D.C. United to compete in 2013 Disney Pro Soccer Classic

Between February 9-23, D.C. United will take part in the 2013 Walt Disney Pro Soccer Classic in Florida as the team prepares for the upcoming MLS season.

The participating teams are Sporting Kansas City, Toronto FC, Philadelphia Union, Columbus Crew, DC United, Montreal Impact, Orlando City, Tampa Bay Rowdies.

D.C. United's teen sensation, Andy Najar, sold to Belgian club

Najar becomes MLS’ first homegrown player to permanently move to a European side

Andy Najar photo by Bo McMillan

Washington D.C. (January 30, 2013) – D.C. United today announced that defender/midfielder Andy Najar has been transferred to R.S.C. Anderlecht. Per team and League policy, the details of the deal were not disclosed. Najar became Major League Soccer’s first homegrown player to permanently move to a European side. Najar initially went on a training stint through the month of December before being loaned to the Belgian side for the month of January. The 19-year-old played 90 minutes in a January 11 friendly in a 4-2 victory against Dutch club SC Heracles Almelo and scored in a reserve match last week.

“It has been very rewarding to watch Andy grow and develop into becoming the special player that he is,” said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper. “This transfer is a testament to the hard work of our Academy staff, to Ben and his staff for their patience and vision, and to the MLS Homegrown Player initiative. We wish Andy all of the success in the world and we look forward to watching his career blossom. Looking ahead, we plan to focus on utilizing our resources and flexibility to continue to build our team.”

U.S. MNT start 2013 with scoreless draw against Canada

U.S. MNT KICKS OFF CENTENNIAL YEAR WITH SCORELESS DRAW
AGAINST CANADA AT BBVA COMPASS STADIUM IN HOUSTON

• Five U.S. Players Earn First Caps, Including Three of Four Starting Defenders
• USA Extends Unbeaten Streak to 16 Games Against Canada (8-0-8)
• U.S. MNT Opens Final Round of 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifying on Feb. 6 Against Honduras in San Pedro Sula (3 p.m. CT Kickoff; Live Broadcast on beIN SPORT) 

HOUSTON (Jan. 29, 2013) - A young U.S. Men's National Team controlled the majority of the match against Canada but couldn't find the back of the net in a scoreless draw this evening at BBVA Compass Stadium in the first match of 2013. 

Jose Carranza, Nick Taitague named to roster for US Club Soccer’s 2013 id2 National Selection International Tour to Spain

Two club players from Virginia have been named to the 18 player US Club Soccer roster that will be competing in Spain. D.C. United Academy product, Jose Carranza, and FC Richmond's Nick Taitague will participate in the fourth id² National Selection International Tour. 

US Club Soccer News Release:

CHARLESTON, S.C. (Jan. 29, 2013) – In a video announcement released this morning, head coach Gerry McKeown unveiled the roster of 18 players for US Club Soccer’s 2013 id² National Selection International Tour in advance of the team’s journey to Spain from February 28 to March 11.

W-League divisional alignment released, Impact and Piranhas in Northeast Division

TAMPA, Fla. – The W-League released its divisional alignment and schedule for 2013 today, with the action slated to kick off for the 145-game regular season on Saturday, May 11.  The Bay Area Breeze join the 25-team league in 2013, further strengthening the highly competitive Western Conference. 

“The 2013 W-League season will produce a tremendous amount of excitement for players and fans alike,” said Amanda Duffy, senior director of the W-League.  “Top collegiate, amateur and professional players will compete in the W-League while aspiring to reach the top level of women’s soccer in North America. The competition will continue to be enhanced by additional regional rivalries as the fight for post-season spots intensifies.”

The W-League remains divided into three geographic conferences – Eastern, Central and Western – with the Eastern Conference featuring two divisions, the seven-team Northeast and the five-team Southeast.  The Central Conference features six teams, while the Western Conference has seven. W-League clubs will play 10- or 12-game schedules in 2013, with teams facing each opponent in their division home and away. Teams in the Central Conference and Southeast Division will play additional games vs. geographic rivals to complete their schedules.

Five W-League teams have undergone name changes for 2013, including the Carolina Elite Cobras (formerly Central SC Cobras), K-W United FC (Hamilton FC Rage), New York Magic – F.A. Euro (New York Magic), VSI Tampa Bay FC (VSI Tampa Flames) and the Washington Spirit Reserves (D.C. United Women).

