If they are "loaded with great multi sport athletes" why couldn't they beat a team playing with no subs????????????????????????? Particularly one that they are allegedly better than....
Too bad no one will see those games except the parents of the 16s, since they are in BFE MN... aka Cambridge - Isanti. That sucks. I would have liked to watch.
Here is the break down on Ep- SSM game. EP scored early, played well for a team with no real coaching. Ep pretty much owned the first half.
SSM came out strong second half with Ep struggling fitness wise. EP's defense looks strong, they struggled with possession and controlling the ball second half. SSM had a few good chance but never finished. Parents of SSM were complaining about the refereeing, because they were down a goal, not looking at the fact they just did not play well.
SSM parents win the poor sportmanship awards hands down.
MTA gave up a goal 10 minutes into the second half, keeper played a ball off of the SCV forward and the fwd scored. MTA created more chances and was the better team. However, they could have been down 2-0 after a CK scramble. They tied it late off of a long free kick and a good finish. I would give MTA a 60-40 advantage in the game. SCV was a good side and played well, they only created a few quality scoring chances and were gifted a goal by MTA. All in all a good game and two deserving teams advancing. I hope they meet again in the final and a true winner can be crowned.
Good luck to all teams that advanced to the semi-finals.
The statement about the U14 MTA players is totally inaccurate, and I think it is slanderous to make these accusations. 8:04 - you know the blog master can tell who you are. I hope the girl's parents (who I know personally) pursue this since you are making hurtful, untrue statements against them, really crossing the line by using their jersey numbers. Burnsville has at least one 9th grader on the team who also has an AUGUST birthday. I hope to see you at the field today giving an apology to these families. Oh, but that would require some CLASS, obviously something that you don't possess.
1) If you think that the lack of success of SSM so far at State Cup will discourage them in the future you will be deeply disappointed. Their program hinges on success. Winning attracts higher caliber players which is the key component in soccer development (who you play with/against every day at practice challenges you to get better). The will "invest" in even stronger recruiting to bring in the top players they can get (we're talking worldwide). It will always be tough for them to get the large metro kids as strong youth programs already exist in those markets (there is a reason why you currently don't see many Chicago, Detroit, DFW, LA kids on their rosters). It might take a while to learn to pronounce some of their future players names, but you will remember their jersey numbers as they fly by you.
2) MTA will only get stronger. This in no way guarantees them more State Cup titles, but MTA shares many similarities with the strongest college athletic programs. Why does UNC/ND soccer, USC/FL/Ohio State football, UNC/KS/UCLA basketball, etc... always have good teams? If you've heard of the "circle of life", with sports it is the "circle of success". Winning breeds more winning. If you win - you attract the better athletes. If you have the better athletes - you usually have more success (assuming the coaching is adequate). Much like the George Masons, Davidson's (with Steph Curry), etc... there will always be a team here and a team there (EP U16, BVL U14, etc..) that will challenge, but not on a consistent club basis. As in March Madness where the same teams move through, the Eclipse's, St. Louis Soccer, PDA's, Texans, etc... are the perennial sweet 16's (or better yet elite 8's) of youth soccer. MTA is working hard to get to the sweet 16, but like most MN college sports, have a few geographical and population disadvantages. The ECNL will also be the marketing magnet for all the parents out there with D1 dreams in their heads for the DD's.
now back to my crystal ball, tarot cards, and ouiji board.
MTA with 50% of the semi-finalists from ages U13-U15. The older years are "pre-Academy" so tough to evaluate them on the same criteria. What will happen is the white teams will weaken over time as there will always be the players (er,,parents) who would rather be the big fish in the little pond vs. the little fish in the big pond. As the years go on I would not expect to see that level of achievement at the older ages, although it might not matter by then if they opt out of State Cup for the new league.
MTA will win fewer State Cup championships in the future because their teams competing in the ECNL won't compete at State Cup. This could open the door for the SSM girls and other clubs when the dominant MTA club isn't winning 5 or 6 girls of the total 7 available championships (U13-U19) every year. I think this will be good for the majority of the players to give them a real chance at winning a State Cup championship.
So the vaunted SSM teams have seen only 1 of their boys or girls teams advance to semi-finals at Minnesota's State Cup? They can't be happy losing out to a bunch of local teams with their collection of players from across USA and Canada. I'll bet the little general will set a few heads rolling with this lack of success after all the recruiting and scholarship money invested in the SSM soccer program. Or will there be pressure from even higher up at the school on the head of the soccer program?
actually 9:16, SSM U18 girls play in the championship game today and their U16 boys also made it to the semi's. I am sure they are still a bit disappointed.
8:48 agree. 9:05 correct 9:06 but does that mean if other clubs starting to win state cup because MTA top team is with ECNL and that makes the other clubs' teams truely representing the top MN soccer? I don't think so. The problem with this logic is the same problem on the boys side. The MN boy teams are winning in MRL and even MRL Premier level and everyone is congratulating their CC clubs that they are really good and that MN soccer is getting so much better and can compete regionally and even nationally. What they don't realize is that MN boys soccer is competing against the second level teams in the region from other state because other states' top teams are in the US Academy system and are not allowed to play in MRL or compete in their State Cup for regionals.
So just because a team wins state cup without the dominance of MTA in the future does not mean that team is getting better and is able to compete at a national level.
8:48 your thoughts are sound regarding SSM, except for 1, leadership. Theirs is poor and they will not be able to figure out how to reattain and sustain success. Yes, they may eventually win 4 state cups titles in a given year, but they should have this year (2 of thier 4 teams already out though) with their talent, daily training, etc. They will never produce a regional champ again...even though they should this year with their talent, facilites, etc. Their coaching staff and leadership is not up to the task.
although nothing is settled, at this point the MTA are fulfilling the promise. of course, much can still happen but they are on their way to a repeat from last year. there are many teams/ages left to stop them
I think the lesson was learned last year when a younger MTA team defeated an older one at state cup despite being badly outplayed. That team then went to regions playing up and was beaten soundly in 3 games. MA doubtless decided there was no need to repeat that experience.
try to explain that to your daughter who just played her heart out and who is routinely expected to give it her all-except for this one time. Is that how life really works?
MTA U16 girls loose to Wayzata in semis...c'mon let the excuses begin!!! There is so much bragging on this blog about MTA and it's superiority - love to see something change!!!!
frankly, if the rumor of the u12 'throwing' the shootout is true that is a sham. if you didn't intend to win. dont play at all. i hope it isnt true. thats embarassing to everyone involved and thank goodness I didn't have a child on that team
The good news is we won't have to hear from the SSM parents for a while. The bad news is that the classless bunch of U18's still go to regionals.
To the SSM parent who posted this "Both teams are going to regions, I doubt if one more state cup title is that important to MTA and I know Shattuck has bigger fish to fry."
What fish do you think you can fry? You can't even win MN state cup, do you actually think you can win the region? Maybe all that money you are paying for soccer is getting to your brain and making you actually believe the hype the ssm people are feeding you or your daughter for that matter. It looks like that team has not missed to many meals.
I am a college coach that was watching the EDP VS. SCV game. It was absolutely remarkable to watch, and I even had a chance to listen in on the half-time speech from the EDP coach (Very knowledgeable & a great motivator).
11:28pm, I do not know what you are talking about, because I was very impressed with this young coach.
MTA U18 girls won after half of their team was at prom last night and 4 of their players aren't yet back from college. This has to be a tough loss for the SSM crew.
let's be honest, the SSM U18's are a very good, but not great team. they have one exceptional player. no surprise MTA took it to them. the U17 team out of WDB outplayed SSM just a few months ago.
unfortunately it is not a rumor that ma instructed his kids to purposely kick the ball to the keeper. It is true. very sad indeed. what lesson did he teach his kids today? if he didn't want to beat the 13's, then he shouldn't have entered state cup.
Looks like most of the crazies on this blog are all about winning. What about sending the very best team MN has at an age group to rep the state at regionals?
Looks like most of the crazies on this blog are all about winning. What about sending the very best team MN has at an age group to rep the state at regionals?
9pm Wouldn't be AS big of a deal if it was the final with MTA vs MTA, but there is a EDP team involved in all of this as they won the other semi-final and this directly influences them.
If we were going to base everything on reputation of teams, why should we even play the games?? Please someone answer this.
I think you are drinking the Kool Aid being served to you by the pitcher. Keep justifying.
Very poor choice on the part of the MTA coach on so many levels.
Also the college coach post is a bunch of crap. I think the EDP folks would do best to stay off the blog and let the results speak for themselves.
And while we are on the topic of EDP, why the heck did they sign up for State Cup if they weren't going to have enough players to finish a game? U14s have to forfeit in the middle of the game because they started with a 11 and injuries left them ineligible to play. Score ends 7-0 to a good MTA side.
SCV most underrated club in State Cup. Congratulations on all their success.
Throwing the game wasn't a last minute idea for MA he had planned on doing it from the start and don't buy into sending the best team to regions BS he was trying to avoid the mess it created with the current U14 team when they lost. It shows you the type of person he really is. So sad!!!!
No, he did he because he saw what happens when you send a bunch of U12's to regionals last year. They get hammered, right or wrong he did it for a reason. The MTA U13's if they win state cup are a very talented group and will do well at regionals, on this day they stuggled to beat the U12's. But they have a much better chance of being successful at regionals than a group of u12's
MA is a great person and a great coach. i dont care what anyone says he made the right choice and it was a great decision. I think it was a good choice because just like the u12 team last year getting crushed that would be the same thing this year.they are both good teams but u13 was clearly the better team. MA made a good choice.
