Arlington Soccer Association: Rec, Teen & Travel soccer in Arlington, VA

U15B Impact Red wins Region1 Premier League Championship

May 14, 2013 by travel-editor · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

May 13, 2013  - This past weekend at the Kirkwood Soccer complex in Delaware the Region 1 Premier League Champs were crowned.

U15B Impact Red played  Manhattan Cruzeiro (NY-E) in the semi-final game winning with a score of 3-1. On Sunday Impact Red beat Dix Hills Elite (NY-E) 4-1 in the Championship Game.

Congrats Impact Red!

U15B Impact Red - Region 1 Premier League Champions

 

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Head Travel Coaches announced for rising U9 Boys & Girls

May 8, 2013 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

Arlington Travel Soccer is pleased to announce Lester Calliste and David Camara as the Age Group Head Coaches for the rising U9 Boys and Girls, respectively.

Lester Calliste is joining Arlington Soccer this year and brings over 20 years of youth coaching experience with him.  He holds the USSF Youth License, an NSCAA National Diploma (comparable to the USSF C License), and the Brazilian Pro Futbol License.  Lester not only brings years of coaching experience but had a successful professional playing career.  He played for the national team of Trinidad and Tobago.  He has developed many talented players in the Northern Virginia area, and we are thrilled to have him joining our staff and working with the youngest players in our travel program.

David Camara joined Arlington Soccer last year and has had a positive influence on all the players he has coached so far.  David holds a NSCAA Advanced National Diploma (comparable to the USSF B License).   He has coached professionally for over 13 years and brings positive energy to the field along with his soccer expertise.  David was a member of the Guinea youth national team pool and was approached by some of the best clubs in the world to play during his playing years.  David is an exceptional coach and is wonderful with the young players on the field.

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UPDATED…Tryouts: Developmental vs. Travel….which tryout to do?

April 25, 2013 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

With the upcoming launch of ASA’s new Developmental Program and it’s related tryout process coming in June, and with the “regular” Travel tryouts coming up as well, how do you know which tryouts to sign up for?  Do the Travel tryouts “count” as Developmental tryouts as well?

You are welcome to sign up for both types of tryouts if you wish.  However, here are some suggestions:

- If you know you want to participate in the Travel Program, sign up for Travel tryouts.  Travel tryouts are for evaluating players who are interested just in the Travel program.  Attend as many tryout sessions as possible, play hard and have fun!

- If you attend Travel tryouts and are not selected for Travel, you may receive an invitation to attend Developmental tryouts.  Of course, you don’t have to attend the Developmental tryouts if you feel the Developmental Program is not for you.

- If you know you want to participate specifically in the Developmental Program, please do not sign up for Travel tryouts.  We’ll hold separate tryouts June 18th and 19th for the Developmental Program just after the U9 and U10 tryout processes are complete; at these tryouts all players will be evaluated without regard to whether or not they attended Travel tryouts.

For more info about Travel tryouts and to sign up, please check out this page.

For Developmental tryouts: They will be held at Wakefield on 6/18 and Greenbrier on 6/19.  The schedule both days:

Use this link to register for Developmental Tryouts.

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ASA’s Annual Membership Meeting set for Monday, June 17

April 24, 2013 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

ASA’s Annual Membership Meeting will be held on June 17, 2013, starting at 7:30pm.  The meeting will be held at the ASA Office.

This is the only meeting during the year where the entire association membership gets together.  The chief function of the meeting is the election of new members of the Board of Directors; three spots are open this cycle.  Other ASA business as appropriate, including a general “State of the Association” presentation, will also be handled.

According to ASA’s bylaws, the membership consists of the Rec Club Managers (one vote per Rec Club), the Chair of the Travel Committee, and the Chair of the Teen Committee.

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UPDATED: ASA announces the launch of its new Developmental Program in Fall 2013. Inaugural season to feature 3rd and 4th grade (U9 & U10) boys and girls, with expansion possible in the future.

April 12, 2013 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News 

ASA is proud to announce a new program that fits in ASA’s menu of soccer options between Rec and Travel soccer.

The new Developmental Program has the following goals:

-    To provide boys & girls with soccer playing opportunities where the focus is skill development and game understanding in a professional training environment
-    To group players of similar abilities together for practice sessions and matches
-    To allow the ASA Recreational Program to focus on the recreational and social aspects of youth sports while expanding the training opportunities for players who may develop into higher-level players as they grow.

