Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Monday, March 14, 2011

PITTSBURGH, Pa. -- The Pittsburgh Riverhounds welcome the return of Thabiso ‘Boyzzz’ Khumalo for the 2011 season, pending USL and USSF approval. Khumalo returns to Pittsburgh after two-year stint with D.C. United.

Khumalo played for the Riverhounds in 2008 as an outside attacker and gained the interest of D.C. United’s General Manager, Dave Kasper. Following the Riverhounds’ season, Khumalo went on loan to D.C. and his performance landed him a contract to play for one of Major League Soccer’s most respected clubs for the 2009 and 2010 seasons.

The Riverhounds are excited to bring Khumalo back to Pittsburgh for the inaugural USL PRO season. His exposure to the highest level of soccer in America will bring the experience and training mentality of a true professional to every training session.

“Boyzzz’s experience, pace and creativity on the field will add a different dynamic to our philosophy,” Head Coach Justin Evans said. “His ability to attack one-on-one and get behind the defense should create problems for opposing defenders."

USL Feature

Monday, March 14, 2011

Charleston Battery

Head Coach: Mike Anhaeuser
2010 Season: Champions, USL-2

The Lowdown: The Battery are the defending USL-2 champions and certainly should be favored to reach the playoffs again this season. But there are holes in the line-up that need to be filled, especially in the attacking third of the field, and that will likely prove the biggest challenge for Mike Anhaeuser’s squad in their bid to win back-to-back championships.

Key losses: As was previously referenced both USL-2 MVP Lamar Neagle and fellow striker Tom Heinemann have departed to play in Major League Soccer, Neagle with the Seattle Sounders and Heinemann with the Columbus Crew. The duo combined for 19 goals a season ago, leaving a void that will need to be filled quickly.

Key returnees: While the Battery will need to replace some key figures, they do have 2010 All-League selection Alioune Gueye returning to their midfield, while defender John Wilson’s decision to put off retirement for another season will add to a strong backline that also includes Colin Falvey and Nigel Marples.

Key additions: An attention-grabber at the Carolina Challenge, 20-year-old Jamaican Dane Kelly is young but could have what it takes to help remove the sting of the loss of Neagle and Heinemann. The Battery also made an interesting addition to their midfield with New Zealand international Cole Peverley. Peverley was called into the All Whites' squad this month for exhibition games against China and Japan, and at just 22 years old could become a mainstay for his country in the future after just missing out on the World Cup squad last year.

The Coach’s Opinion: “We’re seeing a lot of good habits from the players we have back and the players that we’re going to be getting on board. We have about six to eight trialists in camps, and even the guys we’re not going to be able to keep showed a lot of promise also, which means we were able to get in some good players to fill those holes.” –Anhaeuser

If it all goes to plan: Getting back to the championship game is always the goal for a defending champion, but it could be a tough task for the Battery this season. While they have lost a number of key players, others have added, especially in the American Division. Another playoff appearance should be on the cards, but how far can the Battery go once there?

USL Feature

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

By NICHOLAS MURRAY

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The equipment manager had already rolled out the bags full of dirty laundry from the ESPN Wide World of Sports locker room and all of his teammates had emerged after their 1-0 victory against Toronto FC when Orlando City’s Demar Stewart languidly strolled out.

The 6-foot-2 Jamaican international, recently signed by the Lions to improve their squad ahead of the 2011 USL PRO season, wore the smile of a man who had done his job well that night. The laid-back attitude, though, was in sharp contrast to the way he had competed on the field not 45 minutes earlier, a combination of strength and aggressiveness that played an important role in the Lions’ shutout.

“I love to tackle and I like to defend,” Stewart said with a smile. “I like to keep a clean sheet. Once we keep a clean sheet and I don’t let my opponent score a goal, I’m very satisfied. It doesn’t matter whether it’s Keiron [Bernard] or Jack [Traynor] or anyone else the coach puts on the team, we’re going to do a fantastic job.”

It’s that attitude and work-rate that saw Lions coach Adrian Heath bring the 26-year-old to the team this preseason. A former teammate of Bernard’s with the Jamaican U20 national team, Stewart has gone on to play 10 times for the full national team since.

With that experience, and the experience of playing professionally in such countries as Belgium and China, Stewart believes he has become capable of adapting to different styles, not only from his team but also from opponents, than he was when he first played for the national team.

Heath agrees, saying that it didn’t take he and his staff long to decide that Stewart was a player they needed for the upcoming season.

“We think he’s going to be a really good signing,” Heath said after the victory against Toronto. “I honestly believe he’s better than the level that we are, and I think that people will see that over the next year or so. I think he’s got huge upside, great athletically, very determined and I just think today we saw what a good player he can be.”

There will still likely be a period of adaptation for Stewart, one that was not helped by a recent knee injury he suffered in the Lions’ friendly against Swedish First Division side BK Hacken last weekend. Stewart said on Wednesday that he hoped to be ready for the club’s season-opener against the Richmond Kickers on April 2, and his relationship with Bernard is already paying dividends as the duo are regaining the chemistry they had when they played together previously.

