Inside Soccer Magazine - Issue 112 by Inside Soccer Magazine

ISSUE #112 MAY/JUNE 2015 WWW.INSIDESOCCERMAGAZINE.CA

CONTENTS

Publisher Emeritus Alfons Rubbens

Publisher/Editor Mark Miller - mark@insidesoccermagazine.ca

Art Director

Steve Smiley, RGD - steve@insidesoccermagazine.ca

Director of New Business Susan Elliott - susan@insidesoccermagazine.ca

Director of Business Operations and National Accounts Branden Clark - branden@insidesoccermagazine.ca

Marketing and Special Event Coordinator Justin Clark - justin@insidesoccermagazine.ca

28 6 CHOOSING PROPER EQUIPMENT ADDS ENJOYMENT TO THE GAME BY JOE DUARTE 8 3 “SOCCER MOMS 3 TAKES BY JOELENE HUBER 14 FORMER CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL ROGERS PREACHES PATIENCE BY MARTIN MACMAHON 16 THE NEED FOR COACH EDUCATION IN SOCCER-SPECIFIC FITNESS TRAINING BY RICHARD BUCCIARELLI 18 JASON BENT FOCUSING ON DEVELOPMENT RATHER THAN RESULTS BY ARMEN BEDAKIAN

Kendall eason.

Joe Duarte

Senior Staff Writers Armen Bedakian, Bob Koep, Kris Fernandes

32 LIKE MOTHER, LIKE DAUGHTER BY JOELENE HUBER

Website Operations

36 $60,000 SOCCER BALL FOR SALE BY LES JONES, COVERSHOTS INC.

Contributing Writers

38 MONTREAL IMPACT COMES OH SO CLOSE TO THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TITLE BY OLIVIER TREMBLAY 40 TOO MANY TEAMS, NOT ENOUGH PLAYERS BY BOB KOEP 42 FUTSAL FORWARD BY KRIS FERNANDES

Susan Elliott: Marketing and Content Steve Smiley, RGD: Art Direction & Design Richard Bucciarelli, Joe Duarte, Joelene Huber Les Jones – Covershots Inc., Dave Kenny, Martin MacMahon, Judy Rauliuk – Covershots Inc., Steven Sandor, Oliver Tremblay

Contributing Photographers Canadian Soccer Association, Bob Frid, Futsal Canada, Les Jones – COVERSHOTS Inc., Dave Laus, Montreal Impact, Shutterstock, Toronto FC

44 UPCOMING TOURNAMENTS AND CAMPS

48 AHEAD OF WORLD CUP CANADIAN WOMEN 20 GRASSROOTS SOCCER IN MONTREAL: PLENTY HOPE TO CHANNEL SPIRIT OF LONDON OF OPTIONS BUT DO YOUR HOMEWORK BY MARTIN MACMAHON BY OLIVIER TREMBLAY 52 ODDS OF WINNING WORLD CUP NOT 22 THANK YOU TO THE PERFECT IN CANADA’S FAVOUR SOCCER PARENTS BY LES JONES, COVERSHOTS INC. BY DAVE KENNY 54 MELISSA TANCREDI EAGER TO KICK OFF A 26 HELPING YOUNG PLAYERS STAY INJURY FREE SUMMER OF WORLD CUP SOCCER BY MATT GREENWOOD BY ARMEN BEDAKIAN 28 SOUTH AMERICAN SOCCER TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT COPA AMERICA BY KRIS FERNANDES

News Editor

INSIDESOCCER Magazine is published six times per year by INSIDEOUT Publishing and Marketing Services ISM provides authoritative editorial coverage of Canada’s premier soccer community. Information contained in ISM has been compiled from sources believed to be correct. ISM cannot be responsible for the accuracy of articles or other editorial matter. Articles in this magazine are intended to provide information rather than give legal or other professional advice. Articles being submitted for review should be e-mailed to branden@insidesoccer.ca Undeliverable copies, advertising space orders, copy, artwork, proofs, etc., should be sent to:

56 FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP CANADA 2015 MATCH SCHEDULE

INSIDEOUT Publishing and Marketing Services P.O. Box 151, King City, Ontario L7B 1A5, Tel: 905.833.1973 Website: www.insidesoccermagazine.ca

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As many parents will attest, soccer is a team sport in which children can grow physically and socially, at relatively little expense when compared to other team sports.

CHOOSING PROPER

EQUIPMENT ADDS ENJOYMENT TO THE GAME BY JOE DUARTE

Soccer requires the player to have a pair of boots and a pair of shin guards. Uniform kits are provided by the club, who often also provide balls and other incentives such as water bottles and equipment bags. Naturally, there are the necessary registration and club fees (and tournament fees and associated costs, as you get away from recreational leagues) but by and large, parents usually put out less than a couple hundred dollars per season for each player in the family. And they get the registration fees back, come tax time. Still, there are costs to be borne and it’s incumbent on parents to weigh the value of the equipment used by their charges. It’s not always as simple as going to Wal-Mart and spending $40 for boots and shin-guards, though, and that’s where dedicated expert retailers such as Soccer Express are available to help. “Soccer is relatively inexpensive for young players, but the costs can accumulate,” explains Adam Bordignon, Soccer Express’ assistant retail manager. “Younger players will go through equipment more rapidly as their bodies grow, and older players will put more strain on their equipment as their skills and competitiveness increase. “And as with parents of hockey goalies, those of soccer keepers are going to incur extra costs for items such as gloves and padded shorts or pants,” he adds. “And although clubs provide a keeper’s jersey, those who take up the 6 May/June 2015

Adam Bordignon, Soccer Express’ assistant retail manager

position often want to get their own, with more padding.” Bordignon cautions that not all equipment suits all players. Not only is it important to fit the equipment properly to different body shapes, but different positions demand different levels of protection. “When it comes to shin-guards, for example, defenders will need a more robust shin-guard to provide better protection, maybe something that wraps around better,” he explains. “Forwards may wish to go with a lighter and smaller

guard that maybe they just tape down to not weigh as much and provide better feel for strikes.” Although some of players may choose style over function, parents are encouraged to not compromise on quality and proper fit in order to get their little players the colours of their favourite squads. Prices for shin-guards run between $10 to upwards of $40, depending on the maker and retailer. A proper shin-guard should fit snug to the leg without gaps and for younger players, it should cover from two fingers

below the knee to the ankle, says Bordignon. (Any higher or lower, and it will interfere with the player’s running and could result in skin irritations, as could a calf sleeve that is too loose.) Some of the more expensive models have added padding over the ankles and may include a compression sleeve to reduce muscle fatigue. There’s also more to boots than just a shoe with studs on the bottom, and these will be the big ticket item for the player. Expect to pay from the low $30s to the mid $300s for a pair of boots, but be aware that the expensive boot is not exponentially better than the cheaper models. “Manufacturers design football boots to accommodate the needs of players in specific positions across the pitch,” explains Bordignon. “A central midfielder who takes many touches receiving, distributing, and playing on the ball may wish to select a boot

as the discomfort of wearing bulky socks to fill out the boot or the foot-play in an oversized boot that can lead to blisters may turn the player off the game. The youngest players can get away with relatively cheap boots to start but depending on their use and the player’s growth spurts, parents shouldn’t be surprised at having to replace boots before the season is over. Usually, a recreational youngster playing once or twice a week for a couple hours will be able to get a season out of a set of boots, but rep players using their boots considerably more often should expect to replace them at least once over the course of the season. “It’s unrealistic to expect a boot to last an entire year when you’re using it five or six times a week for a couple hours at a time,” explains Bordignon. “Also the surface on which they’re used will affect

make the foot adapt to the boot, so there isn’t a much play and they remain light because they don’t absorb water as does leather. There is also a hybrid, which again provides a compromise between the two materials in terms of feel and resilience. But the biggest enemy of the boot is not as much over-use as it is abuse. “It breaks my heart when I see a kid wearing a pair of boots the parent has just paid $100 for across a parking lot,” says Bordignon. “You wouldn’t wear your hockey skates from the car to the ice, so why wear down soccer boots on the asphalt and concrete? Wear sandals to the grass and then put on your boots. “Also, it’s important to put your boots away properly after use,” he continues. “Clean the dirt and grass off the uppers and soles; take the insoles out and stuff some newspapers in the boot (especially with leather boots to prevent shrinkage

that employs touch control components to aid with ball control. Conversely, a striker, a position in which speed and finishing is important, may choose a boot that is light weight and thin; this allows for a barefoot feel on the ball. “While the best fit is a snug anatomic fit to maximize the available contact of one’s foot with the ball, younger players who are still growing may wish to leave some room in the toes of the boot for foot growth,” he continues. “And there exists different lacing options in boot; assymetrical/offset lacing seeks to maximize the available space on the instep for contacting the ball, though it may prevent the boot from being done up as snuggly as possible.” Although kids are naturally inclined to wear the type of boot their soccer heroes wear, he cautions parents to not succumb to style wishes and buy oversized boots their child will “grow into”

their longevity. Turf takes the life out of a boot, whereas grass is more forgiving.” The soles of the boots are geared toward the different pitch surfaces. Turf shoes are wider with more, smaller studs to provide a wider footprint that improves traction on the surface. Fewer studs are better on grass because they sink into the surface better. There are boots that are okay on both surfaces, but they don’t work as well on either surface as the dedicated footwear. Stud patterns and design are not as important as the number of studs in providing the proper traction on the intended surface. The uppers are the part of the boot that wears down fastest. Leather uppers provide better comfort as they adapt to the foot better, but they tend to wear down more quickly under the forces of playing and they also lose their elasticity the longer they are worn. Synthetic uppers

and keep the leather from creasing as it dries) and set them out to air dry. Don’t use a blow dryer to dry them off as it ruins the upper material.” And that’s pretty much all the equipment a soccer player needs. For comfort, players may choose to wear compression shirts and shorts or tights. Compression clothing keeps players’ warmer in cooler conditions while allowing them to move more freely than if they wear sweat pants or sweaters under their kits, and it also helps reduce muscle fatigue. Keepers require the extra cost of buying gloves, and will find a wide range of padding and finger protection in their gloves, which leads to pricing in the $20$200 range. And just as with fancy boots, you can get the gloves your favourite keeper wear...

InsideSOCCER 7

BY JOELENE HUBER

3 “SOCCER MOMS”

3 TAKES PHOTOGRAPHS BY DAVE LAUS

InsideSOCCER asked 3 of today’s generation of “soccer moms” about how they balance life, wellness, and parenting active kids.

8 May/June 2015

Name: Cheryl Lalonde

Hometown: Guelph, Ontario Occupation: Stay-at-home mom When did you start playing soccer? Elementary School What position do you play? Midfielder or fullback What are the advantages of putting your kids in team sports? Growing up I always loved being part of a team. I believe it teaches the value of teamwork, friendship, and keeps kids active and healthy. I also think being involved in sports helps build character and self-confidence. What 3 things should every soccer parent have in their soccer bag? Water, snacks and sunblock. What is your healthy snack-on-the-go for kids? Go go squeeze apple sauce How do you fit soccer/team sports into your busy schedule? Of course it can be tough at times with three little ones and my husband’s busy work schedule, but we make it work somehow. I guess when it comes down to it, we come to an agreement on which activities are most important to us, prioritize those, and ensure the timing fits into our family’s schedule. There might also be times that we call for back up from family or friends to make sure the kids make it to their practice or game. What is most challenging about being a “soccer mom”? Finding time for myself and to maintain a healthy relationship with my husband and friends. My priority is always making sure the kids are healthy and happy. Sometimes between the kids’ school activities, volunteering, homework, sports, playdates and birthday parties, it can be hard to maintain that balance. What is your best practical tip for getting kids to sports prepared and on time? I try to make sure their uniforms and equipment are ready to go the day before

so there is no running around the day of. I prepare my “mommy bag” with all the necessities, including snacks and water well ahead of time and try to get the kids ready to go by an hour prior to the start time. I would rather the kids be sitting in their uniforms for a bit at home than rushing to get their gear on and out the door at the last minute. It also helps that we live in Guelph. It rarely takes longer than 10 or 15 minutes to get anywhere in town. What is your best tip for busy soccer parents about balancing life, fitness, kids, and work? As I mentioned before, sometimes it can seem like I’m constantly running in between the kids various activities and at can be exhausting and certainly poses a challenge to maintain a healthy balance. It is important to remember that if you are not taking care of yourself, you will not be able to take care of anyone else. It can’t always be all about the kids. I make sure to schedule in exercise, social outings with friends (girl’s night!), and date nights with my husband. Using a common schedule through iCloud keeps my husband and me on track and in sync. What is your favorite form of fitness? I truthfully have a hard time maintaining interest or motivation to go to the gym. I love running. I love being outside in the fresh air and somehow feels like more of an escape for me. When I am running, I am not stressing about anything else. I also enjoy biking, skiing, and hot yoga.

exercise into my calendar…I know I’m much more likely to stay on track if I write it down. What is your best tip for parents who are on the go and want to eat healthy? I try to select the healthiest options for produce and meats. I like to know where my food is coming from. I often buy organic locally produced foods. Always try to plan ahead. If you do not, you will be much more likely to eat out or eat unhealthy. It can be helpful to make a weekly meal plan. Also, I regularly prepare additional healthy meals and freeze it to use at a later date, so if I’m stuck or in a rush, I have that available for me. What is something you’ve learned about parenting that you wish someone had told you before? Don’t expect to be a perfect parent. There is no such thing. Do your best, love your kids unconditionally and don’t be afraid to ask for help. What do you hope your kids learn from you as their role model? I want my kids to know they can do anything that they set their mind to, if they are willing to put in the effort. I want them to be resilient, hard-working

How do you fit exercise into your busy routine? I try to exercise before the kids wake up but I prefer to go when my husband gets home from work. That’s my favorite time to go for a run. It’s nice to be able to hand off the kids to my husband and have a little me time. Like anything else, I do my best to schedule

InsideSOCCER 9

people who always treat others around them with kindness and respect.

When did you start playing soccer? Four years ago.

What is your best time management tip for busy parents? Make a schedule and stick to it as much as possible. Share your schedule with your partner and any other supports you might have (i.e., parents) so everyone is on the same page. Remember… don’t forget to schedule time for yourself.

What position do you play? Defense.

Name: Lilette Wiens

Hometown: Etobicoke (A.K.A Toronto) Occupation: Real Estate Agent / Actor

What are the advantages of putting your kids in team sports/soccer? There are many advantages to putting kids in team sports. They learn a lot of life skills like team work, conflict resolution and they make lifelong friendships. What 3 things should every soccer parent have in their soccer bag? Sunblock, hand sanitizer, and snacks!… oh and of course your phone to take lots of pictures of your personal star! What is your favorite healthy snackon-the-go for kids? Luckily my kids love carrots and cucumbers so I chop those up into containers and run! When I’m in a real pinch, I always have boxes of granola bars on hand to grab and go. How do you fit soccer/team sports into your busy schedule? When work is very busy for me, I find it difficult to fit sports in. I try and make a schedule and stick to it. I actually schedule it into my day the way I schedule appointments with clients. I organize everything I need for the next day the night before and then in the morning it’s all in the car so I can go straight from work to the gym, or game. Real estate can really take over your life, so it’s all about finding that balance. What is most challenging about being a “soccer mom”? The most challenging thing for me being a “soccer mom” is being there. Work can get in the way but I do my best to get to most of my kids practices and games. I hate to miss a moment in their lives!

