OSA Smoke Signals Jan2014 by Sandy L. Bent

SMOKE SIGNALS

SMOKE SIGNALS 1

JANUARY 2014

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

OKLAHOMA CITY

HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

JIMMY NIELSEN

SCORE OSA WORKSHOP KEYNOTE SPEAKER COACHES OF THE YEAR, REFS OF THE YEAR VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR, SAVE OF THE YEAR ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR

TULSA

Oklahoma Soccer Association

OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

P.O. Box 35174, Tulsa, OK 74153-0174, 1-800-347-3590 â&#x20AC;˘ WWW.OKSOCCER.COM Tulsa Office: 9820 E. 41st Street,, Suite 115, Tulsa 74146, 1-918-627-2663 Oklahoma City Office: 4520 Old Farm Road, Oklahoma City, OK 73162, 405-286-0488

In this Issue OSA Awards 7 Scholarships. . . . . . 4 OSA Hosts District Meetings . . . . . . . . . . 7 District Vice Presidents Elected . . . . . . . . . . . 8 2014 SCORE OSA WORKSHOP FEB. 7-9 Jimmy Nielsen Keynote Speaker . . . 9 Workshop Schedule & Luncheon . . . . .10-12 Tulsa Drillers 2015 . .21 Tornado Relief Funds . . . . . . . . . . . 22

OSA Executive Committee President Brandon Story

Vice President Adult Reza Namavar Vice President Youth Tom Wedding Vice President Games, Discipline & Appeals Bill Aven Vice President Risk Management Michael Naumann Vice President Youth Recreational Keith Ash Vice President Youth Competitive Marianne Ballard Vice President Adult Competitive & Tournament Sonny Dalesandro Treasurer Sean McKelvey Secretary Sid Goodrich State Referee Administrator Paul Scott, interim

Youth Council

District 1 Vice President Recreational David Perry District 2 Vice President Recreational Jim Weir

Smoke Signals Story Submissions Smoke Signals welcomes story submissions from teams, clubs, leagues and associations via e-mail or FAX. If you have a story or a story idea, please e-mail or FAX us at the following addresses: oksoccer@ oksoccer.com -or- FAX: 1-918-627-2693 to the attention: Dale Watts. The Smoke Signals is the official publication of the Oklahoma Soccer Association and is published bi-monthly. Editorial offices are at the OSA office, 9410-B East 51st Street, Tulsa, OK 74145-8168. Telephone is 918-627-2663 and FAX is 918627-2693. E-mail at oksoccer@oksoccer.com. The Smoke Signals is mailed to all registered coaches, referees, association officers, subscribers, and players six times a year. Advertisers assume all liability for content of advertisements printed and therefore assume all claims against the Smoke Signals. The Smoke Signals does not publish articles or letters from anonymous contributors. Contributors must provide a daytime phone number to confirm authorship of submitted articles or letters. Opinions expressed in this publication are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication. Errors, corrections and changes are inevitable. Please accept our apologies for any inconveniences.

District 3 Vice President Recreational Kathy Mead District 4 Vice President Recreational Janet Cooper East Vice President Competitive Shawn Slater West Vice President Competitive Mickey Weatherly State Youth Referee Administrator ---

Adult Council

2nd Vice President Tekleab Tsegay Secretary/Registrar Jalal Daneshfar

Editor

Dale Watts Layout & Design Sandy Bent

Calendar February

3 – Metro Tulsa, Norman, Washington County 5 – Altus, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Collinsville, NOKC, Stilwell 6 – Midwest City, Northwest Oklahoma 7-9 – OSA Score Soccer Workshop 10 – Owasso 11 – Claremore, Elk City, Logan County, Mustang, Ponca City, South Lakes 12 – Durant, Mayes County 13 – Beaver River 14 – Valentine’s Day 17 – All County, Choctaw/Nicoma Park, El Reno, Shawnee, Stillwater, Westside 18 – Chickasha, Edmond, Harrah, Sapulpa 24 – Glenpool, Yukon 25 – Tri-Lake

March

3 – Metro Tulsa, Norman, Washington County 4 – Davis, Sand Springs 5 – Altus, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Collinsville, NOKC 6 – Coweta, Cleveland, Midwest City, NW Oklahoma 10 – Owasso 11 – Claremore, Elk City, Logan County, Muskogee, Mustang, Ponca City, South Lakes 12 - Durant, Mayes County 13 – Beaver River 14 – Valentine’s Day 17 – All County, Choctaw/Nicoma Park, El Reno, Shawnee, Stillwater, Westside 18 – Chickasha, Edmond, Harrah 24 – Glenpool, Yukon 25 – Tri-Lake

April

1 - Davis, Stilwell 2 - Altus, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Collinsville, NOKC 3 – Midwest City, Northwest Oklahoma 7 – Metro Tulsa, Norman, Washington County 8 - Claremore, Elk City, Logan County, Mustang, Ponca City, South Lakes 9 – Durant, Mayes County 10 – Beaver River 14 – Owasso 15 - Chickasha, Edmond, Harrah 21 – All County, Choctaw/Nicoma Park, El Reno, Shawnee, Stillwater, Westside 22 – Tri-Lake 23 – Bristow 28 – Glenpool, Yukon

Monthly Meetings

Clinton COASL - Feb & Aug Cordell Great Plains Hinton Lawton United NEOASA- Jan, June, Aug, & Dec Red Carpet Tri-City Verdigris All other clubs meet “as called.”

SMOKE SIGNALS 3

OSA Increases Staff To Provide Service

Oklahoma Soccer’s two offices now have new employees to better serve the needs of OSA’s membership. All of the new employees have lengthy soccer connections and are ready to assist members across the state. In the Oklahoma City offices of OSA, a familiar face is that of Pauletta Price. Pauletta is the West District Recreational Administrator (Districts 3 & 4) and will administer recreational registration, recreational leagues 3 & 4, and be the contact/support person for those recreational programs. A long time employee of Frontier Country, she is well versed in the needs and concerns of the many clubs in the western part of OSA. Welcome her at her new offices in Soccer City at 405-286-0488 or email her at pauletta@oksoccer.com. For those members calling the OSA office in Oklahoma City, the new voice they will hear is that of Jill Hartley, who is OSA’s new employee and will serve as the OSA competitive administrator. Jill hails from Clay County Soccer Club in Florida where her daughter Maddie played soccer and was a player on the US national championship team in the U19 division. Jill and her husband, Jeff, moved to Norman 3 years ago and she’s happy to be involved in Oklahoma Soccer. Please make Jill feel welcome to Oklahoma and she can be reached at 405-286-0488 or by email at jill@oksoccer.com In Tulsa, PJ Schauer is OSA’s East District Recreational Administrator (Districts 1 & 2) and will provide support for their programs just as Pauletta does for the west districts. PJ has served as a club registrar, coach, and referee over the past few years. Her duties will include recreational registration, rec league administration, and support OSA’s east district rec programs. PJ will also work with member clubs on growth and program support. Contact her at pj@oksoccer.com or at 918-627-2663. OSA welcomes David Moore as the new league scheduler for traveling rec, recreational select, and classic leagues. He will also serve as east classic league administrator. Also, David will be the statewide OPL referee assignor and state tournament assignor. David has been a referee and assignor for numerous clubs for many years. He can be contacted at the Tulsa office at 918-627-2663 or at dave@ oksoccer.com

OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

Hall of Fame Inducts Four at Workshop Wayne Ewing – Wayne Ewing

For the 2014 Hall of Fame Class, four men will be honored for the dedication and involvement in soccer they have demonstrated over many decades. All four have ties to nearly every aspect of youth soccer whether as coaches, referees, or administrators. The Hall of Fame reception will begin at 6:30 pm on Friday, February 7 at the Midwest City Sheraton and the ceremony will begin at 7 pm with introductions and acceptance speeches to follow. A more complete article on the four inductees will be in the February Smoke Signals.

Ed Michaud – Ed Michaud’s soc-

began his soccer career in El Reno as a coach and referee as well as doing administrative duties for the club. He became a referee to develop the game and then was drawn to officiating as a way to mentor young refs across the state. He served as both State Referee Administrator and State Youth Referee Administrator as well as assignor, assessor, and instructor.

cer beginnings are tied to Midwest City where he began coaching and refereeing. He was soon drawn to officiating and coaching at higher levels but followed a path of officiating to the highest level the state could offer: State Referee grade 5. Ed also worked with high school and college organizations to train, assess, and officiate matches. Another hat worn by Ed was that of administrator at the club and state level.

