Touchline | Spring 2017 by Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

P E N N S Y LVA N I Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; S L E A D I N G Y O U T H S O C C E R P U B L I C A T I O N

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SPRING 2017

A NEW SOCCER HOTBED Page 6

ODP National Champions Page 14

Awards & AGM Recap Page 18-19

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CONTENTS

CREDITS

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EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER VOLUME LIV | SPRING 2017 TOUCHLINE IS PUBLISHED QUARTERLY PUBLISHED BY: Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer 4070 Butler Pike, Suite 100 Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462 Phone: 610-238-9966 Fax: 610-238-9933 E-mail: info@EPYSA.org Website: EPYSA.org Executive Committee President: Jim Kuntz Vice President, Travel: Michael Finnegan Vice President, Recreation: Dwight Wilkinson Treasurer: Warren Beideman Secretary: Melissa Weber Registrar: Jim Christian State Office Staff Chief Executive Officer: Chris Branscome Technical Director: Mike Barr Asst. Technical Director: Gary Stephenson Director of Soccer Operations: Frank Olszewski Communications Manager: Dillon Friday Marketing Manager: Molly Freitag Membership Services Specialist: Sheila Molyneaux Chief Administrative Officer: Kelly Connor Program Manager: Meridith Crowell Accountant: Judy Curran Administrative Assistant: Adam Marianelli Outreach Coordinator: JT Dorsey Intern: Jackson Corrigan Touchline Editor-in-Chief: Chris Branscome Editor: Dillon Friday Printed and designed by A.E. Engine, Inc.

2 From Our CEO: The Church of Soccer

23 Youth Soccer Stars

3 Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Explained

25 Upcoming Tournaments

5 Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Outreach: Emlen Elementary Hosts Soccer Festival

29 National League Recap

6 Feature: How Central Pennsylvania Became A Soccer Hotbed 11 2017 Winter Festival Recap 12 2017 Indoor Cup Champions 13 2017 Indoor Cup Gallery 14 ODP: U17 Boys Are National Champions

26 AAA Start Your Journey: Jim Wallace 30 TOPSoccer Spotlight: Lehigh Valley TOPSoccer 32 Upcoming Coaching Courses 34 Mike Barr: Youth Sports and a Parent’s Dilemma 35 Award Winners Gallery 36 Training Session: Teaching with Small-sided Games

17 Quarterly Calendar 18 Annual Awards Banquet 19 Annual General Meeting

On the cover: Game action from the U17 US Youth Soccer ODP Championship Game. Eastern Pennsylvania won 7-0. Photo credit: Karen Race

21 The Starting Lineup: What to Watch for this Spring

FROM OUR PRESIDENT Jim Kuntz, President, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

It was an honor to get reelected as president of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer this year, especially so close to home in Lancaster. I don’t take this position lightly and look forward to continuing to build youth soccer in our state association and beyond. Hosting the Annual Awards Banquet and AGM in Lancaster was special. We were able to highlight the terrific people who have made Central Pennsylvania soccer so

great. As you’ll read in these pages, there have been quite a few players who have emerged on the national and even international levels in the last several years. What you’ll find is their development was a group effort, not individual. I think that defines our association as a whole. We should keep that in mind as we approach the Spring season. Everything you earn this season, whether as an individual, player, coach or parent, comes from a collective of hard work. Take the time to thank the administrators and volunteers behind the scenes who make it

happen. You’ll be better for it. Just look at what our U17 Boys ODP Team did. Representing 13 different clubs, the 18 players came together to win a national championship in Phoenix. The final was 7-0 and all 18 players got on the field—remarkable. I’m tremendously proud of that achievement and all those who made it happen. I hope everyone enjoys a successful and safe Spring season. I hope you appreciate the cup experience, whether it’s the State Cup, Presidents Cup or Challenge Cup. As always, I’m glad to be along for the ride.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

THE “CHURCH” OF SOCCER Chris Branscome, Chief Executive Officer, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

To many, soccer is like a religion or at least a religious experience. We faithfully attend “church” every Saturday or Sunday, sometimes with the whole family, sometimes with friends. We try to practice during the week what we learned about on the weekend. Sometimes we visit a cathedral, maybe a Wembley or an Anfield, to take part in a larger service. Maybe, if you were lucky enough, you witnessed any of the saints of our church like Pele, Zidane or Mia. In Southeastern Pennsylvania soccer, there was another church. We respected and honored this church. This church embodied all that is good about soccer. This church wasn’t a congregation or building, but a person: Our now departed friend Mike Churchville, simply known to all as “Church.” He passed away on March 6. He was 61 years old. Mike Churchville did more for the soccer community than most people can imagine, sometimes behind the scenes, sometimes leading the way. He was without question an evangelist for the sport, who did everything to help it grow and succeed in Philadelphia for over fifty years. As his close friend Michael Nelms remarked at his services in early March, “How do you talk about someone who was bigger than life? You start with a soccer ball.” Church started his lifetime in soccer in 1964 playing for the Somerton Youth Organization. He moved on to Archbishop Ryan in 1969 and began a forty-plus year connection to his alma mater. He

scored a goal in the 1972 Catholic League Final, helping Ryan win the first of many championships. He moved on to play at La Salle University from 1973-77 and helped those teams to league championships and top-twenty rankings. For Mike Churchville, Ryan and LaSalle provided a profound experience in athletics and education that he would share with others the rest of his life, becoming a coach and mentor to many. Church played an integral role in the development of soccer in our area. In the late 70’s, indoor soccer had come to town, but everyone was playing in gyms until Mike helped to open

Mike Churchville 1955-2017 and operate the Woodhaven Sportsplex. Throughout the 80’s, Woodhaven was the only indoor facility of its kind, and Mike was there, seemingly, every day and every night. Mike did anything and everything to help soccer build its base in those days. It seemed the only place anyone played in the winter was at Woodhaven. It was the meeting place, the “church,” we all congregated at. Mike helped the state association to grow and develop as well, hosting our recreation festivals and the Indoor Cups

at his facility for over two decades. He would do anything to help. Mike even assisted a young marketing exec with the Philadelphia Kixx spread the good word of professional indoor soccer and create a new generation of soccer fans in the 90’s. Asking Church to help promote soccer was the easiest ask I ever made. He’d say yes before I could finish the sentence. The Sportsplex eventually moved from its original spot on Woodhaven Road to Feasterville. From soccer, to dog shows, to roller derby, Mike handled it all with humor and expertise, although perhaps not everyone thought so at the time, especially when Mike postponed his honeymoon to run a celebrity soccer match pitting Philadelphia celebrities against the rock band, Def Leppard. At the concert following the game, Def Leppard dedicated their hit “Pour Some Sugar on Me” to Mike and the boys. Mike’s crowning moment at the Sportsplex, though, was when he held in his hands the World Cup trophy, calling his friends to join him in a soccer fan’s dream moment. Church also spent time coaching at the professional level with the Philadelphia Freedom. He served as an assistant to Mike Barr, now our Technical Director. “Mike was a real player’s coach,” coach Barr said. “His sense of humor and knowledge of the game made every practice and match memorable. I think every person who met Mike felt comfortable and happy in his presence.” Saying thank you doesn’t quite do it, because he did so much for our sport. Mike Churchville never minded the hard work. He loved it and everyone knew it.

