Free Kick Issue #8 (English)

ISSUE CONCACAF.com

8

OCT/NOV

2014

FIRST WOMEN’S FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT October 25 – Philadelphia, PA CONCACAF concluded its “Let’s Develop Women’s Football” conference, a two-day gathering of prominent global leaders in women’s football.

The event was highlighted by the region’s vast success stories, providing Member Associations with new strategies and ideas to continue competing at the elite level.

CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb officially opened the seminar and, in his remarks, emphasized the Confederation’s unparalleled achievements in women’s football. With the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup set to be played in Canada, CONCACAF is again in an exceptional position to excel on the pitch.

Yet, there is still much work to be done, so that the potential of women’s football can be maximized throughout the region.

“The priority for all our Member Associations should be development. This is an opportune time to be a part of women’s football – regionally and globally. I encourage each of you to utilize your strengths to start your own programs, with the confidence that CONCACAF and FIFA are with you. I want us all to believe in a new movement for women’s football.” – Jeffrey Webb, CONCACAF President

Continued on page 2

JAMAICA CLAIMS CARIBBEAN CUP November 18 - Jamaica Jamaica captured the Caribbean Cup title for a sixth time, outlasting Trinidad & Tobago 4-3 on penalty kicks after the final ended in a scoreless draw at the Montego Bay Sports Complex.

Khaleem Hyland missed on the Soca Warriors’ last attempt after Rodolph Austin applied the pressure by converting on the host’s fifth try.

Both sides had already sealed berths in next year’s CONCACAF Gold Cup, but the Jamaicans earned an added bonus of direct qualification to the 2016 Centennial Cup America.

The tightly-contested encounter between a pair of evenly-matched teams produced precious few scoring chances before the hour mark.

Jamaica’s Jobi McAnuff had the best in the 19th minute. The Leyton Orient standout missed the right post by the slightest of margins after swopping in to follow-up on an Continued on page 7

HAPPY HOLIDAYS Another year has gone by and I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the CONCACAF family for yet another successful chapter in the Confederation, proving that we are working together to develop football across the region.

With an exciting year of events ahead of us, I would like us to reflect on the 2014 accomplishments and extend gratitude to our Member Associations, partners and stakeholders for the continued support.

After more than two years at the helm of the Confederation, I am certain that we are building a strong organization that is attesting its leadership position in the global arena. I also know that united we are stronger than ever to embrace the blessings and face the challenges ahead. We should keep walking together, with the certitude that we are writing history with

every step we take… we are writing an epic story.

Change is brought about because ordinary people do extraordinary things. Let’s Educate, Develop and Win. United we are transforming our sport.

I hope you have a healthy and happy holiday season and a prosperous 2015.

At the conference, Sonia Bien-Aime, a FIFA and CONCACAF Executive Committee member and President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association, joined the Football Changed My Life session. An inspiring panel discussion that also featured current Costa Rica international Daniela

Cruz, Cedella Marley (Global Ambassador for the Jamaica Football Federation women’s football program) and Kari Seitz (retired FIFA referee).

Bien-Aime talked with passion about the game and the opportunities for women in football.

Yours Sincerely,

Jeffrey Webb President CONCACAF

“As an administrator you have to play a key role and take a firm stand to create future opportunities for other women,” said Bien-Aime.

President Webb

“One of the things that I really enjoyed is that football has not only impacted me, but my country. I can introduce my country to the world through football.”

Cruz spoke about Costa Rica’s qualification for the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, while offering insights on many topics from a player’s perspective, including how women’s football has grown in her country, the opportunities of playing at major tournaments and the need of more support to develop talent.

Sonia Bien-Aime

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Daniela Cruz

ADDITIONAL SEMINAR SESSIONS ELITE PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

April Heinrichs

To build a truly elite football team at all age levels, it is crucial to have coaches who are experts in the game, as well as a support system in place that allows for the identification and development of the most promising players. Various tactical and developmental systems can lead to success, so each country must decide how to create a unique model for their national and club teams.

Speakers: April Heinrichs (Technical Director for U.S. Women’s National Teams), Junko Imai (AFC Women’s Committee Member, Japan Football Association (JFA) Vice Chair Person of Women’s Committee), Kelly Simmons (The FA Director of the National Game and Women’s Football) and Vanessa MartinezLagunas (FIFA Women’s Football Instructor and Head Coach of the University of Manitoba Women’s Soccer Team) “The game is growing all over and that’s a result of planning and persistence,” said Heinrichs.

HOSTING THE FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP

Tatjana Haenni

The 1999 Women’s World Cup in the USA was a turning point for women’s football, and the tournament has continued to grow over the past fifteen years in terms of support by fans, investment by stakeholders, and quality of play on the pitch.

Tremendous planning is required to host a FIFA Women’s World Cup, and with the proper strategies in place, hosting this tournament has the potential to completely transform women’s football in the country.

Speakers: Dr. Robert Contiguglia (former USSF President), Sandra Gage (Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for the National Organizing Committee of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015), Tatjana Haenni (FIFA Deputy Director of Competitions, Head of Women’s Competitions), Eugenia Monge (LOC for FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica), and Heike Ullrich (DFB Head of Technical Department/Women’s Football).

