Arlington Futbol Academy Launches Elite Youth Soccer Training; Fitness Programs in Northern Virginia

Arlington, VA (PRWEB) March 29, 2012

Arlington Futbol Academy has officially launched an elite youth soccer training program in the Northern Virginia and Washington, DC Metro region. The company's stated mission is to: Provide superior soccer training for Northern Virginia youth players to improve skills, conditioning, and tactical knowledge.

Arlington Futbol Academy is a supplemental training program and is not affiliated with any club. AFA will it participate in competitive matches, and it will offer training to players aged 7-18.

Director James Mundia: "Our goal is to provide rigorous training in the fundamentals of the game. I'm shocked at how some players are at the top level of their clubs and are still missing key components to their game. Right now at the club level there is too much of a focus on competition instead of development. By taking the matches out, we're focusing on building the next generation of players that is ready to compete at a high level."

Personal training sessions will take place in the North Arlington area, where players will have the option to do private sessions with a coach or train in small groups. AFA will also be holding a summer training program, with 5 days a week of training during the summer vacation for youth players.

"Soccer has been my life and it's a joy to share that passion with these young players," says Mundia, who is an Arlington resident and a native of Kenya. "We started AFA to give players the tools they need to be the best they can every time they take the field. There is a real need for that in this area and we're happy to fill that gap."

About ARLfutbol

The Arlington Futbol Academy is an exclusive youth soccer training program designed to take players to the next level. AFA was created by James Mundia. James is a lifelong soccer player who has been coaching youth soccer at the club and school level for over ten years.

Conor Shanosky Talks with Fans of United Podcast

Hotspur Announce Final Open Tryout Date

The Fredericksburg Hotspur have announced a final open tryout date for the club's USL PDL team for the 2012 season. The men's team will hold tryouts on Sunday, April 15th, from 12-2 p.m. at Patriot Park, located at:

5710 Smith Station Road, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22407

There will be a $25 tryout fee per player. Registration and payment must be received by noon on the day of the tryout. Any player making the squad will be reimbursed their $25 fee. 

According to the United Soccer Leagues guidelines, USL rosters may consist of a maximum of 26 players, with 18 designated for each game. PDL teams are permitted a maximum of eight foreign players per roster.
All players trying out for the Hotspur squad 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.

For more information visit the web site at http://www.fasasoccer.org/

United Academy Players Commit to Local Universities

D.C. United Academy announces university commitments

U.S. U-20 Men’s National Team midfielder Collin Martin to join Wake Forest University

Washington, D.C. (March 27, 2012) – D.C. United announced today that three of its U-18 players have committed to play soccer at three different NCAA Division I universities.

“We are excited for each of these individuals and are proud of the success they have had, both on the field and in the classroom,” said D.C. United U-18 Head Coach Nolan Sheldon. “This achievement is a culmination of many years of hard work and dedication, and we are confident that each one of them will have terrific collegiate careers.”

Previously, the D.C. United Academy announced 10 university commitments: Damilola Adetola (Villanova University), Jannik Eckenrode (Radford University), Ryan Harmouche (George Mason University), Peter Lee (U.S. Army), Sam Legg (Radford University), Robert Maffei (Manhattan College), Jalen Robinson (Wake Forest University), Marcus Salandy-Defour (University of Virginia), Michael D. Russo (University of Central Florida), Edgar Zepeda (George Mason University).

The following players today announced their official university commitment:

Collin Martin – Wake Forest University
Date of birth: November 9, 1994
Position: Midfielder
Tenure at D.C. United: Three years
Previous youth clubs: Bethesda Real, Potomac Real and Olney Rangers
U.S. National Team: U-14, U-15 and U-17 National Team Pool; U-17 and U-20 National Team Camp
Honors/awards: 2011 U-16 Academy All-Star Team, 2011 All-Met First Team and 2010 All-Met Honorable Mention

Ahmed Ismail – George Mason University
Date of birth: December 7, 1993
Position: Midfielder
Tenure at D.C. United: Three years
Previous youth clubs: McLean MPS Celtic Green and Reston Nova FC
Honors/awards: 2009 and 2010 MLS SUM Cup Champion

Adam Hamdan – Virginia Commonwealth University
Date of birth: February 3, 1994
Position: Defender
Tenure at D.C. United: Two years
Previous youth clubs: McLean Academy, McLean Premiere, Reston Nova and SYA Nova
Honors/awards: Mid-Atlantic Academy Champion, Northern Region High School Champion, Two-time Liberty District Honorable Mention, BROP Awards for Athletics and Leadership, and Two-time Riverhawk Mile Champion

Seventh Edition of La Super Copa set to Kick Off

 “La Super Copa VII” kicks off this weekend

16 champions from local amateur leagues set to begin tournament March 31

Washington, D.C. (March 26, 2012) - D.C. United announced today the seventh edition of La Super Copa, a single elimination full side 11-v-11 invitational soccer tournament that brings together different amateur champions from DC’s Metropolitan local leagues, will kick off this weekend with first round games at the RFK Stadium Turf Training Field.  La Super Copa VII, presented by Volkswagen, is sponsored by American Airlines and Adidas.  The tournament’s draw took place on March 10 at RFK Stadium, prior to D.C. United’s first match of the season against Sporting Kansas City. 