According to Bernard, though, there is one difference from those days, one that became evident the first time he saw his former teammate on the Orlando City practice field.

“First time I saw him I was like, ‘damn’, because he was bigger back then,” Bernard said. “I was like, ‘man, where’s all the weight gone?’ But I was happy to see him because we needed a defender, a really good defender, and me and him we jelled very well from knowing him from back then so I was really happy to see him.”

With Bernard and Stewart at the center of the Lions’ defense this summer, opposing teams might not feel quite the same way as the team aims to win a championship in its first season in Orlando.

“It would be a tremendous achievement if we do that,” Stewart said. “If we get to the final and win the championship it would be a great achievement, not only for the team but for the community. They haven’t had a professional team here in a long time and for us to come here as a new franchise it would be a big achievement for the community itself.”

Richmond Kickers News Release -- www.richmondkickers.com

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce the signing of midfielder Shaka Bangura for the 2011 season after identifying him at the Kickers 2011 Combine earlier this month.

"We were impressed with Shaka's power, pace and ability to open up defenses,” said Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Head Coach and Director of Soccer. “We were equally impressed with his enthusiasm and desire to play for the Kickers. We look forward to him joining the squad this week for preseason training.”

Bangura joins the Kickers 2011 squad after a one-year stint with the Puerto Rico Islanders of the USSF Division 2-Pro League. Making his professional debut on April 21 against the Minnesota Stars, Bangura made 14 appearances with the Islanders en route to the 2010 Pro League Championship and the Caribbean Football Union Club Champions titles.

A native of Sierra Leone, Bangura attended Montreat College in North Carolina where he notched 58 goals over four seasons. Consistently earning Appalachian Athletic Conference First-Team honors, he was named conference player of the year his senior season. The AAC Freshman of the Year was named Montreat College Male Athlete of the Year in 2007 and earned NAIA All-Region Team honors in 2008.

Over 100 players representing 15 countries participated in the 2011 Richmond Kickers Pro Combine, March 4-6. Past Kickers trials have produced such prominent players as Clyde Simms (D.C. United and US Men’s National Team), Ronnie Pascale (Three-time USL-2 Goalkeeper of the Year), Tim Brown (New Zealand National Team) and Robert Ssejjemba (2006 USL-2 MVP and Ugandan National Team).

Reserve your 2011 Season Passes and join the Richmond Kickers when they open the USL PRO campaign, hosting Orlando City on Saturday, April 2 at 5:00 p.m. at Richmond City Stadium. Taking the field for their 19th season, the Kickers will compete alongside American Division rivals Charlotte Eagles, Charleston Battery, Orlando City and Wilmington Hammerheads and will also face National and International opponents Dayton Dutch Lions, Harrisburg City Islanders, FC New York, Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Rochester Rhinos, Antigua Barracuda FC, Los Angeles Blues, Puerto Rico United and Sevilla FC Puerto Rico during the 24-game season. Visit RichmondKickers.com for schedules and ticket information. 

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Orlando City Soccer Club is proud to announce the signing of American defender Jack Traynor to a multi-year contract, pending US Soccer Federation approval.

“Jack played very well against my teams the last two years,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “He can also play a multitude of positions – full back, midfield – you can’t have enough of his type of player on your squad. I’m very pleased to have him on board.”

After four years at the University of Notre Dame, Traynor began his professional career in 2009 after he was drafted in the second round by Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls. After being released by New York, Traynor went on trial with Aalesunds FK in Norway, but returned to the U.S. to sign with Miami FC of the USL First Division. He made 20 appearances for Miami during the 2009 season. Traynor signed with his hometown AC St. Louis for the 2010 season. He played in 26 games for the club.

“I’m excited to be here,” said Traynor. “I’ve seen the quality of the coaching and the system for the last two years [playing against Heath’s Austin Aztex], so was a really easy decision to come and play for him. We’ve had a great preseason so far, and I’m excited for the season to start.”

Traynor has seen action in all four of Orlando City’s preseason matches. He started all four matches, three at left back and one on the left side of midfield. Traynor displayed his versatility against Toronto FC when he moved from left back to left midfield after Jamie Watson suffered a shoulder injury and had to leave the game.

F.C. New York News Release -- www.fcnewyorksoccer.com

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

GARDEN CITY, N.Y. - F.C. New York is pleased to announce the addition of five players as the start of the 2011 USL PRO season approaches. Gary Boughton, Brent Brockman, Troy Cole, Steve Covino and Josiah Snelgrove have all signed with the club, pending USL and USSF approval. The players were introduced, along with their teammates, at the 77th annual Huntington N.Y. St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday.

More than 50,000 people packed the sidewalks as bagpipes, fire companies and players from F.C. New York marched in the spring sun. Local soccer teams cheered as the team passed and handed out schedules, signed autographs and posed for pictures. The new players were impressed with the crowd and gave them something to cheer.

