Minnesota Soccer Times January 2018

VOLUME 31VolumeISSUE JAN. 30 Issue 1 2 March 20172018

MINNESOTA

SOCCER TIMES THE YEAR IN SOCCER MYSA celebrates the best of 2017 and looks ahead to positive changes in the year to come

Soccer Times Minnesota Youth Soccer Assoc.

10890 Nesbitt Ave. S. Bloomington, MN 55437

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IN THIS ISSUE Coaches Corner • Pg. 4 Recognition Banquet • Pg. 6 Space for ‘Rents • Pg. 10

KICKS FOR KIDS

Page 15

Cottage Grove

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

MINNESOTA

SOCCER TIMES The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted; all rights reserved. Articles may not be reproduced without written permission. The advertising space provided in Soccer Times is purchased and paid for by the advertiser. None of the products or services are necessarily endorsed by MYSA or its affiliates.

The opinions and views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of its advertisers or MYSA. Printed in the United States of America.

Minnesota Soccer Times Official Publication of the Minnesota Youth Soccer Association is published six times per year

by Varsity Communications, Inc. U.S. Subscription Rates: $9.95 for 1 year; $19.95 for 2 years; Single copy: $2 Minnesota Youth Soccer Association Officers: Steve May – President Dave Geary - Vice President John Conte - Treasurer Mark Mahowald - Secretary Member Representatives Marty McDermott - East District John Kinsey - North District TBD - Northwest District Todd Loose - South District TBD - Southwest District Susan Farbo - West District Minnesota Youth Soccer Association State Office 10890 Nesbitt Ave. S., Bloomington, MN 55437 Tel.: (952) 933-2384; (800) 366-6972 Fax: (952) 933-2627; www.mnyouthsoccer.org State Office Staff TBD - Executive Director Chato Alvarado - Coaching/Player Dev. Administrator Andy Coutts - Director of Education John Curtis - Dir. of Coaching & Player Development Katie Flakne - Manager of Special Events Sue Gjerset - Website/Technology Manager Ayla Lokkesmoe - Member Programs Specialist Norine Olson - Financial Specialist Cam Stoltz - League Commissioner Iván Woyno - Director of Member Services

For the Love of the Game

By Kent Campbell | MYSA Executive Director

I

n any sport, we all love and cheer for the star of the game— they score the goals and make a visible impact on the field. But, on every team, it’s the all-important and often unsung supporting cast that make the goals possible and create opportunities for the team to succeed.

Youth athletics is about much more than victories on the field. Learning to be part of a team and contributing to make a team better than the sum of its parts are important benefits to competing in youth sporting events. The process of learning, practicing and working together helps a team build cohesiveness and develop the core to triumph. Through sportsmanship, every player on the team working respectfully, collaboratively and in support of each other helps to make a team great. In looking at this topic more closely, there are many quotes that apply, here are just a few:

realize that the athletic department, field, court or diamond can be made an extension of the classroom, a place where you and your teammates are learning more than just how to prepare to win. The field, the court and the diamond should be places where athletes are constantly learning about the game in which they participate, about their coaches and teammates, and perhaps more importantly, about themselves.” - Phillip R. Shriver, former University of Miami President

“I believe that coaches and athletes should

Teamwork and sportsmanship are important

“Teammates are critical to your success, the reality is, no matter how good you are, you can’t score if they don’t pass the ball; you can’t win if they don’t stop the other team.” - Alex Morgan “We are a team — one person struggles, we all struggle; one person triumphs, we all triumph.”

Anonymous

CONTENTS Departments

Features

Executive Director’s Message...................... 3 Coaches Corner............................................ 4

Coach Education........................................... 4

Honor Rolls................................................... 5

ODP Registration.......................................... 5

Competitive News........................................ 9

Annual Recognition Banquet......................... 6

Space for ‘Rents..........................................10 Infographic...................................................10

2018 MYSA Winter Symposium.................... 8

Refs Report..................................................12

MYSA Rule & Bylaw Changes....................... 8

Rec News....................................................12 Tournament Calendar...................................14

Production Varsity Communications, Inc

life-learning experiences that make an impact on everyone involved, from the star to the role player. Each of us has areas where we can improve and working together as a team helps to balance our weaknesses with the strength of another teammate.

Every great player knows that without teammates to depend upon, their success would be limited. The positive outcome of creating something better is a triumph of inclusiveness on and off the field that transcends from the micro-community of a team to the club, coaches, referees and fans.

Everyone loves the hero, but it takes the whole team to meet and conquer the challenge at hand. A sage old coach once told me, “The last name called, with hard-work and dedication, can and will be the star, even if they don’t score.” The next time you’re watching a game, remember to look beyond the star player and recognize the impact of the ones that make his or her success possible.

Kicks for Kids...............................................15

Spring Cups Preview....................................13 Mike Warter College Scholarship.................13

Editor Brian Beaky Graphic Designers Robert Becker, Katie Erickson Advertising Inquiries Ian Civey - (425) 412-7070 ext. 102 ian@varsitycommunications.com Varsity Communications, Inc. Sponsorship Inquiries 952-933-2384 800-366-6972 Printing House of Print

Answers: 1. Handling, 2. Tripping, 3. Pushing, 4. Holding, 5. Jumping, 6. Charging.

Elite Challenge, May 18-20  Top Tier U11-U19 Boys and Girls Divisions Offered  3 Game Guarantee  1st and 2nd Place Championship Awards Per Division  Great Fields- Michaud Soccer Complex | Lakeville, Minnesota

Father’s Day Cup, J une 15-17  U9-U19 Boys and Girls - Multiple Play Levels  3 Game Guarantee  1st and 2nd Place Championship Awards, Participation Awards for U9-U10’s  Join us and the over 160+ teams competing  Great Fields- Michaud Soccer Complex | Lakeville, Minnesota

Registration Opens January, Please Visit www.lakevillesoccer.org!!!

Pending sanctioning by MYSA

Soccer Times

JAN. 2018

3

COACHES CORNER

The PlayPracticePlay Model

By Andy Coutts MYSA Director of Education

I

n the November issue, I wrote about the new framework for training sessions that U.S. Soccer Coaching Education is building into all of their license courses, particularly the grass-roots courses soon to be released.

Even if you won’t be taking a course in the near future, it’s important for all coaches to be informed of the research and value of this method. The table at right presents some key elements, with a brief explanation below.

For those who are skeptical of the PlayPractice-Play method, perhaps the first question to ask is, “Would you like this method if you were a player?” Most coaching educators I spoke with at a recent U.S. Soccer Workshop couldn’t deny that, as a player, they’d like to have periods of play at the beginning and end of a session, especially when recalling some of the drills we endured in our youth experience.

That’s merely an opinion, and there’s no shortage of them in the coaching world. More importantly, this method has solid evidence behind it. That’s not to say that it’s the only method one should use all the time, but that it has value in the learning process that can’t just be dismissed out of personal preference.