This article was put together with help from Michael Nelms and the Archbishop Ryan Hall of Fame.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

epysa.org

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Explained Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is the largest youth sports organization in Pennsylvania, registering nearly 130,000 players ages five to 19. The organization is a member of U.S. Youth Soccer, the largest member of the U.S. Soccer Federation. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer strives to promote and perpetuate the game of soccer, while fostering the physical, mental and emotional growth of Eastern Pennsylvania youth at all levels of competition. Our job is to make it fun and instill in young players a lifelong passion for the sport. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program provides supplement training and competitive opportunities for players with the goal of advancement to US Youth Soccer Region I teams and ultimately, national team selections. Since 1977 Eastern Pennsylvania’s Olympic Development program has identified and trained players at the elite level.

FIFA

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Cup Competitions offer four statewide competitions that allow clubs to test themselves against Pennsylvania’s best teams. The Indoor Cup takes place across the winter months in various indoor facilities. Each age group, under-9 to under-19, completes its championship in one day. The National Championship Series (NCS) State Cup, Presidents Cup and Turkey Hill Challenge Cup begin in March and conclude in May (Under-18 and 19 State Cup teams play in May and June). All three are open competitions with State Cup and Presidents Cup winners advancing to regional and possibly national championships. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Coaching Education seeks to provide state coaches with the best resources available to help them and their teams improve season to season. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer hosts US Soccer National Coaching License courses throughout the year. Interested parties can check the US Soccer Digital Coaching Center for schedules. In addition, our Coaching Education department sends out The Evolving Game each month, a newsletter that encompasses the coaching world in Eastern Pennsylvania and beyond.

Where do I Fit In?

U.S. Soccer

US Youth Soccer

Coaching Education

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer TOPSoccer is a community-based training and team placement program for young athletes with disabilities, organized by youth soccer association volunteers. The program is designed to bring the opportunity of learning and playing soccer to any boy or girls, age 4 and older, who has a mental or physical disability. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Outreach supports programs that work to install soccer in disadvantaged communities. These programs, such as Soccer for Success and the JT Dorsey Foundation, work in conjunction with our mission to promote and facilitate the game of soccer for all youth at all levels of play in Eastern Pennsylvania. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s recreational and intramural players account for nearly 65 percent of the state’s total participation. In recent months, we have worked to better reach these players and coaches. We introduced the State Coaching Certificate last fall and hosted the first annual Winter Festival intended for recreational teams in February (see page 11).

Learn more at EPYSA.org

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

Associations/ Clubs

Outreach

Leagues

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Outreach: Emlen Elementary Hosts Soccer Festival, Union’s Sapong By Jackson Corrigan

The Union’s CJ Sapong poses with players from AC Fairhill

n Tuesday, March 7, Emlen Elementary, located in the Mt. Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia, hosted the Emlen Soccer Festival, a night full of music, dance and, of course, soccer. Emlen Elementary took on local soccer program AC Fairhill in a thrilling game that the students loved. The night was full of excitement from both the children involved and the parents in attendance. The elementary school gymnasium was packed with people coming together to enjoy the beautiful game in a city that was integral to its American development. The Emlen Soccer Festival stemmed from an afterschool soccer program with the intention of keeping students active, while also teaching them important skills. “I thought the event was awesome,” said Tammy D Thomas, Principal of Emlen Elementary. “It was a great way for our kids to interact with another team, show sportsmanship and just go out and have fun.” She talked about the importance of having afterschool programs as well,

game, the community and also living a healthy lifestyle.” Sapong has made giving back a priority since he joined the Union in December 2014. “I am excited moving forward,” he said. “(The Emlen Soccer Festival) gives me more motivation and inspiration. It is one of those moments that makes me realize that there is a way to create change, and it starts with all of us.” Sapong does his own giving back through the Union. He also recently launched a non-profit, Sacred Seeds, which promotes growth in underserved areas through education, sustenance and self-sustainability. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer hopes to continue its outreach to communities similar to Emlen and continue to promote soccer throughout Eastern Pennsylvania. “There are a lot of great things going in underserved areas of cities and rural communities with the game of soccer,” said Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Outreach Coordinator J.T. Dorsey. “Events like this give us a chance to highlight this great work, community and family support, and excitement the kids have when playing soccer.” The Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Outreach Program continues to help communities looking to start programs such as the Emlen Soccer Festival. If you are interested in getting involved or starting your own program, please email J.T. Dorsey at JTDorsey@epysa.org.

specifically soccer programs. “The program means that our kids have a chance to play a sport that they probably wouldn’t otherwise have a chance to play,” Thomas said. “And that gives me great excitement.” Thomas was also thankful for the parental support and great efforts from the coaches and community, including Philadelphia Union striker C.J. Sapong. Sapong surprised the kids and took pictures with both teams and even a few parents. “It is a very exciting moment for me to experience the way people of different positions in the community come together to make an overall grand experience for the youth,” Sapong said of the Emlen Soccer Festival. “It is interesting for me to see how creative we are getting to create Students from Emlen Elementary were all smiles during their school’s Soccer Festival. excitement for the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

PROFILE:

Central Pennsylvania, an American Soccer Hotbed By Dillon Friday, Communications Manager, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

oon after he was picked 14th overall in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft, Mechanicsburg native Colton Storm, a former Eastern Pennsylvania ODP player and longtime HMMS standout, spoke with Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer about his development as a player. Storm lettered four times at the University of North Carolina and, prior to that, spent a year in residency with the Under-17 U.S. Men’s National Team. Those distinctions gave him a pretty good idea of how good he was. And yet… “I thought I was decent,” said Storm. “Nationally, if you think that you’re good, you should be able to handle yourself at home. But there were so many good players.” He rattled off a list of names who would show up at various kick-abouts on return trips home: Bobby Warshaw (Mechanicsburg), Andrew Wenger (Lancaster), Keegan Rosenberry (Ronks) and more, players who reached MLS from Central Pennsylvania. Storm mentioned Hershey’s Christian Pulisic, too, the wunderkind who has become one of the world’s—not just United States’—next great stars. It’s astounding how many players have emerged from Central Pennsylvania in recent years. Consider this from college soccer alone: Brian Nana-Sinkam of Lititz and Drew Skundrich of Lancaster were two key contributors on Stanford’s back-to-back National Championship teams. That team defeated Storm and North Carolina in the College Cup Semifinals in 2016, this after Storm’s Tar Heels upended Manheim native Braden Kline and Providence in the regional final. In college football, Joe Julius of Hummelstown, LDC United and PA Classics, kicked for Big Ten Champion Penn State. For the