“These young men are committed to the sport, to the club and to themselves, I am very proud to add them to what I believe will be a strong roster,” F.C. New York President Doug Petersen said at the event. “They come to us from upstate New York, Pennsylvania, California Connecticut and Canada, each sharing a reason for coming to New York City - to win!”

Gary Boughton 

A 5-foot-10, 165-pound native of Buffalo, N.Y., Boughton spent his college career at Medaille College in his hometown. He was a four-year starter and twice captain of the Medaille Mavericks. In 2009, Boughton set the all-time NCAA career assists record with 82 in his four seasons. He was twice named Scholastic All-America, four times named Regional All-America, twice named AMCC Conference Player of the Year, and four times first team all-conference. In his 82 games at Medaille, Boughton scored 35 goals to add to his 82 assists, and started all 82 contests. Boughton also spent four summer seasons playing in the USL Premier Development League. He spent his first two years with the Fort Wayne Fever, leading the team in scoring in 2008. In 2009 he was a member of the Austin Aztex U-23s, and in 2010 was an integral part of the Houston Leones’ run to the final eight of the PDL playoffs.

Brent Brockman

The 5-10, 170-pound native of Dillsburg, Penn. was a member of the George Mason University class of 2010 and spent his first two season at St. Francis College (Penn.). “B²” to his teammates, the attacking midfielder is quick and determined on the pitch.

Troy Cole

Six feet and 185 pounds, Cole attended Laguna Hills High School in Laguna Hills, Calif., and played two years of college soccer at Irvine Valley College, recording three goals and three assists as a defender. He transferred to Mars Hill College where he scored seven goals in 35 games and was his team’s captain as a senior. During his college years, he also played with the Atlanta Blackhawks in the PDL. Cole signed his first professional contract in 2010 with AC St. Louis.

Steve Covino

The 5-8 150-pound native of Bristol, Connecticut posted career-highs in every major offensive category this past season playing for Siena College. For his efforts, he was named to the All-MAAC Team. Covino was also named to the 2010 NSCAA/Performance Subaru All-North Atlantic Region and is Siena’s first student-athlete to sign a professional contract.

Josiah Snelgrove

From Hartland, New Brunswick, the 6-1, 185-pound defender is not new to USL. Snelgrove signed with the Charlotte Eagles after graduating from Houghton College in Eastern New York State in 2007 and played there until 2009. He took the 2010 season off to care for an injury. At Houghton, Snelgrove scored two goals and contributed 13 assists in his four years, earning all-conference honors three times and receiving 2007 NAIA All-America honors.

F.C. New York begins its home schedule on April 30 against Orlando City. Season tickets are now on sale. Special group ticket rates are available. Contact the F.C. New York ticket office at 1-866-827-0154 for more information.

USL Feature

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Charlotte Eagles

Coach: Mark Steffens
2010 Season: Fourth Place, USL-2

The Lowdown: The Eagles narrowly missed out on the playoffs a season ago after reaching back-to-back USL-2 finals in 2008 and 2009. Getting back into the playoff mix might be tough, though. With the top three teams in the American Division making the postseason, the Eagles will do well to get past 2010 finalists Charleston and Richmond and new addition Orlando City.

Key Departures: Maybe the best news of the offseason for the Eagles was the retention of the core of its 2010 team. While some of the team’s depth will need to be replaced, both Chris Klotz and Chris Lemons departed in the offseason, Klotz remaining with the club to be part of its youth program, all of the Eagles’ starting line-up is returning which should allow the side to hit the ground running when the USL PRO season begins.

Key Returnees: Steffens is quick to emphasize the Eagles’ ‘team’ philosophy, but Charlotte will certainly be hoping Columbian Jorge Herrera can at least match his outstanding performance in the 2010 season. Herrera finished fourth in USL-2 with six goals last season and added two assists, earning All-League First Team honors in the process.

Key Additions: Playoff contenders can usually point to a strong presence in goal as a reason for their success, and the Eagles think they’ve found a good one in former PDL Goalkeeper of the Year Eric Reed. Previously with the Carolina RailHawks, for whom he made 35 appearances over two seasons, Reed earned his Goalkeeper of the Year award while playing for the Eagles’ PDL affiliate the Southern California Seahorses in 2006.

The Coach’s Opinion: “My expectations are the same every year. We strive for excellence in every aspect of the game: fitness, work ethic, team play, sportsmanship and unity. Our organization invests in the lives of our players, equipping them to be better husbands, better fathers, better people. That may or may not translate into wins but it will translate into every player giving their all the entire match and more importantly build them for whatever is next in life.” – Steffens

If it all goes to plan: If Charlotte’s best players play to the level they’re capable of, the Eagles could be a dangerous team. But it’s likely that they would need one of the division’s big three to falter if they are to make it to the playoffs this season.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

PITTSBURGH, Pa. -- The Pittsburgh Riverhounds sign defender Mike Seth, forward Matt Fondy and midfielder Ben Horner for the 2011 campaign, pending USL and USSF approval. Seth returns for his second season with the Riverhounds, while Fondy and Horner break into the professional ranks following stellar collegiate careers.

