Total Soccer Magazine Issue 16

Issue 16

CAMPS AND

TOURNAMENT

GUIDE PITCH TEST Pele Sports Trinity 3E Supporting Your Home Team Miracle at Whitehart Lane Financial Fair Play League of Ireland Soccer News and much more...

SPRING FORWARD

TOTAL SOCCER MAGAZINE Issue 16

CONTACT Spring is in the air!

With what turned out to be not such a bad winter after all, those in the colder locations in North America are celebrating as they come out of the indoor facilities and soccer domes, smiling at moving to 11 v 11 instead of 7 v7.

This issue celebrates that arrival of Spring and offers players, both young and old, a guide on many of the great soccer camps and tournaments you can look forward to attending this coming summer.

Looking back since the last issue, there certainly have been some incredible things happen in the soccer world, particularly the shocking images of Bolton Wanderer, Patrice Muamba, collapsing at Whitehart Lane and the remarkable recovery the world is witnessing after his cardiac arrest.

We've also seen some of the world's heavy weights ousted from the European stage in the UEFA competitions. On the flip side, we've seen the underdogs come through with flying colours; from APOEL making the quarter finals to fourth division amateurs beating Olympique Marseille in the French Cup. Much like the weather, the glorious game of soccer is unpredictable and one of the reasons we love the sport. On any day anything can happen.

This issue, once again, brings you the news from around the world, which we know you enjoy. We also have the pleasure of introducing you to Italian band and AC Milan supporters LACUNA COIL. Vocalist Andre Ferrero sits down to tell us about the great new album DARK ADRENALINE and how important the game of soccer is to the band.

As we already move onto the next issue, sit back and enjoy Issue 16 of Total Soccer Magazine. We're grateful that you continue to support us, look forward to reading the next issues and enjoy what we are able to offer you.

Special thanks this issue goes out to Kristian Jack of The Score's THE FOOTY SHOW. We were very proud to participate in his 4th Annual Tournament in support of World Vision. The competition was fierce and our group the toughest of the three. But, in the end, we all had a great day for a great cause. Congrats KJ and we look forward to next year.

www.totalsoccermagazine.com 1-678-720-2392 INFORMATION: info@totalsoccermagazine.com EDITOR: editor@totalsoccermagazine.com SALES: sales@totalsoccermagazine.com

CONTRIBUTERS James Andrews John Archibald Craig Chrisnall Will Estlea Andrew Gibney Zac Hackenbacker W.H. Harris Jason Hraynyk Nick Hraynyk Gerrard Meagher Nicholas Murray Jessica Pulter Michael Reis Rohan Ricketts Sean Snee Robert Thompson James Thorogood Richie Wellans

PHOTOGRAPHY Brett Beadle Esme Deacon Fotolio Christian Gavelle Jason Hraynyk Katja Kuhl MISL Panoramic Ligue 1 Ash Newell Sideline Sport

Happy Reading

DESIGN

Nicholas Player

Digital Man Design Ltd.

MY SPIRIT Special thanks to Carise Yatter and LACUNA COIL, Nikki and Ashley at Century Media, Gerd Hermans, Kristian Jack and James Sharmen for the continued support, Ingo thanks for all your help and Allyson at FELD Entertainment – Thank You! Oshawa Storm U10 ringette team – Congratulations on winning the 2012 OCRRC Gold medal. Your hard work all year payed off. It was a pleasure coaching all of you.

As always to Nick, Sue, Dee and the kids.

THANK YOU

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2012 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.Reproduction of this issuein whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited

CONTENTS 4

Welcome Letter

6

North of the Border

8

News

10

Rohan Ricketts – Column 10

12

North America – MLS,USL,NASL, WPS

20

SoccerEx European Forum

30

Grassroots Journalist

36

Meet Lacuna Coil

Page 20

Page 36

45

Camps and Tournament Guide

56

Bundesliga, Ligue 1, A-League News

65

Pitch Test – Pele Sports Trinity 3E

67

Fan Fun Zone Page 45

Page 65

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The Soccer Hall of Fame Class of 2012 Four players and two builders will become honoured members of The Soccer Hall of Fame this June 2012. Footballers Carlo Corazzin, Charmaine Hooper, Andrea Neil and Mark Watson as well as builders Gordon Arrowsmith (referee) and Angus Barrett have all been named to the 2012 Induction Class. The announcement was made this morning, 24 February, via The Soccer Hall of Fame & Museum’s official website, thesoccerhalloffame.ca.

Also to be recognized this summer are award winners John Richardson for the Pioneer Award, Canada’s 1989 Jeux de la Francophonie goldmedal team for the Team of Distinction, and British Columbia’s Victoria West for the Organization of Distinction. The Soccer Hall of Fame’s 2012 Induction Ceremonies will take place over the weekend of 2-3 June 2012, with details to be announced at a later date.

CONCACAF champion Carlo Corazzin spent 10 seasons on Canada’s national team, making 59 appearances at the international “A” level. The highlight was the 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup title, in which Corazzin won the Top Scorer award with four goals in five matches. He scored big goals in both the quarter-final match against Mexico (a late equalizer before Canada scored again in extra time) and the championship final against Colombia.

At the international level, Corazzin represented Canada at one FIFA Confederations Cup, four cycles of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, three CONCACAF Gold Cups, and one Jeux de la Francophonie (gold in 1989). From 1999 to 2001, he played in 22 consecutive Canada matches, the fourth-longest streak in national team history.

National teammate Mark Watson was also a CONCACAF champion in 2000, for him the highlight of a 13-year career with Canada’s national team. He made 78 appearances at the international “A” level, at the time of his retirement the second most in Association history. On 31 July 1993, Watson scored an important goal – the equaliser in an eventual 2:1 victory over Australia - in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton.

At the international level, Watson represented Canada at one FIFA Confederations Cup, four cycles of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, three CONCACAF Gold Cups and one North American Nations Cup. His 34 matches in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers still ranks second all time in Canadian team history.

As for Charmaine Hooper, she was not only a CONCACAF champion, but she was also a pioneer that participated in Canada’s first-ever women’s national team camp in July 1986 in Winnipeg, MB. At the time only 18 years old, she went on to establish a national record with 129 appearances at the international “A” level from 1986 to 2006. She was named Canadian Player of the Year three times, although it would have been more had the honour been awarded on an annual basis throughout her entire career.

At the international level, Hooper represented Canada at three FIFA Women’s World Cups (including a fourth-place finish at USA 2003), seven CONCACAF women’s competitions

(including a gold medal in 1998), and one University Games. She was a tournament all-star at the FIFA Women’s World Cup USA 2003. When she left international football in 2006, she held the Canadian record with 71 career goals.

In 2007, it was Hooper’s long-time teammate Andrea Neil that established a new mark for international “A” appearances. That year, Neil became the first Canadian to participate in four FIFA Women’s World Cups, which included the fourth-place finish at USA 2003 four years earlier. Neil made her 132nd and final international appearance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup on 15 September 2007 in a 4:0 win over Ghana.

Along with her four trips to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Neil also represented Canada at six CONCACAF women’s competitions, one Pan American Games (bronze in 1997), and one University Games. She scored 24 times, including a hat trick in a 3:0 win over Scotland at the 2002 Algarve Women’s Cup in Quarteira, Portugal. Just last year, the retired Neil became the first women’s footballer honoured by the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame.

As for the two builders, referee Gordon Arrowsmith was on the FIFA List of Referees & Assistant Referees for 10 years from 1982 to 1991. Builder Angus Barrett, meanwhile, was involved in soccer for more than 45 years, serving both at the provincial level for Newfoundland Labrador and at the national level with the Canadian Soccer Association.

This year’s Pioneer Award winner is John Richardson, a former secretary of the British Columbia Soccer Commission. He was also a council member with the Canadian Soccer Assocaition (then known as the Dominion of Canada Football Association.

This year’s Team of Distinction is the Canadian national team that won gold at the first Jeux de la Francophonie in Casablanca, Marocco in 1989.

Canada posted three wins and one draw in that competition, including a 4:1 win over host Marocco in the championship final.

The Organization of Distinction is Victoria West from British Columbia. Formed in 1896, the club won the Challenge Trophy as national champions in 1976, 1979, 1982 and 1984.

The Soccer Hall of Fame & Museum was established at The Soccer Centre in Vaughan, Ontario, in 1999 and is dedicated to preserving and researching Canada’s soccer history. The first Induction Banquet took place in 2000. To learn more about The Soccer Hall of Fame and Museum, visit www.thesoccerhalloffame.ca .

Heather O'Reilly: Ironwoman Midfielder Heather O’Reilly holds the record for most consecutive matches played for the U.S. Women’s National Team. For the speedy and tenacious flank midfielder, it’s just a matter of staying consistent.

There are many things that could get in the way of playing 74 consecutive games for the U.S. WNT. A player has to navigate a talented pool of players working hard for minutes, avoid injuries and most of all, if not the most difficult of all, consistently put forth a high In the summer of 2010, one of the most long-standing level of performance in games as well as in training, records in U.S. Women’s National Team history was where game minutes are earned quietly eclipsed. .

“One of the ways I’ve grown as a player is to not allow The player who broke the record didn’t even know it at the highs to get too high or the lows to get too low,” said the time. U.S. Soccer didn’t even realize it until some the 27-year-old O’Reilly. “You have to keep a good quick math was tabulated, and it was discovered that perspective on your career and focus on the things that Heather O’Reilly had in fact surpassed the record for you do well and try to bring those every single day. That most consecutive games played for the U.S. Women. has made me a consistent player and I’ve been fortunate enough to play a lot of games. I’ve also been U.S. legend Carla Overbeck, who captained the USA fortunate enough to stay healthy and fit and keep good to the 1996 Olympic gold medal and the 1999 FIFA habits on the training and game pitch, which in the end Women’s World Cup title, had held the previous helps the team.” record for more than 15 years, having played 63 consecutive games during her prime from 1993 Even more impressively, O’Reilly started 67 of those 74 through 1996. matches, and the streak is an indication of the confidence the coaching staff has showed in her.

On July 17, 2010 (the 11-year anniversary of the USA’s historic 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup “She gives 100 percent every time she steps on the victory), O’Reilly started and played 90 minutes in the field, whether it’s in a passing pattern, a crossing drill or USA’s 3-0 victory against Sweden at Rentschler Field an 11-vs.-11 game,” said U.S. head coach Pia Sundhage. “She makes everything game-like. It’s one in East Hartford, Conn. It was her 64th consecutive of her strengths and it’s good for the team. It’s match for the USA. contagious.”

She would finish out the year playing in nine more O’Reilly grew up watching the pioneers of that 1999 games, including the World Cup Qualifying tournament and playoffs, and then started the USA’s team and still finds it surprising to see her name along opening match of 2011 on Jan. 21 against Sweden at with the likes of Overbeck. the Four Nations Tournament in China.

“Obviously I grew up admiring her and her teammates,” U.S. head coach Pia Sundhage then sat O’Reilly out said O’Reilly. “It’s almost a surreal feeling to be mentioned with her.” for the second match of that tournament against Canada on Jan. 23, giving a few younger players Like Overbeck, O’Reilly is known for her ultrasome minutes, thereby ending a streak of 74 competitive nature, a trait she shares with her consecutive games that lasted almost four and half teammates on the USA. The sense of competition at years (it began on Aug. 12, 2007, with a start in the the highest levels has pushed her to do the things USA’s 6-1 win against New Zealand in Chicago). needed for a professional to see her name on the start sheet on a consistent basis.

“I always try to be at my fittest,” said O’Reilly, who regularly finishes among the leaders in the USA’s endurance, speed and agility tests. “I think my fitness level and my athleticism and speed are some of my good attributes so I try to always make sure that those are things coaches can see in me and know that they can always get that out of me.”

O’Reilly is one of 16 U.S. players to have earned more than 150 caps, but she’s not looking at long-term goals or milestones. It’s that habit of focusing on the day at hand that has allowed her to put so many days together for the National Team.

“I try not to compare myself to all the great players we have on this team,” said O’Reilly. “I am more concerned with being the best me I can be every day. If I take that attitude to the training pitch, I come ready and focused and I never take anything for granted. It improves my focus and gets me ready to compete every day.”

If Overbeck held the record for 15 years, how long will it sit with O’Reilly? Odds are that the player who will play 75 consecutive games is right now growing up watching O’Reilly and her teammates.

International News FOX SOCCER PLUS – NEW HOME OF SPL FIFA NIX WORLD CUP TV DEAL FOX Soccer Plus, America’s premium television network dedicated to delivering the world’s best soccer and international sports, is the new home of the Clydesdale Bank Scottish Premier League in the United States and Caribbean. This exclusive agreement with SPORTFIVE International secures the SPL television rights for theremainder of the 2011-12 season through the 2013-2014 campaign.

The first SPL match on FOX Soccer Plus takes place on Saturday, March 17, when Dundee United host Rangers at Tannadice Park (8:40 a.m. ET). The Old Firm Derby, Scotland’s premier rivalry contested between Glasgow powerhouses Celtic and Rangers, is being carried by FOX Soccer on Sunday, March 25 (8:00 a.m. ET).

“We are proud to welcome the Clydesdale Bank Scottish Premier League into our family of networks,” said Dermot McQuarrie, Senior Vice President of Production and Assistant General Manager of FOX Soccer. “The SPL is a top competition, featuring some of the most historic clubs in European football, including both Celtic and Rangers.”

FOX Soccer Plus plans to carry up to two SPL matches per week throughout the season, along with weekly half-hour highlight shows to recap each round of play. Schedule permitting, all Old Firm clashes are airing on FOX Soccer.

As Scotland’s top division, the SPL boasts some of the world’s oldest rivalries and richest storylines.

Magnified by the special relationship between its two most successful clubs, Celtic and Rangers, the 12-team league serves as a hotbed for some of Europe’s best young players.

Arguably the fiercest rivalry in the global game, the Old Firm accounts for more than half of Scotland’s topflight titles dating back to 1890. Celtic and Rangers first met in 1888, and to this day their contests are Scotland’s biggest matches. Between them, the two teams boast 96 Scottish League Championships, 67 Scottish Cups and 41 Scottish League Cups. Both sides have experienced European success, with Celtic becoming the first British club to hoist the European Cup in 1967. Celtic currently lead Rangers by 21 points at the top of the SPL table. However, Rangers have 158 victories to Celtic’s 144 in this hotly-contested fixture.

