PENNSYLVANIA’S LEADING YOUTH SOCCER PUBLICATION SUmmER 2013
eastern pennsylvania youth soccer
Jeff Parke: from Lionville to PPL Park Champions Crowned in State Cup Finals! Children, Sports & Concussions Dribbling & Passing from the English FA
Conshohocken, PA
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eastern pennsylvania youth soccer
TOUCHLINE Volume XLI | June 2013 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: John Lenart Treasurer: Nicole Posillico Epps Secretary: Jeff Sommer Registrar: Donna Outt Past President: Bob McDade COMMITTEE CHAIRS Administration & Risk Management: Rick Tompkins TOPSoccer Program: Diane Spencer Soccer Across America: John Kukitz Cup Commissioner: Dave Ash By-laws: Jeff Sommer Scholarships: Dave Edgecombe STATE OFFICE STAFF Chief Executive Officer: Chris Branscome Director of Coaching: Mike Barr Director of Soccer Operations: Frank Olszewski Communications Manager: to be announced Marketing & Events Coordinator: Kylea Meredith Assistant Director of Coaching: Gary Stephenson Membership Services Specialist: Beck Kleinert Business Administration Manager: Kelly Connor Director of Camps: Sheldon Chamberlain Administrative Services Specialist: Bark Budgick Accountant: Judy Curran Public Relations Consultant: Jim DeLorenzo TOUCHLINE Editor-in-Chief: Chris Branscome Consulting Editor: Jim DeLorenzo Contributors: Kylea Meredith, Alexis Christopher, Ian McDade Advertising Sales Rep: Dan Clark, Pearl Press Liberty, 215-925-4900 x 1544 Printed by: Pearl Pressman Liberty Communications Group, Inc., 7625 Suffolk Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19153 Touchline is © Copyright 2013 Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer. The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted; all rights reserved. Articles may not be reproduced or reprinted without written permission of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer. Advertising space in Touchline is purchased and paid for by the advertisers. None of the products or services is necessarily endorsed by Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer or its affiliates. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer or its advertisers.
CONTENTS
3
Club Profile: North Union United
5
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Championship Scoreboard
8
Highlights from US Youth Soccer National League
10
National E &D Licenses Restructured
11
Three Local Youth Soccer Legends Inducted into Hall of Fame
12
US Soccer Celebrating 100 Years
13,16 Children, Sports & Concussions 14
Jeff Parke, from Lionville to PPL Park
18
The Chester Upland Soccer for Success Program
19
Olympic Development Program Update
20
Upcoming Coaching Education Courses
21
September is Youth Soccer Month!
24
Quarterly Association Calendar
25
Mike Barrʼs Corner
27
Coaching: Dribbling & Passing
28
Summer Time is Camp Time
14
Jeff Parke: from Lionville to PPL Park
Printed in the United States of America.
Give Back to the Game by Chris Branscome, Chief Executive Officer Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer
As a player growing up in the 70’s and 80’s, I was fortunate to have had some excellent coaches. As a young coach, I had terrific mentors. They taught me and my teammates how to play, as well as how not to play. They taught us the history of the game and gave a sense of where we fit in the soccer community. They instilled a sense of responsibility and respect for the game. They were always telling us how some day it will be our turn, and we’ll be taking their places. They we’re teaching us how the game was good to them, and now good to us, and we need to give back. It’s a different environment today. Soccer has evolved. Successful national teams; professional leagues; 24 hour cable TV coverage…all a dream for so long, but became a reality by the 2000’s. Our sport has also become far more organized at all levels. Soccer has grown from a hobby into an industry; from an avocation into a vocation.
Many people, including myself, now earn a living from the sport. So more money is being spent, more options are available, more people are involved, more kids are playing the game. But I’m concerned that not enough are giving back to the game. I took this path after reading the recent Time Magazine article on the Millenials- “The Me, Me, Me Generation.” Will the next generation of coaches and administrators- those who will replace me and my generation, will they have the same sense of responsibility that was imparted on me? They grew up with soccer having “arrived.” Previous generations have worked hard to give them MLS and Fox Soccer Channel, soccer only complexes and beautiful fields to play on. They have been taught the game by “trainers” and have practice gear as well as game uniforms. This generation has so much, yet they may not appreciate it. I realize my comments echo of Depression Era folks who say the same about the Baby Boomers or Generation X. So yes, in the grand tradition of my predecessors, I am calling out the Millennials. Will they have the same
sense of community and the same respect for the game? Will they volunteer to gain experience? Will they work with intramurals and the youngest players? Will they learn to how line fields and set up goals? Will they work long hours to run the local tournament? Or will they expect to have a coaching job waiting for them upon graduation? Will they expect to coach the team of their choice? Will they expect to be paid every time they step on a field? Whatever the answers to these questions may be, I still believe we all owe something back. It’s what keeps the game moving forward. A little nostalgia or lesson from the past is a good thing. It’s why we have record books and halls of fame and reunions. I believe that if you grew up in the game, you got more from it than you might realize. Your coaches, team parents and your teammates taught you many things and gave you great memories. When you do realize it, and hopefully not too late, pass on what you learned. If soccer was good to you, than give back to soccer….you owe it to the next generation.
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CLUB PROFILE:
NORTH UNION UNITED In late May, the North Union United U13 99F Strikers competed in the 2013 US Youth Soccer Region I President’s Cup, in Manchester, New Hampshire. They were one of 96 teams from Region I who competed to earn a spot in this summer’s 2013 US Youth Soccer National President’s Cup, July 10th through 14th in Auburndale, Florida.
150 miles north of Philadelphia), the club draws players from seven different counties. It takes most players, coaches and families up to almost three hours to get to a single away game. When teams practice, players will travel over an hour to get there. It’s dedication like this that has helped grow North Union United.
North Union United U13 99F Strikers defeated The North Union United U13 Strikers Won the 2013 US Youth Soccer Region I state champions from President’s Cup Championship in late May. Connecticut and New Hampshire before a 3-2 loss to Massachusetts in pool play. The Fast forward 15 years to today. According to Ziegler, to make team then beat Eastern New York in North Union United has grown from it easier for the club members, the semi-final match, and avenged one team, to 22 teams, ranging in especially those traveling the their earlier loss to Massachusetts age from U9 to U18, and has over furthest, the annual fees are priced with a 1-0 victory over MC Falcons 350 members. on the lower end, at $250 per year. NE Rush Blue to become US Youth North Union United also has several Soccer Region 1 President Cup The club’s teams regularly compete different fundraising campaigns each Champions. in several Eastern Pennsylvania year, which are directed at offering Youth Soccer tournaments every financial scholarships for players in The North Union United Soccer Club year, including the Challenge Cup, need. was founded by Alan Ziegler in 1998, Rush Cup, and the President’s with one team and one mission – to Cup. A number of the club’s players More information about North Union provide players the soccer education have also competed in the Olympic United is available on their website at and structure needed to achieve Development Program (ODP) NUUnited.com. their highest possible potential on through Eastern Pennsylvania the soccer field. Youth Soccer. Ziegler, North Union United’s current Director of Operations, and his colleagues with the club started with the belief that for players, the best ways to improve their skill set are practice and competition.
North Union United is based in Lewisburg, in the North Central part of Pennsylvania. Because it is a relatively small town and a rural community (approximately 30 miles south of Lewisburg and over Page 3
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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Championship Scoreboard
The 2013 Eastern Pennsylvania Turkey Hill Challenge Cup was held on the weekend of Saturday May 18th and Sunday May 19th in Downingtown, with 16 championship matches played at United Sports. The competition, which was run by Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer and sponsored by Turkey Hill, brought in more than 500 teams which had been competing since March for a shot at the ďŹ nals and a chance to be Challenge Cup Champions. The Eastern Pennsylvania-Turkey Hill Challenge Cup is an open competition for boys and girls in the under-9 to under-17 age brackets wishing to be crowned a statewide champion. The results for each age bracket are listed below.