Research in player development, coaching expertise and the needs and values of the learner point to the P-P-P method being a developmentally appropriate environment for young players.

Stage 1: Play – “Deliberate Play” Starting with a small-sided game, this stage engages players and gets them to look forward to the start of a session. While this can be simply a game the players set up, the coach can make it “deliberate” play by changing the conditions to emphasize a theme that can be developed through the session. While the game is the primary teacher, the coach loosely monitors the game and can inject

questions into the environment to stimulate certain thoughts in the players that serve the session objectives.

Stage 2: Practice – “Deliberate Practice” In this stage, Coach moves from the game that players experienced to dive deeper into skill acquisition and application of tactical principles, while adjusting the activities to find the optimal challenge level for players.

Deliberate practice is not practice for practice’s sake, but seeks to improve performance in specific areas. We might consider this as breaking down the complex game into simpler parts that allow for more repetitions and allow players to solve realistic problems, with the coach offering feedback to facilitate greater or faster development than the game would by itself. These activities should remain dynamic and player-centered, and may be considered “serious fun” in combining learning objectives with an enjoyable participation environment for players.

Stage 3: Play – “The Game”

Practice should provide players the opportunity to experience a largely uninterrupted period of play that closely replicates the game they play in the format appropriate to their age. If they play 7v7 on game-day and 10 players are at practice, then a 5v5 game to big goals with rules enforced offers them chances to apply the learning from earlier in the session to the demands of the big game as much as the reality allows. Coach can find key moments to remind them of earlier solutions to technical and tactical challenges to reinforce the learning objectives of the session.

The recipe for this practice environment includes key ingredients of deliberate play, variety in learning activities and lots of game opportunities. By combining these in the right proportions for the learning needs of the group, the Coach creates an effective practice environment that facilitates player enjoyment and development.

Coaching Education in 2018

By Andy Coutts | MYSA Director of Education

I SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018 Shattuck-St. Mary’s will host a one-day clinic open to all players from birth years 1999-2006.

Attendees will participate in two 2-hour sessions led by college coaches from around the country.

Colleges invited to coach and evaluate at the clinic include: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Maryland, NC State, Michigan, Central Florida, Pepperdine, Florida State, Marquette, South Carolina, UCLA Confirmed schools attending include: Ohio State, Dayton, Iowa, Purdue

Lunch, a complimentary t-shirt, and a college panel with the coaches will be available to all registrants.

Cost is $175. To register, visit www.ssmathletics.org/soccer.

For more information, please contact Sue Vodicka at sue.vodicka@s-sm.org or 803-295-2316.

www.s-sm.org

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f coaching education were a restaurant, 2018 would be offering a different menu — one still able to nourish coaches, but not with the comfort food that we’ve known.

A few years ago, the U.S. Soccer Federation was making all national license courses more rigorous and professionalized, citing UEFA coaching education as the gold standard. The “E” License, for example, was a full weekend course, plus several hours of pre-course work that was intimidating for the inexperienced coach. The federation has adjusted its focus in 2018 to serve the “grass-roots” coach through new online and in-person options. As part of the restructure, the “E” License will no longer be offered; instead, U.S. Soccer Grass Roots (GR) Licenses will be the foundational step for all coaches.

The federation wants low-barrier and easyentry options based on a coach’s environment.

The “D” License will remain a two-weekend course surrounding a season that will take the GR courses into greater depth.

With the new menu, we plan to address a gap for experienced coaches who want more details in areas of interest or need. When the “E” License got more rigorous, MYSA created the Technical Certificate as a low-cost, easy-access course to fill a gap for many coaches and clubs in our state. Similarly, we’re creating a few new courses

that will provide information that was included in the old “E” and “D” courses: a Tactical Certificate, Physical Certificate, and a PsychoSocial Certificate course, to complete the “Four Pillars,” along with the Technical Certificate course. These courses are in development and should be available closer to springtime.

The Minnesota coaching course menu in 2018 should include the options below.

• New version of the U.S. Soccer “D” License, likely offered May-July and Aug.-Oct. • New U.S. Soccer Grass Roots Licenses: 4v4, 7v7, 9v9 and 11v11 • MYSA “Four Pillars” courses: Technical, Tactical, Physical and Psycho-Social • MYSA Youth “Y” Modules • United Soccer Coaches (formerly NSCAA) GK Level 2 Diploma course, tentatively June 9-10 • United Soccer Coaches DOC Diploma course, November Contact me with any questions or if your club would like to host a course. MYSA appreciates clubs arranging facilities to make courses possible and spreading the word to interested coaches. It takes many chefs to prepare the menu and feed coaches what they need to reach their potential.

2018 Minnesota US Youth Soccer ODP FOR BOYS & GIRLS BORN IN 2001, 2002 OR 2003 ONLY

B

oys and girls born in 2001, 2002 or 2003 are eligible for the 2018 Minnesota US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program (ODP). The program is open to all players; however, competition for selection is tough.

There will be two identification sessions. Players are encouraged to attend both sessions. At the conclusion of the process, approximately 24-30 players will be selected for each (birth year and gender) state pool for further ODP training. More information and a link to the online registration can be found on the MYSA website.

The Olympic Development Program has played a meaningful role in player development in the United States by providing top players valuable experience and a platform to improve. This is an excellent opportunity for each player to challenge themselves by playing with and against other players from different parts of the state, region and, for a selected few, nationally. There is always good competition, and when you’re able to evaluate players in these scenarios, you have a better idea of how they will fare as they attempt to reach the next level in their soccer career.

Benefits of participation in the ODP are: 1. Development as a player; the opportunity to train and play with the best players in one’s age group.

2. Quality instruction from nationally licensed coaches.

3. Quality competition; games against other state association teams.

4. Exposure to regional- and national-team coaches.

5. The opportunity to represent one’s state, region or country in competition.

6. Exposure to college coaches.

Identification Dates and Times: Girls

Monday, April 23 Monday, April 30

6-8:00 p.m.

6-8:00 p.m.

Location: Coon Rapids Soccer Complex

Boys

Tuesday, April 24 Tuesday, May 1

6-8:00 p.m.

6-8:00 p.m.

Location: Coon Rapids Soccer Complex

Online registration is now available. Registration and payment of $85 must be received by Friday, April 13, 2018. Payment includes two tryout shirts. Issues with the online registration or questions may be directed to Chato Alvarado at 952-252-1688 or chatoalvarado@mnyouthsoccer.org.

Refund Policy Refunds are granted if requested by Friday, April 13, 2018, minus a $25 processing fee. Please allow 2-3 weeks for processing refund check. Refunds are not granted for no-shows.

MYSA HONOR ROLLS

By Chato Alvarado | MYSA Coaching/Player Development Administrator

M

YSA is proud to present the Club and Coach Honor Rolls. The Club Honor Roll lists clubs that have recently offered coaching education courses. The Coach Honor Roll includes coaches who have recently completed a USSF or USC (formerly NSCAA) Coaching License in Minnesota. Thank you all for your efforts to improve the level of soccer for all players in Minnesota!

