CONTENTS TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT Welcome to GPS
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GPS News
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Tactical Zone
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Psychological Zone
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Physicall Zone
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Technical Zone
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Coaching Zone
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Goalkeeping Zone
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Parent Zone.
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FC BAYERN NEWS GPS FC Bayern National Teams
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GPS FOUNDATION GPS Foundation
COACHING ZONE .12
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GPS FLORIDA KNIGHTS Florida Knights On Tour
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AFFILIATE SPOTLIGHT GPS Carolina
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GPS TOURNAMENTS Caribbean Showcase
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VACATION PROGRAMS
GOALKEEPING.14
VACATION PROGRAMS .24
Camps & Vacation Programs
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CREDITS PRODUCER
GRAPHICS TEAM
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT
Lee Moyce
Lee Moyce
Steve Lanou
WORDS Lee Moyce
Chris Ward-Jones
Adrian Manning
Greg Meehan
Gavin MacPhee Chris Ward-Jones
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GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
WELCOME TO GPS
The mission of Global Premier Soccer is to enhance the soccer experience for players and coaches with the club. We provide our players the opportunity to develop as athletes and as people by fostering an identity of excellence. We strive to develop players who can compete at the highest level of soccer throughout the world. Massachusetts Premier Soccer (MPS) was founded in 2001 by Peter and Joseph Bradley with a mission to provide a new player development model for players in Massachusetts. Now Global Premier Soccer (GPS) has a vertically integrated pyramid structure that takes a player from 3 years of age through to 23. The success GPS has had is based on our ability to improve all our players technically, tactically, physically and psychologically. GPS’s commitment to its players is to provide them with the best coaching available in a professional and elite environment.
GPS FOOT SKILLS CHALLENGE LEVEL 1 GPS and The Soccer Assassins are constantly working to help improve all players’ technical skills and ability on the ball. We aim to increase a player’s confidence to try new things and be creative in possession. This video aims to challenge players to practice at home and gain comfort using both feet. It will challenge your technical ability to manipulate the ball using various parts of your feet and body. Click in the image to view the foot skills video.
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GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
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GPS NEWS ANDREW TONG TRAVELS TO SPAIN GPS would like to congratulate (U14 NPL) Andrew Tong on his selection to the US Club Soccer id2 team. Tong touched down in Barcelona yesterday evening and will travel to Valencia today to begin a 10 day tour to play against top LaLiga academies, watch a professional game and train in some of Spain’s best facilities. Tong is one of 18 in a squad that represents 11 U.S. states and some of the top youth clubs in America, such as Chicago Magic, Philadelphia Union, PDA, Surf SC, Baltimore Celtic and GPS. Tong is the lone member from New England.
GPS CANADA LAUNCHED Global Premier Soccer (GPS) are pleased to announce that GPS Canada has become the latest addition to the GPS network that now sees the club active in 21 US States and territories. GPS has developed many relationships north of the border, stretching back to the club’s USL A-League, PDL and W-League days and continuing with the club’s extensive tournament schedule, which sees around 50 Canadian teams attend GPS events annually. More recently, the club has been active on the US side of Niagara Falls in Buffalo since 2009 as part of GPS New York. “Expansion into Canada was a natural fit given our history of competing and working alongside Canadian clubs and the success of our office over the border in Buffalo”, said GPS CEO Joe Bradley. “We look forward to developing partnerships in the local area and expect to make some partnership announcements in the coming weeks,” added Bradley.
“Im delighted Andrew has been chosen to participate in such a prestigious trip,” said U14 NPL Coach, Andy Prosser. “Andrew has been one of our most consistent performers over the last year, and he deserves this opportunity to experience youth soccer at one of the highest levels in the world,” said Prosser.
GPS will work alongside local clubs and academies to bring experienced, professional coaches trained in the GPS curriculum and methodology into local communities to work with players of all ages. The club is currently evaluating potential partners throughout Ontario and plans to announce agreements in the coming weeks. For more information on GPS Canada please contact Brian Patterson at bpatterson@globalpremiersoccer.com or visit www.gpscanada.net.
Tong won the U.S. Club Soccer National Championship in Wakefield, Indiana this summer as part of the U13 NPL team. Last fall, he was selected to attend a U.S. Club Soccer id2 National Identification training camp in New Jersey. “It’s a great opportunity for our young players that we’ve selected from the camps,” said Gerry McKeown, id2 Boys Program Director and head coach of the id2 National Selection. “It’s a great chance to test themselves against the world’s greatest.”
