Feb 28, 2012

DC Elite Announce Tryouts for Summer 2012

DC ELITE TRAINING ALLIANCE

U12 and 13 boys added, Focus on training heightened

February 27th, 2012 , (Washington DC) - The summer of 2011 saw the start of a new, training and development-centered club in the Washington DC metro area. Led by former Washington Freedom directors, Jim Gabarra, Clyde Watson and Win Puffer, the youth club continued the efforts made the previous 5 years of giving elite level female players a place to grow and develop. Building off the success of being the three time #1 Girls Club in North America while competing in the United Soccer League’s Super YLeague, DC Elite competed in high level tournaments over the summer, inlcuding qualifying for the US Club Nationals in Boise, Idaho in several age groups.

For the summer of 2012, the program will be adding boys in the Under 12 and 13 age groups, and re-solidifying it's goal of putting training first. "Over the last 12 months I have watched a lot of high level soccer across the United States", said Watson, " and the underlying message we need to bring to our players is skill development through meaningful training. Players and coaches all like to win games, but the emphasis has to be on continuouisly improving the skills and training of our young players."

Trevor Parker has joined the staff as Boys Director. Parker, a former professional player who has played with clubs such as Tottenham Hotspurs FC and St. Albans FC, has an extensiver track record of player development with teams such as the MPS Hotspurs, developing teams from a young age.Of Parker, Watson said "Trevor understands the building of skills from an early age to help players develop. He is a great addition to our staff as we continue to expand our offering of meaningful training in the DC area."

Tryouts for the Summer 2012 season have been announced, and start March 4th in some age groups.

Tryout Dates:

Sunday, March 4th at Connelly School of the Holy Child

U12 and U13 Girls 3-4:30 pm
U14 and U15 Girls 4:30-6 pm
U12 and U13 Boys and U16 Girls will be at a later date
Address for Connelly School of the Holy Child:
9029 Bradley Blvd
Potomac, MD
website: http://www.holychild.org/

Sunday, March 18th, Exact Time and Location TBA

U12 and U13 Boys, tentatively 6-7:30 pm

Sunday, March 25th Location TBA
U12 and U13 Girls 6-7:30 pm
U14, U15 and U16 girls 7:30-9 pm
Interested players are asked to pre-register for tryouts. All registered participants will be notified of all updated information on tryout dates, times and locations.

Pre-register for tryouts by clicking here


Questions?? See DC Elite website at http://www.dcelitetrainingalliance.com/ or email info@dcelitetrainingalliance.com

United sign Woodbridge native Andrew Dykstra

D.C. United Press Release:

D.C. United signs goalkeeper Andrew Dykstra
26-year-old a native of Woodbridge, Va.

Washington, D.C. (February 27, 2012) – D.C. United announced today that the club has signed goalkeeper Andrew Dykstra. The 26-year-old netminder joins the Black-and-Red having completed preseason camps in Florida and Arizona. Dykstra is currently with the team in Charleston, South Carolina, where United is competing in the Carolina Challenge Cup.

“We are excited to have added another young goalkeeper who has a bright future in MLS,” said United General Manager Dave Kasper. “Andrew has gained valuable experience in the past two years as a professional and we look forward to his contributions to our club.”

Dykstra, a native of Woodbridge, Va., spent the 2011 season with USL Pro team Charleston Battery, starting each of the 16 matches he played for the South Carolina side. The former Chicago Fire goalkeeper led the league with a 0.98 goals-against average and 16 goals against, helping the Battery to an 8-6-2 record. For his efforts, Dykstra was awarded the club’s Betsy McAdams Newcomer of the Year award.

Dykstra previously spent time with the Chicago Fire, after signing with the club in June of 2009.  He made 17 total appearances over the course of two seasons in Chicago. The former VCU goalie made his MLS debut with the Fire on March 27, 2010 in the season opener against New York Red Bulls. Dykstra finished the season with a 5-6-6 record, including five shutouts and an1.28 goals-against average.

Dykstra was a standout at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he played 73 matches over four seasons, totaling more than 6,500 minutes. The Woodbridge native earned All-CAA honors twice and finished his collegiate career with 18 shutouts.  

Name: Andrew Dykstra
Height: 6’4”Weight: 195
Jersey: TBD
Position: GK
Birthdate: January 2, 1986
Age: 26
Hometown: Woodbridge, VA
Birthplace: Honolulu, HI
Previous Club: Charleston Battery (USL Pro)
Acquired: Signed on February 27, 2012


Feb 27, 2012

Tryouts for W-League Virginia Beach Piranhas announced

Official Virginia Beach News Release:


VIRGINIA BEACH PIRANHAS ANNOUNCE 2012
W-LEAGUE OPEN TRY OUT DATES

Virginia Beach, Virginia - The Virginia Beach Piranhas have announced an open tryout date for the W-League team for the 2012 season. 

The womenb's team (W-League) will hold tryouts on March 3 from 9-11 a.m. at Chilled Ponds Turf Field located on Stephanie Way in Chesapeake VA.

All players must pre-register and there will be a $25 tryout fee per player. Registration and payment must be received by noon on the day before tryout. Registration forms are available on the Piranhas website at http://www.hrpiranhas.com/.  The $25 tryout fee may be paid through the Piranhas site using PayPal.

According to the United Soccer Leagues guidelines, USL rosters may consist of a maximum of 26 players, with 18 designated for each game. W-League teams are permitted a maximum of eight (8) foreign players per roster.

All players trying out for the Piranhas squads must present a valid ID.  Players are encouraged to bring water and be ready to take the field at the exact start time of tryouts.