CLUB HONOR ROLL Club No. of Coaches Coon Rapids 20

Coaching Education Course Technical Certificate

COACH HONOR ROLLS: “E” License (36) Beltrandy y Rudquist, Maars Berger, Jason Breit, Charles Carlson, Kevin Clotaire, Daniel Collins, Jamie Confer, Nathan Djurich, Branko Duffey, Bryan Epley, Dan Gau, Kallie Hedrick, Jason

Hegazy, Mostafa Her, Xion Ihme, Rachelle Jones, Hannah Lapp, Alex Lebahn, Kevin Mehrottra, Karaan Moran, Jerry Morawiecki, Alex Perry, Brett Plath, Ryan Reimann, Rob

Ries, Brian Romansov, Igor Schreier, Richard Schwartz, Catherine Scott, Andrea Shortland, Tom St. Aubin, Ashley Straus, Benjamin Swanson, Aaron Tartaglia, Angelo Tesfamichael, Alem Wierman, Adam

COACH HONOR ROLLS: USC Director of Coaching (36) Arriaga, Miguel August, Bradley Barnes, Steven Beggin, Sean Berg, Lisa Brion, Gene Buro, Edi Collins, Jamie Cross, Matthew Edsall, Rosalee Eyles, Gary Guerrero, Leo

Hanson, Zachary Hills, Kenny Ilmi, Qassium Lapp, Alex Lewis, Christina Lindquist, Aaron Luzzi, Eric Mancktelow, Neil Middleton, Nicholas Morse, Chad Munene, Pete Nicholson, Mark

Nyborg, Noel Proud, David Pulido, Luis Schroeder, Chris Schulz, Skylar Sorensen, Ryan Stevens, Sean Sullivan, Renee Swenson, Jon Tartaglia, Angelo Taylor, Kelly Weiler, Dale

Soccer Times

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MYSA Celebrates the Best of 2017!

By Katie Flakne | MYSA Manager of Special Events

O

n Saturday, Nov. 4, more than 250 people gathered at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Bloomington to attend the 2017 MYSA Annual Recognition Banquet. In conjunction with the Annual General Meeting, the banquet honored players, coaches, referees, administrators and volunteers, and inducted a new member into the MYSA Hall of Fame. Jamie Watson, sideline reporter for the Minnesota United FC broadcast team, emceed the event and helped celebrate this year’s best in soccer. Steve May, Minnesota Youth Soccer President, welcomed the attendees and shared all the wonderful things going on in soccer today in Minnesota.

The program kicked off by honoring the 2017 Mike Warter Scholarship winners and ODP Regional Pool participants. Next, the 2017 Annual Award Winners were announced. The award categories mirror US Youth Soccer’s Annual Awards. The categories are: Young Male and Young Female Referee of the Year, Administrator of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, TOPSoccer Buddy and Coach of the Year, Recreation Coach of the Year for both Boys and Girls, and Competitive Coach of the Year for both Boys and Girls.

During the summer months and through September, MYSA collects nominations online that can be submitted by anyone, including parents, players and club officials.

Congratulations to all of the nominees and winners!

ADMINISTRATOR: Emily Willaert

Emily has made a huge impact on the Central Minnesota Youth Soccer Association (CMYSA) since her arrival in the Fall of 2015. She was hired as the Director of Coaching (DOC), but has become vital to all aspects of CMYSA. Emily excels at the normal DOC work, plus many other instructional, assessment and logistical duties to further the club’s mission. On any given day, she can be found handing out t-shirts to rec players, lining fields, creating budgets, updating the website or preparing for a board meeting. Emily also created a monthly newsletter that highlights accomplishments of players, teams and coaches, provides updates and includes an educational element. She oversees 400 travel players, 700 rec players and 54 coaches. She truly is the lifeblood of the CMYSA organization.

BOYS COMPETITIVE COACH: Bryce Murphy Bryce creates a training environment for the Woodbury Soccer Club in which players are highly motivated to improve. He provides encouragement and positive feedback as well as addressing areas for them to work on. He combines educating players, both technically and tactically, with a focus on having fun while playing the game. Bryce is also a strength and conditioning coach and thrives on teaching the boys the fundamentals of movement, not just soccer. Bryce has a talent for connecting with players and helping them grow. Bryce is the big brother you always wished you had!

GIRLS COMPETITIVE COACH: Catherine Schwartz This year, Catherine coached the Rogers Rebels U17 Girls Classic 3 team. Coach Cat teaches her players to treat others with respect and kindness and models that behavior with encouraging dialogue before, during and after games with her team, parents, opponents and referees. She also coordinates team-building activities to develop camaraderie. From FootGolf, to pizza parties, to watching Minnesota United, the U17 girls have truly come together as a team. Cat has a heart of gold and goes above and beyond to show each player that she truly cares for each one of them individually.

BOYS RECREATION COACH: Derek Maas

HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE: Ian Barker

Ian came to Minnesota in 1997 and led MYSA as Director of Coaching for 11 years before leaving in 2007. His responsibilities included development and coordination of programs for 140 youth soccer clubs throughout the state, management of between 45–60 full- and part-time employees, and working collaboratively with the MYSA Board of Directors. During his tenure, he co-developed and advocated Parents and Coaches Together (PACT), a training program designed to create a more positive soccer experience for players, coaches and parents.

Before Ian came to Minnesota, he was assistant coach at the University of Wisconsin, where he coached the men’s team from 198997. While there, he helped the Badgers to four NCAA tournament appearances in a five-year span. The 1995 team won the Big 10 title and claimed the NCAA national championship.

After his success at Wisconsin, he assisted John Leaney at Macalester College, working with both the men’s and women’s programs. He took over the head coaching role of the men’s program in 2003 and compiled a 152-74-21 conference record in his time with the team, winning six conference championships, one MIAC playoff title and earning six appearances in the NCAA Division III playoffs. In 2012, Ian took the position of Director of Coaching Education at the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) in Kansas City.

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Derek has been a positive member of the Woodbury Soccer Club recreation program for the last four years. During that time, he has worked with multiple teams each year in the Spring, Summer and Fall seasons. Derek does a great job of working with players and families to instill sportsmanship. The way that he speaks with the players and the words that he chooses in practice and games brings out the best in the people around him. His players are respectful to each other, the referee and their opponent. Derek has also been a positive influence in the Woodbury community outside of soccer. He volunteers in several other organizations and is willing to put in extra time to make programs better.

GIRLS RECREATION COACH: Roberto Gutierrez Roberto is a recreational coach for the Woodbury Soccer Club and does a great job of keeping the players and parents focused on the important parts of youth sports. He has a great way of re-focusing his players. He is an energetic coach that helps players find their individual motivation.

