Somehow the previous post on these topics was deleted. Feel free to use this for ranting and raving about club topics, MRL, MYSA, MTA, SSM, ODP, MN Thunder, etc.
That is a great letter, spoken from the heart I feel.
It’s truly unbelievable the negative response that many club officials I’ve spoken with have towards MN pro soccer now that the organization houses a youth academy. Though I call many of these people friends, their lack of understanding coupled with MYSA’s blatant denial of the Thunder existence of late has put our state at a crossroads that could lead to the end of pro soccer in this state.
What baffles me when talking to many paid coaching directors is that they bash the Thunder for not being a “true” pro team (for whatever reason) and for initiating a youth system that lures players away from local community clubs. Yet most of these coaching directors make a living in this state BECAUSE pro soccer has been around for 18 years or so and has had a positive impact on our young players and the overall interest of the game in MN. People at Shattuck bash the Thunder, yet Shattuck has a program led by people brought to MN through the Thunder.
It comes from the so-called “top”. MYSA’s leadership is suspect, vindictive, and stubborn. The majority of the MN soccer community looks at MYSA as the end all be all of soccer knowledge in this state and the MYSA leadership abuses this power of suggestion. The same goes for local community club volunteer presidents/board members and paid coaching directors. They are the gatekeepers of information to the masses and have the ability to turn their membership against the pro team through the propagation of misinformation and bias.
I ask IMS to dig for the truth. Call out these people at MYSA and within our local soccer club system. The questions to ask are simple.
1 - Do you believe professional soccer is beneficial to the promotion and growth of the youth game in our state?
2 - Do you believe that parents and players should have the right to pursue any development option they choose?
If the answer to both questions is yes, then there is absolutely no non-self-serving reason to not support the Thunder. Period. If the answer to either question is no, then one must question why these people in positions of power and soccer decision making for their members?
Pose the same questions to every single metro area club. Seek answers from coaching directors like Wayne Harrison (EP) and Ted Kroeten (Blackhawks) as to why they refuse to support pro soccer in this state. Talk to club presidents and board members at Mpls United and PSA and ask why they’ve continued to propagate misinformation and all out lies to their membership about the Thunder and about MTA. Talk to the Chan Chaska club president and ask why he didn’t renew his season tickets this year, having been a stout support of MN pro soccer until this point.
You might not get responses but no answers speak volumes in their own right.
Compile and publicize a list of all MYSA officials and affiliate clubs and their respective stances on the pro soccer/MTA issues. Everything is easy for them behind closed doors. It’s time to bring things to light and call people out for their true intentions; many of which I guarantee are selfish and self-serving in the end.
The MN soccer climate stints. Time to clear the air and IMS can do it.
How many times can this letter get posted? We get it , the Thunder faithful hate MYSA and want to assume no blame for the relationship problem between MYSA and the Thunder. Plenty of blame for both sides on this one in my opinion.
Heard the Thunder are out of money...delinquent on payments for facilities and haven't paid some coaches - and players still haven't been paid playoff bonuses from last year. Sign of the times - or internal issues?
Hey Shekki, I'm gonna scout players in the 'hood tonight. I hear there were a few good ones left after MTA and PSA came through. Want to come along? I have a fake ID maker in my trunk.
A few of us bloggers who coach HS and club teams get together for a few beers about once a month. During the Shekki rants last year we were able to determine Shekki's club and even narrowed it down to the 2 teams that he may have been involved with. We are about 99% certain which of those 2 teams is his. The true depth of the hate and vitriol went much deeper than his racist rants on this blog. If you only knew the lengths he went to in his attempts to undermine minority players it would make you sick. He isn't near as anonymous as he thinks he is...
Nope. Not the MU dad who wrote that letter about the kid who gave up his driving privileges so he could play on a BNG U14 Premier team. What a sacrifice...he could be driving, dating, getting chicks. Instead he gets to play soccer with a bunch of youngsters.
After watching this debate for a while...... I don't agree that the Thunder have had an affect either way on girls soccer at all. I never hear players discussing the Thunder or Lightning. I don't see a connection at all.
Girls MTA U15 have a very good chance to win the Premier League and become the first girls team to win the Premier League from MN. They have set themselves up well to finish first. With three games to play if they win two no teams can catch them. Good Luck.
Girls MTA U18 still have a chance but need to win out to finish first in Premier League. They have one very difficult game left ve Ohio Elite. Good luck.
Girls MTA u16 still have a chance to win the Premier league but need to win out. 3 games to play and must win all 3. They need to beat a good Cleveland team to jump past them. Might be tough but still a chance if they can secure all 9 points in the last three games they will finish first. Good luck.
Actually the Wild Card is different than the MWL spot. The Regional draw has a Midwest league spring and fall spot for the winner. If you win your state cup it drops to the 2nd place team, if the 2nd place team wins the it drops to 3rd and so on. The wild card is just a random draw. MN has one at U18 again. So first and second get to regionals. Example, If Shattuck wins state cup they go to Regionals, If the old Wings finish 2nd and beat the old stars in the semi final they go to Regionals. If the Stars end up 2nd in MIdwest league and they don't win at state cup they could go to Regionals if Ohio Elite wins Ohio South. U18 MN could have three teams.
10:13, 9:43 here. You are correct, I used the term "wild card" which is in reality the MRL spot. I agree with your sentiments on the U18's. Also a good chance at U16 with MTA Blue as well as at U15 with MTA Blue. If they fail to win State Cup they could still make it to regionals with the MRL spot.
Proving how diluted the MRL has become, especially in the Spring for girls. The MTA 15G did not even qualify for Premier league in their First Division playdowns but got in because other teams dropped out.
11:51, MWL has become somewhat diluted. But just in time along comes the new National League for girls with 40 of the nations top clubs already signed up. Very timely for the top girl's clubs in USA.
I was in Rockford with my U14 girls, and sat down with a hot dog and a Coke right as the SSM/Chicago Fire U18B game started. It was a fabulous game, and I felt guilty about not having to pay to see it. The game ended 2-2 due to a weak PK call against SSM in the final 10 minutes. SSM owned the middle of the field, and their outside runners were top-notch. I only wish my daughter's team could have been there to watch...they could have learned a thing or two about playing the ball wide.
You expect players at this age to get chippy when they're down (SSM was up 2-0 in the second half), but this game had none of that, just total athleticism and intensity. What a treat to watch.
10:27 - no, but the goal and objective of ODP is to put together the top 18 players at each respective year. there have been instances where players did not even sign up for the tryouts, but were still invited into the pool and went to IL. Unfortunately like many things in life, in ODP, ability trumps participation.
Lucy Winton Bell looked fine at ODP last night. We're lucky to have a facility like that, where they don't try to squeeze too many fields in too small a space. The fields are long and wide. I live in Eden Prairie, and would drive any day to play there. Any word on if they will get lights? It seems to be the only strike against the facility.
for those interested in the u14 age group, Burnsville plays Woodbury tonight in MRL at u14. Just based on the preliminary results from their league, Burnsville would be the favorite (Although I have seen MTA Blue I have not seen either of these teams play so I can't confirm). Might be interesting to see if Burnsville can challenge MTA Blue that won the other first division at State Cup. Despite the watered down league of MRL, looks like MN has 2 good showings at u14 between MTA and Burnsville.
Lucy Winton Bell field are very uneven, bumpy and hard slope at some corners, makes for interesting soccer. I agree with the width/lenght comment - nioe. Some minor leveling and lights would make it a very fine venue.
Anyone have any idea what the Cambidge-Isanti fields are like? never been there but since we have to make the trek there hope the feilds are A-1 shape.
Haven't been to Cambridge-Isanti fields for a few years so not sure what they are like now, but in the past they were similiar to Blaine, narrow and short, also a bit rough.But that was a few years ago so hopefully they are better today.
ECNL forms with some notable clubs opting outGo Back Written by ESNN (Elite Soccer News Network) April 28, 2009
The club list for the Elite Club National League has been announced, and it contains a number of the heavyweight clubs for girls' soccer in the U.S. as well as a few notable omissions.
The league, slated to begin next year as a precursor to a girls' academy program, similar to the USSF Development Academy for boys but not affiliated with that organization, is replacing the Red Bull National League that has operated for the past two years, but is much larger in scope than that effort.
ECNL logoThe release mentions 40-team leagues in age groups U15 through U17. Each age group's league will be split into two, 20-team flights. The 10-match regular season schedule will be conducted through multiple showcase events, with semifinals and finals both for league championships and promotion and relegation conducted for the top and bottom four teams in each flight. Three teams will advance from the 2nd tier to the top, with three teams being relegated. A club championship points system will also be implemented.
The release does not mention any requirements for training-to-match ratio, nor does it mention any regulation of total matches played by member teams, including possible prohibition from participating in some other competitions such as the U.S. Youth Soccer National League. It is thought that some of these league regulations are still to be worked out among the membership. The U.S. Youth Soccer National League is reportedly being expanded to 16 teams per age group, but no announcement on that has been made.
"The ECNL is a great step for elite girls youth players in this country," ECNL President Christian Lavers, of FC Milwaukee, said in the release. "The ECNL is founded on the concept that elite female player development in the United States needs a structure that will reduce the total number of games on the schedule and increase the number of meaningful, quality games. The ECNL sets forth a vision that gives us a clear path to that goal –a national competition schedule and a national identification program linked to that competition."