Virginia Beach Piranhas

For more information visit the web site at http://www.hrpiranhas.com/

D.C. United Carolina Challenge Cup Recap

D.C. United returned to Charleston, SC to compete in the 2012 Carolina Challenge Cup this past weekend. United are the current defending champions of the preseason tournament having won the two previous cups.

Apperently a return trip to South Carolina was just what the team needed as the Black and Red picked up their first preseason win and new Designated Player, Hamdi Salihi, scored a beautiful goal in the match against the Chicago Fire. Fans, front office members, and Head Coach Ben Olsen will surely be hoping to see more of this type of production from the Albanian that the team was able to sign this offseason while competing against Scottish football club Celtic who also was interested in adding Salihi to their club.




Up next for United in Carolina Cup play is a match against hometown Charleston Battery on Wednesday at 7:15 p.m. D.C. will finish up tournament play Saturday against the Columbus Crew at 5:00 p.m. The games will be streamed live on dcunited.com for those who want to watch.

Ultimate Cup Girls Weekend Recap, List of Champions

Ultimate Cup


Futbolr Clothing
Futbolr clothing at Ultimate Cup in Richmond

The first ever Ultimate Cup just wrapped up their Girls Weekend tournament action this past weekend in Richmond, VA. The tournament was created by the merger of the Chesterfield United Icebreaker and the Kickers Invitational. Our Friends Futbolr Clothing where their supporting soccer in Virginia with a booth and even had a headers contest and soccer tennis contest. You can check out the Futbolr Facebook page for more of their photos from the Ultimate Cup.

Congratulations to the Girls Weekend Champions and Finalist. CLICK HERE to see the complete list of Division Champions and Finalists for the Ultimate Cup Girls.

The boys will get their turn to compete in the Ultimate Cup this comming weekend as play is set to take place March 3 and 4.

As part of the Boys Weekend, there will be a special showing of Rise & Shine: The Jay DeMerit Story in Richmond, VA brought to you by Chesterfield United & The Richmond Kickers at the Ultimate Cup for the benefit of Stowe Strong. The event will be on March 2nd at 7pm at the Holiday Inn, Koger Center Ballroom. This will be a free event and teams and leagues are encouraged to attend, any donations will be for the benefit of charity.

 



Check out the Richmond Times Dispatch Story about Ultimate Cup:

Jeremy Slayton | Richmond Times Dispatch: Soccer tournament attracts hundreds of teams

Feb 24, 2012

Live Ultimate Cup Girls Weekend Coverage

Alexi Lalas becomes Tequila Pitch Man

One way to get your product introduced to a specific market is to hire a brand ambassador that is well known and carries a certian level of name recognition in the market you are targeting. That must explain the latest celebrity/athlete endorsement between former U.S. Soccer star Alexi Lalas and El Jimador Tequila. See the press release below: 


EL JIMADOR ANNOUNCES SOCCER HALL OF FAMER ALEXI LALAS AS BRAND AMBASSADOR

Lalas Will Appear at Events to Support Soccer Sponsorship Program

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Feb. 24, 2012) – In an effort to expand its soccer platform,  el Jimador, 100 percent blue agave tequila, is excited to announce  former US soccer player, Alexi Lalas as a brand ambassador. Lalas will make special appearances at select events throughout 2012 and will support the brand’s corporate social responsibility initiative.

“As a brand that values authenticity, el Jimador acknowledges the importance of working with someone who represents a genuine link to soccer,” said Jesus Ostos, tequilas brand marketing group manager. “Having an individual of Alexi’s profile represent el Jimador will serve as a huge asset for the brand as we expand our soccer platform and continue to grow our corporate social responsibility initiative.”

Alexi Lalas is a retired American soccer player and was a member of the U.S. National Team during the 1998 & 1994 World Cups, as well as a member of the 1996 & 1992 U.S. Olympic Teams.  After a 10-year professional career, he retired from soccer in 2004 and joined the ranks of soccer legends when he was elected to the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2006. Currently working as a sports analyst, Lalas also served as a General Manager/President of several Major League Soccer teams.

“I’m looking forward to working with el Jimador and am proud to be involved with a brand that understands and values the passion that exists for soccer in the U.S.,” said Alexi Lalas. “Every player knows the importance of being responsible on and off the field; it’s crucial to demonstrate respect and display sportsmanship and I look forward to reaching soccer fans across the nation with this message.”

As the official tequila sponsor of the MLS, U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Teams and the annual U.S. Tour of the Mexican National Team, el Jimador Tequila will be active in a variety of the teams’ activities in 2012 including the upcoming Mexican National Team match in Miami on February 29.
For more information on el Jimador’s soccer sponsorship and consumer experience, please visit the brand’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/eljimador.

Feb 22, 2012

A Minute with Danny Cruz, D.C. United Midfielder

Virginia Online Soccer News continues to grow and look for new ways to provide more original content to our readers. We are extremely honored to announce the addition of video segments provided by Eric Hunsaker. Eric is a D.C. based TV Producer and Director, Documentary Film Maker, US Soccer Enthusiast, and part of the host team for the new Fans of United podcast along with former United player and Winchester, VA native Devon McTavish.

Enjoy the first installment: A Minute with Danny Cruz.




Danny Cruz was acquired by United during the recent off season from Houston. Cruz is of particular interest to VA Soccer News because the 22 year old midfielder is from Petersburg, VA.

Danny Cruz Player Profile on DCUnited.com

D.C. United Press Release: Academy Update

D.C. United Academy Update

U-18’s and U-16’s to compete in Academy Carolina Cup, Collin Martin called into U-20 MNT camp

Washington, D.C. (February 22, 2012) – D.C. United’s U-18 and U-16 Academy teams are set to compete in the Development Academy Carolina Challenge Cup from February 24 – 27. The tournament will take place in Charleston, South Carolina in conjunction with the Carolina Challenge Cup, featuring youth teams from Columbus Crew, Indiana United Fire, Chicago Fire, New York Red Bulls and the South Carolina United Battery.

