The Vancouver Whitecaps FC have made the first public statement about their interest in former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves. Speaking with the Globe and Mail’s David Ebner, Whitecap co-owner Jeff Mallett said that Hargreaves “knows our interest”, adding that “We’ll make sure, when he makes the decision, that we’re on the option list.
Full details here.
Showing posts with label MLS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MLS. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Monday, July 18, 2011
MLS Announces All-Star Squad
Gameday Roster for AT&T MLS All-Star Game Unveiled
Beckham, Donovan and Henry Highlight Roster of 22 Players from 12 different teams
NEW YORK (Monday, July 18, 2011) – LA Galaxy stars David Beckham and Landon Donovan join New York Red Bulls standout Thierry Henry among the 22 MLS All-Stars confirmed on the gameday roster that will compete against Manchester United in the 2011 AT&T MLS All-Star Game on July 27 at Red Bull Arena (8:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, Galavision, and TSN).
All-Star Head Coach Hans Backe of the Red Bulls selected the roster. Because of the competitive format -- MLS vs. the World -- of the All-Star Game, MLS asked Backe to select from among all available players, and he constructed a dynamic, balanced roster loaded with the League’s top talent. Backe also has seen success against Manchester United, including two wins during the 2007-08 English Premier League season when he was assistant coach at Manchester City under then head coach Sven-Göran Eriksson.
Backe selected all eight of the original fan-voted All-Stars – including AT&T Text Voting winner Matt Besler of Sporting Kansas City – who are available to play on July 27. Kasey Keller (Seattle Sounders FC) and Brek Shea (FC Dallas) are unavailable due to CONCACAF Champions League matches during the week of the All-Star Game. Omar Gonzalez (LA Galaxy) and Rafa Marquez (New York Red Bulls) are unavailable due to injuries.
In addition to 11-time All-Star Donovan, ex-Manchester United midfielder Beckham and World Cup Champion Henry, the roster also features prominent All-Star veterans such as Shalrie Joseph (New England Revolution), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo) and Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake).
Other selections have loads of international experience but are MLS All-Stars for the first time: Mexican icon Omar Bravo (Sporting Kansas City), Colombian national team veteran Faryd Mondragón (Philadelphia Union), U.S. national team left back Heath Pearce (Chivas USA) and speedy Jamaican striker Omar Cummings (Colorado Rapids).
The roster is below, followed by bios of each player, listed in alphabetical order by last name. Players are listed by the position they are most likely to play in the All-Star Game, which is not necessarily the position they play for their respective clubs.
2011 MLS All-Star Gameday Roster
Goalkeeper: Tally Hall (Houston Dynamo), Faryd Mondragón (Philadelphia Union)
Defenders: Corey Ashe (Houston Dynamo), Matt Besler (Sporting Kansas City), Geoff Cameron (Houston Dynamo), Bobby Convey (San Jose Earthquakes), Sean Franklin (LA Galaxy), Jamison Olave (Real Salt Lake), Heath Pearce (Chivas USA), Tim Ream (New York Red Bulls).
Midfielders: Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), David Beckham (LA Galaxy), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Jack Jewsbury (Portland Timbers), Shalrie Joseph (New England Revolution), Nick LaBrocca (Chivas USA)
Forwards: Juan Agudelo (New York Red Bulls), Omar Bravo (Sporting Kansas City), Omar Cummings (Colorado Rapids), Landon Donovan (LA Galaxy), Thierry Henry (New York Red Bulls), Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes)
Inactive All-Stars (Note that another six inactive All-Stars will be chosen via player voting):
Kasey Keller (Seattle Sounders FC), Omar Gonzalez (LA Galaxy), Rafa Marquez (New York Red Bulls), Brek Shea (FC Dallas)
Full-Time Note from Tyler Green: No Whitecaps announced to the roster, which is not much of a surprise with the record the Whitecaps have this season, but more disturbing is the fact that no Canadians were announced to the roster either.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Owen Hargreaves - Fitness Videos
Lots of rumours about Owen Hargreaves coming back to Canada to play in Major League Soccer can be found. We even posted some stories last week. And with Toronto FC signing two more designated players, and having three, it all but rules out TFC being a potential landing spot. So perhaps Vancouver could be the final destination. A lot of people have questioned whether or not he will be able to play in MLS and whether he is even fit enough. Well, he's answered those questions with the brand new Owen Hargreaves fitness videos. If he's not trying to get in shape for another season of soccer, prhaps he has a career in the fitness video industry. Below are some fine examples of his work.
If you can't get enough of the training sessions... you can find more by clicking here. It's his own personal YouTube page.