Developmental tryouts will be held at Wakefield on 6/18 and Greenbrier on 6/19. The schedule both days:

Here is the link to register for Developmental tryouts:  Register here

The purpose and mission of the Arlington Developmental Program (ADP) is to develop, administer, and promote a program providing Arlington and Falls Church youths with the opportunity to acquire and develop soccer skills through higher levels of competition and greater coaching expertise in a professional training environment.

This program provides players with an opportunity to focus on technical and tactical development in a professional training environment with less commitment, money, travel, and time than Travel soccer.  It provides a higher level of playing and training than the Rec program by grouping players of similar abilities during the week in training and during the weekend in matches while being observed and trained by professional and volunteer ASA coaches.  The players’ social, physical, and cognitive development are the priorities each season, not match results.

ADP players are registered and placed on teams with some consideration of the players’ elementary school enrollment.  This first year, the ADP provides a quality soccer experience for U9 and U10 boys and girls.  Growth into older age group is expected in subsequent years.  The ADP Director, as well as ASA professional and volunteer coaches, work with each team during the Fall and Spring to provide an enjoyable learning environment through ten weeks of scheduled practices and eight weekend matches.

Program Overview (Fall 2013 – Spring 2014):

-    Involves Boys & Girls in the 3rd and 4th Grade – U9 and U10
-    As this is a select program, players may be invited to participate in ADP after participating in separate tryouts for this new program.  Some Travel tryout participants who are not selected for a Travel team may wish to attend ADP tryouts.
-    NOTE:  If your son or daughter is interested in the Developmental Program but does not want to participate in Travel soccer, please do NOT sign up for Travel tryouts; rather, sign up for the Developmental Program tryouts
-    Developmental tryout registration is expected to open in late April or early May, and the tryout sessions will be conducted in June
-    Per player program fee of $295 (per season)
-    Payments will be due in August for the Fall and January for the Spring to allow for recruitment/evaluation of players to fill open Spring spots
-    Program fee includes all practice sessions and games, player uniform (socks, shorts, two game jerseys and one practice jersey), and all in-season program activities
-    Financial assistance is available for qualified players
-    Fall season – late August to November
-    Spring season – March to June

General Program Details:

-    Each player is placed into a ‘practice pool’ and a ‘team’
-    This placement can change at any time and players may be moved as needed
-    Placement will be based partially on elementary school enrollment and / or residency as well as ability – placement is not strictly by age and grade
-    For each team of 10 players, one volunteer team coach will be assigned
-    Two teams will be combined to make a ‘practice pool’
-    For each pool of 20 players, one professional coach will be assigned
-    The two volunteer team coaches will also work with this pool
-    Practice is scheduled two times per week:
—-    The professional coach will lead one practice for the pool under the direction of the ADP Director
—-    Team coaches will lead their team practice based on their pool practice plan
-     Professional coaches will also serve as mentors for the team coaches in their pools
-    Professional coaches will be required to attend at least three matches per assigned team during each season
-    Each team will be scheduled one match per weekend during an eight game season
-    Costs for off-season activities and tournaments are not included in the program fee

For a full list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Developmental Program, please check out the FAQs page.

For questions about the program that are not answered by the FAQs, please contact Jed Bobier, Developmental Program Director, at jed@arlingtonsoccer.com.

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ASA to offer Tiered Travel Soccer Programming starting Fall 2013

April 12, 2013 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

As part of an ongoing effort to evolve and improve our Travel Soccer Program, ASA will be implementing a tiered Travel soccer program for the upcoming 2013-2014 soccer year.  The U9-U12 program will continue to focus on the development of a strong player pool across all teams within each age group. Program changes will be more noticeable in the U13-U18 age groups.  The new tiered programs are designed to better serve the developmental needs of all ASA Travel soccer players from U9 through U18.

In addition to the changes in training programs, we are adding two new senior technical staff positions to improve service to all age groups and genders.  With an enhanced senior technical staff structure, some of the administrative/ technical functions previously handled by coaches will now be guided by Age Group Directors.  This will enable coaches to focus more exclusively on coaching.  Furthermore, our high school age players will now receive guidance, information and support as they explore the option of playing soccer in college.

For the 2013-2014 soccer year starting this fall, there will be five program tiers. In recognition of the fact that there will be differences in the soccer programs across these new tiers, ASA will price the programs accordingly.

