Summer 2010 Touchline

P E N N S Y L V A N I A ’ S

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Y O U T H

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The Best Seat for the World Cup is Reading p. 10 US Youth Soccer Region 1 Championships Come to Lancaster p. 10

Making Soccer the Game for All Kids! p. 14

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Reaching the Goal

By Bob McDade, President, EPYSA

Vol. XXIX • June 2010

“

I have seen more progress in EPYSA in the last year then ever before.”

That was an unsolicited comment made to me by a parent of three of our 130,000-plus registered players. While we can debate the truth of this statement, the importance is that this longtime EPYSA parent perceives the statement to be true. And, perception is reality.

We should all be proud of what we have accomplished in the past year. Positive changes to our staff, enhancement to our current programs and the development of new programs are all great accomplishments. But, in order to continue toward our goal of being the best youth sports organization in the United States, our focus should be on what we are doing now and our plans for the future.

First, we made some changes to our Board.

Longtime members Kim DiFiore and Ned Levi stepped away from their positions of Secretary and Treasurer, respectively, and I thank each of them for their great service. Pete Dicce and Herb Maguire were voted into these roles. Pete, an attorney and member of our State Coaching Staff, will ensure that the Association is governed in compliance with all appropriate laws and regulations. Herb Maguire brings his years of experience as the Director of the Bureau of Financial Management for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

to the role of State Treasurer. Herb has already started the process of examining our financial structure.

Next, the Council voted in favor of moving our Horsham office to a new office in Plymouth Meeting. The decision to look at Plymouth Meeting was a result of the feedback received from our membership, as Plymouth Meeting is centrally located.

Also, it was announced that we have won a bid to host the 2011-2012 US Youth Soccer Region I Championships in Lancaster. The event will take place over the July 4th weekend during those two years. This event will make an estimated $15 million positive economic impact to our State each year and marks the first time that eastern Pennsylvania will host this event.

Finally, the Board announced its “2010 Road Show” which will be our effort to get out and talk with all of our membership. It is important to this Association that we understand the needs of our membership.

As we continue to put more positive pieces in place to help us work toward our goal, I hope that I continue to hear that there “has been more progress in the last year than ever before”. That will tell me that we are continuing to move in the right direction and that perception is indeed reality.

By Chris Branscome, CEO, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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GAME: Find the EPYSA keystone somewhere on the cover

Two Village Road, Suite 3 Horsham, PA 19044 Phone: (215) 657-7727 Fax: (215) 657-7740 www.epysa.org

EXECUTIVE BOARD President Robert McDade Vice President, Recreational Brian Talerico Vice President Travel Jim Kuntz Treasurer Herb Maguire Secretary Pete Dicce Registrar Donna Outt State Youth Referee Administrator TBA Immediate Past President Tom Dougherty COMMITTEE CHAIRS Risk Management Chris Cook Rules and Policies Rick Tompkins TOPSoccer Program Diane Spencer Soccer Across America John Kukitz Cup Commissioner Dave Ash STATE OFFICE STAFF CEO Chris Branscome Manager of Marketing and Communications Evan Kravitz Director of Coaching Michael Barr State Cups/AGM Carol Urbach ODP Admin & Insurance Beck Kleinert Registration & Operations Adam Wolf Tournaments Joanne Neal Accounting Serena Karlson Touchline Editor Evan Kravitz Cover Photo by Doug Jones A.E. Engine 11880 28th Street North, Suite 101 St. Petersburg, Florida 33716 (727) 209.0792 / Fax: (727) 209.1776 info@ae-engine.com www.ae-engine.com Publisher Craig Baroncelli VP of Sales David Watson VP, Executive Accounts Dayne Maasdorp Art Director Jason Tedeschi Graphic Designer Stacey Foster Account Executives Chris Vita, Milt Russell, Kristy Limotta, Dustin “Doc” Lawson The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted; all rights reserved.

Articles may not be reproduced or reprinted without written permission from EPYSA and AE Engine Media/Marketing. Advertising space in Touchline is purchased and paid for by the advertisers. None of the products or services are necessarily endorsed by EPYSA or its affiliates. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of EPYSA or its advertisers. Printed in the United States of America.

Progress Report

etter communication is a key to our future success. For this issue of Touchline, we are working with a new publisher.

A.E. Engine is a highly experienced publisher and works with the likes of US Youth Soccer and NASCAR. Together we have been working to re-develop Touchline into a newsstand quality magazine Another feature to the Touchline is the contribution of our partner, the Philadelphia Union. You’ll notice several ads from our new sponsors. Our relationship with the Union will provide additional program funding based on these sponsorships.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association

We will also launch a new website in August to better serve you. The site will have a fresh layout, more content and a video player to highlight the events and people throughout the state Lastly, we look forward to our move this summer. After many years in Horsham, we will be moving our headquarters to Plymouth Meeting.

We look forward to our new office space and new location which is extremely accessible. The office will have a large conference room where we hope to host many of you for courses, seminars and other meetings. Look for the announcement in late June. We invite you all to visit us.

Front cover: EPYSA’s Linnea Faccenda Driving Against Connecticut in Game 1 of the 2010 Virginia Friendlies

Contents DEPARTMENTS President’s Message .................................................7 EPYSA Progress Report..............................................7 EPYSA Soccer Camps.................................................16 EPYSA Scholarships...................................................16 Coach’s Corner...........................................................18 The Referee................................................................22 Cups & Championships.............................................24

FEATURES Championships, EPYSA & Lancaster........................10 The World Cup in Reading.........................................10 Philadelphia Union & Independence........................12 The Game for All Kids!...............................................14 Spotlight on Coaching...............................................20 Real Coaching Heroes...............................................20 Worldwide Pickup Game ...........................................30

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

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Evan Kravitz Joins Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

New Manager of Marketing & Communications

By Evan Kravitz

E

astern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer welcomed Evan Kravitz to its staff in April as their first Manager of Marketing and Communica-

tions.

Kravitz will oversee the editorial content of Touchline as well as the development of the organization’s new website. Kravitz will communicate to the media the goals and activities of the organization and act as communications liaison between EPYSA and its partners, the Philadelphia Union and Philadelphia Independence.

“I am thrilled to be a part of this team,” said

Kravitz. “I played sports growing up and I know how important athletics can be to a child’s development. I look forward to communicating EPYSA’s message throughout the region.”