Day 1 Results: Championship Finals- May 18
Under-9 Girls, B Division Fox Chase Armada 3 Lower Merion Soccer Club Liberty 0
Under-9 Boys, A Division Fishtown Hotspurs 2 Philadelphia Soccer Club Future 1
Under-10 Girls, A Division HMMS Impact 3 Ukrainian Nationals Helios Black 0
Under-9 Boys, B Division Lower Southampton 6 Parkland Area Soccer Club Union 0
Under-11 Boys, B Division CASA CAPA Union 5 Montgomery ManCity 2
Under-10 Girls, B Division Philadelphia Soccer Club Rage 2 Lionville Surge Blue 0
Under-10 Boys, A Division Lehigh Valley United ‘02* 5 Ukrainian Nationals Zoria Black 1
Under-13 Boys Manheim Area Soccer Club Mutiny 3 Coventry Arsenal 0
Under-11 Girls, A Division West Chester United Soccer Club Predators 1, Penn Legacy Black 0
Under-10 Boys, B Division Dillsburg Dragons* 7 Haverford Venom 0
Under-14 Boys Hulmeville Predators 4 Lighthouse Lancers 3
Under-11 Girls, B Division FC Revolution Thunder 2 Hershey Orange Hurricanes 1
Under-11 Boys, A Division West Chester United Predators* 5 TE FCE Rapids 3
Under-9 Girls, A Division Lower Merion Soccer Club Fenix 3 HMMS Legends 2
Under-13 Girls Abington Lady Comets 1 Hulmeville Magic 0 Page 5
EPYSA.org
Under-14 Girls Pine Grove Impact 1 CRUSA Cosmos 0
Under-15 Boys Spirit Arsenal 2 Montgomery Fury 1
Day 2 Results Championship Finals May 19
Under-15 Girls Parkwood Sting 1 PA Classics Premier 0
Under-12 Boys Hunter United 3 HMMS Supero 1
Under-16 Boys HMMS United 4 Parkland Area Soccer Club Blackhorse 0
Under-12 Girls Penn Legacy Black 3 North Union Rockets 1
Under-16 Girls Warminster Hawks 4 Keystone Black 2
*Indicates returning 2012 Champions
The Eastern Pennsylvania Presidents Cup Championships were held May 4, 2013 in Allentown, and consisted of 12 championship matches played at the Lehigh County Fields. The competition brought in more than 140 teams that had been in competition since March for a chance to win the Presidents Cup Championship. Winners of this competition moved on to the US Youth Soccer Presidents Cup Region I Championship in Manchester, New Hampshire which was held on Friday, May, 24. The winning teams of this competition were the under-13 girls North Union Strikers, under-15 girls WCUSC Eagles, and the under-17 boys YMS Clash. These winning teams will now move onto Auburndale, Florida for a shot at the National Championship beginning Wednesday, July 10. The results for the Eastern Pennsylvania Presidents Cup Championships held on May 4 are listed below.
2013 Eastern Pennsylvania Presidents Cup - Champions May 4 Under-12 Boys WCUSC Eagles 2 LMSC Quick Boys 1 Under-12 Girls Buckingham Banshees 1 Berks Rage Athletica 0 Under-13 Boys WCUSC Predators 2 Buckingham Blast 1 Buckingham Blast also advance with Wildcard
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Under-14 Girls Parkland Pride 3 WCUSC Predators 0 WCUSC Predators also advance with Wildcard Under-15 Boys WVSC 1 Spirit United Barca 0 Under-15 Girls WCUSC Eagles 3 Penn Legacy White 2 Under-16 Boys North Union Fury 4 Southampton Scorpions 3 Under-16 Girls PA Classics Premier Blue 1 Penn Legacy Black 0
Under-13 Girls North Union Strikers 2 WVSC 1
Under-17 Boys YMS Clash 1 Berks Ajax Clockwork Orange 0
Under-14 Boys WCSV 2 Western Lehigh United 1
Under-17 Girls Keystone Grifo 1 Spirit United Aztecs 0
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The 2013 Eastern Pennsylvania State Cup National Championship series was held on Saturday, May 18 in Downingtown, where the first four championship matches were played at the United Sports Training Center. More than 300 teams fought since March in order to make it to the final State Cup games. The age groups ranged from under-12 to under-19 boys and girls. The under-18 and under-19 girls and boys played on June 2nd at the Temple University Ambler Campus.
The winning teams of this competition move on to the US Youth Soccer Region I Championships which are held this year in Kingston, Rhode Island, June 27th through July 2nd. This competition is expected to have more than 5,000 players compete and also 10,000 family and friends in attendance. The results of the first four championship matches played at the United Sports Training Center in Downingtown on May 18 are listed below.
Day 1 Results Championship Finals
Under-12 Boys Lehigh Valley United ’00 1
Under-13 Girls CRUSA FC Bucks Fusion 3 Yardley Makefield Soccer Pride 1
Under-15 Girls
Under-13 Boys Patriot FC Red (5-6 Penalty Kicks) 3 Penn Fusion 3 Under-14 Girls Yardley Makefield Soccer Explosion* 3 HMMS United 1
West Chester United Soccer Club Predators 0 Penn Legacy Black 5
PA Classics Academy 0 Under-15 Boys
Under-18 Girls TS United 5
Montgomery United Black Storm 1 Under-18 Boys
Lehigh Valley United* 3
FC Delco Cannibals 1
Penn Fusion 1
FC Premier Harleysville 0
Under-16 Girls
Under-19 Girls FC Pennsylvania Strikers automatically advance
Under-14 Boys Penn Fusion 5 Harleysville Celtic 1
FC Revolution Black Hawks 4
Day 2 Results Championship Finals
Nether United FC 2
Under-12 Girls Spirit United Madrid 3 CRUSA FC Bucks Pride 1
Under-17 Boys Penn Fusion (1-3 Penalty Kicks) 1 Lehigh Valley United ’95 1
Yardley Makefield Soccer Wildcats 2 Under-16 Boys
Lehigh Valley United 1 Under-17 Girls CRUSA FC Bucks En Fuego 5 PA Classics Academy 2
Under-19 Boys Lehigh Valley United ’93 1 FC Delco 1 (Lehigh Valley United advanced 5-3 on Penalty Kicks) *Indicates Returning 2012 Champions Page 7
EPYSA.org
HIGHLIGHTS FROM US YOUTH SOCCER NATIONAL LEAGUE
The US Youth Soccer National League season concluded March 17 in Las Vegas, Nev., as 32 teams clinched berths in the 2013 US Youth Soccer National Championships July 22-28 in Overland Park, Kansas. The National League competition includes the nation’s top teams in the Under-15, U n d e r - 1 6 , Under-17 and Under-18 boys and girls age groups, consisting of 16 teams per age group that must earn their way into the competition. The National League is an extension of the highly successful US Youth Soccer Regional Leagues (Region I Premier League, Region II Midwest Regional League, Region III Southern Premier League and Region IV Far West Regional League). Teams that earn a spot in National League have a proven track record of success in US Youth Soccer regional and national competitions, and they get a chance to play meaningful matches against the top competition from across the country for continued development. Page 8
Four teams from Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer competed in the 2012-2013 National League season, which offered teams and players additional exposure to collegiate, professional and U.S. National Teams coaches. Teams played a seven-game schedule
the following season. Lehigh Valley United 95 will represent Eastern Pennsylvania at the 2013 US Youth Soccer National Championships, as they were able to secure a secondplace finish in the Under-17 Boys Red Division. This will be LVU 95’s third trip in four years to the US Youth Soccer National Championships. The squad was able to secure its spot by locking up a secondplace finish following the second weekend of boys play on Dec. 29, 2012 in Orlando, Florida.