MA made a great decision,i am sure it was hard but he clearly made the right decision as hard as it probably was...i will respect this man no matter what.
He has guts.
He is a great coach, the best possibly and what are you going to do it is his decision and it is all said and done. Give the man some credit, not many can do the things he does. He is a BRILLIANT coach and i give him credit x100.
Why at 16 and 17 is there no MTA representation? Is it because it is the last of the non home grown talent for MTA? Because politics picked the teams and the real talent got fed up and left? The program is really a sham? Does anyone really care?
How about instead of credit x100 you give him xxxx on his behind. Please wipe after you are finished. Earlier poster had it right, why register the precocious 12s at all in the 13 group??
I SUPPORT HIS DECISION. Most saw how sad the u12's were crying, wondering why someone would do that; but they would have cried just as hard if not harder when they got crushed at regionals this year if they went. Save them the tears and embarrassment. I love both of these teams and know most of the girls, they are both good bu the older team was better.
10:04 I do not have a DD on the team, or anyone playing soccer. I am a college coach and it just seems strange that you would assume only a parent would/ could write this.
I was really looking forward to this game after all the postings and hype. What a joke.
SSM was dominated. The alleged star SSM player was ineffective and looked quite average.
SSM started bumping and clutching. That was a wrong strategy as MTA was bigger and stronger. To MTAs credit they didn't drop the hammer on any of the SSM players.
I believe SSM had more yellow cards than shots on goal.
The bottom line is all the awards don't mean jack when the rubber hits the road. SSM was over rated and the best team won.
i am not a fan of either teams but i was shocked that after the 13's knew the 12's were throwing the game they continued to cheer when the 13's goalie made easy saves and the 12's missed. Good way to thank the 12's?NOT.
10:08 - let's not forget that until this year the current U16's had won the last three state cups, but to answer your question......the top U17 team was formed by MA at WDB umpteen years ago who handed them over to BB and then JE took them to a whole nother level. Back in those days, Bangu only had a couple of teams and were not what they are now (mainly the current U18 Stars). All the talent at the current U17 level continued to consolidate at WDB (including some current U16's) and they are who they are today. Why leave if it ain't broken? Great coach, great players, etc.... At the U16 level, that team was formed completely "fresh" at the U13 age (no Academy, etc...). There were already some very established teams at that age group and the vast majority of those players stayed put (once again-if it ain't broken,,,,). EP has always been pretty much their equal as evidenced by the scores of their games over the last two years (two ties and last years 2-1 win at State Cup for MTA). Not sure what happened to MTA this year at State Cup, but they did place higher in MRL premier than EP did.
Regarding your last three comments....give me a break, MTA will probably end up with more than their fair share of State Cup titles this year.
The antics of the MTA crowd at the U13 level only solidify my belief that something needs to be done with Clubs sending more than one team to State Cup. They never had an intention that the U12s would be allowed to win. If this is the case, what was the purpose in entering them? The answer is to block other potential teams.
This, while probably not illegal, is definately not within the spirit of the laws. Way to go guys.
I agree the EDP team seems to have issues. Those girls say terrible things to eachother however I do believe this is to be expected when they coach themselves and have to deal with that guy without any real role models...
Actually the U16 age group was the first academy age group, they had one year with an east and south team. That was the group that PB and NS rallied the parents at tryouts and pulled the then Renegades because they were worried that their dd's would not make the consolidated team. The team succeeded without those players and did well up until this years state cup. Injuries decimated the team at the wrong time, call it what you want but that is what happened. They did finish top three in MRL which shows when healthy they can play. Today Wayzata was better and they deserved to advance. It will be interesting to see what happens from here on out. This age group has talented players they are just not playing for one club, not saying MTA is the answer but it would be interesting to see what would happen if the top kids all played together. Their is enough talent to win the region but getting them on the same field is the hard part.
10:35 - true, but those teams were complete existing teams that came over (almost more of a club name change). It would be great to round up all the talent from all the U16 teams and Inferno kids. A lot of that age group won ODP last year.
10:35 So the Blue team is still the answer for gathering all the U16 talent? Will the top 16 player that left come back? How about the others in the program that had the talent but never got a shot either at tryouts or on one of the lower teams? Maybe MTA needs some new evaluators, or maybe some more in state competition to their program.
1012, There were no tears when the Current 13's lost at regions, just a lot of pride in their accomplishment something that the Current 12's won't be able to have a chance to experience because the "good of the club" I mean their continued financial success outweighs the hopes and dreams of children. What about the kids who are currently on the team who won't make the top team next year and this was probably their only chance to have this experience. MA and AK you both should be so proud.
It looks like Thunder/MTA has girls teams in the finals in 5 of the 7 age groups at State Cup. Thunder girls play each other at U15 and have already won at U18. Thunder boys entered teams in 6 age groups (no U19s) and have teams playing in 4 of the championship matches. The U13 Boys are Thunder East v Thunder so they win at U13 and have already won at U18. It appears they will match or exceed their success rate of the past few years. Especially interesting is the strength at U13-U15. Their Academy approach is definitely a success.
6:07, The Thunder actually has teams reaching semis in 5 of the 6 boys ages in which they entered teams. You're accurate in stating 5 of 7 in the girls age groups.
what makes anyone think a u13 team that can't beat a u12 team suddenly have any chance at regionals? oh by the way, i am sure the cast offs from EP that have to play the anointed ones in the finals may actually try to win. no offense to the u13 kids but the u12's got jobbed
Frankly, given the MTA mission of state domination, I'd think anything less than MTA Blue v MTA White in every age group would be considered a failure. Oh well, too bad this year, maybe with a few more marketing dollars and recruiting speeches you can gather the remaining good players.
Job Opening: Talented group of girls looking for COACH/ROLE MODEL/LEADER/AND TEACHER. Must have Strong Character, Morales, and ethics. If you are affiliated with Thunder no need to apply (Guilty by association) Current coach only cares about his pocketbook! Contact: Any parent on MA's team.
You can spin it anyway you want, but both MTA and SSM have to be disappointed they don't have more teams in the finals. I know I'm disappointed my dd won't be playing on May 30.
MA and MTA haters will spin the 12 vs 13 PKs into negativity.
I have NEVER witnessed anything like I saw at LWB yesterday. Mad props to MA and to the club (assuming they support his decision). I don't really know the guy and admit my perception of him as a selfish and self-absorbed coach came from only what I've heard. However I saw the complete opposite yesterday. I saw a coach put his own chance for glory aside for the betterment of his club and for the state itself at Regionals. I saw a coach do something that I doubt more than a handful of youth coaches in this country would have had the balls to do. I saw uber-competitive U12 parents fuming on the sidelines in confusion, and U13 parents apparently bothered by it as well. I heard MTA directors begin distancing themselves from MA. Can't wait to see what MA will say on r2r regarding this issue.
853 AKA MA?, You are a fool, you obviously don't know the meaning of competition. MA sacrificed those girls for the betterment of himself. $$$ his other main reason was to avoid the turmoil that last years upset caused him. What about those kids, you are missing the point. Also your comment about the betterment of the State, do the kids play for the State or for themselves.
8:53 Perhaps the fuming parents were upset about the ramifications of their children being asked to throw a game and have to stand up in front of everyone and essentially humiliate themselves
914, pair of haters. How anyone can think that MA's actions yesterday support the MA is all about himself bs has to open their eyes a bit. Kudos to a coach trying to teach his players that being a winner is much more than winning.
MTA U12s, you have an absolute gem of a human being as a coach. Let the haters hate on.
Smurf - you're friends with MA. What's your take here?
925, So throwing a game makes you a great human being. All that training to teach them how to quit and give up. Great life lesson taught by MA. Straight out of the Liberal handbook. MA under estimated the amount of problems this has caused because he initially wanted to avoid the same issues he witnessed last year when the current U13's beat the current U14's in a shootout. You can deny it but it is the truth, heard it straight from the horses mouth. So would MA have thrown the game if his team was playing Dakota Rev instead of this own club. I think not, so doing what's best for MN soccer is just BS. Those girls deserve better and he stole something from them that they will never get back.
The move pulled by the MTA U-12/U-13 coaches is what gives youth sports a bad name. MA/AK make the desision on who deserves to win the game?!? Everyone here can make your own conclusions about this move but as a parent of 2 girls who love soccer I can tell you that I would be furious with the message sent by this type of action. How do you tell a 12 year old who has played her heart out that now they need to quit and just give up. What message does that send? Not one I would subscribe to for sure. Work hard and good things will happen,,,unless your coach has a bigger agenda for his club and in that case you can be the sacrificial lamb.
Lets now here how the Thunder can position thier statement that they are all about development and although State cup is nice to win, really the most important thing is the development of the player. Give me a break!!! We want the 13Blue to advance because they will have the better chance to compete at the regional level. Development, are you telling me that that very Blue team who won State Cup last year learned nothing from their experience? Did they not gain some levels of understanding on how to compete against bigger stronger teams? How can justification possibly be given to the 12's that they aren't allowed that same opportunity??
This whole thing stinks for way to many reasons to get into and it should be clear to all MTA players and parents that they are nothing more than cogs in MA's master plan to better position his personal agenda's and the agenda of the club. Develop players, yea right, but only if the puppet master can control how they use those skills. I hope someone makes any and all youth soccer sanctioning bodies aware of the tactics this individual and this club uses. I am sickened by this type of behavior at any age, at any tournament and by any person willing to sacrafice one group for another. I would say MA and AK should be ashamed of themselves but you would have to have a conscience to feel shame.
Sad,Sad,Sad. People don't accept his type of behavior. These are your kids who will take these lessons into life with them. Is this the example you want to portray? Think about it.
