Wednesday, May 16, 2012

TAMPA, Fla. – The W-League announced its Team of the Week for the first week of the 2012 season today, honoring Victoria Highlanders FC forward Lindsay Hoetzel as Player of the Week after she came off the bench to score twice in her team’s thrilling 3-2 victory against Vancouver Whitecaps FC Sunday.

Hoetzel entered the game at halftime with the score knotted at 1-1, and found the net in the 58th and 63rd minutes to give the Highlanders a lead they wouldn’t surrender. Victoria Midfielder Janelle Smith, who assisted on both of Hoetzel’s goals, also was named to the Team of the Week.

The Whitecaps are represented by forward Chelsea Buckland, who put her side ahead in the 41st minute and assisted on Vancouver’s second goal late. Rounding out the forwards this week is Grace Hawkins of the Long Island Rough Riders, who tallied four goals and an assist in her team’s season-opening victory against the New Jersey Rangers. Long Island defender Vaila Barsley also was named to the team after anchoring a defense that allowed only two shots on goal in the shutout victory.

A pair of teams making their W-League debuts placed players on the Team of the Week after the Central SC Cobras and VSI Tampa Flames battled to a 2-2 draw Sunday. Midfielder Debbie Smith tallied the first goal in Central SC franchise history to stake her team to an early lead, while VSI Tampa’s Cassie Barbaresi claimed one of the midfield spots after scoring the equalizer late to earn the team’s first point.

LA Strikers defender Christina Murillo was selected for her all-around strong play in her team’s opener vs. the Pali Blues, and rounding out this week’s squad are Blues goalkeeper Anna Marie Piccarelli and defender Liz Bogus, who played a big part in their squad’s 2-0 victory Sunday. Bogus tallied a goal and an assist from her spot on defense, while Piccarelli made six saves in recording the shutout.

The W-League ramps up this weekend with 21 of 30 teams in action in a 13-game slate. Teams playing their 2012 W-League openers include the defending-champion Atlanta Silverbacks (Friday vs. Central SC) and USWNT defender Becky Sauerbrunn’s D.C. United Women, who play host to the Virginia Beach Piranhas on Saturday.      

  W-League Team of the Week

Pos	Player	Team	Highlights
GK	Anna Maria Piccarelli	Pali	Made 6 saves in 2-0 shutout victory vs. LA Strikers
D	Christina Murillo	LA	Strong game in the back in Strikers’ opener
D	Vaila Barsley	Long Island	Anchored D that allowed only 2 shots in win
D	Liz Bogus	Pali	Goal, assist and strong D in season-opening win
M	Leah Fortune	Charlotte	Goal, assist in 3-0 victory vs. VSI Tampa
M	Cassie Barbaresi	VSI Tampa	Scored GTG late in 2-2 draw against Central SC
M	Debbie Smith	Central SC	Tallied franchise’s 1st goal in 2-2 tie at VSI Tampa
M	Janelle Smith	Victoria	Pair of assists in season-opening win
F	Lindsay Hoetzel	Victoria	Scored twice off the bench to lead Highlanders
F	Chelsea Buckland	Vancouver	Goal, assist and 6 shots in season opener
F	Grace Hawkins	Long Island	Tallied 4 goals, assist in opening win

Honorable Mention – Central SC – Cally Morrill, Ashley Swinehart; Charlotte – Hannah Gmerek, Robyn Jones; LA Strikers – Hannah Beard, Kassi Massey; Long Island – Kaila Sciasia, Brooke DeRosa, Hailey Hemmer, Rachel Hoffman; Pali – Sarah Huffman, Elizabeth Eddy, Ann Marie Tangorra; Vancouver – Janine Frazao; Victoria – Liz Hansen; VSI Tampa – Sarah Miller, Yvonne George

During the next few months USLsoccer.com will highlight the on-the-field stars of the W-League by getting to know their personalities off the field. Up next: Sarah Huffman of the Pali Blues. Huffman was a star at the University of Virginia, where she developed into one of the country’s best while playing in one of the toughest conferences in women’s college soccer. In 2002, she was named to the ACC All-Freshman team. She also earned All-American honors from the NSCAA and Soccer Buzz in addition to being named MVP by Soccer America in 2004 and 2005. Huffman has also played for the USA at every level including the full Women’s National Team. She was a member of the U-19 Youth National Team that won the World Championship in 2002, and won the annual Nordic Cup in 2004, 2005, and 2007 with the U-21 program.

On Sunday night, Huffman scored in Pali’s 2-0 season-opening victory against the LA Strikers.
 

Full name: Sarah Huffman  

Club: Pali Blues

Head Coach: Charlie Naimo

Born: Danbury, CT

Nickname: Huffy

Position: Midfield

Inspired me the most: The whole U.S. Women’s National Team. When I was growing up, my youth coaches, Tracey Leone & Steve Swanson.

Playing strengths:  Hard work

Needs a bit of work: Heading

Favorite player: My favorite team to watch is Barcelona. 

Tell us about your coach: Charlie is passionate. He always puts a fun, competitive environment together. I love his style of soccer.

Biggest career highlight: U19 world champion & ACC college championship

Advice I would give to young girls following in my footsteps: Enjoy the process - both the successes and the struggles. The journey is worth it.

I’m stranded on a small island. Five things I’d want with me: My two dogs, sour patch kids, music, and Abby

Tunes I’m listening to: Florence + the machine. She rocked it out at Coachella this year.

Best movie seen recently: Hunger Games & Beginners 

Retro item I wish would make a comeback: Haven’t they all come back?

Favorite movie: Too broad of a category, so many kinds of movies… but maybe Elf? Haha

Describe yourself in five words: Loving, competitive, happy, thankful, loyal


Finish this!
I can’t get enough of… traveling with friends.

I spend my money on…  traveling, coffee, and shopping.

My fashion style is… comfortable and casual.

Technology and social media is… both good and bad.

Over time I’ve learned… to enjoy the simple pleasures of daily life.

Sometimes I need to…
 chill out and relax.

Every day I try to…  smile.

I’m thankful for… my supportive family and loving friends.

My biggest influence… my mom and dad.

I used to… lose my temper at little things outside of my control.

I always… start my day with a coffee.

I have a friend… I have more than just a friend. I have the best group of best friends anyone could ask for.

If I wasn’t playing soccer I’d be… opening a coffee shop café in Portland.

In five years I see myself… having a family and enjoying life post-professional soccer player.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

BRANDON, Fla. – The VSI Tampa Flames and the Central SC Cobras tied a hard-fought match on Sunday evening, securing the Flames' first point of the season after a 3-0 lost to the Charlotte Lady Eagles in Charlotte, N.C. on Friday night.

The match was evenly contested for the first 15 minutes as each team tried to establish its rhythm. The Flames scored the first goal of the evening in the 17th minute on a great effort by Markysha Boyce, but the Cobras were able to equalize the game before halftime with a goal from Debbie Smith in the 30th minute.