D.C. United will kickoff against Indiana United Fire on Friday, February 24, with the U-18’s playing at 6:00 p.m. and the U-16’s at 8:15 p.m. The Development Academy teams will have a rest day on Saturday, February 25 allowing them to attend match day one of the Carolina Challenge Cup.

On Sunday, February 26, United’s U-18’s will face their Chicago Fire counterparts at 9:00 a.m., while the U-16’s will kickoff at 1:30 p.m. United will conclude the tournament against the Columbus Crew, with the U-18’s playing at 9:00 a.m. and the U-16’s at 11:00 a.m.

D.C. United midfielder Collin Martin has been named to the 26-player roster for the U.S. U-20 MNT training camp in Clermont, Fla. The camp began Monday, February 20 and will run until March 1. As part of the camp, the U.S. U-20 MNT will face the reserve teams from FC Dallas on Sunday, February 26 at 4:00 p.m. ET and Montreal Impact on Wednesday, February 29 at 10:30 a.m. ET. Both games will take place at the Disney Wide World of Sports complex.

United U-14 and U-15 teams played in the Northeast Pre-Academy League Spring Scouting Showcase last weekend at the Germantown Soccerplex. The tournament was designed for academy players to showcase their skills in front of U.S. Soccer scouts.

The U-14’s faced NJSA, McLean and FC Westchester, compiling a record of 1-1-1, respectively. United’s U-15 squad played against NJSA, Matchfit FC and FC Boston, finishing the weekend with a record of 2-1-0.   

About the USSF Development Academy
U.S. Soccer created the Development Academy in 2007 to improve the everyday environment for the elite youth player.

The Development Academy is a partnership between U.S. Soccer and the top youth clubs around the United States to provide the best youth players in the U.S. with an every day environment designed to produce the next generation of National Team players. The Academy’s programming philosophy of increased training, less total games and more competitive games is based on U.S. Soccer’s Best Practices utilized by the U-17 U.S. National Team Residency program.

Carolina Challenge Cup
The Carolina Challenge Cup is the premier pre-season tournament in the U.S. Each year the Battery is joined by three teams from Major League Soccer for the round-robin competition. The 2012 edition includes the Chicago Fire, Columbus Crew, D.C. United and the Charleston Battery with match days on February 25, 29 and March 3.
---   www.dcunited.com   ---

Two UVA Players Named to U.S. Under-20 Women's National Team

University of Virginia midfielder Morgan Brian, former Soccer America Freshman of the Year and Gatorade Female High School Athlete of the Year, along with her college teammate Oliva Brannon have been named to the roster of the U.S. Under-20 Women's National Team for the upcoming 2012 CONCACAF U-20 Women's Championship.

All games of the 2012 CONCACAF U-20 Women's Championship will be streamed live on CONCACAF TV March 1-11, 2012.  (official tournament site)

Read Full Story: Swanson Names Roster for 2012 CONCACAF U-20 Women's Championsh​ip

Feb 21, 2012

Bigfoot Factory Soccer T-shirt givaway

VASoccerNews.com and www.BigfootFactory.com are partnering to give away soccer t-shirts by the end of February!


You could be win one of these hilarious tees if you follow the rules of our Facebook contest:

  • To enter the contests, simply "like" VASoccerNews & Bigfoot Factory Facebook pages,
  • complete this phrase "Bigfoot Factory soccer tees are so butt-ugly..."
  • Post your completed phrase as a comment below this post & share it on your wall.

The top two comments that receive the most "likes" by the end of Feb. win!

Three UVA Men's Soccer players selected to All-ACC Academic Team

UVA Soccer Press Release:
Virginia's Dimas, Monaco, Zinkhan Named to All-ACC Academic Team

Student-athletes must earn 3.0 GPA to be eligible

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - Virginia's Ari Dimas (Jr., Chesapeake, Va.), Greg Monaco (Sr., Virginia Beach, Va.) and Ryan Zinkhan (Fr., Fredericksburg, Va.) have been named to the 2011 All-ACC Academic Men's Soccer Team, which was announced today by ACC Commissioner John Swofford.
All three were named to the all-academic team for the first time.

Dimas started 15 games in 2011, playing the full match 11 times while serving as the anchor to the Cavaliers' midfield. Dimas scored a goal and added an assist in 2011. He also was named to the Hokie Invitational All-Tournament team on Sept. 4.

A two-time team captain, Monaco concluded his Cavalier career in 2011. He started 16 of the Cavaliers' 21 games at defense. Monaco assisted on Brian Span's game-winning golden goal late in UVa's win over Wake Forest in the ACC Tournament on Nov. 8. He finished his UVa career with 61 starts, including all 25 matches in UVa's national championship season in 2009.

Zinkhan was an ACC All-Freshman Team honoree this season. He played in all 21 matches, starting 17. Zinkhan was UVa's freshman leader in points with 11 and was fourth on the team in goals (4) and assists (3). He was a jack-of-all-trades for Virginia, spending time at forward, midfield and defense.

To be eligible for All-ACC Academic Team consideration, a student-athlete must have earned a 3.00 grade point average for the previous semester and maintained a 3.00 cumulative average during his academic career.

