EDITOR’S NOTE:
WELCOME TO THE NEW FREEKICK DIGITAL We are pleased to present the new edition of CONCACAF’s magazine, FREEKICK. The new FREEKICK offers an innovative platform that allows our fans, sponsors, media and the football community to learn and follow the story of our game in a more interactive way. Its focus is on the game: its players, its wins and losses, its fans, its growth. This issue celebrates our football, the victories achieved in all the Confederation’s tournaments, and the advancement of football across the region. This issue demonstrates how CONCACAF is taking the neccesary measures to further enhance its business operations in order to fullfill the mission of developing the game. As we prepare to greet 2016, we would like to thank you. It is with a deep sense of humility that we thank our fans, our sponsors, our Member Associations and the football community for your endless passion for the game. Happy Holidays from CONCACAF
A Look Back at
2015 Jan
Mexico Captures 13th
CONCACAF U-20 Crown
Mexico outlasted Panama 4-2 on penalty kicks to capture the 2015 CONCACAF Under-20 Championship after their final ended in a 1-1 draw at the Montego Bay Sports Complex.
Feb
en’s U-17 M Championship Honduras
The CONCACAF Under-17 Championship is a biennial tournament that determines a champion and the Confederation’s qualifiers for the FIFA U-17 World Cup. Throughout its existence, it has provided an introduction to international football for thousands of players, setting the stage for further aspirations in the sport. Mexico won its second straight title and record extending sixth overall, defeating Honduras in the final 3-0 at the Estadio Francisco Morazan.
March
each Soccer B Championship El Salvador
The sixth edition of the CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship kicked off in El Salvador. Mexico, which beat Costa Rica 4-0 in the final, captured its record third CONCACAF title, breaking the mark it shared with the Americans. The Mexicans will be making their fourth trip to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup after also competing in 2007, 2008 and 2010.
04
05
May
omen’s W Football Day
On May 23, CONCACAF celebrated the first ever Women’s Football Day. The event was an unprecedented success for the region, as hundreds of girls and women had the opportunity to enjoy the game of football.
June
IFA Women’s F World Cup Canada 2015
The FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015™ set a total attendance record (1,353,506) for a FIFA
April
competition other than the FIFA World Cup™.
lub America Wins C Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League Title
More than 84,000 visitors made one or more day trips while 174,000 visitors made an overnight visit to one of the official host cities.
With its triumph in the Finals against Montreal Impact 4-2, Club America earned the right to represent CONCACAF at the FIFA World Club, to be played this December in Japan.
06
07
Aug
First-Ever Scotiabank CONCACAF Under-13 Champions League
Eight teams from across the three CONCACAF subregions competed in the inaugural Scotiabank CONCACAF Under-13 Champions League, taking place at the Cruz Azul Acoxpa Stadium (Mexico). Toluca FC won the championship.
July
G old Cup 2015
Sept
Women’s D-License Coaching Course
CONCACAF conducted its first-ever Women’s
CONCACAF’s 2015 Gold Cup Championship, the
D-License coaching course – under the leadership
Confederation’s elite biannual tournament, fully
of instructors Elieth Artavia and Etienne Siliee
highlighted the talent and growth accrued within
in Costa Rica. The course helped elevating the
the region’s sport. The tournament highlighted the
level of the region’s coaches and referees.
passion held by the twelve participating teams, as each nation created their unique path, in the attempt to lift the distinguished Gold Cup trophy.
08
09
Nov
ONCACAF CWomen’s Olympic Qualifier Draw
CONCACAF conducted the draw for the 2016 CONCACAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Championship in greater Miami. The draw determined the groups and match schedule for the tournament that kicks off on February 10, 2016, in Frisco, TX. The draw sorted the eight qualified national teams into two groups of four. Defending Olympic and CONCACAF Champion United States was sorted into Group A along with Puerto Rico, Mexico and Costa Rica, while Group B will contain Canada, Guatemala, Trinidad & Tobago and Guyana.
Oct
Dec CONCACAF Cup
As expected, the Rose Bowl had an electric atmosphere as the game started with much intensity from the players
2015 CONCACAF Under-20 Women’s Championship
For the second time this year, Honduras is the location of a major international football competition, as it hosts the CONCACAF Under-20 Women’s Championship.
and an emotionally charged capacity crowd of 93,273.
All matches are played at either the Estadio
Mexico was crowned as the first champion of the first ever
Olimpico Metropolitano or the Estadio Francisco
CONCACAF Cup, and it will represent the Confederation
Morazan, a pair of venues in San Pedro Sula
at the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup.
that the eight participating teams are calling home from December 3-13.
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CONCACAF CUP: AN EMBRACED CONCEPT
T
he FIFA Confederations Cup is a competition contested once every four years between national team champions of each of the six continental confederations, the World Cup holder and host nation. Historically, CONCACAF’s representative was the champion of the Gold Cup played two years prior to the Confederations Cup, leaving the winner of the tournament disputed two years earlier with no opportunity for prospective involvement.
In order to address that disparity, it was announced in April 2013 that the champions of the 2013 and 2015 editions of the Gold Cup would meet in a playoff to decide CONCACAF’s representative in the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup. The innovative variation serves to enhance the Gold Cup, while giving each of its champions the same opportunity to represent CONCACAF at the FIFA level. It ensures that in a four-year cycle both editions of the Gold Cup retain equal importance from a competitive standpoint. As a result, the United States (2013 Gold Cup champion) and Mexico (2015 Gold Cup champion) earned the right to meet in the first CONCACAF Cup, at the sold-out Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA. Since 1991, the CONCACAF Gold Cup has been the confederation’s premier event for men’s national teams. Growing from an eight- to a 12-team competition, the Gold Cup has been disputed on 13 occasions. Mexico owns a tournament-record seven titles, followed by the United States with five and Canada with one. 12
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#CONCACAFCup
MEXICO: FIRST CHAMPION OF THE CONCACAF CUP A clash between the Confederation’s top ranked teams,
USA – GEOFF CAMERON AND MICHAEL BRADLEY
Mexico and the USA, filled Pasadena’s Rose Bowl
It did not take the USA long to equalize. Midfielder
Stadium to the brim as masses gathered to witness
Michael Bradley sent a free kick from the left side
the historic first ever CONCACAF CUP.
into the area. An onrushing defender Geoff Cameron
THE STARS OF THE GAME
got a step on his marker and headed the ball past
MEX – JAVIER HERNANDEZ AND ORIBE PERALTA
the 15th minute.
The Tricolor struck first in the 10th minute through forward Javier Hernandez, who tallied his first-ever goal against the USA. In a quick succession of pinpoint passes that pried open the American defense, Jimenez found an unmarked Oribe Peralta on the right side of the penalty area. As he zeroed in on Guzan, Peralta shuffled a short pass to the center of the box
goalkeeper Moises Muñoz to knot the score at 1-1 in
Bradley came close on a couple of occasions. As he charged towards the net, the U.S. captain fired a 16-yard attempt wide right in the 32nd minute and
This is joy, everything is positive, we had a clear objective prior to Gold Cup, and the team knew we had to win the competition in order to make it to this game and achieving this goal. Now that it has come true, we feel satisfied, accomplished, it’s time to enjoy the moment, as it took a lot of work.
placed another left-sided free kick towards the near post that forced Muñoz to make a diving save just before halftime.