If you can't get enough of the training sessions... you can find more by clicking here. It's his own personal YouTube page.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Frings and Koevermans sign with TFC
TORONTO FC SIGN TWO DESIGNATED PLAYERS
Toronto FC sign Torsten Frings and Danny Koevermans
Toronto FC announced Wednesday that they have signed German international midfielder Torsten Frings and Dutch international forward Danny Koevermans as Designated Players. Both players, who have each signed multi-year contracts, will begin playing for Toronto FC after July 15 when Major League Soccer’s transfer window opens. As per club policy, financial terms were not disclosed.
"We have added two very important players with significant experience and technical ability,” said Toronto FC Head Coach and Technical Director Aron Winter. “Torsten and Danny will make an immediate impact at our club. Signing Torsten and Danny is a very important step in building a team that our fans are proud to support.”
A native of Würselen, Germany, Frings, 34, has earned 79 caps for Germany in his career and has played in two World Cups including Germany’s run to the 2002 Finals. Frings also was part of Germany’s second place finish at Euro 2008. His club career spans 14 seasons in the German Bundesliga, starting and finishing at Werder Bremen along with Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich. His club career achievements include the Bundesliga title and DFB-Pokal (domestic cup) and the DFB-Ligapokal with Bayern Munich during the 2004-2005 season. At Werder Bremen, Frings was part of the 2007-2008 side that finished second in the Bundesliga and runners up in the 2009 UEFA Cup, and two DFB-Pokal’s and one DFB-Ligapokal.
Koevermans, 32, has spent the past 11 seasons in the Dutch Eredivisie and Eerste Divisie, most recently with PSV Eindhoven. The native of Schiedam, Netherlands, began his professional career in 2000 with Sparta Rotterdam scoring 71 goals in 110 appearances for the club. Following the 2005 campaign, he moved to AZ Alkmaar where he continued his scoring ways collecting 31 goals in 52 appearances. In 2007, he moved to PSV Eindhoven and has spent the past four seasons with the club. Koevermans has earned four caps for the Dutch National Team and scored the winning goal over Luxembourg during a 2008 Euro Cup qualifying match.
“Torsten and Danny are excellent leaders both on-and-off-the-pitch,” said Paul Mariner, Director of Player Development for Toronto FC. “We know our current roster and young Academy players will learn and benefit from their arrival in Toronto.”
Both players will be eligible to play their first match on Wednesday July 20 against FC Dallas.
Torsten Frings #22
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5’11
Weight: 176 pds.
Birthdate: November 22, 1976
Birth Place/Hometown: Würselen, Germany
Nationality: German
Last Club: Werder Bremen
How Acquired: Signed on June 29, 2011
Pronunciation: “Tor-stin Frings”
Danny Koevermans #14
Position: Forward
Height: 6’3
Weight: 170 pds.
Birthdate: November 1, 1978
Birth Place/Hometown: Schiedam, Netherlands
Nationality: Dutch
Last Club: PSV Eindhoven
How Acquired: Signed on June 29, 2011
Pronunciation: “Koo-ver-mens”
Tyler Green says: I like the two DP signings from TFC. In Frings they get a hard working, ball winner and someone who will take up a leadership role. One has to wonder where it leaves Julian de Guzman though as he and Frings play in a similar role. Will he get traded or given a free role on the field or released? It'll be interesting to play out. As for Koevermans, I need to reserve judgement until I see him play. He has scored previously in Holland, but as we have seen with many DP's before him, scoring elsewhere doesn't necessarily mean he'll be able to score in Major League Soccer.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Owen Hargreaves Potential Move to MLS
According to a report in the Daily Mail in the UK , Owen Hargreaves is reportedly being offered a chance to resurrect his career in North America with Toronto FC.
The report indicates that TFC is willing to offer the former Manchester United midfielder a contract and 30 year old is said to be weighing his options.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC have also reportedly shown interest but neither the ‘caps or the Toronto FC have commented publicly.
Newly promoted English Premier League side Queens Park Rangers are also said to be interested in the services of the Calgary born, English international, but in a “if the midfielder will entertain a pay-as-you-play deal.”
If Hargreaves does move to a Canadian MLS side, it could spark controversy with some of the most loyal supporters since Hargreaves decided not to play for Canada
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
Whitecaps FC Training Notes - March 21, 2011
The Vancouver Whitecaps FC were back at training this afternoon as they prepare for the Philadelphia Union on Saturday. The 'Caps called up a few residency players to train with the group today. Those players along with some veterens will head to San Jose for the reserve game match tomorrow. Among the vets going, Joe Cannon will start in goal as he is trying to get back to fitness and will play on the same pitch that he broke his ankle at last season. Cannon speaks about the match tomorrow here. Kevin Harmse is on trial and will get a good look from the Whitecaps as the 'caps look to solidify a few positions and get guys some action. Harmse could potentially be a guy the Whitecaps look at to fill their need at centre back this weekend. Harmse is a versatile player that could fill a number of roles.