Previously with ABC News as a freelance producer for three years, Kravitz traveled throughout the eastern United States handling logistics for live and taped interviews for “Good Morning America” and “World News Tonight..”

A native of the Philadelphia area, Kravitz worked at CBS 3 Eyewitness News as senior planning editor in 2005. He was responsible for long-term editorial coverage and research for local, state and national news.

Kravitz began his broadcast career at CNN in 1998 with the Special Projects / Breaking News Specials unit. He was promoted to Associate Producer and Assignment Editor where he worked on the production of the daily, live, program “TalkBack Live” and with CNN affiliates across the U.S. incorporating regional stories into CNN’s national programming. Kravitz won a National Headliner Award for Team Coverage of a Breaking News Event: The Capture of Saddam Hussein.

Kravitz attended the University of Georgia, majoring in journalism and telecommunications.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer to Upgrade Website

By Evan Kravitz

Arriving in August, EPYSA will unveil a new website sporting a fresh lay-

Tune into the fifth season of The US Youth Soccer Show

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he US Yo u t h Soccer Show is on Fox Soccer Channel. Catch May’s show Sunday, May 23 at 3 p.m. ET or Sunday, May 30 at 12:30 p.m. ET. May features: • For more than 30 years, US Youth Soccer teams have played with teams from around the world at the Dallas Cup. Hear about their experiences in the largest international youth tournament in the United States.

• Go behind the scenes of the largest traveling soccer tournament in the country, the Kohl’s US Youth Soccer American Cup. • The US Youth Soccer Olympic Development

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Program Boys recently traveled to Brazil, and The Show captured their adventures and experiences.

• After winning the Diski Dance competition, the ‘97 Fusion girls from Virginia can’t wait for the World Cup games to begin. See their prize winning performance and travel with them to South Africa.

• Trick Offs are a favorite to all. In the past few seasons, we’ve put players from teams across the country to the test. Check out some of your favorites from the US Youth Soccer Trick Offs.

• After undergoing a heart transplant, a young man from Louisiana was able to make a full recovery and return to soccer.

Check your local listings for June show times, or visit USYouthSoccer.org/the_show/. Share your story ideas for future shows by sending a quick e-mail to theshow@usyouthsoccer.org.

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

out, userfriendly tools and easy-to-access news and information. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is currently working with americaneagle.com to re-invigorate the current site with video options, Twitter, blogs, feature articles and much more. The new website will be one stop shopping for all your EPYSA needs.

w w w. epys a . o rg

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer and Lancaster Join Forces

Win Bid to Host the 2011 and 2012 US Youth Soccer Region I Championships

By Jim DeLorenzo

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he country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament, the US Youth Region I Championships, will invade Lancaster, Pa., in 2011 and 2012, bringing a frenzy of soccer excitement to the area.

The tournament will attract approximately 270 boys and girls teams, ages 12-19, from 15 states throughout US Youth Soccer Region I which is comprised of US Youth Soccer State Associations in the east (Connecticut, Delaware, eastern New York, eastern Pennsylvania, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York West, Pennsylvania West, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia).

“We are excited that the championships will

be hosted in Lancaster,” said Bob McDade, president of the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association. “The [games] are part of the most successful program for the highest level of youth soccer played in the United States. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer and our hosts in Lancaster are committed to this major event, to the children and young adults we serve and to the development of soccer in the commonwealth.”

The 2011 championships are slated for June 30, through July 4, 2011. Opening ceremonies for both years’ events will be hosted at Hershey Park Stadium. The 2011 games will draw more than 5,000 players and as many as 10,000 spectators.

A $12 million economic impact is expected for the area hosting the games in 2011 and $15 million in 2012.

“The City of Lancaster is pleased to welcome the US Youth Soccer League to our community,” said J. Richard Gray, mayor of the City of Lancaster. “We look forward to having the championships here and the fun that we will all have as both participants and spectators.”

“The event is sure to be an exciting one for

participants and spectators alike, and I know that our attractions, restaurants, lodging and shopping venues across the county will be working hard to ensure these guests have a kickin’ good time,” said Chris Barrett, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Dutch Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The US Youth Soccer Regional Championships are the second stage of the country’s premier national youth soccer tournament – the US Youth Soccer National Championships.

US Youth Soccer State Champions and selected wildcard teams through the US Youth Soccer Region I Premier League will earn their way to Lancaster to compete. Regional champions of the Under-14 through Under-19 brackets earn a berth to the 2011 US Youth Soccer National Championships.

“It is always exciting to begin planning future US Youth Soccer Regional Championships. Part of the initial planning is choosing the best possible host city for each of the four events,” said Larry Monaco, president of US Youth Soccer.

“Lancaster will be a great host and we look forward to working with its great people and Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer.”

The World Cup is Coming to Reading, Pa.

By Evan Kravitz

T

hat’s correct soccer fans, you heard it right. The best seat to watch USA vs.

England in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in Rustenburg, South Africa, on June 12 at 2:30 p.m. EST will be in Reading, Pa. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer in conjunction with the Reading Phillies and GAMEFACE International, LLC will be bringing the soccer action to the big video board at FirstEnergy Stadium, home of the Reading Phillies.

For a $5 donation that will support Baseballtown Charities and the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Scholarship Program, you can watch the match on one of the largest video boards in Minor League Baseball. The 558 square foot screen is located in left center field and is capable of producing 68 billion colors. FirstEnergy Stadium has a seating capacity of 9,000.

The festivities will begin at 11:30 a.m. when the food court plaza gates open with concessions

and music from one of Reading’s local bands. Your ticket will also allow you access to the 7 p.m. kickoff between the NPSL FC Reading Revolution Men’s team and the New Jersey Blaze at Albright College.

The idea to bring soccer fans together for this event came from Mike Moyer, Co-Owner and Director of Coaching for GAMEFACE International which hosts 20 teams under the FC Revolution banner. According to Moyer, “We approached the Reading Phillies and Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer with this idea to unite soccer fans in a festive atmosphere, like the one you would experience in South Africa. Holding this event at FirstEnergy Stadium on the big video board will replicate what happens all around the world.”

Chris Branscome, CEO of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer, echoed Moyer’s enthusiasm for the event. “This opportunity will allow soccer fans to enjoy the game together while supporting a great charity and our scholarship program,” said

10 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

Branscome. “Of course, it’s alright if one or two fans cheer for England.”

