches and the technical committee meetings, whether it’s the revenue generation departments coming together at the business meetings, the team owners coming together at the AGM, it’s really important that they get together and have face time and have social time and share their ideas and best practices for things that go well in their markets and their clubs. On the field, whether you’re on the coaching side or the business side, you’re competitors, but off the field, it’s very collegial. A rising tide lifts all boats, and everybody’s working toward the same goal, so face time with the department you’re in is crucial.”

Republic FC Announces Exhibitions

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Sacramento Republic FC News Release - www.sacrepublicfc.com

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Sacramento Republic FC will start its 2015 training camp on Monday, February 2, at Cosumnes River College. In addition, Republic FC will face the Fresno Fuego FC (PDL) at Chukchansi Park in Fresno, Calif. on Saturday, February 7, and will take on Ventura County Fusion (PDL) at Ventura College Sportsplex in Ventura, Calif. on Monday, February 9.

“Both of these organizations are exceptionally run and provide great talent for us to play as we prepare for the 2015 season,” said Republic FC Technical Director Graham Smith. “We look forward to visiting these clubs, their cities and their fans during our preseason schedule.”

Tickets for the Republic FC versus Fuego match, dubbed the Highway 99 Derby, start at $6 and go on sale Wednesday, January 14, at FresnoFuego.com. Ticket information for the match versus Ventura County Fusion is available at VCFusion.com.

Republic FC faced both the Fuego and Fusion in the 2014 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Republic FC defeated the Fusion 2-1 in the second round of the tournament and defeated Fuego 6-0 in the third round. Republic FC also defeated the Fusion 4-3 in a preseason friendly last season.

The preseason friendlies versus the Fuego and Fusion are two of three preseason friendlies announced to date for the 2015 Republic FC preseason. Republic FC will host the San Jose Earthquakes on February 21 at Bonney Field.

For more information about Republic FC visit SacRepublicFC.com.

PDL Opportunity Boosts Martin Del Campo

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PDL Feature

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Ramon Martin Del Campo featured for four years on the backline at UC Davis, and despite widespread recognition at the school - and from Big West Conference opponents - it was always a challenge to draw the interest of professional clubs.

When pro scouts think of traditional, strong college soccer programs, not many are likely to think of the Aggies in Davis, California. Instead, Martin Del Campo set off on a different path to the next level, securing a place in the PDL with the San Jose Earthquakes U23 – a move he strongly credits with helping him become a more complete soccer player.

“The football at the end of the day - the tiki-taka,” Del Campo said of his development in the PDL. “I come from Davis, and we’re not really known for that. We’re just a very direct team, and we just smash. There’s a lot of fight, fight, fight, and a lot of head to head, using your body. But when I went out to the PDL it was more – I thought it was a lower intensity, but the football was great. Everyone has clean touches. I saw myself and said if I want to become a player at the next level, I need to improve my football, so that’s what I went to go do.”

The time and effort spent in the PDL paid off for Martin Del Campo, as he began to receive more attention for his strong play during the club season, and eventually received an invite to play with the U.S. U-23 national team.

“It was playing with the PDL team. I knew that was going to be one of my only ways because Davis doesn’t really get that much attention, and it’s especially difficult for defenders. We’re not the ones that score 10 goals and everyone turns their head, so I went and did that, and somebody looked, and I kept on going through my senior year of college, and now I’m here.”

The increased spotlight and more nuanced playing style of his PDL team helped the California native, and he also took advantage of the opportunity to play with a variety of talented players from throughout the region.

 “I felt like the players I was put with – I was put with players from Cal, Stanford, etc. - and I needed to become a better footballer because that’s what they were. They weren’t a bunch of athletes like my school, which is known for that.”

His experience was evident at the MLS Combine, as the 2014 PDL Young Player of the Year finalist was one of the more vocal players on the field. Despite arriving in Florida less than 24 hours before his first game, Martin Del Campo could be heard consistently trying to organize his team’s shape and movement from his spot in the center of the backline.