10 May/June 2015

What is your best practical tip for getting kids to sports prepared and on time? Plan ahead! Pack the kids clothes, snacks, etc the night before so there is less scrambling in the moment. That being said, with kids… anything can happen. The more prepared you are the less unplanned surprises will affect you. What is your best tip for busy soccer parents about balancing life, fitness, kids, and work? Make time for you! Easier said than done, but it really is important to fit ‘you’ into your schedule. Find an activity or sport you like so you actually look forward to doing it. What is your favorite form of fitness? As much as I love playing soccer my other favorite forms of fitness are yoga and boxing! How do you fit exercise into your busy routine? I book an appointment with myself! What is your best tip for parents who are on the go and want to eat healthy? Hit the grocery store and stock-up on healthy foods then pack snacks/lunches for yourself just like you do for your kids. I find that if you’re feeding you kids healthy foods, that’s what you’ll be eating as well. I always end up finishing my kids’ snacks. What is something you’ve learned about parenting that you wish someone had told you before? Nothing. I don’t think anyone can really prepare you for being a parent. We all just figure it out as we go and try to do our best. I’m sure many people ‘warned’ me that my life was about to change, but until you’re in it, you have no idea what they’re talking about. What do you hope your kids learn from you as their role model? I hope they learn the value of hard work and go through life with confidence, perseverance, honesty and integrity… And never give up!

What is your best time management tip for busy parents? I completely rely on my phone calendar. I put everything in there in order of what I need to do that day for work, personal life, and all kids programs. I sometimes shock myself with what I get done in a day.

Name: Joelene Huber

Hometown: Calgary, Alberta; now living in Toronto, Ontario Occupation: Pediatrician and Media Health Expert for News and Television programs When did you start playing soccer? After my second baby I started playing soccer in a Women’s league with my friends. It was a great way to be active and get back into shape. Being part of a team helped me to get out and exercise because I knew my teammates were relying on me to be there. It also allowed me to exercise and see my friends at the same time, which was great from a time management perspective as a busy mom with an infant and toddler.

What position do you play? Midfield What are the advantages of putting your kids in team sports? Team sports are more than just a great way to encourage children to be physically active. Children often develop lifelong friendships and learn life skills, such as teamwork, respect and sportsmanship through team sports, all while having fun! Our kids play in our community, so the games become a community event for kids and parents. What 3 things should every soccer parent have in their soccer bag? Nourishing snacks/drinks, sunscreen, and a First Aid kit. What is your healthy snack on-the-go for kids? I like fresh sliced fruits and berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, kiwis, pears and apples, especially in the summer, because they are easy finger foods to put in a container and go. They are a good source of energy to refuel active kids and my kids love them (not to mention that

they’re also high in fiber). My fridge is also usually stalked with yogurt tubes, which is also an easy on-the-go snack my kids love. How do you fit soccer/team sports into your busy schedule? My kids play soccer once a week and the whole family tries to go together. I also play soccer once a week in a Women’s league. I usually play indoor soccer and the games are typically scheduled after the kids are in bed. This works for our stage of life as it gives me a little bit of time to exercise but doesn’t cut into my time with the kids. It also gives me some social time with my friends who also play soccer. What is most challenging about being a “soccer mom”? Balancing family time, extra-curricular activities and work is challenging for all parents. Sometimes running from the hospital to get the kids to their games or activities can be stressful. I try to be at all of their games, but have built a great network of other parents in my community and we all help each other out.

InsideSOCCER 11

What is your best practical tip for getting kids to sports prepared and on time? My sister-in-law gave each of my kids a sports bag with their name embroidered on it, so each child has their own special soccer bag. After every game, we wash their jerseys, shorts and socks and put them back into their individual soccer bags along with their shin pads. That way, the bags are always packed and ready-to-go for the next game and we aren’t running around at the last minute trying to find clean jerseys, socks or shin pads for their games. What is your best tip for busy soccer parents about balancing life, fitness, kids, and work?

It is helpful to regularly re-evaluate your schedule as a family and prioritize what’s most important. As our children are growing and developing, they have different needs in each phase of development, and what worked 6 months ago, may not work now. I try to schedule things like fitness or workrelated projects after my kids are in bed, in order to maximize my time with them. I also play soccer with my friends, which gives me both some social time and exercise at the same time. What is your favorite form of fitness? I used to dread doing cardio (i.e., running on a treadmill) until I started playing soccer. Soccer is now my favorite form of cardio because it is goal-oriented and gives me a great cardio work out. My teammates keep me accountable to get out and exercise and playing on a team makes me work harder to support my teammates. I’m so focused on supporting my team that I often don’t notice how hard I’m working. I also like doing resistance training/circuit training, which is just as important as doing cardio for me. When I include resistance training in my fitness regimen, I feel stronger as a soccer player. How do you fit exercise into your busy routine? I workout or play soccer after our kids are in bed. It isn’t necessarily the best time of day to work out,

12 May/June 2015

but it enables me to maximize our family time with the kids while they are awake. I also try to schedule some workouts at the same time as my kids are in extracurricular activities if I can. What is your best tip for parents who are on the go and want to eat healthy? The best tip is to be organized and bring light healthy snacks (i.e., veggies, almonds, granola bars) along with you and eat healthy snacks throughout the day when you’re on the go. You end up over-eating when you get home or eating high calorie foods that are high in sodium and fat if you have to rely on quickly accessible food when you’re out and hungry for a snack and don’t have any healthy light snacks to tie you over. What is something you’ve learned about parenting that you wish someone had told you before? There are a lot of little phases that kids go through that can be difficult in the moment, or for a period of time, but things are phases or developmental stages that kids progress out of. Chatting with my own mom or other moms who have older children has helped give me perspective in times like that. What do you hope your kids learn from you as their role model? Kindness and respect for others. I also hope they always continue to be joyful and active and enjoy life. What is your best time management tip for busy parents? One of the best time management strategies we found as a family was to join a community centre, YMCA or club and schedule everyone’s activities at the same time. Sometimes the kids are each doing a sport (i.e., swimming or gymnastics) at the centre and my husband and I are using the gym or taking a fitness class all in the same centre, at the same time. It saves on driving in different directions at different times to various locations and allows us to be active and be together as a family in one place.

FORMER CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL

ROGERS

BY MARTIN MACMAHON

PREACHES PATIENCE

Delta, B.C. – The world of soccer is full of arguments. Messi vs. Ronaldo? Pele or Maradona? Manchester United or Real Madrid? PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE CANADIAN SOCCER ASSOCIATION The debates don’t get any less passionate when we look beyond the professional leagues, to the sidelines in fields across the country when it comes to the issue of how best to coach young players. We all know or at least have come across coaches interested in living vicariously through their players, trying to collect plastic trophies and medals in a bid to prove their tactical acumen. But is a win-at-all cost mentality beneficial for the long-term development of young players? In a bid to answer this question and others, Inside Soccer sat down with former Canadian international Mark Rogers, who now oversees the 1,000 member Tsawwassen Soccer Club as technical director. We began with that basic question – what level of importance should we put on winning, when it comes to those experiencing the game at the earliest stages? “The big concern is: how soon should it be serious? When they think serious, they think about wins, losses and medals,” Rogers says of his conversations with many parents. “It’s important that we do 14 May/June 2015

what’s right for the child; and what’s right for the child is to educate them, first in a love of the game, and try to surround them with that culture as best as you can, so that when they do go off the field, they want to watch, want to play on their own. That’s when you know you have them.” For Rogers, there are three main steps in developing a soccer player. The first is to create a fun environment that doesn’t feel like a chore. Players who stay in the game long enough will do many repetitive drills and exercises necessary for technical development. The former Wycombe Wanderers and Stevenage Borough player acknowledges the second step of repetition is necessary – but if players haven’t fallen in love with the game due to the stressful or overly structured environment, there’s a risk the player will simply want to leave the sport. Only once a player genuinely enjoys the game and goes beyond the few hours of practice each week will his or her development really take off – and it’s only once these steps are well in place that Rogers recommends that results even come into consideration. “The urgency on skill development,

technical development has to be there all the time,” says Rogers. “It’s important, though, that you take each kid on (his or her) own. They all develop at different stages. It’s a player first model. For me, in general terms, once you get through the golden age of learning and they’re just about to come into puberty that’s when you begin to look at the tactical side.” But even then, Rogers warns about any hard and fast rules about judging players, pointing to his own experience as a late bloomer. Another worrying trend for the Guelph-born coach is the issue of overspecialization. He feels he benefited from a diverse sporting experience in his childhood, and would like to see this generation get that exposure to other activities – something he feels ultimately leads to more well-rounded soccer players. “We’re focusing on specializing too early, and we’re actually losing, across all sports, athletes,” says Rogers. “What’s made Canadians fairly good [in sports] is that they’re well-rounded athletes. I know I was able to transition to becoming a professional soccer player because I was

good at basketball, baseball and track. You can draw on parallels. Going up to win a header is a lot like going up and grabbing a rebound in basketball, or a fly ball in centre field. You can overlap sports, and it gives you a head start, especially when you’re playing soccer.” Beyond the issue of focusing in on one sport too soon, Rogers also cautions against young players specializing in any given position too early. There’s no real way to predict that a player will have the same body type at an early age that he or she will have when fully developed. “As long you can, play as many positions as you can,” says Rogers. “Some kids will naturally gravitate to a position. You have a kid that says, ‘I’m going to be a centre back,’ and you look over at his dad, and his dad’s 5’0 tall, and you think, maybe it’s important that you play all these positions, because he might end up as a 5’0 tall centre back. “We have no idea who is going to be fast, strong when they’re 16. It’s important you rotate them through as long as possible [in different positions].” From speaking with Rogers, the main takeaways are patience and perspective. Even if a player appears to be one of the better players in his or her age group, there’s no guarantee that will translate to the adult game. “Don’t treat them like young soldiers,” Rogers says of players 13 or 14 years of age. “Simply keep encouraging the love of the game. They’re still kids. Yes, they might be truly good then. But keep in mind he might not be [good] in three years. Don’t destroy him by over-raising his or her expectations with things you do not know. Very rarely are the best kids at 13 the best kids at 18. In fact, they’re usually leapfrogged. So, to keep your kid as an elite 13 year old to 18, it’s going to come with him or her not being able to wait to kick a ball in the yard, can’t wait to watch the game, can’t wait to get to training, can’t wait to get the game. ‘Dad, can I do more? Where can I get it?’ “Those are the players that make it in the end, not the kid who’s getting dragged out by the scruff of his neck to training.”

“

It’s important though that you take each kid on their own. They all develop at different stages. It’s a player first model.

”

InsideSOCCER 15

FIT FACTS

THE NEED FOR COACH EDUCATION

IN SOCCER-SPECIFIC FITNESS TRAINING There have been many unique and exciting BY RICHARD BUCCIARELLI of these sciences. Fitness additions to the soccer landscape in Ontario in application professionals and/or soccer coaches who take the Soccer Fitness Trainer’s the past two years. Course will learn how to plan and The Ontario Player Development League (OPDL) — a standards-based youth league beginning at the U13 age group and requiring all member clubs to meet and achieve standards for coaching, therapy, facilities and of course, fitness — had its inaugural season in 2014 and has now grown/ doubled to two age groups for both boys and girls for the 2015 season. Ontario League 1 — another a standards-based league but for elite young adult players in the “train to compete” and “train to win” stages of Long Term Player Development — also had its inaugural season in 2014 and has also grown to include a women’s division in 2015. More recently, at the 2015 Ontario Soccer Association’s annual Soccer Development Conference, the OSA outlined some changes that will be made to the Provincial Coaching License course, including a new “National B Prep Course”, as well as a requirement for all Provincial “B” Licensed coaches to earn continuing education credits in order to maintain their licenses. The establishment of standardsbased leagues for elite youth and adult amateur players in Ontario is a huge step in the right direction for optimal player development and to strengthen our Canadian National Teams. As a company working exclusively with soccer players, we at Soccer Fitness Inc. are primarily concerned with the fitness standards associated with these 16 May/June 2015

new leagues, and how they can best be implemented in order to optimize players’ physical development. One certainty is that, as the numbers of teams and players in standards-based leagues grows, the clubs with teams in these leagues will require knowledgeable and experienced fitness coaches to provide the high quality fitness testing and training the players require. Making sure that fitness coaches are educated about safe, science/ evidence-based methods of testing and training is of critical importance in ensuring soccer players receive the high standard of training mandated. While there presently exists a wide variety of continuing education courses aimed at fitness professionals, including a few considered to be “sport-specific training courses,” there is no course available to coaches or fitness professionals that teaches soccer-specific fitness training. It was with these facts in mind that we at Soccer Fitness Inc. decided to create the Soccer Fitness Trainer’s Course, aimed at fitness professionals and/or soccer coaches looking to increase their knowledge and practical skills in the design and implementation of soccerspecific on-field fitness training. The first edition of our Course will be taking place in the fall of 2015, at Trio Sportsplex, located at 601 Cityview Blvd. in Vaughan. Our Trainer’s Course is a unique coacheducation program that combines theoretical lectures in the sports sciences, with the practical and soccer-specific

implement year-round soccer-specific fitness training programs for their teams. Central to the Course is the teaching of Soccer Fitness’ 60-Minute SoccerSpecific On-Field Fitness Session. We have used and continue to use these comprehensive 1-hour sessions in all our On-Field Training programs, with teams ranging from U10-U18 rep./academy, the Ontario Provincial/Canadian National Teams, the Toronto FC Academy teams, and professional soccer clubs abroad. The basic format and structure of the Soccer Fitness 60-Minute SoccerSpecific On-Field Fitness Session, which is described and taught in detail during the Course, is as follows:

0-15 minutes: Soccer-Specific Warm-Up 16-30 minutes: Soccer-Specific Coordination Training 31-45 minutes: Soccer-Specific Energy System Training 46-60 minutes: Soccer-Specific Strength Training Other topics covered in the course include anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and motor learning specific to the sport of soccer, as well as modules on fitness assessment, periodization of training, injury prevention and specific youth soccer training. Fitness professionals with an interest in working with soccer players will come

a b a s c a a k t p p i t n p a h d p c

away from the Course with a much better understanding of how to make all aspects of their training programs more specific to the sport of soccer. Soccer coaches who are working with players at any age or level of ability will come away from the Course with valuable knowledge and skills that will allow them to successfully plan and implement physical fitness exercises into their practices, and they will also learn how to integrate fitness work within their regular technical/tactical training sessions. The Ontario Soccer Association’s new standards for soccer-specific physical fitness testing and training are changes that will be extremely helpful to the long-term athletic development of our province’s soccer players. Fitness professionals and soccer coaches working in high performance

environments and wishing to meet these standards will now require some specific training and education about how to plan and implement optimal physical fitness testing and training programs for their athletes and teams. It is our belief that the Soccer Fitness Trainer’s Course will provide participants with essential knowledge and practical skills in the fields of exercise science and onfield coaching/training. Our Trainer’s Course will provide coaches and fitness professionals with the tools they need to optimize the physical development and performance of the players they work with.