- Mexican Player Andres Guardado talked about winning the first CONCACAF Cup.
for Hernandez to knock in at the left post. 14
15
AS EXPECTED, THE ROSE BOWL HAD AN
ELECTRIC CROWD OF MEX – ORIBE PERALTA AND PAUL AGUILAR Mexico took its second lead in the first extra-time period as Peralta – the 2013 CONCACAF Player of the Year – slotted home past Guzan off an assist by Aguilar to break a 1-1 deadlock.
93,273
USA – BOBBY WOOD AND DEANDRE YEDLIN The Americans again equalized in the second extra time. Substitute Bobby Wood, who has a penchant for scoring vital late goals off the bench, lived up to his reputation. The 22-year-old Germany-based forward latched onto a DeAndre Yedlin pass, beating Muñoz from seven yards to make it 2-2 MEX – PAUL AGUILAR AND RAUL JIMENEZ Aguilar scored in the 118th minute to give Mexico a 3-2 victory over the United States in the CONCACAF Cup, earning the Tricolor berth at the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup in Russia. Aguilar climaxed a memorable, end-to-end match with his dramatic goal. After the U.S. cleared the ball out of the penalty area, Raul Jimenez lifted it in the air to the right side. With near inch-perfect technique, the Club America star maintained remarkable concentration to drill a right-footed volley past goalkeeper Brad Guzan. 16
THE USA-MEXICO MATCH ON UNIVISION AVER AGED 5.1 MILLION VIEWERS
The most on any network for a non-tournament soccer game since the USA-Mexico World Cup qualifier at Azteca Stadium in March 2013 on UniMas.
UNIVISION WAS THE HIGHEST RATED BROADCAST STATION
Regardless of language during game among viewers in Los Angeles, New York, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, Phoenix and Sacramento. And it had higher viewership than the ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX stations combined in Los Angeles and Phoenix.
THE USA-MEXICO MATCH DREW MORE VIEWERS THAN THE DODGERS-METS PLAYOFF BASEBALL GAME
W hich aired on TBS in Los Angeles, Miami, Houston, Dallas, Chicago and Phoenix.
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@GoldCup
( Photo Credit: Mexsport )
2015 GOLD CUP
THE BEST MOMENTS
CONCACAF’s 2015 Gold Cup Championship, the Confederation’s elite biannual tournament, fully highlighted the talent and growth accrued within the region’s sport. The tournament highlighted the passion held by the twelve participating teams, as each nation created their unique path, in the attempt to lift the distinguished Gold Cup trophy.
–&–
HIGHLIGHTS
Mexico captured a record-extending seventh CONCACAF
Oribe Peralta ended the encounter for all intents and
Gold Cup title with a 3-1 win over Jamaica before a
purposes in the 61st minute with his fourth goal of the
crowd of 68,930 at Lincoln Financial Field.
competition. A modest defensive clearance ultimately
Guardado, who finished as the tournament’s second-
found the feet of Aguilar on the right. His cross was
leading scorer with six goals, netted the first in the
misplayed by Hector and fell to Peralta eight yards
31st minute. Player of the Match Jonathan Dos Santos’
from goal for a simple right-footed finish.
quickly taken free kick was sprayed to the right wing for Paul Aguilar, catching the Jamaican defense somewhat off guard. The Club America standout delivered an assured cross towards the far post, where Guardado volleyed home with his left foot from 10-yards out. Two minutes after the break, Corona – who was named the Bright Future award recipient -- doubled the advantage with the type of skill for which he’s gaining a strong reputation. The 22-year-old attacker stripped defender Michael Hector of possession, raced towards goal and beat goalkeeper Ryan Thompson
2015 Gold Cup Highlights
with a left-footed effort from 20-yards out.
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GOLDEN BALL AWARD
@AGuardado18
@clint_dempsey
Mexico’s Andres Guardado was named winner of the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup’s Golden Ball as the tournament’s most outstanding player.
The USA’s Clint Dempsey captured the
The 28-year-old was largely responsible for helping his team to a recordextending seventh title, scoring a teamhigh six goals.
The Seattle Sounders star amassed one more than Mexico’s Andres Guardado, who scored once in a 3-1 win over Jamaica in the final at Lincoln Financial Field.
ANDRES GUARDADO MEXICO
2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup’s Golden Boot award, finishing as the top scorer, netting seven of his team’s 12 goals.
GOLDEN BOOT AWARD CLINT DEMPSEY USA
@jesuscorona01 Mexico’s Jesus Corona was named winner of the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup’s Bright Future award as the tournament’s best young player. The announcement was made after the Tricolor defeated Jamaica 3-1 in the final at Lincoln Financial Field.
@bguzan The 30-year-old played every minute of the Americans’ six games, allowing five goals, including one in the third place match against Panama, a 1-1 draw after which the Central Americans prevailed 3-2 on penalty kicks.
20
GOLDEN GLOVE AWARD
BRIGHT FUTURE AWARD
BRAD GUZAN USA
JESUS CORONA MEXICO
The 22-year-old attacker, a rising star in the Netherlands with FC Twente, appeared in five of Mexico’s six games. He scored once, a 47th minute strike in the final that gave Mexico a 2-0 lead over the Caribbean champion.
21
A MULTICULTURAL TOURNAMENT
GOALS
>> Of the 267 players that participated in the 12 teams of this edition of the Gold Cup 2015 tournament, 134 play in foreign clubs.
62 goals were scored in 26 matches, an average of 2.38 goals per match. 40 were assists and 13 were headers.
>> In the past years, the number of Caribbean players playing in Europe, North and America has increased substantially, aiding to the improvement of the competitive level in the region.
>> One aspect worth mentioning is that 22 of Haiti´s 23 players play in different confederations, and many of them play in premier European leagues such as those of France, Belgium and Germany. >> Jamaica has 22 players playing abroad and Trinidad and Tobago has 14 players who play in foreign leagues.
>> Cuba is the only team in which all players are debutants and only participate in their country´s local tournaments.
FORWARDS
MIDFIELDERS
DEFENSE
GOALKEEPERS
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VL 13 VC 08
7
0
GOALS
GOALS
GOALS
GOALS
AN EXCITING TOURNAMENT FOR FANS: The tournament’s total attendance was 585,370 people, an average of 22,514 spectators per match
Clearly, the group with the largest attendance was Group C, which included Mexico.
The tournament was a success in terms of attendance, quality of the facilities, and stadiums in which it was played.
