COVERDragon...
...Interviews...WSYSA President...
...Doug Andreassen!The Pulse! No. #11COVER STORY & LATEST HEADLINES:"DRAGON'S INTERVIEW WITH WSYSA PRESIDENT ~
DOUG ANDREASSEN!!!"First off I would like to say that I (Dragon) wrote the President of WSYSA and asked his permission for an "email interview". He graciously agreed to do one for all of you readers of the Pulse! The questions were originated by myself, so if you don't like the questions you can only blame Dragon :lol: I wanted the interview geared towards the "newer" parents to select/premier soccer who have limited understanding of what WSYSA & the position of President is all about. Not only was Doug kind enough to answer all the questions, but he stayed up late (he sent the answers long after D goes to bed) answering them for all of you just so you would be able to read them in this issue of the Pulse!!!
Enjoy :mrgreen:
DRAGON: Doug, how long has you been involved with youth soccer in Washington State either as a parent, coach, or administrator?DOUG: I have been involved in soccer as a parent, coach and a as an administrator for over 16 years in one capacity or another. Like many members I too started at the club level, and then my association and then on to the President of WSYSA I filled the need to coach and then saw the need to be involved in my community club, which attracted me to volunteer at the Association level in various offices, and saw that I could provide some leadership as one of forty two association presidents. I finally saw the need to fill a void at WSYSA and I chose to run for President.DRAGON: Do you have children that play soccer now or in the past? How was there experience? DOUG: Yes in the past and currently, they have played at multiple levels in WSYSA. I have hung nets, striped fields, filled in holes on fields and other numerous activities. They have all had a wonderful experience with a few challenges thrown in, as with most members.DRAGON: When did you decide that you wanted to run for president of WSYSA? Being that this was a major decision, how supportive was your family?DOUG: I decided to run in June of 2006, while on a family holiday, when I noticed that access to communications was difficult, items like no answers to the emails, no answers to the phone calls, no replies from state officers and while attending national events I found our state lagging further and further behind the other states. I felt then and still feel that I could do more. My family was supportive, however not knowing the complete time commitments that are required, they encouraged me to run for the office. Now four months into the office the family now wonders where I am at, more often that not. I have displaced family vacations, holidays and other events in an effort to provide top notch service to the members and get the WSYSA house in order. My goal is to professionalize how WSYSA operates, from top to bottom. By the way we have along ways to go. This position takes a lot of support from my family, they support my commitment to youth soccer 100%, and I appreciate that from them every day.DRAGON: Is being the President of WSYSA a full time job for you, or do you also have another non-soccer related job? DOUG: As President of WSYSA it is a volunteer position, I have another non soccer related position(s) I occupy in the private sector. I have a great deal of responsibility to my employees and their lives, just as I feel that commitment to the WSYSA members. DRAGON: If you could list one personal goal that is important to you to accomplish while in office, what would it be? DOUG: To provide programs at all levels for the kids to play soccer, whether it be recreational, select and premier. My goal is to provide quality programs from the top level of soccer to the recreational level. If I can get people excited about the game of soccer and what it provides to you as a member of our soccer community, our society, and to contribute to our world around us. Soccer is a game of passion.DRAGON: How often in your busy life do you get a chance to go out and watch youth soccer? DOUG: I get out almost every weekend, weekdays some times and even a game or two for ethics/judicial reasons. I have a lot of friends who play the game and their kids who play, I watch many games for the thrill of watching soccer. I like to see the soccer community, listen to the soccer community and see how the rules, policies and other items we do affect the games. DRAGON: Do you have any funny stories that have taken place since you have been in office? DOUG: I occasionally will be at the WSYSA office and will answer a phone call. One individual called and said she was trying to contact the State President. I told her I am that person and what could I help her with, she angrily responded to stop placating her and to transfer to the President. She said she had been calling the state office for over 3 years in an attempt to talk to the President. I again informed her that I was that person. There was a moment of silence. She then said she forgot what her concern was and hung up the phone on me, I have yet to hear from her, if you are out there and read this message, email me, I am still eager to answer your concerns! DRAGON: How many hours do you normally put in, in 1 week related to your job and soccer as a whole?DOUG: I put in anywhere between 25 to 35 hours a week into soccer, everything from meetings, answering email, disusing soccer topics with community members, meeting with staff, meeting with marketing firms etc etc etc. this is in addition to my private sector companies where I will put in another 50 + hours a week. DRAGON: What is your personal “Vision” of Washington soccer in the future? DOUG: My vision is to reach out to those communities that are being under served, provide diversity to all WSYSA and to leave office someday with programs that serve all of our players abilities as well as have the members feel that the WSYSA office/staff are as professional as any sports organization, whether it be youth or professional in the country.DRAGON: If you could tell our readers one thing about yourself that they probably don’t know, what would it be?DOUG: I am an avid fan of sports car racing around the world. I have enjoyed that for 30+ years and travel around the world to watch these events. I also collect and have owned several sports cars. BONUS QUESTION:
Doug took his time to add onto our interview, and give us some wonderful insight into what he and the members of WSYSA are hoping to accomplish in the future!DOUG: I frequently get asked what is on my soccer plate at any given time, so I have provided you here a list of 52 items that are currently on my plate, they are not in order of importance or critical nature, however I do work on all of them simultaneously.1. Diversity in WSYSA.