Richard Bucciarelli is the President of Soccer Fitness Inc., and the creator of the Soccer Fitness Trainer’s Course, which is being held in October, 2015 in Vaughan, Ontario. For more information about Soccer Fitness Inc. and the Soccer Fitness Trainer’s Course, visit www.soccerfitness.ca

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@SoccerFitGols InsideSOCCER 17

After Michael Bradley, Sebastian Giovinco, Jozy Altidore and the rest of Toronto FC’s star-studded line up leave the field during a midweek training day at the KIA Training Grounds in Downsview, Jason Bent walks onto the pitch and starts placing neon-coloured cones and markers all along the green grass.

JASON BENT BY ARMEN BEDAKIAN

FOCUSING ON DEVELOPMENT RATHER THAN RESULTS PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF TORONTO FC II When the senior team heads to the gym, it’s time for Toronto FC II to hit the field for practice.    Bent is the head coach of Toronto FC’s second-division affiliate team, Toronto FC II. He earned the job after spending several years on the senior team coaching staff as an assistant. He was the only member of Ryan Nelsen’s coaching staff that was retained when the former coach was let go last season and was appointed as the inaugural coach of Toronto FC II very early in this new club’s formation.   Toronto FC II is a bit of a different team than most second-division sides around the world; while it plays in USL Pro, the team is really more of a mix of Toronto FC senior academy graduates, first team Toronto FC players, college drafted prospects and a handful of independent signatures, too.   There are a few bigger names on the roster, including Canadian midfielder Jay Chapman, US U18 international goalkeeper Alex Bono, former TFC Academy captain Chris Mannella and American forward Ben Spencer. And, since the squad is mostly under 23 years old, Bent says a large part of his job, and one of the more important priorities for his players, is focusing on the developmental part of the game, rather than the results.    “The majority of it is about the development and trying to get these players to progress on and learn this game as footballers,” Bent said. “At the 18 May/June 2015

same time, we want to be competitive as a team. We know that if we start to do the right things at the right times, that we will succeed.”   “The main focus, and it’s even difficult for us coaches — we lose sight of that sometimes — is the fact that it’s based on the development,” Bent added. “It can’t always just be about the results at the end of the day.”   Like the senior team, TFC II has been on a bit of a road trip, too, as the team awaits the opening of its own soccer centre in Vaughan, Ontario. As such, the team has been on the road, and while results haven’t gone the team’s way so far, Bent says he’s already seen some improvement in the development of his young players on the field.    “We’ve seen improvements in spurts, individually, as well as collectively, where we’re starting to do the things we want to do, in the right manner,” Bent explained. “Then, other times, you see some of their inexperience. Some of the goals we conceded are, sort of, elementary mistakes that can be corrected and improved. At the college game, or from where they’ve come from at the youth level, you don’t really get punished in those instances, but at the professional level, you don’t really get a second chance. Teams punish you.”   But it’s off the field that Bent says the lessons need to be applied. Though many of his players are young professionals,

Bent says their home life is crucial to success on the field.    “We try to speak to them, because they’re young men,” Bent said. “They are professional players. It’s important that they understand that everything they do away from the football club is important; the amount of rest that they get – we train at two-o-clock in the afternoon but they can’t be up until one-o-clock in the morning thinking that’s proper rest. With regards to diet and what they eat, what they drink, all these things are factors. We try to educate them as much as we can but we’re not with them 24 hours a day so we just try to teach as best as possible.”   For many players on the team, home is just a few kilometres away, as many of the players on the team are Toronto locals, having made the jump from the TFC Academy into Toronto FC II. This is the big advantage Toronto FC has with TFC II; there is now a bridge between the youth level and the senior level, where valuable minutes are easier to come by during a crucial stage in player development.    One player who benefits from this new step to the top is TFC Academy forward Molham Babouli. A local from Mississauga, Babouli was one of the Academy’s top prospects; now, he’s playing at a higher level with TFC II, and he described playing at home as a “great feeling.”    “When you go overseas or anything else, it’s a different experience, and you always learn from it,” Babouli said. “But,

playing at home is definitely good; you get family and friends coming down to support you. Just knowing that you’re in the place that you grew up, that you can relate to, and having that support behind you is fantastic.”   It’s his family and friends that Babouli looks to for support.    “It’s everything,” Babouli said, of his loved ones. “My family only started coming up to the games recently. My dad travels a lot and my mom’s not able to come to a lot of games. But, nowadays, they see that it’s become more of a professional environment. They want to support me as much as possible. Whenever I need somebody to talk to or someone to be around, they’re always there for me.”   Babouli gave some advice for the parents of other players, saying that supporting their children is key to player development.    “Just try to be there as much as possible, even if it’s just watching their trainings,” Babouli said. “From a young age, go see their trainings, and if they need extra help try to help them, take them to the park, and just make sure that they know that you’re there for them. That’s the most important part.”   For some of these players, life in Toronto FC II isn’t just a first step into the world of professional soccer, though; it’s also a brand new lifestyle in a new city. Wesley Charpie is one such player. Drafted 29th overall by Toronto FC in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft, this Florida-born USF Bulls’ right fullback was allocated to TFC II for his first year in Toronto.    It’s a journey Charpie says he’s enjoying.    “It’s been fun!” Charpie said. “I never thought I’d be in Canada at all. I didn’t know too much about the country but coming here, the people are really nice. It’s enjoyable, especially with the weather starting to warm up. I’m a Florida boy, so I’m liking it right now!”    “It’s been a great experience,” Charpie continued. “I really love Toronto, and I think it’s a great city and a great place to be.”   For Charpie, being in Toronto means being away from home, as he embarks on his dream of becoming a professional player in MLS. But, he says, support from home is still crucial, even more so when

he’s so far from home.    “The family’s always supportive, and my mom and dad, I talk to them every day,” Charpie said. “They love the fact that I’m here. They’re coming up for the first home match and they’re excited to be here for that game.”   “It’s definitely a big maturing process,” Charpie continued. “For parents, going along, because I know a lot of kids too go on to play in Europe and all that, so it can be tough for parents, definitely. My mom, she’s a loving mom, you know? My advice is to keep in contact. Pretty much every day, we talk to each other. Their being supportive, that’s the biggest thing. If I can have a conversation with them every day, it makes me feel good. It makes me feel like I’m at home.”   Toronto FC II will open the Ontario Soccer Centre in Vaughan on July 4, 2015, with a rivalry match against FC Montreal.

“

At the same time, we want to be competitive as a team. We know that if we start to do the right things at the right times, that we will succeed.

”

InsideSOCCER 19

The Montreal metropolitan area has produced its fair share of professional soccer players. The Impact has five Homegrown Players on the senior roster. Some other products, like Karl W. Ouimette, Samuel Piette and André Hainault, are still in Canada manager Benito Floro’s notebook.

GRASSROOTS SOCCER IN MONTREAL: PLENTY OF OPTIONS BUT DO YOUR HOMEWORK BY OLIVIER TREMBLAY

PHOTOGRAPHS BY SHUTTERSTOCK They all had to start somewhere. Their parents at some point, had to sign them up for grassroots soccer, hoping that the kids would merely have fun – it is, after all, the whole point. Montreal offers various options for parents who also want their children to work off their ridiculous amount of energy, stay healthy and have a bit of fun. Here is how to find the best – and safest – one for the apple of your eye.

THE LOCAL CLUBS

Generally speaking, your child should simply join the club closest to your home. 20 May/June 2015

You can, of course, find out on your own which is your local club. You’re a parent. You’ve undertaken more daunting tasks. Still, the easiest way to know for sure – and to guarantee that you are joining a serious, official club – is by reaching out to your Association régionale de soccer (Regional Soccer Association). In terms of young player training, its mandate relates, for the most part, to the regional selection for ages 13 and under, which competes against selections from other areas of Quebec. But the ARS can indeed guide you to your child’s local club. Montreal’s territory is divided between

three Associations. ARS Lac-Saint-Louis covers the Western areas of Montreal and some central areas. ARS Concordia comprises most central and Eastern areas of the city. Finally, ARS Bourassa contains the Anjou, Saint-Léonard and Montréal-Nord boroughs, as well as the town of Montréal-Est. In total, 30 clubs are officially recognized on the island. If you live on the outskirts of Montreal, there’s an ARS for you, too. ARS Rive-Sud (on the South Shore) and ARS Laval are but two examples. Some clubs will admit players starting at the U4 age group, but be careful.

One person interviewed for this report advises parents who wish to register a child at that age to be wary of potential fatigue over the years. Some parents, who don’t necessarily understand the soccer development process at such a young age, even get upset at there being no competition in their child’s age group. Do your homework, and make sure your child – and you – take pleasure in what should be a pastime. Competition usually starts at the U8 level, and then again: in most cases, no official standings are kept until children reach their teens. The emphasis is put on technique, learning and having fun. As in many youth sports, many of the coaches are parents, or teens hired as instructors for the summer. Soccer remains the most popular recreational sport in the province, which translates into an overwhelming player-coach ratio. But each ARS does provide a Directeur de cours (Course Director) to offer assistance to coaches, making sure that training is adequate. Some clubs also look elsewhere to raise the bar in terms of soccer education. The Braves d’Ahuntsic soccer club, for example, welcomed an executive from French giants Olympique Lyonnais’ Academy in late 2014 – OL will now pass on some of its player development knowledge to the Braves.

THE PRO CLUB

Montreal’s professional soccer club

does its part as well. The Montreal Impact soccer schools offer intensive programs and soccer camps for your children at levels U6 to U16. The youngsters can get their first taste of a professional environment, as the club uses its Academy’s resources to run the programs. Intensive programs take place mostly on weekends, at various locations all across the Montreal metropolitan area. Last winter, for example, girls and boys at the U6-U8 levels from the Brossard area, on the South Shore, could register for a block of 10 sessions held on Sundays, from 2:30pm to 4pm, for $270 (plus tax). You can also enter your child into a spring break or summer camp. They can spend a full week with Montreal Impact youth trainers (for half-days or full days), once again at several Montreal locations. The Impact also offers camps during the Christmas holidays, though only for two or three days. In any case, finding a program and registering online is easy. Parents, you can create your own profile on the soccer schools website, allowing you to manage profiles for each of your children. Taking part in these soccer schools programs does not, however, mean that the child integrates the Montreal Impact Academy; it is thus not a substitute for joining a local club. But local boys (not girls, alas) who stand out may just be invited to try out for the Pre-Academy (from the U8 to U12 levels), if they live within a 20-kilometre radius of the

Impact’s facilities. The Pre-Academy offers a full season of soccer (and futsal, in the winter) where the child plays friendly games and tournaments under Montreal Impact colors. Should the child later make it to the actual Academy (levels U13 to U23), he would join the Impact’s Sports-Études (sport-study) program, and his training would be paid for by the club, whereas the Pre-Academy requires yearly payments from $1,550 to $1,900, depending on the child’s age. Since 2012, Academy teens of the U16 and U18 level play competitive soccer in the United States Soccer Development Academy, a league where most of the best development academies in the United States and Canada send their pupils. Both the U16 and U18 teams made the USSDA playoffs last season; the U16s was the 10th best team of the 79 that entered the league, while the U18 reached the 13th spot in the age category. But the Academy is home to only 80 players from the thousands eligible in the entire province. Other sports-study programs exist as well – but note that the Quebec Soccer Federation only recognizes such programs if they are supported by an ARS.

InsideSOCCER 21

COACH DAVE: MY CORNER

FIT FACTS

THANK YOU TO THE PERFECT SOCCER PARENTS BY DAVE KENNY Dear Mom and Dad, Inside Soccer Magazine asked me to provide an article for the Parents’ Guide to Soccer. In the past, I have written about how important it is for the coach to have an opening season parents’ meeting, how parents should not make fools of themselves and how parents can ensure that their children enjoy the season. Rather than continue with an article of similar fashion, I decided I should just thank you for being the best soccer parents a guy could have. I know that this letter is probably more than 25 (or 35) years late, but I really believe that it will help other soccer parents. First, Dad, I would like to thank you for taking me to my first practice. It seems a bit strange that I can remember almost every moment of that day now, almost 50 years later, but it was such an important day in my life. I can clearly recall you taking my little hand in yours while walking across Bayview Avenue in Richmond Hill, ON to the local high school where they played something called “soccer.” To this day, I have no idea why I had the seemingly natural urge to play what, at the time, was an unknown (to me) sport, but in my wee mind, if it was happening at the high school, it had to be good in all aspects and I needed to be a part of whatever it was!! As a five year old, I remember being fascinated by the “big kids” who would run past our house during phys-ed class. Imagine! having a chance to actually go to that same high 22 May/June 2015

school as a mere kid. It was definitely, something I could not pass up. I want to thank you, Dad, for taking me to meet my first coach, Mr. Pennyfather (How on earth can I still remember his name??), and helping me do a sideline change to put on my first uniform. I want to thank you for my first item of soccer-related equipment…the Adidas hard-toed shoes and green shin pads that perfectly matched my soccer uniform that inaugural season. Dad, you always made sure I had whatever equipment needed ensuring that it equally matched my ability and needs of the moment. The many years that I spent working in and running a business related to the soccer industry and sports supply business provided me with a lot of insight on equipment. Too many parents believe that the best and most expensive shoes will make their son or daughter a better player. Dad, you made sure to teach me that a proper fitting pair of cleats is far more important to a player’s development and success than any name brand or price tag could ever hope to live up to. My first soccer shoes may very well have been the only ones available for someone my size (and for an “average” family), but that didn’t matter at the time. You made sure that as I grew, so too did the supply of equipment, always making sure I was properly outfitted. Thank you for that. In later years, you taught me how to “dubben” and polish my leather shoes

to make them last and look superior. As a grown man, I want to apologize to you Dad, for not always treating my equipment the way I should have, especially my first leather soccer ball. If I only knew then, what I know now, I would not have “mistakenly” left with my friends the first day I had that ball. Being young and impetuous, being called in for dinner (and obeying as a good boy, I might add), I left the ball so our playground game could continue, never to see it again. Thank you for not getting too mad even though I know you spent a lot of money on that ball. Money that, at the time, could have easily gone towards something else. Mom, I want to thank you for always making sure I was well fed before I left the house for any practice or game, no matter how old (and difficult) I was. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been timing family dinners perfectly so we could all eat together, especially when my brother Mike, dad or I were always rushing in any number of directions to be somewhere for training, tournaments or season games. I also want to thank you for making sure I always had my equipment before I headed out to practice or games. I learned to always remember “mom’s checklist”. “Do you have your shirt, shorts, socks, shin pads and shoes?” Later, as my player bag got bigger and the competition got better, the list included “tracksuit, second shirt,

extra shoes, water bottle etc”. Did you know I still use this checklist with my teams mom? I ask the parents to make sure their children arrive at the field with everything they require. It drives me crazy as a coach when I am talking to the team and a parent has to interrupt to pass a player a water bottle. Additionally mom, thank you for always making me carry my own equipment. Although I am sure I had a few things to say about this throughout the years, it taught me to be responsible for me and my equipment and greatly improved my appreciation for the sport. I also want to thank you for making sure I was always early to whatever I had to be to for soccer. Whether it was a practice or a game, you taught me that by showing up early, I was in turn, showing my respect for the sport, teammates and coaching staff. You taught me to dread the thought of being late and now as a coach, it drives me nuts when players show up late. In fact, when volunteering to coach a team for a season, I do not think it is unreasonable to ask parents get the players there on time. Thank you for NEVER getting me to practice or games late! I promise to try to teach the same respect to the players I coach. I want to thank both of you for staying to watch my games whenever humanly possible. It was amazing to see you sitting on the sidelines no matter what weather conditions, amount of time spent getting to such game or training, or how many other things you could have been doing at that very same moment. I know now that you were interested in my wellbeing and were always there, by my side if something went wrong, or if I just needed you. More so, I see now that it wasn’t just to ensure my safety, but you were there because you too, loved the sport and loved watching me, your son, excel at it. Mom, I specifically remember the high school play-off final that was played in a snow storm. You were there to 23 February/March 2012