Founded in 1998, the Scottish Premier League has been home to 18 different teams through promotion and relegation, but only Celtic and Rangers have won titles. Aside from the Old Firm clubs, there are teams with embedded traditions and European success in the SPL, including Aberdeen, Dundee United, Hearts and Hibernian.

KRISTINE LILY NAMED ASSISTANT COACH Kristine Lilly has returned to the Boston Breakers. The most capped players in U.S. Women’s National Team history will join the the coaching staff, serving as assistant coach for the Breakers in 2012.

“I’m excited to work with the Breakers this year and continue to help promote and grow the game of soccer,” Lilly said. “My professional playing career has only been with the Breakers, and now it’s nice to join the team as a coach.”

Lilly served as team captain for the Breakers in both 2009 and 2010. In two seasons with the WPS Breakers, Lilly played in 43 games (42 starts, 3,725 minutes) and scored six goals and had six assists. With the WUSA Breakers, Lilly started all 59 games she played in. In 2001, her first season in WUSA, Lilly scored three goals and had a league-best 11 assists.

The following season, she started all 19 matches and notched career highs in goals scored (8) and assists (13). In her final WUSA season with the Breakers, Lilly started all 19 games, finished with three goals and four assists, led the Breakers to their first-ever playoff game, and was named First-Team AllWUSA for the third consecutive year.

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A native of Wilton, Conn., Lilly is one of the most decorated players in international soccer history with 352 caps, more than any other female or male in U.S. Soccer history. A twotime World Cup champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist with the U.S. Women’s National Team, Lilly scored 130 goals with the National Team.

She played in her first U.S. Women’s National Team match on Aug. 3, 1987 and scored her first international goal 10 days later against China. Lilly was voted U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year three times (1993, 2005, and 2006). She scored her final and 130th international goal on May 22, 2010, in a game against Germany. Her final match with the U.S. came on Nov. 5, 2010, against Mexico.

CONCACAF HEADLINES DESPITE LATE GOAL, DRAW, TFC CROWD IMPRESSES By: Aman Dhanoa

The CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinal between Toronto and the LA Galaxy had just about everything: goals, crowd, noise, color (a lot of red) - except a win for the home fans.

The match at the Rogers Centre drew a club record crowd and the second largest in tournament history - but most of the 47,658 went home disappointed when Landon Donovan scored in the 88th minute to force a 2-2 draw and deny Toronto a victory.

"It was amazing, everyone enjoyed it," TFC striker Danny Koevermans said. "It was fantastic playing in front of a big home crowd and of course it was a shame for us and for the people that they tied it in the last minute. If you ask me we should make BMO bigger or move here so we can always play in front of 40,000 people."

The game was moved from BMO Field, Toronto FC's regular, outdoor 21,859-seat stadium, to the Rogers Centre, home of Major League Baseball's Toronto Blue Jays, due to potential weather issues.

Despite concerns expressed by the Galaxy about the artificial surface, players were still amazed with the atmosphere generated by the capacity crowd.

"It was great," Galaxy midfielder David Beckham said. "I'm glad the game was staged here. Obviously I knew it was a bigger stadium and I knew these fans would fill it out.

"Overall I think everyone had fun. Obviously the fans saw their team score two goals, I'm sure they didn't like seeing us score two goals. Overall it was a great atmosphere to play in."

TFC Senior Director of Business Operations Paul Beirne prepared for months to stage the game at Rogers. Although the preference was to play the game outdoors and at BMO Field, he was impressed with the final scene.

"The supporters were spectacular - they've been working on this for months. They came in last night and did a lot of setting up and that set the tone for the atmosphere‌the overall atmosphere was off the charts.

"It was another great moment for Toronto FC and our short history. It's another milestone for us and we're really pleased."

BORKOWSKI HAITI'S CFU ADOPTS NEW STATUTES WOMEN'S COACH

The Caribbean Football Union adopted new statutes at a threeday extraordinary congress that will enable the 40-member organization to move forward, including the election of new officers.

In a release dated March 8, the CFU said the keynote address

by Cayman Islands federation president and CFU Normalization Committee head Jeffrey Webb was "received with energetic applause demonstrating early the solidarity of the CFU." The program included development session with each member by a FIFA delegation and meetings of the CFU's legal, football and finance committees.

"It was evident throughout the three days, that the CFU members continue to be focused on our sport, accessibility and development," Webb said in the release.

"Every member of the CFU continues to be committed to the union's solidarity, but it was the unanimous adoption of the CFU statutes that highlighted this message.

The Haitian Football Federation has installed 49-year-old Shek Borkowski as technical director of its women's national team program, the HFF said.

The Polish-born Borkowski replaces Ronald Luxieux who led Haiti to a 1-2 record at CONCACAF Olympics women's qualifying January -- as the senior women's team coach in addition to responsibility for the entire program, HFF President Yves Jean-Bart said.

"We are embracing our future with purpose, passion and performance. It is a great day for football in the Caribbean, and steers our course for a great future."

The CFU has been without a president since June, when Jack Warner resigned the post.

Borkowski takes over of Haiti after a second stint with FC Indiana of the Women's Premier Soccer League in the United States. After four years of managing the club's men's team, Borkowski led FC Indiana's women's team to two WPSL titles and two U.S. Open Cup crowns.

He left to coach women's Russian side Zveda-2005 in 2009 before returning to FC Indiana last year.

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Column 10

MY SEARCH for a CLUB CONTINUES

I returned to the UK on January 9th in search of my first club in England since 2008. Playing abroad was an experience and a half for many reasons both good and bad, but I have a burning desire to play back in my homeland.

My first port of call was to train with my old club Spurs.

This was purely to stay in good shape ahead of trials that were being lined up. I am so grateful to the club and the coaches for giving me this opportunity. It has been great to get some good training under my belt.

Photo: Jess Baumung

Biography Rohan Ricketts, born December 22nd 1982, Ricketts started his professional Football career with Arsenal, where he won the FA Youth Cup in 2000 & 2001. In 2002, after making his Arsenal debut against Manchester United in the League Cup, Ricketts joined Tottenham Hotspurs, where he became the 4th player ever to make the switch between the north London rivals.

After spending three seasons at Spurs under managers Glenn Hoddle, Jaques Santini and Martin Jol respectivley, Ricketts re joined Glenn Hoddle by signing for Wolverhampton Wanderers.

He spent seasons there under Glenn Hoddle and then Mick McCarthy before moving on to Barnsley FC in the Championship in the summer of 2007.

In 2008 Ricketts joined Toronto FC where he scored 6 goals in his first season with the club. Making him a fans’ favorite with the Toronto faithful. Rohan grew into somewhat of an ambassador for Toronto FC, participating in various community events and charity work, both for the club and independently. This resulted in a lot of magical moments for Rohan. David Miller, Mayor of Toronto, saw Rohan’s off the pitch work as a good example of a role model within the city.

During Rohan’s spell in Toronto, he developed his media career.

He appeared as a guest on various networks such as TSN, The Score and Sportsnet. He also made a number of radio appearances – and was given a co-host role for a World Cup show – with The Score. Rohan is now writing a regular column for Fan590 and Sabotage Times. Both have given Rohan the platform to express his thoughts to the public in an articulate, unique and honest way.

Rohan has just wrapped up a season in Dublin Ireland with Shamrock Rovers where he won the 2011 League title and participated in the UEFA Europe League.

He is now currently in England looking to join a new club.

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Fast forward a few weeks from my first day at the club and I have been in contact with a few clubs from Brighton, managed by my former team mate Gus Poyet, to Pompey.

While there has been interest, some clubs haven’t been able to do a concrete deal due to finances, size of squads or type of existing players. It’s been frustrating as I have been training hard and well at Spurs but this doesn’t guarantee a contract anywhere.

The latest interest came out of the blue from a League 2 club. I found out the night before and I went down to Cobham, Chelsea’s training ground, to play a game against their reserves. This game went reasonably well and the gaffer asked me to come in to train with the squad. I grabbed the opportunity and joined in a good few training sessions with the boys. I applied and expressed myself to give me the best possible chance of being offered a deal. I felt comfortable amongst the boys. In particular one of my old Arsenal team mates from over 10 years ago.

Unfortunately despite impressing the gaffer, I was gutted to find out that he could not offer me a deal right away. The current squad doesn’t leave enough budget for new signings unless a couple of existing players were to move on. Gutted is an understatement of the feeling when he broke the news to me. He seems like a real good guy who is working hard to try and turn his team’s form around. I hope that in the next week or so a deal can be reached so I can get down there and help the club push for a play off place.

In the meantime I will continue to train with Spurs staying fit and sharp for any other opportunities as they arise. The market means that teams are more cautious of handing out deals before having a THOROUGH look at you. I suppose they have the power to do so and they are exercising it.

Anyway, as the search to find a new club continues, I remain as determined, focused and hungry as I was when I arrived at Spurs in Jan.

NASL – FULL USSF SANCTIONING The U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) today formally admitted the North American Soccer League (NASL) as a member to continue operating as a Division 2 men’s outdoor professional soccer league in the United States. The NASL’s candidacy for full membership was approved this morning by a vote of the USSF National Council at the USSF Annual General Meeting in Miami.

“We’ve worked tirelessly over the past several years to create a new, sustainable long-term platform for Division 2 professional soccer in North America and the Caribbean. We thank the Federation for their leadership and cooperation in helping us elevate second division standards in order to make our vision a reality,” said Aaron Davidson, Chairman of the NASL Board of Governors.

“After a successful inaugural campaign in which we worked to stabilize Division 2, we are pleased to have the formal approval that fully empowers us to move ahead with our plans to grow our league. We look forward to continuing to play a critical role in the development and maturation of soccer in North America and the Caribbean,” said David Downs, NASL Commissioner.

The 2012 NASL Regular Season kicks off on April 7 with all eight active teams in action on that Saturday night.

NASL Extends Agreement With Commissioner Downs The North American Soccer League (NASL) announced today it has extended Commissioner David Downs’ agreement for two years through the conclusion of the 2013 season. Commissioner Downs presided over the league’s successful inaugural season in 2011, which featured the NSC Minnesota Stars becoming the first NASL Champions, the league bidding farewell to the Montreal Impact to MLS and the announcement of an expansion team in Ottawa beginning play in 2014.

Commissioner Downs will continue to oversee the operations of the NASL’s headquarters in Miami and serve as the league’s final authority on all matters of competitive integrity. In addition to leading the day-to-day operations of the league, Commissioner Downs will focus on expansion and player development as the NASL continues to play a defining role in the growth of soccer in North America.

“2011 was about laying the foundation for the new NASL. And now we turn towards building on that foundation.

Given Commissioner Downs’ extensive sports and TV industry background and his personal dedication to the sport of soccer in North America, we are fortunate to have him serving in this critical role,” said Aaron Davidson, Chairman of the NASL Board of Governors (BOG). “We look forward to the growth of the NASL in both size and stature over the coming years with him at the helm,” concluded Davidson.

“This is an exciting time in the sport and a particularly exciting time to be in the NASL,” said Commissioner Downs. “We are eager to expand the opportunities for professional players throughout North America and the Caribbean to play at a high level while offering fans all over the region the chance to see pro soccer in their home markets in an intimate and affordable setting,” added Downs.

In addition to ratifying Commissioner Downs’ new contract, at its most recent meeting the NASL BOG also unanimously approved the parameters for the upcoming wave of expansion teams to join the league for play in the 2013 and 2014 seasons. The league is currently in active discussions with prospective owners in over 20 markets.

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SCORPIONS GROUND BREAKING Groundbreaking ceremonieson February 29 heralded the start of construction of Scorpions Community Stadium, new home of the San Antonio Scorpions FC pro soccer team.

“This is a tremendous stride forward in bringing exciting professional soccer to Greater San Antonio and South Texas,” said Gordon Hartman, founder of Soccer for a Cause, the community-wide effort to help the sport gain even greater popularity as well as to generate financial support for non-profit Morgan’s Wonderland family theme park in Northeast San Antonio. “Scorpions Community Stadium will be San Antonio’s premier outdoor sports and special-events venue when it opens for the 2013 North American Soccer League (NASL) season.”

In addition to serving as the Scorpions’ home, the multipurpose stadium will host high school, and collegiate soccer championships, plus concerts and other special activities, Hartman added.

Joining Hartman for the festive ceremony were NASL Commissioner David E. Downs, San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, Scorpions coaches and players, the Scorpions Girls ambassadors, pro soccer support groups, civic leaders, soccer league leaders and members of the special-needs community.

“We thought it entirely appropriate to have our stadium groundbreaking just as Morgan’s Wonderland is beginning its third season two days from now,” Hartman said. “After all, Morgan’s Wonderland is what Soccer for a Cause is all about. Scorpions net profits will go to Morgan’s Wonderland so the park can continue admitting those with special needs free of charge as well as expand special-needs programs and services.”

The new 6,100-seat stadium, which parallels Thousand Oaks Drive across from Morgan’s Wonderland, is being constructed with private funding and is ultimately expandable in stages to 18,000 seats. Stadium features include a grass playing field built to FIFA and NCAA specifications, luxury suites, a VIP lounge, a team merchandise store, a patio/beer garden, a large video scoreboard and shaded seating on the west side of the stadium.

While the team’s new home is being built, the Scorpions will play 2012 NASL home games in North East Independent School District’s 11,000-seat Heroes Stadium at Wurzbach Parkway and Thousand Oaks Drive within sight of Morgan’s Wonderland.

Head Coach Tim Hankinson, assistant coaches and recently signed Scorpions players – many with Major League Soccer (MLS) experience – have been working out since mid-February at the South Texas Area Regional (STAR) Soccer Complex next to Morgan’s Wonderland in preparation for NASL competition.

“We’re making excellent progress in preparation for our first game against the Atlanta Silverbacks on Saturday, April 7, and our home opener against the Puerto Rico Islanders on Sunday, April 15,” Hankinson said. “The science books tell us that a group of scorpions is known as a ‘cyclone.’ So we’re working hard to come together as a tough, determined team that will blow away the competition.”

Hankinson noted that he and his staff looked at more than 600 prospects from 11 countries in building the Scorpions roster.

Meanwhile, Scorpions President Michael (Hitch) Hitchcock and his front-office team have been busy signing up season-passholders and sponsors.