“We need more high-level women’s football and a proper business plan, strategy and resources. We have to be more focus if we really want to develop women’s game,” said Haenni.

“I’m dreaming of a FIFA Women’s World Club competition.”

FOOTBALL PATHWAYS

Andrea Rodebaugh

While most kids dream of becoming the next Mia Hamm or Marta, there are a multitude of pathways to pursue in women’s football. Coaching, refereeing, and administration provide excellent platforms for women to have an impact on the sport.

Expanding the opportunities available for women in these professions is crucial for the further development of the women’s game.

Speakers: Amanda Vandervort (MLS Director of Social Media), Carol Anne Chenard (FIFA referee), Monica Gonzalez (former Mexico international, ESPN and FOX Commentator), and Andrea Rodebaugh (former Mexico international and former Mexico women’s under-20 national team coach) “It’s important to believe in yourself, don’t let the possibility of defeat, defeat you. The moment somebody says you can’t, I had to prove it to myself,” stated Rodebaugh. “We have to lead by example to impact and influence others.”

WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUES

Linda Wijkström

Creating sustainable women’s football leagues is the one of the most effective ways to grow and develop football in a country.

Establishing a business model that fits the particular situation of the country will help maximize the potential for growth of women’s club and league football.

Speakers: Cheryl Bailey (National Women’s Soccer League Executive Director), Mike Golub (Portland Timbers and Portland Thorns President of Business Operations), Heike Ullrich (DFB Head of Technical Department/Women’s Football), and Linda Wijkström (Swedish Elitfotboll Dam General Secretary).

“We can sell women’s football showing that is valuable,” expressed Linda Wijkström, Swedish Elitfotboll Dam (EFD) General Secretary. “It is important to have our own identity in women’s football and make the most out of these events that help leagues to take the game to the next level.”

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WORKSHOP FOCUSES ON WOMEN’S FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT October 26 – Philadelphia, PA CONCACAF, in conjunction with its Development Department, conducted its first-ever workshop focused on women’s football. The conference’s purpose was to raise awareness of and inspire participation in the game.

During the event, the Confederation reiterated its commitment to promote women’s football with investment in development, competitions, refereeing and coaching education, as well as grassroots events.

As part of the “Let’s Develop Women’s Footbal l conference, which gathered representatives from 39 of CONCACAF’s 41 member associations and other special guests, the workshop featured presentations focused on multiple areas of development and the various perspectives of member associations.

Various paths to success were shared and explored throughout the day.

CONCACAF Executive Committee member and Cuban Football Association President Luis Hernandez welcomed the attendees. He spoke on the importance of leadership as a key aspect in the promotion of women’s football.

“Today is a historic day for our Confederation,” stated Hernandez.

“Leadership is essential to expanding the realms of our development programs. Even though we have a strong voice in women’s football within the FIFA and CONCACAF Executive Committees in Mrs. (Sonia) Bien-

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Aime, we must remember to create concrete strategies and a solid plan of action in each federation in order to achieve our President’s ambitious vision and mandate.”

Topics of discussion included investment and strategies on women’s football at global and regional levels, tools for success and best practices, among others. National association representatives and other participants communicated their experiences and concerns relating to women’s football development in their respective countries.

CONCACAF Executive Committee member Sonia Bien-Aime, who is also President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association, disclosed her vision for the sport’s development in the region, while emphasizing the importance of the workshop for all attendees.

“This is more than just an event,” BienAime said. “It is a comprehensive campaign to develop all aspects of the game. It is an initiative into which CONCACAF has put a lot of thought process, inspiring, motivating and allowing the transfer of useful strategies and knowledge among key stakeholders.

Remember, the support provided by CONCACAF and FIFA is just the first step, but we must do our part at a local level.”

After the workshop, all participants were invited to attend to the match for third place and final of the 2014 CONCACAF Women’s

Championship at the PPL Park in Chester, Pennsylvania.

FACTS AND FIGURES • CONCACAF is the leading Confederation for participation in women’s football with more than 26 million registered female players.

• This year has been a productive and exciting one in the women’s game as the region hosted both of FIFA women’s tournaments for youth players – the U-17 and U-20 Women’s World Cups in Costa Rica and Canada, respectively. In August, CONCACAF conducted its first-ever Under-15 tournament for girls in the Cayman Islands.

• There are currently 30 women’s football leagues at the national association level, including three futsal and three beach soccer leagues, throughout the region.

• In total, there are 25 youth leagues (U13, U15 and U17), which demonstrate the current focus on women’s youth development, as well as the potential for further growth.

U.S. CLAIMS CWC TITLE October 26 – Philadelphia, PA Thanks to a stunning offensive display, the United States posted a 6-0 win over Costa Rica in the final of the 2014 CONCACAF Women’s Championship (CWC) at PPL Park.

A pair of CWC final marks were broken in the process. Abby Wambach set a new record for most goals scored in a final with four, while the Americans also raised the bar for the most goals scored by a single team.

Though both teams had previously secured tickets to the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, with a trophy at stake, the match was contested at a high-octane pace. The U.S. struck for four goals before halftime – three from Wambach -- and added two more during a two-minute stretch in the second half.