The 16 local champions participating in the 2012 edition of La Super Copa are defending champions Inter de Virginia, Peñarol (Central American Peruvian League), Corinto (Arlington Soccer League), Real Candelareño (Continental Soccer League), Santa Marta (Herndon Soccer League), La Chapin (Maryland International Soccer League), Maryland Bays (Maryland Major Soccer League), Vienna Law Group (North Virginian Soccer League), Español (Springfield Soccer League), Screaming Eagles (Virginia International Soccer League), Wobblers (Washington International Soccer League), Atletico Virginia (Washington Premier League), Destroyer United (Woodbridge International Soccer League), Real International FC (Commonwealth Soccer League), Mount Pleasant FC (Latin American Soccer League) and Juventud Latina (Manassas Soccer League).

First round games begin on Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1 at the RFK Stadium Turf Training Field.  Admission for all games is free of charge. The Super Copa Final will be held on Sunday, April 22, at 3:00 p.m, prior to D.C. United’s game against the New York Red Bulls scheduled for 6:00 p.m. at RFK Stadium.

All participating teams receive a full set of 20 new adidas team uniforms.  There will be a cash prize of $5,000 for the Cup winner and $2,000 for the runner-up as well as team trophies and individual medals.
For more information about the tournament, please contact Andrew Minucci at 202-587-5000.  Below is the tournament schedule.  All games to be played at RFK Stadium Turf Training Field.
First Round
Saturday, March 31, 2012
 
9 a.m. – Maryland Bays vs. Inter de Virginia
11 a.m. – Corinto vs. Real Candelareño
1 p.m. – Atletico Virginia vs. Real International FC
3 p.m. – Mt. Pleasant FC vs. Screaming Eagles
First Round 
Sunday, April 1, 2012
 9 a.m. – Español vs. Juventud Latina
11 a.m. – Wobblers vs. La Chapin
1 p.m. – Destroyer  United vs. Vienna Law Group
3 p.m. – Santa Marta vs. Peñarol
 
Quarterfinals
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Semifinals
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Final
Sunday, April 22, 2012

Hotspur sign former German Professional Gibson

(Fredericksburg, Va. March 26th, 2012) - The Fredericksburg Hotspur are pleased to announce the signing of Grover Gibson as a player and Assistant Coach for the 2012 season.  Gibson played professionally in Germany beginning in 1996 for VFB Stuttgart U-18 Bundesliga after leaving high school, then on to other well-known German clubs such as SC Preussen Muenster, FC Augsburg, SV Elversbrg, and FC Mainz.  Gibson's last club was Rot-Weiss Ahlen, in Bundesliga 2, from 2006-2009, where he made 30 appearance and scored 6 goals.  Gibson's professional career ended in 2009 due to a fractured eye socket.

In total, Gibson played in 225 professional matches, and scored 18 goals.

"I'm extremely pleased to have the opportunity to play right here in the town where I grew up," said Gibson.  "I strive and hope to help create a professional environment and atmosphere with the Hotspur."

Gibson is the second major player signing with the Hotspur in as many weeks, as he joins former Trinidad and Tobago international Evans Wise on the club's roster.


Grover Gibson, Fredericksburg Hotspur


"Grover is really going to help us in the 2012 season," said Hotspur Head Coach Carl Gray.  "He has played at the highest levels in Germany for more than 10 years, and his experience and skill are going to help us both on and off the field.  The younger guys on the squad are going to learn a lot from he and Evans Wise this year."

The club will officially introduce Gibson on Monday, March 26th, at 7 o'clock at the Hotspur offices in the Fredericksburg Field House.  All are welcome to attend.

The Hotspur kick off their season on May 13th at the Northern Virginina Royals.

The team's first home game will be Saturday, May 19th, at the University of Mary Washington, as part of a doubleheader with the W-League's Fredericksburg Impact.  

The top developmental men’s league in North America, the PDL features 73 teams within four conferences across the United States and Canada. The PDL season consists of 16 regular season matches for each team, eight home and eight away, and provides elite collegiate players the opportunity to taste a higher level of competition while maintaining their eligibility. In addition to league play, PDL teams compete in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as well as various exhibitions. The PDL has proven to be an important stepping-stone for top professionals now playing throughout the world.

Bill Hamid Earns Shutout in Goal for USA vs. Cuba - U.S. Soccer

U.S. Starts Group A with Victory Against Cuba - U.S. Soccer

U.S. U-23 Men’s National Team head coach CALEB PORTER

“We’re obviously pleased with the strong start, but we’re also not satisfied with the performance. Even though the result was lopsided, I still thought it could have been better. Early in the game we were a little bit shaky in the buildup. The defending could have been a little tighter. It’s a little bit to be expected in the first game of the tournament. It’s been a long wait for this first game, and I think that showed a little bit in the nervousness out of a few guys. The nice thing is they settled in. You saw in the second half it was sharper, the defending was better, and you could see what we are capable of doing when we play quickly, the spacing is good, and the ball moves. I thought we put together some very attractive sequences and it was very effective, and I think we’ll get better and better as the tournament goes on. We’ll keep grounded on this one, file it away, and get ready for Canada.”