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GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
GPS INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY GPS, are pleased to announce that Luke Magnier has signed for the GPS International Academy beginning in fall 2016. Magnier is an attacking midfielder from Shelburne and currently a senior at Champlain Valley Union High School. The Academy will provide Magnier, a unique opportunity to spend a year in London and train full time in a professional environment under the guidance of UEFA A/B qualified coaches and compete in competitive fixtures on a weekly basis. The Academy is targeted towards male players who are seeking to make a career in the game or those looking for an additional year of intensive training prior to attending college with 24 spots available for the first induction class. The GPS International Academy will be based in North West London at the state of the art Hive Training Center. The Hive is an international football training venue containing located in the shadow of the iconic Wembley Stadium with four full-size grass pitches and two full-size 3G pitches. “We are delighted to announce that Luke has chosen to sign for the GPS International Academy,” said Ben Hanley, Academy Director. “We believe this to be an outstanding opportunity for TJ and other aspiring players to further their soccer careers and enjoy living in one of the most iconic cities in the World,” said Hanley. “I wanted to further my development with soccer and the International Academy seemed like a great place to do that, as well as receive a text lot of opportunities for exposure both by English Academies and American Colleges,” said Luke. The GPS International Academy attendees will be exposed to professional scouts through regular exhibition games against professional academies and of trial events throughout the UK and Europe. The players will also have the opportunity to attend regular professional fixtures at any of London’s six EPL teams throughout the season. In addition the Academy players will also be enrolled on to a BTEC Level 3 in sport and performance and gain coaching qualifications from the English Football Association. For more information please visit: www.globalpremiersoccer.net/internationalacademy or contact Phillip Mitchell at pmitchell@globalpremiersoccer.com Ben Hanley at bhanley@globalpremiersoccer.com.
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GPS PARTNERS WITH DELAWARE REVOLUTION Global Premier Soccer (GPS) and Delaware Revolution Sports are pleased to announce a partnership which will see the soccer program of the Middletown based organization become GPS Delaware Revolution. The Delaware Revolution are based out of the Delaware Sports Complex (DSC). The DSC when complete will consist of twenty (20) full size outdoor natural grass fields and a full size turf field to be housed in a 160,000 square foot indoor training facility making it the largest sports facility in Delaware and the surrounding region. Global Premier Soccer, the Official North American Youth Partner of FC Bayern Munich, is one of the largest and most successful soccer organizations in the USA. GPS is currently active in 21 US States and territories plus Canada. The GPS model has each location produce players using the same development model that includes GPS Juniors, GPS Trainers, the GPS Early Development Program (EDP) and the GPS Premier Team Program. “The Delaware Revolution has always strived to stand out in the youth sports environment here in Delaware. This partnership with Global Premier Soccer allows us to bring the highest quality of development and resources to our soccer players and families without question. Adding FC Bayern into the equation through GPS connection ensures that there is a pathway for additional recognition and development for our best players in the future’. “We continue to seek out like minded clubs in North America and beyond, we are excited about taking the GPS program to Delaware,” said Neil Holloway, GPS Executive. “We are excited to see the evolution and result of pulling together two strong organizational cultures to provide a new unmatched framework for developing youth soccer at every level in not only Delaware but the entire region.” said Revolution President Scott Lobdell. In addition, as part of the GPS extensive partnership with FC Bayern, GPS Delaware Revolution will have access to the FC Bayern curriculum and the FC Bayern Academy player development methodology. This will include interaction with the Youth Academy Staff of FC Bayern on a monthly basis, as well as annual technical visits to FC Bayern. For the 2016 spring season GPS Delaware Revolution will introduce a GPS Juniors (Recreational) program, host an FC Bayern I.D program, and support all of Revolution’s existing teams, whilst strategically planning for 2016/17 tryouts and new team formation. GPS will expand its programming throughout the state to include school programs, clinics and camps, and ultimately see GPS Delaware Revolution become a regional powerhouse.
GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
TACTICAL ZONE ROLE OF A FULL BACK
Modern-day football has evolved vastly since its inception in the early 19th century. The technical and tactical abilities of the players, the frantic pace at which it is played at times, the movement of the players, the ever increasing fan base and the mixture of playing styles and traditions has certainly made the game more and more enjoyable as well as competitive. As the formations changed and became more tactically significant, one particular position has grown in importance, the fullback. With the rise of the importance of another particular position in the Defensive Midfield, the roles of a fullback has somewhat changed over the years. Nowadays, the defensive midfielder’s presence and cover acts as a license for the fullbacks to stay high up the pitch. Thus, in many cases the ever growing trend of fielding a fullback who is more adept in attacking rather than defending has been evident. Players coming through youth academy systems around the world are playing in all positions as they gain their soccer education. This enables them to gain an understanding of all positions on the field and allows coaches to gain a better understanding of which position will suit which players. The means that many full backs in todays game have also played as central midfield players or forwards giving them a greater ability when attacking than ever before.