Each team looked to take the lead before halftime, but neither was successful and the teams went into halftime tied 1-1.

The Flames and the Cobras came out strong after the break as each team was looking to take the lead. At the 22-minute mark of the second half the Cobras were able to convert one of their chances into a goal, scored by Cally Morril. 

It looked like the Cobras were going to walk away with a 2-1 victory and pick up three points on the road, but in the 89th minute Cassie Barbaresi hit a shot from outside the 18-yard box that was saved by the goalkeeper, but the rebound came back to her feet where she was able to put away the second chance for the game-tying goal.

Next the Flames hit the road to face the defending W-League champions, the Atlanta Silverbacks, on Friday May 25 at 7 p.m. They return home for home games vs. the Charlotte Eagles on June 6 and June 7. Kickoff for both games is set for 7 p.m. at J.C. Handly Park. For more information and to order tickets visit www.vsi-flames.com.

Thursday, May 10, 2012

The LA Strikers play their first home game of the 2012 W-League season this Sunday 6 p.m. PT at Occidental College against the Pali Blues. Kassi Massey, is a starting midfielder for the Strikers and a recent graduate of Cal State University - Bakersfield.

"Any team can win on any given day; the team who works harder and longer wins games, and I feel that our team has the drive to do this," Massey said.

Massey is currently finishing up her studies for the Roadrunners where in her first season, she displayed immediate potential to move up the CSUB all–time lists. LAStrikersFC.com caught up with Kassi before practice fora quick Q&A about the upcoming season:

What are your thoughts about the season?

"I am excited to start playing against some of the top teams and feel that the Strikers should make a big impact on the league. We've had a strong start and we will continue to grow throughout season. We've established our weaknesses as a team and we are prepared to fix them through training sessions. With our work ethic and determination, I feel that we should be a strong competitor for several teams to face."

What are you looking forward to?

"I'm looking forward to a lot of wins the season with the strength and talent our team carries. I can't wait to play against some of the top players/top teams in the league and represent the La Strikers."


What do you think will be the biggest challenge both for yourself and the team this season?

"The biggest challenge for any team I feel would be to maintain great chemistry and continue to improve throughout the season. For myself, I just need to stay focused and to be as coachable as I can to become a better player. My goal this season is to become an all around better player and help the LA Strikers win a championship.

"I know our team has great potential, but we all have to pull it together for every game and be the best we can. Any team can win on any given day; the team who works harder and longer wins games, and I feel that our team has the drive to do this."

Monday, May 14, 2012

HAMILTON, Ont. – Hamilton FC is pleased to announce today that it has entered into an affiliation arrangement with the Guelph Royals Soccer Club. The purpose of this arrangement is to help promote player and coaching development within Guelph SC. and to provide exposure for Hamilton FC.

Hamilton FC includes both a men’s and a women’s top level amateur team. The men’s team plays in the Premier Development League (PDL) and the women in the W-league; both represent the highest level of amateur soccer in North America. These teams provide elite collegiate and amateur players with an opportunity to continue to play at a higher level of competitive soccer after they’ve completed their youth soccer experience.

The benefits to Guelph SC include:

• A pathway for their elite youth athletes to reach the next level of competitive soccer after completing their youth programs.
• Access to Hamilton FC players for mentoring programs and support to their Technical staff to the benefit of both players and coaches.
• Game-day experiences for their youth players (ball boys and girls, half-time mini-games)
• Demonstration practice sessions to support their coaching development.
• Collaboration and participation between the club’s technical staff.
• Fundraising opportunities through ticket sales.
• Seasons tickets to Hamilton FC games for Guelph their coaches.

Hamilton FC gains:
• An affiliation with a strong and aspiring youth club.
• Opportunities for our players to participate in the youth development programs offered by Guelph SC technical staff.

Ruben Flores, Technical Director of Guelph SC, is excited by the opportunities afforded their members through this relationship with HFC.

“This affiliation completes our pyramid of play at the club," Flores said, "injects more technical skill and experience into our player and coach development programs, and provides a great focus to further develop our soccer community in the city.”

Hamilton FC Director of Football, Brett Mosen expressed his enthusiasm for the relationship.

“This is a great opportunity for both our clubs," he said. "It gives HFC terrific additional exposure in the Guelph community and enables us to supplement each other’s programs. In the end, players and coaches from organizations will benefit.” 

Friday, May 11, 2012

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The Charlotte Lady Eagles opened their 2012 W-League season by taking three points against the VSI Tampa Flames Friday night with a 3-0 victory at Charlotte Christian Stadium. Ashley Braam, Leah Fortune and Amanda Naeher found the net to help the Lady Eagles hold off their expansion competiton from Tampa.

The game began at a slow pace, as both teams were working through the bugs. The Lady Eagles had the first chance of the night in the 10th minute with a dangerous corner kick from Hannah Gmerek. Samantha Huecker just missed the header.

The Flames were given their first chance just three minutes later but to no avail. The Lady Eagles were able to build a good counter attack. In the 17th minute Fortune made a dangerous pass through the Flames box and Braam connected, beating the keeper and putting the Lady Eagles up 1-0.

Hitting the 30-minute mark, the Lady Eagles continued to pressure with a few close chances. Conversely, the Lady Eagles back four looked composed and strong. Fortune broke through in the 35th minute, dribbling around the defense and firing into the upper 90 to make it 2-0.

The second half began much like the start of the game, but in the 65th minute Gmerek took a corner kick, finding Naeher’s head to make it 3-0. The Lady Eagles continued to apply pressure deep into the second half.

VSI Tampa began to tire as the game hit the hour mark, but found a second wind with 10 minutes remaining. It had a good chance with a direct kick just outside the box, but Robyn Jones was able to make the jumping save, sealing the shutout.

Friday, May 11, 2012

WOODBRIDGE, Va. – In rapid preparation for next weekend’s season opener, the Northern Virginia Majestics announced today the re-signing of four returning players fresh from successful college years. Alex Reed (Maryland), Annmarie Irwin (Cornell), Alyson Gregorowicz (Tampa), and Sahar Aflaki (Radford) will rejoin a Majestics squad under a new coaching staff.

A transfer from Loyola College, Reed played forward for the Maryland Terrapins this season and scored a dramatic overtime game-winner against George Washington University. Prior to college, Reed was a two-time all-state selection while at South County High School in Fairfax, Virginia.

Irwin rejoins the blue and yellow after being the only sophomore to appear in all 16 games for Cornell. She started in 13 games for the Big Red, playing significant minutes in the other three contests, and was a standout at both the midfield and defensive positions.

A teammate of Reed’s at South County, Gregorowicz will find herself in familiar territory again featured in the Northern Virginia defense. The solid Gregorowicz spent last fall anchoring the Spartan backline, contributing to the University of Tampa’s 16-6-2 season record.