Eastern Conference

Northeast Division

Fredericksburg Impact

Long Island Rough Riders

New Jersey Wildcats

New York Magic – F.A. Euro

North Jersey Valkyries

Virginia Beach Piranhas

Washington Spirit Reserves

Six former D.C. United players are National Soccer Hall of Fame 2013 class nominees

Today U.S. Soccer released the full list of eligible players that can be voted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame as part of the 2013 class.

Six of the 22 players nominated have played for D.C. United during their soccer careers. Raul Diaz Arce (1996/97, 2000/01), Marco Etcheverry (1996-2003), Roy Lassiter (1998/99, 2002), Tony Sanneh (1996-98), and current United head coach Ben Olsen (1998-2009).

Other notable players include former William & Mary left back, Wade Barrett (1994-97) and UVA midfielder, Angela Hucles (1996-99).

United sign 20 year-old Indonesian midfielder, Syamsir Alam

Attacking 20 year-old will join the Black-and-Red from C.S. Visé of Belgium

Washington, D.C. (January 25, 2013) – D.C. United today announced that the club has signed 20 year-old Syamsir Alam on loan from Belgium side C.S. Visé. Alam hails from Jakarta, Indonesia where he has represented his country on several occasions from the U-11 level all the way up to the U-23 level. Before joining C.S. Vise, Alam played for Club Atlético Peñarol of the Uruguayan Primera División as well as spending time with Dutch sides SC Heerenveen and Vitesse Arnhem, both of the Dutch Eredivisie. Alam will be available for selection pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate and visa.

“Syamsir is a young, attacking midfielder with good technical ability, and we look forward to having him on loan with us,” said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper.

Alam, who is a native of Jakarta, Indonesia, shares the same hometown as one of D.C. United’s new owners, Erick Thohir.

Name:                          Syamsir Alam
Height:                         5-8
Weight:                        148
Position:                       Midfielder/forward
Birthdate:                     July 6, 1992

Age:                             20

Birthplace:                   Jakarta, Indonesia
Previous Club:             C.S. Visé of Belgium

Acquired:                     Acquired on loan from C.S. Visé on January 25. 2013

D.C. United and Richmond Kickers announce affiliate agreement

Washington D.C. (January 24, 2013) – In conjunction with the groundbreaking multi-year deal unveiled on Wednesday between MLS and USL PRO, D.C. United today announced that the club has entered into an affiliate agreement with USL PRO side the Richmond Kickers.

As a part of this arrangement with the Kickers, United will send a minimum of four first-team players – to be announced at a later date – on long-term loans to Richmond. Separated by a little over 100 miles, the two organizations worked closely together last year to organize loan spells for forward Long Tan and Homegrown defender Ethan White.

“We have had a long-standing relationship with the Richmond Kickers and we are thrilled to now have a formal partnership in place that will benefit both organizations,” said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper. “Many current and former D.C. United players have gained valuable experience while playing for the Kickers over the years, and we are excited to be working with a club who has a vision of excellence with everything from their professional team down to their academy and youth teams.”

Richmond Kickers 2013 USL PRO Schedule Released

photo courtesy uslsoccer.com

RICHMOND, VA – (Thursday, January 24, 2013) – The +Richmond Kickers  are pleased to announce the 2013 professional schedule, opening the season against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday, April 6 at 7:00 p.m.  The Kickers will call Richmond City Stadium home for the 19^th consecutive season.

“We are looking forward to the season immensely,” commented Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Director of Soccer.  “With 13 teams visiting City Stadium and the added ingredient of MLS Reserves inter-league play, it could prove to be the most competitive and entertaining season in Kickers history.”

Featuring six teams with more than a decade of operational experience, and more than 100 years of combined operational experience, USL PRO will field 13 teams in a single-table format, playing a 26-game schedule as the league embarks on a groundbreaking partnership with MLS that features interleague games versus MLS Reserve teams.  Two new teams have been added to USL PRO in 2013, with the Phoenix FC Wolves and VSI Tampa Bay FC joining the 11 returning teams from 2012.

D.C. United training program registration now open

Elite training sessions will provide participants the opportunity to earn a spot on Pre-Academy squads and recently introduced U-14 Academy Team

Washington, D.C. (January 23, 2013) – With the new year just underway, the 2013 D.C. United Training Program – led by Pre-Academy and Academy coaching staff – is open for registration and the winter session is just around the corner, starting on Sunday, February 3. The Training Program, which is available to the U9-U11 and U12-U13 age groups, presents a key opportunity for participants to be identified and scouted for United’s Pre-Academy squads and the recently introduced U-14 Academy Team.

