Women's Soccer USA

Athletica's Cooper continues his battle for improvement of soccer

2010-01-01T08:15:00.000-08:00

St. Louis Athletica owner Jeff Cooper might just be starting to feel like one of those performing dogs in the circus - jumping through hoops.
Cooper, whose life's work for most of the just-ended decade has been bringing professional soccer back to St. Louis, received another setback earlier this week when the United States Soccer Federation decided not to grant sanctioning to Cooper's new North American Soccer League.

My message to USSF: Give support to one of the most dedicated and hardest working soccer people in this country.

Marta: World Player of the Year, But Not Perfect

2009-12-22T08:29:00.000-08:00

So Messi won the FIFA Men’s Player of the Year Award, and Marta won the FIFA Women’s Player of the Year Award, and no-one was surprised. But should we have been? There’s enough out there about Messi, so let’s look at Marta and the women’s award for a moment.

It sure looks like the voters, the captains and coaches of national teams, sent in their ballots based on past reputation rather than present performance. “...the Euro champion and top scorer, and the UEFA Champions League winner Inka Grings should win the award.”

Athletica's Solo Named U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year

2009-12-22T08:19:00.000-08:00

The United States Soccer Federation has named Hope Solo one of four U.S. Soccer Athletes of the Year for 2009. Solo was honored as the Female Athlete of the Year, while her counterpart Landon Donovan was selected as the Male Athlete of the Year. Solo became the first goalkeeper to be honored with this award by U.S. Soccer.

Marta wins fourth consecutive FIFA award

2009-12-21T20:15:00.000-08:00

Brazilian women's football star Marta won the FIFA world player of the year award for the fourth consecutive year here on Monday.
Marta, who plays professionally for Los Angeles Sol, thus becomes the record winner of the honour awarded by football's world ruling body.
American Mia Hamm won the inaugural women's award in 2001, winning again in 2002.
Germany's Birgit Prinz then picked up the award three years in a row from 2003-2005.

Morris is NJ Player of the Year

2009-12-19T02:44:00.000-08:00

In July of 2008, Morris was featured in a Sports Illustrated article that projected 15 teenagers as players to watch at the time. Morris held up her end of the bargain with an impressive showing both locally and on the national level, where she played with the U-15 national team as a 13-year-old and currently is a member in the U-18 national pool.
Her stylish play also drew the interest of college recruiters across the country before Morris settled on powerhouse North Carolina, becoming the most recent in a long line of New Jersey products to find their way to Tobacco Road.

Athletica holiday gift ideas

2009-12-18T18:09:00.000-08:00

Check out these last minute gift ideas from Saint Louis Atheltica:

http://sl1.glitnirticketing.com/slticket/store/index.php

FC Gold Pride to have new home

2009-12-17T21:07:00.000-08:00

Hoping to boost revenue and fan appeal, the Bay Area’s pro women’s soccer club is switching home fields. FC Gold Pride, which began play in 2009 during the inaugural season of Women’s Professional Soccer, will play next year in Pioneer Stadium at California State University, East Bay.
The team played its first season in Santa Clara at Buck Shaw Stadium.
Pioneer Stadium offers seating for 5,000 people, about half the size of the facility in Santa Clara, which could help drive up demand for tickets, said Kessler.
FC Gold Pride attracted an average of about 3,600 fans per game, below the league average of 4,500 people. The team’s record was 4-10-6.

Waldrum Named Soccer America National Coach Of The Year

2009-12-17T20:57:00.002-08:00

Notre Dame women's soccer head coach Randy Waldrum has been selected as the 2009 Soccer America National Coach of the Year, the publication announced Thursday.
Most college soccer observers agree the 2009 season produced the finest coaching performance of Waldrum's storied 28-year career, as he guided the Fighting Irish to a 21-4-1 record, their fourth consecutive NCAA College Cup appearance and a No. 4 ranking in the final NSCAA and Soccer America polls.

WPS Opening Weekend

2009-12-17T09:33:00.000-08:00

Saturday, April 10, 2009
Washington Freedom vs. Boston Breakers, Maryland SoccerPlex, Boyds, MD

Sunday, April 11, 2009
Philadelphia Independence vs. Atlanta Beat, John A. Farrell Stadium, West Chester, PA Saint Louis Athletica vs. FC Gold Pride, The Anheuser-Busch Soccer Park, Fenton, MO
Sky Blue FC vs. Chicago Red Stars, Yurcak Field, Piscataway, NJ

WPS stars score

2009-12-16T12:05:00.000-08:00

Brazil beat Mexico 3-2 on Sunday in the four-nation women's soccer tournament in Sao Paulo to lead the standings on six points.
Marta (LA Sol), Cristiane (free agent) scored for Brazil and Monica Ocampo (Atlanta) scored twice for Mexico.

Is Sweden really done?

2009-12-16T09:36:00.000-08:00

"Sweden have reached their peak both in terms of their national team and Damallsvenskan, and I think you will see countries such as Russia, France, Holland, England pass them by."

Australians to leave WPS?

2009-12-15T07:10:00.000-08:00

Garriock and Walsh said the Matildas’ commitments next year could see them concentrating on national duties.
“We have a very full schedule with the Matildas; we have World Cup qualifiers in May and that might clash with the league,” Walsh said.

Bronze leaves UNC

2009-12-14T07:07:00.001-08:00

University of North Carolina defender Lucy Bronze has left the university, "after being unhappy with her course of studies in the USA."
"Lucy's been very busy with her college football in America," said Sunderland boss Mick Mulhern.
"The game over there is much more based around fitness and chasing people down,"

Gulbrandsen signs with Gold Pride

2009-12-13T07:19:00.000-08:00

FC Gold Pride has announced that the team has signed Norwegian midfielder Solveig Gulbrandsen, who was selected by the Pride in the 2009 International Discovery Draft.
With this signing, Gulbrandsen becomes the first Norwegian player in WPS history.
"We are excited to welcome Solveig and her family to the Pride," said FC Gold Pride Head Coach Albertin Montoya. "Through the years, Gulbrandsen has asserted herself as one of Scandinavia's most respected players and one of Norway's most talented playmakers and finishers. Her experience, skills and leadership will help our team immensely. She is a great fit for our team system and our organization."

Jeff Cooper introduces partners

2009-12-11T06:48:00.000-08:00

Men's professional soccer is set to return to St. Louis, this time under the team name AC St. Louis, which will be among 10 founding franchises in a resurrected version of the North American Soccer League.
The initials "AC" were chosen in appreciation of the support the team has received from members of the Missouri Athletic Club, according to Jeff Cooper.
Cooper, a well-respected Illinois attorney with the Simmons Law Firm, is a former college star at DePauw University.
He graduated in 1991 from DePauw University with a B.A. degree in political science and with a J.D. degree from St. Louis University Law School in 1995.
Cooper, who formerly sat on the board of the English League One football club Brentford, is recognized as one of the most influential persons in soccer in the US after helping establish the Women's Professional Soccer league and the reinvented NASL.
Jeff Cooper is also the owner and chairman of Saint Louis Athletica of Women’s Professional Soccer and his St. Louis Soccer United group oversees the largest youth soccer program in the Midwest, St. Louis Scott Gallagher, which is headquartered at the Anheuser-Busch Soccer Park that in March was transferred to St. Louis Soccer United.
Cooper introduced his partners in the venture, Sanjeev and Heemal Vaid, brothers living in Britain who have invested in ventures ranging from fast food franchises to commodity trading (and now soccer). The team logo also was unveiled. It is a stylized fleur-de-lis - called a "Flame-de-lis," with a background curved to suggest the Gateway Arch.

Kelly Smith: How I beat the drink

2009-12-11T05:37:00.001-08:00

What started as an American dream turned into a nightmare, forcing her father to fly out and bring her back home for rehab.