The speedy Aflaki returns to the Majestics attack after starting her collegiate career as a forward for the Radford Highlanders. Aflaki’s earlier soccer prowess at Battlefield High School in Manassas, Virginia, earned her numerous all-state and all-region honors.

All four signees are products of the USL youth system. Irwin and Gregorowicz came through the Majestics Super Y-league program, Aflaki played for Northern Virginia’s Super-20 League squad, and Reed came up through the Washington Freedom of the Super Y-League.

The Majestics tryouts continue this week on Monday May 14 at Hellwig Memorial Park starting at 8:30 p.m. ET and conclude Thursday May 17 at the Manassas Sports, Soccer, and Training Center at 6 p,m. Interested players must register prior to attending.

The Northern Virginia Majestics face a challenging schedule of opponents in the Atlantic Division in the upcoming season, including United and historic Virginia Beach Piranhas. The Majestics open the season on the road against local rival Fredericksburg Impact on May 19. The Majestics will kick off their home season Saturday, June 2 in an early rematch against the Impact at Hellwig Memorial Park in Manassas, Virginia. Match time is set for 7 p.m.

Friday, May 11, 2012

BOYDS, Md. - For longtime fans of women's professional soccer in and around the nation's capital, Saturday is a day that should have been circled long ago.

At 6 p.m. some of the best veteran players to have ever played the game will lace up again on the perfect grass of Maryland SoccerPlex Stadium to compete in a cross-league grudge match between hosts D.C. United Women and former WUSA/WPS professional side Boston Breakers.

"With a 6 p.m. kickoff, great weather forecast, a good crowd, and Famous Dave's all set to serve dinner at 5 p.m., I can't think of a better way for families to spend Mother's Day weekend," said Chris Hummer, D.C. United Women's General Manager. "And by the way, there's also a really good soccer game going on at the same time."

Not only do the Breakers feature a full host of U.S. professionals such as Leslie Osborne, Cat Whitehill, Bianca D'Agostino, and Amanda DaCosta, they also picked up a pair of Australian internationals in Tameka Butt and Kyah Simon.

D.C. United offer their own array of elite world talent, with new signing Lianne Sanderson at the top of the fear list in most opponents' eyes. The prolific English striker, along with teammate Joanna Lohman - who also just signed with United - nearly led the Philadelphia Independence to a WPS Championship this past fall, before jetting to Barcelona for the Spanish women's pro season.

Both have played for their country, with Sanderson notching eight goals for England in her career, to go with more than 100 tallies while topping the formation during several season with Arsenal and Chelsea in the English professional women's league.

Of the 20 players on Saturday's active roster for D.C. United Women, 14 are newcomers and still have something to prove to Head Coach Mike Jorden and Assistant Cindi Harkes.

"Most of our college players are back and we want to get them in the mix, and also look at a couple players that are battling for spots," said Jorden. "We also want to establish some continuity with the older players as well."

In addition to Sanderson and Lohman, sitting atop the list of fresh faces are Holly King, a star midfielder entering her senior season at the University of Florida, and former Washington Freedom striker Caitlin Miskel, who last played in Iceland, and starred at UVa.

"Lohman and Sanderson returned from Spain just yesterday and [Saturday] will be a good opportunity to mix them in with the team," added Jorden. "They're going to be important pieces for us."

Some familiar faces will be on the pitch as well for United Women, with Marisa Abegg, Jerica DeWolfe, Hayley Siegel, Danielle Malagari, Maddie Brown and Katie Menzie all returning for their second seasons with the club.

"I think that's our core," said Jorden on the six returning players. "I'm a real loyal coach and they did good things for us last year, and they'll be the leaders again this year. I expect a good season out of all of them."

For D.C. United Women, Saturday will be about picking up where they left off from last season in this final test prior to making a run at their first W-League title - no easy task in a 30-team league. The Black-and-Red have never lost at the Maryland SoccerPlex, winning four consecutive matches to close out the year in 2011, and bumping off the University of Maryland last month in the Headers for Hope charity match (A charity United will also contribute towards Saturday by donating $1 for every ticket sold to help cancer victims and their families - fan can donate directly at www.headersforhope.org).

Tickets for Saturday's match will be available online at www.tickets.dcunitedwomen.com rup to kickoff, or can be purchased at the stadium box office beginning at 5 p.m. Group rates for 20 or more tickets, as well as season tickets can all be purchased online or at the box office. All seating is general admission, with two sections available - a VIP for the most central views, or a General for the rest of the 3,200 seats and approximately 800 places to stand or sit on the grass with a great view.

Famous Dave's will be on site serving a wide ranging menu at in-restaurant prices as well, so fans are encouraged to come out early and take in the warmups while enjoying a good meal.

Local youth league Washington Area Girls Soccer League - or WAGS - is sponsoring the night, with the league offering discount tickets to member teams as part of their "WAGS Night" promotion. Member teams can purchase tickets at any quantity at the full group rate from the league website.

All fans can follow the action on Twitter @dcuwomen or at www.Facebook.com/dcuwomen.

After the Boston game, D.C. officially beings its second USL W-League season on Saturday, May 19 with a 7 p.m. ET kickoff at its Maryland SoccerPlex Stadium. United Women have never lost a game at the SoccerPlex, but expect a strong test from a visiting Virginia Beach Piranhas team with a long history of success on the W-League. Tickets are available at http://tickets.dcunitedwomen.com.  

During the next few months USLsoccer.com will highlight the on-the-field stars of the W-League by getting to know their personalities off the field. Up next: Becky Sauerbrunn of D.C. United Women and the U.S. Women’s National Team. Her time with the national team began in 2008 when she made the senior team for the first time and started in a match against Canada. She made the U.S. roster again in 2010, and played in five games, including three starts during the qualifying round of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. She is best known for cracking the U.S. starting lineup in last summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup semifinal win against France, where she helped anchor a defense that held the world’s sixth-ranked team to one goal on seven on-target shots. Sauerbrunn will be in and out of national team camps during the run-up to the London Olympics.

Full name: Rebecca Elizabeth Sauerbrunn

Club: D.C. United Women

Head Coach: Mike Jorden

Born: June 6, 1985 in St. Louis, Missouri

Nickname: Becky, Reebs, Reeba

Position: Defender - central or outside

Inspired me the most: Watching the 1999 Women’s World Cup on my living room floor and thinking it was the coolest thing I’d ever seen.

Playing strengths: Reading the game early and positioning myself in good areas.

Needs a bit of work: Long-range distribution

Favorite player: Paolo Maldini

Tell us about your coach: Mike Jorden - understanding, approachable, likable

Biggest career highlight: Playing in the semi-final match against France in the 2011 Women’s World Cup.

Biggest practical joker: On the national team it’s Heather Mitts, hands down.

Advice I would give to young girls following in my footsteps: Take advantage of any opportunities you get, often times they are few and far between so you have to be prepared when your moment comes.

