COVER
...In this issue, your guidelines to vote for Player of the Year!!!The Pulse! No. #22
COVER STORY & LATEST HEADLINES:Dragon's Interview with former FIFA World Cup Coach and New Dir. of Coaching for Snohomish United ~ Gary White!!!
...Coach Gary with the Bahama National team!DRAGON: Coach, from looking at your resume' (coached in FIFA World Cup, CONCACAF Gold Cup, Olympic games, U20 Fifa World Cup to name a few) it looks like you could coach anywhere you want to. What made you decide to come to Washington and become the DOC for Snohomish?
GARY: I had been approached by National Federations and professional clubs from all over the world and to be fair, This is a question that many of my professional colleagues have asked! The answer is simple Mr. Dick Stephens the Snohomish Sooccer Club General Manager is the greatest sales man in the world. Snohomish Soccer Club are Very Very serious about becoming the best.
DRAGON: Tell us a little about your history in coaching. How long have you been a coach and what made you decide to start coaching in the first place?
GARY: As a youth team player in the UK you get to do a basic English FA coaching course. After completing this course I started coaching primary school players with the County Football Association. I decided to get into coaching full time early (22 Years Old) as I knew I would never be good enough to play soccer at the highest level, so I decided I would be a coach at that level instead. I have been coaching for 16 years.
DRAGON: Have you ever been a player and if so what levels did you play at?
GARY: I played professional soccer in Australia and before that I was a youth professional in the UK.
DRAGON: How did you get involved with becoming a Staff instructor for the USSF and the US Youth Soccer National staff?
GARY: After successfully completing the USSF 'A' License I was approached by the USSF director of coaching at the time similarly with US Youth Soccer.
DRAGON: For Seven years you held the position as the technical director (one of the longest serving in CONCACAF history) and head coach for the Bahamas National Soccer Team. What are some of your best memories during this time?
GARY: As you can imagine over the past several years I have had some wonderful memories but leading a national team the most places up the FIFA World Rankings (55 Places) and being requested to vote for the FIFA World Player of the year would be placed high. Also working as a presenter for FIFA's Development programs and of course coaching at the highest level week in week out. To be able to compete with and against the best players and coaches in some wonderful country's and brilliant stadiums is a great experience.
DRAGON: Can you tell us about some of the people or other coach's that have been the biggest influence in your life as a coach?
GARY: Well of course my wonderful wife and family have supported me in my endeavors all over the world. Within the game Mr. John Ellinger, Mr. Jack Warner FIFA Vice president, and ex England assistant coach Lawrie Mcmenemy (MBE) would be a few of my mentors and they have had a huge impact on my career so far.
DRAGON: You have done interviews and been featured in many outstanding publications (Fox sports, World Football Magazine, BBC World Sport, FIFA.com to name a few). Why take the time to do an interview for WPS? Have you ever read the site, and if so, what did you think?
GARY: If this interview can inspire and help in the development of players and coaches then it is time very well spent. I have heard some of our players and coaches discuss your web site but I have not had the pleasure to look at it yet but I will for sure take a look at it now.
DRAGON: What is your "long term" goal for the Snohomish FC as the DOC?
GARY: My goal for Snohomish soccer club is for the club to be the envy of all youth soccer clubs in the USA and to be a hub for developing players and coaches.
The hard working staff and forward thinking executive board at Snohomish Soccer Club all have this same vision.
Some of the plans already in place that will help us meet our goals include an official player and coaches exchange program with FIFA International Soccer Federations and with Premier league and Championship professional clubs in England. These type of programs will give our elite players the opportunity to see the game at the highest levels and to be looked at for possible professional careers.
Plans are in place for the 2008 season that will create some of the most modern specific club owned centralized training facilities in the PDL and the region. These programs combined with the elite player and coaching developmental initiatives that will be introduced in the new year will make Snohomish Soccer Club a very exciting place to be.
DRAGON: If you were president of WSYSA for a day, what is one thing you would do/change?
GARY: I have heard nothing but extremely positive comments about the new president of WSYSA and I have a lot of admiration for those individuals that take on such huge responsibilities. I am extremely excited about this new era in the development of the game in the region. I have so much work to do with Snohomish I can not afford to have a day off from that!!!!!!!!!!!!