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FC Bayern Munich’s David Alaba is one of the best full backs currently in world soccer. He is quick, strong and very athletic. David loves pushing forward to support attacks and create scoring opportunities. He is also a very good defender. He has all the key attributes that make a modern day full back. TEAM IN POSSESSION Looks to join the attack to provide an overload in wide area. Always in a position to receive the ball during build up. Is developing an understanding of crossing: - Driven cross – low and aimed at the near post. - Central cross – aimed at the penalty spot. TEAM NOT IN POSSESSION Recovery / positional interchange in transition . Effective communication with team mates. Understands offside coordination of the back line. Excellent 1v1 defender. Understands angles of approach when applying pressure to the opposition defence. Understand the role of tucking in as weak side defender. Is disciplined and responsible (hard working in attack and defence). Patience – is willing to make attacking runs but understands they may not receive a pass every time.
GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
Below is a breakdown of technical, tactical, physical and psychological skills required by a modern day full back
FULL BACKS
TECHNICAL
TACTICAL
The ability to pass accurately over short to medium distances. The ability to strike the ball over distance with both feet. Comfortable in possession of the ball. Ability to gain control of the ball using various parts of the body. Can display various dribbling techniques in tight spaces. Can travel at speed with the ball in open space. Ability to head the ball with correct technique. Ability to head the ball with power and purpose. Decision making on when and where to make a tackle and the type of tackle to use.
Can deal with 1v1 defending situations. Understands pressure, cover & balance. Understands when and where to apply pressure Recognizes when to move to support attacks and when to hold defensive shape. Understands when to penetrate with a pass and when to maintain possession.
PHYSICAL
PSYCHOLOGICAL
Agility - the ability to change direction quickly and switch body shape when defending 1v1 Power - Ability to be explosive to step and make tackles and jump up for headers. Speed - Ability to move quickly and apply pressure to forwards. and bring the ball out from the back. Strength - Ability to hold off forwards when competing for the ball.
Can effectively communicate with the defense about team shape and changing game situations, especially when pressing on the weak side. Desire to compete physically throughout the entire game and put body between the ball and goal. Mentally strong to understand that any mistakes could lead to chances for the opposition. Play without fear of failure and understand mistakes happen, its how we recover from those mistakes.
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GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
PSYCHOLOGICAL ZONE
Imposter
Syndrome “I feel like I don’t deserve to be here”
Every young player dreams of being as good as they can be. Every player at some point in time has envisaged going all the way and achieving their dreams. Young people have a belief that they are capable of anything; be it becoming a movie star, a pop sensation, an astronaut or a professional athlete. They know they are good enough. However, as young players start to climb the ladder to stardom, the competition and environment they are in becomes harder and harder to progress though to the next tier. Sadly, there can come a time where a young athlete will feel like they cant go any further. This unfortunately might be the case. However, for many talented players this feeling and thought process is a subconscious misconception and can be attributed to a phenomenon known as Imposter Syndrome.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter Syndrome is a situation in which a player (who is performing well) fails to feel like they are succeeding. Any success they do have is attributed to luck or the other players having a bad day or not trying hard. The player in question may even have been the best player in the game or session, but feel like they don’t belong or deserve it.
How can this affect GPS Players? As a GPS player, there are multiple pathways for you to pursue as you progress in your soccer career. Internally there is a clear development pathway through, Junior Premier, Premier, NPL and the FC Bayern National Team Program. Externally players can also be recommended for ODP, id2 Training and US Soccer Training Centers. As you develop and excel it is possible for players to move up this developmental pyramid. At each tier however, the standard of players is higher and it becomes more challenging to stand out and continue to progress. Players who progress toward the very top are susceptible to Imposter Syndrome
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Long Term Effects of Imposter Syndrome
70% of the population are said to suffer in one part of their life with imposter syndrome. It could be in the workplace, recreationally or socially. As a new phenomenon, the vast majority of sufferers go undiagnosed and never share their thoughts or emotions with anyone. In extreme circumstances and over a prolonged period of time; imposter syndrome can lead to stress, anxiety, agoraphobia and even depression or sleep disorders. That being said, the more common effect is that individuals simply stop putting themselves in that situation. In sport - this leads to the player dropping out altogether.
Advice for GPS Players
Talk to someone! If you are experiencing any of the feelings described in this article share them with someone you trust. Parents or your coach would be a good start. Set realistic goals. It is important to set goals that are realistic and make sense for you individually. This way you can track if you are progressing as planned. Ask your coach for help in setting goals.