I’m stranded on a small island. Five things I’d want with me: Since I wouldn’t wish being stranded on an island on anyone I’m going strictly inanimate objects here - sunscreen, ipad (with unlimited books, movies, music, and games), weapon (for hunting), beach attire, satellite communications device.

Tunes I’m listening to: Songs from Lady Antebellum, Jessie J, Parachute, One Republic

Best movie seen recently: The Avengers

Retro item I wish would make a comeback: Superhero lunch-boxes (you can tell a lot about a person from what superhero they pick)

Favorite movie: Shawshank Redemption 

Describe yourself in five words: Persistent, thoughtful, disciplined, dependable, sarcastic


Finish this!
I can’t get enough of… hanging with my boyfriend, my family, and my friends.

I spend my money on… restaurants, movies, books, and clothes.

My fashion style is… urban casual.

Technology and social media is… a fun way to connect with the world if not taken too seriously.

Over time I’ve learned… to focus on what I can control and not stress over that which I can’t.

Sometimes I need to… get away from everything and spend some time recharging on my own  Every day I try to…enjoy the little things.

I’m thankful for… the support I receive from everybody in my life.

My biggest influence… all the people who have helped me get where I am today, I don’t want to disappoint them.

I used to… stress the small stuff, now I can let things go more easily.

I always… read a book when I need to take my mind off soccer for a bit.

I have a friend… whose strength is truly inspiring and reminds me every day to be thankful for what I have.

I play a bit like… a midfielder.

If I wasn’t playing soccer I’d be… a coach or teacher, movie critic by night

In five years I see myself… still playing soccer, living the dream
 

Friday, May 11, 2012

DAYTON, Ohio - The Dayton Dutch Lions FC W-League team will be coached this season by longtime professional player Fernando Derveld of the Netherlands. He will be assisted by Sid van Druenen. The team opened practices Thursday in preparation for its season debut later this month.

Derveld, 35, brings a great deal of international playing experience to the club. He was in the youth academy of PSV Eindhoven and played professionally for 15 years in the top league of the Netherlands (Willem II and Heerenveen), and Denmark (Odense BK and Esjberg FB) and in the First Division of the Netherlands (HFC Haarlem and FC Dordrecht) and England (Norwich City FC and West Bromwich Albion FC). He played a total of 307 games and scored 10 goals.

The DDL FC team consists of several local players and plays its first W-League game May 26 at the Virginia Beach Piranhas and open at home against the D.C. United Women May 31 at 7.30 p.m. ET.

Thursday, May 10, 2012

TAMPA, Fla. – United Soccer Leagues has entered into a three-year agreement with IMG Academies in Bradenton, Florida that will see the Super Y-League and Super-20 League North American Finals hosted at the world’s largest and most advanced multi-sport training and education complex.

With the professional facilities at IMG Academies - home to the U.S. U17 Residency Program - among the finest in the nation, both elite youth events will gain an even greater prominence on the national soccer landscape. The new location will also further enhance the overall experience for the players, coaches, college and international scouts and parents who make the events an annual success. Close to 100 men’s and women’s college soccer coaches, as well as U.S. Soccer National Team scouts, attended the 2011 SYL North American Finals in Tampa. Participants also have the opportunity to be identified for the SYL ODP National Camps at IMG.

“As two of the premier competitions on the youth soccer calendar each and every year, the Super Y-League and Super-20 League North American Finals will take another major step forward by offering their teams the world-class playing fields and facilities at IMG Academies,” USL CEO Alec Papadakis said. “By partnering with such an experienced and internationally respected sports organization, USL will be able to provide a comprehensive event experience for players, coaches, referees, college scouts, and fans on par with the best in the country.

“The relocation of these two showcase events to IMG is just one of the numerous youth development and competition initiatives USL will be launching in the months ahead to redefine the pathway for total elite players and coaches.”

IMG Academies has already hosted a myriad of soccer team training camps in 2012, including clubs such as the Seattle Sounders, D.C. United, Columbus Crew, Sweden’s Malmö FF, and, most recently, the U.S. Women’s National Team preparing for the London Olympic Games.

“We couldn’t be more excited to host two of North American soccer’s most-acclaimed events – the USL Super Y- and Super-20 League North American Finals – here at IMG,” said Scott Dean, director of IMG’s soccer program. “We look forward to working with USL, the largest and most respected organization of elite soccer leagues in North America, to host these and many more events in the future. We are also looking forward to attracting thousands of talented players, coaches and families from across the country to our local community.”

The 2012 Super-20 League North American Finals will take place July 19-22, and the 2012 Super Y-League North American Finals are set for December 7-11. This year, 24 division-winning U20 men’s and women’s teams will convene at IMG to battle for the Super-20 national title, while more than 130 U12 to U17 boys’ and girls’ teams will qualify from their respective regions and compete for national titles in the Super Y event.

In its 14th consecutive year, the SYL North American Finals has helped launched the careers of many notable U.S. soccer stars such as Jozy Altidore and 2010 Gatorade National High School Player of the Year Mollie Pathman.

With 130 teams competing, the total daily attendance for December’s Super Y-League North American Finals is expected to exceed 15,000, and fill more than 7,000 hotel rooms in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Earlier this year, IMG hosted the USL Super Y-League Olympic Development Program (ODP) National Camps for boys and girls, as well as the USL PRO Combine.

For more than 30 years, IMG Academies has helped countless youth, adult, collegiate and professional athletes reach their full potential in and out of sport, by providing world-class coaching, tailored programs and professional facilities within an energetic environment across a 450-acre campus.

Today the Bradenton, Fla.-based campus attracts 30,000 athletes from nearly 100 countries annually. IMG Academies offers youth camp and academy programs in baseball, basketball, football, golf, lacrosse, soccer and tennis, in addition to training opportunities for professional athletes, teams and leagues. IMG also runs a series of events on its campus and throughout the country on an annual basis.

About the Super Y-League
Founded in 1999, the Super Y-League is dedicated to the progression of future professionals and is the premier league for 12-17-year-old players. Affiliated with U.S. Soccer, the Super Y-League ODP Program has opened countless doors for players to be identified for U.S. National Team Programs. The Super Y-League contains the youth academies of Major League Soccer clubs, USL PRO clubs, the Premier Development League and W-League clubs. The league also serves clubs looking to develop the game from the ground up.

About the Super-20 League
As the longest standing and most sophisticated U20 men’s and women’s North American amateur league, the Super-20 League provides the platform for top 17- to 20-year-olds in the United States and Canada to compete at the elite level. While serving as a reserve team system for many W-League and PDL teams, the USL Super-20 League features teams competing in regional divisions, consisting of 8-10 regular season matches throughout the summer months.

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

TAMPA, Fla. – The 2012 W-League season kicks off this weekend with all eyes on the top women’s league in North America. A blend of traditional powerhouses, new teams, and world-class player signings has the season earmarked as the most anticipated W-League season to date.