The combination of that pedigree and his physical prowess has many scouts and observers expecting Martin Del Campo to succeed at the next level. He was signed to an MLS contract ahead of the Combine and will be in attendance at the MLS SuperDraft on Thursday in Philadelphia.

Martin Del Campo’s road to the professional level may not have been as clear and direct as a typical top prospect, but when he arrives he will be well-suited by the variety of experiences he’s had along the way.

Austin Bolsters Defense With Ambrose

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Austin Aztex News Release -- www.austinaztex.com

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

AUSTIN, Texas - The Austin Aztex have confirmed  the signing of defender Mikey Ambrose. With the signing, Ambrose will forgo his senior season at the University of Maryland in order to play for Austin’s professional soccer team.

“This is a proud moment for all involved in the Austin Aztex organization,” Aztex Head Coach Paul Dalglish said. “Being able to attract, in my opinion, the best left back from the college game highlights what we have been working towards since our creation, which is to be the very best place for young players to develop. Mikey’s choice to put his trust in the Aztex to start his career as a professional is justification for the hard work everyone is putting in to achieve this goal. College soccer provides incredible opportunities for young players in this country. At the Aztex, we want to provide an alternative for the elite young soccer player, who would rather develop in a professional environment year-round.”

Ambrose, a 21-year-old left back, is a familiar face that was a centerpiece in the Aztex backline in the 2013 and 2014 PDL campaigns. Born in El Paso, Texas, Ambrose has had a stellar collegiate career at Maryland and was a member of the U-17, U-18, and U-20 U.S. national teams. Before entering college, he played for the FC Dallas reserve team and was the No. 2 national recruit according to CollegeSoccerNews.com.

“I am very excited to be joining the Aztex,” Ambrose said. “I love the organization, the coaching staff, and the fans. It really is an amazing professional environment. I am also very excited to be there for the first year to help start the pro team. I think the fans and the city have been waiting for this to happen and I’m just happy to be a part of it.

“I left Maryland early because I feel like I’m ready to start my career and Austin is the perfect place for me to start. I love the style of play and the players that have been signed already. It fits me perfectly and it was the best choice for me at this time. It was a very hard choice to leave Maryland but I really thought hard about it and am very excited about my decision. Coach Paul Dalglish and the entire coaching staff were very helpful in my decision. They said that they were really interested in me and respected my decision, whatever it was. They were nothing but supportive.”

The signing of Ambrose set the 2015 USL PRO roster to nine announced players as the Aztex continue to put their pieces together to create a talented and competitive roster to represent the city in its new venture into the professional soccer ranks. Ambrose is the second player to forgo his final college season to play for the Aztex, as goalkeeper Devin Perales left Coastal Carolina early to play professionally.

The Aztex kick off their preseason versus Major League Soccer’s D.C. United in the ATX Pro Challenge, a four-team tournament featuring MLS Squads D.C. United, Columbus Crew SC, and FC Dallas. For more information on the ATX Pro Challenge, visit www.austinaztex.com/atxprochallenge.

Super-20 Makes First 3 Additions for 2015

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Super-20 League News Release

Thursday January 15, 2015

TAMPA, Fla. – The Super-20 League is pleased to announce the additions of Cincinnati United Premier, Indiana Elite and Tennessee Soccer Club for the 2015 season. The three additions will further strengthen the league, which featured more than 40 teams competing in regional divisions throughout the U.S. and Canada in 2014.

“We are thrilled to announce the acceptance of Cincinnati United Premier, Indiana Elite and Tennessee Soccer Club as new member clubs in the Super-20 League for 2015,” said Gordon Bengtson, Director of Youth League Development & Growth. “These organizations will each bring a high level of competition on the field as well as a professional-level standard off the field.