He creates activities and adjusts within sessions to bring out the players’ potential. On top of being a good coach, he is also a good role model. Roberto exhibits good sportsmanship and treats others with respect. He brings a passion for soccer and the ability to pass it on to his players. Roberto is a true leader and has become an inspiration, not only to his team, but to the whole club.

MYSA GOAL OF THE YEAR: Wyndsor Goodenough & Aiden Roth

(Mississippi Valley Soccer) MYSA SAVE OF THE YEAR: Evie Kohn (White Bear Soccer Club)

Each year, MYSA requests that players and parents send in videos of memorable goals and saves during the season. All the videos were reviewed and finalists selected. To view the video of finalists, visit the MYSA website: www.mnyouthsoccer.org/banquet.

YOUNG FEMALE REFEREE: Sarah Most

Sarah started refereeing in 2013. As a new referee, Sarah was very interested in learning more and signed up for every on-the-field training session. She has also benefitted from participating in the South Metro Advanced Mentoring Group (AMG). This year, Sarah has continued to advance and refereed in the Minnesota State Cup, Region II President’s Development Academy, Midwest Regional League and MYSA State Championships. Sarah was also selected to participate in US Youth Soccer Midwest Regionals. During this event, she was honored as the 2017 Rookie of the Year and was given a final assignment as a referee.

YOUNG MALE REFEREE: Christopher Olinger

Chris began officiating for his local soccer club, Prior Lake, when he was 13 years old. During his first two years, Chris demonstrated quick growth and developed a solid foundation as a youth referee. In the Fall of 2015, he was recommended to join the South Metro Advanced Mentoring Group (AMG). This year, he refereed for multiple clubs and tournaments, including Minnesota State Cup, Midwest Regional League and MYSA State Championships. Chris has also taken on the challenge of paying forward the mentoring efforts. He participated in the MYSA spring referee mentoring event in Shakopee and in the MYSA Referee Academies in Prior Lake this summer. He works hard to encourage the next generation of referees.

VOLUNTEER: Danah Ditzig

Danah has been a volunteer team manager for over 10 years and currently serves as the St. Paul Blackhawks club president. In this role, she runs board meetings, provides customer service when needed, hires employees, and oversees all community events. Danah embodies kindness, thoughtfulness and compassion. She is perhaps the biggest champion of making Blackhawks soccer available to any child. She organizes and volunteers at the club’s two biggest scholarship fundraisers, the annual gala and the futsal tournament. These events raise enough to support 25 percent of the club members. She has also been a leading voice for sportsmanship, reminding all families, players and coaches to adhere to the highest standards of good conduct on and off the field. Danah embodies the tagline of the St. Paul Blackhawks, which is “building community and character.”

TOPSOCCER COACH OF THE YEAR: Jim Robson

Jim Robson has been involved with TOPSoccer since the program’s inception (1991). A firm believer in the benefits of the program, Jim will go above and beyond to give all athletes the opportunity to shine on the field and experience the beautiful game! He has volunteered as a site coordinator and even held the position of Region II TOPSoccer Coordinator. On game days, Jim arrives early to help with any setup that is needed. He is always attentive to the needs of those around him and will constantly find ways to motivate all athletes on the field. If he sees that an athlete is struggling, he will take extra time to chat with them and make sure they go back into the game with a positive outlook.

Olympic Development Program

Congratulations to the following ODP players that were selected to the US Youth Soccer Region II player pool:

2000 Emmanuel Iwe Zinedine Kroeten Eric Lagos Collin Matzoll Lambert Santiago Joshua Taylor

Loren Altman Meghan Brown Amanda Cassidy Jameson Charles Devan DiGrado Lily Gilbertson Hudson Haecker

2001 Regassa Abduselam Nicolas Beaton Grace Douglas McRay Drong Isaac Eckroth Abigail Frandsen Jessica Hase Sabrina Jara Andrew Johnson Lauren Kolodge Neython Lec Streitz Hayley Lindaman Kaitlyn Macbean Carver Magnani

Victoria Miller Daniel Muths Jacob Ogle Kevin Ortiz Ayah Phuly Shweta Raje Ana Recarte-Pacheco Lauren Roberts Kassi Schoen Marie Sennes Eric Smits McKenna Strand Henry Tapper Joseph Tawah

2002 Dara Andringa Emma Antonoplos Payton Cahill Valentin Corralejo Christopher Duliere Adam El-Halawani Assem Elsayad Clare Gagne Keegan James Owen Johnson

Sam Just Alexander Kot Porter List William Menken Katherine Schindler Zachary Susee Nicholas Wagner Austin Williams Jelena Zbiljic

2003

TOPSOCCER BUDDY OF THE YEAR: Max Mueller

Max has volunteered with TOPSoccer since 2013. Max is not a soccer player, he is a compassionate and giving young man. Max’s primary role for the last four years has been to provide the horsepower for our one-and-only wheelchair athlete. Tia is now 11 years old and has been wheelchair-bound her entire life. Max and Tia have bonded well beyond the soccer pitch.

Max is truly Tia’s buddy. Birthday gifts are exchanged and conversations expand on the sidelines while awaiting their next shift in the match. Tia would be unable to propel the chair and move her athletic life forward without Max. Tia is tiny in her chair and Max stands 6-foot-2 behind her — it’s quite a sight! The league has embraced the Max-Tia duo and Minnesota TOPSoccer couldn’t be prouder of them.

Garrett Andersen Ella Conger Patrick Dowling Lloyd Elijah Emma Fournier Alberto Garcia Isabella Grandbois Samuel Hoyt Madison Ishaug Samuel Katan Cameron Kor

McKenna Lehman Connor Park Amer Phuly Yulian Rodriguez Torres Alexander Ruiz Shimada Kendra Rust Jordyn Saddler Carson Smrz Benjamin Summers Patrick Weah

2004 MIKE WARTER COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP Rylee Whiteside and Jonathan Carman are the 2017 Mike Warter College Scholarship Recipients.

They were featured in the July issue of Soccer Times, but were also recognized at the banquet. Rylee Whiteside is a graduate from Jordan High School and attends the University of Minnesota-Morris.

Jonathan Carman graduated from Rosemount High School and attends the University of MinnesotaTwin Cities.

Congratulations to all the 2017 MYSA award nominees and winners.

Thank you to all the players, parents, coaches, referees, administrators and volunteers for making 2017 an excellent year in soccer!

Lauren Ahles Ramira Ambrose Sophia Barjesteh Tess Bazil Alma Beaton Lindsey Birch Cooper Bollinger Marisa Bonilla Brooklyn Bordson Chex Burton Micah Burton Nora Chouanard Madeline Dahlien Fred Emmings Aimee Fiedler Angela Gutierrez

James Hill Kennedy Josephs Paige Kalal Molly Knoblauch Shannon Madeline Bella Meier Maaike Modene Dylan Moua Trent Neff Jordan Ross Jocelyn Rowe Kendall Stadden Jaeden Vang Isabella Vannavong Louis Walthour

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2018 MYSA Winter Symposium!