This weekend, nine clubs begin play across the continent. New club VSI Tampa hits the road to officially get the W-League season underway for their first game in franchise history by visiting the always-dangerous Charlotte Lady Eagles at 5:30 p.m. ET on Friday. VSI Tampa returns home for another Southeast Division clash hosting fellow W-League newcomers Central SC Cobras on Sunday at 6:30 p.m. ET.

In Saturday’s only action the Northeast Division gets started as the New Jersey Rangers host the Long Island Rough Riders at 3:00 p.m. ET. After losing in the conference semifinals last year the Long Island Rough Riders are gunning for a championship in ’12 while the Rangers look to turn fortunes around from 2011.

Out west, two second-year clubs, Victoria Highlanders FC and the LA Strikers, do battle against two of the W-League’s elite on Sunday. The Vancouver Whitecaps hop the Georgia Strait visiting the Victoria Highlanders for British Columbia bragging rights. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. PT at Royal Athletic Park. In another rivalry game, the LA Strikers host two-time champion Pali Blues to cap the weekend action.

The 2012 W-League season will see players representing national teams from around the globe, with U.S. stars such as Hope Solo, Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, Becky Sauerbrunn, Stephanie Cox and Sydney Leroux set to compete. Canada, England, Brazil, Denmark, Mexico, Portugal, Australia, South Africa, Italy and Panama will also be represented on the field in 2012.

The regular season, which is scheduled to conclude the weekend of July 13-15, will see 30 teams competing across three regional conferences. The Ottawa Fury have been selected as hosts of the 2012 USL W-League Championship presented by UMBRO and will host the three W-League conference champions July 27-29 at the Algonquin College Soccer Complex.

Friday, May 11
5:30 p.m. ET VSI Tampa Flames at Charlotte Lady Eagles

Saturday, May 12
3 p.m. ET Long Island Rough Riders at New Jersey Rangers FC

Sunday, May 13
2 p.m. PT Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Victoria Highlanders FC
6:30 p.m. ET Central SC Cobras at VSI Tampa Flames
6 p.m. PT Pali Blues at LA Strikers

Wednesday May 9, 2012

The 2012 edition of the W-League’s Western Conference features international talents such as Hope Solo, Alex Morgan, and Edite Fernandes, as well as plenty of fierce regional rivalries. With its high-profile signings Seattle will be expected to contend for a championship, but they will have to get past what could be the most formidable lineup of opponents the W-League has to offer.

Colorado Rapids Women: The club formerly known at the Colorado Force will look to be just that as they aim to qualify for the playoffs. One of five W-League teams with MLS affiliations, the Rapids Women will be especially keen to try and better their local rivals the Colorado Rush. Head Coach Daniel Clitnovici will rely heavily on a number of new, high-profile signings in Australian international defender Brooke Spence, Danish internationals Camilla Kur-Larsen and Katrine Korsgaard, South American international Ode Fulutudilu, and England international Laura Thacker. General Manager Cayla Deacon’s team has all the signs of being a major contender in 2012.

Colorado Rush: Coach Erik Bushey has lost some experience and decided to replace it with young potential. Gone are Danielle Foxhoven, who signed for a club in Russia, and important goalkeeper Krissy Tribbet. In their place come in U20 Canadian goalkeeper Dayle Colpitts and American U20 forward Kendall Johnson. Mentoring these players and being leaders in the locker room will be the task of top 2011 All-W-League First Team forward Lindsey Horan and versatile 25-year-old Brittany Bock. Bock, the No. 5 selection in the 2009 WPS draft, is experienced and decided to sign with the Rush because she played at the U20 World Cup under current Rush president and CEO Tim Schulz.

LA Strikers: Demian Brown and the Strikers kick off their second season against their cross-town rivals the Pali Blues and are hoping to improve upon last year’s sixth-place finish. They’ve had an extremely successful preseason and are hoping a few of the newcomers, such as English duo Laura Stockdale and Hannah Beard can augment a team featuring dynamic forward Cherelle Khassal and playmaker Samantha Johnson.

Pali Blues: The self proclaimed “world’s most famous soccer supporter’s club,” the Tony Danza army, have had a lot to get excited about this offseason. Head Coach Charlie Naimo returns and locked up the heart of his defense by bringing back Christie Shaner and Sasha Andrews, who played more than 2,500 minutes between the two, and Italian international goalkeeper Anna Maria Picarelli, who tied for the league shutout lead in 2011 with six. Additionally, US Women’s National Team defender Whitney Engen decided to join because of previous experience and respect for Naimo. A similar sentiment was echoed by former national team member Sarah Huffman when she signed. Liz Bogus and Nikki Washington, who won the league championship with Pali in 2008 and 2009, respectively, also are familiar with Naimo’s methods.

Santa Clarita Blue Heat: Last year’s conference winner winners featured two of the best players in the league, but rookie head coach Charles Martinez knows the Blue Heat cannot rest on their laurels. Martinez was the assistant manager last season and was promoted after Fabian Sandoval decided to leave. Luckily, he has MVP finalist Edite Fernandes and Goalkeeper of the Year Cynthia Jacobo to make his transition as simple as possible. Fernandes will be joined by two of her Portuguese national teammates in Anna Borges and Laura Luis, while Jacobo may not need any help at all, as she played every minute and led the league in saves in 2011.

Seattle Sounders Women: The big news was the acquisition of U.S. Women’s National Team stars Hope Solo (a Washington native), Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, Sydney Leroux, Keelin Winters and Stephanie Cox. But that’s not to say reinforcements were desperately needed. The partnership with the MLS Sounders has given the team the resources to become more consistent and achieve success. Head Coach Michelle French has a strong defense with World Cup star Solo in net and Cox and Kelli Smith on defense. In the midfield, Rapinoe is joined by Winters and Julia Roberts. Up front, the defenses of the W-League already saw the impact of 2011 MVP Leroux and will naturally be concerned with the addition of superstar Morgan and the Mexican international Veronica Perez.

Vancouver Whitecaps FC: Vancouver’s consistent success can be attributed to one factor: their incredible youth system. New Head Coach Jesse Symons spent five years as the coach of the Whitecaps FC Girls Prospects from 2006-10, before being appointed the W-League boss. He takes over a group that finished second in the conference in 2011, just a point off Santa Clarita. The defense will be led by homegrown defender Shannon Woeller, who is in her fifth year with the club and is a starter for the Canadian National Team despite being just 22. She will certainly make it easier for new goalkeeper Justine Bernier, who was third overall in saves with 68 in 2011. Also on defense is Canadian international Melanie Booth. The midfield has not been forgotten, as internationals Kaylyn Kyle, Chelsea Stewart and Desiree Scott look set to provide a creative midfield. College standout Brandi Vega and Chelsea Buckland, also a Canadian international, are the forwards for a team sure to create many chances.