Richmond Kickers Development Academy now cost-free


Richmond Kicker Press Release:


u.s. soccer development academy
RICHMOND, VA – (Monday, February 20, 2012) – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce their U.S. Soccer Development Academy will be a cost-free program for the 2012-13 season.  The historic milestone in Virginia youth soccer development is reached through the support of partnerships with The Computer Solution Company, Proseal America, Inc, and multiple donors, allowing dedicated and talented players to reach the highest level of youth soccer, playing, training and traveling free of charge.

U.S. Soccer Technical Advisor, Chris Brewer, will be hosting a Town Hall meeting on Saturday, February 25 at 5 p.m. at the Richmond Kickers office, located at 2001 Maywill Street, Suite 203 Richmond, VA.  The informational meeting is open to anyone who wishes to learn more about this exciting initiative as well as U.S. Soccer Federation’s plans to move to a 10-month season beginning Fall 2012.

"I wish to thank everyone who had the vision, passion and commitment to make this historic moment in youth player development a reality,” commented Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Director of Soccer.  “It is our hope that this significant commitment to youth soccer development will ignite community interest in establishing one neutral Academy program for Central Virginia that all clubs, players and parents can unite behind to share resources to best serve the most talented and dedicated players in the region.”

The Richmond Kickers U16 and U18 Academy players will not be required to pay traditional player fees, and all hotel, flight and ground transportation expenses associated with league travel will be covered by the club. Valued at nearly $20,000 for a four-year player, the Kickers cost-free Academy eliminates the most significant barrier for talented soccer players to compete in U.S. Soccer’s world-class program.  Unprecedented in the state of Virginia, the Kickers join 17 other Academy clubs who offer fully funded programs, including the majority of professional clubs in Major League Soccer.

“A fully funded Academy is a significant contribution to our community and consistent with our club’s vision to be the model for American soccer, a youth to pros development system that has been emulated by clubs throughout the country,” added Rob Ukrop, Richmond Kickers President, Board of Directors.  “We are excited to initiate the process with the boys program and look forward to one day developing a similar philosophy for our national caliber girls program.”

The Kickers Academy teams will be led by USSF “A” Licensed coaches Leigh Cowlishaw and Ihor Dotsenko, and Goalkeeper Coach, Ronnie Pascale, who bring a combined 50 years of professional playing and coaching experience to the club staff.  Competing in the Atlantic Division, the Kickers will play league matches against many of the top teams in the nation including D.C. United, CASL, Baltimore Bays, North Carolina Fusion as well as two national showcase events annually.

U.S. Soccer recently announced a 10-month season for Academy teams, allowing players to focus on training together three or four times per week and play meaningful games on the weekend nearly year-round.  Fewer games and an extended season will allow the addition of a substantial number of extra training sessions, which are the primary vehicle for player development.

Tryouts
Players interested in joining the Richmond Kickers Academy should send the following information: player's name, date of birth and a detailed playing history including references, to Leigh Cowlishaw, Director of Soccer at lcowlishaw@richmondkickers.com.  Guaranteed Academy roster spots for the 2012-13 squads will be awarded to select players on an ongoing basis.  Additionally, six Discovery Player roster spots are available to players who wish to join the Kickers Academy for the current season.

About the U.S. Soccer Development Academy
U.S. Soccer created the Development Academy in 2007 to improve the everyday environment for the elite youth player. The Development Academy is a partnership between U.S. Soccer and the top youth clubs around the country to provide the best youth players in the U.S. with an everyday environment designed to produce the next generation of National Team players.

About The Computer Solution Company
The Computer Solution Company (TCSC) has been one of the Mid-Atlantic’s leading technology solution providers for over three decades.  TCSC provides enterprise application design and development, full-service SharePoint implementations and business intelligence solutions.  The company’s core values of passion, technical excellence, customer focus and lifelong learning closely parallel those of the Richmond Kickers.  As an organization that invests heavily in maintaining a position of leadership, TCSC is excited to partner with the Kickers organization as it continues to invest in the lives of players throughout the Richmond area.

About Proseal America, Inc.
Just like soccer, Proseal was originally formed in the North West of England. Since our formation we have not only become the leading manufacturer of food packaging machinery and tooling in the UK, but are now recognized as a major force internationally, having extended its operations into a number of sites overseas including our newest manufacturing plant right here in Richmond, Virginia.

Our aim is to be an innovative and pioneering organization within the fast paced food industry, and to take pride, not only in producing a range of high quality, efficient, cost effective food packaging machines, but also in providing a service that surpasses our customers' expectations.  Our reputation is founded on excellent customer service and the ability to design and produce consistently reliable machines.

With many years’ experience in the tray sealing industry, we have a deep understanding of the demanding production requirements to which machinery in this sector is subjected. Combined with the high level of after sales service we provide, our business continues to grow from strength to strength.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Richmond Kickers Academy?
The Richmond Kickers Academy is designed to identify and develop the top players in the Central Virginia area. The Kickers goal is to have every player reach his full potential both on and off the field.

What is the cost of the Richmond Kickers Academy?
The Academy is a cost-free program. Each player is fully funded by the Richmond Kickers. This includes:
  • All player fees
  • Travel (air fares, buses, vans, etc)
  • Accommodation (hotel rooms for away trips)
  • Uniforms (adidas player package)
How is the program fully funded?
The program is entirely self-sufficient thanks to support from sponsorship revenue and multiple donors.

How are the Richmond Kickers Academy Teams different from other local programs?
The Richmond Kickers has the only professional team in Virginia, which has been in existence for 20 years. The Kickers have a strong reputation for excellence progressing 23 players to Major League Soccer and we are respected nationally as one of the country’s best clubs.

Expectations for our Academy players are very high and they are treated like young professionals.  The move to a ten month season also allows select players to train and play scrimmage matches with the professional team from February through August. Additionally Academy players have the opportunity to observe the Richmond Kickers first team’s training, matches and coaching sessions.

