As mentioned this week in this blog, there was plenty of soccer action going on. What happened?...I'll try to catch you up if you are not already informed.
The US Men's National Team continues its closed door training at WakeMed Soccer Park in preparation for the Spain friendly next Saturday in Boston and the Gold Cup. All is going well from all reports!
In the NCHSAA finals: Leesville won 3-0 and Carrboro bowed out in pks after 4 OTs-weather hampered both of these Friday games and the Leesville game went past midnight-congrats to Leesville and Carrboro on great seasons. On Saturday, Cardinal Gibbons gave up a late goal to end up as the State runner-up 2-1. also, congratulations to CGHS for a great season!
Barcelona was brilliant in the UEFA Champions League Final beating Manchester United at Wembley in London 3-1. Messi and his mates were the better team and Lionel M. scored his remarkable 53rd goal of the club season.....yes, that is all this club year....WOW.
Etienne Barbara, who is putting Messi-type numbers for the Carolina Railhawks this season (11 goals in the first eight games) did not score but picked up both assists in a 2-0 victory against the woeful Atlanta team. 3,000+ in attendance. The Railhawks are running away and hiding from the rest of the NASL teams thus far!
Now, the MLS is pretty much the only club action going on in the world. Plenty of locals to watch on those teams! Have a great Memorial Day!
Charlie Slagle
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Saturday, May 28, 2011
What happened late last night at the 4A Girls' Final?
Finally finishing after midnight last night at WakeMed Soccer Park, Leesville Road HS defeated Ardrey Kell (Ardrey was misspelled in an earlier blog, my apologies) HS 3-0 to win the 4A State Championship of the NCHSAA. Rachel Hunter was named the MVP. Congratulations to the players and coaches of Leesville and also Rachel!!!! The game was delayed due to weather and then also interupted due to weather.
Today at 1:30 pm at WakeMed Soccer Park, weather permitting, Cardinal Gibbons will take on Charlotte Catholic for the 3A NCHSAA title. Good luck to Cardinal Gibbons!!!!
Also, you may want to DVR the UEFA Champions League Final. It will be aired on Fox at 2 pm. Man U v Barcelona from Wembley Stadium in London!
Charlie Slagle
Today at 1:30 pm at WakeMed Soccer Park, weather permitting, Cardinal Gibbons will take on Charlotte Catholic for the 3A NCHSAA title. Good luck to Cardinal Gibbons!!!!
Also, you may want to DVR the UEFA Champions League Final. It will be aired on Fox at 2 pm. Man U v Barcelona from Wembley Stadium in London!
Charlie Slagle
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Who is on Back of the Net on Saturday?
A great lineup of guests is on "Back of the Net" this Saturday from 7-8 am on 99.9 the Fan. Leading off will be Michelle Miller, the head coach of the Cardinal Gibbons girls' team. Cardinal Gibbons plays later Saturday (1:30) against Charlotte Catholic in the NCHSAA 3A State Championship Game at WakeMed Soccer Park-Good Luck to Gibbons! Also, Good Luck to Leesville Road High School when they play undefeated Audrey Kell on Friday night at 8 pm in the 4A Championship game!
Next on the show will be Floyd Franks, the dynamic center midfielder for the red-hot Carolina Railhawks. The Railhawks play later Saturday night (7 pm) at WakeMed Soccer Park against Atlanta. The Railhawks are leading the NASL by a wide margin at this point even though it is early in the season.
The next guest will be CASL's own Director of Coaching Rusty Scarborough. Rusty will be talking about the club's great success in the NCYSA State Cups this year! Following Rusty, will be Mike Sorber, an assistant coach for the US Men's National Team which is training at WakeMed Soccer Park in preparation for a friendly against Spain on June 4th in Boston and then the Gold Cup competition where the winner will go the the 2013 Confederations Cup.
Next up will be Martin Rennie, the head coach of the Carolina Railhawks. He will add to the earlier conversation with Floyd Franks about the Railhawks early success and their evening game against Atlanta.
Closing out the show will be CASL's Chief Operating Officer, Michael Milazzo, who is also the show's expert on the UEFA Champion's League. Michael will discuss the Champions League final that will begin at 2 pm EDT on Fox. The matchup in London at Wembley will be between Manchester United and Barcelona. It should be a doozy!
Looks like it will be an informative and fun show. I will also ask most guests for their prediction on the Champions League Final.
Charlie Slagle
Next on the show will be Floyd Franks, the dynamic center midfielder for the red-hot Carolina Railhawks. The Railhawks play later Saturday night (7 pm) at WakeMed Soccer Park against Atlanta. The Railhawks are leading the NASL by a wide margin at this point even though it is early in the season.
The next guest will be CASL's own Director of Coaching Rusty Scarborough. Rusty will be talking about the club's great success in the NCYSA State Cups this year! Following Rusty, will be Mike Sorber, an assistant coach for the US Men's National Team which is training at WakeMed Soccer Park in preparation for a friendly against Spain on June 4th in Boston and then the Gold Cup competition where the winner will go the the 2013 Confederations Cup.