Seth, a home-grown talent and Baldwin High School graduate, began his career with the Riverhounds as a reserve player in 2009 and worked hard to earn a roster spot in 2010. During his rookie season with the Hounds, Seth landed two starts and appeared in two additional matches. This past offseason, Seth focused on building his strength and consistency with the ball at his feet and will look to compete for quality time.

Fondy and Horner sparked the interest of the Riverhounds coaching staff after attending its invitational combine in late February. Fondy attended the combine after a brief stint with the San Jose Earthquakes of Major League Soccer. 

Fondy comes to Pittsburgh after a four-year career at the University of California Santa Cruz. While at Santa Cruz Fondy found the back of the net multiple times and led the team in goals his sophomore (7), junior (8) and senior (14) seasons.

Horner, another home-grown talent and Butler High graduate, was a consistent face on the field for the Duquesne Dukes missing only two games his final three seasons. A solid central player, Horner will look to make an impact for the Hounds in 2011.

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Wednesday, March 16. 2011

WINTER PARK, Fla. -- Orlando City continued its preseason preparation at Rollins College tonight, defeating a tough Tars squad 3-1 in front of a sell-out crowd at Sandspur Field.

City controlled the run of play for the entire game, but struggled to put together any dangerous scoring chances early in the match. Rollins packed the midfield tightly, resulting in a lot of promising moves that fell by the wayside.

“We turned the ball over too many times,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We didn’t treat Rollins with enough respect.”

Max Griffin finally broke through in the 37th minute when trialist Kevin Molino fed him at the top of the box for a quick shot. The back-and-forth midfield play continued for the rest of the half. City managed a few more shots on goal, but could not find the back of the net before the whistle blew.

The second half began much like the first ended, but Rollins had a renewed energy. They pushed forward more, opening up the game. Their efforts were rewarded when senior and Winter Park HS alum Stephen Wright tied the game in the 56th minute. City responded immediately with attack after attack, but the tight Rollins defense held firm.

The match turned when Rollins’ Adam New was ejected for throwing the ball at City’s Yordanny Alvarez. Alvarez had just been given a yellow card for his challenge on New. Rollins played the remaining 20 minutes down a man. At first, the match changed very little as Rollins was content to hold out for the draw.

City finally got their chance when Devorn Jorsling was knocked down in the 83rd minute while corralling a long pass. Lewis Neal stepped to the ball, placed 25 yards out, and bent his shot over the wall and into the back of the net past the oustretched arms of the Rollins' goalkeeper, giving City a 2-1 lead with just seven minutes left in regulation.

City continued to press for an insurance goal and did not have to wait long as just two minutes after Neal’s goal, Jorsling juked several defenders inside the penalty area and crossed the ball back to Alvarez. By the time the Rollins goalkeeper reacted, Alvarez was already celebrating.

But despite the 3-1 win, Heath was not pleased with his team’s performance.

“I would give us a five out of ten tonight,” said Heath. “It was overall a disappointing evening. We have a lot of tired bodies though, but we will go again [practice] tomorrow and Friday, and play Sunday. That’s what it’s all about.”

The Lions take on UCF on Sunday at 2pm. The game will be held at UCF’s soccer field, adjacent to Brighthouse Networks Stadium.

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery defeated Clemson University 2-0 on Wednesday night at Blackbaud Stadium. Forwards Seedy Bah and Dane Kelly both tallied as the Battery overcame the Tigers.

Forward Seedy Bah scored just before half time, finishing neatly after a pass from midfielder Alex Caskey.

The Battery's second goal was scored by striker Dane Kelly with the assist from midfielder JC Mack.

Next up for the Battery is another preseason scrimmage against the Carolina RailHawks on Saturday evening at WakeMed Stadium in Cary, NC; kick off is set for 4 PM.

The Charleston Battery kicks off the 2011 USL PRO season On Saturday, April 9 with a 7:30 PM match versus the Charlotte Eagles at Blackbaud Stadium ($10-$18, (843) 971-4625 / charlestonbattery.com). 

Michigan Bucks News Release -- www.michiganbucks.com

Thursday, March 17, 2011

PONTIAC, Mich. -- The Michigan Bucks are set to host four games at the Ultimate Soccer Arenas, March 26. Headlining the action will be a rematch of the 2010 NCAA Final Four match between the University of Akron and the University of Michigan. NCAA Tournament participants the University of Notre Dame and Oakland University round out the Bucks College Cup I participants on March 26.

The Zips went 22-1-0 defeating Louisville 1-0 at Harder Stadium in the NCAA Championship, winning the schools first championship in any sport. For the Wolverines who went 17-5-3, they participated in their first College Cup in only their 11th season as a program, setting records for wins (17), games played (24), goals (52), points (153) and assists (49). Also their No. 10 seed in the tournament marked their highest in program history.