I have never cheered for an EdenPrairie team in my life but the U-13 girls from Eden Prairie have one new fan pulling for their success. Go EP!
I'm not condoning what they did by any means, IF they did that (I still have seen, heard NO evidence that this is fact or fiction), BUT WHAT A BUNCH OF CRY BABIES ON HERE.
AK, I would like to hear your take on the whole situation? You are a very well respected young coach but hope your reputation doesn't take a blow being associated with the Thunder Group.
I'm sure the 12's biggest memory of State Cup will be that their coach made them throw the game! You can make it out of group play, but you can't beat another MTA team. nice!
here's the bigger issue... why the h*!(#% is MYSA allowing teams to compete in STATE CUP outside of their age group??? That crap doesn't fly elsewhere.
If they threw the game is certainly undermines the integrity of the whole event, but I find it simply marvelous that all these MTA haters are suddenly so concerned about the purity of competition in MYSA. The REAL truth is most of their "outrage" is because its MA or MTA.
I to am curious to see what the MTA brass has to say about this. There's no hiding the fact this is ethically pretty questionable.
People on this blog should not accuse anyone or put anyone in a position that would damage their character without knowing the facts. This could be slandering and people have gone to civil court regarding slandering. As a blog admin you should remove your liability by stating that slandering is not allowed. Otherwise, you could be liable.
To follow up, even if you post as anonymous, with a court order, they can trace your IP provider, your IP address and your registered name and address with the Internet provider. Therefore, just because you post under anonymous, a court order will reveal everything.
actually, a lot of what is on here could be considered defamation of character and a lot this would be considered liable in eyes of the right attorney.
You'd think people in MN would have learned from the MYSA lawsuits. Its a matter of time before someone gets nailed for running their mouth on one of these blogs. As the above poster puts it, YOU ARE NOT ANONYMOUS on here no matter how much you want to think you are.
Though MA is a very likeable guy, not sure he is fit to coach kids at any level. What kind of message does this send to our children who commit themselves to a sport only to have the opportunity to go to regionals taken from them because of MA's political agenda. I would expect more from MTA.
Yes, I have stated several times in the past that "anonymous" is not really anonymous. A court could order "blogspot.com" and ISPs to turn over data to trace comments to specific computers location. I don’t know if the things being posted are true or un-true. If they are un-true I don’t know if they cross over into dangerous territory or not. I am not an attorney.
The goal of the Minnesota Thunder Academy is to promote the growth and raise the standard of youth soccer in the state of Minnesota.
The Minnesota Thunder Academy will promote, sponsor, organize, and administer soccer programs - which shall include the highest levels of play, guidance, instruction and competition - emphasizing skill development, teamwork, and GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP for the committed soccer player.
With diverse programs open to players ages 5 to 19, from the recreational to the elite level, WE ASPRIRE TO HELP YOUNG PLAYERS BUILD A LOVE FOR THE GAME.
Not sure throwing a game has much to do with sportsmanship or fostering a love for the game.
The point about this not happening if it was MTA U12s against any other U13 team the state is so true.
Re: the slander/defamation issue, just make sure to write "I think" before you make your point. That way, you're offering an opinion, rather than an accusation.
to the fool who thinks that MAs team should not qualify for state cup - the age group is 13 and under, as of August 1, 2008. Last I checked, 12 and 11 are under 13.
I watched the Championship U18 SSM vs MTA game on Sunday and was a bit surprised and a bit disappointed.
Don't have any girls, and I hadn't seen these teams play before. MTA is obviously a team built for speed and they played well.
I didn't understand SSM coaching thou. SSM had outside mid on the field with double knee braces limping up and down the field most of the game. She was in obvious pain, why play her and why play her the whole game? It seemed like that the MTA team knew she was having problems moving and often took advantage of her lack of mobility. Did anyone else see this?
I think if the 12s did "throw" the game, MTA should handle it or MYSA if there were a rule violation (which I can't find). It will never be settled on this forum.
I was at a different game and heard the rumors on the sideline, but I did not see what happened, and I believe a lot of people posting here did not see what happend. It seems to me that there is a lot of speculation based on rumor.
If it did happen, the officials and field marshall would know and they could provide information to MTA leadership or even MYSA (if they are even interested) if that information is requested.
Let's not lose sight of the fact that there are 12 and 13 year-old girls at the center of all this and some of them may read your comments.
13 - Eden Prairie 2 - MTA 1 14 - MTA 3 - Burnsville 1 15 - MTA White 2 - MTA Blue 1 16 - Eden Prairie 2 - Wayzata 0 17 - Woodbury 3 St. Croix Valley 0 18 - MTA already champions 19 - MTA 2 - NMT 0
Why would anyone EVER take an MTA v MTA game seriously as a "sporting" event ever again? I think they have shown they are not above deciding the outcome before the game is ever played.
No wonder they want all the other top clubs to merge with them. So they can sit back and decide state cup champs during try outs.
If teams like EP, WDB, WAY and SCV would just stop foiling their plans.
The U15 game will be played straight up, being a seeded team at regionals is important to the Blue team. If white wins it will be because they earned it. The two teams have played each other several times this year, all one goal games. It will be a competitive and fairly played game.
MYSA could look at the facts, then actually make a decision that would show no tolerance for that kind of thing going on. When it is that blatent a double forfeit should be declared. You can argue that is unfair to the kids, but what went on is not arguably better.
If the seed of the blue team is important to MTA, they could decide to let the blues win. If having two reps at the same age group is important, they could let the white wins. Which is more important to them?
Either way, if the behavior is not accounted for, no one can take the result seriously as a competitive result instead of a club decision.
314, maybe they would be looking to send a message. I would bring the girls back to field and have a non Thunder coach there and actually have a shootout and let the girls get to decide if they want to throw the game instead of the coach telling them they have to be classy and let the older team win. You would probably see a different outcome.
I wonder how the new league that MTA is involved in would think If they knew one of their new entrants had thrown a game. If I was in charge I would boot them out.
I would guess the teams played it straight through the game and ot to allow the better team to declare itself but then when it was clear that the result would need to be determined through PKs (which is never a clear indicator of the better team but rather who has the best 5 shooters) the two coaches decided to put the 13's through because they figured that would give MTA the best chance to advance to regionals and possibly even compete at the regional level. This is my best guess as to the logic, or lack of logic that was put forth. I think it is a very bad descision on the parts of the two coaches and I wouldn't be surprised if they aren't disiplined or even suspended by some of the sanctioning leagues. This is not what MYSA US Club soccer etc. want from their member teams. When the integrity of the games goes away so does the value of winning those games. Bad move by the Thunder brain trusts on this move.
I wonder why so many people have a dislike for that club?
3:14, so no matter what happens at U15 you'll question the result? The white team has beaten the blue team. I guess if you're part of MTA you can't win with some people.
For anyone who is still questioning the truth of the rumor, here you go, straight from the blog of the coach in question.
"But to me, helping send the state's most competitive U13 team to represent Minnesota was more important to me at that time.
All this ran through my head during the OT period when I wasn't shouting out encouragement and instruction to the players. Part of me was still coaching the girls to play better and eek out a win, part of me was hoping the 13s scored. If we were able to take the game to PKs, I would give the game to the 13s.
And to make a long post longer, like some sick story, that is exactly what came to be..."
MA has now fully admitted he threw the game to the U-13 team. 11:29 you can now rest easy knowing no one gave false information over this blog.
340, Thanks for the clarification, but still the same club which has shown very poor judgement. A hand full of those girls will be demoted to the white team next year and missed out on an incredible experience.
No matter what happened, what are the kids doing today?? They woke up, went to school, had recess, chances are they have forgotten the game in question. ??
3:45 The coach threw the game. I highly doubt the U-12 Thunder team has forgotten about it. These are good to great athletes and their coach betrayed them. He didn't give them a chance to prove how good they are on the field, but rather decided to impose his rule on them.
I went to his road to the regionals page. Parents read it, it is all about him and his greatness and the book he is going to write and how giving he is to the 13 team by allowing them to win. SICK
The real question is what will the parents on that team do? Will they sit back and take it or will MA smooze them and try to convince them what he did was right and better for them in the long run. Would love to hear from some of those parents and what they think.
I read the post listed by Anon 4:25pm. I'll probably get crucified by some, but I kind of respect MA more now. I may not agree with his decision but admire the fact that he said early on what he would do if given the same set of circumstances and when the difficult decision came, he followed thru.
The fact of the matter is these girls are 11 & 12. There are a lot more opportunities ahead. They have received some excellent coaching and I think may have learned something along the way.
Here's the test, substitute SCV or Eden Prairie doing the same thing. See how fast the MTA crowd would be saying "see, you can't trust your player to people like this" etc. IMHO it was ethically a bad move. Not one parent will pull their kid as a result of this though.
Would I feel differently? I hope not, especially as he says it was discussed on two different occasions. How would I handle my daughter, I don't know I think it would depend on my daughter's attitude to some extent. Do I feel bad for the girls? Umm, I don't know they walk away not having been beaten, but saying we are bowing to you at this time. If anything I think the 13's girls should be upset. I don't know it sounds like the MTA will be discussing the coaches decision according to their web site.
The MTA Executive Board is aware of an incident at State Cup this past weekend. It was a coach's decision that came into question; an individual decision, and it was not supported by the club. We are looking into it further to deem whether any disciplinary action is needed.