By Katie Flakne | MYSA Special Events Manager and Norine Olson, MYSA Financial Administrator

T

he MYSA Winter Symposium will temporarily take on a different look in 2018 because of the influx of visitors to the Twin Cities for the NFL Super Bowl. We will be hosting two events at the MYSA State Office, with sessions for both club leaders and coaches. As in the past, the Symposium will offer an opportunity for attendees to meet and share with participants from many clubs. MYSA is excited to continue our tradition of offering an educational opportunity for all who share a passion for the “other” game of football.

JANUARY 27: CLUB LEADERS This workshop will be led by Ruth Nicholson, MPA, an internationally certified professional facilitator and the founder of GO! This will be a half-day session, running from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. The fee is $10 and will be limited to 100 people.

Topic: Linking the Secrets of Successful Clubs with Productive Boards of Directors Description: Discover the three components of a successful club and a simple way to assess your club’s strengths and challenges. Learn how this directly relates to effectively recruiting, training and working with your board members. Then, uncover the simple secrets to planning and running efficient meetings for your boards and committees.

Results: At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to list the three components of a successful club; assess an organization’s or an individual program’s strengths and obstacles to achieving its goals; identify the types of people you need on your club’s board of directors; describe the four key elements of a job description for any club job; and develop a clear meeting agenda and plan an effective meeting.

FEBRUARY 3: CLUB COACHES This will be a full-day session, running 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. The fee will be $25 and includes lunch.

Presenters: • Frank Tschan: U.S. Soccer Director of Coaching Administration • Tim Carter: Academy Director, Minnesota United FC • Stefanie Golan, University of Minnesota Women’s Head Soccer Coach • Simon Almaer, Mental Skills Coach, Premier Sports Psychology TIME 9-10 a.m.

10 a.m.-1 p.m.

11 a.m.-12 noon 12-12:30 p.m.

12:30-1:30 p.m.

1:30-2:30 p.m.

TOPIC PRESENTER Achieving Sporting Excellence - Grassroots to High Performance Tim Carter Play-Practice-Play: A Grassroots Philosophy Frank Tschan Team-building: Culture Wins Stephanie Golan Lunch How Coaches Can Nurture a Growth Mindset in Their Players Simon Almaer The Importance of Self-Reflection as a Coach Frank Tschan

For more information about registration, please visit www.mnyouthsoccer.org/winter-symposium.

We hope to see as many of you as possible at one or both days!

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MYSA Adopts New Rules and Bylaws

By Ivan Woyno | MYSA Director of Member Services

F

ounded in 1969 as the Minnesota Junior Soccer League, and then incorporated in 1987 as the Minnesota Youth Soccer Association, MYSA (as it is commonly referred to by most individuals) is governed by a series of bylaws and rules. Each year, prior to the Annual General Meeting (AGM), affiliatemember clubs and MYSA-elected committees can submit new bylaws and rules/policies, or they may submit amendments to the existing bylaws and rules.

All submissions are sent to member club presidents, executive directors and directors of coaching 45 days prior to the AGM, to provide affiliates with ample opportunity to review each submission and determine the validity and impact such changes would have on the game of soccer in their community.

At the AGM, each bylaw and rule submittal is presented, discussed and voted upon by the affiliate member clubs in attendance. The bylaws and/or rules that are approved by the membership are then implemented and enforced by the MYSA staff. This process helps ensure that all member clubs have a voice in the organization, and guarantees that the implementation of those changes is made as far as possible in advance of the upcoming season.

This year’s AGM was held on Nov. 4, 2017, at the Doubletree Hotel in Bloomington.

Changes approved include structural changes to the way in which the premier league is formed and operated, as well as instituting the usage of a Club Pass.

The objective of the Club Pass is to provide more flexibility to move players among teams based on individual player development and team needs.

• The Club Pass offers clubs the opportunity to tailor a player’s experience based on who they are, not just to which team they’ve been assigned.

• Player development can be improved by varying the challenges players encounter at any given time, as opposed to locking a player onto one team for an entire season or year with limited play-up opportunities.

• Players are still registered to teams, but the rule allows for up to five players to be “club passed” in any game for which they are age-eligible.

Bylaw changes included the relocation of a series of bylaw sections in the rules manual, as well as better-defined review and voting procedures. These changes are designed to enhance the league experience of our youth athletes and evolve soccer in Minnesota.

If you would like more information regarding these changes, please visit our website at www.mnyouthsocccer.org and find the MYSA Rules and Bylaws under “Member Services”.

If you have questions, please feel free to contact me directly at 952-252-0226 or ivanwoyno@mnyouthsoccer.org.

COMPETITIVE NEWS

The Future Landscape of MYSA Prompts Changes in 2018

By Cam Stoltz | MYSA League Commissioner

L

ast summer, MYSA created a task force to examine the changing needs of youth soccer in Minnesota. The “Future Landscape of Minnesota Youth Soccer Task Force” was formed to develop recommendations for any needed change in programming and leagues to meet the current, immediate and future needs of all MYSA member clubs, and to directly benefit the youth participants. The appointed task force was made up of MYSA staff members and club leadership representing metro, non-metro, small, large, new and established member clubs.

Task Force work began in June and continued through the summer, producing a report of findings and recommendations for MYSA, which included proposed rule changes for MYSA League play. At the recent MYSA AGM, members passed three significant rules summarized here.

Club Pass replaces Play-Up. The new Club Pass is an evolution of the “play-up” and allows reasonable movement of age-eligible players after the season begins. Under the old play-up standard, up to three players could roster in a game of either a higher level or higher age. With the new rule, up to five age-eligible players from other teams in a club may be “Club Passed” or rostered on another team in the same club. Club passing is considered a player development tool and will be overseen by a Club Director of Coaching, rather than the team to team process of

the former Play-Up rule.

Premier League Tier II will be added to expand opportunities and act as a funnel league for better fluidity in the promotion and relegation of teams between the C1 and Premier leagues.

This additional qualified level should also deter club-jumping and transfer recruitment of players who seek a chance to play “Premier.”

Promotion and Relegation has been eliminated at C2 and C3. Clubs now have the freedom to develop and manage teams as they see fit by placing teams in the division (C2 or C3) they deem appropriate. All MYSA Classic 2 and Classic 3 leagues are now self-selecting for seasonal team entry. Entry and maintenance in C1 and the Premier Leagues at 15U and older will continue to be based on previous season’s results (Promotion and Relegation).

competitive balance in promotion and relegation results.

• A growth strategy will be created for development teams (9U and 10U) in micropolitan and rural areas of Minnesota.

• Presidents Cup, a United States Youth Soccer National Championship event that will serve the C1 level teams, will be held in May. • The State Cup will be seeded based on the previous year’s results (past MYSA league and State Cup), while unseeded teams will play into the event in single-elimination games.