2. Risk Management, to provide programs to protect our members.
3. Recreation Issues
4. PDL issues
5. Membership passes
6. Player passes
7. Registration questions and certification
8. Updating Play On publication
9. Revising Soccer Fair from Top to bottom
10. Revising the Web site/Spanish
11. Coaching clinics in Spanish
12. All of our forms, books and other materials in Spanish
13. Soccer Summits for all parts of the state
14. Recreation Summit
15 WSYSA office restructuring
16. Budget Items
17. Insurance issues as they relate to our players
18. Legal issues that confront WSYSA on a monthly basis
19. Development programs for our members
20. Attending Club events, Association Events, District events
21. Reviewing all state leagues from Top to bottom
22. Reviewing all State Cups from Top to bottom
23. Revising WSYSA Logo and mission
24. Reviewing our Rules and guidelines
25. Reviewing our Disciplinary Rules
26. Interaction with Region 4 on State Issues
27. Interaction with US Youth on Diversity, Programs for our youth
28. Better communication systems with our members
29. Professionalize WSYSA office
30. Work with our Exec Director on multiple issues
31. Interaction with USSF and our Academy teams
32. MLS in Seattle
33. Sounders and promotions
34. Promotion of WSYSA within our State
35. Communication with Assoc Presidents
36. Communication with Districts
37. Communication with Clubs
38. Advise to clubs on administrative issues
39. Responding to members concerns
40. Bonzi system
41. Field Issues and how we can provide new Fields to our members.
42. Sponsorships to help keep our Fees reduced.
43. Sponsorships contacts
44. Administrative hearings
45. Judicial hearings and how we can improve them
46. Referees, how to improve
47. Coaching Director and coaching clinics
48. State League Brkfst of Champions
49. Soccer Ball for every player
50. Interaction with other State Presidents in ideas and issues that affect WSYSA.
51. Returning to a Public Draw for State Cup. Be ready!
52. ATTRACTING A TOP NOTCH SPEAKER FOR SOCCER FAIR DINNER. ANY SUGGESTIONS? DRAGON: Thank you Doug for taking time out of your very busy schedule to answer these questions for the Pulse! We all look forward to you accomplishing all the items on your "plate".
And to borrow a line you wrote to me; "Look forward to more communication not less". :mrgreen: :mrgreen: HEADLINES!"Another New Moderator Joins the Team to make the Pulse your one stop place for the lastest info on youth soccer!Thanks needs to go out to:
93soccerdad!New moderator for the D5 section! Thank you for putting in some of your free time to continue to make this the best site ever! :mrgreen:
THE MEGSON DYNASTY!Don Megson
Cyril Megson
Gary Megson
Neil Megson
Always browsing through team/club websites; we came across a nice article on Crossfire's Asst Coaching Director, Neil Megson, and his family history. This article was originally published back in the day, in a UK Fanzine called; "Grorty Dick". Enjoy the article:That our (West Bromwich Albion) Gaffer has a Dad who also made his name in the beautiful game is well known. Albion supporters aged over 50 will recall Don Megson, who played for the Owls first team between 1959 and 1970. Don came to the professional stage quite late, making his debut at the age of 23. Included in his footballing apprenticeship prior to that were a couple of games for Mossley in the Cheshire League, in the 1952/53 season.
Some six months before his professional debut, Don became a proud Dad and no doubt was eager to teach his young son significant words like “pass” and “don’t foul.” Wednesday were a powerful side in those days, and in 1966, reached the FA Cup Final where they led 2-0 before losing 3-2. After 440 games for Wednesday, the midfielder joined Bristol Rovers, where he played 31 games. Don went to manage the side for over five years, leaving in November 1977. His goalkeeper for much of that time was one Dick Sheppard. During the latter part of that spell, he was able to fix up a trial for his eldest lad at Plymouth, who were suitably impressed, and signed him up. After managing Rovers, Megson Senior had a big offer from the States in the form of an opportunity to move to Oregon and coach Portland Timbers. This was a major upheaval for the family, but clearly Don made a decent impression, because he set a new club record for victories, which still holds to this day. The team won 20 fixtures before losing to the New York Cosmos in the Conference Finals. How many of the matches finished 1-0 is not recorded.
Son Gary was making a name for himself at Home Park, Plymouth, but younger brother Neil went with the Megson family to the States, and basically never returned home (unlike the rest of the family, who went back to the UK after two years). His playing career included a stint with the Seattle Sounders (North American Soccer League) in 1983, and nine indoors seasons with the Tacoma Stars (1983-92), where he was a two-time MISL All-Star. He played for the US national team in 1988, and then after returning to Seattle in 1995, his Sounders team won the Championship. He moved into coaching in March 1996, while still playing as sweeper, replacing Alan Hinton as coach. His popularity with his teammates gave him the edge over 7 other candidates.
Neil ran the Seattle Sounders for five years, and was named A-League coach of the year in 2000. “The 5-2-3 lineup pitched by Megson was a joy to watch, with all backs attacking at times and everyone defending when the opponents had the ball” said Seattle Pitch News. Megson- coached Sounders teams made the playoffs every year, and reached at least the second round of the playoffs every season. He holds a USSF “B” licence.
Neil, aged 41 now lives in Galleon Drive, Tacoma, with wife Vicky, son Alex, and daughter Samantha. In between tipping off his brother about talent like Jeff Agoos, he currently works as the Technical Director of FC Kitsap. They claim to be the premier soccer club on the Kitsap Peninsula, with more teams playing in the Washington State Youth League.
In December, the FC Kitsap coach Mike Meherg talked him into taking on an additional job, running Olympic College's fledgling soccer programme for both men and women from autumn this year. "He said it was a bit of a shame, because there was so much talent, and nowhere to go in the community," said Megson, "Mike asked if I'd be interested, and the old coaching juices got flowing again. The challenge was thrown down and we'll take it on next year. I enjoy coaching youth," he said. "It's not the highest and most demanding coaching position. In professional leagues, the results mean everything, and sometimes you forget to enjoy it. The kids, they're a lot more gung-ho, if you know what I mean. They make more mistakes, but you just have to put up with it. They're there to go to school first and play soccer secondly."
There are more footballing Megsons out there Take Uncle Cyril.