Victoria Highlanders FC: Joining such a tough division was always going to be a tough ask for the Highlanders, and a last-place finish in 2011 wasn’t a huge surprise. David Dew is hoping that his players were able to take the experiences of last season and grow, and he’s done well to keep the core of his team together. Elizabeth Hansen had six goals and was central to everything the Highlanders did going forward in 2011. Goalkeeper Stephanie Parker was among the league save leaders in 2011, despite only playing nine games. Midfielder Amelie Mercier will be asked to take a key role season, as will Mallory Hackett. Hackett can play in midfield or defense, and will be moved around depending on the development of CIS All-star defender Kelsey Tikka. Danish winger Mariel Solsberg and youngster Lindsay Hoetzel are capable of producing magic, and should take the burden off Hansen. 

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

VICTORIA, B.C. - Vancouver Island’s best soccer players will kick off their season this weekend as both men’s and women’s Highlander teams take to the field at Royal Athletic Park. The men open play at 7 p.m. PT on Saturday against the Sounders FC U23, and the women taking on the Vancouver Whitecaps FC Women at 2 p.m. PT Sunday, followed at 5 p.m. by the second PDL game in as many days vs. the Vancouver Whitecaps FC U-23.

Playing in the highly competitive Premier Development League (PDL) the men’s team is looking to build on last season’s strong finish and advance further into the playoffs.

“Our division is going to be the toughest in the entire league,” Highlanders captain Tyler Hughes said. “We’re expect a season of exciting, competitive soccer, with a great mix of younger players moving up from our u-21 team and a number of foreign players coming into the squad that will no doubt raise the level of the team and add a certain element that we don’t see in the local game.”

Preparing for the season opener, the squad faced off against a pair of Washington State teams from the University of Washington and Peninsula College, holding both opponents off the scoreboard.

“These were great tune-up matches, and gave us a good indication of the level of play we need to achieve in order to be successful this year,” Coach Ian Bridge said. “It was a great chance to see all of the players in a game situation, and for them to develop as a team.”

The W-League squad, led by team captain Liz Hansen, is approaching its season opener with a great deal of confidence, bolstered by several weeks of intense training.

“I think players have come in ready to go this year,” Hansen said. “We have some very talented players, including defender Kelsey Tikka and Victoria’s own Katie Krautner, and we’ll be facing some strong opponents, especially with several teams picking up players from the [WPS] this season.”

With all home games taking place at Royal Athletic Park, Highlanders Soccer promises Victorians a highly competitive and entertaining season for both the W-League and PDL sides, with single-game tickets starting at $10 for adults, $5 for youth, and no cost for children 12 and under. Season passes are an even better value at only $84, and include access to both the PDL and W-League complete seasons.

With new on-site food options, including the highly acclaimed Pig BBQ, great pre-game and halftime activities, prizes, giveaways, team merchandise and a family-friendly environment, Highlanders soccer is a great choice for an afternoon or evening’s entertainment.
 

W-League Central Conference Preview

Will anyone be able to end the Ottawa Fury’s long-running monopoly at the top of the W-League Central Conference standings? The Toronto Lynx, Quebec City Amiral and Laval Comets are some of the top contenders to end the Fury’s eight-year reign as champions.

Hamilton FC Rage – In 2011, Coach Joe Moscato was brought in to stop the slide that Hamilton had been facing. He increased the team’s point total, but Hamilton was still closer to the bottom than a playoff place. Additionally, the Rage’s away record was the worst in the division, obtaining just one point from six games. A rebuilding effort is now underway, with Gisenia Utreras, an exciting attacking midfielder from University of Memphis, likely to be at the center of it.

Laval Comets - Since the formation of the Great Lakes Division, Laval has averaged 21 points a year, a decent total, but never enough to win a division containing Ottawa. Though they have improved every year in the final standings (they were 2011 conference semifinalists) The Comets were still a sizeable 16 points behind the Fury in second place. Losing goalkeeper Cynthia Leblanc, who had more than a thousand minutes in net in 2011, will not help, but Coach Lyle Joseph has faith in his offense. The key is aggressive forward Catherine Charron-Delage who led the 2011 Comets with 14 points (and 16 fouls). She will look to combine with her scoring partner Eva Thouvenot-Hebert and midfielder Kylie Davis to finally end Ottawa’s dominance.

London Gryphons - Returning coach Aaron Lauterbach is all about being positive, in more ways than one. Despite a bottom-of-the-table finish last year, he is talking about winning this year and winning by playing creative soccer. “Stepping back into this leadership role has me committed to giving my very best to the club and putting the most exciting Gryphons team ever on the field for 2012!” he was quoted as saying on the USL site. If there’s a big signing to announce, he feels it’s one most people may not even see. “[New trainer Jose] Garrincha will bring an entirely new dimension of training to our team in 2012 and I am confident that will translate into some high-performance soccer on the field,” Lauterbach said.
There’s one thing Gryphon fans can be sure of: they won’t be losing due to a lack of passion from their coach.

Ottawa Fury - Last year, Dom Oliveri’s group managed to go through the entire regular season unbeaten and achieved all its goals but one: the title. Losing 6-1 to the Atlanta Silverbacks in the W-League Championship left Oliveri with an entire offseason to contemplate changes - and they’ve been made. The perennial challengers will bring back only three players who started that match in Seattle. Luckily, league MVP Mallory Outerbridge is one of them. Outerbridge had 13 more points and six more goals than her closest league-wide competitor, though no longer having last year’s assist leader Teresa Rynier will be a blow. Instead, the returning Mélissa Busque and Jessica Shufelt will look to ease the creative burden and take the next step. A potentially young defense will have plenty of support in net with a strong goalkeeping core led by the experienced Jasmine Phillips and Canadian international Cynthia Leblanc, who joined from Laval.

Quebec City Amiral - Samir Ghrib saw his team finish a point behind its rival Laval In the division standings, but the Amiral were able to turn the tables in the conference semifinals, beating Laval 3-1. If revenge is what spurs the team on, then watch out Ottawa, as Quebec will be determined to overhaul the team that dropped six goals on them in the conference final. Ghrib has decided to keep his core together, as shown by the return of goalkeeper Pier-Marie Bilodeau and her backup, Sarah Boucher. Defenders Melissa Roy and Frédérique Paradis and midfielder Joelle Gosselin all featured on the W-League Team of the Week in 2011, and fans can expect similar types of performances from forward Melissa Lessage.

Rochester Ravens - Steve Christenson has a tough job on his hands, inevitably losing some of his best players following a disappointing sixth-place finish in 2011. A former college coach, he has gone back to that system to get a few players, such as fullback Amanda Sudore from Nazareth College who can get forward and contribute some much-needed assists. W-League 2011 Week 6 Team of the Week member Ashley Grove will need to hold things together in the midfield in order to ensure a revival.