What age groups does the Academy have for the 2012-13 Season?
  • U16s (1999/1998/1997/1996)
  • U18s (1996/1995/1994)
How are players selected for the Richmond Kickers Academy?
There are a number of ways that top players can become part of the Richmond Kickers Academy:
  • Assessment in their own playing environments (e.g. club, school, state or regional teams)
  • Recommendation from personnel within the professional and collegiate ranks
  • Assessment in Academy training environment after requesting to join Academy
What competitions do the team plays in?
The U16s and U18s play in the US Soccer Development Academy League.

Can players play for other Youth Soccer Clubs and/or High School teams?
After receiving overwhelming support from the Development Academy membership, the Academy is moving to a schedule beginning in the fall of 2012 that runs from September through June (or July based on postseason play). This creates a format that is similar to those followed by the elite soccer playing nations around the world as the Development Academy and U.S. Soccer continue their goal of closing the performance gap with the top soccer nations. Academy members will not be able to play for any additional soccer teams.

Feb 20, 2012

Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks are DC/VA Open Cup Champs

Agean Hawks F.C.
The Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks are once again Open Cup champions of the Metropolitan DC-VA Soccer Association, taking another step to returning to the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup for the first time since 2009. By a 3-1 scoreline, the Hawks defeated Club Atletico Virginia, the two-time defending DC/VA Open Cup champion in the championship game at Long Bridge Park in Arlington, Va on Sunday, Feb. 19.

Read Full Game Recap by The Cup.us

Feb 16, 2012

Local teams Hotspur, Royals, Piranhas 2012 PDL Season Schedule Released

Three Virginia teams that particpate in the Premier Developmental League can now start  planning for their 2012 season matchups. The USL released the 2012 PDL Schedule today. The Fredericksburg Hotspur, Northern Virginia Royals, and Virginia Beach Piranhas will play in the South Atlantic Division of the PDL in 2012.

2012 PDL Schedule

TAMPA, Fla. – United Soccer Leagues released the 2012 divisional alignment and schedule for the PDL today, with the 584-game regular season getting underway on April 22 as LA Misioneros FC faces the Fresno Fuego.
 
Thirteen new teams have joined the PDL for 2012, including the Austin Aztex, Baltimore Bohemians, Boston Victory, CFC Azul, Chicago Inferno, FC Tucson, Ocala Stampede, Palmetto FC Bantams, Panama City Beach Pirates, Texas Dutch Lions, Southern West Virginia King’s Warriors, VSI Tampa Flames and Worcester Hydra.

Several teams have announced name changes including the Sounders FC U23 (Tacoma Tide), El Paso Patriots (Chivas El Paso Patriots), Fraser Valley Mariners (Abbotsford Mariners), LA Misioneros FC (Los Angeles Legends), West Texas Sockers (West Texas United Sockers) and Seacoast United Phantoms (New Hampshire Phantoms).

The PDL will feature 73 teams in four geographic conferences and nine divisions. The Eastern Conference features three divisions while the Southern, Central and Western Conferences feature two divisions each.  PDL clubs will play 16-game schedules in 2012, eight home and eight away. The defending PDL champion Kitsap Pumas open their 2012 campaign on Friday, May 4, when they travel to play the Vancouver Whitecaps FC U-23 at Swangard Stadium.

Feb 13, 2012

Kickers name GK Ronnie Pascale Player/Assistant for 2012

Official Kickers Press Release:

RICHMOND, VA – (Monday, February 13, 2012) – The Richmond Kickers continue their strong tradition of hiring from within the organization, naming veteran goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale player/assistant coach for the 2012 season, pending USL and USSF approval.

“Ronnie is a welcome addition to the pro team coaching staff as he brings extensive playing and coaching experience to our squad,” commented Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Head Coach and Director of Soccer.  “He understands firsthand the expectations, tradition and culture we demand from our players and I look forward to working closely with him this season to produce a team capable of winning a Championship.”

"I'm excited to play one more season with the Kickers and finish my professional career here in Richmond,” added Pascale.  “It's been an amazing journey and to be able to play my last year while celebrating the Kickers 20th Anniversary means a lot.”

“I'm very grateful to Leigh and the Kickers organization for selecting me for the assistant coach role, and I'm looking forward to a successful 2012 campaign,” continued Pascale.  “I know it's going to be an extremely fun season for the Kickers and our fans, and I'm just happy to be a part of it and to be able to play one more season in front of my family and the best fans in the league."

A franchise player entering his 13th season with the Kickers, Pascale has been Richmond’s starting goalkeeper since 2002, logging over 25,000 minutes in a Kickers uniform.  Consistently one of the top netminders in the league, Pascale backstopped the team to the USL PRO and U.S. Open Cup Semifinals in 2011, ending the campaign with a miniscule 0.960 goals against average in 30 games played.  Shoring up one of the best defensive units in the league, the experienced goalkeeper led the back line to a career-best 11 shutouts in 2011, while allowing just 29 goals on the season.  The longtime Kickers veteran tops the all-time games played list with 279 appearances and is a three-time USL Goalkeeper of the Year, honored in 2006, 2007 and 2009.

Named Southern Conference Rookie of the Year in 1995, Pascale was a four-year starter at Furman University and was named to the Southern All-Conference team four times, Conference Goalkeeper of the year three times, and was twice named to the Second Team All-South.  After his senior season, Pascale was named the Furman Male Athlete of the Year (1998/99).

Reserve 2012 Season Passes and celebrate 20 years of professional soccer with the Richmond Kickers.  Richmond Kickers season passes offer unbeatable value, VIP benefits and incredibly low prices to all regular season home games.  Guaranteed to see 12 highly competitive USL PRO games for the best possible pricing, order a Family Pass ($129), All-Access Pass ($95) Adult Pro Pass ($60) or Youth Pro Pass ($30, ages 3-17).