over two weekends, facing each team in their age group division one time. The League consists of three weekends of play per gender, with each team playing two of the three weekends. The top two teams from each division (Blue and Red) advance to the US Youth Soccer National Championships and also secure a spot to return to National League play
After a narrow 1-0 loss in its first game of the National League season, LVU 95 went on to win five straight contests. The win streak included two convincing wins over opponents from the Southern California, defeating FC Golden State, 4-1, and Carlsbad Elite, 5-1, during the final two games of November’s opening weekend of play. LVU 95 had a chance to finish atop its division heading into the final game, but came up short against Red Division winner and Region I
Touchline Premier League rival OBGC Rangers (MD), falling 4-2. Despite the finalgame loss, LVU 95 will be heading to Overland Park after its 5-2-0 record was enough to finish second in the division — securing in invitation back into next year’s National League season, as well. As a club, Lehigh Valley United has had several teams qualify for the National League over the years, and Director of Coaching Greg Ramos described why the league is important to his teams.
National League season with a 3-22 record, which included a 1-0 win over eventual Under-16 Boys Blue Division winners CCV Stars 97 Black (AZ). The defeat against the Lightning was CCV’s only blemish on a 6-1 season.
defending Region I champions Bethesda Lions (MD), 0-0, and won a thrilling game against second-place finisher GSA 98 Phoenix Red (GA), 6-5. The teams went back and forth, exchanging the lead five times before Penn Fusion netted the game winner in stoppage time. The six goals for Penn Fusion were more than all five other teams managed against GSA combined. Penn Fusion 97 head coach Sean McCafferty acknowledged that tight, competitive games like the 6-5 win against GSA are commonplace for the league.
“It’s really great to play at this caliber. First and foremost, the professionalism of the National League; taking care of players, making them feel special, showing them what it feels like to be really professional and the setup and organization,” Ramos said. “It’s really an atmosphere and an environment that’s really special. Then you come in and have the quality of the matches that you get, and it’s just the best thing that we’re apart of each year.”
“The National League has been fantastic. We’ve had some older teams in the league and it’s a great setup, very professional, and for our guys it’s a step up in the level of play,” McCafferty said. “We’ve gotten great exposure and the National League gives us the best competition we can have. Every game is a tough game, there are no easy games and you can’t take a minute off. This is the best competition we get all year.”
A second team from the club, Lehigh Valley United 96, also competed in the 2012-2013 National League season. In a tough division featuring two-time defending US Youth Soccer National Champions Fullerton Rangers 96 White (CA-S), LVU 96 played several competitive games while finishing sixth in the Under-16 Boys Red Division. LVU 96 played stout defense during its 2-4-1 campaign, as three of its four losses were by 1-0 scores.
As the 2012-2013 National League top finishers set their sights on the US Youth Soccer National Championships in Overland Park, Kansas, teams from around the country are eyeing regional and premier league competitions with hopes of qualifying for next year’s National League. Next season will also feature additional teams, as US Youth Soccer has added the Under-14 Boys and Girls age groups for 2013-2014 National League.
The two other Eastern Pennsylvania teams narrowly missed out on securing berths in the 2013 US Youth Soccer National Championships, as they each finished third in their division.
For more information on the US Youth Soccer National League, visit USYouthSoccer.org/National_ League/, the online home for the US Youth Soccer National League, providing the latest in news, photos, video and more. Get all US Youth Soccer National League updates on
LMSC
Lightning
finished
the
In the Under-15 age group, Penn Fusion 97 came within one point of a second-place finish in a very tight Red Division. Penn Fusion tied Red Division winners and
Twitter at @NationalLeague. Page 9
EPYSA.org
National E & D Licenses Restructured On June 1st, both the E and D License became National Licenses, standardized by US Soccer. The number of hours for each course will also increase, from 18 hours to 24 hours for the E License, and from 36 hours to 60 hours for the D License (these hours include pre-requisite course work). Only coaches who have an A License from US Soccer, and have undergone training by US Soccer and Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer staff, will be permitted to instruct these licenses. The increase in hours will now be more in line with UEFA coaching courses and better prepare a candidate for the C, B and A Licenses. The National E License tuition costs will be $125 per candidate; for the National D it will be $225 per candidate.
Included in the courses: • Tuition (increased tuition hours) • Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer-branded Nike apparel; • Online - Laws of the game tutorial and test • Online – Concussion tutorial and test • Three (3) months membership to a session planning software • Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer session plan template • Ability to send session plans to the state office for discussion • Flexibility - I Pad capability for session plans • Testing and grading with real time feedback • The opportunity to be mentored by the state office through the practical part of the courses • Latest US Soccer Federation coaching methodology • Inclusion in National licensed database as well as state licensed database • Post-course direction through a customized plan to assist with coaching or progression to the next level Additional information is available on EPYSA.org under the “Coaching Education” tab.
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Three Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Legends Inducted into Southeastern Pennsylvania
Soccer Hall of Fame
Three
legends
of
Eastern
Pennsylvania Youth Soccer were
Maslin-Kammerdeiner
among the 2013 class of inductees
the legendary coach Betty D’Anjolell
into the Southeastern Pennsylvania
on the Lansdowne Misfits, winning
(SEPA) Soccer Hall of Fame.
two
the 10 inductees at the 66th annual
nine PIAA tournament appearances and one state final.
SEPA banquet, on Saturday, May 11th at Cannstatter Volkfest-Verein in Northeast Philadelphia. Gorni was an outstanding player at Abington High School and Temple University, but has become better known for his successful coaching career. Eastern Soccer
He has coached in the Pennsylvania Olympic
Youth
Development
Program (ODP) for over 20 years. Gorni has also guided seven teams to Region I championships, and has reached four National Final Fours, including this year. With FC Delco, Gorni’s teams have won an astounding 26 State Cups, reached eight National Final Fours, and won the US Youth Soccer National Championship in 1991.
He’s won
several coaching awards, including the US Youth Region I Coach of the Year award. As Central Bucks East High School’s boys coach, his teams have amassed over 300 victories,
Cup
for
championships.
She was a member of Eastern
Mike Gorni, Randy Garber and Kim Maslin-Kammerdeiner were among
State
played
Garber was an All-American at Abington High School, Mercer County (NJ) Community College, and at Penn State. He played professionally in both the NASL and the MISL, winning the 1975 NASL championship with the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Having played for the US National team and the Philadelphia Fever, Garber then turned to coaching, as an assistant to legendary Walter Bahr at Penn State. Garber worked for many years alongside local greats John Oberholtzer and Ken Cooper. Garber was an ODP coach throughout the 90’s, serving much of that time as Boys Director of Coaching. He is in his 19th year of coaching at Abington High School, where this past season they won the PIAA District I championship. Garber was honored in 2011 with the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Excellence in Coaching Award.
Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s first girls ODP team, as a goalkeeper. At the collegiate level, she was an All-American goalkeeper at George Mason University, which managed to stop the seemingly-unbeatable University
of
North
Carolina
women’s soccer team in the 1985 NCAA Championships. Perhaps the pinnacle of her career was when Maslin-Kammerdeiner was in goal for the US Women’s national team from 1988 to 1991. She holds the US Women’s national team record for scoreless minutes played (843), and aided in the victory of the 1991 Women’s World Cup, the first in history. She was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame along with her World Cup team mates in 2001. Other inductees this year included Jerry Brindisi, Nick Kramer, Tony Koller, Erich Pohl, Oskar Pohl, Joseph F. Rudy 3rd and Peter Zimmerman Page 11
US SOCCER CELEBRATING
100 Years Longtime U.S. Men’s National Team defender Walter Bahr (second from the right) poses with officials and the captain of the Harmarville Hurricanes before the 1952 final of the National Challenge Cup (now known as the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup).
Last year, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer celebrated its 40th Anniversary as advocates and edcators of the beautiful game, in 36 Eastern Pennsylvania counties. But did you know that U. S. Soccer is celebrating 100 years of soccer in the United States this year? It’s true! U.S. Soccer traces its roots back to a historic meeting on April 5, 1913 in New York City. At that meeting, there was a large group of soccer leaders, coaches and players, many of them relatively new to being in the United States of America at a time of massive waves of immigration from Europe and the United Kingdom. That day, they formed the United States of America Foot Ball Association, and that historic meeting set the foundation for U.S. Soccer’s growth and success at all levels – youth, amateur and professional. Eastern Pennsylvania, and Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer, has played a special part in the growth of US Soccer. Several national team players and coaches have come from Philadelphia, and Bethlehem Steel was one of the early power houses in the US Open Cup competition. US Soccer has greatly benefited from our local leadership, such as former Federation President Werner Fricker, and former Treasurer and Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer President Richard Groff. And there would be no US women’s soccer without our own, Betty D’Anjolell and Charlotte Moran. US Soccer celebrated its 100 years on June 1st, with their Annual General Meeting and Gala Celebration in Washington, D.C. As part of that weekend’s celebration, a sell-out crowd of 47,359 at RFK Stadium saw the U. S. Men’s National Team defeat Germany, 4-3. As the governing body of soccer in all its forms in the United States, U.S. Soccer has played an integral part in charting the course for the sport in the USA for 100 years. In that time, the Federation’s
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mission statement has been clear and simple: to make soccer, in all its forms, a preeminent sport in the United States and to continue the development of soccer at all recreational and competitive levels. From a viewership standpoint, nearly 20 million Americans watched the Round of 16 match at the 2010 FIFA World Cup on television. Soccer-specific stadiums have opened their doors to resounding success. The National Training Center in Carson, California, in its 10th year of existence, has been a valuable facility for all levels, including the U.S. Soccer Development Academy, which kicked off at the state-of-the-art complex with much fanfare in 2007. In 1989, the U.S. Men’s National Team had not played in a World Cup in 40 years and the U.S. Women’s program was in its early stages. U.S. Soccer was playing games in small stadiums that did not reach capacity, few matches were televised, soccer-specific stadiums were yet to be created and there were no highlevel professional outdoor leagues. Since that time, the state of U.S. Soccer has evolved significantly. Entering 2013, the U.S. MNT played in six consecutive FIFA World Cups and advanced to the quarterfinals at the 2002 event. U.S. Soccer is a world leader in women’s soccer at every level, and the U.S. WNT has won two FIFA Women’s World Cups and four Olympic Gold Medals – an accomplishment that no other country on the men’s and women’s side has reached in Olympic competition. The United States has also hosted three World Cups with the support of its members and strong organizational abilities. Professionally, Major League Soccer continues to grow in popularity and prestige with 19 teams throughout North America, as well as increasing attendance and viewership. Also of significant importance, MLS features 14 clubs competing in 13 soccer-specific stadiums. On the women’s side, the
U.S. Soccer Federation is administering the launch of the National Women’s Soccer League in 2013. U.S. Soccer is subsidizing the salaries of up to 24 U.S. WNT players while the Canadian Soccer Association and Federation of Mexican Football are doing the same for up to 16 players. From a coaching standpoint in the United States, more classes are continually being offered around the country, and the number of licensed, well-educated trainers and managers is larger than ever. The education level among coaches has been tailored to match the expanding pool of talent in the U.S. U.S. Soccer continues to set positive trends for referees in CONCACAF, with reinvigorated focus on education and training, including the realm of professional referees. In 2012, U.S. Soccer and MLS created the Professional Referee Organization (PRO) to manage the referee program in professional soccer leagues in the U.S. and Canada. The creation of PRO has been designed to increase the quality of officiating in U.S. and Canadian professional leagues, develop more professional quality officials at a younger age and develop officials who will represent the United States and Canada in FIFA competitions. Participation in soccer continues at high levels among both youth and adults, with more than 4.3 million registered players among the 24 million participants in the sport, according to the FIFA Big Count. For more information on all U.S. Soccer programs, visit USSoccer.com. DID YOU KNOW?: Throughout the 100-year history of U.S. Soccer, the organization has been known by three different names? • U.S. Foot Ball Association – 1913 to 1944 • U.S. Soccer Football Association – 1945 to 1973 • U.S. Soccer Federation – 1974 to present
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Children, Sports and Concussions
Panel Discussion Raises Awareness for Parents, Coaches and Players Over 200 people filled the ballroom of the Philadelphia Marriott West Conshohocken on Monday, April 22nd for a special panel discussion, on “Children, Sports and Concussions,” that was sponsored by Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer. Among the expert panelists who spoke that evening were former Major League Soccer all-star Taylor Twellman, who retired from the game due to concussions and founded the Think Taylor Foundation for traumatic brain injury awareness, and former Philadelphia Flyers captain Keith Primeau, who retired from the sport due to concussions and founded StopConcussions.com to promote awareness and research.
old Cacy Thomas, an eighth grader at St. Phillip Neri who last played for Colonial Soccer Club in 2011. Moderator for the evening was noted Philadelphia sports television personality Don Tollefson. Pennsylvania Senator Pat Browne, who co-sponsored the Safety in Youth Sports Act, was also on hand to give opening remarks. The 33-year-old Twellman, sadly, knows as much about concussions
really began to sink in for those in the audience. Twellman asked them a simple question: “How do you feel right now?” Zeffert replied, “I have a headache and I want to vomit.” She had last played for her club team , Spirit United in 2010, before suffering a concussion. Thomas had a similar answer. She fought back her emotions, saying she would never play sports again, and that her concussion has caused her to take anti-depressant medication. Twellman had his concussions misdiagnosed as diabetes, post-traumatic stress and depression. He said he once had a reliance on painkillers, and that he has not been able to sit in a movie theatre in three years, and hasn’t worked out in four years.
Pediatric concussion specialist Dr. Matthew Grady, from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, spoke of his concerns for children competing in “I’m going to beat this all sports, based on his naturally and be an example Speaking from the coaching point of view were Saint Joseph’s women’s experiences. Other speakers basketball coach Cindy Griffin, LaSalle College high school’s Tony Resch, for Kim and Cacy and the at the two-hour conference thousands of youth athletes out and Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s Mike Barr. included nationally known there,” Twellman said. “They’re lacrosse coach and former as he does about the sport he dealing with stuff they shouldn’t be professional lacrosse player Tony once played for a living. Twellman dealing with.” Resch, who also is the former described the effect of the last of his athletic director at LaSalle College four documented concussions, which So what are the possible solutions? High School, and Cindy Griffin, the happened in a game on August 30, Responses among the speakers women’s basketball head coach at 2008. varied. Saint Joseph’s University. “I took a shot and put my hands over Primeau, who had four documented Two experienced athletic trainers my head,” Twellman said. “Then my concussions during his playing from NovaCare Rehabilitation, best friend on the team looks at me career, encouraged due diligence. Ned Crane and Leanne Edwards, ‘Why are you celebrating? That shot He emphasized the importance also discussed their point of view, was five yards wide.’ That’s when of baseline tests, a concussionwith compelling testimony from double-vision had begun.” management tool testing an athlete’s two former Eastern Pennsylvania cognitive skills pre- and postYouth Soccer players who have Twellman’s words resonated with concussion. suffered from concussions, 16-yearthe crowd. So did the comments old Kim Zeffert, a sophomore at by Primeau. But it wasn’t until “I feel like I am a statistic, and today’s Downingtown East High School Twellman began questioning the athletes don’t have to be,” Primeau who last played for the Spirit United two teenage athletes seated beside said. Still, baseline tests have their Soccer Club in 2010, and 14-yearhim, that the effects of concussions flaws.