“The momentum has been incredible as the Scorpions get set for NASL action just five weeks from now,” Hitchcock said. “We’re truly appreciative and thrilled with the entire community’s intensifying interest. As far as we know, this marks the first time in pro sports history that a team has been organized solely for the benefit of a nonprofit cause. The Scorpions not only will compete for a community that’s eager to see soccer played at a high level but also for a very worthy cause – Morgan’s Wonderland and the great things the park is doing for the special-needs community.”

Hartman led the effort to create Morgan’s Wonderland so people of all ages with and without disabilities could come together in a safe, colorful, totally-wheelchairaccessible park for fun and understanding. The unique 25-acre park, which features some 25 rides, playscapes and attractions, welcomed more than 200,000 guests from all 50 states and 34 other countries during its first two seasons in operation.

Morgan’s Wonderland opened in spring 2010 along with STAR Soccer, which already conveys profits from the operation of 13 first-class playing fields to the park. Soon it will be the Scorpions’ turn to help Morgan’s Wonderland keep moving forward.

Sensing an opportunity to benefit Morgan’s Wonderland for the long run, Hartman in fall 2010 secured an NASL franchise – one rung below MLS – and immediately launched Soccer for a Cause, a campaign to build community support for the new team. This included a name-the-team contest, a logo-design competition and an online vote of fans to select the Scorpions’ jersey.

Meanwhile, Nike became the first to sign up as a team sponsor.

In addition to the primary goal of producing profits for Morgan’s Wonderland and heightening interest in soccer, the Scorpions will help promote physical fitness and boost the local economy through tourism, Hartman noted.

“Morgan’s Wonderland continues to exceed expectations, profoundly touching the lives of specialneeds children and adults, their families and friends,” he said. “Each and every day we draw inspiration from all those with special needs who must deal with hard-toimagine physical and cognitive challenges.”

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U.S. Soccer Announces Creation Of PRO English veteran Walton will oversee new refereeing program The U.S. Soccer Federation and Major League Soccer announced today the formation of the Professional Referee Organization (PRO) , an organization that will be responsible for managing the referee program in professional soccer leagues in the United States and Canada.

The creation of PRO is 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.

Veteran English referee Peter Walton has been named General Manager of PRO. All current U.S. Soccer professional referee staff positions will transition to PRO and report to Walton, who begins full-time on April 2 and will be based in New York City through the conclusion of the MLS season.

U.S. Soccer and MLS will govern and fund the organization, with ongoing collaborative support from the Canadian Soccer Association and other professional leagues. Beginning this year, PRO will manage officials in the MLS and MLS Reserve games, the North American Soccer League, USL PRO and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. "We’ve always understood that the development of referees is an important aspect to the growth of the game in the United States," said U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati. "PRO is another step towards the improvement and professionalization of our top referees. With the additional resources and funding provided by the formation of PRO, we will continue to build upon the progress we’ve already made."

"Thanks to collaborative work with U.S. Soccer and the Canadian Soccer Association, officiating in MLS made significant strides forward in the past year," said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. "The overall level of MLS refereeing is good, and the creation of the Professional Referee Organization is the logical next stage of development. MLS and U.S. Soccer proudly welcome PRO General Manager Peter Walton, who will utilize his exceptional experience as a referee and as an administrator, along with substantial resources, to help MLS achieve its vision of setting the worldwide standard in officiating."

Rhinos Sign German GK Nicht Played 18 games in Bundesliga for Alemannia Aachen The Rochester Rhinos have agreed to terms with former German Bundesliga goalkeeper Kristian Nicht for the 2012 USL PRO season. Nicht appeared in 18 Bundesliga matches for Alemannia Aachen during the 2006-2007 season. He has nine years of professional experience playing in Germany and Norway. Rhinos Head Coach Jesse Myers has brought in Nicht to replace last year’s starting goalkeeper Neal Kitson, who left the Rhinos at the conclusion of the January 2012 International Transfer window for Northampton Town F.C. of England's League Two. “With Kristian’s experience and size I expect him to be a presence in goal.” Rhinos Head Coach Jesse Myers said.

“With the number of games Kristian has played in the Bundesliga he will have instant credibility with his teammates.”

Kristan Nicht is a 29-year-old, 6-foot-5 goalkeeper who started his career with the Stuttgart Kickers in the Regionalliga Sud during the 2002-2003 season. He made 30 appearances for a club that finished 15th in the division. In his only year with the Kickers they were the runners-up in the Wurttemberg Cup, a regional cup competition.

The following year Nicht moved to 1.FC Nuremberg where he was a back-up keeper on a club that won the 2.Bundesliga and won promotion to the Bundesliga.

Nicht established himself in his three-year stint with Alemannia Aachen from 2004-2007. Nicht made 60 appearances for the club and led the team to promotion from the 2.Bundesliga at the conclusion of the 2005-2006 season.

The next season he made 18 appearances in the Bundesliga, the German top flight. Despite a valiant effort from the newly promoted team, Alemannia Aachen finished 17th and was relegated after the 2006-2007 season.

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“I am very happy to become a Rhino.” Nicht said. “I am looking forward to bringing my experience to the team while learning from the team at the same time. I am willing to help out the team in any way that I can.”

After Alemannia Aachen was relegated from the Bundesliga, Nicht left the club and joined Viking FK in the Norwegian First Division. Viking FK finished 10th in the First Division and Nicht made 20 appearances for the club. Nicht returned to the 2.Bundesliga from 2009-2011 with Karlsruhe SC. He made 14 appearances for the club. Karlsruhe finished 10th in the Bundesliga 2 in 2010 and 15th in in 2011.

In all, Nicht has played in 18 Bundesliga matches and 56 2.Bundesliga matches. He has also participated in 20 matches in the Norwegian First Division and one Europa League Qualifier.

Solo Signs With Sounders Women

Seattle also adds U.S. Women's Teammate Leroux The Sounders Women have signed goalkeeper Hope Solo and forward Sydney Leroux, the team announced February 14.

Solo, 30, is the starting goalkeeper for the United States Women’s National Team. Solo helped lead the women to the FIFA World Cup 2011 Final in Germany and was named the Golden Glove winner of that tournament. She was a member of the 2008 Women’s U.S. Olympic Team that won a gold medal in Beijing and an alternate on the 2004 team in Greece. A native of Richland, Washington, she played for the University of Washington and is a member of the Husky Hall of Fame.

Solo is a four-time All-Pac-10 Selection.

“Hope is undoubtedly the best women’s keeper in the game today,” said Sounders General Manager Amy Carnell. “Her signing represents the caliber player Sounders Women’s fans can expect in 2012. As the landscape of women’s soccer continues to evolve, we realize the unique opportunity before us. The addition of Hope Solo and Sydney Leroux sets the tone for what we think will be a very special year for Sounders Women’s soccer.”

A prolific scorer with the U.S. Under-20 Women’s National Team, Leroux earned her first cap as a second-half substitute against Sweden in the Four Nations Tournament in Chingqong, China, on January 21, 2011.

During Olympic Qualifying earlier this year, Leroux scored five goals in only her second cap. Leroux played four seasons for UCLA and was named to Soccer America’s MVP First Team in 2010 and 2011. She was born in British Columbia, Canada.

“Sydney is the consummate goal scorer with an incredible attacking attitude,” said Head Coach Michelle French. “She not only shows tireless effort on the offensive side of the ball, but she is very unique in that she prides herself on her defensive recovery and ability to win the ball back. She makes an impact no matter where she plays on the field.”

Solo and Leroux will be available in conjunction with the Olympic Training Camp schedule as the U.S. Women's National Team prepares for the 2012 Olympics in London.

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MLS MINUTE

CAPS

UNION CONFIDENT PRESSURE

MLS Sophmores Vancouver Whitecaps have started the season running on all cylanders. Out of the gates with back to back clean sheets the team has made a statement early in the 2012 MLS season that there are not to be taken lightly Captain Jay DeMerit states that they are simply taking one game at a time and trying to stay focused and continue the momentum from the great start so far. “Confidence is something that comes when you win, and win consistently, we have to stay focused on each game ahead of us and keep doing what we’re doing.”

The addition of Sebastien Le Toux has certainly payed dividends as his experience and ability to not only find the back of the net but create plays and scoring chances will help the squad throughout the season and allow the team to build on what they have accomplished so far.

DeMerrit believes in what the Caps can do this season “There’s definitely strength in momentum and we definitely have it right now”.

Following successes in the first two seasons for the Philadelphia Union, season three isn't quite starting the way the organisation had hoped. Coach Peter Nowak certainly was not expecting to be sitting 0-3.

At first glance there certainly is reason to state that the loss of Sebastien LeToux to the Vancouver Whitecaps is an obvious point. Both teams sit at opposites seeing the Caps off to a stellar start.

Nowak stated after a loss to the Chicago Fire “It’s never easy to be in the situation we are after three games. We need to be more opportunistic.”

The Union though disappointed in the slow start are remaining optimistic in the road ahead.

Union keeper Zac MacGath voiced the team solidarity. “I think in the locker room we all look at each other like we know we can fight for each other.”

“You always want to get three points and, right now, we need three points more than ever,” said Gabriel Farfan. We don’t feel the pressure too much. Obviously there is pressure, but I think all of the guys in the locker room can handle it.”

MAKING AN IMPACT The area around and inside Montreal's cavernous Olympic Stadium was buzzing. Not just on the day but days before the Montreal Impact even touched the ball for the first time at home as an official MLS club.

With crews still working to renovate and expand the team's official stadium Stade Saputo located next door to the Big O as Montrealers call it, the city had caught Impact fever.

With the cities hockey team the beloved Habs (Montreal Canadiens) long out of the playoffs, the city was looking for something to perhaps take away the pain.

With the move to the bigger stadium the city greeted their new MLS team to the field as a record 58,912 fans cheered them on.

With the club having a succesful history which brought championships and included appearances in the CONCACAF Champions League playing as part of the USL and NASL the city welcomed their new MLS club.

Facing the Chicago Fire in their home opener it was the Impact who scored first 11 minutes into the second half when in the 56 th minute Impact captain Davey Arnaud went into the record books as the one to score the first ever goal in MLS. The Impact’s goal was scored when Montreal's forward Sanna Nyassi held up a ball and showed patience before crossing the ball into the box. With Arnaud rising to meet it he beat the goalkeeper far post, top corner with a jumping header.

The Fire's Dominic Oduro played spoiler for the potential first win when he responded in the 71st by beating Impact goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts low, to his left.

Following the match the Impact's captain and first ever goal scorer stated “It was a special feeling…a special moment. Not just for me, but also for the guys, and for the club. But it would have felt even better if we got the three points.”

The Impact broke the attendance record for a professional soccer game in Montreal, originally established when the Montreal Manic beat the Chicago Sting in front of 58,542 supporters, in 1981 as part of the NASL. Impact head coach Jesse Marsch stated: “The crowd was great tonight,” added Marsch. “The men really enjoyed playing in front of the home crowd and showing them what they are about. A couple of different breaks and maybe we get the three points instead of one.”

There is still a long road of work ahead for Montreal before they start to see the rewards of all the hard work put into brining an MLS team to the city. There is no doubt that the fans are willing to wait. They wear there colours with pride and when soccer can bring out crowds of close to 59,000 in any city in North America, you know that you'e got a good thing going.

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FOOTBALL LEGEND

Emmanuel Petit joins the Homeless World Cup Team The former Arsenal, Barcelona, and France international player, Emmanuel Petit, has become a Homeless World Cup Global Ambassador supporting our vision of football changing homeless people's lives.

Emmanuel Petit was one of the main supporters of the 2011 Homeless World Cup football tournament held in Paris last summer.

He has traditionally been involved with social projects in France and fell in love with the Homeless World Cup and its worldwide impact during the Paris event.

Petit said: "Football is a powerful influence.

When you take someone from the street, put them in a square football pitch, in a team where there are rules, referees and team mates – that's life too, that's society. The players have to respect themselves, each other and the referees.

Emmanuel Petit at the Paris 2011 Homeless World Cup - Photo by Esme Deacon

"I truly believe that sport and football is very important for the human being and that is why I decided to be an Ambassador for the Homeless World Cup." The ex-Arsenal and Barcelona footballer played 63 times for his country and scored the third goal in France's 3-0 victory in the final of the 1998 FIFA World Cup Final in France.

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CAMBODIAN SAM YI Turns Professional Former player, Sam Yi, involved with our National Partner in Cambodia, Happy Football Cambodia Australia (HFCA) has signed with a professional team in the Cambodian Premier League.

Sam Yi, who took part in the Melbourne 2008 Homeless World Cup, has signed a two year deal with National Defence Ministry FC. The club will provide him with a salary, accommodation and three meals a day.

For Sam Yi it is a massive deal and he is delighted that he can train twice a day and focus on making his living from “this beautiful game”.

The Cambodian Premier League is slowly but surely growing in popularity and HFCA hopes that more of their players can make real and long lasting changes in their lives by turning professional and playing in the Cambodian Premier League.

Sam Yi has shown that through hard work and determination anything is possible. When asked what it meant to him he said: “Going to Melbourne and representing my country on a world stage at the Homeless World Cup inspired me to believe. I am so happy to have a contract with National Defence Ministry FC and hope to represent Cambodia at a full international level".

INDONESIA CREATES A “League of Change” Eight local organisations working with HIV/AIDS and drug issues have participated in this tournament giving the chance to the players to enjoy an amazing experience and realise how football can change their lives for the better.

Ginan Koesmayadi, Rumah Cemara’s Program Director said: "Players gain a strong sense of belonging, more confidence and feel their existence is more meaningful after being involved with football projects."

The event was organised using the Homeless World Cup tournament structure with teams of ten people, including coach, one manager and eight players, four of them with HIV and four coming from other marginalised groups.

Based in the West Java province, Rumah Cemara uses football as a universal language to overcome local stigma and discrimination towards people living with HIV/AIDS, and engage both HIV-positive and HIVnegative players. They participated to the Homeless World Cup annual event last year in Paris for the first time.

More information about the organisation here: www.rumahcemara.org

www.homelessworldcup.org

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Moments & Memories SANTIAGO BERNABEU OPENS

It was the vision seen through the eyes of Santiago Bernabeu to build Real Madrid into one of the world's best football clubs. As a child her had painted and layd sod in the original stadium.