With the main squad, the Whitecaps will go against Philly on Saturday without the services of Jay DeMerit and Michael Boxall. DeMerit is with the US National Team while Boxall is headed to play for New Zealand against China. Boxall spoke about his bittersweet call-up here.The 'Caps now have one healthy centre back (Greg Janicki) in the line-up against Philly. They could move Alain Rochat to the middle and slide Blake Wagner onto that left side. Or the Whitecaps could sign Kevin Harmse and sit him at centre back with Janicki. Audio in the on-air folder of head coach Teitur Thordarson, who said they have some decisions to make. Hear Thorardson's comments by clicking here.
The Whitecaps could also be without their starting outside midfielders, Russell Teibert and Davide Chiumiento, both left Saturday's match with right hamstring injuries. Teibert is receiving treatment and will remain with the club for a few days. The 'Caps will decide what is best for him. He could play in the match on Saturday before reporting to Canada's under 20 squad. Chiumiento is also revieving treatment and depending on how he recovers could see action on Saturday aswell.
Injury boost as Shea Salinas, who today said he'll be 100% by weeks end as really wants to play against Philly, the team that put him in the expansion draft. He said he felt let down by the way the Union left him unprotected after telling him they were definitely protecting him. So he wants a little revenge. He could slot in the right side if Chiumiento can't go.
Tomorrow, the 'Caps will hold another training session at Empire Field.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Whitecaps Draw US Under 18 National Squad 2 - 2
The Vancouver Whitecaps drew the Under 18 U.S. National team 2 - 2 this morning following a 1 - 0 loss to Chivas USA on Friday. Conditions for the match were anything but stellar as 40 Mile per hour winds and driving rain hampered play. Head coach Teitur Thordarson knows all about the driving rain and wind from his time in Iceland.
Today's Starting XI
GK - Sylvestre
D (starting L-R) Wagner, Boxall, Duckett, Knight
M (starting L-R) Gashi, Davies, Brovsky, Stewart
F - Salgado, Tan
Bright Spots
The fact that the Whitecaps scored two goals is cause for a bright spot. Long Tan and Brazilian trialist Camilo da Silva Sanvezzo each scored. Tan in the first half of play (when it was dry and cloudy) and da Silva during the rain and wind.
Low Spots
The defense look rough at times (Knight, Boxall, Duckett, Wagner started) on set pieces (where a goal was scored) and on threw balls when speed played a factor. The motivation to start the game (which Teitur alluded to in his comments) was also a low spot. The roster today was built on potential signees and reserve/bench players. Not getting motivated to turn some heads and win a starting role is something of a curiousity to me.
Up Next
The Whitecaps turn their attention back to the MLS tomorrow as they face the LA Galaxy. They will play the Galaxy twice in the next three day. Expect to see Landon Donovan and Juan Pablo Angel get an least a start in those matches. The line-up should look roughly the same as it did yesterday against Chivas. See the potential starters below:
GK - Nolly
D (starting L-R) Rochat, DeMerit, Janicki, Leathers
M (starting L-R) Tiebert, Thorrington, Dunfield, Shea Salinas
F - Harris, Chiumiento
*Cannon should see some action at some point over the next two matches. Whether that's starting on Sunday or Tuesday remains to be seen.
Today's Starting XI
GK - Sylvestre
D (starting L-R) Wagner, Boxall, Duckett, Knight
M (starting L-R) Gashi, Davies, Brovsky, Stewart
F - Salgado, Tan
Bright Spots
The fact that the Whitecaps scored two goals is cause for a bright spot. Long Tan and Brazilian trialist Camilo da Silva Sanvezzo each scored. Tan in the first half of play (when it was dry and cloudy) and da Silva during the rain and wind.
Low Spots
The defense look rough at times (Knight, Boxall, Duckett, Wagner started) on set pieces (where a goal was scored) and on threw balls when speed played a factor. The motivation to start the game (which Teitur alluded to in his comments) was also a low spot. The roster today was built on potential signees and reserve/bench players. Not getting motivated to turn some heads and win a starting role is something of a curiousity to me.
Up Next
The Whitecaps turn their attention back to the MLS tomorrow as they face the LA Galaxy. They will play the Galaxy twice in the next three day. Expect to see Landon Donovan and Juan Pablo Angel get an least a start in those matches. The line-up should look roughly the same as it did yesterday against Chivas. See the potential starters below:
GK - Nolly
D (starting L-R) Rochat, DeMerit, Janicki, Leathers
M (starting L-R) Tiebert, Thorrington, Dunfield, Shea Salinas
F - Harris, Chiumiento
*Cannon should see some action at some point over the next two matches. Whether that's starting on Sunday or Tuesday remains to be seen.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Whitecaps Lose 1 - 0 to Chivas USA in Casa Grande, Arizona
The Whitecaps evened their pre-season record to 2-2 when they lost 1 - 0 to Chivas USA on a late goal from Jesus Padilla. The 'Caps looked dangerous throughout the game with two glorious chances from Russell Tiebert and Brazillian trialist Camilo da Silva Sanvezzo.