UNC 1, Stanford 0

2009-12-06T05:41:00.000-08:00

That was certainly the feeling of North Carolina head coach Anson Dorrance and his senior-laden team after the third-ranked Tar Heels pitched a shutout at top-ranked Stanford Sunday afternoon, prevailing 1-0 in the 2009 NCAA Women's Soccer Tournament championship game at Aggie Soccer Stadium before a stadium record crowd of 8,536.
The victory, powered by a goal by junior forward Jessica McDonald in the third minute of play, gave the Tar Heels their 20th NCAA title in the 28-year history of the NCAA Tournament, and Carolina's 21st championship in the sport overall when the 1981 AIAW title is included in the mix. UNC finished the season 23-3-1 overall and won the NCAA title with the fewest wins since the 2000 team won the title with a 21-3 mark. It was also the most losses UNC has had in an NCAA championship season since 2000 but those three regular-season losses and tie now seem like a distant memory to a team which ended the season on an 11-match winning skein.

WPS founder Cooper named acting commissioner of the NASL

2009-12-05T06:07:00.000-08:00

St. Louis Athletica (WPS) and AC St. Louis (NASL) owner Jeff Cooper, has been named acting commissioner of the North American Soccer League.
A native of Granite City, Cooper played soccer under legendary coach Gene Baker at Granite City High School before continuing his playing career at DePauw University.
He graduated in 1991 from DePauw University with a B.A. degree in political science and with a J.D. degree from St. Louis University Law School in 1995. Cooper, who formerly sat on the board of the English League One football club Brentford, is recognized as one of the most influential persons in soccer in the US after helping establish the Women's Professional Soccer league and the reinvented NASL.

Nogueira's Late Goal Sends Tar Heels To Championship Game

2009-12-05T05:39:00.000-08:00

Senior forward Casey Nogueira's 13th career NCAA Tournament goal proved to be a lucky one for the Tar Heels as it sent the third-ranked North Carolina women's soccer team to the finals of the 2009 tournament as Carolina blanked fifth-ranked Notre Dame 1-0 Friday night before a crowd of 8,026 at the Aggie Soccer Stadium.

Stanford coach calls O'Hara 'best college player'

2009-12-04T20:45:00.000-08:00

Stanford women's soccer coach Paul Ratcliffe joined players Ali Riley, Kelley O'Hara, and Christen Press in a press conference to preview Friday's NCAA College Cup semifinal against UCLA.
Ratcliffe, who normally keeps his comments low key, broke from that for a moment, when asked about O'Hara, the senior forward who leads the nation in goals (25) and points (63).
"I always say that Kelly is an inspirational leader to this team year. She's a great competitor and her game has developed so much that she's creating great opportunities for others. And she's also capable of scoring at any time. Yes, she's been a fantastic player and I think she's probably the best college soccer player right now in the women's game."

WPS Features Three Finalists for FIFA World Player of the Year Award

2009-12-03T17:43:00.000-08:00

Five weeks after announcing the nominees, FIFA announced the finalists for the 2009 FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year Award from its headquarters in Zurich on Monday with three of the five finalists for the award having played in WPS during the Inaugural Season. Finalists who played in WPS, all of them selected as 2009 WPS All-Stars, include (country/2009 team):
Cristiane, BRA/Chicago Red Stars
Marta, BRA/Los Angeles Sol
Kelly Smith, ENG/Boston Breakers

Matheson wanted by Barcellos

2009-12-03T06:04:00.000-08:00

Saint Louis Athletica head coach and general manager Jorge Barcellos announced that the club has claimed the rights to Canadian midfielder Diana Matheson. Matheson has 94 caps for the Canadian Women’s National Team, appearing in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, the 2007 World Cup in China, and the 2003 World Cup in the United States.
“We are very pleased to have obtained the rights to a well established, international player of this caliber,” stated Barcellos. “Now we hope to sign her to a contract very quickly. Matheson will be filling an important role for our team this coming season.”

St. Louis Athletica ticket packages available

2009-12-01T06:58:00.000-08:00

Athletica Holiday Packages are the gift that keeps on giving! Enjoy exclusive benefits only available to Athletica Season Ticket Holders, such as a player meet and greet party, pre game buffet, and so much more. Ticket Packages start as low as $110. With the purchase of 2010 Saint Louis Athletica Season tickets before January 1st, you will receive:

* Season Ticket holder Certificate Stocking Stuffer
* Athletica Holiday Card
* Limited edition 2010 Season Ticket Holder Soccer Scarf
* Invitation to the January 10th Athletica Open House

Finalists For U.S. Soccer Awards

2009-11-27T19:52:00.000-08:00

The finalists for U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year Awards have been announced by the sport's governing body in the United States.

U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year Candidates
Shannon Boxx, Midfielder
Heather O'Reilly, Midfielder
Christie Rampone Defender
Hope Solo, Goalkeeper
Abby Wambach, Forward

U.S. Soccer Young Female Athlete of the Year Candidates
Tobin Heath, Midfielder
Christine Nairn, Midfielder
Sydney Leroux, Forward
Kelley O'Hara, Forward
Katie Schoepfer, Forward

Is there a problem?

2009-11-25T12:08:00.000-08:00

"The WPS site has an interview with new Sky Blue coach Pauliina Miettinen where she discussed scouting and what she looks for in potential players. Part of her research is finding out more about the player off the field: “I also want to know what they are really like, day-to-day, and also about their personality.” Um, ok. I’m all for co-workers getting along and finding the right fit and all that but it does seem that she mentions this sort of thing A LOT. And coupled with the fact that this is a women’s league and she’s a female coach, it tends to imply to the average person that maybe THIS IS ACTUALLY A HUGE PROBLEM IN WOMEN’S SPORTS."

Two international stars join St. Louis

2009-11-23T18:01:00.000-08:00

Saint Louis Athletica Head Coach and General Manager Jorge Barcellos announced the signings of Swedish forward Madelaine Edlund and Brazilian midfielder Elaine. Edlund and Elaine both played last year with the Swedish club side Umea IK, which served as the opposition during the WPS All-Star Game held at The Anheuser-Busch Soccer Park on August 30. Saint Louis selected Edlund and Elaine during the 2009 WPS International Draft held on September 23.
“This is a very exciting addition to an already championship caliber team,” stated Barcellos. “In Madelaine Edlund we now have a player that can compliment and partner with Eniola Aluko. With Elaine we have a player that gives us a lot of dynamic ability in midfield, strengthening an already strong core we have there.”

Jeff Cooper continues development of soccer in the US

2009-11-11T06:22:00.000-08:00

St Louis Athletica owner Jeff Cooper has spent millions in his pursuit of big-time soccer. But for now, the MLS dream is on hold. Instead Cooper has opted for the next best thing which does at least bring a men's team to St. Louis.
Cooper's group, St. Louis Soccer United will form a team to participate in a newly created outdoor league. The AC St. Louis team will join 6 other cities from the United States Soccer League. The season will start in April and the games will be played at Soccer Park in Fenton.
Cooper, a well-respected Illinois attorney with the Simmons Law Firm, is a former college star at DePauw University.
He graduated in 1991 from DePauw University with a B.A. degree in political science and with a J.D. degree from St. Louis University Law School in 1995.
Cooper, who formerly sat on the board of the English League One football club Brentford, is recognized as one of the most influential persons in soccer in the US after helping establish the Women's Professional Soccer league and the reinvented NASL.
Jeff Cooper is the owner and chairman of Saint Louis Athletica of Women’s Professional Soccer and his St. Louis Soccer United group oversees the largest youth soccer program in the Midwest, St. Louis Scott Gallagher, which is headquartered at the Anheuser-Busch Soccer Park that in March was transferred to St. Louis Soccer United.

Gold Pride adds Canadian defender

2009-11-08T05:50:00.000-08:00

FC Gold Pride (Bay Area) signed free agent Candace Chapman.

Why is Mitts playing?