“The Super-20 League will continue to be the U20 development leader by providing a showcase platform for elite college-aged athletes to compete in a professional environment. The league serves as the foundation for tomorrow’s professionals and we look forward to adding even more first-class organizations to the Super-20 League in 2015.”

The longest standing and most sophisticated U20 men’s North American amateur league, the Super-20 League was founded in 2006 and serves elite players from ages 17-20 as they advance beyond the youth level to the senior professional and amateur development leagues.

The league was designed to cater to the top of the youth ranks in the U.S. and Canada for players aspiring to play professionally. It also serves as a reserve division for PDL teams, which are able to add Super-20 teams to expand their development goals as well as their player pool for the senior team.

Twelve teams qualified for the 2014 Super-20 League Championship in July at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, with Parsippany SC emerging as champions. The 2014 Super-20 League Championship served as an important player identification event for the PDL, as well as for U.S. National Teams.

Cincinnati United Soccer Club seeks to provide children and young adults of Butler County, Clermont, Hamilton County, Warren County, and all other neighboring communities throughout the Greater Cincinnati and South Dayton areas, a full range of opportunities to enjoy and develop in soccer, at a level appropriate for their age, ability and interest. Employing top coaches and trainers in a player-centric environment that focuses on training, development, and fostering a lifelong love of the beautiful game at all levels makes Cincinnati United the destination soccer club in Ohio South.

Indiana Elite FC was founded in 2006 in an effort to bring a different level of training, play and overall soccer experience to the Northwest Indiana area. Indiana Elite is committed to developing soccer players with a solid understanding of basic principles of the game. The club’s professional coaching staff utilizes a "guided discovery" coaching style first and foremost in order to encourage good decision-making during the game and instill elite problem solving abilities in all of its players.

Tennessee Soccer Club was founded in 2012 by the merger of Tennessee Futbol Club (founded in 1999) and Brentwood Soccer Club (founded in 1985). Through participation in the Tennessee Soccer Club, players are given the opportunity to improve their individual and team soccer skills, compete against other skilled players, be eligible for the state, regional, and national Olympic Development Programs (ODP), and improve their chances of playing for their middle school, high school, and college soccer teams. The club consists of approximately 120 boys and girls teams in single-age groups ranging from U-8 to U-18.

Independence Add Slogic To Squad

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Charlotte Independence News Release - www.charlotteindependence.com

Thursday, January 15, 2015

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The Charlotte Independence today announced the signing of the third player in the USL PRO expansion team’s history. Patrick Slogic has agreed to terms and will join  the Independence for training camp in mid-February.

“I signed with the Charlotte Independence because I feel the team has the potential to be a dominant team in the USL in its first year,” said Slogic, “and I want to be a part of making it successful.”

Slogic is a physical defender who checks in at 6-foot-6 and 185 pounds. Last winter Slogic was picked up from the MLS Combine by the Columbus Crew before he ultimately joined the Rochester Rhinos of USL PRO. The 23-year-old appeared in 16 games during the 2014 season, recording 846 minutes with four shots and 11 fouls.

“Patrick is a big center back with sharp defensive qualities and great composure playing from the back,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “I expect him to be one of the pillars of the back group as well as a player who can start the attack.”

Slogic played four years of collegiate soccer at Cornell University (2010-13), anchoring a Big Red defense that in 2013 allowed just 11 goals in 17 games. He also led his team on the offensive end, tallying three goals and two assists. Slogic, who ended his career on a 5,123 consecutive minutes streak, earned Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2013 and was a three-time All-Ivy First Team selection. He graduated early in December 2013 and spent time playing for Reading United AC of the PDL.

A Colorado Springs, Co., native, Slogic is a product of the Colorado Rapids Development Academy and was named Adidas Colorado MVP in 2007. The Independence and Rapids in September 2014 signed a two-year USL PRO/MLS affiliation agreement. “Patrick is a Colorado Rapids homegrown and was part of our first-ever youth team,” said Rapids Senior Director of Soccer Development Brian Crookham, who also is serving as Independence Technical Director. “He excelled in the Ivy League and now has a full year of USL PRO experience under his belt. Patrick is a player who will come to work every day and strive to make himself and his teammates better.”