DRAGON: Please tell us something about yourself that most of the world does not know about.
GARY: I use an old fashioned pocket watch to calculate time when coaching during a game.
DRAGON: Thank you Coach from taking time from your busy schedule to do an interview for all of us here at WPS! We all wish you and your club nothing but success! :mrgreen: HEADLINES!Time to pick this years; WPS' PLAYER OF THE YEAR!!!First off, congrats to all the players that made it this far! Dragon is proud of each and every one of you :mrgreen:
This year the POTY will be picked by your votes on open forum!!Look for the Ballot Post at the Top of the CP section.
Only Rules are this:
1. No more then 3 votes per household
2. Do not create a new I.D. just to vote
3. You must vote for THREE winners 1st, 2nd, & 3rd (age groups don't matter)
Have fun, some lucky winner will be forever know as the Player of the Year for 2007!! :mrgreen:
Here are the Nominee's with their write ups, PLEASE read each one before voting. *note* If a player did not get a end of year write up sent in, or had a very small write up, Dragon used their original write up from player of the week
Our Nominee's Are:
U11#16 RYAN WPFC BLACK:No end of year write up sent in, here is the original potw write up:
This young stud played Defense out of his mind this past weekend. Knowing that he was going against the mighty Crossfire in a battle for 1st only fueled his fire. He did an awesome job of not diving in too soon, clearing the ball, and utilizing his team mates when he needed. Great job young stud, Dragon is proud of you!
#13 HAILEY FC CRUSH:"Crash", her nickname on the field, has scored a goal in every game this
season except one. She scored a header goal off a corner kick in the first
game of the season, her first ever, (what a way to get started) and has had
several multi goal games. She plays right outside mid and uses her speed
down the line along with her big boot of a foot to either take shots on goal
or make crosses for her teammates to finish. She is only one piece of the
puzzle on her team though. They all work so well together, which makes
everybody look good.
#14 KASEY WPFC BLACK:This is Kasey’s third year playing U-11 competitive soccer. He has worked hard for his spot on the WPFC ’96 Black team and has recently been named Co-captain by his coach. Kasey’s primary position on his team is in the center, but he can be put anywhere on the field his coach needs him. I have heard many parents compliment him on his “unselfish” approach to the game. He knows that it doesn’t matter which teammate gets the ball in the net. He has many goals to his credit this year, and just as many assists. Even a few great saves as a goalkeeper! He is a team player. He knows he can’t do it alone. Last summer, he helped his team win the Beaverton Cup and the Starfire Labor Day Cup. He guest played for U-12 Colibri and helped them win the Diadora Cup and the Starfire Extreme. This fall, his team went undefeated in the PDL1-A League. Kasey has many coaches to thank for sharing their knowledge and their enthusiasm. Thanks to: Coach Nigel, Coach Rodney, Coach Frank, Coach Doug, Coach James, and, especially Coach Ralph. Kasey loves this game!
#2 JACOB WPFC BLACK: A fast, tough, versatile, left footed midfielder with excellent skills and vision on the field. Due to a lack of defensive depth on the team, Jacob was asked to play defense most of the year. Jacob made the most of his role as "attacking" defender. He was moved all over the pitch, his mission: defending whoever was the biggest opposing offensive threat.
Jacob played 8 tournaments this summer (4 his team, 4 up at U12), provided significant impact in every game and scored in every tournament. After a week long junior academy trial with ChelseaFC in London he was awarded the MVP trophy for 10 year olds. He was an integral part of WPFCs 13-0-0 run through league, providing tough defense and offensive creativity. While not flashy, he’s consistently solid, contributing significantly in every game and always hustling. While only scoring ~20 of the teams 225 goals, his assist count is more than double that, making him involved in a high percentage of the scoring, despite playing defense.
Most importantly Jacob has a great attitude: never complaining, always smiling, offering a high-five or word of encouragement. He truly brings heart and fire every time he steps on the pitch.
#18 NATE SNOHOMISH UNITED:Nate has been a solid utility player for United all season. Having never played keeper he has stepped into that roll also. In his time at keeper(about 1/2 every other game) he has only been scored on 2 times. Nate has a great sense of the field and has had many assists this season. He is a very physical player that likes to mix it up and can definately handle his own in the middle of the field.