Advice for GPS Parents
Listen! Lots of parents are very quick to talk and share their opinions with a player after a session or game. Take time to hear what your child has to say. Understand their goals. Too many players have goals that their parents are unaware of. Pressure can occur on a player when they think you expect something from them that they cant give. Take time to make goals together.
Remember‌
If you are a GPS player, no matter what tier, you belong. You have worked hard as is the GPS way and your current position is a reflection of you as a person and a player - no one else. You are where you are because your coach, team mates and family believe in your ability and potential.
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GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
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With the new season approaching we highlight the importance of WARM UP’s before practice and games. Warm Up’s are important to prepare the body for what it’s going to be doing in the upcoming activity. It’s intended to raise body temperature, increase heart rate, and gets blood pumping to the muscles.
Dynamic Warm Up Assists in increasing dynamic range of motion Increases potential for eccentric strength and peak force
Dynamic warm ups are key to starting sessions and games off with a bang – replicating the movements that players will do, and ensuring the progress from slower to quicker exercises.
Has greater results in explosive actions immediately after warm up
It’s very important that this be done before training, in hot or cold weather, and before any explosive actions to minimize the risk of injuries.
Can improve single leg stability and Proprioception
Static stretches are ONLY to be done at the end of a session as part of recovery
Decreases muscle strength and peak force by up to 10% when used before sessions
Ideal Warm Up: Foam Roller Range of movement exercises Dynamic warm up Explosive preparation
Decrease in coordination of explosive movements
Static stretching in the cool down/ recovery process
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Prepares muscles and joints for specific movements, which reduces risk of injury
Static Stretching Assists in increasing static range of motion
Does not assist injury prevention Assists in recovery process post-session References 1) C Musham and PR Hayes – Effect of pre-exercise stretching on repeat sprint performance Br J Sports Med 2010; 44:14 i27 do:10.1136/bjsm.2010.078972.84 2) Gleim & McHugh (1997), 'Flexibility and its effects on sports injury and performance,' Sports Medicine 3) T.Taylor – Elite soccer conditioning 4) Rosenbaum, D. and E. M. Hennig. 1995. The influence of stretching and warm-up exercises on Achilles tendon reflex activity. Journal of Sport Sciences vol. 13 5) Hendrick, Allen, Dynamic Flexibility training, Strength and conditioning Journal, Vol 22
GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
Judge line and flight of the ball and get body in the flight path of the ball.
Lean back and cushion ball on impact if the ball is coming towards you in the air. Cushioning the ball means the ball won’t bounce away on impact.
TECHNICAL ZONE
CHEST CONTROL
Get body over the ball if ball is bouncing up from the ground so to cushion the ball and force back towards the ground to allow a quick second touch
Bend knees slightly to maintain balance and allow explosive movement once ball is under control.
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COACHING ZONE FOCUS: Ball Control At GPS we run regular Professional Development sessions for our staff to maintain high standards and reinforce alignment with the GPS philosophy. This also gives the opportunity for our staff to share and discuss new ideas about player development. To win games teams must show the ability to score goals. This is a difficult skill to master. There are a number of ways to score a goal and a variety of ways to shoot the ball at goal. Heading the ball is one way of scoring a goal but one of the most difficult. This edition’s coaching zone is focused on heading and the various ways to execute an attacking header.
Warm Up - Ball Control Square Set Up/Rules - Split players into two teams - One team around the outside of the area with a ball - Second team inside the smaller area. - Central players move towards an outside player and play a 2 passes. Players must take two touches. - Middle player then turns, runs through central area and moves to find a new ball on the outside. Coaching Points Get body in line with the ball. Decision on what part of body to control ball with. If ball coming down out of the air cushion the ball by relaxing body part on contact. If ball bouncing up from the ground, get body over the ball to force ball back towards the ground. Settle the ball as quickly as possible.
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Progression Servers now throw ball for - Thigh control - Chest control - Bounce ball in front of player to make control more difficult
- This exercise should be done and low to medium intensity with the focus being on quality of control and passing.
Players now receive to turn and dribble through central area passing to a spare outside player. GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
Exercise 1 - 3v2 Attacking Set Up/Rules - Ball is served into any one of the attacking team by one of the defenders by the goal. Service can be along the ground or in the air. - Attacker must take a good first touch to begin the attack. 1 attacker from each line enter the area. - 1 defender from either side of the goal enter the area creating 3v2. - As soon as the attacker takes a touch one defender from the box behind the attackers can recover to create 3v3. Coaching Points Get body in line with the ball. Judge if and where the ball will bounce. Can you get to the ball before the bounce. Decision on what body part to control the ball with. Cushion the ball. Can you attack and run through the
Progressions Add GK who starts each game by distributing the ball to attacking team.