2009-11-02T07:54:00.001-08:00

The BC Fan was watching the updates of people who were watching webcasts of the Germany match (ah, the wonders of modern technology), and reports that the company line about solid defense was rather kind to Mitts, quelle surprise. The mystery is how not one, not two, but three generations of WNT coaches continue to play this semi-disaster area at the highest level. She must be a great practice player.

Why is Mitts playing?

2009-11-02T07:54:00.000-08:00

UNC 1, Maryland 0

2009-11-01T17:57:00.000-08:00

The fourth-ranked North Carolina women's soccer team ended its 2009 regular season with a key Atlantic Coast Conference victory, edging No. 8 Maryland 1-0 before a crowd of 1,217 at Ludwig Field for the Terrapins' Senior Day.
After dropping a pair of games last weekend, the Tar Heels bounced back this week to go 2-0 and finish the regular season 14-3-1 overall and 7-3 in the ACC. Maryland fell to 12-4-2 overall and 4-4-2 in the ACC with the loss.

Borkowski to coach in Russia

2009-10-26T18:15:00.000-07:00

Last season's UEFA Women's Cup runners-up have appointed Shek Borkowski as coach after the Polish technician's successful spell in charge of American club FC Indiana.
Borkowski led Indiana to an unprecedented Women's Professional Soccer League and US Women's Open Cup double in 2005, plus the 2007 league title another cup in 2008, and gained a repuation for spotting European talent.

UNC 5, NC State 0

2009-10-09T23:36:00.000-07:00

The North Carolina women's soccer team scored three goals in the first 9:47 of play and rolled on to a 5-0 win over visiting NC State Friday evening at Fetzer Field. UNC improved to 11-1-1 overall and 4-1 in the Atlantic Coast Conference, while the Wolfpack fell to 7-5-1 (2-3 ACC). Freshman Renee Premji led the way for the Tar Heels as she assisted on four tallies with five different players notching goals on the night.

LA Sol

2009-10-07T12:51:00.000-07:00

"The Sol also did not pick up the option of Chinese forward Han Duan who made little impact between injuries, language issues and a lack of form and hopes to replace her with Czech midfielder-forward Pavlina Scasna, who formerly played in the WUSA with Philadelphia."

Virginia Tech 1, UNC 0

2009-10-04T22:30:00.000-07:00

Virginia Tech rode a 10-save performance by Kristin Carden to a 1-0 victory over No. 1-ranked North Carolina in women's soccer action Sunday evening. Virginia Tech moves into sole possession of first place in the ACC with the victory with a 4-0 record while UNC loses this season for the first time, falling to 10-1-1 overall and 3-1 in the ACC.

WPS transactions

2009-10-01T05:54:00.000-07:00

Sept. 30, 2009: The Washington Freedom waived the 2010 options for Parissa Eyorokon, Emily Janss and Kati Jo Spisak. Kristin DeDycker, Katie Forbis, Christen Karniski and Joanna Lohman were declared free agents.

Sept. 30, 2009: Sky Blue FC (NJ/NY) waived the 2010 options for Collette McCallum, Kelly Parker and Julianne Sitch. Cori Alexander, Mele French, Katie Hooker and Lauren Sesselman were declared free agents.

Sept. 30, 2009: Saint Louis Athletica exercised the 2010 options for Lori Chalupny and Kia McNeill and re-signed Tina Ellerston and Angie Woznuk. Saint Louis Athletica waived the 2010 options for Daniela and Sarah Walsh. Niki Cross, Sheree Gray, Erin Kane, Ashlee Pistorius, Lisa Stoia, Melissa Tancredi, Erin Walter and Christie Welsh were declared free agents.

Sept. 30, 2009: The Philadelphia Independence exercised the 2010 option for Kelly Schmedes.

Sept. 30, 2009: The Los Angeles Sol exercised the 2010 option for Stephanie Cox. The Los Angeles Sol waived the 2010 options for Han Duan, Martina Franko and Christie Shaner. Liz Bogus, Brittany Cameron, Lyndsey Patterson, Keri Sanchez, Lisa Sari, Julia Schnugg, Aly Wagner and McCall Zerboni were declared free agents.

Sept. 30, 2009: FC Gold Pride (Bay Area) exercised the 2010 options for Eriko Arakawa, Nicole Barnhart, Brandi Chastain, Tina DiMartino, Allison Whitworth and Kimberly Yokers. FC Gold Pride waived the 2010 options for Marissa Abegg, Adriane, Erika, Formiga and Tiffany Weimer. Greer Barnes, Sissi, Lindsay Massengale, Meagan McCray and Leslie Osborne were declared free agents.

Sept. 30, 2009: The Chicago Red Stars waived the 2010 options for Heather Garriock, Frida Ostberg and Lydia Williams. Cristiane, Jaimel Johnson, Carli Lloyd, Mary Therese McDonnell, Lydia Vandenbergh and Michelle Wenino were declared free agents.

Sept. 30, 2009: The Boston Breakers waived the 2010 options for Nancy Augustyniak Goffi and Candace Chapman. Abby Crumpton, Fabiana, Kristin Luckenbill, Heather Mitts, Sophia Mundy, Ashley Phillips and Erika Sutton were declared free agents.

Sept. 30, 2009: The Atlanta Beat exercised the 2010 options for Amanda Cinalli, Noelle Keselica, Katie Larkin, Sharolta Nonen and Leigh Ann Robinson. Sara Larsson was declared a free agent.

Sept. 29, 2009: The Boston Breakers traded Amy Rodriguez and their first pick in the 2010 WPS Draft (fifth overall) to the Philadelphia Independence for its first and second picks in the 2010 WPS Draft (second and 11th overall).

Sept. 28, 2009: The Washington Freedom exercised the 2010 options for: Lisa De Vanna, Jill Gilbeau, Sarah Huffman, Allie Long, Erin McLeod, Rebecca Moros, Homare Sawa, Alex Singer and Cat Whitehill.

Sept. 28, 2009: Sky Blue FC (NJ/NY) exercised the 2010 options for: Anita Asante, Yael Averbuch, Karen Bardsley, Jenni Branam, Keeley Dowling, Francielle, Kerri Hanks and Meghan Schnur. Sky Blue FC (NJ/NY) also exercised the mutual option for Rosana.

Sept. 28, 2009: Saint Louis Athletica exercised the 2010 options for: Eniola Aluko, Kendall Fletcher, Stephanie Logterman, Jillian Loyden and Elise Weber.

Sept. 28, 2009: The Philadelphia Independence exercised the 2010 options for: Danesha Adams, Jen Buczkowski, Nikki Krzysik, Lori Lindsey, Sarah Senty and Sue Weber.

Sept. 28, 2009: The Los Angeles Sol exercised the 2010 options for: Camille Abily, Brittany Bock, Allison Falk, Valerie Henderson, Karina LeBlanc and Manya Makoski. The Los Angeles Sol also exercised the mutual option for Aya Miyama.

Sept. 28, 2009: FC Gold Pride (Bay Area) exercised the 2010 options for: Rachel Buehler, Carrie Dew, Kristin Graczyk, Tiffeny Milbrett, Christine Sinclair and Kandace Wilson.

Sept. 28, 2009: The Chicago Red Stars exercised the 2010 options for: Marian Dalmy, Ifeoma Dieke, Chioma Igwe, Caroline Jonsson, Brittany Klein, Ella Masar, Jill Oakes, Megan Rapinoe and Natalie Spilger.

Sept. 28, 2009: The Boston Breakers exercised the 2010 options for: Christine Latham, Allison Lipsher, Mary-Frances Monroe, Kasey Moore, Jennifer Nobis and Maggie Tomecka. The Breakers also loaned Jennifer Nobis to Pitea of Sweden's Damallsvenskan until Nov. 10.