1 – U9-U12:  Players within each age group and gender will train together in an environment that emphasizes player development vs. team placement.  Players will have two group practices per week and five group skills sessions per season.  The registration fee for this program is $1,625.
2 – U13-U14 Tier 1:  This program will include the Red teams in each age group.  These teams will have two team training sessions per week, additional Tier 1 skills training sessions (5 per season), and some required winter training.  Players are expected to have a very high level of commitment as a result of the additional training, tournaments, and travel requirements.  The registration fee for this program is $1,700.
3 – U13-U14 Tier 2:  This program will include the White, Blue, and Black teams in each age group.  Teams will have two training sessions per week.  The registration fee for this program is $1,600.  In addition, players within this program will be eligible to attend the U13-U14 Tier 1 skills training sessions for an additional fee.
4 – U15-U18 Tier 1:  This program will include the Red teams in each age group.  These teams will have two team training sessions per week, additional Tier 1 skills training sessions (6 in the fall season), college programming, and some required winter training.  Players are expected to have a very high level of commitment as a result of the additional training, tournaments, and travel requirements.  The registration fee for this program is $1,720.
5 – U15-U18 Tier 2:  This program will include the White, Blue, and Black teams in each age group.  Teams will have two training sessions per week.  The registration fee for this program is $1,600.  In addition, players within this program will be eligible to attend the U15-U18 Tier 1 skills training sessions for an additional fee.

The aforementioned registration fees do not cover players’ uniforms, which are purchased every two years, or team-specific tournament, travel, or other costs (team fees).  Details on the estimated range of team fees for each team will be available prior to tryouts later this spring.

ASA recognizes that the tiered fees listed above present some level of increase for all participants.  The Travel Program Committee and ASA staff worked hard to keep the fee increases as low as possible without sacrificing the key programming components we feel are required to best serve our players.  The cost increases directly relate to improved programming and the additional senior technical staff that are required to deliver superior service to all Travel soccer players and their families.  We believe that ASA’s Travel soccer program costs are extremely competitive in the DC Metro area and that we offer a solid value for participants at all levels.

If you have questions about the new tiered programming, please contact Paul Bobeczko, Travel Program Committee Chair at paulbobeczko@gmail.com.

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Background Information on the Williamsburg Field Petition

April 11, 2013 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

ASA has started a petition drive (the petition link is here) for a synthetic lighted field on the Williamsburg Middle School (WMS) campus for a number of reasons.   Here are some of them, as well as answers to some questions that have been asked:

•    Arlington Public Schools (APS) has decided to build a new elementary school on the WMS campus, at the corner of N. Harrison and N. 36th streets (see a map of the area here).  The new school will eliminate a field in that corner that received light use due to its condition and configuration, but was expected to get additional use over time.  See a depiction of the new facilities here.
•    The new elementary school will be served by a new parking lot on N. 36th St.  The parking lot will require relocating the two existing full-size fields further north on the property.  It will also require the smaller field at the north end to share space with a baseball outfield.  The amount of space around the fields for spectators, warm-ups, etc. will be greatly reduced.
•    The new elementary school will add approximately 600 students to the WMS campus.  That elementary school and its schoolchildren will share the existing field space at WMS—no new field space will be added for that school.
•    APS also plans to add approximately 300 more students to WMS over time.  As a result, the number of students using the WMS field facilities will double from roughly 900 to about 1800, but the amount of field space will be less than it is now.
•    The existing grass fields at WMS are already overburdened.  They are very popular for practices and games.  Grass fields wear out quickly and are unavailable for play when wet.  They are often closed for two days after heavier rains.
•    The grass fields at WMS simply will not survive a doubling of students and the already high level of use they receive.
•    At the same time, the number of ASA soccer players in the northern part of Arlington County has been growing steadily.  Roughly 40% of all ASA players live in the 22207 zip code.
•    Across the County, ASA is, as a practical matter, out of space for playing soccer games.  Options for new field space are very limited, especially at a time when APS is looking for new space to build schools.  (As an example, ASA and County officials had identified the open space in front of the new Kenmore Middle School as a prime prospect for a new, lighted synthetic field.  However, APS is now looking at that site for a new elementary school.)
•    ASA has never taken a position on the merits of placing an elementary school on the WMS campus.  However, once the decision was made to place that school there, double the number of students and shrink the available amount of field space, it followed that SOMETHING would need to be done protect the existing fields and assure at least the same level of service/use of those fields as before.
•    The only reasonable solution is to turn one of the Williamsburg fields—the most centrally placed one—into a lighted synthetic field.  This will provide a surface that can handle the increased school usage, and will extend the time that the field can be used, to make up for lost space on the site.
•    Adding a lighted synthetic field at WMS will not result in greater usage of the WMS site for soccer—it will only result in roughly equal usage as now, spread out over a longer period of time.
•    ASA is sensitive to neighborhood concerns about use of a lighted synthetic field.  Accordingly, ASA has proposed that the lighting use permit be conditioned on a 9:30 pm “curfew” for the lights, and a stipulation that the field can be programmed only for youth sports.  This means that adults would not be playing late-night soccer and other sports at this site.  (Note that ALL Arlington lighted fields have curfews; most are at 11:00 pm, but some, in residential areas, have earlier curfews, such as the 10:00 pm limitation at Virginia Highlands.)
•    The new elementary school will solve a problem that has long plagued use of the Williamsburg fields, which is parking along N. 36th St.  Because the school will have a parking lot on N. 36th St., cars will no longer need—or want—to park on the street for soccer activities.  Drop-offs and pick-ups from practices and games can take place in the parking lot, off the street, and cars will not be making u-turns on the street.  Peak soccer playing periods (such as Saturdays) will not conflict with school use of the parking area.
•    Lighting the central field at WMS will minimize neighborhood inconvenience.  Houses on N. 36th St. will be more than 100 yards away, separated by a parking lot and an unlighted field.  Houses to the west of the field have a buffer of woods.
•    Furthermore, other similar field facilities in Arlington have turned out to be attractive neighborhood amenities that draw in new families and new home construction.  The neighborhood around Greenbrier Park—site of the Yorktown stadium—has seen construction of many new houses immediately adjacent to the site.
•    ASA has had EXTENSIVE interaction with various stakeholders in this process, including meetings between ASA leadership and:  County Board Members; School Board Members: APS planning staff; Dept. of Parks and Recreation Staff; members of the Sports Commission, Park and Recreation Commission, Building Level Planning Committee and Public Facilities Review Committee; members of the affected neighborhoods and WMS community; and within ASA.  Leadership has attended community meetings and has openly advocated to preserve and protect as much field space as possible at WMS throughout this process.

If you have questions or comments about the WMS field petition, please feel free to email ASA President Ken Bass at kennethbass@verizon.net, or ASA Executive Director Justin Will at justinwilt@arlingtonsoccer.com.

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UPDATED CCL Information

March 23, 2013 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

On March 23 the VCCL announced its dissolution, and the new CCL (Club Champions League) debuts in Fall 2013 to give 15 top soccer clubs a superior soccer experience.

In response to several questions we have received, we wanted to provide further clarification on what is going on with the VCCL and CCL league announcements recently posted on several Club websites.  On March 23rd, a majority of the voting member clubs of the VCCL voted to dissolve the league after the Spring 2013 season.  While this is a significant change, we want to clarify that the Spring 2013 season for VCCL will continue as currently scheduled.  After the spring tryout process is complete in late June, our Red teams will join the CCL for play beginning with the Fall 2013 season.

Once the dissolution of the VCCL was complete, a new league called the Club Champions League (CCL) was formed. A copy of the press release, which features a comment from ASA’s Director of Coaching can be found at:

http://arlingtonsoccer.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/CCLannounceFINAL2.pdf

Arlington Soccer Association is one of the fifteen founding member clubs.  The full list of clubs that comprise the CCL are as follows:

Annandale
Arlington
Beach FC
BRYC
DC Stoddert
FASA
FC Frederick
FC Richmond
Freestate
Loudoun Soccer
PWSI
Roanoke Star
SOCA
SYA
Virginia Legacy

The CCL is similar to the VCCL in that member clubs have to commit to placing their top competitive teams into the league. As a result of this requirement and their commitment to the US Development Academy model, VA Rush, Richmond Kickers, Richmond Strikers, and the Bethesda Soccer Club are not joining the CCL.

ASA is excited about the opportunity to be a founding member of this new league and is committed to helping foster a league that will provide a highly competitive and developmentally appropriate environment for our players

As more details become available, please look for additional emails from ASA staff and the Travel Committee.