Travel Soccer Returning to the WISC | Williamsburg Yorktown Daily

By Will Armbruster Thursday, March 22, 2012

Through a partnership with the Tidewater Sharks, a semi-pro men’s and women’s indoor soccer club based in the area, youth travel soccer is returning to the Williamsburg Indoor Sports Complex.

Read Original Article: Travel Soccer Returning to the WISC

DC Elite Tryouts at Soccerplex Sunday

DC Elite Training Alliance has announced tryouts this Sunday at the Maryland Soccerplex for ALL GIRLS age groups this weekend.

When: Sunday, March 25th

Time: 7-8:30 PM for ALL GIRLS AGE GROUPS

All age groups (U12-16) should sign in at Field 19.

U12 and U13 will be on one field, U14, U15 and U16 will be on the second field.

Where: Maryland Soccerplex

Please arrive 15-30 minutes before the start of tryouts.

All players should bring a ball, shinguards and water.

Please make sure that you have pre-registered for tryouts using the link below:
http://dcelite.wufoo.com/forms/dc-elite-tryout-registration-for-summer-2012/

If you have any questions, please contact:
info@dcelitetrainingalliance.com

Job | Arlington Soccer Association: Rec, Teen & Travel soccer in Arlington, VA

Arlington, VA - In preparation for the late Spring departure of Director of Coaching, Grant Smith, Arlington Soccer Association are pursuing candidates to replace for the Director of Coaching position with their club.

ASA is seeking to start interviews in mid-March, and hope to have the new Director start by June 1 at the latest.

The full job posting is linked here.

Job | Arlington Soccer Association: Rec, Teen & Travel soccer in Arlington, VA

Longwood Athletics - Shane Johnson Signs With USL's Richmond Kickers

Shane Johnson

FARMVILLE, Va. – Longwood University senior Shane Johnson of Ashburn (Broad Run), a four-year standout defender on the men's soccer team, recently agreed to terms for the 2012 season with the Richmond Kickers of the United Soccer Leagues (USL) Pro Division.  Johnson started 70 of 71 matches during his career with the Lancers, totaling three goals and six assists for 12 points, including one game-winning goal while leading a defense that registered 17 shutouts over the past four seasons.

Longwood Athletics - Shane Johnson Signs With USL's Richmond Kickers

Northern Virginia Clubs Win Big at Local Tournaments

from ConnectionNewspapers.com

Vienna — The Springfield Youth Club (SYC) Storm White girls’ soccer team kicked off their spring season with a resounding win at the highly competitive Arlington Invitational Spring Soccer Tournament, held March 10-11 in Arlington. Competing in the 11 versus 11 Premier Division, Storm White reached the 12-under finals where it defeated Arlington Chaos Red, 4-0, in the title game.

"We are very proud of the Storm players in their first 11 versus 11 tournament,” said head coach Mark Heilbrun. “They showed great athleticism, skill and hard work, and brought a great deal of joy to these games. This provides a great foundation for the future for Storm White."

Storm White, under the guidance of coach Heilbrun, receives additional training from Gayle Smith Wilson.

The SYC Storm White also won an even bigger tournament this past weekend (March 16-17) - The Jefferson Cup in Richmond.

Storm White is generously sponsored by local businesses Kay Jennings Springfield Toyota; Mannix Heating and Cooling; Peter K. Cocolis, Jr., DMD, Family and Cosmetic Dentistry; Elhady Orthodontics; and Glory Days Grill. The team is part of the Springfield/South County Youth Club in the Washington Area Girls Soccer (WAGS) League. Team members come from throughout Northern Virginia, including Fairfax Station, Lorton, Alexandria, Burke and Centerville.

The Virginian Memorial Day Soccer Tournament, under new leadership this year, has made several new and exciting changes while holding on to many traditions. The event, held in Northern Virginia, is open to boys and girls select soccer teams from the under-9 to under-19 age classifications. All games will be played on quality fields with all teams playing a minimum of three games. There will be four levels of competition and college coaches and scouts will be on-hand. For more information or to register, visit http://www.soccertournament.com/.

The Great Falls Everton Blue U11 Boys competed in both the Arlington Cup and nationally ranked Jefferson Cup (Richmond) the first two weekends in March. From March 3-4, Everton competed in the Arlington Cup and swept the competition, bringing home the Championship Cup to Great Falls. The following weekend, Everton traveled to Richmond to compete in the nationally ranked Jefferson Cup. There, they faced stiff competition and defeated their first three opponents to make it to the championship again. However, they lost 3-1 to a strong YMS Wolves team from Pennsylvania. Nonetheless, Everton did an outstanding job and made the parents and the Great Falls Soccer Club proud.

Tribe Men’s Soccer to Play Richmond Kickers to Benefit StoweStrong Fund - William & Mary - Athletics at William & Mary

by: TribeAhtletics.com

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. - The William and Mary men's soccer team and the Richmond Kickers of the United Soccer Leagues (USL) will play an exhibition match to benefit the StoweStrong Fund at Ukrop Park in Richmond on Friday, March 23, at 7 p.m.  Tickets will be on sale for a donation of $5 with all proceeds going toward the StoweStrong.com fundraising campaign.