Continued on page 16
Page 13
EPYSA.org
Jeff Parke: from Lionville to PPL Park On a bright and clear afternoon on the touchline at PPL Park, Jeff Parke is standing tall, soaking up
“I always thought that as I was getting older, I could play at the next level,” said Parke.
the experience of playing for his
He first played for Lionville, where his
team
quickly
established
themselves as champions. From Lionville, Parke transitioned to FC
hometown team.
Parke has noticed over the years
Delco, a powerhouse club routinely in the hunt for championships in
“It’s a dream come true,” said the
an increase in exposure within the media that can help youth players develop.
Philadelphia Union defender.
every tournament. As a member there, Parke’s team advanced to the Nationals Finals two years in
It’s not that often a player can say they are playing for their hometown club, but Parke is living that dream. In fact, every time he steps out on the pitch on match day with his
“We didn’t have the TV deals and [soccer wasn’t] on TV, and the internet wasn’t a big thing, so you couldn’t really see how the sport was growing.”
a row, while staking their claim as champions in 1999. Over the past few years, there have been several youth players, including
team mates, he is just adding more
Ryan Kelly (Columbus Crew) and
memories to a growing personal
Jeff
collection.
Revolution), who emerged from the
Larentowicz
(New
England
ranks of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth “It’s something I’ve planned on doing
Soccer clubs and become quality
ever since it was announced the club
Major League Soccer professionals.
was coming [to Philadelphia],” Parke
Also notable is Ben Olsen, a local
said.
youth soccer alum who went on to enjoy a storied career with DC
Being a professional soccer player
United, where he is now currently
doesn’t just happen overnight. It’s a process, and one that starts early on in any child’s life on the youth soccer playing fields. Parke has been playing soccer since his early childhood. As he continued to play through the youth club system growing up in Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer, he realized how special the sport was, and one he felt he could continue playing on through the years. Page 14
their manager.
Parke vs. Orlando City
Today,
though,
workshops,
training
with
soccer
videos
and
clinics available for all youth soccer teams, Parke believes it’s a great step forward for the sport. From his youth soccer playing days for the Lionville and FC Delco soccer clubs, Parke was able to collect some impressive trophies and awards that not many other players can claim.
Jimmy McLaughlin,
a youth player just a few years ago, is now Parke’s teammate on the Union. That’s
an
impressive
roster
of
successful players from Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s ranks who had success on the youth club level and moved into professional soccer. Parke was able to advance from his success at the youth club level
Touchline to become a standout defender at Downingtown High School. It was there, that Parke became a member of three league championships teams as well as back-to-back PIAA state champion teams.
more physical. And coaches will end up choosing t h e players they feel
Parke noted, “I’ve played on some pretty good teams. Definitely some good memories.” But to Parke, it’s not just the trophies that made his experiences as a youth player memorable. It’s the teams he played with, that he grew up with, practiced with on a weekly basis, and traveled to weekend tournaments with along the way. While he has had success at every youth soccer stage, Parke has also had to deal with a few setbacks of his own. “There have been teams that I’ve been cut from and teams that I didn’t make. A lot of people said I wasn’t good enough and that I couldn’t make it [as a player].” Parke recalled his experience with the Olympic Development Program (ODP). While he did try out for the program, Parke ended up getting cut afterwards. As youth players develop, they have to start dealing with the prospect of getting cut. Teams are getting more competitive. The play starts to get
offer t h e team the greatest chance for success. Getting cut is an experience that at first is upsetting, and many great professional athletes in all sports have dealt with it. Parke is certainly one of them.
What players of all age groups need to look at when dealing with this situation, though, is that getting cut can also be a blessing in disguise. As Parke explained, “I unfortunately didn’t make [ODP], but it helped me push further and become stronger [as a player]. You can take those times where people don’t want you on their team [as motivation]. It helps you develop yourself and push yourself to get to the next level.” Playing soccer on the youth stage is a special experience. And with the right combination of hard work and dedication, all while having fun, success can be right around the corner. But along with success, there will be also be failure, it’s inevitable. It’s how you overcome those difficulties that allow you to continue to play and compete as you progress through the age groups.
“It’s a long road, it’s not easy.” Parke said. “There’re going to be disappointments but there are also going to be a lot of great times. Just keep your head up and keep pushing.” It’s most kids’ wish to play professionally, and as Parke stated, “Don’t let anyone tell you, you can’t make it, just reach for your dreams.” [To see video of this interview in its entirety, visit EPYSA.org/ videos and select “Interview with Jeff Parke.”] Page 15
EPYSA.org “You can ace a quiz, but fail a test,” said Twellman, who said he’s passed 60 baseline tests. The good news, a point most speakers hit, was Pennsylvania’s legislative progress. The Safety in Youth Sports Act of 2011 established standards for concussion management and imposing penalties for those who ignore them.
doctor of physical therapy, spoke of a patient who had suffered head trauma. The young man went from 35 friends visiting him at the hospital to one, who understood why the youth could not play outdoors even after his hospital discharge.
bleeding, you should be playing,’” Crane said. “That says a lot.” [A full video of the panel discussion is available on EPYSA. org, under the “Video” tab, posted April 27, 2013.]
“People believe, ‘If you’re not
But as Dr. Grady pointed out, there are legal limitations. The act covers scholastic sports, but not club athletics. And with turnover in the coaching ranks, educating coaches can only go so far. “I think it’s the responsibility of the coach to protect the child,” Grady said. “Most kids are wired to want to play. So if a coach says, ‘Are you okay?’ the child almost always says, ‘Yes.’ It’s the coach’s job to remove the player from the game, not to ask if he can keep going.” Rehabilitative support for a concussed athlete was also addressed. Crane, a NovaCare
Taylor Twellman, Kacy Thomas, Kim Zeffert and Keith Primeau spoke movingly about their experiences as athletes who suffered concussions that changed their lives.
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From Left to Right: Dr. Matthew Grady; Kim Zeffert; Cacy Thomas; Leanne Edwards; Don Tollefson; and Keith Primeau.