The Fighting Irish ended the season with a 10-6-4 record, losing in the second round of the NCAA Men's Soccer Championship falling 2-1 to Dartmouth. Despite a 7-11-3 record, Oakland rallied as the No. 3 seed to win The Summit League Title, beating Oral Roberts 2-0 in the Championship game to advance to the NCAA Tournament. Despite eventually falling 2-0 to Michigan State, a team that reached the final 16 of the NCAA Tournament, the Golden Grizzlies proved they were one of the top teams in college soccer by not only facing one of the toughest schedules in the nation, but also by getting the job done when it mattered most.

The 2006 North American PDL Champions, Michigan Bucks will host the spring tournament as they enter their 16th season on May 21 and return to the Ultimate Soccer Arenas for its fourth straight season in the $18.5 million facility in Pontiac, Mich.

Tickets are available for $7 in advance of the tournament, and will be $12 at door and includes all four matches. Tickets can be purchased at Ultimate Soccer Arenas front desk or by contacting the Bucks Front Office, 248-334-7463. For group tickets, contact Director of Operations Mike Prosser at mprosser@buckssoccer.com or by calling the Bucks office 248-334-7463.

Bucks College Cup I Schedule

March 26, 2011

At Ultimate Soccer Arenas, Pontiac, Mich.

1:30 p.m. - Michigan vs. Akron

3:15 p.m. - Oakland vs. Akron

5:00 p.m. - Michigan vs. Notre Dame

6:45 p.m. - Oakland vs. Notre Dame
 

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

Thursday, March 17, 2011

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – The Los Angeles Blues Soccer Club is delighted to announce the signing of Mike Randolph for the 2011 USL PRO season, pending USSF and USL approval.

The move brings the Chino Hills native back to Los Angeles after spending two years with the L.A. Galaxy and one season with the USL Premier Development League side the L.A. Legends. Along with Israel Sesay and Josh Tudela, Randolph joins the squad as the third player to have been with the Galaxy.

Randolph, 25, adds options to an already impressive defense and midfield.

“Mike is a great addition to our group and fits our system perfectly," Head Coach and Vice President Charlie Naimo said. "He is also another seasoned professional that will help us navigate a long season.”

Randolph comes to the Blues with much experience in professional soccer. He started his pro career with USL’s Portland Timbers, where he played 25 games his rookie season and was a finalist for USL First Division’s Rookie of the Year award in 2006.

In 2007, he signed with the L.A. Galaxy and made 39 appearances in his two years with the club. Randolph was involved in the United States U-23 National Team as a result of his strong performances for the Galaxy first team. In 2009, Randolph signed with the L.A. Legends, making 10 appearances. Last season, Randolph played with Miami FC in the USSF Division 2-Pro League collecting 16 appearances in his one season with the club.

Randolph joins the LA Blues as they prepare for their upcoming debut season in the 2011 USL PRO. The team kicks off its inaugural season with a Caribbean swing of four matches in nine days, starting with a match versus Sevilla FC Puerto Rico on April 15. The team’s home opener is on May 1st where they will face Antigua Barracuda FC at Cal State Fullerton’s Titan Stadium at 5 p.m. PST.

For more information about the Los Angeles Blues, visit the official team website at www.bluessoccerclub.com. Season tickets, flex plans, and individual game tickets can be purchased online or by calling 310-264-4649. Stay up to date with all the latest team news by visiting the Los Angeles Blues Facebook page and following the team on twitter @LABLUESPRO. 

USL Feature

Thursday, March 17, 2011

By NICHOLAS MURRAY

For a country whose national team didn’t participate in qualifying for the 2006 World Cup or enter the 2007 or 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup competitions, the sport of soccer is now certainly growing at a rapid rate in Puerto Rico.

“It’s all happening very quickly, in my opinion,” National team forward Chris Megaloudis said by phone recently. “I’ve been with the Puerto Rican national team for four years now and the difference between four years ago and now is big. I would never have thought any team except for the Islanders would have come and made a professional team, and now you have at least two or three other teams coming through with professional teams, so it’s a lot to say that soccer is growing big-time, and it’s growing really fast in Puerto Rico.”

As quickly as the sport has grown, though, 2011 could be the next springboard for the growth of the sport on the Caribbean island. With River Plate Puerto Rico, Sevilla FC Puerto Rico and Puerto Rico United all competing in USL PRO, and the opportunity for River Plate to advance through the Caribbean Football Union Championships and into the CONCACAF Champions League, the sport’s popularity has a chance to become bigger than it has ever been.

Megaloudis is looking forward to the opportunity he has with River Plate. The 28-year-old joined the side this winter after playing for Sevilla last season and joined his teammates in the Grand Cayman Islands this week ahead of their first-round matchup against Bodden Town. Both games will be played in the Caymans, on Friday and Sunday, with the winner of the two-legged affair advancing to meet Guyana’s Alpha United in the second round.