Just like brother Don, Cyril Megson also played for Mossley FC, and just like Don, transferred from the quaintly-named Linotype & Machinery. The big difference was Cyril stayed with the Seel Park club for seven years upwards (1951-1958 and scored an impressive 94 goals from his wing in 219 games.) Not surprisingly, he was the club top scorer for three years in a row, but missed a year out of his career with Mossley due to a fractured skull. In 1952, the local Sentinel newspaper described one of his goals against Ashton United in the FA Cup. “ The winger looked a match-winner from the first minute. After five minutes he shocked Ashton into silence by scoring in typical Megson style. Receiving a pass near the halfway line, Megson moved ten yards down the touchline, switched inside suddenly and with Ashton defenders waiting for him to pass, Megson put in a shot from 25 yards, which dipped in the downfield wind, and the ball was in the net. What a cup-tie tonic!”
Neil Megson’s son Alex is 17, and already has honours to his name. In 2001, he was the Washington State Under 15 Champion, and in 2001 and 2002, he was the Rainier Challenge Champion (whatever that is, but it sounds impressive!) He’s typically Megson sized at only 5 foot 8, which makes him one of the shortest members of the 2003 FC United U-18 Navy Team. He also turns out for his college side – the Stadium Tigers from Tiger High School. “Stadium boys are shocking the league with their impressive record and goal-scoring ability” enthused the school magazine excitedly.
Meanwhile, back in beautiful down-town Sheffield, Simon Megson is quietly making a name for himself in Sheffield. Imagine the effect on the coach when Dad turns up to watch… “err umm more effort lads,… don’t foul … errr PASS!” Is the third generation of footballing Megson’s on the way? Bank on it. It’s in their blood. The reason they re-published this story is due to Neil's brother recently getting a coaching position for the Leicester City Football Club of the Champions League back in the UK. Here is the link for that article if you would like to read more about it:
http://www.crossfiresoccer.org/home/203973.html
Nice story :mrgreen:LEAGUE LOONEYNESS!"League News!"First we will look at the "highlighted" games that happened this past weekend:
PASTU11(Boys)
NWN Red vs
WPFC Black: Dragon went with the boys in black on this one, predicted 3-1. Actual score was- 5-0
U12Crossfire T. vs
ECFC Green: Dragon picked the Xgals to win 2-1, the actual score was- 1-0 Crossfire!
U13EFC Red vs
Reign Purple: Dragon picked EFC to win this one 1-0, the actual score was- a 2-2 tie!
U14Patriots Blue 93 vs
FC @&*$# 94: Dragon went with the Patriots to win this one 2-1, the actual score was- 4-1 SSFC girls!
Dragon 2 wins 2 loses in the "big games" this week.For all other game scores go to our new
STANDINGS AREA. For recaps though, you know what to do....please look to our Recap thread for week #2:
http://washingtonpremiersoccer.com/phpBB/viewtopic.php?t=6329and as always, If there is not enough blah blah blah there for you, then you only have
yourselfs to blame :lol:
FUTURELets see what games Dragon has picked for the GOTW's in week #3!
BU11 -
Crossfire M. vs
NWN Red - Last two times NW has won, will this be any different?
Dragon say - NWN 2-1GU12 -
Lil' Red vs
Crossfire T. - Think both teams are on a high right now...but..
Dragon says - Thomas girls 2-0GU13 -
Bend Storm vs
Ireland - Battle of the unbeatens!!! Could go either way.
Dragon say - 2-2 tie!GU14 - none on the radar (as posted by the CP's) :?
That's it for now. Will do 4 more "highlighted gotw" next issue :mrgreen:
WPS PLAYERS OF THE WEEK!!!
U11NONE!very sad no one got recognition this week :cry:
U12#1 MADI - MRFC COSMOS!!!Madi came off the bench in both halfs, to score both goals in a 2-0 victory for her team. Both goals were left footed, and she is a righty! Dragon proud of you little super star! :mrgreen:
U13NONE!very sad no one got reconition this week :cry:
U14#13 and #12 BRI & HANNA - NEMESIS 93!!!First time ever that we have a "2 for 1" special on POTW! These young superstars celebrated both their birthdays by scoring hat-tricks (combined) over the weekend! Very cool gals! Dragon very proud of you both! :mrgreen:
Thats it for this week, keep those nominations coming in next week!! :mrgreen:
CRAZY PARENT WATCH:"Shout out to da newbies"A few new posters this week that Dragon noticed! As always lets give a shout out to all the new ones that have taken the time to post at least one post since joining recently:
This week Dragon would like to point out!
ChevySoccer
Skagitonian
Old lady RiverAs always it is great to see so many new members here on the Pulse of Washington soccer!
"A view from the Mini-Van"
Observations:
While sitting in the car before my child’s game this weekend, I was observing parents talking/listening to their children after the game, on the way to their car.
There were two very different scenarios; 1- the kid who is sometimes smiling, sometimes not, but very talkative and head up regardless of the outcome of the game and the parent is LISTENING, then, 2- the other parent, TALKING to their child, child head hung down looking at the ground not saying a word, again regardless of the outcome.
Which one are you?
"WPS Paparazzi"Our Staff Paparazzi did such a good job in the past few weeks at keeping us up to date on the new field down at River Road, I asked him to keep me updated weekly! (gee with all this free publicity, maybe Coach Fish will finally do that interview for me or even coach Robi from the Uberteam)
Who wants some free sand? Nice sign huh?
Ready for some black little pebbles almost!Thanks Papa-R
As always, you rock!! :mrgreen:
...and now a blantant advertisment brought to you by the Pulse (hey, you can't have a newsletter without classified ads!) LOL
For Sale 1953 Chevy Belair 2Dr HT Send inquiries to the Pulse email address
"...Out on the Pitch"Please submit pictures for the newsletter to the Pulse email
...A young 93 Nemesis player (Moose) listens to the Ref's plea; "OK, I will not call that goal off-sides if you can get your dad to let me drive his stang!"
Happiness is....when you can enjoy a friend's birthday party, and be totally unaware that over 222 CP's yaked about your team name "Help! Is there a Doctor in the house?"*Send all medical questions for "the doctor" to the Pulse email address*This is a great article on Concussions and a checklist for all to copy and carry in their pockets/medical bags for games!