It was the seventh CONCACAF Women’s Championship title for the U.S.,

while Costa Rica was competing in its first Confederation final.

Wambach netted her first in just the fourth minute. Megan Rapinoe started the sequence with a right-sided corner kick that Christen Press stabbed towards Meghan Klingenberg, who was charging in from outside the box.

The defender fired towards net, but it was blocked a Costa Rican. Stationed on the left, Morgan Brian lofted the loose ball lightly for Wambach to head home from four-yards out.

Another Rapinoe corner kick, this one from the left, was the catalyst for the next U.S. tally in the 17th minute. At the back post, Wambach sent a header at goal and the well-positioned Carli Lloyd was there to redirect it with her head past goalkeeper Dinnia Diaz from close range.

Lloyd returned the favor 18 minutes later.

Her short cross from the left side of the box was headed in by Wambach from three-yards out to make it 3-0.

The U.S. struck for its fourth goal four minutes before the break and it was Wambach with another header. Once again, Lloyd, who won the Golden Ball as the CWC’s best player, delivered a short chip from the left that Wambach headed in from the edge of the sixyard box.

Costa Rica managed to hold the U.S. attack at bay for the early stages of the second half, but Wambach decided to add a little variety to her performance in the 71st minute. On this occasion, after collecting Sydney Leroux’s pass from the midfield line, the Western New York Flash forward drilled a right-footed shot into left-side netting. The goal broke the record for the most by a player in a CWC final, which the legendary Michelle Akers held since 1991.

In the 73rd minute, though, Leroux resumed the heading trend, notching her first of the tournament.

NOTES: The U.S. improved to 5-0-0 in CWC finals, outscoring its opposition 16-2 …

Wambach also broke Michelle Akers’ record for most Women’s World Cup Qualifying goals by an American with 18.

CONCACAF TEAMS FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP CANADA 2015:

CANADA

COSTA RICA

MEXICO

USA

AWARD WINNERS: The Technical Study Group for the 2014 CONCACAF Women’s Championship named its award winners following the final between the United States and Costa Rica at PPLPark.

BEST XI GOALKEEPER: Hope Solo (USA); RIGHT DEFENDER: Diana Saenz (Costa Rica); LEFT DEFENDER: Meghan Klingenberg (USA); CENTRAL DEFENDER: Whitney Engen (USA); CENTRAL DEFENDER: Christie Rampone (USA); LEFT MIDFIELDER: Christen Press (USA); RIGHT MIDFIELDER: Kennya Cordner (Trinidad & Tobago); CENTER MIDFIELDER: Carli Lloyd (USA); CENTER MIDFIELDER: Shirley Cruz (Costa Rica); FORWARD: Abby Wambach (USA); FORWARD: Veronica Charlyn Corral (Mexico) GOLDEN BALL Carli Lloyd (USA)

GOLDEN BOOT Abby Wambach (USA), 7 goals

GOLDEN GLOVE Hope Solo (USA)

FAIR PLAY Costa Rica

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QUARTERFINAL SCHEDULE CONCACAF issued a schedule for the quarterfinals of the 2014/15 edition of the CONCACAF Champions League, the region’s premier competition for clubs.

The quarterfinal round is now scheduled to begin in Honduras, when CD Olimpia welcomes CS Herediano at 7 PM local time (8 PM ET) on Tuesday, February 24.

The opening leg of the quarterfinal series between LD Alajuelense and DC United has been shifted to Thursday, February 26 at 7 PM local time (8 PM ET) in Alajuela, Costa Rica.

The updated quarterfinal schedule can be found at CONCACAF.com and below.

Home teams are listed first. All times are Eastern.

QUARTER FINAL 1ST LEG Tuesday, February 24, 2015 08:00pmET Club Deportivo Olimpia (HON) vs CS Herediano (CRC) 10:00pmET Club de Futbol Pachuca (MEX) vs Impact de Montreal (CAN) Wednesday, February 25, 2015 09:00pmET Deportivo Saprissa (CRC) vs. Club America (MEX) Thursday February 26, 2015 08:00pmET Liga Deportiva Alajuelense (CRC) vs D.C. United (USA) QUARTER FINAL 2ND LEG Tuesday, March 03, 2015 08:00pmET Impact de Montreal (CAN) vs Club de Futbol Pachuca (MEX) Wednesday, March 04, 2015 08:00pmET D.C. United (USA) vs Liga Deportiva Alajuelense (CRC) 10:00pmET Club America (MEX) vs Deportivo Saprissa (CRC) Thursday March 05, 2015 08:00pmET CS Herediano (CRC) vs Club Deportivo Olimpia (HON) CONCACAF Champions League home stadiums for Quarterfinal Round Club de Futbol Pachuca (MEX) Estadio Hidalgo, Pachuca (MEX) Deportivo Saprissa (CRC) Estadio Ricardo Saprissa, San José (CRC) Impact de Montreal (CAN) Stade Olympique, Montreal (CAN) D.C. United (USA) RFK Stadium, Washington, DC (USA) Club Deportivo Olimpia (HON) Estadio Tiburcio Carias Andino, Tegucigalpa (HON) Liga Deportiva Alajuelense (CRC) Estadio Alejandro Morera Soto, Alajuela (CRC) CS Herediano (CRC) Estadio Eladio Rosabal Cordero, Heredia (CRC) Club America (MEX) Estadio Azteca, Mexico City (MEX)

More information on the CONCACAF Champions League, including team-by-team capsules and in-depth statistics and analysis, can be found at CONCACAF.com.