The league which will be run by a board of directors made up of club coaching directors, includes a who's who of clubs participating from around the country. Some notable exceptions to this include Dallas Texans, Michigan Hawks, Carmel United and Southern California powerhouses Slammers, Surf SC, So Cal Blues and Real So Cal. Reasons given for non-participation include perceived lack of cost effectiveness and perceived lack of need for better competition.
Following is a list of clubs by U.S. Youth Soccer region:
Region I (East) Albertson Fury (NY) Bethesda SC (MD) Connecticut FC FC DELCO (PA) FC Stars of Massachusetts FC Virginia Freestate Soccer Alliance (MD) FSA SoccerPlus (CT) PDA (NJ) Virginia Rush (VA)
Region II (Midwest) Eclipse Select (IL) FC Milwaukee Minnesota Thunder Ohio Elite Ohio Premier St. Louis Scott Gallagher
Region III (South) Atlanta Fire Birmingham United CASL (NC) CESA Premier (SC) Challenge SC (TX) Charlotte SA (NC) Concorde Fire (GA) Sting Dallas (TX) D'Feeters (TX) FC Dallas (TX) Lonestar SC (TX) Solar SC (TX)
Region IV (West) Arsenal FC (CA) Colorado Rush Crossfire Premier (WA) Irvine Strikers (CA) Mustang SC (CA) Neusport FC (NV) Pleasanton Rage (CA) Real Colorado San Juan SC SC Del Sol (AZ) Sereno SC (AZ) West Coast FC (CA)
The ECNL clubs will play each other at 5 events(10games total), Eclipse, Final Four, Disney, Vegas and PDA. They will also have a stand alone National finals that will be played this year in Seattle in July. Each team must attend 3 events(their choice) and the finals.
All ECNL teams will drop out of USYSA National League immediatly. It is optional to drop out of region league and some will. The goal is to have establish the league so that in two years all ECNL teams will not longer partcipate in USYSA events, including state cup and regionals.
This league will not be gone in two years, two many great clubs and solid leadership. You will see this league expand in time and be the future of elite girls soccer in the US.
Great move by the MN Thunder to get involved, this clearly seperates them from any other MN club when it comes to elite girls teams. No other MN club will be able to establish the exposure and level of play that the Thunder teams are going to see each year by playing in the ECNL.
Actually, the league will not expand to 70-80 clubs as you say. The 40 member clubs will now have all say on expansion of the league. No new additions can be added without the approval of the member clubs. You may see expansion to 50 teams but not 70-80 unless USSF gets involved and models it after the Academy.
One other thing, This will be with US Club, US Club allows recruiting, they have no rules reagarding recruiting.
Rory Dames the DOC of Eclipse is the top dude for ID2 thru US Club.
Rumor has it that USYSA isnt going to let this happen without a fight. USYSA holds the paper work for Refs. This is be a very very expensive league. It looks gravy now..
11:13 Give it a rest. The Thunder chose their course and will live with it. Besides, all the youth teams will be in the new league or us club and birds will sing and gold will flow out of the pitch and all will be perfect in the world. Even if there was unlimited advertising through every outlet the Thunder are attempting to sell something people aren't buying.
Since when is MYSA responsible for marketing for the Thunder? Let MTA be responsible for that. Does MYSA report the WPS schedule for Fox Soccer channel? Do they tell us the schedule for UEFA champions league games on ESPN? Why not? Don't they support the development of youth soccer in Minnesota?
Yuck regarding the 5-0 MRL game was that a friend of mine who went said Woodbury basically should call MYSA and give up their Premier slot. 5-0 was kind in his words. would be nice to see more competitive teams at that age group
3:21 For what ever reason (not due to MYSA) kids don't care about the Thunder. I hear them talk about the Gophers and I hear them talk about the US National Team. I don't believe the presence of the Thunder has any effect on soccer participation in MN.
3:54 is correct. you don't bite the hand that feeds you. you would like to think they are an entity unto themselves, but in many ways they are more like union bosses reflecting what their membership wants.
so don't go watch or support them 4:04. if your sole intent is to just rag and rip on them then most folks will grow weary of your tirades and exclamation points "!"
3:21-go crawl into the hole from whence you came. My daughter heads off to play college soccer at D-1 and she never once was at a Thunder game. I will say, she's seen many Gopher games and really enjoys watching something she can relate to, not a bunch of wannabees who can't make it at progessional soccer.
USYSA does not hold the refs FIFA does. MN refing is poor, very poor. Run by people who cant ref or teach it, promoting people who cant ref. Take Arte for example.
3:21 if 0-2-2 and playing to crowds of 15 paying customers is "thriving" my kid's u-6 rec team is a gold mine. You haters will stop at nothing to rag mysa
0-2-2? Where is all of the nausea-inspiring bravado that MA and his cronies were spewing at everyone about this being the coming of nirvana in MN soccer? Actually, the peace and quiet is rather comforting. I think I hear the PDL calling boys. Are the propaganda wizards still claiming 3,500 fans at a game in USL1 when they don't have 3,500 toes and fingers in attendance?! Too funny.
940 I can't believe you have to ask that question. There would be some miscellaneous fees to cover banner production, chanting lessons and printed copies of Abboudians chapters 1-438 for all fan club members. I think the introduction of a tithe will be the next innovation by the MTA'ers (that or suing the Metro Transit Authority for name copying).
Do you sign his name with a "T" only? You'll have ambulance chasers in buses chasing you to court. I think you better name your daughter ECNL or something like that so that you keep up with the hip gubers.
3:59 - what are the reasons for bashing the Thunder professional soccer team (not MTA, but the team)? Why go to such great lengths (posting communications, blogging, etc...) to tear down something it would appear you really shouldn't have much interest in based on some of the previous posts? Obviously something deeper at play here........
Where is all this hype? Maybe I'm missing something but I sure haven't been inundated. We know it's not coming from MYSA... I'm sure MTA folks get the communique's but that shouldn't be a surprise. Haven't seen much in the way of TV ads or radio spots. Please 4:47 - let us know where all the hype is at or coming from?
It's all so simple. Same old haters on here bashing the Thunder because the haters' bashing of MTA is not really working. On the contrary, the elite environment in this state is growing stronger each year with programs like MTA and SSM. Most haters are envious - the rest are threatened. Your true rational is crystal clear to many. Keep hating on this blog and I'll keep calling you out. You'll all be forgotten soon.
hey all ... The NSC has a beer garden now. If you don't like the Thunder, at least go up for a beer! You'll be surprised at the calibur of play that exists in MN. Not EPL...not MLS....but not bad at all.
The top teams in the USL would do just fine in the MLS (they actually did better than MLS in this region's version of the Champions League). One just became an expansion club this year (Seattle) and two more will be expansion teams in the future (Vancouver & Portland).
Plus Thunder has some Legitimate Minnesota talent on their squad. Why not support them? I only attended one game last year, the last one, but it was great..
Hey 1054. I'm a Thunder fan, but am not yet ready to put them at an MLS competitive level. You are correct on the Sounders (ex USL now very competitive in MLS). But you forgot to mention the difference in team makeup between this year and last. The Thunder's level is pretty good, especially for MN. Unless you jet set weekly to Europe or even KC to see the best, this is a good close consolation. (someone will likely comment on my KC reference... Nothing gets by on this blog as u all have too much time...I would not even be amazed if someone picked apart my reference to 'close').
Big MRL weekend at Lucy Winton Bell. 15/16B and 17G. Say what you want about the watered down MRL, but it's nice to have enough MN teams playing that we can host an event each year, rather than spend two weekends on the road.
Actually, it's nice of a scholar like you to refer to the so-called "haters" as being "rational," though you would want to use "rationale" in that context if you actually had something more than a pea for a brain. We've been waiting for your elite brand of soccer to arrive here (professional and youth) for some time now. You're like W landing on the aircraft carrier to proclaim the end of hostilities in Iraq five years ago, except that you keep landing and shooting your mouth off again and again. The good news is that unfounded arrogance is free and you seem not to sicken on a steady diet of your own gas.
.....me thinks that if the name of the team was the Community Club Thunder then this thread would be pretty mild and everyone would wish them well......
Uh 403, I hate to tell you this, but that's like putting a bow (the bow being the "CC") on a pile of dung...The smell would still make the rest of us wretch.
For anyone who cares. According to the US Patent and Trademark Office, there at currenlty 25 register and live trademarks that incorporate MTA. About half are just MTA.
4:25 - you remind me of the guy who complains about the shows on TV that no one is making him watch (to sum it up - just someone who likes, needs, has to complain).
With the shut-down, merger, or whatever of the Wings, SCV has replaced them as the MYSA favorite ;) (See previous posts about how the current U17 team was formed.) They also probably have the most bothersome combination of parents and coaches that are difficult to be around. Their coaching group has too many of the arrogant, good-old-boy types.
On the plus side, a good portion of the younger team’s leadership are aware of these people and hopefully will move them out of the club in the coming couple of years. A suggestion, rid yourself of the baggage, sooner, rather than later. On the boys side, your the best hope of consistently challenging the MTA-soon-to-be-dynasty, with your strong recruiting engine. You might consider combining with the Blackhawks, WDB and Rev to make your own academy system.
I was just looking at SSM's schedule/website. They tied Viterbo University...a college team, but a terrible college team...even the Somali National team could beat them :)
4:52 sounds like someone who's sad all the best boys from his club are moving to SCV. SCV has a great thing going -- a growing club, strong U6-U8 programs to feed into the program, solid leadership, lots of premier and MRL teams. We're thrilled with where the club is and the opportunity it has given our kids to develop into great soccer players. MTA has called but we're not interested in the least.