NASL Virginia franchise name unvailing set for Feb. 6

Soccer legend Harkes, NBC Sports’ Thaler introduce newest NASL franchise

 

Ashburn, VA – January 23, 2013 – While NASL Virginia’s wildly successful Kick The Vote ’13 campaign continues, and the battle between potential names Cavalry, Dominion and Stallions rages on, the organization has announced the location and star-studded lineup for the Team Name Unveiling on February 6, 2013.

 

The event, to coincide with a viewing party of the U.S. Men’s National Team Qualifier versus Honduras, will be held at Bungalow Lakehouse in Sterling, Virginia, and will feature Russ Thaler of NBC Sports as our emcee and John Harkes as our special guest.

 

Thaler is the Studio Host for MLS on NBC and NBC Sports Network and has covered soccer in America for a dozen years.  Harkes is a legendary name in the soccer world, a member of the National Soccer Hall of Fame and has played in England, the U.S. and on numerous World Cup teams; John also resides in Northern Virginia. 

 

 

WHO:		NASL Virginia Emcee: Russ Thaler Special Guest: John Harkes
WHAT:		Team Name Unveiling U.S. Men's National Team Viewing Party
WHERE:		Bungalow Lakehouse 46116 Lake Center Plaza, Sterling, VA 20165
WHEN:		Wednesday, February 6 Event begins: 3:30 pm Kickoff: 4:00 pm Name Unveiling: Approximately 5:50 pm

 

The Bungalow Lakehouse (for directions click here) is clearly working to become the go-to bar for soccer fans across Northern Virginia.  Bungalow Lake House has 96 tap heads in 3 bars with over 44 state-of-the-art video flat screens and the largest big screen in Northern Virginia at 19 feet! They also offer gourmet food from Chef Jason Maddens.

 

NASL Virginia’s Kick The Vote ’13 contest is presented by Edelman Financial Services, the Buffalo Wing Factory & Pub, Mountcastle Plastic Surgery and Sonak Family Chiropractic.

 

This unveiling will culminate an amazing campaign as NASL Virginia has fielded thousands of submissions from across Virginia, the D.C. metro area and around the world, made via NASLVirginia.com, Facebook.com/NASLVirginia, through Twitter @NASLVirginia and #KickTheVote13 and our unique iPhone app.

 

“We can’t wait to share our new identity and brand with our growing and rabid fan base,” said VIP Sports & Entertainment founder and CEO Bob Farren. “The event is going to be special as we cheer on the U.S. team and are joined by great soccer names like John Harkes and Russ Thaler. This is just the start of many great nights for our franchise.”

United select UCLA midfielder Evan Raynr in second round of MLS Supplemental Draft

Washington, D.C. (January 22, 2013) – D.C. United today announced that the club has selected UCLA midfielder Evan Raynr with the 17th pick in the second round (36th overall selection) of the 2013 MLS Supplemental Draft. 

Hailing from Calabasas, Calif., Raynr made an immediate impact on a top-ranked UCLA squad, appearing in 18 games and tallying two goals and one assist as a freshman in 2009. The following season, Raynr featured in 22 games and notched three goals and three assists – two of which came in the second round of the NCAA tournament – en route to an Honorable Mention All-Pac-10 selection. Raynr’s junior campaign saw the midfielder dish out two assists in 23 matches and earn Honorable Mention All-Pac-12 accolades. As a senior in 2012, Raynr put together his best collegiate season, leading the Pac-12 with 10 assists and finishing fourth nationally in assists per game (0.63/game). In 16 appearances, the senior also netted three goals and was a Second Team All-Pac-12 honoree.

“Evan comes from a great program at UCLA,” said D.C. United Assistant Coach Chad Ashton. “He is a very dynamic and quick attacking player that we feel can fit into our system. We look forward to bringing him into camp and getting to see him closer.”

A California native, Raynr spent time in residency with the U.S. U-17 National Team and also saw time with the U-18s. In 2007, Raynr was selected as an NSCAA/adidas Youth All-American and was chosen as an NSCAA/adidas Youth All-Region IV honoree the following year. The midfielder played two seasons at Viewpoint High School and led the team to two league titles. Raynr also featured for Real SoCal and was twice awarded the Golden Boot when the club won successive national championships in 2006 and 2007.