Wilbert Maximore – Wilbert

John Timmons – John Tim-

Maximore arrived in Oklahoma in 1980 as a coach at Tulsa’s Shadow Mountain Soccer Club. Recognized for his ability to train players and develop them, Wilbert began coaching youth and adult players in the Tulsa area. His skills were recognized in 1988 as the National Soccer Coaches Association of American National Youth Coach of the Year. The next year US Youth recognized him as their National Coach of the Year.

mons arrived in Oklahoma from his native state of Texas to coach American football but had become a huge fan of what the rest of the world calls football. As a teacher and coach, John has served as a coach for numerous club teams and ODP as well as coaching high school soccer and football for over 30 years. He was instrumental in the creation of the Oklahoma Soccer Coaches Association and has been a member of OSSAA’s advisory board on soccer for many years.

Oklahoma Sports and Orthopedics Institute is Oklahoma’s source for Orthopedic and Sports Medicine treatment. Norman: 405.360.6764 Oklahoma City: 405.552.5764 Moore: 405.793.2900 Edmond: 405.478.7111

SMOKE SIGNALS 5

Alexa Edison – Youth Female Referee of the Year

Oklahoma’s Youth Female Referee of the Year is the daughter of Marcus and Leslie Edison of Broken Arrow. Refereeing is a family affair with both mom, dad and sister Ashlynn joining her as officials. Alexa became an 09 official in 2010 and upgraded to grade 08 in 2013. “I’ve played soccer since 2006 and been on several teams including the BA Cougars, the Fusion with John Rathbun, the Hurricane 2000 with Blake Lewis,

and BA Rage with Rick Heineman,” says Alexa. An 8th grader at Clarence Oliver Middle School in Broken Arrow, she enjoys being a referee because it gives her a chance to travel to different clubs and work with new people. As Alexa adds, “The best part is to work with younger players and mentor them in the way of the game.” Working at the Broken Arrow soccer complex nearly every weekend has given Alexa considerable experience in officiating and when the OSA State tournaments came to Broken Arrow this past spring, she was able to officiate with many upper level referees. “I have had the opportunity to work with many referees around the state,” says Alexa. “Probably those who have influenced me the most are from right here in Broken Arrow: Robert Lindsey mentored me my first season. Mike Naumann, Broken Arrow’s assignor has provided me with direction. And of course, my

dad, Marcus Edison, has supported me in my refereeing career.” As with many young referees, the thing they like least about being a referee is the unruly parents. “Refereeing is a great opportunity,” Alexa says, “but you have to hang in there through the first season and find the right mentors. Once you begin to build your confidence, there is no limit to what you can do.” Future plans for Alexa include continuing to be a referee but she is wise enough to know that school and soccer team commitments come first for her now. She shared this quote that sums up her attitude about being a referee as well as a player: “Behind the athlete you’ve become and the hours of practice and the coaches who have pushed you, is the little girl who fell in love with the game and never looked back.” Congratulations, Alexa Edison and OSA wishes you continued success as both a referee and player.

OSA Awards Seven Scholarships Seven youth players will receive $500 scholarships this spring from the OSA Scholarship account. Each year OSA awards scholarships to deserving young high school players. The application is available online and the applicant must complete the form and write an essay of 500 words or less on what the scholarship would mean to them. Winners of this year’s scholarships are Samuel Arnold of Ponca City; Major May of Coweta; Kali Newman of Norman; Emily Rowland of Broken Arrow; Shelby Saul of Claremore; Ashley Smith of Westville; and Cassandra Wilson of Atoka. The applicants must have been a registered player in OSA for at least three seasons within the past four years. Applicants are not restricted to high school seniors because many scholarships have gone to players in college who continue to play soccer for their club. The scholarship may be used

to pay for almost any school-related expense the student wishes. Only one of the recipients of will attend a university outside Oklahoma. The others will all enroll in colleges or universities in the state. Samuel Arnold will continue work toward his degree in chemical engineering at OSU this fall. Samuel played for OFC 95 and considers soccer his passion that has been with him since he can remember. Although he had the opportunity to play college soccer, Samuel has put that aside to pursue his degree. “I hope my dedication to competitive soccer and my desire to move forward have proven my commitment to a successful future.” Major May will use his scholarship toward a degree at Grinnell College where he will study cryogenics. The Coweta senior is looking forward to his senior year and the spring season of soccer. “I have played and loved the

game of soccer my entire life and will continue to play at the college level. My dream is to be a successful student-athlete while attending college.” Kali Newman plans to attend OU this fall after graduating from Norman North High School. Her club soccer has been with NYSA’s Fury 95 & 96 but it all began when she was seven years old. Her move to goalkeeper has been fortuitous as she has signed with OU for the fall. “I compare scholarship money to an assist on goal – it’s a final step to achieve a goal. Goals are not easy to accomplish on your own; it takes persistence, hard work, and dedication. That’s why assists are so admired in the sport. OSA’s scholarship is a perfect assist to achieve my goal as a college athlete.” Emily Rowland will pursue her plans to become a doctor when she enrolls this fall at OU. The straight A stusee Scholarships, page 5

OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

Edwin Zunun – Adult Referee of the Year

Edwin Zunun has joined an exclusive group of referees across the state who are best known by their first name. For many teams in the state, they know “Edwin” and have come to respect his knowledge of the game and his fairness in officiating matches. Born in Mexico to Nestor and Olga Zunun, he has lived in Oklahoma since 2004. “Soccer in Mexico is the main sport,” says Edwin. “I got involved in it in my childhood, but since I wasn’t a good player but loved the game I decided to become a Referee.”

His first matches were friendlies that he would referee just to be around the game. Arriving in Oklahoma, Edwin took his first training as a referee with Oklahoma Soccer in 2009. His first match was with a U11 boys’ team. He has since progressed to the level of State Referee Grade 6 and also instructs referee courses and hopes to soon become an Assessor of Referees. To Edwin the game teaches you more than any classroom and he encourages young referees to focus on their development. “I take officiating seriously,” says Edwin. “I try to focus on the sport side of the game and not the financial aspect of how much money I will make during a match.” He believes that those who are more concerned about how much money they will make for a game affects their performance at the match. Because being a referee takes a great deal away from his family, his wife Norma and sons Edwin and Roger and daughter Litzy all support his love of the game. “Edwin played with Tulsa Nation-

als and WSA,” says Edwin but none of them are currently playing. Edwin tells young referees to avoid making “fast” decisions when on the field and to take the time to evaluate the situation, consult with their ARs so that the best decision can be made. “I know that doubt often exists after a game, but I look for experienced colleagues and talk to them about what happened and gain their opinions so that I can make the better call next time.” There are many officials in Region III who highly regard Edwin. He has been to the Summer Regionals for 3 years and has been ranked highly by assessors and observers at the tournaments. Oklahoma’s referees appreciate his infectious love of the match and how it often affects them when they are chosen to work matches with him. Perhaps Edwin’s philosophy explains that: “I want to enjoy life at the full.” Congratulations, Edwin Zunun, Oklahoma’s Adult Referee of the Year.

OSA Scholarships, continued dent from Broken Arrow has played for the Broken Arrow Soccer Club since she was five and her recent team was the Scorpions. “I am involved with student ministry at my church and for the past four years I’ve traveled to Belize where I play soccer with the children of migrant workers. Playing soccer has shown me the value of teamwork as well as the importance of commitment.” Shelby Saul graduates from Sequoyah HS this fall and will have her twin sister and younger sister with her in college. Shelby has played for TSC and WSA during her career. “It was difficult for my parents to have three children playing soccer at the same time and I appreciate what they have done for me and my sisters. Soccer is such a big part of my life and I have dedicated a great deal of effort toward becoming the best

I can be and now I will apply that to achieving a college degree.” Ashley Smith will travel from Westville to Bacone College for her freshman year after playing for the Goingsnake Soccer Club since she was eight years old. Ashley also referees for the club and hopes to continue her soccer career in college. “It is my dream of being the first in my family to attend college and get a degree.” Cassandra Wilson moved to Oklahoma three years ago from Dallas to attend Tushka HS and will soon attend OSU. She thanks OSA for the opportunity to compete in ODP where she made friends with a player from Durant. Her past teams have been the Atoka Challengers and Mountain. The Durant team she plays for is the Fever. Cassandra and her sister are referees for All County

Soccer Club. “Soccer helped me make new friends and has been a constant in my life so no matter what happened I could always turn to soccer and it would help me.” Congratulations to the fine young recipients of OSA’s student scholarships. Attend the OSA workshop to meet them.