In the interim, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Regards,

Paul Bobeczko
Chair, Travel Program Committee

 

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Arlington’s Travel Teams Enjoy Success at March Tournaments

March 17, 2013 by travel-editor · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

U9B Legend White Finalist in the Black Division of the PWSI Icebreaker Tournament

The U9B Arlington Legend White team began its Spring campaign in impressive fashion, advancing to the championship game of the PWSI Icebreaker Tournament in Haymarket, Virginia on March 16-17.

Arlington Legend White opened the tournament on Saturday with an impressive 6-1 win against Premier AC Elite ’03-Navy.  The boys returned to the pitch late Saturday afternoon and recorded a decisive 8-1 win over Alexandria United White.  On Sunday morning, with a place in the championship game at stake, Arlington Legend White battled a tough Loudon Black squad in a tight contest and emerged with a 2-1 victory.

The U9B Black Division Championship game featured Arlington Legend White facing off against the DC Stoddert Red Metros who also emerged from their bracket with a 3-0 record.  Expectations were high for a close match; the two teams tied 3-3 the only other time they faced each other last Fall.  The Red Metros raced off to a quick 3-0 lead in the first half before Arlington Legend White began chipping away at the early deficit.  At the final whistle, Arlington Legend White fell just short, with a final score of 3-2.

The U9 Boys Arlington Legend White played with a lot of heart and performed extremely well in only their second tournament, setting the stage for an exciting Spring season. The team was coached by Mike Woods and Wes Mitchell

 

Front row (left to right): Jay B., Mason C., Sam K., Din H., Max J., Fredy V. Back row (left to right): Coach Mike Woods, Eddie B., Philip B., Matthew L., Derek P., Sean M., Michael L., Coach Wes Mitchell

 

GotSoccer Reports Arlington’s U12B United Red Ranked First in State After Second-Place Finish in Annandale Premier Cup Tournament

The U12 United Red boys represented ASA well in the Annandale Premier Cup Tournament March 9-10, finishing second out of the teams competing at the tournament’s U12 premier level.  The team’s strong showing earned them the top ranking in Virginia for their age group as reported by GotSoccer.

The team, with head coach Frank DeMarco and coach Bryant Meckley, kept the excitement level high with close-scoring matches.  The first win was 1-0 against the Ukranian National Chornomorets from Pennsylvania, with striker Zac C. scoring  for Arlington.  The second win against Pro FC PSAFC Blue from Maryland ended 2-1 with beautiful shots by United Red teammates Zac C. and Wills B.

When United Red faced the South Jersey Elite Barons in the semi-final playoffs, Tyler S. struck the low far post with a left-footed volley for Arlington and the match ended 1-0, catapulting United Red into the finals against the Lower Merion SC Sabertooth Rats from Pennsylvania.  Despite their enthusiasm at going to the finals, the Arlington boys were saddened by an injury suffered by goalkeeper extraordinaire Tony D. whose finger was broken in the semifinal match.

United Red went into the finals determined to hold their own against the extremely competitive Sabertooth Rats.  With defensive back Matthew C. filling in as goalkeeper and masterful playing by the entire team, the match was 0-0 for 58 minutes, at which point the opposing team scored.  Despite a vigorous last-minute rally by Arlington, the match ended 1-0 and tournament officials presented Head Coach DeMarco, Coach Meckley and United Red with a trophy and medals recognizing their strong second-place finish.

 

Arlington U12 United Red Travel Soccer Team (from left to right): Front row: Geoffrey O, Billy B, Zach B, Woody G, Max S, Jesse B, Paul S Back row: Coach Bryant Meckley, Matthew C, Wyatt B, Tyler S, Wills B, Victor H, Liam E, Max B, Zac C and Head Coach Frank DeMarco Photo provided by Richard Smith

 

U12B United Blue Champions of U12 White Division of the PWSI Icebreaker Tournament

The U12B United Blue--coached by Frank DeMarco, Bryant Meckley, Torrey Beiro and first time coach, Joe Henry–started the spring 2013 season off well with a first place championship in the second division (U12 White)  of the of PWSI Icebreaker Tournament in Woodbridge, VA.  The team included Blue players Greg C., Conor C., Cole W., Tommy M., Grant M., Ryan G., Joseph P., Braden S., Nico L., Peter S., Luke W., Zach S., Dugan M., as well as guest player Zach B. from the United Red team.