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

Philadelphia Union, Rosenberry became an all-star right back as well as a rookie of the year candidate. In addition, six players hailing from Central Pennsylvania helped the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer U17 Boys ODP Team win a national championship in March: Aaron Tylicki (Waynesboro), Steven Schankweiler (Hummelstown/LDC United), Nick O’Donnell (Carlisle/ HMMS), Drew Johnson (Salunga/ Penn Legacy), Cameron Hasting (Mount Joy/HMMS) and Craig Potts (Stewartstown/HMMS). How has this happened? What’s been the secret to the growth of soccer in the region? Three of the men who have been instrumental to the sport’s development chatted with Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer about the rise of Central Pennsylvania in the beautiful game. THE FLEETWOOD LEGEND: TROY SNYDER In his current role as part owner of Reading United AC, where he formerly served as Technical Director, Troy Snyder has overseen a steady production of quality professional players. On the Union alone, C.J. Sapong, John McCarthy, Ray Gaddis and Rosenberry all had stops in Berks County. So did 2016 MLS Defender of the Year Matt Hedges, who plays for FC Dallas. “We give them a good environment to train in,” said Snyder. “On top of that, we were the first PDL team to foster a relationship with an MLS team. It’s just evolved.” Snyder, in partnership with Art Auchenbach, established a high standard from the get-go. He told then manager Brendan Burke—now at Bethlehem Steel FC—“Let’s do whatever we can to build something here.” It’s since caught the eye of top college players, the Union brass and scouts from around the

epysa.org

league. Snyder added credence to the project just from his own experience. He appeared 20 times for the United States at the youth, futsal and Men’s National Team levels in the late 1980’s and early 90’s. Snyder also played for Walt Bahr at Penn State. But it was his time in Fleetwood, a small town northeast of Reading, that left the greatest impact on Snyder. “We had an individual by the name of Ray Buss. He really got everyone involved,” said Snyder. “He was light years ahead of everybody else.” Buss organized soccer as much as it could be organized in Central Pennsylvania in the 1970’s. As the coach at Fleetwood High School, Buss mentored Snyder, who scored 208 goals in his career, the second most in the history of American high school soccer. Buss also made sure his players had ample opportunities outside the school season. “He would garner like an all-star team to go compete against teams

A Troy Snyder Playing Card from his time with the Dallas Sidekicks

from around the state,” recalled Snyder. “We put together a pretty darn competitive team.” Amazingly, Snyder wasn’t the only Fleetwood grad to make it big. The Moyer brothers, Jerry at Penn State and Mike at West Chester, both played Division I soccer. Jerry, like Snyder, enjoyed a professional career as well. Now all three are back in their home area, serving the current youth players and continuing Ray Buss’s legacy. Mike Moyer is the owner and Director of Coaching at FC Revolution, where Jerry also coaches. Despite his professional commitments, Snyder keeps an eye on the youth game as well: “I pop in and out,” he said. He lends a hand to Eastern Pennsylvania’s Olympic Development Program and remains, as always, a proponent of high school soccer, which is still the lifeblood of small-town soccer. “I just feel it’s an important part of our culture, playing with your friends and playing in front of your friends,” said Snyder. “I don’t think U.S. Soccer should say you can’t play for your high school. They should not be messing with that experience. The sport grows and moving away from it stunts it.” In high school soccer, and smaller clubs for that matter, one person can influence generations. For Snyder, that man was Buss. “When you look at these little areas that have good soccer, there’s typically an individual that is instrumental to the success, whether it’s a parent or coach or whatever,” said Snyder. “If he’s into it, he puts the effort to make the game better. They keep players together at U6 on up through high school. And if the kids have some success in it, they enjoy it.” THE FORMER PROFESSIONALS Larry Julius, he of indoor soccer fame, who scored the first gamewinning goal in Philadelphia Kixx history, was one of several former professional players to settle in Central Pennsylvania following his playing career. “Quite a few former guys that

Larry Julius celebrates a goal with his Kansas City Attack (NPSL) teammates have stayed in the area have committed to helping the youth get to that next level,” said Julius, who lives in Hummelstown. “You’re going to have these pockets of talent.” Professional soccer came to Central Pennsylvania in the late 1980’s. A decade later, the youth game began its boom. Niki Nikolic, the Hershey Impact’s first and only coach, started Super Nova F.C. and recruited current and former players to help out his nascent club. That initiative created a job path for players who were just starting families and didn’t necessarily want to relocate. And so, a wide network settled into the area: Gino DiFlorio at HMMS, Bill Becher at LDC United, J.T. Dorsey at Super Nova, Richard Chinapoo at Capital Area Soccer Association (CASA) and Mark Pulisic and Julius at PA Classics to name a few. Whether it was playing for the Harrisburg Heat, Hershey Impact, Hershey Wildcats or, later, Harrisburg City Islanders, these pro’s crossed paths enough times to form professional, working relationships even across clubs, especially at younger levels. “We commit ourselves to working together,” said Julius. “The grassroots: That’s where the nuts and bolts are. We can tie in having fun, and that’s when you see kids stick with the game longer.” “It’s just a respect,” added Chinapoo, who recently rejoined CASA after a stint in Florida. “We

understand what we do. We’re here for the kids and their families. That’s the perspective we have across the board. We always reach out to each other. Everybody does a fantastic job.” When kids do reach the next level, they can take confident steps forward, knowing that their coaches played at the upper echelons of American soccer. It creates a healthy competitive environment that raises the level of all the players, not just the elite. That’s the trait that stands out to Julius when he watches Central Pennsylvania products on the field such as Rosenberry, Storm, Nana-Sinkam and Skundrich, or, yes, Christian Pulisic for Borussia Dortmund and the U.S. Men’s National Team. “They play the game and they enjoy it,” said Julius. “They play with a lot of confidence. They do stand out—they tend to absorb the game a little bit quicker. And each time they make a mistake, they’re not looking over their shoulder. They’re willing to make mistakes.” Each player adds to the gospel of Central Pennsylvania soccer. Moreover, coaches like Julius can then use recent graduates of the region as examples, just as he and his contemporaries were some 20 years ago. “Do I tell the kids (about all the players)? Absolutely,” said Julius. “I try to make an impression and make it enjoyable as possible for the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

players without joy-sticking them.” Julius’s personal network also mimics that of his adopted hometown. He grew up in soccermad St. Louis, which, along with Philadelphia, produced several of the players that were on the American team that upset England in the 1950 World Cup. One of those Philadelphians, Walter Bahr, went on to coach soccer at Penn State. His son Chris played for the Philadelphia Atoms in the old NASL, before kicking in the NFL and winning two Super Bowls. It was Chris Bahr who helped Joe Julius, Larry’s son and a very good soccer player in his own right, convert to kicker when the latter was considering Penn State out of high school. In other words, there’s a direct tie between the greatest victory in American soccer history and the 2016 Big Ten Football Championship. One generation helps another and great things come of it. FROM HOTBED TO HOTBED: BILL BECHER “Something about being from a smaller community matters. In bigger areas, you lose that close-knit feeling. It’s amazing sometimes.” Bill Becher did not come from a smaller community, though his

words carry weight. He, Julius and Philadelphia Union assistant coach Mike Sorber are all transplanted St. Louisans who have settled in Easter Pennsylvania. The Central Pennsylvania area in particular, the focus of this story, has that wonderful balance of big town names and small town appeal that fuels the soccer being played there. “St. Louis was soccer first in many ways,” recalled Becher. “When I got traded here in 1991, it wasn’t even close to that. Now, you can see the similarities to what I grew up in.” It’s a remarkable thing to say and even a more remarkable thing to witness. His own contributions to the growth come from a unique angle. Like his contemporaries, Becher joined the youth ranks soon after he was done playing. “I got opportunities to run camps, clinics, and I really enjoyed working with the kids,” said Becher. “The opportunity presented itself to become (Director of Coaching) at LDC (United). To me, it was a natural move to help the next generation develop passion for the game.” That may be a common path for a former professional—in fact, it’s the exact one Chinapoo followed: “I was playing with the Harrisburg