The 2015 Gold Cup was sponsored by:
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RANKINGS
A CLASH OF TITANS: SCCL QUATERFINALS QUARTERFINAL MATCHUPS DETERMINED FOR SCOTIABANK CONCACAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2015/2016
#SCCL 24
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08
CLUB AMERICA (MEX)
10 POINTS, +7 GD
DC UNITED (USA)
10 POINTS, +6 GD
REAL SALT LAKE (USA)
10 POINTS, +3 GD
SANTOS LAGUNA (MEX)
9 POINTS, +9 GD
LA GALAXY (USA)
8 POINTS, +9 GD
TIGRES (MEX)
8 POINTS, +2 GD
QUERETARO (MEX)
7 POINTS, +9 GD
SEATTLE SOUNDERS (USA)
7 POINTS, +3 GD
25
CLUB AMERICA VS SEATTLE SOUNDERS 
CLUB AMERICA
VS
DC UNITED VS QUERETARO
SEATTLE SOUNDERS
With a crucial tie in Honduras against Motagua, defending champion Club America secured the top spot in the group phase and the top seed for the knockout rounds, assuring home field advantage for the second leg of each knockout round as long as it remains in the tournament.
DC UNITED
VS
QUERETARO
The Sounders and Galaxy, along with fellow Major League Soccer side DC United and Liga MX club Queretaro, all had advanced before week six of the group stage, but can now plan for their specific quarterfinal round opponent. DC United will now square off with Gallos Blancos.
Club America will face MLS side and fellow group winner Seattle Sounders, seeded eighth, in the home-and-away quarterfinals which kick off in February.
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27
REAL SALT LAKE VS TIGRES
REAL SALT LAKE
VS
SANTOS LAGUNA VS LA GALAXY
TIGRES
Real Salt Lake wrapped up its quarterfinal bid with a 1-0 win over Guatemala’s Municipal in Salt Lake City. Real Salt Lake will face Tigres in the quarterfinals. The Liga MX side assured its knockout round place with a scoreless match, as Tigres tied 0-0 in Monterrey against Herediano.
28
SANTOS LAGUNA
VS
LA GALAXY
The winner of the Club America- Seattle Sounders quarterfinal will face the winner of the Santos Laguna - LA Galaxy quarterfinal in the semifinals.
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SUCCESS OF SCOTIABANK CONCACAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
CONCACAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2015/2016 QUARTERFINALS – FIRST LEG (FEBRUARY 23-24)
08 07 06 05
SEATTLE SOUNDERS (USA)
7 POINTS, +3 GD
VS
QUERETARO (MEX)
7 POINTS, +9 GD
VS
TIGRES (MEX)
8 POINTS, +2 GD
VS
LA GALAXY (USA)
8 POINTS, +9 GD
VS
01 02 03 04
CLUB AMERICA (MEX)
10 POINTS, +7 GD
DC UNITED (USA)
10 POINTS, +6 GD
REAL SALT LAKE (USA)
10 POINTS, +3 GD
SANTOS LAGUNA
9 POINTS, +9 GD
(MEX)
01 02 03 04
30
10 POINTS, +7 GD
VS
DC UNITED (USA)
10 POINTS, +6 GD
VS
REAL SALT LAKE (USA)
10 POINTS, +3 GD
VS
SANTOS LAGUNA (MEX)
9 POINTS, +9 GD
VS
08 07 06 05
The 2015/2016 Club tournament witnessed an increase in attendance, drawing 437,881 fans over the group stage. The tournament has averaged 9,123 guests per game, showcasing a growth in interest as displayed by an increase of 68,875 attendees. All eight of the qualifying teams have attended SCCL in previous years, with the exception of first time participant, Queretaro.
CONCACAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2015/2016 QUARTERFINALS – SECOND LEG (MARCH 1-2) CLUB AMERICA (MEX)
2015/2016 OVERALL
SEATTLE SOUNDERS (USA)
7 POINTS, +3 GD
QUERETARO (MEX)
7 POINTS, +9 GD
TIGRES (MEX)
8 POINTS, +2 GD
LA GALAXY (USA)
8 POINTS, +9 GD
Santos Laguna and Los Angeles Galaxy have both found their path five different times into the region’s championship. Additionally, Seattle Sounders and DC United have qualified four different times to the SCCL tournament. 2015-2016 will be America and Real Salt Lake’s third attempt at winning the championship, while Tigres has qualified two different times. All eight of the SCCL teams will strive to be victorious, as they aspire to join the rest of the elite in FIFA Club World Cup.
31
TOP GOAL-SCORERS 2015/2016: SEATTLE SOUNDERS EMANUEL VILLA
ALAN GORDON
(QUERETARO) – 6 GOALS
(LA GALAXY) – 5 GOALS
JOHNNY RUIZ (SAN FRANCISCO FC) – 3 GOALS
DJANINY TAVARES (SANTOS LAGUNA) – 3 GOALS
LAMAR NEAGLE (SEATTLE SOUNDERS) – 3 GOALS
MICHAEL ARROYO (CLUB AMERICA) – 3 GOALS
ALBERTH ELIS
(OLIMPIA) – 2 GOALS
ALONSO ZAMORA
(TIGRES) – 2 GOALS
SEATTLE SOUNDERS SET ATTENDANCE RECORD The Seattle Sounders were impressive on the field and in the stands while sealing a place in the quarterfinals with a 3-0 win over the visiting Vancouver Whitecaps. Lamar Neagle (33’, 47’) scored a pair of goals and received cheers from the 37,624 fans at CenturyLink Field, the largest attended group-stage match in SCCL history. The total eclipsed the previous mark (37,106), also set by Seattle in a 2-1 win over Honduras’ Olimpia on Aug. 19, 2015.
ANTONIO SINHA NAELSON (QUERETARO) – 2 GOALS
ATAULLA GUERRA 32
(CENTRAL FC) – 2 GOALS 33
VERDES MAKES SCCL HISTORY
D.C. UNITED CONTINUES UNIQUE UNBEATEN STREAK D.C. United rallied from three goals down to force a 3-3 draw at Montego Bay United in Group H, extending the Major League Soccer side’s unbeaten streak in SCCL group stage matches to 12 (eight shutouts registered over that stretch). United’s last loss in a SCCL group stage encounter came against visiting Toluca, 3-1, in 2009.
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Verdes FC recorded its firstever SCCL victory (after five all-time games), defeating Panama’s San Francisco, 2-1. It was appropriate that Belize international forward Deon McCauley – the jointtop scorer in 2014 World Cup Qualifying with 11 goals – was the night’s star. The 28-year-old netted both goals (19’, 88’) to complete the comeback win.
35
SCCL AUDIENCE STATISTICS
TIGRES REGISTERS FIRST SCCL AWAY WIN It appeared that Tigres would remain winless in five all-time SCCL away outings until Nigeria international Ikechuwku Uche (64’) broke a 1-1 stalemate in his competition debut, lifting the Mexican side to a 2-1 victory over host Isidro Metapan. Tigres also continued its streak of scoring at least one goal in each of its nine all-time SCCL games.
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( Source: CONMEBOL )
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF FOOTBALL
#CA2016
T
he Copa América is the oldest international
The four associations all responded affirmatively
soccer competition contested between
and set about preparing for the tournament. This
men’s national teams in the world and is
tournament started an enthusiasm in soccer pioneers
approaching its 100th anniversary.
The tournament had its beginnings when it was organized in 1916 in Buenos Aires. Argentina wanted to have a tournament to celebrate their 100th anniversary of independence. It was decided that the tournament would be held between Argentina and the then existing
in other countries. From then on the Copa América was contested annually and then later in different years. The Copa América has been a hugely successful tournament since its beginning and is in the hearts of all of its fans having even influenced customs so that it is a tool for progress and integration.
associations (Chile, Uruguay, Brazil).