Name: Evan Raynr

Position: Midfielder

Height: 5-7

Weight: 150

Jersey: --

Date of birth: September 18, 1990

Age: 22

Hometown: Calabasas, Calif.

Citizenship: United States

College: UCLA

Acquired: Selected as the 36th overall pick in the 2013 MLS Supplemental Draft on January 22, 2013.

Will Bates of UVA Selected by Seattle in MLS Supplemental Draft

Former University of Virginia men's soccer standout, Will Bates, was selected with the number five pick in today's MLS Supplemental Draft.

In his four year collegiate career, Bates scored 46 goals ranking him 7th all-time at the University of Virgina.

Chesterfield United Soccer club looks to make a splash

Chesterfield United Soccer Club has expanded south and are looking to make a big splash in the Tri Cities.  Over the last two years, Chesterfield United has experienced phenomenal, climbing from 25 to 38 travel teams in the space of just 2 years as well as increasing their UDP program numbers from 2 to 200 annually.

"I feel that Chesterfield United has transformed itself into a club that people want to be a part of.  We feel that the environment we look to create, along with our curriculum and developmental structure, allows for players to thrive and we are excited to build this structure within the tri cities area."-Pat McStay, Technical Director

The two new programs being offered will start this March and registration is going on now at www.chesterfieldunited.com.

Chesterfield United Technical Director, Pat McStay w/Marta at 2013 NSCAA Convention

A New and Improved Recreational program based out of Richard Bland College

All practices and games will be played out of Richard Bland College. Richard Bland College located on the border of Prince George and Dinwiddie County just south of Petersburg.  7 games will be guaranteed plus 6 weeks of FREE Friday Night Skills Nights.  The skills nights will serve as both a fun environment for the players of our new rec program to learn and improve, but also as coaching education sessions for recreational coaches.

"It's important that the coaches learn during these skills clinics.  This will be the basis for their practices and will be a chance for the coaches to become educated in the sport.  A lot of times recreational coaches are left on their own.  As volunteers, we feel that they are extremely important to the success of this new program, so we plan to put a lot of time and energy into properly educating them."-Miquel Casajuana, Director of Richard Bland Rec Soccer

On top of the 7 games, practices, and free skills nights, each player will receive season passes to all Chesterfield United Semi Pro games played at Ft. Lee this summer as well as free coaching education and practice plans each season. For more information about recreational soccer at Richard Bland, please email Miquel Casajuana at mcasajuana@chesterfieldunited.com.

A new branch of the club's development program called UDP which will be out of Ettrick Park

The primary goal of the program is to act as a transitional link between Recreational and Travel soccer, which will create the perfect learning environment for players to progress through our club's stages of development.

If you would like your child to receive enhanced skills training and to be involved in an educational experience that inspires players to be creative, perform with confidence, and to have fun while improving their overall soccer game and taking it to the next level then sign up for the United Developmental Program.

“The United Developmental Program is a great way for young players to learn all the fundamental technical skills needed to play travel soccer in a fun environment” commented Matt Lacey, Director of Player Development. “This is a great way to continue the growth between Recreational and Travel soccer. We all feel here at the club that with this program the future is very bright for our young soccer players”.

Sessions for United Developmental Program teams will be held twice a week and will consist of age specific technical training and small sided scrimmages. Professional and Licensed coaches from within the United FC Staff will conduct all sessions and monitor the progress of each player.  For more information about UDP, please contact Matt Lacey at mlacey@chesterfieldunited.com.

VIDEO: VCU's Jason Johnson drafted by Houston in 2013 MLS SuperDraft

Major League Soccer reporter Jason Saghini interviews VCU forward Jason Johnson immediately after he was selected No. 13 overall by Houston Dynamo at the 2013 MLS SuperDraft.

Top Soccer Hoaxes Revisited

Fictional Moldovan Teen Soccer Phenom

Listed at No. 30 on the then "Football's 50 Top Rising Stars" list by the British newspaper the Times, a fictitious 16-year-old teen soccer phenom from Moldova, Masal Bugduv, turned out to be a hoax born and perpetuated through online forums and even popular soccer news sites like Goal.com.

(click here for full story)

Ali Dia - the greatest SCAM the Premier League has ever known 

In 1996 Graeme Souness immortalised himself in football folklore by falling for an amazing scam that resulted in him signing a player, so bad, that it made Harry Redknapps decision to buy Marco Boogers look inspirational. It all started when Ali Dia, a desperate 30 year-old wannabe, convinced his agent to phone the Southampton boss pretending to be World Footballer of the Year George Weah recommending his cousin (Ali Dia) as the next big thing.