My 2 cents...... agree that if it hadn't been another MTA team the game would not have been thrown. Had the draw been different the game might have been thrown at the final. Again, a poor example of what a club/person will do to promote themselves. Those kids deserved to at least get a shot at winning. I see no reason or rationale for praising him to throw the game. If he didn't want them to represent Minnesota at Regionals, he never should have entered them into State Cup. Cut and dry. It was a slap in the face to MTA and State Cup.
No doubt MA is a good coach, but a bit a control freak and a big egomaniac. He put his need to control, in front of common sense and reasonable adult behaviour. His decision was poor, followed an even worse decision to write a blog entry on it. MTA will probably fire him, as they should.
This incident could:
* draw sanctions from MYSA * draw sanctions from USYSA * cause legal action against him and/or the club * cause MTA to loose the Nike club designation * cause MTA to loose summer camp revenue * prevent MTA from getting USSF academy designation * cause future players from wanting to be part of MTA
It is also the parents fault, who when they heard him talk about it previously, did nothing about it.
If a parent did complain to the club, and they did nothing about it, they may not be able to distance themselves from it by simply firing him.
Mrs. Robinson So... you think every coach that enters a team in State Cup thinks his team is going to win? Or do you think some coaches enter their teams in the state cup for the elevated competition that will prepare and modivate his/her players and parents to work harder? Could it be that they also enter into the tournament because they can't get this level of competition anywhere else but at an out of state tournament?
On the same hand if the players/parents and coach discussed this possibility twice. The only player/parent that should be upset is the player/parent not paying attention to what the coach was saying.
As a parent, after hearing the coach, did you really expect him to change his mind when actually put in the tough situation of making a decision? If so, what would that have taught your DD's? Pollyanna
Lets make certain of a couple of things. These young ladies on the U12 and U13 team did nothing wrong. This is an individuals mistake and not the mistake of the entire club, every team in the club, every person who plays for the club, and every parent and coach in the club. It looks bad but be careful when you want to blame everyone at MTA for one persons decision. Think about it. That is not right, fair, or appropriate.
Seems the executive comitee at MTA has some tough descisions ahead of it. No matter what they do the final game at U-13 is tainted. Seems the honorable thing is to admit a set of coaches made some really bad decisions, suspend them for the season, and then forfiet the final against EP.(no I am not an EP parent). The forfiet is needed because the semifinal game was thrown, we will never know who the true winner should have been. Sad for the MTA girls yes, but how do we know they should be playing anyhow?
BTW the MTA board sure doesn't have to do too much investigating, just read MA's blog. He admits doing what is being accused. Simple answer, but not an easy one for the board. It's Gut check time at MTA, will they try to Duck out of the issue or will they face this thing head on?
9:13 No we are talking about the differences between right and wrong. we are talking about trying to interject a little integrity into a situation where two coaches made really bad descisions and we are talking about the board of directors for the youth arm of our pro soccer team stepping up and leading by example, a good example we hope. That is what we are talking about.
BURN HIM! BURN HIM! HE TURNED MY DAUGHTER INTO A NEWT (she got better....).
The degree of indignation on this blog is laughable. Not sure I've ever read some much self-righteousness in all my life. True, free speach is a right in this country, but my concern is more for those impacted - his players, their opponents, and the parents involved, not a bunch of self-absorbed fire away at will soccer bloggers.
As far as the U13 final being forfeit by MTA, dream on. Though the 12 coach may have done something against the spirit of the game, the kicks were actually taken. There was no forfeit prior to the kicks. The older team won because they made 2 kicks and the U12s made zero. Maybe Burnsville should be given the U14 crown as EP forfeited their semifinal at halftime after being down by 5 or 6.
Some of you are really basking in this. It's a veritable hater feeding frenzy. 70 minute game was played outright + 20 minutes of overtime. It's the PKs that were thrown. Bad decision by one (or two) coaches.
The MTA Executive Board should fine them, reprimand them, and set policy as there will be many more MTA vs MTA games in meaningful competition down the road. If they choose to lose coaches because of this mistake that is their call.
Those of you calling for the downfall of MTA due to this are dreaming. The club is much bigger than one single coach.
Personally, I think because of one coaches actions, MTA should forfeit the two State Cup titles they have already won, the two they are guaranteed to win (since they have both finalists) and the teams that they have in the other six championship games should be forced to withdraw. Only then will I be happy. And while I'm at it, in every future game any MTA team will have to play wihout a goalie. Now I am content.
It would be totally inappropriate to forfeit the final if the u13 coach was not involved in the decision. You can't punish the u13 players and you would be punishing their opponent in the final because they would not get the opportunity to compete. If a team wants to advance on a forfeit then we should think about what competition really means. The EP team may never have a chance to play in a final again. The game goes on, and no you can't take anything away from the 13's they did not miss the penalties. As for the board who really cares. I am sure they will have some consequences for MA. He did not kill anyone so be careful what kind of punishment you want for him. Suspension is harsh enough. People in sport do a lot worse and get almost nothing, he deserves some kind of punishment but nothing to harsh for one bad decision.
1,384 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 601 – 800 of 1384 Newer› Newest»The bond on the age verification is a new deal this year. Pretty ridiculous if you ask me.
SCV 16s looked really good tonight. They are loaded with great multi-sport athletes.
If they are "loaded with great multi sport athletes" why couldn't they beat a team playing with no subs????????????????????????? Particularly one that they are allegedly better than....
Game report on MTA SCV 16s game? Anyone like to break it down?
As I understand it (though I wasn't there) MTA was down most of the game, and managed to pull it off in the last few minutes.
Game report on SSM EDP game?
How does MTA tie SCV? Did they give them the wildcard on purpose? Something stinks & SSM pays the price.
Wow - conspiracy theory. Did you read about the fact that a bunch of their players are injured and they played with no subs???
On a healthy day. MTA beats SCV 5-0
Indeed - they barely beat the MTA white team!!
the weather was a factor is just about every close game today. hopefully the winds will be calm for tomorrow's semi's.
I was at LWB for 4 hours today, but didn't see many close games??
Any news on MTA players for tomorrow's semi? I hope everyone is healthy. Would not want to hear any excuses!
As for the request on news on MTA players - what age group?
Indeed - there are more age groups than just the one your DD plays in...
Predictions for tomorrow's semi final games at 16s?
My prediction:
EDP 1 SCV 0
MTA 2 WYZ 0
11:17,
Sorry, the 16s
Too bad no one will see those games except the parents of the 16s, since they are in BFE MN... aka Cambridge - Isanti. That sucks. I would have liked to watch.
Here is the break down on Ep- SSM game.
EP scored early, played well for a team with no real coaching.
Ep pretty much owned the first half.
SSM came out strong second half with Ep struggling fitness wise.
EP's defense looks strong, they struggled with possession and controlling the ball second half.
SSM had a few good chance but never finished.
Parents of SSM were complaining about the refereeing, because they were down a goal, not looking at the fact they just did not play well.
SSM parents win the poor sportmanship awards hands down.
As opposed to the "loser of the week" award, as we are all on here at 11:31 on a Sat night....
SCV vs MTA
MTA gave up a goal 10 minutes into the second half, keeper played a ball off of the SCV forward and the fwd scored. MTA created more chances and was the better team. However, they could have been down 2-0 after a CK scramble. They tied it late off of a long free kick and a good finish. I would give MTA a 60-40 advantage in the game. SCV was a good side and played well, they only created a few quality scoring chances and were gifted a goal by MTA. All in all a good game and two deserving teams advancing. I hope they meet again in the final and a true winner can be crowned.
Good luck to all teams that advanced to the semi-finals.
Stones in glass houses 11:28?
I would like one of the SCV parents to give us a "game report" on the EP parents this afternoon.
It might be enlightening for us on how we should all comport ourselves.
The statement about the U14 MTA players is totally inaccurate, and I think it is slanderous to make these accusations. 8:04 - you know the blog master can tell who you are. I hope the girl's parents (who I know personally) pursue this since you are making hurtful, untrue statements against them, really crossing the line by using their jersey numbers. Burnsville has at least one 9th grader on the team who also has an AUGUST birthday. I hope to see you at the field today giving an apology to these families. Oh, but that would require some CLASS, obviously something that you don't possess.
two predictions from soctradamus.....
1) If you think that the lack of success of SSM so far at State Cup will discourage them in the future you will be deeply disappointed. Their program hinges on success. Winning attracts higher caliber players which is the key component in soccer development (who you play with/against every day at practice challenges you to get better). The will "invest" in even stronger recruiting to bring in the top players they can get (we're talking worldwide). It will always be tough for them to get the large metro kids as strong youth programs already exist in those markets (there is a reason why you currently don't see many Chicago, Detroit, DFW, LA kids on their rosters). It might take a while to learn to pronounce some of their future players names, but you will remember their jersey numbers as they fly by you.
2) MTA will only get stronger. This in no way guarantees them more State Cup titles, but MTA shares many similarities with the strongest college athletic programs. Why does UNC/ND soccer, USC/FL/Ohio State football, UNC/KS/UCLA basketball, etc... always have good teams? If you've heard of the "circle of life", with sports it is the "circle of success". Winning breeds more winning. If you win - you attract the better athletes. If you have the better athletes - you usually have more success (assuming the coaching is adequate). Much like the George Masons, Davidson's (with Steph Curry), etc... there will always be a team here and a team there (EP U16, BVL U14, etc..) that will challenge, but not on a consistent club basis. As in March Madness where the same teams move through, the Eclipse's, St. Louis Soccer, PDA's, Texans, etc... are the perennial sweet 16's (or better yet elite 8's) of youth soccer. MTA is working hard to get to the sweet 16, but like most MN college sports, have a few geographical and population disadvantages. The ECNL will also be the marketing magnet for all the parents out there with D1 dreams in their heads for the DD's.
now back to my crystal ball, tarot cards, and ouiji board.