encourage and support (and probably freeze your butt off ). It could have been so easy for you to send me on my way to play the game, but you were there for me. Through good and bad games, you were there cheering me on. In fact, I also remember you being as upset about missing a game as you were about me ending up in the hospital with a broken leg. As a coach, I encourage parents to

stay, as often as humanly possible at their children’s games. Unfortunately, injuries are part of the game. Fortunately, any time that as a coach, we have experienced a serious injury, the parent has been in attendance. A parent’s attendance is so very important in case of an injury, but it is so much more than that. It is being there for your child through thick and thin, good and bad, just because it is what they love to do. I would hate to think how a parent would feel if they were not there to accompany their child to hospital in case of injury and to get a phone call informing them of their child’s injury. Mom and Dad, we have all seen parents who treat soccer (or any organized sport for that matter) as a cheap babysitting service and take the time to go shopping or run errands. I am so proud to say that my parents were ALWAYS there!! Do you remember in my first year of coaching, after a game, I waited for over forty-five minutes with a five year old, for his mother to pick him up? Thank you for never making me wait like that! On a side note, perhaps now is the perfect opportunity to let you know that I forgive you for refusing to let me in the car because I was so muddy from my

game in net. I really did not mind walking beside the car to get home! Really!! I also appreciate you washing me off with the garden hose before allowing me into the house. Thank you for that!! Mom and Dad, I want to thank you both for getting involved with our local soccer club. It started with the coordination of half-time oranges and snacks, and ended up with both of you on the club executive. You both spent many hours dedicated to our local club, something I will always remember. Dad, you even added coach and referee to your resume, and helped to form the Region of York Soccer Association. Your personal and indisputable involvement in the club created opportunities not only for me, but also for many children in our community and beyond. The best example of this was when you created the school soccer league in England. It is hard to believe that there were no youth soccer programs at the time, but your actions and dedication created a blueprint for many local soccer programs to follow. Your legacy lives on to this day in that area. I often ask my team parents to get involved, even if it is putting up nets and corner flags or handing out freezies at the end of the game. To a young child and potentially life-long player of the sport, refreshments, half-time oranges and snacks are an important part of the soccer experience. To a coach, not having to put up nets allows him to spend more time with the team. But their involvement is so much more than that! It is them being there for their kids that will end up meaning more than we could ever describe. Dad, I want to thank you for volunteering to coach the teams you did and especially the years you coached my team. More importantly, I want to thank you for NOT “coaching” when you were not the coach. I appreciate that when you were not the coach, you never second InsideSOCCER 23

guessed the coaches I had. I am sure there were times when you disagreed wholeheartedly with what the coach (or referee) was teaching, but you never interfered. You fully respected the job they were doing and supported them in it. There are parents who seem to think it is their responsibility to criticize the coach and it is often these people that can be very destructive to a team. Thank you for not being one of those parents. I have written in ISM before that if a parent wants to “coach” then he/she should sign up at the start of the season. They should not criticize the person who is taking the time to volunteer and be there for their child. Dad, I know it must have been tough sometimes not to say something. I have gone through the same issue with one of step-daughter’s (Megan) coaches. The coach had the defenders stop at the halfway line and never cross into the opponents half. Not my style of coaching but I kept my mouth shut! She had a coach that was not me and I was not going to interfere. Mom and Dad, you were both great representatives of how parents should behave at soccer games. You never yelled at referees, other parents or other players. I have had parents of players get involved in sideline arguments with other parents and at one time fisticuffs even broke out! On another occasion, I saw an intoxicated

parent berate a referee so much that the referee actually stopped the game to argue with the parent. I was embarrassed for the parent and felt horrible for the player who was going to have to walk home with the parent. I couldn’t believe that any parent would behave that way. I simply never was witness to such antics when I played soccer. I didn’t know it could even exist. Most parents are well behaved but it only takes a few to spoil the enjoyment for the kids. At my preseason parent meeting, I always ask the adults to encourage all players. I also ask them to never act a fool. I generally get a few laughs when I say that, but when I tell a few of the stories of what I have seen over the years, they begin to get the idea of what I mean when I say the words. Thank you for always being respectful towards others and thank you for teaching me the same. You always cheered for all my team mates not just for me. You celebrated all goals, not just mine. (Then again there were not too many of mine to celebrate). Thank you as well, for not dwelling on my mistakes, (I wish I could say there were not too many of those) and encouraging me to keep trying to improve. Thank you for pushing me when I didn’t want to be pushed, knowing the entire time that I could do better and achieve greater results.

Children learn from what they see and follow the examples of those who are important to them. Mom and Dad, the two of you always set a great example for me. I truly wish all parents had the knowledge and capacity to behave the same way. I tell players and parents that they are representing themselves, their family, and their team in addition to their club or city. Mom and Dad, you were great representatives of our family, team and town. I have learned from the very best and I thank you for that. You both are the reason I started coaching, some 35 years ago. You are the reason I am commended as a good coach. You are the reason I can sit at a game and enjoy the game for the love of the sport and not be one of “those” parents. You showed me the importance of volunteering; and the proper way to do it. Hopefully, other parents will be clever enough to follow your examples of behaviour. With my deepest appreciation..

THANK YOU.

Love Dave

DRILL OF THE MONTH: “THE OPPOSITE GAME” The Opposite Game is a simple and effective way to introduce heading of the ball to young players. There have been some discussions about the effects of heading at young ages. What is important, is that when players are introduced to the skill, it is done properly. There are four main points to proper heading of the ball which should be followed. 1. use the forehead, not the top of the head or nose 2. keep eyes open (closing eyes means it could hit the nose) 3. close mouth (prevents biting tongue) 4. Hit the ball, don’t let it hit you

DRILL SET UP Work in small groups of 4-8 players, one coach and one ball 24 May/June 2015

Players form a circle or line with coach in the middle of the circle or facing the line

HOW IT WORKS The coach begins the drill by lightly tossing the ball to the first player. As he tosses, the coach gives the instruction of “Head” or “Catch” The player does the “opposite” to the instruction. If the coach says “Catch,” the player “heads” the ball back to the coach. If the instruction is “Head”, the player catches the ball in his hands and throws the ball back to the coach. The coach throws randomly to each player giving each an instruction as he does so. Once the players are comfortable doing “the opposite”, the game can be turned into a fun competition by eliminating players for not doing the opposite, i.e.

heads the ball when instructed to do so.

PROGRESSION The coach can control the speed of the game thereby making the decisions of the players quicker or slower depending on the skill level. The coach can also make his players react faster by throwing continually to the same player.

WHY THIS WORKS Players enjoy doing the opposite to the instructions and have fun watching teammates making errors. This is a very gentle way to introduce proper heading techniques. Players will gain confidence in heading while at the same time improving reaction times.

BY MATT GREENWOOD

HELPING YOUNG PLAYERS STAY INJURY FREE

FIFA11+ WARM-UP AND INJURY PREVENTION PROGRAM A GAME CHANGER FOR YOUNG ATHLETES PHOTOGRAPHS BY DIANNA LEE & SHUTTERSTOCK

Even those who may not be fitness enthusiasts are aware of the notion that it’s wise to warm up before doing any kind of significant physical activity – but there is only benefit if it’s done properly. Through extensive research we’ve learned a great deal about warm-ups in recent years—specifically about warmup approaches that can actually help to prevent serious knee and ankle injuries. How often do we hear nowadays about ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries? It seems to be an almost common occurrence. If you—as a club administrator, parent or coach—knew 26 May/June 2015

that many ACL injuries could actually be prevented through a readily available program that cost nothing, would you implement it? The answer would surely be yes. Statistically, soccer knee injuries are significant and a growing concern for both boys and girls, with girls up to eight times more likely to have an injury. An ACL injury in a young athlete often requires

surgery and the impacted athlete can miss up to a year or more of on-field action. And that unfortunate reality is at all levels of sport performance including high-level athletes as well as those at the grassroots levels. This is where an ounce of prevention may be more than just an old adage. It’s actually a game changer. In order to address the increased rates of injury, FIFA has developed a proven warmup program that has the potential to reduce serious knee and ankle injuries in young athletes. And the potential rate of reduction is not modest—in fact, it’s a staggering 43%. The program? The FIFA11+ warm-up and injury prevention regimen, geared

toward players from the age of 14 and older. FIFA11+ builds on earlier proven approaches and features exercises to enhance balance, strength, muscle control and core stability, along with specific running drills. The Ontario Soccer Association, in conjunction with its partners, Bone and Joint Canada and the Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation, received funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation beginning in 2014 to introduce Ontario soccer clubs and Academies to FIFA11+. There is no cost to have a trained expert come to a club and introduce the program. FIFA11+ has been overwhelmingly well received. Clubs across the province— from Thunder Bay, Ottawa and Kingston to Windsor—have implemented the warm-up program. The feedback has been extremely positive and clubs and coaches have adopted the training program to reduce the injury rates for their youth athletes. The focus is on simple but crucial warm-up approaches that include core strength, eccentric hamstring strength, knee over toe and jumping and landing—all of which give athletes the best opportunity to stay healthy and avoid knee and ankle injuries. One long-time soccer leader in Ontario, Gary Miller, is very familiar with FIFA11+ and has worked with thousands of young athletes over the past 30 years. Miller, now the Technical Director for the Ontario Soccer Association, also founded the highly successful Bryst Soccer Academy and implemented FIFA11+ with his Bryst athletes. He saw up close how impactful the program is. “It is vitally important that all soccer organizations, their coaches, the parents and the players,

receive an education on injury prevention in soccer. The FIFA 11+ program is part of the overall process that will ultimately lead to fewer injuries in the game”, says Miller. Medical professionals have also seen firsthand the explosion of serious sportsrelated injuries. Dr. Martin Gargan, the Head of Paediatric Orthopaedics at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children, says proper prevention protocols can make a significant difference. “As physicians, we see far too many injuries to the knee and ankle in our youth that are preventable. These injuries can lead to early degeneration of the joint and many years of future pain and disability. An injury prevention program such as FIFA 11+ that reduces injuries is extremely important to improving the quality of life of our youth.” The comments from Miller and Dr. Gargan indicate there is a tremendous need for this kind of information. Athletes and parents certainly want to limit the risks inherent in sports like soccer. But coaches and clubs also want to deal appropriately with risk, and one way

to do this is to explore all the currently available information on fitness and injury prevention. FIFA11+ delivers precisely that: a proven, systematic approach that coaches and clubs can adopt for all their athletes—those in the talented player pathway as well as those who are in grassroots recreational soccer and who want to play strictly for fun and activity. You may well keep way more of your young athletes healthy—and on the field of play. Year Two of FIFA11+ is now underway in Ontario. With that in mind, it is crucial to get the word out that this kind of education about injury prevention is indeed available. If you or your Club would like to find out more, please contact Matt Greenwood, Manager, Membership Services with The Ontario Soccer Association. Matt can be reached at MGreenwood@soccer.on.ca

InsideSOCCER 27

BY KRIS FERNANDES

Lionel Messi

SOUTH AMERICAN SOCCER TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT

COPA AMÉRICA

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NATURSPORTS/MARCOS MESA SAM WORDLEY/AGIF - SHUTTERSTOCK

Come mid-June, be prepared to have your social media accounts bombarded by your South American friends for a few weeks. The reason is because the Copa América is back on June 11th. The South American Championship is one of the most entertaining continental tournaments around for a variety of reasons but primarily due to strong rivalries and the abundance of elite players that compete in it. This 44th edition features many of the world’s top stars including Neymar (BRA), Messi (ARG), Juventus stud Carlos Tevez (ARG), and Chileans Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez, among others. With a cast like that, it’s very easy to see why footy fans from around the world are so amped for this. The news gets even better for Canadian fans as all the action will be available on BeIN Sports who have two dedicated channels for every match, in English and Spanish, showcasing just how popular this tournament has become in North America. If you have never watched a Copa América you definitely should start this year. An intriguing factor to consider is that next year will be the 100th anniversary of the competition which will be held in the United States for the first time and provided how well they 28 May/June 2015

do at this year’s Gold Cup, Canada could very well be a part of that elite 16 team competition. Canadians will salivate at the prospect of Canada facing Argentina or Brazil. For this year, the format sees 12 teams put into three groups of four, including two invited CONCACAF guests, Mexico and Jamaica, to fill out the competition. The top two teams in each group will advance with the two best third-place teams also advancing to the knockout stage. Here is an overview of what to expect in this highly anticipated competition.

GROUP A CHILE BOLIVIA ECUADOR MEXICO Hosts Chile are certainly considered favourites to top Group A with a talented and balanced squad, strong home support, after an excellent showing from last summer’s World Cup in which

they eliminated defending champions Spain and lost on penalties in the second round to Brazil. Their key players are forward Alexis Sanchez who had a very strong year for Arsenal in the English Premier League and midfield maestro Arturo Vidal, a key reason why Juventus won Serie A and have pushed so far in the UEFA Champion’s League. La Roja tied Mexico 0-0 and Bolivia 2-2 in friendlies last fall but has never won the Copa América. They will be in tough against the Mexicans who appear in this tournament for the ninth time before participating in the Gold Cup, but lost every match at the last Copa in 2011. Chile will also have to contend with a formidable Ecuadorian side that features Manchester United veteran Antonio Valencia, who has 72 caps for the national side, and West Ham striker Enner Valencia who scored all three goals for La Tricolor at the World Cup and has 11 goals from 17 appearances. They were eliminated at the group stage in Brazil and the last previous four Copa tournaments. But if they’re able to

manage a point from Mexico, they should land either the second or a top third place position. Bolivia are the only team in this group to have won the South American crown (1963) but have not generated a single win in the last five editions of this tournament and with the news that captain Ronald Raldes had surgery on his collarbone in early May and may not be fully ready for the competition, don’t expect them to advance out of the group.

GROUP B ARGENTINA JAMAICA PARAGUAY URUGUAY Group B looks great on paper with the Classico Rio de la Plata between Argentina and Uruguay highlighting the action here. They are the top two teams in this competition with Uruguay boasting 15 titles and Argentina right behind at 14. In the last tournament it was Luis Suarez and company who not only eliminated Argentina but also hoisted the championship on their rivals’ home soil, so you can bet that La Albiceleste will be out to avenge that. However, Uruguay’s attack will look a lot different this time around with Diego Forlan now retired from international duty while Suarez, the 2011 Copa MVP, is serving a nine game suspension for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini last summer at the World Cup. Fortunately, they have Paris Saint-Germain striker Edinson Cavani who has 25 goals from 71 matches with La Celeste to pick up the slack. Two time winners Paraguay are no pushover by any stretch and remarkably made it to the 2011 final despite not having won a game in the competition – drawing three times in the group stage along with a pair of wins on penalties. They missed out on the World Cup for the first time in 20 years last year and will be a tough team to contend with. Though they may very well be the fastest team on the pitch expect guests Jamaica to bow out in the group stage. The experience here will act as a good tune up for the Gold Cup in which they are playing in directly after the Copa is finished.

