It's official. Eagan winners for U19 Boys, Bangu Tsunami Sota winners for U19 Girls. Both 2-0 winners over their opponents.
Bangu with 8 titles. With no other club winning more than one, and the Wings and Eden Prairie winning no titles, it would be tough to argue club supremacy.
Bangu Tsunami FC - B14, B16, B18, G13, G14, G16, G17, G19
Minneapolis United - B13
Plymouth Soccer - B15
Valley United - B17
Eagan - B19
Woodbury SC - G15
St. Croix SC - G18
My picks for teams with the best chances to advance out of group play at Regionals are Bangu 19 Girls, PSA 15 Boys, Bangu 17 Girls, Valley 17 Boys, Bangu 18 Boys, Bangu 16 Girls, and Minneapolis United 13 Boys. Of course, it will all depend on the draw.
Congratulations to all the teams and players that participated in this year's MN State Cup.
333 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 333 of 333Great games yesterday. I watched the PSA v Bangu game, the Bangu 16 v EP, and the second half of the Bangu 18 v Wings. Surprised EP got a goal against the tough Bangu defense. PSA looked good, but seemed very cocky. Bangu 18 seems to be playing together as a team very well. Their chemistry was obvious as they didn't give up a goal all tournament. Congrats to all winners.
Anon 8:06...I don't get your comment about PSA being cocky. You're confusing cocky with confidence. Maybe the fact that they ended the 5 games of the State Cup with 18 goals for and 1 goal against helped them feel they could do the job. (Don't forget this team was the ONLY MN team to make it to the semis in regionals last year. Yesterday they beat a VERY GOOD Bangu team with a solid 3-0 win. Bangu's goalie was absolutely stellar and kept the game at 3-0. That kid was amazing and hats off to him. And, good job to the Bangu boys--the games between these two are always exciting and hard fought battles.
Please compare the MWRL results to know that the PSA boys are not just a flash in the pan. Bangu U15 did mediocre at best playing in the first division, coming in 6th place behind the Wings. PSA U15 played in the Premier division for the first time against highly ranked teams. They ended up tied with the Chicago Magic for third. They tied the #1 ranked (in Region II) Michigan Wolves 1-1 in a game that could have been 5-1 if not for another fabulous goalie. They pounded the Vardarstars 4-0. They tied the team who won their division, which as is the case in many ties, should have been a win! I won't go through the rest of their whole record, but they made a VERY respectable showing for themselves and for MINNESOTA. (Unfortunately, all those other teams in Region II think MN teams stink--Talk about cockiness. The arrogance by the opponents' coaches and fans is enough to make one cringe. They can't fathom a good team coming out of our state.)
So, in this particular individual team's case, can you please just give credit where credit is due?
As always, this comment will surely be criticized, but really, the facts should speak for themselves.
Bangu still has one MWL game left and if they win will finish higher in the standings then Wings,
Also please remember that the Bangu U15 boys team advanced to the regional finals when they were U13 and that is the best showing of a Minnesota Boys team in a long time. PSA is a good team and should do well, but they do show more of an attitude that is based on cockiness that does not show good sportsmanship.
Just my opinion.
I do agree that PSA is a good team. I also do think they deserve credit, but when they are winning a game there is no reason to show poor sportsmanship. FROM MY EYES, I could see a few players getting mad at one another if this team falls on a hard game
I saw the same thing happening between Bangu boys--all these 15 yr old kids have adrenaline flowing not to mention the testosterone! They (and the Bangu boys) are true competitors and each year their emotional maturity will continue to grow. To that point: If you saw last year's final between the same two teams, this one was tame in comparison! Not saying good sportsmanship isn't important, but this went both ways. I heard the ref yell at a Bangu forward that he "saw what you did, and if you do it again, you'll get a card." Soon after the coach took that kid out. Do I think that's horrible? No, the kid was passionate and working his butt off and it's all part of the game. We believe in good sportmanship, but I will say that playing out of state makes them getting a little thicker skin...It's necessary to survive. Otherwise you get chewed up and spit out. Then you come back here and the refs are whistle happy.
Also, when these kids were at U13, remember that Bangu beat none other than...PSA, in the final which sent Bangu to Regionals. The PSA team had just formed and had played about 6 games as a team before that.
I see this as a great rivalry and no one should knock anyone. Be happy that Mn will have a competitive entry into regionals.
The arrogance you speak of with the PSA team starts at the top. His previous teams with MPB and TCF (?) had the same issues. Very talented players, but little class and no sportsmanship. This team will not last more than another year before they rip themselves apart. Their arrogance and lack of class will follow them into their young-adult lives and they will suffer for it. Their advanced athletism and quickness will start to disappear next year and will be gone by U17 (as other teams and players will catch up). Very heavy, but highly likely. From a soccer only perspective they are definately 3 goals better than the next best team in the state right now and should show well at regionals.
Wow, sounds personal..isn't there anything more interesting to talk about?
wow...sounds like a parent of a kid who got cut from the team. haven't we heard this song before?
Yes, and from what I've read on these blogs, it happens in just about every club. Some call it "sour grapes."
and we all know what can be made out of sour grapes........bad whine
Excellent and appropriate pun!
am not knocking the PSA vs Bangu rivalry at all. It is a solid rivalary that both teams should use to get better.
Maybe I am old fashioned but I don't like to see excessive celebrations after a goal. Some one doing push-ups after a PK or flopping in the corner and being gang tackled I don't think is appropiate. To much TV influence of pro athletes thinking they are all that. I don't believe it has any place in sports. Celebrate going back to the center circle is fine but more than that we are mocking the game.
anon 227. How old are u by the way? How did you celebrate scoring a goal when you played sports?
Take a trip outside of MN and see the passion of the "game" and come back and tell us how people celebrate the passion and exhuberance of the "game" after scoring a goal. MN did not invent soccer and so we need to quit being "elitist" about "the game".
These kids played very clean game and earned the victory. No yellow or red cards for PSA. A Bangu player is the one who got carded.
Last year at regionals PSA is the only team that advanced to playoff rounds.
PSA is proud to have a team that can not only compete here in MN but win at the highest level outside of MN as well.
These kids trained hard and beating Bangu two years in a row is no accident. Call it arrogance, call it whatever, whining will not take away anything from their accomplishments.
The team has not lost a game in MN for the last two years as their record will show. What do you make of that?
Go win regionals PSA - you guys were there last year and only missed it by one goal. Now is your time.
if a celebration is instantaneous more than likely it is pure emotion, elation,and jubilation. Absolutely nothing wrong with that. In fact the team celebration is a thing of beauty.
If it is rehearsed, planned, or done in a mocking manner then I have a problem.
That is not being an elitist that is a sense of decorum
If it is excessive in the referee's mind then they have the power to do something about it.
Don't know how anon 1139 can say it is from the top down. I believe one of the teams won a good sportsmanship award at regionals one year? If that is what he means then I agree. Having coached against him and having had him as a teammate he has never shown me anything but sportsmanship, solid character and a lot of caring for making those players better.
I hope this is their year and they do MN proud
WOW!
I am not saying PSA didn't deserve to win, they played well and are a good team. As I mentioned earlier I am old fashioned and don't like what I call excessive celebration. Getting down to brass tacks is Bangu would have won in regulation last year but missed a PK. PSA is a good team and should do well in Regionals, hopefully MN teams all do well, which would be good for MN soccer.
If you would note not once did I disparage PSA and have said they are a good team. I just don't like the celebrations and think that is a sign of poor sportmsanship.
I wish them well as they played well and won.
Enough said.
So you think that all of the celebrations in the World Cup, EPL, MLS are excessive. It is part of the game being that goals are so hard to come by. Lighten up.
I am not associated with PSA but I know that those kids are well trained and deserve whatever they can get.
ANON 11:39: Did the teams win state cup at CC lile PSA? How can anyone succeed and win state cups in CC? Must be a pattern of winning that does not work well for MN "elite" clubs. Maybe someone should take notice and learn that CC can also win at high level in MN.
We all can learn something from this experience and grow.
montipython,
It's not that a CC can't win at that level of play but the fact isthat they must draw kids from outside their community.
Are all the kids on the Plymouth team from Plymouth? Of course not. If you look at their roster they will have 6-7 or more different suburbs/cities represented.
In essence they are forming that team in the same manner as Bang and Wings form their top levels teams. They draw players from several different communities.
montipython,
PSA is NOT a CC team it is a Jerry Yonga team. I'd be surprise if they have any players from Plymouth on it. Does Jerry live in Plymouth? Or did he live in Maple Grove?
Oooh, sounds like another disgruntled parent. I wonder if it is someone who's kid didn't make the team again the following year---Gee, they probably weren't from Plymouth either. But that's beside the point, right...Who cares?!
I can't believe I'm actually going to do this blog thing, but it really riles me when people use names on this for slander...I've known Jerry for almost 3 years and I will entrust my son to his mentorship and coaching for as long as my son DESERVES to play on that team. We are proud of the diversity and brotherhood found among our boys. My son wouldn't trade his experience for anything and neither would I. We are proud to be part of PSA.
anon 1:52
I don't think anyone disagrees with your comments, I certainly don't.
My only point in an earlier post is that PSA is not a true community club team.
The team is obviously diverse not only ethnically but also from the communities the players are from.
This is the only way Minnesota will be able to put teams together who can compete with other state's representatives at regionals or the national level.
A team comprised solely of players from Plymouth, Eagan or White Bear Lake for example will never be able to compete in MWL or at USYS regionals.
That's not a knock on community club programs or teams. Just the reality of youth soccer in the US today.
oh boy here comes the MYSA interpretation of slander. Get Mr. MYSA Attorney on the phone.
As written there is nothing that is slanderous about that post.
In fact if I was in his position, I would take that as a compliment because without him that team would not exist or perform to the standards it does today. We have a MN team that will represent us at the highest level with the best opportunity to make a regional impact.
words do not hurt people unless they allow them to.
grandpa always said sticks and stones will break my bones but words would never hurt me. Of course he said that while he insulted me during my beatings with sticks and stones ;-)
kidding!
Interesting how people always feel the need to tear down or criticize our most successful teams. Note that I did not say "best" so nobody needs to get upset. PSA 15 boys the target on this blog, Bangu 16 girls on the other. It is almost comical really.
How about that Bangu U16 boys team? And the TRSA U14 boys team? They played with a lot of heart.
The comments regarding the PSA coach were not intended to be slanderous just honest. Premier CC teams do not identify with there clubs or organize themselves because of the Club. They usually develop because of a coach or a group of players; I cannot think of a CC Premier team that has over 75% players from their community. (Maybe EDP??? does) It was actually a compliment to the coach; good players will want to play for good coaches. The question about were the PSA coach lived, was a asked because about 2-3 years ago he had another premier team that played for several different clubs, but mainly MPB. I believe he was on that board too. Hmmm, there might be a pattern there.
So-o-o-o before your think my kid was cut (not even in the right age group); U15 PSA boy’s team is excellent! Are they a CC team? NO! To represent themselves as a CC team is just plain silly. Just to clarify, my kids do not play for Bangu or Wings but I think I am smart enough to recognize that one team playing Premier for a CC club does not make it a Premier club.
My comments were not slanderous, I am not sure they could be construed as slanderous. I poised a couple of questions to help explain my point of view. U15 PSA parent develop thicker skin, you will need it if your son continues play soccer.
Hard work is always rewarded. The u15psa boys worked hard over the winter and sacrificed alot of time to become better players. Great coaches and players who are more than just team-mates won the state cup. 9 state odp players, 3 regional pool players, 2 national players.... PSA is becoming a great club because of a board,coaching director and coaches committed to getting the club to another level. MN soccer would do well if they have the passion for soccer that is seen in other countries
The PSA U15 boys is an outstanding team and worthy of all their accolades. I would hold off on claiming PSA is becoming a great club. The only other semi-finalist they had at State Cup was the U18 girls and in many age groups they did not even field teams. Give them a few more years and maybe that claim will hold more water.
I agree with noitall,
PSA solid community club with some very good talent within different levels of their club.
Greatness hardly
EP has built more from within than most (maybe Woodbury also)
I agree with Tomass.
The two strongest community clubs are EDP and WDB.
They both benefit from a large population and the right demographics. Just look at the number of kids from those communities playing the game.
They also both have or have had knowledgeable DOC's leading the way.
The sum of those parts are key components adding up to a strong community club.
Woodbury had, EP has.
With many players coming from different communities to play on "community clubs", does this mean that recruiting goes beyond Bangu? (this is a biased question)
Is there recruiting? Yes, it would be naive to think otherwise. But I think you'd be surprised how many kids/families seek out their opportunities on their own. After years of camps and playing in the same leagues, these kids know lots of kids from the other teams and desire to change teams based on their desire for higher competition.
In our state where recruiting is a no-no, we tend to engender a "rich get richer" system.
As was said above, kids and their parents seek out the top teams. It is easy to find out who won state cup last year, and get yourself invited to tryouts.
It is much harder for a good, well coached team, that maybe came up a little bit short to attract those same players.
This is why Bangu will continue to get stronger and stronger in the forseeable future. Many say bad things about them to their friends, but then make sure their kid is ready for tryouts.
If MYSA really wanted to level the playing field, they would allow open recruiting (with restrictions, of course). This would allow coaches to reach some of those players that might not otherwise be aware of other opportunities.
If PSA is considered a great community club then Minnesota soccer is in serious trouble. About 98% of their coaches are parents who know almost NOTHING about soccer. PSA does a good job serving its community players but is not doing much for elite players.
thats why the top kids leave and go to Bangu or like programs, the exception is the U15 team, hard to even call them a cc team, they just play under the cc banner. Same goes for U15 Woodbury girls, U17 Valley United Boys, play under the cc banner but are recruited from other communities and model themselves after top club teams. I would add St Croix U18's but not sure how to classify St Croix, are they a cc or a club, I guess it depends on the team.
anon 7:38 - there is a lot of gray area with regard to recruiting. It is one thing to post try-out times for quality teams (which, as the discussion above highlights, will often prompt quality players to find the team). It is something else to run down parents and their kids in the parking lot after the game or to go to tournaments and talk with players (wow cards) and parents from other clubs, or to use camp mailing/contact lists to contact players. The former is practiced with good reason by all. The latter is the pursuit of a couple of clubs in particular...guess who?! If you have a good program, people will find you. No need to undermine others to build a great team.
I can't believe that the MA/Woodbury thing continues to be a topic. How long has he been gone, a couple of years? We see their teams all of the time, and I have to say that they were good when he was there, and they seem to continue to do well. They had several good teams at State Cup (not just Inferno who were very good). It looks to me like it's a dead issue. MA has obviously found a place where he can have the freedom he needs to do what he does, and it appears the people at Woodbury have carried on rather well without him, too. I don't know about anyone else, but I would hope both parties could move on and soon.
psa had horrible sportsmanship in the final! how is a player goin to sit down in the middle of the field when you are winning 2-0?? how is a player goin to come out in front of the parents and say "do that again, see what happens?" and a player telling the parents to be quiet? unbelieveable. they are COCKY!
more players probably need to tell many more parents to be quiet. It might be good for the game
I think it would surprise folks what the players think of the sidelines parents.
Ask your sons or daughters which teams has the worse parents. I know I was surprised when I asked.
It wasn't the loud obnoxious parents. "Aw, their just nuts" said the teenager.
No...it was the parents calling the game and influencing the referees. One player even made this comment to a parent, "You know, he didn't go for a whole weekend referee course to have you referee the game from the sidelines".
Soccer isn't tennis or golf but... I think the players would play better without 45 coaches & 30 referees on the parent sidelines. I think the referee would ref a better game without the 30 other referees there critizing and helping there cause too.
Players should not talk to parents on the sidelines.
Player should not talk to referees (unless they are the captain and have a valid reason.)
Parents should not talk to opponent players during the game (or their own).
Parents should not talk to opponent parents.
Parents should not talk to referees.
I think that covers it.
In 98% of te cases it's nothing - a harmless comment or two from the sidelines. Compared to basketball most soccer games are uneventfull. This is at most a minor annoyance.
To Anon:21/5/07 9:04 AM. MWRL score U15B:
Westside 1 -Bangu 1. So much for finishing higher than the Wings.
Anon 8:50
Looks like you've been waiting patiently to make your comment. Don't live your life through your U15 Wings player...have you doctor adjust your meds.
On another note, how many state cup titles did your club with this year?
mine is bigger than yours.
my dad can beat up your dad.
Amazing. Less than 2 years ao these blogs were filled with Wings and Bangu parents battling verbally about who had the top club.
What's happened the past 2-3 years that has catapulted Bangu to the undeniably top rung on Minnesota soccer ladder? What have they done differently or better than the rest of the clubs?
Or is it just the other clubs imploding?
Any thoughts or comments? This could make for some interesting dialogue.
Anon 5:43, you bring up a very good question. Something that all DOC's of COmmunity Clubs should be asking themselves and the boards they have to work for. I could give the reasons that we left and went to the big bad blue, but I'm sure to most it seems they are all about the "glory". When truely for the players it's all about will they train me, will they challenge me and will the other players be as committeds as they are. It's pretty simple.
One thing that everyone should remember is that there are 70 Premier teams in the state. But there are HUNDREDS of Classic,Rec Plus, & Rec teams in the state. Thousands of players vs Hundreds. The "CC" clubs offer a great service to a majority of the players in the state. Not everyone can afford what the "Super Clubs" have to offer.
Bangumom:
Be honest it may be as much about what the parents want.
Last time I checked the job description, parents were supposed to make the majority of the decisions for their kids. I could be wrong.
Exactly right 7:38. How can someone measure CCs vs more select clubs? Is a more select club supposed to be "better" because they deal with higher level players? Doesn't hold water with me when CCs as a whole deal with 100x as many kids. They're both just providing different services.
The issues come with the apparent arrogance of those people involved with more select clubs, along with the naiveté of those involved with many CCs who feel they can provide the same thing that more select clubs do. Both are at fault and share the blame for the growing rift in MN soccer. The battle to keep players involved with local associations has elevated the game, yet also brought it to new lows.
it might be a bit unfair to label the select clubs as having the market cornered on arrogance. having worked extensively with both types of clubs, i will share that my experience is that it is the naivete paired with arrogance (mom or dad know it all about soccer, because they have watched little billy or susy play for a few years, and they are now in a position of power. too many take their ignorance and arrogance and apply the deadly pairing to the detriment of many kids.
mostly, clubs need to identify their customer. too many try to satisfy all, and that is just not going to work out that well, even if you are ep or other big ones. find your niche, and provide a high quality service to the kids in your target audience. i have been there on the cc, superclub, hs, rec, and just about any other side you can name short of college and pro. all of these kids deserve our attention and a quality program to participate in
the interesting thing that i found is that those on the elite club side have a much more clear vision of who and what they intend to serve. cc folks are most often just scrambling to do the work necessary to continue a program for kids to play in. they do a great job of that - it is when they try to do more than they are capable of that they begin to look foolish
Another thing is that some of the CC have some real dedicated volunteer coaches that really do try their hardest to provide the training that allows some players to get to the next level. Not everyone starts out at the elite clubs.
The pevious 4 posters all had good angles. I love the business reference..it's one I use quite a bit. Identifying the customer IS the key. Once you have done that you can easily grow your business. The issue or downside is when those in "business" decide to mislead the customer by assuring them they can do as good a job as the other business even though they don't have the knowlege or resources. One of the most important thing we try to teach our people when we are opening up in a new area is to find out who carries the things people might think we carry but don't, and make sure to steer the customer that way with correct information. Almost always that customer will come back for something we do specialize in.
Yes, there are some parents for whom it is all about the "brand", but the player and his or her talent is the one who will ultimately decide whether or not to stay.
I have found CCs gettin into situations that Wal-Mart is currently in...Wal-Mart decides to introduce a line of designer women's clothing - but the Wal-Mart customer has no clue who the famous designer is(he designs for Nordstroms and Neiman Marcus).
As previous posters have said - when trying to offer programs for the masses in their community, it is hard to have a 'one-size-fits-all' board and program. To offer programs, (i.e.,'select teams') beyond this mentality requires extenive communication to those parents, board memebers, coaches and players involved so it can succeed in time..(yes, not overnight)
Too many times promises are made, but nothing changes internally to make sure these promises are accomplished. That's when boards and teams dissolve and players leave.
Yea, Like what a certain club told some players about trying out for a premier team and then being told that they will be C3 after it was to late.
(They knew after AGM that it would happen, everyone else did)
Anon 2:19 you are spreading blatent lies and just trying to stir the pot. They did not know, before the team was formed, that a few jerks from their former club would try to make things difficult for them. They did tryout for a premier team. MYSA was out of line when they made the rule retro active instead of having it take effect in the following year.
Bangu will continue to grow and develop players and teams over the coming years. They will continue to do everyting they can to create competative training and development environments for youth soccer players. Some overall state cup performances will be better, some will not be as good. Either way, they are serving players and families who are interested in what they have to offer (and doing a damn good job!)
Many other clubs are also doing more to develop players in the hopes of either catching up or not following further behind. And here is the kicker...everybody wins!
Go poo-poo somewhere else.
anon 2:19,
Howie...is that you still crying and pouting?
Are you really as stupid and ignorant as you sound? The tryouts were held first week of August. Team was formed by mid-August. MYSA distributed rules proposals in mid-Sept. And they were only proposals. Who in their right mind would think even if it passed it would be retroactive?
Your little girl isn't good enough to play with the State Cup champs.
That 6-0 pounding must've really hurt...waa waa waa waa.
Take your ball and go home and cry to mommy. Some of you whiny little boys never grow up.
Anon 2:19
The rule was passed Nov 4 at the AGM. I am sure that the players & parents where told that they may have to play at a lower level. I know that the training did not change so other then having to play at a C3 level the teams schedule has not changed.
and we know by now that the DOC also ensured that this team played at C3 since they failed to advise what the best course of action would be and hid behind Robert's Rules of Order
Bangu was taken by surprise that the new rule would take effect not immediately but retroactively.
When the rules were changeed 3-4 years ago requiring the status remains with the club the rule did not go into effect until the beginning of the next MYSA year.
The team was advised that this would be the situation but obviously MYSA wasn't interested in consistency.
It appears this was all part of a predisposed agenda between clubs and club reps sitting in high places.
If you can't beat them change the rules after the whistle blows.
I wonder why Bangu had to play C3 but U15St. Croix Valley Boys played C1. They were relegated to C2. A bunch of players (including MYSA VP of Leagues kids) jumped to a different team and suddenly they are no longer C2 but C1. Hmmmm...
I hate it when MYSA can't be consistant in applying the rules.
Enough with that discussion - move on.
I watched the Thunder last night (don't believe the attendance figures. I am pretty sure the people who count those tickets have been wandering around for years in those full 90's that MA makes his kids wear). They gave up two awful goals in what has become a pattern for this franchise. What's the problem here: Ownership, talent, team, community? What's the future of the franchise?
Yeah, that was a tiny crowd. The best part of the evening, though, was when they announced that if you went to the promotions table, you could get a "secret code" so that you could "bypass" the Thunder ticket purchase requirement for "Copa MN." Let's see here. The Thunder require you to buy an overpriced ticket with the possibility that you might get to see Beckham (vs. who knows). Then they turn around and tell you at their game how to avoid their silly add on. Is it just me or is this definitively a sign of the apocalypse? 45,000? Only if they have the same people counting tickets as they usually do (I think it involves a lot of multiplication). I hope the Thunder survive, but it's pretty scary right now.
I don't think the Thunder's problem is coaching for Magee knows his stuff. I think it is more due to the fact that they probably don't have the player budget that can put them on par with most of the other teams in the league. In part this is a direct result of the community as we don't support them enough to allow ticket sales revenue to play a major role in Thunder income. Just my two cents.
I take my kids at least once a year, more fore their development sake. If all 80,000 MYSA registered families did so I think we'd all see a more competitive team. Just don't think there is the culture here yet in our area.
As for the shot against MA and the headgear - believe it or not my team has already put in their order after coming up against one of his younger academy teams and seeing it in action. IMO, for the young girls it is a tremendous asset when teaching heading... though I don't think that is the main purpose for the equipment.
Ah...can't beat Abboud's teams so attack their gear. Another mature soccer daddy.
Or could this be Howie again...still in full whine mode?
Might take several months to get over that 6-0 pounding.
LOL- love the 1v1 battle between anon and Howie, Somewhere Howie is just stewing or is an ignorant victim to what is being written.
Boo - on the head gear. All the medical tests showing the need are funded by those with some interest in promoting the product. Training tool? Maybe a mental crutch to start with, but the training wheels need to eventually come off so why not establish the correct way out of the gate. The day they require headgear in US soccer is the day I walk away from the sport in the US.
Thunder's problem is lack of cash flow/capital and a proper marketing direction. Anyone owning the Thunder had to have at least anticipated the outflow for 3-5 years and have reserves for 8. The main problem - even if they become a winning team and can hire the talent necessary to do so on a consistant basis is "where do they go from here" There is no identifiable means for them to reach the next level.
We have had some discussions on this in the past. But if I had the money why would I want to invest if I knew that I did not have the ability, even if I had the means, to take the team to the next level?
I'm going to get beat up for this - but I think the Thunder is too much oriented for family entertainment and not soccer entertainment. They have no edge, they have failed to get many of the true soccer fan base out to the games. I have been to games in Germany, England, Italy, Fun exciting enviroment. Could they do that here - nope, but go back to the Kick games - the enviroment they create for Thunder games does not even come close to those days. I go a couple times a year. My kids have no interest anymore since they're old enough to know there are more appealing things for their entertainment dollars. I am very often mildly interested when I attend the games. They try to appeal to the huge base of rec and club players- yep great numbers to pursue but no dollar loyalty to the team or to the game. Fishing for minnows with regular nets.
The marketing people are trying hard in the direction they have been given to take, but the current course is not the road to long term prosperity.
I love the Lighting concept and hope to catch a few games and believe they will do better than the Thunder from a performance standpoint.
Time for teh Thunder to have an identity transplant. Time for the team to become reborn with a bad-boy attitude. They need some bite in their marketing.They need a swagger to their walk instead of trying to be the nice boys of MN soccer because this is all we have and if we go away it is bad for the MN soccer future.
Don't play on my soccer emotions, appeal to them with substance.
Make sure you say a prayer today on Memorial Day for all the fallen soldiers that have served and protected our country's freedom in the past. Make sure you thank any active or retired soldiers you see for their great service to the greatest country on the face of the earth. It was a beautiful morning at Ft. Snelling
Is it true that the VP of Leagues kid (or another DOC member's) plays on the SCV team that was granted C1 status?
I've heard rumor of this and if this is true it is totally inconsistent with what was done to the Bangu U14 Girls.
I'm sure there's someone out there on this blog who has a little insight on the SCV team granted C1 status.
And why was this SCV U15 Boys team put into the South District?
Anon 7:07
Get a Life. The "6-0 pounding" is over. (this is not Howie)
Thank you to all of the Military personnel and there families for all that you do and sacrifice/sacrificed.
Rumor has it that Howie is busy drafting another rule proposal.
The "buzz" is that the new rule proposal is one that would prohibit Bangu from entering their top level "Blue" teams into the State Cup tournament next year.
Only Bangu "White" or "Green" level teams would be eligible.
There is not a U15C1 league in the East District.
There are many examples of teams being allowed to stay at there current level even though they should have been relegated. Maybe they went about the appeal process differently then those that where not allowed to stay at there current level. (or move up to a higher one)
I don't know Howie, and I'm somewhere between bored and mildly amused by all of attacks against him, but I'll take his side anyway since the bangu crowd are after him (great rallying cry after all). Sounds like Howie put a crimp in the bangu expansion plan - very tragic, but they can just up their fees for the non-elite teams and come up with some new promises. It will all work out. As far as knocking the head gear goes, it is conceivable that one would rip on the headgear without having lost to an Abboud team. I'm with Tomass on this one - just plain silly, and one has to wonder what sort of scam this is. I agree that it would be great if all of the bangu parents would substitute full nineties for their bangu baseball caps. I am sure they would be safer on the sidelines with padded helmets, and it's somehow a very satisfying image.
friendofhowie,
Let Howie know it's really okay for him to post here under his own name...he doesn't need a surrogate to protect him.
We don't bite...we just laugh at little boys who take their ball and run home to mommy.
I think Tomass is on the right track. I watched the Thunder the other night and they played without heart. I also think the game could have used a wet pitch, ala, EPL. The game looked slow and sloppy from the stands. PR are not a very good side and the Thunder seemed to only play about 10-15 of high pressure, attacking soccer.
No doubt Amos knows soccer. But he seems to be struggling to get his team to perform. I'll go a little further on the owners. I don't think the owners know what they are doing. Their identity problem and lack of quality product are directly leadership issues. This isn't buying 100 pairs of shoes, marking them up 100% and then waiting for people to come in to buy them. I honestly can't see things improving much without a change in the ownership...at least the previous owners were involved out of passion for the game.
I can't belive that you have gone through life with the name "The Joker"
With a name like that I am sure that people have always found it hard to take you serious. (Like now)
Rumor is that Bangu U16 boy's coached will be replaced...??? Any comments?
just wondering,
I'm curious too if it's true the VP of Leagues kid's team was granted C1 status.
Was this a "new" team or the St. Croix team that went 2-7 last year?
Either way something smells a little fishy.
Anyone with a little more insight? Care to shed a little light on this situation?
rumor is that many parents will make stupid comments on the sidelines, in private, and on this forum.
rumor is that many teams will have coaching changes for next year.
rumor is that there are mysa executives who try to serve purposes other than "the good of the game" - either to help out a buddy, to protect themselves, or to try to squash a certain club/team or another.
rumor is that some kids will change to a different team next year.
rumor is that some will do so by choice, and some not by choice.
any comments?
any comments?
It is true that the VP of Leagues's son is on the SCV U15 boys team that was relegated from C1 to C2 last year. There were some of White Bear Premier team players went to SCV and form part of that team. Based on this SCV petition to move up to C1. But it was denied by the DOC in Sept 06. You can read it hear http://www.mnyouthsoccer.org/about/minutes/dococt06.pdf
The rational was "Such club jumping by an intact team is one of the behaviors sought to be discouraged by MYSA Rule 4.2.1.2"
The VP of League was disappointed and they tried again in October's DOC meeting. It was denied again by the DOC with the following rationale "Club jumping or raiding may be a concern as some of the proposed players played for clubs other than SCV last year."
But for some mysterious reasons, the DOC vote again for the same petition and this time it was approved. Here is the rationale: "Facts as presented, including players listed on the petition form prepared by SCV, do not suggest that an intact team was club jumping. Granting of the petition places the team at C1". You can see complete text here:
http://www.mnyouthsoccer.org/about/minutes/dococt06.pdf
Mean while, Bangu's petition for the U14 girls to play at C1 instead of C3 was rejected based on the following rationale: "Irregularities and discrepancies on the petition paperwork."
Complete text:
http://www.mnyouthsoccer.org/about/minutes/docfeb07.pdf
The first link should be:
http://www.mnyouthsoccer.org/about/minutes/docsep06.pdf
Ugh, my collegiate player suffered a concussion and required stitches in her forehead this past season. She was back in the game a whole lot quicker and more confident wearing the Full 90. No need for MA to read the comic section in the newspaper. He can get all the chuckles he needs reading all the "experts" and hater comments here.
The only discrepency in the paperwork regarding the Bangu U14 Girls petition to play at C1 was a coaching change.
If that is what the DOC wants to hang their hat on so be it.
No need to read between the lines here.
There was an agenda to keep this team from being placed in a C1 league.
Interesting thing about those "Irregularities and discrepancies on the petition paperwork." The team had an old coach on the web site/registration paperwork and had just hired a new one by the time they reviewed the appeal. Still seems that no one got hurt except the girls, the majority of whom know it's about teamwork and training and have decided to stay together, and any team in the south district that they play.
Seems to me that a coach change is not a reason to deny a team placement at the proper playing level.
It appears the "Irregularities and discrepancies" are in how the DOC applied placement disgression for the Bangu girls as opposed to how it was applied to the VP of Leagues kid's team.
Can anyone say "appearance of impropriety"?
There's something rotten in Denmark, and in Minnetonka too.
anon 7:56,
I can't imagine why Bangu would replace the U16 boys coach.
They have won State Cup 3 straight years and placed 2nd in MWL this spring.
They allowed only 3 goals in MWL play and only 1 goal in five matches at State Cup.
Are you serious or just trying to get under someone's skin?
The only way I would envision a change is if the coaches themselves want a new challenge.
This team is one of the more successful teams in Minnesota.
Are there any other teams in Minnesota on a 3 year State Cup winning streak?
Age group teams change coaches all the time, at some clubs there are even policies in place that restrict how many years (2-3) a coach can handle a team. Different training methods, different styles, and different perspectives can all be positives in continuing any player's soccer development.
anon 10:46,
Thanks for the comments and the links.
Funny how things work in one team's favor and not for another in a similar situation.
Also interesting how the SCV team was slotted in the South district even though it sounds like many of these players are from the north and northeast part of town.
Maybe they felt the south would be easier? Or maybe they didn't want to step on toes in their neighborhoods?
Politics in youth soccer...nah.
Results are one thing, development is another. The 16 age group is not very strong in Minnesota. This team is a good team, but there are many other coaches out there that could take this team to another level. My guess is that, if there were a change, you would see Zahl take this team himself. I would throw Singer into the mix, but it appears that heis girls's side only now. Maybe they'll try and get Holker back in. He had the current 18's last year. Or, maybe they'll go after another MIAC coach or maybe Gramenz? There are a number of suitable coaches to help this team prepare for the college game. I think that a change would be good for the team and the coaches.
The way I read the SCV situation is - This year's SCV U15C1's is a new team this year. Even the DOC OCT06 minutes call this team a "new team".
If you read the MYSA standing archives, I believe you'll find SCV fielded two U14 boys teams in the East last year. Last year's SCVU14 C1 team finished its East U14 C1 league with fewer than 25% of its possible points, so that team earned a U15 C2 slot for this year. Last year's SCVU14 C3 team finished near the bottom of its East U14 C3 league, so it earned a C3 slot this year. This year, SCV is fielding three U15 teams - One C1, one C2, and one C3. I think you have to conclude that the team playing this year at C1 is really a new team playing in a new slot.
I believe that at least six players, including the twin sons of the MYSA VP of Leagues, left the WBL Premier this season to join SCVU15. One more WBL player who consistently played "up" for the WBL Premier U14's last year followed the six WBL boys to join the SCV U15's this year.
What befuddles me is the sudden reversal inside of the Oct 6 meeting. In its first vote on the SCV team that evening, the DOC opposed the motion (to grant the new team C1 status) on the grounds of "club jumping or raiding". I certainly understand how this might be a concern since half of the new SCV team came from the old WBL team.
Here's where the mystery begins. For some unexplained reason the litmus test changed with a second vote. The second vote appears to have passed because "Facts as presented, including players listed on the petition form prepared by SCV, do not suggest that an intact team was club jumping. Granting of the petition places the team at C1".
If you look at the vote count, you'll see that "Casey" vote changed from "oppose" on to the first vote to "favor" on the second vote. Anybody understand why (s)he changed? More importantly why is this new SCV team being allowed to play C1 this year while the new Bangu team is being forced to play C3?
Ooh! Ooh! (arm raised high in the air) Pick me! Pick me!
Is the answer "politics"? What do I win?
Does MYSA act upon rule, precedent, or both? Has MYSA effectively now modified its rule or established the precedent that new teams must start as C3?
Why in the world do we have the DOC placing teams into what they believe are appropriate playing levels in the first place?
Most of these folks are little more than soccer moms and dads. We're all grateful for their volunteerism but they are being asked to perform a duty for which they are not qualified.
Most would be lost trying to evaluate talent at tryouts or run an 11 v 11 training session.
Yet we allow these people to place teams at their proper playing level when we have experts like Ian Barker and John Curtis on staff?
What's wrong with this picture???
Just look at the mess we're discussing.
The VP of Leagues kids are on essentially a new team and get placed at C1. (maybe they deserve C1 but let's be consistent)
Yet the Bangu girls team with 7-8 players from teams that earned a premier slot get placed in C3 because the club had the old coach listed on the petition?
It's all politics. Someone earlier mentioned appearance of impropriety. This is much more than just appearance.
It reeks.
It smells.
It stinks.
It's all politics. Loki wins the prize!
anon 854 - "what's wrong with this picture"
plenty when soccer people are not provided the ability to perform what is right for soccer in this state.
One correction - these people are not asked to perfrom these duties. Most of them, with a few exceptions, desire it. Only a few of them have the good of the whole as the top priority when making decisions.
and yet, still no one cares that MYSA hasn't released their financial statements for the past two-three years?
I ask all of you who have complained about the politics involved, the bias, the stink, to get involved.
These are volunteer positions. If you don't like the job others are doing, it is much, much more productive to get yourself involved to make change from the inside than to endlessly whine on a soccer blog.
New team tryouts are in about two months. Yes, mistakes were made, but let's stop looking back and start looking forward to the next season.
What changes will you make?
How can we be so petty in our complaints about everything MYSA.
When the former VP of Leagues was involved, we complained about her lack of knowledge of the game and no kids in the program, and how she was a dictator, etc. Now we have a person (MS) who volunteered to take over a thankless position and now we are bitching about his politics. So what if he has a kid in the C1 St. Croix program, wasn’t that of our qualifications for the job? So what if his sons teams get preferential treatment?
For the time this man spends, he should have three teams in C1 for all I care. After all, is he not trying to elevate the quality of soccer for all MN kids?
We have a good organization in MYSA and it may not be the best but one of the most admired in Region 2 if not the nation.
Did we give a big round of applause to the State Tournament Director for doing a good job streamlining the registration process this year?
Why can’t we sit back and thank these people for doing this never ending, thankless job and hope that we all have a place for ALL kids to enjoy the sport?
If we are not complaining about ODP, we are complaining about State cup, if we are not complaining about State cup, we are complaining about classification of teams.
I got up late this morning because my alarm did not go off. I blame that on MYSA.
I am not always supporting MYSA in everything but, when we travel and see other states how messed up things are, we better be thankful we have these people in MYSA to keep the sport going for all levels MN kids.
montypython - all things considered the MYSA return policy on that alarm clock is as good as Target's return policy. It should be a snap to exchange for a new one. I think an appointment is required to get the customer service you might require.
after that serious post you should be stripped of that moniker for a minimum of 3 games. Way too serious with hardly a cheese shop slice of humor in it at all - sorry fresh out.
monti - our state association does not have the good rep you suggest with those outside our state.
they also do not deserve all the beatings they take. they do deserve some of them, and deserve others that are not administered because folks choose to keep quiet. it will never be perfect, but that is not a good excuse for poorly administered programs and/or events
sweeper - to stop looking back dooms us to repeat mistakes. to shrug off ineptitude and corruption by suggesting or implying those with grievances should either volunteer or shut up is a ridiculous position.
i do agree that looking forward is important, but not to the exclusion of knowing and understanding our history
I agree with Monti, either volunteer or shut up.
anon 2:04 - So how many times do we need to look back? How many posts have there been regarding this Bangu team? How many more do we need? 100? 200?
I suggested it was time to stop looking back at this issue because I believe it has been looked back upon to death.
Nice moniker by the way; was Total Recall already taken?
Can't sweep this one under the rug. If the facts presented above are true MYSA should have an external organization look into its behavior and decision making and someone should be held accountable. It is easy to say, if you want to change things, go volunteer. I think as MYSA paying members, we are owed transparency and accountability. Can anyone substantiate the facts? Provide documents, emails, links, etc.?
anon 5:35pm your should be more appropriately named sour grapes
Life isn't fair, get over it. Your ability to dwell on the past, whine about things being unfair, and take on the whoa is me - victim attitude in general is a great example for your kids.
Why don't you take the first step by getting out from behind you ranonymous mask if you are demanding accountability.
Just another coward.
OK so far it seems that for the next AGM the rule changes are.....
All meeting minutes must be published within 30 days of the meeting.
All financial information must be made available online as soon as budgets are approved or within 30 days of being approved.
All position/reelection terms, by date, will be posted online.
All applications for teams to play at other than assigned levels will be approved by the Dorector of Coaching Staff.
All changes to MYSA rules, with the exception of those which apply to the physical health and safety of the player, become effective on the 1st day of the following soccer year. (eg. August 1st 200?)
Anything else.......
nope- I'm good to go
I do not think most of us are demanding much from MYSA when we ask for consistency. Last years complaints about State Cup, were regarding consistency. I think MYSA and the Tournament Director did an admirable job in listening to the complaints and bringing a ton of consistency back into the tournament. Which only illustrates it can be done.
I not sure anyone wants volunteers running MYSA who will curry favors for their children or even clubs. I would rather have volunteers running MYSA who are interested in developing/promoting soccer. Any volunteer organization that relies on or garnering volunteers based on how it will benefit themselves or their families is doomed. I do not think we even need to look far to see how destructive it can be, I sure many could name a number of teams and/or clubs who have fallen into this trap. So to say, because he has volunteer many hours it ok to do what ever you want is gutting any future MYSA. In fact, I think this has been a problem in various different forms for the past 5 years or so. A series of VP, Directors and whatever has been more interested in self-promotion and nepotism, then in true development of the programs and game. MYSA has paid for that thought process and behavior at the expense of true development and have even loss some quality volunteers because of lack of ethic or frustration in the decision processes.
So step up to the plate and volunteer you say, well it is not quite that simple is it. Rather you need to go in front of a group of about 500 or so individuals and convince them to vote you into POWER. Sometimes that has happen with name recognition, pretty speeches or just no one running against them. If no one runs against them, I agree we need to shut up and take it on the chin or put up. If they were elected by either name recognition or pretty speech, I think we should and can hold them to a higher standard. Regardless, I think asking for transparency and consistency is not too much to ask of any organization.
MN Futbol- it could be interesting and amusing to post a thread for ideas for rule changes, both tongue and check and serious. I even have one to start it out:
Recruiting-. Within 24 hours of birth, all players and or parents of player must declare the club where they intend to play soccer. If player was not born in Minnesota or United States within 24 hours of entry into the great state of Minnesota they must declare. All undeclared players will be put into a pool and assigned a club first based on locality and then on a rotating bases. At no time after the declaration period will the player or parents of the player wishes be taken into account in determining which club they will be assigned. Players may change clubs be must obtain a release from the club which can impose a exit fee on the player/players family. Players may not play for another club other than their birth club unless they receive an exit waiver.
always use to hate goalposts (not a goalie) but this goalpost has some attributes that I like
would there be a exit waiver ritual or sacrifice that would need to be done?
I’m thinking a fee structure as follows:
Age = Cost
0-5 yrs old = $100
5-7 yrs old = $200
8-12 yrs old = $400
12-14 yrs old = $500
15 yrs old = $600
16 yrs old = $700
17 yrs old = $800
18 yrs old = $900
The release fee would cover volunteer and administrative cost incurred providing the player release. Of course, the fee would have to go up to reflex time and energy invested into the player also.
LOLOLO I love it can I add it to my list.....?
Feel free, of course we will need a committee meeting to check the gramar and spelling. I'm sure it could be ready in a year or two. But at that time instead of bring it to the AGM, we could just pass it as an emergency measure and make it retro active to 1988. :)
In the spirit of the wonderful cynical humor, I would also like to offer the following items for consideration.
goal post, you forgot one proposed fee on your grid. May I suggest:
19 years old: priceless
tomass, yes, there would need to be a secret handshake developed [imagine being on *that* committee ;-)]
In addition, a current DNA sample would be required and would be integrated into the player pass if any questions about the true identity of the player arise.
A bar code could also be added to the player pass that, when properly scanned in triplicate, allows the player onto the pitch and doubles as a means to move to the front of the line at all TSA airport security checkpoints in the lower 48 states.
Also can be used for collecting Speedy Rewards points and restoring previously-docked cylinder points. :-)
Brilliant!
I like the fee structure - but .. once a player transfers to bangu - how much does the cc have to pay bangu to cover undoing years of parent coaching mistakes by the cc club.
you mean highly, multi- licensed, playing experienced parent coach's mistakes? naw no charge to bangu, it's ok if the bangu coaches learning something new.
if the cc had "highly, multi- licensed, playing experienced parent coaches" in most clubs - Bangu would lose 80% of its players
Oh man, my stomach hurts. Anon, 11:55AM, I just now stopped laughing at your post.
I know of at least two in CC United - one that would put most in Bangu to shame
There are coaches that have coached for both Bangu and CCs, sometimes simultaneously.
I'm pretty sure they are geniuses while they coach for Bangu, and bumbling idiots as soon as they coach a CC. Just one of those weird, unexplainable facts of life.
Either that or a majority of posters don't know what in Sam Hill they are talking about.
ha i luv how bangu ppl still think bangu can beat PSA U15(ma team) if ya still think tht bring it we aint scared we beat ya a lot of time nd wld luv to do it again...nd hope we win in regionals state was easy especially when we played bangu it was like we was playin C3 girls...
nd pliz keep our player out of tha whole thts y we winnin cause it aint true keep ma forward atakhlia out of this whole convo hes a great player but stop insultin our players(PSA U15 player)...thnx
ah yes our next generation of great writers and communicators.
Gentlemen, I don't believe your coach would approve the smack, either in content or structure.
please go back to first grade
unable to sleep knowing my 'favorites' list needed updating, i rediscovered this site earlier today.
324 posts on 'state cup' caught my eye...could it be?
nope.
more twists and turns than the 'texas giant' (one of the world's biggest WOODEN rollercoasters) starting with the 3rd post.
lol, keep up the good work.
'this is the ride i threw up on, clark'...
Would you expect any less on this blog?
Dear lord. JY, please cut down the number of times you train during the week so that some of your kids can catch up on their school work.
U19 Finals tonight at Coon Rapids.
On the boys side Eagan should handle Burnsville with ease. They just have too much talent for Burnsville.
Bangu Sota v Bangu Rengo on the girls side. A repeat of the last 2 years for these 87/88 girls.
This match should be a good one with teams who know each other well and players relatively fit from their D1 spring workouts.
Good luck to all.
ODP cancled.. Do not know if games will happen tonight.
Eagan minus Bradon Miller = a good game with Burnsville.
If Bradon doesn't play, look for a good match...if he does play, look for a lopsided game.
Anyone know the scores from the U19 games yesterday?
sota 2 rengo o
so, if my math is correct, i shiuld now hate bangu 8x more than MU, SCV and the others listed, and infinitely more than some that i used to be allowed to hate, like EP and Wings?\
can't i still hate those guys just a little?
Don't be hatin' that's just the way we roll.....
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