8:48, exactly.
MTA with 50% of the semi-finalists from ages U13-U15. The older years are "pre-Academy" so tough to evaluate them on the same criteria. What will happen is the white teams will weaken over time as there will always be the players (er,,parents) who would rather be the big fish in the little pond vs. the little fish in the big pond. As the years go on I would not expect to see that level of achievement at the older ages, although it might not matter by then if they opt out of State Cup for the new league.
MTA will win fewer State Cup championships in the future because their teams competing in the ECNL won't compete at State Cup.
This could open the door for the SSM girls and other clubs when the dominant MTA club isn't winning 5 or 6 girls of the total 7 available championships (U13-U19) every year.
I think this will be good for the majority of the players to give them a real chance at winning a State Cup championship.
So the vaunted SSM teams have seen only 1 of their boys or girls teams advance to semi-finals at Minnesota's State Cup?
They can't be happy losing out to a bunch of local teams with their collection of players from across USA and Canada.
I'll bet the little general will set a few heads rolling with this lack of success after all the recruiting and scholarship money invested in the SSM soccer program.
Or will there be pressure from even higher up at the school on the head of the soccer program?
actually 9:16, SSM U18 girls play in the championship game today and their U16 boys also made it to the semi's. I am sure they are still a bit disappointed.
8:48 agree. 9:05 correct
9:06 but does that mean if other clubs starting to win state cup because MTA top team is with ECNL and that makes the other clubs' teams truely representing the top MN soccer? I don't think so. The problem with this logic is the same problem on the boys side. The MN boy teams are winning in MRL and even MRL Premier level and everyone is congratulating their CC clubs that they are really good and that MN soccer is getting so much better and can compete regionally and even nationally. What they don't realize is that MN boys soccer is competing against the second level teams in the region from other state because other states' top teams are in the US Academy system and are not allowed to play in MRL or compete in their State Cup for regionals.
So just because a team wins state cup without the dominance of MTA in the future does not mean that team is getting better and is able to compete at a national level.
SSM had 2 boys teams advance to semis. 16s and 18s, but the 18s already lost their semi.
8:48 your thoughts are sound regarding SSM, except for 1, leadership. Theirs is poor and they will not be able to figure out how to reattain and sustain success. Yes, they may eventually win 4 state cups titles in a given year, but they should have this year (2 of thier 4 teams already out though) with their talent, daily training, etc. They will never produce a regional champ again...even though they should this year with their talent, facilites, etc. Their coaching staff and leadership is not up to the task.
although nothing is settled, at this point the MTA are fulfilling the promise. of course, much can still happen but they are on their way to a repeat from last year. there are many teams/ages left to stop them
Results today?
MTA U 12s throw game to MTA u13s in shootout very sad to watch...
mta 15s 2 nssa 0
6:17 - I am a parent of one of the girls from the U13 Blue Team and it was tough. I am sure MA had his reasons. Both teams played their hearts out.
I am a parent of an older mta player, our hearts go out to you! Really tough on the kids and not sure what it teaches :(
I think the lesson was learned last year when a younger MTA team defeated an older one at state cup despite being badly outplayed. That team then went to regions playing up and was beaten soundly in 3 games. MA doubtless decided there was no need to repeat that experience.
try to explain that to your daughter who just played her heart out and who is routinely expected to give it her all-except for this one time. Is that how life really works?
MTA U16 girls loose to Wayzata in semis...c'mon let the excuses begin!!! There is so much bragging on this blog about MTA and it's superiority - love to see something change!!!!
But,But,State Cup isn't important,its about the development. And they didn't just lose, they got thumped.
MA told some of the U12 parents that he was not going to let it happen like last year, even if he had to sit his best players. He made sure I guess.
Yeeowcchh. MTA takin' it from all directions.
how sad to to dis the boys acheivements at mrl to promote mta.
All these anti-MTA posts, but I bet if we could check the IP's they would be coming from 2, maybe 3 different people......
MTA U18 boys and girls State Champions. AGAIN for both of these teams. Congrats
frankly, if the rumor of the u12 'throwing' the shootout is true that is a sham. if you didn't intend to win. dont play at all. i hope it isnt true. thats embarassing to everyone involved and thank goodness I didn't have a child on that team
The good news is we won't have to hear from the SSM parents for a while. The bad news is that the classless bunch of U18's still go to regionals.
To the SSM parent who posted this "Both teams are going to regions, I doubt if one more state cup title is that important to MTA and I know Shattuck has bigger fish to fry."
What fish do you think you can fry? You can't even win MN state cup, do you actually think you can win the region? Maybe all that money you are paying for soccer is getting to your brain and making you actually believe the hype the ssm people are feeding you or your daughter for that matter. It looks like that team has not missed to many meals.
I am a college coach that was watching the EDP VS. SCV game. It was absolutely remarkable to watch, and I even had a chance to listen in on the half-time speech from the EDP coach (Very knowledgeable & a great motivator).
11:28pm,
I do not know what you are talking about, because I was very impressed with this young coach.
Good luck to EDP! I am now a BIG FAN!
I am an MTA parent. I don't know who made the 832 post, but that is the most classless piece of garbage I have seen on this blog yet.
MTA U18 girls won after half of their team was at prom last night and 4 of their players aren't yet back from college.
This has to be a tough loss for the SSM crew.
let's be honest, the SSM U18's are a very good, but not great team. they have one exceptional player. no surprise MTA took it to them. the U17 team out of WDB outplayed SSM just a few months ago.
8:34 is not a college coach. It is a EDP parent trying to amp their team.
unfortunately it is not a rumor that ma instructed his kids to purposely kick the ball to the keeper. It is true. very sad indeed. what lesson did he teach his kids today? if he didn't want to beat the 13's, then he shouldn't have entered state cup.
8:50 - probably one of his brothers.....
Looks like most of the crazies on this blog are all about winning. What about sending the very best team MN has at an age group to rep the state at regionals?
Looks like most of the crazies on this blog are all about winning. What about sending the very best team MN has at an age group to rep the state at regionals?
17/5/09 9:00 PM
i think you have to win to go to regionals,wow.
9pm Wouldn't be AS big of a deal if it was the final with MTA vs MTA, but there is a EDP team involved in all of this as they won the other semi-final and this directly influences them.
If we were going to base everything on reputation of teams, why should we even play the games?? Please someone answer this.
I think you are drinking the Kool Aid being served to you by the pitcher. Keep justifying.
Very poor choice on the part of the MTA coach on so many levels.
Also the college coach post is a bunch of crap. I think the EDP folks would do best to stay off the blog and let the results speak for themselves.
And while we are on the topic of EDP, why the heck did they sign up for State Cup if they weren't going to have enough players to finish a game? U14s have to forfeit in the middle of the game because they started with a 11 and injuries left them ineligible to play. Score ends 7-0 to a good MTA side.
SCV most underrated club in State Cup. Congratulations on all their success.
13s don't go to regionals.
hey 6:42, MTA has 8 of the 12 finalists in the U13-U15 age groups. You want change - you got it.....that's more than last years - there's your change.
13's go to regionals, the regional winners do not go to nationals.
The finals are set. Of the 14 championship games
MTA has finalists in 10 of them (in two they have both teams, and they have already won both U18 games).
SCV has three finalists - outstanding for them. They appear to be the club that has really taken a step up.
EP has three finalists - a couple of very strong girls teams and quite possibly one of their best years.
SSM has one - must be disappointing, but knowing them, they will work even harder in the upcoming year.
correction - SSM has two (I forgot about the U18 girls).
Throwing the game wasn't a last minute idea for MA he had planned on doing it from the start and don't buy into sending the best team to regions BS he was trying to avoid the mess it created with the current U14 team when they lost. It shows you the type of person he really is. So sad!!!!
No, he did he because he saw what happens when you send a bunch of U12's to regionals last year. They get hammered, right or wrong he did it for a reason. The MTA U13's if they win state cup are a very talented group and will do well at regionals, on this day they stuggled to beat the U12's. But they have a much better chance of being successful at regionals than a group of u12's
8:50 and 8:59 I don't know. I think the EDP coach sent it himself...
9:48 I think you are right on, about this one.
No, real college coach would back that man, oh that's right he is a college coach.
MA is a great person and a great coach. i dont care what anyone says he made the right choice and it was a great decision. I think it was a good choice because just like the u12 team last year getting crushed that would be the same thing this year.they are both good teams but u13 was clearly the better team. MA made a good choice.
948,959- Your DD's must sit the bench.
That is a lot of hate! hahaha. I like the guy.
MA made a great decision,i am sure it was hard but he clearly made the right decision as hard as it probably was...i will respect this man no matter what.
He has guts.
He is a great coach, the best possibly and what are you going to do it is his decision and it is all said and done. Give the man some credit, not many can do the things he does. He is a BRILLIANT coach and i give him credit x100.
Why at 16 and 17 is there no MTA representation? Is it because it is the last of the non home grown talent for MTA? Because politics picked the teams and the real talent got fed up and left? The program is really a sham? Does anyone really care?
How about instead of credit x100 you give him xxxx on his behind. Please wipe after you are finished. Earlier poster had it right, why register the precocious 12s at all in the 13 group??
I SUPPORT HIS DECISION. Most saw how sad the u12's were crying, wondering why someone would do that; but they would have cried just as hard if not harder when they got crushed at regionals this year if they went. Save them the tears and embarrassment. I love both of these teams and know most of the girls, they are both good bu the older team was better.
MA deserves MUCH credit.
stop giving him so much crap.