I am happy for SCV. I have never had a child play for that club, but I agree with the poster about all the things they have going for them, and I am in equal agreement about the observation of SCV's parental jackass factor. For the sake of the players and the development of the sport in this state, I hope they can take advantage of a good population area in the east metro and western Wisconsin, the financial resources of those who live there, a big soccer outdoor complex, at least one indoor soccer complex (right?), and some strong athletic values in that area, too. With those elements, they can continue to do some good things and they have resources that others -- including MTA -- lack. But what SCV lacks, and this shows itself all the time, is a credible, non-parent core of trainers and leaders who can do right by the players while keeping the idiot parent element at bay. This is the eternal tension in this state (not just at SCV), at least in terms of developing talent as opposed to giving psycho moms and dads something to brag about. Of course, if this group builds itself into something credible, then we won't have to observe them trying to undermine or criticize the state's only professional club etc. because they will have the confidence to stand on their own feet and compete accordingly. Until then, we will continue to see that bizarre stuff while many of us look at the players and honestly wish them the best.
7:35 EVERY club has the parents you describe. MTA has the same issues (come on MTAers admit it, you all had at least one parent come to mind the second you read that). MTA and a few other clubs have been more succesful largely because they have a few very good trainers who help establish a few solid teams which then attract other talented players to the club. The key is to then find a way to give the masses quality training from what always seems to be a very limited number of high quality trainers.
Someone above suggested a merger of a few clubs to try to compete with MTA, they meant it as a rip, but honestly if MYSA had about half the numbers of clubs more opportunities would be possible for more kids. The limited numbers of trainers would all find homes that could allow them to build a club into a group of stronger, well trained players. I think there are a few out there moving this direction and my guess is we will all know who they are by their successes on the field with, not only a single top team but rather a variety of teams and age groups. I had St Croix in this group but if those parents you referenced are really an issue St Croix's good work could all be derailed.
It was not meant as a rip. Having 2 very competative boys teams (neither will win state cup though) does not equal a club competative to MTA.
I am not saying to merge the clubs, only consolidate the elite (as MTA calls them) players. Each club work together to form consolidated, strong team at every age group, both genders, with their merged teams. The clubs could take turns housing the teams as they roll into premier slots at U13 (REV for 93 boys and girls, SCV for 94 boys and girls and so on.)
On the west side of town, Wayzata, EP, Hopkins and PSA could do the same thing. All 'elite' players would benefit by having real choice for a strong club system.
Sure every club has a-hole parents. SCV has more than their share, and no club has the half dozen bad apple coaches like SCV.
Bangu/MTA was not created by a few good trainers, it was formed by similar minded parents, trying to build a strong club system dedicated to a common vision. The trainers were hired, and there are plenty of good trainers. I will agree that there are not as many good coaches though.
Now SCV's turn... Seriously, the most out of line parents in the state are Bangu/MTAs girls group from U16 down to U12. I have NEVER seen a more self promoting cluless bunch of parents in all my years of involvment in the sport. From bitching at refs for calls that they don't undrestand to harassing opposing players to even trying to pick fights with other parents and coaches. Just because it says MTA doesn't make it the best. BTW are those 300 T shirts in XXXL? Do they come with pocket protectors or capes for all the dorks who are the Thunder faithful?
Has SCV ever won more than 1 State Cup championship in the same year? There seems to be an awful lot of bluster from some folks given their lack of success across several age groups. If MYSA had followed precedent the current U17 boys team wouldn't even had formed but we all know the story behind that, right?
The problem with SCV is they do not want any non stillwater kids in their program. Although several have gone to SCV that are non stillwater kids, it makes it a very uneasy situation on the sidelines and on the field for the players. It has gotten better the past few years but it has a long way to go.
Not by a long shot, just telling the truth. SCV loses many good players from outside of Stillwater due to the attitudes on the sidelines and the attitude that only "stillwater" players should play in their club.
The current U17 SCV team was allowed to form at C1, in a very, very weak East district and MYSA decision makers that allowed this exception (which had consistently been turned down for many other clubs and teams) was a SCV U17 parent and MYSA director. This allowed them to attract other players who would have never played for a C2 team. Many in the state called it cheating or an inside job. I believe the meeting mintues from the MYSA meeting show that the parent did not vote, but it is pretty obvious what happened. The funny thing is that each time this is posted, non of the SCV parents bother to try to defend what happened.
Funny to hear someone say the SCV doesnt want any outside kids on their teams. I dont know of any successful SCV team that wasnt loaded with non Stillwater kids. All of their success has come from recruting players from other communities.
Thought I would give it a try and I watched the Thunder game this evening. Very entertaining, but the better team (Vancouver - defending champs) won. Very good soccer, not world class, but very high quality and well worth my time.
For those who don't know, you can watch every (I mean every) USL game live on www.usllive.com.
Spend a couple of hours some evening and give it a try (and no I am not a shill for MN Thunder or MTA - just a soccer fan).
The Thunder game was very entertaining. They woke up in the 2nd half and were dangerous on the attack. Too bad they lost on PK in last minute of regulation.
The new beer garden is awesome and the fans in that area were quite knowledgeable and friendly.
I'll be attending more games this season because of this new addition and other changes that allow us fans to be just a few feet from the field.
The way they moved the playing surface to within a few yards of the main grandstand is terrific. You are literally just a few feet from the playing field when you're in the front few rows.
Tremendous changes that improve the soccer experience.
5:02 - i think if you look back over the years, the MTA U18 girls might be 1-10 against that Ohio Elite team. Ohio Elite has a game in hand so if they win then they will win the MRL title (just like they won it last year, and the year before that, and the year before that, etc....). Not taking anything away from the "Stars" as they have been the MN "torch" for many years and have really brought a tremendous amount of youth national soccer respect to us up here in the frozen tundra.
Barring a major upset in the Ohio South State Cup MTA Blue just punched a ticket to regionals. SSM should easily defeat WDB for another spot. MTW (Wings) has taken MTA Blue to PK's and won before and could do it again. If so there will be 3 teams from MN at Regions. Also wondering how the 18G MRL games went this weekend other than MTA. Both WDB and MTW were in a position to take 3'rd place and also possibly gain a region trip that way.
WDB and MTAW both went 0-3 this weekend. Results are on MRL website. No possibility of a MRL regional slot as multiple teams from OHS will finish ahead of them. Maybe that U18 age group isn't as strong as advertised.
No fault of SSMs 18gs, but they are in 1st place 6-0 scoring something like 41 goals to 2 against in the 1st division. Heard many people complaining on why they were seeded in the division that they are in.
MTA Blue 18's tied Ohio Elite 1-1. MTA Blue will finish 2nd in the league. MTA Blues have had some great results of late. They should handle the MTA west team, even with the MTA west team sitting back.
MTA West and WDB just didn't have the bodies. Both teams missing multiple players, having 12 players is really tough. Proms and injuries really held them back.
Technically, I am not sure how the SSM U18s even got into MRL. They did not play in MYSA leagues or in MN State Cup as a U17 team. They are in the same situation as the U16 SSM girls. The 16s got caught, the 18s did not.
Steve Bellis out coached Dan Storlien in their first meeting and he will probably do it again.Don't count out MTA West 91 yet. Bellis's upset tie cost MTA 91 Blue a piece of the MRL championship.
Bellis may be the best youth coach in the state. He has always done well as a coach. I wonder if he would be considered to coach the Thunder if they have an extended loosing streak.
Bellis is an outstanding coach perhaps the best in Minny. Had he taken over the Stars a couple of years ago you probably would have seen continued development of players and a better performance at the national level.Suspect there will be some coaching changes next year.
Bellis is an outstanding coach perhaps the best in Minny. Had he taken over the Stars a couple of years ago you probably would have seen continued development of players and a better performance at the national level.Suspect there will be some coaching changes next year.
Actually the game between MTA West and MTA Blue did not cost the MTA Blue team the league. If MTA Blue would have won the game vs MTA West, MTA Blue still would have had to beat Ohio Elite to win because of goal differential.
Look at the development of MTA Blue. Ask the players if they got better and they will tell you they did. When they were 13-15 they had a player that was one of if not the most dominate player in the region. The MTA Blue team does not have KB anymore and she has had a lot of tough luck. If they had the dominate KB they would be as strong as anyone in the country.
DS benefited from parents doing all the recruiting and building of the team he accompanied to nationals. Many coaches could have done the same with that roster. SB would have won both times, not finished 2nd.
Which teams are better than MTA Blue? They have not lost a game to a team from MN since U 14. They finished way ahead of any other teams from MN in the Premier League. Will the MTA West TEam sit back again in State Cup vs MTA Blue? We will see who the better coach is this Sunday at 2pm. I bet the MTA BLue team cruises. Then I am sure you will say if SB coached the MTA Blue team they would have won by more. Lets see SB has won what??????? Almost nothing. DS I am not sure but I know he is the only coach in MN to coach in more then 1 National Championship game ever, and he is the only coach to coach in more than one REgional final at 4. If it were so easy why isnt everyone doing it. Get your facts straight and if they have not lost in the state in 4 years they must be the best team in the state.
9:08, Did DS "recruit" the team at Bloomington Jefferson High School when they won the MSHSL Championship? Didn't SB coach at high school level? How many state championships did SB's HS teams win?
