U.S. YNT Blog

Make The Move to the BRAND NEW YNT Blog at ussoccer.com

2009-08-06T17:13:00.002-04:00

That's right ... this will be our last post in this here YNT Blog, as the brand new ussoccer.com launched this afternoon. You can still find archived blog entries here, that highlight everything from the 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup through the launching of the Development Academy and the 2008 Beijing Olympics, not to mention silver and gold medal efforts at the FIFA U-17 WWC and FIFA U-20 WWC, respectively.

We hope we'll see you on the new site, because we really do love your comments, criticisms and support. So go ahead, check it out ... really, it's okay:

http://www.ussoccer.com/Social/YNT-Blog.aspx

We'll see you on the flip side.

Today's Equalizer

2009-07-29T18:00:00.001-04:00

In case you missed the game online, the U.S. U-18 MNT drew 1-1 against Germany this evening at the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland. Here is Ryan Finley's late equalizer:

Watch the U-18 MNT LIVE Against Germany!

2009-07-29T12:37:00.003-04:00

BBC has confirmed that it will be streaming games from the Northern Ireland Milk Cup LIVE on its website. In what sounds like a pretty cool program called BBC Blast, young camera operators, directors and producers will be given the opportunity to hone their skills by doing a live event - in this case, Milk Cup games - much to the benefit of the rest of us who want to watch.

To watch the game, which starts at 2:45 pm ET (7:45 pm in Northern Ireland), click here:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/northernireland/schools/11_16/blastni/media_sub_milkcup.shtml

It is currently the only match involving the U.S. team that is scheduled for webcast, so be sure to tune in!

Coming Full Circle

2009-07-18T19:52:00.002-04:00

With their championship game win Thursday night, U-17/18 Carmel United SC completed a journey that started last November. Barely three weeks into the season, we decided to follow the team for one day of the Winter Showcase.

So take a look back at a team that had a goal in sight that was several months away and was still preparing for those early season games with the same mindset they've shown all week in Los Angeles.

Championship Game Highlights

2009-07-18T19:34:00.001-04:00

Can be found in today's new Studio 90!

Derby County Completes Finals Week as U-15/16 Champions

2009-07-17T15:38:00.002-04:00

In the final match of DA Finals Week, the Derby County Wolves defeated Cal Odyssey 1-0 at The Home Depot Center to become U-15/16 national champions. With a goal from Dzenan Catic in the 6th minute, the Wolves complete the postseason in the same way they entered it: as the No. 1 ranked team.
For the complete match story, check here. We'll have highlights up tomorrow, but for now, check out our video player for highlights from days 4 and 5 of Finals Week.

As for the other placement matches today, here's how things shook out:

7th place: New York Red Bulls vs. Greensboro Youth Soccer: 3-1

5th place: FC Dallas vs. Washington Premier FC: 3-4

3rd place: Chicago Magic AS Monaco vs. PDA: 2-1

Once again, congratulations to the Derby County Wolves, and we'll see you tomorrow as we wrap up the 2008-09 Development Academy season!

Time For The Younger Generation

2009-07-17T15:19:00.006-04:00

After watching the older age group get to play their placement matches all day yesterday, it's time for the U-15/16 clubs to get their time to shine.

Today's list of placement matches:

7th place: Greensboro Youth Soccer vs. New York Red Bulls&mdash:1 pm PT
5th place: FC Dallas vs. Washington Premier FC—3 pm PT
3rd place: Chicago Magic AS Monaco vs. PDA—5 pm PT

Championship Match: Derby County Wolves vs. Cal Odyssey—7 pm PT, broadcast on ESPN Classic and espn360.com

Some interesting notes:
—Cal Odyssey is on a seven-game unbeaten streak, during which they’ve only allowed three goals while scoring 17.

—Cal Odyssey’s 1-1 draw against Washington Premier was the first goal they conceded in all of finals week.

—FC Dallas' Bryan Leyva leads scorers in his age group as the only person to tally four goals through three games.

—There have been eight shutouts in twelve U-15/16 games so far during Finals Week, with three coming on Monday afternoon.

For more information on today's matchups as well as recaps of yesterday's U-17/18 placement matches, click here!

Paying Dividends

2009-07-17T14:41:00.008-04:00

Hopefully, you'll all remember what Nike SPARQ testing is. Standing for Speed, Power, Agility, Reaction and Quickness, the battery of tests that Academy players underwent at the Winter Showcase and then again in the Spring Showcase help to measure each individual athlete's overall athletic ability. They can then train for specific weaknesses, helping to improve their ability over time.

Well, after last night's U-17/18 Development Academy championship game, we found out that Nikita Kotlov, the winning goal scorer for Carmel United, had the fastest 20-meter sprint time at the Spring Showcase. He also had the third highest overall SPARQ rating. So it would seem the training and testing works! Don't quite believe us yet?

Maybe it'd convince you if we told you that the Derby County Wolves, one of the teams playing in today's U-15/16 championship match, has the highest team speed in the Academy according to SPARQ testing. This means that after every player's 20-meter sprint time was taken, the team as a whole possesses the fastest average speed among players.

So in the heat of these summer months, if you're not one of the lucky few to still be playing in Finals Week, keep working hard. It will pay off!

The End Of The Road

2009-07-16T16:05:00.008-04:00

From 74 teams down to 32, then 8, and now 2, the final day of the U-17/18 Development Academy finished today with four placement matches among all eight teams of Finals Week. The results are as follows:

7th place match: CASL Chelsea FC Academy vs. Dallas Texans—1-0

5th place match: PDA vs. FC Greater Boston—3-2

3rd place match: Real Colorado vs IMG Soccer Academy—0-1

Championship match: Carmel United SC vs D.C. United—1-0, congratulations to Carmel United SC for their second Development Academy title in a row!

Check back here tomorrow for highlights from today's placement matches, as well as interviews from players and coaches in the championship game!

Development Academy in the News

2009-07-16T13:08:00.003-04:00

We're not the only ones writing about Finals Week; around the country several papers have been covering their local teams and players throughout the week. Here are a few links to get you started:

From Tacoma, Wash.—The News Tribune

From Fresno, Calif.—The Fresno Bee

Indianapolis, Ind.—The Indianapolis Star

Nashua, N.H.—The Nashua Telegraph

Detroit, Michigam—Detroit Free Press

Raleigh-Durham, N.C.&mdash:The News and Observer

If any of you coaches, players, parents and fans catch something in your own paper about the Academy or Finals Week, let us know!

2009-09 Development Academy Award Winners

2009-07-15T23:07:00.000-04:00

Over the past two days of games, the U.S. Development Academy has announced the Coach and Player of the Year honorees for both age groups. The awards were voted on by Development Academy clubs and U.S. Soccer National Staff coaches and technical advisors.

Derby County Wolves U-15/16 head coach Lars Richters and FC Dallas Juniors U-17/18 head coach Oscar Pareja have been named Coaches of the Year for the 2008-09 season. Coach Richters has led his U-15/16 Derby County Wolves to a berth in the championship match, while Pareja led his FC Dallas club to a 15-5-8 regular season record and second place in their conference.

As for the Development Academy Player of the Year awards, FC Dallas Juniors forward Ruben Luna has been named U-15/16 Player of the Year, while Gatorade Boys Soccer Player of the Year winner and Andromeda midfielder Dillon Powers has added to his award-winning season with Development Academy Player of the Year honors for the U-17/18 age group. Powers recently returned from a trip to Egypt with the U-20 Men’s National Team, where he helped the team earn a win and a draw against the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup hosts.

Congratulations to all four award recipients on a great 2008-09 season!

Day Six Match Reports

2009-07-15T17:57:00.011-04:00

The final day of U-15/16 Development Academy Finals Week group play has concluded!

With group 1 already claimed by the Derby County Wolves, Chicago Magic AS Monaco, FC Dallas and and the New York Red Bulls fought it out for the third, fifth, and seventh place games. The scores and resulting table positions:

Derby County Wolves vs. New York Red Bulls: 0-2, Derby County remains on top of the group and New York stays in 4th place.