Independence GM Tom Engstrom also was quick to point out Slogic’s work ethic. “Patrick comes highly recommended from the Colorado Rapids as he is a player who came through their youth system. He has a reputation for being the first player to training and the last player to leave training, which is exactly the type of player that we want. Many people feel he has upside to his game and we trust Charlotte will be a great place for him to continue his development.”

The relationship between the Independence and Rapids proved to be a big selling point for Slogic as well. “The Rapids have always given me an amazing training environment, and it’s my goal to continue to develop in that environment throughout my career,” he said. “Having one of my old academy coaches, Brian Crookham, involved with Charlotte also made me really want to join the team.”

Slogic has ambitious goals for his second USL PRO season. “I want to be an integral part of taking Charlotte to a National Title in its inaugural season,” he said. “I also want to develop individually and be a defensive force on the team. I want my role on the team to help us have one of the best defensive records in the League.”

The Independence roster now includes Slogic, Jorge Herrera and Ben Newnam, with a fourth player announcement expected early next week. The team will begin training camp in mid February and kick off its inaugural USL PRO season in late March.

Shelton Ready To Step Up

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PDL Feature

Thursday, January 15, 2015

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Ahead of their club’s inaugural season, Lane United FC’s John and David Galas weren’t sure if they would have the services of Oregon State standout Khiry Shelton at their disposal.

As it turned out, one of the players who was already set to head to Eugene for the summer helped persuade the top MLS SuperDraft prospect to spend his summer with the expansion franchise.

“I got into talks with my roommate Matt Bersano from Real Salt Lake Academy,” Shelton said at the MLS Combine this week. “He knew John and he told me to come out and train, because I hadn’t touched a ball for a month or so, so I went out there and I loved it. I’ve got to be around a soccer ball at all times, and me going out there and training was fantastic. I loved the environment, and I loved John and David as well, so it was fun.”

Shelton - who had helped the Austin Aztex claim the PDL Championship in 2013 as one of the goal-scorers in a 3-1 win against the Thunder Bay Chill - appeared five times for United and had three goals and an assist this past summer. While he appreciated the extra practice time and game action United offered him, Shelton also appreciated the club the Galas brothers are building to give top players in Oregon and the northwest region an opportunity to hone their skills

“They are [building a strong club],” Shelton said. “Last year was the first year, and it was more than I expected. It was fantastic, even the crowd. The fans after games would stay and get to know you on a personal level, so it was great.”

Shelton has remained in touch with the Aztex too, and took the opportunity to stay sharp ahead of the MLS Combine by attending and participating in the club’s invitational tryouts just more than a week ago. Shelton joined Austin late in the season, and played a big role in the club’s run to a championship alongside 2014 SuperDraft selection Kris Tyrpak, and potential 2015 pick Dan Metzger.

“It was special, it was really special,” Shelton said. “Without those guys I couldn’t have done what I did, and I tried to help them as much as I can, and they helped me be successful.”

Shelton is also looking forward to seeing the Aztex in USL PRO in 2015.

“I knew it was going to happen,” he said. “It’s a really good group of guys down there - really good guys, really good players - and I’m excited for them. It’s the next step, and I can’t wait to see what happens with that.”

The next step for Shelton, meanwhile, arrives on Thursday in Philadelphia. With some projections putting him as high as the No. 3 pick to the Montreal Impact, where he would join fellow former Aztex player Blake Smith, Shelton appears to be one of the top players available in the SuperDraft.

While that talk is nice, though, Shelton already has set his goals for his rookie season in Major League Soccer, whichever club that may be with.