New coach in Jersey

2009-09-29T21:24:00.000-07:00

"Miettinen is the current head coach for PK-35 in Helsinki, Finland, which is currently tied for first place in the Finnish Premier League. Prior to taking over at PK-35, she spent two years at FC Kontu in Helsinki, advancing her club to the Finnish Premier League midway through her first season at the helm."

Can FC Gold Pride be fixed?

2009-09-19T05:37:00.000-07:00

Its public knowledge that Albertin "William Bligh" Montoya has lost the FC Gold Pride locker room sometime last May. Will it be long before Brandi Chastain takes his spot?

Peter Wilt is out

2009-09-18T10:39:00.000-07:00

According to Chicago sources, Marcia McDermott has completed her boardroom takeover of the Red Stars by forcing out Peter Wilt and assuming his position in the organization.

Does not appear to be a wise move by the CRS.
1. Wilt is the man with second to none connections and experience in Chicago.
2. Wilt has a long memory and sticks around. Just ask the Fire.
3. In a league devoid of real soccer managerial experience, Wilt stood alone.

Will the CRS and the league overcome this setback? I believe this development is a major, major mistake.

WPS Expansion Draft

2009-09-15T14:51:00.000-07:00

Both Atlanta and Philadelphia will need a lot of luck in 2010.

Atlanta
1.) Leigh Ann Robinson, D - FC Gold Pride
2.) Amanda Cinalli, F - Saint Louis Athletica
3.) Katie Larkin, D/M - Los Angeles Sol
4.) Sharolta Nonen, D - Los Angeles Sol
5.) Sara Larsson, D - Saint Louis Athletica
6.) Noelle Keselica, F - Sky Blue FC

Philadelphia
1.) Lori Lindsey, M - Washington Freedom
2.) Jen Buczkowski, D - Sky Blue FC
3.) Nikki Krzysik, D - Chicago Red Stars
4.) Sue Weber, D - Boston Breakerss
5.) Sarah Senty, D - Washington Freedom
6.) Danesha Adams, M - Chicago Red Stars
7.) Kelly Schmedes, F - Boston Breakers

WPS speculation

2009-09-05T20:26:00.001-07:00

FC Gold Pride - Formiga will not return. Arakawa is not impressed with Montoya and will not return. Adriane and Erika are questionable at best. Weimer is desperate to get out.

Red Stars - Its no secret that Emma Hayes is not impressed with Lloyd and will try to unload her to either Sky Blue or Philly. Ostberg is out, Jonsson may go with her. Cristiane will have to take a pay cut to stay in Chicago.

Philly Independence - Caroline Seger of Sweden will be picked #1.

Atlanta Beat - Another Swede or two are expected to be drafted.

LA Sol - Han Duan will be gone.

Notre Dame 0, UNC 6

2009-09-04T19:28:00.001-07:00

A soldout standing room-only crowd of more than 3,000 fans on hand at the new Alumni Stadium Friday night, hoping to the 2nd ranked Irish women's soccer team get its revenge on top ranked North Carolina in a rematch of last year's national championship game, won by the Tar Heels.
It didn't happen.
Jessica McDonald had two goals and an assist, while Casey Nogueira added a goal and an assist for North Carolina en route to a 6-0 win over the Irish.

Two-time WPSL National Championship coach to lead Philly

2009-09-03T07:30:00.000-07:00

The Philadelphia Independence is proud to announce the selection of Paul Riley as its Head Coach. Originally from Liverpool, England, Paul has a long and illustrious career coaching men’s and women’s youth, college, and minor league soccer, including two National Championships (2006 and 2009) with the WPSL Long Island Fury.

Is Wilt hinting Red Stars ownership change?

2009-09-02T14:02:00.000-07:00

In his weekly column, Chicago Red Stars CEO Peter Wilt gives us an interesting tidbit:
"Minor league baseball impressario Mike Veeck visited a Red Stars game at the end of the season..."
Is Wilt hinting an ownership change in Chicago? Remember the name, Mike Veeck.

UNC 4, UCF 0

2009-08-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

Senior midfielder Tobin Heath produced a pair of world-class finishes while assisting on another tally in leading the top-ranked University of North Carolina women's soccer team to a 4-0 victory over UCF Friday night in the second game of the Carolina Nike Classic at Fetzer Field.

Unprotected in Washington

2009-08-29T09:09:00.000-07:00

1. Lori Lindsey
2. Kristin DeDycker
3. Parrissa Eyorokon
4. Jill Gilbeau
5. Emily Janss
6. Christen Karniski
7. Madison Keller
8. Rebecca Moros
9. Sarah Senty
10. Alex Singer
11. Kati Jo Spisak

Unprotected in Boston?

2009-08-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

1. Abby Crumpton
2. Nancy Augustyniak Goffi
3. Mary Frances Monroe
4. Sophia Mundy
5. Christine Latham
6. Maggie Tomecka
7. Kristin Luckenbill

Unprotected in Northern California?

2009-08-28T16:09:00.000-07:00

1. Greer Barnes
2. Lindsey Massengale
3. Meagan McCray
4. Tiffany Weimer
5. Kimberly Yokers
6. Eriko Arakawa
7. Brandi Chastain
8. Sissi
9. Marisa Abegg

Crossley Named Breakers Interim GM

2009-08-26T13:50:00.000-07:00

Andy Crossley has been named the interim General Manager of the Boston Breakers, it was announced on Wednesday by the team’s Manager Partner, Michael Stoller.
Crossley was the team’s third employee, joining the Breakers in October 2007 as Director of Business Development. In that role, he directed the team’s ticket sales, merchandising and customer service programs. Prior to joining the Breakers, Crossley worked in minor league baseball for seven years, including two years as General Manager of the Brockton Rox and Campanelli Stadium in Brockton, Mass. from 2005-2007.

Philadelphia will draft Sweden's Caroline Seger

2009-08-26T06:50:00.000-07:00

Philadelphia Independence Manager Terry Foley said to a Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet that his club will draft Sweden international Caroline Seger with their number 1 pick and is prepared to pay her a top salary.

US women's team to hold camp

2009-08-26T06:10:00.000-07:00

Pia Sundhage invited 23 players who played in the inaugural season of the WPS professional league.
The roster:
Goalkeepers: Nicole Barnhart, Ashlyn Harris, Hope Solo.
Defenders: Brittany Bock, Rachel Buehler, Lori Chalupny, Stephanie Cox, Amy LePeilbet, Heather Mitts, Megan Schnur, Cat Whitehill.
Midfielders: Yael Averbuch, Shannon Boxx, Tina DiMartino, Tobin Heath, Angela Hucles, Brittany Klein, Lori Lindsey, Carli Lloyd, Heather O'Reilly, Leslie Osborne, Megan Rapinoe, Kacey White.
Forwards: Lauren Cheney, Amy Rodriguez, Abby Wambach.

Stunning title win for Sky Blue

2009-08-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

Sky Blue FC have secured the inaugural Women's Professional Soccer league title by defeating premiers and favourites Los Angeles Sol in the final at the Home Depot Center in Carson.
The New Jersey-based side continued their improbable run to the title having scraped into the semi-finals with a win on the final day of the regular season.
A goal in the 16th-minute from USA midfielder Heather O'Reilly proved enough to separate the two sides despite the star quality of the home side which included Brazilian star Marta, Japan's Aya Miyama, China's Han Duan and experienced USA international Shannon Boxx.

UNC 7, UCLA 2

2009-08-22T18:08:00.000-07:00

Defending NCAA women's soccer champion North Carolina tallied three goals in the first 13 minutes of play Saturday night to spark a 7-2 victory for the No. 1-ranked Tar Heels over No. 3-ranked UCLA in the season opener for both teams. A crowd of 3,372 at Fetzer Field sat through a steady rainstorm throughout the night to witness what proved to be a very different game from the one the two played last December 5 in the NCAA semifinals, a 1-0 Tar Heel victory.