River advanced to the championship with victory in the SuperCopa DirecTV last season, where it defeated the Puerto Rico Islanders 3-0 on aggregate in the final. Megaloudis said he was impressed with the style River played and was looking forward to being part of the side this year.

“It’s been a long winter here in New York and I’m looking forward to start training and playing some games and being with the team,” Megaloudis said. “I really liked the way that they played. It’s like my style; I think I would fit in well there, but the players that I played against there … are very good players.”

Among those returning from the championship side are forward Yaikel Perez, who scored twice in the final against the Islanders, and one of Megaloudis’ Puerto Rico teammates, Peter Villegas. With a strong returning core, there is a level of expectation at River as the side prepares for the USL PRO season.

“I know they want to go out there and win it all and in my opinion that’s how it should be,” Megaloudis said. “As a soccer player, as a coach and as a manager, you want to see your team win and that’s what it’s all about at this level. I like to stay positive and say that we can win it all and do well this season.”

That sort of success could allow for even more growth, and with the advent of more professional teams on the island that can offer opportunities to younger Puerto Rican players, Megaloudis says the sport should only become more popular.

“I think every professional team that is coming up out of Puerto Rico is going to help the younger kids in Puerto Rico to grow and have a chance to play professional soccer in Puerto Rico,” Megaloudis said. “Soccer was non-existent 15, 20 years ago and now you have a sport where it’s grown so fast that the kids are going to get involved in soccer and it’s going to give them more opportunity.
 

USL Feature

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Richmond Kickers

Head Coach: Leigh Cowlishaw
2010 Season: Runner-Up, USL-2

The Lowdown – After coming close to a championship a season ago, the Kickers have bolstered their squad for a potential run to the playoffs again this season. An opening four-game home stand to start the season could help the Kickers get off to a flying start, but we’ll find out a lot about the team’s title credentials as Orlando City, Rochester and Charleston all come to visit in that span.

Key losses – Looking down the Kickers’ roster, it doesn’t appear that the side has lost much in the way of quality during the offseason. In fact, it appears the entire lineup that started the 2010 USL-2 championship game will return for the side this season, giving the club a very good starting point for the new season.

Key returnees – The foundation of the Kickers’ success in 2010 was its defense and the club returns its entire back four, including USL-2 All-League selection Yomby William, and goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale.

“The group as a whole defended very well last season and with only two weeks to prepare for our first game it will be very helpful to work with players who understand our system and who we are very familiar with,” Coach Leigh Cowlishaw said.

Key additions – The Kickers were eager to bolster their attacking options for the new season to provide help for Matt Delicate and Edson Elcock, and with the return of midfielders Stanley Nyazamba, David Bulow and Nozomi Hiroyama to the squad, Cowlishaw is pleased with the options he now has at his disposal. Former Japanese international Hiroyama in particular could be one to watch as he brings a vast experience from playing the game on three different continents.

The Coach’s Opinion – “Our expectations are same as they have always been. We strive to field a team that will compete successfully with any team in the country.” – Cowlishaw

If it all goes to plan – The Kickers came very close to winning back-to-back championships a season ago, but will be tested by a strong American Division. With the way the team played last season, especially at home, the opportunity to win a fourth USL championship might be within the team’s grasp.

F.C. New York News Release -- www.fcnewyorksoccer.com

Thursday, March 17, 2011

GARDEN CITY, N.Y. - F.C. New York is pleased to announce the signing of winger Owen Morrison and midfielder Stephen Roche, pending USL and USSF approval.

Morrison, 29, is an Irish national player who started as a youth with Derry City in the League of Ireland and began his senior career in England with Sheffield Wednesday during which he had a loan spell with Hull City. After 55 league appearances and eight goals in just under five seasons with the club, he joined their rivals Sheffield United.

Morrison moved to Dunfermline Athletic and scored his first goal for the club in a 1–1 draw with Rangers. After almost two years with the Pars, Morrison was returned to Derry City. In 2009, Morrison was signed by the Sligo Rovers, and at the end of the season, he signed a one year deal with Portadown. Morrison came in for trials with F.C. New York on the recommendation of FCNY’s “man in Ireland,” Declan Boyle.

“We were fortunate and are pleased to sign someone of Owen’s caliber,” FCNY President Doug Petersen said. “We look forward to the start of camp."

Roche, 24, played for University College Dublin (UCD) during the summer of 2009 after playing with Lenister Senior League side Greystones A.F.C. Roche was part of the Irish Colleges team for the World Student Games that traveled to Thailand in the summer of 2007. He also travelled to Belgrade in 2009 for the World Student Games, captaining the side in the process. Stephen received a scholarship to DIT and received the DIT All-Star award twice.

“Stephen is quick and determined and I suspect he will turn some heads here in America,” FCNY Technical Director Matt Weston said.