Next up will be Martin Rennie, the head coach of the Carolina Railhawks. He will add to the earlier conversation with Floyd Franks about the Railhawks early success and their evening game against Atlanta.
Closing out the show will be CASL's Chief Operating Officer, Michael Milazzo, who is also the show's expert on the UEFA Champion's League. Michael will discuss the Champions League final that will begin at 2 pm EDT on Fox. The matchup in London at Wembley will be between Manchester United and Barcelona. It should be a doozy!
Looks like it will be an informative and fun show. I will also ask most guests for their prediction on the Champions League Final.
Charlie Slagle
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
What is Going on Soccer-wise this week?
PLENTY! It was just announced the US Men's National Team will be training at WakeMed Soccer Park beginning late this week in preparation for their friendly with Spain (I believe that they are the World Cup Champs....) in Boston on June 4th. They then will embark on to the CONCACAF Gold Cup to try and earn a bid to the 2013 Confederations Cup in Brazil, next summer, unless you are in Brazil and it will be next winter (something about being in the Southern Hemisphere). I'll try to keep you posted to let you know if there are viewing opportunities while the stars are here training!
On Friday night and Saturday morning/afternoon at WakeMed Soccer Park, the NCHSAA State Finals will be played. Two local teams will be playing: Leesville Road will play Audrey Kell from Charlotte on Friday night in the 4A final. Cardinal Gibbons will be in the 3A final on Saturday morning against Charlotte Catholic or Hickory. Congrats on Eastern Finals victories last night for both teams, Gibbons 2-1 over Jacksonville and Leesville 3-0 over New Bern! Good luck to both teams!
Saturday night, the RED HOT Carolina Railhawks will play Atlanta. They haven't lost in seven games and are atop the NASL standings by 6 points. Scoring leader, Etienne Barbara has scored more goals than any other TEAM, yes I said team, in the NASL. He has 11 of the Railhawks 18 goals and the team with the second most goals has 10. Big win for the Hawks last week as they took down the Puerto Rico Islanders 3-0!
On TV Saturday, there is that small contest....the UEFA Champions League Final between Manchester United and Barcelona. Rooney & friends v Messi & friends at Wembley. I don't think the "quasi" home field advantage will be enough for Man U., therefore, I'm going with the favorites, Barca!
Enjoy this great sport this week!
Charlie Slagle
On Friday night and Saturday morning/afternoon at WakeMed Soccer Park, the NCHSAA State Finals will be played. Two local teams will be playing: Leesville Road will play Audrey Kell from Charlotte on Friday night in the 4A final. Cardinal Gibbons will be in the 3A final on Saturday morning against Charlotte Catholic or Hickory. Congrats on Eastern Finals victories last night for both teams, Gibbons 2-1 over Jacksonville and Leesville 3-0 over New Bern! Good luck to both teams!
Saturday night, the RED HOT Carolina Railhawks will play Atlanta. They haven't lost in seven games and are atop the NASL standings by 6 points. Scoring leader, Etienne Barbara has scored more goals than any other TEAM, yes I said team, in the NASL. He has 11 of the Railhawks 18 goals and the team with the second most goals has 10. Big win for the Hawks last week as they took down the Puerto Rico Islanders 3-0!
On TV Saturday, there is that small contest....the UEFA Champions League Final between Manchester United and Barcelona. Rooney & friends v Messi & friends at Wembley. I don't think the "quasi" home field advantage will be enough for Man U., therefore, I'm going with the favorites, Barca!
Enjoy this great sport this week!
Charlie Slagle
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
What is the best attitude to have about Tryouts?
TRYOUTS!!!!!! Not much fun for anyone involved but a necessary evil in competitive sports environments. Much angst is produced by players, parents and coaches! Below are some tips to help the player have a great tryout!
1) Think of the tryout as a practice session-come in loose and ready to play and you will be loose and play well...come in uptight and ready to play and you will probably play uptight and it will be noticeable by the coaches
2) Be ready to play and volunteer at all times-don't try to pick and choose when you go out there-participate in all that you can....you'll get an A for effort even if doing it exposes a weakness in your game. The effort is the key and coaches may comment that you don't do this well but you do something else well. It will all even out. If you are hiding from a drill or situation, you are too easily forgotten.
3) Don't try to figure out what the coach is trying to do with you. Accept whatever opportunities that are afforded to you and do the best you can in those opportunities.
4) Have fun and do your best. If you put your best foot forward (pardon the pun) you will give yourself the best chance to be placed on an appropriate team for your ability.
Hopefully, you'll have a great tryout and make a team that wants you and that you can help achieve your goals and team goals! "Have Fun and Remember it is Just a Tryout!!!!"
Charlie Slagle
1) Think of the tryout as a practice session-come in loose and ready to play and you will be loose and play well...come in uptight and ready to play and you will probably play uptight and it will be noticeable by the coaches
2) Be ready to play and volunteer at all times-don't try to pick and choose when you go out there-participate in all that you can....you'll get an A for effort even if doing it exposes a weakness in your game. The effort is the key and coaches may comment that you don't do this well but you do something else well. It will all even out. If you are hiding from a drill or situation, you are too easily forgotten.