Feb 10, 2012

Richmond Kickers announce benefit exhibition in support of #STOWESTRONG

Support for FC Richmond soccer coach and former William and Mary player, Ian Stowe who is battling a tumor, continues to come from all areas of the soccer community. Today the Richmond Kickers organization announced they will hold a benefit exhibition match to support #stowestrong.

From Kickers Press Release:

RICHMOND, VA – (Friday, February 10, 2012) – In support of Ian Stowe’s battle with cancer, the Richmond Kickers and The College of William & Mary are pleased to team up for a benefit exhibition match on Friday, March 23.  Kickoff is slated for 7:00 p.m. at Ukrop Park and tickets are available at RichmondKickers.com for a $5.00 donation.  All proceeds will directly benefit the fundraising campaign, #stowestrong, for the former Richmond Kickers Super Y-League and Premier Development League player.

[Read Full Story]


Wambach pledges goal for Richmond coach battling tumor


Wambach pledges goal for Richmond coach battling tumor

StoweStrong
By Pat McStay

The Virginia soccer community was hit hard a few weeks ago when William and Mary graduate and FC Richmond youth soccer coach, Ian Stowe was diagnosed with Germinoma, a type of germ cell tumor typically resulting from a failure of germ cells to migrate properly in the body. Stowe is currently at VCU Medical Center undergoing chemotherapy treatments. 


 
Stowe was a fantastic player for the tribe and an up-and-coming coach with FC Richmond, but more importantly, he is a great person. U.S. Women's National team stars Abby Wambach and Hope Solo even sent a shout out to #stowestrong via Twitter. Wambach went so far as to tweet, “the next goal is for you!”

His family needs your help. Go to Facebook and like their page for more updates at #stowestrong.  You can also go to http://www.stowestrong.com/ to donate and email stowestrong@gmail.com to order a *t-shirt to help support their family and rising medical costs for this unforeseen illness.

*100% of the proceeds for the shirts will go to the Stowe family.

Feb 8, 2012

Chesterfield UFC players selected to international and showcase teams

Chesterfield United Football Club in Richmond, VA has had multiple players from their youth teams selected to participate in prestigious international tournaments and an elite women's showcase.

JoJo Taylor and Jackie Zerull invited to participate in the Puma Elite Women's Showcase held in July
Puma has informed Chesterfield FC that two of their very talented young women, JoJo Taylor and Jackie Zerull, were selected to participate in the Puma Elite Women’s Showcase held in July.  This showcase is for the top 100 rising sophomores and juniors in the country. Read more about the event here: ( http://www.puma.com/football/news/2012-puma-womens-elite-showcase-dates-announced  ) 


 
 

Hector Rivera chosen to play in the 32nd Annual Torneio Internacional in Lisbon, Portugal
Chesterfield FC U14 player Hector Rivera will travel to Lisbon, Portugal April 3-9th to participate with a group of players hand selected from throughout the country to participate in the 32nd Annual Torneio Internacional De Futebal held in Lisbon, Portugal.
“Hector really deserves this opportunity as he has dedicated himself to becoming the very best player that he can be. He is a great role model for all of our players at the club as he is always putting extra work in to become better. As a club we are very proud of him for this achievement and we look forward to sharing his experiences abroad with all of our players” Matt Lacey, Director of Player Development.

Miles Rapp selected on 97B VA State Team travelling to France
For the second time in as many years Chesterfield United is sending a player on an overseas trip with VA State ODP. This year Miles Rapp was selected to go with the 97 Boys to France in early April.  
"I think Miles has made the most of training and practicing on his own this year.  He is starting to reap the benefits of his hard work and I couldn’t be happier for him."- Pat McStay, U15 Puma Boys coach and Director of Operations.


For more Chesterfield FC news and updates: (CLICK HERE)

Feb 7, 2012

Kickers player Katie Cousins Selected to National Team Mega-Camp

U-15 Girls' National Team to Hold Mega-Camp in Florida

Katie Cousins of the Richmond Kickers will be the lone representative out of Virginia for the upcoming U-15 Girls' National Team mega-camp set to take place in Sunrise, Florida from Feb. 11-18.

Cousins was part of the group of 48 players chosen by U.S. Under-15 Girls’ National Team head coach Damon Nahas and U.S. Soccer Women’s Development Director Jill Ellis.

VASoccerNews would like to congratulate both Katie Cousins and the Richmond Kickers program.

Feb 6, 2012

UVA Men ink Six for 2012-2013

Official Virginia Press Release:

Six Sign Letters of Intent to Join Virginia Men's Soccer


CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - Virginia men's soccer head coach George Gelnovatch has announced the signing of six highly-touted student-athletes to National Letters of Intent for the 2012-13 school year.
Zachary Carroll (Grand Blanc, Mich.), Brian James (Sunrise, Fla.), Shane O'Neill (Fairview, Colo.), Marcus Salandy-Defour (Kensington, Md.), Scott Thomsen (Brick, N.J.) and Todd Wharton (Glen Allen, Va.) all have signed on the dotted line to become Cavaliers beginning in the 2012-13 academic year.

The class already has earned national acclaim, with a No. 2 national ranking from Top Drawer Soccer. All six players in the class are ranked on the ESPNHS Class of 2012 150 College Prospects list.

"We believe that this class is very talented - on paper it looks fantastic," Gelnovatch said. "I also happen to know that there is more to winning and having a great team than just talent. We will work diligently with these signees, as well as our current players, on the intangible things that make great teams."