I'm an EP parent. SH & DK need to just stop running their big MOUTHS! Enough is enough.
YES, I AM CALLING YOU OUT!
10:04
I do not have a DD on the team, or anyone playing soccer.
I am a college coach and it just seems strange that you would assume only a parent would/ could write this.
MTA 18 Blue 2 SSM 0
I was really looking forward to this game after all the postings and hype. What a joke.
SSM was dominated. The alleged star SSM player was ineffective and looked quite average.
SSM started bumping and clutching. That was a wrong strategy as MTA was bigger and stronger. To MTAs credit they didn't drop the hammer on any of the SSM players.
I believe SSM had more yellow cards than shots on goal.
The bottom line is all the awards don't mean jack when the rubber hits the road. SSM was over rated and the best team won.
AK & MA are both good coaches
10:00 = MA or AK. You don't intentionally throw a game boys. Plain and simple!
some way to win the game, 13's.
Funny how all these threads come back around to MA...
10:12 Wow EP parent, you have real issues on this team to call out parents.
correction. 10:00 = MA and 10:12 = AK. Damage control boys??
i am not a fan of either teams but i was shocked that after the 13's knew the 12's were throwing the game they continued to cheer when the 13's goalie made easy saves and the 12's missed. Good way to thank the 12's?NOT.
10:08 - let's not forget that until this year the current U16's had won the last three state cups, but to answer your question......the top U17 team was formed by MA at WDB umpteen years ago who handed them over to BB and then JE took them to a whole nother level. Back in those days, Bangu only had a couple of teams and were not what they are now (mainly the current U18 Stars). All the talent at the current U17 level continued to consolidate at WDB (including some current U16's) and they are who they are today. Why leave if it ain't broken? Great coach, great players, etc.... At the U16 level, that team was formed completely "fresh" at the U13 age (no Academy, etc...). There were already some very established teams at that age group and the vast majority of those players stayed put (once again-if it ain't broken,,,,). EP has always been pretty much their equal as evidenced by the scores of their games over the last two years (two ties and last years 2-1 win at State Cup for MTA). Not sure what happened to MTA this year at State Cup, but they did place higher in MRL premier than EP did.
Regarding your last three comments....give me a break, MTA will probably end up with more than their fair share of State Cup titles this year.
Good decision MA.
was it westsider or nothsider who had commented the the star ssm player was good for a hat trick in every game......
MA RULES!
10:12 EP parent- wonder how all the parents on your team feel right now knowing you aired your dirty launder on this blog to the soccer world
The antics of the MTA crowd at the U13 level only solidify my belief that something needs to be done with Clubs sending more than one team to State Cup. They never had an intention that the U12s would be allowed to win. If this is the case, what was the purpose in entering them? The answer is to block other potential teams.
This, while probably not illegal, is definately not within the spirit of the laws. Way to go guys.
10:30-
AGREED.
Your Mom rules?
I agree the EDP team seems to have issues. Those girls say terrible things to eachother however I do believe this is to be expected when they coach themselves and have to deal with that guy without any real role models...
Actually the U16 age group was the first academy age group, they had one year with an east and south team. That was the group that PB and NS rallied the parents at tryouts and pulled the then Renegades because they were worried that their dd's would not make the consolidated team. The team succeeded without those players and did well up until this years state cup. Injuries decimated the team at the wrong time, call it what you want but that is what happened. They did finish top three in MRL which shows when healthy they can play. Today Wayzata was better and they deserved to advance. It will be interesting to see what happens from here on out. This age group has talented players they are just not playing for one club, not saying MTA is the answer but it would be interesting to see what would happen if the top kids all played together. Their is enough talent to win the region but getting them on the same field is the hard part.
10:35 - true, but those teams were complete existing teams that came over (almost more of a club name change). It would be great to round up all the talent from all the U16 teams and Inferno kids. A lot of that age group won ODP last year.
10:35 So the Blue team is still the answer for gathering all the U16 talent? Will the top 16 player that left come back? How about the others in the program that had the talent but never got a shot either at tryouts or on one of the lower teams? Maybe MTA needs some new evaluators, or maybe some more in state competition to their program.
actually putting the most talented kids on an odp team...there's a thought!!!
10:43 - let's not kid ourselves, very few players change teams when they are U17. not sure about your other comments.
945, how do you know why he did it!
1012, There were no tears when the Current 13's lost at regions, just a lot of pride in their accomplishment something that the Current 12's won't be able to have a chance to experience because the "good of the club" I mean their continued financial success outweighs the hopes and dreams of children. What about the kids who are currently on the team who won't make the top team next year and this was probably their only chance to have this experience. MA and AK you both should be so proud.
leave AK out of it, it was MA decision alone.
I can think of no better reason to force people to take monikers and log in for each post. That way you can block those who are idiots.
1110, Of course AK knew MA would throw the match!! Please wake up!!!
It looks like Thunder/MTA has girls teams in the finals in 5 of the 7 age groups at State Cup.
Thunder girls play each other at U15 and have already won at U18.
Thunder boys entered teams in 6 age groups (no U19s) and have teams playing in 4 of the championship matches.
The U13 Boys are Thunder East v Thunder so they win at U13 and have already won at U18.
It appears they will match or exceed their success rate of the past few years.
Especially interesting is the strength at U13-U15.
Their Academy approach is definitely a success.
6:07,
The Thunder actually has teams reaching semis in 5 of the 6 boys ages in which they entered teams.
You're accurate in stating 5 of 7 in the girls age groups.
what makes anyone think a u13 team that can't beat a u12 team suddenly have any chance at regionals? oh by the way, i am sure the cast offs from EP that have to play the anointed ones in the finals may actually try to win. no offense to the u13 kids but the u12's got jobbed
Frankly, given the MTA mission of state domination, I'd think anything less than MTA Blue v MTA White in every age group would be considered a failure. Oh well, too bad this year, maybe with a few more marketing dollars and recruiting speeches you can gather the remaining good players.
MA and his god-like wisdom - exactly why those with any ethics and morals and want a true role model for their daughters left or will leave MTA.
Job Opening: Talented group of girls looking for COACH/ROLE MODEL/LEADER/AND TEACHER. Must have Strong Character, Morales, and ethics. If you are affiliated with Thunder no need to apply (Guilty by association) Current coach only cares about his pocketbook! Contact: Any parent on MA's team.
You can spin it anyway you want, but both MTA and SSM have to be disappointed they don't have more teams in the finals. I know I'm disappointed my dd won't be playing on May 30.
MA and MTA haters will spin the 12 vs 13 PKs into negativity.
I have NEVER witnessed anything like I saw at LWB yesterday. Mad props to MA and to the club (assuming they support his decision). I don't really know the guy and admit my perception of him as a selfish and self-absorbed coach came from only what I've heard. However I saw the complete opposite yesterday. I saw a coach put his own chance for glory aside for the betterment of his club and for the state itself at Regionals. I saw a coach do something that I doubt more than a handful of youth coaches in this country would have had the balls to do. I saw uber-competitive U12 parents fuming on the sidelines in confusion, and U13 parents apparently bothered by it as well. I heard MTA directors begin distancing themselves from MA. Can't wait to see what MA will say on r2r regarding this issue.
8:53 it will be something like this: me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me me the kids.
853 AKA MA?, You are a fool, you obviously don't know the meaning of competition. MA sacrificed those girls for the betterment of himself. $$$ his other main reason was to avoid the turmoil that last years upset caused him. What about those kids, you are missing the point. Also your comment about the betterment of the State, do the kids play for the State or for themselves.
8:53 Perhaps the fuming parents were upset about the ramifications of their children being asked to throw a game and have to stand up in front of everyone and essentially humiliate themselves
914, pair of haters. How anyone can think that MA's actions yesterday support the MA is all about himself bs has to open their eyes a bit. Kudos to a coach trying to teach his players that being a winner is much more than winning.
MTA U12s, you have an absolute gem of a human being as a coach. Let the haters hate on.
Smurf - you're friends with MA. What's your take here?
925, So throwing a game makes you a great human being. All that training to teach them how to quit and give up. Great life lesson taught by MA. Straight out of the Liberal handbook. MA under estimated the amount of problems this has caused because he initially wanted to avoid the same issues he witnessed last year when the current U13's beat the current U14's in a shootout. You can deny it but it is the truth, heard it straight from the horses mouth. So would MA have thrown the game if his team was playing Dakota Rev instead of this own club. I think not, so doing what's best for MN soccer is just BS. Those girls deserve better and he stole something from them that they will never get back.
The move pulled by the MTA U-12/U-13 coaches is what gives youth sports a bad name. MA/AK make the desision on who deserves to win the game?!? Everyone here can make your own conclusions about this move but as a parent of 2 girls who love soccer I can tell you that I would be furious with the message sent by this type of action. How do you tell a 12 year old who has played her heart out that now they need to quit and just give up. What message does that send? Not one I would subscribe to for sure. Work hard and good things will happen,,,unless your coach has a bigger agenda for his club and in that case you can be the sacrificial lamb.
Lets now here how the Thunder can position thier statement that they are all about development and although State cup is nice to win, really the most important thing is the development of the player. Give me a break!!! We want the 13Blue to advance because they will have the better chance to compete at the regional level. Development, are you telling me that that very Blue team who won State Cup last year learned nothing from their experience? Did they not gain some levels of understanding on how to compete against bigger stronger teams? How can justification possibly be given to the 12's that they aren't allowed that same opportunity??
This whole thing stinks for way to many reasons to get into and it should be clear to all MTA players and parents that they are nothing more than cogs in MA's master plan to better position his personal agenda's and the agenda of the club. Develop players, yea right, but only if the puppet master can control how they use those skills.