Continued from page 1

MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA – MONTEGO BAY SPORTS COMPLEX

JAMAICA 0 TRINIDAD & TOBAGO 0 Jamaica is the 2014 Caribbean Cup champion 4-3 on penalty kicks

effort by Dane Richards that goalkeeper JanMichael Williams did well to save.

In a 56th minute bid to loosen up the middle, team captain Austin cranked an attempt from 35-yards out that perhaps came closer than even he initially anticipated.

Reggae Boyz forward Darren Mattocks, who scored in each of the first three games, was frustrated with himself for not making better contact on an 81st minute header.

The Trinidadians found a new gear with minutes left in the second half as Daneil Cyrus headed over the crossbar off a corner kick, while second-half substitute Attaullah Guerra’s

low drive from 25-yards out skipped just beyond the right post.

McAnuff nearly netted in the 93rd minute, but didn’t realize he had more time to shoot and hurriedly fired over the crossbar from just inside the box.

Jamaica and Trinidad, which has won a record eight Caribbean championships, completed the competition with the same unbeaten records at 2-2-0.

2014 CFU CARIBBEAN CUP – FINAL November 18, 2014 AWARD WINNERS The Technical Study Group for the 2014 Caribbean Cup named its award winners following the final between host Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago at the Montego Bay Sports Complex.

JAMAICA Andre Blake; Alvas Powell, Jermaine Taylor, Hughan Gray, Jobi McAnuff, Dane Richards (Joel Grant 56’), Je-Vaughn Watson, Rodolph Austin, Simon Dawkins (Demar Phillips 72’), Kemar Lawrence, Darren Mattocks (Michael Seaton 91’) Head Coach: Winfried Schafer

BEST XI GOALKEEPER: Andre Blake (Jamaica) RIGHT DEFENDER: Alvas Powell (Jamaica) LEFT DEFENDER: Kim Jaggy (Haiti) CENTRAL DEFENDER: Jermaine Taylor (Jamaica CENTRAL DEFENDER: Daneil Cyrus (Trinidad & Tobago) LEFT MIDFIELDER: Jobi McAnuff (Jamaica) RIGHT MIDFIELDER: Darren Mattocks (Jamaica) CENTER MIDFIELDER: Rodolph Austin (Jamaica) CENTER MIDFIELDER: Yenier Marquez Molina (Cuba) FORWARD: Kevin Molino (Trinidad & Tobago) FORWARD: Kervens Belfort (Haiti) MOST VALUABLE PLAYER Rodolph Austin (Jamaica)

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO Jan-Michael Williams; Justin Hoyte, Joevin Jones, Daneil Cyrus, Hughtun Hector (Ataullah Guerra 83’), Khaleem Hyland, Kenwyne Jones, Kevin Molino, Andre Boucaud (Kevan George 115’), Lester Peltier (Cordell Cato 68’), Aubrey David Head Coach: Stephen Hart

GOLDEN BOOT Kervens Belfort (Trinidad & Tobago), Darren Mattocks (Jamaica), Kevin Molino (Trinidad & Tobago), 3 goals GOLDEN GLOVE Andre Blake (Jamaica) FAIR PLAY Haiti

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ON THE FIELD

FACTS AND FIGURES • Mexico is the two-time defending CONCACAF under-20 champion, having claimed the title in Puebla, Mexico in 2013 and in Guatemala City in 2011.

MONTEGO BAY DRAW DETERMINES GROUPS AND SCHEDULE FOR CONCACAF UNDER-20 CHAMPIONSHIP JAMAICA 2015 October 31 - Jamaica CONCACAF conducted the draw for the CONCACAF Men’s Under-20 Championship Jamaica 2015.

At the Hilton Rose Hall in Montego Bay, CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb opened the proceedings that determined the groupings and match schedule for the tournament which kicks off January 9. The draw was conducted with the assistance of Jamaican national team World Cup veterans Aaron Lawrence and Ricardo Gardner.

The draw sorted the twelve qualified countries into two groups of six. Group A is set to feature host Jamaica, along with Trinidad &

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Tobago, Aruba, Panama, USA and Guatemala.

Group B contains Haiti, Canada, Mexico, Cuba, Honduras and El Salvador, in order of position drawn.

The National Stadium in Kingston and the Montego Bay Sports Complex will each play host to Group A matches, with the opening date to be played in Kingston on January 9.

The Montego Bay Sports Complex also hosts all the action in Group B, and the final phase on January 24.

The tournament will crown the Confederation champion at this age level, and qualify four teams to the FIFA Under-20 World

Cup New Zealand 2015. The top team from each group after round-robin play advances to the World Cup, and the second and third place nations from each group advance to the final day knockout phase, with the chance to dispute one of a pair of play-in matches which will determine CONCACAF’s other two World Cup spots.

In a bid to favor development and competition, the new CONCACAF under-20 tournament format has increased the number of guaranteed games for each participant to five, up from two in previous editions of the Championship.