Let's see, we have been mostly unsuccessful in starting an SSM-MTA feud. Maybe we can start an MTA-MTA one. All for our blog entertainment. It is amusing thou, have to admit that. Please all SSM and MTA parents/coaches don't bite. If you don't they will provide a post masquerading as one od you anyway. Don't be the gullible one. Anyone want to discuss soccer? U16's open up soon, it should be competitive.
7:16 B as in B S as in S. You make a lame attempt to cast the blame on others, sorry to burst your bubble but these "feuds" are SSM MTA parents and a smattering of coaches. See, as much as you want to not admit it, these are the parents (not kids) who run around looking for the next "best thing" when they get there they spend all their time trying to convince everyone else what a great choice their child made. I'm not against the "open range" we have, just want to be clear about the egos that cause people to come on a blog and endlessly brag about their child's soccer team.
gee, 1:12, I haven't read that one in at least 2 days. That must mean its also time to pull out the other MTA standby "sorry your daughter didn't make the team".
Did the gopher's football team "fold the program" when they lost to North Dakota St a couple of years back?
No, they redoubled their efforts to make sure such an embarassment never happens again.
Unlike, 1:12, who is obviously a quitter, you can bet that if the SSM 18s lose to MTA, they will alter their practices to prevent it from happening again.
If Gramenz is unable to turn around the Thunder, the owners will use their German connections to bring in Jurgen Klinsmann. The beer garden will be half price until they start winning, which could run the organization into the ground.
I've got no horse in the U18G race, but I've been around this age group for years.
MTA Blue (Stars) is clearly the best team of a very deep age group, and has been regionally and nationally competitive.
MTAW (Wings) is the 2nd best team now, and has been since U13.
Woodbury Eclipse has closed the gap with MTAW in the last two years, and has risen to a close third.
EDP has been a consistently solid Premier team since U14.
WBL, CTG, EAG, and MTA White (Select) all had good teams that moved in/out of Premier play. WBL defeated both Wings and Eclipse in State Cup last year after being relegated to C1. MNR and PSA were both very good teams as well.
Now add an excellent SSM to the State Cup mix. I'm picking the Stars to beat SSM in the final. Should be fun to watch.
I will go along with that if Stars have all college players back and healthy, if not, I am picking SSM. It will all be academic though, as both teams will be going to regionals. Also can't rule out MTAW pulling off an upset in the semis.
I think it would be great to have all the college kids back(stars) for the U-18 game.....since they have played and trained so hard with the stars!....They should bring them back for the semis.....just to be sure they win!
Why don't they just schedule the U18 games later in the month like they do for U19's so they don't have issues with college players not being here for the games? How difficult would it be to do that for just a few teams that play at U18?
Doesn't really matter all that much at 18. Most of the players are more concerned with proms and graduation and college than soccer. Apparently a few parents differ though.
state cup on memorial day weekend following sat & sun for semis & finals no conflict with mrl no conflict with homework all mysa games in june & july almost no conflicts with spring school activities this eliminates many of the planning variables that managers & parents face m w teams have games every m w,, t th as well if there's a weather out ,no replay 17 & 18s a week later because graduations
If the Gophers were smart they would have dropped from the B11 and joined the MIAC.That way they would accomplish a twofer..They could play .500 ball and solve Joe Pa's dilema.
From IMS -
ReplyDelete2009 April 16
That is a great letter, spoken from the heart I feel.
It’s truly unbelievable the negative response that many club officials I’ve spoken with have towards MN pro soccer now that the organization houses a youth academy. Though I call many of these people friends, their lack of understanding coupled with MYSA’s blatant denial of the Thunder existence of late has put our state at a crossroads that could lead to the end of pro soccer in this state.
What baffles me when talking to many paid coaching directors is that they bash the Thunder for not being a “true” pro team (for whatever reason) and for initiating a youth system that lures players away from local community clubs. Yet most of these coaching directors make a living in this state BECAUSE pro soccer has been around for 18 years or so and has had a positive impact on our young players and the overall interest of the game in MN. People at Shattuck bash the Thunder, yet Shattuck has a program led by people brought to MN through the Thunder.
It comes from the so-called “top”. MYSA’s leadership is suspect, vindictive, and stubborn. The majority of the MN soccer community looks at MYSA as the end all be all of soccer knowledge in this state and the MYSA leadership abuses this power of suggestion. The same goes for local community club volunteer presidents/board members and paid coaching directors. They are the gatekeepers of information to the masses and have the ability to turn their membership against the pro team through the propagation of misinformation and bias.
I ask IMS to dig for the truth. Call out these people at MYSA and within our local soccer club system. The questions to ask are simple.
1 - Do you believe professional soccer is beneficial to the promotion and growth of the youth game in our state?
2 - Do you believe that parents and players should have the right to pursue any development option they choose?
If the answer to both questions is yes, then there is absolutely no non-self-serving reason to not support the Thunder. Period. If the answer to either question is no, then one must question why these people in positions of power and soccer decision making for their members?
Pose the same questions to every single metro area club. Seek answers from coaching directors like Wayne Harrison (EP) and Ted Kroeten (Blackhawks) as to why they refuse to support pro soccer in this state. Talk to club presidents and board members at Mpls United and PSA and ask why they’ve continued to propagate misinformation and all out lies to their membership about the Thunder and about MTA. Talk to the Chan Chaska club president and ask why he didn’t renew his season tickets this year, having been a stout support of MN pro soccer until this point.
You might not get responses but no answers speak volumes in their own right.
Compile and publicize a list of all MYSA officials and affiliate clubs and their respective stances on the pro soccer/MTA issues. Everything is easy for them behind closed doors. It’s time to bring things to light and call people out for their true intentions; many of which I guarantee are selfish and self-serving in the end.
The MN soccer climate stints. Time to clear the air and IMS can do it.
The truth is out there.
How many times can this letter get posted? We get it , the Thunder faithful hate MYSA and want to assume no blame for the relationship problem between MYSA and the Thunder. Plenty of blame for both sides on this one in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteNext topic please. I mean I think this has been posted 4 times now.
ReplyDeleteShekki = MU 94/95
ReplyDeleteInteresting, I personally thought Shekki was MU 93/94. Toxic, delusional and bizarre wherever s/he is.
ReplyDeleteHeard the Thunder are out of money...delinquent on payments for facilities and haven't paid some coaches - and players still haven't been paid playoff bonuses from last year. Sign of the times - or internal issues?
ReplyDeleteAny news on the lighting?
ReplyDelete7 53,new bulbs were ordered but not delivered due to a credit problem,watt t.f. is going on?
ReplyDeletesomehow the previous post was deleted?Yeah right!
ReplyDeletethey ran out of $ and kool-aid...apparently padded too many pockets.
ReplyDeleteHey Shekki, I'm gonna scout players in the 'hood tonight. I hear there were a few good ones left after MTA and PSA came through. Want to come along? I have a fake ID maker in my trunk.
ReplyDeleteManu d'Bango
A few of us bloggers who coach HS and club teams get together for a few beers about once a month.
ReplyDeleteDuring the Shekki rants last year we were able to determine Shekki's club and even narrowed it down to the 2 teams that he may have been involved with. We are about 99% certain which of those 2 teams is his.
The true depth of the hate and vitriol went much deeper than his racist rants on this blog.
If you only knew the lengths he went to in his attempts to undermine minority players it would make you sick.
He isn't near as anonymous as he thinks he is...
My mistake.
ReplyDeleteGoofed up on the birth years. Shekki is involved with MU 93/94.
Anon 7:03
ReplyDeleteIf that's true ...
What are you going to do about it ?
Nope. Not the MU dad who wrote that letter about the kid who gave up his driving privileges so he could play on a BNG U14 Premier team. What a sacrifice...he could be driving, dating, getting chicks. Instead he gets to play soccer with a bunch of youngsters.
ReplyDeleteJedi got smoked in MRL today.
Shekki,
ReplyDeleteHow would you know about a letter like that?
Tell us more.
Both MU 15's got smoked at least once today at MRL. Saw them both ugly.....
ReplyDeleteMTU U18 boys are undefeated in MRL Premium play so far. Shattuck U18 undefeated in 1st div. play.
ReplyDeleteAfter watching this debate for a while...... I don't agree that the Thunder have had an affect either way on girls soccer at all. I never hear players discussing the Thunder or Lightning. I don't see a connection at all.
ReplyDeleteOnly one boys team and no girls teams have ever won Midwest League at the Premier level. We could have multiple winners.
ReplyDeleteeveryone knew about that letter. The MU dad sent it to the world.
ReplyDeleteGirls MTA U15 have a very good chance to win the Premier League and become the first girls team to win the Premier League from MN. They have set themselves up well to finish first. With three games to play if they win two no teams can catch them. Good Luck.
ReplyDeleteGirls MTA U18 still have a chance but need to win out to finish first in Premier League. They have one very difficult game left ve Ohio Elite. Good luck.
ReplyDeleteGirls MTA u16 still have a chance to win the Premier league but need to win out. 3 games to play and must win all 3. They need to beat a good Cleveland team to jump past them. Might be tough but still a chance if they can secure all 9 points in the last three games they will finish first. Good luck.
ReplyDeleteOne thing to remember on the girls premier side is if you finish up top there is always the wild card opportunity.