“We are thrilled to be hosting this event at America’s Classic Ballpark, FirstEnergy Stadium,” said Scott Hunsicker, General Manager of the Reading Phillies. “This charity event will allow thousands of soccer fans to gather together, support USA Soccer and a great cause. I can’t wait for the chants of U – S – A.” To make your $5 donation and receive your ticket, visit readingphillies.com, call the R-Phils ticket office at 610-375-8469 or stop by the ticket office at FirstEnergy Stadium, 1900 Centre Ave., Reading, PA 19605. Children 4 & under are free.

For more information, you can also visit www. gamefaceinternational.com and www.epysa.org.

For media inquiries please contact Evan Kravitz at Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer, 215-657-7727.

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Kohl’s US Youth Soccer American Cup Comes to West Chester

Over 1,100 kids to take field in Kohl’s US Youth Soccer American Cup Event Information Who: West Chester United Soccer Club What: Kohl’s American Cup When: May 29-30, 2010 Time: All Day Where: WCUSC Thornbury Soccer Park 1200 S. Westtown Road West Chester, PA 19382 Additional Information: Boys play on Sat., May 29 and girls play on Sun., May 30

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est Chester, Pa., will host the Kohl’s US Youth Soccer American Cup, the largest recreational youth soccer tournament in the United States, at WCUSC Thornbury Soccer Park May 29-30. Boys’ teams will compete on Saturday, May 29, while the girls will play on Sunday, May 30. The Under-9 through Under-19 boys and girls participating in the Kohl’s US Youth Soccer American Cup will bring together numerous teams on 8 soccer fields for the second annual soccer tournament held in West Chester.

Kohl’s American Cup offers youth soccer

players an opportunity to play in a high-quality tournament in a fun, family-like atmosphere. The program was started in 2000 as an avenue to highlight recreational soccer players and promote fair play. Players receive equal opportunities and benefits within their level of play, with an emphasis on participation, rather than competition.

The Kohl’s American Soccer Experience Vehicle will add even more excitement to the West Chester Kohl’s American Cup. The Soccer Experience Vehicle comes complete with three larger-thanlife inflatable soccer games and numerous prizes and souvenirs for participants and their families. In

2009, Soccer Experience Vehicles 1 and 2 covered over 23,000 miles. This event is one of over 65 Kohl’s American Cup tournaments being held from March to December. All tournaments are open to players registered with a US Youth Soccer State Association recreational league. Admission to Kohl’s American Cup is free.

For more information about West Chester United Soccer Club visit www.wcusc.org/recplusfestival or contact Damon Nolan at dnolan@wcusc.org or 610399-5277, ext. 7. For more information on US Youth Soccer visit www.USYouthSoccer.org.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Partners with the Philadelphia Union and Philadelphia Independence

By Evan Kravitz

T

he 2010 soccer season in Philadelphia is off to an exciting start.

We are witnessing the beginning of two new soccer franchises, the Philadelphia Union and Philadelphia Independence, both with promising prospects for the future. And with these new ventures into Major League Soccer and Women’s Professional Soccer come new partnerships with Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer that plan to be just as exciting.

EPYSA was out in full force for the Philadelphia Union home opener on April 10 at the Link. Before the game, EPYSA staff handed out all sorts of

promotional goodies and kids also had a chance to score some goals against our own soccer youth who turned up for the game. The match lived up to the hype as the Union defeated DC United 3-2.

The Independence made a special appearance at the annual Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Workshop, held on March 6. They provided an on-field demonstration and signed autographs. Staff and EPYSA kids showed their support for the women’s team at their home opener on April 11. The Independence took on the Atlanta Beat and tied.

“Our partnerships with the Union and Independence reflect our commitment to soccer at all levels,” said Chris Branscome, CEO of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer. “I look forward to working with both organizations to promote the game.”

12 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

“The EPYSA is a shining example of a youth soccer organization making its members a priority,” said Nick Sakiewicz, CEO & Operating Partner, Keystone Sports & Entertainment, the ownership group of Philadelphia Union. “Together, we are one soccer community and, as a result of this partnership, we will be able to offer additional resources for youth players to reach their full potential.”

Terry Foley, General Manager of the Philadelphia Independence, echoed those same feelings.

“The partnership with EPYSA is an important step for our organization. Through programs with EPYSA we have an opportunity to develop and inspire local youth who will one day have the opportunity to play at the professional level.”

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TOPSoccer is The Game for All Kids!

By Evan Kravitz

T

here are thousands of children with disabilities who can benefit by the opportunity to play and enjoy the game of soccer. TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is the community-based training and team placement program for just that need.

Young athletes with mental and physical disabilities are guided by youth soccer volunteers that enable these young athletes to become valued members of the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer and US Youth Soccer families. TOPSoccer was formed to perpetuate the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer and US Youth Soccer mission to foster the physical, mental and emotional

growth and development of America’s youth at all levels of age and competition.

“We want more kids to learn and enjoy the great sport of soccer at any skill level,” said Diane Spencer, Chairperson of Eastern Pennsylvania TOPSoccer. “We have teams that mix children with Autism and other developmental delays with athletes that have physical disabilities”.

There is no age limit for TOPSoccer. Many programs set their own age limit. Variety Club is 21. Each program is different and is created around the needs of the participants. Athletes are placed on teams according to ability, not age. Spencer’s daughter, Katie, 21, has Down syndrome and has been playing soccer for so long that she has become a mentor to many kids and is, in some ways, a coach in the making.

“I really like helping my friends and my coaches; I like to be part of a team,” said Katie. “I think TOPSsoccer is a great op-

portunity for people to learn the game of soccer and it is a great way to have fun with your friends. The reason why I joined the Variety Club TOPSoccer program is because I wanted to play sports with my friends” Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s Director of Coaching, Mike Barr, says, “Probably the greatest gift an experienced soccer coach or individual who doesn’t even play or coach soccer can provide is to offer challenged children and adults the opportunity to train and play soccer.”

Diane Spencer works hard to make it easy and convenient for parents and kids to get involved. Whether you wish to start your own club or want to find an existing club in your area, the resources are available. Spencer runs practices and games every Friday night in the spring and fall at the Variety Club in Worcester, PA (anyone is invited to attend).

For more information on how you can get involved with TOPSoccer, and for your local contact, visit Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s website, www.epysa.org, and go to the TOPSoccer link under the “programs” tab. You can also e-mail Diane Spencer at dspencer@verizon.net.

Annual Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Workshop Brings Soccer Community Together

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By Evan Kravitz

he annual Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Workshop, held on March 6th, was one of the best ever attended.