Years later in 1947 and looking at Estadio de Chamrtin he decided that the club needed a bigger stadium, one that would become a world famous venue and one of the most famous in the world.

Real Madrid opened the doors to the new stadium on December 14, 1947 in a friendly versus OS Belenenses of Portugal.

The stadium was named Estadio de Chamartin and was changed in 1955 to the Santiago Bernabeu to recognize his contributions to the club.

FA FOCUSES ON YOUTH With the FA leading the charge to continue the development of the sport they turned to young players. They introduced the FA Book for Boys and in 1948 played host to the first FIFA Junior Tournament.

Hosting players 18 years old and under teams from England, Belgium, Wales, Northern Ireland, Italy, Austria, Ireland and the Netherlands.

With the final at White Hart Lane, England beat the netherlands 3-2 and won the first ever title.

By 1955 UEFA were in charge of the competition which was opened up to Under 19s and is today reffered to as the UEFA European Under-19 Championship.

1948 Ireland Youth Team

FIRST FA CUP FINAL AFTER WWII With the end of Worl War II allowing life in England to return back to somewhat normal, the country celebrated the return to Wembley Stadium with an FA Cup Final.

The crowds flocked to see Derby County vs Charlton Athletic in a scoreless hard fought match which turned on the 80 th minute through an own goal saw the Rams go ahead. Thankfully for Charlton they equalized and took the game to extra time.

With Derby the better of the two clubs in the added time Jack Stamps set up one goal and scored two as Derby County lifted the FA Cup at the final whistle with a 4-1 final.

DATES IN HISTORY 1953 – The Matthews Final 1953 – The Busby Babes Are Born ● 1953 – Alex James Dies ● 1954– Asian Confederation Formed ● 1954 – adidas introduce screw in studs ● 1954 – UEFA Formed ● 1954 – Battle of Berne ● 1954 – Dynamo Dresden Relocate ● ●

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GRASSROOTS JOURNALIST

Supporting Your Local Team By: Will Estlea

Cheltenham. I loved how close you were to the bench from where I was sitting and you could hear the instructions the manager was yelling and you could see all the emotions on his face.

This season, I went to a funny game for me, Aldershot vs Manchester United. A few years ago I would have longed for Manchester United to win. However, now I longed for Aldershot. United fielded a strong side boasting Vidic, Valencia and Jones to name a few.

Although Aldershot lost 3-0, they held their own for most of the game and had nothing to be ashamed of! After the game I managed to get on the television by cheering into a camera and I also bumped into Jamie Redknapp, capping off a very good evening!

Over the past 3 or 4 years I have fallen in love with my local team, Aldershot Town. Yes, they may not be a high flying Premiership club. They may not have a big capacity stadium. They may not boast well known players. But, I still love them. I love the atmosphere. I love the fight and the desire shown by the players. I love how all fans are friends. I love Aldershot Town.

I grew up thinking I supported Manchester United. They had just signed Wayne Rooney. They boasted many top players. But most of all, they were first in the Barclays Premier League. In all the years I "supported" Manchester United, I only saw them play once and that wasn't even at Old Trafford. That was at the Madeiski Stadium, home of Reading FC. I went to quite a few Reading games as a youngster, but this was only to see opposition such as Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle. I visited old Trafford only once and this was for a charity match. Now, I realize how foolish I was. How could I support a team that played miles away; a team I could never go and see play.

I went to my first Aldershot match with a neighbour. We were in the East bank, where you can only stand. I had never been to a stadium where you could stand! I don't remember much about the game only that Scott Donnely (now at Wycombe on loan from premiership team Swansea) played a blinder. Honestly, I wasn't very impressed.

Why was I watching League 2? I thought nobody cared about League 2! The play was scrappy. There were no big names. When I told people at school, they didn't know a single player!

I reckon it was at least another year before I went to another Aldershot game again. My friend and his dad and his two siblings had been going to Aldershot for a long, long time. However, the older siblings had stopped going, so I started going along with them on their spare season tickets. This time, I was seated.

Unfortunately, I cannot remember anything about the game but I loved it. Wait, now I remember something! I was seated in front of ex Arsenal and Reading midfielder John Halls, who was injured at the time! Since then, I have been hooked. I became an Aldershot Fan. I followed all the results and went to as many games as I could!

They took me to many games and they also took me to my first and only Aldershot away game against

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I am still an Aldershot fan now. Yes it is tough when we hit a bad patch but I kind of enjoy it too. I like seeing the players determined to end the bad spell. I like to see them full with desire. And when we win, well, that’s just brilliant. I was worried when Aldershot sold their two best players (Jermaine McGlashan and Luke Gutteridge) in the last transfer window, but we have coped well and now have an outside chance of reaching the play-offs!

Yes, they may not play in a huge stadium. Yes, they may not be in the Premiership. Yes, they may not have amazing players. But, I love Aldershot Town.

Will Estlea is a 13 year old student who lives in Hook, Hampshire United Kingdom. This aspiring sports journalist is a left back for the Hook United under 14's.

As a supporter of Aldershot Town he lists Ryan Giggs as his favourite player and has had the pleasure of meeting Jamie Redknapp and Shane Warne.

LEAGUE of IRELAND INFLUENCE on PREMIERSHIP EVIDENT By: Sean Snee

Irish soccer at club level has been suffering for many years with famous clubs like Shelbourne F.C and Bohemians F.C moving up and down divisions and in and out of financial difficulty. Despite the league being seemingly unable to compete at any serious level it does seem quite capable of producing quality players able to compete at the highest level in the Premiership.

Many players have crossed the waters and had an impact on English football thanks to their training at grassroots Irish soccer training. Most notably of late is young Sunderland winger James McClean whose impressive performances have taken the premiership by storm since been given his break when Martin O’Neil came in as manager. McClean signed for Sunderland from Derry City for £350,000 when Steve Bruce was in charge however it was noted upon his signing he was for the future. It wasn’t until Martin O’Neil’s first game as manager against Blackburn on 11th December that McClean was given the chance to display his worth by putting in an impressive 2nd half display that helped Sunderland on their way to a 2-1 victory. Since then McClean has put in a string of excellent performances that has cemented him as a first choice on all of O’Neill’s team sheets.

McClean is not the first nor will he be the last player to come from the League of Ireland which would be viewed on a European stage as a relatively low standard of football. It is only this year that an Irish side has managed to progress through the qualifying rounds of a European tournament when Shamrock Rovers beat Partizan Belgrade on aggregate to make it through to the group stages of the Europa League.

Recently Irish football has been improving vastly but the league is losing most of its greatest assets to the Premiership. Another player lost to the Irish league is Norwich’s Wes Hoolahan. Dublin born Hoolahan had a very successful start to his footballing career with Shelbourne, winning three league titles and competing in the Champions League qualifying rounds as well as picking up a PFAI young player of the year award in the 2002-2003 season.

Hoolahan was arguably the most capable young player in Irish football before he was tempted to Scotland to play for Livingston where

he impressed enough to be offered a spell on loan with Blackpool before landing a move to Norwich in June 2008. Hoolahan has helped Norwich’s surge up the divisions from league 1 to a safe position in the Premiership in just 4 years. Hoolahan and McClean are only the latest of a number of players over the years to make their on the Premiership from the League of Ireland and there are more to come.

One of particular note is Manchester United’s Robbie Brady. The young Dubliner is currently on loan and holding down a place at centre mid with Hull in the Championship. Right from a young age when Ferguson first signed Brady from North Dublin schoolboy club St.Kevins he had compared the youngster to Paul Scholes. Now after getting his break at first team football Brady has impressed enough to catch the eye of Ireland soccer manager as an upcoming prospect to be explored after the European Championships this summer. Brady is to return to United after his loan spell at Hull at the end of the season where it is expected that he will enter the United first team set up for the first time where he will have his chance to make his own impression on the Premiership.

Of course there are numerous examples of players over the years that started their footballing careers with League of Ireland clubs. Robbie Keane scorer of over 150 Premiership clubs started playing football with South Dublin club Crumlin United F.C and Roy Keane started out playing in the Irish League with Cobh Ramblers before moving to Nottingham Forest. More recently players who had been impressing in the League of Ireland before making the move to England include Kevin Doyle, Shane Long, Keith Fahey and Seamus Coleman all of whom have been critically acclaimed by fans and soccer pundits alike.

League of Ireland football may not be highest standard footballing league in Ireland but it has produced some of the Premierships greatest players over the years and is currently providing England with some of its hottest prospects. It is likely unless Irish football improves at club level the league will continue to lose its most promising players to English football with hopes of displaying their skills at one of the highest levels in the world.

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Reproduced with kind permission from the SPL and www.scotprem.com

MOTHERWELL ANNOUNCE PROFIT Motherwell made a profit of over half a million pounds to the end of 2010/11 but vice-chairman Derek Weir pictured above with chief executive Leeann Dempster remains cautious.

Weir said "Last year was an exceptional performance period on the pitch which meant we were able to record a very positive outcome financially.

MULGREW MULGREW PLAYER PLAYER

"This enabled us to maintain our commitment to fund the football department at a time of extreme pressure on all clubs. However, our fans, shareholders and members should note that the board position is that we have no room for complacency.

MONTH MONTH

The Fir Park club announced a surplus of £541,663, up from £18,884 in the previous year and operating income was £5.9 million, an increase of 36% on 2009/10.

"While the club is in a strong position relative to many of our competitors, we are subject to the same cost and income pressure as everyone else. The continued balancing of these pressures while maintaining a quality product on the pitch and off is extremely challenging."

"Moreover the retirement of our major shareholder (John Boyle) means that the club cannot rely on his generosity in managing cash flow and potential shortfalls from here on in.

"It is imperative that the club builds its strategic reserve to at least £1.5m and that we keep that target under review.

To achieve this we will need to be successful in the delivery of the Well Society and its associated fundraising."

ofofthe the

Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew has been named Clydesdale Bank Premier League Player of the Month for February after helping Neil Lennon's side to five wins out of five.

The former Aberdeen and Dundee United player netted spectacular strikes against Hibernian and Dunfermline and was part of a Celtic team that didn't concede a single goal during February.

The 26-year-old, who has also had spells at Wolves and Southend, made his Scotland debut in the 1-1 friendly draw in Slovenia at the end of February.

Celtic boss Neil Lennon was voted Manager of the Month for February while Dundee United winger Gary Mackay-Steven scooped the Young Player prize.

RANGERS in ADMINISTRATION Administrators for Rangers held a press conference on February 16 to provide an update on the situation at the Ibrox club.

assure everyone that as part of the process there will be a full account of theclub's financial affairs and this will be published in due course and become a public document.

Paul Clark of Duff & Phelps told the media: "As administrators we have to look at all other expressions of interest in the club and to date we have received several expressions of interest from parties not connected to the club. These will be subject to ongoing discussions and examined in the forthcoming days.

"Looking to the future we are hopeful that a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) can be achieved and these are measures that are put in place and deal with all of the club's liabilities.

"This morning I spoke to Ally McCoist and the playing staff at the club's training at Murray Park. I told them a review of staffing, including playing staff, would be necessary as part of the process and that it would be next week at least prior to any decisions being taken in this area.

"As a result of our preliminary assessment we are wholly confident that Rangers will continue as a football club. We do not think that liquidation and the closure of the club is a likely outcome at all. We need to stabilise the financial position and ensure from now on income exceeds expenditure.

"I'm not going to speculate what this review will entail. I am "We fully understand the 140 years history of Rangers football club and are taking steps to ensure this history will endure." delighted to confirm that we will be making the February payroll obligations in full.

"There has been widespread comment and speculation about the finances of Rangers. At this moment it is not possible to give a detailed financial report but we can

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Financial Fair Play Football and finance have often sat uneasily together. But with some of our clubs under intense financial pressure, it is no surprise that questions about ‘financial fair play’ have once again been raised in the context of Scottish football.

Crucial to an understanding of financial fair play, is an appreciation of why it is vital that clubs live within their means.

This blog is an attempt to set out what is meant by ‘financial fair play’, and why prompt payment of players, the taxman and other member clubs is so important to football as a whole.

‘Financial fair play’ is a phrase that is often trotted out in football circles. It was one of 11 key values presented by UEFA President Michel Platini to the 2009 UEFA Congress. Its stated aim was to “restore well-being to the European club game”.

But what does ‘financial fair play’ really mean? UEFA’s explanation, in 2010, was that the concept would require clubs to balance their books over the medium term, not spend more than they earn, and operate within their financial means.

This is all seen as important for one key reason: because any club that is spending more on players than they can afford, is automatically gaining a sporting advantage over every other club it competes with. Whether the precise system of measurement used by UEFA is perfect is a moot point. But the logic behind the principle however is, I think, broadly sound. And it is this same principle that explains the position of the SPL. To turn a blind eye, to allow clubs to continually fail to make prompt payments as they fall due, would be to allow those clubs to gain an unfair sporting advantage over all those other clubs that pay their players, the taxman and other clubs on time. That is one of the reasons why, whenever the SPL receives a request from players to adjudicate on their contracts, it has a duty to do so.

The fundamental basis of any football league is that all member clubs are treated equally. But, increasingly, leagues across the world are going further. In England, for example, the Football League routinely imposes a player embargo on clubs who fail to pay their players in full and on time. And, in League Two, clubs have accepted limits on the amounts that they can spend, relative to their income.

The whole issue of ‘financial fair play’ will no doubt continue to be developed across the whole of football. In the meantime, it is vital that the Scottish Premier League continue to treat all member clubs even-handedly.

It may put the SPL in the uncomfortable position of having to rule against member clubs in certain instances. Whenever we are requested by professional players to adjudicate on their contracts, for example, we should continue to do so. And, where appropriate, to rule in the players’ favour and to make orders for on-time payment by our member clubs.

The integrity of the entire League – and the long-term interests of all 12 member clubs within it – demands that we do just that.

More widely though, it is important that we keep the whole issue of financial fair play firmly in the spotlight. Improving our rule book and making it less likely that our member clubs end up in financial difficulty in the first place should continue to be a priority. And with this in mind, all 12 SPL member clubs will meet this Monday. On the agenda will be our existing rules on financial fair play and whether our current rule book needs improvement in the face of the financial challenges being faced by several member clubs.

If agreement in principle is reached, this could mean our clubs voting on new, tougher, rules on financial fair play at a general meeting, either in April or July this year. It will be a difficult debate. But it is vital that we do not shy away from these issues or bury our heads in the sand.