- Can the attacking team take a good positive first touch to create a shooting opportunity before the defender can recover and create 3v3. - If defenders win possession they attack to counter goals.
Small Sided Game Set Up/Rules - Split players into two teams. - Teams compete for possession of the ball. - Coach begins each game by passing/throwing ball into field of play towards a different player each time. - Player must control the ball and begin to play. - On players first touch the game is live.
Coaching Points Get body in line with the ball. Judge if and where the ball will bounce. Can you get to the ball before the bounce. Decision on what body part to control the ball with. Cushion the ball. Can you attack and run through the ball and take first touch forwards.
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Progressions As soon as the ball leaves the coaches hand the game is live meaning players can pressure the first touch to start the game.
GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
GOALKEEPING ZONE The Diving Save
The diving save is one of the most exciting saves that the goalkeeper can make. They soar through the air to pick the ball out of the corner of the net. It is the type of save that every goalkeeper dreams about. It is also one of the most difficult saves to make. It takes strength, agility, flexibility, timing and often a little bit of luck to pull off.
The goalkeeper needs to assess the flight of the ball as quickly as possible and decide the general direction the ball is traveling. Once the goalkeeper has determined the direction of the ball they must first start to lean the upper half of the body in the direction of the ball. Once the goalkeeper is leaning in the direction of the ball and his momentum is moving in that direction they may or may not use additional footwork to move towards the ball. This will depend on the distance and speed that the ball is traveling. For short distances they can use a shuffle step, and for longer distances a cross-over run. In most cases the goalkeeper will not have time for any additional footwork. Take a step forward to the ball with the leg closest to the ball direction. Ball going to the right would cause the keeper to step forward with the right leg. Using this leg to push bodies momentum forwards towards the ball. Using the hand on the same side as the leg that has stepped forwards reach out towards the ball. The “Critical Instant” is the moment when the ball comes within reach of the goalkeepers hand. Eyes should be on the ball. Fingers should be spread wide and contact should be made with the palm of the hand. This may not always be possible and the goalkeeper may only be able to get his finger tips on the ball. Wrist should be angled to push the ball ‘out’ and ‘away’ from the goal or wide of the post. Wrist needs to be locked so ball is pushed away and doesn’t break resistance of wrist. Hips should be “open”.
After the save is made the goalkeeper must now think about landing as safely as possible. The bottom hand should be the first thing that contacts the ground and starts to cushion the impact. The goalkeeper should land on the side of the body with the chest and armpit area first, then followed by the hips and finally the legs. Upon impact the goalkeeper may also roll with the momentum of the dive to try and cushion the impact further. The goalkeeper may also use the momentum of the roll to regain his feet quickly.
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GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
PARENT ZONE
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GPS FC BAYERN NATIONAL TEAM PROGRAM GPS are delighted to announce the squads that will be representing the first complete GPS FC Bayern National Teams of the 2015/16 season. After regional training and an extensive selection process the following players have been selected from the GPS Family in its entirety both in the US and internationally and some of the best events around the world Team Head Coach Tournament
2002/03/04 Boys Luke Krawcyzk (GPS CA) Dallas Cup
Alejandro Coury GPS Maine Blake Pope GPS Carolina Dylan Rice Rochester FC (NY) Hayden Jorden GPS Carolina Jeremy Rodriguez GPS Massachusetts Keegan Walpole Penn Fusion (FCB Affiliate) Kyle Gee GPS Carolina Mack Moore Penn Fusion (FCB Affiliate) Michael John Petry III GPS Carolina Peter Martel GPS Massachusetts Riley Boyer GPS New York Sammi Kolby GPS Carolina William Jenkins GPS Carolina William Luik GPS New Jersey Zach Bouchachia Penn Fusion (FCB Affiliate) Zamar Wood GPS Carolina
Team Head Coach Tournament
2000/2001 Girls Josh Thornton (GPS Maine) Vegas Playrs Showcase
Abigail Dobies Audrey Lavey Brianna Coco Delaney Markham Gabrielle Paradis Georgia Schoen Grace Devanny Jenny Mandarano Katie Moore Kayla Jose Kelly Murray Leah Wengender Lilly Proulx Maggie Struble Maia Madison Molly Lunsford
GPS Massachusetts GPS Massachusetts GPS New Hampshire GPS Massachusetts GPS New Hampshire GPS New Jersey GPS New Hampshire Rochester FC (NY) GPS Carolina GPS Massachusetts Florida Knights Rochester FC (NY) GPS New Hampshire Florida Knights GPS Massachusetts Florida Knights
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Team Head Coach Tournament
2002 Boys Scot Graham (GPS New York) MIC Cup (Northern Island)
Ajani Fortune Alexander Hanna Andrew Blackwell Andrew Rent Andrew Rosenbaum Anthony Castaneda Blaine Martin Connor Diehl Connor Smith Harrison Sprofera James McDonnell Matthew Gardner Maxwell Murray Nathan Statires Padraig Robinson Tarekegn P. O’Neill Tobias Fraga Ty Wilkes
Inter Development Futbol GPS Florida Penn Fusion (FCB Affiliate) GPS Maine Penn Fusion (FCB Affiliate) Inter Development Futbol Synergy FC (VT) GPS New Hampshire Penn Fusion (FCB Affiliate) GPS Maine Cliftonville FC GPS New Hampshire GPS Maine GPS New Hampshire Cliftonville FC GPS Massachusetts Penn Fusion (FCB Affiliate) Rochester FC (NY)
GLOBALPREMIERSOCCER
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The mission of GPS Foundation is to transplant the success that GPS programs have achieved in suburban communities into at-risk, under-served communities in various regions across America and provide a premier level soccer coaching experience to players who may not have the financial means to benefit from club soccer.