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39
Boston (Gillette Stadium) Chicago (Soldier Field) Houston (NRG Stadium) Los Angeles (Rose Bowl) New York (MetLife Stadium) Orlando (Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium) Philadelphia (Lincoln Financial Field) Phoenix (University of Phoenix Stadium) San Francisco (Levi’s Stadium) Seattle (CenturyLink Field)
GILLETTE STADIUM BOSTON
SOLDIER FIELD CHICAGO
NRG STADIUM HOUSTON
THE ROSE BOWL
LOS ANGELES
T
METLIFE STADIUM NEW YORK
ORLANDO CITRUS BOWL STADIUM ORLANDO
LINCOLN FINANCIAL FIELD PHILADELPHIA
UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX STADIUM
LEVI’S STADIUM
SAN FRANCISCO
PHOENIX
CENTURY LINK FIELD SEATTLE
CELEBRATING A CENTURY OF FOOTBALL IN THE AMERICAS he Centennial Cup America will be held
Costa Rica and Caribbean Cup Champion Jamaica
in cities across the United States in the
who have already secured their places in the
summer of 2016, kicking off on June
historical event.
3rd and culminating with the Final on June 26th.
The other two participants will be determined by playin matches. The four playoff contenders set to compete
In the 16-team field, CONMEBOL’s ten Member
in Panama earned their places in the play-in matches
Associations – Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile,
by virtue of their performances at the 2015 Gold Cup.
Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and
Cuba, Haiti, Panama and Trinidad & Tobago were
Venezuela – will be joined by six competitors from
all quarterfinalists. Panama earned the right to host
CONCACAF, including host and 2013 Gold Cup champion
the play-in event as the best finisher of the group,
United States, the seventh time Gold Cup champion
advancing to the semifinals and eventually finishing
Mexico, the reigning Central American Cup champion
in third place Alex.
“We are extremely happy for our fans, our teams and our partners, that we were able to find a way to host the Copa America Centenario celebration in the United States under an entirely new structure for managing the tournament’s operations and finances. The improved governance structure will bring greater accountability and transparency to the event so it can serve its two intended purposes – to celebrate the 100 years of history of Copa America, and provide a once in a lifetime spectacle for fans in the CONCACAF and CONMEBOL regions.” - CONCACAF and CONMEBOL
Fans interested in receiving ticketing information in the near future sign up here:
WWW.CONCACAF.COM/2016-COPA-AMERICA-CENTENARIO
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MEXICO CAPTURES OLYMPIC QUALIFYING CHAMPIONSHIP Mexico captured its second straight CONCACAF Men’s Olympic Qualifying Championship crown with a 2-0 win over Honduras in the final at Rio Tinto Stadium in Salt Lake City The Mexican under-23 team also extended their winning streak in the competition to 11 consecutive games, with its last loss coming against Guatemala on March 14, 2008. Honduras is 7W-0D-4L in its last 11 tournament outings.
A PATH TO RIO 2016 FIRST PLACE MEXICO VS SECOND PLACE HONDURAS
42
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FIRST PLACE - MEXICO
44
GOLDEN BALL AWARD
GOLDEN BOOT
HIRVING LOZANO MEXICO
JEROME KIESEWETTER USA
GOLDEN GLOVE
FAIR PLAY AWARD
GIBRAN LAJUD MEXICO
MEXICO
45
SECOND PLACE - HONDURAS
46
THIRD PLACE - USA
47
CONCACAF WOMEN’S OLYMPIC QUALIFIER CALENDAR FOURTH PLACE- CANADA
48
49
SCHEDULE FEBRUARY 10 - 21
GROUP
DATE
TIME: LOCAL
TIME: EST
1
A
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2016
5:00 PM
6:00 PM
2
A
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2016
7:30 PM
8:30 PM
3
B
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2016
5:00 PM
6:00 PM
4
B
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2016
7:30 PM
8:30 PM
5
A
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2016
12:30 PM
1:30 PM
A
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2016
3:00 PM
4:00 PM
B
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2016
12:30 PM
1:30 PM
B
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2016
3:00 PM
4:00 PM
9
A
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2016
5:00 PM
6:00 PM
10
A
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2016
7:30 PM
8:30 PM
11
B
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016
5:00 PM
6:00 PM
12
B
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016
7:30 PM
8:30 PM
6 7 8
STAGE
GROUP STAGE
MATCH
STADIUM
TOYOTA STADIUM DALL AS
BBVA COMPASS STADIUM HOUSTON
TOYOTA STADIUM DALL AS
BBVA COMPASS STADIUM HOUSTON
TOYOTA STADIUM DALL AS
BBVA COMPASS STADIUM HOUSTON
TEAM A
TEAM B
PUR
MEX
USA
CRC
GUA
TRI
CAN
GUY
CRC
PUR
MEX
USA
GUY
GUA
TRI
CAN
MEX
CRC
USA
PUR
TRI
GUY
CAN
GUA
Winner B
Second A
Winner A
Second B
Winner SF1
Winner SF2
SEMI-FINALS 13
SF1
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016
4:30 PM
5:30 PM
14
SF2
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016
7:30 PM
8:30 PM
BBVA COMPASS STADIUM HOUSTON
FINAL 15
FINAL
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2016
4:00 PM
5:00 PM
BBVA COMPASS STADIUM HOUSTON
A USA
50
PUR
B MEX
* CONCACAF reserves the right to change the order of the matches.
CRC
CAN
GUA
TRI
GUY
51
CFU
RANKINGS
22 32 37 49 54 64 77 82 88 91
2
MEXICO
1
USA
3
COSTA RICA
5
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
7
JAMAICA
1
PANAMA
-4
HAITI
THE BEST OF
CARIBBEAN FOOTBALL IN 2015
LEGEND -2
ANTIGUA & BARBUDA
UNCAF
CENTRAL FC WINS 2015 CFU CLUB CHAMPION
WOMEN’S OLYMPIC QUALIFIERS 2015
CURAÇAO LIFT CFU BOYS U15 TROPHY
MEN’S OLYMPIC QUALIFIERS 2015
HAITI DETHRONE JAMAICA AS CFU WOMEN’S U-20 CHAMPS
UNCAF U-20 QUALIFIERS
Large Numbers – FIFA Ranking
14
17
CANADA
Small Number–
CUBA
Arrow
Position in FIFA Ranking vs previous week
Differential
OFFICIAL RANKINGS FIFA RANKINGS AS OF 12/03/15
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CENTRAL FC WINS 2015 CFU CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS Central FC were crowned the 2015 champions of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Championship after defeating DirectTV WConnection 2-1 in the final played at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago, May 24, while Montego Bay United finished third by clipping Don Bosco FC 1-0 at this same venue.
CURAÇAO LIFT CFU BOYS U15 TROPHY The Inaugural CFU Under 15 Championship came to end in exciting fashion as Curaçao edged the Dominican Republic 4- 2.