Men’s Soccer to Play Richmond Kickers to Benefit StoweStrong Fund - William & Mary - Athletics at William & Mary

StoweStrong on Facebook

StoweStrong.com

Chesterfield United Announce new Player Development Structure, club Academy Model

Richmond, VA – (Tuesday, March 20, 2012) – Chesterfield United is proud to announce the new player development structure and club Academy model. After significant amount of time studying the value of the European Academy club model and structure, Chesterfield United staff has worked hard to improve the club structure to enhance the player development opportunities to all of its players.

“Player development happens at training, not necessarily during games. Players touch the ball more often and are put through more repetitions during training then during a game. So, very simply, more training means more time on the ball, more repetitions, and therefore more development," commented Technical Director, Heather Pedersen.

Each program provided by Chesterfield United now will offer extra player development opportunities and incentives with greater emphasis on training, following U.S. Soccer guidelines continuing the clubs goal to provide the best training environment and cost for players in the city of Richmond and surrounding areas. Directors Matt Lacey and Pat McStay will be flying to England in April to work with Norwich City Football Club (EPL Team) to see this structure in action before it begins in August.

"I am very proud of the fact that we are able to restructure our travel program for the benefit of players without raising costs in a tough economic environment. It speaks volumes about the dedication our directors and coaches have for our club and the willingness of our directors to put in the work and time on the field to ensure that our players are getting better. We are the lowest cost club in the area that provides, without a doubt, the most value. We will continue to work for our members as we grow to ensure that the quality of the staff, teams, and players remains the same in the future." - Pat McStay, Director of Operations

Puma (Elite) teams will now be known as ASL (Atlantic Soccer League) Academy and ASL Jr Academy teams and will now begin to train 3 times a week on a new 9/10 month training schedule.

“The new structure for our ASL Jr Academy teams U10-U13 will allow our already very successful program to grow even further” commented Matt Lacey, Director of Player Development. “With these teams training 3 times a week, we will take this club to another level and create the perfect environment for our teams to play exciting soccer. This model sets us up to prepare these age groups to become successful once they reach the ASL at U14. It’s an exciting challenge I am sure the coach’s will be up for."

ASL Academy U15-U18 teams will still be able to play for their local high school teams unlike other clubs that are being mandated throughout the country.

“The ASL gives us the ability to play great competition at national recognized top events and this is what our players and teams are looking for and deserve. Not only are they receiving college exposure but our players can continue to play high school soccer with their respective schools. We recognize that to play proudly for your High School is an important aspect in a young players life and as a club we will happily support our players and our local community”  - Joe Farrell, ASL Director of Coaching

New Structure Below -
U14-U18 ASL Academy (ELITE BOYS/GIRLS) – ASL Academy teams will compete in the Atlantic Soccer League which provides highly competitive games and allows for maximum amount of training in between events. ASL Academy teams will enhance their development starting in the fall by practicing three times a week on a new 9/10 month season (High School teams U15-U18 will be able to play high school and train August – March). ASL Academy teams will train 2 times a week during the winter starting in January going through February at the state of art complex Sportsquest. Teams will now compete in 4 ASL events and the Ultimate Cup. In the 2011/2012 season of the ASL, Chesterfield United will be sending over 60% of its U18 Boys players to play in college.

U10-U13 ASL Jr Academy (ELITE BOYS/GIRLS) – ASL Jr Academy teams will enhance their development starting in the fall by practicing three times a week on a new 9/10 month season. The concept behind the ASL Jr Academy is that players and teams will be preparing themselves for the challenges of the Atlantic Soccer League which they will begin play at the age of U14s. The ASL Jr Academy teams will also play a fall and spring season in ADSL or VSL D1 league games. ASL Jr Academy teams will train 2 times a week during the winter starting in January going through February at the state of art complex Sportsquest. Selected teams will compete in nationally recognized events such as Norcross (GA), Jefferson Cup (VA), Ultimate Cup (VA), CASL (NC) as well as supporting local tournaments.

U10 – U18 United Teams (CLASSIC BOYS/GIRLS)- United teams will also enhance player and team development by training twice a week, and have an extra training session with the ASL Jr Academy/ ASL Academy teams periodically throughout the year. This will ensure that Directors and Coaches continue to monitor the development of every player in each age group. Specific dates for these extra training sessions will be released before the beginning of each season. Optional Winter training sessions will also still be a part of our United teams travel program and that schedule will be released half way through the Fall 2012 season. United teams will compete in ADSL or VSL league fixtures and play in 4 tournaments throughout the year.

U9 CDP Travel (Competitive Development Program)- The U9 CDP travel program is a ground breaking program for Chesterfield United as it will see the club modeling the US Soccer Development Guidelines. U9 teams will train together as a pool and then play 5v5 games on the weekend against other local clubs supporting these guidelines. They will also play in 1 tournament per season (1 fall/1 Spring) and compete in several development festival. U9 teams will train 2 times a week at Ironbridge and Sportsquest with a third free session on Friday evenings at UT2 Training. During the winter break U9 players will meet once a week as part of their fees during January and February.