Bill Becher, back row left, with his 2015 State Cup Champion LDC United team

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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Heat. (Parents at CASA) approached me to be the Technical Director. So that’s kind of how it happened.” But what makes Becher stand out is his dual role: he’s been the only head coach in Harrisburg City Islanders history, a franchise that competes in the USL. The two positions enjoy an almost symbiotic relationship in terms of player development. “We have three kids who are from Central Pennsylvania,” said Becher of his current roster—we should add, he’s also the team’s General Manager. “In 2011, when we reached the finals, we started five kids who went to high school in Harrisburg. We’re able to have success. We’ve been to the finals twice in six years, and we have as many homegrown players as anybody. And we’re playing against big cities.” People at home take notice, too, especially young players. Becher can coach his LDC United kids and point to the City Islanders as a possible destination down the line. “It helps a lot,” said Becher. “Kids can look up and see that players are playing for their hometown club, or in MLS, or in Germany. The standard has improved.” In Becher, one finds common ground with both Snyder and Julius. He remains firmly entrenched on the club side, while advocating for high school soccer. Take his LDC United boys team, which won the 2015 Eastern Pennsylvania Under-15 State Cup. Six of the players on that squad played for the Lower Dauphin High School team this past fall that went 28-0, won a PIAA State Championship and was ranked No. 3 in the country by USA Today. It’s not always the academy or bigname club kids who make an impact. “Everybody has a different rout,” said Becher, “a different path that works for them.” There are plenty of paths coming out of Central Pennsylvania. All of them, seemingly, lead to success.

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Rec Teams Enjoy Inaugural Winter Festival By Dillon Friday

Players from the Easton Rovers and Hawks United clash in one of the opening games of the Inaugural Winter Recreational Festival.

astern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer hosted the inaugural Winter Recreational Festival Saturday, February 11 at the Pocono Dome in Sciota, Pennsylvania. Dozens of players representing 10 different clubs took part in two age groups, Under-12 Boys and Under-12 Girls. The one-day tournament is designed to give recreational teams a chance to play statewide competition. “Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is always looking for ways to engage its players at all levels of the game,” said Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer CEO Chris Branscome. “Recreational teams deserve additional opportunities to supplement their fall or spring season play.” Each team played at least three games, 27 minutes in length. The five-on-five play with unlimited substitution made for some fast-paced action. For many of the teams, this was their first time playing indoor competition.

“This is our first indoor game time,” said Parkland Area Griffins coach Pat Lundy, one of three alongside Brian Lawlor and Jason Boehm. “I usually get the girls together once a week in the four weeks leading into the season but never games like this. They love it.” Parkland has a strong reputation as a travel club, while the rec program offers an alternative path. Some of the Griffins go on to travel play. But many of the players, according to Lundy, choose to play rec because they enjoy other activities such as Girl Scouts or other sports. Rec offers them a chance to continue to play soccer without a greater commitment. “It’s great to see a tournament that advocates for the rec program, because we’ve had a team together for a very long time,” said Lundy. “They all play together. It gives them an opportunity to play on an even playing field. It’s been a good experience.” Other teams used the Winter Festival as an opportunity to tune up

and have fun in between seasons. “This is our regular outdoor team,” said John Augustine, coach of the U-12 Boys Mountaintop Tigers. “This is just a way to get together in the offseason and play. We had a really good season last year. We hope to do well today.” Mountaintop is emblematic of the rest of the clubs in attendance. Based in Northeast Pennsylvania, the Tigers play in the recreational Wyoming Valley Youth Soccer League. The Winter Festival offered the team a chance to take on opponents from across the state, which in turn became a teaching point for Augustine to his young players. “To get four or five games in, back to back, really that’s what it’s all about,” he said. “You’re playing teams of all different skill levels. That’s really the only way you get better.” Augustine relished the experience. “This is one of the better tournaments we’ve been in,” he said. “We’re happy to be here, and we’d be happy to come back again next year.” Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

2017 Eastern Pennsylvania Indoor Cup Champions GIRLS CHAMPIONS U9 Elite Division FC EUROPA ELITE

U12 Challenge Blue Division LOWER MERION SC FORCE

U15 Challenge White Division UPPER 90 STORM

U9 Challenge Division HMMS VIPERS

U13 Elite Division FC EUROPA ELITE

U15 Challenge Blue Division AMITY TWISTERS

U10 Elite Division FC EUROPA ELITE

U13 Challenge White Division NORTH UNION UNITED STRIKERS

U16 Elite Division READING RAGE MORGAN

U10 Challenge Division LOWER MERION SC LA FURIA

U13 Challenge Blue Division NORTH UNION UNITED STORM

U16 Challenge Division FUSION FC NOISE

U11 Elite Division PSC COPPA ELITE

U14 Elite Division FC REVOLUTION ROWDIES

U17 Elite Division LOWER MERION SC STORM

U11 Challenge Division HORSHAM HURRICANES

U14 Challenge White Division MANCHESTER UNITED NEWTON

U17 Challenge Division NORTH UNION UNITED ROCKETS

U12 Elite Division WESTERN LEHIGH GREEN

U14 Challenge Blue Division CSSC LADY STRIKERS

U19 Elite Division HERSHEY ELITE

U12 Challenge White Division HMMS CREW

U15 Elite Division HMMS IMPACT

U19 Challenge Division NSSC STRIKERS

U9 Challenge Division FC EUROPA ELITE

U12 Challenge White Division SCCSA DRAGONS

U15 Challenge Division CANTOLAO MUSTANGS

U10 Elite Division FISHTOWN ROWDIES

U12 Challenge Blue Division FC PHILADELPHIA BLACK

NORTH UNION UNITED CANNONS BLUE

U10 Challenge White Division HMMS UNITED

U13 Elite Division HARLEYSVILLE READY RANGERS

U16 Challenge Division FC BRANDYWINE ELITE

U10 Challenge Blue Division NORTH UNION UNITED WARRIORS

U13 Challenge Division NORTH UNION UNITED RAPTORS

U17 Challenge Division WYOMING VALLEY

U11 Elite Division FC EUROPA ELITE

U14 Elite Division NORTH UNION UNITED CANNONS

U19 Elite Division FC REVOLUTION GALACTICOS

U11 Challenge White Division DYNAMO UNITED

U14 Challenge White Division UPPER DUBLIN ARSENAL BLACK

COLONIAL SOCCER CLUB REVOLUTION

U11 Challenge Blue Division BOYERTOWN ARSENAL

NORTH UNION UNITED CANNONS WHITE

U12 Elite Division UKRAINIANS BLACK

U15 Elite Division NORTH UNION UNITED CANNONS

BOYS CHAMPIONS

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

U14 Challenge Blue Division

epysa.org

U16 Elite Division

U19 Challenge White Division U19 Challenge Blue Division SCCSA DRAGONS WHITE

Indoor Cup Gallery

Game action between Whitpain and CASA (U9 Boys)

U9 Girls Elite Champions FC Europa Elite

U10 Boys Challenge Blue Champions North Union Warriors

U14 Girls Elite Champions FC Revolution Rowdies

U15 Boys Challenge Champions Cantolao Mustangs

U16 Girls Challenge Champions Fusion FC Noise Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