“One of the issues in the United States is that elite level soccer at youth level is and has been for the most part pay to play, clearly then, when you are talking about economically disadvantaged inner-city, you’ve got a problem.” Sunil Gulati - United States Soccer Federation (USSF) President
The foundation currently only works in Massachussetts but is excited to be working on future projects across America. Current work: ∑ East Boston ∑ Lawrence ∑ Brockton Future plans ∑ Worcester
GPS Foundation is focused on combining with local Youth Soccer organizations to develop and strengthen Soccer programs, and to encourage a passion for the game. The foundation looks to provide under privileged communities who do not have access high level soccer coaching the opportunity to provide high level coaching to their players. The GPS Foundation aims to have a program running within each of the states that GPS operates in following the model currently running in Mass. Alice Moore (GPS Foundation Coordinator) says “The aim is to have a positive impact on the lives of as many young soccer players as possible across the country giving them access to a level of coaching they would otherwise be unable to have”. The foundation is excited at the prospect of reporting on the next partnership outside of Mass in the very near future.
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GPS FLORIDA KNIGHTS ON A EUROPEAN TOUR
For the first time in the history of the prestigious McDonald’s Cup Youth Soccer Tournament in Europe, this year an American team came to compete. It was an experience of a lifetime for the GPS Florida Knights U12 Boys team who traveled to France, Switzerland and Germany to play with some of the best international youth teams. Teams like FC Barcelona, FC Chelsea, FC Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund, Juventus Turin and Olympique Marseille are just a few of the clubs participating in this high caliber event.
Coach, Felix Acosta and Assistant Coach, Paolo Acosta accompanied the 13 players from Lee County, Florida along with more than forty family members. They departed on Feb. 2nd to spend eight days training and playing with many of the most well-known soccer clubs from throughout Europe. “Getting to be around some of the best teams in the world, this isn’t an opportunity you get every weekend,” says Coach Acosta. Over the next few days, the boys participated in several training sessions at the world-class soccer facility in Kembs, France. This included in-door sessions with Cyril Jehl, the Assistant Coach to the French National Futsal team and Arnaud Depret, Assistant Coach for Northeast Elite Football School. They also visited the Campus of FC Basel for an outdoor training session and friendly match with the U12 FC Basel club. The McDonald’s Tournament itself is broken down into two different events that take place over two days in two different countries. The Cordial Cup took place on Saturday, Feb 6th in Kembs, France where the Knights played five outdoor 8 v. 8 matches against tough competitors like Chelsea FC and Olympique Marseille. In the final game of the day, Harrison Ames scored the first American goal of the tournament to lead his team to a 1-0 victory against French team FC Sausheim.