The scoreline is indicative of what many fans are worried about during the regular season, losses because of a lack of scoring. It is something that is not lost of head coach Teitur Thordarson. During his post match comments I asked him whether or not he is worried about the lack of finish. You can hear that interview here.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Whitecaps look extremely sharp. They are a loud and boisterous crew on the back led by Jay DeMerit and have veteren experience with Jonathan Leathers and Alain Rochat. Greg Janicki fills out the backline and is coming off a great finish to his 2010 USSF-D2 season. This foursome looks to be a lock as the opening day back-line.
Jay DeMerit started his first match and played his first ever 45 minutes with the 'Caps and thinks that despite the loss, it's still a team progressing to the great goal of being championship material. Hear his comments here.
Greg Janicki played a full 90 minutes despite a cold/sickness and discussed that after the match. Hear the interview with Janicki here.
Terry Dunfield was probably the best Whitecap of the field today making his presence known on both sides of the ball. He spoke about the match here.
Overall, Vancouver looks to be on of the most hard-working teams on the field this season in MLS. Jonathan Leathers and Shea Salinas look good together on the right side of the field. Dunfield is enjoying the challenge of stepping up to the next level and despite being their first match together, Janicki and DeMerit look extremely comfortable together as the centre-backs.
On the negative... of all the good things we have heard and seen from Davide Chiumiento in recent weeks was all for not today. He looked very average and out of place on the field in the loss to Chivas. Atiba Harris did not look like a man that can take the mantle as "the goalscorer" for the 'Caps and for everything that guys like Chiumiento, Harris, Tan and Sanvezzo have done or going for them, goal scoring is still something that isn't happening and that remains the key to the forward position.
Tomorrow, the Whitecaps look to rebound by playing the U.S. U-18 National Team. Omar Salgado will likely start up top. Boxall and Duckett will likely pair on the backline with Wes Knight and Blake Wagner at right and left back with Gershon Koffie, Philippe Davies, Alex Morfaw, Bedri Gashi mixing through the rest of the line-up as Brian Sylvestre will start in net. Start time for that game is 10am in Vancouver, 11am in Phoenix.
So the question remains... who will score the goals for the Vancouver Whitecaps? Who will be in the starting XI? and How come the Whitecaps Adidas blue and white track suits (Which look extremely smart) don't match the Adidas red, white and grey running shoes?
The scoreline is indicative of what many fans are worried about during the regular season, losses because of a lack of scoring. It is something that is not lost of head coach Teitur Thordarson. During his post match comments I asked him whether or not he is worried about the lack of finish. You can hear that interview here.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Whitecaps look extremely sharp. They are a loud and boisterous crew on the back led by Jay DeMerit and have veteren experience with Jonathan Leathers and Alain Rochat. Greg Janicki fills out the backline and is coming off a great finish to his 2010 USSF-D2 season. This foursome looks to be a lock as the opening day back-line.
Jay DeMerit started his first match and played his first ever 45 minutes with the 'Caps and thinks that despite the loss, it's still a team progressing to the great goal of being championship material. Hear his comments here.
Greg Janicki played a full 90 minutes despite a cold/sickness and discussed that after the match. Hear the interview with Janicki here.
Terry Dunfield was probably the best Whitecap of the field today making his presence known on both sides of the ball. He spoke about the match here.
Overall, Vancouver looks to be on of the most hard-working teams on the field this season in MLS. Jonathan Leathers and Shea Salinas look good together on the right side of the field. Dunfield is enjoying the challenge of stepping up to the next level and despite being their first match together, Janicki and DeMerit look extremely comfortable together as the centre-backs.
On the negative... of all the good things we have heard and seen from Davide Chiumiento in recent weeks was all for not today. He looked very average and out of place on the field in the loss to Chivas. Atiba Harris did not look like a man that can take the mantle as "the goalscorer" for the 'Caps and for everything that guys like Chiumiento, Harris, Tan and Sanvezzo have done or going for them, goal scoring is still something that isn't happening and that remains the key to the forward position.
Tomorrow, the Whitecaps look to rebound by playing the U.S. U-18 National Team. Omar Salgado will likely start up top. Boxall and Duckett will likely pair on the backline with Wes Knight and Blake Wagner at right and left back with Gershon Koffie, Philippe Davies, Alex Morfaw, Bedri Gashi mixing through the rest of the line-up as Brian Sylvestre will start in net. Start time for that game is 10am in Vancouver, 11am in Phoenix.
So the question remains... who will score the goals for the Vancouver Whitecaps? Who will be in the starting XI? and How come the Whitecaps Adidas blue and white track suits (Which look extremely smart) don't match the Adidas red, white and grey running shoes?
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Whitecaps FC Week 1 of Training Camp
First up is, what Full-Time believes to be the likely team captain in, Jay DeMerit, who is returning to competiton after 8 months off after his season ended last year in England. Who says he is easing back into training.