GROUP C BRAZIL COLOMBIA PERU VENEZUELA Brazil and Colombia are natural favourites to nab the top two spots here but don’t discount Peru and Venezuela as both advanced farther than both big guns last time around and faced off in the 3rd place match with Peru winning 4-1. A tantalizing rematch of last year’s epic World Cup quarter-final will see Neymar get an opportunity to face Colombia again after sustaining a broken vertebrae from a knee to the back by defender Juan Zuniga, ending his World Cup dream on home soil. Brazilian coach Dunga has called eight players from the team that were at the World Cup but will be without influential Chelsea midfielder Oscar due to injury. The team is on an eight game win streak since the disaster against Germany and this tournament is a litmus test for those called up as it is for Dunga in his second charge at the helm. After a disappointing 2011 Copa América that saw them eliminated in the 2nd round, Colombia is now one of the

most dangerous teams on earth. Prolific forward and World Cup Golden Boot winner James Rodriguez is back together with Manchester United’s deadly striker Radamel Falcao, who missed out on Brazil 2014 to injury, and will be very eager to add to his impressive 0.44 goals per game rate for Los Cafeteros. Add Chelsea’s Juan Cuadrado to the mix and expect Colombia to go far. Venezuela surprised many at the last Copa, finishing ahead of both Paraguay and Ecuador then defeating Chile to make it to the semi-final, missing out on the final by losing to Paraguay on penalties. They’ll be very hard pressed to repeat that performance again but if Zenit St. Petersburg striker Salomón Rondón can get hot early on, lightning may strike twice. Peru failed to qualify for the World Cup for the 8th straight time and have not won the Copa América since 1975. They do have quality players available such as Schalke’s Jefferson Farfán and Corinthians striker Paolo Guerrero, the Golden Boot winner in 2011, but their lack of depth this time should see them battle Venezuela for third position.

Arturo Vidal of Chile

InsideSOCCER 29

PROUD SU and

SUPPOR

CANAD

NATIONAL

SUPPLIER

ORTERS

ADA’S

AL TEAMS

These athletic duos are not only mother and daughter, but are also teammates and fierce competition on the soccer field. While all teammates share a special bond, there are few bonds quite as special as mother and daughter. Inside Soccer magazine asked these mother-daughter soccer player pairs about the influence soccer parents can have on children as active role models and the best aspects of playing soccer together as mother and daughter. BY JOELENE HUBER

LIKE MOTHER, LIKE DAUGHTER PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF LUANA BIOCCHI AND ANGÉLIQUE STEGNAR

MOTHER Name: Luana Biocchi (Mother of Markella Christakis) Hometown: Pierrefonds, Quebec Occupation: Sales Manager Volunteer position for the soccer league: Director of Women’s Recreational Soccer When did you start playing soccer? I have played for fun since I was 5 years old. I began playing in a league after my two kids were born. What position do you play? Striker Why is soccer such a great sport for women to play? Apart from the obvious health benefits, girls build confidence and long lasting friendships through soccer and learn to work as a team. Who encouraged you to play soccer growing up? My father played soccer at a high level 32 May/June 2015

in his younger years and was actively involved in our community soccer league when I was growing up.

How did you encourage your daughter to play soccer? From the time she could run, I signed her up because I wanted her to experience the joy and friendships that soccer gives to us. Explain how you think playing soccer influenced your daughter’s love of soccer? I’m not sure, if she had much of a choice (I say that jokingly). She saw me getting ready to play soccer every week; she watched me putting on my shin pads and soccer gear and seeing my anticipation and excitement in getting ready for the game each week. She wanted to start playing long before I signed her up. What is the best thing about playing soccer on the same team as your daughter? We love to see our friends and family cheering us on from the sidelines and we love making plays to each other and setting up goal opportunities.

W p a a i w m k t

W g t g h

W a d a e w

W p t t w m t t l

N L H O

Why is it important to encourage kids to participate in team sports? Team sports bring people closer as well as add to their overall health and confidence levels. It’s especially important in today’s world of technology where a sedentary lifestyle is hurting us more and more everyday. We need to get kids out there and move to help them today and for later in life. Why is soccer such a great sport for kids? Soccer as a team, helps kids build great friendships, and confidence as they improve their soccer skills in the game. Not too mention the overall health benefits. What is your greatest memory about being a soccer parent to your daughter? The first time my daughter passed to a girl that scored a goal, they all hugged each other and the joy on her face was priceless! What is your best tip for new soccer parents? Remember that first and foremost the game has to be fun! They are there to learn life lessons not just to win. They will make friends with girls whom they may know and play with for many years to come...make that more important than wins or losses and they will always love soccer.

DAUGHTER Name: Markella Christakis (Daughter of Luana Biocchi) Hometown: Maple, Vaughan, Ontario Occupation: Student at University of Toronto When did you start playing soccer? I started playing soccer as soon as I

was old enough, my mom signed me up at around age 5. What position do you play? I’ve always rotated between goalie, defense and midfield, depending on what the team needed. Who encouraged you to play soccer growing up? My mother was always my biggest influence. She watched every second of every one of my games and was always my number 1 supporter on the sideline. When I had a good game, she knew it, and she’d tell me what I did well. When I had a bad game, she understood, and wasn’t afraid to tell me what I could’ve done better.

How did your mom influence you as an active sports role model? I can’t remember a time when my mom wasn’t playing on some sort of team. My childhood, and even my adulthood now, is full of memories of her getting ready before a game, in her uniform, putting on her shin pads and socks in the living room, and then seeing her come home a few hours later, still red-faced from the game and with all kinds of details about what happened on the field. Nothing has ever stopped her from making it out to a game, and she always gives 110%. Not many girls can say they grew-up watching their mom lace up for a game twice a week, or can say they would come home to see a game on the TV while their mom cooked dinner. She’s truly the ultimate female sports role model. What is the best thing about playing soccer on the same team as your mom? I’d say the fact that we know each other’s playing style to a tee. I know exactly how she moves, how she passes, even how fast she can run, and she knows those things about me, and because of that we really work together well. After our games, we always talk them over. We talk strengths and weaknesses of each other, and of our players, how to use those strengths and work with the weaknesses. She’s taught me to play with strategy, and we really get to work that out when we’re on the same team. What is your greatest memory of your mom as a soccer parent? When I was still playing in the under 19 years of age league, my mom would often walk over to our bench during half time and talk to the girls. A lot of the time we didn’t have a coach, or our coach would be a fellow player who just brought the game sheet every week InsideSOCCER 33

for the referee and didn’t really have the duties of coaching, so she’d come over and she’d give us concrete advice and give the team support. I clearly remember how the girls would always stop and listen to her. My mom’s always had a natural understanding of the game, she’s really unique like that, and often times, if someone was giving us girls advice, it was a male coach, so when my mom would come over and she would tell the girls how they could improve or what they were doing really well, the girls would just naturally all stop and listen. It always made me so proud. Why is soccer such a great sport for kids? It’s the world’s favorite sport! It’s just got this beauty about it, when you see a beautiful play or a beautiful goal, you can’t deny that’s exactly what it is: beautiful. And it’s a great sport for making friends. I couldn’t possibly count how many friends I’ve made throughout my years of playing soccer. It’s a great way to make connections. And of course it’s the ideal cardio workout. You have moments where you need to jog to keep up with the play, moments where you need to sprint to the ball, and moments where you get to catch your breath on the sideline. Why is soccer such a great sport for women to play? The cardio is incredible, it’s a workout but it doesn’t feel like it because the ball motivates you to move, and your teammates motivate you to move. And it’s really great for women because it’s welcoming. Every team I’ve ever played with has had brand new players, players with a couple years experience, and veteran players, and that means there’s as much room to shine as there is room to make mistakes. I never felt pressure when I made mistakes, but I always felt supported when I played well, and that’s the kind of dynamic women’s soccer has. Plus you make a ton of friends!

MOTHER Name: Angélique Stegnar (Mother of Michelle Stegnar) Hometown: York Region, Ontario Occupation: Sales Supervisor

34 May/June 2015

team you’ll have a heck of a good time on the field too. Who encouraged you to play soccer growing up? I was involved in sports but ironically, not soccer. I was in track & field, baseball and volleyball. As a young girl I played street hockey with the boys and I climbed trees. I was a typical tomboy.

When did you start playing soccer? I began playing 14 years ago. After watching my daughter play for many years and then serving as Manager for her soccer team I thought I would give it a whirl. What an eye opener it turned out to be. I returned home after my first game and apologized to my daughter for all of the times that I yelled “go!” when she played in scorching hot weather. Within minutes of my indoor game I was gasping for air. I didn’t realize how much running there is in soccer! What position do you play? Primarily defense and occasionally, goalie. Why is soccer such a great sport for women to play? It incorporates teamwork and camaraderie while you’re getting exercise and a good workout. If you’re fortunate to have a great bunch of ladies on your

How did you encourage your daughter to play soccer? She tried T-Ball, swimming and figure skating but soccer suited her best and she enjoyed it most and it became a natural progression from house league soccer to Rep. She had speed and a wickedly powerful kick. Incidentally, she’s still fast and I wouldn’t recommend blocking her shot. Explain how you think playing soccer influenced your daughter’s love of soccer? It was my daughter that influenced me to try it out and I’m very glad she did. What is the best thing about playing soccer on the same team as your daughter? As time goes on and everyone gets busier in their lives with work and family, time comes at a premium and playing soccer together grants us a few hours, two nights a week, all year long having a really good time together. We know how each of us plays and cover for each other as the play dictates. We joke around, we get serious and competitive, we play

hard and, although we play to win, we also accept losing a well-played game. The highlight of all my years playing was when the league granted permission for her to join me. I am a very lucky Mom! We are closer than ever and fiercely protective of each other. Why is it important to encourage kids to participate in team sports? There is so much that children benefit from while interacting with every member of their team. They don’t realize that they are learning; it becomes natural. There are many life lessons that are experienced at each age level and if the child is fortunate they will have found a few good friends that they will carry with them for life. Why is soccer such a great sport for kids? It’s a great source of exercise, whether through conditioning or body development. Soccer is a game of constant movement and learning positions and anticipating and adapting. It’s an example of sport mirroring life. What is your greatest memory about being a soccer parent to your daughter? We were thrilled when she had an exceptional game or made a special play for the team. When she was happy we were too. We really enjoyed watching her control the play and we had a good time cheering her on and doing ‘the wave’ which she probably wished we wouldn’t. What is your best tip for new soccer parents? Encourage the ability of your child and offer ways for them to learn and develop skills as they grow up. Try not to take things too seriously. Remember that your children might end up emulating your behavior if you lose perspective so you want them to learn to make friends and respect their teammates and the staff, all while enjoying themselves. Anything else you wanted to mention? I am very grateful for the opportunity of playing soccer with my daughter. She holds a very special place in my heart and I love every moment we spend together, so I am extra blessed by being able to play the sport that I enjoy with her. We are almost of a same mind at times (scary,

yes) and we can be very determined. We are a great Mother-Daughter team!

DAUGHTER Name: Michelle Stegnar (Daughter of Angélique Stegnar) Hometown: Toronto, Ontario Occupation: Public Relations/Health Communications When did you start playing soccer? I started playing soccer when I was 5 or 6 years old. My parents always encouraged my brother and I to be active, and as a result I tried many sports growing up. Soccer turned out to be my favorite, and I got to meet some incredible people along the way. What position do you play? I alternate between midfield and defense. Who encouraged you to play soccer growing up? I think it started as a “let’s try soccer...” attempt when growing up, because no one in my family had really played the sport prior to then. When I began playing Rep/competitive league soccer, my parents were at every single game they never missed one! In fact, they were so proud of my playing that they would cheer at each game, loudly. I look back now and laugh, though it was mildly embarrassing during my teenage years! How did your mom influence you as an active sports role model? My mom is the best role model that any girl could ask for. It’s almost like I have a mom, best friend, cheerleader and advocate all in one. You learn a lot about yourself when you’re in a team environment, how to socialize, how to win (and lose) with dignity, what not to do again, and what worked well on the field.

Sometimes you make a mistake and read a play wrong, cost a goal, fall, etc. There’s a lot that could go wrong. Since I’ve played for 16-17 years, you can imagine that’s happened a lot (especially falling; I’m not known for being graceful!). But despite every bad play, or cost goal, my mom would always be there to support and talk through what happened so that I can change my game play for next time. She has a great vision of the game, and I benefited from that tremendously. My mom is also incredibly competitive, which influenced my need to win too. What is the best thing about playing soccer on the same team as your mom? There are so many good things about playing together on the same team, so it’s hard to pick just one. I think playing soccer together has helped us grow even closer together, and helped us understand each other more. When you’re a great team off the field, you can imagine how strong of a team you’d be on the field. When I score a goal, it’s the best feeling to just turn around and celebrate with my mom, which makes the goal feel like it’s worth so much more. We are also incredibly InsideSOCCER 35

in outdoor soccer since the field is so much bigger. But when the ball came towards her, she wound up and took a huge kick and the ball went far, and right into the net. Frankly, I don’t think she was even expecting to score! But she did, and I’m so glad I got to see it! protective of each other and cover each other’s backs. We laugh a lot on the field. What is your greatest memory of your mom as a soccer player? I think my greatest memory of my mom as a soccer player was when she scored her first goal EVER. She plays defense, so the goals aren’t as easy to get

Why is soccer such a great sport for kids? Soccer is a great sport for kids to play. The benefits of physical activity for children and youth are significant. Soccer teaches teamwork skills, physical endurance and coordination. Some of the women I know best are those I played soccer with growing up, or play

soccer with now. Why is soccer such a great sport for women to play? Besides the benefit of physical activity, soccer is great for women to play because it helps us meet and play with other women who also get a thrill out of the game. If I think about my life without soccer, it honestly feels like a large chunk of my life is missing. Soccer is not only the game I love playing most, but one that has become such an integral part of my life - things feel most natural when I have a ball at my feet. Anything else you wanted to mention? There is nothing as close as the bond between a mother and a daughter. Sharing the sport of soccer with the person I love more than anything in the world just makes it that much more special, and I couldn’t be luckier.

$60,000 SOCCER BALL FOR SALE LES JONES, COVERSHOTS INC. - UPDATED FROM AN ARTICLE IN SOCCER: CANADA’S NATIONAL SPORT

The ultimate gift for your soccer-playing kid: it’s not just the most expensive soccer ball in the world, it is also the largest: A soccer ball themed 20 metre diameter airship. As wide as a goal area and with the capacity to hold half a million regular soccer balls, the state of the art airship is made from stronger-than-steel Kevlar type material. It’s unique and dramatic and right now can be yours for a mere $60,000 from Hokan Colting at 21st Century Airships in Newmarket, Ontario. (Original cost, fully equipped, half a million dollars.) To make it airborne you’ll need to buy an engine and flight deck but, as it is, sitting on the ground, air-inflated by 2 electric blowers, it can be a gigantic billboard at public events. You couldn’t miss it – it’s six stories high and can be illuminated at night with a 120V metal halide light. Its advertising potential is obvious but also a great way to mark a Big Birthday or Anniversary or other significant 36 May/June 2015

celebrations. Imagine waking up for the special occasion to find a giant balloon filling the whole back yard! And it is easy to store when deflated - you can pack it

away in a regular 5’x7’x4’’ garden shed! So forget about those ordinary party balloons. Go for the real thing. Give your kid a real high.