It may be uncomfortable to address these thorny problems head-on. But the long-term health and prosperity of Scottish football demands that we do just that.

Neil Doncaster Chief Executive, Scottish Premier League

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Premier League

MIRACLE AT

WHITE HART LANE

The soccer world has been transfixed on the story of Bolton Wanderers's Fabrice Muamba. The shock of seeing such a young and talented player crumple to the ground in the middle of the FA Cup quater-final match at White Hart Lane, the agony of the slow minutes passing while medical staff attended to the player and the eventual calling off of the match.

The entire soccer community praised the decisions of the referee and his crew for making such a difficult but appropriate choice to abandon the match.

Unfortunately this is not the first time that such shocking events have occurred with such young and healthy athletes. Over the years in various professional sports these types of medical emergencies have unfolded, much to the shock of teammates and onlookers. It also unfortunately will not be the last.

When something of this nature takes place it calls people to action, to evaluate and put in place the proper policies to though not prevent these sort of things be as prepared as possible and to allow for the quickest response.

With Fabrice Muamba's collapse and cardiac arrest he received immediate attention, the highest standard of medial attention which saved his life. From on the field through the journey to and eventually at the hospital.

There has been much praise and talk about the dedicated effort across the spectrum of all those who were involved. For the Premier League

For Premier League chief executive, Richard Scudamore he praised those involved while still confirming that prodedures need to be reviewed in order to continue the high standard of medical teams.

The story of Fabrice Muamba and recovery is nothing short miraculous and has gained worldwide attention.

From the moment Muamba fell to the ground through to efforts at the hospital the Bolton player was “clinically dead” for 78 minutes following the cardiac arrest.

Jonathan Tobin who is a Premier League doctor confirmed that following his collapse and in the hour following, 15 defibrillator shocks could not restart the heart of the 23 year old.

“It was 48 minutes when he collapsed to reaching hospital and a further 30 minutes after that. He was, in effect, dead at that time.”

Newspapers and news sources have been reporting that a family friend had reported that when Muamba regained consciousness had asked who won the match. When told that the match 1-1 but was called off Fabrice Muamba asked why play had stopped. His father replied “because of you”.

As the recovery continues, it is still too early to know reasons and the type of recovery is possible. Currently doctors are positive that living a normal life is certainly possible, however there is doubt that the young player of just 23 will ever be able to play again.

VILLA IN HARMONY

Aston Villa have become the second Premier League club to be awarded the Advanced Level of the Equality Standard for its work in promoting sport for underrepresented individuals, groups and communities.

The award is the highest level of achievement from Kick It Out - football's equality and inclusion campaign which works to challenge discrimination, encourage inclusive practices and work for positive change.

Ravinder Masih, Villa's Community Relationship manager and Football Operations/Projects manager Lee Preece have spearheaded the Villa In Harmony initiative, along with fellow committee member Karen Croft.

Masih said: "The club's commitment to the community has always been an integral part of the overall ethos of Aston Villa and this will always be the case.

The Standard has the backing of the Premier League, The Football Association (FA) and the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) and requires every club to look at all areas of operations and to consider the role that equality, diversity and fair access to opportunities will play in these endeavours.

Villa in Harmony is the club’s scheme to work in the community to meet Kick It Out’s objectives, and the club also works in partnership with children's hospice trust Acorns.

Aston Villa Chief Executive Paul Faulkner said: "We are very proud to have achieved this honour from Kick It Out, especially given everything it stands for and how this relates to our core values as a club. We have a commitment to equality and diversity in a very ethnically and culturally diverse community" "Most people will be very aware of the close and longstanding relationship we have with Acorns but we also have a very real commitment to equality and diversity in what is a very ethnically and culturally diverse community.”

"Our Villa in Harmony campaign continues to flourish, extending the positive promotion of our efforts towards encouraging and achieving equality and diversity.

"We are always looking to enhance our efforts within the greater Birmingham area and we are very honoured at the club to have achieved the Equality Standard."

Arsenal are the other Premier League side to have acheived the Standard.

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T E E M By: Jason Hraynyk Lacuna Coil have been on the metal scene for almost fifteen years now and those in the know are aware that this is a band to take notice of. The Italian band has created a following of fans across Europe, South America and are now taking North America by storm through the release of their new disc Dark Adrenaline and their recent spot on the North American GIGANTOUR featuring Volbeat, Motorhead and Megadeth.

Their North American record label Century Media describes the band in their biography with the following “Moving and powerful, mysterious and serpentine, the music of Lacuna Coil has always been somewhat of a mystery to nail down.

Too brawny to be gothic, yet too melodic to be purely metal, the band has carved a path all its own with their unique sound and undeniable songwriting prowess. With the appropriately-titled Dark Adrenaline, the Italian sextet’s sixth full length release, they once again deliver a dozen songs that are tinged with sadness, honed in anger and wielded with a deft touch and a brawny punch.”

We had the pleasure of catching up with the band's co-vocalist Andrea Ferro on a recent local stop on the GIGANTOUR to talk about the band and also their passion for calcio!

TSM: You've got a new album out for 2012 and have just wrapped a number of dates in Europe, UK and North America.

How was the new material been recieved by the audiences?

AF: We've debuted two new songs on the recent tours and the reaction has been great. One of the songs was the first single “Trip The Darkness” and the people are already knowing it due to radio and our Facebook page. So there was no surprise they were singing along. A much bigger surprise was “Kill The Light” a song many never heard but went down really well. Maybe because it's a catchy and has an old school Lacuna Coil Vibe.

TSM: For people who have not yet picked up the album what can expect from the new material, how does it differ from previous Lacuna Coil releases?

AF: The material on “Dark Adrenaline” sounds like a mix of our signature sound with some newer influences. It's really heavy, dark and melodic, it's a mature record. There was a big wave of inspiration and we added a great production to make it sound right for 2012. It sounds really powerful and antehmic from the beginning to end.

TSM: You just wrapped up playing Gigantour across North America How did the tour come about and how did it go?

AF: The shows went really well though we were first band on and played early. It's pretty simple, basically Dave Mustaine (Megadeth) asked us if we wanted to be part of this years Gigantour. It was an offer we simply couldn't refuse. Playing with Volbeat, Motorhead and Megadeth every night. A perfect start for the touring cycle of this album. “Dark Adrenaline” hit the market a couple of days before the tour started so it was just perfect timing.

TSM: Have you ever toured with Megadeth or Motorhead before?

AF: We've toured with Megadeth previously on the Australian leg of Gigantour a few years ago. The line up for that was different with Static X, Devildriver, and Bring Me To The Horizon. It has been a killer experience, a lot of fuin!

TSM: Where are you finding inspiration in music today and who is impressing you in the rock/metal scene?

AF: We've always found inspiration from real life and this hasn't changed, nothing can hit you as hard. The bands that are impressing me are the ones who keep it fresh all the time and that take challenges and risks but to be honest, there aren't many nowadays...

TSM: What new countries are you finding are catching onto Lacuna Coil, are any of them unexpected? Where would you like to play live that you have not been before?

AF: Definitely South America is growing fast, probably because we've started touring there. And definitely, India has been a big positive surprise. I would like to tour more in Asia and get back to Australia.

TSM: Obviously we want to hear about how football (soccer) plays a part in band members lives, which teams are supported by the members. We understand that Cristina is an A.C. Milan supporter.

AF: Everyone! in the band is a hardcore A.C.Milan supporter. The only one in the band who doesn't care much about soccer is our drummer Cristiano Mozzati.

TSM: Having talked with other bands who are passionate about football there are always stories of banter, practical jokes and the rivalry of supporting different teams. Do the band members have any good stories? How do rival derbies go when they happen amongst the band members?

AF: As I say we're all for A.C. Milan, so there is no inner rivalry in the band. A good story from our second “Ozzfest Tour” in summer of 2006. The World Cup was on and we had satellite TV on our tourbus to watch all of the games of our national team (Italy).

Every time the game was on we had friends from different bands (including System of a Down, Dragonforce, Disturbed) coming over to watch with us. When we won the final we played the show wearing the Italian soccer jersey on. We were going around screaming and going crazy, but we were in San Diego and people looked at us all confussed because they don't really care about soccer!

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TSM: Lacuna Coil had football jerseys for earlier tours for fans to purchase, is that something you will do again? Can we expect to ever see a full Team Lacuna Coil hit the pitch?

AF: Yes, we should do them again. We recently did some soccer style scarves. I don't think there will be a full Lacuna Coil team, not feature the band at least!

TSM: Football like music brings people together no matter what language or cultural background. They are both very tribal as has been said in the past. What are your thoughts on that comparison and what is it about both music and football that bring out so much passion in people?

TSM: Does anyone in the band play. What kind of playing history do the band members have (school, rep team etc).

AF: All of us (except Cristina) used to play in school or in our youth with friends but nobody ever did it at a very high level.

Now if we can sometimes we play for fun but very rarely.

TSM: What are the expectations for Italy in Euro 2012 Italy's group finds Croatia, Ireland and World Champions Spain in the group.

AF: The team is solid. There are not many top players but I have good vibes for the Cup. The group Italy are in is tough. We have a great coach who in my opinion, has been able to shape the team up. Fingers crossed!

TSM: The festival atmosphere during a Euro and World Cup is always incredible from the fans right through the bands, does Lacuna Coil have any fond memories from past festivals during important tournaments?

AF: Yeah, we've played a big festival in Italy during a Euro Cup and Italy was playing the same day so everything stopped for the match. They projected the match on a big screen on stage.

We won the match and then Mettalica played their show. What a perfect night!

TSM: Do band members get to many live matches, and are you able to get to match while touring and perhaps introduce yourself to other teams and leagues in the various cities you visit?

AF: I used to go to a few matched every season, but not that many anymore. I like to watch games on TV. On tour we need to be reallt lucky to be in the city at the right time and find some tickets for the match. It's easier for us to take some stadium tours, especially in the UK. Recently we've been to Newcastle's stadium. During the recording session for 'Comalies' we went to a Borussia Dortmund game in Germany with our producer Waldemar Sorychta.

TSM: Have members of the band ever participated in some of the charity matches which take place?

I played a few chairty games as a midfielder for the “National Artists Team” and the “Rezophonic Team”. The cool thing is that sometimes we've played against “Old Glories” and in really nice stdiums including San Siro in Milan.

AF: I think that if you livethem in full they're both a lifestyle. It's not just a passion. It's something that if you feel deeply. As a kid I grew up breathing soccer. In my neighbourhood everybody was an A.C. Supporter and we were allpart of the fans club. I also like and practice other sports like martial arts and skateboard. Those are also very much a lifestyle.

TSM: What football players are big supporters of the band and who have you been able to meet or have come out to Lacuna Coil shows?

AF: I don't think we can consider them fans of our band, but once we had the chance to play as part of an event infront of all the A.C. Milan players. Hopefully some of them liked the show!

TSM: Following the Gigantour what will the rest of 2012 see for the band in terms of tours, schedules and time off?

AF: We are doing a headlining tour of North America and then will go to South America with Lamb of God and Hatebreed. In the summer we'll be all over Europe for the festivals. Once the fall comes we'll probably have the headliner European run and then some shows in other territories. Hopefully we won't have much time off.

After watching the band tearing through a high energy set and the quality of 'Dark Adrenaline', one thing is for certain. You're missing something special if you let Lacuna Coil pass you by.

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Total Soccer Magazine

ROBERT PIRES – International Star Joins Grassroot Soccer as Ambassador Robert Pirès, a major star in the soccer world, has signed on as an Ambassador for Grassroot Soccer, an international non-profit that uses the power of soccer to save lives by preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS among youth in Africa. Grassroot Soccer (GRS) envisions a world mobilized through soccer to create and AIDS-free generation.

GRS Ambassadors Robert Pirès, Walid Bouzid, and Bacary Sagna

“I am very excited to join the Grassroot Soccer team. For me, soccer has always been a way I can express myself. Grassroot Soccer uses the language and beauty of the game to break down barriers, build trust, and educate young people to adopt healthy behaviors. Soccer becomes part of the solution,” said Pirès.

“Another thing that stands out to me about Grassroot Soccer is the way messages are delivered by role models who the kids can relate to. Growing up, my father was a powerful role model for me – I have great memories of riding on the bus with him to watch him play; I understand how important this is for young people.”

Founded in Zimbabwe in 2002 and now active throughout southern Africa, Grassroot Soccer trains local role models – soccer players, teachers, community leaders- to deliver an interactive AIDS prevention and life skills curriculum to at-risk youth. Over 470,000 young people have gone through the program. By World Cup 2014, GRS will educate 1 million young people about AIDS and how to live healthy, productive lives.

Since his professional debut in 1993, Pirès has been a strong presence on the international soccer scene. He was a standout player for the French National Team, helping them to victory in the 1998 FIFA World Cup. During his time at Arsenal in the Barclays Premier League, he won three FA Cups and two League titles, including the club’s famous unbeaten season of 2003-2004.

He has also played for Spanish side Villareal and Barclays Premier League club Aston Villa.

Pirès also noted: “During my time as a professional player, I have learned so much from my teammates with African ties about both the challenges and opportunities facing Africa. When my good friend Bacary Sagna became a GRS Ambassador, I wanted to learn more about the organization, and it proved to be a perfect fit. ”

www.grassrootsoccer.org

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GETTING TO KNOW: JASON PENDLETON The NSCAA is the largest soccer coaches' organization in the world, serving more than 30,000 members worldwide. We encourage you to get to know the NSCAA National Office and Coaching Academy staff through our ongoing "Getting to Know" (Q&A) series.

Jason Pendleton is the NSCAA State Director for Kansas and an associate national staff coach. He also instructs the High School Diploma and National Diploma courses.

Pendleton recently wrapped up his 17th season as a high school head coach and his 2nd at Blue Valley Southwest High School. He has had a very successful career thus far with the Timberwolves.

NSCAA Associate National Staff

Pendleton began his coaching career in his hometown of Bakersfield, California at Stockdale High School. He then started the soccer program at Wyandotte High School in Kansas City, KS. Immediately before coaching at BVSW he was the head boys and girls coach at Free State High School in Lawrence, KS for 11 years including three time Sunflower League Coach of the Year. Coach Pendleton was also awarded the 2006 Kansas History Teacher of the Year by the Golder Lehrman Institute of American History.