ReplyDeleteActually the Wild Card is different than the MWL spot. The Regional draw has a Midwest league spring and fall spot for the winner. If you win your state cup it drops to the 2nd place team, if the 2nd place team wins the it drops to 3rd and so on. The wild card is just a random draw. MN has one at U18 again. So first and second get to regionals. Example, If Shattuck wins state cup they go to Regionals, If the old Wings finish 2nd and beat the old stars in the semi final they go to Regionals. If the Stars end up 2nd in MIdwest league and they don't win at state cup they could go to Regionals if Ohio Elite wins Ohio South. U18 MN could have three teams.
ReplyDelete10:13, 9:43 here. You are correct, I used the term "wild card" which is in reality the MRL spot. I agree with your sentiments on the U18's. Also a good chance at U16 with MTA Blue as well as at U15 with MTA Blue. If they fail to win State Cup they could still make it to regionals with the MRL spot.
ReplyDeleteProving how diluted the MRL has become, especially in the Spring for girls. The MTA 15G did not even qualify for Premier league in their First Division playdowns but got in because other teams dropped out.
ReplyDelete11:51,
ReplyDeleteMWL has become somewhat diluted.
But just in time along comes the new National League for girls with 40 of the nations top clubs already signed up.
Very timely for the top girl's clubs in USA.
You've got the wrong club for Shekki, but the correct age group. Think further East, very East.
ReplyDeleteEau Claire?
ReplyDeleteLong live Shekki, a voice of reason amd excellent poster!
ReplyDeleteHere, here, Mama.
ReplyDeleteI was in Rockford with my U14 girls, and sat down with a hot dog and a Coke right as the SSM/Chicago Fire U18B game started. It was a fabulous game, and I felt guilty about not having to pay to see it. The game ended 2-2 due to a weak PK call against SSM in the final 10 minutes. SSM owned the middle of the field, and their outside runners were top-notch. I only wish my daughter's team could have been there to watch...they could have learned a thing or two about playing the ball wide.
You expect players at this age to get chippy when they're down (SSM was up 2-0 in the second half), but this game had none of that, just total athleticism and intensity. What a treat to watch.
Was wondering if anyone was able to see the SSM 18G's play. It looks like they put a hammering on the 2 teams they played??
ReplyDeleteI guess the Inferno had a good weekend in the MRL, 34-1 goal differential. That doesn't bode well for any other u17 teams.
ReplyDeleteLooked for the SSM U 18 girls in Mrl standings. Couldn't find them. What flight are they in ?
ReplyDeleteSSM girls:
ReplyDeletehttps://ssl.hammerhead.net/mrleleague/DivisionReport.asp?Division=GIRLS%20UNDER%2018%20FIRST%20DIVISION%20RED
SSM U18G First-Red
ReplyDeleteQuestion
ReplyDeleteOhio Elite U 18G
What team plays in the MRL? I know they have several teams. Is it their academy team that plays in the national Red Bull Lg?
Just wondering if it's their top team?
Their top U18 Girls team plays in the U18 Premier group of MWL.
ReplyDeleteVery East, but still in MN.
ReplyDeleteODP question. Do the players who make the state ODP teams from the previous year automatically get into the next years pool without trying out?
ReplyDelete10:27 - no, but the goal and objective of ODP is to put together the top 18 players at each respective year. there have been instances where players did not even sign up for the tryouts, but were still invited into the pool and went to IL. Unfortunately like many things in life, in ODP, ability trumps participation.
ReplyDeleteHow are the Lucy Bell fields holding up, with MRL, ODP and early State Cup games in wet conditions? WIll there be any grass left by the end of May?
ReplyDeleteLucy Winton Bell looked fine at ODP last night. We're lucky to have a facility like that, where they don't try to squeeze too many fields in too small a space. The fields are long and wide. I live in Eden Prairie, and would drive any day to play there. Any word on if they will get lights? It seems to be the only strike against the facility.
ReplyDeletefor those interested in the u14 age group, Burnsville plays Woodbury tonight in MRL at u14. Just based on the preliminary results from their league, Burnsville would be the favorite (Although I have seen MTA Blue I have not seen either of these teams play so I can't confirm). Might be interesting to see if Burnsville can challenge MTA Blue that won the other first division at State Cup. Despite the watered down league of MRL, looks like MN has 2 good showings at u14 between MTA and Burnsville.
ReplyDeleteLucy Winton Bell field are very uneven, bumpy and hard slope at some corners, makes for interesting soccer. I agree with the width/lenght comment - nioe. Some minor leveling and lights would make it a very fine venue.
ReplyDeleteAnyone have any idea what the Cambidge-Isanti fields are like? never been there but since we have to make the trek there hope the feilds are A-1 shape.
ReplyDeleteOr maybe politics trumps ability.
ReplyDelete12:33-Agreed, I've seen it too many times to count. Before anyone says a word-not my kids.
ReplyDeleteHaven't been to Cambridge-Isanti fields for a few years so not sure what they are like now, but in the past they were similiar to Blaine, narrow and short, also a bit rough.But that was a few years ago so hopefully they are better today.
ReplyDeleteit's late April.......must be ODP "whine time".
ReplyDeleteglorified practice to win an overpriced camp
ReplyDeletelc
and here you go.....(I've attached the link as well).
ReplyDeletehttp://www.topdrawersoccer.com/component/option,com_topdrawer/Itemid,333/nid,8273/
ECNL forms with some notable clubs opting outGo Back
Written by ESNN (Elite Soccer News Network)
April 28, 2009
The club list for the Elite Club National League has been announced, and it contains a number of the heavyweight clubs for girls' soccer in the U.S. as well as a few notable omissions.
The league, slated to begin next year as a precursor to a girls' academy program, similar to the USSF Development Academy for boys but not affiliated with that organization, is replacing the Red Bull National League that has operated for the past two years, but is much larger in scope than that effort.
ECNL logoThe release mentions 40-team leagues in age groups U15 through U17. Each age group's league will be split into two, 20-team flights. The 10-match regular season schedule will be conducted through multiple showcase events, with semifinals and finals both for league championships and promotion and relegation conducted for the top and bottom four teams in each flight. Three teams will advance from the 2nd tier to the top, with three teams being relegated. A club championship points system will also be implemented.
The release does not mention any requirements for training-to-match ratio, nor does it mention any regulation of total matches played by member teams, including possible prohibition from participating in some other competitions such as the U.S. Youth Soccer National League. It is thought that some of these league regulations are still to be worked out among the membership. The U.S. Youth Soccer National League is reportedly being expanded to 16 teams per age group, but no announcement on that has been made.
"The ECNL is a great step for elite girls youth players in this country," ECNL President Christian Lavers, of FC Milwaukee, said in the release. "The ECNL is founded on the concept that elite female player development in the United States needs a structure that will reduce the total number of games on the schedule and increase the number of meaningful, quality games. The ECNL sets forth a vision that gives us a clear path to that goal –a national competition schedule and a national identification program linked to that competition."
The league which will be run by a board of directors made up of club coaching directors, includes a who's who of clubs participating from around the country. Some notable exceptions to this include Dallas Texans, Michigan Hawks, Carmel United and Southern California powerhouses Slammers, Surf SC, So Cal Blues and Real So Cal. Reasons given for non-participation include perceived lack of cost effectiveness and perceived lack of need for better competition.
Following is a list of clubs by U.S. Youth Soccer region:
Region I (East)
Albertson Fury (NY)
Bethesda SC (MD)
Connecticut FC
FC DELCO (PA)
FC Stars of Massachusetts
FC Virginia
Freestate Soccer Alliance (MD)
FSA SoccerPlus (CT)
PDA (NJ)
Virginia Rush (VA)
Region II (Midwest)
Eclipse Select (IL)
FC Milwaukee
Minnesota Thunder
Ohio Elite
Ohio Premier
St. Louis Scott Gallagher
Region III (South)
Atlanta Fire
Birmingham United
CASL (NC)
CESA Premier (SC)
Challenge SC (TX)
Charlotte SA (NC)
Concorde Fire (GA)
Sting Dallas (TX)
D'Feeters (TX)
FC Dallas (TX)
Lonestar SC (TX)
Solar SC (TX)
Region IV (West)
Arsenal FC (CA)
Colorado Rush
Crossfire Premier (WA)
Irvine Strikers (CA)
Mustang SC (CA)
Neusport FC (NV)
Pleasanton Rage (CA)
Real Colorado
San Juan SC
SC Del Sol (AZ)
Sereno SC (AZ)
West Coast FC (CA)
is this goodbye MRL for these clubs or mainly these clubs playing each other at CASL, Disney, LV, Blue Chip, Texas, Surf, etc...?
ReplyDelete8:42 which will totally water down the teams being played at those tournaments if you're not in the league!
ReplyDeleteGive it a year or two and something else will come along. Nothing's permanent in youth soccer.
ReplyDeletesome of those tournaments (CASL, Disney) are already watered down with nearly 100 teams in some of the age groups.
ReplyDeleteThe ECNL clubs will play each other at 5 events(10games total), Eclipse, Final Four, Disney, Vegas and PDA. They will also have a stand alone National finals that will be played this year in Seattle in July. Each team must attend 3 events(their choice) and the finals.
ReplyDeleteAll ECNL teams will drop out of USYSA National League immediatly. It is optional to drop out of region league and some will. The goal is to have establish the league so that in two years all ECNL teams will not longer partcipate in USYSA events, including state cup and regionals.
This league will not be gone in two years, two many great clubs and solid leadership. You will see this league expand in time and be the future of elite girls soccer in the US.
Great move by the MN Thunder to get involved, this clearly seperates them from any other MN club when it comes to elite girls teams. No other MN club will be able to establish the exposure and level of play that the Thunder teams are going to see each year by playing in the ECNL.