MYSA is also researching the possibility of integrating the player registration process with

MYSA and the member club commitment of participants as soon as Aug. 1, defining policies and sanctions for recruiting violations, and beginning a comprehensive and professional rewriting of MYSA Rules.

The coming year will once again represent positive and forward change in our game in Minnesota.

MYSA is committed to evolving and growing the game at all levels throughout the state by providing “Soccer for Everyone.”

Further information about MYSA’s Future Landscape of Minnesota Youth Soccer Task Force is available by contacting the MYSA Office.

Other Task Force recommendations to be implemented in 2018: • A reorganization of postseason and State Championships will include automatic bids for regular-season league winners.

• Competitive redistricting (sub-districting) of C2 and C3 will address travel distance.

• The MYSA Competitive Committee will be expanded, while its duties will be redesigned.

• 14U C1 league seeding, based on previous year’s results in MYSA leagues and events, will be applied to league formation to improve

Join us for the

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Invitational .U9/U10 games per team | 7v7 . 425-minute halves

U13/U14 Invitational At least 3 games per team 30-minute halves

U11/U12 Invitational

U15/U16/U17/U18/U19 Invitational At least 3 games per team 35-minute halves

. At least 3 games per team | 9v9 . 30-minute halves

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Inquire about multi-team discounts!

Visit www.ecusoccer.org and click “Tournament” for info.

Soccer Times

JAN. 2018

9

SPACE FOR ‘RENTS

SPACE FOR ‘RENTS

Competition and Cooperation

By Andy Coutts | MYSA Director of Education

I

n the November issue of Soccer Times, I wrote about competition from a micro-view; a young participant in a competitive environment and a parent’s guiding role in providing perspective on the experience.

Panning out from the individual player, we recognize that competition has arrived in Minnesota on a macro scale. You may be aware that a new, for-profit league has entered the marketplace in the metro area, and the landscape has shifted beneath our feet. MYSA has long been a benevolent monopoly, running leagues state-wide and, as a non-profit organization, plowing revenues back into programs and services for clubs, coaches, players and families.

Among state associations, Minnesota has been the envy of most for the league structure we have and the opportunities that has allowed us to pursue to serve members and try to grow the game. Creating the Parents and Coaches Together (PACT) program, running TOPSoccer for athletes with disabilities, delivering coaching education and professionally managing events such as State Cup, MYSA State Championships, Jamborees, Target United Cup and MYSA Winter Symposium, to name a handful.

But, this isn’t meant to be a promotional article for MYSA programs, as much as to pose some questions about competition, cooperation and the possible consequences of a multi-league system.

In most other states, leagues are entrepreneurial ventures, with independent league managers earning lucrative livings from league revenues.

This is very American — a capitalist with a profit motive taking a risk to offer a product that meets a demand. And, in most industries, one organization’s increase in market share is at the expense of another. Econ class dismissed.

An MYSA club coaching director said to me recently in relation to the new league, “Well, competition is good.” No doubt, it can be, in that it can drive innovation and improvement, both already underway at MYSA. Ironically, that coaching director’s club recently merged with a neighboring club, indicating that at times it’s better — if not necessary — to cooperate, rather than compete. Many other clubs have made that same discovery, and club mergers are now a Minnesota trend, as well as a national trend.

Looking at a national sports organization like

the National Football League, teams compete on the field, but rely on their NFL membership to cooperate with each other for the greater good. The Vikings organization doesn’t want the Packers to go out of business, or vice versa, because they’re mutually beneficial. But, when competing leagues have popped up, that’s been a different story (Google “the U.S. Football League” or “XFL”). Competition and cooperation are beneficial in different contexts. In comparison to the NFL, with a multi-billion-dollar network contract in place, in youth soccer it’s critical to be aware of how competition or cooperation may affect the landscape for better and for worse.

At a recent U.S. Soccer Workshop I attended, the federation presented their goal “to make soccer the pre-eminent sport in the United States.” Similarly, if not as ambitiously, a main goal of MYSA has been to grow the game wherever seeds can be planted, to give more kids the opportunity to play the beautiful game at whatever level they can, with no barrier based on where they live.

As parents, coaches and administrators, we should remember that the “M” in MYSA stands for Minnesota, not metro. Will a for-profit league in town spur MYSA to make positive changes to our structure and processes? Certainly. Will it hurt MYSA’s ability to provide services and achieve our broad mission of soccer for everyone? Too soon to know for sure, but indications are that it certainly could, especially if competition in this case will just carve the pie without growing it.

Have we moved completely to youth soccer at a club or league level as a product to shop for, rather than a community asset to work together to improve? That’s my big-picture concern, because as the business grows, we tend to get farther away from what’s best for the kids, who are rightly in the center of this enterprise.

I don’t think I’m yet a grumpy old man yelling for people to stay off my lawn, but I’m concerned about the neighborhood I’m living in and the unintended negative consequences of multi-league competition. I’m optimistic that the positives will outweigh the negatives, and that enough cooperation among MYSA members, parents and leaders will exist in Minnesota to grow the game and serve all participants well, especially on behalf of the kids who deserve our best.

*

*Not yet sanctioned by MYSA

10

JAN. 2018

Soccer Times

Supporting a New Development Model

By Sean McKuras | Director of Youth Development, Woodbury Soccer Club

A

s both a coach and parent of a current recreational player, I have put together a few thoughts to help us all better enjoy the development process of our little soccer players. I have tried to focus on the benefits of participating in games and the process of practice, rather than the result. If we focus solely on the results, we may be missing the gains that our child is making physically, emotionally, socially and mentally.

Soccer practice has changed over the years. Clubs are currently using activities that involve making decisions, rather than drills that focus completing a set task. When I began playing, a common drill would involve setting out cones and then dribbling around them as fast as we could. When we completed the task, we went back to the end of the line.

The result was that we dribbled with our heads down in games.

An example of a dribbling activity would be Tag. This is an activity that involves a need for the players to decide how to evade the tagger, manipulate the ball with multiple surfaces of the foot and play with their heads up. All of these are skills needed within the game of soccer, with the added bonus of physical motor coordination and individual competition.

A 5-year-old soccer game or practice will not look like the adult version. This is because the participants do not possess the same mental, emotional or physical skills. Asking a 5-yearold to stay upright, kick a ball and stay inbounds is a tall task. Be aware that not all kids cross the

same milestones at the same time. While your child may possess the spatial awareness to stay inbounds, they may not have the physical ability to dribble well. Don’t worry if your child hasn’t mastered all of these skills, as this is all part of the process. Players will evolve all the way through their soccer career. Telling them “pass the ball” just adds to an already complex set of actions.

What is our role as parents at games and practices? As a parent, I believe it is to support our players and encourage them to take chances.