Concussion, or mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI), is the most common and least serious type of traumatic brain injury. A milder type of diffuse axonal injury, concussion involves a transient loss of mental function. It can be caused by acceleration or deceleration forces, or by a direct blow. Concussion is generally not associated with penetrating injuries
The brain floats within the skull surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), one of the functions of which is to protect the brain from normal light "trauma", e.g., being jostled in the skull by walking, jumping, etc., as well as mild head impacts. More severe impacts or the forces associated with rapid acceleration/deceleration may not be absorbed by this cushion.
Concussion is considered a type of diffuse brain injury (as opposed to focal brain injury), meaning that the dysfunction occurs over a more widespread area of the brain.
Symptoms of concussion can include a period of unconsciousness for less than 30 minutes, vomiting, confusion, and visual disturbances. Amnesia, the hallmark sign of concussion, can be retrograde amnesia (loss of memories that were formed before the injury) or anterograde amnesia (loss of memories formed post-injury). In concussion, amnesia is much more likely to be anterograde (also called post traumatic amnesia or PTA). This type of amnesia is the inability to create and save new memories, much like the process of saving something from the RAM on a computer to its hard drive. Amnesia may not become apparent until the next day or the next week. A common example in sports concussion is the quarterback who was able to conduct all the complicated mental tasks of leading a football team after a concussion, but has no recollection the next day or the part of the game that took place after the concussion.
Patients with concussion may act confused, for example repeatedly asking the same questions, or forgetting where they are. Patients may have focal neurological deficits, signs that a specific part of the brain is not working correctly.
The most critical mistake for those suffering from concussion, is not returning for further medical care and evaluation in the time period of 24 to 72 hours after the concussive event, if the symptoms are getting worse. Athletes, especially intercollegiate or professional athletes would typically be followed closely by team trainers during such period. But those injured in accidents may be sent home with no medical person monitoring them unless the situation gets worse. If the person had a concussion yesterday, and they don't have a clear recollection of the time period between the concussion and today, then they are likely suffering from Post-Traumatic Amnesia, and are more likely to have a long term or permanent problems.
Concussion is classified into five grades
The mildest, grade I, involves only confusion.
Grade II involves anterograde amnesia that lasts less than five minutes as well as confusion.
Grade III involves the symptoms above, as well as retrograde amnesia and unconsciousness for less than five minutes
Grade IV involves all of the above symptoms, as well as unconsciousness that lasts between 5 and 10 minutes.
Grade V is the same as grade IV, with unconsciousness lasting longer than ten minutes.
The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) guidelines make it clear that permanent brain injury can occur with either Grade 2 or Grade 3 concussion. Thus, it is clear that subtle brain injury can have permanent consequences if the acute symptoms of the concussion continue for more than 15 minutes.
Each grade of concussion comes with different recommendations for patients who play sports:
In grade I, the patient may return to contact sports in 1 week.
A patient with a second time grade I concussion may return to play contact sports in 2 weeks after being asymptomatic for a week.
In grade II, the patient may return to contact sports in 1 week of being asymptomatic.
A second time grade II may return to play contact sports 1 month after being asymptomatic for a week.
In grade III, the patient may return to contact sports in 1 month.
For a patient with a second time grade III concussion, the season is over.
However, if the patient has repeated concussions after contact sports, grade I x 3, grade II x 2, and especially grade III x 2, then it should be recommended that the season is over and a thorough medical evaluation should be considered manSome concussions can have serious, lasting effects. The symptoms of most concussions are resolved in 48 to 72 hours, but in many patients, problems persist.
Concussion Checklist Management of Concussion in Sports
Grades of Concussion
Grade 1: Transient confusion (inattention, inability to maintain a coherent stream of thought and carry out goal-directed movements)
No loss of consciousness
Concussion symptoms or mental status abnormalities on examination resolve in less than 15 minutes
Grade 2: Transient confusion
No loss of consciousness
Concussion symptoms or mental status abnormalities (including amnesia) on examination last more than 15 minutes
Grade 3: Any loss of consciousness
Brief (seconds)
Prolonged (minutes)
Management Recommendations Grade 1: Remove from contest
Examine immediately and at 5 minute intervals for the development of mental status abnormalities or post-concussive symptoms at rest and with exertion
May return to contest if mental status abnormalities or post-concussive symptoms clear within minutes
Grade 2: Remove from contest and disallow return that day
Examine on-site frequently for signs of evolving intracranial pathology
A trained person should reexamine the athlete the following day
A physician should perform a neurologic examination to clear the athlete for return to play after 1 full asymptomatic week at rest and with exertion
Grade 3: Transport the athlete from the field to the nearest emergency department by ambulance if still unconscious or if worrisome signs are detected (with cervical spine immobilized, if indicated)
A thorough neurologic evaluation should be performed emergently, including appropriate neuroimaging procedures when indicated
Hospital admission is indicated if any signs of pathology are detected, or if the mental status of the athlete remains abnormal
When to Return to Play Grade of Concussion: Return to Play only After Being Asymptomatic with Normal Neurologic Assessment at Rest and with Exercise:
Grade 1 Concussion At least 15 minutes
Multiple Grade 1 Concussions 1 week
Grade 2 Concussion 1 week
Multiple Grade 2 Concussions 2 weeks
Grade 3 - Brief Loss of Consciousness (seconds) 1 week
Grade 3 - Prolonged Loss of Consciousness (minutes) 2 weeks
Multiple Grade 3 Concussions 1 month or longer, based on decision of evaluating physician Features of Concussion Frequently Observed Vacant stare (befuddled facial expression)
Delayed verbal and motor responses (slow to answer questions or follow instructions)
Confusion and inability to focus attention (easily distracted and unable to follow through with normal activities)
Disorientation (walking in the wrong direction; unaware of time, date and place)
Slurred or incoherent speech (making disjointed or incomprehensible statements)
Gross observable incoordination (stumbling, inability to walk tandem/straight line)
Emotions out of proportion to circumstances (distraught, crying for no apparent reason)
Memory deficits (exhibited by the athlete repeatedly asking the same question that has already been answered, or inability to memorize and recall 3 of 3 words or 3 of 3 objects in 5 minutes)
Any period of loss of consciousness (paralytic coma, unresponsiveness to arousal)
Sideline Evaluation Mental Status Testing
Orientation: Time, place, person, and situation (circumstances of injury).