U12B United Blue

 

U12B United Black Two Time Tournament Winners

U12B United Black won their second consecutive tournament and brought home the crown from the PWSI Icebreaker U-12 Black Division on March 16/17. United Black went undefeated with four wins and two shutouts in Round Robin play.  Although they knew they had won the tournament, the boys finished strong and played the Championship game in style defeating their opponents 7-2. Two weeks ago United Black won the Classic Division of the ASIST.

The team was coached by Torey Beiro and Frank DeMarco, and included Danny P., Ethan J., Bryan M, Bryce W., Luke S., Earl M., James D., Arjun K., Matias D., Cristhian I., Lucas A, Sam A., Luke A., William B., and United Red guest player Max S.

U12B United Black

 

U14B Attack Royals Champions at the ASIST and Finalists at the Jefferson Cup

Arlington’s U14B Attack Royals competed at the prestigious Jefferson Cup March 9-10 in Richmond, VA.  The boys advanced out of their bracket in the Championship Division by overcoming competition that included the State Champion from NJ and the State Semifinalist from Eastern PA.  In the championship match, Attack could not convert an advantage in chances and possession into a goal and were beaten 0-1 after a well taken effort from CESA – the State Champion from SC – with only 4 minutes remaining.  After winning the Premier bracket at the ASIST last weekend, it took another fantastic performance from the boys to claim the Finalist medals at Jefferson Cup.  The boys now prepare for Region I Premier League play starting next weekend.  Attack Royals are coached by Chris Smith and Kevin McKenna.

 

U14G Forza White wins White Division of the Stafford St. Patrick’s Day Tournament with a 4-0 record

The U14G Forza White team traveled to Mary Washington University to take part in the 20th anniversary of the Stafford St. Patrick’s Day Tournament. The girls relied on their skills and teamwork, more than luck, coming away as the U14G White Champions going 4-0 for the tournament.  Their winning record included all 4 shut out games, the first three with scores of; 2-0, 1-0 and 3-0 in regular play.  On Sunday afternoon, Forza coaches and players gutted out a snow and sleet-soaked final securing the U14G White Division Championship win with a 2-0 victory and their 4th shut out of the tournament.  Forza White is coached by Chris Holden, with assistance from Michelle Wolfson, and includes; Lorena B, Sydney D, Georgie G, Bridget H, Mary H, Sophie H, Emily J, Laura K, Catie L, Paige L, Sydney M, Sophie M, Isabelle O, Carly R, and Rachel Z.

U14G Forza White

 

U15B Impact Blue wins top division at the Stafford St. Patrick’s Day Tournament

The U15B Impact Blue won the  St. Patrick’s Day tournament at Stafford this weekend in the top Division (Gold). They moved up significantly in the Gotsoccer rankings as well (32 in the state, 632 National).

 

 

U15B Impact Blue

U16B Strikers Red Undefeated in Pre-Season Tournament Play

The U16B Arlington Strikers Red has gone undefeated in pre-season tournament play. During the first weekend in March, the team won the Championship in the Loudoun Soccer College Showcase Tournament. On a frigid Saturday night, the team took to the pitch against the MSC Magic Green. Determined to win, Arlington displayed solid defense, excellent communication and fluid passing. 80 minutes later, their hard work in the wind and cold paid off with a 2-0 result. The next day, the team faced a familiar rival, the Herndon Boca Juniors. Beautiful teamwork led to a Strikers Red 4-0 victory.

The following weekend, the Strikers Red faced some tough competition in the second highest bracket of the Annandale Premier Cup. In their first match, Arlington played the well- disciplined DC United Academy and forced a 1-1 draw.  In their other matches, solidly played contests led to two 2-1 victories against the Ohio North State Cup Champion and the Toronto FC Academy.

The players on the Strikers Red are Sam B, Jordi M, Tim C, Josh C, Daniel D, Jordan E, Ahmed E, Gary F, John F, Michael H, Michael K, Eric M, Will M, Maycol N, Tyler R, Steven V, Eryk W and Keith W. For the Loudoun Tournament, 4 players from the Strikers White contributed their talents as guest players: Ricky A, Tony C, John C and Francisco S. Mo Tayari coaches the Arlington Strikers Red and is assisted by Arbi Hammami.