Yelling at them during games just becomes another distraction. For a child to make a decision while running as fast as they can is difficult enough without spectators telling them what they want them to do. When we consistently tell kids what we want them to do, it diminishes their power for decision-making.

A player’s ability to make decisions is essential in their long-term soccer development.

I was given great advice: “Cheer for what already has happened, not for what you want to see happen in the future.”

Postgame can be one of the most challenging times as a player and a parent. Soccer is a game with mistakes. How we react to these mistakes is part of the teaching and development process.

I have coached at the recreational, competitive and collegiate levels and I make it a point not to give my players excuses for mistakes. I now find as a parent that I am challenged to put this concept into consistent practice. I try not to focus on the elements of the game that we can’t control, like the decisions made by the referee, the opponent or our teammates.

We soccer parents will experience more joy if we recognize that it is the child’s game. The game belongs to them. Kids want to have fun, be with friends and play the game of soccer.

Enjoy observing the subtle growth in their physical, emotional, mental and social skills.

R E V SO CCE R THE BEST CLUB FOR YOUTH SOCCER DEVELOPMENT IN THE TWIN CITIES!

Sign up NOW for Little REVvies Footskills Training:

Session II begins January 4th | Session III begins March 1st

Register your team NOW for these 2018 tournaments!

Presidents Day: February 16-19, 2018 (Girls & Boys U9-U16)

REV IT UP: May 18th-20th, 2018* *Not yet sanctioned by MYSA

revsoccer.org

Woodbury summer classic tournaments 2018 MAY 11-13

JUNE 15-17

13U - 19U

9U - 12U

- Boys & Girls - 3 game guarantee - Outstanding player experience - 17 natural grass fields at beautiful HealthEast Sports Center Not yet sanctioned by MYSA

Registration opens Jan/Feb 2018 www.woodburysoccer.com/tournaments Soccer Times

JAN. 2018

11

REFS REPORT

BVU CUP Not yet sanctioned by MYSA

June 22-24, 2018 Registration opens January 1

The tournament is open to U9-U19 teams U9/10 7v7, 3 games, no playoffs, participation awards U11/U12 9v9, 3 games min, point system, winner awards U13-U19 11v11, 3 games min, point system, winner awards

QUESTIONS?

tournament@bvunited.org bvunited.org

IT’S GOOD TO BE A REFEREE

By Bob Petersen | State Director of Referee Assessment

T

he last few years we have seen more of our referees continue to referee. This is very good for our sport, because they are a vital part of the game. We have more referees with more experience. So, why be a referee? There are many great reasons.

First, you learn much more about the game.

There are many myths that people believe about what is actually in the Laws of the Game, and how decisions are made. In learning the Laws of the Game, you will understand what the Laws are, as well as how they are applied. You will have a much deeper understanding of the game. After all, we have always learned that knowledge is power.

Next, there is the constant education that is done for the referees. The Minnesota State Referee Committee (MNSRC) ensures that there are many opportunities for referees to learn as much as they want to. Many of the things that are taught include videos of matches referees will actually be refereeing. There are also many in-person clinics so that questions can be asked, as well as other clinics that have advanced topics, such as advanced mentoring sessions taught by National Referees, National Referee Coaches, former National Referees and other high-level officials. Periodically, podcasts and newsletters are released on current trends in refereeing.

One of the most important reasons is the money that can be earned. Refereeing is good work, and you may set a schedule as it best fits with other priorities in your life. There are very few jobs where you are allowed that type of flexibility. If you want to referee, you can. If there are days or times where you do not want to, that is perfectly acceptable. It is up to you.

One of the biggest things is that strong life skills are acquired by being a referee. Problemsolving, leadership, working with people and being responsible are all great skills you can take anywhere. Many people admire those who choose to be referees. And, don’t forget the many

friends you will make as well.

The MNSRC also puts on several referee academies which are staffed by National Referee Coaches, current and former National Referees, and many others that have refereed at high levels.

Actual games by attending referees are watched, with feedback given. Additional training during these academies usually include classroom training to help improve your referee skills.

Last, and definitely not least, is that there are chances to work higher-level matches as you increase your experience and skills. The MNSRC will help advance you as much as possible.

It does take hard work, but it is very, very rewarding. We have had many referees advance to Developmental Academy, professional matches and games that have included some of the U.S. National teams.

So, come be part of the referee family. The time is now to sign up, because the season will start before you know it. Visit minnesotasrc.com to learn more.

REC NEWS

MYSA Rec Grants:

What can you do with $2,500?

By Ayla Lokkesmoe | MYSA Member Programs Specialist

M

innesota Youth Soccer Association Affiliate Members who plan new and/ or innovative programming to better serve their recreational athletes in 2018 may be eligible for grant money under the MYSA Recreation Grant Program. Now in its eighth year, this grant supports the MYSA Recreation Committee’s continued outreach to the recreation community and its soccer players.

A total of $25,000 is allocated for the enhancement and improvement of recreational programs. Items that will be considered for funding include, but are not limited to: player development programs, coaching education and referee development. Funds are not to be used for ongoing annual operating expenses of a program,

12

JAN. 2018

Soccer Times

including equipment and coaches’ salaries. Grant requests must not exceed two-thirds of total project cost and are rewarded for a maximum of $2,500. Only Affiliate Members in good standing with MYSA who register all their recreational players with MYSA are eligible to apply.

All grant applications must be received in the MYSA office by Friday, Jan. 12, 2018.

Applications will be reviewed by the MYSA Recreational Grant Review Committee and applicants will be notified by March 12, 2018.

For more information, please review the grant application form posted on the MYSA website.

Questions may be directed to MYSA Program specialist Ayla Lokkesmoe at 952-252-1690 or aylalokkesmoe@mnyouthsoccer.org.

Spring 2018 Cups Preview Katie Flakne | MYSA Manager of Special Events

M

innesota will be offering two high levels of competition for teams in 2018: State Cup (part of the US Youth Soccer National Championship Series) and Presidents Cup (part of the US Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup). Complete details are as follows: Important Spring Cup Dates Jan. 5: Registration opens Feb. 9: Registration closes March: Brackets Announced April 27-30: Presidents Cup Group Play Weekend May (TDB): Self -Schedule games for Presidents Cup May 11-14: State Cup Group Play Weekend May (TBD): Self-Schedule games for State Cup May (TBD): Semis and Finals for Presidents Cup

and State Cup June 14-18: 2018 US Youth Soccer Midwest

Presidents Cup — West Chester, Ohio June 22-27: 2018 US Youth Soccer Midwest Regional

Championships — Westfield, Indiana July 11-15: 2018 US Youth Soccer National

Presidents Cup — Westfield, Indiana July 23-29: 2018 US Youth Soccer National

Championships — Frisco, Texas

The Minnesota State Cup is the most prestigious tournament in Minnesota and the pathway to the National Championship Series (NCS). Don’t be confused by similarly named league tournaments claiming to be a “state cup” championship. Only the MYSA-sanctioned State Cup provides an opportunity for teams in the 13U-19U age groups to showcase their soccer skills against the best competition.