Toronto Lady Lynx - For the past two seasons, the Lynx have been able to reach the playoffs, but could not beat their first opponent, Ottawa. Danny Stewart’s switch to a 3-4-3 formation in the 2011 playoffs did not lessen the damage as Ottawa ran rampant, outshooting Toronto 22-3. Stewart is hoping a solid midfield core of Kinley McNicholl (2011 Week 10 Team of the Week) and Captain Alyscha Mottershead (called up to Canada’s Olympic qualifying campaign) can offer something to build on.

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

BOYDS, Md. - D.C. United Women has added two extremely talented players who bring both firepower and defensive bite to its 2012 roster. Pending league and US Soccer Federation approval, joining the Black-And-Red for their first seasons are former West Virginia standout and WPS player Carolyn Blank, and Sarah Sample, former Maryland star who went on to play for both Washington Freedom and Ottawa Fury.

D.C. United Women will be Blank’s fifth club in the past two years. In 2010, she was picked by St. Louis Athletica in the WPS Draft and played six games with the club before it ceased operations. Atlanta Beat jumped at the chance to sign her for the remainder of the season, where she played 13 matches. After a stint in 2011 with Swedish club Vittsjo, Blank was all set to play in WPS for Sky Blue FC before the league suddenly suspended operations this spring.

Blank was a four-time MVP and remains the all-time leading scorer at Toms River High School East in New Jersey, and played in college at West Virginia. She helped take the Mountaineers to the NCAA Tournament in each of her four seasons with the program and was a two-time All-American.

She has started more games (92) than any other player in West Virginia history. Blank plays a holding position in the midfield that has helped every team she’s played for retain, and maintain ball possession. Her ball control skills will be a valuable asset to D.C. United Women in 2012.

Sample, an Annapolis native, will be one of several Maryland products on United Women’s roster this season. She was a standout for St. Mary’s High School and once earned the honor of McDonald’s All-American. She spent her first two collegiate seasons at George Washington before transferring to Maryland for her junior and senior years.

As a sophomore at GW, she led the team in points with 14 and was named First-Team All-Atlantic 10. She started 36 games for UMD over the next two seasons and since then started a coaching career with local power Bethesda FC, in addition to playing for the Fury where she was a member of the 13-1 first-place squad for the W-League Northern Division in 2008.

Sample has been with D.C. all spring, training hard to prepare for 2012. She used all of her 5-foot-10 frame to score the winning header against her former Terrapins last month in a 1-0 preseason exhibition win. Blank is relocating from New Jersey to the Washington area in early June, and will commute for training and games until arriving.

United Women will host the Boston Breakers this Saturday in a special exhibition. The match is expected to feature former U.S. World Cup and Olympics stars Cat Whitehill and Leslie Osborne, among others.

Local youth league Washington Area Girls Soccer League - or WAGS - is sponsoring the night as well, with the league offering discount tickets to member teams as part of their "WAGS Night" promotion. Member teams can purchase tickets at any quantity at the full group rate from the league website.

Kickoff on May 12 is at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale now to general public at http://tickets.dcunitedwomen.com

After the Boston game on May 12, D.C. officially begins its second USL W-League season on Saturday, May 19 with a 7 p.m. kickoff at its Maryland SoccerPlex Stadium. United Women have never lost a game at the SoccerPlex, but expect a strong test from a visiting Virginia Beach Piranhas team with a long history of success on the W-League. Tickets re available at http://tickets.dcunitedwomen.com.

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

The Charlotte Lady Eagles are proud to have Leah Fortune as part of their 2012 squad. With Brazilian National Team experience, Fortune should prove to be a great asset this season.

"The Charlotte Eagles are very excited to see how Fortune fits into the Lady Eagles squad," General Manager Jeremy Auyer said. "She is very quick and has exceptional technical skill. With her experience and ability we are eager to see where she will pose the biggest threat."

Fortune was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil in 1990, and her skill on the ball has led her to many high-level teams and competitions. At the age of 17 Fortune's ability to play at a high level was quickly noticed by the Brazilian national coaches. As Fortune returned to Brazil for a tournament with the U.S Olympic Development Program (ODP) in March 2007, she was immediately invited to play for Brazil.

In 2008 Fortune was a member of the U-20 National Team in which she earned 13 Caps and helped the team win the U-20 CONMEBOL championship. She also participated in the 2008 U-20 World Cup. Fortune's success with the national team would only get better. She was a member of the Brazilian 2010 U-20 FIFA World Cup squad where she scored in Brazil's 4-1 win against New Zealand. Fortune's hard work and dedication for the national team allowed her to participate in the Brazilian Women's National Team training camp as part of its training for the 2011 World Cup qualifying tournament.

Fortune is a current student at Lee University where she is majoring in Communications. She recorded 18 goals and 24 assist for the Lady Flames as they ended the 2011 season with a record of 23-2-0 and captured an NAIA championship. She is a transfer student from the University of Texas, where she played three games her freshmen year due to an ankle injury. In her sophomore year (2010) she scored a game-winning goal at N.C State in her first match back.

Fortune is a perfect fit for the Lady Eagles on and off the field. As a first-year player she already has a good understanding of the mission of the Lady Eagles.

"Playing with the Eagles this summer allows me to not only play the game of soccer at a high level but also enter into a program surrounded by people with yet a greater goal and passion," Fortune said. "Soccer becomes a beautiful game worldwide because of passionate people who love the game.

"The same concept applies to people who have a heart for the gospel and are passionate about living it out. Before arriving I knew this environment was on fire and alive combining the two. I knew I would be entering a team with older girls and a coaching staff that would challenge me not only on the field, but also influence and empower my heart."

Fortune is very specific in her immediate goals for the 2012 season.

"My goal for this year is to learn as much as possible from the veterans and the rest of my teammates. Each player brings something new and valuable on the field. I don't want to leave this season without having noticed, valued and learned from that. I am coming off of an ACL surgery and I want to visibly perform and compete in a way that influences and gives confidence to those who aren't playing because of an injury or setback. Soccer specific, I want the Eagles to win the league. More importantly, I want to see the power of prayer and tangibly witness the work of the Lord through this team."

Catch Fortune and the rest of the Lady Eagles in their first match of the W-League season Friday night at Charlotte Christian Stadium at 5:30. The Lady Eagles will host the newly formed VSI Tampa Flames. This game is part of the first doubleheader of the year. Purchase tickets today at www.charlotteeagles.com.
 

Friday, May 4, 2012

BOYDS, Md. - D.C. United Women has added two of the most well-known female soccer players in the world in Joannah Lohman and Lianne Sanderson, pending USL and U.S. Soccer Federation approval. The duo will arrive in the U.S. next week, each having just completed a season in Europe with professional side RCD Espanyol.

The two last played in the USA for WPS side the Philadelphia Independence in the 2011 season, reaching the league final against eventual champions the Western New York Flash. The match, which broke the record for attendance at a WPS final, went through two overtimes and then penalty kicks with Sanderson converting first for Philadelphia, but her team falling, 4-5 overall.