If what you say is true....
ReplyDelete$5 will get you $10 that once all ECNL teams drop out of all USYSA events (regionals/nationals) that the hold out clubs will join.
$10 will get you $20 that in 4 years the league will have expanded (or bloated) upto 70-80 clubs and there will again be cries for change.
Actually, the league will not expand to 70-80 clubs as you say. The 40 member clubs will now have all say on expansion of the league. No new additions can be added without the approval of the member clubs. You may see expansion to 50 teams but not 70-80 unless USSF gets involved and models it after the Academy.
ReplyDeleteElitism at its finest.
ReplyDeleteBurnsville 5 Woodbury 0 in u14 MRL last night. Yuck
ReplyDeleteYeah, you anti elite people must be pissed they are using the word Elite in the league name.
ReplyDeleteWhat if all teams are not elite, what are we going to do??????????
One other thing, This will be with US Club, US Club allows recruiting, they have no rules reagarding recruiting.
ReplyDeleteRory Dames the DOC of Eclipse is the top dude for ID2 thru US Club.
Rumor has it that USYSA isnt going to let this happen without a fight. USYSA holds the paper work for Refs. This is be a very very expensive league. It looks gravy now..
Once again MYSA shows it's vindictive nature with no mention of the Thunder home opener this weekend.
ReplyDeleteYep, you're all helping promote the growth of the game. Great job MYSA.
http://www.mnyouthsoccer.org/email/admin/index.cfm
10:22 What does yuck mean in this post?
ReplyDelete11:13 Give it a rest. The Thunder chose their course and will live with it. Besides, all the youth teams will be in the new league or us club and birds will sing and gold will flow out of the pitch and all will be perfect in the world. Even if there was unlimited advertising through every outlet the Thunder are attempting to sell something people aren't buying.
ReplyDeleteSince when is MYSA responsible for marketing for the Thunder? Let MTA be responsible for that. Does MYSA report the WPS schedule for Fox Soccer channel? Do they tell us the schedule for UEFA champions league games on ESPN? Why not? Don't they support the development of youth soccer in Minnesota?
ReplyDeletefunny.....before MTA they always did before. I guess back then they felt it was their responsibility...
ReplyDeleteMaybe they realized it is something that not that many are interested in.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteYuck regarding the 5-0 MRL game was that a friend of mine who went said Woodbury basically should call MYSA and give up their Premier slot. 5-0 was kind in his words. would be nice to see more competitive teams at that age group
ReplyDeleteNice language 3:21. Another classy MTA parent.
ReplyDeleteHey, if you don't get your way, maybe you can call everyone at MYSA names until they like you better. It worked on the playground. Go home bullies!
ReplyDelete3:21 For what ever reason (not due to MYSA) kids don't care about the Thunder. I hear them talk about the Gophers and I hear them talk about the US National Team. I don't believe the presence of the Thunder has any effect on soccer participation in MN.
ReplyDeleteMYSA was forced to do this because other clubs were crying to MYSA of supporting them.
ReplyDelete3:54 is correct. you don't bite the hand that feeds you. you would like to think they are an entity unto themselves, but in many ways they are more like union bosses reflecting what their membership wants.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteso don't go watch or support them 4:04. if your sole intent is to just rag and rip on them then most folks will grow weary of your tirades and exclamation points "!"
ReplyDelete3:21-go crawl into the hole from whence you came. My daughter heads off to play college soccer at D-1 and she never once was at a Thunder game. I will say, she's seen many Gopher games and really enjoys watching something she can relate to, not a bunch of wannabees who can't make it at progessional soccer.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteUSYSA does not hold the refs FIFA does. MN refing is poor, very poor. Run by people who cant ref or teach it, promoting people who cant ref. Take Arte for example.
ReplyDelete5PM, looks like your daughter will get an education you never did.
ReplyDelete3:21 if 0-2-2 and playing to crowds of 15 paying customers is "thriving" my kid's u-6 rec team is a gold mine. You haters will stop at nothing to rag mysa
ReplyDelete0-2-2? Where is all of the nausea-inspiring bravado that MA and his cronies were spewing at everyone about this being the coming of nirvana in MN soccer? Actually, the peace and quiet is rather comforting. I think I hear the PDL calling boys. Are the propaganda wizards still claiming 3,500 fans at a game in USL1 when they don't have 3,500 toes and fingers in attendance?! Too funny.
ReplyDeleteI think they should suit up MA and bring his girls out to cheer for him like in the old days : )
ReplyDeletewould their fan club fees go directly to him, the thunder or the youth organization?
ReplyDeleteHey 9:26, it looks like you and MA agree on something!
ReplyDelete3:02-Maybe Burnsville is pretty good, not that Woodbury is bad.
ReplyDelete940
ReplyDeleteI can't believe you have to ask that question. There would be some miscellaneous fees to cover banner production, chanting lessons and printed copies of Abboudians chapters 1-438 for all fan club members. I think the introduction of a tithe will be the next innovation by the MTA'ers (that or suing the Metro Transit Authority for name copying).
man, reading all the different threads there's an awful lot of MTA hating going on this evening. state cup must have kicked in.
ReplyDelete10:27, you're on to something. I was served cease and desist papers because I named my kid Michael Thomas Anderson (MTA).
ReplyDelete8:42
ReplyDeleteDo you sign his name with a "T" only? You'll have ambulance chasers in buses chasing you to court.
I think you better name your daughter ECNL or something like that so that you keep up with the hip gubers.
wow...bashing the ECNL already.
ReplyDeleteHe signs his name with a big "T," but his friends refer to him as MA, so he's totally screwed.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete....it always makes me laugh when folks actually go out of their way to speak disparaging about something they claim to have no interest in......
ReplyDeleteall 20 paying customers are feeling it alright!
ReplyDeletePeople have legitimate reasons for bashing them, 3:56. I'll leave it at that.
ReplyDelete3:59 - what are the reasons for bashing the Thunder professional soccer team (not MTA, but the team)? Why go to such great lengths (posting communications, blogging, etc...) to tear down something it would appear you really shouldn't have much interest in based on some of the previous posts? Obviously something deeper at play here........
ReplyDeleteI'll leave it at that....
Im a non MTA parent, coach or player...WELL SAID 4:12!!
ReplyDeleteThunder hypes themselves more than any legitimate professional team I know.
ReplyDeleteWhere is all this hype? Maybe I'm missing something but I sure haven't been inundated. We know it's not coming from MYSA... I'm sure MTA folks get the communique's but that shouldn't be a surprise. Haven't seen much in the way of TV ads or radio spots. Please 4:47 - let us know where all the hype is at or coming from?
ReplyDeleteIt's all so simple. Same old haters on here bashing the Thunder because the haters' bashing of MTA is not really working. On the contrary, the elite environment in this state is growing stronger each year with programs like MTA and SSM. Most haters are envious - the rest are threatened. Your true rational is crystal clear to many. Keep hating on this blog and I'll keep calling you out. You'll all be forgotten soon.
ReplyDeleteObviously something deeper at play here......
ReplyDeleteI'll leave it at that....
How some of you can type when your heads are inserted firmly in your arses is a mystery.
ReplyDeleteteach us how 6:13, you seem quite adept at it.....
ReplyDeletehey all ... The NSC has a beer garden now. If you don't like the Thunder, at least go up for a beer! You'll be surprised at the calibur of play that exists in MN. Not EPL...not MLS....but not bad at all.
ReplyDeleteThe top teams in the USL would do just fine in the MLS (they actually did better than MLS in this region's version of the Champions League). One just became an expansion club this year (Seattle) and two more will be expansion teams in the future (Vancouver & Portland).
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletePlus Thunder has some Legitimate Minnesota talent on their squad. Why not support them? I only attended one game last year, the last one, but it was great..
ReplyDeleteHey 1054. I'm a Thunder fan, but am not yet ready to put them at an MLS competitive level. You are correct on the Sounders (ex USL now very competitive in MLS). But you forgot to mention the difference in team makeup between this year and last. The Thunder's level is pretty good, especially for MN. Unless you jet set weekly to Europe or even KC to see the best, this is a good close consolation. (someone will likely comment on my KC reference... Nothing gets by on this blog as u all have too much time...I would not even be amazed if someone picked apart my reference to 'close').
ReplyDeleteSo, like, are those garbage cans that are now at the bottom of every post supposed to imply something?
ReplyDeleteBig MRL weekend at Lucy Winton Bell. 15/16B and 17G. Say what you want about the watered down MRL, but it's nice to have enough MN teams playing that we can host an event each year, rather than spend two weekends on the road.
ReplyDeleteGo St. Croix!
510
ReplyDeleteActually, it's nice of a scholar like you to refer to the so-called "haters" as being "rational," though you would want to use "rationale" in that context if you actually had something more than a pea for a brain.
We've been waiting for your elite brand of soccer to arrive here (professional and youth) for some time now.
You're like W landing on the aircraft carrier to proclaim the end of hostilities in Iraq five years ago, except that you keep landing and shooting your mouth off again and again. The good news is that unfounded arrogance is free and you seem not to sicken on a steady diet of your own gas.
Beer garden at the NSC? Add some pigs to shag balls and suddenly I'm interested.
ReplyDelete.....me thinks that if the name of the team was the Community Club Thunder then this thread would be pretty mild and everyone would wish them well......
ReplyDeleteUh 403, I hate to tell you this, but that's like putting a bow (the bow being the "CC") on a pile of dung...The smell would still make the rest of us wretch.