CFU BOYS U15 AWARDS AND STATISTICS MOST VALUABLE PLAYER NATHAN BERNADINA, CURAÇAO GOLDEN BOOTS NATHAN BERNADINA, CURAÇAO GOLDEN GLOVE AWARD MARIO JOSE MARTE, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC FAIR PLAY GRENADA TOP THREE TEAM CAYMAN ISLANDS, THIRD PLACE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, SECOND PLACE CURAÇAO, CHAMPIONS
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FULL LIST OF PARTICIPATING TEAM GROUP 1 CAYMAN ISLANDS / ANGUILLA / ST LUCIA / US VIRGIN ISLANDS. GROUP 2 DOMINICAN REPUBLIC / ST KITTS & NEVIS / BONAIRE / GRENADA GROUP 3 CURAÇAO / ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA / ST MAARTEN / ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES
SCORING CHART
56
#
GOAL-SCORERS
COUNTRY
GOALS
15
NATHAN BERNADINA
CURAÇA
11
16
LUCHENTHLY VRUTAAL
CURAÇAO
7
7
FREDDY FELIZ
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
6
8
KAREEM FOSTER
CAYMAN ISLANDS
6
15
SHALON KNIGHT
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
6
7
LINUS CLOVIS
ST. LUCIA
5
HAITI DETHRONE JAMAICA AS CFU WOMEN’S U-20 CHAMPS Host country Haiti routed defending champions Jamaica 2-0 when both sides met here in the decider of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Women’s Under 20 Finals.
CFU WOMEN’S U-20 FINALS AT A GLANCE
57
OCTOBER 14 BERMUDA SCORER:
1
0
PUERTO RICO
1
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
AALIYAH NOLAN 29TH MINUTE OCTOBER 15
JAMAICA SCORERS: TRINIDAD & TOBAGO SCORERS:
4
KHADIJA SHAW 15TH, 46TH, 52ND, RASHA ROBERTS 70TH, (OG) KONYA PLUMMER 29TH 4
1
CURACAO
TSAINNE LEANDER 37TH, 48TH, MAYA MATOUK 52ND, KEDIE JOHNSON 53RD. (TNT). KETSIAH WAHR 2ND (CUR).
WOMEN’S OLYMPIC QUALIFIERS 2015
OCTOBER 16 HAITI SCORERS:
0
3
PUERTO RICO
MARIANA LOPEZ 24TH MINUTE, MIRIANEE ZARAGOZA 78TH MINUTE, MAJORIE MARTINEZ 91ST
Torneo Eleminatorio Femenino Pre Olimpico
OCTOBER 17 ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES SCORERS: JAMAICA SCORERS:
1
1
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
CHRISLYN BROWNE 32ND MINUTE (SVG), KELSEY HENRY 21ST MINUTE (TNT) 2
0
CURACAO
DENEISHA BLACKWOOD 51ST, 62ND (JAM) OCTOBER 18
HAITI SCORERS:
8
de UNCAFManagua, Nicaragua
0
BERMUDA
KENSIA DESTINVIL 10TH, NERILLA MONDESIR 33RD, 38TH, 81ST, ROSELINE ELOISSAINT 44TH, 85TH, SABINA CHANDLER 78TH, DARLINE RADAMAKER 91ST.
EQUIPO
J.J
J.G
J.E
J.P
G.F
G.C
PTS.
DIF.
COSTA RICA
3
3
0
0
10
1
9
9
GUATEMALA
3
2
0
1
5
3
6
2
EL SALVADOR
3
1
0
2
1
5
3
-4
NICARAGUA
3
0
0
3
1
8
0
-7
OCTOBER 19 CURACAO SCORERS: TRINIDAD & TOBAGO SCORERS:
1
LEGEND FOR TERMS:
0
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
JUVAINY KELLER 68TH MINUTE. 2
2
JAMAICA
KHADIJA SHAW 34TH, RENA GORDON 39TH (JAM). CELESTE THOMAS 64TH, CHEVONNE SEMIFINALS OCTOBER 21
JAMAICA SCORERS: HAITI SCORERS:
2
1
PUERTO RICO
SIMONE WARK 3RD, DENEISHA BLACKWOOD 64TH (JAM). ALEJANDRA CARRION 83RD MINUTE (PR) 0
0
J.J
MATCHES PLAYED
J.G
MATCHES WON
J.E
MATCHES TIED
G.F
GOALS SCORED
G.C
GOALS RECEIVED
PTS
POINTS EARNED
DIF
DIFFERENCE OF GOALS SCORED AND GOALS RECEIVED
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
SABINE CHANDLER 35TH, NERILLA MONDESIR 51ST MINUTE (HAITI) FINALS OCTOBER 23
HAITI SCORERS: TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO SCORERS:
58
2
0
JAMAICA
BATCHEBA LOUIS 19TH, KENSIA DESTINVIL 61ST (HAITI) 1
1
PUERTO RICO
ANDRIANA FONT (PR) 6TH, CHEVONNE JOHN 24TH MINUTE (TNT)
59
MEN’S OLYMPIC QUALIFIERS 2015
UNCAF U-20 QUALIFIERS
Torneo Eleminatorio Pre Olimpico de UNCAF
Torneo Eleminatorio Sub 20 Femenino
Panamá, Panamá
Panamá, Panamá
EQUIPO
J.J
J.G
J.E
J.P
G.F
G.C
PTS.
DIF.
EQUIPO
J.J
J.G
J.E
J.P
G.F
G.C
PTS.
DIF.
PANAMÁ
3
2
1
0
6
2
7
4
PANAMÁ
4
3
1
0
7
1
10
6
COSTA RICA
3
0
3
0
2
2
3
0
COSTA RICA
4
2
1
1
11
4
7
7
EL SALVADOR
3
0
2
1
3
4
2
-1
GUATEMALA
4
2
1
1
9
7
7
2
NICARAGUA
3
0
2
1
2
6
2
-3
NICARAGUA
4
0
2
2
4
13
2
-9
EL SALVADOR
4
0
1
3
5
11
1
-6
EQUIPO
J.J
J.G
J.E
J.P
G.F
G.C
PTS.
DIF.