Favorite course to teach and why.

I enjoy teaching the High School Diploma Course because I feel I have a good understanding of the issues that coaches go through as High School coaches.

Getting to Know... Jason Pendleton

What kind of coach can take an NSCAA course?

Any level of coach can take an NSCAA course that fits his/her specific needs. The only pre-requisite to having a positive experience is a willingness to learn.

I’m a Coach Because…

I love to teach. I enjoy the moments when players “get it” and then gain confidence and feel empowered with a new understanding of a technique or something tactical.

How I got involved with the NSCAA. I originally took the National Diploma Course to become a better high school coach to help my team and I became enamored with what I learned and the willingness of the NSCAA to help me and others get better.

What should a candidate expect at an NSCAA Coaching Academy?

A challenging, albeit welcoming atmosphere where the Academy Staff's sole mission is to try to help every candidate get better as a coach.

What do you like about NSCAA courses?

I greatly enjoy getting to know the candidates and seeing them grow as coaches over the span of a course. Additionally the opportunity to learn from some fantastic National Staff coach is an added bonus.

My full-time job is...

I teach US History at Blue Valley Southwest High School in Overland Park, Kan. I am also the Head boys and girls soccer coach there.

WWW.NSCAA.COM Total Soccer Magazine

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TOURNAMENTS & CAMPS GUIDE Train as champions train. Whether you are looking to earn a college scholarship, make your state program, earn a place on your club team, or simply ensure your spot on your varsity team, the official FC Barcelona elite soccer program will help you reach your full potential and achieve your goals. Training is led by official coaches from FC Barcelona Soccer School and consists of 2 sessions per day, 5 days per week.

Hosted at FC Barcelona’s spectacular Ciutat Esportiva (Sport City) training facilities, players will have privileged access to the various on-site artificial pitches and train in the very same place as the FC Barcelona first and reserve teams. The intense program of complete soccer training prepares young players from all over the world for the high demands of competitive club or high school soccer.

Specialized training and individual attention with one coach for every 10 players maximizes the progression of each player during the 2-week program. Coaches are overseen by experienced technical directors and work closely on all aspects of your game: technical, tactical, physical, and psychological.

www.fcbsoccercamps.com

Stay on Top of Your Game with SPIRE’s Summer Sports Camps!

SPIRE offers coed, summer boarding and day camps for the novice to elite level athlete ages 10-19 in Swimming, Soccer, Volleyball, Track & Field and Basketball. All SPIRE camps parallel the boarding Academy program, and focus on technical, tactical, physical and mental aspects of the sport for the optimal performance edge.

Specialty camps range from day camp training sessions (non boarding), to weekly boarding camps.

All facilities are Olympic grade. You will receive individual attention, including in-depth instruction by some of the leading coaches in the United States, and performance training with Michael Johnson Performance (MJP) designed to improve sport specific agility and power.

SPIRE campers also engage in nutritional, goal-setting and leadership presentations. Our most important goal is to provide the very best in individual instruction and evaluation, camper experience and safety/supervision.

We’ll help you transform into the athlete you never thought possible.

www.spireinstitute.org Total Soccer Magazine

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The TeamFirst Soccer Academy seeks to provide young girls and women a first class opportunity to develop as an individual player within the context of playing a sport that requires a disciplined unit to perform unselfishly. It is our goal to encourage players to respect the integrity of the game while we continue to nurture their love for soccer.

Come train with Mia, Tish and Kristine and let them teach you the fun and successful TeamFirst style of play.

Farmers Branch, TX June 8 – 10 Toledo, OH July 16 – 18 Glen Allen, VA July 19 – 21

www.teamfirstsocceracademy.com

Challenges in sport. Social experieinces. Cultural enrichment.

Dana Cup has it all.

Over the last 30 years, more than half a million participants from 100 nations have made Dana Cup known all around the world.

Denmark's largest sporting event and one of the largest youth soccer tournaments is a well oiled organization that looks forward to welcoming you and your team here to Hjǿrring.

Dana Cup has a unique international atmosphere and at the same time takes place in a secure area, one of the most beautiful in Denmark.

From the moment that you arrive with the ferry, plane or train and until you depart again, Dana Cup's special transport system assists you easily and on time.

Challenges and experiences in a unique setting.

That is Dana Cup.

www.danacup.com

The PSG Soccer Camp is a unique experience for boys aged from 10 to 17 that combines an outstanding soccer training program organized by PSG professional coaches, cultural and entertaining activities including an exciting discovery of the magical city of Paris and an initiation to French language (free option), thanks to a stimulating tuition program.

Founded in 1970, Paris Saint-Germain FC is one of the most prestigious and popular soccer clubs in France.

In only 40 years, PSG have won many trophies including one European cup, Two French Championships, eight French National Cups and three League Cups.

Date: July 8- July 21, 2012 Location: France National Sport Center in Marcoussis (20 miles from Paris) E-mail: psgacademy@psg.fr

www.psg.fr

Soccer in the Sand is very excited to announce our 2012 Nationwide Beach Soccer Series schedule! The new year looks to be even better then '11 as we have added a couple of very cool locations to our tour. We are also proud to kick off 2012 with two of the BIGGEST power houses in all of soccer as we have joined both the Nike and Eurosport families! Soccer in the Sand gear will now feature the Swoosh.

The closing to 2011 was very exciting as Soccer in the Sand along with MBS and USL featured the first ever Men’s and Women’s Beach Soccer National Championships that were held in Clearwater Florida. Along with being the Tournament Director, Soccer in the Sand founder, Chris Lemay also fielded a Women’s team that ended up as Finalists.

The championship game was exciting but unfortunately team SITS ended up losing 4-3 in overtime. On the Men’s side Soccer in the Sand qualified 4 teams that represented SITS in the National finals. All SITS qualifying teams did well and the Spartans from Michigan were men’s finalist.

Along with the National Championships, FIFA conducted its first ever Beach Soccer course in the United States.

SITS Director Chris Lemay earned his certificate and is now 1 of 24 people in the US that has been certified by the Federation International Football Association.

www.soccerinthesand.com

The Gotha Cup was arranged for the first time in 1975 and today it is, not only the biggest and most well known youth tournaments in the world.

The Gothia Cup is meant to be a meeting place for youth from all over the world.

Soccer is the common denominator and the language that everyone understands.

Regardless if you come to win the tournament or just have fun playing, it is the mixture of teams and participants from all over the world that makes the Gothia Cup an absolutely unique tournament.

July 15 – 21, 2012 Gothenburg, Sweden

www.gothiacup.se

Power Soccer Camps have been a well established program located in Ontario Canada for a number of years.

From Rep Advanced, and Intermediate ability levels right through to grassroots beginner groups. Power Soccer puts empahsis on all aspects of the game from individual ball skills including control, passing, shooting, positional sense, movement with and without the ball, and defending.

In addition Power Soccer offers tactical sessions, exercises to help develop strength, agility, mobility. Our speed training program, small sided games and even specialized goalkeeper training.

Power Soccer offers 30 hours of age appropriate instruction with licensed Power Soccer Coahces to help develop confident players with a postive attitude.

www.powersoccer.ca

"OnlineSoccerAcademy.com was founded by former pro soccer player Jared Montz.

They make better soccer players through easy to learn from, free online training videos.

Their mission is to teach players that if they Believe in it速 and back that up with hard work anything in life is possible. It's free!

Sign up today.

www.OnlineSoccerAcademy.com

2012 marks the 22nd year that the HandsOnSoccer staff directed by Otto Orf will provide players of every age and skill level with a memorable and action packed week of playing, learning and growing with the world's most popular game.

Otto Orf, former Cleveland Crunch/Force and U.S. National Team goalkeeper is a 21 year professional soccer veteran. Otto is one of the most recognizable players in the history of professional indoor soccer and helped lead Cleveland to three national titles and the U.S. National Team to the CONCACAF Gold Medal in 1996.

Placing an emphasis on the fundamentals and adding demonstrations, drills and games to put those skills to the test every player will be positively affected by the curriculum and first class HOS staff of pro players, internationals and college standouts during their week long camp experience.

www.handsonsoccer.com

FC Dallas has the highest rated U.S. Soccer Development Academy in the nation, and has ignited the careers of six MLS players including the first American-born FIFA U-17 World Cup Champion, Richard Sanchez.

As the first step in identifying potential players for the FC Dallas Academy and ECNL, the FC Dallas School of Excellence Soccer Camps are designed to maximize the potential of all aspiring young players.

There is no better way to develop elite-level players than by training alongside the professionals on the world class facilities at FC Dallas Stadium in Frisco, Texas.

Our exclusive training curriculum, known as the FCD Way has been designed by the FC Dallas Professional Coaching Staff and includes sessions from Head Coach Schellas Hyndman.

FC Dallas is committed to changing the landscape of US soccer by developing, training and producing technically proficient and tactically sound players. Our soccer camps have been attended by players from all over the USA and several international countries, with players going on to play at the State, Regional and Collegiate Levels. We offer residential and commuter programs for throughout the summer.

www.fcdallas.com/youth/camps

Since 2003 Soccer Resort has organized competitive and recreational adult soccer tournaments from Iceland to Las Vegas, and New York, to Boston, California, Miami South Beach, Hawaii, Costa Rica San Diego, San Francisco, Dublin, London, Hawaii and many more locations.

Our adult soccer travel weekends are for amateur adult soccer teams - with divisions for Open, Over 30, Over 40 and Masters (Men's, Women's and Coed soccer tournaments). We've been around since 2002, and you can be sure, if we didn't know how to show people a good time, we wouldn't still be here!

We are called the Soccer Resort, because we put a high emphasis on great hotels, and excellent quality soccer fields. Nowadays, many of our locations are either luscious Bermuda grass or state of the art, high expense, field turf. Soccer Resort winning teams and runners-up get $1000's of discounts and credits to make your future travel trips with The Soccer Resort even cheaper!

www.soccerresort.com

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at WALT DISNEY WORLD Resort in Florida and MSA have once again partnered up to bring you the 2 nd Disney Soccer Academy!

This is an incredible opportunity for players all across North America to be coached by 5 English Premier League Stars in the same week at the World-Class fields at the beautiful WALT DISNEY WORLD Resort in Florida!

The 2012 Disney Soccer Academy will be held June18th-June 21rd and June 25th-June 28th and will feature once again this year Craig Bellamy (Liverpool, Manchester City, Celtic, Blackburn Rovers), and Paul Robinson (England, Tottenham, Blackburn Rovers).

2012 also welcomes Aaron Hughes ( The Disney Soccer Academy – Superstar Edition features: - Dynamic camp curriculum for ages 6-18 - High energy licensed coaches from around the world - Age-appropriate coaching - Focus on technical development and small sided games To register online for this amazing camp experience, please visit.

www.midwestsoccer.net

DTP Residential Camps What separates our Academy from other residential camps is our consistent quality of soccer instruction available at each academy location. Our motto “Simply the best in soccer education” is well deserved. Passion to excel is the difference between mediocrity and greatness and passion is what our coaching staff has. The staff's passion and love for the “beautiful game” significantly enhances player satisfaction and enjoyment. Our curriculum and training methodology is outstanding - this is why we have a high percentage of our players coming back year after year. Our objective is to help all participants achieve their personal goals and to be the best in soccer education.

The basis of our method is the DUTCH VISION of soccer training, which focuses on the integration of technical and tactical training. Our coaching objective is to teach players tactical maturity, the ability to read the game by assessing situations, choosing the correct course of action and then executing the action.

www.midwestsoccer.net

Golden Goal Sports Complex, a 200 acre sport facility, provides a majestic setting for outdoor field sports including soccer, lacrosse and field hockey. Located just minutes away from the resort town of Lake George, this spacious and versatile complex consists of eight fields. Four lighted turf fields and four professionally maintained irrigated grass playing surfaces, with eight additional fields just minutes away. Multiple events can be organized on the fields simultaneously, or all may be combined for the same tournament. The centraly located championship field has seating for more than 500.

The fields are organized in a circle around the dramatic 'Tournament Central', where players and families can gather for refreshments and information.

A World Class Sports Venue, featuring: • 4-lighted state-of-the art turf fields – allowing for continuous play regardless of weather conditions • 4 finely manicured grass fields • Olympic style Athletes Village – 36 team cabins on site – all players stay with their team in the residential cabins • Concession stand, retail store and bathroom facilities • 24-hour medical and security facility on site.

Please check our events listing for upcoming camp and tournament dates

www.goldengoalpark.com

Milan Junior Camps are the official vacations of AC Milan, where soccer and entertainment become the main protagonists. The Milan Junior Camps are organized in different locations not only in Italy but all around the world.

Registrations are open to all boys and girls from ages 6 to 17 years old.

Going to a Milan Junior Camp means to live a vacation that will guarantee sports, a healthy environment, security, entertainment and education, all at the same time. All these ingredients are put together in order to teach high quality soccer.

Regarding sport camps dedicated to young people, AC Milan is the leading A series team among all clubs in Italy, with over 10 years of experience in this field.

www.milanjuniorcamp.com

BUNDESLIGA Reports Reproduced with Permission and Courtesy of Bundesliga

MOURNING the LOSS Messy times in the Of TIMO KONIETZKA Cathedral City Robin Schmidt

Friedhelm "Timo" Konietzka, the scorer of the first-ever goal in the Bundesliga in 1963, has passed away at the age of 73. Konietzka spent the majority of his career with Borussia Dortmund during the 1960s and also returned to the club as a head coach in 1984.

Konietzka died in his adopted Swiss home after a lengthy battle with cancer. He had most recently been running the "Gasthaus Ochsen" with his wife in the town of Brunnen on Lake Lucerne. The nine-time German international turned out 100 times all-told for BVB and TSV 1860 München, scoring 72 goals.

First home win in 2012 At the full-time whistle the Norwegian sprinted down the pitch with his fists pumping as he let his emotions run wild in front of Köln's home supporters. "We all felt like a huge weight had been lifted off of our hearts. And apparently our coach did too," stated goalkeeper Michael Rensing after his side's first home win since 10th December the previous year.

League Association president Dr. Reinhard Rauball said, "The Bundesliga is mourning the loss of Timo Konietzka. Having scored the first-ever Bundesliga goal, he will live long in the memories of fans in Germany, even though the moment was not captured on film. His sense of humour, guile on the pitch and straightforward approach to life made hm a much-loved member of our football community. Even after moving to Switzerland, he regularly kept in touch with his former teammates and clubs in Germany, where he was always a welcome guest."