“Everyone wants to accomplish something,” Shelton said. “I think coming in, just to work hard, not to have any expectations whatsoever, just get my front foot through the door and not try to prove myself, but let the guys know that I can play. I think that’s a big thing, and just to relax and enjoy it.”


PDL Standouts Selected In SuperDraft

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PDL News Release

Thursday, January 15, 2015

TAMPA, Fla. – 2014 PDL Most Valuable Player Dzenan Catic led a contingent of 29 former PDL players who were selected on Thursday in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft, held in conjunction with the NSCAA Convention in Philadelphia. Catic was selected by the Philadelphia Union, and was joined by numerous former PDL award-winners whose professional careers officially began with their selection.

​Catic had a standout season for the Michigan Bucks last summer as he claimed the league’s Golden Boot award with 16 goals in 14 games. The standout forward’s long journey to MLS – which included signing with German club Kaiserslautern out of high school before returning to the United States – culminated with his selection by the Union with the 31st pick of the draft.

“I just want to say thanks to the MLS and to the Union,” said an emotional Catic after his selection. “I want to thank Davenport University and the Michigan Bucks, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Catic’s teammate with the Bucks and fellow 2014 PDL All-League selection Zach Steinberger was one of seven former PDL players to be taken in the Top 10, as he was taken with the No. 8 selection by the Houston Dynamo. 2014 All-Eastern Conference Goalkeeper Alex Bono of Reading United, who is currently training with the U.S. Men’s National Team, went with the No. 6 selection to Toronto FC, while former PDL champion Khiry Shelton, who claimed the title in 2013 with the Austin Aztex, was taken with the No. 2 pick by New York City FC.

Reading United led all PDL teams with six former players selected in the first two rounds. Fatai Alashe (San Jose Earthquakes), Bono, Skylar Thomas (Toronto FC), Ignacio Maganto (LA Galaxy), Wesley Charpie (Toronto FC) and Oumar Ballo (Houston Dynamo) will join numerous Reading alumni in the professional ranks this season.

Other notable selections included Matt Polster and Kharlton Belmar, who both made the jump from their new MLS club’s PDL side this past season. Polster is set to join the Chicago Fire, while Belmar was an All-Western Conference selection prior to his selection by the Portland Timbers.

The 2015 MLS SuperDraft concludes on Tuesday with the third and fourth rounds, as more former PDL players learn where they will have the chance to begin their professional careers.

STL FC Adds 4 Players to 2015 Roster

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Saint Louis FC News Release - www.saintlouisfc.com

Thursday, January 15, 2015

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Two days after announcing Mike Ambersley as the first signing in club history, Saint Louis FC has revealed four more players who will be joining the roster for the 2015 season.

The new STL FC signings include goalkeeper Mark Pais, defender Richard Dixon, and midfielders Jacob Bushue and Kentaro Takada. 

Mark Pais – GK / St. Louis, Mo.

Pais, 23, is a St. Louis native who split his collegiate career at Saint Louis University and the University of Tulsa. He recorded eight shutouts in his senior season at Tulsa, and was named the team’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2012.

“Mark made a tremendous impact for us in just one season,” Tulsa Head Coach Tom McIntosh said. “He is one of best leaders I’ve ever had, in addition to his ability to make the big saves.” 

At Saint Louis, Pais was 9-5-1 as a starter and tied for the Atlantic 10 Conference lead in shutouts as a sophomore. Prior to playing for the Billikens, he was invited to the Under-18 U.S. Men’s National Team Camp. 

STL FC Goalkeeper Coach Brian Jones said he is extremely excited to have Pais on the roster.

“I have watched Mark closely since he was a teenager, and I feel confident in saying that I think he is the best goalkeeper our country hasn't heard of,” Jones said. “Obviously, he won't stay under the radar for long.  I expect him to be one of, if not the best, goalkeeper in this league.” 

Richard Dixon – D / Royal Palm Beach, Fla.