I hope someone makes any and all youth soccer sanctioning bodies aware of the tactics this individual and this club uses.
I am sickened by this type of behavior at any age, at any tournament and by any person willing to sacrafice one group for another. I would say MA and AK should be ashamed of themselves but you would have to have a conscience to feel shame.
Sad,Sad,Sad. People don't accept his type of behavior. These are your kids who will take these lessons into life with them. Is this the example you want to portray? Think about it.
I have never cheered for an EdenPrairie team in my life but the U-13 girls from Eden Prairie have one new fan pulling for their success. Go EP!
9:47-Great post! If any other team would have been the opponent, this would not have occurred. This alone demonstrates how disgusting it is.
I'm not condoning what they did by any means, IF they did that (I still have seen, heard NO evidence that this is fact or fiction), BUT WHAT A BUNCH OF CRY BABIES ON HERE.
WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
10:04 No doubt about it, They threw the game. Not Good!! Agree with 9:47 and 10:00 (good posts)
Another black eye to MN soccer. Given to us all by our good friends at the Minnesota Thunder Academy.
AK, I would like to hear your take on the whole situation? You are a very well respected young coach but hope your reputation doesn't take a blow being associated with the Thunder Group.
I'm sure the 12's biggest memory of State Cup will be that their coach made them throw the game! You can make it out of group play, but you can't beat another MTA team. nice!
here's the bigger issue... why the h*!(#% is MYSA allowing teams to compete in STATE CUP outside of their age group??? That crap doesn't fly elsewhere.
If they threw the game is certainly undermines the integrity of the whole event, but I find it simply marvelous that all these MTA haters are suddenly so concerned about the purity of competition in MYSA. The REAL truth is most of their "outrage" is because its MA or MTA.
I to am curious to see what the MTA brass has to say about this. There's no hiding the fact this is ethically pretty questionable.
Man you couldn't have invented better blog fodder than this story! Thanks guys!
"Straight out of the Liberal handbook"
HAHAHAHAHA
alright Rush... welcome to the soccer forum. GIVE. ME. A. BREAK.
Obama wins a landslide... MTA is match fixing... time to start buying guns and ammo!!!!
This is for the blog admin.
People on this blog should not accuse anyone or put anyone in a position that would damage their character without knowing the facts. This could be slandering and people have gone to civil court regarding slandering. As a blog admin you should remove your liability by stating that slandering is not allowed. Otherwise, you could be liable.
To follow up, even if you post as anonymous, with a court order, they can trace your IP provider, your IP address and your registered name and address with the Internet provider. Therefore, just because you post under anonymous, a court order will reveal everything.
You don't understand what slander is. Too many people imagine they know the law while they really don't.
actually, a lot of what is on here could be considered defamation of character and a lot this would be considered liable in eyes of the right attorney.
You'd think people in MN would have learned from the MYSA lawsuits. Its a matter of time before someone gets nailed for running their mouth on one of these blogs. As the above poster puts it, YOU ARE NOT ANONYMOUS on here no matter how much you want to think you are.
Though MA is a very likeable guy, not sure he is fit to coach kids at any level. What kind of message does this send to our children who commit themselves to a sport only to have the opportunity to go to regionals taken from them because of MA's political agenda. I would expect more from MTA.
Yes, I have stated several times in the past that "anonymous" is not really anonymous. A court could order "blogspot.com" and ISPs to turn over data to trace comments to specific computers location. I don’t know if the things being posted are true or un-true. If they are un-true I don’t know if they cross over into dangerous territory or not. I am not an attorney.
This would be a great article for Top Drawer Soccer. I wonder how often it has happened in other states?
MTA Mission Statement:
The goal of the Minnesota Thunder Academy is to promote the growth and raise the standard of youth soccer in the state of Minnesota.
The Minnesota Thunder Academy will promote, sponsor, organize, and administer soccer programs - which shall include the highest levels of play, guidance, instruction and competition - emphasizing skill development, teamwork, and GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP for the committed soccer player.
With diverse programs open to players ages 5 to 19, from the recreational to the elite level, WE ASPRIRE TO HELP YOUNG PLAYERS BUILD A LOVE FOR THE GAME.
Not sure throwing a game has much to do with sportsmanship or fostering a love for the game.
The point about this not happening if it was MTA U12s against any other U13 team the state is so true.
Pretty quiet on the blog without the Shattuck Pontificators. They must be out recruiting.
Re: the slander/defamation issue, just make sure to write "I think" before you make your point. That way, you're offering an opinion, rather than an accusation.
Example: "I think MTA stinks."
Carry on.
Anon 5/17 10:26
The super star to get a hat trick...
Trolling tounge in El Cheeko...
Funny nobody challenged til the game was over.
Westsider
to the fool who thinks that MAs team should not qualify for state cup - the age group is 13 and under, as of August 1, 2008. Last I checked, 12 and 11 are under 13.
dip$hit. oops, I mean I think you are a dip$hit
I watched the Championship U18 SSM vs MTA game on Sunday and was a bit surprised and a bit disappointed.
Don't have any girls, and I hadn't seen these teams play before. MTA is obviously a team built for speed and they played well.
I didn't understand SSM coaching thou. SSM had outside mid on the field with double knee braces limping up and down the field most of the game. She was in obvious pain, why play her and why play her the whole game? It seemed like that the MTA team knew she was having problems moving and often took advantage of her lack of mobility. Did anyone else see this?
I think if the 12s did "throw" the game, MTA should handle it or MYSA if there were a rule violation (which I can't find). It will never be settled on this forum.
I was at a different game and heard the rumors on the sideline, but I did not see what happened, and I believe a lot of people posting here did not see what happend. It seems to me that there is a lot of speculation based on rumor.
If it did happen, the officials and field marshall would know and they could provide information to MTA leadership or even MYSA (if they are even interested) if that information is requested.
Let's not lose sight of the fact that there are 12 and 13 year-old girls at the center of all this and some of them may read your comments.
Final predictions...
13 - Eden Prairie 2 - MTA 1
14 - MTA 3 - Burnsville 1
15 - MTA White 2 - MTA Blue 1
16 - Eden Prairie 2 - Wayzata 0
17 - Woodbury 3 St. Croix Valley 0
18 - MTA already champions
19 - MTA 2 - NMT 0
Wow... pretty delusional on the 13s and 15s predictions.
I think at 13, EDP will have a chip on their shoulders after all the conversation about yesterday.
At 15, The blue team already qualified for regionals. I'm not sure they will play it the same as they would have had they not qualified through MRL.
U15 will be very interesting to see what happens!!!! Will they pass the ball into the keeper in a shootout!!!
From what I heard the game in question yesterday was very close. Maybe the better team should have been decided in a shootout.
Why would anyone EVER take an MTA v MTA game seriously as a "sporting" event ever again? I think they have shown they are not above deciding the outcome before the game is ever played.
No wonder they want all the other top clubs to merge with them. So they can sit back and decide state cup champs during try outs.
If teams like EP, WDB, WAY and SCV would just stop foiling their plans.
The U15 game will be played straight up, being a seeded team at regionals is important to the Blue team. If white wins it will be because they earned it. The two teams have played each other several times this year, all one goal games. It will be a competitive and fairly played game.
MYSA could look at the facts, then actually make a decision that would show no tolerance for that kind of thing going on. When it is that blatent a double forfeit should be declared. You can argue that is unfair to the kids, but what went on is not arguably better.
3:05,
Question for you.
If result was decided before it was ever played why did the game end in a tie and go to PKs?
If the seed of the blue team is important to MTA, they could decide to let the blues win. If having two reps at the same age group is important, they could let the white wins. Which is more important to them?
Either way, if the behavior is not accounted for, no one can take the result seriously as a competitive result instead of a club decision.
308 wink, wink. I got some swamp land to sell you!
anon 3:12,
Why would you even consider penalizing the girls who had nothing to do with it?
313, the 12's are the more talented team.
MA is trying dearly to save face on his blog. He's definitely doing the passive-aggressive whoa-is-me thing .
314, maybe they would be looking to send a message. I would bring the girls back to field and have a non Thunder coach there and actually have a shootout and let the girls get to decide if they want to throw the game instead of the coach telling them they have to be classy and let the older team win. You would probably see a different outcome.
I wonder how the new league that MTA is involved in would think If they knew one of their new entrants had thrown a game. If I was in charge I would boot them out.
I would guess the teams played it straight through the game and ot to allow the better team to declare itself but then when it was clear that the result would need to be determined through PKs (which is never a clear indicator of the better team but rather who has the best 5 shooters) the two coaches decided to put the 13's through because they figured that would give MTA the best chance to advance to regionals and possibly even compete at the regional level. This is my best guess as to the logic, or lack of logic that was put forth. I think it is a very bad descision on the parts of the two coaches and I wouldn't be surprised if they aren't disiplined or even suspended by some of the sanctioning leagues. This is not what MYSA US Club soccer etc. want from their member teams. When the integrity of the games goes away so does the value of winning those games. Bad move by the Thunder brain trusts on this move.
I wonder why so many people have a dislike for that club?
3:30 these teams are not part of the ECNL. That is u15, u16 and u17 next year. So this year's current u14, 15 and u16 teams.
3:14, so no matter what happens at U15 you'll question the result? The white team has beaten the blue team. I guess if you're part of MTA you can't win with some people.
For anyone who is still questioning the truth of the rumor, here you go, straight from the blog of the coach in question.
"But to me, helping send the state's most competitive U13 team to represent Minnesota was more important to me at that time.