Oklahoma Soccer Association is a proud member of US Youth Soccer Association US Adult Soccer Association US Soccer and FIFA

SMOKE SIGNALS 7

William Long – Male Youth Referee of the Year

William Long is OSA’s Male Youth Referee of the Year and he began officiating soccer at the age of 14 in Norman Youth Soccer Club under the guidance of Bill Pevarnik. William credits Mr. Pevarnik as the one who really helped him developing his referee skills and what it takes to be a good referee.

William’s family is comprised of father John and mother May. Brother Joshua and sister Lynette round out the Long family. “I started playing soccer in the 9th grade,” says William. “But I quit in my junior year to join a college group at the University of Oklahoma.” He also played club soccer with NYSA’s U16 recreational team coached by Matt Frisby during that time. Many young referees become officials because of the lure of money and that’s what made William first sign up to take the 09 class. “I thought refereeing entailed just a good paying job,” he says, “but over time I learned that it’s a great experience for me.” For William, he believes being a referee teaches you many life lessons such as making decisions un-

der pressure, dealing with unexpected situations, and thinking on your feet. “I plan on continuing to referee while in college wherever I go.” Youth referees often face challenges from players, coaches, and fans, but William says, “Sometimes rowdy parents and coaches can somewhat dampen the experience of being a referee, but in the end, you almost lose part of the refereeing experience if no one questions your calls or gets upset at you.” He agrees that being a young referee is not a walk in the park, but sticking with it teaches you so many things you won’t learn in a classroom or anywhere else. “Plus, you get a bit of pocket money while you’re at it.” Congratulations, William Long, as OSA’s Male Youth Referee of the Year.

OSA Hosted District Meetings During December OSA staff and board members attended meetings in Tulsa and Oklahoma City on Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15. Saturday's meeting with both recreational and competitive clubs from the eastern side of the state provided the members with more information on how the bylaws will affect their teams, registration, rosters, and a number of other issues that were discussed during the meeting. Bill Aven, chair of the bylaws committee, Marianne Ballard, and Keith Ash provided answers to questions concerning the bylaws and policies. Kurt Luitwieler explained the coaching program as well as the upcoming OSA Academy Program. Dale Watts provided information on referee development. Also, district VP's and a few board members were selected by the group to be possible candidates for the upcoming elections to be held at the OSA Score Workshop February 7-8 at Midwest City. Following the two sessions with recreational and competitive clubs, David

Chalstrom of GotSoccer provided new methods for assisting clubs in registration and scheduling as well as taking many questions from those attending. Sunday's meeting in Oklahoma City followed a similar agenda with both recreational and competitive clubs from the western side of the state in attendance. As with the Saturday meeting, information was provided by Bill Aven, Marianne Ballard, and Keith Ash on policies concerning recreational and com-

petitive programs. Kurt Luitwieler and Dale Watts again gave information on the coaching and referee programs. The Sunday meeting also selected possible candidates for the upcoming elections at the OSA Score Workshop. Attendance at both meetings was encouraging and the exchange of ideas was well worth the time and effort on everyone’s part, stated Executive Director Sid Goodrich who introduced the presenters and acted as facilitator for the sessions.

OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

District Vice President’s Selected Under the new OSA bylaws, there are 6 district Vice Presidents representing the recreational and competitive clubs in OSA. Each of these Vice Presidents have been selected to serve in the initial period of the bylaws and when elections are held in the fall of 2014 many of the positions will be open for candidates. Congratulations to the following Vice Presidents. If you wish to contact them they are posted on the OSA web site under the two tabs: Recreational and Competitive. An email contact link is beneath each vice president’s name. The Recreational District Vice Presidents: District 1 Vice President: David Perry District 2 Vice President: Jim Weir District 3 Vice President: Kathy Mead District 4 Vice President: Janet Cooper The Competitive District Vice Presidents: East Vice President: Shawn Slater

West Vice President: Mickey Weatherly

Steve Wierzchowski Selected National US Youth Volunteer of the Year

Editor’s note: Steve Wierzchowski was selected by US Youth as the National Volunteer of the Year at the annual US Youth Workshop in Philadelphia. He is the first Oklahoman to win this honor. Oklahoma Soccer is proud to announce that Steve Wierzchowski’s selection as Volunteer of the Year for Oklahoma preceded his selection as US Youth’s Region III Volunteer of the Year. Recognition of Steve’s accomplishments was what raised his application above the other 11 state applications in Region III for the award. Steve grew up in in Ohio and played soccer at North Ridgeville High School. That’s also where he met his future wife, Jennifer, while attending a football game. After graduating from college with a degree in Applied Science/ Mechanical Engi-

neering, the family eventually settled in Broken Arrow. The Wierzchowski’s have two daughters, Victoria age 14, and Olivia age 13 who both play for Broken Arrow. Steve remembers his early soccer days when he was about nine or ten. “My coach nicknamed me Lightning because of my speed on the outside and he encouraged my teammates to play me the ball because I was always going to be making those long runs,” says Steve. He praised his coach for believing in him and Steve’s ability to do something well. Broken Arrow Soccer Club knows that Steve has the ability to do things well. He became the club’s registrar in 2010 and served in that position for two years before he was elected as the club’s 1st VP. In 2013 he became BA’s president and continues to serve in that capacity today. “After spending 20 years focusing on my career, I found that volunteering with soccer has brought a new purpose to my life not only in respect to involvement with my daughters as players, but also with the community in general,” says Steve of his willingness to volunteer. Steve organizes his time around his family and his faith with work in second place and then soccer. Even though

his friends and family might question that order of importance, he continues to enjoy his work at BASC to “keep the creative juices flowing and to give back to sport that I enjoy.” Because of his selection as Region III Volunteer of the Year, Steve is eligible for the national Volunteer of the Year award and that will be announced at the US Youth National Workshop on January 18 in Philadelphia. OSA and all Oklahoma soccer folks are hoping that he will be honored with that national title but regardless his willingness to volunteer is well known throughout our state. As for his future plans, Steve plans to finish his term as Broken Arrow’s president and work on some long term club projects. It would appear he has no plans to stop his volunteer work anytime soon. Congratulations, Steve and thank you for your dedication and support of soccer in Oklahoma.

Check out the Oklahoma Soccer Association website for information, forms and updates

oksoccer.com

SMOKE SIGNALS 9

JIMMY NIELSEN

KEYNOTE SPEAKER Workshop XXIV Begins February 7

Keynote Speaker Jimmy Nielsen

“We are pleased to hold the OSA/Score Workshop this year in Midwest City,” says Executive Director Sid Goodrich. The Workshop traditionally spends two years in Tulsa and then two years in Oklahoma City, but just three years ago Norman hosted the site and many members were pleased with that experience. The 2014 Score Workshop will be in the Midwest City Sheraton Hotel Reed Conference Center with ample free parking and easy access from I-40. On Friday evening, February 7, the annual Hall of Fame class of 2014 will be inducted and several sessions will kick off the workshop. Saturday provides a full day of sessions for nearly every OSA member and the Awards Luncheon will showcase the Coaches of the Year, Referees of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Administrator of the Year, and TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year. In addition, OSA will recognize many of our young players involved in ODP and announce the winners of this year’s OSA Scholarships. Registration for the 24th annual event is underway and can be done online by visiting OSA’s web site at www.oksoccer.com. Cost is $50 through January 31, 2014. Contact OSA at 800-347-3590 with any questions concerning the workshop. Hotel reservations at Sheraton Midwest City, for the OSA rate are also available on the web site so make your plans now to join us in Midwest City in February! A tentative schedule and outline of the sessions is included in this issue for your use at the Workshop. Register today and join the hundreds of soccer fans who will be in Midwest City for Score Workshop XXIV.

Jimmy Nielsen, born in Aalborg, Denmark, began his soccer career with a local amateur club B52/Aalborg FC and played youth soccer for them before signing with the English club Millwall FC in 1994. Millwall did not play him and Jimmy returned to Aalborg as the starting goalkeeper in 1996 and became a cornerstone of the team culminating in the 199899 Danish Superliga championship. He was also a member of the Denmark U21 national team in 1999 and has played for his national team 4 times. In 2007 Nielsen signed a contract with Leicester City but was on the reserve squad and then transferred to the Danish team Vejle Boldklub in 2008 after never playing a game for Leicester City. Considering retirement from Vejle Boldklub when they were relegated, Nielsen was contacted by Peter Vermes from Sporting Kansas City with a contract and Nielsen signed up to be with the squad through the 2011 MLS season. In November of 2011 he agreed to a contract keeping him in Kansas City through the 2013 season. Awarded the 2012 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award, he broke the club’s record with a 0.79 goals against average and helped the team finish first in their division and the eventual MLS Cup championship. During this time he served as the team’s captain for 2 seasons. Upon Nielsen’s retirement he has signed to be the coach of Oklahoma City’s Energy FC that will be supported by Kansas City as one of its two affiliates (the Orlando City team) with players for the 2014 season.