HONDURAS
2
2
0
0
7
1
6
6
GUATEMALA
2
1
0
1
4
2
3
2
J.J
MATCHES PLAYED
BELICE
2
0
0
2
0
8
3
-8
J.G
MATCHES WON
J.E
MATCHES TIED
G.F
GOALS SCORED
G.C
GOALS RECEIVED
PTS
POINTS EARNED
DIF
DIFFERENCE OF GOALS SCORED AND GOALS RECEIVED
LEGEND FOR TERMS: J.J J.G J.E
60
MATCHES PLAYED MATCHES WON MATCHES TIED
G.F
GOALS SCORED
G.C
GOALS RECEIVED
PTS
POINTS EARNED
DIF
DIFFERENCE OF GOALS SCORED AND GOALS RECEIVED
LEGEND FOR TERMS:
61
In her 20 years of experience in the sport, Dyche has achieved mayor feats, such as playing for the United States’ professional football league, in addition to amassing expertise in ROA Norway football team. Furthermore, Dyche’s openness to growth and overwhelming love for football has led her from playing on the field to supervising and leading the class room, sharing her vast knowledge to those willing to learn and play the sport. Through her involvement in football Dyche has earned CONCACAF’s D-License and US Soccer Federation A-License. In recognition to her achievements, different organizations have reached out in order to have her
HEATHER DYCHE: THE GREAT PROMISE OF THE GAME
dictate football courses. She has participated as
PLANTING THE SEED FOR FOOTBALL’S GROWTH
realize how many players wanted to be involved in
W
assistant coach for the U.S. Youth National U14 Girls program, in addition to multiple CONCACAF courses. “The biggest eye opener was CONCACAF’s first Women Grassroots course, which caused me to the women’s sport,” said Dyche. “It was impressive to see the overwhelming amount of girls and women who came out to play, just because they loved the
ith an unparalleled passion for football,
sport, not for any other reason.”
spurred from an early exposure to the sport,
Realizing the immense interest in the sport, Dyche
Heather Dyche has become an integral part
continues to participate in courses throughout the
to the improvement in the region’s game.
Confederation, creating unique opportunities for
“Football is an outlet for life, for me it has been my occupation, my livelihood, and has given me the opportunity to travel around the world,” said Dyche, an Albuquerque, New Mexico
Former top-collegiate women’s soccer player at Florida State University, US Soccer Federation National Instructional Staff, Head Women’s Soccer Coach at University of New Mexico, and CONCACAF Development Instructor, Heather Dyche, describes her role through the region’s growth.
girls and women alike, to develop their skill while providing a solid structure for the evolution of the region’s athletes.
native who developed her skills at Florida State University.
( All photos courtesy of Heather Dyche ) 62
63
FIRST EVER WOMEN’S FOOTBALL DAY
“Coaching education and development courses are some of the best ways to progress football through the CONCACAF region.”
CONCACAF’S UNPRECEDENTED SUCCESS
–Heather Dyche
CONCACAF’S 2015 DEVELOPMENT COURSES: 17
D-LICENSE
6
GRASSROOTS
7
WOMEN’S
5 5
BEACH SOCCER CAPACITY BUILDING MEETINGS & SEMINARS
64
4
T
he CONCACAF region experienced a
The event was an unprecedented success for the region,
transformative day of women’s football on
as hundreds of girls and women had the opportunity
Saturday, May 23 through the confederation’s
to enjoy the game of football. Women’s Football
first Women’s Football Day. This inaugural
Day positively impacted the entire confederation
event served as a platform for girls and women
and further solidified CONCACAF’s dedication to
throughout CONCACAF to share their stories and
assisting our members with improving and growing
participate in the world’s most beloved sport.
the women’s game. 65
FACTS & FIGURES THE MOST MOMERABLE MOMENTS OF CONCACAF’S FIRST FOOTBALL WOMEN’S DAY
one memorable day for girls and women around the region –all stakeholders united to share their women’s football stories and participate in a day of fun. The first annual CONCACAF Women’s Football Day took place simultaneously at 38 countries. Our Member Associations planned and organized a variety of women’s football activities which were aimed at encouraging more girls and women to get involved in the sport.
2,716 NUMBER OF PA R T IC IPA N T S (GIRL S A ND W OMEN)
3 79 N U M B E R O F S TA F F A N D V O L U N T E E R S
GOALS AWARENESS Harness the power of traditional
through women’s football.
football at all levels and continue to encourage investment into the
and social media to create a
PROMOTION
sport by all associations.
Women’s Football Day movement
Clearly demonstrate CONCACAF’s
and educate stakeholders about
commitment to improve women’s
UNITY
the potential for transformation
Combine the efforts of 41 Member Associations to create
66
“CONCACAF is making tremendous strides to develop and promote Women’s Football at the global and regional level.” - Sonia Bien-Aime President of the Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association
67
CONCACAF BEYOND THE PITCH – EPISODE 1:
LIGA MX
The documentary presents what makes the Liga MX model unique, the league’s key performance indicators and an array of perspectives on the operation of one of the top football leagues in the world from key stakeholders of Mexican football. The production explores a variety of topics ranging from the entity’s corporate structure to player development, refereeing and even social responsibility initiatives.
CONCACAF BEYOND THE PITCH – EPISODE 2:
THE COUNTDOWN
Episode 2 of the CONCACAF Beyond the Pitch Series The Countdown offers a behind the scenes look at the key elements in the days before and throughout the 2014/15 Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League (SCCL) quarterfinal match between host Deportivo Saprissa and Club America at the Estadio Ricardo Saprissa.
Beyond the Pitch is a unique series that aims to share knowledge, promote best practices and inspire all stakeholders of league and club football in the region to grow the game.
CONCACAF BEYOND THE PITCH – EPISODE 3:
PORTLAND TIMBERS & THORNS The documentary – narrated by Ann Schatz, sports broadcaster- presents an in-depth view into this unique best-practice club, which operates professional men’s and women’s teams in the USA’s MLS and NWSL. The production explores a variety of topics ranging from the entity’s corporate structure to its fans, infrastructure and even social responsibility initiatives.
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69
YEAR BUILT
THE REGION’S LANDMARKS, OUR STADIUMS Many stadiums in the region feature cutting-edge infrastructure that have enable them to host exciting matches of the CONCACAF Scotiabank Champions League. Below find an overview of five genuinely stadiums situated across the Confederation.
70
1982
HASELY CRAWFORD STADIUM PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
The National Stadium was officially designated The Hasely Crawford Stadium by Prime Minister Basdeo Panday on 1996. In the 1976 Olympic Games held in Montreal, Canada, Crawford won the 100m finals becoming T&T’S first Olympic gold medalist. OWNER:
Trinidad & Tobago Government
ALTITUDE:
22 Meters
OFFICIAL CAPACITY:
22,500
HOME CLUB(S):
Central FC, W Connection
PLAYING SURFACE:
Natural Grass
71
YEAR BUILT
RICARDO SAPRISSA AYMA STADIUM SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA
The Ricardo Saprissa Ayma Stadium has been created with an organic synthetic fiber. The Costa Rican stadium is the first in Central and Latin America to utilize the synthetic turf fiber, which comes with FIFA’s certificate.
OWNER:
OFFICIAL CAPACITY: PLAYING SURFACE:
72
Ricardo Saprissa Ayma 21,050
Artificial Turf
ALTITUDE:
HOME CLUB(S):
1,152 meters
Deportivo Saprissa
1972
YEAR BUILT
2009
CORONA STADIUM TORREON, MEXICO
Corona Stadium has become an icon of the city of Torreon, leading the city towards continuous development. The stadium has served as a host to the 2011 FIFA U-17 World Cup, and received many compliments from FIFA, international teams, and media members.
OWNER:
Grupo Modelo
ALTITUDE:
1,128 meters
OFFICIAL CAPACITY:
30,000
HOME CLUB(S):
Santos Laguna
PLAYING SURFACE:
Artificial Turf
73
YEAR BUILT
CENTURYLINK STADIUM
2002
YEAR BUILT
1966
AZTECA STADIUM
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON
COYOACAN, MEXICO In 2014, over two million people visited CenturyLink Field and CenturyLink Field Event Center. Over the past decade, the vicinity has taken huge steps to reduce energy and waste. Focusing on sustainability, the stadiums initiatives are among the strongest in the nation. (Source: centurylinkfield.com)
OWNER:
OFFICIAL CAPACITY: PLAYING SURFACE:
74
First Goal Inc.