SPORTS APPAREL FOR GAMES, TRAINING & STYLE.

GOOD LUCK AT THE GAMES CANADA! / L IK A S PO R T S @ L IK A SPO R T S @ L IK A SPO R T S INFO @ L IK A SPO R T S . C O M W W W. L IK A S PO R T S. C O M

FC EDMONTON

MONTRÉAL IMPACT

BY OLIVIER TREMBLAY

MONTREAL IMPACT

COMES OH SO CLOSE TO THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TITLE Photographs By: Les Jones – Covershots Inc.

TORONTO VANCOUVER The CONCACAF Champions League, this weird animal of a competition in the North American sports landscape, has brought little joy to Canadian sides FC WHITECAPS

over the years. But, against all odds, the Montreal Impact came within one half of experiencing ultimate soccer bliss. This is how it all transpired.

Exciting though Mexico City is, its thin, polluted air makes the eyes water at first contact. Breathing normally is a struggle at first. And for those of us who aren’t athletes, walking up a hill brings a peculiar discomfort to the chest area. The Montreal Impact players, thankfully, are athletes. And it wasn’t a hill in front of them. It was Mexico’s version of soccer Everest, the country’s Manchester United, as Nigel Reo-Coker called them, much to the locals’ amusement: Club América. It made Montreal’s ascension all the more creditable. With a 1-1 tie at the legendary Estadio Azteca in the CONCACAF Champions League final first leg, the Impact showed just how long a way they had come in recent years. Back in 2007, they were the tenants of Complexe sportif Claude-Robillard, in the Montreal neighbourhood of Ahuntsic. They were playing powerhouses such as Minnesota Thunder, California Victory and Miami FC. Go back in time. Tell that team that, eight years later, they would be a four-year old Major League Soccer club drawing against América at the site of two World Cup finals. They’ll call you nuts. 38 May/June 2015

Montreal forward Domonic Oduro

Liga MX Celebrates another CCL title.

e s e

This lack of pedigree was only one reason why Montreal were considered such underdogs against Mexico’s Pachuca in the quarters. Timing was also a hurdle, as is the case with every MLS team whose first two competitive fixtures of the season are a CCL tie. But Montreal prepared impeccably. The entire team spent 17 days in Mexico, along with a full staff that ensured that not a single detail went overlooked. They played a couple of scrimmages against local sides, acclimatized to the altitude (the capital sits 2,250 metres above sea level) and got to know each other – 11 players came on board this winter. This almost brand-new team became the first Canadian club side not to lose in a competitive match in Mexico, that Goliath of a country. They could have won. Dilly Duka scored a brace. Montreal led 2-0 before Heriberto Olvera and Ariel Nahuelpán scored twice in 13 minutes to salvage a 2-2 tie. Truth be told, the Impact didn’t find themselves under massive pressure from the Estadio Hidalgo support. Goalkeeper Evan Bush was the target of loud whistling, as all ‘keepers are in Mexico. Otherwise, the crowd got most upset before the game, when the Montreal supporters brashly entered the stadium, chanting and twirling scarves over their heads. It would be the complete opposite in Alajuela, Costa Rica, where Montreal traveled after Cameron Porter delivered a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer in the second leg at the Olympic Stadium to secure a 3-3 aggregate draw – and the away-goal clincher. Doors to Estadio Alejandro Morera Soto opened three hours before kickoff. A halfhour later, thousands of Liga Deportiva Alajuelense supporters had already found their seats. As warmups commenced, the now-full stands resounded with chants of ‘¡Vamos Leones, esta noche tenemos que ganar!’ (“Come on you Lions, tonight we must win!”).

Montreal entered the Morera Soto with a deserved 2-0 advantage from the home leg. The scoreline recalled a certain night in 2009, when the then-second division Impact beat Santos Laguna in the CCL quarterfinals only to lose 5-2 in Torreón a week later. If demons were exorcised in this run, it happened in Alajuela. The Impact lost ‘only’ 4-2 this time. They conceded one stoppage time goal to Jonathan McDonald – compared to two Darwin Quintero late goals six years prior – and squeaked through on away goals, again, to become the first Canadian finalist in CCL. Darwin Quintero, of course, now plays for Club América, Montreal’s opponents in the final, who were looking to tie rivals Cruz Azul’s record tally of six continental titles. All-powerful América had walloped poor Herediano in the second leg of their semifinal tie, 6-0 (6-3 on aggregate) at the Azteca. Once again, the Mexican team was heavily favoured. The question, on local sports shows, wasn’t whether the Impact could spring a surprise in Mexico City. Panelists were wondering just how many América would put past the Impact. The unexpected answer: just the one goal. And it came late. Montreal would have claimed a historic victory at Azteca, were it not for Oribe Peralta’s 89th-minute header. Only 16 minutes in, Ignacio Piatti had silenced the stadium, which was not even close to being the sellout that

early reports had predicted. Walking into the empty Azteca proved to be more impressive than the gameday crowd – aside from those last four minutes, when it woke up with bits of paper, cups and packs of gum flying everywhere. There were actually more people at Montreal’s Olympic Stadium for the second leg – 61,004 to 56,783. It was noisier, too. The roar when Andres Romero gave Montreal a 2-1 aggregate lead in the eighth minute was deafening. That was the score at halftime. If finals were decided on decibel levels, Montreal would be going to the Club World Cup in Japan. But goals are what matters, and Dario Benedetto scores loads of them. In this CCL run, Benedetto scored seven. He played three games. In Montreal, Benedetto contributed a stunning second-half hat trick while Peralta added his second of the series. Jack McInerney scored late, but still; it was a disaster of a half. Liga MX celebrated another title while Montreal had to make do with Evan Bush winning the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award. Bush was wearing suit and tie, depressingly so: he was suspended for the second leg through yellow card accumulation. “The slogan was ‘Let’s Make History,’” Impact head coach Frank Klopas had told the MLS website before the game. “It was crazy when they put it on, nobody really knew what that meant.” It came to mean many things over this run. But Montreal had also come to believe that they could grab a supreme slice of victory, winning the whole thing. And when that didn’t happen, eyes watered. Again.

SEBASTIAN GIOVINCO

InsideSOCCER 39

It is really scary how Major league Soccer in North America is driving towards more and more teams without having any idea of how to stock the rosters with quality players. BY BOB KOEP

TOO MANY TEAMS,

NOT ENOUGH PLAYERS MLS is now at 20 teams, there will soon be 22 (in 2017) and by 2020 there will be 24. We haven’t reached that level yet and already there is talk of going to 26 or maybe 28 and perhaps beyond that. What drives this nonsense? Is it the relentless pursuit of advertising money? Is it the franchise fees? Is it the desire to put a team in every city that can afford to build a stadium? Who knows? But we know that there are not enough world class players around for the big teams in Europe, never mind MLS. There isn’t a major league in the world with more than 20 teams and most of them have only some six or eight clubs capable of challenging for the League title. The rest need help and money, but where to find it. When soccer became a big time money sport some 50 years ago, with international tournaments such as the European Cup (now Champions League) the continental championships, a World Cup expanded from 16 to 24 and then 32 countries, there suddenly was a high demand for players capable of playing on that global level; but where to find them? European teams always went to South America for help, but now began scouring the four corners of the world hoping to find a talent in Africa or Asia where no scout had ever set foot on before. And surprise, they managed to find people such as George Weah or Didier Drogba and quite a few more in Africa. They dug out players in the Japanese 40 May/June 2015

league and in Korea, Mexico and even the odd one in North America. (Owen Hargreaves) I would say the entire world has been scoured from top to bottom and everybody with two world class legs has already been signed up. There isn’t much more left at this time. And what are the results. On the plus side, the playing caliber of top teams in Europe has reached incredible levels. Teams are spending unbelievable amounts of money to get a jump on the competition and, as a result, only a handful of clubs can stay in the race for the few available players. Outfits such as the two Spanish king- pins Real and Barca, English clubs like ManUnited, ManCity, Arsenal, Chelsea and a few more, just Bayern Munich in Germany, Juventus in Italy and that is about it. At the same time, the new imports learned the trade to a point where they could help their own countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Japan and South Korea to leave a bigger impact on the World Cup. Some of the European giants are listed as the richest clubs in the world. ManUnited holds top spot in the wealth department followed by Real Madrid, Barcelona, baseball’s New York Yankees, and Bayern Munich. That makes soccer the runaway leader with four of the five top money clubs in its folds. But we can’t see an MLS team in that company for a while. So you have a league with 20 teams

(current) and very few class players. You can’t leave a mark with a lineup of guys who learned the trade in some obscure college circuit. So to improve things MLS invented the designated player. Each club could sign three big name stars for big salaries to spruce up the quality of play. But the only stars available are veterans at the end of their careers who would be sorted out in the near future anyway. We had Torsten Frings in Toronto and then Jermain Defoe — big names, old legs. Defoe didn’t even last more than a couple months probably because of a blown up ego. They had David Beckham in L.A., with a huge salary and very little playing time. He was mainly there for marketing reasons. I don’t want to run down the MLS. It has done giant strides over the years and is now a sizable entity, but still a step away from world level. And why? The market for quality players is empty. Its teams can’t even get near the CONCACAF Champions League title as Mexican teams own that particular competition. This year it was left to a Canadian side, the Montreal Impact, to challenge for the Cup but again Mexico (Club America) took the trophy. It must be the first objective of MLS to win that Cup; otherwise it will always run a poor second behind Mexico. To spruce things up MLS not only needs to concentrate on this cup but maybe also create an intercontinental Cup. Top MLS and European sides competing would

get these teams into gear. But there is hardly room on the calendar for yet another tournament. But having too many imports can also have an adverse effect, as nations such as England have trouble developing world stars of their own because of it. The English premier League is packed with imports and the play of the national team suffers. Some English clubs can’t find a slot for upcoming youngsters and the national teams suffer. As a result, the England performance in the World Cup is getting worse and worse and in the last tournament the team didn’t even get out of the opening round group play. But at this time MLS is more interested in putting on a show to make money rather than to be globally competitive. They are in the entertainment business primarily.

Like the next team to join the league, The Los Angeles FC, is more of a Hollywood creation than a soccer club. It owners are a Vietnamese entrepreneur Henry Nguyen, Peter Guber of Mandalay Entertainment group (which owns NBA’s Golden State Warriors and baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers), ex Los Angeles basketball star Magic Johnson, former Boston Red Sox short stop Nomar Garciaparra, YouTube founder Chad Hurley, and several more. It’s an illustrious group, with the obvious aim of having another player in the entertainment business. They want to take full advantage of rising interest in soccer, they know business, they know television. Whether they know soccer is another matter. Unfortunately, this is even the way the European game might be headed. Already Arabian sheiks, American

billionaires and Russian oligarchs are buying big clubs in Europe. Maybe the rest of the world is already studying the MLS system of how to get deeper into the cash box. Spanish teams are already kicking off at noon to hit the Chinese TV market at prime time., others draw their league schedule apart to have games almost every day of the week to get non-stop TV exposure. Most clubs change their shirt designs twice a year to boost sales of merchandise. It is all about the buck, with some players making $20 and $30 million a year. One wonders whether the passion for the game will one day suffer. Still, to attract a crowd you need top talent, like a fast horse in racing. And if they are not on the market you have to develop them yourself.

InsideSOCCER 41

After January’s announcement of a new Professional Futsal League that is slated to start in North America in November, 2016 the PFL wasted no time in flexing their muscle as they hosted a phenomenal week-long launch event in Dallas called the PFL International Challenge. BY KRIS FERNANDES

FUTSAL FORWARD PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF KRIS FERNANDES

It featured their first two-day futsal combine for both players and referees. Players from all over the United States and as far away as Brazil made the trip to the Lone Star State to try and impress the assessors which included the likes of U.S. National Team Head Coach Keith Tozer and Goalkeeper Coach Mark Litton. Select players from the ID camp earned an opportunity of a lifetime to play for Team PFL USA or Team PFL Mexico to face FC Barcelona. The referee combine had a Canadian connection as Quebec’s Krzysztof Grabas made his way down to participate in a valuable multi-day education seminar presented by PFL Director of Officials, Ed Marco. The Montréal native earned a spot as second official on the final matchday between USA and Mexico. The big show on the Friday night between Team USA vs FC Barcelona was a spectacular show in front of a packed and raucous crowd of over 5,100 at the Dr. Pepper Arena, setting a new futsal attendance record for America or Canada. FC Barcelona showcased their fine pedigree but the Americans, despite many of the players having not played with each other before, were able to keep it a close game losing 4-3 in a thriller. Mexico lost a lopsided affair the following night in their test against Barcelona by a 13-2 score and was defeated by the Americans 42 May/June 2015

7-3 in the final match, an outdoor game, at the Festival de Los Mavs, a huge annual Latin festival sponsored by the Dallas Mavericks. The event was considered a major success on all accounts with the rest of the futsal world now on notice that North America means business in FIFA’s indoor game. The next event for the organization looks to be even bigger and better with the recent announcement of the PFL SuperCopa set for August 4-8th in Orlando. The competition will partner up with company USA Futsal as they host their World Futsal Championship tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and will feature another player and referee combine. The real meat of the event centres on the fact that top Brazilian clubs São

Paulo FC and Futsal Brasil Kirin will be coming to play in a four team event, and the latter’s participation means the world’s most famous player, Falcão, will be coming to play in America, an exceptional ambassador and marketing tool for the sport and league. Canadian youth and senior teams have confirmed their participation in the amateur portion of the event while Canadian referees and players are expected to try and make their mark in the combines. One of those teams going down will be Toronto Idolo who were victorious in both the Senior Varsity High School Boys and Men’s divisions at the recent Futsal Canada National Tournament that was held at Queen’s University in Kingston, ONT. The annual tournament is the preeminent year end competition featuring the champions and elite teams of multiple leagues. This year’s edition became the first competition in Canada or the United States to feature two FIFA Instructors, in Ottawa’s Bob Tibbo, and Philadelphia’s Ed Marco who selected elite referees from multiple provinces in an effort to identify potential officials for the PFL launch next year. Also making the trip north was St. Louis native Shane Butler, the only FIFA certified futsal referee in either nation, who provided world class

officiating and tremendous mentorship to Canada’s top referee prospects. The competition saw the next generation of Canada’s top talent on display with the U17 division as Toronto Idolo defeated rival club Brampton East in the final with an outstanding performance by Jon Alec Duenas and Tournament MVP Joe Vitulli. London, ONT and Gaspé, QUE, also provided some excellent play and moments including a sensational rainbow goal by Charles Jalbert during the group stage that dropped the jaws of everyone in attendance. The men’s competition was fierce throughout the competition and the final four saw Toronto Idolo eliminate a resilient Barrie FC side by a 7-3 score while the other semi saw a rematch of last year’s epic championship final between defending champions Toronto Boca Juniors and this year’s Quebec champions, Albiceleste. It was a very competitive contest, however, Canadian national goalkeeper, Josh Lemos, came up trumps in goal to earn the shutout in a 3-0 victory. The championship final would see Toronto rivals face off for the fourth time throughout the season with Idolo winning all three previous encounters. Despite a strong showing in the first half Boca conceded two crucial mistakes that Idolo easily capitalized on to go up 2-0 at half. Canadian national player Matthew Rios was a man possessed throughout the tournament but stepped it to another level in the final as he led Idolo’s attack with vigour, finishing tied with last year’s MVP and scoring champions Robert Renaud for the tournament scoring title with 9 goals. Though the match was much closer than the score would indicate, an injury to Lemos in the 2nd half left Boca susceptible in net as Idolo pressed hard offensively and went on to earn their first men’s championship with a 7-0 result. 21 year-old Damion Graham was awarded the MVP award after a series of sensational performances throughout the competition.