More than 1,300 people gathered at the United Sports Training Center in Downingtown, Pa., to receive coaching lessons from Olympic Development Program (ODP) staff. A highlight was an appearance by the Philadelphia Independence, the professional women’s soccer team of Philadelphia. Independence coach Paul Riley and his players provided an on-field demonstration and signed autographs. Kids of all ages enjoyed games and prizes. Among the other highlights: • Four ODP teams played in college showcase matches • Coaches from Division I, II & III colleges spoke to parents about recruiting • Session on injury prevention through exercise 14 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

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If it’s Summer then it’s Time for Soccer Camp Register Now for Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Complete Player Soccer Camps

By Evan Kravitz

E

astern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer will be hosting two overnight camp sessions and one day camp this July at Immaculata University in Malvern, Pa. The overnight camps will run from July 11-15 and 18-22. The day camp will be held at the same location from July 26-30.

Under the direction of Coach Mike Barr,

Director of Camps and Coaching for Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer, boys and girls ages 10-17 at the resident camps will be guided by a staff of United States Soccer Federation licensed coaches. With a 10:1 maximum camper-to-staff ratio, players can expect high energy sessions, injury and prevention techniques, fitness and nutrition education, improved technical and tactical knowledge of the game, fun-filled evening activities and air-conditioned dorms. Players will also be introduced to the Olympic Devel-

opment Program and goalkeeping training with ODP staff. Complimentary adidas balls, t-shirts and water bottles will be distributed.

Costs for the camps are $500 for residents and $425 for commuters (includes lunch and dinner). Discounts for additional family members and teams are available.

Many of the same ODP coaches that will be working at the overnight camps will teach recreational players and younger travel teams, ages 10-17, at the day camp.

There will be individual and group technical training, matches and swimming between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. The cost for the day camp is $225. Team discounts are available.

For more information on the camp sessions, costs and for registration forms visit us at www.epysa.org.

Apply Now for Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Scholarships

By Evan Kravitz

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pplications are being accepted for Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Scholarships. The deadline is June 1. Applications can be obtained through our website at www.epysa.org. The purpose of the scholarship is to encourage qualified high school seniors, registered with Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer, to further their edu-

cation in a college program. Four, four-year scholarships will be awarded. Each scholarship award will be in the amount of $1,000 per year, renewable each year for four years.

Selection of the winners will be based upon financial need, scholastic achievement and leadership ability. Selection will be made by a committee that consists of people who are non-relation to the candidates and people outside of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer.

While at college, the recipients are expected to maintain good academic and disciplinary standing. They must also show a commitment to promote soccer through volunteering, coaching, refereeing or playing in college or in the local community.

One of last year’s winners, Patrick Letourneau, is currently attending Colgate University.

He was a member of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer for eight-years, playing on club teams and ODP. “The club team I played on for

16 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

years and my coach created an experience that became a strong foundation for the basis of my development,” said Letourneau.

But it’s not just soccer alone that will get you noticed. According to Letourneau, “If two players are close in playing ability, coaches will look to take the player who excels more academically because they will perform better at the college level. Additionally, having good academic standing and [having performed] community service projects offers players additional scholarships to help pay for college.”

To those applying for the scholarships, Letourneau advises that you “highlight what you feel are your best attributes as a student, athlete and member of your community. The more well-rounded you are, the more success you will have.”

Letourneau currently holds a 3.75 GPA and is considering majoring in mathematics.

He is a freshman on the Colgate University Men’s Soccer Team.

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The Coaches Corner Doing the Best for Our Kids

By Mike Barr, Director of Coaching, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer There are a few questions parents should be asking themselves: • Am I pushing my child into soccer because I need my child to meet success because I never realized my athletic goals?

• Is my child overtraining and playing in too many games?

• Are the paid trainers qualified? Do they have national licenses from US Soccer or equivalent licensing?

• Does my child’s training interfere with academics?

• Am I providing my child exposure to other sports and the arts?

I

am a firm believer that individual clubs can have the same impact as larger clubs, academies, and training centers. The promises of academy-type programs and the prohibitive costs to participate should be examined by parents and club administrators.

Rarely are the promises of college scholarships or opportunities to play professionally accurately portrayed. Many of the top players in the world did not have academies or professional training until their teens.

Zinedine Zidane, Didier Drogba, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Wayne Rooney and Christiano Ronaldo came from poor or congested areas where soccer was played constantly with little or no supervision. Frank Lampard did not play in the West Ham Academy until 16. Samuel Eto’o was signed by Real Madrid after their scouts saw him playing with his club team in Cameroon at 15.

They did not pay for training. All of these great professionals did not play with players their own age in their developmental years, travel with their parents to training sites or seek out overpaid trainers with little or no credibility.

• Does my child have the opportunity for downtime and social activities?

• Do I recognize the extraordinary odds of playing professional soccer and how a strong performance academically provides more opportunities for my child?

• Is my decision to utilize paid trainers and finding new clubs based on the comments of soccer entrepreneurs’ intent on making money?

• Can I provide my child quality soccer training at the foundation years without exorbitant costs, not affecting academic and social growth, limiting travel and allowing my child to play within their community and with peers?

• Does it make sense to have individuals make decisions about children eight and nine years of age to be excluded from training programs?

Education of coaches within your club is a very valuable tool and yet many clubs do not take advantage of the opportunities provided by their state association. Coaches who coach at the U6 to U9 level can take the

18 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

four to six hour courses that address development, technique, methods and objectives for these ages. It’s a huge confidence builder for new coaches and pays long-term dividends for players.

A few clubs have made this course part of their schedule, as coaches of the teams and players participate on the opening day of the season. All the parents of the players would also have a sense of confidence in their club because they prepare their coaches before undertaking the role of coach.

As you move from the youth levels, your state association provides an “E” License for coaches training players from nine to 12 years of age playing eight-a-side. This course deals with technique and small group tactics. It is not necessary to have played the game. The course provides a coach with confidence in training, quality progression in their sessions, team management skills and stronger understanding of the game.

Training sessions with their coaching peers are evaluated and suggestions provided. To pass this course a coach needs to attend all the sessions. The “E” Course is 18 hours and takes one weekend to complete.

Your state association also provides a “D” License after successful completion of the “E” License. This course lasts 38 hours and provides model training sessions by state education instructors, lectures in training on 11-a-side soccer, large group and team tactics, advanced training methodology, fitness and injury prevention. Each candidate leads three training sessions with various topics. Two are practice training sessions with suggestions provided by the instructor and the other candidates. The final session is evaluated by state instructors and a decision on the level of the “D” is based on the coach’s performance.