67,000
Artificial Turf
ALTITUDE:
HOME CLUB(S):
Also known as the Coloso de Santa Ursula, the Azteca Stadium was opened with an attendance of 105,000 spectators who gathered to watch the opening match between Club America and Italian Club Torino in 1966. OWNER:
Televisa
ALTITUDE:
2,195 meters
OFFICIAL CAPACITY:
99,830
HOME CLUB(S):
Club America
PLAYING SURFACE:
Natural Grass
45 meters
Seattle Sounders FC
75
YEAR BUILT
2008 FREEKICK CARTOON VOLUME 13 “CUP’O ROSES”
RIO TINTO STADIUM SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH
The Rio Tinto Stadium most recently was utilized for the final matches of the CONCACAF Men’s Olympic Qualifiers, it also serves as a host to the Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League. OWNER:
76
Dell Loy Hansen
OFFICIAL CAPACITY:
20,900
PLAYING SURFACE:
Natural Grass
ALTITUDE:
HOME CLUB(S):
1,353 meters
Real Salt Lake
October 10 2015, the Rose Bowl at Pasadena, CA
The historic first ever CONCACAF Cup, a clash between Mexico and USA national teams, registered a record sold out of 93,273 tickets.
77
ENTER TODAY FOR A CHANCE TO WIN CONCACAF MEMORABILIA WINNERS WILL BE RANDOMLY SELECTED AT 3 PM ET ON JANUARY 6 AND THEIR NAMES WILL BE POSTED ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. RULES/ DISCLAIMER: THIS PROMOTION IS OPEN TO THOSE 18 AND ABOVE IN NORTH AMERICA, CENTRAL AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN.
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DOWNLOAD CONCACAF APP
2
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AND LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
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POST A PHOTO USING THE #FREEKICK HASHTAG
4
ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS USING THE #FREEKICK HASHTAG:
- WHO WON THE 2013 CONCACAF MALE PLAYER OF THE YEAR?
- WHICH SCCL TEAM SET ATTENDANCE RECORD IN THE 2015/16 SEASON?
- HOW MANY FANS ATTENDED THE 2015 CONCACAF CUP?
BY ENTERING, ENTRANT AGREES TO BE BOUND BY THESE OFFICIAL RULES AND THE DECISIONS OF THE SPONSOR, WHICH SHALL BE FINAL IN ALL RESPECTS. 1. ENTRY: No purchase necessary to enter or win. Contestants will enter by filling out an entry form. 2. ELIGIBILITY: This contest is open only to individuals over the age of 18. Employees of CONCACAF (along with its contractors, affiliates and subsidiaries) and their families are not eligible. Void where prohibited by law. Contestants residing in those areas where the contest is void may participate in the contest but may not win any prizes. Employees of CONCACAF and their immediate family members are not eligible to enter or win. 3. WINNER SELECTION: There will be a maximum of five winners. Employees of CONCACAF will judge the contest. Should there be a tie between contestants, the winners will be chosen at the discretion of CONCACAF employees. A tie may be awarded to a maximum of two parties. All CONCACAF decisions are final. 4. PRIZES: Winners will be presented with a CONCACAF memorabilia package. 5. WINNER NOTIFICATION: Winners will be notified within a month of contest entree. Inability to contact a winner may result in disqualification and selection of an alternate winner. 6. GENERAL CONDITIONS: a. Participants hereby grant CONCACAF a non-exclusive, perpetual, worldwide license to broadcast, publish, store, reproduce, distribute, syndicate, and otherwise use and exhibit the Submission (along with their names, voices, performance and/or likenesses) in all media now known and later come into being for purposes of trade or advertising without further compensation. Participants represent and warrant that they have full legal right, power and authority to grant CONCACAF the foregoing license and if applicable, have secured all necessary rights from any participants in, and contributors to, their Submission in order to grant such a license. b. CONCACAF is under no obligation to use any Submission or return the Submissions to participants. 7. USE OF CONTEST INFORMATION: All entries become the property of CONCACAF. CONCACAF reserves the right to use any and all information related to the contest, including submissions provided by the contestants, for editorial, marketing and any other purpose, unless prohibited by law. 8. CONDUCT: All contest participants agree to be bound by these Official Rules. CONCACAF in its sole discretion, reserves the right to disqualify any person it finds to be tampering with the entry process, the operation of its web site or is otherwise in violation of these rules. 10. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: CONCACAF is not responsible for late, lost or misdirected entries or for any computer, online, telephone or technical malfunctions that may occur. If for any reason, the contest is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention or technical failures of any sort. CONCACAF may cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the contest. Entrants further agree to release CONCACAF from any liability resulting from, or related to participation in the contest.
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IMPRESSIVE ECONOMIC RESULTS OF WOMEN’S FOOTBALL IN CANADA
SPOTLIGHT: CANADIAN SOCCER ASSOCIATION @CANADASOCCEREN
F
ootball is the largest participatory sport in Canada and is considered the fastest growing sport in the country. It is estimated that within the next two to three years, the number of registered soccer players in Canada will reach over 1 million.
There are nearly 850,000 registered Canada Soccer members in Canada within 1,500 clubs across 144 districts that operate in 12 provincial/territorial member associations. The Canadian Soccer Association is affiliated with the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), The Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) and the
An impressive view from inside a sold-out BC Place (pictured) prior to the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup final between the USA and Japan in Vancouver, Canada. ( Photo: FIFA via Getty Images )
Canadian Olympic Association. 80
(Source: CSA)
81
• Canada Soccer revealed that the FIFA Women’s
Assessment Model Professional version (STEAM
World Cup 2015™ and the FIFA U-20 Women’s World
PRO) – an assessment tool provided by the Canadian
Cup 2014 generated an impressive $493.6 million
Sport Tourism Alliance (CSTA).
in economic activity for Canada – exceeding by
• The FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015™ set
46% the preliminary projections of $337 million
a total attendance record (1,353,506) for a FIFA
made in February 2014.
competition other than the FIFA World Cup™ and
• The total initial expenditure for both competitions
the study showed that it attracted thousands of out-
was $216 million, which yielded $249 million in
of-town spectators. More than 84,000 visitors made
net economic activity (GDP) with $97.6 million in
one or more day trips while 174,000 visitors made
tax revenues supported across the country.
an overnight visit to one of the official host cities.