ON THE FIELD

GROUP A

JAMAICA

GROUP B

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

ARUBA

PANAMA

USA

GUATEMALA

HAITI

2014 CONCACAF MEN’S UNDER-20 CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULE Day 1 - Friday Jan. 9 Day 4 - Monday Jan. 12 Day 7 - Thursday Jan. 15 15:00 Aruba vs. Panama 15:00 Canada vs. Mexico 15:00 El Salvador vs. Canada 17:30 USA vs. Guatemala 17:30 Cuba vs. Honduras 17:30 Mexico vs. Honduras 20:00 Jamaica vs. Trinidad & Tobago 20:00 El Salvador vs. Haiti 20:00 Haiti vs. Cuba Day 2 - Saturday Jan. 10 Day 5 - Tuesday Jan. 13 Day 8 - Friday Jan. 16 15:00 Mexico vs. Cuba Rest Day Rest Day 17:30 Honduras vs. El Salvador Day 6 - Wednesday Jan. 14 Day 9 - Saturday Jan. 17 20:00 Haiti vs. Canada 15:00 Guatemala vs. Trinidad & Tobago Rest Day Day 3 - Sunday Jan. 11 17:30 Aruba vs. USA Day 10 - Sunday Jan. 18 15:00 Trinidad & Tobago vs. Aruba 20:00 Jamaica vs. Panama 15:00 Panama vs. Trinidad & Tobago 17:30 Panama vs. USA 17:30 Guatemala vs. Aruba 20:00 Jamaica vs. Guatemala 20:00 Jamaica vs. USA

CANADA

MEXICO

CUBA

Day 11 - Monday Jan. 19 15:00 Cuba vs. Canada 17:30 El Salvador vs. Mexico 20:00 Haiti vs. Honduras Day 12 - Tuesday Jan. 20 Rest Day Day 13 - Wednesday Jan. 21 15:00 Panama vs. Guatemala 17:30 USA vs. Trinidad & Tobago 20:00 Jamaica vs. Aruba

HONDURAS

EL SALVADOR

Day 14 - Thursday Jan. 22 15:00 Cuba vs. El Salvador 17:30 Honduras vs. Canada 20:00 Haiti vs. Mexico Day 15 - Friday Jan. 23 Rest Day Day 16 - Saturday Jan. 24 14:00 2nd Play-in Seed vs.

3rd Play-in Seed 17:00 1st Play-in Seed vs.

4th Play-in Seed 20:00 1A vs. 1B

EL SALVADOR WINS INAUGURAL UNCAF BEACH SOCCER CUP November 17 – El Salvador El Salvador won the first-ever UNCAF Beach Soccer Cup at the Estadio National “Centro Recreativo Costa del Sol,” defeating Guatemala 11-2 to win the four-team competition with a perfect 3-0-0 record.

The tournament host outscored its opposition 26-6, netting 10 or more goals in two matches.

Frank Velasquez, who has scored 13 goals in 13 all-time FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup games for the Salvadorans, finished as the top scorer with eight goals. The 24-year-old was one of only three players to find the back of

the net in each of his team’s three games; teammate Herber Ramos and Belize’s Jesse Smith were the others.

Costa Rica, which struck for a tournamentbest 19 goals in a win over Belize, also on Sunday, was the runner-up. Guatemala and Belize finished in second- and third-place,

respectively.

El Salvador is Central America’s most successful beach soccer side, winning the CONCACAF championship in 2009 and finishing as runner-up in 2008, 2011 and 2013.

In 2011, the Cuscatlecos captured fourth place at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.

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DEVELOPMENT CONCACAF ASSISTS DOMINICAN LEAGUE’S DEVELOPMENT October 12 – Dominican Republic Less than a month ago, FIFA Vice-President and CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb backed creation of the new Dominican Republic Professional Football League (LDF) at an event marking its inauguration.

Following up on that presidential endorsement, CONCACAF conducted a three-day (October 6-8) league and club development seminar to support efforts of the Dominican Football Federation (FEDOFUTBOL) in establishing the 10-club league, which is set to kick-off in March 2015.

The workshop, led by members of the CONCACAF Development Division, focused on the topics of marketing and club licensing with the following objectives: • Contribute to the development of a marketing and communications plan for the league and its clubs • Educate and inform the clubs on the requirements they must meet in order to participate in the 2015 professional league

• Exchange knowledge on the topics of club administration

“I would like to thank CONCACAF, its staff and especially President Webb for all the support we have received,” said FEDOFUTBOL President Osiris Guzman. “We look forward to continuing to work with the Confederation to bring our new league to the next level.”

CONCACAF/FIFA LAUNCH DEVELOPMENT COURSE

October 17 - Miami, FL Fitness was the focus of attention, when the first-ever CONCACAF/FIFA development course opened at the Holiday Inn. The innovative program is based on a new FIFA publication that explores the integration

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of physical preparation into small-sided games.

During the four-day course, participants are scheduled to take part in theoretical classroom sessions in the mornings and practical field application in the afternoons.

All of the activity is seen as the first step in CONCACAF developing a physical preparation course for its 41 Member Associations.