(click here for full story)

Fake YouTube Video Leads to $30 Million Dollar Transaction?

A 2010 story goes like this, Liverpool Football Club owners got duped by a fake YouTube video (see below) of Stewart Downing amazingly kicking five soccer balls into trash cans from a significant distance. The owners of the club ended up signing Downing to a $30 million dollar contract.


(click here for full story)

Canadian Under-21 Team 'Victorious' in international tournament

A 1982 hoax consisted of a fake victory by a fake team in a non-existent tournament. The team, a Canadian under-21 club was reported to have won an international under-21 soccer tournament in Australia by defeating a Russian club, 1-0. A "here" was even named, you guessed it, the fake team captain of the 'winning' team.

(click here for full story)

Best Viral Soccer Video (Not a hoax but similar enough)

A JogaTV spot seems to show then soccer superstar Ronoldinho (Brazil) demonstrating amazing accuracy by kicking a ball off the crossbar of the goal and receiving it back without the ball ever touching the ground. Although the Brazilian did have world class ball handling skills, this ended up being to good to be true to the many fans who fell for the viral video.

Cowlishaw returning to coach Kickers for 14th season

Cowlishaw Returns for 14^th Season, Names Dotsenko, Görres Assistants

RICHMOND, VA – (Friday, January 18, 2013) – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce that Leigh Cowlishaw will return for his 14^th season as head coach in 2013.  Continuing the strong tradition of hiring from within the organization, he has named Ihor Dotsenko assistant coach and Sascha Görres player/assistant coach.

“I am looking forward to Ihor and Sascha joining the coaching staff for the 2013 season,” commented Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Director of Soccer.  “Both individuals understand the ingredients required to develop a winning team, having been part of many successful pro teams as players.  Both are extremely analytical and bring an enormous amount of knowledge and expertise to all areas of the pro team set up.”

UVA forward Caroline Miller selected in 2nd round by Washington in NWSL college draft

With the second overall selection in the inaugural National Women's Soccer League college draft taking place at the NSCAA convention in Indionapolis, IN, the Washington Spirit have chosen Tiffany McCarty (forward / Florida St.).

Tiffany McCarty Bio

The Spirit also selected University of Virginia forward Caroline Miller with the second pick of the second round. Miller ranks second all-time with 45 career goals at Virginia. The club selected former D.C. United Women's player Holly King in the third round.

Caroline Miller Bio

UCLA forward, Zakiya Bywaters was selected 1st overall by the Chicago Red Stars.

NWSL First Round Draft Selections

Washington Spirit will pick 2nd in inaugural NWSL colleg draft

Inaugural NWSL College Draft Begins at 9 a.m. ET at Indianapolis Convention Center;

CHICAGO (Jan. 16, 2013) - The National Women's Soccer League announced today the order for the league's inaugural college draft, which will take place on Friday, Jan. 18, at 9 a.m. ET at the Indianapolis Convention Center. 

Fans can follow the draft live on Twitter @NWSL. 

The draft order is as follows: 

1.          Chicago Red Stars
2.          Washington Spirit
3.          FC Kansas City
4.          Sky Blue FC (New York/New Jersey)
5.          Boston Breakers
6.          Western New York Flash
7.          Seattle Reign FC
8.          Portland Thorns FC

Maryland defender Taylor Kemp selected 17th by United in 2013 MLS SuperDraft

Olsen: We believe we took the best left back at the combine

Washington, D.C. (January 17, 2013) - D.C. United today announced that the club has selected University of Maryland defender Taylor Kemp with the 17th overall selection in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft. Kemp is United’s lone selection from today’s event in Indianapolis and will join fellow Terrapin Ethan White in the nation’s capital after a standout collegiate career where he bolstered Maryland’s defense at left fullback.

Hailing from Highlands Ranch, Colo., Kemp made an immediate impact on a top-ranked Maryland squad, starting in every match but one, adding two assists and contributing to nine shutouts as a freshman in 2009. At the end of his rookie campaign, Kemp was an All-ACC Freshman Team pick and a Soccer America All-Freshman Team selection. Breaking out during his sophomore year with 23 starts, one goal and four assists, Kemp was a part of a Terps backline that tied a program record for shutouts (15) in a season. During his junior campaign in 2011, the defender was an integral part of a stingy Maryland defense that allowed only 1.05 goals per game. Kemp also tallied one goal and four assists in 21 starts and would subsequently be named a Second Team All-ACC selection. As a senior captain in 2012, Kemp appeared in 12 games and added six assists en route to receiving Second Team All-ACC honors.