Chicago Magic AS Monaco vs. FC Dallas: 2-2, Chicago Magic AS Monaco finishes 2nd in the group, while FC Dallas finishes third.

Group 2 results:

Cal Odyssey vs. Washington Premier FC: 1-1—Cal Odyssey has won group 2 and will play the Derby County Wolves in the U-15/16 championship match!

PDA vs. Greensboro Youth Soccer: 2-0—PDA finishes second in the group now, and will play in the third place match.

Placement Matches For U-17/18s

2009-07-14T18:24:00.009-04:00

Group 2

CASL Chelsea FC Academy vs. Real Colorado: 2-0

PDA vs. D.C. United: 1-5

D.C. United and Carmel United SC will meet for the U-17/18 Development Academy national championship!

Group 1

Dallas Texans vs. FC Greater Boston—2-4

Carmel United SC vs IMG Soccer Academy—3-3

To see how the rest of the teams shook out, check here.

The third place match will see IMG Soccer Academy and Real Colorado face off, while the fifth place game will be a battle between FC Greater Boston and PDA. Rounding out the U-17/18s will be a fixture for seventh place between the Dallas Texans and CASL Chelsea Chelsea FC Academy.

Click on the scores for full match reports and check back with the YNT blog later today for photos and highlights from matchday 3 for the U-17/18s!

New Studio 90!

2009-07-14T16:25:00.000-04:00

With highlights!

LA On The Small Screen

2009-07-14T14:24:00.005-04:00

While waiting for departure to The HDC today, a few U-15/16 FC Dallas players were in the lobby and the YNT blog decided to ask about their favorite TV shows that have taken place in LA and the surrounding So Cal area.

Reality TV shows peppered the conversation, with The Hills and Cribs being mentioned, alongside dramas 24 and The O.C.

Someone got a little mocked for liking Keeping Up With the Kardashians (we won't say who to protect the guilty party), but the awkward silence after we asked about Saved By The Bell quickly turned the laughter on us. We didn't get it until we remembered that the show's last episodes aired when these guys were still infants.

It's never a good morning to realize you're old, but thanks for the reminder, boys!

Individual Game Highlights

2009-07-14T01:15:00.003-04:00

For those of you who can't be in LA with us ('tis a shame, because the weather truly is beautiful, and we do wish you were here) or missed the broadcast of a specific game, we're going to be posting individual game highlights on YouTube over the next few days. First up are Day 1 U-17/18 games:

Texans vs. IMG Academy

CASL vs D.C. United

FC Greater Boston vs Carmel United SC

Real Colorado vs PDA

Enjoy!

Derby County Wolves Clinch Group 1

2009-07-13T21:06:00.007-04:00

With a 1-0 victory against the Chicago Magic AS Monaco this afternoon, the U-15/16 Derby County Wolves have clinched group 1 of Finals Week and a spot in the U-15/16 First Place Placement Match--simply put, they're in the title game!

The other afternoon match that helped them clinch it was a 3-0 win for FC Dallas against the New York Red Bulls.

It is still possible for either FC Dallas or the Chicago Magic to end up with six points, which would tie Derby County if they lose in their third game, but the first tiebreaker is head-to-head match-up. Because Derby County has beaten both of those teams already, they're through.

As for the rest of the day's results, Washington Premier FC beat Greensboro Youth Soccer 2-1 and Cal Odyssey defeated PDA 1-0.

And just to round out the day, here's a new episode of Studio 90!

Day Four Reading Material

2009-07-13T18:37:00.003-04:00

While action is already underway in the first game of the day (U-15/16 NY Red Bulls vs. FC Dallas), take a few minutes to read today's notes.

You might also want to see who made the D.A. Starting XI.

Other U-15/16 matches today include:

Chicago Magic AS Monago vs Derby County Wolves in a battle for first place in the group; both teams enter the match with hefty undefeated streaks. Kickoff is slated for 4 pm PT.

Last but not least, Greensboro Youth Soccer will face off against Washington Premier FC at 6 pm PT, while PDA and Cal Odyssey close out the day at 7 pm PT.

As always, we'll be back later this evening with scores and match reports!

A Look at the Players Lounge

2009-07-13T14:24:00.003-04:00

The Players' Lounge at Academy Finals Week is more popular than ever as it's located, conveniently, right in the teams' hotel. Before and after meals especially, you can always find a line for EA Sports FIFA 2009 games, the fussball table and computers. When players return from their games, you will surely find a crowded Gatorade bar. Take a look...

Players hanging out at the tables in the lounge

D.C. United players take their turn on FIFA '09

The Dallas Texans controlling the fussball table

Highlights from the day before are looped on a giant projected screen so players can check themselves out

World Championships!

2009-07-13T12:53:00.011-04:00

As much as we might like to think US Soccer's Development Academy is the biggest draw in town, in a place like LA, we know that sometimes that's just not the case.

But little did we know that this week, we'd really be facing a true competitor. A competition attracting the biggest and the brightest from around the world. A competition...of performing arts.

In our fantastic hotel this week are performers from around the world, competing in the World Championships of the Performing Arts. According to everyone's favorite encyclopedia, the WCOPA is:

"An 'Olympics-style' competition in which singers compete against other singers, dance groups compete against other dance groups, actors against other actors. Industry heavy-weights, talent agents, record execs and television producers judge the talent to determine who moves onto the finals. Once at the finals, a champion is selected by 16 celebrity judges from among the top 3-4 performers in each category and both age groups. Of the eight category winners, a Junior and Senior Grand Champion Performer of the World is selected."

No word yet on a jazz hands event.

We've seen teams from Sweden, Ireland, Canada, South Africa, Jamaica, Moldova, and there could be a few others we haven't caught. So to those from overseas, (especially South Africa, who just hosted the MNT team so kindly)...welcome!

Day 2 Highlights

2009-07-12T20:55:00.004-04:00

All the best action from yesterday's games can now be found on the ussoccer.com video player.

Scores are also in from today's group 1 games: IMG Soccer Academy defeated FC Greater Boston 2-1, while Carmel United SC stayed perfect with a 1-0 victory against the Dallas Texans.

In the later games, Real Colorado defeated D.C. United 1-0 and PDA won 3-1 against CASL Chelsea Academy FC.

Full match reports can be found here!

Today's Schedule

2009-07-12T18:03:00.005-04:00

Movie hotels aside, we can't forget the real reason we're all here. With that in mind, here's who's playing today in the U-17/18 age group:

IMG Soccer Academy vs. FC Greater Boston at 3 pm PT
Carmel United SC vs Dallas Texans at 4 pm PT
D.C. United vs Real Colorado at 6 pm PT
PDA vs CASL Chelsea FC at 7 pm PT

Get a full recap of yesterday's action while games are underway, and as always, check back here later tonight for highlights and match reports.

"Hi, I'm the Westin Bonaventure...

2009-07-12T13:31:00.007-04:00

You may remember me from such films as True Lies, starring (Governor and USA 2018/2022 Board of Directors member!) Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jamie Lee Curtis."

One of the cooler aspects of staying in Los Angeles is the obvious Hollywood connection. It's not hard to throw a stone in any direction here and hit something that was used in a movie, and this landmark hotel has filled up many a big screen—This is Spinal Tap, In the Line of Fire, Nick of Time, Rain Man and Heat, to name a few. For those of you more a fan of the interactive small screen, pick up a copy of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and find a hotel called the Atrium. That's it too!

(Unfortunately, you'll have to fill it with 16 soccer teams, scouts, and other US Soccer staff to get the full experience)

The most unique twist in this hotel is the elevators; four of them on the outsides of the building have little lights in them (red, blue, yellow, green) and are glass-walled—so you can see all around downtown LA while taking the ride to your room. Truth be told, they seem a bit small to fit a motorcycle or a horse in them, but that's movie magic for ya!

Superclasico!

2009-07-12T00:27:00.001-04:00

One of the bonuses of playing at the Home Depot Center is the fact that it's the home of both the LA Galaxy and Chivas USA. With Finals Week going on for, well, a week, the odds were always pretty good that we'd be there for one of their games.

Turns out tonight we were there for both of their games! Chivas USA hosted the second leg of this season's Los Angeles derby, but fell to the "visitors" 1-0. Edson Buddle scored for the Galaxy in the 30th minute, extending LA's winning streak to three games.