Greg Janicki was the defender of the year in USSF-D2 or "League Deuce" in 2010. He is looking to establish himself with the Whitecaps in MLS and says he is feeling good so far in camp.
Another holdover from last season and "League Deuces" Goalkeeper of the Year of 2010, Jay Nolly, says the 1st week of training has been good.
Wes Knight is coming off shoulder surgery in the off-season and thinks that overall, training has gone well for most in camp.
The Whitecaps have also brought in new players, whether through the expansion draft, SuperDraft or Supplementary Draft. Those players are also in camp and for Shea Salinas, it's a nice opportunity to see the construction of BC Place, training at Empire Field and meeting a lot of new faces in camp.
Michael Nanchoff was the 8th overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft and 2nd pick for the Whitecaps. He's coming off a minor injury but is enjoying training and getting to know the city of Vancouver.
Michael Boxall was a supplementary draft player and had no idea he woul be selected by Vancouver, but excited about the chance.
Whitecaps head coach Teitur Thordarson rounds out our audio for the week and says he likes what he's seen so far from the 1st week of training.
The Whitecaps will now spend the next ten days in Arizona before returning to Vancouver, where it is likely that the 'Caps will make some more signings of the current players in camp.
Friday, January 21, 2011
WHITECAPS FC SIGN DEFENDER ALAIN ROCHAT + Interviews
With preseason training set to begin next week, Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced today the signing of Canadian-born defender Alain Rochat to the club's Major League Soccer roster - pending his international transfer certificate. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.
Full-Time producer Corey Basso caught up with Alain Rochat to discuss the new signing. Listen here. Corey also managed to get a few words from coach Teitur Thordarsson on how Alain will fit into the Whitecaps' system. Listen here.
"We're delighted to add Alain to our MLS squad," said Whitecaps FC head coach Teitur Thordarson. "He brings a wealth of experience and has won titles in a top-flight European league and has played in prestigious European club competitions like the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Cup."
Initially acquired from FC Zürich by Whitecaps FC during the 2010 USSF D-2 Pro League season on August 17, the 27-year-old spent the remainder of last year on loan at the Swiss Super League outfit. The 6-foot, 170-pound defender - who can play left fullback as well as centre back - started all 14 appearances during his loan spell with FC Zürich.
"I'm excited by this new challenge to play in North America and in Major League Soccer,” said Rochat. “Vancouver is a beautiful city, and Whitecaps FC have been very welcoming to me and my family, since I made the decision to first sign with the club last summer."
The native of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, first joined FC Zürich on loan during the 2006-07 season from Stade Rennais FC of France’s Ligue 1 before making his move permanent the following season. In four-and-a-half seasons with FC Zürich, Rochat made 154 appearances, scoring nine goals, and recording 10 assists. During this time, Rochat helped FC Zürich to Swiss Super League championship titles during the 2006-07 and 2008-09 campaigns. In the 2009-10 season, Rochat helped FC Zürich reach the group stage of the UEFA Champions League, where they faced Spanish giants Real Madrid, Italian powerhouse AC Milan, and France's Olympique de Marseille in Group C.
Prior to his recent spell with FC Zürich, Rochat joined Stade Rennais FC at the start of the 2005-06 French Ligue 1 season and appeared in 11 matches for the Brittany-based club. From 2001 to 2005, the defender played four seasons with Switzerland's Berner Sport Club (BSC) Young Boys. Rochat started his professional career in 1999 with Yverdon Sport FC, who were then members of the Swiss Super League.
Rochat, who moved from Canada to Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland, when he was two, appeared for Switzerland at the youth international level before making his senior international debut on June 4, 2005, as Switzerland claimed a 3-1 away victory over the Faroe Islands in Group Four of European qualifying for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Full Time Podcast - January 9, 2011
Full Time: Vancouver's Soccer Show has a new podcast up! Listen here!
You can also subscribe to Full Time on iTunes! Subscribe here!
On this jam packed edition of the program:
Tom Soehn, Director of Soccer Operations for the Vancouver Whitecaps joins the boys again. He will be talking about the upcmong Draft Combine in Florida and much more!
Canadian Men's National Coach Stephen Hart also drops in to talk about Teal Bunbury, Junior Hoilett and all things Canada!
Former Canadian Women's National, Vancouver Whitecaps & UCLA player Kara Lang is also on the program to discuss her early retirement due to injury! Details on complete interview here!
You can follow Full Time on Twitter, Facebook & Blogspot!
Full Time: Vancouver's Soccer Show airs every Sunday night. 9p-11p. Only on TEAM 1040 Sports Radio!
On this jam packed edition of the program:
Tom Soehn, Director of Soccer Operations for the Vancouver Whitecaps joins the boys again. He will be talking about the upcmong Draft Combine in Florida and much more!