Winners of the Minnesota State Cup will advance to the US Youth Soccer Midwest Regional Championship, and have the opportunity to qualify for the US Youth Soccer National Championships. Nationals are a culmination of a year-long series of competitions at the state and

Mike Warter College Scholarship Katie Flakne | MYSA Manager of Special Events

regional levels providing approximately 185,000 players on 10,000 teams from US Youth Soccer’s 55 state associations to compete against the best teams in the nation.

New in 2018 1. Implementation of MYSA Task Force recommendations: • Presidents Cup • Bracket size of 12, with play-in games for non-seeded teams, if needed • Seeding based on previous State Cup results and league play 2. Self-schedule matches for preliminary and pool play 3. Registration fee: $850 Minnesota will be providing teams in the 13U–18U age groups an alternative to the Minnesota State Cup and an opportunity to advance and compete against teams from across the country in regional and national competitions.

Presidents Cup is a progressive, competitive experience (just like the NCS) giving teams the opportunity to participate in a Regional or National tournament and experience the unique competition and camaraderie that a state-toregional-to-national tournament offers. The inaugural year of Presidents Cup will commence with eight-team brackets. No play-in games will be offered and registration for the event will be done on a first-come, first-served basis.

T

he Mike Warter College Scholarship Program was created in memory of Mike Warter. Mike made his presence known on the Minnesota soccer scene for more than 25 years.

One of his primary goals was to help female soccer players obtain college scholarships. To achieve that goal, Mike believed the players had to be seen, so he developed a local Minneapolis park team into one of Minnesota’s premier girls’ teams, Sota Soccer. With this club, Mike worked hard to provide the team with travel opportunities outside the state of Minnesota to expose them to strong competition beyond the state boundaries.

Mike was described as a “player’s coach,” being there for his players both on the field and off, in good times and, more importantly, in bad. Mike’s work did not end with Sota Soccer. He was a pioneer at the University of Minnesota, coaching their club team for nine years, including a national club championship in 1988. Mike passed away in 2000 and he will always be remembered for the mark he made on women’s soccer. Mike was inducted into the MYSA Hall of Fame in 2007.

The Mike Warter Scholarship is awarded annually to one male and one female Minnesota soccer player who is registered to a MYSAaffiliated club and is a graduating high school senior. The scholarship is a $500 tuition award that is to be used toward expenses at an accredited college, university or community college.

For more information and to apply, visit the

MYSA website at www.mnyouthsoccer.org.

Applications must be submitted to the MYSA office no later than Friday, April 27, 2018, in order to be considered. This scholarship is a reminder to all of Mike’s commitment to the development of players by nurturing good play, good friendship, better facilities, proficient coaching and the happiest of times for all participants.

Soccer Times

JAN. 2018

13

TOURNAMENT CALENDAR 2018 Invitational Tournaments, Festivals and Jamborees The following tournaments have been approved for sanctioning for 2018. Events denoted with an asterisk (*) are still in the process of gaining MYSA sanctioning status. Please refer to the Tournament Center (www.thetournamentcenter.com) for specific tournament information.

DATES

JAN. 2018

Soccer Times

LEVEL

April 7-8

NSC Girls College Showcase

National

April 14-15

NSC Boys College Showcase

National

April 27-29

NSC Kick-Off Challenge

International

April 27-30

US Youth Soccer Minnesota Presidents Cup (Group Play)

April 28-29

Star of the North*

MYSA-only

May 4-6

Force Annual Spring Kickoff

National

May 4-6

Runnin’ With The Wolves

National

May 5

Faribault Soccer Festival*

MYSA-only

May 5-6

NSC Spring Cup

International

May 11-13

EWSC Future Stars Tournament

National

May 11-13

2018 Woodbury Summer Classic 13U–19U*

National

May 11-13

North Metro Spring Tune-Up

National

May 11-13

US Youth Soccer Minnesota State Cup (Group Play)

May 18-20

CR United Boys/Girls Tournament 13U & up*

National

May 18-20

2018 Lakeville Elite Challenge*

National

May 18-20

REV IT UP Tournament*

National

May 18-20

Rum River Invitational*

MYSA-only

May 18-20

Shakopee Cup

International

May 19

Fairmont Shakeout Jamboree*

MYSA-only

May 19-20

EPSC Spring Kickoff*

International

May 26-27

NSC Cup

National

June 1-3

Bloomington United Mega Cup*

National

June 1-3

MapleBrook Invitational 2018

National

June 1-3

Sporting St. Croix Cup

National

June 1-3

Three Rivers Cup

National

June 2

Detroit Lakes: Rotary 3v3

National

June 2

Lakes United FC: 3 Games in 1 Day*

National

June 8-10

Head of the Lakes Tournament*

National

June 8-10

30th Annual North East United Summer Classic

National

June 8-10

Tonka Splash*

National

June 9

Jesse James Shootout*

MYSA-only

June 9

Mankato Soccerfest*

National

June 9-10

Albertville Friendly City Days

MYSA-only

June 15-17

CR United SC Boys/Girls Tournament 9U–12U*

National

June 15-17

2018 Lakeville Father’s Day Cup*

National

June 15-17

NSC All American Cup

International

June 15-17

2018 Rochester Thunder Soccer Tournament*

National

June 15-17

2018 Woodbury Summer Classic 9U–12U*

National

June 22-24

BV United Invitational*

National

June 22-24

Essentia Health Lake Superior Open Soccer Tournament

International

June 22-24

EPSC Prairie Cup*

International

June 22-24

STMA Soccer Fest

MYSA-only

July 12-28

MYSA Summer Post-Season Play

July 13-15

USA Cup Weekend

International

July 17-21

USA Cup

International

Aug. 4

3v3 Summer Clash*

National

Sept. 14-16

Prior Lake Soccer Club Fall Finisher Tournament 2018*

National

Sept. 29-30

Target United Cup

Oct. 6-7

NSC Fall Cup

International

Oct. 12-14

2018 Woodbury Fall Classic 9U–15U*

National

Oct. 13-14

CR United SC Jamboree 9U–12U*

National

Oct. 13-14

MYSA Fall State Championships

KEY: Jamboree MYSA Only Recreation National International

14

EVENT

Open Open Open Open Open

to to to to to

MYSA teams only (no play–off system) MYSA teams only Rec and Rec Plus teams only teams from outside of Minnesota and/or non–US Youth Soccer teams teams from outside of United States

KIDS

See if you can find your way out from the center of the maze. Good luck and have fun!

Credit: Copyright © 2017 JGB Service, http://www.mazegenerator.net

KICKS FOR

Can you name the fouls below in “Hey Ball”? Select the best answer from the following list:  Charging

 Jumping

 Handling

 Pushing

 Holding

 Tripping

(Answers on page 3)

!

Soccer Times

JAN. 2018

15