Day 2 Kicking Off...Now!

2009-07-11T17:40:00.010-04:00

Wrapping up yesterday's games, check out today's new Studio 90 for a preview of tonight's MNT game against Haiti, an interview with former FC Greater Boston player Charlie Davies, and highlights from the first day of action at The Home Depot Center.

You can look at photo galleries of each game to find your favorite players, and remember all of yesterday's games will be streamed today in their entirety here.

The schedule for today's games in the U-15/16 age group:

~~Washington Premier FC vs. PDA at 3 pm PT~~ 0-1
~~Cal Odyssey vs. Greensboro Youth Soccer at 4 pm PT~~ 1-0
~~New York Red Bulls vs Chicago Magic AS Monaco at 6 pm PT~~ 1-4
~~Derby County Wolves vs FC Dallas at 7 pm PT~~ 3-1

Read up on the eight finalists before results start coming in!

Check back throughout the evening for score updates as matches finish, and kill the time in-between by watching the U.S. Men's National Team as they take on Haiti in Foxborough, Mass. in the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup at 7 pm ET, live on FSC and TeleFutura. Stuck at the computer? Follow the game on the here! Have to leave your computer and your TV? We've still got you covered.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy an oh-so-alliterative summer soccer Saturday!

Reporting on the Day

2009-07-11T02:31:00.000-04:00

Day 1 Results and Reports:

PDA-Real Colorado- 2:2

D.C. United-CASL Chelsea FC Academy: 3-1

Carmel United SC-FC Greater Boston: 1-0

Dallas Texans-IMG Soccer Academy: 1-1

UPDATED-Day 1 Scores

2009-07-10T21:37:00.005-04:00

Real Colorado scored a late goal to earn a draw against PDA in the first match of Finals Week, while on field two D.C. United scored a goal in the first minute and ran with it on the way to a 3-1 victory against CASL Chelsea FC Academy.

The evening's matches saw Carmel United SC score an early goal that stood up for a 1-0 victory against FC Greater Boston, and the Dallas Texans managed to draw IMG Soccer Academy 1-1 despite playing a man down for the final 22 minutes.

We'll have full match reports later tonight, along with photos and highlights. For those of you on the east coast, you can look forward to waking up tomorrow with a full day of soccer to enjoy—catch up on tonight's games right here, follow the MNT as they play Haiti in the CONCACAF Gold Cup at 7 pm ET here, and come right back to the Blog to find out Day 2's results!

There might be better ways to spend a Saturday, but we certainly can't think of any...

New Studio 90!

2009-07-10T17:27:00.003-04:00

Right here!

We're off to watch the first match of Finals Week kick off as U-15/16 teams PDA and Real Colorado face off, followed quickly after by CASL Chelsea FC Academy and D.C. United meeting at 4 pm PT.

Check back throughout the evening for match reports, photos and highlights!

Let The Games Begin!

2009-07-10T14:00:00.003-04:00

The U-17/18 age group gets Finals Week started today with four games this afternoon:

3 pm-PDA v. Real Colorado
4 pm-CASL Chelsea FC Academy v. D.C. United
6 pm-FC Greater Boston v. Carmel United SC
7 pm-Dallas Texans v. IMG Soccer Academy

We'll have match reports up shortly after each game, but for those of you looking to watch the games, you can find them online here. Today's games will be streamed tomorrow, July 11 at these times:

2 pm-PDA v. Real Colorado
4 pm-CASL Chelsea FC Academy v. D.C. United
6 pm-FC Greater Boston v. Carmel United SC
8 pm-Dallas Texans v. IMG Soccer Academy

Finally, kill the last few hours until kick off by reading up on some of the stars of the entire Development Academy season with the U-15/16 and U-17/18 Conference Starting XI rosters!

The Final Countdown

2009-07-10T03:02:00.007-04:00

After a brief week and a half off, the D.A. is back for the final event of the year—Finals Week!

Eight teams from each age group remain after the entire season, and they'll face each other in two round-robin groups over the next week to determine a national champion. For a full explanation of the postseason process that got us here, check this out.

Along the way, the Development Academy will give an education to the players the likes of which they've most likely never seen. Nutrition experts will have tips on what top athletes need to eat to perform at their best, while media staff will teach them a bit about handling press coverage as they go on in their soccer careers.

We'll be in Los Angeles all week long giving you results, top performances, and highlights as the top 16 teams in the country compete at the Home Depot Center. Games kick off tomorrow at 3 pm PT for the U-17/18 age group, so go ahead and find out a little about each team before the games begin!

Final Day of D.A. Highlights

2009-06-30T23:09:00.002-04:00

Enjoy them, they'll have to last you until Finals Week July 10-17. For another look at days one and two, check out U.S. Soccer's YouTube page

Any nominees for goal of the weekend?

Getting Back On Your Feet

2009-06-30T14:24:00.004-04:00

Whether you've just finished giving your all during D.A. Playoffs in an attempt to get your team into Finals Week, or you're a parent just starting to work out again to be a little healthier, ussoccer.com has got a great feature for you today.

Loyal readers of the MNT blog might recognize the word "regeneration". It's often used in posts the day after a national team game to describe what some of the players will be doing instead of training for the day. While everyone would agree that rest is needed the day after a game, some people might not know that there's more you can do besides laying down all day to get your body back up to 100 percent.

Our video crew talked to U.S. Soccer technical advisors to learn more about the best exercises athletes can do to rehabilitate their tired muscles in the hours after a match. Take a look and figure out what you can do on your own, and let us know how you feel the next time you leave it all on the pitch!

Moving On

2009-06-29T16:16:00.005-04:00

Congratulations to the sixteen teams that have advanced to Finals Week! After an exciting final matchday, the eight teams booking their flights to Carson, Calif. from each age group are as follows:

U-15/16 age group: Derby County Wolves, New York Red Bulls, Chicago Magic AS Monaco, FC Dallas, Cal Odyssey, Washington Premier FC, PDA and Greensboro Youth Soccer.

U-17/18 age group: Dallas Texans, FC Greater Boston, Carmel United SC, IMG Soccer Academy, CASL Chelsea FC Academy, Real Colorado, PDA and D.C. United.

Come back later this evening for plenty more pictures and video from the conclusion of this weekend, and begin packing your bags for California—Finals Week starts in ten days!

U-20 MNT Draws With Egypt

2009-06-29T16:00:00.003-04:00

The U-20 MNT rounded out its foreign training camp with a 1-1 draw against Egypt. Tony Taylor, who assisted Mikkel Diskerud's game-winning goal in Saturday's 1-0 win, notched the equalizer on Monday when he converted a 52nd minute penalty kick.

The U-20s will return to their respective clubs/colleges/hometowns tomorrow with a better sense of what to expect when they return for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, scheduled for Sept. 14-Oct. 16 in Egypt.

Updated Finals Week Scenarios

2009-06-29T10:02:00.003-04:00

Check this page out for winners and advancement scenarios that will be updated throughout the day. As of right now, congratulations to U-15/16 teams Chicago Magic AS Monaco and Washington Premier FC, as well as U-17/18 teams Dallas Texans, PDA and D.C. United for winning their groups and clinching a spot in 2009 Finals Week!

We'll also be tweeting about teams that advance as results come in, so if you can't stay near a computer, follow us on your phone @ussoccer.

10 a.m. games have just kicked off the second half, we'll be back around lunchtime with those results!

U-20 MNT Tops Egypt in Alexandria

2009-06-29T08:37:00.002-04:00

Apologies for interrupting the Academy Playoff coverage here on the YNT Blog, but we wanted to make sure you saw that the U-20 MNT continued its impressive 2009 with a 1-0 win against Egypt in Alexandria, one of six venues for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, which will be held from Sept. 24-Oct. 16.

Thomas Rongen and his team are in the midst of an eight-day tour of Egypt that includes one more friendly against their hosts on Monday evening. The team is also getting accustomed to the climate, weather and atmosphere of the FIFA U-20 World Cup which will take place from Sept. 24-Oct 16.