U6/U8 UDP (United Development Program)-The U6/U8 UDP Program is an introductory program for Chesterfield United that is a step above recreational soccer. The teams will train two times a week and play small sided games (3v3 and 5v5). Coaches are licensed and it’s a great program to get your player into from the beginning!

Rec Soccer (U5-U19s) – Is the clubs introductory low cost soccer program. Coaches are provided with coaching education to help provide a fun and exciting experience for children of all levels.

"At the end of the day, we are a service based organization. Our job is to listen to our members and try to provide them with the utmost quality. I think we did listen. This model will give players the opportunity to train in a quality environment and play meaningful games without having to give up their lives outside of soccer. We have options for everyone and do not limit families to what they can and cannot do. We welcome cross training with other sports and embrace representing your school. It’s taken a lot of work, but the club is excited to move forward!" - Pat McStay, Director of Operations

Tryouts for U15s-U18s will be released on Friday, March 23. U9-U14 Tryouts will be released  March 30th.

If you have any questions please contact:

Heather Pedersen-Girls Director and Technical Director hpedersen@chesterfieldunited.com
Joe Farrell-ASL and Boys Director jfarrell@chesterfieldunited.com
Matt Lacey-Director of Player Developement mlacey@chesterfieldunited.com
For more information on the Atlantic Soccer League, go to www.aslsoccer.net

Cal South vs. Virginia 1995 Boys, 2012 ODP National Championship

Semifinal Game 1st Half between Cal South and Virginia ODP:
 


Semifinal Game 12nd Half between Cal South and Virginia ODP:

Kickers Draw UNC 1-1 in Pro-Am Challange

Richmond Kickers News Release:

RICHMOND, VA – (Saturday, March 17, 2012) – The Richmond Kickers battled the NCAA Champions University of North Carolina to a 1-1 draw Saturday in front of a capacity crowd in the third annual Pro-Am Challenge at Ukrop Park.  The visiting Tar Heels took an early lead on an Alex Walters tally in the 34^th minute before Kickers forward Matthew Delicâte brought the scoreline level immediately after the second half restart.

The Kickers tested UNC goalkeeper Scott Goodwin early in the first half when defender Sascha Görres teamed up with newcomer Jason Yeisley on an overlapping run down the left wing.  The give and go left Görres open at the edge of the box, allowing him to feed the ball to an onrushing Yeisley but his point-blank strike was smothered by the poised netminder.

Later, Tar Heels forward Josh Rice sliced through the midfield but was shut down by the Kickers staunch defense just outside the box. Walters intercepted the resulting clearance and with one touch, fired the ball on target, forcing Kickers veteran goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale to spring into action to tip the ball over the crossbar.

Midfielder Martin Murphy lined up the ensuing corner kick, swinging the ball into the crowded box.  In the commotion, the ball bounced out to the far post, finding Walters who was not to be denied a second time, redirecting the ball into the opposite corner.

Coming out of the break, the Kickers turned up the pressure and notched the equalizer within minutes of the restart.  Görres targeted Delicâte with a long ball from the back, with the ball dropping behind the defense.  A UNC defender attempted to play it back to his keeper but a poor clearance rebounded off Delicâte and the Kickers prolific goalscorer easily tapped the ball into the open net.

As the final seconds of regulation loomed near, Kickers midfielder Edson Elcock played a short corner to Görres, positioned just outside the 18 yard line.  He crossed an inswinger into the box, finding Gerson dos Santos in the air but his open header sailed wide right.

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.

Box Score             First Half         Second Half                Final

Richmond                     0                      1                            1                                             

North Carolina               1                      0                            1

Scoring Summary

34^th minute: North Carolina – Alex Walters (Martin Murphy)

47^th minute: Matthew Delicâte

Referee:                        Mike Andrews

Assistant Referees:       Ben Hichak, Matthew Nelson

Weather:                       75°, sunny, breezy   

Stadium:                      Ukrop Park

Nike Soccer: The Chance: Mia Hamm's First Find

Partnering with ECNL, US Club Soccer, and US Soccer, Nike will be inviting the top 100 female soccer players around the country to attend a 3-day National Final Camp at Nike's World Headquarters Campus in Beaverton, Oregon at the end of July.



From that Camp, Nike will select the final team of girls that will receive an international soccer experience of a lifetime.



To make it this year, it's all about teamwork. Create a Team page using The Chance Facebook app, recruit your teammates and make enough noise to let us know you've arrived.

Think you've got the talent and hunger to train like an elite athlete? Prove your skills and get people talking about your game. Getting noticed starts here. Make it count.






Sign up your team now: http://go.nike.com/The_Chance

Have any questions?  Just reach out to @nikesoccer on Twitter.

World Cup and MLS Veteran Signed by Hotspur

Fredericksburg, Virginia - The Fredericksburg Hotspur have announced the signing of former Trinidad and Tobago international star Evans Wise to their 2012 Premier Development League (PDL) roster.  Wise played in the 2006 World Cup, appearing in games against England and Paraguay.  Wise is also a veteran of Major League Soccer (MLS), where he played for the Tampa Bay Mutiny and New England Revolution.  His most recent club was for Waldohf Mannheim in Germany.