Dixon, 24, was born in Hanover, Jamaica but moved to the U.S. as a youth player. 

The defender is familiar with USL PRO, having spent each of the last two seasons in the league.  He made 18 appearances for the Charlotte Eagles last season, and earned 15 appearances for VSI Tampa Bay FC in 2013.

“Richard is an outside back who can dominate his channel defensively and has a good ability to get forward,” STL FC Head Coach Dale Schilly said.  “As a coach, you often find outside backs that can either attack or defend.  In Richard, we have a player who can excel at both.  He is extremely athletic with an engine that allows him to get up and down the field. 

“Additionally, we have relationships with a few of his previous coaches and know that he is a true team player.  He is a great fit for our culture and the perfect player to help lead us through our first season." 

Before turning pro, Dixon played collegiately at the University of West Florida. During his time with the Argonauts, Dixon was a two-time Gulf South Conference Player of the Year, and a four-time All-South Region selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA).

"It usually goes without saying for a professional player, but Richard is just a very competitive guy," UWF Head Coach Bill Elliott said. "We had to manage his time and keep him from training sometimes because he just wanted it that bad.  At the same time, he definitely knows how to have fun and he loves to play the game."

Jacob Bushue – M / Champaign, Ill.

Bushue, 22, played collegiately at Indiana University, where he was named to the All-Big Ten Second Team and the NSCAA All-Great Lakes Region Third Team as a senior. 

“Jacob traveled internationally with the Region II ODP team that I coached a few years ago,” Schilly said.  “Jacob’s greatest attributes are his competitive nature and leadership abilities.  He’s a proven winner who holds his performance to a very high standard and expects the same from his teammates. 

“On the ball, he is a good passer who can help establish possession for the team.  Our fans will enjoy his intense nature and his ‘do what it takes’ approach to winning."

As a junior in 2012, Bushue helped lead the Hoosiers to a 1-0 win over Georgetown in the NCAA National Championship, earning IU its eighth national title in program history.  In 2013, he started all 22 games en route to Indiana winning the Big Ten Championship.

“Jacob’s toughness and grit was one of the main reasons we were able to win the National Championship in 2012,” Indiana Associate Head Coach Brian Maisonneuve said. “He is the best ball winner I probably have ever seen, and he’s great at getting into tackling situations to win the ball.”

Kentaro Takada – M / Hokuto, Japan

Takada, 31, is a midfielder with professional experience in both the U.S. and his native Japan. 

He spent the past five seasons with Minnesota United FC, for which he made 79 appearances and scored four goals.

“Kentaro was one of the guys we had high interest in when Saint Louis FC was first announced,” Schilly said.  “He is extremely professional in his approach, is a good fit in the locker room, and possesses a tremendous personality. 

“On the field, fans will see a very technical player with an incredible work rate.  Taka is a versatile two-way player who can create from deep as well as score goals."

Prior to joining Minnesota, Takada spent the 2009 season with the Rochester Thunder in the PDL.  He originally turned pro with Thespa Kusatsu of the J. League, where he played from 2006-08.

Blues Invitational Camp Concludes

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Orange County Blues FC News Release - www.ocbluesfc.com

Friday, January 16, 2015

IRVINE, Calif. - Orange County Blues FC concluded the club's Invitational Training Camp on Friday afternoon at the Orange County Great Park in Irvine.

The camp included participants from Europe, South and Central America as well as many Blues’ players from the 2014 season hoping to play their way on to new coach Oliver Wyss’s 2015 squad.

Wyss and staff ran a vigorous camp, working to get players fit for the quickly approaching season. Training included strength and conditioning exercises, specific position drills, and 11v11 scrimmages.

Wyss’ staff this week included many experienced trainers like former Liverpool and Newcastle defender Barry Venison, who came in to evaluate the level of play and provide a different set of eyes as he brought his vast experience from playing in England.