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At the end of each match the Florida Knights players gave the opposing team players sunglasses and GPS Scarves as a gesture of friendship. This provided an opportunity for them to interact with the European teams and even forge friendships. “Chelsea and Barcelona were really nice,” says Knights player McLaren Baggett. “They wanted to take pictures with us and talk with us. Chelsea even came and watched most of our other games during the weekend.” Sunday, Feb 7th was the McDonald’s Fussball Trophy indoor tournament in Weil am Rhein, Germany. The environment was fueled with excitement and nothing like the American team had ever seen before. “It was like playing professionally, “says Assistant Coach Paolo Acosta. “There were banners and megaphones and the noise level was really high, it was fans being fans and there was a lot of interest in the Americans.” Over the course of five games, The Knights held their own against the extremely talented European teams. Coach Acosta recalls one particularly memorable moment. “At one point in our game against Chelsea, we were tied 2-2, our kids were playing equally matched with them, they were enjoying the game, our kids on the sideline were supporting each other. It was amazing. Even though we lost, we finished with intensity and never gave up. We earned the respect of the crowd and they were all cheering ‘Americans!’” As final recognition for the heart and skill the team displayed throughout both the indoor and outdoor matches, the coaches and the organizers of the tournament voted Knights player Sam Schoensee to the McDonald’s Cup Dream Team. There were only five players from the entire tournament who earned this award. He says of receiving such a high honor, “It was mentally tough to play against such good teams, but it paid off, it felt really good and important to end on something happy. Coach Acosta echoes these sentiments, “Considering the magnitude of the competition, as a coach, this was one of my proudest moments.” Making the most of the time they had left, on their last day in Europe several members of the team took part in a training session at FC Sochaux in France, a club known for it’s outstanding youth academy. Coach Acosta says of the exposure the team had to so many first-class trainers, academies and players during their time in Europe, “They understand better what they have to do to become better players – the intensity, the mental toughness and the importance of touches on the ball.” While numerous people were instrumental in making the trip a reality, Team Manager Kevin Schoensee says none of it would have been possible without the guidance and support of Guy Hebding, Director of the Cordial Cup. “He facilitated and arranged almost everything and was pivotal in making the whole trip come together, “ says Schoensee. “He went overboard in making us feel welcome and the overall hospitality was amazing.” “We are very proud and honored about the way our U12 boys and Staff have represented our Club and GPS as a whole.” Says Robert Peltram, GPS Executive Director of SWFL. The GPS Florida Knights gave European soccer an overwhelmingly positive glimpse into what the future holds for the sport in America and what GPS is all about. They also created memories and formed bonds that will be with them the rest of their lives.
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AFFILIATE SPOTLIGHT
GPS CAROLINA GPS Carolina has experienced great growth and success since it landed in the Carolina’s in 2013. Over this last year the footprint of GPS has greatly expanded across South Carolina in particular.
To date GPS Carolina has two clubs in South Carolina, GPS NASA and GPS Coastal Academy, which have both experienced great growth since taking control of the clubs. GPS Coastal Academy has successfully added a boys program to the inherited girls program that was previously there, while adding also to the girls program. While having the two independent GPS clubs, Carolina has a strong presence and relationship with Discoveries Soccer Club whom they support and partner with. The growth and success of Discoveries Soccer Club has taken great shape since its involvement with GPS. The partnership and relationship with Discoveries Soccer Club was the first presence that GPS took in Carolina’s. GPS Carolina also supports and partners with James Island Soccer Club.
GPS Carolina has experienced great success over many fronts. The GPS Juniors program has taken off over these last eight to twelve months, having multiple programs in each region within Carolina. The Juniors program has experienced great success in GPS NASA. The GPS EDP and YDP programs have doubled size in Discoveries Soccer Club, having added more than 200 players to the club.
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The GPS Elite program which launched last summer experienced great success in its first year, both in its Charlotte and Charleston locations. Having a total of 17 teams formed together for the ages of U8 through to U14, encompassing players from many geographical locations across the Carolina’s from different clubs. All teams experienced great success at the various tournaments in which they attended. One to note was the GPS Elite U14 Boys team from Charlotte who attended the US Club Soccer National tournaments in Indiana, after successfully going through after their US Club Soccer Regionals success.
GPS Carolina had the honor and privilege of hosting FC Bayern coaches last summer. The FC Bayern Academy coaches worked with the various GPS Elite teams from both the Charlotte and Charleston, being thoroughly impressed with the level of ability in talent that they worked with, both on the boys and girls programs. Following their visit to the Carolina’s, the FC Bayern Academy coaches took several players to the GPS – FC Bayern Residential in Maine. From the residential week in Maine, which included GPS players from all over the east coast, the two players that the FC Bayern selected to go across to Germany to train with the academy teams at FC Bayern, were two players from the Carolina’s. These players were Blake Pope and Samy Kolby.
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GPS CARIBBEAN SHOWCASE
The first ever GPS Caribbean Showcase was held in Puerto Rico in February 2016. Hosting our first tournament on international territory came with a lot of hard work behind the scenes and a lot of anticipation from GPS staff and our partners GPS Conquistadors. The three day event saw teams from the US (Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, Florida), Puerto Rico, British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands and Dominican Republic.