Should youth soccer clubs in Virginia ban high-fives because of the flu?

In an attempt to stop the spread of this years flu epidemic, a youth soccer club in New York has banned post game high-fives and handshakes.

We wanted to know what parents, coaches, and players in Virginia thought about this action so we are polling our readers to see if you would support such a ban at local youth soccer clubs.

customer surveys

United sign 16-year-old Academy product Michael Seaton

D.C. United signs 16-year-old Homegrown forward Michael Seaton

Capitol Heights, Md. striker becomes fifth Homegrown player to join the Black-and-Red

Washington, D.C. (January 14, 2013)  today  D.C. United announced that the club has signed 16-year-old Academy product Michael Seaton. The forward becomes the fifth Homegrown player on United’s roster, joining 2010 MLS Rookie of the Year Andy Najar, goalkeeper Bill Hamid, midfielder Conor Shanosky and defender Ethan White. Seaton progressed through United’s Academy system, starting as a Pre-Academy player and joining the U-18 squad this year.

“Michael has made big strides in a short amount of time in our Academy system and he is ready to take the next step,” said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper. “As an attacking player, Michael has an excellent work rate and is a real handful for opposing defenses. He will have some terrific mentors in Dwayne De Rosario and Chris Pontius, and Ben and his staff will have another young player with an upside to integrate into the first team.”

Richmond Kickers host fourth annual Pro-Am Challange, March 16

Set to Face NCAA Finalists Georgetown University March 16

RICHMOND, VA – (Monday, January 14, 2013) – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to host NCAA Finalists Georgetown University and the fourth annual Pro-Am Challenge at Ukrop Park on Saturday, March 16 at 7:00 p.m.Tickets are on sale now for $5.00 each, youth and adult and space is limited to just 500 seats.

“Georgetown had a dream season on their way to a NCAA Championship appearance and Coach Wiese and his staff are to be congratulated for compiling such an impressive group of players,” commented Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Director of Soccer.  “As always, the Pro-Am Challenge is about playing the best that college soccer has to offer and I have no doubt that the Hoyas will provide exactly the type of competition we are looking for in preseason.”

Virginia senior forward Caroline Miller honored at Hermann Trophy Banquet

Virginia senior forward recognized at banquet at the Missouri Athletic Club

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Virginia senior forward Caroline Miller (Rockville, Md.) was honored Friday night at the Hermann Trophy Banquet at the Missouri Athletic Club in downtown St. Louis. Miller was the first Cavalier women’s player to be named a finalist for the award, which is the most prestigious accolade in collegiate soccer.

At the banquet, Crystal Dunn of North Carolina was announced as the winner of the 2012 MAC Hermann Trophy. Miller and Christine Nairn of Penn State were honored as the other finalists.

The winners and finalists for the MAC Hermann Trophy were determined by a vote of Division I coaches who are members of the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA). Also, an online fan vote (the equivalent of one coach’s vote) was factored into the final vote total.

The 2012 ACC Offensive Player of the Year, Miller set single-season school records with 20 goals and 47 points this season. The conference leader in goals and points in 2012, she is one of just four players nationally to reach the 20-goal mark this season, and the first from the ACC in four years to accomplish the feat. A 2012 NSCAA first-team All-American, Miller ended her season on a school-record eight-game goal scoring streak, tallying 11 goals against those eight opponents, all of which made the NCAA Tournament. A two-time ACC Player of the Week, she was named first-team All-ACC for the second consecutive season and was selected to the ACC All-Tournament team as Virginia won the 2012 ACC Championship. 

Junior Flores of Manassas Park, VA invited to U.S. u17 Residency Program in Bradenton, Fla

Junior Flores (Unattached; Manassas Park, Va.) has been invited to attend the U.S. Under-17 Residency Program in Bradenton, Fla. 

Flores was one of 31 players selected by U.S. U-17 Men's National Team head coach Richie Williams.

Click Here for full list of players selected.

VIDEO: VCU's Jason Johnson, MLS SuperDraft Prospect

VCU Soccer's Jason Johnson is headed to the 2013 MLS SuperDraft. Here are some highlights of Johnson on the field for the Rams.