Mikkel Diskerud started the play that led to a goal by taking a restart to Tony Taylor. Jacksonville University's Taylor slipped the ball back to the Stabak midfilder and he was in alone on goal, finishing low past Mohamed Abou Gabal for the game's only goal.

Top-choice goalkeeper Brian Perk was called on to make eight saves in the match and has allowed only one goal this year in six international games. The lone goal allowed came in a 2-1 U.S. victory against CONCACAF Champion Costa Rica in Sarasota, Fla.

Check out the full match report here.

Culling The Herd

2009-06-29T08:11:00.006-04:00

The final day of 2009 Development Academy Playoffs has begun, and there are still plenty of teams with a shot at joining Real Colorado's U17/18 squad in Finals Week. Here are the games where it's quite simple to figure out who advances on to California—it's winner take all.

U17/18 Age Group:
Albertson SC vs PDA (Alberston SC advances with a draw)
CASL Chelsea FC Academy vs Arsenal FC (CASL Chelsea FC advances with a draw)

U15/16s:
FC Dallas vs South Charlotte SA (FC Dallas advances with a draw)
Derby County Wolves vs Columbus Crew (Derby County advances with a draw)
New York Red Bulls vs Chicago Fire (New York Red Bull advances with a draw)
FC Delco vs Cal Odyssey (Cal Odyssey advances with a draw)
Greensboro Youth Soccer vs Crossfire Premier (Crossfire Premier advances with a draw)

As for other groups, teams are still too close to know who will advance , as it will most likely hinge on not just who wins, but how many goals are scored as well. Follow along with us today as we let you know who's gone through to Finals Week as results come in!

Two Teams Clinch Advancement to Finals Week

2009-06-28T18:24:00.004-04:00

After two consecutive days of matches and in accordance to U.S. Soccer’s Best Practices, Academy Playoff participants have been resting today and return to the field on Monday for their final match. U17/18 teams Real Colorado and Carmel United SC from Indiana have won their groups with two games played so far in this weekend of DA Playoffs. We'll have clinching scenarios for you before games kickoff tomorrow so you can follow along as results come in, but there are quite a few groups that are still open for any team to win. It's sure to be a very busy Monday, so in the meantime catch up on Saturday's top ten goals. Or look to see if your team has a photo gallery from their match on ussoccer.com!

Saturday ended with a U.S. Under-17 MNT intra-squad scrimmage as the team continues preparations for the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup to be held from Oct. 24 to Nov. 15 in Nigeria. The 30-player roster split into two squads, with U.S. U-17 MNT Red defeating U.S. U-17 MNT Blue 2-0 on goals from Carlos Martinez and Victor Chavez. We'll have highlights up from that game soon.

Finally, the YNT blog would be remiss in not congratulating the U.S. Men's National Team on their second-place finish in the 2009 Confederations Cup. To read about today's final against Brazil, head next door to the MNT blog, and thanks to all the players at the DA this weekend who supported the U.S.

Technical Support

2009-06-27T18:55:00.002-04:00

As some of you have noticed, we're providing streaming coverage of some games this weekend through the D.A. page on ussoccer.com. But some of you have also noticed it wasn't working! With that in mind, we ask that you try it now--but be sure to install any and all plugins it may ask you to install. After the first time, it'll begin streaming immediately.

Here's the schedule of upcoming games that will be shown:

Saturday June 27
8 pm-U17/18 PDA vs Columbus Crew
10 pm-U15/16 LAFC Chelsea vs Texas SC

Sunday June 28
8 am-U17/18 Dallas Texans vs Derby County Wolves
10 am-U15/16 BW Gottschee vs Derby County Wolves
12 pm-U17/18 Miami FC Kendall vs CASL Chelsea Academy
2 pm-U15/16 PDA vs Sockers FC
4 pm-U17/18 Clearwater Chargers vs Carmel United SC
6 pm-U15/16 Texas SC vs Chicago Magic AS Monaco
8 pm-U17/18 Columbus Crew vs Albertson SC
10 pm-U15/16 FC Delco vs Arsenal FC

Enjoy!

Top Ten Goals From Day One

2009-06-27T17:37:00.003-04:00

You want 'em? We got 'em. (But only if you promise to cheer on the MNT tomorrow in the Confed Cup final!)

The Next Generation Speaks

2009-06-27T16:23:00.006-04:00

You may have heard there's a game tomorrow. It's kind of a big one. In light of this notable occasion, we felt the need to ask the next generation of players what they think about the current Men's National Team that is PLAYING IN THE 2009 FIFA CONFEDERATIONS CUP FINAL AGAINST BRAZIL ON SUNDAY, JUNE 27 AT 2:30 PM ET, BROADCAST ON ESPN! (Sorry, the YNT blog couldn't hold in the excitement any longer)

Anyway, here's what they had to say about the U.S. MNT's upset of Spain in the semifinals last Wednesday:

Think any of these guys will one day see D.A. players talking about their performance in a FIFA tournament semifinal?

Drink It Up!

2009-06-27T13:50:00.006-04:00

With temperatures soaring and a full, glaring sun beating down on the fields, dehydration has been the one constant challenge for teams to overcome this weekend. Obviously wanting to play as hard as possible to ensure advancement onto Finals Week takes a toll on the body, but it's important to take care of yourself to enable your body to recover as fast as possible. Luckily for us, here come the referees!

Focusing on the rules regarding in-game hyrdation (parents, pay particular attention!), this week's Referee Week in Review clip shows that even on the professional level, heat can take a toll. Take a look!

Day 1 Gets Booked

2009-06-27T00:29:00.007-04:00

With the sound of thunder and rain on the athletes' lounge, it seemed like the soccer Gods were telling us to call it a day. There were 32 games today, and as you'd expect with that many matches, upsets were bound to happen. These pictures come from the Cal Odyssey-Arsenal FC matchup in the U-15/16 age group, where Cal (seeded 31st) defeated Arsenal FC (a #2 seed) 3-0 thanks to two goals from Jose Segura and one by Gregory Antognoli.

But because this is not March Madness, Arsenal is certainly nowhere near out of the running. If U.S. Soccer has learned anything recently, it's that you can never count yourself out.

Most results from day one can be found here (U15/16 and U17/18), while this (U15/16 and U17/18) will show you the standings for each group so you can follow your favorite team from home.

For more news and official updates on the weekend, be sure to read more here and check out the 2009 Development Academy Homepage.

Just 15 More Minutes!

2009-06-26T19:40:00.007-04:00

With day one of D.A. Playoffs about to conclude, we've had some unfortunate weather. Luckily it doesn't look too severe, so we should be able to finish up the active games. (Of course, just as we said that, it began pouring twice as hard).

Before...

And after...

Ouch

2009-06-26T15:24:00.004-04:00

So that's why there were so many spots open right next to the fields...

U-17 MNT Training Photos

2009-06-26T14:00:00.016-04:00

Along with 64 teams from the D.A., the U-17 Men's National Team is also in Greensboro, N.C. for the week to wrap up the last half of a camp that started last week in N.J. Head coach Wilmer Cabrera has brought 30 players along for the trip, four of whom are not part of the residency program in Florida but were invited after playing the U-17s as part of two Academy Select squads at the Spring Showcase. The team is continuing to stay sharp in their preparations for the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup, slated to be held in Nigeria from October 24-November 15.

Getting the Ball Rolling

2009-06-26T12:03:00.007-04:00

Games are offically underway at the 2009 Development Academy Playoffs as each team looks forward to their first match in round-robin play.

Welcoming the aspiring finalists to the Athletes' Lounge are banners displaying their team's group and seed, as well as a place for the group winners.

And welcoming the athletes inside the lounge itself is the Gatorade Bar! With the temperatures reaching 90 degrees fahrenheit in sunny and humid Greensboro, it's important that players, coaches and spectators stay well hydrated. Drink up!

2009 Development Academy Playoffs Begin

2009-06-26T08:18:00.008-04:00

After a full second season of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy, 32 clubs in each age group have earned the right to play in Greensboro, N.C. for the first annual D.A. Playoffs. Teams have been separated into eight groups of four, with the group winners advancing to Finals Week in Los Angeles next month. Check out which clubs made the cut, and stay tuned to the YNT blog all weekend as we bring you updates on the matches. This is it for 64 teams from around the country—the culmination of an entire season's work. The door to L.A. is open, but only for a few days. Will your team seize the opportunity to play for a national championship?