"I'm happy for our fans that we were finally able to win again at home," declared man-of-the-match Christian Clemens, who scored what turned out to be the winning goal in the 36th minute. After netting his fifth goal of the season, the midfielder ran to the sidelines before jumping into the arms of his head coach.

Solbakken has kept faith in him, even if he's been playing poorly in the meantime said the 20-year-old when asked to explain his celebration.

Historic goal

No luck in front of goal for Novakovic

The inaugural Bundesliga season kicked off on August 24th 1963. SV Werder Bremen were hosting German champions Borussia Dortmund at the Weserstadion, and a good few of the 32,000 fans in attendance had probably not even settled down for the start when the opening goal of the game was scored. After all of 58 seconds, Konietzka had put Dortmund 1-0 in front, a goal that came too fast for both the television cameras and the pitch-side photographers, who had all positioned themselves behind BVB's goal.

Solbakken didn't shy away from classifying the encounter as a "sixpointer" and his charges were more than aware of the importance of the fixture. "In the first half we put in one of our best performances all season. We talked through a lot of things during the week and tweaked a few of our tactics accordingly," explained Sascha Riether. Köln were more man-oriented and put Berlin under a considerable amount of pressure. The only drawback: "We should have put the game to bed before half-time," complained Christian Eichner.

"Kick-off. Frank Brungs initially took control of possession before spreading a pass out wide on the left to Emma [Lothar Emmerich] who played a flat cross into the box. I picked up the ball inbetween the six-yard box and the penalty spot and struck it low into the corner with my right foot." Such was Konietzka's own recollection of the moment decades later, interviewed as he turned 70. As to reliving the moment on film, "I've tried everything, but there are no TV recordings. Only myself and the fans inside the stadium that day will be able to remember it."

Impressive trophy collection A title winner with Dortmund in 1963, the last season before the establishment of a national league, and 1860 München in 1966, Konietzka finished second on the scoring chart three years in a row from 1962 to1965, behind Rudi Brunnenmeier, Uwe Seeler and Lothar Emmerich respectively. In his nine appearances for Germany, he scored three goals.

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March 10 saw the club announced that they had mutually agreed to part ways with sporting director Volker Finke. "There have been several discussions between representatives of the 1. FC Köln shareholders' commitee and Volker Finke regarding the decision to set a new course for the footballing aspect of the club. Due to differences in opinion relating to these discussions both parties have mutally agreed to part ways with immediate effect," explained club president Werner Wolf, who went on to talk about a "great victory" for Köln in terms of morale and their league positions.

The importance of that win was clear to see given the reaction of head coach Stale Solbakken.

Konietzka moved to Switzerland with wife Claudia while still a player as he settled down in Brunnen on Lake Lucerne. With FC Zürich, he embarked on a new challenge as a coach - a path that also saw him return to the Bundesliga with stints at Bayer Uerdingen and, fittingly, in the mid-1980s, Borussia Dortmund.

Total Soccer Magazine

Milivoje Novakovic was the main culprit when it came to squandering golden opportunities as his luck failed him in front of goal. Two wide-open headers flew wide of the target, while the other two aerial attempts were well saved by Hertha keeper Thomas Kraft.

Fortunately for Köln their profligacy went un-punished by Berlin as they threw everything they could into battling for the ball. The aggressive approach didn't necessarily have the desired effect throughout though as Mato Jajalo picked up a straight red card just six minutes after coming on as a second-half substitute. The heated nature of the encounter also saw Hertha captain Levan Kobiashvili and Lukas Podolski sent-off, but despite only having nine men on the pitch Köln's persistence ultimately paid off.

"We have to build on this result" Based on the amount of chances they created few would argue that Köln didn't deserve to win. However Solbakken's side are still only five points clear of the drop zone. Sascha Riether is hoping that the "three points" will provide a "boost going into the upcoming games" after Köln went their previous four matches without a win.

Spieler-Profil (Player Profile)

Dorge Kouemaha 1FC Kaiserslautern Date of Birth: 28.06.1983 Country: Cameroon Height: 188 cm Weight: 86 kg Position: Striker Shirt number: 30 Dorge Kouemaha has made himself a name to be reckoned with in the Bundesliga in recent weeks, bagging vital goals for a steadily-improving 1. FC Kaiserslautern and regaining his place in the Cameroon team.

Roots Dorge Rostand Kouemaha was born on June 28th 1983 in Bafang, a town of some 60,000 inhabitants in western Cameroon. He was a late starter in footballing terms, only joining his first club at 14 - not much younger than the age at which many African talents are already attracting the interest of top-flight clubs in Europe.

Early Days After learning the basic tools of his future trade at Lumiere de Banka and Diap Banja, Kouemaha signed his first professional contract with First Division outfit Victoria United de Limbe in 2004. The 21-year-old newcomer wasted no time making his mark, rattling in 16 goals in his first season to finish as league top scorer. He was also voted Cameroon's Young Player of the Year, although none of it was enough to prevent Victoria United being relegated Lion King Kouemaha marked his first season at Club Brugge in the Jupiler Pro League with 13 goals for the traditional Belgian powerhouse. He swiftly established himself as a crowd favourite, and the fans soon had a Facebook page up and running, dedicated to their very own "Lion King". The nickname referred to his bountiful mane of hair. Nowadays, the 28-yearold goalgetter prefers an altogether shorter cut.

In For Nemec "The Bundesliga was always a dream for me, and now it's come true", Kouemaha beamed after putting pen to paper on his move to Kaiserslautern in July. In fact, the signing only came about as a result of striker Adam Nemec breaking his collarbone when he fell out of a cherry tree in his garden, just days after the start of pre-season training. With the bustling Slovakian frontman sidelined for months, FCK urgently required a replacement in a similar mould - and Kouemaha filled the job description perfectly.

World Cup Dream His recent eye-catching form in the Bundesliga has earned Kouemaha a recall for Cameroon following an extended period on the sidelines. The Indomitable Lions' performance at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where they lost all three of their group stage matches, was, he says, "a big disappointment for our country". And while the team is currently going through a transitional period, the striker is confident that, "If the team can keep playing consistently, we'll make it to the 2014 finals in Brazil."

Model Professional Success has not come easy to Dorge Kouemaha, which may help explain his exemplary professional attitude out on the pitch, where he can always be relied on to give 100 percent.

The married father-of-two, who speaks English and French, is currently working with equal diligence on freshening up the German he learnt during his time at Duisburg, taking lessons twice a week.

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Ligue 1 News

Written and produced by Robert Thompson and Ligue1.com

BAZDAREVIC SHOWN THE DOOR Mécha Bazdarevic has been relieved of his duties as Sochaux coach, the former Lionceaux midfielder paying the price for a disastrous season so far that has seen last season's fifth-placed side win just four matches.

Sochaux president Alexandre Lacombe announced on Tuesday that Bazadarevic, as well as assistant coach Stephane Gili, had been removed from his functions as head coach of Sochaux's first team.

Hély steps in Bazdarevic will be replaced until the end of the season by Eric Hély, who will be assisted by Sochaux's head of recruitment Bernard Genghini, who is also a qualified professional football coach. Hély, a former Sochaux player, has been part of Sochaux's coaching staff since 2003, taking the youth team featuring many of the club's current firstteam stars to Coupe Gambardella glory in 2007 before taking the reins of the reserve team.

Bazdarevic had huge shoes to fill when he stepped into replace Francis Gillot at the reins of Sochaux in the summer, but as a firm fan favourite during his 308-game stint as a player for the club from 1987 to 1996, Bazdarevic returned to Sochaux as something of a prodigal son.

Tough times Very few expected that a side who won through to a Europa League place with a swashbuckling finish to the 2010-11 campaign - who boasted a wealth of young talent including France playmaker Marvin Martin and Algerian international Ryad Boudebouz - would sink so far in the very next season.

With form reminiscent of Bazdarevic's last Ligue 1 club Grenoble, under the Bosnian Les Lionceaux have lost 13 of their 26 league outings, drawing nine and winning just four, with a goal difference of -18. They also failed to make it through the play-offs for a place in the Europa League's group stage and fell at the first hurdle in both the Coupe de la Ligue and Coupe de France.

EL-KHELAIFI

Announces €100m Transfer Budget

PSG have already spent close to €100m on recruitment since Qatari investment company QSI took over the club in the summer, but president Nasser El-Khelaïfi has announced that the big spending isn't over yet.

El-Khelaïfi has big plans for Paris Saint-Germain's future as a footballing force, and this week the club president made it clear that he is prepared to back them up with the astronomic funding required to bring those plans to fruition. €100m more After spending close to €100m on recruitment since taking over the club at the end of last season - snaring players such as Javier Pastore, Jérémy Ménez, Maxwell, Thiago Motta and Alex - the PSG president announced that a war chest of a further €100m will be made available to sporting director Leonardo and coach Carlo Ancelotti to further bolster their starstudded squad this summer.

QSI's first tranche of spending, aimed at taking league-leading PSG to Champions League qualification and the Ligue 1 title, seems to be paying dividends and El-Khelaïfi is under no illusions as the kind of commitment that is needed to turn the club into serious contenders on the European stage.

El-Khelaïfi: 'Spend these sums for five or six years...'

"These numbers are normal spending for a top-tier club," El-Khelaïfi, who is also general director of news network AlJazeera, told Italian sports daily La Gazatta dello Sport. "Our preferred option is to invest heavily and quickly. We'll keep spending these sums over the next five of six years, but then the investments will start to ease off."

Pulling power The announcement of serious commitment to such massive funding will doubtless make waves around the footballing world, and could give more big-name players - like Brazilian pair Alexandre Pato of AC Milan and Kaka of Real Madrid, season-long transfer targets for Leonardo - the assurances about the club's commitment and future that they need to put pen to paper come summer.

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Ligue 1 News

Written and produced by Robert Thompson and Ligue1.com

OL REVEAL

CHINESE PARTNERSHIP Olympique Lyonnais have announced the details of a new partnership agreement with the Chinese Football Association.

In a club statement released on Friday, OL revealed that the agreement will see two Chinese players from the under-16 age group join up with the club's academy in July. They will then spend the whole of next season with OL's under-16 team.

OL youth scouts Florian Maurice and GĂŠrard Bonneau will travel to China this month with the aim of uncovering these two young talents, and will then return at a later date to work alongside the Chinese Football Association (CFA) to help develop specialised coaches.

"This partnership is proof of the esteem in which the OL academy is held worldwide, and is also proof of the club's willingness to discover new horizons," the statement said, adding that the deal is a "continuation of the relationship between the club and the CFA which has existed for several years and strengthens the club's image in China."

GOVOU: 'I'LL BE BACK Evian-Thonon-Gaillard star Sidney Govou underwent a successful left Achilles operation on Monday and the former France wide man has vowed to come back stronger than ever.

The 32-year-old, under contract with Evian until June 2014, is confident he'll be able to make a swift return from the injury sustained against Sochaux last weekend: "This season will go down as an average one for me, with a very average first six months. I'd got myself back up to a decent level. I was playing games and felt good. When I come back I will run through walls for the team. I hope we'll still be in Ligue 1 next year as I want to write a page in the club's history."

Govou, scorer of one goal in 18 Ligue 1 appearances since returning to French football last summer, has a reputation for recovering quickly from injury and knows what will be required of him during his recovery.

"You have to be strong mentally and work very hard" He said: "Three years ago I sustained a similar injury and I was able to come back from it pretty quickly. The speed of the recovery depends on putting the effort in, mentally and physically.

When the cast is taken off, you can hardly walk. One calf is about half the size of the other. You say to yourself you'll never be able to get back. So you have to ally two things: being strong mentally and working very hard."

Govou won seven Ligue 1 titles with Olympique Lyonnais and will be an anxious spectator for the remainder of the season.

Promoted Evian may be tenth in the division, but Pablo Correa's side are not out of the woods yet, with a gap of six points between themselves and 18th-placed Dijon.

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Photo: Ligue1.com

Attendance Nears 300,000 The Major Indoor Soccer League approached the 300,000 mark for total attendance in the 2011-12 season as the Baltimore Blast set a new season-high for single-game attendance on February18 with 9,644 fans packed into 1st Mariner Arena for their contest with longtime rival the Milwaukee Wave.

The MISL has now seen 294,242 fans come through its turnstiles this season with 10 games remaining in the league’s regular season. That’s an increase of more than 95,000 fans from the 2010-11 season, with some of the league’s new franchises faring just as strongly as the league’s established clubs.

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One of the newcomers - the Wichita Wings - saw another sellout in its home finale against the Rochester Lancers this past weekend. The ownership group led by Wink Hartman saw more than 45,000 fans attend games in the team’s first season back in the MISL after reviving a franchise that had lain dormant for 10 years.

The Rochester Lancers have also seen big crowds flock to Blue Cross Arena, and are expecting more this weekend for a pair of games against the Wings as they make their final push for a place in the MISL Eastern Division Finals against the Baltimore Blast. So far the Lancers have seen more than 56,000 fans attend the team’s first 10 games, a number surpassed only by traditional power Baltimore.

On the field, the final playoff place could be decided this weekend as the Lancers battle the Syracuse Silver Knights for the second playoff berth in the Eastern Division. The Lancers can seal the berth with a pair of wins against the Wings, with just one win required if the Silver Knights fall against either the Milwaukee Wave on Wednesday night or Wichita on Saturday.

Elsewhere, MISL fans will get a preview of the MISL Central Division Finals as the Wave head to face the Missouri Comets for a pair of games this weekend at the Independence Events Center on Friday and Sunday. The two teams will meet on Friday, March 9 in Missouri and Sunday, March 11 in Milwaukee for a place in the MISL Championship Series, and the fierce rivalry shared between the two teams is sure to be on display in this precursor to the postseason.

February Players of the Month Named The Major Indoor Soccer League announced its Players of the Month for February on Thursday, with the Baltimore Blast’s Machel Millwood being named the Offensive Player of the Month, the Syracuse Silver Knights’ Nelson Santana being named Defensive Player of the Month and the Missouri Comets’ Danny Waltman being named Goalkeeper of the Month.