The student-athletes join the renowned Virginia program, which has won six national championships and 14 ACC titles. UVa has appeared in 31-consecutive NCAA tournaments - the longest current streak in the nation.

Following are brief bios on each of the 2012-13 signees.

Zachary Carroll
Grand Blanc, Mich./Grand Blanc HS
6-3, Defender
• Ranked No. 7 on ESPNHS Class of 2012 150 College Prospects list
• Tabbed No. 8 on College Soccer News Top 150 Recruits list
• Ranked No. 15 in the TopDrawerSoccer 2012 National Top 100
• Named Michigan's 2011 Mr. Soccer
• Played on 2011 United States U-17 World Cup Team
• Tied for second on that squad with nine international appearances, including five starts
• Part of Development Academy Select Team at 2010 Winter Showcase
• Scored 34 career goals and added 29 assists in high school

Brian James
Sunrise, Fla./American Heritage HS
5-10, Midfielder
• Ranked No. 24 on College Soccer News Top 150 Recruits list
• No. 49 on ESPNHS Class of 2012 150 College Prospects list
• Ranked No. 89 in the TopDrawerSoccer 2012 National Top 100
• Named to ESPNHS Winter All-America boys' soccer first team in 2011
• Led nation with 44 assists as freshman during 2008-09 season
• Posted national-best 36 assists during his junior year (also scored 15 goals)
• Guided American Heritage to 2009 and 2011 state championships
• Two-time Palm Beach Post High School Player of the Year

Shane O'Neill
Louisville, Colo./Fairview HS
6-2, Midfielder
• Ranked No. 123 on ESPNHS Class of 2012 150 College Prospects list
• Named West MVP of 2011 High School All-American Game
• Named to All-Colorado Boys Soccer Team and Class 5A All-State Team in 2011
• Honorable mention all-state in soccer and basketball as a junior
• Scored 48 goals and added 27 assists in Fairview career - both are school records
• Member of U.S. Development Academy's Colorado Rapids U-15/16 and U-17/18 teams

Marcus Salandy-Defour
Kensington, Md./Georgetown Prep
5-9, Forward/Midfielder
• Ranked No. 25 on ESPNHS Class of 2012 150 College Prospects list
• Tabbed No. 18 on College Soccer News Top 150 Recruits list
• Four caps with U-18 Men's National Team
• Member of MLS SUM CUP championship team
• U.S. Development Academy select team
• Four-year starter at Georgetown Prep
• Three-time IAC first team
• Two-time First-Team All-Gazette
• All-Met honorable mention
• Three-year member of Maryland ODP Team
• Two-time Region I team
• Played four years with DC United Academy

Scott Thomsen
Brick, N.J./Christian Brothers Academy
5-10, Midfielder/Defender
• Ranked No. 32 on ESPNHS Class of 2012 150 College Prospects list
• No. 58 on College Soccer News Top 150 Recruits list
• Ranked No. 76 in the TopDrawerSoccer 2012 National Top 100
• U-18 Men's National Team Pool
• National Team Experience at U-14, U-15, U-17
• Captain of New York Red Bulls U-18 Academy Team
• First-Team All-State
• Central Jersey Player of the Year

Todd Wharton
Glen Allen, Va./Deep Run HS
5-11, Midfielder
• Ranked No. 21 in the TopDrawerSoccer 2012 National Top 100
• No. 52 on College Soccer News Top 150 Recruits list
• Ranked No. 54 on ESPNHS Class of 2012 150 College Prospects list
• 2011 NSCAA All-America honoree
• Played for the Richmond Strikers Academy program and led the team in goals and assists
• Was captain for last two years
• Played nine of his 11 years in travel soccer with the Strikers
• All-state, all-region, all-district and all-metro selection for Deep Run High School
• Four-year starter at Deep Run
• Led Deep Run in assists last three years and set the all time single-season scoring record as a junior (24 goals), breaking the record previously set by former UVa standout Brian Ownby (19)
• Named District Player of the Year and team MVP as a junior
• Member of the U-14 and U-15 National Teams (2007-2009) and trained at the U-17 National Team residency camp (2010)

D.C. United remain active with more roster moves

Keeping up with the many moves that have taken place with regards to D.C. United's roster over the last couple of weeks is no small task. Each day it seems as if United are releasing another press release regarding a new player signing or the release of a player. Instead of posting each individual press release here is a recap of the roster moves from the past week up to today.






Blake Brettshneider Waived

Washington, D.C. (February 3, 2012) – D.C. United announced today that the club has waived forward Blake Brettschneider. The 22-year-old departs United after completing his rookie season with the team last year.   

“We’d like to thank Blake for his contributions to our club,” said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper. “He was very well-liked and a good professional and we wish him the best in the future.”  (Read Full Story)


United signs midfielder Marcelo Saragosa

Washington, D.C. (February 6, 2012) – D.C. United announced today the club has signed midfielder Marcelo Saragosa. The 30-year old Brazilian has played 116 career games in MLS. Per club and League policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“We are pleased to have concluded a deal to bring Marcelo to DC,” said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper. “He is well-acquainted with our League and brings additional depth to a midfield that we feel is already one of the best in the League. We look forward to his contributions to our team.” (Read Full Story)


United acquires allocation money from Portland Timbers

Washington, D.C. (February 6, 2012) – D.C. United announced today the club has acquired allocation money from the Portland Timbers in exchange for an international roster spot. The international roster spot will return to United following the 2013 MLS season. (Read Full Story)