Busy is an Understatement

2009-06-23T14:10:00.003-04:00

There is a LOT of YNT action happening this week, so let's get caught up ...

The U-20 MNT has arrived in Cairo, where they are preparing for two friendlies against U-20 World Cup host Egypt on Saturday (June 27) and Monday (June 29) before returning on the 30th. If you need a refresher, you can click here for Thomas Rongen's roster. Check back for updates of some sightseeing and adventures as the team gets accustomed to its surroundings.

Meanwhile, the U-17 MNT is also continuing World Cup preparations and are in their second-consecutive week of training camp. Last week, 40 players trained in Zarephath, N.J. - home of Development Academy club PDA. This week, 30 players are training at the site of DA Playoffs in Greensboro, N.C. They will play four scrimmages throughout the week against local club sides and a college all-star team. We will have much more from Bryan Park as the week goes on, but in the mean time, you can check out Wilmer Cabrera's squad by clicking here.

Since the U-17s (and U-15s) left last weekend, the U-14 Boy's National Developmental Program has taken over the PDA training grounds as head coach Manny Schellscheidt has brought in 36 players for the final U-14 event for players born in 1995. In existence since 1997, the U.S. Under-14 National Team program is a major reason for the increasing quantity and quality of young players vying for spots in the U.S. Youth National Teams program. If you want to meet potential future YNT stars, you can click here for a full list of Schellscheidt's players. The team will be training each morning and scrimmaging local club and ODP teams in the afternoons throughout the week.

And as a reminder, Development Academy Playoffs are also kicking off this Friday, June 26 - Be sure to stay tuned to the YNT Blog for updates and Finals Weeks Scenarios as we come to you live from Bryan Park in Greensboro.

Milk Cup Draw Finalized

2009-06-08T16:42:00.003-04:00

Though it's still seven weeks away, the draw for the annual Northern Ireland Milk Cup is set. The U-18 MNT will take on Denmark on Monday, July 27 and Sudan on Wednesday, July 29. The games will take place after the famous parade that travels through the town of Coleraine on July 26.

Israel, Bulgaria and Northern Ireland (of course) will also be participating in the Elite Division of the prestigious tournament, said to be one of the favorites of YNT veterans. Stay tuned to ussoccer.com for the USA's roster in the coming weeks.

SPARQ Scores Are In

2009-06-04T17:08:00.004-04:00

We told you about the SPARQ (Strength, Power, Agility, Reaction and Quickness) testing happening down at the Development Academy Spring Showcase over Memorial Day weekend, and the results are in.

ESPN Rise has published the best scores from the weekend, which was higlighted by 14-year-old Caleb Richardson from the U-15/16 Dallas Texans. He turned in the best overall score on the weekend - across BOTH age groups - including the top score in the vertical jump and the sixth-best score in the 20-yard sprint.

For a comprehensive look at all of the SPARQ scores, you can click here.

Congrats to the National Gatorade Player of the Year Dillon Powers!

2009-06-02T15:37:00.000-04:00

The Gatorade Company, in parternship with ESPN Rise has announced U.S. Under-18 Men’s National Team midfielder Dillon Powers as the 2008-09 Gatorade National Boys Soccer Player of the Year. Powers, who plays for Andromeda SC of the Development Academy, recently returned from the Lisbon International Tournament in Portugal, where he appeared in all three U.S. games to help the team to a 1-1-1 record. Powers was also part of the U-18 MNT that finished first at the Australian Youth Olympic Festival in January.

Powers joins Lee Nguyen and Nick Garcia as the only other high school boys soccer players from the state of Texas to earn Gatorade National Boys Soccer Player of the Year honors.

The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field, distinguishes Powers as the nation’s best high school boys soccer player.

Powers is not only a standout on the field, but he also holds an A average, has served as a member of the Student Council at Plano High and has completed multiple community-service initiatives in association with the National Honor Society, including peer tutoring. He has also volunteered on behalf of his local church youth group... Powers is a busy senior!

A national advisory board comprised of sportswriters and sport-specific experts from around the country helped select Powers from more than 383,000 high school boys soccer players nationwide. Powers is now a finalist for the prestigious Gatorade Male High School Athlete of the Year Award, to be presented at a special afternoon ceremony prior to The ESPY Awards in July.

By the Numbers

2009-05-26T10:02:00.009-04:00

We've reached the tail end of the 2009 Development Academy Spring Showcase, and we figured you'd be interested to find out the details of what goes into a weekend like this.

So, for your consideration:

-Over 23,000 bottles of Gatorade were given to players through the Gatorade Bar

-20,000 pounds of ice were used

-8,100 gallons of fluids (water and Gatorade) consumed by teams on the fields

-Approximately 4,000 spectators total for all four Showcase games this weekend

-2,200 Academy players

-342 goals scored in the U17/18 division

-300 goals scored in the U15/16 division

-218 games played, 222 counting the YNT Showcase Matches

-162 soccer balls used

-150 officials

-23 balls retrieved from a canal that bordered one field

-4 games by Youth National Teams

-1 impromptu coaching lecture given by U-20 MNT head coach Thomas Rongen

Thanks for following throughout the weekend, we'll be back in force June 26-29 for Development Academy Playoffs!

Until then, follow all the U.S. Youth National Teams here for news and updates.

Memorial Day Wrap-Up

2009-05-25T21:19:00.002-04:00

Full U-20 game recap!

That's it for tonight folks, we'll be back bright and early tomorrow for the last day of the 2009 DA Spring Showcase.

The Next Generation

2009-05-25T20:50:00.009-04:00

The folks at U.S. Soccer sometimes like to refer to themselves as one big family, and it's easy to see why on weekends such as an Academy Showcase. But sometimes it's truer than you'd think.

This here is Trevor Mulqueen. He's the son of U.S. MNT U-20 goalkeeping coach Tim Mulqueen and one of the smallest members of the coaching staff. But he is a member of the staff. Helping his dad warm-up the keepers has been one of his daily tasks throughout this past weekend, but we're betting that's not why the team loves him. To quote the man himself, "My favorite part of helping them out is climbing over the boards to get the balls that miss the goal."

Now that folks, is a Most Valuable Player.

*Trivia Time*
Knowing what you've just read about Trevor and his family, take a closer look at his jersey. Any guess as to what name is on the back? Hint 1: Trevor receieved it as a gift to wear this coming Saturday. Hint 2: Trevor's father used to coach him...

FOUND: Owner of AS Roma Truck

2009-05-25T20:00:00.001-04:00

We at the YNT Blog have an apology to make. It seems that in assuming the owner of this wonderful truck was a man, we incorrectly stereotyped its owner. As it turns out, it's a woman who proudly flaunts her love for the Italian club, and we caught up with Holly to find out the reason behind her vehicular decoration:

YNT Blog: So why did you decide to show that much support on your truck?
Holly: "Because I didn't want my truck to be lame."

Pretty good reason, when you really stop to think about it.

New Studio 90!

2009-05-25T18:36:00.002-04:00

It's got U-20s, MNT, WNT in Toronto, and what you're probably looking for the most—more DA highlights.

It's exactly what you've always wanted.

U.S. 2, Costa Rica 1

2009-05-25T18:04:00.006-04:00

Under a setting Florida sun and a packed sideline, the U-20 Men's National Team defeated Costa Rica 2-1 this afternoon at the Sarasota Polo Grounds.

With the match decidely in Costa Rica's favor early on, it seemed likely that they would strike first. But a strong defensive presence kept the sheet clean for the U.S. in the first half, and neither side were able to create a particularly dangerous opportunity.

The second half brought more Costa Rican offense, and they finally converted in the 49th minute. After good ball movement around outside of the box, Josue Martinez took a pass from Mynor Escoe and with a quick touch sent in a curling shot to the upper left corner of the U.S. goal. U.S. 'keeper Brian Perk got a finger to it, but not enough to push it aside.