"Jo and Lianne are amazing soccer players, and huge personalities in the women's game," team owner Bill Lynch said. "They both could have played anywhere, and I think their choice to come play in the W-League and with D.C. United Women is a major statement that the best players still come to America to shine."

Sanderson is an English striker with a soccer pedigree that few in the world can compare to. She was selected to join Arsenal Ladies youth academy at age 9, and spent the next 11 years with the club. She scored in their 2006 FA Cup win against Leeds United and was voted Player of the Match. During two seasons from 2006-08, the 5-foot-6 striker notched an incredible 91 goals in 77 appearances.

Sanderson joined Chelsea Ladies in 2008 and stayed through 2010, before taking her game stateside in 2011 for the Independence. She tallied eight goals in 40 appearances with Philadelphia, before spending the second half of 2011 playing for Espanyol in Spain.

In addition to her club career, Sanderson was a major contributor for England from 2006-10, appearing in 29 matches and netting eight goals in her time with the "Three Lions."

Lohman is a veteran and an ambassador in the world of women's soccer. The 29-year-old Penn State alum, who can play a variety of positions in the midfield and defense, is joining her seventh different club in her 11-year career. Her résumé includes stints with the Maryland Pride, MagicJack (formerly the Washington Freedom), Swedish club Bälinge IF, St. Louis Atletica, the Philadelphia Independence and recently wrapping up the season with Espanyol in Spain.

In college, she was a three-time All American and one-time Big Ten Player of the Year, in addition to being named the 2004 Pennsylvania NCAA Woman of the Year. She has also made seven appearances with the U.S. National Team.

A native of Silver Spring, Maryland, Lohman is not just a player but a leader for the game of soccer. She has served as general manager of the Washington Freedom Futures, and in 2010 co-founded - with Sanderson - the JoLi Academy, a training center for youth female soccer players in India.

In addition to playing with United Women in 2012, the pair will assist in coaching with D.C. United Reserves, an under-20 team also being fielded this year by D.C. in the USL Super-20 League.

Tryouts for both the W-League and Super-20 League teams, as well as acceptance into an elite all-ages training group, will be held this Sunday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Maryland SoccerPlex. Interested players should register immediately at http://www.dcunitedwomen.com/Team/Tryouts as space is limited to 50.

United Women will host Boston Breakers next Saturday, May 12 in a special exhibition before kicking off their second USL W-League season on Saturday, May 19 with a 7:00 p.m. tap against Virginia Beach Piranhas. All home games in 2012 will once again be held at Maryland SoccerPlex Stadium, where United Women have never lost a game. Get tickets at http://tickets.dcunitedwomen.com.

About D.C. United
Playing in their second full season in 2012 and headquartered in the Washington, D.C. region, D.C. United Women is a member of the United Soccer Leagues' W-League and that league's 2011 Rookie Franchise of the Year. The first and longest-standing women's league in North America, the Pro-Am W-League is the highest level of women's soccer in the United States and Canada. Licensed by D.C. United, the team of top local amateur, collegiate stars and unpaid professionals is independently owned and operated by Washington Soccer Properties, LLC and play their home games at the famous Maryland SoccerPlex in Germantown, Md. Visit http://www.dcunitedwomen.com for more information. Follow the team on Twitter @dcuwomen

The match featured four Huskies, who graduated and now represent the Sounders Women. There were also four University of Portland alums, including the Sounders Head Coach, Michelle French. When it all added up, there were plenty of Northwest ties represented on the field at the Starfire Stadium.

Megan Rapinoe, one of the former Portland Pilots, made her debut for the Sounders, which now boast six full international players and a seventh in the U.S. National pool. Rapinoe added her unmistakable flair and an assist in her first match a rave green jersey.

“It felt a little bit like home, with the trees in the background and all from my college experience at the University of Portland,” Rapinoe said after the game. “The crowd was great. They were loud all night. Playing UW was always big, and they did well. They played like it was the biggest game of their lives, and it probably was.”

The University of Washington were up to the task and created a heated competition between the two teams. Both team’s efforts in the first half couldn’t produce a breakthrough and hard tackles were the show, rather than goals. The two teams ended the first 45 minutes scoreless.

The deadlock looked like it would break in the 40th minute when Rapinoe and Veronica Perez combined just inside the corner of the penalty area. Perez, a Washington alum, poked the ball past her defender with a deft first touch before the outstretched defender’s leg tripped her up. No foul was called and play went on.

The Sounders also had a blast of the boot of Sydney Leroux saved from the upper corner in the dying seconds of the half.

Despite the scoreless first half, the sold out crowd was not sent home disappointed. The 2nd half yielded four goals.

In the 53rd minute, the Sounders got on the board via a Megan Rapinoe corner kick. The right footed, in swinger, was into a crowd of defenders, attackers, and goalkeeper. The punch from U.W. keeper, Kari Davidson, didn’t clear the danger and Alex Morgan was there to volley home the goal.

After their first two wins, each by a score of 5-0, it seemed like the Sounders might run away with the result. Instead, the Huskies responded well with a goal of their own. Lindsay Elson, a current Husky, who will join the Sounders Women after the college spring season is over, played a decisive through ball toward Hillary Zevenbergen. The pass set up the 6’1” forward who shot with her left foot to the back post, off the finger tips of Hope Solo, and into the far corner.

Elston described her feelings on the match, afterwards, “It’s something to be proud of, just being on the field with them is an accomplishment. It was kind of a weird feeling being that I’m playing with both teams, but it was so much fun.”

With the score now tied 1-1, it was another Husky’s turn to get into the goal scoring action. In the 70th minute, Veronica Perez finished off a nice passing interchange at the edge of the 18 yard box to regain the Sounders lead. The Washington graduate’s left-footed shot into the upper corner gave her a goal in each of the three matches.

With tired legs all over the pitch, the boisterous crowd was treated to one more goal in the final minutes. Rapinoe was led into space by Alex Morgan along the left channel. The U.S. National Team star, Rapinoe, drove the ball across the face of goal to Lyndsey Patterson. Patterson beat the goalkeeper and defender to the cross and touched it into the net for the 3-1 win.

Kate Deines, who played 90 minutes for the Sounders defense said about playing against the school she graduated from last year, “We knew coming in that they had nothing to lose and we had a target on our backs, but I think we handled it well; especially in the 2nd half.”

Deines had mixed emotions following the game, “I gave them all hugs after the game. It’s bittersweet to be out here playing against them, because it sets in that [my college days] are done, but I couldn’t be happier than where I am right now with the Sounders Women.”

The Sounders Women finish the exhibition season with three wins and zero losses. Their combined scoring margin is 13-1. Next up is the W-League regular season, which starts on May 27 in Vancouver, BC. The first Sounders regular season home match is on May 31st at 7:00pm against the Colorado Rush.  Tickets can be purchased on the club’s website; www.SoundersWomen.com.