“

The event was considered a major success on all accounts with the rest of the futsal world now on notice that North America means business.

”

InsideSOCCER 43

UPCOMING

TOURNAMENTS 2015 AND CAMPS JULY 11: U9 – U12 OSU NIKE CHALLENGE CUP Where: Ottawa United Soccer Club 1128 Clapp Lane, Manotick, Ontario, K4M 1A4 Contact: Tournament Director Jim Lianos Tel: 613-692-4179. ext. 111 Fax: 613-692-0489 Email: osugm@osu.ca Website: www.osusoccer.gotsport.com Divisions/Age: Boys U9 - U10, U11, U12 Eligible Teams: International, Competitive Club Teams Entry Fee: $225 SEE ADVERTISEMENT

AUGUST 1 - 3: SHOWCASE OF CHAMPIONS – JUNIOR Where: Ottawa United Soccer Club 1128 Clapp Lane, Manotick, Ontario, K4M 1A4 Contact: Tournament Director Jim Lianos Tel: 613-692-4179. ext. 111 Fax: 613-692-0489 Email: jim.lianos@collegeshowcase.ca Website: www.collegesoccershowcase.ca Divisions/Age: Boys and Girls U13, U14 Eligible Teams: International, Competitive Club Teams Entry Fee: $695 Number of Teams: 50 Entry Deadline: July 10, 2015 SEE ADVERTISEMENT AUGUST 1 - 3: SHOWCASE OF CHAMPIONS – SENIOR Where: Ottawa United Soccer Club 1128 Clapp Lane, Manotick, Ontario, K4M 1A4 Contact: Tournament Director Jim Lianos 44 May/June 2015

Tel: 613-692-4179. ext. 111 Fax: 613-692-0489 Email: jim.lianos@collegeshowcase.ca Website: www.collegesoccershowcase.ca Divisions/Age: Boys and Girls U15, U16, U17 Eligible Teams: International, Competitive Club Teams, Youth Level 1 League Club, Youth Level 2 League Club, Youth Level 3 League Club, OSA Approved Academies Entry Fee: $795 Number of Teams: 50 Entry Deadline: July 10, 2015 SEE ADVERTISEMENT AUGUST 8 - 9: HEART OF YORK SUMMER CLASSIC 2015 Where: Newmarket Soccer Club, 621 Newpark Blvd, Newmarket, ON, L3X 2S2 Contact: Dave Hanson Tel: 905-836-8761 Fax: 905-836-9473 Email: hoy2015@newmarketsoccer.com Website: www.newmarketsoccer.com Divisions/Age: Boys and Girls U11 – U12 Eligible Teams: Inter-District, Club Development Entry Fee: $400 Number of Teams: 64 Entry Deadline: July 3, 2015 SEE ADVERTISEMENT AUGUST 8 - 9: HEART OF YORK SUMMER CLASSIC 2015 Where: Newmarket Soccer Club, 621 Newpark Blvd, Newmarket, Ontario, L3X 2S2 Contact: Dave Hanson Tel: 905-836-8761 Fax: 905-836-9473 Email: hoy2015@newmarketsoccer.com Website: www.newmarketsoccer.com

Divisions/Age: Boys and Girls U13 – U18 Eligible Teams: Inter-Provincial, Competitive Club Teams Entry Fee: $400 Number of Teams: 100 Entry Deadline: July 3, 2015 SEE ADVERTISEMENT AUGUST 9: HEART OF YORK SUMMER CLASSIC 2015 Where: Newmarket Soccer Club, 621 Newpark Blvd, Newmarket, Ontario, L3X 2S2 Contact: Dave Hanson Tel: 905-836-8761 Fax: 905-836-9473 Email: hoy2015@newmarketsoccer.com Website: www.newmarketsoccer.com Divisions/Age: Boys and Girls U10 Eligible Teams: Inter-District, Club Development Entry Fee: $250 Number of Teams: 36 Entry Deadline: July 3, 2015 SEE ADVERTISEMENT SEPTEMBER 19 - 20: JOHN TRAGANITIS TOURNAMENT Where: Aurora Youth Soccer Club, 75 Mary Street, Unit 3, Aurora, Ontario, L4G 1G3 Contact: Judy Janzen Tel: 905-727-0624 Fax: 905-727-1655 Email: tournament@aysc.ca Website: www.aysc.ca Divisions/Age: Boys and Girls U13 – U18 Eligible Teams: Inter-District, Recreational Club League All-Star Teams, Recreational Club League Team Entry Fee: $350 Number of Teams: 60 Entry Deadline: August 20, 2015 SEE ADVERTISEMENT

WOODBRIDGE SOCCER CLUB JOIN US IN 2015 WOODBRIDGE CLASSIC Sept 26 - 27, 2015

“THE PASSION CONTINUES”

U9-10 boys and girls - $225 one day festival format - 2 games guaranteed U11-12 boys and girls - $285 two days festival format - 4 games guaranteed U-13 -18 – boys and girls - $395 tournament format- 3 games guaranteed

Deadline: September 7, 2015

Travel permit required for teams outside of district. International teams require travel permission.

Sanctioned By:

Tournament Headquarters and registration at Vaughan Grove Soccer Complex in Woodbridge. Home of the Woodbridge Strikers Please call our office for more information.

905.851.4496

www.wscstrikers.com 5 February/March 2012

InsideSOCCER 45

SEPTEMBER 19 - 20: JOHN TRAGANITIS FESTIVAL Where: Aurora Youth Soccer Club, 75 Mary Street, Unit 3, Aurora, Ontario, L4G 1G3 Contact: Judy Janzen Tel: 905-727-0624 Fax: 905-727-1655 Email: tournament@aysc.ca Website: www.aysc.ca Divisions/Age: Boys and Girls U11 & U12 Eligible Teams: Inter-District, Under 11 – U12, Club Recreational Entry Fee: $300 Number of Teams: 24 Entry Deadline: August 20, 2015 SEE ADVERTISEMENT SEPTEMBER 26: WOODBRIDGE CLASSIC FESTIVAL Where: Woodbridge Soccer Club, 5289 HWY 7 West Unit 7, Woodbridge, Ontario, L4I 8V3 Contact: Frank Scarlato Tel: (905) 851-4496 Email: wscadmin@wscstrikers.com Website: www.wscstrikers.com Divisions/Age: Boys U9 – U10, U11 – U12 Eligible Teams: Inter-District, Grassroots, Club Development Entry Fee: $225 Number of Teams: 40 Entry Deadline: September 7, 2015 SEE ADVERTISEMENT SEPTEMBER 26 - 27: WOODBRIDGE CLASSIC Where: Woodbridge Soccer Club, 5289 HWY 7 West Unit 7, Woodbridge, Ontario, L4I 8V3 Contact: Frank Scarlato Tel: (905) 851-4496 Email: wscadmin@wscstrikers.com Website: www.wscstrikers.com Divisions/Age: Boys U13 – U18, Girls U13- U18 Eligible Teams: North American, Competitive Club Teams Entry Fee: $395 Number of Teams: 100 Entry Deadline: September 7, 2015 SEE ADVERTISEMENT SEPTEMBER 27: WOODBRIDGE CLASSIC FESTIVAL Where: Woodbridge Soccer Club, 5289 HWY 7 West Unit 7, Woodbridge, Ontario, L4I 8V3 Contact: Frank Scarlato 46 May/June 2015

Tel: (905) 851-4496 Email: wscadmin@wscstrikers.com Website: www.wscstrikers.com Divisions/Age: Girls U9 – U10, U11 – U12 Eligible Teams: Inter-District, Grassroots, Club Development Entry Fee: $225 Number of Teams: 40 Entry Deadline: September 7, 2015 SEE ADVERTISEMENT POWER SOCCER SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE SUMMER CAMPS U6 FUNDAMENTALS (4-5 YEARS OLD) Address: Power Soccer Academy, 146 Laird Drive, Suite 204, Toronto Ontario Contact: Liam Power – Academy Director Tel: (905-829.0562 Fax: (905)-829-9509 Email: liam@powersoccer.ca Website: www.powersoccer.ca Additional Information: Power Soccer Summer Camps have be running since 1998 and have worked with over 17,000 players since its establishment. Summer Camps are available throughout the GTA with weekly options available for players aged 4-16 as well as before/after care and goalkeeper training. The Summer Camps cater to a variety of skills levels ranging from beginners to intermediate ability as well as Rep Advanced groups. There are 10 weeks of summer camp beginning Monday, June 29th, 2015 and the final week begins Monday, August 31st, 2015. U6 Fundamentals (4-5 years old): A fun and rewarding skills program for children ages 4 and 5 years. Soccer skills training is built into a curriculum that teaches technical ability, agility and balance. Children are introduced to soccer in a fun and rewarding manner which provides recognition for the young player. The clinic is a combination of skill learning and games. There is lots of ball contact for each player through ball movement practice, dodge games and fun ball manoeuvring exercises. Children are taught the basics of the game. Runs for 10 weeks from June 29th to August 31st. Locations are Glendon College of York University, Felstead Park East York, Toronto City Sports Centre, and Rennie Park Bloor West. SEE ADVERTISEMENT

POWER SOCCER SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE SUMMER CAMPS U8 SOCCER ESSENTIALS/REP ADVANCED (6 – 7 YEARS OLD) Address: Power Soccer Academy, 146 Laird Drive, Suite 204, Toronto Ontario Contact: Liam Power – Academy Director Tel: (905-829.0562 Fax: (905)-829-9509 Email: liam@powersoccer.ca Website: www.powersoccer.ca Additional Information: Power Soccer Summer Camps have be running since 1998 and have worked with over 17,000 players since its establishment. Summer Camps are available throughout the GTA with weekly options available for players aged 4-16 as well as before/after care and goalkeeper training. The Summer Camps cater to a variety of skills levels ranging from beginners to intermediate ability as well as Rep Advanced groups. There are 10 weeks of summer camp beginning Monday, June 29th, 2015 and the final week begins Monday, August 31st, 2015. U8 Soccer Essentials/REP Advanced (6-7 years old) A program geared to the 6-7 year stage of development. Children are instructed in core soccer skills and good soccer habits through age appropriate skill exercise and games. The program emphasizes coordination and movement in soccer, presented in skill exercises and small sided soccer games designed to make a positive impact on the development of the young player. Players are introduced to competition in a fun way and achieve success through skill training as well as game play. Runs for 10 weeks from June 29th to August 31st. Locations are Glendon College of York University, Felstead Park East York, Toronto City Sports Centre, and Rennie Park Bloor West. SEE ADVERTISEMENT

www.COLLEGESOCCERSHOWCASE.ca

Where Canada’s Elite Teams Come to Prove Themselves... Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

August 1-3rd,2015 JUNIOR - U13, U14 - 80 Minute Games Senior - U15, U16, U17, U18 - 90 Minute Games TOURNAMENT FEATURES: • 3 game minimum • Top teams from Canada, US, and around the world • Athletic trainers on site • Certified referees • Team Trophy & Medals for Champions and Finalists • Team Trophy for 3rd & 4th place teams • Junior Showcase - $695 (Canadian funds) • Senior Showcase - $795 (Canadian Funds)

www.collegesoccershowcase.ca info@collegesoccershowcase.ca Tel. 613.692.4179 ext. 111

OTTAWA SOUTH

UNITED

LOCATION

TEAMS GUARANTEED TO PLAY

REGISTRATION FEE

U9, U10, U11 - 3 GAMES OF 40 MINUTES U12 - 4 GAMES OF 50 MINUTES

Ottawa, Ontario U9, U10, U11 - $225/TEAM (1 Day Festival) U12 - $350/TEAM (2 Day Festival)

FESTIVAL DATES U9, U10, U11 BOYS - SATURDAY, JULY 11,2015 U9, U10, U11 GIRLS - SATURDAY JUNE 6, 2015 U12 BOYS & GIRLS - SAT JULY 11 & SUN JULY 12, 2015

www.osu.ca

BY MARTIN MACMAHON

Goal keeper Erin McLeod

AHEAD OF WORLD CUP CANADIAN WOMEN HOPE TO CHANNEL SPIRIT OF LONDON

PHOTOGRAPHS BY LES JONES – COVERSHOTS INC. AND THE CANADIAN SOCCER ASSOCIATION

VANCOUVER, B.C. – It’s been three years since the Canadian women’s national team won the hearts of the nation with a courageous bronze medal showing at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. Defeating France to claim third place in the tournament, it is the semi-final performance that’s remembered by many – when Canada lost controversially to the United States at Old Trafford in Manchester. With Canada leading 3-2 with 10 minutes to play, referee Christina Pedersen awarded the Americans an indirect free kick in the area after goalkeeper Erin McLeod held the ball for longer than the six seconds allowed under FIFA rules. It’s an exceptionally rare call at any level in the sport, and it was made all the more contentious by the fact that Pederson would award a penalty from the ensuing set-piece after a hand ball. We all know what happened next. Up stepped Abby Wambach to score

40 May/June 2015

Erin McLeod 2015 Cyprus Women’s Cup Canada v Korea Republic 6 March 2015, Larnaka, CYP

a penalty, and Alex Morgan would score the 4-3 game winning goal in extra time to break Canadian hearts. It was an incredible disappointment on the day, but for many across the country, the team’s ability to overcome that loss and beat France in the bronze medal game was inspirational. Ahead of this summer’s Women’s World Cup, hosted in Canada, Inside Soccer sat down with McLeod as the women’s national team hopes to capture the spirit of that run as it competes against the globe’s top nations – this time on home soil. “It was one of the coolest tournaments,” says McLeod. “London did an incredible job. Being part of an Olympic games, it’s just cool to be there, first of all, surrounded by all these incredible athletes. But it was really cool for our team, and I hope we get this way for the World Cup, but there was a connection with our team, and I think that’s why we won [bronze], period. “I’ve never felt so connected to a group. A lot of these girls I’ve grown up with. I’ve been with the team for 13 years, and a lot have been on the team the same amount of time as I am. When you’re playing with family or for family, the fight you have is pretty incredible. It just felt that we were so connected. We got better and better every game. That U.S. game obviously didn’t turn out the way we wanted to, but the resilience we showed within the game, and especially after the game – we could have thrown in the towel after that game and we didn’t.” McLeod points to comments made by the national team’s captain and star player, Christine Sinclair, as a particularly memorable moment for her after the defeat to the Americans. “One of my favourite things that

Erin McLeod at the 2015 Cyprus Women’s Cup versus Korea Republic

Sinclair ever said was after that game,” says McLeod. “She talked about how proud she was of us and that she didn’t know about anyone else, but she wasn’t leaving there without a [expletive]

medal. We literally got together as a group, and promised we would do just that. The France game wasn’t pretty, and when I called my little sister after that game, she said, ‘you shouldn’t have won that game.’” Despite the fact France had the better of the chances in that match, McLeod says French star Sonia Bompastor approached her after the game and complemented the Canadian team’s spirit. “It was cool what she said,” McLeod says. “She’s one of the top female players who have ever played the game, and she said, ‘playing you guys, you had this fight. You never gave up and we didn’t have that, and that’s why you won.’ That team is stacked, they are incredible. For

InsideSOCCER 41

one of the best in the game to say that about our team was accurate, but also pretty cool. It literally changed our belief system. For so long we’ve gone to these big competitions and hoped that with a bit of luck we’d make it through. “For the first time, we kind of felt like we belonged. The biggest task now is feeling that again and stepping on the podium again, and that’s what we’re after. We’ve paved the way and set the bar.” This summer’s tournament represents another shot at glory. McLeod points out that many players never get a chance to compete in a home World Cup, calling this a once in a lifetime opportunity. “It’s getting better and better every year,” McLeod says of the women’s game. “I think that’s exciting. From our team in London, it was phenomenal. The reception we got when we came back from that tournament, when we had absolutely no idea or concept of the impact – especially that U.S. game -- had on a lot of Canadians. The cool thing about it now – it feels like a lot of people are behind us now.” Beyond the actual competition itself, the Alberta native calls it an honour to help grow the women’s game in Canada, and hopes this summer’s tournament inspires more girls to pursue sports if they’re interested. “I think it’s really cool,” says McLeod. “When I was growing up, my role models were Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier and basically all the Edmonton Oilers, and just – a lot of men. They were great athletes, and I’m still happy they were my role models, but I think it’s cool that now we have a lot of players on the team that have been female role models for young girls, and I think that’s been a really empowering thing for all of us. “With that comes a lot of responsibility.