Many clubs are requiring travel coaches to have at least an “E” License and a few states have actually mandated coaching licenses for various age groups.

Each club should have a master coach who goes on for national licensing in order to instruct coaches and provide training to players. The club can retain coaches going on to national licensing by paying for coach-

ing costs or added monetary incentives.

You can be certain of quality training when there are curriculums for each age group and all players within each age group are taught the same skills. This can be accomplished by

having each team, within each age group in the recreation program, training on the same night at the same location.

The master coach takes one team and demonstrates an exercise or activity in front of the other coaches and teams. The recreation coaches take their team and perform the same exercise as the master coach demonstrated. In the next exercise the master coach demonstrates another exercise with another team.

Some clubs have taken the approach of not forming teams but putting all the players in assorted groups or teams for each training session and for all matches. This procedure makes sure that a few teams do not dominate competition.

An important note to trainers of younger players: children at young ages enjoy repetition and do not become easily bored. Repetition of proper technique at young ages assures strong habits later.

The master coach also plays a vital role with travel teams. Every coach should still be following the club curriculum but the travel coaches should have the opportunity to use various exercises of their own selection. The master coach’s role becomes one of observing training sessions and making suggestions to the coaches and even helping with various exercises. The coach should take various teams for training and allow the other club coaches to observe teams within the club.

The master coach should also be examining standout players in each age and determine who may have the ability to play up within the club and have an impact that

• Does the child want to leave his or her team to play up?

move is successful in player’s development and the accomplishments of the new team.

Is it possible to replicate the formula that Zidane, Drogba, Rooney, and Ronaldo grew up with? Probably not, however, a club can come up with a program that may approximate those conditions and provide players who show promise of possible professional play.

When a child and his or her parents decide to play for an academy or more competitive club cost should be minimal or free, like the academies where clubs from the MLS and WPS direct them at no cost to players and families. The formula today eliminates more than 20 percent of children from playing soccer at a competitive level.

Parents and clubs should be aware of what opportunities are available to their children in regard to playing professionally and the availability of college soccer scholarships.

Ask yourself if you are acting in the best interest of your child. Will you regret the time, money and commitment to a dream that was only in your mind?

• How will the child handle the pressure and notoriety of playing-up?

For more of Mike Barr’s article visit: www.epysa.org

places him or her among the top five players on the older team because of their ability.

The master coach should also be involved with tournament selection for the club.

Tournaments should provide meaningful exposure and eliminate the expensive long distance tournaments. Multi-match tournaments spread over two days may cause injury and should be avoided.

The master coach, along with club administrators, should keep costs to a minimum, especially with younger players. Each club should have a clear budget with expenses described before the season begins.

When attempting to move a player up an age group within a club many considerations should be examined.

• Do the parents want their child to play up?

• Could playing-up impede development due to a coach who may not be as strong as the younger age coach?

• What are the player’s goals and will the change infringe upon other areas?

The club pass eliminates many of the previous questions and many states are moving in that direction. If the move works poorly, a player goes back to their original team. The club pass allows the player to develop a sense of comfort with the new team over a period of time. Time also provides a clearer evaluation for coaches and the master coach, to see if the EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE 19

Spotlight on Coaching Danielle Fagan

By Evan Kravitz

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oach Danielle Fagan can’t remember a time when she wasn’t involved in soccer. She started playing when she was seven and has not left the sport since. “I grew up in the ‘70s and ‘80s when there weren’t many sports for girls to participate in,” said Fagan. “I wanted to play ice hockey but that was for boys.

Soccer was the only option. That being said, soccer has proved to be the right option.”

Fagan has a soccer resume that reads like a president’s memoir. She is currently Head Coach and Program Director for the TEYSA U9 girls, Technical Director of TEYSA’s FC Europa Premiere Teams, Director of Training- Girls’ Programs for Radnor Soccer Club, Coach of Conestoga High School’s Girls’ Varsity Soccer,

a member of Region I camp staff for US Youth Soccer, ODP staff and a part of FC DELCO as an ECNL Scout and Coach-at-Large. As if that wasn’t enough to impress you, Fagan is also the founder and owner of SOCCERDCF (Development, Character and Fun) and www.soccerdcf.com where she offers training courses, clinics and creates enthusiasm and passion for the game of soccer.

Fagan played soccer throughout her undergraduate years at Villanova University, starting in 1989 and was captain of the team in 1992. Shelly Chamberlain, the head coach at Villanova at the time, was the first person to give Fagan a taste of coaching when he asked her to be the assistant coach of the team while she pursued an MBA. Fagan left the soccer world briefly upon graduation in the mid-nineties to start her journey up the corporate ladder. Fagan got involved in coaching once again in 1997 when she bumped into Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer CEO Chris Branscome at the EPYSA Coaches Workshop. She inquired about coaching opportunities and Branscome got Fagan involved with the Lower Merion Soccer Club. Fagan continued work-

ing fulltime until 2003 when she left corporate America and devoted herself to soccer fulltime. But leaving the business world didn’t necessarily mean leaving her aspirations to make her mark on the corporate scene. Fagan channeled her passion for soccer into SOCCERDCF. Since then, Fagan has travelled the world learning more and more about the game and bringing those lessons back home for her players and clients.

Fagan’s return to soccer was in no small part due to the pleasure she takes when she sees her players begin to understand the fundamentals of the game and feel the same passion for soccer as she does. “My favorite part about coaching is when the light switch goes on for the kids and they get what you’re talking about,” said Fagan. “When they reach success, I reach success. That’s how I measure it. It’s not always about winning, it’s about development.”

Fagan advises other coaches to learn from one another. “Your peers are your biggest asset,” said Fagan. “Learn as much as you can; the information is out there. It doesn’t matter if it’s soccer for girls or soccer for boys, it is still soccer.”

Fagan says soccer has given her life purpose. “I planned to climb the corporate ladder and become a CEO,” said Fagan. “I feel like now I am getting the business side accomplished while remaining true to my passion for the game.”

The Real Coaching Heroes

By Mike Barr, Director of Coaching EPYSA Youth Soccer

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op players and their families learn to value coaches at the younger ages, since many of these coaches are recognized as being responsible for providing the foundation for later success a son or daughter experiences on the soccer field. Most players can look back to that certain coach, who not only introduced them to the sport, but inspired them to appreciate soccer through developmentally sound and fun instruction.

The Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s

Olympic Development Program has provided the opportunity to train very talented players each year. Our goal is to further develop each player’s skills in order to enable them to reach their full potential. Increased pressure in training technique, team tactics, match related fitness and more challenging competition are all part of the Olympic Development experience.

These players would not be involved with ODP without those club coaches who gave up so much of their own time and effort to work

20 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

with these players. The sacrifices and time a volunteer coach makes available is often overlooked or unappreciated. Each coach should always feel a significant part of a player they once coached as they move from youth soccer to college and possibly playing professionally.

Within Eastern Pennsylvania, we wish to acknowledge the club coaches who are currently training or have trained our ODP players. For a list of these coaches please visit www.epysa.org.

The Referee: A Perspective from the Female Side

By Joanne Neal

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lthough the game of soccer, for the player, has turned the corner and is now commonly practiced by both male and female players around the world, the realm of refereeing has not so easily made the transition. It is still predominantly a man’s world.

Soccer has always been a passion in my life and it seemed like a natural progression for me to become a referee. The journey began when I got my Grade 8 license. I moved up quickly doing higher level matches, was invited to ODP finals and Region I tournaments and earned my Grade 6 State Badge.

All in all, I’d say I faired pretty well in this

men’s faction of the game.

No one is going to sugar coat a referee’s position – it’s tough. You have to be thickskinned, have a good understanding of the game, be able to make split second decisions and then stick with your decision. I comfort myself in knowing that even the “really good, seasoned, male referees” take abuse.

As a parent on the sidelines of a game, and listening to the comments by parents and coaches, it’s truly amazing how many folks don’t understand how the game should be called by the referee or played by the players. One of the hardest things for me as a referee has been to see the fun slipping

away from our youth games.

There’s definitely something empowering about being a referee, especially a female in a predominantly male profession. I’ll admit, I have been in tears on my drive home, wondering what went wrong in some games. How did it all go south so fast? The comments and name calling can really get to you.

What I’ve learned to do is treat the game like a light bulb. With that first whistle someone turns the switch on and things happen – emotions flair, excitement exudes. At the end of the game the switch is turned off and everything ends. What happens in between is just all part of the game.

Refereeing requires a certain sense of maturity and builds a confidence in you. It’s not just an avenue to make money. It’s a responsibility to perform at a level that may be out of your comfort zone and to take seriously your role in the beautiful game.

For more information on how you can get involved in officiating, visit www.epysa.org.

Help Save the Women You Love

By Evan Kravitz

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n April 17, 2010, the 14th Annual KICKS Against Breast Cancer (KABC) Women’s Collegiate Soccer Tournament was held at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Germantown, MD. This day provided an opportunity to play

competitive soccer matches while making a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s ’93 and ’94 girls ODP teams combined to participate.

The tournament was founded in 1996, when KABC founder Louise Waxler’s dear friend, Claudia Mayer, lost her battle with cancer. Since then, girls’ teams have been invited to compete annually against top collegiate soccer teams throughout the United States. The teams are also challenged to raise funds for various non-profit organizations supporting individual’s affected by cancer.

For Waxler, Associate General Manager and Director of Operations for the Philadel-

22 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

phia Independence, KABC is a labor of love.

“Cancer does not discriminate,” said Waxler.

“Those who participate don’t just come to play. They hear testimonials from cancer survivors and learn how to be more aware. That is what Claudia would have wanted.”

Since the inception of the tournament, donations and fundraising have totaled more than $800,000. Last year’s event raised $100,000!

For more information on how you can get involved in KABC, contact Louise Waxler at louise.waxler@kicksagainstbreastcancer.org.

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2010 Eastern Pennsylvania State Championships

By Evan Kravitz

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ongratulations to our U17 Boys Penn Fusion Soccer Academy Coppa. By being Runner-Up in the US Youth Soccer National League, they have earned advancement to the 2010 US Youth Soccer National Championships July 20-25 in Overland Park, KS. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is also happy to report that our U-12 boys, 11v11, teams were granted a wild card bid

by Region I to play in the US Youth Soccer Regional Championships in West Virginia.

The winner of the Eastern Pennsylvania State Cup finals and the finalist will attend the tournament.

As of press time, congratulations to the following teams who have advanced to the semi-finals and finals in Eastern Pennsylvania’s State Cup, Challenge Cup and Presidents Cup tournaments:

Eastern Pennsylvania State Cup (May 15 & 16) Finalists Age

Finalists U-12 Boys FC Delco vs. Lehigh Valley United U-12 Boys FC Revolution Vipers vs. FC Lehigh ‘97 (8 vs.8) U-13 Boys Lehigh Valley United vs. Lower Merion Lightning U-14 Boys Lehigh Valley United vs. PA United Grifos U-15 Boys FC Delco Cannibals vs. LDC CAPA Elite U-16 Boys PSC Coppa vs. HMMS Eagle FC U-17 Boys FC Delco Black vs. YMS Thunder U-12 Girls West-Mont United Wild Cats vs. FC Bucks Freedom U-12 Girls FC Lehigh vs. Super Nova (8 vs.8) U-13 Girls Spirit United Gaels vs. HMMS Eagle FC U-14 Girls FC Bucks Revolution vs. BSA Rage

U-11 Girls (11 vs.11) U-11 Girls (8 vs. 8) U-12 Girls U-13 Girls U-14 Girls U-15 Girls U-16 Girls

Eastern Pennsylvania Challenge Cup (May 15 & 16) Finalists Age

Finalists U-9 Boys Ukranian National Fury vs.

Winner: Lower Merion/North Union U-10 Boys Ukrainian National Shakhtar vs.

West Chester Predators U-11 Boys Lower Merion Rat Pack vs. PA Classics Revolution (11 vs.11) U-11 Boys USTA vs. Ukrainian National Gunners (8 vs. 8) U-12 Boys Rose Tree Gunners vs. Hulmeville Arsenal U-13 Boys Deep Run Valley Inter vs. Upper Dublin Storm U-14 Boys North Union United vs. YMS Colonials U-15 Boys HMMS Eagle FC vs. Garnet Valley Evolution U-16 Boys USTA Raptors vs. Haverford Spartans U-17 Boys Amity ‘92 (Champions) vs.