Concentration: Digits backward (i.e., 3-1-7, 4-6-8-2, 5-3-0-7-4).
Months of the year in reverse order.
Memory: Names of teams in prior contest.
Recall of 3 words and 3 objects at 0 and 5 minutes.
Recent newsworthy events.
Details of the contest (plays, moves, strategies, etc.)
Exertional Provocative Tests
40 yard sprint
5 push-ups
5 sit-ups
5 knee-bends Neurological Tests
Strength
Coordination
Sensation
Any appearance of associated symptoms is abnormal, e.g. headaches, dizziness, nausea, unsteadiness, photophobia, blurred or double vision, emotional lability, or mental status changes.
For more information about the management of Concussion in Sports Public Education Campaign, please call the American Academy of Neurology at (651) 695-1940 or the Brain Injury Association at (703) 761-0750 GIRLS U13 NORTH-CALIFORNIA REPORTS!!!Well what can Dragon say? WPS rules Washington when it comes to reporting youth soccer...we are slowly but surely taking over Oregon as well...Sooo, what was Dragon to do? Keep branching out of course! :lol: So the next logical soccer-mecca for Dragon to reach out to was the state of California who is broken down into two sections (Nor-Cal and So-Cal). Dragon hunted high and low to find a parent of one of the best (if not the best) U13 team in Nor-Cal. He found one! So, Dragon is adopting the Central Valley ChiliPeppers as our Nor-Cal team (State Champs at U12), and they are going to give us weekly updates on their team and some of their competition! Cal-North now...tomorrow the world :lol:
Dragon, Lets start with last weekends results. The
Peppers are off to a
2-0 start in
District 2 Cal North winning both games opening weekend vs
Deanza 1-0 and the
CV Revolution 8- 0. Maddie our GK had to have surgery on the arm she broke in our Tournaments Championship game vs
Mustang Blast. We lost to
Mustang 1-0 but played the whole 2nd half without subs due to injuries and ODP. The other big team at U13, the
Mustang Blast opened up with a decisive
4 -0 vistory over
Lamorinda and then tied
DVSC 1-1 who played with only 10 players in the 2nd half. That's it for week #1, for week #2 here are some of the scores from our Dist 3 and Dist 2-
District 3
Dubkin Flame 1 Mustang United 0
Mustang Blast 5 Pleasanton Rage 0
ACC Mavericks 1 Lamorinda 0
Bay Oaks Speed demons 2 DVSC 0
In District 2
Chilipeppers 2 Santa Cruz 0
Orchard Valley Storm 2 Deanza Force 1
Almaden Ice 0 Cenral Valley Revolution 0
Here is my recap for the C.P. game on 9-15:
The goals were scored by Marrissa #13 and Celeste #14 both in the 1st half off of assists from Zarette #15 and Colby #4. Our defense recorded their 3rd straight shutout as Sam #21, Brittany #2 Sloan #5 and Sarina #16 were outstanding allowing only 3 shots on our goalie Leslie # 11. We will get our defender Hannah #12 back this week from her broken arm before regionals and Maddie #8 our keeper had successful surgery to put a plate in her right forearm that she broke.
We also picked up an excellent midfielder who is transferring over from a D2 rival. When all paperwork is finalized we will introduce her
The Chilipeppers!Thanks ChiliPepper-Reporter! Look forward to your report next week!!!
Hope Maddie get well and recovers soon, we up here in Washington will have her in our thoughts :mrgreen:
OTHER NEWS AND GOSSIP AND TIDBITS:"COACHS CORNER!"This weeks topic for the coach is
"Bad coaching?"This weeks article comes from a parents who asked a very good question:
"So........what do you do when your Coach is not getting the job done? How do you talk to the coach without hurting your kid"?
This is something you run into with just about every team at every age. There’s always some parent that disagrees with the coach, and either his coaching style, ability, or knowledge. However, I am not here to defend the coaches, because there are situations where the coach may be at fault. The first thing I would do in this situation is make a list of all the things that your coach has done that you do not agree with, and the reasons why they are not getting the job done. Also before you do anything you should probably have an idea of what solutions you are hoping to come to, whether that be keeping the same coach but having him change some of his coaching style, or whether you believe he is not a good person for the job and should be removed. And please remember just because you feel he should be removed does not mean he will be, or that being removed is the best thing for the team. That is just your opinion.
Next thing DO NOT TALK TO THE COACH about this. If you do you are asking for confrontation and this is where things could go poorly for your relationship with him and with your child and him. Instead set up a meeting with the coaching director. This is part of their job after all and any good coaching director would be happy to meet with you. Take your list with you and bring up all your concerns. Most likely they will not make any decisions right there, and they will also try to calm you down and do the whole political correct stuff. Just be prepared for that. Once you are getting towards the end of the meeting finish by giving them a deadline that you would like to hear back from him. And not 24 hours give them at least a week to look into it.
Next step is up to the Coaching director. They will most likely take your concerns to the coach (and they should be doing this in confidence and not bringing up the names of the individuals who made the complaints ) In the meeting with the coach (which I have been a part of some of these meetings) they usually will just get the coaches opinions on the topics discussed. Of course its usually a different story. This is where things get difficult for the DOC. At this point they will usually ask around to some parents they trust off the team or other coaches close to the team to figure out which side is closer to the truth. After which they will usually make some sort of decisions and changes.