DEVELOPMENT

SURINAME FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT ON TRACK, SAYS WEBB

November 2 – Suriname The official unveiling and opening of several significant projects undertaken by the Surinamese Football Federation (Surinaamse Voetbal Bond/SVB) was the main objective for a brief, but productive, visit by FIFA Vice President and CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb.

The one-day program consisted of a grassroots festival, groundbreaking for four new mini-fields -- funded via FIFA’s Income Generation Programme – plus, meetings with key stakeholders, including government officials and football partners.

“The Surinamese Football Federation is steadily progressing to enhance the development of football, as evidenced by their current projects,” said Webb. “Within a very short time, they have created a solid grassroots foundation and have garnered the support of their government to improve the football program in Paramaribo.”

Following FIFA’s grant to Suriname earlier this year for a Goal Project and income generation, the SVB plans to build a football shop and a new football stadium, according to SVB President, Mr. John Krishnadath.

“President Webb has helped the SVB turn the page of football in Suriname, giving us the opportunity to become self-sustainable. Now we have two income generating projects – the Orwu Cull mini fields, sports café and fitness gym, as well as the Win in CONCACAF funds which will be used to set up an SVB football shop so we can cater to all members,” said Mr. Krishnadath. “This is a completely new concept for football in our country and we are looking forward to conceptualizing it.”

“President Webb has helped the SVB turn the page of football in Suriname, giving us the opportunity to become self-sustainable.”

- John Krishnadath, SVP President

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CONCACAF PRESIDENT SHARES REFPORM ROADMAP AND VISION AT LEADERS IN FOOTBALL CONFERENCE

October 8 - London During an interview session at the Leaders in Football conference, FIFA Vice President and CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb shared the formula of CONCACAF’s reform and the factors behind it, since taking office over two years ago. From governance to development – as revealed through success at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil -- the Confederation has drawn an effective roadmap for change.

“In the most challenging environment, we acted decisively to reform the Confederation while continuing to invest in our future,” shared Webb with the assembled audience.

“Immediately after taking office in May 2012, we initiated a roadmap to reform to enable the development of good governance structures, deliver a strategy for sustainable growth and provide the tools to support Member Associations. It’s been a period of planning, building and dreaming on creating opportunities to grow football within CONCACAF.” As part of the roadmap to reform, the new administration’s priority was to rectify all relevant internal matters, so that the Confederation

could focus on developing, managing, and promoting the game. Following CONCACAF’s independent investigative report, which was made public in April 2013, the mandate for openness and transparency was made a reality.

Other noticeable reforms were highlighted by the equitable and inclusive participation of Member Associations on all levels of decision making, the optimization of resources to achieve greater efficiencies and the application of financial controls. Each of those elements have contributed to the process of regaining the trust and confidence of partners, sponsors and stakeholders. Compared to 2012, broadcasting, sponsorship and ticketing revenue increased by 405%.

“This is a new era for CONCACAF, a new chapter based on building a powerful structure of integrity, transparency and accountability to allow our region to grow,” added Webb. “We have gained the trust required to attain the contribution that creates a strong organization like the one we are envisioning.”

“We are hosting a seminar in the coming weeks in Philadelphia called Let’s Develop Women’s Football,” Webb announced. “This

will be a true celebration which will further establish our Confederation’s commitment to the women’s game by highlighting the success stories of our region and providing our Member Associations with new strategies and ideas.”

This year, CONCACAF hosted both of FIFA’s youth-related World Cups for women (FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Costa Rica and FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Canada). In 2015, Canada will host the FIFA Women’s World Cup. To further youth advancement, CONCACAF organized its first under-15 championships for boys (2013) and girls (2014). Additionally, the Confederation conducted nearly 80 development- and referee-related courses last year.

CONCACAF has turned its focus towards the game’s development in a geographical region consisting of 540 million people. It is a hub for each of its 41 members, which have appreciated the organization’s efforts to become an inclusive organization that invests in their progress and growth. Its priority areas are competitions, grassroots, futsal, beach and women’s football.

In just the past two years, CONCACAF’s level of achievement has been dramatic: a successful method of reform; a record-breaking Gold Cup; an impressive performance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup; introduction and implementation of the Embrace Diversity campaign to promote integration within football; realization of its inaugural Under-15 Championships; the 2016 Centennial Cup America announcement and hosting all FIFA Women’s tournaments in its region; among others.

“CONCACAF has set a clear course and we are all participating in the rebirth process.

It is very rewarding to be leading the way into a promising future for the region,” concluded Webb.

Currently, Webb’s agenda is centered on player development, a priority for which CONCACAF has tripled its investment. An estimated 70% of CONCACAF’s budget over the next 12 months will be dedicated for approximately 80 development programs.

“This is a new era for CONCACAF, a new chapter based on building a powerful structure of integrity, transparency, and accountability.” - Jeffrey Webb, CONCACAF President

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INSTITUTIONAL WEBB WELCOMES SOCCEREX TO BARBADOS October 22 - Barbados CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb officially welcomed attendees to the Soccerex Americas Forum at the inaugural ceremony in the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre in Bridgetown, Barbados.