• The figures released by Canada Soccer follow a
CONCACAF REFORM FRAMEWORK
study conducted using the Sport Tourism Economic
“This Reform Framework reflects CONCACAF’s commitment to strengthening our governance, management, and operations. These reforms are intended to apply best practices for sound corporate governance to CONCACAF’s business operations. In implementing the Reform Framework, the Confederation will demonstrate to its fans, sponsors, member associations and other stakeholders that CONCACAF is resilient and devoted to managing, developing, and promoting the game with accountability and transparency.” - CONCACAF - JULY 2015
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Corporate Governance • Require a minimum number of members of the Executive Committee to be independent, i.e., not affiliated with any football-related activities of any member association. • Impose term limits on all members of the Executive Committee, including the President. Approval by Congress of Executive Committee member
C
compensation on an annual basis. • Review and recommend changes to Executive Committee composition,
ONCACAF approved an expansive
nomination and election procedures to ensure greater representation
Reform Framework that seeks
and prevent entrenchment
to substantially strengthen the Confederation’s
governance,
management, and operations. The Reform Framework was unanimously approved by CONCACAF’s Executive
Committee at an in-person meeting on Saturday, July 4, 2015 in Vancouver, Canada. The Reform Framework, which was developed at the request of the Confederation’s Executive Committee, is an additional step toward ushering in systemic organizational change to further enhance CONCACAF’s business operations through improved governance, increased public disclosure, and enhanced anti-corruption controls. Implementation of the Reform Framework will begin immediately. Proposals contained in the Reform Framework fall into three categories: Corporate Governance; Fraud
CONCACAF REFORM FRAMEWORK
Fraud Prevention and Compliance • Implement a “pre-approved” vendor system for all contracts with CONCACAF, including credit and background checks for all vendors. • Retain outside consultant(s) to improve bid process, audit counterparties for bribery and fraud, and review internal controls, including expense and reimbursement controls. Review and adopt stronger related party transaction policies, i.e., all employees and Executive Committee members must certify on an annual basis compliance as to policies, including restrictions on transactions with immediate family members, and formal processes for disclosure and recusals for Executive Committee members for conflicts of interest. • Establish the position of Chief Compliance Officer with responsibility for overseeing the compliance program and with direct reporting lines to General Secretary and independent members of Audit Committee. • Implement a whistleblower hotline to be administered by CONCACAF’s audit committee.
Prevention and Compliance; and Transparency. Many, but not all of the reforms, are listed below.
Transparency • Make available publicly annual financial statements and budget of CONCACAF on website. • All officer and Executive Committee member compensation reported under IRS Form 990 to be publicly available on CONCACAF website. • CONCACAF will keep its fans, member associations, and sponsors informed of progress on reforms in the Framework and will issue updates as appropriate.
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CONCACAF CODE OF CONDUCT CONCACAF Announces New Code of Conduct for All Current and Future Partners The Partner Code of Conduct, which was called for in CONCACAF’s Reform Framework released on July 2015, sets stricter standards and protocols for any party
Business Practices CONCACAF partners and their representatives shall conduct their business interactions and activities with integrity and in accordance with their obligations under their specific agreements with CONCACAF.
that provides a product or service to CONCACAF or to whom the Confederation makes payments or provides services. Effective immediately, all football, corporate,
Labor Practices and Human Rights
media and vendor partners will be responsible for
CONCACAF expects its partners to share its commitment
adhering to these policies in order to conduct business
to human rights and equal opportunity in the
with CONCACAF.
workplace. All CONCACAF partners must cooperate
The Partner Code of Conduct prioritizes three areas: Legal and Regulatory Compliance Practices, Business Practices, and Labor Practices & Human Rights.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance Practices All CONCACAF partners and their representatives shall conduct their business activities in full compliance with the applicable laws and regulations of the countries, states and localities in which they operate.
86
with CONCACAF’s commitment to a workforce free of harassment and unlawful discrimination as well as conduct their employment practices in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. The Code of Conduct explicitly requires compliance with the anti-corruption laws of the countries in which partners conduct business, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and U.K. Bribery Act, avoidance of gifts and payments to Executive Committee members and CONCACAF employees, and
In accordance with CONCACAF’s Reform Framework, the Code of Conduct also authorizes the Confederation to audit its partners’ internal controls and operational effectiveness. Additionally, CONCACAF will set up a Partner Ethics Hotline, to be overseen by the Confederation’s compliance team, where whistleblowers can safely and securely report questionable behavior or possible violations of the Code of Conduct. All of CONCACAF’s existing partners are responsible for complying with the Code of Conduct and educating all employees and representatives who may conduct business on its behalf. Moving forward, compliance with the Partner Code of Conduct will be required as part of the Confederation’s partner selection process.
restrictions on partners conducting business with any employee or representative who has a family member with a financial interest in the partner’s business.
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CONCACAF Appoints Deputy General Secretary - December 2015
OTHER
NEWS
CONCACAF announced that Jurgen Mainka, the Confederation’s Director of Marketing and Communications, has been promoted to Deputy General Secretary. Mr. Mainka will continue to oversee the Confederation’s marketing and communications
CONCACAF Executive Committee Selects Sonia Bien-Aime for Voting Position on FIFA Executive Committee - July 15
functions, in addition to assuming broader operational responsibilities to continue strengthening the administration of the organization. In a statement, CONCACAF’s Executive Committee said: “With his extensive knowledge of the region, proven track record in elevating CONCACAF’s commercial
Alvarez & Marsal Assess CONCACAF’s Operations - July 2015 CONCACAF hired the firm Alvarez & Marsal to make
properties, and passion for soccer, Jurgen is the right executive to serve as the Confederation’s Deputy General Secretary. Jurgen has already assumed a leadership role in reforming the Confederation’s business operations, and will continue this work by implementing effective processes that strengthen our relationships with
Sonia Bien-Aime, President of the Turks & Caicos
Bien-Aime is one of three women on FIFA’s Executive
commercial and broadcast partners.”
Islands Football Association (TCIFA) and a member
Committee, having been co-opted to the top table of
office, is leading a team evaluating CONCACAF’s finances
“It is both a privilege and great responsibility to work
of the CONCACAF Executive Committee, was selected
world football at the 63rd FIFA Congress in Mauritius
and operations, and implementing improvements to
on behalf of the members of this Confederation to
to serve in a voting position on FIFA’s Executive
in 2013. Since then, her mandate has been extended
the Confederation’s operational effectiveness.
further professionalize its operations and ensure
Committee. Bien-Aime joins Lydia Nsekera, President
on two occasions. Her work on the FIFA Executive
that we live up to our mission,” said Jurgen Mainka,
of the Burundi Football Association, to become the
Committee has focused primarily on developing
CONCACAF Deputy General Secretary. “There is a
Alvarez & Marsal, CONCACAF has engaged Global
second woman ever to serve in a voting position on
women’s football internationally.
long road ahead of us, but I am confident in our staff
Strategy Group to assist with public affairs and
FIFA’s Executive Committee, and the first to be elected
and look forward to continuing CONCACAF’s work to
communications regarding the Confederation’s reform
to a non-female designated seat. CONCACAF’s Executive
develop the game in our region so that we can better
efforts, while Sidley Austin LLP continues to serve as
Committee voted to appoint Bien-Aime on July 4, 2015
serve our teams, fans, partners, and all of those who
CONCACAF’s legal counsel.
contribute to making soccer the world’s game.”
in Vancouver, Canada.
an assessment of its operations. Carlos Vincentelli, a Managing Director based in Alvarez & Marsal’s Miami
In addition to hiring global professional services firm
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