Canadian Men's National Coach Stephen Hart also drops in to talk about Teal Bunbury, Junior Hoilett and all things Canada!
Former Canadian Women's National, Vancouver Whitecaps & UCLA player Kara Lang is also on the program to discuss her early retirement due to injury! Details on complete interview here!
You can follow Full Time on Twitter, Facebook & Blogspot!
Full Time: Vancouver's Soccer Show airs every Sunday night. 9p-11p. Only on TEAM 1040 Sports Radio!
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Whitecaps FC Confirm MLS Coaching Staff
Vancouver Whitecaps FC continue to shape their inaugural season in Major League Soccer, as the club announced today that Denis Hamlett has joined Teitur Thordarson's coaching staff as one of his assistants - subject to obtaining necessary Canadian work permit. The club also confirmed that assistant coach Colin Miller and goalkeeping coach Mike Salmon will remain part of Thordarson's coaching staff when the club begins play as the 17th MLS team in March. Per club policy, terms of their contracts were not disclosed.
Hamlett, 41, joins Whitecaps FC after serving 12 years in the coaching staff at MLS club Chicago Fire. This included two seasons as head coach of the Illinois-based outfit, with Hamlett leading the Fire to the MLS Eastern Conference Championship Final in 2008 and 2009, as well as the 2009 SuperLiga final. From 1998 to 2007, Hamlett served as Chicago's assistant coach, where he first coached then worked alongside Whitecaps FC director of soccer operations Tom Soehn. As assistant coach, Hamlett helped the Fire claim a memorable double of MLS Cup and Lamar Hunt US Open Cup titles in the club's first year of existence in 1998. He also helped Chicago win further US Open Cup titles in 2000, 2003, and 2006. Prior to arriving in Vancouver, Hamlett coached the men's team at Chicago's Illinois Institute of Technology this past autumn. Hamlett holds a United States Soccer Federation 'A' Coaching License.
Born in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica, the native of Chicago, Illinois, was a college standout at George Mason University before embarking on his professional playing career with Fort Lauderdale Strikers of the old American Professional Soccer League in 1992. A defender, Hamlett also played professional indoor soccer for Harrisburg Heat and Anaheim Splash before finishing his playing career during the inaugural MLS season of 1996 after being selected 12th overall in the league's inaugural draft by Colorado Rapids. His efforts for Colorado that season earned him the BIC Tough Defender of the Year Award.
Miller, 46, played a pivotal role in helping the Whitecaps FC men's team concede a league low 22 goals and set a single-season club record of 18 shutouts during his first season with the Blue and White in 2010. Those coaching efforts, particularly on the defensive side, helped the 'Caps to a second-place finish in the NASL Conference of the United States Soccer Federation Division-2 Professional League (USSF D-2) and a semifinal berth in the playoffs.
Born in Law, Scotland, the former Canadian men's national team captain has over a decade of experience as a professional coach in Canada and the United Kingdom. This included roles with Scotland's Hamilton Academical, England's Derby County FC, and the Canadian men's and women's national teams. More recently, the native of East Vancouver served as head coach with the Abbotsford Soccer Association and United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League outfit Victoria Highlanders FC. Miller’s credentials include a Canadian Soccer Association 'A' License, as well as 'A' and 'B' Coaching Licenses from the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA).
Before embarking on a career in coaching, Miller enjoyed a long and distinguished playing career that spanned two decades in Canada, England, and Scotland.
Salmon, 46, will begin his fourth season with Whitecaps FC in 2011. The native of Leyland, England, was been instrumental in the career development of men's team goalkeeper Jay Nolly. Under Salmon, Nolly was named USSF D-2 Goalkeeper of the Year in 2010 and Whitecaps FC Most Valuable Player in 2009 and 2010. Salmon has also played a key role in the development of the club's keepers in both the first team and the Residency program since 2008.
Before taking on his current role at Whitecaps FC, Salmon served as the academy goalkeeper coach at English Premier League giants Arsenal FC and first-team goalkeeping coach at England's Gillingham FC. As a professional goalkeeper in his native England, Salmon spent over two decades at various league clubs. His most notable spell came with Charlton Athletic FC, where he made close to 150 appearances for The Addicks between 1989 and 1999. Salmon's credentials include an English Football Association Goalkeeping 'A' License and a UEFA 'A' Coaching License.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Sounders FC News & Notes
Sounders FC Brass Bound for MLS Combine
An indication that the new season is just around the corner is the departure later this week of Sounders FC management and technical staff for the 2011 adidas MLS Player Combine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
General manager Adrian Hanauer and technical director Chris Henderson will be joined at the combine by head coach Sigi Schmid and his staff.
The annual player combine will be held at Central Broward Regional Park from January 7-11. The Combine will separate all players into four teams and feature two games per day on January 8, 10 and 11.
Last week, MLS announced the nine-player Generation adidas Class of 2011, plus the signing of four college seniors.