The U.S. struck back in the 60th minute after some good possession won them a free kick about 25 yards from goal. The kick was taken as a short pass to the right, where Peri Marosevic fiercely drove it on frame. The shot was blocked by Costa Rican goalkeeper Esteban Alvarado, but fell to the feet of an onrushing Michael Stephens who converted the rebound.

The U.S. snatched the momentum, and almost 30 minutes and a bevy of substitutions for both teams later, the U.S. went ahead for the first time in the 88th minute. Nice possession passing and a bit of individual skill by Tony Taylor allowed the forward to attract three defenders, leaving Jared Jeffries open at the top of the box. Coolly collecting the pass, Jeffries drove the ball into the lower left corner for the winning goal.

Check back later for photos and a detailed match report. Until then, enjoy the rest of your holiday!

U-20 Men's National Team Starting Lineup

2009-05-25T15:46:00.003-04:00

On our way to catch the most highly anticipated Showcase match of the weekend with the U-20 MNT squaring off against Costa Rica. Here's the starting U.S. lineup:

GK: Brian Perk
D: Kyle Davies, Anthony Wallace, Sheanon Williams, Ike Opara
M: Gerson Mayen, Dilly Duka, Jared Jeffrey, Fuad Ibrahim, Jorge Flores
F: Peri Marosevic

Back after the match with a recap and photos!

Look Mom, I'm On TV!

2009-05-25T14:47:00.008-04:00

One of the biggest sights in the Athletes' Lounge is a projector screen that was showing highlights of the U.S. Men's National Team the first few days of the Showcase. With a few days of games in the book, players are now entering the Lounge to see themselves on the big screen.

DA staff have created a highlight DVD of goals scored throughout the weekend, and teams have moved away from the video games to see if they made the cut. (As for the other end of the spectrum, 'keepers shouldn't fear. Nobody plans to put any soft goals on the screen to the tune of Keyboard Cat anytime soon)

Walkin' the Line

2009-05-25T11:08:00.003-04:00

Along with the soccer, the level of officiating in the Development Academy is also top-notch. Working with U.S. Soccer Federation officials, the men and women who run the fields continually strive for perfection—though listening to some of the parents might make you think otherwise. (Sorry ma'am, but offside is offside, even when it's your son scoring!)

Take a look at one of the tools they use to improve their decision making.

Here's the clip in question, think you could have made the right call?

Welcome to the DA

2009-05-25T10:31:00.003-04:00

Six new clubs sent their coaches and managers to the Spring Showcase this weekend to get an in-depth orientation into what the Development Academy really means. Their schedule included game observation, coaching seminars with U-17s head coach Wilmer Cabrera and U-20s head coach Thomas Rongen and Q & A sessions, ensuring a packed but educational weekend. How did it go? Find out here!

Happy Memorial Day!

2009-05-25T08:09:00.006-04:00

The weekend concluded, it's back to a full slate of games today to start closing out the 2009 Spring Showcase. Get the full recap of day three here. We'll have a full episode of Studio 90 later today with goals and highlights from the weekend, so sit back, fire up your grill and spend your holiday with the YNT Blog!

Class with Thomas Rongen

2009-05-24T17:07:00.005-04:00

Today's afternoon Showcase game is an intrasquad scrimmage by the U-20 Men's National Team. With the team divided between red and blue jerseys, the players drew to 0-0 at the half. There were a few slight chances, but for the most part both defenses were holding strong.

The bigger news was head coach Thomas Rongen standing on the crowd sideline rather than his team's, speaking to the audience about coaching tactics, player scouting and what the Development Academy has meant for all the youth national teams. The players and coaches that chose to stick around today are getting a great lesson on what it takes to be one of the best players in the country. Just another example of the advantages that players and coaches have by being part of the D.A.

We'll be back later with a scrimmage recap and some photos from the game as day three of the 2009 Spring Showcase comes to a close. While you wait, why not check out today's Studio 90 News for highlights from yesterday's U-17s match vs an Academy Select team?

Helping Around the House

2009-05-24T15:11:00.019-04:00

Some of the U-17 Men's National Team spent their Sunday afternoon working with the referee department to film an instructional DVD. The segment concerned free kicks and the delaying tactics that defenders often use to stop them, such as kicking the ball away or standing in front of the ball.

We're not sure they knew what they were getting into, but they found out for sure when Alex Shinsky lined up to take a free kick with the wall running forward and one of the "directors" (and we use that term loosely) said "Go ahead, hit them with the ball, it's more realistic that way!" Much thanks to Perry Kitchen, Jonathan Kempin, Spencer Richey, Tyler Polak, Eriq Zavaleta and Alex for helping to improve the level of officiating of American soccer.

Scouts from Italy?

2009-05-24T13:40:00.005-04:00

Probably not. But it was still cool to see the dedication one A.S. Roma fan has for his team.

Staying Cool With the Fact of the Day

2009-05-24T12:55:00.007-04:00

It's another hot, sunny day here at the Sarasota
Polo Grounds, and people are doing their best to stay cool.

On the field, there is a pretty cool test going on for players whose games are on the Showcase field. Gatorade has set up some scales, weighing players before the game (with their shirts off, as we'll explain later). They then play their game, and get weighed after. The difference in pounds is the amount of fluids they lost. The average field player loses between 2-4 lbs, though some players have lost as much as NINE pounds. So why are they weighed without jerseys? Because, as many of you know, your shirt will collect most of your sweat throughout the game— meaning the weight with a dry jersey before and a wet jersey after would make it seem like you hadn't lost anything. To get back to 100%, players should drink the same amount of ounces as they lost. So if you lose 3 lbs in a match, you need to drink 48 ounces of Gatorade and water before your next strenuous activity. Let's call that today's fact of the day!

We interrupt this YNT Blog...

2009-05-24T10:49:00.004-04:00

For big news regarding the MNT this morning as Tim Howard was on ESPN's Sunday Feature for a segment detailing his career in England, followed by the first release of the MNT roster for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Head on over to the MNT Blog to see who got invited into camp! If you missed it, you can catch the Tim Howard piece again at 6 tonight on ESPN's SportCenter.

Take a Seat

2009-05-24T09:54:00.006-04:00

With hundreds of scouts, coaches, players, cameramen and staff, places to sit are few and far between throughout the weekend. In the concession area, it's been noticed that people come to the tables, eat their burgers—and leave with their chair. Allowed? No. Crafty? Very.

Apart from chair thievery, DA staff members are also debating the merits of our office chairs in the clubhouse. Some feel the woven seats provide a comfortable massage, while others describe it in much less flattering terms. Take a look at the offending furniture, and judge for yourself. Would you sit in that?

Scouting the Crowd

2009-05-23T19:35:00.004-04:00

One of the biggest advantages for players in the Development Academy is the immense scouting network that U.S. Soccer provides. National team coaches and assistants spend all day watching multiple games, looking for players that may be worth an invitation to a future national team camp. Just down the sideline from them are hundreds of college coaches too, representing programs large and small. Take a look at the list of scouts and coaches attending the 2009 Showcase, and you'll quickly see that the exposure these players get is a just reward for the work they put in on the field.

U-17 MNT Beat Academy Select 5-3

2009-05-23T17:48:00.019-04:00

Under the eyes of a packed house on the Showcase field, the U.S. U-17s beat a skillful Academy Select team 5-3, with two late goals providing the difference in an otherwise tightly-played match. The U.S. went on top first with a goal by Dustin Corea in the 26th minute, but the Academy team came back with two quick replies by Christian Velez and Zack Foxhoven. Emilio Orozco drew the U.S. even just before the half. Coming out strong in the second half, Dominick Sarle put the U.S. on top again in the 47th minute, but a skillful breakaway finish around the 'keeper by Joseph Schmid of F.C. Delco tied it up once more. After several chances, including a volley off the crossbar by the Academy Select, the game stayed scoreless until a Foxhaven own goal put the U.S. ahead in the 88th minute. Sebastian Lletget ensured the U.S. win with a cracking shot to the top corner in the 90th. Look to the YNT Blog for highlights and post-game interviews tomorrow!