“The camp is a great start to the season and I am looking forward to it since we have learned a lot from the great staff,” said Jiovanni Santana. “Coach ran the camp with a lot of discipline and leadership, which is needed to become a top club in the league.”

With the coming season, Wyss is working hard to put together a team that will demonstrate discipline and most importantly will win.

Negotiations for player signings have already begun, along with the return of several. 2014 Blues’ players also returning. The club will begin player announcements with the coming weeks.

An open combine will be held February 7th and 8th in an effort to help fill the remaining open spots. Registration is $150 and now open. With spots limited and filling quickly, email ocbluesfctryouts@gmail.com to register or for more information.

Season tickets for the 2015 OC Blues FC campaign in USL PRO are on sale now. Call (714) 738-8011 Ext. 204 or email blane@bluessoccerclub.com. For media inquiries, email luisa@bluessoccerclub.com or call (310) 995-5453.

Kickers Add Garner To Squad

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Richmond Kickers News Release - www.richmondkickers.com

Friday, January 16, 2015

RICHMOND, Va. - The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce that former Orange County Blues forward Eli Garner has agreed to terms for the 2015 season.

“Eli is a player we have followed for some time,” said Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Director of Soccer. “He has always impressed when playing against us and has considerable USL experience, goals and assists for such a young player. He was very keen to join the club and we know his speed, work rate and tactical qualities will be a great fit for our organization.”

After spending one season at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill before transferring to the University of North Carolina – Greensboro, Garner was discovered at the 2012 USL PRO Combine. Making 66 appearances with the Dayton Dutch Lions over three seasons and leading the Dutch Lions to the playoffs for the first time in club history, he posted 12 goals and seven assists overall.  The 5-foot-11 native of Hillsborough, NC made a late-season move to the Orange County Blues in August 2014 where he made five appearances and added one assist.

Don't miss a minute of Kickers Pro action when the USL PRO season kicks off this spring.  Richmond Kickers Season Ticket Benefits include 50-75% off match day prices, exclusive invitations, merchandise discounts and VIP benefits. Guaranteed to see all regular season, U.S. Open Cup and playoff games for the best possible pricing, Kickers Season Tickets are a fantastic way to get together with friends, family and colleagues for an unforgettable entertainment experience - order now!

W-League Standouts Head To NWSL

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W-League News Release

Friday, January 16, 2015

TAMPA, Fla. – A record 18 former W-League players were selected on Friday at the 2015 NWSL Draft, as 2014 Championship Most Valuable Player Sarah Killion led a contingent of eight former LA Blues players that will head to the professional ranks this spring.

Killion - who helped the Blues claim back-to-back W-League titles in 2013 and 2014 - was taken with the No. 2 selection by Sky Blue FC. She was quickly followed by fellow Blues Abby Dahlkemper and Sam Mewis, who were selected by the Western New York Flash with the third and fourth selections. The Flash - who named former Blues Technical Director Charlie Naimo to the same position this offseason - also selected 2012 W-League Rookie of the Year Lynn Williams in the first round, the fourth former Blue to be taken.

Six former W-League players were taken in the first round overall, as former Seattle Sounders Women midfielder Jaelene Hinkle was selected by the Flash and 2014 All-Central Conference selection Arin Gilliland of the Ottawa Fury went to the Chicago Red Stars.

A number of other W-League honorees were also selected on Friday. The Washington Spirit Reserves’ Sam Lofton – a 2014 All-League pick - was selected by the Boston Breakers, while Colorado Pride All-Western Conference selection Jessica Ayers was taken by FC Kansas City.

The story of the day was the Blues, however, who also saw Jamia Fields, Caprice Dydasco, Daphne Corboz and Chioma Ubogagu selected. Dydasco will join the Washington Spirit after having scored against her new club’s W-League team in this past season’s championship game. Fields heads to Boston, while Corboz and Ubogagu will join Killion with Sky Blue FC.

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