ReplyDeleteFor anyone who cares. According to the US Patent and Trademark Office, there at currenlty 25 register and live trademarks that incorporate MTA. About half are just MTA.
ReplyDelete4:25 - you remind me of the guy who complains about the shows on TV that no one is making him watch (to sum it up - just someone who likes, needs, has to complain).
ReplyDeleteHahaha. 4:40 is compelled to complain about people who are compelled to complain.
ReplyDeleteMe? I'm compelled to point out irony.
Nobody cares 4:39.
ReplyDeleteWith the shut-down, merger, or whatever of the Wings, SCV has replaced them as the MYSA favorite ;) (See previous posts about how the current U17 team was formed.) They also probably have the most bothersome combination of parents and coaches that are difficult to be around. Their coaching group has too many of the arrogant, good-old-boy types.
On the plus side, a good portion of the younger team’s leadership are aware of these people and hopefully will move them out of the club in the coming couple of years. A suggestion, rid yourself of the baggage, sooner, rather than later. On the boys side, your the best hope of consistently challenging the MTA-soon-to-be-dynasty, with your strong recruiting engine. You might consider combining with the Blackhawks, WDB and Rev to make your own academy system.
I was just looking at SSM's schedule/website. They tied Viterbo University...a college team, but a terrible college team...even the Somali National team could beat them :)
ReplyDeleteHow many Gophers are playing on the Lightning this summer?
ReplyDeleteNo more than 5 for sure.
ReplyDelete4:52 sounds like someone who's sad all the best boys from his club are moving to SCV. SCV has a great thing going -- a growing club, strong U6-U8 programs to feed into the program, solid leadership, lots of premier and MRL teams. We're thrilled with where the club is and the opportunity it has given our kids to develop into great soccer players. MTA has called but we're not interested in the least.
ReplyDeleteThe Thunder has 300 t-shirts, and they're giving them away free to fans who go to the game tomorrow!
ReplyDeleteSo, like, what will they do with all the extras?
M!M!
SCV has their location working against them. They aren't central enough in the metro area.
ReplyDeleteI am happy for SCV. I have never had a child play for that club, but I agree with the poster about all the things they have going for them, and I am in equal agreement about the observation of SCV's parental jackass factor. For the sake of the players and the development of the sport in this state, I hope they can take advantage of a good population area in the east metro and western Wisconsin, the financial resources of those who live there, a big soccer outdoor complex, at least one indoor soccer complex (right?), and some strong athletic values in that area, too. With those elements, they can continue to do some good things and they have resources that others -- including MTA -- lack. But what SCV lacks, and this shows itself all the time, is a credible, non-parent core of trainers and leaders who can do right by the players while keeping the idiot parent element at bay. This is the eternal tension in this state (not just at SCV), at least in terms of developing talent as opposed to giving psycho moms and dads something to brag about. Of course, if this group builds itself into something credible, then we won't have to observe them trying to undermine or criticize the state's only professional club etc. because they will have the confidence to stand on their own feet and compete accordingly. Until then, we will continue to see that bizarre stuff while many of us look at the players and honestly wish them the best.
ReplyDelete7:35 EVERY club has the parents you describe. MTA has the same issues (come on MTAers admit it, you all had at least one parent come to mind the second you read that). MTA and a few other clubs have been more succesful largely because they have a few very good trainers who help establish a few solid teams which then attract other talented players to the club. The key is to then find a way to give the masses quality training from what always seems to be a very limited number of high quality trainers.
ReplyDeleteSomeone above suggested a merger of a few clubs to try to compete with MTA, they meant it as a rip, but honestly if MYSA had about half the numbers of clubs more opportunities would be possible for more kids. The limited numbers of trainers would all find homes that could allow them to build a club into a group of stronger, well trained players. I think there are a few out there moving this direction and my guess is we will all know who they are by their successes on the field with, not only a single top team but rather a variety of teams and age groups. I had St Croix in this group but if those parents you referenced are really an issue St Croix's good work could all be derailed.
It was not meant as a rip. Having 2 very competative boys teams (neither will win state cup though) does not equal a club competative to MTA.
ReplyDeleteI am not saying to merge the clubs, only consolidate the elite (as MTA calls them) players. Each club work together to form consolidated, strong team at every age group, both genders, with their merged teams. The clubs could take turns housing the teams as they roll into premier slots at U13 (REV for 93 boys and girls, SCV for 94 boys and girls and so on.)
On the west side of town, Wayzata, EP, Hopkins and PSA could do the same thing. All 'elite' players would benefit by having real choice for a strong club system.
Sure every club has a-hole parents. SCV has more than their share, and no club has the half dozen bad apple coaches like SCV.
Bangu/MTA was not created by a few good trainers, it was formed by similar minded parents, trying to build a strong club system dedicated to a common vision. The trainers were hired, and there are plenty of good trainers. I will agree that there are not as many good coaches though.
Now SCV's turn... Seriously, the most out of line parents in the state are Bangu/MTAs girls group from U16 down to U12. I have NEVER seen a more self promoting cluless bunch of parents in all my years of involvment in the sport. From bitching at refs for calls that they don't undrestand to harassing opposing players to even trying to pick fights with other parents and coaches. Just because it says MTA doesn't make it the best.
ReplyDeleteBTW are those 300 T shirts in XXXL?
Do they come with pocket protectors or capes for all the dorks who are the Thunder faithful?
Has SCV ever won more than 1 State Cup championship in the same year?
ReplyDeleteThere seems to be an awful lot of bluster from some folks given their lack of success across several age groups.
If MYSA had followed precedent the current U17 boys team wouldn't even had formed but we all know the story behind that, right?
12:39
ReplyDeleteI hope you dont believe what you are saying?
I morons on most every sideline - MTA has no monopoly (I am a ref for St Croix)
Tell me the story behind the U17 boys team. What did MYSA have to do with it?
ReplyDeleteThe problem with SCV is they do not want any non stillwater kids in their program. Although several have gone to SCV that are non stillwater kids, it makes it a very uneasy situation on the sidelines and on the field for the players. It has gotten better the past few years but it has a long way to go.
ReplyDeleteSCV ??? Just another wannabe.
ReplyDeleteNot by a long shot, just telling the truth. SCV loses many good players from outside of Stillwater due to the attitudes on the sidelines and the attitude that only "stillwater" players should play in their club.
ReplyDeleteThe current U17 SCV team was allowed to form at C1, in a very, very weak East district and MYSA decision makers that allowed this exception (which had consistently been turned down for many other clubs and teams) was a SCV U17 parent and MYSA director. This allowed them to attract other players who would have never played for a C2 team. Many in the state called it cheating or an inside job. I believe the meeting mintues from the MYSA meeting show that the parent did not vote, but it is pretty obvious what happened. The funny thing is that each time this is posted, non of the SCV parents bother to try to defend what happened.
ReplyDeleteFunny to hear someone say the SCV doesnt want any outside kids on their teams. I dont know of any successful SCV team that wasnt loaded with non Stillwater kids. All of their success has come from recruting players from other communities.
ReplyDeleteMTA BLUE 91 VS Ohio Elite tmrw. MTA needs to win to be the first girls team win the Midwest Premier League.
ReplyDeleteGood luck
Thought I would give it a try and I watched the Thunder game this evening. Very entertaining, but the better team (Vancouver - defending champs) won. Very good soccer, not world class, but very high quality and well worth my time.
ReplyDeleteFor those who don't know, you can watch every (I mean every) USL game live on www.usllive.com.
Spend a couple of hours some evening and give it a try (and no I am not a shill for MN Thunder or MTA - just a soccer fan).
My child plays for SCV. We are not from Stillwater. We have never experienced any animosity toward us. The coachng is very good.
ReplyDeleteThe Thunder game was very entertaining. They woke up in the 2nd half and were dangerous on the attack. Too bad they lost on PK in last minute of regulation.
ReplyDeleteThe new beer garden is awesome and the fans in that area were quite knowledgeable and friendly.
I'll be attending more games this season because of this new addition and other changes that allow us fans to be just a few feet from the field.
The way they moved the playing surface to within a few yards of the main grandstand is terrific. You are literally just a few feet from the playing field when you're in the front few rows.
Tremendous changes that improve the soccer experience.
MTA BLUE 91 VS Ohio Elite tmrw. MTA needs to win to be the first girls team win the Midwest Premier League.
ReplyDeleteGood luck
2/5/09 8:35 PM
Its a draw 1-1. MTAB has 2 draws to one for Elite. Looks like the Blue team is human afterall??
5:02 - i think if you look back over the years, the MTA U18 girls might be 1-10 against that Ohio Elite team. Ohio Elite has a game in hand so if they win then they will win the MRL title (just like they won it last year, and the year before that, and the year before that, etc....). Not taking anything away from the "Stars" as they have been the MN "torch" for many years and have really brought a tremendous amount of youth national soccer respect to us up here in the frozen tundra.
ReplyDeleteBarring a major upset in the Ohio South State Cup MTA Blue just punched a ticket to regionals. SSM should easily defeat WDB for another spot. MTW (Wings) has taken MTA Blue to PK's and won before and could do it again. If so there will be 3 teams from MN at Regions. Also wondering how the 18G MRL games went this weekend other than MTA. Both WDB and MTW were in a position to take 3'rd place and also possibly gain a region trip that way.
ReplyDeletedidn't SSM and WDB tie in a scrimmage not too long ago......