Teams competed in U9 through to U19 age category in the second GPS tournament of 2016 and the best thing to come out of the weekend was the standard of play in front of a series of College Coaches. Franklin Pierce Head Coach said “It has really surprised me pleasantly that we can increase our recruitment range with the level of play that we have seen. I have recommended players already and I am looking forward to returning in years to come�.
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Universidad del Sagrado Corazón Head Coach said “We are seeing some very interesting players and level of play. It has been great to see that teams in Puerto Rico can compete with teams from other countries’. “It was important for us to produce new and innovative events in 2016 whilst continuing to improve on our existing competitions” said GPS Tournaments Director James Hamblin. “Whilst doing so, we have given teams in Puerto Rico, who usually cannot travel to the United States, the chance to play a high standard tournament in front of college coaches”.
“The Bayamon facilities were exceptional, something we were very keen on securing in the club’s first ever event outside the mainland US. Parents and teams that traveled had the luxury of nearby beaches and great weather to enjoy in their down-time; ”. Hamblin also mentioned “The level of support from GPS Conquistadores Staff, especially Hector and Miguel was first class and all their coaches and volunteers were outstanding. I was also pleasantly surprised by the level and professionalism of their referees and athletic trainers throughout”.
The GPS Caribbean Showcase has received so much positivity, we are certain this event will grow in future years!
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GPS CAMPS & VACATION PROGRAMS GPS Camps and Vacation Programs is a leading provider of youth camps and clinics in Massachusetts and is a department of Global Premier Soccer – one of the largest youth soccer organizations on the east coast of North America providing a range of high quality programs that cater to players of all ages and abilities. Our growing reputation as a key proponent of teaching soccer the ‘right’ way has elevated ourselves above countless other youth soccer clubs and programs. Vacation Programs are a fundamental tool in our development plan as they are as beneficial to first time players as much as they are to College players. We aim to provide a range of programing suitable for all levels of playing ability during the vacation periods in an enjoyable yet challenging environment. Delivered by international coaches from Great Britain and many other European countries, our ever growing knowledge base continues to drive our goal to provide cutting-edge curriculum and coaching methods. All of this enables us to deliver the best Vacation Program experience possible. Whether you are looking for an introduction to the beautiful game or just want to keep sharp for the new season, we hope to see you at one of our many programs and locations in 2016! For more informtion on vacation programs in your area please click here
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G L O B A L
P R E M I E R
S O C C E R
POWERED BY
college id program Peak Performance Academy (PPA) & Global Premier Soccer (GPS) are delighted to announce the 2016 College ID Program. PPA are a nationally recognized provider of college identification camps and take pride in being the best compilation of coaches in the country. This addition to programming will provide both GPS and other dedicated players an opportunity to showcase their abilities in a unique training and playing environment. Program Information Thayer Academy, Braintree MA | July 13th-15th 9:30am - 4:00pm daily | U15-U18 Boys & Girls Pricing Information Option 1 | 2-days • clinic only | $150 Option 2 | 3-days • clinic & game evaluation | $225
Attending Programs (Male)
Attending Programs (Female)
U. of Albany, Albany NY
Amherst College, Amherst MA
Gettysburg Col., Gettysburg PA
Iona College, New Rochelle NY
NCAA DI
NCAA DIII
NCAA DIII
NCAA DI
Haverford College, Haverford PA
Lafayette College, Easton PA
Roger Williams U., Bristol RI
U. of Rhode Island, Kingston RI
NCAA DIII
NCAA DI
NCAA DIII
NCAA DI
Nico Pascual-Leone
Amherst College Alumni 2015 NCAA DIII National Champion Global Premier Soccer Alumni
Mass Maritime Academy Soccer Residential Camp
POWERED BY
mass maRitimE acaDEmY, BOuRnE | julY 17th - 20th | u11-u16 BOYs & giRls | DaY OPtiOns availaBlE
elite plAyeR pRogRAM The Elite Player Program (EPP) timetable is designed around our high quality curriculum that focusses on the needs and demands of dedicated players.
Each session is structured around a daily theme which will allow players to transfer skills learnt from session to session, so by the end of the week the player feels confident and ready to go!
gpS goAlkeeping SChool Think inside the box! The GPS Goalkeeping School program improves every aspect of goalkeeping in an environment where only one position on the field counts! GPS’ Goalkeeping school program allows individuals to benefit from expect instruction relayed by dedicated and professional goalkeeping coaches.
ReSidentiAl CAMp infoRMAtion This camp is for U11-U16 Boys and Girls located at the Mass Maritime Academy in Bourne, MA. Overlooking the Cape Cod Canal, MMA boasts two state-of-the-art turf fields. Day Option: $300
Residential: $475
For more information please visit www.gpsvacationprograms.com
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