SCORE OSA WORKSHOP

10 OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

FEBRUARY 7-9, 2014 • MIDWEST CITY

Session Information and Luncheon Program for Awards Luncheon. All rooms and sessions are subject to change.

Friday 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

REFEREE Topic: Referee Assignor Course Parts 1 & 2 – 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

A five-part course provides required USSF training in referee assigning. Every club in Oklahoma is required to have a registered assignor who is responsible for assigning referees to its matches. Attendance at all four sessions is required. Assignors will gain access to all registered referees in the state and learn techniques on how to assign matches and tournaments. This is not a recertification class. Presenter: Jim Brittain, State Coordinator of Assignors Location: Maynard 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Topic: Referee Recertification Class

Recertification course for any 09, 08, 07, or State referee who has not completed the required 3 hours of annual referee recertification. Course will cover the changes in the Laws of the Game for 2013 as well as directives and information pertinent to officiating in Oklahoma. Presenter: State Referee Instructional staff Location: ________________

ADMINISTRATION OSA Welcome Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Reception 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

OSA reception and Induction Ceremony honoring the Nominees for the Class of 2014. Location: Reed C General Membership Meeting - 8 p.m. All club presidents meet for a business meeting. Location: Theater Room Youth Council Meeting – 8 p.m. All Youth Club meet for a business meeting. Location: Theater Room Adult Council Meeting – 8 p.m. Adult and league club presidents and officers meet for a business meeting. Location: Mann

9:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.

OSA SoccerCity After Party

ADMINISTRATION Topic: Registrar Certification 2014

Everyone is invited to drop by for a chance to meet and greet members from across the state. Location: Emerald Lounge Saturday 8:15 a.m.-9:00 a.m OSA Hosted Continental Breakfast presented by OSA Youth Vendor Booths and Exhibits open Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 8:50 a.m.

REFEREE Topic: Referee Assignor Course Part 3

COACHING Topic: Soccer for Everyone

Tips from US Youth Soccer on how soccer can become a part of your community and how to best promote it. Presenter: Vince Ganzberg, US Youth Location: Mann Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.

COACHING Topic: Coaching the U6 to U10 Player US Youth has developed multiple programs to assist in the coaching of the youth player ages U6 to U10. The session will explain how those programs can be used at the club level to develop players. Presenter: Vince Ganzberg, US Youth Soccer Location: Mann

Club registrars will be given first hand information on how to properly register players for the 2014 year using the Got Soccer program. Presenter: Pauletta Price, PJ Schauer, and Jill Hartley Location: Theater Room

Topic: Club 101: Education – Best Methods in Running a Soccer Club

Basic information on how to make the administration of your club efficient and successful in providing services to all members. Presenters represent both large and small clubs and have first-hand experience in administrative techniques that they will share and discuss. Presenter: Alan Blinzler, US Youth Soccer. Location: Cain

Topic: Referee Assignor Course Part 4

ADMINISTRATION Topic: Risk Management Certification 2014

Learn how to use the latest features from Got Soccer as to administering the background check format as well as how Risk Management can assist clubs in providing safe environments for their players. Presenter: Mike Naumann Location: Theater Room

SCORE OSA WORKSHOP SMOKE SIGNALS 11

FEBRUARY 7-9, 2014 • MIDWEST CITY

Session Information and Luncheon Program for Awards Luncheon. All rooms and sessions are subject to change.

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.

11:00 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.

Topic: Club 101: Education – Coaching and Board Relations

Topic: Club 101: Education – Financial Management of Your Club

A primary goal of every soccer club is to develop their players and to that end the coach becomes the focus of that goal. Learn how other clubs have made coaching and board relations work to the betterment of players and club. Presenter: Dave Carson Location: Cain

REFEREE Topic: Referee Assignor Course Part 5

Topic: Referee Assignor Recertification

Every club’s Assignor must attend an annual recertification clinic held in July of each year. For those Assignors who did not attend that course, this session will provide them the recertification required. Presenters: Bill Harn, and Aaron Whitewolf Location:Joyner 11:00 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.

ADMINISTRATION NEW! Topic: Got Soccer’s New Features for 2014

For those registrars and others who are experienced users of Got Soccer’s programs, this session will provide advanced training on utilization of the new programs in Got Soccer. Presenter: David Charlstrom, Got Soccer Location: Theater Room

Maintaining the financial integrity of your club can be a burden if your volunteers or staff are not prepared for the amount of money that will transfer hands during a single season. Learn from other clubs how they handle financials and how those concepts can make a difference in your club. Presenter: OSA Board Location: Cain

REFEREE NEW! Topic: OSA Club Referee Assignor Meeting

All Referee Assignors will be given information on the upcoming spring season assignment process as well as how the league assigning concept will carry forward in the fall. Presenter: Dave Moore Location: Maynard

GENERAL PUBLIC NEW! Heat Acclimation for Soccer Players

As the spring season begins with cool temperatures, many fail to prepare for the oncoming heat of late spring and summer as well as the early fall. OSOI will present ways to prepare the player for the soon to be hot Oklahoma seasons. Presenter: Joe Waldron, OSOI Location: Mann

COACHING NEW! Recreational Club Coordinators and DOC’s

This session will bring together recreational club coordinators with Directors of Coaching to see how cooperation and planning can provide quality player development. Presenter: Vince Ganzberg, US Youth Location: Joyner

12:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

SCORE

OSA AWARDS LUNCHEON Welcome Brandon Story, Chairman, OSA Invocation Introductions Brandon Story, Chairman, OSA 2013 Elite Players – ODP Recognition OSA Youth Council Presenter: Kurt Luitwieler Keynote Speaker Jimmy Nielsen Head Coach OKC Energy Referees of the Year Paul Scott, State Referee Administrator Volunteer of the Year Tom Wedding, OSA Youth Council President Administrator of the Year Tom Wedding, OSA Youth Council President TOPSoccer Buddies of the Year Tom Wedding, OSA Youth Council President Youth Presentations Brandon Story, Chairman, OSA Coaches of the Year Recognition Tom Wedding, OSA Youth Council President Hall of Fame Inductees Recognition Brandon Story, Chairman, OSA Door Prize Drawings Brandon Story, Chairman, OSA

SCORE OSA WORKSHOP

12 OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

FEBRUARY 7-9, 2014 • MIDWEST CITY

Session Information and Luncheon Program for Awards Luncheon. All rooms and sessions are subject to change.

2:00 p.m. – 2:50 p.m.

3:00 p.m. – 3:50 p.m.

COACHING NEW! Topic: Academy Development

Topic: Club 101: Education – All District Meeting with Q&A

Topic: The Arbiter Program for the Advanced User

Roundtable Discussion of how the Academy Program can create player development in Oklahoma. Presenter: Kurt Luitwieler, DoC OSA Location: Cain

GENERAL PUBLIC/SPORTS MEDICINE NEW! Topic: Concussions on the Soccer Field – When to Return to Play

Nearly every sport has now increased its awareness of the concussion injury. Learn how your club can best deal with this issue. OSOI has the experience of dealing with these injuries and will share their knowledge with you. Presenter: Joe Waldron, OSOI Location: Mann

ADMINISTRATION NEW! Topic: Got Soccer’s Advanced Program Users

For those registrars and others who are experienced users of Got Soccer’s programs, this session will provide advanced training on how to use the many programs within Got Soccer. Presenter: David Charlstrom, Got Soccer Location: Theater Room

NEW! Topic: Welcome to the Arbiter Assignor Program for New Users

Learn how your club can benefit from the Arbiter assignment program to assist you in not only assigning referees but reducing scheduling conflicts. Presenter: Taylor Hauser, Arbiter Sports Location: Maynard

The session will provide all districts the opportunity to meet with the District leadership and discuss the format of both recreational and competitive soccer in Oklahoma. Presenter: Board Location: Joyner

Learn how the Arbiter Program can save your club money, time, and energy by scheduling your matches, paying your referees, and providing the club with records of each match assigned. Presenter: Taylor Hauser, Arbiter Sports Location: Maynard

3:00 p.m. – 3:50 p.m.

Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

COACHING NEW! Topic: Director of Coaches’ Meeting

COACHING Topic: Youth Module

All Director of Coaches will meet to discuss the role of DOC’s in the development of players in OSA. Presenter: Kurt Luitwieler, OSA DoC Location: Mann

ADMINISTRATION NEW! Topic: Club 101: Education – Referee Development for Your Club

Every season clubs face the prospect of not enough referees to cover the club’s matches. How do large and small clubs manage to provide enough referees? This session will provide methods that are working at both the large club and small club across the state. Presenter: SRC Location: Cain

NEW! Topic: Classic League Bracketing

Representatives of the Classic League (competitive soccer league at the club level) will meet to discuss the bracketing of teams for the spring season. Presenter: Competitive District VPs Location: Theater Room

Sheraton Midwest City - 5750 Will Rogers Rd. 405-455-1800

The Sheraton Midwest City and Reed Conference Center will provide OSA’s members many features and amenities that will make your stay pleasurable. Less than four miles from OKC’s Bricktown and just off I-40, it is an easy drive and plenty of free parking.

US Youth’s Youth Module for the young player. Presenter: Kurt Luitwieler, OSA DoC Location: Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Topic: Youth Module

US Youth’s Youth Module for the young player. Presenter: Kurt Luitwieler, OSA DoC Location: Field Sunday 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Topic: USSF D Upgrades

US Soccer D License Upgrade course Presenter: Kurt Luitwieler, OSA DoC Location: Field NOTE - Agenda may be changed or altered before the Workshop begins. Please check the final agenda at the registration desk for any session changes or room changes.

Reserve your room and learn more about the Sheraton by using this convenient link :

SHERATON

Deadline to reserve a room at the discount rate is January 24, 2014

SMOKE SIGNALS 13

SCORE

New Sponsor of Oklahoma State Association

SCORE is excited about our new partnership with Oklahoma S.A. We are here to help you with all of your soccer needs. Call 800.626.7774 or visit www.scoresports.com

Official Sponsor of

www.scoresports.com

American Soccer Company, Inc. - 726 E. Anaheim Street - Wilmington, CA 90744 - 800.626.7774

14 OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

Coach of the Year Girls’ Competitive – David Carson

David Carson has an unusual anecdote that he shares when people ask how he came to love the game of soccer. “When dating my future wife, Bobbi Lynn, she invited me to come watch her play soccer in a women’s league match prior to our date later than evening. That’s where I fell in love with the game.” He even remembers watching her perform a bicycle kick in the warmup prior to her game. “I thought to myself, how hard could girls’ soccer be?” and she then showed me how athletic you had to be to play the game. I later found out she had set it up with her friend to make me “eat crow.” As with many Oklahoma coaches, David did not have the opportunity to

play soccer in his hometown of Garden City, Kansas, but he did play football, basketball, and baseball in high school. The link between wife and soccer grew when David met Melbourne Quinn, Bobbi’s soccer coach. “Melbourne twisted my arm to assist him in coaching my oldest son (Alec) and he prodded me to pursue coaching education,” says David. Volunteering to coach was not the way David became a coach in Ponca City. “I began coaching like many lay parents do,” he says. “I was told that if you don’t coach, your kid won’t have a team to play on. But what kept me coaching was that none of my children cared much for the sports I grew up with: football, basketball, or baseball.” But David loved seeing kids have, as he calls it, a “Eureka” moment when they try something they have been taught and it works. The Carson family became immersed in soccer in Ponca City. The three boys: Alec, Robert, and Tryston all played for PC United. Daughter Jonnie Lyn-Marie played for PC United 98. While all the soccer was going on, David began procuring his advanced coaching licenses. He now holds the USSF National C license and his next coaching license will be the National Youth License Course. “It’s kind of poetic that I once

scoffed at soccer and now I’m the DoC at Ponca City and all my children chose soccer,” says David. “I believe that individual technical training and skill building is the first, foremost, and continuous priority,” says David. He believes that success is usually elusive without team organization and creativity, which must be nurtured. “I believe there is no limit to what can be accomplished through teamwork.” The future of soccer in David’s eyes may be financial. He is concerned over the cost of playing soccer and how young players leave the sport to participate in public school sports that require less money being spent for training, uniforms, and travel. “For years, players and parents were biased toward traditional American sports over soccer,” he says. “Now, it seems a more financial decision than a bias decision.” For upcoming coaches, David’s words are brief: “Buy into the system! The curriculum of US Youth and OSA is constantly improving and if you avoid the naysayers, apply yourself, and surround yourself with positive influences, coaches can realize success for the players and themselves.” Congratulations, David Carson, as Oklahoma’s Competitive Girls’ Coach of the Year.

Olivia Volpe’s Save of the Year Contest Each year US Youth Soccer holds a contest to select a Goal of the Year and a Save of the Year. This year Olivia Volpe's save is among the ten selected by US Youth for recognition. The young goalkeeper plays for Tulsa Soccer Club/ Hurricane 01 Beattie team and her save was recorded and submitted to US Youth Soccer in the fall. The contest is accessed by a link to the 10 Goals of the Year and 10 Saves of the Year. Voting

was done by visiting the US Youth web site and clicking on the Save of the Year. The contest winner is announced at the US Youth convention in Philadelphia on January 18 and Oklahoma is voting to see if she can claim the distinction of having her “save” be the #1 save in the US Youth Contest. If you have video of an outstanding Goal or Save, be sure to watch for the 2015 contest applications from US Youth in the OSA Smoke Signals this fall.

SMOKE SIGNALS 15

Watts’ What By Dale Watts, Editor

I attended a memorial service this past weekend for a dear colleague of mine who taught for years at Booker T. Washington. Andy was a man who enjoyed watching his son play soccer, loved art and taught me how to appreciate it, had a wicked sense of humor, inspired hundreds of young artists to pursue a career in art, and argued political points with a vengeance. His memorial also brought me in contact with the son of my grade school piano teacher. I remember Mrs. Lampton so fondly because she taught me piano and trumpet and much more – she showed me how music can express emotions and soothe your soul. This

lady taught piano lessons until her last days on earth with us and she was 98 at the time! Goodness, I can still picture her showing me how to play passages on the piano and then laughing when we switched to the trumpet and the 2 dogs in the house started howling at my trumpet playing. Both of these wonderful people had a passion for something. For Andy it was art, and for Mrs. Lampton it was music. They touched the lives of hundreds of people with that passion. We all have memories of those who have influenced us or guided us or affected us in ways both small and large. I’m sure you know of a particular influential person who through some action or comment made you the person you are today. At this year’s Workshop we will honor a few of those individuals who have taken time away from family,

Oklahoma College Club Soccer League Championship The OCCSL fall championship tournament was held in November and four of the college club teams participated. OU again placed two teams in the tournament and OSU and TU also participated. Congratulations to OU-A for winning the championship game for Fall 2013. Final: OU-A vs. TU 3-1 Semifinals: OU-A vs. OSU 2-0, TU vs. OU-B 3-1

OU-A wins the Fall OCCSL championship.

friends, and career to go beyond what was expected of them and became passionate about the sport of soccer. You will read about them elsewhere in this issue and while some are just beginning their connection to soccer, others have spent decades with this sport. Why would someone spend hours volunteering to do tasks that others don’t seem to care to do? What makes that team manager take on the responsibility of herding young players to a practice or a game? Why would a coach agree to bring youngsters into her life and treat them as her own children? If you have an answer for that, you could market it to any number of volunteer organizations and be a celebrity. But after watching soccer in Oklahoma for nearly 30 years, I’ve decided that soccer is something you fall in love with. Much as falling in love has been described as close to insanity as possible, I speak from personal experience that when the soccer bug bit me I “fell head over heels” and it still affects me in that way. Those of us who work around the game, who coach it, who referee it, who cheer it, or who just watch it because they find it fascinating, know that we’re darned near nuts about the game. And so, just as I admire the passion of Andy and Mrs. Lampton, I admire those among us who step forward and say “I’ll coach the team,” or “I’ll be the referee,” or “I’ll be the registrar.” On February 7 and 8 at the OSA Soccer Workshop we are going to honor some of those “crazy” folks who have found the love of their life and are living happily ever after. If you know of someone who needs that bit of recognition, nominate them for one of OSA’s awards and then next year you can be in the audience when others are made aware of how much someone can love this game we call soccer.