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Visit EPYSA.org for more information and to register for your membership. Page 17
EPYSA.org
By Brendan Grady The first time I went to Chester was to gamble. If you look out from the Harrah’s Casino parking garage, it’s hard not to notice the Correction Department Prison—tall barb-wired security fences and tiny windows impossible to see into. If you’re like me, you’ll take it in with a throwaway glance—a moment you may or may not remember—as you speed up through the casino doors to get quickly seated at a poker table. And if you’re like me, you won’t think about the person behind one of the prison’s tiny windows, or consider the convoluted knot of circumstances and individual choices that led him there; you won’t think about the drastically different expected outcomes for a child growing up in Chester versus a child living in the surrounding suburbs, about how being born only miles apart—the combined length of 28 soccer fields—could so damningly factor into a child’s future. After working as a Site Director for The Chester Upland Soccer for Success Program this last year, I worry about these things now. Soccer for Success is the US Soccer Foundation’s free after school program that uses soccer as a tool to combat childhood obesity, provide positive mentorship, and promote healthy lifestyles for children in under-resourced urban communities. Chester Page 18
is
a
severely
under-
resourced urban community. Regularly grouped with Detroit, Camden, Flint, East Chicago, and St. Louis as one of the most challenged cities in the country, Chester’s median per capita income is less than $14,000. The Chester Upland School district consistently ranks in the bottom three districts in Pennsylvania, with 78 percent of children enrolled in district schools meeting federal poverty guidelines, while 67 percent of children grow up in single-parent households. The city is classified as a “food desert,” existing without a grocery store for the last 30 years. All
and a family engagement program designed to reinforce messages at home. As a coach, I’ve watched nine and 10-years olds fall in love with the game, rapidly developing their dribbling ability and picking-up basic combination play while receiving the great workout the beautiful game offers. I’ve watched five and sixyear olds use their imagination to transform me into a tiger sleeping in a den, or an eagle protecting my nest, while they work on fundamental dribbling skills and break into laughter as I roar or flap around the field. At Stetser Elementary school, we hosted a “gardento-table” dinner in the fall, creating a menu centered on the sweet potatoes students had grown in the school’s garden. More recently, we helped parents, teachers and students install four raised-bed gardens to expand the school’s current garden program.
Mike Barr and Soccer for Success Program kids.
these environmental factors have led the Urban Institute to flag Chester as a high-risk area for childhood obesity. Our program acts as an intervention. In our first year, we provided nearly 500 participants 90 minutes of soccer training three times a week, nutrition education built in to training exercises, healthy snacks, mentors who demonstrate healthy living,
This spring, we implemented an “MVP Program” at two of our sites to reward excellence in our players. Every two weeks, two players are named MVP in each class rewarding players for Concentration, Attendance, Behavior, Improved Skills and Retention of Learning’s. The bi-weekly prize consists of healthy groceries to take home to their families, along with an award certificate. Each season we hand out jerseys,
Touchline soccer socks, shin-guards, and soccer balls to our players. (One second grader at Stetser Elementary was so excited he began to wear his uniform and shin guards on non-soccer days!) Little by little, we see a difference being made. This coming fall, we’ll be expanding our program to additional sites in hopes of impacting 700 children during the 2013-2014 academic year. At the same time, we’ll be offering job-training to Chester residents and introducing more family-engagement events to build community buy-in. I work with a participant who is one of 10 children; a sixyear old who is part of the 78 percent living in poverty; she is at-risk for a number of different negative outcomes. The first three weeks we coached her, she was active
in all the wrong ways—most of her workouts including fighting or stomping off the field in fits of negative attention seeking-behavior. That was before we began praising every positive thing she did. We redefined her role: “You’re too good of a kid not to listen.” Over the last six weeks, her behavior has noticeably improved; she participates for the majority of each session now. Two weeks ago she was named MVP for the day. Statistics cannot explain the way she covered her mouth with both hands as if trying to silence a bad cough. And when she let go—it was a smile to burst your heart. For more information regarding the Chester Upland Soccer for Success Program, please visit www. chesteruplandsoccerforsuccess.org.
Olympic Development Program Overcoming adverse weather conditions, three games in 36 hours and massive schedule changes, the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer U15, U16 and U17 Boys’ and Girls’ ODP Teams had wonderful performances on Saturday, June 8th and Sunday, June 9th at the Region One Championships in Mercer County, New Jersey. All three Boys’ Teams advanced to the semi-finals, coming up at Kirkwood the weekend of June 22nd and 23rd. The U16 Girls also qualified for Kirkwood. All six of the teams had an overall record of 11 wins, 4 losses and 3 ties. There were 98 college coaches present to watch the skills our ODP teams displayed during the rain- shortened weekend. “This is the best performance our older teams have had in the
compete against teams from Georgia, South Carolina, Western Pennsylvania and North Carolina. past five years,” said Mike Barr, Director of Coaching for Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer. The U17 boys, coming off a heart breaking loss in the National Finals in March, deserve special recognition as they have not lost a match to a Region One Team in the past two years. That team is coached by Mike Gorni, Gino DiFlorio and Simon Robinson. Meanwhile, the U12 ODP teams had an extremely successful weekend further south in competition at Wilson, North Carolina. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer had nine teams
Eastern Pennsylvania is the most progressive state within Region One in providing quality training and matches against other states at U12. This is an annual event for Eastern Pennsylvania’s U12’s and a great introduction to the ODP process, quality training from Nationally Licensed coaches, and inter-regional competition. The U13’s and U14’s Boys’ and Girls’ ODP teams will compete the same weekend and same location (June 21st to June 23rd) as the semi-finals and finals, as Region One moved the postponed games to the Kirkwood Facility. Page 19
EPYSA.org
Upcoming COACHING EDUCATION Courses D License
Sayre
Kennett Square
Friday, July 26th, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 27th, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 28th, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday, July 19th, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 20th, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 21st, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
E License Levittown Friday, July 19th, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 20th, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 21st, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Northampton Friday, August 2nd, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, August 3rd, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, August 4th, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Limerick Friday, June 21st, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, June 22nd, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 23rd, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Rheems Friday, August 2nd, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, August 3rd, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, August 4th, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Lower Macungie Friday, July 12th, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 13th, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 14th, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
F Certificates Ashland Saturday, July 20th, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Hershey Saturday, June 15th, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 29th, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dallas Sunday, July 28th, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Kunkletown
Philadelphia
Friday, June 14th, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, June 15th, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 16th, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, August 3rd, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Rheems Saturday, September 7th, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
More information available at EPYSA.org.
s i r e ! b h t m n e t o p M r Se e c c o S h t You
Touchline
This September, the National Youth Soccer Month campaign celebrates its 11th year of educating the public about the joys, rewards and benefits of playing youth soccer, and offers a variety of resources to learn more about youth soccer and get involved. We hope that you will choose a unique way to celebrate soccer in September and spread the message about your positive experiences. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer will have a number of special events this September to celebrate Youth Soccer Month, including events around the region. A full schedule of these events will be posted shortly on EPYSA.org.
The Goals of Youth Soccer Month • • • •
Raise awareness of Youth Soccer and the benefits of playing the game. Emphasize soccer as the #1 youth participation sport in America and a leading contributor to the healthy lifestyle of millions of American families. Bring children and families of all ages and all abilities together for fun, friendship and fitness. Highlight the various programs available to children interested in participating in soccer, including inner-city, special needs, recreational and elite soccer programs.
Get Involved! Anyone can spread the message about their positive experience with youth soccer. Youth Soccer Month celebrations can be found at soccer practices and tournaments, businesses, nonprofit and community centers, shopping malls, schools, private homes -- just about anywhere that kids who play soccer and those involved with those kids may gather. People who organize Youth Soccer Month Celebrations are soccer volunteers and administrators, parents, coaches, player -- anyone who wants to celebrate our sport.
We Want You!
We want to hear how you participate in Youth Soccer Month this year. Visit EPYSA.org to tell us how YOU want to get involved in, and celebrate, Youth Soccer in America. Page 21
EPYSA.org
Danielle Drain
Age: 5
Age: 10
Age: 10
Page 22
WHITPAIN RECREATION ASSOC.
COCALICO YOUTH SOCCER CLUB
Anna Schools
HAMBURG AREA SOCCER ASSOC.