Do not expect the coach to be replaced, that is the last case scenario and rarely happens. Instead expect some other solutions like: another coach coming to help out the current coach, An email from the coach acknowledging the problems he has had and what he intends to do to fix them, or any other number of solutions that usually start with better communication.
This is the best way to approach this situation because if done right names are left out and problems get solved. I hate to say it but expect quicker changes and solutions from bigger clubs also. You may be asking yourself what difference this would have, well there’s a few key reasons. First of all bigger clubs generally have paid directors whose job is to deal with these issues. Plus they have more resources for easier solutions, such as bringing in more coaches to help out with the current coach. It has nothing to do with which club is better, it has everything to do with the resources at hand.
Hopefully this helps you out in your current situation. It’s times like this I wish I knew who you were and if you lived in my area because I would love to help you out throughout the process. However, if you do it calmly and think through it you should be fine.
"VIEW FROM BEHIND THE WHISTLE"Myths of the Game and other Nonsense
Over the next few weeks in Dragon's newsletter, I’d like to help clear up some common myths in soccer. My intent is to help increase an understanding of the game and the basis of some referee decisions.
Obstruction ref!
In the Beautiful game, the foul is Impeding the progress of an opponent.
From Laws of the Game 2007/2008:
Impeding the progress of an opponent means moving into the path of the opponent to obstruct, block, slow down or force a change of direction by an opponent when the ball is not within playing distance of either player.
All players have a right to their position on the field of play, being in the way of an opponent is not the same as moving into the way of an opponent.
Shielding the ball is permitted. A player who places himself between an opponent and the ball for tactical reasons has not committed an offence as long as the ball is kept in playing distance and the player does not hold off the opponent with his arms or body. If the ball is within playing distance, the player may be fairly charged by an opponent.
Impeding usually occurs with no contact between opponents. If contact occurs, the foul is more likely holding or pushing.
Note that shielding a ball that is within playing distance is permitted, even when this is done to prevent an opponent from playing the ball as it goes in to touch. This is not “Obstruction ref!”
"Dear Eggy"Dear Eggy,
My oldest DD (20 yrs old) has a crush on my younger daughter's coach. She wants to approach him but she is really shy. I know he is single but I have a strange feeling his is "not into girls" if you know what I mean. Should I tell me oldest daughter, or let her find out for herself?
Signed, unsure in cowtown.Dear Cowtown,
It's time to let your oldest DD fly. She may be surprised and find her soul mate. She may have a reality check and find her first heartbreak.
Who knows maybe it will work out and the younger DD will get more playing time. Good luck and watch where you step.
:lol: :lol: :lol:
"My 2 cents worth...The Posters Voice!"
Here is an idea for a Premier league that does not use LPT's. Has a combination of Promotion/Relegation at the higher levels ... and RPI for lower levels.
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PREMIER LEAGUE STRUCTURE
Because of various factors, the Premier League has been split between the WSPL and the PDL. The result is that there are more teams playing in a Premier League than in years past.
This year there are 51 girls U13 teams playing in either the WSPL or PDL. In addition, there are 4 GU13 teams playing up in the WSPL and several other quality teams playing in Oregon.
I am sure that the following is just one opinion out of many.
PACIFIC NORTHWEST PREMIER LEAGUE
To leave old names behind, lets refer to this new league as the Pacific Northwest Premier League (PNPL).
This league will incorporate a few ideas brought forth in the WSYSA summit. This includes the following ...
1. Club Player Passes
2. Fall & Spring Season
3. Elimination of LPT's
4. Use of an RPI
LEAGUE ENTRY - INITIAL YEAR
The initial seeding of the PNPL will be strictly based on a RPI forumla. For this exercise, I have used BC's GU13 End of Summer Ratings.
Please do not take offense if your team is in the WSPL or PDL and is not listed here.
This example uses the U13 age as the initial year for entering the league, but it could be rolled out at an earlier age such as U12. No matter where the league starts, it is important that teams wishing to enter the PNPL exist the year prior to establish their initial RPI. So if the league starts at U12, teams must exist and build their RPI at U11.
Any RPI should be published. While most will never understand the math behind any RPI calculation, it is important that the general soccer community know what factors are used. This could include State Cup, local tournaments, league games etc.
RPI will have to be kept for all teams in the state for entry into the league at later age groups. For this example that would start at the U14 age.
LEAGUE STRUCTURE - INITIAL YEAR
The PNPL will place 52 teams into three divisions.
Division 1 will consist of 12 teams in two conferences.
Division 2 will consist of 16 teams in two conferences.
Division 3 will consist of 24 teams in four conferences.
An example of seeding the top 52 teams (Using BC's Ratings) is at the end.
FALL SEASON
As per the recommendation at the WSYSA Summit, the fall season will run from September to Thanksgiving weekend.
Division 1 - Each conference of 6 teams will play a 10 game, home/home schedule within their conference.
Division 2 - Each conference of 8 teams will play as 14 game, home/home schedule within their conference.
Division 3 - Each conference of 6 teams will play a 10 game, home/home schedule within their conference.
MID SEASON PROMOTION/RELEGATION
After the fall season and prior to the spring season, Divisions will be remixed using a promotion/relegation based on the fall league results.
Division 1 - Bottom two teams from each conference will be relegated to Division 2 for the spring. Using the example at the end, the following will occur.
PNPL D1-CASCADE
5TH -> D2-COLUMBIA
6TH -> D2-CLEARWATER
PNPL D1-PUGET SOUND
5TH -> D2-CLEARWATER
6TH -> D2-COLUMBIA
Division 2 - Top two teams from each conference will be promoted to Division 1 for the spring. In addition, the 7th & 8th placed teams will be relegated to Division 3.