3) Don't try to figure out what the coach is trying to do with you. Accept whatever opportunities that are afforded to you and do the best you can in those opportunities.
4) Have fun and do your best. If you put your best foot forward (pardon the pun) you will give yourself the best chance to be placed on an appropriate team for your ability.
Hopefully, you'll have a great tryout and make a team that wants you and that you can help achieve your goals and team goals! "Have Fun and Remember it is Just a Tryout!!!!"
Charlie Slagle
Monday, May 23, 2011
Why was it an awesome soccer weekend for CASL and the area?
This past weekend was a very successful one for the Capital Area Soccer League. At the State Cup Final Four in Greensboro, CASL teams posted a record of 22-7-0 (this does not include CASL v CASL games in the Challenge State Cup as the best we could do is 1-1-0 in those matchups). I'll break down the results and list the winners:
In the Challenge State Cup, CASL had 7 of the 8 winners and four runnerup finishes in an awesome display of strength. The winners were: Under 13 B-CASL Revolution; U13 G-CASL Wake Forest United White (Runnerup-CASL Wake Forest United White); Under 14 G-CASL Wake Forest United (Runnerup-CASL Cyclones); U15B-CASL Arsenal (Runnerup-CASL Fusion); U16B-CASL Celtic; U17B-CASL Force (Runnerup-CASL Crew); U18B-CASL Wake Forest United (special note-this team is coached by CASL Chairman of the Board Vinny Mangelli-I didn't mention this because he is my boss, well maybe I did). CASL teams were 6-1-0 against outside competition for the weekend!
In the Presidents Cup, called the Kepner Cup in NC: In U13 Boys-Runnerup finish for the CASL Chelsea Boys Black; U14B-CASL Premier won the championship and will play in the President's Cup Regionals in Decatur, AL on June 9-12; U17B-Runnerup finish for the CASL United. The three CASL teams competing in the Kepner Cup had a combined record of 4-2-0.
In the USYS State Cup: U13B-CASL Chelsea Boys were the runner up; U13G-CASL Spartan Elite Black were also the runnerup; Under 14B-Champions-CASL Elite; U14G-Champions-Spartan Elite Black; U15B-Champions-CASL Elite; U16B-CASL Elite lost in the semifinals; U17B-CASL Elite were the champion; U18B-CASL Elite lost in the semifinals; U19B-CASL Elite won the championship. Combined with the sweep in the U15-U18 girls fall State Cup, CASL will be sending 9 teams(out of 12 age brackets-CASL did not enter a team in the U19 Girls competition) to the USYS Southern Regionals in Murfreesboro, TN June 16-22. The CASL teams in the USYS State Cup had a 12-4-0 record.
In the Recreation Division, there were 142 "winning teams" as that is how many teams competed in the annual CASL Cup. Beautiful weather and great organization led by Events Manager, Bill Hanckel (who also coached his Under 14 CASL Premier team to the Kepner Cup championship), Vicki Rohde and referee assignor, Ralph Jordan made this a great event. Also, CASL's new mascot made its debut and was a participant favorite. CLEATS roamed the fields and took many pictures and interacted with the many CASL players at the event. CLEATS is a Plott Hound which is the NC State Dog. CLEATS also hung out with its new friend, Swoops, the Carolina Railhawks mascot at the Railhawks game on Saturday night (Swoops also made an appearnace at Saturday's CASL Cup). The record of the CASL teams in the CASL Cup was, as you might imagine, .500!
Also, in local high school play this weekend, Cardinal Gibbons girls defeated Chapel Hill to advance to the NCHSAA Eastern finals in 3A competition. In 4A, Leesville Road girls defeated East Chapel Hill to advance to the Eastern finals. It looks like both of those games will be Tuesday night: Cardinal Gibbons hosting Jacksonville at 6 pm and Leesville hosting New Bern at 6:30 pm. Ravenscroft won their semifinal on Friday against Wesleyan Academy but lost in the State Final to Charlotte Latin to end their season. Many CASL players play on all of these teams as well as players from other local clubs. Good luck to both teams as they try to advance to the state finals this weekend at WakeMed Soccer Park!
As you have just read (if you made it all the way to here), it was quite a weekend! Now......do things slow down...........No..........Tryouts begin in earnest starting this afternoon! Have fun and drink plenty of water!
Charlie Slagle
In the Challenge State Cup, CASL had 7 of the 8 winners and four runnerup finishes in an awesome display of strength. The winners were: Under 13 B-CASL Revolution; U13 G-CASL Wake Forest United White (Runnerup-CASL Wake Forest United White); Under 14 G-CASL Wake Forest United (Runnerup-CASL Cyclones); U15B-CASL Arsenal (Runnerup-CASL Fusion); U16B-CASL Celtic; U17B-CASL Force (Runnerup-CASL Crew); U18B-CASL Wake Forest United (special note-this team is coached by CASL Chairman of the Board Vinny Mangelli-I didn't mention this because he is my boss, well maybe I did). CASL teams were 6-1-0 against outside competition for the weekend!