The Full 90

2009-05-23T14:37:00.009-04:00

We're off to catch today's marquee match-up between the U-17s and another Academy Showcase team. We'll be back tonight with the result and some photos, but while you're waiting take a look at today's jam-packed Studio 90. We've got Development Academy highlights, updates from the Women's National Team in Toronto, and a sneak peek at tomorrow's ESPN Sunday Feature on Men's National Team goalkeeper Tim Howard!

Mmmm....Blue....

2009-05-23T13:34:00.004-04:00

With temperatures in the 90s under a full Florida sun, there's no shortage of exhausted athletes coming to the Gatorade bar to grab a cold drink. When the line starts forming, there's no time for our staff to say specific flavor names. But all the shorthand made us think: if "blue" were a flavor, what would it taste like?

Photos ho!

2009-05-23T13:04:00.008-04:00

The first usssoccer.com photo galleries are up now, so take a look for your club. More will come throughout the weekend as matches continue, thanks to our awesome photographers at isiphotos.com.

Be sure to check back later as we bring you a new episode of Studio 90!

Look-alike Contest?

2009-05-23T09:21:00.009-04:00

Day two of the Showcase is underway, and one of the first matches of the day is pitting the U-17/18 Columbus Crew against Match Fit Chelsea. The YNT Blog checked out the start of the game and the first thing we noticed is that the Chelsea keeper looks a LOT like Peter Cech—keeper of the real Chelsea F.C. of the English Premier League. Orange Jersey? Cech. Lanky arms? Cech. Short hair looking a little like a helmet? Ce--well, maybe from a distance. See for yourself, and call us crazy if we're wrong!

Day One in the Books

2009-05-22T19:53:00.005-04:00

With a 3-1 victory by the Under-17 Men's National Team against an Academy Select team, the first day of the 2009 Development Academy Spring Showcase has come to a close. Both teams were closely matched at first and went into halftime with a 1-1 game off early goals from Riley Wolfe for the Academy team and George Malki for the U-17s. But the second half saw the national team cash in on their chances, with finishes from Andrew Craven and Stefan Jerome putting the game away. Check out a full episode of Studio 90 tomorrow for highlights of this match and many others from throughout the day as the Showcase rolls on into day two!

Rain Delay

2009-05-22T15:53:00.003-04:00

After living up to its moniker for most of the day, the Sunshine State showed its darker side this afternoon as thunderstorms rolled in around us. With the safety of the players and referees foremost in their mind, Academy staff called for a suspension of games until the lightning passed. With teams off the field and under shelter, we waited out the worst and are happy to announce that games are back underway.

As for what's coming up, the YNT blog is off to watch the U-17 Men's National Team take on the first of two Academy Select teams. We'll be back after the game with more updates and news as Day 1 of the 2009 Development Academy Spring Showcase comes to a close.

USA Bid 2018/2022

2009-05-22T15:10:00.006-04:00

One of the biggest items in the Athletes' Lounge is the Bid Map. Stretched out from floor to ceiling and about 12 feet wide, this gigantic map of the U.S. shows each state in white. Armed with markers and pens, players and coaches from across the country are signing their names near their hometowns to show their support for the USA's bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2018 or 2022. Many players stated their desire to see a match near their hometowns, while others said they'd travel across the country for a chance to see their favorite stars. (And a few just wanted to show off their best professional autograph, we think). No matter what, the YNT blog is encouraged to see the support!

Loungin'

2009-05-22T13:56:00.013-04:00

Here at the Showcase, the most popular area for players is the Athletes' Lounge—an air-conditioned tent with Men's National Team highlights showing on a video wall, a fully stocked Gatorade bar (every flavor you can imagine) and a timeline detailing the history of the Development Academy and U.S. Men's National Team.

But the most popular area by far is the EA Sports zone, where players can chill out on couches and challenge their on-field opponents to some off-the-field FIFA 2009. Early results included a rematch of the 1998 FIFA World Cup Final (with Brazil defeating France 2-1 after a PK awarded in the 116th minute) and a preview of next week's UEFA Champions League final between Manchester United and Barcelona.

For those of you wondering how the REAL games are going, head on over to ussoccer's Development Academy website to check out results as they come in throughout the day.

Studio 90 News

2009-05-22T09:53:00.003-04:00

The first video from Sarasota is up as today's episode of Studio 90 News. Check out an interview with DA Select coach Hugo Perez, listen to some of the planned weekend events, and even get a look at our crack grounds crew getting the fields ready after a few days of fowl, err...foul weather. Enjoy!

2009 Development Academy Showcase Kicks Off

2009-05-22T09:14:00.004-04:00

The YNT Blog is back in action this weekend from Sarasota, Florida as the 2009 Spring Showcase begins with 146 teams from 73 clubs across the country. Stay tuned to ussoccer.com for Studio 90 updates, player profiles, photos and more throughout the weekend.

The Field is Set!

2009-05-12T15:54:00.006-04:00

It came down to the final group matches at the UEFA U-17 Championship, but the field of 24 teams for the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup is now set. Italy, Spain and Turkey will join Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland in representing Europe. Here is what the complete field looks like:

Asia
Iran
Japan
Korea Republic
United Arab Emirates

Africa
Algeria
Burkina Faso
Gambia
Malawi

Europe
Germany
Italy
Netherlands
Spain
Switzerland
Turkey

Oceania
New Zealand

North America
USA
Costa Rica
Honduras
Mexico

South America
Argentina
Brazil
Colombia
Uruguay

Host
Nigeria

U-17 CONMEBOL Completed, UEFA Taking Shape

2009-05-11T10:11:00.003-04:00

Colombia and Uruguay have clinched the third and fourth South American places at the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup by virtue of a four-team playoff.

As Brazil defeated Argentina in the regional championship to take the crown, with both teams already assured of a place in Nigeria, Uruguay, Colombia, Ecuador and Bolivia battled it out for the two remaining places. Uruguay made quick work of the final phase, drawing Bolivia before defeating Colombia and Ecuador to earn its World Cup berth.

Meanwhile, Colombia (home country of U.S. U-17 head coach Wilmer Cabrera) took it to the wire by bouncing back from a loss to Uruguay to top Ecuador 3-0 and Bolivia 2-1 to secure its passage to Nigeria.

Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, host Germany claimed the first semifinal berth at the UEFA U-17 Championship, thereby clinching the region's first spot in Nigeria. By virtue of a 3-1 win against Turkey and a comprehensive 4-0 win against England, Germany took control of Group B at home. The Netherlands outlasted Turkey to book their place in Nigeria as one of six European teams and are now looking for a place in the semifinals from Group B.

In UEFA's Group A, Switzerland has locked up the top place in Group A, along with a semifinal berth and trip to the '09 FIFA U-17 World Cup. Italy, Spain and France are all looking to secure trips to Nigeria on Tuesday when group play wraps up.

UEFA is the last region to finish qualifying for the event, and when the final three teams are decided on Tuesday, the 24-team field will be complete.

CONEMBOL U-17 Qualifying Update

2009-05-06T15:42:00.002-04:00

CONEMBOL is staging its U-17 qualifying tournament, with the top four teams set to head to Nigeria for the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup. The way it looks so far: Argentina and Brazil are in. The two traditional powerhouses topped their respective groups to earn automatic berths to the World Cup, with Brazil winning Group A on nine points and Argentina leading Group B on 10 points.

Two more qualifying spots are up for grabs, and four teams are playing a round robin to determine who heads to Africa. Colombia, Bolivia, Uruguay and Ecuador are vying for the ticket to the World Cup and with one game out of the way, Colombia leads the pack. Next up, Colombia faces Uruguay while Ecuador meets Bolivia. You can see these games live tonight on Gol TV (along with the rest of the tournament as it happens).

Meet Midfielder Jenna Richmond

2009-04-30T15:40:00.001-04:00

Struck down by an ACL injury nine months before the 2008 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, defensive midfielder Jenna Richmond (above left with 2008 U.S. Soccer Young Female Athlete of the Year Kristie Mewis) couldn’t quite make it back into contention for a roster spot on that team. Now, she is focusing on trying to make the U.S. squad for the 2010 U-20 FIFA Women’s World Cup, a tournament that will take place in Germany next summer.