The Soccerex Americas Forum has gathered more than 1,000 leading businesses, administrators, rights holders, coaches and former players from across the Americas to learn, network and do business. This is the first time Soccerex hosts a conference in the Caribbean region. In his opening remarks, Webb emphasized the importance of football to youth in the Caribbean.

“This game in the 41 national associations of CONCACAF is a game of power,” he said.

“A game that we understand moves our youth.

A game that we understand provides aspiration, inspiration. But more importantly, a game for the youth of the Caribbean that provides hope.”

Webb expressed his pride in the growth of Mexico’s Liga MX and Major League Soccer in the United States, holding them as examples of how their success can impact the entire region overall. He also emphasized the key role Central America and the Caribbean have in challenging these markets with the right investment in development.

“We have to understand the markets that we have in CONCACAF, the opportunity,” signaled Webb. “Understand that through Mexico, within the USA and the MLS, we have two leagues out of the top ten in the entire world from attendance standpoint and from a commercialization standpoint. It

is incredible, and, of course, we have what happened in the World Cup. That is only the beginning. We said a few years ago that for the north to evolve to grow and be challenged, the Caribbean must start it. The Caribbean must light a fire to challenge Central America, and Central America must ignite and of course challenge North America.”

Later in the day, CONCACAF also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Campus. The agreement’s purpose is to engage in cooperative programs and develop new educational opportunities for players and students throughout the Confederation’s region.

GUYANA FOOTBALL OFFICIAL MEETS HEAD OF CONCACAF

November 8 – Miami, FL CONCACAF officials held an introductory meeting with Clinton Urling, the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Normalization

Committee chairman, to discuss the way forward for development of the sport in Guyana.

In October 2014, FIFA installed a Normalization Committee as a response

to internal turmoil within the GFF. The Committee was entrusted with running day-to-day operations, revising statutes and organizing elections by September 2015.

“The objective of this courtesy visit

by Committee Chairman Urling was to determine the next steps in the progression of football in Guyana and to keep it on solid and stable footing,” said CONCACAF President Jeff Webb.

The current situation faced by the GFF was thoroughly analyzed and key areas requiring urgent attention were identified.

Most importantly, perhaps, a strategic plan and timeframe on how and when the Committee’s objectives would be accomplished were examined.

“Faith in Guyana football must be restored,” said Urling. “However, the cooperation and involvement of all football stakeholders and the country as a whole is required. Guyana is a country with amazing football potential.”

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OTHER NEWS

“FIFA 11 FOR HEALTH” TO BE LAUNCHED IN CARIBBEAN October 15 – Puerto Rico The numerous benefits that football can bring to a region were the topics of discussion at a recent meeting in Puerto Rico hosted by FIFA Vice President and CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb.

The one-day meeting in San Juan brought together FIFA medical staff, the Puerto Rico Football Federation (FPF), government officials and those from notable sports commissions on the island. The meeting successfully set the path for the medical project, “FIFA 11 For Health,” soon to be launched in the Caribbean.

“Puerto Rico has a built a good foundation for sports medicine and sports education – from the government’s support to the collaboration of the Olympic Committee,” said Webb.

“Congratulations to the Football Federation, under the leadership of Eric Labrador. They have been instrumental in focusing on improving football and youth development in the country over the past few years.”

“For us, it’s a very important step in the development of football,” said FPF President Eric Labrador. “Not only to demonstrate that

football is more than a sport – it’s a way of health and a way of life for us. The government is very committed to the development of this project and we are grateful for their support.”

President Webb finished: “At CONCACAF, we are looking forward to the implementation of this program, with the first regional pilot project meeting set for March 2015. This is an ideal opportunity for FIFA, CONCACAF and governments to further collaborate, as we seek to improve public health in the Caribbean through the power of sports. ■

The “FIFA 11 For Health” project is expected to be implemented in the Caribbean region over the next three years. The project has had been proven to increase health knowledge in participating countries by 15% or higher, according to the program’s published statistics.

FIFA/CONCACAF SECURITY OFFICER COURSE CONCLUDES

November 7 – Miami, FL The first FIFA/CONCACAF Regional Security Officer course since 2008 concluded at the JW Marriott Miami.

The three-day workshop, which focused primarily on stadium safety and security, brought together the CONCACAF Security

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and Fair Play Committee with security officers from the Confederation’s member associations.

FIFA’s Security Regulations were reviewed and discussed, producing a uniformity of interpretation and an enhanced understanding of the guidelines.

Presentations on key topics were made

by Serge Dumortier (Senior Manager,

FIFA Security Department); Deborah Doe (Consultant, FIFA Security Department); Will Van Ree (Consultant, FIFA Security Department) and Ted Howard (CONCACAF Deputy General Secretary and FIFA Security & Integrity Committee member).

On the final day, David Sabir – General Secretary of the Bermuda Football Association

OTHER NEWS

and FIFA Security & Integrity Committee member – introduced the well-received idea of creating a CONCACAF Network of National Security Officers. Recognizing that the exchange of information is critical to move forward, the proposal called for the establishment of communication methods, continued education, cooperative links, best

practices and administrative proficiencies, among others.

At the Member Association level, a security officer is the person responsible for overseeing all security matters, including matches, events, personnel and offices. In most cases, a security officer possesses a security or law enforcement background and is selected by a

Member Association to the position.