In the Presidents Cup, called the Kepner Cup in NC: In U13 Boys-Runnerup finish for the CASL Chelsea Boys Black; U14B-CASL Premier won the championship and will play in the President's Cup Regionals in Decatur, AL on June 9-12; U17B-Runnerup finish for the CASL United. The three CASL teams competing in the Kepner Cup had a combined record of 4-2-0.
In the USYS State Cup: U13B-CASL Chelsea Boys were the runner up; U13G-CASL Spartan Elite Black were also the runnerup; Under 14B-Champions-CASL Elite; U14G-Champions-Spartan Elite Black; U15B-Champions-CASL Elite; U16B-CASL Elite lost in the semifinals; U17B-CASL Elite were the champion; U18B-CASL Elite lost in the semifinals; U19B-CASL Elite won the championship. Combined with the sweep in the U15-U18 girls fall State Cup, CASL will be sending 9 teams(out of 12 age brackets-CASL did not enter a team in the U19 Girls competition) to the USYS Southern Regionals in Murfreesboro, TN June 16-22. The CASL teams in the USYS State Cup had a 12-4-0 record.
In the Recreation Division, there were 142 "winning teams" as that is how many teams competed in the annual CASL Cup. Beautiful weather and great organization led by Events Manager, Bill Hanckel (who also coached his Under 14 CASL Premier team to the Kepner Cup championship), Vicki Rohde and referee assignor, Ralph Jordan made this a great event. Also, CASL's new mascot made its debut and was a participant favorite. CLEATS roamed the fields and took many pictures and interacted with the many CASL players at the event. CLEATS is a Plott Hound which is the NC State Dog. CLEATS also hung out with its new friend, Swoops, the Carolina Railhawks mascot at the Railhawks game on Saturday night (Swoops also made an appearnace at Saturday's CASL Cup). The record of the CASL teams in the CASL Cup was, as you might imagine, .500!
Also, in local high school play this weekend, Cardinal Gibbons girls defeated Chapel Hill to advance to the NCHSAA Eastern finals in 3A competition. In 4A, Leesville Road girls defeated East Chapel Hill to advance to the Eastern finals. It looks like both of those games will be Tuesday night: Cardinal Gibbons hosting Jacksonville at 6 pm and Leesville hosting New Bern at 6:30 pm. Ravenscroft won their semifinal on Friday against Wesleyan Academy but lost in the State Final to Charlotte Latin to end their season. Many CASL players play on all of these teams as well as players from other local clubs. Good luck to both teams as they try to advance to the state finals this weekend at WakeMed Soccer Park!
As you have just read (if you made it all the way to here), it was quite a weekend! Now......do things slow down...........No..........Tryouts begin in earnest starting this afternoon! Have fun and drink plenty of water!
Charlie Slagle
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
What CASL teams are playing in the NCYSA State Cup this weekend?
This weekend at Bryan Park in Greensboro, the semifinals (Saturday) and finals (Sunday) of the various State Cups will be played. CASL is well represented. 22 Challenge teams will be competing. They teams and their coaches are:
Challenge Singer State Cup Final 4:
U13 G Avengers Dave Hardy
Pumas Len Farias
WF United Blue Jeffrey Gerald
WF United White Tokiyoshi Santos
U14G Cyclones Paul Colucci
Lightning John Alis
Rockets Eric Mason
WF United Rob Harvey
U13B Revolution J.T. Johnson
U15 B Arsenal Tom Risolio
Fusion Krister Eriksson
Rangers Mark Caron
U16B Celtic Francisco Soto
Clash Bill Hamilton
Vipers Arturo Licea
U17B Crew John Kerr
Force Enzo D’Andreti
WF United John Ormand
U18B Strikers Bernard Vernooij
WF United Vincent Mangelli
Also, at the classic level, CASL is well represented. The teams participating and their coaches are:
Presidents Cup
93 CASL United Black (Alix Charles)
96 CASL Premier (Bill Hanckel)
97 CASL Chelsea Jrs. Black (Damon Nahas)
USYS State Cup-Boys
97 CASL Chelsea (Michael Milazzo)
96 CASL Chelsea (John Bradford)
95 CASL Elite (John Bradford)
94 CASL Elite (Tim Healy)
93 CASL Elite (Stephen Chaconas)
92 CASL Elite 9Steve Armas)
91 CASL Elite (Paul Forster and Rusty Scarborough)
USYS State Cup-Girls
97 CASL Spartan Elite Black (Paul Forster)
96 CASL Spartan Elite Black (Sean Nahas)
Good luck to all these teams this weekend! To get a schedule of games, log on to http://www.ncsoccer.org/ and go the State Cup page!
Charlie Slagle
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Why should you watch the US Women's National Team play on Wednesday?
On Wednesday night at 7 pm, the US Women's National team will play their next to last friendly, before the World Cup, against Japan at WakeMed Soccer Park. There are still tickets available through the Carolina Railhawks and at the gate. Fans should attend and watch the #1 team in the world play and get ready for their trip to Germany and their quest for the World Cup title which the US last won in 1999. The FIFA 2011 World Cup will begin in late June.
Watching the top level of players is a great resourse for younger players to see where they need to advance to get toward that level. It is imperative in the development of youth soccer players that they see what the next levels are and devise a personal plan to get there.