U17 Boys Win US Youth Soccer ODP Championship By Dillon Friday

With victories over Georgia and Oregon, the Eastern Pennsylvania U17 Boys ODP Team claimed a national title. Photo credit: Karen Race

astern Pennsylvania U17 Boys ODP coach Tom Dodds noted something different about his team entering the 2017 US Youth Soccer ODP Championships in Phoenix, Arizona. The boys weren’t finishing as well as they had last summer when they won the Region I title to clinch a spot at nationals, which features all four of US Youth Soccer’s regional ODP champions. “We were getting a lot of opportunities,” said Dodds. “We were just missing. Sometimes it just happens that way. We were getting results, but we could have beaten every team by big numbers.” The scoring touch, however, came back at the right time. The U17 Boys routed Oregon 7-0 in the final on Sunday, March 5 to win Eastern Pennsylvania’s first ODP

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

Championship in 10 years. Nick Brison, of Kennett Square and Southern Chester County Soccer Association, scored a hat trick to front the attack. The victory capped a fitting end for a team that went undefeated in regional and national play—it kicked off this campaign with an identical 7-0 win back in June. “Everything just came into place,” said Dodds. “(The players) were a little more composed, putting shots on frame and keeping it low.” Despite the final result, the crosscountry trip was anything but easy. The boys arrived in Phoenix on Thursday with a tough match against Team Georgia scheduled for Friday evening. They had time to practice and get acclimated to the climate and time difference, and yet the late kickoff posed a unique challenge. “The semifinal was at 5:30 PM,”

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said Bryce Evans, who played the No. 6 role. “So we had all day to think about it.” That may have led to Eastern Pennsylvania’s slow start. Georgia earned not one but two penalties in the opening 45 minutes. But thanks to the heroics of goalkeeper Jacob Varrato, the boys were only down one at half. Varrato stopped both pk’s and was only beaten by a rebound shot on the second. Those saves helped settle the group. “Once we calmed down, we could tell we had the ability to win,” said Evans. “We weren’t going to leave Phoenix without a national championship.” Darryl Longdon got the comeback going with a breakaway goal soon after the break. Then Brison was fouled in the box to give the Pennsylvanians a spot kick of their

“Everything just came into place” - Head Coach Tom Dodds

own. Nick O’Donnell of HMMS converted to help send Eastern Pennsylvania to the final, a game that needed no build up, with a 2-1 win. “I mean this is the biggest stage a lot of us have played on,” said Brison. “I was really pumped up before the game. We were excited. All the pieces fell into place. We just kept going at it.” After some early Oregon pressure, Brison put Eastern Pennsylvania ahead five minutes into the game. He collected an Evans’ through-ball and smashed a shot by the Oregon keeper. From there, everything went Eastern Pennsylvania’s way. Longdon scored a penalty, while Aaron Tylicki, on as a substitute, buried his first touch of the match. Tylicki then created an own goal when he went crashing into the box on a corner kick—4-0 at half. Still, the 17’s weren’t comfortable just yet. “It definitely felt good (to be 4-0 up), but (Oregon) had come back in

their first game,” said Evans. “Once we put the fifth goal in, we were feeling pretty good.” Nick Brison called the National Championship a “dream come true.” His hat trick in the Matt Pron final was the highlight of the 7-0 win. Photo credit: Race. grabbed that crucial fifth goal before Brison completed his hat trick and throughout the ODP process. The that remarkable 7-0 score line. boys used trips to Virginia, regional “I felt like I needed to help the team camps and even the short stay in win,” said Brison. “I was just trying to Arizona to build team camaraderie. win the game. I wasn’t worried about It transferred to their play. getting the third goal.” “I think you could see it on the That doesn’t mean he couldn’t field,” said Dodds. “Anytime you’re appreciate his achievement, on an doing overnights, it helps. Going individual or team level. to Virginia, going to Phoenix, “It means everything. To be I think you can see the team able to score three goals was growing together. I thought it was outstanding,” Brison said. “It’s just impressive—very good.” one of those paths you feel like a As a bonus, all 18 players who dream a come true. It really is. To traveled to Phoenix got on the field go from a small club in my town to thanks to the blowout. Fellow coach winning a national championship is Gary Stephenson remarked on the just crazy.” character of the group, which was The championship was won equal to its performance. in Phoenix, but it was forged “Throughout the year, especially in our time in Phoenix, we had complete strangers saying how well-behaved and well-mannered our kids were,” said Stephenson. “My response was always, ‘Thank you. You should see them play.’ They are great representatives of Eastern Pennsylvania on and off the field.”

Goalkeeper Jacob Varrato saved two penalty kicks in the semifinal win over Georgia. Photo credit: Race.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

QUARTERLY CALENDAR APRIL 2017

JUNE 2017

6 Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Fundraiser for TOPSoccer, Soccer for Success, and the JT Dorsey Foundation | Corinthian Yacht Club of Philadelphia

2-4 National E License - Glenside

7-9 National E License – Easton

4 NCS U18-U19 State Cup Finals

7-9 National D License – Downingtown

9-11 National E License – Lancaster

9-17 ODP International Trips

9-11 National E License – Birdsboro

22 Philadelphia International Unity Cup: Clinic for Team Indonesia | Murphy Recreation Center

9-11 ODP Region I Tournament

28-29 Scoring Goals for Autism | YSC Sports

MAY 2017 7 Presidents Cup Finals | Lehigh County Fields

2-4 ODP U12 North Carolina Friendlies

16-18 National E License – Red Lion 16-18 National D License – Hanover 17-19 US Youth Soccer Region I Presidents Cup Finals | Barboursville, W.Va. 24-25 ODP Region I Tournament (Semifinals & Finals for U15-U17) 29-July 4 – US Youth Soccer Region I Championships | Spotsylvania, VA

19 2017 Cedar Cup presented by The JT Dorsey Foundation & Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Outreach 21 ODP U12&U13 Round Robin |United Sports Training Center 20-21 NCS U12-U17 State Cup & Challenge Cup Finals | United Sports Training Center 29 Memorial Day, Office Closed

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

2017 Annual Awards Banquet

astern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer honored 15 award winners and 20 Union League of Philadelphia Good Citizenship Award recipients as part of its Annual Awards Banquet on Saturday, February 25. More than 200 attendees packed the Heritage Ballroom of the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square to help celebrate the year in soccer in Eastern Pennsylvania. “This was an opportunity for us to recognize the individuals who have helped build and maintain the excellent soccer community we have here in Eastern Pennsylvania,” said Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer CEO Branscome. “We are grateful for their contributions.” Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer President Jim Kuntz poses with Boys Recreational Coach of the Year Gerald B. McCall, Jr. Photo credit: Memories Revisited

TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year

Boys Recreational Coach of the Year

Lower Dauphin TOPSoccer

Aston Youth Soccer Association

NICOLE BOYD

Volunteers of the Year

KEVIN & CARRIE WAGNER Annville-Cleona Soccer

GERALD B. MCCALL, JR. Young Male Referee of the Year

MICHAEL GRELLO

Young Female Referee of the Year

Administrator of the Year

COURTNEY BROWNING

Capital Area Soccer Club (CASA)