The Atlanta Beat announces head coach

2009-08-22T06:15:00.000-07:00

"Atlanta Beat General Manager Shawn McGee announced Gareth O’Sullivan as the first Head Coach of the Beat, a 2010 expansion team in Women’s Professional Soccer.
A native of Ballina, Ireland, O’Sullivan is a nationally respected coach with proven success at the youth, college and professional levels. Most recently he served as coach to Afturelding and KR in the Icelandic Premier League.
Prior to his years in Iceland, O’Sullivan coached collegiately in the United States. From 1997 to 2003, he led Christian Brothers University (Memphis, TN) women’s soccer team to five Gulf South Conference titles, en route to capturing the university’s first ever NCAA II national championship in 2002."

Its clear that McGee HAS NOT done his homework.
Why do you ask?
1. Call Chairman Guðjón Guðmundsson at KR and ask hard questions.
2. What happened at Christian Brothers University?

Suuport WPS: buy season tickets today

2009-03-05T04:15:00.000-08:00

"The Freedom has sold about 700 season tickets, half of Quinn's expectations. Chicago is near 1,200 and hopes to reach 2,000, according to Red Stars President Peter Wilt."

"WPS has one major national sponsor, Puma, and negotiations with other firms have "slowed down or stopped," Commissioner Tonya Antonucci said recently."

Show your support, buy WPS season tickets today!

Terrible team names: Women's 'soccer' gets the American treatment

2009-02-24T18:04:00.000-08:00

'People are always doing something to get noticed, but I think the skirt may or may not take off here.'

Colorado looking to join WPS in 2011

2009-02-23T09:58:00.000-08:00

Dr. Bob Contiguglia, a former president of the U.S. Soccer organization and Colorado resident, disclosed that he’s working with an initiative to put a WPS franchise in Colorado by 2011.

Pali Blues add assistant

2009-02-20T15:43:00.000-08:00

The Pali Blues Soccer Club formally announced today the addition of Shayon Jalayer to their coaching staff for the upcoming W-League season. After winning the 2008 league crown in their inaugural year, Jalayer will join the Blues’ bench on Saturday, May 9th, when they begin their title defense against the Los Angeles Legends at the Stadium by the Sea.
Jalayer brings a wealth of soccer experience to the Blues. He currently owns Soccer Odyssey, which has been training athletes, in a variety of formats, over the past 10 years in Southern California. The USSF National License holder serves as the associate head coach of the women’s side at Riverside Community College, and he concurrently presides over Corona United SC as their technical director. As a player for Azusa Pacific University, Jalayer was his team captain and received MVP honors of the Cougars from 1994-1995. He also enjoyed a professional career in the Iran Premiere League for Teraktor Sazi in 2002, as well as five years with the Washington Stars of the American Professional Soccer League. He also represented Iran in the 1995 World Futbol Rapido Championships and the USA in the 1994 Futsal World Cup.

Makoski ready to star on March 29th

2009-02-15T06:03:00.000-08:00

And on March 29, at the Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif., against the Washington Freedom, Makoski will make her Women's Professional Soccer league debut.
"I'm going to be playing with the best players in the world," the 25-year-old Makoski said. "I never thought that I'd make it this far. It's always been my dream, but now it's a reality."
And she'll be playing with such names as Marta, who was named by FIFA as the best female player in the world in 2006 and is a three-time FIFA Women's World Player of the Year, and U.S. national team members Aly Wagner and Shannon Boxx.

Pali Blues sign star forward

2009-02-14T05:58:00.000-08:00

The defending W-League champion Pali Blues Soccer Club bolstered its roster today with the addition of Stanford striker Christen Press. The Blues will continue making acquisitions over the upcoming months in preparation for their sophomore season debut, which will take place on Saturday, May 9th, against the Los Angeles Legends at the Stadium by the Sea.
Press started every game of her sophomore season for Stanford this past fall and received All-Pac 10 Second Team and Top Drawer Soccer Second Team accolades. She led the Cardinal offense with 43 points on 16 goals and 11 assists and has already accumulated 65 points on 24 knocks and 17 helpers in only two seasons in Central California.

Chastain plays to fans who remember her soccer glory

2009-02-13T04:37:00.000-08:00

With her husband, Jerry Smith, caddying for her, Chastain showed some impressive ability on the course, smacking long, straight drives on most holes and displaying a soft touch around the greens.
As she waited to tee off on No. 14, she struck up a conversation with a man drinking coffee in his backyard. A few minutes later, she waved at somebody at a backyard party who sang out, "Here we go, Brandi, here we go!"
After blasting her best tee shot of the day on No. 18, she hollered, "That one was for you, Connor!"
Seconds later, a chubby man pulled up his shirt, flashing his bare belly at her — an apparent homage to her famous and infamous celebration at the '99 World Cup, when she stripped off her jersey, down to her sports bra, after scored the tournament-winning kick.

Six players finalize contracts with Sky Blue FC

2009-02-12T16:34:00.000-08:00

Sky Blue FC - the NJ/NY franchise in Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) - announced today that the team has finalized contracts with six players for the 2009 season. The officially signed players are Brazilian Rosana, Australians Sarah Walsh and Collette McCallum, and Americans Cori Alexander, Keeley Dowling, and Jenny Hammond.

SF Nighthawks wins 2009 Silver Mug Cup

2009-02-10T04:55:00.000-08:00

Under an ominous gray sky, the San Francisco Nighthawks of the Pacific Conference of the Women's Premier Soccer League (WPSL) won the 2009 Silver Mug Soccer Invitational Tournament, with a 5-0-1 record while capturing 49 out of a possible 60 points. The Nighthawks out-scored their opposition by a 15-2 margin, taking the final against Salt Lake City Sparta of the WPSL Big Sky Conference by a 2-0 score.
Led by 2008 All-Pacific Conference selection Kimberly Boulos (2g, 2a) and Seattle Pacific (reigning NCAA DII National champions) standout & All-West Region honoree Jocelyn Charette (7g, 2a), the Nighthawks were relentless on attack the entire tournament - who were bolstered by the addition of 2007 WPSL Final Four MVP Maria Ruiz to the squad. The tempo of the games was provided by both Boulos (playing as an attacking midfielder) and defensive center midfielder Erica Dubin (an All-West Region selection for NCAA DIII UC-Santa Cruz), who played every minute of the six matches.

Kelly Smith

2009-02-09T10:01:00.000-08:00

Kelly Smith reportedly signs a four year contract worth $95,000/season.

U23: USA 3, England 0

2009-02-07T04:28:00.000-08:00

The US U-23 Women’s National Team took on England yesterday (2/6) in La Manga, Spain. Brittany Klein, Amanda Cinalli and Lorraine Quinn had the goals.

WPSL grows to 54 teams

2009-02-07T04:16:00.000-08:00

In a big year of firsts and new clubs in the Puget Sound area you can now add the Seattle Synergy to your soccer radar. This fledgling club will play in the Women's Premier Soccer League (WPSL) in 2009 and give local female players a stepping stone to the W-League and Women's Professional Soccer (WPS.)

This league is 54 teams strong nationwide. Top names like Tony Diccio have coached in this league (Connecticut) and now he's with the WPS team the Boston Breakers. This league is serious women’s soccer! This can create a great WPS feeder system.

Algarve Cup roster

2009-02-06T05:53:00.000-08:00

U.S. Women's National Team 2009 Algarve Cup Roster (March 4-11, 2009)
GOALKEEPERS
Nicole Barnhart (FC Gold Pride), Hope Solo (St. Louis Athletica).
DEFENDERS
Rachel Buehler (FC Gold Pride), Lori Chalupny (St. Louis Athletica), Kendall Fletcher (Los Angeles Sol), Heather Mitts (Boston Breakers), Christie Rampone (Sky Blue FC).
MIDFIELDERS
Shannon Boxx (Los Angeles Sol), Tina DiMartino (FC Gold Pride), Carli Lloyd (Chicago Red Stars), Heather O'Reilly (Sky Blue FC), Lindsay Tarpley (Chicago Red Stars), Kacey White (Sky Blue FC), Angie Woznuk (St. Louis Athletica).
FORWARDS
Angela Hucles (Boston Breakers), Natasha Kai (Sky Blue FC), Megan Rapinoe (Chicago Red Stars), Amy Rodriguez (Boston Breakers).