The US beat Japan 2-0 in Columbus, OH on Saturday. Abby Wambach scored a dominating header for the first goal. Go out and have some family fun and send our team off to Germany with positive vibes from a great and loud crowd. SEE YOU THERE!
Charlie Slagle
Watching the top level of players is a great resourse for younger players to see where they need to advance to get toward that level. It is imperative in the development of youth soccer players that they see what the next levels are and devise a personal plan to get there.
The US beat Japan 2-0 in Columbus, OH on Saturday. Abby Wambach scored a dominating header for the first goal. Go out and have some family fun and send our team off to Germany with positive vibes from a great and loud crowd. SEE YOU THERE!
Charlie Slagle
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
What leagues and competitions are CASL classic players competing in? Part 2-the boys
I started with the girls in yesterday's blog and today I will discuss the opportunities that CASL has for the boys classic players. Some of this blog will be very similar to yesterday's blog but some will be quite different. The vast majority of the players are playing in the NCYSA (North Carolina Youth Soccer Assn.) leagues. NCYSA has a statewide Premier Division and then regional first and second divisions. The Premier Division starts forming after the players begin playing 11 v 11 at age 14. There is a promotion and relegation component to reward teams for great play and to keep all teams at their competitive level. The Under 13 and 14 age brackets play in the fall and spring and the Under 15-18 only play in the spring allowing the high school age players to play for their respective high school teams. NCYSA puts on two State Cups for ages Under 13 and older. The top division teams play in the USYS (United States Youth Soccer) tournament that leads to Regionals (CASL hosted the 184 team/6 day event in 2008 along with Wilson, NC) and Nationals at age Under 14 and older. The winner of that national competition is considered the USYS national champion at that age bracket. Also, the Kepner Cup (named after long time NCYSA president, Bob Kepner, who continues to do great things for soccer in NC at the adult level and on the NC Soccer Hall of Fame level) is for the teams that are not in the top level. The Kepner Cup winners advance to the USYS Presidents Cup Regionals and then Nationals (CASL hosted the President's Cup Nationals in 2009).
Through USYS, there is also the Region III Premier League. The top teams in each Region III (11 states and 12 state associations (Texas has two a North and a South)) state send representatives to play in this league. CASL has teams that compete in this league and have been playing against the other Region III eastern states of FL, GA, SC and NC. The Under 15-18 play this competition in the fall and the Under 14's play in the spring. The top teams in this league get automatic advancement to the Region III Regional tournament. This league will be changing its format, soon, so stayed tuned to see what those changes will be. Top teams in the Regional Leagues can also be selected to play in an even higher league, the USYS National League (CASL has hosted many events for the National League). This league sends its winners straight to the USYS National championships.
Also, CASL has teams playing in the United States Soccer Federation Developmental Academy. The USSF Developmental Academy has two age brackets, the Under 16 and Under 18 group. This league's ages are determined by using January 1 as the cutoff birthdate instead of August 1 (the birthdate used by USYS and therefore NCYSA). The Academy is based on Regional Leagues, cross regional play, showcases and a national tournament. At the end, there are eight teams invited to the national championship at both age brackets. In the first three years of the tournament, CASL has been the benchmark for qualifying teams for the all expenses-paid (by US Soccer) finals. Out of a possible 6 opportunities to qualify, CASL has qualified 5 times with only one team missing out. The next best club has only qualified their teams 3 times out of the possible six opportunities. CASL is very proud of their success in this great national league. The Academy system has many rules, as dictated by USSF, that affect how the development of the players should be accomplished. There are rules about practice opportunities, rules to eliminate the playing of too many games, substitution rules, etc. USSF Developmental Academy players are restricted to play only at that level with the exception of up to 10 designated developmental players. Those players, however, can play in only six Academy games throughout the year.
This year will mark the advent of the Under 14 Pre-Academy League governed by US Club Soccer. The inaugural year will be a regional based concept. This will include conference games, cross conference games, showcase events and a national championship. Players are allowed to play in this Pre-Academy League and also in USYS leagues and competitions, however, North Carolina teams have decided that their top 16 players would only participate in the Pre-Academy. Play begins this fall for a 10 month season.
As you can see, there is a great deal to keep up with in this level of soccer. It is, also, an ever changing landscape. Therefore, the CASL staff must keep up with the changes and make decisions as to what leagues and competitions to compete in on a yearly basis. Discussions occur weekly as to this topic amongst the CASL staff. It is the goal of the CASL staff to do what is best for the development of all players. Hence, the multiple leagues and competitions that CASL participates in.
Charlie Slagle
Through USYS, there is also the Region III Premier League. The top teams in each Region III (11 states and 12 state associations (Texas has two a North and a South)) state send representatives to play in this league. CASL has teams that compete in this league and have been playing against the other Region III eastern states of FL, GA, SC and NC. The Under 15-18 play this competition in the fall and the Under 14's play in the spring. The top teams in this league get automatic advancement to the Region III Regional tournament. This league will be changing its format, soon, so stayed tuned to see what those changes will be. Top teams in the Regional Leagues can also be selected to play in an even higher league, the USYS National League (CASL has hosted many events for the National League). This league sends its winners straight to the USYS National championships.