For the 2014 World Cup in Braz, four of the 12 security officers appointed by FIFA were from CONCACAF (Howard; Sabir; Patrick Beckles, Barbados; Mario Monterrosa, Guatemala).

CONCACAF REFEREE SYMPOSIUM WRAPS UP IN COSTA RICA

October 5 – Costa Rica A gathering for those referees on the cusp of being candidates for the FIFA List concluded, following two-days of activities at the Costa Rican Football Federation’s Goal Project facilities and the Marriott San Jose.

The CONCACAF International Referee

Symposium presented by Comex Futline emphasized the key factors of professional success for 50 men and women aspiring to take the next step in their officiating careers.

“The importance of the referee’s physical care was emphasized, especially nutrition and hydration, in order to facilitate their performance on the field, as it makes for an

elite athlete,” said Francisco Bolívar, manager of sponsorships and marketing for Comex.

In addition to health and nutrition, the symposium participants had the opportunity to learn about the characteristics of successful referees, match preparation and management, the evolving role of the referee in the modern game and next career steps.

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INTEGRITIY MONUMENTAL STEP TAKEN VS. MATCH MANIPULATION October 15 – El Salvador CONCACAF’s crusade against match manipulation took a monumental step in El Salvador, where Confederation officials met with representatives of Interpol, FIFA, the Salvadoran Football Federation (FESFUT) and diverse Salvadoran government agencies to discuss the roadmap that will make match manipulation a crime under the nation’s law.

Participating Salvadoran government

organizations included the Supreme Court of Justice, National Sports Institute, Nacional Civil Police and the Attorney General’s Office.

“I commend the Salvadoran Federation for its efforts in bringing all the participants together for this historic meeting, and fully maximizing the resources available from FIFA, Interpol and CONCACAF.” said CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb. “We look forward to recreating

this model in other Member Associations to further strengthen our position in the global fight against match manipulation.”

The meetings held in San Salvador were the first of their kind in the CONCACAF region.

The joint effort to bring together all relevant stakeholders from outside of the football umbrella is aimed at building stronger ties to enhance the fight against match manipulation.

1ST INTERPOL/FIFA SPOC TRAINING COURSE IN CONCACAF CONCLUDES

October 20 – Miami, FL The first-ever Interpol/FIFA training course specifically for Single Point of Contacts (SPOC) in CONCACAF concluded at the Confederation’s Miami headquarters.

Representatives from Interpol and FIFA conducted the intensive four-day workshop for 11 SPOCs from each of CONCACAF’s three regions, including the first three female participants (complete list of participants below).

“Appointing the SPOCs was a first very essential step in order to build an efficient network within

CONCACAF,” said Dr. Laila Mintas, CONCACAF Director of Sports Integrity. “Training these people for their important task is the next significant step in our fight against match manipulations in our region.”

The course was developed to prepare fully persons tasked with establishing the facts in relation to reports or suspicions of match fixing/ match manipulation within national associations and confederations.

With the purpose of educating SPOCs on how to plan and conduct an appropriate inquiry, as well as present results to a disciplinary body, the course is a key element in an overall strategy to combat increasing reports of match manipulation. This way, coordinated steps can be implemented for an effective response.

“The development of fact finding competencies within football associations to effectively

conduct an internal disciplinary enquiry, in liaison and coordination with law enforcement, is a key component of the INTERPOL strategy to prevent match-fixing,” said Dale Sheehan, Director of INTERPOL’s Capacity Building and Training directorate. “The professionalism and performance of the participants in this course was exemplary and INTERPOL is delighted that these Fact Finders join the national, regional and international fight against match fixing.”

SPOCs will liaise with the CONCACAF Sports Integrity Department regarding all integrity issues, in particular to receive and exchange general information relative to current threats and to inform CONCACAF about pending procedures.

The course held in CONCACAF was the second conducted by Interpol/FIFA worldwide.

UEFA hosted the inaugural one in April of this year.

FIFA/INTERPOL/CONCACAF HOLD MEETING October 20 - Jamaica As part of the INTERPOL/FIFA training, education and prevention initiative, the firstever Partnership Development Meeting in the Caribbean took place at the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) offices.

The gathering brought together all key stakeholders in the fight against match-fixing with the objective of assisting in the development of a coordinated national approach that protects the integrity of sport.

Regional and international cooperation is viewed as necessary for safeguarding the integrity

of the game by establishing the structures for investigating potential threats.

Representatives of FIFA; INTERPOL; CONCACAF; the Caribbean Football Union; the JFF; the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC); the Jamaica Constabulary Force (Police Force); Ministry of Justice; and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions were all in attendance and discussed the new roadmap for a coordinated strategy to create a joint-action plan.

Afterwards, in a released joint statement, a

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clear message was communicated: “We all have committed today to work together in order to further protect the integrity of sports against the global threat of match manipulation.”

The meeting was the first step in the process with additional ones to follow in the near future.

The JFF recently appointed Robert FinziSmith as Single Point Contact of Integrity and will, in coordination with CONCACAF, implement a new prevention and education program for all players and referees.

Upcoming Edition in FEBRUARY 2015