Evans Wise, new Fredericksburg Hotspur player

 The Hotspur will hold a press conference to introduce Wise at the Fredericksburg Field House on Friday, March 16th, at 3 pm in the Hotspur offices.

SharX defender Dos Santos named to MISL All Rookie Team

Norfolk SharX Press Release:

Tampa – The Major Indoor Soccer League honored the top performers from a highly successful 2011-12 regular season today, naming the All-MISL First and Second Teams and MISL All-Rookie Team.  The Norfolk SharX are proud to announce that team defender Gerson Dos Santos has been selected to the 2011-12 All Rookie Team.

On behalf of all the players and the coaching staff, we are ecstatic that Gerson has received such an honor,” said head coach Jon Hall. “It couldn’t go to a more deserving person than Gerson. His professionalism, skill and leadership, added to his high integrity, make him such a deserving recipient. He’s a class act.”

Dos Santos scored 36 points in 17 games for the SharX this season including the game winner in the team’s first win in its history over Rochester on December 29, 2011. He was named MISL Player of the Week on January 3, 2012 for his performance in that game. He also led the SharX in assists with ten.

GERSON DOS SANTOS

Dos Santos is very happy and surprised by this honor since he had to travel back to Brazil mid-season to tend to his ill father and missed six games. “I am happier to represent the SharX,” he said, “because the whole organization did an awesome job and everyone including my teammates deserves to be a part of this honor.”

 “I am pleased that our peers recognized a top player on a new team,” said SharX General Manager Jim Gooley. “New teams are generally given a pass on such honors until they prove themselves but Gerson was certainly a playmaker for the SharX.”

The 29 year-old Dos Santos is from Sao Paulo, Brazil and played his college soccer at Virginia Commonwealth University.  He played for several youth clubs in his native Brazil including C.A. Juventus and Foz Cataratas E.C., before moving to the United States in 2005 to attend VCU. He played for the Rams for three seasons, scoring ten goals and nine assists, earning All-CAA First Team honors in his sophomore season. He was named CAA Co-Player of the Year as a senior. He played for the Richmond Kickers Future in the Premier Development League in 2007. Dos Santos graduated from college one year early and turned professional in 2009, signing with the USL Second Division Richmond Kickers. He made his professional debut on April 18, 2009 in Richmond's 2-2 opening day tie with the Harrisburg City Islanders and helped the Kickers to the 2009 USL Second Division championship. He returned to play for Richmond at the end of the SharX’ MISL season.

The All-MISL and All-Rookie teams were selected through a vote by MISL team management and select media members.  

Baltimore and Milwaukee will face off in the best-of-three 2012 MISL Championship Series starting this Friday night at 1^st Mariner Arena in Baltimore (7:35 p.m. ET, MISLLive.com), with the second leg set for 4:10 p.m. ET Sunday at U.S. Cellular Arena in Milwaukee (MISLLive.com). A deciding mini-game will be played immediately following Game 2 if needed.

2011-12 ALL-MISL First Team

D        Mike Lookingland, Baltimore Blast

D        Nelson Santana, Syracuse Silver Knights

MF      Max Ferdinand, Baltimore Blast

MF      Geison, Missouri Comets

F        Mauricio Salles, Rochester Lancers 

GK      Sagu, Baltimore Blast

2011-12 All-MISL Second Team

D        Leo Gibson, Missouri Comets

D        Joe Hammes, Milwaukee Wave

MF      Marcio Leite, Milwaukee Wave

F        Machel Millwood, Baltimore Blast

F        Byron Alvarez, Missouri Comets

GK      Danny Waltman, Missouri Comets

2011-12 MISL All-Rookie Team

D         Gerson Dos Santos, Norfolk SharX

D        Stephen DeRoux, Baltimore Blast

MF      Kevin Ten Eyck, Wichita Wings

F        Slavisa Ubiparapovic, Syracuse Silver Knights

F        Nicolas Perera, Milwaukee Wave

GK      Eric Reed, Syracuse Silver Knights

C.J. Sapong on Scoring Winning Goal against D.C. United

On Saturday March 10th in front of a large gathering of family and friends, Manassas, Virginia native and 2011 MLS Rookie of the Year C.J. Sapong of Sporting KC came on as a late game substitute in a scoreless match against D.C. United at RFK Stadium to score the game winning goal. After the match, Virginia Online Soccer News cought up with the former member of local club PWSI, JMU Men's Soccer, and even Super-20 Nationals with D.C. United Youth Academy to discuss the goal. In the audio Minicast below Sapong talks about how it felt to score the game winner against D.C. United ( in the 2012 MLS season opener.

Tryouts announced for Virginia Beach Piranhas

VIRGINIA BEACH PIRANHAS ANNOUNCE 2012
PDL OPEN TRY OUT DATES 

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

The men's team (PDL) will hold tryouts on March 17 from 2-5 p.m. at Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School located at 4552 Princess Anne Road in Virginia Beach.

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. PDL 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.

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

United Home Opener ends in Heartbreak

If you are a fan of D.C. United then the way the 2012 MLS season opener ended could not have felt any worse.