Also, CASL has teams playing in the United States Soccer Federation Developmental Academy. The USSF Developmental Academy has two age brackets, the Under 16 and Under 18 group. This league's ages are determined by using January 1 as the cutoff birthdate instead of August 1 (the birthdate used by USYS and therefore NCYSA). The Academy is based on Regional Leagues, cross regional play, showcases and a national tournament. At the end, there are eight teams invited to the national championship at both age brackets. In the first three years of the tournament, CASL has been the benchmark for qualifying teams for the all expenses-paid (by US Soccer) finals. Out of a possible 6 opportunities to qualify, CASL has qualified 5 times with only one team missing out. The next best club has only qualified their teams 3 times out of the possible six opportunities. CASL is very proud of their success in this great national league. The Academy system has many rules, as dictated by USSF, that affect how the development of the players should be accomplished. There are rules about practice opportunities, rules to eliminate the playing of too many games, substitution rules, etc. USSF Developmental Academy players are restricted to play only at that level with the exception of up to 10 designated developmental players. Those players, however, can play in only six Academy games throughout the year.
This year will mark the advent of the Under 14 Pre-Academy League governed by US Club Soccer. The inaugural year will be a regional based concept. This will include conference games, cross conference games, showcase events and a national championship. Players are allowed to play in this Pre-Academy League and also in USYS leagues and competitions, however, North Carolina teams have decided that their top 16 players would only participate in the Pre-Academy. Play begins this fall for a 10 month season.
As you can see, there is a great deal to keep up with in this level of soccer. It is, also, an ever changing landscape. Therefore, the CASL staff must keep up with the changes and make decisions as to what leagues and competitions to compete in on a yearly basis. Discussions occur weekly as to this topic amongst the CASL staff. It is the goal of the CASL staff to do what is best for the development of all players. Hence, the multiple leagues and competitions that CASL participates in.
Charlie Slagle
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
What leagues and competitions are CASL classic players competing in? Part 1-the girls
This is a loaded question and I'll thank Alex Snotherly, one of my faithful blog readers (not sure how many of those that there are....) for constantly giving me blog ideas, including the genesis for this one!
I'll start with the girls and what kind of opportunites that CASL is taking advantage of for the betterment of its female players at the classic level. The vast majority of the players are playing in the NCYSA (North Carolina Youth Soccer Assn.) leagues. NCYSA has a statewide Premier Division and then regional first and second divisions. The Premier Division starts forming after the players begin playing 11 v 11 at age 14. There is a promotion and relegation component to reward teams for great play and to keep all teams at their competitive level. The Under 13 and 14 age brackets play in the fall and spring and the Under 15-18 only play in the fall allowing the high school age players to play for their respective high school teams. NCYSA puts on two State Cups for ages Under 13 and older. The top division teams play in the USYS (United States Youth Soccer) tournament that leads to Regionals (CASL hosted the 184 team/6 day event in 2008 along with Wilson, NC) and Nationals at age Under 14 and older. The winner of that national competition is considered the USYS national champion at that age bracket. Also, the Kepner Cup (named after long time NCYSA president, Bob Kepner, who continues to do great things for soccer in NC at the adult level and on the NC Soccer Hall of Fame level) is for the teams that are not in the top level. The Kepner Cup winners advance to the USYS Presidents Cup Regionals and then Nationals (CASL hosted the President's Cup Nationals in 2009).
Through USYS, there is also the Region III Premier League. The top teams in each Region III (11 states and 12 state associations (Texas has two a North and a South)) state send representatives to play in this league. CASL usually has a team in every age bracket in this league and have been playing against the other Region III eastern states of FL, GA, SC and NC. The Under 15-18 play this competition in the fall, for reasons stated above, and the Under 14's play in the spring. The top teams in this league get automatic advancement to the Region III Regional tournament. This league will be changing its format, soon, so stayed tuned to see what those changes will be. Top teams in the Regional Leagues can also be selected to play in an even higher league, the USYS National League (CASL has hosted many events for the National League). This league sends its winners straight to the USYS National championships.
Also, CASL has teams playing in the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL). ECNL is a US Club soccer property. The ECNL has its own championship and teams in this classification can not compete for a USYS championship at any level including the state (NCYSA) level beginning in the fall 2011. However, it may be possible for some players to be rostered on ECNL and USYS teams. Any decision, in this regard, will be decided by the CASL coaching staff. This year, the 3 year old league is moving to a more regionalized approach after hosting just showcases (which CASL has hosted) in their first couple of years. This format will allow teams to play home games which is good for all concerned. The ECNL is a club league as stated in its name. Therefore, each club that belongs to ECNL will have 5 teams playing in the league, one each in the Under 14-18 age brackets.
As you can see, there is a great deal to keep up with in this level of soccer. It is, also, an ever changing landscape. Therefore, the CASL staff must keep up with the changes and make decisions as to what leagues and competitions to compete in on a yearly basis. Discussions occur weekly as to this topic amongst the CASL staff. It is the goal of the CASL staff to do what is best for the development of all players. Hence, the multiple leagues and competitions that CASL participates in.
Tomorrow, I will outline what CASL does on the boys side in regards to affiliations in leagues!
Charlie Slagle
I'll start with the girls and what kind of opportunites that CASL is taking advantage of for the betterment of its female players at the classic level. The vast majority of the players are playing in the NCYSA (North Carolina Youth Soccer Assn.) leagues. NCYSA has a statewide Premier Division and then regional first and second divisions. The Premier Division starts forming after the players begin playing 11 v 11 at age 14. There is a promotion and relegation component to reward teams for great play and to keep all teams at their competitive level. The Under 13 and 14 age brackets play in the fall and spring and the Under 15-18 only play in the fall allowing the high school age players to play for their respective high school teams. NCYSA puts on two State Cups for ages Under 13 and older. The top division teams play in the USYS (United States Youth Soccer) tournament that leads to Regionals (CASL hosted the 184 team/6 day event in 2008 along with Wilson, NC) and Nationals at age Under 14 and older. The winner of that national competition is considered the USYS national champion at that age bracket. Also, the Kepner Cup (named after long time NCYSA president, Bob Kepner, who continues to do great things for soccer in NC at the adult level and on the NC Soccer Hall of Fame level) is for the teams that are not in the top level. The Kepner Cup winners advance to the USYS Presidents Cup Regionals and then Nationals (CASL hosted the President's Cup Nationals in 2009).
Through USYS, there is also the Region III Premier League. The top teams in each Region III (11 states and 12 state associations (Texas has two a North and a South)) state send representatives to play in this league. CASL usually has a team in every age bracket in this league and have been playing against the other Region III eastern states of FL, GA, SC and NC. The Under 15-18 play this competition in the fall, for reasons stated above, and the Under 14's play in the spring. The top teams in this league get automatic advancement to the Region III Regional tournament. This league will be changing its format, soon, so stayed tuned to see what those changes will be. Top teams in the Regional Leagues can also be selected to play in an even higher league, the USYS National League (CASL has hosted many events for the National League). This league sends its winners straight to the USYS National championships.
Also, CASL has teams playing in the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL). ECNL is a US Club soccer property. The ECNL has its own championship and teams in this classification can not compete for a USYS championship at any level including the state (NCYSA) level beginning in the fall 2011. However, it may be possible for some players to be rostered on ECNL and USYS teams. Any decision, in this regard, will be decided by the CASL coaching staff. This year, the 3 year old league is moving to a more regionalized approach after hosting just showcases (which CASL has hosted) in their first couple of years. This format will allow teams to play home games which is good for all concerned. The ECNL is a club league as stated in its name. Therefore, each club that belongs to ECNL will have 5 teams playing in the league, one each in the Under 14-18 age brackets.
As you can see, there is a great deal to keep up with in this level of soccer. It is, also, an ever changing landscape. Therefore, the CASL staff must keep up with the changes and make decisions as to what leagues and competitions to compete in on a yearly basis. Discussions occur weekly as to this topic amongst the CASL staff. It is the goal of the CASL staff to do what is best for the development of all players. Hence, the multiple leagues and competitions that CASL participates in.
Tomorrow, I will outline what CASL does on the boys side in regards to affiliations in leagues!
Charlie Slagle
Monday, May 9, 2011
What watching options are available for girls to watch good soccer in the near future?
There are plenty of options to watch girls and women's soccer over the next few weeks. The high school playoffs begin this week and there are many local teams in the playoffs. My hat goes off to the teams that won regular season and/or tournament championships in the area. Cardinal Gibbons, Ravenscroft, Green Hope, Wakefield and Leesville Road all took crowns!
Next Wednesday, May 18th, the US Women's National Team will play Japan at WakeMed Soccer Park. This will be the next to last tuneup for the US Women before heading to Germany for the 2011 FIFA World Cup! Come see the #1 ranked team in the world with all their players in attendance take on the Japanese National Team!
Also, the NCYSA State Cups are going on! A great day to see great soccer is Saturday May 21st as that will be semifinal day. All the semis for all the participating age groups will play at Bryan Park in Greensboro. This will be an all day affair with semis being held for Challenge, the President's Cup and the USYS levels. There should be plenty of CASL teams to cheer on!
A great way to help a young player's development is to allow her/him to watch as much soccer as possible. It is always good to have the player see better levels of play, especially levels that the player aspires to play at that level in the future. Take in a Game or two--you'll enjoy it and the player's game will benefit from the experience!
Charlie Slagle
Next Wednesday, May 18th, the US Women's National Team will play Japan at WakeMed Soccer Park. This will be the next to last tuneup for the US Women before heading to Germany for the 2011 FIFA World Cup! Come see the #1 ranked team in the world with all their players in attendance take on the Japanese National Team!
Also, the NCYSA State Cups are going on! A great day to see great soccer is Saturday May 21st as that will be semifinal day. All the semis for all the participating age groups will play at Bryan Park in Greensboro. This will be an all day affair with semis being held for Challenge, the President's Cup and the USYS levels. There should be plenty of CASL teams to cheer on!