Millwood claimed Offensive Player of the Month honors after recording a point in each of the Blast’s five games, finishing the month with 22 points. Millwood, who was named the MISL Player of the Week in Week 16, recorded a pair of hat tricks in the month, including a key six-point performance as Baltimore defeated the Milwaukee Wave 17-13 on February 18 to give the Blast the season series against their rivals.

Santana has played a key role for the Silver Knights throughout the season, and became the MISL’s leading defensive scorer this month with 13 points in five games. Santana’s hat trick against the Rochester Lancers on February 12 helped keep his side alive in the playoff race, and while the Silver Knights fell short after a narrow loss to Milwaukee, Santana showed strong leadership for the first-year franchise.

Waltman is honored after a standout month during which he went 3-1 with a .789 save percentage to help the Comets clinch their place in the playoffs. Waltman had a pair of standout performances in his victories, recording 26 saves against the Rochester Lancers on February 19 and 24 saves against the Milwaukee Wave on February 12, both Comets victories. Waltman leads the league in minutes played, having only sat for one game this season, and is currently tied for the league lead with 13 victories.

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PITCH TEST PELE SPORTS TRINITY 3E UPPER : Synthetic upper Pele Sports has developped called Symbioskin. Specifically developed for the

It i bla it s mi pla vel

Trinity 3E it is a low density, tri-laminate material.

MECHANICS: With the foot’s natural movement being asymetrical, studs were placed in unconventional

spots on the sole plate to simultaneously dissipate force and improve grip. The cleat’s patent pending stud geometry paves the way for a completely new experience of instant ground contact, high velocity release, excellent traction and explosive acceleration.

INSOLE: Lightweight micro-perforated EVA insole.

OUTSOLE: TPU moulded outsole with ergonomically designed stud configuration.

WEIGHT: 158g

Style, Look and Design From the first glance it is easy to tell that the Trinity 3E are light weight, form fitting and comfortable. Comments of “ballet slipper” were often noted when displaying the cleats to players. With simple engraved lines enhanced by the pin stripe and cleat colours these cleats have a classic yet modern look to them.

Comfort Weighing only 158g, it does not take long to get comfortable wearing the Trinity 3E. The developed Symbioskin material shapes easily to the foot and allows for easy breaking in. Very much like the comments made, the skin shapes and molds the foot much like a ballet slipper.

Being a high speed light weight cleat the minmal padding does not cuase concern as the foot feels completely protected and includes a small pad built into the tongue for ball striking. Overall one of the most comfortable cleats on the market.

Overall Performance From the offset there is a minimal adjustment period when running through drills and in game situations. The unique trend setting stud design (5 stud front and 3 stud back) which was designed to offer the highest stability and prevent rolling over is solid. Tested on both turf and grass there is no roll or movement at all. High acceleration from a standing planted position is flawless and when quick steps are required the firm hold does not create any sticking or unstable awkward motions.

On the ball the Symbioskin allows close feel on the ball and the highest control without using grip plate areas which many other boots offer. Passing in both tight situations and long ball passes and crosses were accurate with the close feel on the ball offering what seemed like more control on weight of pass leading to better accuracy. Shooting allowed for powerful accurate shots without the use of power generating materials placed in locations around the boot.

Overview Pele Sports since coming onto the scene continue to produce high quality products which use trend setting technology. Not only do their products look good but the thought process of high performance while offering safety and injury prevention are putting Pele Sports at the top of the industry.

For high speed, high performance boots the Trinity 3E are one of if not the best choices out there on the market today and give the big names a run for their money.

With the big players of the industry continually putting new boots out on the market it is nice to see a company take the time to create a quality product start to finish. Worth looking into if you are on the market for high speed boots

SCORE: 9 out of 10

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Retro Kit Collection

Thanks to the support of Toffs, each issue will bring you history of the game through the beauty of jerseys. Most will include brief trivia facts while others will just allow you to enjoy and admire them. All are available for purchase at www.toffs.com

Republic of Ireland 1986 - 1987 In 1986 Ireland had a new kit and a new manager in what was a milestone year for the FAI. This shirt was worn in Jack Chalrton's first match as manager, and was worn by great players John Aldridge and Paul McGrath. In 1987 Ireland beat Brazil 1-0 wearing this shirt.

Halifax 1973 - 1975

Paris Saint-Germain 82-83 On the 8th August 1978, PSG wore for the first time the new Daniel Hechter designed shirt. The historical colours of the club white, red and blue represented Paris for many years. The first two back to back Coupe de France wins (1982 and 1983) was a record held until 1996 and made the shirt the most famous in all of French football. RTL, which is one of the most popular French radio stations, remained associated with the shirt for many years of PSG’s success.

Newcastle United 83 - 86 Home Shirt

Kettering Town 1976 In a Southern League game against Bath City on 24 January 1976, Kettering became the first British club to play with a sponsor's name printed on their shirts. Four days later, The FA ordered the club to remove the slogan. Shirt sponsorship was eventually legalised within the English game in 1977

Parma 1970s Away

Newcastle United wore this shirt between 1983 and 1986, while the shorts design changed slightly, the classic shirt design remained the same. Kevin Keegan said goodbye in 1984 after 48 goals in 78 appearances for the magpies, he later returned to twice manage the team and is famously dubbed 'King Kev' on Tyneside.

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BOOKS and MEDIA

Squeeky Bum Time

The Wit, Wisdom (and Hairdryer) of Sir Alex Ferguson Compiled by Daniel Taylor Aurum Press He is simultaneously the most admired and feared manager in British football. During almost forty years in the dugout, and over half a century in the professional game, he’s torn up the record books, amassed a treasure trove of silverware, and unleashed the hairdryer – as well as the odd football boot – on countless players, rival managers, referees and journalists.

His temper in the stuff of legend, but amid the sound, the fury and the mind-games lurks one of sport’s greatest wits. So here we present Sir Alex Ferguson: uncompromising, unrivalled and uncut.

On Arsène Wenger: ‘They say he’s an intelligent man, right? Speaks five languages! I’ve got a fifteen-year-old boy from the Ivory Coast who speaks five languages.’

On Dennis Wise: ‘He could start a row in an empty house.'

On referees: ‘Can anyone tell me why they give referees a watch? It’s certainly not for keeping the time.’

On his humble beginnings: ‘People say mine was a poor upbringing. I don't know what they mean. It was tough, but it wasn't bloody poor. We maybe didn't have a TV. We didn't have a car. We didn't even have a phone. But I thought I had everything, and I did: I had a football.’

After the winning the European Cup in 1999: ‘I can’t believe it. I can’t believe it. Football, eh? Bloody hell.’

Aye Ready

Joe Fagan

Paul Smith

Andrew Fagan and Mark Platt

Black & White Publishing

Aurum Press

Hero. A word used and abused in football, but one that can be applied to a particular group of people without fear. For those who served withdistinction in Britain’s armed forces during the brutal conflicts of the twentieth century, there can be no better description, and Rangers Football Club is an institution that has been honoured to play host to a succession of true war heroes.

On 30th May 1984, Joe Fagan made football history – he became the first English manager to win the Treble. It was an unprecedented triumph, the culmination of a twenty-seven year career at the very heart of the Liverpool machine, and the end of a golden age.

Rangers War Heroes

The club’s traditional motto, ‘Aye Ready’, has applied on the pitch for well over a century, but for a generation of Ibrox stars, those wordswere carried onto the battlefields on foreign shores as they fought for their country. Some emerged to once again pull on their football boots, others were less fortunate and paid the ultimate price for their loyalty to the cause.

All will forever be remembered as Rangers heroes.

Aye Ready profiles the stories of a selection of the club's war veterans – their life and times in football, along with the battles they fought in a lasting tribute to a band of men who represented Rangers with distinction.

Reluctant Champion

Unassuming, down-to-earth, and never one to court publicity, little is known about Joe Fagan – a man who played a pivotal part in Liverpool’s domination of the game in the Sixties, Seventies and Eighties, but whose achievements were later obscured by disaster. A Scouser born and bred, he joined the Anfield coaching staff in 1958, after a playing career at Manchester City and years learning his craft in the lower leagues. At the time, Liverpool were in the stranglehold of Second Division mediocrity – but then, a year later, Bill Shankly arrived, and everything changed.

With a knack for nurturing the talents of precocious youngsters, Fagan quickly became part of Shankly’s trusted inner circle. Indeed, not only was Fagan one of the original members of the fabled Boot Room, he is widely credited with its creation. Under Bob Paisley, Fagan was appointed second-in-command. So when Paisley stepped down, the reluctant Fagan was the obvious and only choice to succeed him – and what followed surpassed the dreams of even the most success-spoilt Kopites.

However, just one year after Liverpool’s European triumph in Rome, the death of 39 fans at the Heysel Stadium in Brussels saw the club’s glittering record tarnished by tragedy, and English football exiled from Europe. Fagan had announced his retirement just one hour before – and stepped back into the anonymity he craved.

Now, drawing for the first time on Joe Fagan’s own diaries, as well as a raft of new interviews with players, colleagues and contemporaries, this biography celebrates the record of one of football’s least celebrated greats, and reveals the truth about Liverpool’s golden age.

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Supporters Group

The Midnight Riders were formed in 1995, prior to the creation of the MLS and their eventual kick off.

Our name is taken from the famous "Midnight Ride" of Paul Revere at the beginning of the American Revolutionary war.

Our membership is a diverse one, with members representing all the 6 states of New England and even some located overseas in England, Ireland, and Italy.

We are primarily located in the supporter's section of Gillette stadium, which is collectively known as "The Fort". Within this section on game day you will find us standing, singing, waving flags, raising banners, throwing streamers, and doing all we can to support the team for 90+ minutes.

We are a registered non-profit and often coordinate many off field charitable activities.

One of note from last season was our first ever FIFA video game tournament which raised money for ThinkTaylor.org, Taylor Twellman's new concussion awareness based charity.

We are also proud members of the Independent Supporters Council.

www.midnightriders.com

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Mascot of the Month

MEET

THE CHIVAFIGHTER Age: He is too modest to reveal his exact age, but experts

believe that the ChivaFighter was born in 2005.

Place of Birth: In the hillsides of Guadalajara, Mexico.

Height: 6'2” Weight: 225 Lbs - and every pound is rock hard muscle.

Entry song or theme song:

The ChivaFighters favorite song to listen to before a game is Eye of The Tiger, it always gets him pumped up for home games. Every now then a little Mozart also helps relax the nerves.

Best goal celebration: Anytime Chivas USA puts one in the back of the net against the Galaxy.

Special moves: The ChivaFighter is definitely known to cut up some rug, he is an avid ballroom dancer - but has been known to be an awesome cumbia and hip hop dancer.

Any rivals: COSMO! The LA Galaxy mascot.

Career Highlight: MVP of the Mascots vs ChivaGirls inaugural match in 2008.

Do you travel to away games: Only if the airline is goat friendly and happens to serve fresh organic grass...and cheerios.

Hobbies: An avid rock climber. He is also an elite soccer player, and enjoys working out. He loves going into the community and making kids smile. While he was more of a "MySpace" guy for a long time, he is slowly getting into Twitter.

Reason Behind “Chiva” obviously because he is a goat. As for “Fighter,” the ChivaFighter does not actually get into many fights because his the Name: massive biceps and powerful hooves are so intimidating.

Rather, he embodies the fighting spirit of Chivas USA and eradicates misconceptions so that everyone can have the opportunity to love the sport of soccer as much as he does.

Charities:

Chivas USA Fundacion Chivas de Corazon and any organizations preserving natural grasslands.

Favourite Food:

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Bush's Beans and Nature Valley granola bars.

Songs From the Terraces!

For those who never had the pleasure of experiencing the atmosphere of a soccer match, it is something that will leave a lasting impression for the rest of your life. Over the course of 90 minutes supporters belt out songs and chants creating intimidation to the opposition, support and encouragement for their team and in many cases humour directed at opposing players, and their fans. Even rival stadiums take some stick.

In many cases these fan chants include foul language, but for the most part we will keep things clean in this column. You may find the odd * % ! but only when we truly feel that chant including foul language truly deserves to grace our pages. Happy Singing!

Oh Ville Lumière

Let 'em Come

Oh ville lumière, Sens la chaleur, De notre coeur, Vois-tu notre ferveur, Quand nous marchons près de toi, Dans cette quête, Chasser l'ennemi, Enfin pour que nos couleurs Brillent encore...

Let 'em come, Let 'em come, Let 'em come Let 'em all come down to The Den Let 'em come, Let 'em come, Let 'em come We'll only have to beat 'em again We're the best team in London No, the best team of all Everybody knows us We're called Millwall Let 'em come, Let 'em come, Let 'em come Let 'em all come down to The Den Let 'em all....come down.......TO THE DEEEENNNN

Feel free to contact us with songs you would like to see include in a future addition. editor@totalsoccermagazine.com

FAN FORUM Fill in the fan forum page on the website and you could be in the next issue

a Will Estle Name: ngland E , k o o H n: Locatio n hot Tow s r e ld A : d u p po r t e Te a m S

Favourite Player Of All Time?

Ryan Giggs

First Match You Ever Attended?

Reading vs Coventry, a 2-0 win to Reading. Dave Kitson scored both

What is Your Favourite Stadium and Why?

Anfield – I have no connection to Liverpool but after watching a game at Anfield I can simply say that it is a special stadium. The atmosphere is electric, the fans are brilliant and when everyone sings “You'll Never Walk Alone” I got goosebumps.

Your Best Ever Soccer Moment?

When I scored the winning goal for my team in the cup semi final which took us through to the final. Left foot volley into the top corner!

Favourite Kit / Jersey?

Aldershot Town Home Kit

Who Is On Your Ultimate XI Team? Buffon, Caffu, Maldini, Stam, Roberto Carlos, Zidane, Gerrard, Scholes, Giggs, Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo 2010/2011 Champions League Prediction?

Pelé or Maradona?

FC Barcelona

Maradona - Played in better leagues, more of a character too!

Video Replay For Referees? Referees but the 4th official is allowed a TV so he can tell the referee what he sees! The TV will have different camera angles but it only shows live so he has to make a split second decsion!

Anfield

FOR SH*TS

N' GIGGLES Three fans were bemoaning the fact that their team kept losing and was facing relegation.

"I blame the manager" said the first, "if he would sign new players then we could be a great side" "I blame the players" said the second, "if they made more effort I am sure we would score more goals" "I blame my parents", added the third, " if I'd been born in another town I'd be supporting a decent team!

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