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer
Eli Blatt
Team Name Hawks Organization/Club Hamburg Area Soccer Association
Team Name Whitpain Wildfire Organization/Club Whitpain Recreation Association
Team Name Cocalico Freedom Organization/Club Cocalico Youth Soccer Club
What position do you play or what do you do on your team? Goal Scorer
What position do you play or what do you do on your team? Defense/Midfield.
What position do you play or what do you do on your team? Fullback/Sweeper.
What is your nickname? Eli
What is your nickname? Schoolsie.
What is your nickname? Dani.
Who is your role model? Why? My mom, because I love her.
Who is your role model? Why? Abby Wambach.
Who is your role model? Why? My dad -he always gives me advice and helps me with soccer.
What is your favorite movie? Power Rangers.
What is your favorite soccer team? US Women’s Nat’l Team
What is your favorite song? All Star.
What is your favorite movie? Night at the Museum.
What is your favorite book? Any book about puppies.
What is your favorite song? One More Night-Maroon 5
What is your favorite food? Meatloaf
What is your favorite book? Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo.
What is your favorite sport outside of soccer? Baseball
What is your favorite food? Mac and Cheese.
What is your favorite food? chinese food - Love it!
What is your favorite sport outside of soccer? Basketball.
What is your favorite sport outside of soccer? Ice hockey
What is your pet peeve (what thing makes you mad or drives you crazy)? My brothers Iff you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? I would go to Florida and visit Disney World What do you want to be when you grow up? Policeman
What is your pet peeve (what thing makes you mad or drives you crazy)? Annoying people. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? Ireland. It looks like a cool place to go plus my ancestors are from there. What do you want to be when you grow up? Pro athlete/Teacher.
What is your favorite soccer team? Cocalico Freedom, of course professional-Philadelphia Union. What is your favorite movie? Here Comes the Boom. What is your favorite song? Thrift Shop What is your favorite book? Diary of a Wimpy Kid series.
What is your pet peeve (what thing makes you mad or drives you crazy)? My hamster running on his wheel when I’m trying to sleep If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? Colorado to ski What do you want to be when you grow up? a professional soccer player!
Touchline
Kalysta Rountree
Sebastian Oliveira
Age: 11
Age: 12
Age: 13
HMMS SOCCER CLUB
PENN LEGACY SOCCER CLUB
Team Name Hawks Organization/Club Hamburg Area Soccer Association
Team Name Penn Legacy ‘00 Black Organization/Club Penn Legacy Soccer Club
Team Name Eagle FC Organization/Club HMMS Soccer Club
What position do you play or what do you do on your team? Forward/Midfield.
What position do you play or what do you do on your team? I play striker and midfield.
What position do you play or what do you do on your team? Midfield
What is your nickname? Kaly
What is your nickname? Sebas
Who is your role model? Why? My dad, he is very supportive.
Who is your role model? Why? Kaka, because of his influence on and off the field.
What is your favorite soccer team? US Women’s Team.
What is your favorite soccer team? PSG.
What is your nickname? Alex Who is your role model? Why? Lionel Messi, he is a talented goal scorer. What is your favorite soccer team? Barcelona FC. What is your favorite movie? Goal.
What is your favorite movie? Pitch Perfect.
What is your favorite song? Party Rock.
What is your favorite song? Lose Yourself.
What is your favorite book? Harry Potter.
What is your favorite book? The Watsons’ go to Birmingham.
What is your favorite food? Pizza What is your favorite sport outside of soccer? Football. What is your pet peeve (what thing makes you mad or drives you crazy)? Losing If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? I would go to Europe to watch soccer. What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to move to Europe and play soccer.
What is your favorite food? Chicken fingers What is your favorite sport outside of soccer? Basketball. What is your pet peeve (what thing makes you mad or drives you crazy)? Losing a game. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? Brazil, to play soccer. What do you want to be when you grow up? A professional soccer player.
What is your favorite movie? Goal 2: Living the Dream. What is your favorite song? Wavin Flag. What is your favorite book? The Game of their Lives. What is your favorite food? Chicken. What is your favorite sport outside of soccer? Basketball. What is your pet peeve (what thing makes you mad or drives you crazy)? Losing in FIFA. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? Europe, to get training that will help me go farther in my soccer career. Preferably Spain.
Youth Soccer Player Profiles
HAMBURG AREA SOCCER ASSOC.
Alex Blatt
What do you want to be when you grow up? Professional soccer player or forensic scientist.
Page 23
EPYSA.org
Q Quarterly Calendar
June 2013 Monday, June 3: State Office: Summer Hours Begin* Thursday, June 27 through Tuesday, July 2: US Youth Soccer Region I Championships, Kingston, Rhode Island
July 2013 Monday, July 1 1: RG-1 Club Registration Due Thursday, July 4: Independence Day (State Office Closed) Sunday, July 7 through Thursday, July 11: Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Resident Camp, Immaculata University, Malvern, PA Sunday, July 14 through Thursday, July 18: Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Resident Camp, Immaculata University, Malvern, PA
Wednesday, July 10 through Sunday, July 14: US Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup, Auburndale, Florida Monday, July 22 through Sunday, July 28: US Youth Soccer National Championships, Overland Park, Kansas
August 2013 Monday, August 12: Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Board Meeting, Plymouth Meeting, PA
September 2013 Youth Soccer Month Sunday, September 1: Seasonal Year Begins Monday, September 2: Labor Day (State Office Closed) Tuesday, September 3: State Office: Normal Office Hours Resume*
*Visit EPYSA.org for additional information.