PNPL D2-COLUMBIA
1ST -> D1-CASCADE
2ND -> D1-PUGET SOUND
7TH -> D3-OAK
8TH -> D3-MAPLE
PNPL D2-CLEARWATER
1ST -> D1-PUGET SOUND
2ND -> D1-CASCADE
7TH -> D3-SPRUCE
8TH -> D3-FIR
DIVISION 3 - The top team in each conference will be promoted to Division 2 for the spring season.
PNPL D3-OAK
1ST -> D2-CLEARWATER
PNPL D3-MAPLE
1ST -> D2-CLEARWATER
PNPL D3-SPRUCE
1ST -> D2-COLUMBIA
PNPL D3-FIR
1ST -> D2-COLUMBIA
SPRING SEASON
As per the recommendations, the spring season will run from February to early April.
Division 1 - Each conference will play a 12 game season, home/home crossover schedule with teams from the opposite conference.
Division 2 - Each conference will play a 8 games season against the opposite conference.
Division 3 - Each conference will play a 12 games season, home/home crossover schedule with teams from a paired conference. Example D3-OAK <->D3-SPRUCE and D3-MAPLE <-> D3-FIR
POST SEASON
As per the WSYSA Summit Recommendations, State Cup will be played April-May.
PNPL LEAGUE ENTRY - YEAR 2
In year two the following will determine the league structure. A returning player requirement may be applied.
Division 1 - Bottom two teams from each conference will drop into the RPI Pool
Division 2 - Top two teams in each conference will be promoted to Division 1.
To promote balanced conferences, the 12 Division 1 teams will have an RPI index applied to them. All odd ranked teams will be placed in D1-Cascade and even ranked teams in D1-Puget Sound.
After movement, all Division 1 teams are considered seeded. All other teams will be placed in the RPI Pool for placement. This includes any new teams wishing to enter the PNPL.
RPI POOL PLACEMENT
Based on the previous 12 months play, including state cup, local tournaments, league play, each team not seeded will have an RPI calculated.
Division 1 - If for any reason a seeded team should drop from Division 1. Open positions will be filled using the RPI rankings starting with the highest ranked team first.
Division 2 - Top 16 teams will be placed in Division 2. Odd ranked teams in D2-Columbia and Even ranked teams in D2-Clearwater.
Division 3 - After Division 2 has been filled, the next 24 ranked teams will be placed in Division 3. One team to be place in each division in order until all positions are filled.
CLUB PLAYER PASSES
Clubs may use the club player pass to help player development with the following restrictions.
1. Only players registered to a team playing in the PNPL may use the Club Player Pass
2. Players from the same club may move up or laterally ... never down.
a) Division 1 players may only play for another D1 club team or any club team within the league in an older age group.
b) Division 2 players may play for another D2 or D1 club team within their age or any club team within the league in an older age group.
c) Division 3 players may play for another club team within their age or play up.
3. Players are restricted to no more than 2 league games per weekend.
EXAMPLE : PACIFIC NORTHWEST PREMIER LEAGUE
Initial Year Seeding - And Where they are now
PREMIER DIVISION I - CASCADE (6 teams)
1. 6.1158 FC Crush - WSPL-D1 GU14
3. 5.3586 Eastside Red - PDL 1-A
5. 5.1263 Columbia Timbers Red - Oregon Premier Gold
7. 5.0831 NWN Red - PDL 1-A
9. 5.0347 Dosveedanya Red - PDL 1-A
11. 4.9668 ECFC Green - PDL 1-A
PREMIER DIVISION I - PUGET SOUND (6 teams)
2. 5.4037 Crossfire Porter - PDL 1-A
4. 5.2210 Reign Purple - PDL 1-A
6. 5.1001 WPFC Black - PDL 1-A
8. 5.0692 Harbor Waters - PDL 1-A
10. 4.9993 Snohomish Chika Lobos - PDL 1-A
12. 4.8361 Eagles Bennett - PDL 1-A
PREMIER DIVISION II - COLUMBIA (8 teams)
13. 4.7697 Evergreen Rivera - PDL 1-A
15. 4.7219 NWN Blue - PDL 1-A
17. 4.4043 Crossfire Amy - PDL 1-A
19. 4.1819 Whatcom Rangers Gold - PDL-1B
21. 4.1676 Pacific Premier Red - WSPL-D3 GU14
23. 3.8677 Sun City Strikers Morton - PDL-1B
25. 3.6846 Synergy Clark - WSPL GU13
27. 3.6626 Spokane Elite Fardinia - WSPL-D4 GU14
PREMIER DIVISION II - CLEARWATER (8 teams)
14. 4.7687 Patriots Blue - WSPL-D2 GU14
16. 4.6543 FCSC Nemesis - Oregon Premier Silver
18. 4.1999 MRFC Celtic Blue - WSPL GU13
20. 4.1811 FCV XPlosion - Oregon Division 1
22. 3.9259 3 Rivers Lightning - PDL 1-A
24. 3.7690 Cascade FC - WSPL GU13
26. 3.6707 Skagit Red - WSPL GU13
28. 3.4869 RC Rockets - WSPL GU13
PREMIER DIVISION III - OAK (6 teams)
29. 3.4401 SH Revolution - WSPL GU13
33. 3.3142 Bainbridge Force - WSPL GU13
37. 3.1406 CB United - WSPL GU13
41. 2.9088 CW Magic - Oregon Division 1
45. 2.8167 WPFC White - PDL 1-C
49. 2.6369 Evergreen Emerson - PDL 1-C
PREMIER DIVISION III - MAPLE (6 teams)
30. 3.3977 Eastside White - PDL 1-B
34. 3.2770 FC Alliance Gold - PDL 1-B
38. 3.0773 Reign White - PDL 1-C
42. 2.9050 Harbor FC Canas - PDL 1-C
46. 2.8005 Blackhills Johnson - WSPL G13
50. 2.5740 Eagles Gordon - PDL 1-C
PREMIER DIVISION III - SPRUCE (6 teams)
31. 3.3821 Sun City Strikers Washburn - PDL 1-B
35. 3.2562 ECFC White - PDL 1-C
39. 3.0570 Pacific Premier White - WSPL GU13
43. 2.8856 Marauders Blue - PDL 1-B
47. 2.7685 Sparta 94 - District 3 Gold/Platinum
51. 2.5235 ISC Arsenal Blue - WSPL GU13
PREMIER DIVISION III - FIR (6 teams)
32. 3.3663 Mukilteo Spirit - WSPL GU13
36. 3.1439 Westsound McDonnell - PDL 1-B
40. 2.9445 Cheney - District 6 Umbro
44. 2.8289 Norpoint Americans - District 3 Gold/Platinum
48. 2.7465 Crossfire Megson - PDL 1-B
52. 2.5179 Spokane Elite Philp - WSPL GU13
THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO MMMMMMMMMMMMMM?"Dragon Coachs Interviews!"NAME: Ric
CLUB: North Whidbey Soccer Club
Team(s): Islander Blast (GU-13), Lady Islanders '90 (GU-17)
AGE: 40
EXPERIENCE: NSCAA ADV Regional, NSCAA State & Regional Goalkeeping, UEFA L1CCF, USSF E LicenseDRAGON: Why did you decide to start coaching kid's soccer? RIC: I probably started along the lines of many youth coaches...my daughter. I walked out to the field with my 8-year old daughter and quickly realized that I had more knowledge of the game then the coach. The great thing was the team's coach was honest and said that without her the team wasn't possible and she was just a warm body filling the position. So I opened my motuh and thus began the second life!