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Friday, March 18, 2011

ORLANDO, Fla. - Orlando City Soccer Club is proud to announce the signings of Trinidadian international midfielder Kevin Molino and former Houston Dynamo player Erik Ustruck to multi-year contracts, pending USSF approval.

Molino joins the Lions fresh off the 2010-2011 Digicel Pro League season in Trinidad and Tobago where he won the Toyota Classic, Trinidad and Tobago’s national championship tournament, with Ma Pau SC. The 20-year-old has spent his entire professional career in Trindad, beginning with San Juan Jabloteh in 2008 before moving to Ma Pau when he was just 18 years old. Molino has made four appearances for the Trinidad and Tobago Senior National Team, most recently at the 2010 Caribbean Championship. Fellow Trinidadian international Devorn Jorsling joined Orlando City in January.

“It’s a great feeling joining the team,” said Molino. “This is the first team I’ve played on outside of Trinidad. It’s been a great experience so far.”

“Kevin is someone I’ve known about personally for two or three years,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “He’s just 20 years old, already on the national team, and is already known as one of the most exciting talents they’ve had in a long, long time. I’m really excited about what he can develop into. We’re really excited to have him on board.”

Molino made his first appearance for Orlando City late in the match against BK Häcken on March 5th. He injected energy into the team and helping to spark Lewis Neal’s goal in the 75th minute. Ten days later, Molino registered his first start against Rollins College. He recorded his first assist of the preseason with a nifty pass to Max Griffin, who scored the first of the Lions’ three goals in victory over the Tars.

Ustruck played his college soccer at Santa Clara University. While in college he made seven appearances for the US Under-20 National Team. Ustruck began his professional career in 2007 when he was drafted by the Houston Dynamo in the 2007 MLS Supplemental Draft. In 2009, Ustruck was loaned to the Austin Aztex where he played under current Lions Head Coach Adrian Heath. After being released by Houston early in the 2010 season, Ustruck joined FC Tampa Bay. After five appearances with FCTB, his promising season was cut short by a broken leg.

“He’s all fit and ready now. We tried to get him last year [when Heath was with the Austin Aztex] before he signed with Tampa. We’re really pleased to have him on board. He’s a great teammate and we know he’ll be a great fit for us.”

A versatile midfielder, Ustruck will be capable of playing multiple positions for Orlando City. In his pro career, he has been used predominantly as a defender, but played both as a midfielder and forward in college.

Philadelphia Union News Release - www.philadelphiaunion.com 

Friday, March 18, 2011

CHESTER, Penn. - Philadelphia Union will play 10 regional Reserve League games as part of the East division, Major League Soccer announced today. Re-launching this year, the MLS Reserve League is made possible by the growth of first team rosters from 24 in 2010 to 30 players in 2011. Guiding the first ever Union Reserve squad will be Reading United A.C. Head Coach and former Boston College standout Brendan Burke.

The most successful coach in Reading’s 15-year history, Burke has compiled a 26-7-4 overall record and led the squad to their first ever PDL regular season title since taking over the reins in 2008. In his first season, he took a team that had not won anything since 1997 to the 2008 Mid Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference Regular Season Title. In 2009, the club qualified for the U.S. Open Cup, a feat that had not been accomplished since 2003. Last season, Burke was nominated as a finalist for the PDL Coach of the Year. A former standout at Boston College, Burke has played with the Sligo Rovers (Irish Premier League), Cape Cod Crusaders (USL), the Worchester Kings and captained the 2007 Reading Rage before taking over as head coach the following season.

"We are very excited for Brendan and the Philadelphia Union family," Reading United A.C. President & General Manager Art Auchenbach said. "Brendan's appointment further solidifies our partnership with the Union and exemplifies the Union's commitment to growth and development from within. We are confident that this news will further enhance Reading's opportunities to provide access to top levels of the domestic game for our players, staff, and fans."

The new MLS Reserve League will be split into East, Central, and West divisions with teams facing each divisional opponent twice for a total of 10 games per team. Clubs may schedule additional games for their reserve squads against non-MLS opponents. Reserve Division games begin March 20 and conclude on October 16. The Union kick off their Reserve League schedule on April 10 when they host the NY Red Bulls.

All home Union Reserve League matches will be held at either the Bob Urban Field of Dreams at Houston Park or Chester Park in Wallingford, Pa. Specific locations will be available at a later date.

MLS clubs previously fielded reserve sides from 2005 through 2008, benefiting players such as 2010 Budweiser Golden Boot winner Chris Wondolowski (San Jose), Omar Cummings, Jeff Larentowicz and Kosuke Kimura of the defending MLS Cup Champion Colorado Rapids and many others.

The full Philadelphia Union Reserve League schedule is below. For the most up to date information, media members are encouraged to contact the Union Communications department prior to attending any match.

