Friday, January 28, 2011

Introduction

Hello fellow soccer fans, my name is Tim Gibbons and I am the new MNFUTBOL.

I am an avid footy fanatic following UW-Milwaukee Panthers, UMN Men’s Club and Women’s teams, the MLS, EPL, and the Spanish League when I can catch a game. Locally I try to get to MIAC college games, NPSL and NSC Stars games. My favorite cups include Champions League and the World Cup.


My 5 children all played/play at various levels. I have some experience as a player parent, manager and coach with everything from recreational youth play, to MYSA leagues, Midwest Regional Leagues, ODP, State Cup and USYSA Regionals, and National Showcase tournament. I have also helped on the club organization side with Fuller Park Soccer, Minneapolis United and Bangu. Many of my adult friendships have been developed on the field and sidelines.

I grew up playing the game in the streets of San Antonio. We didn't have much club or high school soccer, but my family moved to the Midwest in the early 80s was lucky enough to play college soccer at Viterbo University in LaCrosse, WI. My lack of talent was over shadowed by aggressive play and passion for the game. I still play a bit (badly, and would like to apologize to those who I have bungled-over on the pitch) and also referee and coach. The later, not so much lately.

I am hoping this blog can be a tool for all soccer fans to read interesting commentary and share thoughts and ideas. Together, we can strengthen the soccer community in MN for players of all levels. I love this game!

I created some of the requested and historical 'chat' style topics that many of you have requested. Please, create an account (you don't have to use your real name) and be respectful of others. Thank you.

14 comments:

Anonymous said...

I'm looking forward to your blog! Welcome!

Unknown said...

I like it already.

Unknown said...

Again, really like the direction your going.

Have you thought about having article from your son's or even from your perspective regarding D1 Soccer, College Soccer in general. The experience, the good the bad. I think sometimes parents and players coming into the college recruiting thing don't always understand what college soccer is like. I don't know if Viterbo was a NAIA school back when you played but it would be interesting to hear the comparison between you experience and your sons experiences.

MNF said...

Thanks Goal Post. Yes are looking into some writing from players perspective. Viterbo switched from NLCAA to NAIA during my junior year. Anyone who has been around the game for many years has surely witnessed a dramatic transformation in the players technical abilities, speed of play, tactics and the beauty of the game.

Anonymous said...

thanks, I think this will be refreshing approach.

old ref said...

Tim, do you still re-cert? If so, it may be helpful to all that visit this site if you could post some of the rules interpretations from the MNSRC on-line courses. I can't imagine they would say no to helping educate the masses.

Things like the interpretation of intentional handling, what is and is not a legal challenge ...

MNF said...

I will check in with MNSRA and see if they have any interest. Thanks for the idea!

Mister Soccer said...

Barc wins in a romp today. My prediction. 4-0. Not having Pique or Puyol will hurt, but it will still be a Messi-Villa rompfest.

Can't wait for the football feast.

Anonymous said...

I’m nonetheless learning from you, however I’m bettering myself. I definitely love studying the whole lot that is written on your blog.Preserve the tales coming. I cherished it!

Mister Soccer said...

Front page ink for MN on ESPN.com/soccer

http://espn.go.com/sports/soccer/news/_/id/6470603/teal-bunbury-follows-father-footsteps-kansas-city

Good stuff.

Mister Soccer said...

Currently watching the US WNT v Japan. Here are some observations:

A. Hope Solo is hot. Love the black hair.
B. Did Abby Wambach really just wiff on a open goal from 5 feet away?
C. Did Fowdy really just say these things:

-"When we used to play Asian teams, we used to always say they couldn't mentally or physicall."
-"She faces her up and nutbangs her."
-"The sophistication of staying out wide."

Really Julie? Nutbang?

Embarrassing.

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
futbol world cup said...

cool ! i hope futbol fans get more news from here !

MTA Soccer Dad said...

Love it! Keep up the good work.