Among the signees are two of the three finalists for the Missouri Athletic Club's Hermann Trophy, the highest individual honor in intercollegiate soccer. Will Bruin of Indiana and Darlington Nagbe from Akron are each members of Generation adidas. The third MAC Hermann finalist is Colin Rolfe from Louisville. The award winner will be announced Friday in St. Louis.
SuperDraft: Four Picks in First Two Rounds
Sounders FC holds four picks in the first two rounds of the 2011 MLS SuperDraft presented by adidas. The SuperDraft will take place at the Baltimore Convention Center on Thursday, January 13 at 9 a.m. PT.
In addition to its 11th overall selection in the first round, Seattle acquired two additional second-round picks via trades last season. It obtained D.C. United's pick (21st overall) in the Stephen King trade and Chicago's choice (27th overall) in the Freddie Ljungberg deal. Sounders FC also has its own pick at Number 29.
"We increased our efforts in scouting and we were able to cover the college game quite thoroughly," said technical director Chris Henderson. "We are pleased with the level of talent coming out and we feel that with the number of picks we have we will find players to contribute to our roster in 2011."
Expansion teams Vancouver and Portland, respectively, hold the first two selections in the 2011 SuperDraft.
Sounders FC Draft History
2009
Rnd/Overall
1/1 Steve Zakuani FWD Akron
2/16 Evan Brown DEF Wake Forest
3/31 Jared Karkas DEF Azusa Pacific
4/46 Mike Fucito MID/FW Harvard
2010
1/11 David Estrada FWD UCLA
2/27 Michael Seamon MID Villanova
3/43 traded to HOU
4/59 Jamel Wallace DEF San Diego State
Sigi Schmid to Receive Walt Chyzowych Lifetime Achievement Award
Sounders FC head coach Sigi Schmid has been chosen to receive the Walt Chyzowych Memorial Fund Lifetime Achievement Award for 2011.
The Walt Chyzowych Memorial Fund, in conjunction with the NSCAA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of National Soccer Coaches Association of America, will make the formal presentation on January 15 in Baltimore, Md., in conjunction with the annual NSCAA Convention.
The Walt Chyzowych Memorial Fund (WCMF) is a foundation intended to honor the memory and legacy of Walt Chyzowych, the former USA National Team and Olympic Coach as well as US Soccer Director of Coaching who passed away suddenly in 1994 while serving as head coach at Wake Forest University.
One of the most recognizable figures in American soccer, Schmid began his coaching career in 1980 as the head coach at his alma mater, UCLA. That began a 19-year collegiate coaching career that culminated with a record of 322-63-33, three NCAA national championships (1985, 1990 and 1997) and NSCAA National Coach of the Year honors in 1997. Scores of Schmid's UCLA players have gone on to play professionally in the U.S. and abroad.
In 1999 Schmid moved into the professional ranks, taking the reins of the Los Angeles Galaxy. He led the Galaxy to championships in the US Open Cup and CONCACAF Champions Cup in 2001 and the 2002 MLS Cup. Later, Schmid led the Columbus Crew to the 2008 MLS Cup, earning MLS Coach of the Year for a second time. In his first two seasons in Seattle, Sounders FC has twice won the US Open Cup and qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs. Schmid enters the 2011 with an MLS record 139 wins.
"From the early days of the US Soccer West Coast Coaching Schools, where I first met and worked with Walt Chyzowych, I was inspired by his leadership, love for the game and confidence in American coaches," Schmid said. "I have endeavored to be a positive role model like Walter. Just as he gave freely of himself to this great sport, I have strived to do the same."
"My hope is that the players and staff with whom I served will join me in sharing our knowledge, the stories, and the subtle nuances that help us all see the beauty of this game and what it can become in America," he added. "I am most pleased, humbled and honored by this award."
"Sigi Schmid is now the active coach with the most MLS wins at 139," stated Ralph Lundy, Executive Director of WCMF. "He has coached in 316 MLS matches and his Seattle Sounders are the first team in 27 years to win back-to-back US Open Cups. He is recognized as a coach who thoroughly prepares his team while also focusing on player development. He is a perfect choice to be recognized for his contributions to the American game in the spirit of one of his mentors, Walt Chyzowych."
Colombia Flood Relief Update
Nearly $30,000 has now been raised for flood relief in Colombia through the efforts of Sounders FC, Mercy Corps, the Emerald City Supporters, Gorilla FC and North End Supporters.
In December, rain and flooding in several Colombian states caused the nation's worst natural disaster in nearly two decades.Mercy Corps is currently providing emergency relief kits, including clean water, food and hygiene materials.
Mercy Corps will continue to accept donations for Colombia relief. For more information visit http://www.mercycorps.org/fundraising/seattlesoundersfc.