Service to Community

BILL ESTERLY

Boys Travel Coach of the Year

LARRY JONES

DEAN COSTALAS

Excellence in Coaching

Palumbo Soccer Club

MIKE MOYER

Girls Travel Coach of the Year

D’Anjolell Award

JOHN GREAVES

Yardley Makefield Soccer (YMS)

Girls Recreational Coach of the Year

STEVE BRENENBORG Hellam Eastern Soccer

HMMS YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION Service to Youth Award

VIC ENGEL & LENNIE BROWN

UNION LEAGUE OF PHILADELPHIA GOOD CITIZENSHIP AWARD WINNERS Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer also recognized its 20 Union League of Philadelphia Good Citizenship Award winners at the Awards Banquet. The Good Citizen Award goes to high school juniors involved in Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer who demonstrate the qualities of good citizenship. Those winners were Sonya Dervishian, Jacqueline Ziegler, Miles Hanamirian, Shannon McCarthy, Reed Bertram, Grace Rorke, Nicholas Nizinski, Jacob Spear, Kyler Balliet, Ryan Heaton, Sarah Cooney, David Alcock, Justin Leggin, Stephen Longo, Jacob Cohen, Rachel Edge, Marlena Purcell, Elizabeth DeCarlo, Allyson Holtz and Jacob Hendershot.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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2017 Annual General Meeting

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer CEO Chris Branscome speaks at the 2017 AGM

astern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer hosted its Annual General Meeting Sunday, February 26 at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square. Voting members of the state association were in attendance to discuss and vote on the amendments to the bylaws and constitution. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer President and Lancaster Resident Jim Kuntz presided over the meeting along with Chief Executive Officer Chris Branscome. The big change coming to Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is in regards to its districts. Previously, the state association had 15 districts. It now has six. Elections were held for the new District Commissioners as well as for the offices of President, Treasurer and Vice President of Travel on the Board of the Directors. Those results are below:

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER 2017 ELECTION RESULTS President

District 3 Commissioner

JIM KUNTZ (REELECTED)

LENNIE BROWN

Vice President, Travel

District 4 Commissioner

MIKE FINNEGAN (REELECTED) Treasurer

WARREN BEIDEMAN District 1 Commissioner

BILL FULLER

ERIK MCKITISH District 5 Commissioner

KURT RISCH District 6 Commissioner

DONNA OUTT

District 2 Commissioner

JON CONSADENE “I’m grateful for the support and efforts of our members,” said Kuntz. “I look forward to continuing to work with Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer and all the great people that make up our organization.” Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer also acknowledged the contributions of Nicole Epps, who retired from her position of Treasurer on the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Board of Directors. If there are questions about the new districting, please go to EPYSA.org.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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What to Watch for this Spring

FUNDRAISER EVENT TO BENEFIT TOPSOCCER, CHESTER UPLAND SOCCER FOR SUCCESS & JT DORSEY FOUNDATION n April 6, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer will host a fundraising event to benefit Eastern Pennsylvania TOPSoccer, Chester Upland Soccer for Success and The JT Dorsey Foundation. The evening, which will take place at the Corinthian Yacht Club of Philadelphia, will feature cocktails, socializing and a silent auction with plenty of great items. Tickets are $100 with all proceeds going to underserved communities and special needs children in Eastern Pennsylvania.

SCORING GOALS FOR AUTISM he date has been set. Scoring Goals For Autism 2017 will take place April 28-29 at YSC Sports in Wayne. The event features an adult 7-a-side tournament, as well as a TOPSoccer Skills & Drills clinic for special needs players. Scoring Goals For Autism has become one of the premier events of the Southeastern Pennsylvania soccer calendar. All proceeds benefit the Autism Science Foundation. Head to scoringgoalsforautism.org to register a team for 7-a-side tournament or sign up for the clinic.

SELECT TRAINING

ew in 2017, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer has launched a Select Training program to help build technical training, tactical training and player development in younger players. Select Training starts in early April in seven locations with more to be added throughout the year. It is aimed at under-10 and U11 players who may be looking to supplement their regular club or school play. Find out more information at EPYSA.org.

CUP FINALS he Eastern Pennsylvania State Cup (NCS), Presidents Cup and Turkey Hill Challenge Cup all start play at the end of March. The finals have been set for all three competitions. The Presidents Cup champions will be crowned Saturday, May 7 at the Lehigh County Fields, while the State and Challenge Cups will conclude May 20-21 at United Sports. In addition, registration for the U18-U19/20 State Cup is open until April 25 with the finals slated for June 4. Presidents Cup and State Cup winners will advance to Region I competition. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be there to hand out the hardware.

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS

astern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is now accepting applications for its 2017 College Scholarships. Four scholarships worth $1000 each will be awarded to high school seniors involved with Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer as players, referees or volunteers. Go to EPYSA.org/college_scholarship/ for more information and to apply. Applications are due April 24.

GOLD CUP QUARTERFINALS or the third consecutive summer, major international soccer returns to Philadelphia. Lincoln Financial Field will host a Gold Cup Quarterfinals double-header on July 19. If things play out as expected, the U.S. Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Team should be coming to the City of Brotherly Love. Purchase tickets at concacaf.com/.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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HEY, KIDS! (And adults, too!) PE R H A P S YOU ' V E SA I D TO YOU R S E L F:

“I want to be in touchline magazine!” WANT TO APPEAR IN AN UPCOMING ISSUE OF TOUCHLINE? This is an exciting feature in the magazine where Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer players, coaches, and parents get an opportunity to be seen and heard by the rest of our readers. Well, now is your chance! If you would like to be considered to appear in an upcoming issue, simply answer the 11 Questions that appear on our website (and on page 23), fill in the bio information and email it to info@epysa.org. Most

importantly, you need to send a photo of yourself with the email… the higher the quality, the better! If there is not a photo, then we can’t use your entry into the magazine. Entering is not a guarantee of getting published. We wish you luck, and who knows? When you open the next issue of Touchline magazine, you could find yourself staring back at you!

To register go to: epysa.org/communications/player_profiles

PROFILE S

Future Soccer Stars

Bryce Beitler

Lara Duval

Thalia Berrun

Age: 9

Age: 8

Age: 10

Team Name: Fire

Team Name: Fury

Team Name: Arsenal

Falls Soccer Club

Greater Chester Valley Soccer Association

Capital Area Soccer Association (CASA)

What position do you play or what do you do on your team?

Right Wing

Striker

Defender/Midfielder

What is your nickname?

Butterfinger

Devil

Who is your role model? Why?

My Uncle Joby, because he believes in me and encourages me

My brother, because he’s good at soccer

Alex Morgan. She is a hard worker, never gives up and follows her dream

What is your favorite soccer team?

Barcelona

Manchester United

US Women’s National Team

What is your favorite movie?

Trolls

Gremlins

Center Stage: On Pointe

What is your favorite song?

Dynamite by Taio Cruz

Happy Birthday

Let Me Love You by Justin Bieber

What is your favorite book?

The Amazing Story of Leo Messi

Harry Potter

Wonder

What is your favorite food?

Meatloaf

Mac & Cheese

Chicken Parmesan

What is your favorite sport outside of soccer?

Basketball

Baseball

Basketball

What is your pet peeve (what thing makes you mad or drives you crazy)?

When my sister asks me to do musicals

Brain freeze

It bothers me when people don’t listen at school and at practices

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

Argentina to meet Leo Messi

Italy to see the Colosseum

Paris. I want to see the Eiffel Tower!