After playing 90 minutes of uninspired play, that was lacking both excitement for the home crowd fans as well as any noticeable chemistry between the much hyped United roster all throughout this pre-season, United had their heart broken by none other than local Manassas, Virginia product and former D.C. United Youth Academy member C.J. Sapong. Sapong was part of the Super-20 Nationals with D.C. United Youth Academy. After the match speaking about what if felt like to score the game winning goal here in D.C., Sapong told Virginia Online Soccer News:

"It felt amazing, a dream come true. To see all my family and friends in the stands cheering for me, to see people that are cheering for D.C. cheering for me thats definetely a fulfilling, amazing feeling."





But alas, as bad as it felt and as hard as the game may have been to watch remember, it was only one game. United are sure to work out their chemistry issues on the field as the season progresses. The biggest obstacle however seems to be time - one week after their home loss to Sporting KC the Black-and-Red will face the defending MLS Champions, L.A. Galaxy. The Galaxy will be a tough team to face following their loss to Real Salt Lake and are loaded with firepower and play makers.

Here are a few notes from the home opener against SKC as well as a short list of areas of improvement United head coach Ben Olsen will surely be looking for from his side if they have any hope of not starting out 0-2 in 2012.

• Rookie Nick DeLeon was on the reserve list for game one, look for Olsen to add DeLeon as on of his subs against L.A.
• United got off to a slow start most likely due to the lack of time the players have had together. They won't have much more time to figure each other out but Olsen will surely be looking for major improvement in this area.
• Returning MVP Dwayne De Rosario's timing seemed to be off all night as he was not much of a factor in the game against KC. Olsen needs to find a way to get Dero more touches and opportunities to create. A possible move to the midfield may help Dero become more involved.
• The few free kick opportunities United did have were wasted at best. Olsen may want to have Najar take the set pieces in the next game in hopes of better results.
• Though the defense clearly looked stronger and improved over last season, Goalkeeper Bill Hamid still had his hands full and single-handily kept D.C. in the match with his reflex save off a Kai Kamara header just before the end of the first half. With Hamid set to feature for the U-23's United can not count on that type of play from the keeper position and will need to limit opposing offenses to fewer uncontested shots on goal.
• DP Hamdi Salihi will need to make better decisions with the ball, especially when he is inside the box and in clear scoring range. It was very disappointing to see him lose possession late in the match when United needed him most. 
• Last but not least, with all the improvements with this years roster and the improved play by the back line United can ill afford to allow teams to steal points with late goals if they truely hope to return to the MLS playoffs for the first time since 2007.

The pressure is now on Ben Olsen and D.C. United to pick up hard to get road points before they return to RFK for a nationally televised (NBC) game against FC Dallas on March 30.

Best case scenario - United return home with a 2-1 record after a strong road trip, looking to get their first home win of the season.

Worst case scenario - United return home win less and face the pressure of trying to get the first win of the season in front of the entire country on NBC against Brek Shea and quality FC Dallas side.

Most realistic scenario - United return from the road trip with a 1-1-1 record with coach Ben Olsen and D.C. United fans still wondering if this team can be as good on the field as they looked on paper.

Carl Gray returns to lead Fredericksburg Hotspur

The Fredericksburg Hotspur of the USL's PDL have announced that head coach Carl Gray will be returning to lead the Hotspur for another season.

In the inaugural season for the Hotspur the club finished in last place of the South Atlantic Division with only 9 points a result of their 2-11-3 record. The club also conceded the most goals in the division, allowing 23 goals against.

2012 Fredericksburg Hotspur PDL Schedule

USL Soccer Release: Gray Returns To Coach Hotspur

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. - Fredericksburg Hotspur has announced that Carl Gray will be returning for a second season as the team's head coach for the 2012 PDL campaign.

"I am excited to be a part of the 2012 Hotspur PDL team," said Gray, a veteran coach who has also played an important role in Virginia's Olympic Development Program for years. "We are in the process of putting together a team we think will contend for the South Atlantic division title."
 

Kickers new logo: Good or Bad?

In what has become a somewhat regular occurrence for professional and sudo-professional sports clubs, the Richmond Kickers have released a new logo. The launch is part of the celebration of the 20-year history of the Kickers organization.

At first glance I couldn't help notice the "K" (for Kickers obviously) in the center of the new logo looks as if it where made from pinball paddles. What do you think? Overall, I feel the new logo is no better or worse than the previous logo, it was designed to replace, which was admittedly outdated. But you have to wonder how much thought actually went into it's design. Yes there was an explanation provided by the design firm, yogg,  in a nifty PDF file providing certain aspects that influenced the creation of the Red Pinball "K" logo, however is this really the best they could do?

According to the official press release announcing the launch of the new logo, it is a combination of symbolic elements to reflect the distinct history, culture and tradition of the Richmond Kickers, as well as the vision for the organization.

The "K" is apparently supposed to remind us of  the motion of exploding soccer balls. Maybe we are supposed to stare at it like those old 3-D posters from the 1990's? Design firm yogg also created a custom Richmond Kickers font that they say combines elements of the club’s innovation and visionary approach to the sport with the industrial grit of the city's past. Doesn't it look a bit Western? See here and here.