16 OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

Recreational Girls’ Coach of the Year – David Redick David Redick grew up in Enid, Oklahoma but his first contact with soccer was when he was playing with neighborhood children in a field next to his home. “I remember that one day a boy showed up at the field carrying a soccer ball,” says David. “We thought he was demented because we either played football or baseball. I look back now and wonder what could have been.” There was a substantial period of time between David’s soccer experiences. “I began soccer by watching Kaleb (who is now 25 years old) when he began playing at the age of 7. I lived 2 hours away from him at that time and traveled to see his games.” Of the five Redick children, only the oldest, Nathan, and Cameron did not play soccer. Kaleb continued his soccer through UCO and plays indoor today; Grace is 13 and plays on the U14 Thunder team in Broken Arrow; Sarah, age 10, plays for the U10 Lady Charges and with Blitz United’s Academy team, United 2004. David and wife Allison are involved with the young girls’ teams and activities. David has learned how to be a good coach from several experiences and some of them were of a negative quality. “I learned what not to do as a coach from a football coach and a basketball coach who did not know how to coach youngsters. But I learned from my first baseball coach that a good coach teaches you how to play and how

to compete.” After graduating from Enid High School in 1978, David attended college at Northeastern A&M, UCO, and OU. “My most influential person was Bruce Yantzee, a Vo-tech teacher at Enid High who encouraged me to go to college. I didn’t think I had the potential but he somehow got my tuition and room and board paid for a year. I now have 3 degrees and have been trying to “pay it forward” ever since he made that commitment to me.” Many coaches are drawn to coaching when a child of theirs needs someone to coach a team. For many, just as with David, they did not grow up with the game. “After coaching for 7 years, I was approached by Rodney Castleman to come out and play indoor soccer with an over 40’s men’s team. I realized that what I was asking and expecting my girls on my team to do on the field was not as simple as I thought. It opened up a whole new world and made me recognized the influence a

coach has on players.” David has two rules in his philosophy of coaching that the players must shout at practice and games: #1 – Play Hard; #2 – Have Fun! It’s important to him that the players learn how to play and enjoy a sport they can play well into adulthood. When asked about his future plans, David states that “I want to see my U10 girls through high school and get that USSF National D license,” says David. “Then I’ll probably pick up a younger team and start over again. I really enjoy teaching and being on the soccer fields with the kids.” Challenges to the development of soccer are coming according to David. “We have too many coaches who do not take advantage of the opportunities to become better trained,” he says. “Far too many coach to win rather than coach on how to compete justly with integrity and sportsmanship.” David Redick is firm believer that coaching is a very special position that affects not only players on both teams, but parents and grandparents as well. As he likes to say: “Focus on their success, not whether they are winning or not because if you teach them how to compete and to enjoy themselves, the winning will take care of itself.” Congratulations, David Redick on your selection as Oklahoma’s Recreational Girls’ Coach of the Year.

Sam Wells Honored as Administrator of the Year For nearly 40 years, the name Sam Wells and Miami soccer have been synonymous. When Sam and Dixie (his wife of 53 years) agreed to assist the Miami soccer program back in the 70’s, he was told that “It’s won’t take up much of your time.” The Wells family made soccer a family passion and sons Tim and Ben both played, coached, and

officiated during those early years and continued their involvement into the 21st century. “I’ve learned that if you wish to be an administrator at the club level,” says Sam, “that you seek approval of your family before you commit to the job because it does take time and preparaSam and Dixie Wells

see Wells, page 17

SMOKE SIGNALS 17

Steve Mosinski – Boys’ Recreational Coach of the Year

Steve Mosinski’s earliest memory of soccer came when “I was able to legally tackle my older brother at practice. I was a fierce defender, who didn’t believe in taking it easy, even at practice. Thanks, Dad! Sorry, Matt!” said Steve. That fierce determination and competitiveness has carried on through the Mosinski family as wife Anna and Steve guide their three children through Broken Arrow’s soccer program. Cody plays U19 with BASC Arsenal, Megan plays U14 with BASC Eclipse, and Caleb plays for the U10 BASC Arsenal, Jr. All three Mosinski teams were league champions in the fall of 2013.

Those early years of soccer with his Dad in Lancaster, Ohio with the Parks and Recreation program, are fondly remembered. “I became a coach for Tulsa Parks and Recreation out of kindness, but I eventually became a permanent fixture for coaching at Broken Arrow when Cody developed a love of the game and I wanted him to have as much fun with it as I did.” From those early days of coaching, Steve began attaining licensing through US Youth and OSA. “I now have my State D license that was taught by Kurt Luitwieler and Gary Williamson (one time Oklahoma Director of Coaching) as well as my E Certificate and the two youth modules.” Steve has also traveled to the US Youth Soccer national workshops to train with Sam Snow, US Youth Soccer’s coaching director. His next goal is to obtain the National Youth Coaching License. In 1997 Steve became a referee and although he didn’t referee for nearly 15 years, he returned to the pitch as a referee in 2012 and plans to continue officiating. What he has learned as a coach, player, and referee has made

him appreciate the game from several perspectives. “I am always looking for advice,” says Steve, “and sometimes it’s hard for me to listen, but I appreciate constructive criticism from fellow coaches and referees.” Steve’s philosophy of coaching is to have fun and push yourself to be better. “I can only provide the framework for learning,” he says. “It’s up to the individual player to get what they want out of what is shown to them.” Having fun is what coach Steve believes in while working with young players. He advises new coaches to 1) Keep it fun: 2) Develop players and don’t win at all costs; 3) Don’t yell at your players, other coaches, or referees; 4) and again, KEEP IT FUN! What Steve wishes to see in the future for soccer in Oklahoma is more focus on development and not the recruiting of players for the benefit of a club or a coach. He also hopes that his players give back to the sport some day and become coaches themselves. Congratulations, Steve Mosinski as Oklahoma’s Boys’ Recreational Coach of the Year.

Sam Wells - Administrator of the Year, continued tion.” Another lesson that Sam learned in the four decades of devotion to his beloved Miami Soccer Club is that a good administrator has to make decisions. He quickly adds, “Even if it’s a bad one.” With as many years of soccer experience as Sam has (he’s been a registered referee since 1992, a referee Instructor since 1999, and a referee Assignor since 2002) he has been witness to many changes in the game he and his family love. A retired college teacher from Northeastern A&M College, teaching soccer and coaching was something he quickly adopted. When asked what changes have most affected soccer development, Sam shared his thoughts.

“For us in Miami, the closing of the Goodrich plant affected so many and our developing soccer program,” says Sam. When a major employer leaves a community it has far reaching effect on the citizens. “But we survived that,” says Sam, “and eventually we saw soccer develop at the high school level and at NEO.” Those additions to the Miami soccer community sustained the interest in the sport in the area. Miami has rewarded Sam by naming the soccer complex in his honor. The Sam Wells Soccer complex is a source of pride for the Wells’ family and is a tribute to Sam’s lengthy devotion to the sport he loves.

Never one to take all the glory, Sam states that he wishes to acknowledge the others who assist him in the administration of the club. Kristi Riggs, president; Melanie Potter, treasurer; Dave and Nerissa Quiroz, board members; David Bates, Brent Hackett, Kevin Browning, and John Bearden, coaches. “And there are many others,” says Sam, “because it wasn’t just one or two but nearly the whole club.” As he nears his 74th birthday, Sam has indicated that this may well be time for him to step aside. For those who know him, that may be easier for him to say than for him to accomplish. Congratulations, Sam, and Oklahoma thanks you for your many years of service.

18 OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

Ryan Trudgian – Boys’ Competitive Coach of the Year

Ryan Trudgian arrived in Oklahoma from his hometown of St. Austell, Cornwall to attend Oklahoma City University. As with most English lads, the sport of football was a cornerstone of his early school years. He began playing at age 9 at St. Mewan Primary School and was on the team that won a ‘treble’ (the league championship plus two cup competitions). After graduating from Poltair Community School and Sports College, Ryan played for Plymouth Argyle FC before he became an undergraduate at OCU studying for a Masters Degree. “While I loved the game, it was when I finished my degree that I decided I wanted to give the other side of the game a chance and pursue a career in it,” says Ryan. “I would pass my knowledge to the younger players and

when they implemented those skills in practice and games, it gave me a different buzz than playing. It was very rewarding.” Ryan’s coaching resume is impressive. He holds USSF National A, B, and C licenses and the USSF National Goalkeeper license. For his work with college matches, Ryan has the NSCAA Advanced National Goalkeeper Diploma and the Advanced National and Premier Diplomas. He credits his father, Graham Trudgian, as being the person most influential in his soccer and personal life. “The game has also given me so many opportunities to better myself,” says Ryan. “It also provides ways for the people around the game to better themselves.” Two coaches who provide Ryan support are Brian Harvey and Billy Martin from OCU. “I also turn to Don Rother at Norman,” says Ryan, “when I need someone to talk to about the game.” Ryan sees several challenges to soccer in Oklahoma and is concerned about them. “The win at all cost versus player development and learning the game bothers me the most,” says Ryan. “It goes along with creating burnout of young players.” Striving to be the best they can is what he sees in many young players but their motivation is tem-

pered by how much they are given and not earned. When asked of his philosophy of coaching, Ryan stated: “I conduct myself in a very professional manner and treat my students with respect. My main goal is using soccer to educate and prepare children for life. It is my firm belief that performance should always come before results when dealing with youth players.” Wedding plans and family are in the future for Ryan and his fiancé, Bree Engles, but as a professional he hopes to continue to improve as a coach and help NYSA offer the best value in regards to competitive soccer in Oklahoma. “I still wish to continue to learn about the game and take the NSCAA “Masters” Diploma and the UEFA A License at some point.” And of course, he would love to eventually coach at the college level. His words to upcoming coaches are wise indeed: “Learn from everyone you come in contact with. Take as many coaching courses as possible. Don’t settle for being a good player – become a great coach!” It appears that Ryan Trudgian, Oklahoma’s Competitive Boys’ Coach of the Year has taken his own advice. Congratulations Ryan!