What do you want to be when you grow up?

A Professional Soccer Player

Soccer Player

I want to be a professional soccer player and a veterinarian. I love both soccer and animals! Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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U18-U19/20 State Cup

Applications Due April 25 Cup Play Begins: May 13 Finals: June 4

Upcoming Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Sanctioned Tournaments APRIL 22-30: 33rd Annual Quakertown Soccer Club Invitational

JUNE 3-4: Lancaster Summer Classic 3-4: Muhlenberg Leon Grenko Soccer Challenge

MAY

10: 2017 3v3 Madness

5-7: Flash Tournament

10-11: 38th Annual Lehigh Valley Youth Soccer League

12-14: WMUSA Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Cup 2017

Tournament

13-14: The 2017 Challenger Invitational

10-11: CSU Summer Invitational

19-21: York Cup Classic

17: HMMS 3v3

20-21: 10th Annual York Recreational Tournament

17: PYSA Concussion Awareness Tournament

26-29: Hershey Memorial Day Challenge

17-18: Capital Cup

27: 9th Annual PASC Recreational Soccer Tournament

17-18: Hershey Invitational

27-28: 35th Annual HMMS Memorial Day Tournament

17-18: Hershey Summer Classic

PRESENTED BY SPOTLIGHT

AAA Start Your Journey: Contest Winner Jim Wallace From PhiladelphiaUnion.com

Jim Wallace has shared his passion for soccer as Technical Director of FC Brandywine

im Wallace has an enthusiasm for the sport of soccer and tries daily to pass that along to all the athletes he works with. From being the Technical Director at FC Brandywine to being the head coach of the boys soccer team at Garnet Valley High School, Wallace’s contributions to growing the game were more than enough to name him this month’s AAA Start Your Journey Contest winner. Jim’s love of the sport began with his grandfather, who helped him every way possible during his youth career. While the two developed a fan rivalry due to the professional clubs they supported in Europe, they always were interlocked with the sport they loved. “I got into soccer through my grandfather when I was very young, and he was the first person that gave me a soccer ball,” Wallace said “He drove me to all my games and training sessions when I was younger. He was the one that kept me involved with the game.” While Jim hoped his journey included suiting up for a professional club, he found his way into coaching. After earning his degree in sports coaching, Wallace took a chance by traveling to the United States to assist

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

with a soccer camp for what was supposed to be only a three-month trip. “I got to work with Essential Soccer during a summer camp and was supposed to head back home to Scotland and find a real job, I guess you could say,” Wallace recalled. “However, I was asked to stay long and got to come back and work camps for a few more years. I remember when I said that I would be done after one camp, but luckily, I fell in love and met my now wife, and I’ve been here ever since.” Wallace now brings the passion he had on the field to his players at all age levels. He employs different ways to grow their love of soccer. “We talk about matches and players daily at training, and I even give them YouTube clips to expand what they see and hope that when they look it up, they find other things that get them excited about the game as well,” Wallace said. “This year at FC Brandywine, we started a fantasy soccer league that has about 30 players in it, and I think it again helps them learn and watch the games. The best thing about coaching is seeing those players who want to learn and want to be with you wherever you are coaching, because it shows they care about the epysa.org

game and want to learn more.” During his time, Wallace has helped the sport grow in the region and has also seen the sport continue to grow across the country. “I remember when I first got to the U.S. in 1998, I couldn’t find a place to watch the World Cup Final,” said Wallace. “Now I see people all over wanting to watch the games, and during the World Cups, teams around the area will come together and watch the matches.” One of Jim’s favorite things as a child was seeing soccer in person as it helped him gain a true appreciation for the sport. Now Wallace and his teams are able to see professional soccer in their own backyards and even use Philadelphia Union as a teaching tool to grow their own enthusiasm. “With the Union here, our players are able to see professionals in front of them live and see what it takes to be a great soccer player,” Wallace said. “Even now, I’m seeing former players show up at the Union games, and they will talk to me about the memories we shared during matches that I brought them to. The best thing about bringing our players to the game is using it as a teaching tool. Before a match, I’ll ask them two or three questions that I want them to find out so they stay engaged, and then at our next practice, I ask them to answer it.” This story is part of AAA’s “Start Your Journey” campaign, an effort – in partnership with the Union – to help celebrate families’ journeys in support of their young athletes…the long road trips, all-weekend tournaments, and the special bonds that are formed from the extensive time on the road. Each month, the Philadelphia Union and AAA will select an individual within its soccer network to develop a feature story on their path to success in association with the game of soccer. Additionally, fans are encouraged to share their own stories via social media using #ShareYourJourney.

A dedicated team working together to protect the planet SCA and the Philadelphia Union share an unwavering commitment to sustainability. We are proud to support their efforts by providing environmentally responsible Tork® towel, tissue and napkin products and waste-reducing dispensing systems. www.sca.com/us • www.torkusa.com © 2016 SCA Tissue North America LLC. All Rights Reserved. ® Tork is a registered trademark of SCA North America LLC or its affiliates

When your family is protected, we all win. At Nationwide®, our number one goal is being there for our members. That’s why we have your back when it comes to protecting what’s most important, like: The car you drive your athletes in to every practice The RV you use for that weekend tournament Join us as we team up with Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer to promote youth safety, especially the importance of concussion awareness and teen driving.

To learn more about a special discount for Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer members and to get information about youth safety, visit nationwide.com/EasternPASoccer or call 1-888-231-3614.

Nationwide Insurance has made a financial contribution to this organization in return for the opportunity to market products and services to its members or customers. Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review, and approval. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2017 Nationwide AFR-0266AO.1 (03/17)

2016-17 National League Recap U19/U20 BOYS RED DIVISION CHAMPIONS

PENN FUSION 98

Penn Fusion 98 started its 2016-17 campaign off well with a division title in the National League. The four-time Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer State Cup champions went 6-1-0 in National League play, outscoring its opponents 31-7. That impressive record included a 12-1 win over Pipeline Soccer Club (MD) and a 5-0 triumph against Solar Chelsea Red (TX-N). But Penn Fusion proved once again it can handle itself in any setting. The boys defeated third-place Sporting St. Croix (MN) 2-1 and used a 2-0 shutout against Ohio Galaxies FC (OH-S) to clinch a spot at this summer’s US Youth Soccer National Championship. It will be Penn Fusion 98’s first trip to nationals since 2015, where they came up short in the semifinals.

U18 GIRLS WHITE DIVISION CHAMPIONS

FC PENNSYLVANIA STRIKERS The two-time defending Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer State Cup Champions will get a shot at a national championship this summer thanks to an undefeated, 6-0-1 National League campaign. The Strikers earned the White Division title with a strong defensive effort. They conceded just two goals in the seven games with five shutouts. Emily McNesby provided a good portion of the offense, leading the team with seven goals. The Strikers return to the US Youth National Championship for the first time since 2015, where they made it to the semifinals.