Chambersburg Blue Hawks (Finalist) U-9 Girls Carlisle Revolution vs. CRUSA Crushers U-10 Girls West-Mont United Strikers vs. PA Rush Chargers

Finalists Age

U-15 Girls U-17 Boys

FINALISTS Souderton Cyclones vs. Spirit United Frenzy SCCSA Chesco Premier II vs. Fox Chase United

Semi-Finalists Age

U-13 Girls U-13 Girls U-14 Girls U-14 Girls U-14 Boys U-14 Boys U-15 Boys U-15 Boys U-16 Boys U-16 Boys

SEMI-Finalists Greater Pittston Stoners vs. CRUSA Lightning LDC Lightning vs. Parkland Premier Western Lehigh vs. VE Venom Dillsburg Xtreme vs. CRUSA Elite BSA Rage vs. Upper Dublin Force LDC United vs. CRUSA Cobras West-Mont United vs. Lower Macungie Fox Chase Gunners vs. PA Rush Nike BSA Rage vs. Coventry Kixx YMS Internazionale vs. South Philly SC

24 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

FC Bucks Wildcats vs. YMS Xplosion North Union United vs. Upper Makefield Rockets Buckingham Heat vs. Hershey Rush FC Danubia Celtic vs. HMMS Flame Lower Merion Charge vs. Lighthouse Power Warminster Wild vs. Warrington Wolverines FC York Elite (Champions) vs.

Penn Legacy White (Finalist)

Eastern Pennsylvania Presidents Cup (May 8 & 9) Champions Age

cHAMPIONS U-16 Girls Phoenix Fire U-13 Boys Central Susquehanna United

US Youth Soccer National Championship Series The best players all seeking one goal…

By Evan Kravitz

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Photos to the left and above are of the 2009 US Youth Soccer National Champions FC Bucks Vipers

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he US Youth Soccer National Championship Series begins with more than 185,000 players on 10,000 teams competing in our yearlong competition starting with the US Youth Soccer State Championships. Eastern Pennsylvania State Cup play is in May and June. Then, the field narrows to 926 teams as state champions and select wildcards, from the US Youth Soccer Regional Leagues, advance to compete in one of four US Youth Soccer Regional Championships.

Only 12 teams advance from each regional event to the US Youth Soccer National Championships in Overland Park, Kan., July 20-25. The Under-15 through Under-17 Boys and Girls age groups also include two teams representing the US Youth Soccer National League.

The Series provides the nation’s top collegiate coaches with the premier state to identify and scout the most coveted players in the country. In 2010, over 600 coaches are expected to attend the regional championships.

26 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

US Youth Soccer Region I (East) Championships Village of Barboursville, W.Va. July 1-6, 2010 US Youth Soccer Region II (Midwest) Championships Beavercreek, Ohio June 26-30, 2010 US Youth Soccer Region III (South) Championships Baton Rouge, La. June 17-23, 2010 US Youth Soccer Region IV (West) Championships Albuquerque, N.M. June 21-27, 2010 US Youth Soccer National Championships Overland Park, Kan. July 20-25, 2010 Follow the moments: championships.usyouthsoccer.org and Twitter, @usysncs

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In the Moment

Heather Mitts, Philadelphia Independence

By Evan Kravitz

“

I live and play in the moment,” says Heather Mitts, defense for the Philadelphia Independence. “I work really hard and I am never pleased with myself. There is always something to improve on. That’s just the way I am.”

Mitts got hooked on soccer in the first grade. She remembers the excitement of being on the field, never wanting to leave and doing header after header to the amazement of her friends and parents. She

played every position, even goalie, before settling into her true love of defense. But Heather would play any position on the field if you told her to. She just wanted to play.

Mitts continued to play soccer all through school and eventually at the University of Florida where she majored in advertising.

But Heather never imagined that her soccer career would go any further than college.

For Heather, playing at the professional level was a dream come true.

Heather first played for the WUSA and the Philadelphia Charge from 2000-2003 before joining the U.S. Women’s National Team where she won her second Gold Medal at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, starting all six games. Before joining the Philadelphia Independence as a free agent she was with the Boston Breakers.

Heather always has one eye looking over her shoulder at the competition coming up the ranks. “When I was young I was the one gunning to be at the top,” said Mitts. “You

can’t be lazy. You have to be the best you can be. I have always worked hard to be a more complete player.”

Even with all the blood, sweat and tears that Heather puts into the game you don’t have to remind her that she has one of the best jobs in the world. “To play soccer as a job is pretty amazing, “said Mitts. “To get to workout for a living is not bad either. Some people have jobs that they hate. I am doing something that I love and my teammates are awesome. We have good chemistry.”

Heather recently married former Eagles Quarterback A.J. Feeley who is currently with the Saint Louis Rams. And even though it’s a long distance relationship, they have made a commitment to support each other’s careers. After soccer, Heather has aspirations for sports broadcasting, something she already has done with ESPN. To the younger players who have dreams of playing professionally Heather advises that their parents be supportive. “For the kids, working hard on your weaknesses as well as your strengths is important. It helps to play club soccer and ODP. Get seen by as many coaches as possible and maintain a great fitness level.”

Winning at Soccer Without Scoring a Goal

By Andrew Olaleye and JT Dorsey

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he World Cup is quickly approaching us, and many fans are hoping that their respective teams are able to find success in South Africa. This electric event truly shows how a simple soccer ball can transcend the barriers of race, class and gender throughout the world. That being said, we cannot help but think of the opportunities and challenges the game of soccer faces in urban America. Many programs and individuals in eastern Pennsylvania (Starfinder Foundation, Will Tripley Foundation and Allentown Youth Soccer to name a few) do their part with continuing support from Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer, which provides free clinics,

free coaching courses, camp scholarships and supplies. These are some great initiatives that are impacting communities that are not traditional soccer hotbeds. It’s encouraging to see that, through soccer, more children are reaping the benefits of being healthy, active and positive role models for others. In addition, some players have been able to gain access to additional educational and social opportunities that are not prevalent in their neighborhoods. That being said, many of these programs still need your help. Whether it is leveraging your coaching expertise to provide coaching education or supporting a fundraiser or community event, you can help

28 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

keep soccer in these areas. The engagement of soccer everywhere is worth more than any tournament we can win.

This beautiful game is one that brings many cultures and classes together throughout the world and we hope for continued efforts in our region to promote the game to children of underserved communities - with full confidence that soccer will be able to impact their lives both on and off the field.