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Touchline
Mike Barr’s Corner
Thoughts on Youth Soccer Moving Forward By Mike Barr, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Director of Coaching
• Of the top 30 goal scorers in the MLS currently, nine are American born. They are: Jack McInerney, Mike Magee, Eddie Johnson, Chris Wondolowski, Will Bruin, Adam Jahn, Kenny Cooper, Josh Williams and Lamar Neagle. Not all are soccer household names, but, quite possibly, they can become stars moving forward, as more Americans are given the opportunity by MLS coaches to play in more attacking positions. Who knows, maybe the MLS will make a concerted effort to play more Americans rather than searching out foreign players whose best playing days occurred years ago. • Sometimes it seems absurd that countries such as Honduras, Panama and Cost Rica are capable of defeating the US National Team. Having soccer as a huge part of a culture plays a major role, but what about the value of free play, and not making the game like a job to millions of youth? Do constant directions, adult guidance and instructions inhibit a young playerʼs growth in our country? • How is it that parents are willing to pay upwards of a yearʼs full tuition at a major university to a club and their professional coaches in hopes that their son or daughter may receive a soccer scholarship? There are no guarantees attached to paying an exorbitant amount of money for your child to play soccer. • When a child begins to play soccer at age six with a large and serious club that sees wins and losses as a barometer of success, eventually joins a travel team, goes on to play ECNL or Academy where school activities are eliminated, plays soccer at a Division One college where soccer is the main focus and finally graduates but does not have the opportunity to play professionally -- what happens to him or her upon graduation? Increasingly, they drift back to the comfort zone that is most familiar to them -- soccer. Instead of pursuing employment within their major, they drift back to soccer in order to make a living. When a playerʼs whole life revolves around one sport while exposure to other activities, friends with other interests or part time jobs are eliminated, they seek out their own familiar area of competence. Unfortunately, coaching or administering soccer may not provide the financial security that a young adult needs to begin a family or become upwardly mobile. Remember parents, your responsibility in life is not having your child playing on the best team with the perceived best coaches, winning that next game of the hundreds he or she plays in or even your child receiving an athletic scholarship. Having your child grow to be a well-adjusted adult who has a secure job with the ability to raise a happy family will be your lasting legacy. • Have we begun to see the end of local community clubs? More often than not soccer clubs are merging to become more competitive, and
the large “super” clubs engage in consistent recruiting from smaller clubs with promises of better coaching and possible scholarships. This has created higher pay to play costs, extensive travel and eliminated many children from the opportunity to play or be recognized as an elite player. There seems to be no such thing as cradle to grave clubs in Eastern Pennsylvania, as players who have trained for years with one club are cast aside, as soon as a player of perceived greater ability arrives for a try-out. • The Philadelphia Union has finally entered into the Developmental Academy format created by US Soccer with a strong group of coaches. Wouldnʼt it make sense for US Soccer to allow only the MLS Clubs to run tuition-free Academy Programs and the other academies go back to being just soccer clubs? Have each MLS club find reliable scouts to look at players within their geographic region for potential players and set up weekends during the year to bring various players into each MLS Academy for possible identification. • Possibly we should be looking to Finland to help us with our soccer problems. Finland has ranked at the top or near the top in the PISA (Program for International Student Assessment) survey, which compares 15 year olds in different countries throughout the world in reading, math and science. In 2009, Finland was sixth in math, second in science and third in reading. These results are thought provoking, because Finnish schools assign less homework and engage students in creative play. Also, there are no private schools in Finland or standardized tests. Remarkable when you think of Americaʼs obsession with standardized testing. Americaʼs results in 2009 were 31st in math, 23rd in science and 17th in reading. Finlandʼs main focus has been to allow all children equal opportunities to learn regardless of income or geographic location. Education has always been seen as an instrument to even out social inequity. • Within youth soccer in this country there is inequity and lack of opportunity for most young players. Living in the right county, city, or geographic area and family income play a significant part of a childʼs experience and later success in soccer. US Soccer and the MLS should look to make youth soccer equitable to all, not make decisions on a childʼs value at an early age and look to raise the level of play for all players not just the elite. I believe if soccer coaching was more like education, and coaches were more creative and better teachers within clubs, you may be seeing more gifted players. Not focusing on leagues and inter-club completion at early ages could reap huge benefits. Getting quality instructors who inspire and motivate at early ages has to make for complete player later. US Soccer should begin to get people outside their world to examine the decision-making US Soccer has made over the years. Page 25
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DRIBBLING AND PASSING ENGLISH FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
By Gary Stephenson, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Assistant Director of Coaching
DRIBBLING & PASSING (Exercise 1) Organization
Coaching Points
Grid 20 yd. x 20 yd. 12-14 players with a ball each. 2 additional players in pinnies with 1 ball between them.
Looking up to assess situation & identify passing opportunities.
Sequence & Progression
Passes must be delivered through, rather than over players moving around the square.
Players with a ball freely dribble around the grid. They pair with the 1 ball between them, then move within the square passing to each other.
Recognition of different weights to put passes relative to space & time available to execute.
Reduce the size of the grid. Add more pairs to pass amongst the dribblers. Add more dribblers.
DRIBBLING & PASSING (Exercise 2) Organization
Coaching Points
Grid 15 yd. x 6 yd. 4 players, 1 ball
Players look for the best moment to pass.
Sequence & Progression
Weight & type of pass, when to pass off front or back foot.
2 attackers and 1 defender in one half, with the 4th player in opposite half. The 2 attackers playing 2v1 against the defender with the objective of stopping ball dead on end line.
When to beat a defender. Disguise passes and feints to pass to unbalance defender.
If defender wins the ball they pass the ball to the other defender in the opposite half. Attackers attempt to recover on losing possession.
DRIBBLING & PASSING (Exercise 3)
Organization
Coaching Points
Grid 15 yd. x 10 yd. with 4 goals in the corners.
Recognition of potential passing option with reference to defenders position.
7 players – including 2 goalkeepers.
Disguise passes to outwit defender. Practice attacking with width.
Sequence & Progression The attackers start in the central safety zone with a defender in each half. Attackers enter the half trying to score in either goal, if the attacker is under pressure they can take the ball back into the safe zone. Should the Goalkeeper save the ball they try to serve the ball to either of the defenders who try to score at the other end in either of the two goals. Simple progression (3v2, 4v2)
Crossing & finishing. Deliver ball to supporting players with weighted for the teammates to run on to.
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EPYSA.org
Summer Time is Camp Time for Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer
If you are a soccer player looking to sharpen your skills, summer time is the right time to attend one of the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer camp programs. Leading off are two overnight camp sessions, hosted at Immaculata University in Malvern, the first beginning Sunday, July 7th and continuing through Thursday, July 11th, and the second beginning Sunday, July 14th and continuing through Thursday, July 18th. The coaching faculty for the two overnight camps have impeccable credentials, under the guidance of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s Director of Camps, Sheldon Chamberlain, and the association’s Director of Coaching, Mike Barr. Instructors include a full staff of US Soccer Federation licensed coaches.
Additional information is available on the “camps” section of EPYSA.org Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is also partnering with a number of soccer clubs to host camps for the months of June, July and August, which are listed below. The cost is $135 per player for girls and boys ages 5 through 12 for the day/evening camps. There will be three sessions running from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., 5 June Camps for Girls and Boys U6-U13 Striker-Keeper Camp & Intramural Rec Player Camp June 24 to 28 at Montgomery County Community College 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Travel Teams Camp & Keeper Camp June 24 to 28 at Montgomery County Community College 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
July Camps for Girls and Boys U6-U13 Striker Keeper Camp and Intramural Rec Player Camp July 29 to August 2 at Montgomery County Community College 9 a.m. to12 p.m. Travel Teams Camp and Keeper Camp July 29 to August 2 at Montgomery County Community College 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
p.m. to 8 p.m., and all day sessions running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Each session will offer campers a staff composed of USSF nationally licensed coaches, 12:1 maximum camperto-coach ratio, a complimentary Nike ball and T-shirt, many high energy sessions, and much more. August Camps for Girls and Boys U6-U13 Striker-Keeper Camp and Intramural Rec Player Camp August 5 to 9 at Upper Dublin SC, Mondauk Park 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Open Player Camp and Keeper Camp August 12 to 15 at Bethlehem SC, Crawford Fields 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. August 12 to 15 at Bethlehem SC, Crawford Fields 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. August 16 at Bethlehem SC Goal Keeper Camp, Crawford Fields 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Travel Teams Camp and Intramural Rec Player Camp August 12 to 16 at Colonial SC , Plymouth Community Center 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Striker Keeper Camp and Travel Team Camp August 19 to 23 at Colonial SC, Plymouth Community Center 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Travel Teams and Intramural Rec Player Camp August 19 to 23 at Colonial SC, Plymouth Community Center 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
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WHO’S YOUR TURKEY HILL DAIRY ALL-STAR? Youth soccer teams are filled with All-Star talent. It’s time for those stars to be recognized. Turkey Hill Dairy and Philadelphia Union have teamed up to shine a spotlight on the region’s most remarkable youth soccer players. That spotlight is the Turkey Hill Dairy All-Star Contest. Nominations will be accepted from April 1 through October 11 during the 2013 Major League Soccer season, and 15 All-Stars will be chosen.
• Four field–level seats at a Philadelphia Union home game • A special post-game autograph session with the players • Special recognition at the game • A feature in the gallery of winners on Philadelphia Union’s Facebook page
VISIT TURKEYHILL.COM/ALLSTAR TO NOMINATE YOUR TURKEY HILL DAIRY ALL-STAR TODAY! Comments or questions? Call 800 MY DAIRY. Visit our website at turkeyhill.com.
©2013 Turkey Hill Dairy
WINNERS WILL RECEIVE:
