As winter tournaments and USYSA national league starts to ramp up, please use this post to keep us up to date on MN boys teams heading to warm soccer climates.
Bangu U17 boys and Shattuck teams are going to be in the CASL tourney over the weekend. Bangu U17boys are scrimmaging VU U18 boys tonight. Saw that Teal Bunbury is one of the top 25 recruits for this year.
Teal Bunbury is an excellent player. A real stud. I heard his younger brother is now playing for Bangu and also that Alex Bunbury now coaches in Bangu. Is that fact? Anyone?
U16 St. Croix Red Devils 1-2 vs. RiverPlatte Soccer (TXN) 1-0 vs. Ohio Select (OHN) 23 R3 4-1 vs. FC Blazers (MA) FINAL 0-2 vs. Lower Merion Velez (PAE) 16 R1
Shattuck-St. Mary's Sabres 3-1 vs. Charlotte SC Blue (NC) 29 R3 1-1 vs. FC Frederick (MD) 2-1 vs. Roanoke Star Elite (VA) 39 N 10 R2 FINAL 2-1 CESA FC (OS)
Good showing against other competetive teams,however,no team from Mn. beat a big team and probably travelled further to play slightly lesser competition than atop level midwet event.Shattuck are not a Mn team,they are teamsbased in Mn.Thats not a knock but a fact,they are an academy based here,no more,no less.
Shattuck 16s actually beat a nationally ranked team so I take that back{though not actually a Mn team}Proves that the Academy 16 group is doing well under coach Carl Craig
while the boys keep rolling on, at least 4 more girls left the program at winter break and went home - their turnover and poor retention rate on the girls side is only succeeded in numbers by its predictability. there is a reason U.S. soccer doesn't do residency on the women's side below the olympic (U23 team).
Shattuck is a model example of how a boys academy can thrive with the proper financial support, and why residency for girls is a poor idea no matter how much money you throw at it.
A small percentage of Shattuck players are from Minnesota. We can't really claim them as a Minnesota team. A good opportunity for our kids who don't mind attending a boarding school but it's not for everyone.
I do not think that the Shattuck U-17s played the TEXANS (who are #16) in Region 3. They played TFC or Texas Futbol Club who are not ranked either in R3 or Texas. The Bangu team played a tougher group by far.
who cares who they played - this isn't a competition of opponents...support both teams and hopefully everyone will get better in the next few months. A win or loss in early December means nothing - most teams are made up of guest players at these events anyway.
SSM isn't a MYSA club team. They recruit from across the US. MYSA clubs are much more limited in the players available to them. You really can't call SSM a Minnesota team as maybe 20% of their players are from MN. It's like comparing apples and oranges.
In regards to these college search events...many teams from areas all across the country do use guest players. I have no idea if either SSM or Bangu did for this event.
shattuck does not do guest players???? OF COURSE THEY DO. One of their favorite things to do is bring in "recruits" and woo them while they guest play. its more prevalent with the girls, who often need guest players just to field their second team, but the boys have done it in the past to.
but anyway, as is mentioned above - WHO CARES. Lots of teams use guest players. Also confirming - that was NOT a nationally ranked team the SSM 16s beat, it was an obscure nobody club from Texas. Texas FC and Texans FC are definitely not the same entity.
one thing SSM should do is be more clear, both girls and boys, when posting results. Case in point the girls are claiming a victory in NC over "Real Colorado" on their web site, but they fail to mention it was NOT Real Colorado Nationals (the top team), but rather the B team. they do this a lot and its kind of annoying. They also have Bangu listed on one of their winter tournament schedules, and its the SECOND team, yet it doesn't say Bangu White, just says Bangu. (which brings up the point, bangu and SSM in the same dome at the same time??? gasp)
I think that it is only right to make sure you get the best teams together to play scrimmages. Does SSM list who they are inviting to their "invitationals"?
there are schedules on the individual team pages. and the above poster is right, they rarely indicate WHICH level of team from a club they are playing, they just post a result - "we beat Sockers FC" and don't acknowledge when its a B team.
Get off Shattuck. They are a quality program and develop players well. My kids don't go to school there, nor have they ever. Shattuck has beat the U of M club team (minus a few players), tied and beat the Thunder reserves, tied and beat top men's amature team and tied and beat top U18 teams last year. The are good collection of 15, 16 17 and 18 year olds that play an aggressive and exciting brand of soccer. The also player without some of their top players from time to time as well and a significant number of their players are from MN.
there is a thunder reserves? wow I bet they are good.
8:35 I don't disagree with any of your points really, but none of them address the issues your defensive about either. I'm sure your kid doesn't go there and you certainly don't work there either. really.
i'd like to test this - can we get blackhawks, or wings, or... oh my god, bangu... to make nightly calls to convince players to leave their club and play for them, send out mass mailing, get ODP lists (somehow...) and use them as a recruiting database, etc etc etc. Can we get this clubs to actively get guest players as a means of attracting them to leave their current club? Can we do all this without major uproar within the MYSA community?
Once we can do that - test your theory, than I'll be satisfied that they play by the same rules.
I think you missed the recruit "nationally" part of the comment. When did the clubs you mentioned get someone from overseas to compete in the State Cup?
SSM can/will register in MYSA through the Faribault Soccer Club/Association.
They are a MN team as their players meet the residency requirements for MN State Cup.
They do not play by the same rules as other MN teams must in terms of recruiting.
Regardless, they should not be allowed to play in MN State Cup, as they take away an opportunity for MN players/clubs/coaches to experience high level competition, eventually helping to make MN players better. If USYS wants to allow SSM an automatic bid to regionals, so be it.
what the heck is this minnesota premiere soccer league??? that link just has a pretty much blank page that just says "starts operations in fall 2008." and how did the connection get drawn between it and SSM (gee whiz, I wonder)? either it has nothing to do with SSM, which for their sake I hope is true, or someone from inside there is posting here, which hope is true, because that would be HILARIOUS.
so now SSM is gonna lead the charge against minnesota club teams, AND high schools? how can a "premiere league" operate in fall without directly conflicting with MSHSL?
this smells something aweful, and the stench is easy to trace, I just hope he's not that stupid or arrogant.
As for the Faribault thing, no 'ifs' about it, they did it, its how they got into MWRL this fall. I can't believe people are just now noticing.
The MN premier league is a start to something new. We should all be supportive of a MN premier league and let's get SSM and the other non community based clubs to join.
This idea that we have a one horse town is ridiculous.
If we agree that MYSA is overblotted with community clubs and that MYSA is not addressing the needs of the elite players, then it is time to start something new.
MYSA has outlived its usefulness to the niche clubs.
With MYSA suing its membership, Ian Barker departing, and no change at the helm as at the last AGM, it is time for A CHANGE. (anyone) start something new.
The beginning will be rough but it will be the start of a new beginning. Afterall, competition is good and MYSA has become stale.
If it is Adolfo, you got lots of people who will join.
If it is not Adolfo, we still can join and let MYSA deal with Rec clubs.
oh dear lord... adolfo has one pilfered team from PSA and now he's going to run a new Premier league? Well, I guess it's a start.
MYSA cannot deal with the elite players AND cater to the 70K+ other non-elite members. Simple as that. No organization could when dealing with those numbers.
As for SSM, they can afford to piss off people in the MN soccer community because they don't need the people in the MN soccer community.
all community (PSA included) belongs to MYSA as they are not premiere and elite clubs. Bangu, wings, and other clubs wishing to aspire beyond the bonds of MYSA, should look at this as a start of something refresing in MN.
We can also blame the departure of Ian Barker on him either. Can't you see the writing on the wall? The Exec Dir knows nothing about soccer and neither does the Prez. There are there for the ride. They can't compete beyond putting up a state tournament in blaine. there's definite need for a change and since the heads at MYSA will not do it, I guess someone has to start.
All you people talking about Shattuck don't know anything at all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! For one, for those of you who think Bangu is anything comparable to Shattuck and specifically Shattuck's individual player talent, well, lets just say no one in Minnesota can compete with regional and national ODP player ran teams. The one problem with Shattuck is that the players they bring in are so good that it is hard for them to actually become a team, and consequently, that's why you see a few losses on their record. And as for whoever said Shattuck brings in guest players for events, well, you are obviously blowing smoke out of your *** cause they haven't and will not do that. They will only bring players in for practices and minor scrimmages/games.
So for all of you who think they know about Shattuck. Think again, I'll always be one up on you.
one of the worst posts I've ever seen. i know someone who guest played for SSM last year, and yes, it was part of his visit/recruiting pitch. guess you are one up on me eh.
you're right, they are so good they are too good. ha. you sound a little too much like an SSM players, there's not enough hint of maturity in your post for an adult, even though it really looks like you tried hard. "player ran teams?" the players run the teams? I think your emperor, er, sorry, coach would take exception to that.
as for the new league, good step if its done right. Most of the states in our region have leagues that are SANCTIONED but not RUN by their state association (I know, crazy eh) - see the Buckeye Premiere League or Michigan Premier Soccer League. This allows forward thinking clubs to work together to create better competition, and leaves backwards thinking clubs their own territory. I'll let you be the judge of who thinks forward and backwards.
There is talk again of a US Club Soccer League forming in fall of 2008. This could be a good thing for many teams and clubs. However why don't a few of the clubs get together and just form another league sanctioned by USYS so these teams could be eligible for State Cup and beyond? Illinois has 5 or 6 different leagues and all of the teams in these leagues have State Cup eligibility. Why can't we do this in Minnesota?
One of the constant reason I hear that MN doesn't have quality teams is because we don't have as large of a population base as a state like IL. If that true why wouldn't MYSA & USYA want and encourage people to form leagues? The more kids you get to play the larger soccer becomes in popularity, the more quality athletes play, the more exciting the game becomes.
If Illinois can support 5 or 6 leagues MYSA can support more than one league. Why don't a few clubs approach USYS and look into the possibility of another league in Minnesota? I would imagine there are several states with more than one league. How would a club pursue this?
If you go to USYS, they will refer you back to MYSA. When you call MYSA, they will laugh at you... Call the office and ask them how you can go about starting a league and affiliate the league with MYSA.
MYSA wants to control everything... Only show in town, only horse in the race, one-stop-shopping...
It's not about the MYSA catering to the high level clubs. They do not need to be catered to. What they need is a format different than what MYSA can give them. They could be a separate division of the MYSA and be very self sufficient without draining the resources for the masses.
I will say it one last time. Leadership is about moving soccer forward in all regards. Meeting once a year to pass new rules that 90 % of the membership have no clue why they are being brought forward or what long term impact some of the new rules might have.
BOB needs to be proactive. He is not. Getting the top CC clubs together with the top elite clubs to form some type of an accord was what was needed. Discussions, attempting to gain clarity of the parties in dispute and their concerns was what was needed. You just can't write in the quarterly newsletter that if you want to change things, submit a rule and have it submitted for a vote. That is not a leader.
The MYSA can't get their own house in order. Any one see published financial reports for the past two years? How about all those meeting minutes for the Executive committee or Youth Council. Why not go to a pod cast at this point of time. It's not that hard or expensive to do.
Thats probably why many want to get a US Club Soccer league going.
It would be in MYSA's best interest to allow another league under their umbrella rather than have US Club Soccer siphon away teams and all the dollars associated with them...wouldn't it?
Maybe thats the way to get a new league going under MYSA umbrella?
Have a group of clubs approach them and give an ultimatum. Form a new USYS eligible league or we'll start a US Club Soccer league?
i disagree about the comment on top about Carl Craigs Teams sucess, hes a very talented coach,and coaches team well, but didnt they lose two straight in a row against that U17 champlin team?
As far as Carls team goes I dont think sucess is measured by two scrimmages against CD.I think going unbeaten at CASL was a good measure inc. beating a nationally ranked team.CD is a u17 team that topped the premier div. Some Coaches use scrimmages for different things,winning is low on my list in a scrimmage,very low.
mnfutbol start another blog for MN "new" league formation. If this topic gathers some momentum, we could change the MN soccer landscape in a few years.
Anon 8:12, You're absolutely correct. Massapequa is the #12 ranked team in Region 1. This tournament doesn't have staged flights based on team strength.
The Disney Showcase is absolutely a tournament with staged flights based on team record/strength.Bangu is in the lowest flight and will not be playing any games in the Disney Complex unlike the teams in the Showcase and some teams in the Predator flights.The only time they might play in the complex is for the championship match.Coaches mainly watch games being played in the complex and typically, a team has to be in the top 20 nationally and top 10 in the region to be invited to the top 2 tiers.Wings U18 Boys premier last year played in the showcase because they were ranked 5th in the region and 20th nationally.As a result, they had to play the # 1 team in the nation (Solar TX) and #7 (NY KOSMOS)and an all star team from Kendall Fl.
If you read through the recently updated rules around player eligibility and team eligibility for state cup, you will see that many restrictions for MRL and State Cup have magically been removed. Funny how MYSA never seems to publish the delta or changes to MYSA or MRL rules.
The above poster is correct that Shattuck does have teams registered with Fairbault. They also have at least 1 MRL team registered, which will make them eligible to play state cup (I believe at U18.) MYSA will say that they just passed their request for a MRL spot on the the MRL-committee and that MRL committee let them in...hhhmmm
I'm sure, like always, the MN-whinner clubs, will try to pass rules to stop this from happening. I believe MYSA will probably say that the membership can not pass rules on MRL participation and State Cup as they are USYSA events. Of course everyone knows that if the Shattuck teams had registered with Bangu (or with the Wings 2 or 3 years ago), MYSA would not have allow them to play in MRL, which would have kept them out of state cup.
If all of the Shattuck teams stick around to play State Cup and do not return to their home-state club teams, I don't think any of the existing U18 teams have a chance in hell against the Shattuck team.
The bright spot from this occurance is that maybe the boys teams will finally start to consolidate talent at 15, 16 or 17 so that they can compete with the U18 allstar teams that Shattuck will place at U18 every year. Who knows, Shattuck may do the same at U16.
Ultimately it will mean that MN will be more competative at regionals for boys U17 and U18. So I applaud Shattuck's resourcefulness and MYSA sneakyness.
yeah, sneakiness, thats what you want to applaud a state association for. Its corruption or favoritism, you pick.
finally - STOP SAYING THE SSM U16s BEAT A NATIONALLY RANKED TEAM IN NC - THEY DID NOT. They beat TEXAS FC (not ranked anywhere) not TEXANS FC, which is the nationally ranked team.
sure- or just claim you got results you didn't get, like tell people you beat a nationally ranked team... when you didn't. then when people call you on it just respond with "stop whining. go get the results on the pitch."
8:16 - you know who the coaches at Disney DEFINITELY aren't going to watch? the teams are aren't even there in any flight. I can promise you that.
Fact - they beat Roanoke Star from Virginia, oh look, they are nowhere in the national rankings. I scoured the top 50, no roanoke star.
I looked over the Region I rankings, no Roanoke Star.
FINALLY I found them - ranked #2 in Virginia.
Nothing better then when someone posts complete rubbish, and then concludes their post with the word fact. There is only ONE team from Virginia ranked nationally, Great Falls is ranked a whooping 29th, and is #1 one in Va, and as is stated isn't even the team SSM played. I've never even heard of the other teams they played.
Take a better look,they are #11 in Region 1,#2 in their State but HAVE been dropped off the National list,they were #39 going into CASL.Ironically they are one spot above Massapequa in Region 1. What do you mean"As is stated"You were the one rambing on about Texas,wrong State oh blinkered one!Facts ar facts,I am merely reproducing what I read,the results and rankngs.I see no Texas FC in the SSM 16 schedule,do you?
As far as the other teams they played that you have not heard of,CESA of Ohio,they are another good team,they won Javanon Cup,PSA Eagles were there but didnt get to the final so it must of ben a god entry.Now these are u16{u15 in Spring 07}do you even have the right age group?Still lokng for them Texans?
The thread about the Texas FC club referred to a team that the SSM U17B team played, not the U16s. The Bangu U17B team played a tougher schedule at CASL and did not lose a game. 2W and 1D is not bad against 2 top 25 R3 teams and a top 50 R1 team.
Who gives a rip about SSM? They aren't even a MYSA club and they recruit nationally. It's apples and oranges. And for recruiting nationally their teams aren't very good considering the players available to them. Don't know if it's the talent or coaching but a team/club/school recruiting nationally should be producing better teams. This is more about the boys teams on this blog but their girls program is falling apart. Sounds like about 6 more girls are leaving.
The fact of the matter is SSM launched their boys program with MN talent. They then promoted their players at ODP Regional Camp as well as recruited heavily. They now have recruited an ODP Regional Coach to their program. They have all been able to do this because in MN the boys have not had good programs that offer good coaches, no politics and good facilities, which attracts high quality player. Where as, MN girls do have a Club with excellent coaches and excellent facilities (I will not comment about the politics as I do not know how they operate). Because MN Girls have been able to offer those opportunities to their talent, it makes SSM unable to attractive the top talent away from their homes, families and Club teams. Therefore, SSM has been unable to launch their girls program to the same degree as the boys.
As far as SSM program, at $40K a year, I think the U16 should have been able to beat CP. Remember CP beat them the first time with perhaps one or two practices and with a new coach. SSM had been going for a couple of months at least. CP a good team but I would guess the cost of their program is $2K.
I do not think SSM program is good for MN or US as it makes soccer more and more of elitist sport. Either the boys playing there have a silver spoon firmly placed within their mouth or have been regionally or nationally identified. (With the silver spoon players paying the bill) While some parents may, resent this ideology, the fact of the matter is the price tag on this program makes it only available to a special few. Nevertheless, the program will continue to succeed for a couple of reasons: One MYSA will always follow the money and rarely with buck dollar. Two, they now have a regional ODP coach on staff to help them sell their kids at regions as well as letting parents think that exposure will help their child’s chances of making ODP Regions. What parents should ask, from that original U17 team how many of those boys are still at SSM? Why are they no longer in SSM program?
that question is an even better indicator of how HORRIBLE the retention on the girls side has been - guess how many originals are still in the girls program or have graduated all the way through? I'll give you a hint, stick your hand in your snowblower and you will STILL be able to use your fingers to count.
wow 5:27 - that was really impressive, and never been done before on this site, how you turned that on him... I feel as though I've really come across something special there.
I am amazed that people still like to say that CC is a good or great coach. Carl can be a nice guy. He is a good trainer, but a marginal-at-best coach. His teams consistenly underachieve as he has limited ability to put players in appropriate positions or make game time adjustments. Players and parents typcially loose respect for him within a season or two. He is opportunistic and finds ways to inherrit quality teams. It is no surprise that a decent CDA team can beat his allstar team. He also tied some HS JV teams this past fall with the same group of allstars.
Yes, but look he is now coaching at SSM. Like attract to like I believe the saying goes.
Anon 5:27- It was definitely a bit of a whine, the last line was a pun, I was trying to be humorous. Someone once told me that puns were the worse kinds of jokes, I guess they were right. Believe me; I was drinking something a lot stronger, which may have had something to do with the whine. :)
Training 5-6 days a week against quality competition and playing regional and national ranked opponents will help their ODP and college aspirations. The fact that it is at Shattuck just gives them a better chance at a quality education as well. They could go to Bradenton (sp) FL instead and play in a warmer climate, but suffer educationally. CC will do OK at Shattuck as the previous poster said he is a good trainer and a poor coach. The training will make the players better, region and college coaches know CCs limitations and will forgive the frequent poor results.
Anon 3:19 Ahh, yes a education. How much does the education cost and how much does the soccer cost.
Even then they've created an elite class that is only available to a select few. Does this create the best students, soccer players or citizen? I don't think so and I'm sure this is my biggest problem with their program. Good educations, good soccer training and access to high education becomes available only to a select few. The rich get richer the poor get poorer, the middle class disappears and so does the great american dream. yadda yadda yadda, nothing I or even us in MN can do about it the deck is already stacked, we all lose.
If CCs a good trainer but a poor coach why does he have such pull with the ODP Regional staff?
He doesn't. But since you brought it up...ah yes, the Region 2 staff...back slappers, favor do'ers, they all bend over for each other...if the US is serious about a national development program, they need to start with firing the vast majority of the Regional coaches and staff...burn it to the ground so new life can start
Max, Agreed...let SSM have their own blog. They aren't part of the high school soccer league in Minnesota. They recruit like a Division 1 men's collegiate program...something our high schools and youth clubs aren't allowed to do. They aren't a club registered with Minnesota Youth Soccer. And they aren't involved in collegiate or professional soccer here in Minnesota. They're a different animal and should not be discussed in same context as our high school league and MYSA clubs and teams.
kinda of wish people would quit saying SSM isn't an MYSA club, when they are participating in state cup - at least thats what they've told all their kids.
anon 11:25 Shattuck is NOT registered as a MYSA club. Do a little homework. They are fearful of having to adhere to MYSA policies and play by same rules as the MYSA clubs so they have not applied for membership.
anon 12:31 Then it would be appropriate to refer to them as Faribault as Shattuck (as mentioned earlier) does not have teams registered with MYSA. Also, Shattuck can't register teams with Faribault. They may register players with the Faribault club.
Posted this in the wrong thread. Here it is again.
I agree. I like the idea of changing SSM's name in the MN soccer world to Faribault Shattuck, and hence will refer to them as such from now on in all my conversations - both here and in the real world. I hope others do likewise.
Other than that, I say they do what they want for the players interested. The masses don't have to like it, and probably won't.
So Faribault has become a surrogate for SSM to shield the school from having to adhere to MYSA rules and regulations? I'd heard the Shattuck staff was a bit slimy. This confirms it.
I can't BELIEVE MYSA has let this slide. Wait a minute, what I am talking about? Of course I can... they are too focused on Bangu, deal with all the complaints against Bangu, and my bet is Bangu is the main complainer against Faribault Shattuck. MYSA has to listen to the majority - regardless of what may be RIGHT.
It comes down to ethics here, not rules. MYSA is going to allow an organization that can recruit nationally to compete in their State Cup against teams that have no ability to form teams the same way Faribault can. I know, I know... you'll say this is not an MYSA thing but a USYS issue. It doesn't change the fact that MYSA will not go to bat for the rest of MN in this and have effectively turned a blind eye to the goings on in the south. It's ridiculous and people will be called out in time.
"MYSA has to listen to the majority - regardless of what may be RIGHT."
This is a prime example of why Minnesota youth soccer is screwed up and will remain screwed up until there is wholesale change in the MYSA Youth Council AND the MYSA staff.
Ian's departure is not going to help matters either.
I don't think the staff at MYSA office has anything to do with the current lack of leadership in MYSA. The problems lie with the elected officials and their lack of vision and leadership.
I think the previous poster said that MYSA would say it was a USYSA decision/issue. For years MYSA had a superset of rules (extra restrictions) for eligibility. They have finally relaxed them, which should benefit everyone.
I have been involved with Bangu for years. To my knowledge nobody from Bangu is officially complaining about the Shattuck FBT partnership. I think we know that if we had tried to pull this off MYSA and the CCs would have done everything possible to stop it. The result is good for competative MN soccer.
Shattuck should have the U18 boys state cup locked up. As previously suggested, maybe Wings, Bangu, Blackhawks, EP and others will finally find a way to cooperate on the boys side to put together top boys teams to play together by U15 or so. The Bangu girls and Woodbury (and previously SCV) have been able to accomplish this on the girls side through better cooperation. Better to have 1 or 2 excellent teams at each age group representing MN at regionals, top tournaments and showcases than 3 good teams + 3 very average teams + 3 poor teams.
by allowing SSM in, MYSA has cut their own strings on recruiting rules - hope they can live with that. Now wings, bangu, blackhawks, or ANYONE has the right to pick up the phone on a nightly basis and call players from other clubs, pitching them to leave and join them. These clubs can also pass out cards at events, bring kids in to guest play and spend the whole time convincing them to leave their club, its ALL FAIR GAME NOW.
Don't like that? too bad. it is what it is. Shattuck does all these things (don't bother arguing the point, my house was called repeatedly for nearly two years and I still have the "recruiting cards" handed to me at regionals) and so can everyone else now. pandoras box was opened the minute MYSA endorsed (not allowed, endorsed) SSM for the midwest regional league and allowed this Faribault nonsense.
Speaking of MWRL - did anyone notice how the rule, written in plain, non-cryptic english, about how teams MUST compete in the previous year's state cup to be eligible for MWRL at any level - simply VANISHED right before the divisions were announced and included SSM.
Disney showcase update- Arsenal Supereagles U16 B 0-2(allowed 7 while scoring 1) /now 0-5 in the National League.They will be lucky to win one game in Disney and could end up winless in the USYS NATIONAL LEAGUE.Bangu U16 is also 0-2 in Disney but more competitive since they are in the lowest bracket with state premier teams.Reality check for both clubs in terms of how they stack up with the big boys!
The Super Eagles are no longer "Super". They lost their top 2 players and those 2 were difference makers. It's too bad their coach didn't allow the team to merge with Bangu and allow Storlien to coach the combined group as was planned. It could have been an amazing team.
The problem with that scenario is MONEY! Dan Storlein's success with the girls program does not guarantee the same results with the boys and he is going to be expensive! Factor in the fact that that the talent you refer to are SCHOLARSHIP players plus a few more and you could have a real big mess in the making.Super eagles still have Paul Yonga and he will not need Bangu to be recognized as a bonafide D1 prospect.
Anon 3:03, You're right. Yonga won't need help getting a scholarship...it's the next group of players who would benefit from better training and playing on a stronger team. But that's no longer an option for those "D1/D2 bubble" players.
The clubs have always been able to pick up the phone. Nothing stops or prohibits recruiting. MYSA calls out "unethical recruiting" as a no-no, not recruiting all together.
Would offering someone $35,000 a year scholarship to play soccer be considered unethical if the Blackhawks, Wings or Bangu did it? We know the Minnesota kids playing soccer there weren't brought in because they had outstanding GPA's. Just a little food for thought.
The are not offered money to play soccer. They are offered assistance based on need, achievement and extra curriculars. How is the scholarship component any different different from AHA, Tontino, Cretin, Blake, Breck, and the list goes on.
oh grow up... they aren't offered money to play soccer. are you serious???? you HAVE to be kidding.
At least TRY to make an intelligent argument. There is a big difference between be given that kind of scholarship money to play club soccer versus 1/3 of that (I think Blake is by far the closest in cost to SSM, and is still 15g less) to go to a traditional high school.
also a terrible post - the one about "ethical recruiting." so then how does MYSA define that? let me give you an example - a player is told if they come to an "un-named" school that they can stay with their club and will be released regularly to play with them, then when they arrived they are pressured to quit that club and never released to play with them??? would THAT be unethical?
The Minnesota kids playing soccer at SSM have been recruited for their soccer ability, not for their academic achievment. I know several of the kids and they aren't what you would call "top 10% of their class".
The other difference is that AHA, Totino, Cretin, Blake, Breck aren't putting teams of kids from all over the USA and Canada into Minnesota State Cup tournament and using a surrogate to help them gain entry.
Whoever used the term "slimy" earlier in this thread hit the nail on the head.
Please...my kid goes to SSM..I never received 10 post cards or multiple phone calls..what is your problem?...My kid also came from a good suburban school (top 10%) and found the academics at SSM to be much more difficult..
Anon 9:27, If your kid goes to SSM then you should know the new crop of Minnesota players who arrived there this fall are not top 10% students and are there solely because of the soccer ability and had nothing to do with their academic achievement. I'm not going to name names but you know of whom I speak. And you know more than one player falls into this situation. To try to tell those of us who know the situation otherwise is a laugh and you destroy your credibility.
That would be "their" grades not "there" grades. That would be honor "roll" not honor "role". That would be "too" personal not "to" personal. That would be "sounds" not "sound's". (no apostrophe necessary as "sounds" isn't possessive)
Might you be one of those "student athletes" at SSM to bolster the soccer program but lacking a bit on the academics or just some parent trying to justify the slimy aspect of SSM and their involvement in MYSA via their surrogate?
just because someone realizes its classless to attack high school kids by name on here doesn't mean their point isn't valid. Don't give any names - we know its true.
As for SSMs "higher academics." at some point, just for kicks, take a look at their staff's academic resumes up against the typical PUBLIC school, let me know how that turns out would ya? No sensational claims here, try it out for yourself, reach you own conclusions.
I want to know what happened to MN Premiere League website? I think we need something different in MN. MYSA is a monopoly and things have to change. Either SSM enters the race and runs the show, MN Thunder starts something new and runs the show or another show in town that competes with MYSA.
To tell you they are so bureaucratic, the DOC has on their website a new 14 page outline of procedure and standards. what the heck is this? Is the fifity something page rules manula not big enough?
Oh Bob show some leadership, and change the organization!
Wow Anon...thanks for the lesson.. I didn't realize I was being graded! Like I said..your great at politics and correcting bloggers!
You should start your own Blog..SSM hater...let's see if I can summarize for you.. 1. SSM is horrible for the kids that choose to go there. 2. SSM is obviously sub-par in academics. 3. SSM is breaking all msysa recuriting rules. 4. Kid's really don't like to go there. 5. SSM is bad for youth soccer.
Sorry for any mispellings...do me a favour love..correct any that you see and please feel free to add to the list.
Now, anyone have any insight for the spring season?
anon 8:57, I think the point that people are making in this thread is that SSM is getting around MYSA rules and regulations by using Faribault as their way to become involved with MYSA and State Cup. And many still are mystified that Faribault-SSM were allowed in MWL despite the teams not playing in last years State Cup. The rule is pretty specific in that issue. Shouldn't all teams and clubs play by the same set of rules? You seem pretty defensive on the topic. Why is that?
Question. I do not have kids at SSM. I have kids who could play there, as I am sure many of you do, but we won't let them leave home. We would miss them too much, plain and simple, but that is just us (we can understand why others make different choices). Anyway, what is the problem of SSM playing in MRL or state cup or wherever? Why is this such a big deal? I am sure that my kids will play on teams that fall to them in state cup, but so what? What is unfair about them competing? I do mean to antagonize anyone, I really just wonder what the issue is.
Many issues 10:13 my friend; recruiting - they can recruit from the US. Is the state cup team then MN kids or not? state boundaries - I bet your son can't play across state lines for state cup Is ssm a high school or not high school - do they play by high school rules or not? if ssm is an 9-5 entity striving to provide soccer at the highest level, then state cup is not for them. Can any kid tryout for ssm without having to fork out the 30K An academic insitution of high learning - with high school kids then they should also play HS rules.
many issues with the whole thing. I like to see them compete but do it at another tournament...
Yes, I understand totally the high school league thing. SSM clearly have opted out of the MN high school league, so that one does seem a no-brainer (I didn't realize that was an issue).
As for club soccer, which is I guess what I am more curious about, I think for me the only one that really sticks out is the MN boundary issue. If SSM can compete in state cup with players who wdn't be eligible for club teams, then it really should not happen. That doesn't seem right.
As for the other stuff, I guess my kids' club recruits; my kids' club trains year-round; my kids' club already competes against clubs that have more financial resources and who travel more than my kids' club does. So it just seems that SSM is in many ways just a more intensely committed club.
Anyway thanks again for helping me understand the issue better. I prefer these exchanges to some of the others I see on here.
A little reality check folks. There are big dollars involved down at SSM. Both in how they throw $35K scholarships around like candy and the salaries paid to folks heading up the soccer program. People trying to protect their jobs are willing to spread the wealth a bit to get their way. It might be to bend the rules a bit or to get a rule or bylaw overlooked. We're not talking MSHSL here or typical youth club soccer run by volunteers. We're talking big bucks and people protecting their jobs. It's more like what goes on at big time D1 college football and basketball. You keep your job if you can elevate the program and that means winning something of significance. So let's quit beating around the bush and tell it like it is.
let's also be realistic soccer is not in the same class as the big 3.5 sports.
if ssm wants to start spending megabucks on something with little ROI - more power to them - give them one year and the admin will say your soccer $$$ is gone.
if there was big time $$$ in soccer, then the schools would have increased their scholarships for boys from 9.5 scholarships to say maybe 11 or 12?
schools like SSM wants to make money and if they don't see ROI, the program folds.
I don't know if anyone has ever pretended that SSM is anything other than what is described above. Anyone who has looked at the place sees the price tag. And it is obvious that they will recruit and subsidize players. I personally want no part of that experience for my kids, but I don't see the point of demonizing them. What I am really trying to figure I guess is who has the axe to grind with these people? Is it Bangu-related people because SSM spends even more cash and recruits even harder (that is not a shot even if it seems so)? Is it Thunder-related people because of the well-documented academy issue? As a neutral, I don't see the problem. In fact, it would seem good for the state's overall soccer resume to have a place like SSM here. I am sure I am missing something.
In addition to the fact Shattuck isn't playing by the same rules there is also this issue: SSM only has 3-4 Minnesota kids on their teams. If their teams happen to win State Cup do we want a team with 80% of the players from other states representing Minnesota at Regions? That would be pretty embarrassing. Are there any other states that allow this to occur?
the AXE being grinded comes from the fact that they are entering a realm they aren't welcome in - ie state cup. they're perfectly neutral as long as they are just going to tournaments, events, etc - but the second they start competing for USYS titles while playing by a totally different set of rules and standards its going to piss people off. watch, this will intensify after they win the state cup destroying minnesota teams with non minnesota players - THEN it will hit a national scale of outrage when they go to regionals/nationals with a nationally recruited team, a serious competitive advantage over everyone else.
you wouldn't allow an Olympic swimmer to wear fins would you?
I agree with the 3:03 post - why don't they just enter the US Academy thing and everyone can be happy? Or better question, why didn't they get in (I heard, unconfirmed rumor I must admit, they got denied).
Does anyone know if you must attend Shattuck to be on Faribault's U18 team or do they have open tryouts? I'd hate to think they limit it to just the kids at the school. Can anyone from Faribault tell me when they hold tryouts for their MWL teams?
they use SSMs facilities a lot, they probably worked out some back room deal where SSM registers with them so they can circumvent MYSA and USYS rules in exchange for facility use, clinics, whatever.
doesn't take much imagination to figure out that partnership.
It makes sense for Faribault soccer club. Faribault Shattuck can offer a number of services to help the Faribault soccer club. My question is whether or not the currnet Faribault board members understand the real motive that Faribalut Shattuck is gunning for here, and if the board is OK with being a knowing part of it. This is the stuff that people don't think about now but will for sure come out in the end.
Show up at the meeting on 2/2/08 and ask the "little general" why SSM is in!
Also, go to the DOC meeting and ask the question there. Make sure you s-p-e-a-k s-l-o-w-l-y and don't use any acronyms or any big words. Instead of MWL or MRL, make sure you say Midwest League or Midwest Regional League (slowly). They may still not know what you are talking about, but it may increase your chances of being understood...
The DOC has no say on MRL...only MYSA league play. The state coaching dir. and MRL rep recomend teams. It seems to me the bigger voice is leaving MYSA.
The issue isn't with MYSA allowing them in. The real issue is with MWL. Teams that are in MWL are eligible for State Cup. But to be eligible to play in State Cup according to MWL rules the team should have played in State Cup. It's a bit confusing but it was MWL who let SSM skirt the rules not MYSA. That's not to say it isn't a bit slippery the way they're using Fariabault be their conduit to MYSA.
The issue isn't with MYSA allowing them in. The real issue is with MWL. Teams that are in MWL are eligible for State Cup. But to be eligible to play in "MWL" according to MWL rules the team should have played in State Cup. It's a bit confusing but it was MWL who let SSM skirt the rules not MYSA. That's not to say it isn't a bit slippery the way they're using Fariabault be their conduit to MYSA.
"So if you want to play on the "Faribault U18 team" you must go to school at SSM? Why would the Faribault club allow that?"
You must be from Apple Valley, Eden Praire, Eagan, Burnsville, Wayzata, or one of the other big whinner CCs who constantly complains about anyone putting together a competative team. Your "its not fair" is so old...it's not fair that you have the income you have, the school facilities you have, the park facilities you have, the influence you have...get a life! While you are out in your pristine-white suburb, the city people are paying high taxes for less service and carrying the underprivilaged. Do I wish you would carry your fair share? Of course I do, but I pay the extra everyday anyway, because the less fortunate are less fortunate.
Shattuck is helping some less fortunate kids get access to college through a strong focused education and developing their soccer skills for the college game.
You and your kid can't always be the center of attention....it's not fair!
Shattuck did play by the rules. Other states allow combined teams and non-permenant state residents to play. Several MN kids have played on other states teams where they attended school (and this meets the specific residency requirement from USYSA.) MN used to have many additional rules, but they finally relaxed them...which is good for kids and the game.
It all comes down to this. Why was this rule overlooked or thrown aside for SSM?
2.02 State Cup Requirement Any team making application to the MRL must have competed in the State Cup competition during the past seasonal year and must participate in its respective State Cup competition during the current seasonal year.
Anyone? Did they play by this rule?
Nobody is saying they can't play. Just let them follow the same process and requirements as the other clubs follow. Once they've paid their dues then so be it.
underprivileged. whoa, can't say that is even remotely accurate. most of their scholarships go to regional odp kids, or there abouts that level, most of those families are upper (some very upper) middle class. yes there are some exceptions of kids there who really NEED the money, but make no mistakes they give based on ABILITY as well and for most of the kids there they are just making the privileged MORE privileged.
saying anything else is just making yourself into a fool, only the supremely ignorant would believe SSM is plucking out inner city kids, stealing them from crack dealers and making them college soccer players. I know most of those kids and for the majority mom or dad is "Dr. so and so" or owns a business, or is the U.S, ambassador to a Balkan country (that kid is AWESOME by the way, what a player!)
So please do the blog a favor yourself, stop with the delusional Mother Teresa posts about SSM.
who said anything about mother teresa?..are you telling me all of these kids are regional odp players?..what's your point?..no one here is in denial about ssm offering opporotunities(scholarships to you) for kids that otherwise could not afford to go there...just like...hmmm..I believe Harvard...but for you..like that opportunity you missed at the local cc.
ssm offers 30K scholarship and Bng and Wngs offers 1K scholarship. what's the difference. both have not won regionals on the boys side yet. bring in a new player with deep pockets - just like the MN thunder. get rid of mediocrity in name of elite soccer. ssm will be shamed if they don't win nationals with their approach. not bad for a mn team - not a mn club. check out ohio and brad freidel is starting an academy - don't tell me they will not allow him to play state cup in OH. MN wake up and smell the coffee -
anon 12:39. Shattuck did bring in a few Minnesota boys this year that in no way, shape or form could possibly afford to attend Shattuck. But let's not kid ourselves, these players weren't recruited for their academic prowess or because SSM wanted to offer a few random underprivileged students a better educational opportunity, but solely for their soccer ability as they are regional/national caliber players. That is their choice and right to do so. Hopefully these boys will benefit from the structured academic regiment as well as from the soccer program. Time will tell and we wish them well and hope they find the boarding school environment to their liking. But let's not kid ourselves why these players were recruited by SSM.
I can hardly wait for the day when a Wisconsin team affiliated with MYSA (e.g. River Falls, Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire, etc.) wins Minnesota State Cup and sends a whole roster of Cheeseheads to regionals.
no need b. favre because WI has national championships under their belt. They don't need MYSA to be successful. I guess Brett F is from MS that's why ytou don't know that WI has several championship clubs - Madison 56's, Milwaukee Bavarians, to name a few. Have you seen the WI youth assoc running the messy org like we have? River falls and Eau claire are here for the rec program. You want competition, they send their kids to Madison and Milwaukee.
I can hardly wait for the day SSM will win nationals and make us MN proud.
dude, at 30K a year, I don't know many people how CAN afford to go there, but lets not start calling the upper middle class "underprivileged" because without soccer they couldn't afford 30K a year for high school.
personally, I think their soccer program is wonderful, but I'd never send my kid there because of the academics. just because you say something is top of the line doesn't make it so. one poster a month or so ago said "look closely at their academics and make up your own mind." I did. Its my opinion and nobody can tell me I'm wrong for having it, and if you want to tell me I'm right you can shove off to, because even if you agree I still don't care.
I agree with the mentioned poster. Look, CLOSELY, then make your judgments. Don't just drink the cool aid.
They went 0-7 scoring 2 goals while giving up 19.Unfortunately, 4 of those games were in Disney.Clearly a team that was way overmatched. They limp back to the MRL and frankly, they will struggle!
How about the SE making it to national soccer landscape? Can you believe a MYSA boys team that did not exist a fews years ago and playing under PSA (great CC) is now considered one of the top teams in the nation? Give them credit for making it that far. If you were ranked number 4 and number 16 nationally, I am sure others will be gunning for you-right?
Playing as one of the eight best teams in the country is no easy feat and these boys were competing not only against the top players but the top clubs.
Hey, I would like to bash teams, players, and coaches but, not when they make it to the top through hard work and dedication. How about someone chiming to say they were playing outdoors against Texas and California teams?
I don't see any other MN team even coming close.
won't you agree that the other MN teams would not have done any better and SE is still the team to contend with?
SE was in the national league bracket which is equal to the 3rd bracket. The brackets are showcase, predator and copa. The national league bracket is equal to copa.
In recent times, the highest ranked boys team from MN was the Bangu 19s #9 national ranking during the summer of 2006. They were the only team to beat the eventual national champs that year. You can't give Bangu all the credit though as there were some players from St. Croix on that team. The next closest was the Wings 18s last spring, before MRL. I believe they were #16 nationally and a very good team.
SEs ranking will drop based on their result at Disney and their poor showing in the National League.
anon 7:11 You are completely wrong. The National League supercedes all the brackets at Disney and is a league of top national teams which play a league schedule over the winter. Their round robin game schedule is designed to coincide with key showcase tournaments for the benefit of college coaches. Just look at the teams and their rankings. Just because the Disney website listed them at the bottom does not mean they were the lowest flight, but since I'm sure your team was in Orlando you probably already knew that.
Fed up with coaches who bring their team to showcase events and then don't give all their players a chance to play because their egos are bigger than a Buick.All they really care about is their won/loss records and the heck with the players. Minnesota has too many of these egotistical coaches.
The Super Eagles glory days are over. They ended when the few true Super Eagles flew to other teams. They had a great run but the team has changed dramatically and are now just another good team. They're not super and they're not special. Their 15 minutes is up.
I've always maintained the SE are more than just a 2 horse team and I believe I will be proven correct when they win state cup for a third straight time this year.
The top U16 age group boys teams are weaker than last year. Super Eagles lost their best players. Bangu lost some of their best players. Too bad the big egos got in the way of the best players getting together on one team. The entire age group is watered down and the best teams now are weaker than the top 2 teams from last year.
Everyone also needs to keep in mind that SSM players in the past have migrated back to their club teams for State Cup (Super Eagles will be at full strength).
hey anon-showcase does not mean equal playing time. the team is either winning or losing and your son would be on the field if he was good to be on the field. the fact that he is on bench and not getting playing time means he bring nothing to the team. i think any coacfh would be foolish not to play good players and would even be so foolish to play a terrible player in a show case event.
at the showcase level, the coaches are expecting to see good players not role players.
where does your child fit - role player or impact player?
that's the question to ask.
regarding watering down the U16, it is very sad when we say two players made up the U16 age group. the relative strenght of the age group is still there and SE elevated the standards to a new heights.
quit your hatred and go to starbucks and smell the real coffee. this is not folgers anymore!
anon 1103: where did these players go? isn't that what coaches should do- give their players a chance to move on to bigger things? these players I am sure went to bigger and better things. we all should be proud that MN sent players to a new level? what's wrong with that?
I am assuming the 2 studs being referred to are attackers who did well in JY's boot and scoot style. SE will probably still dominate in the MN state cup but the real test will be the MRL when, they start playing Magic,Sockers,already lost to the Wind, along with Vardar and the Wolves, just to name a few.When a team is allowing 19 goals in 7 games,could the real issue here be DEFENSE? JY was a big proponent of skills,fitness and conditioning but it could also be that at this level,SE may not have the same coaching credentials and experience.The teams they played in Disney were the big boys mostly from region 3 but Region 2 had some superclubs that were in the showcase bracket.SE will be happy to be back in Minnesota to regroup but their aspirations to be a regional or national powershouse is now a long shot at best!
anon 1:35 - as if there has been any coach with the credentials to take a team to this level? who are these coaches with the style? why have they not done it? can it just be that no matter who or when, MN teams can't compete on national stage and JY was dumb enough to think MN was competitive?
if MN thunder or gophers women soccer can't compete nationally, why do you think there is a coach who can make it happen - too bad there is not enough JYs out there - stick your neck out JY for shots -from bangu and wings parents.
how about an inferior state of MiNd! to think that competing for national title in national league is equal to Disney is a statement only someone from MN would make.
there are no great coaches in MN - none has done anything at national level for us to sing their praises.
how does one explain a team with inferior coaching get to be nationally ranked in the nation? does that mean all the other teams behind SE have super inferior coaches?
I would wish for my kid to be on that team but we know he is not at that level so we continue to watch the players on the SE team even in HS.
old timer, Storlien took a girls team to the national final 2 consecutive years. He also won the boys MSHSL "AA" title. He's now the coach of the Minnesota Lightening. There's one coach with the know how and there are others.
oldtimer, So none of those kids made it beyond D3? That makes winning the "AA" Stae title that much more impressive from a coaching perspective. I'd say that coach did a phenomenal job especially considering Jefferson is a much smaller high school than the likes of EP, Wayzata and Stillwater. Thanks for pointing that out!
Why I'm proud to be in the National League: I am proud to be in the National League along with the rest of my team, for a number of reasons. The first reason is that we feel this is a great honor and accomplishment to be selected into this top league in its inaugural season. Secondly, we will be able to play against top teams throughout the rest of the country in our age group. Lastly, it will give our team an amazing amount of exposure and a chance for our team to showcase our talent, which is important for all of us who are looking to play soccer at the college level. blogger from NY
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1 – 200 of 298 Newer› Newest»Bangu U17 boys and Shattuck teams are going to be in the CASL tourney over the weekend. Bangu U17boys are scrimmaging VU U18 boys tonight. Saw that Teal Bunbury is one of the top 25 recruits for this year.
Teal Bunbury is an excellent player. A real stud.
I heard his younger brother is now playing for Bangu and also that Alex Bunbury now coaches in Bangu.
Is that fact? Anyone?
dunno about his younger brother, but Alex is indeed a bangu coach now.
All true. Alex coaches U14 Blue and Logan plays on the team.
Teal is already committed to Akron.
Bangu 17's beat Valley 2-1
Anyone know what Shattuck has going this winter for invitationals?
CASL Results
U16
St. Croix Red Devils
1-2 vs. RiverPlatte Soccer (TXN)
1-0 vs. Ohio Select (OHN) 23 R3
4-1 vs. FC Blazers (MA)
FINAL 0-2 vs. Lower Merion Velez (PAE) 16 R1
Shattuck-St. Mary's Sabres
3-1 vs. Charlotte SC Blue (NC) 29 R3
1-1 vs. FC Frederick (MD)
2-1 vs. Roanoke Star Elite (VA) 39 N 10 R2
FINAL 2-1 CESA FC (OS)
U17
Bangu
1-1 ASG Futbol 91 Gold
2-0 McLean MPS 90
1-0 Carolina 90 Select (NC) 13 R3
Shattuck St Marys
0-0 CUP 91 Red (OS)
0-0 Triangle Futbol FC Navy (NC) 40 R3
2-1 Texas FC 91 (TXN) 16 R3
U18
Shattuck St Marys
2-0 Erin Mills Eagles (Canada)
3-1 CASL Premier (NC)
1-1 Lakeland Lazers (FL)
WOW! Every MN team at or over .500
I vote that teams with less than 5 kids actually FROM Minnesota can not be referred to as "Minnesota Teams"
Good showing against other competetive teams,however,no team from Mn. beat a big team and probably travelled further to play slightly lesser competition than atop level midwet event.Shattuck are not a Mn team,they are teamsbased in Mn.Thats not a knock but a fact,they are an academy based here,no more,no less.
Shattuck 16s actually beat a nationally ranked team so I take that back{though not actually a Mn team}Proves that the Academy 16 group is doing well under coach Carl Craig
while the boys keep rolling on, at least 4 more girls left the program at winter break and went home - their turnover and poor retention rate on the girls side is only succeeded in numbers by its predictability. there is a reason U.S. soccer doesn't do residency on the women's side below the olympic (U23 team).
Shattuck is a model example of how a boys academy can thrive with the proper financial support, and why residency for girls is a poor idea no matter how much money you throw at it.
A small percentage of Shattuck players are from Minnesota. We can't really claim them as a Minnesota team.
A good opportunity for our kids who don't mind attending a boarding school but it's not for everyone.
I do not think that the Shattuck U-17s played the TEXANS (who are #16) in Region 3. They played TFC or Texas Futbol Club who are not ranked either in R3 or Texas. The Bangu team played a tougher group by far.
who cares who they played - this isn't a competition of opponents...support both teams and hopefully everyone will get better in the next few months. A win or loss in early December means nothing - most teams are made up of guest players at these events anyway.
Shattuck does not do guest players and niether did the Bangu team.
SSM isn't a MYSA club team.
They recruit from across the US. MYSA clubs are much more limited in the players available to them. You really can't call SSM a Minnesota team as maybe 20% of their players are from MN.
It's like comparing apples and oranges.
In regards to these college search events...many teams from areas all across the country do use guest players.
I have no idea if either SSM or Bangu did for this event.
Bangu did use a couple guest players for this event (hutton boys for sure). SSM has invited guest players to events in the past but not this event.
does it matter if you bring a couple guest players? they dont win or lose a game for the teams.
shattuck does not do guest players???? OF COURSE THEY DO. One of their favorite things to do is bring in "recruits" and woo them while they guest play. its more prevalent with the girls, who often need guest players just to field their second team, but the boys have done it in the past to.
but anyway, as is mentioned above - WHO CARES. Lots of teams use guest players. Also confirming - that was NOT a nationally ranked team the SSM 16s beat, it was an obscure nobody club from Texas. Texas FC and Texans FC are definitely not the same entity.
one thing SSM should do is be more clear, both girls and boys, when posting results. Case in point the girls are claiming a victory in NC over "Real Colorado" on their web site, but they fail to mention it was NOT Real Colorado Nationals (the top team), but rather the B team. they do this a lot and its kind of annoying. They also have Bangu listed on one of their winter tournament schedules, and its the SECOND team, yet it doesn't say Bangu White, just says Bangu. (which brings up the point, bangu and SSM in the same dome at the same time??? gasp)
I think that it is only right to make sure you get the best teams together to play scrimmages. Does SSM list who they are inviting to their "invitationals"?
there are schedules on the individual team pages. and the above poster is right, they rarely indicate WHICH level of team from a club they are playing, they just post a result - "we beat Sockers FC" and don't acknowledge when its a B team.
Get off Shattuck. They are a quality program and develop players well. My kids don't go to school there, nor have they ever. Shattuck has beat the U of M club team (minus a few players), tied and beat the Thunder reserves, tied and beat top men's amature team and tied and beat top U18 teams last year. The are good collection of 15, 16 17 and 18 year olds that play an aggressive and exciting brand of soccer. The also player without some of their top players from time to time as well and a significant number of their players are from MN.
there is a thunder reserves? wow I bet they are good.
8:35 I don't disagree with any of your points really, but none of them address the issues your defensive about either. I'm sure your kid doesn't go there and you certainly don't work there either. really.
As a few other bloggers have noted in this thread Shattuck is not a Minnesota team.
1. They are not members of MYSA.
2. They are not members of MSHSL.
3. Small % of players from MN.
4. They recruit nationally
They attract some fine players by offering $30,000+ scholarships.
They are a different animal but I don't believe Minnesota soccer can take credit for their team when only about 20% of the players are Minnesotans.
Let them join MSHSL and MYSA and play by the same rules all these other schools and clubs must follow then see how good they are.
Shattuck is already part of MSHSL, and have teams registered with MYSA for play in the MRL. Thus they do follow the same rules as the rest.
i'd like to test this - can we get blackhawks, or wings, or... oh my god, bangu... to make nightly calls to convince players to leave their club and play for them, send out mass mailing, get ODP lists (somehow...) and use them as a recruiting database, etc etc etc. Can we get this clubs to actively get guest players as a means of attracting them to leave their current club? Can we do all this without major uproar within the MYSA community?
Once we can do that - test your theory, than I'll be satisfied that they play by the same rules.
I think you missed the recruit "nationally" part of the comment. When did the clubs you mentioned get someone from overseas to compete in the State Cup?
Shattuck has NO teams registered with MYSA.
Check it out for yourself.
www.MinnesotaPremierSoccerLeague.com
What is www.MinnesotaPremierSoccerLeague.com?
Is this a US Club Soccer league?
So now they (SSM)are forming their own league?
SSM can/will register in MYSA through the Faribault Soccer Club/Association.
They are a MN team as their players meet the residency requirements for MN State Cup.
They do not play by the same rules as other MN teams must in terms of recruiting.
Regardless, they should not be allowed to play in MN State Cup, as they take away an opportunity for MN players/clubs/coaches to experience high level competition, eventually helping to make MN players better. If USYS wants to allow SSM an automatic bid to regionals, so be it.
So Shattuck is planning to circumvent MYSA rules by registering their teams with Faribault?
Very sneaky of them. Watch your backs.
Maybe Faribault should get kicked out of MYSA if they do that.
what the heck is this minnesota premiere soccer league??? that link just has a pretty much blank page that just says "starts operations in fall 2008." and how did the connection get drawn between it and SSM (gee whiz, I wonder)? either it has nothing to do with SSM, which for their sake I hope is true, or someone from inside there is posting here, which hope is true, because that would be HILARIOUS.
so now SSM is gonna lead the charge against minnesota club teams, AND high schools? how can a "premiere league" operate in fall without directly conflicting with MSHSL?
this smells something aweful, and the stench is easy to trace, I just hope he's not that stupid or arrogant.
As for the Faribault thing, no 'ifs' about it, they did it, its how they got into MWRL this fall. I can't believe people are just now noticing.
Based on a whois search, the owner of the site is AR.
AR?
Arjen Robben
Adolpho reginato
The MN premier league is a start to something new. We should all be supportive of a MN premier league and let's get SSM and the other non community based clubs to join.
This idea that we have a one horse town is ridiculous.
If we agree that MYSA is overblotted with community clubs and that MYSA is not addressing the needs of the elite players, then it is time to start something new.
MYSA has outlived its usefulness to the niche clubs.
With MYSA suing its membership, Ian Barker departing, and no change at the helm as at the last AGM, it is time for A CHANGE. (anyone) start something new.
The beginning will be rough but it will be the start of a new beginning. Afterall, competition is good and MYSA has become stale.
If it is Adolfo, you got lots of people who will join.
If it is not Adolfo, we still can join and let MYSA deal with Rec clubs.
MYSA is in denial mode and they keep denying the fact that they are not responding to membership.
When will this change?
oh dear lord... adolfo has one pilfered team from PSA and now he's going to run a new Premier league? Well, I guess it's a start.
MYSA cannot deal with the elite players AND cater to the 70K+ other non-elite members. Simple as that. No organization could when dealing with those numbers.
As for SSM, they can afford to piss off people in the MN soccer community because they don't need the people in the MN soccer community.
all community (PSA included) belongs to MYSA as they are not premiere and elite clubs. Bangu, wings, and other clubs wishing to aspire beyond the bonds of MYSA, should look at this as a start of something refresing in MN.
We can also blame the departure of Ian Barker on him either. Can't you see the writing on the wall?
The Exec Dir knows nothing about soccer and neither does the Prez. There are there for the ride. They can't compete beyond putting up a state tournament in blaine. there's definite need for a change and since the heads at MYSA will not do it, I guess someone has to start.
SSM will want to join this league - yeah
All you people talking about Shattuck don't know anything at all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! For one, for those of you who think Bangu is anything comparable to Shattuck and specifically Shattuck's individual player talent, well, lets just say no one in Minnesota can compete with regional and national ODP player ran teams. The one problem with Shattuck is that the players they bring in are so good that it is hard for them to actually become a team, and consequently, that's why you see a few losses on their record. And as for whoever said Shattuck brings in guest players for events, well, you are obviously blowing smoke out of your *** cause they haven't and will not do that. They will only bring players in for practices and minor scrimmages/games.
So for all of you who think they know about Shattuck. Think again, I'll always be one up on you.
Any teams going to the Disney showcase?
anon 1:09
one of the worst posts I've ever seen. i know someone who guest played for SSM last year, and yes, it was part of his visit/recruiting pitch. guess you are one up on me eh.
you're right, they are so good they are too good. ha. you sound a little too much like an SSM players, there's not enough hint of maturity in your post for an adult, even though it really looks like you tried hard. "player ran teams?" the players run the teams? I think your emperor, er, sorry, coach would take exception to that.
as for the new league, good step if its done right. Most of the states in our region have leagues that are SANCTIONED but not RUN by their state association (I know, crazy eh) - see the Buckeye Premiere League or Michigan Premier Soccer League. This allows forward thinking clubs to work together to create better competition, and leaves backwards thinking clubs their own territory. I'll let you be the judge of who thinks forward and backwards.
There is talk again of a US Club Soccer League forming in fall of 2008.
This could be a good thing for many teams and clubs.
However why don't a few of the clubs get together and just form another league sanctioned by USYS so these teams could be eligible for State Cup and beyond?
Illinois has 5 or 6 different leagues and all of the teams in these leagues have State Cup eligibility.
Why can't we do this in Minnesota?
The reason you can't do it is because of MYSA rules. Clubs can be affiliate members of MYSA - leagues cannot...
One of the constant reason I hear that MN doesn't have quality teams is because we don't have as large of a population base as a state like IL. If that true why wouldn't MYSA & USYA want and encourage people to form leagues? The more kids you get to play the larger soccer becomes in popularity, the more quality athletes play, the more exciting the game becomes.
If Illinois can support 5 or 6 leagues MYSA can support more than one league.
Why don't a few clubs approach USYS and look into the possibility of another league in Minnesota?
I would imagine there are several states with more than one league.
How would a club pursue this?
anon - 4:29 Did you not read anon - 2:41?
If you go to USYS, they will refer you back to MYSA. When you call MYSA, they will laugh at you... Call the office and ask them how you can go about starting a league and affiliate the league with MYSA.
MYSA wants to control everything... Only show in town, only horse in the race, one-stop-shopping...
Get it?
It's not about the MYSA catering to the high level clubs. They do not need to be catered to. What they need is a format different than what MYSA can give them. They could be a separate division of the MYSA and be very self sufficient without draining the resources for the masses.
I will say it one last time. Leadership is about moving soccer forward in all regards. Meeting once a year to pass new rules that 90 % of the membership have no clue why they are being brought forward or what long term impact some of the new rules might have.
BOB needs to be proactive. He is not. Getting the top CC clubs together with the top elite clubs to form some type of an accord was what was needed. Discussions, attempting to gain clarity of the parties in dispute and their concerns was what was needed. You just can't write in the quarterly newsletter that if you want to change things, submit a rule and have it submitted for a vote.
That is not a leader.
The MYSA can't get their own house in order.
Any one see published financial reports for the past two years? How about all those meeting minutes for the Executive committee or Youth Council. Why not go to a pod cast at this point of time. It's not that hard or expensive to do.
It might be better if something new does emerge.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Anon 6:20,
Thats probably why many want to get a US Club Soccer league going.
It would be in MYSA's best interest to allow another league under their umbrella rather than have US Club Soccer siphon away teams and all the dollars associated with them...wouldn't it?
Maybe thats the way to get a new league going under MYSA umbrella?
Have a group of clubs approach them and give an ultimatum. Form a new USYS eligible league or we'll start a US Club Soccer league?
i disagree about the comment on top about Carl Craigs Teams sucess, hes a very talented coach,and coaches team well, but didnt they lose two straight in a row against that U17 champlin team?
As far as Carls team goes I dont think sucess is measured by two scrimmages against CD.I think going unbeaten at CASL was a good measure inc. beating a nationally ranked team.CD is a u17 team that topped the premier div.
Some Coaches use scrimmages for different things,winning is low on my list in a scrimmage,very low.
mnfutbol start another blog for MN "new" league formation. If this topic gathers some momentum, we could change the MN soccer landscape in a few years.
ARSENAL FC SUPEREAGLES U16 Boys and BANGU U16 Boys travelling to Disney, Florida.
Arsenal FC is in the National League and they play as part of the NL schedule.
Bangu is in the third flight in the tournament.
Bangu plays Masapequa of N.Y.,they are no 3rd flight team so perhaps the flights are irrelevant.Masapequa won USA Cup against good competition.
Anon 8:12,
You're absolutely correct. Massapequa is the #12 ranked team in Region 1.
This tournament doesn't have staged flights based on team strength.
The Disney Showcase is absolutely a tournament with staged flights based on team record/strength.Bangu is in the lowest flight and will not be playing any games in the Disney Complex unlike the teams in the Showcase and some teams in the Predator flights.The only time they might play in the complex is for the championship match.Coaches mainly watch games being played in the complex and typically, a team has to be in the top 20 nationally and top 10 in the region to be invited to the top 2 tiers.Wings U18 Boys premier last year played in the showcase because they were ranked 5th in the region and 20th nationally.As a result, they had to play the # 1 team in the nation (Solar TX) and #7 (NY KOSMOS)and an all star team from Kendall Fl.
If you read through the recently updated rules around player eligibility and team eligibility for state cup, you will see that many restrictions for MRL and State Cup have magically been removed. Funny how MYSA never seems to publish the delta or changes to MYSA or MRL rules.
The above poster is correct that Shattuck does have teams registered with Fairbault. They also have at least 1 MRL team registered, which will make them eligible to play state cup (I believe at U18.) MYSA will say that they just passed their request for a MRL spot on the the MRL-committee and that MRL committee let them in...hhhmmm
I'm sure, like always, the MN-whinner clubs, will try to pass rules to stop this from happening. I believe MYSA will probably say that the membership can not pass rules on MRL participation and State Cup as they are USYSA events. Of course everyone knows that if the Shattuck teams had registered with Bangu (or with the Wings 2 or 3 years ago), MYSA would not have allow them to play in MRL, which would have kept them out of state cup.
If all of the Shattuck teams stick around to play State Cup and do not return to their home-state club teams, I don't think any of the existing U18 teams have a chance in hell against the Shattuck team.
The bright spot from this occurance is that maybe the boys teams will finally start to consolidate talent at 15, 16 or 17 so that they can compete with the U18 allstar teams that Shattuck will place at U18 every year. Who knows, Shattuck may do the same at U16.
Ultimately it will mean that MN will be more competative at regionals for boys U17 and U18. So I applaud Shattuck's resourcefulness and MYSA sneakyness.
yeah, sneakiness, thats what you want to applaud a state association for. Its corruption or favoritism, you pick.
finally - STOP SAYING THE SSM U16s BEAT A NATIONALLY RANKED TEAM IN NC - THEY DID NOT. They beat TEXAS FC (not ranked anywhere) not TEXANS FC, which is the nationally ranked team.
arg!
The SSM 16s didnt play any Texas FC OR Texans FC so stop whining.They beat a Va. team who are nationally ranked,fact.
Stop whining. Go get the results on the pitch.
sure- or just claim you got results you didn't get, like tell people you beat a nationally ranked team... when you didn't. then when people call you on it just respond with "stop whining. go get the results on the pitch."
8:16 - you know who the coaches at Disney DEFINITELY aren't going to watch? the teams are aren't even there in any flight. I can promise you that.
maybe you should just go to the CASL results page,pretty simple.
Fact - they beat Roanoke Star from Virginia, oh look, they are nowhere in the national rankings. I scoured the top 50, no roanoke star.
I looked over the Region I rankings, no Roanoke Star.
FINALLY I found them - ranked #2 in Virginia.
Nothing better then when someone posts complete rubbish, and then concludes their post with the word fact. There is only ONE team from Virginia ranked nationally, Great Falls is ranked a whooping 29th, and is #1 one in Va, and as is stated isn't even the team SSM played. I've never even heard of the other teams they played.
Take a better look,they are #11 in Region 1,#2 in their State but HAVE been dropped off the National list,they were #39 going into CASL.Ironically they are one spot above Massapequa in Region 1.
What do you mean"As is stated"You were the one rambing on about Texas,wrong State oh blinkered one!Facts ar facts,I am merely reproducing what I read,the results and rankngs.I see no Texas FC in the SSM 16 schedule,do you?
As far as the other teams they played that you have not heard of,CESA of Ohio,they are another good team,they won Javanon Cup,PSA Eagles were there but didnt get to the final so it must of ben a god entry.Now these are u16{u15 in Spring 07}do you even have the right age group?Still lokng for them Texans?
your assuming the same person posting about Texas posted after reviewing the rankings broseph.
I am,seems obvious,surely not two people like that
it is obvious, no more than one person would possibly be anti-ssm... thats just... crazy.
The thread about the Texas FC club referred to a team that the SSM U17B team played, not the U16s.
The Bangu U17B team played a tougher schedule at CASL and did not lose a game. 2W and 1D is not bad against 2 top 25 R3 teams and a top 50 R1 team.
Link to CASL U16 Bracket
http://www.gotsport.com/events/results.aspx?EventID=1659&Sex=Boys&Age=16
Now drop it!
Who gives a rip about SSM? They aren't even a MYSA club and they recruit nationally.
It's apples and oranges. And for recruiting nationally their teams aren't very good considering the players available to them.
Don't know if it's the talent or coaching but a team/club/school recruiting nationally should be producing better teams.
This is more about the boys teams on this blog but their girls program is falling apart. Sounds like about 6 more girls are leaving.
The fact of the matter is SSM launched their boys program with MN talent. They then promoted their players at ODP Regional Camp as well as recruited heavily. They now have recruited an ODP Regional Coach to their program. They have all been able to do this because in MN the boys have not had good programs that offer good coaches, no politics and good facilities, which attracts high quality player. Where as, MN girls do have a Club with excellent coaches and excellent facilities (I will not comment about the politics as I do not know how they operate). Because MN Girls have been able to offer those opportunities to their talent, it makes SSM unable to attractive the top talent away from their homes, families and Club teams. Therefore, SSM has been unable to launch their girls program to the same degree as the boys.
As far as SSM program, at $40K a year, I think the U16 should have been able to beat CP. Remember CP beat them the first time with perhaps one or two practices and with a new coach. SSM had been going for a couple of months at least. CP a good team but I would guess the cost of their program is $2K.
I do not think SSM program is good for MN or US as it makes soccer more and more of elitist sport. Either the boys playing there have a silver spoon firmly placed within their mouth or have been regionally or nationally identified. (With the silver spoon players paying the bill) While some parents may, resent this ideology, the fact of the matter is the price tag on this program makes it only available to a special few. Nevertheless, the program will continue to succeed for a couple of reasons: One MYSA will always follow the money and rarely with buck dollar. Two, they now have a regional ODP coach on staff to help them sell their kids at regions as well as letting parents think that exposure will help their child’s chances of making ODP Regions. What parents should ask, from that original U17 team how many of those boys are still at SSM? Why are they no longer in SSM program?
Now I go drink some wine and watch the snow fall.
that question is an even better indicator of how HORRIBLE the retention on the girls side has been - guess how many originals are still in the girls program or have graduated all the way through? I'll give you a hint, stick your hand in your snowblower and you will STILL be able to use your fingers to count.
Or is that whine 1:34?
wow 5:27 - that was really impressive, and never been done before on this site, how you turned that on him... I feel as though I've really come across something special there.
I am amazed that people still like to say that CC is a good or great coach. Carl can be a nice guy. He is a good trainer, but a marginal-at-best coach. His teams consistenly underachieve as he has limited ability to put players in appropriate positions or make game time adjustments. Players and parents typcially loose respect for him within a season or two. He is opportunistic and finds ways to inherrit quality teams. It is no surprise that a decent CDA team can beat his allstar team. He also tied some HS JV teams this past fall with the same group of allstars.
CC also had teams loaded with talent in HS that did not achieve as expected.
He also ran up scores in MSHSL showing a lack of class.
Yes, but look he is now coaching at SSM. Like attract to like I believe the saying goes.
Anon 5:27- It was definitely a bit of a whine, the last line was a pun, I was trying to be humorous. Someone once told me that puns were the worse kinds of jokes, I guess they were right. Believe me; I was drinking something a lot stronger, which may have had something to do with the whine. :)
Training 5-6 days a week against quality competition and playing regional and national ranked opponents will help their ODP and college aspirations. The fact that it is at Shattuck just gives them a better chance at a quality education as well. They could go to Bradenton (sp) FL instead and play in a warmer climate, but suffer educationally. CC will do OK at Shattuck as the previous poster said he is a good trainer and a poor coach. The training will make the players better, region and college coaches know CCs limitations and will forgive the frequent poor results.
Anon 3:19
Ahh, yes a education. How much does the education cost and how much does the soccer cost.
Even then they've created an elite class that is only available to a select few. Does this create the best students, soccer players or citizen? I don't think so and I'm sure this is my biggest problem with their program. Good educations, good soccer training and access to high education becomes available only to a select few. The rich get richer the poor get poorer, the middle class disappears and so does the great american dream. yadda yadda yadda, nothing I or even us in MN can do about it the deck is already stacked, we all lose.
If CCs a good trainer but a poor coach why does he have such pull with the ODP Regional staff?
Welcome to life 6:37. Never has been fair, never will be. Deal with it and move on.
He doesn't. But since you brought it up...ah yes, the Region 2 staff...back slappers, favor do'ers, they all bend over for each other...if the US is serious about a national development program, they need to start with firing the vast majority of the Regional coaches and staff...burn it to the ground so new life can start
Enough about SSM, they are reality.
Results or observations from tourneys, anyone?
Max,
Agreed...let SSM have their own blog. They aren't part of the high school soccer league in Minnesota. They recruit like a Division 1 men's collegiate program...something our high schools and youth clubs aren't allowed to do.
They aren't a club registered with Minnesota Youth Soccer.
And they aren't involved in collegiate or professional soccer here in Minnesota.
They're a different animal and should not be discussed in same context as our high school league and MYSA clubs and teams.
kinda of wish people would quit saying SSM isn't an MYSA club, when they are participating in state cup - at least thats what they've told all their kids.
anon 11:25
Shattuck is NOT registered as a MYSA club. Do a little homework.
They are fearful of having to adhere to MYSA policies and play by same rules as the MYSA clubs so they have not applied for membership.
SSM has registered teams with the Fairbault club (FBT) see MYSA's website with the MRL (MWL) team designation:
http://www.mnyouthsoccer.org/membership/teams2.cfm?id=FBT
The site is not up to date as the U18 boys are also playing Midwest Regional league.
Or check this MYSA link with both teams listed:
http://www.mnyouthsoccer.org/leagues/midwest.cfm
anon 12:31
Then it would be appropriate to refer to them as Faribault as Shattuck (as mentioned earlier) does not have teams registered with MYSA.
Also, Shattuck can't register teams with Faribault. They may register players with the Faribault club.
11:50 - YOU DO THE HOMEWORK - yikes. I think for all shattuck recruiting propaganda they should have to present themselves at Faribault Soccer Club.
Posted this in the wrong thread. Here it is again.
I agree. I like the idea of changing SSM's name in the MN soccer world to Faribault Shattuck, and hence will refer to them as such from now on in all my conversations - both here and in the real world. I hope others do likewise.
Other than that, I say they do what they want for the players interested. The masses don't have to like it, and probably won't.
Or, in the spirit of the college bowl season here, how about:
Faribault Youth Soccer Presented by Shattuck-St. Mary's
More like Shattuck St Mary's Presented by Faribault Youth Soccer.
So Faribault has become a surrogate for SSM to shield the school from having to adhere to MYSA rules and regulations?
I'd heard the Shattuck staff was a bit slimy. This confirms it.
I can't BELIEVE MYSA has let this slide. Wait a minute, what I am talking about? Of course I can... they are too focused on Bangu, deal with all the complaints against Bangu, and my bet is Bangu is the main complainer against Faribault Shattuck. MYSA has to listen to the majority - regardless of what may be RIGHT.
It comes down to ethics here, not rules. MYSA is going to allow an organization that can recruit nationally to compete in their State Cup against teams that have no ability to form teams the same way Faribault can. I know, I know... you'll say this is not an MYSA thing but a USYS issue. It doesn't change the fact that MYSA will not go to bat for the rest of MN in this and have effectively turned a blind eye to the goings on in the south. It's ridiculous and people will be called out in time.
"MYSA has to listen to the majority - regardless of what may be RIGHT."
This is a prime example of why Minnesota youth soccer is screwed up and will remain screwed up until there is wholesale change in the MYSA Youth Council AND the MYSA staff.
Ian's departure is not going to help matters either.
I don't think the staff at MYSA office has anything to do with the current lack of leadership in MYSA.
The problems lie with the elected officials and their lack of vision and leadership.
This is compounded by an apathetic membership. The last AGM's attendance and member contribution (rules, candidates, ideas, debate) was pitiful.
The MYSA staff is not free from fault. They are in the process of building a little empire with a strong ED and a weak board.
This horse is near death. Either step up and help save it or... prepare to dismount.
I think the previous poster said that MYSA would say it was a USYSA decision/issue. For years MYSA had a superset of rules (extra restrictions) for eligibility. They have finally relaxed them, which should benefit everyone.
I have been involved with Bangu for years. To my knowledge nobody from Bangu is officially complaining about the Shattuck FBT partnership. I think we know that if we had tried to pull this off MYSA and the CCs would have done everything possible to stop it. The result is good for competative MN soccer.
Shattuck should have the U18 boys state cup locked up. As previously suggested, maybe Wings, Bangu, Blackhawks, EP and others will finally find a way to cooperate on the boys side to put together top boys teams to play together by U15 or so. The Bangu girls and Woodbury (and previously SCV) have been able to accomplish this on the girls side through better cooperation. Better to have 1 or 2 excellent teams at each age group representing MN at regionals, top tournaments and showcases than 3 good teams + 3 very average teams + 3 poor teams.
by allowing SSM in, MYSA has cut their own strings on recruiting rules - hope they can live with that. Now wings, bangu, blackhawks, or ANYONE has the right to pick up the phone on a nightly basis and call players from other clubs, pitching them to leave and join them. These clubs can also pass out cards at events, bring kids in to guest play and spend the whole time convincing them to leave their club, its ALL FAIR GAME NOW.
Don't like that? too bad. it is what it is. Shattuck does all these things (don't bother arguing the point, my house was called repeatedly for nearly two years and I still have the "recruiting cards" handed to me at regionals) and so can everyone else now. pandoras box was opened the minute MYSA endorsed (not allowed, endorsed) SSM for the midwest regional league and allowed this Faribault nonsense.
Speaking of MWRL - did anyone notice how the rule, written in plain, non-cryptic english, about how teams MUST compete in the previous year's state cup to be eligible for MWRL at any level - simply VANISHED right before the divisions were announced and included SSM.
slimy is right.
GREAT point about recruiting. Excellent.
Didn't see the rule before it vanished. Does anyone have a copy of the original? Anyone know the story about how the exception came about?
Disney showcase update- Arsenal Supereagles U16 B 0-2(allowed 7 while scoring 1) /now 0-5 in the National League.They will be lucky to win one game in Disney and could end up winless in the USYS NATIONAL LEAGUE.Bangu U16 is also 0-2 in Disney but more competitive since they are in the lowest bracket with state premier teams.Reality check for both clubs in terms of how they stack up with the big boys!
Fairbult has a larger tax base and Soccer Club then I ever thought.
Check out there new Soccer Complex http://www.faribaultsoccer.org/
The Super Eagles are no longer "Super".
They lost their top 2 players and those 2 were difference makers.
It's too bad their coach didn't allow the team to merge with Bangu and allow Storlien to coach the combined group as was planned.
It could have been an amazing team.
The problem with that scenario is MONEY! Dan Storlein's success with the girls program does not guarantee the same results with the boys and he is going to be expensive! Factor in the fact that that the talent you refer to are SCHOLARSHIP players plus a few more and you could have a real big mess in the making.Super eagles still have Paul Yonga and he will not need Bangu to be recognized as a bonafide D1 prospect.
Anon 3:03,
You're right. Yonga won't need help getting a scholarship...it's the next group of players who would benefit from better training and playing on a stronger team.
But that's no longer an option for those "D1/D2 bubble" players.
The clubs have always been able to pick up the phone. Nothing stops or prohibits recruiting. MYSA calls out "unethical recruiting" as a no-no, not recruiting all together.
Would offering someone $35,000 a year scholarship to play soccer be considered unethical if the Blackhawks, Wings or Bangu did it?
We know the Minnesota kids playing soccer there weren't brought in because they had outstanding GPA's.
Just a little food for thought.
The are not offered money to play soccer. They are offered assistance based on need, achievement and extra curriculars. How is the scholarship component any different different from AHA, Tontino, Cretin, Blake, Breck, and the list goes on.
oh grow up... they aren't offered money to play soccer. are you serious???? you HAVE to be kidding.
At least TRY to make an intelligent argument. There is a big difference between be given that kind of scholarship money to play club soccer versus 1/3 of that (I think Blake is by far the closest in cost to SSM, and is still 15g less) to go to a traditional high school.
also a terrible post - the one about "ethical recruiting." so then how does MYSA define that? let me give you an example - a player is told if they come to an "un-named" school that they can stay with their club and will be released regularly to play with them, then when they arrived they are pressured to quit that club and never released to play with them??? would THAT be unethical?
What happened to www.MinnesotaPremierSoccerLeague.com? Did it fold already? Maybe the website name was too long.
The Minnesota kids playing soccer at SSM have been recruited for their soccer ability, not for their academic achievment. I know several of the kids and they aren't what you would call "top 10% of their class".
The other difference is that AHA, Totino, Cretin, Blake, Breck aren't putting teams of kids from all over the USA and Canada into Minnesota State Cup tournament and using a surrogate to help them gain entry.
Whoever used the term "slimy" earlier in this thread hit the nail on the head.
Please...my kid goes to SSM..I never received 10 post cards or multiple phone calls..what is your problem?...My kid also came from a good suburban school (top 10%) and found the academics at SSM to be much more difficult..
Anon 9:27,
If your kid goes to SSM then you should know the new crop of Minnesota players who arrived there this fall are not top 10% students and are there solely because of the soccer ability and had nothing to do with their academic achievement.
I'm not going to name names but you know of whom I speak. And you know more than one player falls into this situation.
To try to tell those of us who know the situation otherwise is a laugh and you destroy your credibility.
I wonder how many guest players at Disney for Arsenal and Bangu 16 s
Well...if you are so in the know, what are there grades?...how many kids on the honor role?...I still don't get your point?..Sound's way to personal.
anon 10:40
That would be "their" grades not "there" grades.
That would be honor "roll" not honor "role".
That would be "too" personal not "to" personal.
That would be "sounds" not "sound's". (no apostrophe necessary as "sounds" isn't possessive)
Might you be one of those "student athletes" at SSM to bolster the soccer program but lacking a bit on the academics or just some parent trying to justify the slimy aspect of SSM and their involvement in MYSA via their surrogate?
Anon 10:38 -
Your Post is one of the best of 2007. Thank you!
I'm waiting for names myself....
just because someone realizes its classless to attack high school kids by name on here doesn't mean their point isn't valid. Don't give any names - we know its true.
As for SSMs "higher academics." at some point, just for kicks, take a look at their staff's academic resumes up against the typical PUBLIC school, let me know how that turns out would ya? No sensational claims here, try it out for yourself, reach you own conclusions.
I want to know what happened to MN Premiere League website? I think we need something different in MN. MYSA is a monopoly and things have to change. Either SSM enters the race and runs the show, MN Thunder starts something new and runs the show or another show in town that competes with MYSA.
To tell you they are so bureaucratic, the DOC has on their website a new 14 page outline of procedure and standards. what the heck is this? Is the fifity something page rules manula not big enough?
Oh Bob show some leadership, and change the organization!
Wow Anon...thanks for the lesson..
I didn't realize I was being graded! Like I said..your great at politics and correcting bloggers!
You should start your own Blog..SSM hater...let's see if I can summarize for you..
1. SSM is horrible for the kids that choose to go there.
2. SSM is obviously sub-par in academics.
3. SSM is breaking all msysa recuriting rules.
4. Kid's really don't like to go there.
5. SSM is bad for youth soccer.
Sorry for any mispellings...do me a favour love..correct any that you see and please feel free to add to the list.
Now, anyone have any insight for the spring season?
anon 8:57,
I think the point that people are making in this thread is that SSM is getting around MYSA rules and regulations by using Faribault as their way to become involved with MYSA and State Cup.
And many still are mystified that Faribault-SSM were allowed in MWL despite the teams not playing in last years State Cup. The rule is pretty specific in that issue. Shouldn't all teams and clubs play by the same set of rules?
You seem pretty defensive on the topic. Why is that?
Question. I do not have kids at SSM. I have kids who could play there, as I am sure many of you do, but we won't let them leave home. We would miss them too much, plain and simple, but that is just us (we can understand why others make different choices). Anyway, what is the problem of SSM playing in MRL or state cup or wherever? Why is this such a big deal? I am sure that my kids will play on teams that fall to them in state cup, but so what? What is unfair about them competing? I do mean to antagonize anyone, I really just wonder what the issue is.
Many issues 10:13 my friend;
recruiting - they can recruit from the US. Is the state cup team then MN kids or not?
state boundaries - I bet your son can't play across state lines for state cup
Is ssm a high school or not high school - do they play by high school rules or not?
if ssm is an 9-5 entity striving to provide soccer at the highest level, then state cup is not for them. Can any kid tryout for ssm without having to fork out the 30K
An academic insitution of high learning - with high school kids then they should also play HS rules.
many issues with the whole thing.
I like to see them compete but do it at another tournament...
Thanks 11:29. That helps.
Yes, I understand totally the high school league thing. SSM clearly have opted out of the MN high school league, so that one does seem a no-brainer (I didn't realize that was an issue).
As for club soccer, which is I guess what I am more curious about, I think for me the only one that really sticks out is the MN boundary issue. If SSM can compete in state cup with players who wdn't be eligible for club teams, then it really should not happen. That doesn't seem right.
As for the other stuff, I guess my kids' club recruits; my kids' club trains year-round; my kids' club already competes against clubs that have more financial resources and who travel more than my kids' club does. So it just seems that SSM is in many ways just a more intensely committed club.
Anyway thanks again for helping me understand the issue better. I prefer these exchanges to some of the others I see on here.
A little reality check folks.
There are big dollars involved down at SSM.
Both in how they throw $35K scholarships around like candy and the salaries paid to folks heading up the soccer program.
People trying to protect their jobs are willing to spread the wealth a bit to get their way. It might be to bend the rules a bit or to get a rule or bylaw overlooked.
We're not talking MSHSL here or typical youth club soccer run by volunteers. We're talking big bucks and people protecting their jobs.
It's more like what goes on at big time D1 college football and basketball. You keep your job if you can elevate the program and that means winning something of significance.
So let's quit beating around the bush and tell it like it is.
let's also be realistic soccer is not in the same class as the big 3.5 sports.
if ssm wants to start spending megabucks on something with little ROI - more power to them - give them one year and the admin will say your soccer $$$ is gone.
if there was big time $$$ in soccer, then the schools would have increased their scholarships for boys from 9.5 scholarships to say maybe 11 or 12?
schools like SSM wants to make money and if they don't see ROI, the program folds.
Hey,
Anyone know when the Faribault club is holding tryouts for the teams they've entered into the MWL?
I don't know if anyone has ever pretended that SSM is anything other than what is described above. Anyone who has looked at the place sees the price tag. And it is obvious that they will recruit and subsidize players. I personally want no part of that experience for my kids, but I don't see the point of demonizing them. What I am really trying to figure I guess is who has the axe to grind with these people? Is it Bangu-related people because SSM spends even more cash and recruits even harder (that is not a shot even if it seems so)? Is it Thunder-related people because of the well-documented academy issue? As a neutral, I don't see the problem. In fact, it would seem good for the state's overall soccer resume to have a place like SSM here. I am sure I am missing something.
In addition to the fact Shattuck isn't playing by the same rules there is also this issue:
SSM only has 3-4 Minnesota kids on their teams. If their teams happen to win State Cup do we want a team with 80% of the players from other states representing Minnesota at Regions?
That would be pretty embarrassing.
Are there any other states that allow this to occur?
the AXE being grinded comes from the fact that they are entering a realm they aren't welcome in - ie state cup. they're perfectly neutral as long as they are just going to tournaments, events, etc - but the second they start competing for USYS titles while playing by a totally different set of rules and standards its going to piss people off. watch, this will intensify after they win the state cup destroying minnesota teams with non minnesota players - THEN it will hit a national scale of outrage when they go to regionals/nationals with a nationally recruited team, a serious competitive advantage over everyone else.
you wouldn't allow an Olympic swimmer to wear fins would you?
I agree with the 3:03 post - why don't they just enter the US Academy thing and everyone can be happy? Or better question, why didn't they get in (I heard, unconfirmed rumor I must admit, they got denied).
2:12, what is the "well documented Academy issue" the Thunder are dealing with?
Thunder's academy issue was the subject of a MYSA email
Happy New Year to all MN soccer players, supporters, promoters, coaches, moms and dads, administrators, and fans worldwide!
May the New year bring many joyous moments to you all.
Remember - it's only a game.
Does anyone know if you must attend Shattuck to be on Faribault's U18 team or do they have open tryouts?
I'd hate to think they limit it to just the kids at the school.
Can anyone from Faribault tell me when they hold tryouts for their MWL teams?
Why don't you send Faribault Youth Soccer an e-mail and ask them?
Or don't you have the courage?
I didn't know it took courage to send an email?
Why is it so many are so touchy on this issue?
there is no "faribault U18 team" - it IS the SSM team, they just used FSA to basically, circumvent every rule in the book.
So if you want to play on the "Faribault U18 team" you must go to school at SSM?
Why would the Faribault club allow that?
they use SSMs facilities a lot, they probably worked out some back room deal where SSM registers with them so they can circumvent MYSA and USYS rules in exchange for facility use, clinics, whatever.
doesn't take much imagination to figure out that partnership.
It makes sense for Faribault soccer club. Faribault Shattuck can offer a number of services to help the Faribault soccer club. My question is whether or not the currnet Faribault board members understand the real motive that Faribalut Shattuck is gunning for here, and if the board is OK with being a knowing part of it. This is the stuff that people don't think about now but will for sure come out in the end.
All this talk, and no action...
Show up at the meeting on 2/2/08 and ask the "little general" why SSM is in!
Also, go to the DOC meeting and ask the question there. Make sure you s-p-e-a-k s-l-o-w-l-y and don't use any acronyms or any big words. Instead of MWL or MRL, make sure you say Midwest League or Midwest Regional League (slowly). They may still not know what you are talking about, but it may increase your chances of being understood...
Some diagrams may also be helpful.
The DOC has no say on MRL...only MYSA league play. The state coaching dir. and MRL rep recomend teams. It seems to me the bigger voice is leaving MYSA.
The issue isn't with MYSA allowing them in. The real issue is with MWL.
Teams that are in MWL are eligible for State Cup.
But to be eligible to play in State Cup according to MWL rules the team should have played in State Cup.
It's a bit confusing but it was MWL who let SSM skirt the rules not MYSA.
That's not to say it isn't a bit slippery the way they're using Fariabault be their conduit to MYSA.