A great way to help a young player's development is to allow her/him to watch as much soccer as possible. It is always good to have the player see better levels of play, especially levels that the player aspires to play at that level in the future. Take in a Game or two--you'll enjoy it and the player's game will benefit from the experience!
Charlie Slagle
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Who is on Back of the Net Saturday?
There is a real treat on the "Back of the Net" Show on Saturday from 7-8 am on 99.9 the Fan. The new men's head coaches at both UNC and NC State will be on. Carlos Samoano from UNC and Kelly Findley from NCSU played together in the Houston, TX area as youth players. I will speak to each coach separately and then talk to them together to get the "scoop" on things from their youth and how coaching rival schools will affect their personal relationship!
Also, Martin Rennie will be on the show! The Railhawks are undefeated in their last 3 games after an opening day loss. Etienne Barbara has scored a goal in each game. They play at Tampa this weekend and then return home vs Fort Lauderdale next Wednesday! It is always good to hear the Railhawks coach's insights into the game and his team!
Charlie Slagle
Also, Martin Rennie will be on the show! The Railhawks are undefeated in their last 3 games after an opening day loss. Etienne Barbara has scored a goal in each game. They play at Tampa this weekend and then return home vs Fort Lauderdale next Wednesday! It is always good to hear the Railhawks coach's insights into the game and his team!
Charlie Slagle
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
What to Believe?
It is always interesting at this time of year to hear what people think that CASL is going to do, going into a new soccer year. I hear, through the grapevine, that we are only going to have two teams at a certain age group, or that there will be a new coach for a certain team, or....... We also hear, once again through the grapevine, that this player or that player, who have played for CASL for years, are not going to play this year for CASL. We also hear, through the grapevine, that certain players are coming over from other clubs to tryout for CASL. Plus, we hear other rumors about various other topics.
My advice to CASL members that have questions is, believe this or not, to ask your question. That is what do here as a staff. You can e-mail a staff member that you know, you can e-mail me at charlies@caslemail.com or post a question on this blog. If you want to know an answer, please ask and if the answer is available, it will be answered. We will not look negatively upon the question-asker or react negatively due to the question being asked. An organization gets better when it hears what its members are thinking and then responds to those questions or suggestions.
Therefore, ASK and WE SHALL TELL!
Let's all make it out of State Cup competitions and tryouts unscathed!
Charlie Slagle
My advice to CASL members that have questions is, believe this or not, to ask your question. That is what do here as a staff. You can e-mail a staff member that you know, you can e-mail me at charlies@caslemail.com or post a question on this blog. If you want to know an answer, please ask and if the answer is available, it will be answered. We will not look negatively upon the question-asker or react negatively due to the question being asked. An organization gets better when it hears what its members are thinking and then responds to those questions or suggestions.
Therefore, ASK and WE SHALL TELL!
Let's all make it out of State Cup competitions and tryouts unscathed!
Charlie Slagle
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Will the Champions League Visitors be able to pull it off?
The UEFA Champions League is down to the nitty gritty-the 2nd leg of the semifinals. Today at 2:45, Barcelona hosts Real Madrid and Real needs to make up a two goal deficit. That game is on Fox Soccer Channel. Can Messi and company be denied a spot in the Wembley Final? I don't think so. Messi had two last week and if Barca gets one today, it is over!
Tomorrow, also at 2:45 and on Fox Soccer, Manchester United hosts Schalke. Man U has a two goal lead, as well! Schalke is not of the same quality as the other three semi-finalists and it will be a mountain to climb......However, Man U may be distracted....due to a 0-1 loss to Arsenal last weekend and a match this Sunday with Chelsea, Man U's huge lead in the English Premier League would be gone if they lose to the Blues. It would be a dead even tie with tie-breaker, goal differential, being very close with only two matches remaining. I don't think that Manchester will be distracted enough to lose a two goal lead but goal number 1 in this game is vitally important to both sides.
Man U's Wayne Rooney has become a complete player and he is a joy to watch in his recessed striker position. When you watch Lionel Messi and Rooney play, please note their unbelievable work rate off the ball on both offense and defense.
Have fun viewing live or using that DVR.
A Manchester United final versus Barcelona in Wembley Stadium in London will be quite a show! We'll see what happens in the next two days!
Charlie Slagle
Tomorrow, also at 2:45 and on Fox Soccer, Manchester United hosts Schalke. Man U has a two goal lead, as well! Schalke is not of the same quality as the other three semi-finalists and it will be a mountain to climb......However, Man U may be distracted....due to a 0-1 loss to Arsenal last weekend and a match this Sunday with Chelsea, Man U's huge lead in the English Premier League would be gone if they lose to the Blues. It would be a dead even tie with tie-breaker, goal differential, being very close with only two matches remaining. I don't think that Manchester will be distracted enough to lose a two goal lead but goal number 1 in this game is vitally important to both sides.
Man U's Wayne Rooney has become a complete player and he is a joy to watch in his recessed striker position. When you watch Lionel Messi and Rooney play, please note their unbelievable work rate off the ball on both offense and defense.
Have fun viewing live or using that DVR.
A Manchester United final versus Barcelona in Wembley Stadium in London will be quite a show! We'll see what happens in the next two days!
Charlie Slagle
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