Subject to Change; All Times Eastern

Rochester Rhinos News Release -- www.rhinossoccer.com

Friday, March 18, 2011

ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- The Rochester Rhinos announced today they have signed midfielder Anthony “Tony” Donatelli to their 2011 roster. The Glenside, Pa. native joins the Rhinos after more than two seasons with the Montreal Impact (2008-2010) where he scored seven goals and added four assists in 30 appearances during the 2010 season.

Donatelli began his professional career with the Vancouver Whitecaps (2006-2008) after being drafted in the third round of the 2006 Major League Socer Supplemental Draft by the Houston Dynamo. He played just over two seasons in Vancouver before being traded to the Impact during the 2008 season. In his first year with the Whitecaps, Donatelli scored two goals and two assists in 24 appearances. In the 2006 playoffs, he scored three goals in four games including a goal in Vancouver’s 3-0 win over the Rhinos in the USL-1 Championship game.

“Tony is one of the better technicians in our league. His ability to score and set-up goals from any midfield position will make us a more dangerous team, “said Rhinos head coach Bob Lilley. “He brings a championship mentality winning league titles in Vancouver (2006), Montreal (2009) and with the Philadelphia KiXX (2006-MISL).”

In Montreal, Donatelli scored key playoff goals in the 2009 USL playoffs against the Charleston Battery and Puerto Rico Islanders helping the Impact advance to the championship game against the Vancouver Whitecaps. In the second game of the finals he scored the opening goal on a penalty kick in the Impact's 3-1 victory.

The Rhinos continue their preseason with a home game on Saturday, March 19th against the York University Lions (Ontario, Canada). Kickoff is at 3:00pm at Sahlen’s Stadium. Tickets and parking is free. Season tickets for the 2011 Rhinos season are on-sale and can be purchased by calling (585) 454-KICK (5425).

USL Feature

Friday, March 18. 2011

Wilmington Hammerheads

Coach: David Irving
2010 Season: N/A

The Lowdown – The Hammerheads return to the field for the 2011 USL PRO season after a remarkable effort off the field to bring the club back from the brink of extinction. Now that the club has been saved, Coach David Irving has to build a squad that will be competitive in what appears to be a tough American Division, a very tough task.

Key Losses – With the season away, the Hammerheads lost a number of the key faces that helped the club take a first-place regular season finish in USL-2 in 2009. At the forefront of those is Jamie Watson, now with Orlando City, who was the league MVP for the Hammerheads that season.

Key Returnees – That’s not to say that the entire Hammerheads roster will be unfamiliar to the fans at Legion Field. The club recently re-signed defender Chris Murray, who was the club’s Rookie of the Year in 2008, and Jyler Noviello, who scored eight goals and added five assists for the club during the 2008 and 2009 seasons, and was the recipient of a USL-1 Player of the Week award in 2008.

Key Additions – Most of the squad is new, and Irving points to players like English midfielder Tommy Taylor as among those whose experience will play a big role in helping the Hammerheads’ young squad develop this season. Taylor played in England and Norway before first joining the Portland Timbers and then the Real Maryland Monarchs upon his arrival in the United States.

Another important addition is likely to be Ivan Becerra, who brings MLS experience after two seasons with the Columbus Crew in the mid-2000s. Becerra was most recently with the Ventura County Fusion in the USL Premier Development League, and he leads a large contingent of other former Fusion players on the Hammerheads’ roster.

The Coach’s Opinion – “I know that the league, competitively, has moved up a notch since we played in 2009, it’s moved up a notch or two, so we’re going in with our eyes wide open and we’re going to try and prepare ourselves for April 16.” – David Irving

If it all goes to plan – It appears to be a season of building and hard work is ahead for the Hammerheads, but Irving believes the club has already won its biggest battle in the fact that it is back on the field for this season. There’s a road to be travelled to get the club back to its former standing as a championship contender, but Irving appears to be laying a solid foundation for the future.

River Plate Puerto Rico News Release – www.rivercaribe.com

Friday, March 18, 2011

GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands – River Plate Puerto Rico took a positive first step towards the quarterfinals of the Caribbean Football Union Club Championship as Chris Megaloudis and Francois Frantz each scored in a 2-0 victory against the Cayman Islands’ Bodden Town on Friday night.

The first-round match-up’s second leg will be played on Sunday, also at the T.E. McField Sports Centre in George Town. The winner of the tie will advance to play Guyana’s Alpha United in the quarterfinals. The top three teams in the competition move into the 2011-12 CONCACAF Champions League competition.

A short-handed River, which was forced to play the game with just 11 players as members of the team were delayed through passport issues, got off to a perfect start as Puerto Rican international Megaloudis, in his first appearance for the club, opened the scoring in the third minute.

Both sides were able to create scoring opportunities as the first half went on. Newly acquired River goalkeeper Craig Hill had to be sharp to make three important save to maintain River’s advantage going to the break.

But after weathering Bodden’s pressure to end the first half, River regained its control of the game to start the second, possessing the ball far better and making Bodden chase the game. That possession paid off with 18 minutes to go as Haitian Francois Frantz doubled River’s advantage, putting his side in position to advance.