Sam Snow’s Blog – Tournament Play Sam Snow is the Coaching Director for US Youth Soccer.

I received this question from the US Youth Soccer Facebook page from a parent in Manassas, Virginia. "Hi, my family is new to youth tournament soccer so I wanted to check something out. The kids played 4 half games yesterday. Today, depend-

ing on seeding, they will play one to 3 full length games. Is this standard? These kids play really hard and I question the safety of this. Is this just standard in soccer...3 hours of hard play in one day? I saw kids playing on sore feet after 2 hours yesterday. These kids are playing in Herndon today and I'm just concerned we will have a lot of unnecessary injuries, but maybe I don't know the sport." While the tournament situation described is not standard it does not

surprise me given the number of bad decisions by adults in youth soccer. At the most teams should play one full match per day at a tournament. Even that is too much stress on the body if games take place for consecutive days. The human body needs 48 to 72 hours to fully recover from strenuous exercise. This is why you see at least three days between matches in the Olympics and the World Cup. The State Association Technical Directors of US Youth see Snow Blog, page 19

SMOKE SIGNALS 19

Sam Snow Blog, continued

Soccer have released this Position Statement on tournaments.

TOURNAMENT PLAY We believe that excessive play at competitive tournaments is detrimental to individual growth and development, and can serve to reduce long-term motivation. Do not multiple matches being played on one day and one weekend have a negative effect on the quality experience and development of the individual player? Further, far too many playing schedules include so many tournaments and matches that there is never an "off season." We believe that players under the age of twelve should not play more than 100 minutes per day, and those players older than thirteen should not play more than 120 minutes per day. We also recommend to tournament managers and schedulers:

The players should be allowed ample rest between matches. That all tournament matches be of the same length and that no full-length match be introduced during play-off rounds. Kick-off times allow players a reasonable opportunity to prepare for competition. This encompasses rest and recovery, nutrition and adequate time to warm-up and stretch after traveling a long distance in addition to taking into consideration extreme environmental conditions. Here are two related Statements from the national State Association Technical Directors. FESTIVALS FOR PLAYERS UNDER 10 We believe that Soccer Festivals should replace soccer tournaments for all players under the age of ten. Festivals feature a set number of minutes per event (e.g., 10 games X 10 minutes)

with no elimination and no ultimate winner. We also endorse and support the movement to prohibit U10 teams from traveling to events that promote winning and losing and the awarding of trophies. STATE, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL COMPETITION FOR U12’S We believe that youth soccer is too competitive at the early ages, resulting in an environment that is detrimental to both players and adults; much of the negative behavior reported about parents is associated with preteen play. The direct and indirect pressure exerted on coaches and preteen players to win is reinforced by state "championships" and tournament "winners." We therefore advocate that, in the absence of regional competition for under 12’s, state festivals replace state cups. We also strongly recommend that with regard to regional and national competition the entry age group should be U14.

PLAY HARD. CELEBRATE WITH PIZZA.

550 ONLY

PER PERSON

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT-AND-DRINK PIZZA* AND SOFT DRINKS Gather your group (15-person minimum) and enjoy All-You-Can-Eat *One Topping Pizzas of your choice and Soft Drinks for everyone for just $5.50 per person. Just give us a call to schedule your party at the Mazzio’s location most convenient for you.

Call Us Anytime to Schedule Your Event! Supporting Our Local Teams and Schools.

mazzios.com

20 OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

- Oklahoma Soccer Association -

SANCTIONED TOURNAMENTS 2014 Not a final listing – some applications are still pending

February 14-16, 2014 Highlanders Cup

Host: Highlanders FC All US Soccer affiliated teams Bixby, OK, Fields: Bixby Soccer Club Web site: www.highlanderssoccer.com Contact: Tom Wedding, s918-671-8777 Email: tom@oksoccer.com U9 & 10 Academy Boys & Girls U11 – U19 Competitive Boys & Girls Referee Assignor: Michael Naumann Email: bassignor@hotmail.com

February 14-16, 2014 CVFC Spring Shootout

Host: Mustang & Yukon Soccer Clubs All US Soccer affiliated teams Oklahoma City, OK, Fields: TBA Web site: www.canadianvalleyfc.com Contact: Michael Cagle, 405-219-9375 Email: michaelc16@me.com U7 – U10 Academy Boys & Girls U11 Competitive Boys & Girls Referee Assignor: Danny Laffoon Email: ysc.dlaffoon@sbcglobal.net

February 21-23, 2014 Patriot Cup

Host: Midwest City Contact: David Moore Competitive Email: coaching@mwcsoccer.org

April 11-13, 2014 Lexus Tulsa Cup

Host: TSC Hurricane All US Soccer affiliated teams Jenks, OK Fields: Metro Tulsa/Indian Springs Soccer Complex Web site: www.tschurricane.com Contact: Jim Tindell, 918-688-9071 Email: jimtindell@me.com U8 – U10 Academy Boys & Girls U11 – U19 Competitive Boys & Girls Referee Assignor: Michael Naumann Email: bassignor@hotmail.com

April 11-13, 2014 Spring Spectacular

Host: Midwest City All US Soccer affiliated teams Midwest City, OK Fields: Midwest City Soccer complex Web site: www.mwcsoccer.org Contact: Tom Odhiambo, 405-209-8632 Email: coaching@mwcsoccer.org U8 – U10 Academy Boys & Girls U6 – U16 Recreational Boys & Girls Referee Assignor: David Moore Email: coaching@mwcsoccer.org

April 25-27, 2014 Blitz United Spring Classic

Host: Blitz United SC All US Soccer affiliated teams Tulsa, OK Fields: Indian Springs Soccer Complex Broken Arrow Web site: www.blitzunited.org Contact: Robbie Mitchell, 918-691-7404 U11-19 Competitive Boys & Girls

May 3-4, 2014 Spring Fling

Host: Lawton Soccer Club US Youth Soccer teams only Lawton, OK Fields: Big Green Soccer Complex Web site: www.lawtonsoccerclub.org Contact: Gene Minietta, 580-429-0896 Email: miniettag@aol.com U6 – U14 Recreational Boys & Girls Referee Assignor: Brandon Neris Email: brandon@lawtonsoccerclub.org

May 10-11, 2014 Spring Recreational Tournament Host: Clinton SC Contact: Lucas Martinez Email: martinezb21@yahoo.com

May 31-June 1, 2014 Kick-it 3v3

Host: Union SC All Us Soccer affiliated teams Tulsa, OK Fields: Bill Boevers Complex Web site: www.kickit3v3.com Contact: David Dexter, 303-948-7108 Email: kickit3v3@nasportsgroup.com U6 – U18 Recreational & Competitive Boys & Girls Referee Assignor: Nancy Cornett Email: usc.area.referee@tulsacoxmail.com

August 15-17, 2014 Beat the Heat

Host: Edmond Soccer Club All US Soccer affiliated teams Edmond, OK Fields: Edmond Soccer Complex Web site: www.edmondsoccer.com/tourn_ts_php Contact: James L. Soesbee, 405-409-2324 Email: soccer999999@sbcglobal.net Referee Assignor: Brandon Story Email: bstory4@gmail.com

September 19-21, 2014 Cosmos Cup Host: Southlakes SC Contact: Brent Gatewood Competitive Email: blscs@yahoo.com

November 8-9, 2014 Frost Ya Fanny

November 7-9, 2014 Turkey Shootout

Host: Edmond Soccer Club All US Soccer affiliated teams Edmond, OK Fields: Edmond Soccer complex Web site: www.edmondsoccer.com/tourn_ts.php Contact: James L. Soesbee, 405-409-2324 Email: soccer999999@sbcglobal.net U7-U10 Academy Boys & Girls U6-U19 Recreational Boys & Girls Referee Assignor: Brandon Story Email: bstory4@gmail.com