It seems like Richmond Kickers President, Rob Ukrop is happy with the new design saying:

“We strive to create a strong, vibrant connection to our region through our exceptional youth programming and our nationally renowned professional team,” added Ukrop.  “Our leadership team believes the club’s modern re-branding embraces the next 20 years and the second generation of fans and players.  We now have a unique, identifiable logo that rivals any soccer club in the world.”

I am a huge proponent of The Richmond Kickers organization and believe it is a tremendous asset to the local community and state of Virginia. Nothing exemplifies their commitment to the youth of their community more than the recent news of their cost-free academy program.

My opinion about the new logo is in no way an attack on the club, it's just an opinion. Some may agree and some may think I am completely wrong but that is the benefit of writing for my own blog. After all, it could be worse.

Tottenham Hotspur International Player Development Camp Announced

Tottenham Hotspur International Player Development Camp

Location: Covenant Park (Ellicott City, MD) Dates: April 2-6, 2012

Course Details: Times: 9am - 3pm Age: 9 - 17 years Price: $355

Applications: www.elitetournaments.com

The Tottenham Hotspur International Player Development Programmed will be hitting Maryland this April. Tottenham Hotspur has a reputation of playing stylish flowing soccer. From the push and run side of the 1950's to the present day, flair, fluidity and attacking soccer are the hallmarks of Spurs. The Tottenham Hotspur Way is our history, heritage and tradition. It is what we have become known for. The Tottenham Hotspur Player Development programme will be led by our specialized International player and coach development te am.

The player development experience Boys and Girls aged 9 to 17 of all soccer abilities can take part in advanced style coaching based on the Tottenham Hotspur Academy Syllabus.

TO BOOK

Complete online application: Click Here

Or contact andy.rogers@tottenhamhotspur.com

United Release Comcast SportsNet Schedule, John Harkes Returns to Broadcast Booth

Official United Press Release:

D.C. United, Comcast SportsNet announce television schedule

John Harkes returns to Comcast SportsNet booth

Washington, D.C. (March 5, 2012) – In conjunction with Comcast SportsNet Mid-Atlantic, the region’s premier source for multiplatform sports coverage, D.C. United today announced an extension of their longstanding partnership with the network, as well as the regional television schedule for the club’s 2012 Major League Soccer campaign. 

As part of the agreement, Comcast SportsNet will provide United supporters unsurpassed coverage of the Black-and-Red, with a schedule of 15 regular-season games this season, beginning with the Opening Night against Sporting Kansas City. United also announced today that the club’s match at Toronto FC on May 5 will kick-off at 4:00 p.m., the result of television considerations for the host club.

“We’re excited to continue working with our long-time partners at Comcast SportsNet,” said United President and CEO Kevin Payne. “They continue to place tremendous effort and resources to bring United games and news coverage into the homes of our supporters.  We appreciate the true partnership that we’ve developed with the Comcast SportsNet team.”

In addition to the season opener, additional highlights of this season’s regional television schedule on Comcast SportsNet include an appearance by the expansion Montreal Impact, as well as matches with Eastern Conference rivals Philadelphia Union, the New England Revolution and Chicago Fire.

“This continues to be a great partnership that delivers a wealth of high-quality, exciting D.C. United programming to our viewers,” said Comcast SportsNet Senior Vice President and General Manager Rebecca Schulte. “We are excited to produce comprehensive, multi-platform United coverage for their passionate fans this season.”

A fixture in the broadcast booth since the inaugural season, Dave Johnson enters his 17th year as the television voice of D.C. United. One of the premier soccer announcers in the United States, Johnson has done play-by-play of both outdoor and indoor soccer for nearly 20 years, appearing on Comcast SportsNet, Fox Soccer Channel, Prime Network, ESPN, and Pax Networks.  In the summer of 2006, Johnson served as play-by-play announcer for XM radio’s World Cup coverage and was behind the microphone for 26 games including the final in Berlin. Also on radio, Johnson has called the 2000 MLS Cup, the 2000 Gold Cup, the 2000 Olympic qualifying tournament, and several US Men’s National Team friendlies and World Cup qualifiers. His work as sports director at WTOP Radio was honored with an Edward R. Murrow Award in 2008.

This season’s broadcasts will be highlighted by the return of John Harkes to the Comcast SportsNet broadcast booth.  An iconic midfielder with United and the U.S. Men’s National Team, Harkes previously called United games in 2005 and 2006.  Harkes later worked with ESPN, calling MLS and U.S. Men’s National Team games from 2006 to 2011, including World Cup matches in 2006 and 2010.  As a player for the Black-and-Red, he led United to five major titles in three seasons as team captain from 1996-1998, including back-to-back MLS Cup Championships in 1996 and 1997, the 1996 U.S. Open Cup, the 1998 CONCACAF Champions' Cup, and the 1998 Inter-American Cup. Harkes was named to MLS All-Star teams all three years.  Harkes was the first player named to a D.C. United roster on October 17, 1995 and was the first player inducted to the Hall of Tradition on May 14, 2003.

Comcast SportsNet’s 2012 coverage of D.C. United will also be prominently featured on the network’s full lineup of daily news and entertainment programs, including SportsTalk Live and Geico SportsNet Central. Comcast SportsNet also provides complete coverage of United online at CSNwashington.com and CSNbaltimore.com.

2012 D.C. United Schedule