 

 

 

 

 

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Connect With Kids Champions liven up County Board meeting

March 12, 2013 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

Mo Tayari, a coach with Arlington Soccer Association’s (ASA) Travel Soccer program, was accompanied by an entire team (and many parents). He was nominated by Kirk and Danielle Leach for his personable, kind, but firm approach to coaching.

Kirk Leach presented to the County Board on behalf of Coach Mo. Kirk, who serves as Vice Chair of the Arlington Soccer Association’s Board of Directors, spoke highly of Mo and how he fosters a love of the game among his players. Every day he goes above and beyond his job description, talking to kids who might be struggling, encouraging them and listening to them.

Kirk shared a quote from one of Coach Mo’s players: “You just want to play and do your best for him. He is tough, but cares about you and your love for the game. I can go to him any time. He gets it.” He then added his own observation, noting that “the way he uses soccer to connect with kids is truly a gift. “ Coach Mo was cheered by a 16 young soccer players – proudly wearing their team jerseys, along with a number of very happy parents.

Upon receiving his award, he shared that he was very proud of this award, but most proud and grateful to be a part of Arlington Soccer Association for “giving me an opportunity to be a part of these kids’ lives”

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Arlington Soccer places Ten Players on the 1997 Virginia Boys ODP National Championship Team

March 4, 2013 by travel-editor · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

 

The 2013 US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program (US Youth Soccer ODP) Championships were held March 1-3rd at the FC Dallas Stadium Complex in Frisco, TX. State-level US Youth Soccer ODP Boys and Girls teams in the 1996 and 1997 age groups qualified for the US Youth Soccer ODP National Championships by winning their respective age group at the US Youth Soccer ODP Regional Championships.

When the 1997 Virginia Boys team won won the Region I championship back in June (see story) eleven members of the team were from Arlington Soccer Association. This past weekend ten of the 18 players on the Virginia 1997 boys’ team that traveled to Texas for the ODP Championships were from Arlington Soccer Association

 

1997 Virginia Boys Team    Roster for the 2013 ODP National Championship

First Name Last Name Club Team
Thomas Buono Winchester Youth SC
Joshua C. Arlington SA – Strikers Red
Daniel D. Arlington SA – Impact Red
Joseph F. Arlington SA – Impact Red
Gary F. Arlington SA – Strikers Red
John F. Arlington SA – Strikers Red
Currie Hanes Roanoke Valley SC
Michael H. Arlington SA – Strikers Red
James L. Arlington SA – Impact Red
Garrett Magill Annendale B&G Club
Brian McConkey Roanoke Valley SC
Lucas M. Arlington SA – Impact Red
Zachary Pedini FC Richmond
Keoni Rison FC Richmond
Florin Brown Roanoke Star SC
Gavin Verfurth Loudoun Soccer
Eryk W. Arlington SA– Strikers Red
Keith W. Arlington SA – – Strikers Red

The Ten Arlington Soccer Association players on the 1997 Virginia Boys ODP Team

The 1997 Boys team did not advance to the finals of the Championship but the first game against eventual winner Cal South was one of the most competitive games of the day. Lucas Mendes (U15B Arlington Impact Red) put Virginia up by two with goals in the 10th and 22nd minutes, but Cal South’s Andrew Garcia responded with two goals of his own just before halftime to knot the game at 2-2. The woodwork and some nice goalkeeping kept an attacking Cal South side from grabbing a winner in regulation and overtime, but the Region IV representatives secured the victory by outscoring Virginia 4-2 in a penalty kick shootout.

 

 

 

In other US Youth Soccer ODP News . . .

US Youth Soccer Region I ODP International Trip Rosters Announced

Eryk Williamson (ARL Strikers Red) was named to the Region 1 Boys ’97 ODP team, Christopher Gerlach (ARL Impact Red) was named to the Region 1 Boys ’98 team, and Edison Giron (ARL Eagles Red) was named to the Region 1 Boys ’99 team.  These ODP teams will travel to Italy in Late March through early April.

 

US Youth Soccer ODP, the nation’s original player identification program, has continued its tradition of elite competition and player development for more than 30 years, and is the only development program that can claim members of Major League Soccer and the Men’s and Women’s National Teams. To learn more, visit www.USYouthSoccer.org.

 

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Coach Bob recognized by APS as a Connect With Kids Champion

February 8, 2013 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News 

At its meeting on February 7, the Arlington School Board recognized ASA’s own Bob Bigney as a Connect With Kids Champion.