U23: USA 1, Norway 0

2009-02-05T16:30:00.000-08:00

The US U-23 Women’s National Team took on Norway earlier today in La Manga, Spain. Yael Averbuch scored for the US in the 73 minute.

Lines to coach Buffalo Flash

2009-02-04T18:35:00.000-08:00

The Buffalo Flash of the United Soccer Leagues and their recently acquired head coach, former New Zealand international and USL-1 veteran Aaran Lines, announced their intention to field a team of professional players in their first year of W-League competition.
Lines is an experienced international player with 41 appearances for New Zealand, participating in the 1999 and 2003 FIFA Confederations Cup with New Zealand during his national team career. Lines has played for clubs in Germany, New Zealand, Poland, and most recently in the United States for the USL First Division Rochester Rhinos. He began his USL-1 stint with the Portland Timbers in 2005 and played his final two seasons with the Rhinos, seeing action in 66 USL-1 regular season games and recording three goals and seven assists. His club advanced to the postseason all three seasons with the Rhinos reaching the USL-1 Championship game in 2006.

Maryland Pride announce new GM & head coach

2009-02-04T18:29:00.000-08:00

Thunder Soccer Club is pleased to announce that the TSC Maryland Pride of the East Conference of the Women's Premier Soccer League (WPSL) has hired a new General Manager and Head Coach for the Summer 2009 season. The new G.M. will be Tony Corbett, who has been a long time coach in the Maryland area and will continue to serve as the Director of Coaching for all of Thunder's youth teams, as he has since 2001.
As part of the re-organization, the Howard County based club has also been interviewing for a new Head Coach and after an extensive search, they are very pleased to announce the appointment of Blackpool, England native Steve Knapman. The 33-year-old former professional has been coaching and playing in the Maryland area for the past 12 years.

WPS schedule

2009-02-04T08:12:00.000-08:00

Women's Professional Soccer plans to unveil its complete league schedule Thursday afternoon.

"Formiga is the best midfielder in the world" says Montoya

2009-02-04T07:28:00.000-08:00

FC Gold Pride, the Bay Area franchise of Women’s Professional Soccer announced today the signing of Brazilian Soccer standout Formiga, to a one-year contract. FC Gold Pride selected Formiga as the first overall draft pick at the WPS International Draft.
"With Formiga, we have signed the best midfielder in the world," said FC Gold Pride Head Coach Albertin Montoya. "She holds teams together. I spoke to several coaches from around the world before selecting her in the WPS international draft. She is consistently regarded around the world as the engine of her team. She embodies the heart and soul of the Brazilian National team and we are looking forward to having her bring her talent and passion to FC Gold Pride."
The 30 year old native of Sao Paulo, Brazil has been a constant presence on the Brazilian national team for 15 years, representing her country in four World Cup competitions (1995, 1999, 2003, 2007) and four Olympic tournaments (1996, 2000, 2004, 2008). The talented midfielder has been a leader and a catalyst for the marked rise of women’s soccer in Brazil. She has twice helped Brazil reach the Olympic gold medal match (2004, 2008) and twice captured the Pan American Games Championship (2003, 2007), lifting her team to victory in 2003 by scoring the game-winning goal in the match.

Miyama signs with LA

2009-02-03T08:07:00.000-08:00

The L.A. Women's Professional Soccer entrant describes Aya Miyama "as the cornerstone of the Japanese Women's National Team and observes she is "touted as one of the best young players in the world."
She'll be introduced at a 10 a.m. press conference at Home Depot Center. This is a big deal in the Japanese-language press with more than a half dozen outlets attending the event.
The English remember her - and gave her the nickname - after she scored two goals from direct free kicks against them at the 2007 Women's World Cup.

Chicago Red Stars add two Swedes

2009-02-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Red Stars have secured the services of Sweden’s Frida Östberg & Caroline Jönsson for the 2009 WPS season, General Manager Marcia McDermott announced today. With a combined 15 years and 158 caps on the international stage, the veteran Swedes will bring a wealth of experience and a championship pedigree to the Chicago Red Stars.

Chicago Red Stars sign Australia's Garriock

2009-02-02T07:23:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Red Stars have signed Australian midfielder Heather Garriock for the 2009 WPS season, General Manager Marcia McDermott announced today.
Garriock, 26, is a 10-year veteran of the Australian National Team, having earned 112 caps and scoring 19 goals. She made her Australian National Team debut in 1999 at the age of 16, and has competed in two World Cups and two Olympics.

Hege Riise becomes USWNT Assistant Coach

2009-01-29T17:30:00.000-08:00

Hege Riise has been appointed as the new US Women’s National Team Assistant Coach. Riise had a distinguished career as a player winning a FIFA Women’s World Cup in 1995 and a Olympic gold medal in the Sydney Olympics in 2000. Riise also played in the WUSA for the Carolina Courage.

Boston Aztecs sign two

2009-01-29T17:26:00.000-08:00

The Boston Aztecs of the East Conference of the Women's Premier Soccer League (WPSL) have announced their Summer 2009 coaching staff. Former Women's United Soccer Association (WUSA) standouts & Aztec All-WPSL selections Meotis Erikson and Rebekah Splaine will serve as player/coaches this upcoming season.

WPSL ready for growth

2009-01-28T17:28:00.000-08:00

With the next step in the evolution of the sport in the form of Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) just months away, the effect has been felt not just in this country but all over the world. After the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Women's Premier Soccer League (WPSL) held in Las Vegas, NV last weekend, the national women's soccer league showed it was ready to roll with the changes.
Former Associate League Commissioner Joe Ferrara has had his duties elevated, and will now serve as the WPSL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the 50-plus team league. Andy Sones of the Millburn Magic (East Conference) - founder of SONESOCCER, YPSL Commissioner & former youth player in the English Premier League (EPL) with Charlton Athletic - will take over Ferrara's duties as East Commissioner.
Fresh off his induction into the USASA Region IV Hall of Fame, League Commissioner Jerry Zanelli - and the member teams present at the WPSL AGM - were all in favor of the further evolution of the national women's soccer league with these new appointments.

Red Stars sign Carney

2009-01-27T17:37:00.000-08:00

The Red Stars made England's Karen Carney their first official signing Tuesday.
The 21-year-old forward joins the Red Stars from England's Arsenal Ladies F.C. and will be reunited with Emma Hayes, who was an assistant with Arsenal before accepting the Red Stars head coaching job in May.

Tony DiCicco

2009-01-26T05:09:00.000-08:00

We spent too much money. The business plan was never right. But from an entertainment level, from a competitive level, from a player-development level, every team in three years made the playoffs; it was a different champion in every year; there were very few lopsided scores.

Lawsuit allowed to continue

2009-01-26T05:05:00.000-08:00

Common sense tells you that if your view of the playing surface from the seating bowl includes the back of the goal, you may be in danger of being struck by a ball or puck. Or, maybe not. After a Wake County court threw out Teresa Allred's lawsuit against a women's soccer league and the owners and operators of a Cary, N.C., stadium now called SAS Soccer Park, an appeals court ruled in December that the lawsuit could continue.
Allred was sitting behind the goal at an April 2003 Women's United Soccer Association match when she was struck in the head by a practice shot that sailed over the goal and into the stands. Allred's complaint, Allred v. Capital Area Soccer League Inc., filed in April 2006, alleged that she suffered post-concussive syndrome and a neurological disorder as a result of the incident.