Feb 4, 2012

Tribe sign eight for 2012 Recruiting Class


WILLIAMSBURG, Va. - Williamand Mary head women's soccer coach John Daly signed eight student-athletes tonational letters of intent on Wednesday. The eight player recruiting class joins a stout W&M squad, fresh offof a CAA championship, and a NCAA tournament birth last season.  In the national polls, last year the Tribeclimbed to as high as No. 14th last season. When it was all said and done in 2011, the College posted an overallrecord of 17-3-2 and a CAA ledger of 10-1.
Courtesy TribeAthletics.com

Feb 2, 2012

United add Hamdi Salihi as DP

Official D.C. United Press Release:



28-year old Albanian international has scored 163 goals in 289 professional matches

Washington, D.C. (February 2, 2012) – D.C. United announced today the club has signed 28-year old forward Hamdi Salihi as a Designated Player. The Albanian international has scored 163 goals in 289 professional matches (all competitions), 53% of the matches in which he has played. Per club and League policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed. Salihi will be officially added to the roster following receipt of his International Transfer Certificate, P-1 Visa, and full medical clearance.



“We are thrilled to have completed a deal to bring Hamdi to MLS and D.C. United,” said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper. “He has one of the most impressive strike rates you’ll find and has shown he’s capable of scoring goals at every level in which he’s played. We believe strongly he will become another important piece for our team and we look forward to seeing him on the field in March.”

Salihi was most recently with Rapid Vienna of Austria’s top division. During the team’s current campaign, he has scored 11 goals in 15 matches (all competitions). In three total years with Rapid Vienna, he has tallied 53 goals in 90 total matches (all competitions). While at Rapid Vienna, Salihi was a teammate of current D.C. United midfielder Branko Boskovic.

The Albanian forward’s career began with his hometown side KS Vllaznia Shkodër in 2002. Over three campaigns with the team, Salihi tallied 30 goals in 53 matches (all competitions).

In 2005, Salihi moved to Panionios in Athens Greece. He played in just six matches before returning to Albania to join KF Tirana prior to the 2005-06 season. He captured the Golden Boot as the league’s top scorer, helping his team to the National Cup – the Albanian Superliga championship. Two campaigns with Tirana saw Salihi tally an impressive 42 goals in 52 matches (all competitions).

Midway through the 2006-07 campaign, Salihi moved to SV Ried of Austria’s Bundesliga, tallying six goals in 16 games with his new side. During the next two full campaigns, he notched 30 goals in 65 matches (all competitions). Salihi began the 2009-10 campaign with SV Ried and scored two goals in seven matches before a mid-season move to Rapid Vienna. Over 31 total matches (all competitions) with his new side, he scored 17 goals. The 2010-11 season saw Salihi tally 25 goals in 44 matches (all competitions).

Salihi has also been an important part of the Albanian National Team, scoring nine goals in 37 senior team matches. In 2011, he had his best year to date with Albania, tallying three goals in ten international games.

D.C. United’s 17th MLS season begins on Saturday, March 10 when the Black-and Red host Sporting Kansas City. Kick-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Ticket packages may be purchased at dcunited.com.




Name: Hamdi SalihiHeight: 6’1”
Weight: 170
Jersey: 9
Position: Forward
Birthdate: January 19, 1984
Age: 28

Birthplace:  Shkoder, Albania
Hometown: Shkoder, Albania
Previous Club: Rapid Vienna (Austria)
Acquired: Signed on February 2, 2012

First Annual LLND Memorial Golf Tournament


FIRST ANNUAL NICK FRANCA
MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Monday, April 30th, 2012
Chantilly National Golf and Country Club
14901 Braddock Road, Centerville, VA
Please register (see back) by April 1, 2012


Nick Franca
Format 4 Person, Captain’s Choice (please register as a team)

Program 11:00 AM – Registration, Auction Preview, Raffle Tickets, Putting Contest, Boxed Lunch

12:30 PM – Shotgun

5:30 PM – Live Like Nick Did (LLND) Program, Dinner, Silent Auction, Raffle, Awards

Special Events Closest to the pin, hole-in-one car contest, longest drive (men and women), silent auction*, raffle*

*Please contact Sallie Buben to donate auction and raffle items
Salliebuben@gmail.com  or 202-309-2244


Proceeds will benefit a medically challenged student at Lynchburg College through the Nick Franca Memorial Scholarship as well as the Band of Parents in its mission to fund research for less toxic treatments for the childhood cancer Neuroblastoma.


Contact:
Caryn Franca
7017 Union Mill Road
Clifton, VA 20124
carynfranca@gmail.com
703-830-1141 (h), 703-944-5441 (c)
Band of Parents is a 501(c)3public charity. Your donationsare tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.
www.bandofparents.org
Sponsorship Opportunities

Nick Franca faced cancer head on at age 15. His valiant, six year fight brought many gifts to the world. One of those gifts was Band of Parents, which his mother helped launch in 2007. Band of Parent’s purpose was to fund new, nontoxic treatments for Neuroblastoma, the disease Nick suffered from. The first treatment is now in clinical trial at Memorial-Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, which was Nick’s primary hospital. Band of Parents raised 1.5 million dollars to fund this treatment that arrived at the clinic several months after Nick passed. Results are promising so far, and now Band of Parents has committed to fund two more treatments that will help children plagued with this disease.

While in treatment Nick was able to attend college at Lynchburg College in Virginia. Their support of Nick was so special that the Franca family now has a scholarship in honor of Nick at Lynchburg. Each year a student with a special medical need will be the recipient.

Sponsorship is an enormous part of making Nick’s Memorial tournament a success, so that both of these causes will be given vibrant life, in honor of his. Thank you for considering this tax deductible donation. All registrations and donations will be run through the Band of Parents. The scholarship will be funded through that total.
FIRST ANNUAL NICK FRANCA