November 22-23, 2014 adidas Sam Shannon Showcase

Host: TSC Hurricane Soccer Club All US Soccer affiliated teams Jenks, OK Fields: Metro Tulsa/ Indian Springs Soccer Complex Web site: www.tschurricane.com Contact: Jim Tindell, 918-688-9071 Email: jimtindell@me.com U8 – U10 Academy Boys & Girls U11 – U19 Competitive Boys & Girls Referee Assignor: Michael Naumann Email: bassignor@hotmail.com

SMOKE SIGNALS 21

New USL PRO Franchise to Begin Play At ONEOK Field in 2015

Professional soccer is returning to Tulsa! The Tulsa Drillers have announced that they have purchased majority interest in an expansion franchise in the USL PRO League. The Tulsa team will begin play in the spring of 2015 with home games slated to be played at ONEOK Field. The Drillers will be majority owners of the new team with Prodigal LLC holding a minority interest in the squad. The USL PRO team will mark the highest level of professional soccer in the city since the Tulsa Roughnecks played their final season in the old North American Soccer League in 1984. "We are very excited to be involved in bringing a high level of professional, outdoor soccer back to the city of Tulsa," said Mike Melega. "We feel that Tulsa is a great soccer market, and this return is long overdue." The new team will share ONEOK Field with the Drillers. The USL PRO regular season runs from late March through mid-August. Playoff games are held during the month of September. In 2014, the USL Pro regular season will consist of 28 matches with each team playing 14 home matches. There is also the chance that Tulsa could host exhibitions and U.S. Open Cup games as well. The USL PRO league began a unique partnership with Major League Soccer, the top professional soccer league in North America, prior to the 2013 season.

Through the partnership, some USL PRO teams entered into affiliation agreements where the MLS team provided players to their clubs, similar to Major League Baseball's player development partnership with Minor League Baseball. It is anticipated that the Tulsa club will begin an affiliation with a MLS team prior to its inaugural season in 2015. "We think the USL PRO structure and its partnership with Major League Soccer provide the city of Tulsa with the best opportunity to have a successful and long-term franchise," said Melega. "Over the years, Major League Soccer has looked closely at successful USL teams when selecting expansion cities, such as with Orlando moving to MLS in 2015. If the fans of Tulsa support the return of professional, outdoor soccer to the city, we feel that Tulsa has an excellent chance to move onto the radar of Major League Soccer as they consider future expansion cities." "Prodigal is pleased to partner with the Drillers to bring professional soccer back to Tulsa," said Prodigal LLC owner Bob Funk Jr. "The fact that five of the last six MLS expansion teams have come from USL PRO showcases the fact that the USL PRO model is the best way for teams to experience success. We also look forward to playing games against and fostering a Turnpike Rivalry with our in-state neighbors." The playing surface at ONEOK Field will be converted into a soccer pitch prior

to each game with the field running from first base toward the left field wall. The dirt infield areas will be covered with sod to provide a complete grass surface playing field. All seating and hospitality areas currently at the stadium will be used for the soccer matches. The initial plan is to utilize the Budweiser Terrace area as a Supporter's Section for hardcore fans who are interested in creating a festive atmosphere for all matches. Capacity at ONEOK Field will be very similar to the 7,833 figure that is used for baseball events. The actual name for the new Tulsa team has not been determined. Plans are for a Name Your Team Contest in early 2014 with fans submitting their suggestions for the official name. The team will begin taking deposits for season tickets immediately. Depositors will be given priority for selecting seat locations based on the dates that their deposits are received. Deposits will be $25 per seat with refunds given if a suitable location cannot be obtained. As with the setup for baseball, several different seating tiers and price points will be available within ONEOK Field for soccer matches. Exact details and prices will be announced at a later date.

22 OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION

YOUR GAME, YOUR FIELDS TULSA 5817 S. 118th East Ave. Tulsa, OK 74146 918.249.0044 SOCCERCITYTULSA.COM

OKLAHOMA CITY 4520 Old Farm Road Oklahoma City, OK 405.748.3888 SOCCERCITYOKCITY.COM

$49,963.86 Distributed To Tornado Victims OSA’s Tornado Relief Funds, which totaled over $49,000, were distributed Sunday, December 16 at the District meeting held at Cambria Suites Hotel in Oklahoma City. The funds were collected following May’s tornado storms that ravaged several communities in Oklahoma. Contributing to the Tornado Relief Fund were US Youth, US Soccer, US Youth Region III. Personal contributions were collected by OSA’s web site and Facebook notices and by collection points set up state wide. The massive outpouring of support was a fine example of how the soccer community is nationwide, according to OSA Youth President, Tom Wedding. Sid Goodrich, OSA’s Executive Director noted that even states not in US Youth’s Region III sent checks and offers of support. “OSA gave each of the four clubs most affected by the tornados checks for the club to distribute amongst the families who lost homes and personal belongings.” There were 42 families identified by the clubs as in need of the assistance.

South Lakes Soccer Club had 31 families identified for support and received $36,878.00 from the OSA Tornado Relief Funds. Accepting the check for South Lakes was Ashley Glitzke, President. Norman Youth Soccer had 3 families affected by the storms and received $3,568 to distribute from the OSA Tornado Relief Funds. Accepting the check for Norman Youth Soccer was Lean Tidwell. El Reno Soccer identified 7 families in need of assistance from the OSA Tornado Relief Fund and El Reno received a check for $8,327 to distribute to the families. Accepting the check for the El

Reno Soccer Club was Nick Mitchum, board member. Shawnee Soccer Association identified 1 family in need of support and received $1,189 from the OSA Tornado Relief Fund. A check has been mailed to the Shawnee Soccer Association for the club to give to the family. OSA wishes to thank its members for the gracious support of fellow soccer families who lost not only possessions, but in some tragic cases, even a loved one. To those who donated and had no real connection to our soccer families, we extend our gratitude and appreciation for such an act of compassion.

OSA SMOKE SIGNALS

KIDS’ PAGE

SMOKE SIGNALS 23

RIDDLES

Where do fish keep their money? In a riverbank, of course.

JOKES

Q: What do firemen put in their soup? A: Firecrackers!

What do you get when you cross an automobile with a household animal? A carpet.

Q: Why did the chewing gum cross the road? A: It was stuck to the leg of a chicken. Q: What did the duck say when he bought lipstick? A: Put it on my bill.

What force and strength cannot get through, I with a gentle touch can do, and many in the streets would stand, were I not as a friend in hand? A Key What walks all day on its head? A nail in a horseshoe.

Tongue Twisters Check out this list of hard to say tongue twisters. Try saying them as fast as you can three times in a row. Pronounce them clearly. If you can say all of them, then you’re better than most of us. Some of these are tough!!!! Freshly-fired flying fish A tutor who tooted the flute Tried to tutor two tooters to toot. Said the two to their tutor: “Is it harder to toot, Or to tutor two tooters to toot?” I never smelled a smelt that smelled like that smelt smelled.

PUZZLE WORDS

A big black bear bit a big black bug And the big black bug bled black blood.

BOWLS FAME HOLIDAY SCHOOL SNOW VOLUNTEER

COACH CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES HALL ICE SCHOLARSHIP SEASON SLEET SOCCER SUPER WORKSHOP

Q: Why did the cookie go to the doctor? A: Because it was feeling crummy.

January Puzzle

This issue of the Smoke Signals will features the New Year. Please complete the puzzle and send in your answers! Solve the puzzle, cut it out and mail to OSA, c/o Smoke Signals, PO Box 35174, Tulsa, OK 74153. Good luck and remember to PRINT your name, address, and zip code on the form below. I’ll publish your name in the next issue if you solve the puzzle. Plus, you’ll get prizes from Mazzio’s Italian Eatery as well. Deadline for this puzzle is Feb. 18, 2014.

Name: _______________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________ City: _______________________ State: _____ Zip: ________

N G D C Y H I J W A M V N T O

L L A H C L I H Z J S T Z Z R

R G W A R R S Y C X N L K Y O

K E O M W E O E L S J M V M Z

W C P P A P C P L N V S A G Q

F C H I D U M C R O O W T X B

P Z P O H S K R O W Q Z H E X

B N I N L S L Z Y S G F T B U

V N M S C I R E E T N U L O V

R Z C H S C D A E V Y M R C E

L Z O I G B S A L T I V G M S

Z O E P Z O Z I Y O B O A W L

L W H Y N B O G F S H F M D F

A W J E E K R E K U I C E Z T

L I N I E M G F B O W L S D T

24 OKLAHOMA SOCCER ASSOCIATION