Sawa will join Washington

2009-01-25T05:07:00.000-08:00

Veteran Japanese midfielder Homare Sawa has left NTV Beleza to join the Washington Freedom in the U.S. Women's Professional Soccer league, Beleza announced Friday.

Hayes named Atlanta W-League coach

2009-01-23T18:47:00.000-08:00

The Silverbacks W-League announced David Hayes today, as the new Head Coach for the Atlanta Silverback Women. Hayes, who has spent the last four seasons as a player with the Atlanta Silverbacks of USL-1, is a USSF “B” Licensed coach and is currently the Technical Director for the Alpharetta Ambush Soccer Club.

LA Legends announce new head coach

2009-01-23T18:45:00.000-08:00

The Los Angeles Legends are pleased to announce Twila Kaufman as the Head Coach of the LA Legends W-League Team.“We believe Twila’s coaching and recruiting ability, as well as her playing experience to be a great compliment to our young team,” says General Manager, Josh Hodges.
Kaufman has spent the past 5 years as a member of the Pepperdine University Wave’s coaching staff where she is involved in all phases of the program: conditioning, practice planning, academic affairs and game management. Kaufman is also the recruiting coordinator and has brought in nationally ranked freshmen classes from 2005-08 according to Soccer Buzz, including a program-best #15 ranking in 2007.

U-23s will travel to Europe to face Norway and England

2009-01-22T19:00:00.000-08:00

The U.S. Under-23 Women’s National Team will travel to Europe from Jan. 31-Feb. 7 for two matches as part of a three-team competition in La Manga, Spain. The USA will face Norway on Feb. 4 and England on Feb. 6.
This will be the first U.S. U-23 roster that features a majority of professional players with 11 of the 18 having been drafted by clubs in the new WPS.

GOALKEEPERS (2): Kelsey Davis (Portland), Val Henderson (Los Angeles Sol)
DEFENDERS (6): Nikki Krzysik (Chicago Red Stars), Stephanie Logterman (St. Louis Athletica), Kia McNeil (St. Louis Athletica), Kasey Moore (Boston Breakers), Kat Reynolds (Santa Clara), Jessica Tsao (Portland)
MIDFIELDERS (6): Yael Averbuch (Sky Blue FC), Brittany Bock (Los Angeles Sol), Parrissa Eyorokon (Washington Freedom); Brittany Klein (Chicago Red Stars), Lorraine Quinn (Duke), Amy Smerdzinski (Wake Forest)
FORWARDS (4): Amanda Cinalli (St. Louis Athletica), Katie Larkin (Los Angeles Sol), Kelley O’Hara (Stanford), Christen Press (Stanford).

Fourteen year old Kori Quinn diagnosed with cancer

2009-01-21T10:22:00.000-08:00

Some of you may have heard there is a girl, Kori Quinn who plays on the Viati 95's (U14's) who was recently diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma Cancer.
She is an amazing athlete and is now fighting for her life. Regardless of what jersey a player is wearing, a soccer player is a soccer player. We are reaching out into the soccer community asking for support for Kori and her Mom and Dad to help pay for medical expenses. Kori will start her 3rd round of chemo this upcoming weekend and then will have 10 more to go.
We are selling "Kick it for Kori" wristbands for $4 and 100% of the proceeds will go to the Kori Quinn Medical Fund.
We feel greatful to have healthy kids but when something like this happens EVERYONE needs to step up to the plate to support a kid who LOVES to play the game of soccer.
You can find more info around Kori's story at www.viatisc.com and there is a link to her Caring Bridge website where her mom give daily updates.
Theresa Hultz
Cell 913-526-8565
You can contact Theresa via the cell phone listed above or by email at theresa@viatisc.com

Ali Riley Signs with Pali Blues

2009-01-20T20:05:00.000-08:00

The defending USL W-League Champion Pali Blues Soccer Club announced today their first acquisition for the 2009 season after signing New Zealand National Team midfielder Ali Riley. The Stanford University junior comes to the Blues one summer after playing every minute of the 2008 Olympic Games for New Zealand.
"We are so excited to get the ball rolling with the signing process, and I cannot think of anyone better then Ali,” Blues head coach Charlie Naimo stated. “Not only is she a great player with a world of experience, she is a Palisadian. We had hoped she would have been with us last year, but she was competing in the Olympics."
Riley has over 20 caps with the New Zealand National Team, and she was a member of the Football Ferns’ first World Cup club in 2007. She hit the first and only international goal for New Zealand in an Olympic tuneup against China on July 17, 2008, and she had an assist in the first goal of their opening Olympic match last summer. She showed her versatility on the pitch this past fall after converting from forward to defender for her junior season at Stanford.

Bartlinkski earns D3 national coach of year award

2009-01-20T20:03:00.000-08:00

University of West Florida women's soccer coach Joe Bartlinski was named Tuesday as the national coach of the year for NCAA Division II.
The honor was voted upon by the National Soccer Coaches of America Association.
Bartlinski led UWF to an unbeaten regular season in 2008, a school record 24 wins and the program's first appearance in NCAA Division II Final Four.
The Argos' only loss occurred in double overtime against Seattle Pacific University in the NCAA Division II National Championship game.
Earlier in the season Bartlinski was recognized by the NSCAA as the South Region Coach of the Year.
His career record at UWF is 152-21-9, which is leads the Gulf South Conference in all-time career wins and career winning percentage.

WPS salaries

2009-01-19T03:51:00.000-08:00

How much will the players get paid? Here are the numbers according to league projections.
WNT - $47,500
WNT pool - $35,000
Top international - $32,500
International - $25,000
Top domestic - $20,000
Domestic - $12,875

Aubry takes over at Arkansas

2009-01-18T05:26:00.000-08:00

Erin Aubry played in the Big Ten and most recently coached in the Ohio Valley Conference, but her SEC experience qualified her to succeed Gordon Henderson as Arkansas' new women's soccer coach.

"We need to see what we have first," Aubry said. "We're going to play with a lot of courage. We're going to really press them to have individual courage to take risks, go to goal, come out of the back, but we're also going to make sure that we keep the ball. We're going to use our strengths for sure, play a little bit above the SEC level."

Inspirational Chastain ready to lead

2009-01-17T05:33:00.000-08:00

San Jose's Brandi Chastain has accomplished as much as anyone in women's soccer. She has won World Cup titles, Olympic gold medals and the adulation of countless fans.
Yet, at age 40, the woman famous for making the winning penalty kick in the 1999 World Cup final still had to prove she could play.
"Three months ago I wasn't sure she could," FC Gold Pride Coach Albertin Montoya said Friday after picking Chastain in the seventh round of the Women's Professional Soccer league general draft.
Chastain, perhaps the South Bay's most prominent female sports figure, changed her coach's mind during a series of tryout camps for the start-up professional league that begins play in April. She became the team's featured selection on a day the Gold Pride filled out its roster with a handful of promising college players.
"Watching her, she still has it," said Montoya, who added that taking Chastain wasn't a gimmick. "At the end of the day I've got to pick players who can make the difference. She doesn't waste energy; she reads the game."
Chastain, expected to play a quarterbacking role in the midfield, hasn't been with the U.S. national team since 2004 but competed with the semi-pro California Storm in recent years. One of her teammates was Sissi, a former Brazilian star who is the Gold Pride's assistant coach. The two also played for the San Jose CyberRays of the now-defunct Women's United Soccer Association that folded in 2003.