U18 Academy to Face Whitecaps on Saturday
The Sounders FC U18 Academy team will start the New Year by playing the Vancouver Whitecaps FC U18 Residency team on Saturday afternoon in Bellingham, Washington. First kick is set for 1 p.m. PT at Whatcom Community College.
The exhibition match will help prepare the Rave Green for a busy USSDA schedule later this month and in February. Both the U16 and U18 academy teams travel to Sacramento to play California Development Academy (CDA) on January 16 before returning home to play Crossfire Premier on January 23 at Lake Washington High School. In all, the Sounders FC teams will play eight league matches (including six on the road) by February 20.
Camps: Finishing School
Online registration is now open for the Sounders FC Finishing School. The five-week course begins January 28 at the Starfire Sports Complex and is designed for youth players (ages 8-14) that want, need and have a passion for finishing the ball in the final third. Registration is $200 and available at SoundersFC.com.
Upcoming Key Dates (times are Pacific & subject to change)
Saturday, January 7-Tuesday, January 11 - adidas MLS Player Combine, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Thursday, January 13, 9 a.m. - 2011 MLS SuperDraft, Baltimore
Sunday, January 16, 1/3:30 p.m. - Sounders FC Academy at California Development Academy, Loomis, Calif.
Saturday, January 29, 9 a.m.-Sunday, January 30 - Sounders FC Open Tryouts, Starfire Sports Complex, Tukwila, Wash.
Tuesday, March 15, 6:30 p.m. - MLS First Kick 2011, Sounders FC vs. L.A. Galaxy, Xbox Pitch at Qwest Field
Saturday, March 19, 4:30 p.m. - Sounders FC at New York Red Bulls, Red Bull Arena, Harrison, NJ
Seattle to Host MLS First Kick 2011
For an unprecedented third year in a row the MLS season will start in Seattle as the Sounders FC will meet the L.A. Galaxy in First Kick 2011. The March 15 match on the Xbox Pitch at Qwest Field will be nationally televised by ESPN. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. PT. MLS First Kick 2011 is presented by Dick's Sporting Goods.
Seattle's first road match is March 19 against the New York Red Bulls in Harrison, New Jersey. First kick is 4:30 p.m. PT. The complete MLS schedule will be released by early February 2011. Each team will play 34 games, facing each team home and away.
The Sounders FC home schedule will include matches with MLS newcomers Portland and Vancouver, plus an international friendly against a soon-to-be-announced opponent. Deposits for 2011 season tickets are currently being accepted. To join, please visit SoundersFC.com or call 877-MLS-GOAL.
Voting Ongoing for Seattle Sports Star of the Year
Fans still have time to cast votes online for Seattle Sports Star of the Year. Sounders FC forward Fredy Montero is one of five finalists selected by the Seattle Sports Commission for Sports Star of the Year. The award is given annually to a professional athlete or coach for outstanding sports achievement in the past year or season. Montero led Sounders FC in nearly every offensive statistical category in 2010, including 10 goals and 10 assists.
The list of nominees includes Swin Cash (Seattle Storm), Tim Lincecum (San Francisco Giants), Lewis Ratcliff (Washington Stealth) and Mike Williams (Seattle Seahawks). Fans can vote for their favorite nominee by visiting SeattleSports.org. Voting runs through January 21, 2011, and individuals can vote up to once a day. Winners will be announced during the show on Wednesday, January 26, 2011, at Benaroya Hall.
Open Tryout Registration
Registration for the Sounders FC Open Tryouts are being accepted online. Tryouts will be conducted on January 29-30 at the Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, Washington. Open tryouts are open to male soccer players ages 18 years and older, and will feature small-sided as well as 11v11 games.Players will be assessed by members of the Sounders FC technical and coaching staffs.
The registration cost for each player is $125. To register, visit www.SoundersFC.com/opentryouts.Space is limited and will be filled on a first come, first serve basis. Registration fees will go directly to the Sounders FC Youth Academy program.
Throw-ins
Seattle Pacific University coach Mark Collings will coach one of the four teams at the MLS Combine. Collings will coach team Jabulani along with Brian Quinn of San Diego SC...Five members of the Generation adidas Class of 2011 come from the University of Akron. The Zips produced three SuperDraft picks in 2010 and in 2009 Sounders FC chose Steve Zakuani of Akron with the first overall selection...The story of Electron Boy was the No. 2 most-read article on The Seattle Times' website in 2010...The Colorado Rapids signed Re-Entry Process selection and former Sounder Tyrone Marshall...Kasey Keller and Zach Scott will be joined by fellow supporters for the inaugural Sounders FC Cruise to the Mexican Riviera. They set sail on January 8 for the 7-day cruise presented by Holland America and AAA Travel...Steve Zakuani's Birthday Bash is at VERA Project in Seattle on January 21. Presented by Zakuani's non-profit organization Kingdom Hope, the event will feature live music and dancing. All proceeds will benefit Kingdom Hope and America SCORES. For more information, visit www.kingdom-hope.org...
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