ReplyDeleteWDB and MTAW both went 0-3 this weekend. Results are on MRL website. No possibility of a MRL regional slot as multiple teams from OHS will finish ahead of them. Maybe that U18 age group isn't as strong as advertised.
ReplyDeleteNo fault of SSMs 18gs, but they are in 1st place 6-0 scoring something like 41 goals to 2 against in the 1st division. Heard many people complaining on why they were seeded in the division that they are in.
ReplyDelete7:58, thanks for sharing that.
ReplyDeleteMTA Blue 18's tied Ohio Elite 1-1. MTA Blue will finish 2nd in the league. MTA Blues have had some great results of late. They should handle the MTA west team, even with the MTA west team sitting back.
ReplyDeleteMTA West and WDB just didn't have the bodies. Both teams missing multiple players, having 12 players is really tough. Proms and injuries really held them back.
ReplyDeleteTechnically, I am not sure how the SSM U18s even got into MRL. They did not play in MYSA leagues or in MN State Cup as a U17 team. They are in the same situation as the U16 SSM girls. The 16s got caught, the 18s did not.
ReplyDeleteSteve Bellis out coached Dan Storlien in their first meeting and he will probably do it again.Don't count out MTA West 91 yet. Bellis's upset tie cost MTA 91 Blue a piece of the MRL championship.
ReplyDeleteanon 10:55,
ReplyDeleteDidn't the players have a say in the outcome of that match?
If AK had been coaching, MTA would have won.
ReplyDeleteby 3 or more as according to Larry his attack is unstoppable.
ReplyDeleteBellis may be the best youth coach in the state. He has always done well as a coach. I wonder if he would be considered to coach the Thunder if they have an extended loosing streak.
ReplyDeleteBellis is an outstanding coach perhaps the best in Minny. Had he taken over the Stars a couple of years ago you probably would have seen continued development of players and a better performance at the national level.Suspect there will be some coaching changes next year.
ReplyDeleteBellis is an outstanding coach perhaps the best in Minny. Had he taken over the Stars a couple of years ago you probably would have seen continued development of players and a better performance at the national level.Suspect there will be some coaching changes next year.
ReplyDeleteWhy isnt't the current Lightning roster posted yet?
ReplyDeleteI love Stevie B too!{nudge nudge/wink wink}
ReplyDeleteI have to admit Bellis is a fine coach.
ReplyDeleteHow many teams has he taken to nationals?
Actually the game between MTA West and MTA Blue did not cost the MTA Blue team the league. If MTA Blue would have won the game vs MTA West, MTA Blue still would have had to beat Ohio Elite to win because of goal differential.
ReplyDeleteLook at the development of MTA Blue. Ask the players if they got better and they will tell you they did. When they were 13-15 they had a player that was one of if not the most dominate player in the region. The MTA Blue team does not have KB anymore and she has had a lot of tough luck. If they had the dominate KB they would be as strong as anyone in the country.
ReplyDeleteI think every team in the US can say "what if".
ReplyDeleteDS benefited from parents doing all the recruiting and building of the team he accompanied to nationals. Many coaches could have done the same with that roster. SB would have won both times, not finished 2nd.
ReplyDeleteStars peaked at 13-15, but it was a good run while it lasted. They are now only the second or third best team in the state.
ReplyDeleteYou have no idea about the Tsunami Sota team and how it was put together.
ReplyDeleteWhich teams are better than MTA Blue?
ReplyDeleteThey have not lost a game to a team from MN since U 14. They finished way ahead of any other teams from MN in the Premier League. Will the MTA West TEam sit back again in State Cup vs MTA Blue? We will see who the better coach is this Sunday at 2pm. I bet the MTA BLue team cruises. Then I am sure you will say if SB coached the MTA Blue team they would have won by more. Lets see SB has won what??????? Almost nothing. DS I am not sure but I know he is the only coach in MN to coach in more then 1 National Championship game ever, and he is the only coach to coach in more than one REgional final at 4. If it were so easy why isnt everyone doing it. Get your facts straight and if they have not lost in the state in 4 years they must be the best team in the state.
9:48- what have you done for me lately? Let's see in another couple weeks who the best U18 girls team in MN is.
ReplyDeleteI think you may be surprised based upon your post.
9:08,
ReplyDeleteDid DS "recruit" the team at Bloomington Jefferson High School when they won the MSHSL Championship?
Didn't SB coach at high school level?
How many state championships did SB's HS teams win?
Lets see what have the MTA Blue team done lately, tied the best team in the country, oh wait they got tied.
ReplyDeleteWhat has the MTA west team done ever??
I guess at U14 got hammered in the final and got lucky and won in PK's.
MTA Blue and Ohio Elite clearly the best two teams in the U 18 premier league. MTA Blue won the Phoenix event.
Come what do you mean what have they done lately?
Jealous, Jealous, Jealous
MTA Blue will hammer MTA West this weekend then we won't have to listen to your posts anymore.
Let's see, we have been mostly unsuccessful in starting an SSM-MTA feud. Maybe we can start an MTA-MTA one. All for our blog entertainment. It is amusing thou, have to admit that. Please all SSM and MTA parents/coaches don't bite. If you don't they will provide a post masquerading as one od you anyway. Don't be the gullible one. Anyone want to discuss soccer? U16's open up soon, it should be competitive.
ReplyDeleteBHK and CDA 16Bs will not advance out of their brackets this year. Both were really weak in MRL.
ReplyDelete7:16 B as in B S as in S. You make a lame attempt to cast the blame on others, sorry to burst your bubble but these "feuds" are SSM MTA parents and a smattering of coaches. See, as much as you want to not admit it, these are the parents (not kids) who run around looking for the next "best thing" when they get there they spend all their time trying to convince everyone else what a great choice their child made. I'm not against the "open range" we have, just want to be clear about the egos that cause people to come on a blog and endlessly brag about their child's soccer team.
ReplyDeleteCan't imagine a local team beating a nationally recruited team. If SSM loses they might as well fold the soccer program.
ReplyDeletegee, 1:12, I haven't read that one in at least 2 days. That must mean its also time to pull out the other MTA standby "sorry your daughter didn't make the team".
ReplyDeleteDid the gopher's football team "fold the program" when they lost to North Dakota St a couple of years back?
ReplyDeleteNo, they redoubled their efforts to make sure such an embarassment never happens again.
Unlike, 1:12, who is obviously a quitter, you can bet that if the SSM 18s lose to MTA, they will alter their practices to prevent it from happening again.
I believe 826 is one of the people 716 is talking about.
ReplyDeletemethinks you are right.
ReplyDeleteI would agree. Judging by the reaction of 826 it appears the 726 poster hit very close to home.
ReplyDeleteWho won MRL in Blaine, U15 boys MU Wildcats v Bangu White?
ReplyDeleteThunder/Bangu White won 2-1.
ReplyDeleteIf Gramenz is unable to turn around the Thunder, the owners will use their German connections to bring in Jurgen Klinsmann. The beer garden will be half price until they start winning, which could run the organization into the ground.
ReplyDeleteIf the Thunder could convice RG to come play for them, they might finally win a game.
ReplyDeleteI've got no horse in the U18G race, but I've been around this age group for years.
ReplyDeleteMTA Blue (Stars) is clearly the best team of a very deep age group, and has been regionally and nationally competitive.
MTAW (Wings) is the 2nd best team now, and has been since U13.
Woodbury Eclipse has closed the gap with MTAW in the last two years, and has risen to a close third.
EDP has been a consistently solid Premier team since U14.
WBL, CTG, EAG, and MTA White (Select) all had good teams that moved in/out of Premier play. WBL defeated both Wings and Eclipse in State Cup last year after being relegated to C1. MNR and PSA were both very good teams as well.
Now add an excellent SSM to the State Cup mix. I'm picking the Stars to beat SSM in the final.
Should be fun to watch.
I will go along with that if Stars have all college players back and healthy, if not, I am picking SSM. It will all be academic though, as both teams will be going to regionals. Also can't rule out MTAW pulling off an upset in the semis.
ReplyDeleteI think it would be great to have all the college kids back(stars) for the U-18 game.....since they have played and trained so hard with the stars!....They should bring them back for the semis.....just to be sure they win!
ReplyDeleteWhy don't they just schedule the U18 games later in the month like they do for U19's so they don't have issues with college players not being here for the games?
ReplyDeleteHow difficult would it be to do that for just a few teams that play at U18?
Doesn't really matter all that much at 18. Most of the players are more concerned with proms and graduation and college than soccer. Apparently a few parents differ though.
ReplyDeletestate cup on memorial day weekend
ReplyDeletefollowing sat & sun for semis & finals
no conflict with mrl
no conflict with homework
all mysa games in june & july
almost no conflicts with spring school activities
this eliminates many of the planning variables that managers & parents face
m w teams have games every m w,, t th as well
if there's a weather out ,no replay
17 & 18s a week later because graduations
lc
how about those u13 tc fire girls? I caught their game yesterday vs mahto. A lot of potential. Anyone know anything?
ReplyDeleteMiss 3:07
ReplyDeleteIf the Gophers were smart they would have dropped from the B11 and joined the MIAC.That way they would accomplish a twofer..They could play .500 ball and solve Joe Pa's dilema.
Let's see...
ReplyDelete22-4-0 and an rpi of 17. Yeah, they stink.
Oh wait, you're talking about the football team. My bad, I thought this was a soccer blog.
ReplyDelete11:07 is talking about a different type of football.
ReplyDelete