WPSL dominates first 2 rounds of 2009 WPS draft

2009-01-16T15:51:00.000-08:00

After today's WPS Draft - which was held in conjunction with the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Convention at America's Center Convention Complex in St. Louis, MO - many WPSL players can pursue that professional dream once again, as 29 former & current standouts were selected by the seven WPS teams in a 10-round format. On top of that fact, nine of the first 11 picks in the 2009 WPS Draft have ties with the WPSL.
"It is a great day for the WPSL but more so for the sport of women's soccer," said League Commissioner Jerry Zanelli, who is also the owner of the WPSL's California Storm & Director of Player Development for F.C. Gold Pride (WPS). "To have nine of the first 11 picks in today's WPS Draft connected to our league is truly gratifying, but as a whole, no where close to the satisfaction when it comes to the players themselves. This is all for them and what our league is truly about - developing players for the next level."
West Coast F.C.'s Amy Rodriguez - who signed with the team prior to the 2008 season but was called up to the gold-medal winning U.S. Women's National Team for the Olympic Games this past summer after an injury to star forward Abby Wambach - was selected 1st overall by the Boston Breakers. After that, former Elk Grove Pride star & All-WPSL selection Megan Rapinoe (Univ. of Portland) went to the Chicago Red Stars with the second overall selection.
The Long Island Fury of the East Conference were honored with two selections in the First Round, as U-23 USWNT star & UCLA's Hermann Trophy Finalist Christina DiMartino (3rd overall, F.C Gold Pride) and Allie Long (7th overall, Washington) of the 2008 College Cup Champion Univ. of North Carolina Tarheels will now take on the pro ranks. Alex Singer (Univ. of Virginia) - a starter on Long Island's 2006 WPSL National Championship team - was selected with the first pick (8th overall) of the 2nd Round.
DiMartino and her new coach - Albertin Montoya, who was on the California Storm coaching staff - were excited about their WPS possibilities.
"Christina is the best attacking midfielder in the country by far," said Montoya. "She can create, she can finish and she possesses skills you just can't teach. Her vision of the game is impeccable. We wish her the best in camp with the National Team and look forward to her arrival in the Bay Area."
Also, rounding out the first two rounds were WPSL standouts Kia McNeill (9th overall to St. Louis, All-WPSL selection with Bay State Select) and five-time All-WPSL selection & UConn's First Team NSCAA All-American Meghan Schnur (11th overall to Sky Blue F.C.). Notre Dame's Brittany Bock (5th overall to Los Angeles) played for the 2005 WPSL & U.S. Open Cup Champion F.C. Indiana squad and was named to the All-Final Four Team for her efforts.

WPS Draft

2009-01-16T08:30:00.000-08:00

1. Boston - Amy Rodriguez
2. Chicago - Megan Rapinoe
3. Bay Area - Christina DiMartino
4. Sky Blue - Yael Averbuch
5. LA - Brittany Bock
6. St. Louis - Kerri Hanks
7. Washington - Allie Long

8. Washington - Alex Singer
9. St. Louis - Kia McNeill
10. LA - Allison Falk
11. Sky Blue - Megan Schnur
12. Bay Area - Carrie Dew
13. Chicago - Nikki Krzysik
14. Chicago - Brittany Klein

15. Boston - Kasey Moore
16. Chicago - Natalie Spilger
17. Bay Area - Tiffany Weimer
18. Sky Blue - Karen Bardsley
19. LA - Katie Larkin
20. St. Louis - Stephanie Logterman
21. St. Louis - Elise Weber

22. Washington - Jill Gilbeau
23. Washington - Parrissa Eyorokon
24. LA - Greer Barnes
25. Sky Blue - Christie Shaner
26. Bay Area - Marisa Abegg
27. Chicago - Jen Branam
28. Chicago - Chioma Igwe

29. Boston - Jennifer Nobis
30. Chicago - Stacey Tullock
31. Bay Area - Ameera Abdullah
32. Sky Blue - Julianne Sitch
33. LA - Val Henderson
34. St. Louis - Nikki Cross
35. Washington - Briana Scurry

36. Washington - Rebecca Moros
37. St. Louis - Jill Loyden
38. LA - Katie Hooker
39. Sky Blue - Jen Buczkowski
40. Bay Area - Leigh Ann Robinson
41. Boston - Kelly Schmedes
42. Boston - Ariel Harris

43. Boston - Lindsay Vera
44. Chicago - Lauren Sesselmann
45. Bay Area - Brandi Chastain
46. Sky Blue - Ouying Zhang
47. LA - McCall Zerboni
48. St. Louis - Lisa Stoia
49. Washington - Sarah Senty

50. Washington - Kati Jo Spisak
51. St. Louis - Megan Kerns
52. LA - Brittany Cameron
53. Sky Blue - Mary Therese McDonnell
54. Bay Area - Allison Whitworth
55. Chicago - Kat Tarr
56. Boston - Ashley Nick

57. Boston - Allison Martino
58. Chicago - Jessica O'Rourke
59. Bay Area - Alissa Oldenkamp
60. Sky Blue - Mele French
61. LA - Erica Janke
62. St. Louis - Sheree Gray
63. Washington - Claire Zimmeck

64. Washington - Christen Karniski
65. St. Louis - Lydia Vandenbergh
66. LA - Lisa Sari
67. Sky Blue - Fanta Cooper
68. Bay Area - Stacie Alberico
69. Boston - Stacy Bishop
70. Boston - Jaimel Johnson

Fawcett reaches Hall

2009-01-16T05:06:00.001-08:00

Since 1998, seven members of the famed 1991 United States Women's National Team, which won the inaugural women's World Cup, have earned election to the Hall. On Thursday, Joy Fawcett made it eight.
Fawcett made the Hall of Fame cut as the top two vote-getters in the 2009 Player Election.

Alex Scott traded by Chicago

2009-01-16T04:53:00.000-08:00

Chicago sends Alex Scott, its 6th Round Pick (41st overall) and its 10th Round Pick (69th overall) in the 2009 WPS Draft to the Boston Breakers for the 2nd Round Pick (14th overall) and the 4th Round Pick (28th overall).

What does this mean?
Its simple, Scott is Kelly Smith's girlfriend and this trade can only mean that Smith will sign with Boston really soon. DiCicco is building a powerhouse in Boston.

Shelton State drops women's soccer program

2009-01-15T12:57:00.000-08:00

Shelton State Community College has decided to drop its women’s soccer program.
Barry Mohun, the school’s athletic director, called the move “an economic-type decision.”
Shelton State was the only two-year school in the state to offer women’s soccer as a scholarship program. The Buccaneers were successful, making it to the National Junior College Athletic Association’s district tournament level last season and regularly making it to the national playoffs.

Trotter quits

2009-01-14T07:12:00.000-08:00

India Trotter has retired from soccer.
Will she un-retire within 12 months? I expect her to.

Is WPS misleading potential sponsors?

2009-01-14T05:56:00.000-08:00

In its "Los Angeles Sol Signs Brazilian Superstar Marta" press release the league states "Umea has captured the Swedish league title three times (2005, 2006 and 2007) since her arrival, and took the UEFA Champions League crown in 2004 and a runner-up finish in 2007. In addition, they have drawn an average of nearly 10,000 fans per home game, easily best in the league."
Wait a minute, Marta's former club, Umea IK, averaged about 1,700 at home this season and NEVER averaged more then 3,000.
This is easily verifiable with a two minute phone call to Sweden. So, are they sloppy or sinister?

Krieger breaks foot

2009-01-13T21:23:00.000-08:00

In the midst of her holiday rehab work from a previous injury that had kept her off the field for most of the fall, Krieger broke her foot. She told me she's having surgery this week and expects to be sidelined for two months, and that she's keeping U.S. head coach Pia Sundhage informed.

Marta ready for WPS

2009-01-13T11:27:00.000-08:00

“We feel it’s great not just for our franchise but for our whole entire league,” Sol General Manager Charlie Naimo said. “It’s big news. We’ve been getting contacted by as much international media as we have local, but we’re definitely getting a lot of media attention. New York Times, L.A. Times. The big dogs. We’re obviously very appreciative of the coverage.”
The Los Angeles Sol are building their roster around Marta, the three-time FIFA Women's World Player of the Year.