U19/U20 GIRLS RED DIVISION CHAMPIONS

YMS PREMIER XPLOSION

Another year, another trophy for John Greaves’ girls. After winning its first national championship last summer, the Xplosion added a second consecutive National League Division Title this March. YMS needed seven points from the last three games in Las Vegas and delivered nine with a 3-0 record. Overall, the Xplosion went 6-0-1, outscoring opponents 18-4 in the process. Maddie Elwell led the team with five goals, while Murphy Agnew chipped in four. The Xplosion hopes to close its sterling youth record in style.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL LEAGUE The US Youth Soccer National League competition is for the nation’s top teams in the 15U, 16U, 17U, 18U and 19/20U boys and girls age groups. The National League offers additional exposure to collegiate, professional and U.S. National Team coaches and offers the highest level of competition in the country. Teams earn their spot in the National League via success in the US Youth Soccer Regional Leagues and the US Youth Soccer National Championship Series.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

PRESENTED BY T O P S O C C E R S P O T L I G H T:

Lehigh Valley TOPSoccer

OPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a community-based training and team placement program for young athletes with special needs. Each issue of Touchline, we’ll feature clubs that epitomize the spirit of the program. C.B. Ananthan and his wife, Lata, established Lehigh Valley TOPSoccer in 2006 to provide their son, Ajai, and other children with special needs and disabilities an opportunity to learn a sport and play on a team. Since 2006, Lehigh Valley TOPSoccer has had nearly 300 children with special needs participate in its program. The Lehigh Valley TOPSoccer 2017 Spring season will begin Saturday, April 8 and run to June 10. The program plays at Lehigh County Soccer fields in South Whitehall Township. Please visit the TOPSoccer directory on our website to find a program near you. Below, you’ll find one of C.B.’s favorite drills to run with his players.

SOCCER BOWLING Objective

Dribbling and shooting the ball with accuracy Description

• Coach and volunteers set up multiple rows of four poles or large cones to create a dribbling course. About five feet beyond the last pole or cone, a semi-circular hoop is spiked into the field. A few feet beyond the hoop, a small pyramid of cones is set up. • Sets of three or four players form a line at the starting point behind the first pole or cone of each row. At the coach’s signal, the first player dribbles around the pole/cone in an “S” pattern. After weaving through the poles/cones, the players passes the ball through the hoop to knock down the pyramid of cones. • There is a celebration every time a player knocks down the cones. Coaching Points

• Soft touches on the ball • Dribble with control, keeping the ball close • When shooting, use the inside of the foot for better accuracy • Encourage players to run with the ball as opposed to walking

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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National C License Manheim July 23-30 & October 13-16

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YOU T H S P ORT S :

A Parent ’s Dilemma By Mike Barr, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Technical Director

Whether it’s hockey or soccer, kids are being forced to pick one sport earlier and earlier.

ometimes I question the value of youth sports today and the road map many families decide to follow with each individual child. One of my daughters recently called me for advice. Her six-year-old son, who is a talented soccer player and left-footed, will be training up to three nights a week at their local club in New Jersey this spring. One of the training nights is optional with the coach. The two other nights of training are directed by “professional trainers.” Games are played on Saturdays. He also plays or has played tee ball and basketball. Amazingly, his best sport is ice hockey, and he plays for a U9 travel hockey team. The travel hockey team has begun spring hockey this year and will now practice two nights a week, in addition to a few tournaments. My daughter was a Division I soccer player in college, and her husband played for the same school’s hockey team. Though there may be some hidden biases, they want to do what is best for their children. Her dilemma, and one I feel is facing more and more parents, is making a decision on what is

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

in the best interest of her child moving forward. If her son decides to focus on soccer this spring and skip hockey, will it impact his development and the progress he has made as a hockey player? If he continues with hockey, will he miss the opportunity to play and develop as a young soccer player? Within this never ending predicament is the ever-increasing pay to play in both sports and the huge transportation issues my daughter experiences when dragging her other two boys, ages one and four, to training, games and tournaments. She’s familiar with the studies involving sports specialization that found, for most sports, there is no evidence that intense training and specialization before puberty are necessary to achieve elite status. Unfortunately, the pressure of coaches and trainers for children to play year round confounds the decision-making process in determining the right path to choose. Much of youth sports is money-driven, as trainers and coaches of many sports are now paid well for both individual and team training. Why would these

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coaches jeopardize their salaries in providing honest answers to parents in regard to what is best for a child as young as five? As school sports suffer due to limited numbers of athletes participating in more than one sport, maybe it is time to take a look at these so-called elite sports programs and come up with other ideas for young children. As much as I hate the term “Thinking outside the box,” sports administrators have to begin to look for different models. Why not hire top-level coaches for individual school districts to work within a variety of sports at all grade levels? These would be qualified instructors based on credentials required within their sport. You would be hiring coaches the same way you hire teachers—they would teach soccer, for example, to fourth, fifth and sixth graders. By extending the school day by an hour, parents could choose three sports a year that their child could be exposed to and play until middle school. The students would remain with friends and peers and still receive quality training and play in-school games. During those middle school years, the focus could become more specific to one or two sports. Clubs within the school district would become athletic clubs and not be one-sport specific until at least age 12. Utilizing this process will keep costs down and provide opportunities to low-income families that are priced out of elite level play based on today’s system. It would also give families a sense of identity within their community as they root on players in all sports. I am throwing out these suggestions because I only hear of problems with few solutions attached. It is critical that adults without financial agendas begin to look at youth sports from a different perspective and come up with ideas that will benefit families, and more important, will be kid friendly. I welcome any other ideas from like-minded sports enthusiasts and hope to see movements created in making all sports available to every kid in an environment that is fun and productive.

Awards Gallery

ach Year Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer honors a select group of individuals who have dedicated much of their lives to growing soccer in Eastern Pennsylvania with special awards. Those award winners are below. They were honored at the Annual Awards Banquet, held on February 25 at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square. Read more about that event on Page 18. All photographs by Memories Revisited.

Service to community Award - Larry Jones

Excellence in Coaching Award - Mike Moyer

Service to Youth Award - Lennie Brown

Service to Youth Award - Vic Engel

Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Anjolell Award (Club of the Year) - HMMS Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

TRAINING SESSION

Teaching with Small-Sided Games From U.S. Soccer

Observed by Gary Stephenson, Assistant Technical Director, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

PAINT THE GRASS Organization

Players are in pairs. Each pair shares one ball. Pairs try to pass the ball in an area. Instruct players to try and paint the field with the ball by passing. Try to “paint” the whole playing area. Coaching Points & Key Concepts

• Emphasize push passing and redirecting the ball • Can the pairs take the ball somewhere new? • Working with a teammate to • Spatial Awareness • Running and passing • Can you find space away from your partner?

LAST PLAYER BACK Organization

Players are in pairs or groups of three. Play a game to goals. The team that has the ball must always attack with everyone. The team that is defending sends someone back to stand on the goal line. That player becomes a goalkeeper. When the team that is defending wins the ball that player that was in goal now comes out, and the team that was attacking sends someone (usually the last player) back to stand on the goal line. Coaching Points & Key Concepts

• What part of the foot do you use to make a longer pass? • What if you can’t get open to make a pass? Then what? • How do you win the ball back?

MORE TO SCORE Organization

Play 4v4 game. The game is a normal game except each team attempts to get more of its players to score. The team that has more teammates score after four repetitions wins the game. Coaching Points & Key Concepts

• Technical objectives: Dribbling, passing, redirecting the ball • This activity also promotes teamwork, as players have to attempt to include more players in the scoring process.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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