All this ran through my head during the OT period when I wasn't shouting out encouragement and instruction to the players. Part of me was still coaching the girls to play better and eek out a win, part of me was hoping the 13s scored. If we were able to take the game to PKs, I would give the game to the 13s.
And to make a long post longer, like some sick story, that is exactly what came to be..."
MA has now fully admitted he threw the game to the U-13 team. 11:29 you can now rest easy knowing no one gave false information over this blog.
340, Thanks for the clarification, but still the same club which has shown very poor judgement. A hand full of those girls will be demoted to the white team next year and missed out on an incredible experience.
No matter what happened, what are the kids doing today?? They woke up, went to school, had recess, chances are they have forgotten the game in question. ??
3:45 The coach threw the game. I highly doubt the U-12 Thunder team has forgotten about it. These are good to great athletes and their coach betrayed them. He didn't give them a chance to prove how good they are on the field, but rather decided to impose his rule on them.
I went to his road to the regionals page. Parents read it, it is all about him and his greatness and the book he is going to write and how giving he is to the 13 team by allowing them to win. SICK
3:45 - Clarifying that does not in any mean "no one gave false information over this blog." Not even close.
353, what statements above are you referring too.
whats the website and once there, where do u go to read about this past weekends events??
4:18 http://www.roadtoregionals.com/
Go to the 97 jr's on the right side half way down.
The real question is what will the parents on that team do? Will they sit back and take it or will MA smooze them and try to convince them what he did was right and better for them in the long run. Would love to hear from some of those parents and what they think.
4:16 - how about naming names of players and saying they are playing illegally?
442, I thought you were referring to Posts about the PK issue.
I read the post listed by Anon 4:25pm. I'll probably get crucified by some, but I kind of respect MA more now. I may not agree with his decision but admire the fact that he said early on what he would do if given the same set of circumstances and when the difficult decision came, he followed thru.
The fact of the matter is these girls are 11 & 12. There are a lot more opportunities ahead. They have received some excellent coaching and I think may have learned something along the way.
I wonder if you would feel differently if it were your daughter who was asked to step up and pass a PK to the keeper to give away a hard fought game?
Here's the test, substitute SCV or Eden Prairie doing the same thing. See how fast the MTA crowd would be saying "see, you can't trust your player to people like this" etc. IMHO it was ethically a bad move. Not one parent will pull their kid as a result of this though.
Wanna bet? No one needs this kind of coaching.
Would I feel differently? I hope not, especially as he says it was discussed on two different occasions. How would I handle my daughter, I don't know I think it would depend on my daughter's attitude to some extent. Do I feel bad for the girls? Umm, I don't know they walk away not having been beaten, but saying we are bowing to you at this time. If anything I think the 13's girls should be upset. I don't know it sounds like the MTA will be discussing the coaches decision according to their web site.
Email to MTA members at 3:06 p.m., today:
MTA Members,
The MTA Executive Board is aware of an incident at State Cup this past weekend. It was a coach's decision that came into question; an individual decision, and it was not supported by the club. We are looking into it further to deem whether any disciplinary action is needed.
Sincerely,
MTA Executive Board
MTA U15 BLUE
WILL CRUSH ANY OPPENTENT
THAT STARTS WITH THE WHITE TEAM!!!
MTA 4 LIFE!!!
forget that!!!
ANYONE AND EVERYONE
MTA 4 LIFE !!!
http://www.roadtoregionals.com/97-journal/week/2009-05-17-to-2009-05-23
That is the story. Not as simple as some would think.
So now youth soccer has become professional wrestling-thanks MTA/MA.
My 2 cents...... agree that if it hadn't been another MTA team the game would not have been thrown. Had the draw been different the game might have been thrown at the final. Again, a poor example of what a club/person will do to promote themselves. Those kids deserved to at least get a shot at winning. I see no reason or rationale for praising him to throw the game. If he didn't want them to represent Minnesota at Regionals, he never should have entered them into State Cup. Cut and dry. It was a slap in the face to MTA and State Cup.
Mrs. Robinson
U15 Blue will not be losing to the U15 white team but will be destroying them 3-0. The U15 blues Attack is unstoppable.
kyle speaks the truth. amen to that.
MTA 4 LIFE!!!
7:59
agreed.
No doubt MA is a good coach, but a bit a control freak and a big egomaniac. He put his need to control, in front of common sense and reasonable adult behaviour. His decision was poor, followed an even worse decision to write a blog entry on it. MTA will probably fire him, as they should.
This incident could:
* draw sanctions from MYSA
* draw sanctions from USYSA
* cause legal action against him and/or the club
* cause MTA to loose the Nike club designation
* cause MTA to loose summer camp revenue
* prevent MTA from getting USSF academy designation
* cause future players from wanting to be part of MTA
It is also the parents fault, who when they heard him talk about it previously, did nothing about it.
If a parent did complain to the club, and they did nothing about it, they may not be able to distance themselves from it by simply firing him.
Mrs. Robinson
So... you think every coach that enters a team in State Cup thinks his team is going to win? Or do you think some coaches enter their teams in the state cup for the elevated competition that will prepare and modivate his/her players and parents to work harder? Could it be that they also enter into the tournament because they can't get this level of competition anywhere else but at an out of state tournament?
On the same hand if the players/parents and coach discussed this possibility twice. The only player/parent that should be upset is the player/parent not paying attention to what the coach was saying.
As a parent, after hearing the coach, did you really expect him to change his mind when actually put in the tough situation of making a decision? If so, what would that have taught your DD's?
Pollyanna
geez 8:27, a bit overboard IMO (and I'm cool if you disagree). Of all your points, maybe the first and last ones might come to fruition.
Club Finalist Semi (last year)
MTA 12 (13) 17 (18)
EDP 3 4
SCV 3 7
SSM 2 4
VLY 2 3
WDB 1 3
I think the SCV accountant has dropped out as his club has now moved to 3rd.
think mta should have their own thread on a blog. enough already...there are other games to be played at finals.
Time will tell 8:46, time will tell.
Lets make certain of a couple of things. These young ladies on the U12 and U13 team did nothing wrong. This is an individuals mistake and not the mistake of the entire club, every team in the club, every person who plays for the club, and every parent and coach in the club. It looks bad but be careful when you want to blame everyone at MTA for one persons decision. Think about it. That is not right, fair, or appropriate.
Seems the executive comitee at MTA has some tough descisions ahead of it. No matter what they do the final game at U-13 is tainted. Seems the honorable thing is to admit a set of coaches made some really bad decisions, suspend them for the season, and then forfiet the final against EP.(no I am not an EP parent). The forfiet is needed because the semifinal game was thrown, we will never know who the true winner should have been. Sad for the MTA girls yes, but how do we know they should be playing anyhow?
BTW the MTA board sure doesn't have to do too much investigating, just read MA's blog. He admits doing what is being accused. Simple answer, but not an easy one for the board. It's Gut check time at MTA, will they try to Duck out of the issue or will they face this thing head on?
we' talking about U13 right?? WoW
9:13 No we are talking about the differences between right and wrong. we are talking about trying to interject a little integrity into a situation where two coaches made really bad descisions and we are talking about the board of directors for the youth arm of our pro soccer team stepping up and leading by example, a good example we hope. That is what we are talking about.
I wonder what the leaders for the new East Ridge Program and school think about all this??
BURN HIM! BURN HIM! HE TURNED MY DAUGHTER INTO A NEWT (she got better....).
The degree of indignation on this blog is laughable. Not sure I've ever read some much self-righteousness in all my life. True, free speach is a right in this country, but my concern is more for those impacted - his players, their opponents, and the parents involved, not a bunch of self-absorbed fire away at will soccer bloggers.
I'm sure you'll be the first to tell them 9:32.
As far as the U13 final being forfeit by MTA, dream on. Though the 12 coach may have done something against the spirit of the game, the kicks were actually taken. There was no forfeit prior to the kicks. The older team won because they made 2 kicks and the U12s made zero. Maybe Burnsville should be given the U14 crown as EP forfeited their semifinal at halftime after being down by 5 or 6.
Some of you are really basking in this. It's a veritable hater feeding frenzy. 70 minute game was played outright + 20 minutes of overtime. It's the PKs that were thrown. Bad decision by one (or two) coaches.
The MTA Executive Board should fine them, reprimand them, and set policy as there will be many more MTA vs MTA games in meaningful competition down the road. If they choose to lose coaches because of this mistake that is their call.
Those of you calling for the downfall of MTA due to this are dreaming. The club is much bigger than one single coach.
Personally, I think because of one coaches actions, MTA should forfeit the two State Cup titles they have already won, the two they are guaranteed to win (since they have both finalists) and the teams that they have in the other six championship games should be forced to withdraw. Only then will I be happy. And while I'm at it, in every future game any MTA team will have to play wihout a goalie. Now I am content.
It would be totally inappropriate to forfeit the final if the u13 coach was not involved in the decision. You can't punish the u13 players and you would be punishing their opponent in the final because they would not get the opportunity to compete. If a team wants to advance on a forfeit then we should think about what competition really means. The EP team may never have a chance to play in a final again. The game goes on, and no you can't take anything away from the 13's they did not miss the penalties. As for the board who really cares. I am sure they will have some consequences for MA. He did not kill anyone so be careful what kind of punishment you want for him. Suspension is harsh enough. People in sport do a lot worse and get almost nothing, he deserves some kind of punishment but nothing to harsh for one bad decision.
This is MAs only mistake? You might thousands of people who would argue that he has made at least 2.
It would be totally irresponsbile of the board to do anything but fire him.
Its funny how the MTAgoobers love to bring out the "hater" label. You might be best of just keeping your mouth shut at this point.
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