Carlin Springs ES Assistant Principal Dan Redding presents Coach Bob with his award

Bob was nominated by Carlin Springs Elementary School, where he has worked with young soccer players for many years.

Connect with Kids (CWK) Champions are ordinary people who make extraordinary efforts to let young people know they are cared for and valued in our community. The Arlington Partnership for Children, Youth & Families (APCYF) selects CWK Champions twice annually as a way to acknowledge those who are making a difference in the lives of Arlington youth.

Part of the citation recognizing Bob states “For several years, Bob has carved out time and attention for the students at Carlin Springs Elementary School. Students light up when Bigney enters the cafeteria or comes out at recess to organize lunchtime soccer. He also runs a lunch group for boys who need extra support. Teachers know they can bring Bob in as an extra support for students who need help getting along with their peers or staying on top of their schoolwork. “Coach Bob has been an inspiration for our 4th and 5th grade boys,” said Carlin Springs guidance counselor Gretchen Brenckle. “He has really helped them understand the larger meaning of teamwork.”

For a full article about Bob and the Connect with Kid Champions program, please read this.

And if you see Bob, please offer him a “Congrats” and a “Thanks for helping the kids!”

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Soccer Camps info available – Sign up for Spring Break & Summer Soccer Camps

February 7, 2013 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News 

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ASA Player Commits to James Madison University

December 14, 2012 by admin · Comments Off
Filed under: News, Travel Soccer Club 

Caroline FitzGerald, a junior at Washington-Lee High School and a member of the Arlington Flame U17 girls team, has verbally committed to attend James Madison University beginning in the fall of 2014.

“James Madison has been my favorite school since I first attended the spring soccer clinic there last spring,” said Caroline, a center forward for the Flame. “When I went to the clinic I immediately got a good vibe. The campus is beautiful and the facilities are very nice. I also really like the coach.”

Caroline expects to sign a written commitment to the Harrisonburg university during her senior year at Washington-Lee.

A member of the Flame since the fourth grade, Caroline plays as the “target” forward, a position she hopes to play in college. “I haven’t always played forward, because I have played almost every position, including goalkeeper,” she said. “But I hope to continue playing forward at JMU.”

“Caroline is a talented athlete, but what separates her from others is her attitude and work ethic,” said Flame Coach T. J. White. “These qualities will enable her to be successful at the next level as well. She is a role model on and off the field and is a tremendous example for other student-athletes.”

Caroline believes her physical and technical skills will help her adapt quickly to the college game.

“When it comes to my team, I am willing to work hard to score goals and pressure the opposing team so I think my aggressiveness will help,” she said.

Caroline has helped the Flame has enjoyed a successful fall season, winning its division in the Washington Area Girls Soccer (WAGS) Tournament and the Richmond Capital Cup tournament. The Flame also went undefeated in their division at the Raleigh Girl’s College Showcase in early December.

It was during her sophomore year in high school, when she was chosen as a starter for the varsity soccer team, that Caroline determined that she wanted to play her favorite sport in college.

“I have always been interested in playing college soccer, but it was not a main goal of mine until the spring of my sophomore year.”

Caroline credits her soccer development to her youth coaches, particularly White.

“T.J. has been very helpful,” she said. “Whenever I have questions about something he has gone over in practice he is quick to explain and be very helpful. T.J. has also helped me improve greatly as a forward because of the types practices he runs. He gets the best out of me.”

Caroline has sage advice for young ASA players who hope to play college soccer.

“I would tell a young player to believe in herself and to practice on her own to become better, and to make sure that she enjoys playing the game,” she said. “Practicing with my dad during my free time was very important to my development as a young player because he was able to help me with skills to improve as a forward, like shooting.”

On the global soccer stage, Caroline says her favorite player is another goal scorer: Cristiano Ronaldo.

“I have been watching Ronaldo play since he played for Manchester United, and I am a very big fan. I think his foot skills and willingness to take on any defender is amazing, and he has the best shot of any player.”

Her favorite professional team? None other than the famed Manchester United.

Manchester United was the first team I really started to follow closely when I began watching the Premier League,” she said. “And United has some my other favorite players like Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, and Nani. My favorite national team is Brazil because I have always admired the way they play. They are so fancy with heir foot skills and very exciting to watch. I really enjoy watching Neymar play because he is so young and skilled, and already an important part of Brazil’s national team.”

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