My error in prior post...it should have read:
The issue isn't with MYSA allowing them in. The real issue is with MWL.
Teams that are in MWL are eligible for State Cup.
But to be eligible to play in "MWL" according to MWL rules the team should have played in State Cup.
It's a bit confusing but it was MWL who let SSM skirt the rules not MYSA.
That's not to say it isn't a bit slippery the way they're using Fariabault be their conduit to MYSA.
I am sure there was alot of cigar smoking and whiskey drinking at the Fairbault soccer meeting....
Hey Anon 1/1 2:58
"So if you want to play on the "Faribault U18 team" you must go to school at SSM?
Why would the Faribault club allow that?"
You must be from Apple Valley, Eden Praire, Eagan, Burnsville, Wayzata, or one of the other big whinner CCs who constantly complains about anyone putting together a competative team. Your "its not fair" is so old...it's not fair that you have the income you have, the school facilities you have, the park facilities you have, the influence you have...get a life! While you are out in your pristine-white suburb, the city people are paying high taxes for less service and carrying the underprivilaged. Do I wish you would carry your fair share? Of course I do, but I pay the extra everyday anyway, because the less fortunate are less fortunate.
Shattuck is helping some less fortunate kids get access to college through a strong focused education and developing their soccer skills for the college game.
You and your kid can't always be the center of attention....it's not fair!
Shattuck did play by the rules. Other states allow combined teams and non-permenant state residents to play. Several MN kids have played on other states teams where they attended school (and this meets the specific residency requirement from USYSA.) MN used to have many additional rules, but they finally relaxed them...which is good for kids and the game.
It all comes down to this. Why was this rule overlooked or thrown aside for SSM?
2.02 State Cup Requirement
Any team making application to the MRL must have competed in the State Cup competition
during the past seasonal year and must participate in its respective State Cup competition
during the current seasonal year.
Anyone? Did they play by this rule?
Nobody is saying they can't play. Just let them follow the same process and requirements as the other clubs follow. Once they've paid their dues then so be it.
helping less fortunate kids... HAHAHAHA... oh my god... can't... stop... laughing...
I think they do. That is the purpose of a scholarship.
Too bad you can't laugh yourself off this blog..do us all a favour.
ssm will improve MN soccer since bangu, wings, and all those wannabees have done nothing - including MN thunder. Get over it. it is about time.
all you complaints must be from some small minded club because I know bangu would cherish the competition- right MA?
ooooooooh - 8:26, good burn! oooooooh.
underprivileged. whoa, can't say that is even remotely accurate. most of their scholarships go to regional odp kids, or there abouts that level, most of those families are upper (some very upper) middle class. yes there are some exceptions of kids there who really NEED the money, but make no mistakes they give based on ABILITY as well and for most of the kids there they are just making the privileged MORE privileged.
saying anything else is just making yourself into a fool, only the supremely ignorant would believe SSM is plucking out inner city kids, stealing them from crack dealers and making them college soccer players. I know most of those kids and for the majority mom or dad is "Dr. so and so" or owns a business, or is the U.S, ambassador to a Balkan country (that kid is AWESOME by the way, what a player!)
So please do the blog a favor yourself, stop with the delusional Mother Teresa posts about SSM.
So they (scholarships) are based on need and/or ability? Sounds like recruiting to me.
SSM does provide opportunities to underpriveleged kids for hockey and soccer.
who said anything about mother teresa?..are you telling me all of these kids are regional odp players?..what's your point?..no one here is in denial about ssm offering opporotunities(scholarships to you) for kids that otherwise could not afford to go there...just like...hmmm..I believe Harvard...but for you..like that opportunity you missed at the local cc.
ssm offers 30K scholarship and Bng and Wngs offers 1K scholarship. what's the difference. both have not won regionals on the boys side yet. bring in a new player with deep pockets - just like the MN thunder.
get rid of mediocrity in name of elite soccer.
ssm will be shamed if they don't win nationals with their approach. not bad for a mn team - not a mn club. check out ohio and brad freidel is starting an academy - don't tell me they will not allow him to play state cup in OH.
MN wake up and smell the coffee -
anon 12:39.
Shattuck did bring in a few Minnesota boys this year that in no way, shape or form could possibly afford to attend Shattuck.
But let's not kid ourselves, these players weren't recruited for their academic prowess or because SSM wanted to offer a few random underprivileged students a better educational opportunity, but solely for their soccer ability as they are regional/national caliber players. That is their choice and right to do so.
Hopefully these boys will benefit from the structured academic regiment as well as from the soccer program.
Time will tell and we wish them well and hope they find the boarding school environment to their liking.
But let's not kid ourselves why these players were recruited by SSM.
I can hardly wait for the day when a Wisconsin team affiliated with MYSA (e.g. River Falls, Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire, etc.) wins Minnesota State Cup and sends a whole roster of Cheeseheads to regionals.
no need b. favre because WI has national championships under their belt. They don't need MYSA to be successful. I guess Brett F is from MS that's why ytou don't know that WI has several championship clubs - Madison 56's, Milwaukee Bavarians, to name a few. Have you seen the WI youth assoc running the messy org like we have? River falls and Eau claire are here for the rec program. You want competition, they send their kids to Madison and Milwaukee.
I can hardly wait for the day SSM will win nationals and make us MN proud.
dude, at 30K a year, I don't know many people how CAN afford to go there, but lets not start calling the upper middle class "underprivileged" because without soccer they couldn't afford 30K a year for high school.
personally, I think their soccer program is wonderful, but I'd never send my kid there because of the academics. just because you say something is top of the line doesn't make it so. one poster a month or so ago said "look closely at their academics and make up your own mind." I did. Its my opinion and nobody can tell me I'm wrong for having it, and if you want to tell me I'm right you can shove off to, because even if you agree I still don't care.
I agree with the mentioned poster. Look, CLOSELY, then make your judgments. Don't just drink the cool aid.
Any word on what happened to the ASE at the national league? Not scoring much.
They went 0-7 scoring 2 goals while giving up 19.Unfortunately, 4 of those games were in Disney.Clearly a team that was way overmatched. They limp back to the MRL and frankly, they will struggle!
SuperEagles are no longer super. Their best players have scattered.
Can we call them "MedicroEagles" now? I think that would be an great team name.
ooh, misspelled mediocre... please blog spelling police... let it slide just this once... please
Now that the SSM-bashing is over, let's see if we can destroy the super eagles...
SuperEagles simply are not the same team after losing their best players.
Nobody is destroying them, they just are not the same caliber team anymore.
How about the SE making it to national soccer landscape? Can you believe a MYSA boys team that did not exist a fews years ago and playing under PSA (great CC) is now considered one of the top teams in the nation? Give them credit for making it that far. If you were ranked number 4 and number 16 nationally, I am sure others will be gunning for you-right?
Playing as one of the eight best teams in the country is no easy feat and these boys were competing not only against the top players but the top clubs.
Hey, I would like to bash teams, players, and coaches but, not when they make it to the top through hard work and dedication. How about someone chiming to say they were playing outdoors against Texas and California teams?
I don't see any other MN team even coming close.
won't you agree that the other MN teams would not have done any better and SE is still the team to contend with?
Good job SE boys - don't let the bloggers lure you in thinking negatively - you were good in the heat of battle.
I was there and you gave it your all-we are proud of u - man.
Good vibes dad, but that won't wing games.
SE was in the national league bracket which is equal to the 3rd bracket. The brackets are showcase, predator and copa. The national league bracket is equal to copa.
In recent times, the highest ranked boys team from MN was the Bangu 19s #9 national ranking during the summer of 2006. They were the only team to beat the eventual national champs that year. You can't give Bangu all the credit though as there were some players from St. Croix on that team. The next closest was the Wings 18s last spring, before MRL. I believe they were #16 nationally and a very good team.
SEs ranking will drop based on their result at Disney and their poor showing in the National League.
anon 7:11
You are completely wrong. The National League supercedes all the brackets at Disney and is a league of top national teams which play a league schedule over the winter. Their round robin game schedule is designed to coincide with key showcase tournaments for the benefit of college coaches. Just look at the teams and their rankings. Just because the Disney website listed them at the bottom does not mean they were the lowest flight, but since I'm sure your team was in Orlando you probably already knew that.
Fed up with coaches who bring their team to showcase events and then don't give all their players a chance to play because their egos are bigger than a Buick.All they really care about is their won/loss records and the heck with the players. Minnesota has too many of these egotistical coaches.
The Super Eagles glory days are over.
They ended when the few true Super Eagles flew to other teams.
They had a great run but the team has changed dramatically and are now just another good team. They're not super and they're not special. Their 15 minutes is up.
I've always maintained the SE are more than just a 2 horse team and I believe I will be proven correct when they win state cup for a third straight time this year.
NL = Copa? What a joke! You obviously have no idea what you are talking about...
We'll have to see what happens when the teams hit the fields. Many teams are preparing and working hard for good things to happen in 2008.
I saw the SE play in state cup last year and they looked like a team. I didn't see the whole team playing for the 2 guys that left.
The top U16 age group boys teams are weaker than last year.
Super Eagles lost their best players. Bangu lost some of their best players.
Too bad the big egos got in the way of the best players getting together on one team.
The entire age group is watered down and the best teams now are weaker than the top 2 teams from last year.
Everyone also needs to keep in mind that SSM players in the past have migrated back to their club teams for State Cup (Super Eagles will be at full strength).
hey anon-showcase does not mean equal playing time. the team is either winning or losing and your son would be on the field if he was good to be on the field. the fact that he is on bench and not getting playing time means he bring nothing to the team. i think any coacfh would be foolish not to play good players and would even be so foolish to play a terrible player in a show case event.
at the showcase level, the coaches are expecting to see good players not role players.
where does your child fit - role player or impact player?
that's the question to ask.
regarding watering down the U16, it is very sad when we say two players made up the U16 age group. the relative strenght of the age group is still there and SE elevated the standards to a new heights.
quit your hatred and go to starbucks and smell the real coffee. this is not folgers anymore!
anon 1103: where did these players go? isn't that what coaches should do- give their players a chance to move on to bigger things?
these players I am sure went to bigger and better things. we all should be proud that MN sent players to a new level? what's wrong with that?
I am assuming the 2 studs being referred to are attackers who did well in JY's boot and scoot style. SE will probably still dominate in the MN state cup but the real test will be the MRL when, they start playing Magic,Sockers,already lost to the Wind, along with Vardar and the Wolves, just to name a few.When a team is allowing 19 goals in 7 games,could the real issue here be DEFENSE? JY was a big proponent of skills,fitness and conditioning but it could also be that at this level,SE may not have the same coaching credentials and experience.The teams they played in Disney were the big boys mostly from region 3 but Region 2 had some superclubs that were in the showcase bracket.SE will be happy to be back in Minnesota to regroup but their aspirations to be a regional or national powershouse is now a long shot at best!
anon 1:35 - as if there has been any coach with the credentials to take a team to this level? who are these coaches with the style? why have they not done it? can it just be that no matter who or when, MN teams can't compete on national stage and JY was dumb enough to think MN was competitive?
if MN thunder or gophers women soccer can't compete nationally, why do you think there is a coach who can make it happen - too bad there is not enough JYs out there - stick your neck out JY for shots -from bangu and wings parents.
LOL
Oldtimer..you hit the nail right on the noggin.The problem is inferior coaching.
how about an inferior state of MiNd! to think that competing for national title in national league is equal to Disney is a statement only someone from MN would make.
there are no great coaches in MN - none has done anything at national level for us to sing their praises.
how does one explain a team with inferior coaching get to be nationally ranked in the nation? does that mean all the other teams behind SE have super inferior coaches?
I would wish for my kid to be on that team but we know he is not at that level so we continue to watch the players on the SE team even in HS.
old timer,
Storlien took a girls team to the national final 2 consecutive years.
He also won the boys MSHSL "AA" title.
He's now the coach of the Minnesota Lightening.
There's one coach with the know how and there are others.
great quote - "girls" - period
oldtimer,
So none of those kids made it beyond D3?
That makes winning the "AA" Stae title that much more impressive from a coaching perspective.
I'd say that coach did a phenomenal job especially considering Jefferson is a much smaller high school than the likes of EP, Wayzata and Stillwater.
Thanks for pointing that out!
Why I'm proud to be in the National League:
I am proud to be in the National League along with the rest of my team, for a number of reasons. The first reason is that we feel this is a great honor and accomplishment to be selected into this top league in its inaugural season. Secondly, we will be able to play against top teams throughout the rest of the country in our age group. Lastly, it will give our team an amazing amount of exposure and a chance for our team to showcase our talent, which is important for all of us who are looking to play soccer at the college level. blogger from NY
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