NWSL Player Allocation announced, Washington Spirit player list revealed

Today US Soccer officially announced the National team player allocations for all eight of the clubs in the newly formed National Women's Soccer League. 

NWSL Announces Allocation of 55 National Team Players to Eight Clubs

The list of US National Team players allocated for the Washington Spirit is below:

Washington Spirit
Ashlyn Harris (USA)
Ali Krieger (USA)
Lori Lindsey (USA)
Robin Gayle (CAN)
Diana Matheson (CAN)
Alina Garciamendez (MEX)
Teresa Worbis (MEX)

Other notable players allocated to other league teams include FIFA Women's Player of the Year winner Abby Wambach (Western New York Flash), FIFA Women's Player of the Year nominee Alex Morgan (Portland Thorns FC), and often controversial goalkeeper Hope Solo (Seattle Reign FC).

D.C. United, ABGC reach affiliate agreement with adidas

Washington, D.C. (January 8, 2013) – D.C. United and the Annandale Boys & Girls Club (ABGC) – in conjunction with adidas – today announced an affiliate agreement, the first of its kind between D.C. United and a club in the State of Virginia. Under the agreement, ABGC will be one of D.C. United’s primary sources in identifying and developing the top youth talent in Virginia. ABGC, along with United’s Academy, has already produced current D.C. United and U.S. Men’s National Team goalkeeper Bill Hamid. United will share its coaching resources and will work with ABGC to follow its training curriculum and system of play. Top players in the ABGC system, identified by both D.C. United and ABGC, will have the opportunity to join the D.C. United Academy teams, with a strong priority being placed on the Under-14, Under-16 and Under-18 age groups.

“We are very excited that Annandale will be our first Virginia affiliate club,” said Sonny Silooy, D.C. United’s Director of Youth Development. “Annandale has proven that they are committed to helping players reach higher levels, like our Youth Development program is. They are one of the top clubs, if not the top club, in Northern Virginia when it comes to graduating players to Division I college programs, which we also boast some very high numbers. We have also been impressed with the mentality that all of the ABGC players seem to have when it comes to competing, especially that of homegrown goalkeeper Bill Hamid, who has recently been called up again to the U.S. Men’s National Team. That, for us, is very important when our Academy is preparing players for competitions and possible Reserve Team or First Team action.”

Vienna Coach Larry Best named Region I Girls Competitive Coach of the Year

US Youth Soccer announced the 2012 Competitive Coach of the Year Regional Award Winners and a Virginia coach has been recognized as the best in the region.

Girls Competitive Coach of the Year regional winners:

Region I – Larry Best – Vienna, Va.
With Larry Best, the emphasis is on development, not winning. He focuses on player improvement and doesn’t restrict his commitment to the field. He is involved in helping his players during their college selection process. His focus on improving skills helped BRYC 95 Elite win the US Youth Soccer Virginia State Cup, Region I Championship and U-16 National Championship. Meanwhile, his players also achieved their best team GPA and performed community service.

Wambach beats out Marta, teammate Alex Morgan to win FIFA Women's World Player of the Year

ussoccer.com News Release:

U.S. WNT FORWARD ABBY WAMBACH NAMED FIFA WOMEN'S WORLD PLAYER OF THE YEAR;
PIA SUNDHAGE NAMED WORLD COACH OF THE YEAR FOR WOMEN'S SOCCER

 

Alex Morgan Voted Third in Women's World Player of the Year Voting;
Wambach's Honor Marks Third Time American Woman Named World Player of the Year
Following Mia Hamm's 2001 and 2002 Selections

 

CHICAGO (Jan. 7, 2013) - Abby Wambach, the co-captain of the U.S. Women's National Team, has been named the 2012 FIFA Women's World Player of the Year, and Pia Sundhage, who led the USA to the 2012 Olympic gold medal, has been named the 2012 World Coach of the Year for Women's Soccer.

• Quote Sheet
• Wambach Climbs the Charts
• Sundhage Wins in Final U.S. WNT Game | Pia Plays Her Final Encore

Wambach and Sundhage received the awards today at the 2013 FIFA Ballon d'Or gala in Zurich, Switzerland, as the world's governing body for soccer held its annual event. Lionel Messi of Barcelona and Argentina was named the FIFA World Player of the Year for the fourth year in a row.

Former Edison High School Star, D.C. United defender Andy Najar on loan

Washington, D.C. (January 7, 2013) – D.C. United today announced that Andy Najar is now on loan with R.S.C. Anderlecht for the month of January, and will be available for selection during the timeframe. The Honduran international previously trained with the Belgian side during the month of December 2012.