For more information on how to get involved visit www.epysa.org, www.jtdorsey.org, www.starfinderfoundation.org, and www. allentownyouthsoccer.org.

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SUN June 6 vs Sky Blue FC SUN June 13 vs FC Gold Pride SaT June 26 vs Washington Freedom SUN July 4 vs Boston Breakers SaT July 24 vs Sky Blue FC SUN august 8 vs Saint Louis athletica SUN august 15 vs Chicago Red Stars SUN august 29 vs Boston Breakers SUN September 5 vs Saint Louis athletica all games played at West Chester University’s Farrell Stadium

Capturing the Art of the Worldwide Pickup Game

By Evan Kravitz

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ne of the most important days in Gwendolyn Oxenham’s life happened at a young age. She was taking ballet lessons and her brother was playing soccer. After watching her brother play she realized she was definitely with the wrong crowd. Soccer was her true calling. She soon found herself playing on her first team, the Candy Canes.

Now, the 26 year-old is part of a new documentary that examines the cross-cultural phenomenon that is soccer. “Pelada,” the Brazilian term for street soccer, is the name of Oxenham’s film which she co-directed with three of her peers, all soccer enthusiasts.

Oxenham is a 2004 graduate of Duke University and at sixteen was the youngest Division I athlete in the history of the NCAA. A Duke Captain, she made two All-ACC teams, led the Duke team in assists, and was named Most Inspirational Player.

But when Oxenham was young, coaches were hard on her. So, she found ways to constantly improve. It was during her youth that

she began the see the importance of pickup games. Years later, the simplicity of starting a game of soccer would lead her on an amazing journey.

The idea for the documentary came while Oxenham was working as a deckhand on a ship docked in Mexico. While at port, she noticed a makeshift soccer field in the distance and organized a game with some locals. That’s when Oxenham realized that soccer was that special type of sport that could be “picked up” anywhere.

Soon after that game, Oxenham and fellow Co-Director Rebekah Fergusson began talking about the possibilities of filming an adventure around the world where they would startor join- as many pickup games in as many countries as possible. With the addition of Oxenham’s future fiancé Luke Boughen and producer Ryan White the four set off to explore, literally, the world of soccer.

They picked their locations based upon rumors of pickup games being played. In Tehran, Iran, where it is illegal for women to

play with the men, Oxenham found that there was “a difference between want the government wants and what the people want. No one ever says no to a pickup game, no matter if you are a man or woman.” Playing in Kenya left the most lasting memory. The field they used once served as a garbage dump.

“Soccer is like a language,” said Oxenham.

“There isn’t any other sport that has its reach and no other sport travels as well. For me, the special part was getting to know so many different people and the way the ability to kick a ball allows you to get to know total strangers.”

Regarding the goal of the documentary, Oxenham says their purpose was to tell the story of the people who play and to show the connectivity of the world’s game. “We made the film for the huge soccer audience,” Oxenham said. “However, we also made it for those who say they don’t get soccer. Our favorite reactions are when we convert the non-soccer fans.”

To learn more about the film visit www.pelada-movie.com.

Send your TOUCHLINE story suggestions to: ekravitz@epysa.org 30 EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE

Tim Murphy

A Professional at Both Ends of the Spectrum

By Evan Kravitz

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rowing up in Trenton, NJ in the ‘60s, Tim Murphy, Vice President and General Manager of the ComcastSpectacor complex in Philadelphia, excelled at soccer. Playing for the Hamnetts, he realized at a young age that playing at an increasingly competitive level amongst his friends was making him a better player and he was enjoying the game more and more. When Murphy enrolled at Davis & Elkins College in West Virginia to major in history and political science, he noticed that the soccer players he was playing with were beginning to play in the North American Soccer League (NASL). Murphy knew he was of the same caliber as the other players and set his sights on a professional soccer career beginning in his sophomore and junior years of school.

Upon graduation, Murphy was drafted into the NASL and played with the Portland Timbers,

the Major Indoor Soccer League’s Cleveland Force, the American Soccer League’s Columbus Magic and in the English 2nd Division in Blackpool, England. But Murphy was playing at the bottom tier and though he was good enough to make it to the professional level, he knew he wouldn’t be able to make it a career. According to Murphy, “You’re playing at a higher level and you’re pushing yourself to be the best that you can. But then you get to a point where you have to ask yourself if you can sustain a professional level of play when the competition is getting younger and better.”

When Murphy dropped down from the NASL to the American Soccer League, he was faced with a decision: work hard to make it back to the NASL or accept that he got as much out of playing professionally as he wanted to and move on to other things. Murphy chose the latter.

In his mid-twenties, Murphy enrolled in graduate school at Ohio University. But his soccer days weren’t over. There, he was the head coach of the men’s soccer team. At the same time, Murphy got involved with facilities management and fell in love with major events planning. His course of study would lead him to a Masters in Sports Administration.

Murphy’s first job out of graduate school was an internship at the Spectrum in event management. After 29 years, he has remained loyal to the Spectrum, climbing the ranks to oversee the Comcast-Spectacor complex. When thinking about the Spectrum, as it nears its end in Philadelphia’s sports and events history, Murphy gets nostalgic. “I started my career there and played at the Spectrum when I was on the Cleveland Force. That building is a big part of my life.”

Murphy is currently the assistant coach for the Warrington Blast, the team his 13-year-old daughter Kristen plays for. He enjoys watching the players grow as athletes and young adults.

And, although his professional soccer days are behind him, he still makes time to catch a game or two on television.

To those who have aspirations to make it to the professional ranks, Murphy says to build good work habits that will make you wellrounded in all areas. “There’s no shame in not making it to the professional level,” says Murphy.

“If you have done the best that you can, than just be thankful that you got to that level and let yourself enjoy it. I love the game as much today as I did when I was a kid.”

EPYSA Coaches Handbook Provides Best Practices for Coaching

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By Mark Barr, Director of Coaching, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

ealistic expectations for the level of play and practice at various age groups in soccer are critical to allowing our youth to experience the full enjoyment of the game. Quality coaches are imperative to achieving success in this area. That is why I compiled a comprehensive Coaches Handbook that can be mailed to EPYSA members free of charge. For your copy, e-mail us at info@epysa.org. This guide is filled with valuable tips on the types of practices, drills and matches that should be held at every age level. In addition, you can learn how to get your United States Soccer Federation coaching licenses.

Check out www.epysa.org for soccer information in Pennsylvania EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER • TOUCHLINE 31

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