During a break in U-20 WNT training camp at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif., the high school junior from Centreville, Va., took a few minutes to answer 11 Questions for Center Circle on ussoccer.com, ranging from her knee injury, to her short-term goals in 2009 and why Abby Wambach is “da bomb.”

Oh So Close!

2009-04-30T15:35:00.004-04:00

The U.S. Under-20 Women’s National Team is currently encamped at the The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif., during the very early stages of its preparations for qualifying for the 2010 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. After experiencing the highs and the lows of a run to the title game at the 2008 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, defender Cloee Colohan is preparing for another shot at lifting a trophy. You can read more about Colohan here.

Brazil Makes it 16

2009-04-30T11:43:00.003-04:00

Brazil became the 16th team to qualify for the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup by defeating Bolivia 3-0 and winning Group A of the CONMEBOL qualifiers.

Goals from Wellington, Dodo and Romario paved the way to the CONMEBOL Championship, where they will face Group B winner Argentina on May 9.

Colombia and Bolivia meet on Friday, with both desperate to secure a place in Nigeria. Vying for second and third spot in Group B are Uruguay, Ecuador and Chile. The second and third-place teams will cross over to play the second and third place teams from Group A to determine the remaining two South American representatives. Venezuela is already eliminated.

Along with the two South American spots still open, the final six berths to Nigeria will be determined at the UEFA U-17 Championship from May 6-18.

South America Qualifying Still Rolling

2009-04-28T14:00:00.002-04:00

Argentina grabbed the first CONMEBOL berth to the FIFA U-17 World Cup with a 2-0 win against Uruguay that sealed the top spot in Group B. The winners of the two groups - A and B - earn automatic bids to Nigeria and will battle for regional surpremacy in a championship match

The second and third place teams in each group will play a playoff to determine the third and fourth U-17 World Cup qualifiers from South America.

Heading Home

2009-04-27T16:47:00.002-04:00

Due to the growing concerns about the outbreak of swine flu in Mexico, CONCACAF General Secretary Chuck Blazer announced Monday that the remainder of the confederation’s Under-17 Championship in Tijuana has been canceled.

The U.S. team will leave Tijuana today and will return to Bradenton, Fla., where the players and staff will return to training and classes with the rest of the Under-17 Residency Program.

The U.S. Under-17 Men’s National Team clinched a berth in the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup by advancing to the semifinals, eventually winning Group A with victories against Cuba, Canada and Honduras. The U.S. was set to face Costa Rica in the semifinals on Wednesday, April 29, but with the four CONCACAF berths already determined the remainder of the event will not be played to safeguard the health of players, officials and fans.

Big Day Out!

2009-04-26T22:20:00.001-04:00

After a nice long recovery session this morning, the U.S. U-17s had a well-deserved afternoon off and ventured across the border to spend the day at Fashion Valley Mall in San Diego. The boys took in one of the movie options:

-Fighter
-I Love You Man
-Fast and the Furious
-Obsessed

I Love You Man got good reviews, as did Fast and the Furious (some players list the first of that series as their favorite movie). Fighter and Obsessed had mixed reviews.

After the flick, the players had a few hours to walk around, do a little bit of shopping (lots of Nike gear from the Nike Store) and enjoy the sunshine of the outdoor mall. We don't get out much here in Tijuana!

Then it was a change of pace for dinner - the Cheesecake Factory. We have been eating a lot of the athlete staples, simple proteins and complex carbs (lots of chicken, pasta and rice) so it was a good chance to have something different.

Then it was back on the bus and back across the border (going out of San Diego was much easier than coming in!) to get to the team hotel in time for an early bedtime.

Tomorrow, it's back to the grind and back to the practice field to get ready for Costa Rica!

Costa Rica It Is

2009-04-26T18:12:00.001-04:00

With Mexico's 1-0 victory against Costa Rica - via an own goal - this evening at Estadio Caliente, the hosts will take the top place in Group B. Costa Rica holds onto the second place, which means they will face the U.S. in the semifinals on Wednesday, April 29, at 12:30 p.m. PT. That game will be live on ussoccer.com's MatchTracker.

Below, Perry Kitchen updates the big standings table outside the training room to reflect all nine group games....

Meet Perry Kitchen

2009-04-26T11:31:00.000-04:00

U.S. U-17 MNT captain Perry Kitchen talked about his favorite memories and his friends and family in Indianapolis in the latest edition of "Get to Know Me"

2009-04-26T08:34:00.000-04:00

Just to round out coverage from last night's win against Honduras, we bring you video of the team's reaction to winning Group A:

SportsCenter Top 10

2009-04-26T04:18:00.002-04:00

We happened to catch ESPN Deportes this evening and were excited to see Jack McInerney's 36th minute goal vs. Honduras honored as one of the top plays of the day. Mixed in with everything from Serie A games to the NBA Playoffs to Major League Baseball, there was Jack.

Add it to his list of highlight reel goals we suppose..

Anyway, check it out by watching the whole game below!

Watch the Whole Game..... Here.

2009-04-26T04:15:00.001-04:00

1st Half:

2nd Half:

That'll Do it For Group A

2009-04-26T04:03:00.000-04:00

Honduras became the 12th team to qualify for the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Nigeria from Oct. 24-Nov. 15. They joined the U.S. and Mexico in representing CONCACAF, with one bid from the region still outstanding - that will be either Guatemala or Costa Rica and we'll find out tomorrow (Sunday).

New Zealand won the Oceania bid on Friday afternoon. Nigeria has an automatic bid as host of the tournament, joining Algeria, Burkina Faso, Gambia and Malawi in representing Africa. Asia has also completed qualifying with Iran, Japan, Korea Republic and Uzbekistan slated to represent the continent in Nigeria. The South American tournament is currently underway in Inquique, Chile.

Mexico Clinches

2009-04-24T18:43:00.000-04:00

Mexico became the second team from CONCACAF to qualify for this year's FIFA U-17 World Cup, as they combined a 3-0 win today against Guatemala with a 7-0 win against T&T in the opener. El Tri will join the U.S. in representing the region in Nigeria.

Two other teams from CONCACAF are still to be determined though - one will come to fruition tomorrow and the other on Saturday afternoon.

Meet Luis Gil

2009-04-24T15:17:00.000-04:00

The youngest member of the U-17 CONCACAF Championship team is our latest player to be featured in our on-going "Get to Know Me" series:

Dollar Store Treasure

2009-04-24T13:27:00.000-04:00

Well... look what we found today at the Dollar Store in Tijuana:

That's right, a lovely hat bearing the name Luis' last name (this must be Luis Gil day on the YNT Blog). And yes, it is a $1 store - everything in there is 13.50 pesos, or just about one American dollar.

That Makes a Baker's Dozen

2009-04-24T12:52:00.000-04:00

Sorry to those with Triskaidekaphobia, the U.S. has made it a lucky 13 trips to the U-17 World Cup... well, we suppose they will make it 13. Here are 13 other great things associated with the number 13:

There are 13 players in a rugby league team.
Kristine Lilly, who made more international appearances than any other player in the sport's history, wore #13 for the USA women's team (maybe you've heard of her)
The number of colonies that formed the United States. The original flag had thirteen stars, one for each state.
The American flag still has 13 stripes (seven red and six white)
In the Great Seal of the United States there are 13 olive leaves (with 13 olives), 13 arrows, and 13 stars.
Basketball Hall of Famer Wilt Chamberlain wore number 13. Three NBA teams, plus the Harlem Globetrotters, have retired his number.
Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino wore number 13 for the Miami Dolphins, who retired his number in 2000.
13 is the oungest age a minor can watch a PG-13 rated movie by the MPAA without the recommendation of parental guidance or parental consent.
Ozzie Guillén, manager of the 2005 World Series Champion Chicago White Sox, has worn the number throughout his baseball career.
Colgate University also considers 13 to be a lucky number. They were founded in 1819 by 13 men with 13 dollars, 13 prayers, and 13 articles.
Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Steve Nash wears the number 13.
Thirteen is a prime number
E Pluribus Unum - well that has 13 letters

This is all boding very well for the United States so far... Can you add any others?