DRAGON: What do you do for a living outside of coaching? RIC: I retired a year ago July after 21 years of service to my country and now am employed by the Federal Government as a Program Manager. I work in a LEAN and 6-SIGMA program and will have fully achieved my Black Belt later this year.
DRAGON: Who do you think is easier to coach, boys or girls?RIC: GIRLS!!!! I am slightly skewed here as I have daughters and outside of the cats, I'm the only male in the household! Raising two daughters (my wife did the hard work, I'm just along for the ride) has made it that much "easier" to coach girls.
DRAGON: What is your feelings on the WPS site? (if you have ever read it)? RIC: I was a lurker for quite sometime before joining. I enjoy the read and occasional posting.
DRAGON: If you have read it, has anything you have ever read had an influence on what you have done as a coach?RIC: Yes...it has gotten me to drive further south then I have in the past to catch a couple of games involving teams I have read so much about!
DRAGON: What do you think your team's chances are this year? RIC: I coach two teams at two very different age groups, GU-13 Islander Blast and GU-17 Lady Islander's '90. My younger team's chances are just like any others....we will win some, lose some and have a tie or three....the season for them is to continue to develop and it's theirs to play. I will be proud of them and their accomplishments no matter the outcome. Our goal this year is to enjoy the season, learn as individuals, grow as a team and to try and score more then we are scored on! Post season our goal is to get out of group play in the Commissioner's Cup.
My GU-17's will be playing in the CYL after a couple of eye openers at LPT's. Last season this group of girls did a fantastic job of qualifying at LPTs to play in the YDL and go onto a 2nd place finish. Playing in the Challenge Cup, the team advanced all the way to the semi-finals before meeting our end at the hands of River City...a team that we battled with throughout the season all the way back to LPTs! Losing several talented players to larger clubs (rightly so as it was needed for the players continued development), the team has been rebuilding and relearning how to compete. They continue to impress me and are looking forward to the spring.
So all in all, to answer the question....like every team we have a chance!
DRAGON: What are your personal goals as a coach? RIC: To help each player become a better player, to help them learn the game, to help them grow as an individual and as a team, and to remember it is a game, one that must be fun and be enjoyed!
DRAGON: Besides yourself (LOL), who is the best coach you have seen? RIC: The best coach....there are so many ways this can be answered...but I'll have to say that my favorite youth coach is Mark Abboud of Bangu Tsunami in Minnesota. I enjoy his approach to the girl's youth game as well as his coaching and training style.
DRAGON: How long do you feel a coach should coach a specific team?RIC: Till the parents toss him or her! Just kidding...this is a really hard one to answer and one that I consider quite often. The simple answer is as long as the team and coach continue to learn, improve and grow. Once I figure this out, I'll get back to you on it! ; )
DRAGON: What are your feelings on players "playing time"? RIC: Some may disagree and others may find a way to approach this differently then I, however here is my take...
I train players and they will play. Since my focus is player development, all players must have opportunities on the pitch. My goal is for every player to play as much as possible. I am up front with any player and parent that try's out for this team that winning is not the most important thing. If that's what they are looking for, then they may be happier elsewhere. Even at the older age groups I wouldn't put them on the team if I didn't believe they were capable of competing. A real life example of my approach can be found in our Challenge Cup play last year. I added three guest players to our roster. I was up front with the team and the guests as well as the parents....all were equal and I wasn't bringing players along just to sit the bench. Each guest player started at some point and every player played quantity and quality minutes.
DRAGON: If you could not coach with your team tomorrow, name one team you would not mind taking over if you had your pick of any? RIC: None, I'd rather start from scratch. Give me a mixed bunch of U-11 or U-12 girls that just want to play, this is the real joy of coaching!
DRAGON: What is some thing you would like Dragon to tell the whole world about you? RIC: At a young 40, this husband of 16 years, father of two and coach of many over many years will become a father of three around mid-September. A big surprise to our family, but a joy to have an opportunity to raise another daughter and future soccer player!
DRAGON: Thanks Ric! Fantastic interview!!!! Thanks so much for taking time to do this interview for all of us to enjoy!! Well that is all the interviews in Dragon's hopper right now, hope some of you other coachs take the time to send in an interview before next week...we sure enjoy them :mrgreen: Editors note- Had to refrain from making "little comments" after each section to save on space
Play with Heart & Fire, Heart & Fire Always!