McLeod and Sinclair celebrate Canada’s bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics

There’s been a lot of spotlight on the team since then, and some of us have been forced to grow up a little bit. But, I think that’s why we do it. I remember being five and dreaming about being on this team. Now that it’s a reality, and you can play professionally, and have the

national team pay for your salary [in the National Women’s Soccer League] – now that that’s set up, I can’t wait to see what the next few generations is going to do on the field.”

McLeod & Sinclair celebrate Canada’s bronze medal performance.

42 May/June 2015

LES JONES, AUTHOR ‘SOCCER: CANADA’S NATIONAL SPORT’ & JUDY RAULIUK, COVERSHOTS INC.

ODDS OF WINNING WORLD CUP NOT IN CANADA’S FAVOUR

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE CANADIAN SOCCER ASSOCIATION/BOB FRID

Don’t bet on Canada to win the 2015 Women’s World Cup. Don’t get your expectations up. Don’t even bet on them to make the final. As much as the country wants them to do well, realistically it is unlikely.

52 May/June 2015

Canada does have world-class Christine Sinclair and Erin McLeod. It does have an effective and respected coach in John Herdman. It does have the advantage of playing at home in front of an enthusiastic and partisan crowd. It is defensively sound and has played reasonably well in the past six months. And Canada did take bronze at the last major tournament, the London Olympics. Unfortunately, however, Canada is simply not good enough, especially at the World Cup level. Take the last World Cup in Germany: Under coach Carolina Morace, Canada posted an impressive 23-4-4 W-D-L record prior to the tournament, rising to a highest-ever 6th in the FIFA rankings. Then they lost all three group games, scoring only once, the ultimate denouement coming with a loss to Nigeria which consigned Canada to 16th and last place in the tournament. And our overall World Cup record, in total is dismal. Canada in fact has made the World Cup knock-out round just once. And the history of the tournament itself is not encouraging: In the six events to date only one host has reached the final, the USA in 1999. Sinclair is a match-winner but she can’t do it all. With 153 goals from 215 appearances, the 32 year-old is about to overtake Mia Hamm for second in alltime international goals scored. But if she

doesn’t score there’s few stepping up and, while McLeod has become one of the best ‘keepers in the world, to win trophies the team has to score. And Canada hasn’t scored more than two goals in any of its past 16 games! John Herdman deservedly has the respect of the players and the soccer community. The team has performed well under him and developed a camaraderie and cohesion that bodes well for success. He has improved individual skills. He has helped develop younger players to the international level. His player management is exemplary. And the team is winning. At the time of writing, Canada has lost just two of its past 10 games. In January it took the BaoAn China Tournament, for the first time, against quality opposition and in March it again reached the final of the Cyprus Cup. But the team has flattered to deceive before. When it counts, Canada doesn’t have it. Placing third at the Olympics was the exception but even in that game Canada did not perform. All credit to Canada for securing the bronze medal but stylish France were the far superior team, showing much better teamwork and individual skills. They were very unfortunate not to score at least once. Currently, Canada is ranked only 9th in the world by FIFA. And Canada is absolutely hopeless against the top two teams in the world: The German women’s

team is as efficient and as successful as the men’s team. Canada has played Germany 12 times. And lost all twelve, every single one of them. Not an encouraging sequence. And the CSA’s website lists 56 games against our neighbours to the south. In 1986, in its international debut, Canada lost 2-0 to the US, so beginning a long and disheartening tradition of failure. Canada has won just 3 of the games since, one a friendly, the others in minor tournaments. In more than half the games we have failed to even score. And ten times the US have scored five or more, Canada’s heaviest defeats being two 9-1 shellackings. It gets worse! Against the US, we have lost every World Cup and Olympic match, qualifying or otherwise, apart from a solitary 1-1 draw. We have not beaten them in our last 32 meetings over the past 14 years. Canada has NEVER beaten the US at home. It is not surprising that the bookmakers don’t rate our chances; Tournament favourites USA are priced at 3-1 odds by the British bookies. Germany is next at 4-1. Canada is rated fifth favourite at 9-1 despite the apparent advantage of playing in familiar territory. Can Canada beat the odds? The stats say ‘no’. History says ‘no’. The bookies say ‘no’. But ask Herdman, ask Sinclair, ask the fans.

InsideSOCCER 53

BY ARMEN BEDAKIAN

MELISSA TANCREDI EAGER TO KICK OFF A SUMMER OF WORLD CUP SOCCER PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE CANADIAN SOCCER ASSOCIATION

This summer, Canada prepares to host the world for the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The world’s best teams will convene in Canada on June 6 as Canada kicks things off against China. It is the first time Canada has hosted the World Cup and for Canadian national team forward Melissa Tancredi, the excitement grows with each passing day. She and the rest of the country’s finest footballers will line up in front of home crowds across the country, ready to represent the red-and-white and compete for a chance at football’s biggest prize. Tancredi, a 33-year-old striker out of Hamilton, Ontario, has been on the big stage before for Canada, winning a bronze medal in 2012 during the London Olympics. She’s made 99 appearances, starting in 80 games and has hit the back of the net 22 times for the national team. Currently playing with the Chicago Red Stars in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), Tancredi is also vital piece to Canada’s attacking make up. Tancredi took some time ahead of the World Cup to speak with InsideSOCCER Magazine, and says the chance to play at the biggest stage, on home soil, is an “unbelievable opportunity.” “You dream of being able to play a World Cup, which is a dream of many players, but to be able to play it on your home soil, in front of your fans, your family and your friends, makes this opportunity extremely rare,” Tancredi said. “We’re excited, ready to enjoy it and relish the opportunity to do something special for our country.” It’s quite clear she and her international teammates are ready and excited for the World Cup. Scrolling through their social media pages, you’ll find plenty of photos in the build up to the big event. Tancredi says she wants her followers to “feel like they’re part of the family,” saying “that’s important to us. We’ve always been a team that’s open-armed, ‘come into our world, this is how we are!’” For Canada, it’s been a long road to the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The team hired

46 May/June 2015

manager John Herdman after the 2011 tournament and the New Zealander has worked tirelessly in the four years since to prepare Canada for the next World Cup. As hosts, Tancredi says it’s very important for Canada to show well in the event, too. “We need to show up and do our best to put on the greatest show we can,” Tancredi said. “From the bronze medal match to today, we’re a totally different team. We bring a totally different dynamic to the game of soccer, and we’re excited to display all of that, defensively and offensively. I think we’re ready for the task. We really want to win the World Cup.” Herdman recently called up his 23-player squad, which includes plenty of veterans like Diana Matheson, Erin McLeod, Lauren Sesselmann and Rhian Wilkinson, as well as team captain Christine Sinclair. Tancredi says she believes Canada enters the tournament with a strong team, “the strongest team we’ve had” since she began her international career. “We have the depth, and a good balance between veterans and youth players,” Tancredi explained. “We have a balance, also, with the type of players, whether it’s finesse or strength-oriented. We’ve brought together a bunch of great people, great Canadians, genuine individuals who want to do something amazing. We’re all very excited to be there.” For many Canadian soccer fans, this World Cup is also a chance to watch one of the country’s iconic players stake her claim for a spot in the history books. Christine Sinclair enters this World Cup at 31 years old. This could be her final chance to win the biggest prize in the spot. Tancredi says Sinclair hasn’t just done incredible things for the team; she

also sets the standard for the rest of the team to “rise to that level.” “It’s unbelievable to travel the world and have people recognize her and want to take pictures of her; that’s never happened before,” Tancredi said. “I think she’s Miss Soccer Canada, to us as well. She’s a legend, an icon, the best in the world in my opinion and a great leader and captain.” The mood in the locker room, ahead of the tournament, is also at an alltime high. “This group of players, we have no fear amongst us,” Tancredi explained. “I like that. I think it’s the first time we’ve actually felt like that. We all have the same clear vision of what we want from this tournament and I think it’s going to be a strong team to come up and play against.” As hosts, Canada will kick things off in Group A against China, before taking on New Zealand and the Netherlands. Each team presents the Canadians with a unique challenge. “China poses a big challenge because it’s the opening game of a home World Cup,” Tancredi explained. “That’s a challenge in itself. China is very tactically sound. It’s hard to break down banks of four at times. It’s going to take a lot of physicality on our behalf, to get the movement around to break them down.” New Zealand will bring an incredibly physical match,” she continued. “They’re athletic, they’re quick, they’re strong and they’re direct. They’re very similar to us as well. It’s going to be interesting to play against that kind of opponent.” “The Netherlands are a little bit of a different team; they’re a team that builds out of the back and have great strikers up front. They’re dangerous on the counterattack so it’s just about

being able to play smart and take care of our transitions and not give a lot of balls away.” “All three teams offer something very, very different, which is amazing to have in the group stage,” Tancredi concluded. “You’re getting a little taste of something different for preparation. They’re great, allaround team. All three are great opponents. A lot of people count them out but we’re not doing that. We’re smarter than that. It’s going to be a good test.” When asked which teams she rates as favourites to win and which sides might play the dark horse role, Tancredi offered: “Well, you know, hopefully as Canadians, everyone has us as favourites, but Japan, France, the U.S. and Germany are going in as the top four probably. The dark horse, I’ll include us, England, and I wouldn’t look past a team like Sweden. These are teams that have done it before and are on a momentum swing. Those would be the top three dark horses.” So, with the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup just around the corner, Tancredi and the rest of the Canadian national team will look to not only make a good impression on the field, but one off the field as well. Tancredi says she’s just as eager as the fans to get to opening kick off (June 06, 2015 at Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton) and added she’s hoping fans come out excited and ready to make some noise. “We are looking so forward to the opening match and hosting this tournament in our own country,” Tancredi said. “Let’s be thankful, and embrace the moment. This is a very rare opportunity for our country and for us. Let’s stop and enjoy it, knowing that we’re welcoming the world to our country. It’s a win-win for everyone!”

InsideSOCCER 47

MATCH SCHEDULE

FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP CANADA 2015™

Vancouver

BC Place Stadium

* EDT -3

* EDT -2

* EDT -1

15:00

16:00

GER v. CIV

Ottawa

Saturday

Friday June 19

Thursday June 18

Wednesday June 17

Tuesday June 16

Monday June 15

Sunday June 14

Friday June 12

Saturday June 13

19:00

16:00

AUS v. NGA

16:00

GER v. NOR

15:00

THA v. GER 26

18:00

16:00

ECU v. JPN

18:30

CHN v. NZL

16:00

17:00

COL v. MEX

16:00

19:00

KOR v. CRC

14:00

FRA v. COL 24

17:00

ENG v. MEX

16:00

ENG v. COL

BRA v. ESP

FRA v. ENG

Moncton

19:00

KOR v. ESP

ESP v. CRC

14:00

16:00

MEX v. FRA

19:00

BRA v. KOR

* EDT +1

19:00

2nd v 2nd

CIV v. THA

Montreal

Moncton Stadium

AUS v. SWE

USA v. SWE

13.00

NOR v. THA

* EDT

SWE v. NGA

15:00

SUI v. CMR

16:00

18:30

USA v. AUS

Winnipeg Stadium

Olympic Stadium

19:00

CHN v. NED

Winnipeg

* EDT

Thursday June 11 14

19:00

NZL v. NED

17:00

NGA v. USA

CAN v. NZL

Lansdowne Stadium

Wednesday June 10

16:00

CAN v. CHN 02

16:00

SUI v. ECU

Rest day

Commonwealth Stadium

16:00

CMR v. ECU

19:00

JPN v. CMR

Rest day

Edmonton

19:00

JPN v. SUI

19:30

NED v. CAN

17:00

CIV v. NOR 33

20:00

CRC v. BRA

Rest days

Tuesday June 9

Roun Monday June 8

Sunday June 7

Saturday June 6

Group Matches

1st v 3rd A/C

39 17:30

1st B v. 3rd A/C/D 16:00

2nd B v. 2nd F

1st F v. 2nd E

41 16:00

1st E v. 2nd D 14:00 17:00

1st C v. 3rd A/B/F 48 W43 v. W44

1st D v. 3rd B/E/F 18:00

45 W37 v. W38

46 19:30

W39 v. W40 16:00 16:30

W41 v. W42 14:00

50 W47 v. W48

49 W45 v. W46 19:00 17:00

51 L49 v. L50

14:00

times are listed. Eastern Daylight Times (EDT) is Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) -4 hours.

19:00

Sunday July 5

Saturday July 4

Friday July 3

Thursday July 2

Wednesday July 1

Tuesday June 30

Monday June 29

Sunday June 28

Saturday June 27

Friday June 26

Thursday June 25

Wednesday June 24

Tuesday June 23

Monday June 22

Sunday June 21

Saturday June 20

Friday June 19

Semi Finals

Subject to Change. W = Winner, L = Loser

2nd A v. 2nd C 42

Rest days

37 16:30

Rest days

1st A v. 3rd C/D/E

Rest days

Quarter Finals

ÂŠ FIFA

Rest days

June 18

Round of 16 3/4 Place and Final

W49 v. W50

16:00

GROUPS

FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP CANADA 2015 Group A

Group B

Group C Cameroon (CMR)

Canada (CAN)

New Zealand (NZL)

Germany (GER)

Norway (NOR)

Japan (JPN)

China PR (CHN)

Netherlands (NED)

Côte d’Ivoire (CIV)

Thailand (THA)

Switzerland (SUI) Ecuador (ECU)

Group D USA (USA)

Sweden (SWE)

Australia (AUS) Nigeria (NGA)

Group E Brazil (BRA)

Spain (ESP)

Korea Republic (KOR) Costa Rica (CRC)

Group F France (FRA)

Colombia (COL)

England (ENG) Mexico (MEX)

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