“This is another very good opportunity for Andy to gain valuable experience with a top European club,” said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper. “We look forward to his return for the second half of our pre-season.” 

Najar, 19, had a fantastic third season with D.C. United, playing in 25 regular-season matches, starting 22, and notching four assists. The converted right fullback is a product of D.C. United’s Youth Academy, and became the second homegrown player to sign with the first team on March 22, 2010. That year, he went on to win the 2010 MLS Rookie of the Year award, as well as being named the 2010 D.C. United Volkswagen MVP. In his young, yet illustrious D.C. United career, Andy Najar has tallied 10 goals and 11 assists in the 82 MLS matches (72 starts) in which he has featured.  

Najar has made three appearances with the senior Honduras National Team and seven for the U-23s, including a run in the 2012 London Olympics in which the squad advanced to the quarterfinals. He earned his first cap for the country on Sept. 3, 2011 against Colombia at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ.

United Goalkeeper Hamid called to U.S. Men's National Team camp

Bill Hamid called up to U.S. Men’s National Team for January camp and a friendly

Squad will face Canada on Jan. 29 in Houston, TX at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN2

Washington, D.C. (January 6, 2013) – D.C. United today announced that Homegrown goalkeeper Bill Hamid has been called up to the U.S. Men’s National Team for training camp and a Jan. 29 friendly against Canada in Houston, TX at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN2. The match, occurring at the end of the annual January camp, will open the team’s 2013 campaign and is the only game prior to the start of the Hexagonal Round of 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying.

Annual VYSA Soccer Convention kicks off in four weeks

The VYSA Soccer Convention is Only Four Weeks Away!

The VYSA Convention is scheduled for Friday, February 1 and Saturday, February 2, 2013 at the Richmond Convention Center. Mark your calendars and plan to attend. See what is planned so far

United U-15 Pre-Academy team finish 3rd at Disney Soccer Showcase

D.C. United Academy Update

U-15 Pre-Academy team finishes 3rd at Disney Soccer Showcase in Orlando, Fla., while U-14’s gain valuable learning experience at the tournament

Washington, D.C. (January 4, 2013) – Last week, the D.C. United U-15 and U-14 Pre-Academy teams traveled to Orlando, Fla., to participate in the prestigious Disney Soccer Showcase, a tournament that spanned five days of elite youth play. While the U-14’s played in a string of tough, competitive matches, the U-15’s captured third place, compiling an overall record of 3-1-0.

Wambach and Morgan Nominated for FIFA Women's World Player of the Year

via ussoccerdotcom YouTube:

ussoccer.com talks to U.S. Women's National Team forwards Abby Wambach and Alex Morgan about their nominations for FIFA Women's World Player of the Year. The award will be given on Monday, Jan. 7, 2013.

More info: http://www.ussoccer.com

VIDEO OF THE DAY - KickTV: Sepp Blatter Is Crazy: JC's American Soccer Spectacular

United release 2013 preseason schedule

D.C. United announces 2013 preseason schedule

Black-and-Red to train in Florida ahead of 18^th MLS season

Washington, D.C. (January 3, 2013) – D.C. United today announced the club’s preliminary preseason schedule, as the team prepares for the 2013 Major League Soccer campaign. United begins its 18th MLS season with its first game on the road against the Houston Dynamo on Saturday, March 2 in a 2012 Eastern Conference Finals rematch. The kickoff time for the contest will be determined at a later date.

Players are set to report to RFK Stadium on Thursday, January 17 for physicals and fitness testing. The Black-and-Red begin training in Washington, D.C., the following two days before heading to Bradenton, Fla. While in Bradenton, the team will train at IMG Academy, and are confirmed to square off against Malmö FF (Sweden) on Friday, February 1 at 11:00 a.m.

                                                                                      

NASL Virginia narrow potential club name down to three

NASL VIRGINIA: ANNOUNCES TEAM NAME FINALISTS

Loudoun-based club narrows field to Cavalry, Dominion, Stallions

Ashburn, VA – January 3, 2013 – After thousands of suggested names poured into VIP Sports & Entertainment and NASL Virginia in just a few weeks, the candidate list has been narrowed for the contest’s final phase, Kick the Vote ’13. Starting today, soccer fans in Northern Virginia and around the globe are encouraged to cast their vote for one of the following three names:

                      CAVALRY               DOMINION               STALLIONS