# 6 BLAKE SNOHOMISH UNITED: When Snoho United is in a battle and a tight game Blake is at his best. At times when his team is down he will take control of the game. Blake is always called on for throw-ins, corners and free kicks. He can throw the ball to the goal, it is as good as a corner and they have scored many times off his throws. He has done the same with corners. I think they scored more then 5 times this year from his corner kicks and probably as many off throws. If Blake takes a free kick inside 25 yards it is money.
At those times when the team is down I have seen Blake take the ball from the mid-field and go around and through 5 or 6 opposing players to score. When he sets his mind to it nothing will stop him and he really lifts his team. At 10 years old you can tell Blake will be one to watch in later years. Plan on him being the catalyst for years to come on his club team and then in high school.
#22 ELIZABETH FC CRUSH:Where did this young lady come from. Out of nowhere, after playing as a sub for the summer and early part of the season, Elizabeth decided it was time. It would be safe to say that while her team starts 9-players, they have 10-starters. Lizzy plays any position asked and does quite a good job of it. With here flexibility as the “ultimate utility player”, this superstar makes a legitimate bid as the MVP of her undefeated District 3 GT championship team. Her incredibly high work rate, ambition and drive to be the best should be an inspiration to all… they are to her teammates.
U12#1 MOLLY SYNERGY:This one has a mix of both the original potw write up, and new stuff-
This young superstar has been gettin' better and better both in the goal and on the field. Training hard is paying off! In week 7 she played in goal in the first half, and was covered chest to foot in mud. She didn't stop every goal against her opponent, but played with such Heart & Fire the other team took notice. Out on field in the 2nd half, you could spot her by the whites covered in mud. Great job young superstar, Dragon is very proud of your grit!
#17 M'KENNA DOS RED: M’Kenna is such an awesome soccer player! She is the nucleus of the Dos ’95 Red team, and her leadership shows on and off the field. M’Kenna shows her infallible focus in every game, and is dialed in on the ball on every play.
Although she often has the ability to score in many games, she is a selfless player who sets up plays for the forwards beautifully. She is a joy to watch! Her specialty through this season has been her ability to ‘bend’ the ball in from her corner kick, which she has done successfully several times.
Once off the field, she has a great sense of humor and the ability to draw in each of her teammates. M’Kenna is a delight and she can light up a room with her smile.
For these reasons, M’Kenna is the U-12 girls Player of the Year.
#15 SOPHIE KENT FUSION:Also a mix of original potw write up and new write up-
This young superstar is a special midfielder who plays with Heart & Fire week-in and week-out. She’s the marked man on the field cuz they all know she can hit a rocket from the 30, but no matter how many players the opponent puts on her she’ll blow ‘em away! Sophie’s a generous player too always giving a 110% and without a complaint played with a broken wrist, a cast up to her elbow, all summer. She is the glue in the middle that makes her team so special! And she’s done an awesome job guest playing for the Synergy teams this year. Great job little one, Dragon is very proud of you!
I’m not sure what else to say about this kid, she’s a super kid, great student, best player on the team. I think she would be a contributor on any of the top 10 “A” teams if she chose to tryout for them. (She’s currently being recruited by 3 local A teams (like clubs from lets say Kent, Auburn & Highline
)) Whatever her choice at tryouts may be, her future is bright!
I was hoping that someone else would notice/nominate this amazing GK Chantelle #2 from Snohomish United GU12 (reference my original nomination below)...The first time L'il red played the Strikers, Chantelle was not the GK and L'il Red got an easy win. In looking at the Strikers climb in the GU12 PDL-A, I can't help but think that Chantelle has had something to do with their increased # of wins! I wasn't at the Crossfire JT game this past weekend, but the Strikers 2-0 win tells the same story as their 1-0 win over L'il Red (top 2 teams for most of the season)...this team is becoming a defensive force with Chantelle guarding that net! So I once again would like to nominate Chantelle #2 Snoho GU12, this time for POTY, which she definately deserves! Just hope she isn't so good when she plays L'il Red next time!!
#9 MIKI WPFC WHITE:Miki started out this year with a new team and a new position. And quite a few butterflies!
By the time the first tournament and games got under way, she was sitting more than playing and having issues with herself as to whether she should really be there. She would have quit had we let her, but we all made a commitment to this team.
And now she is glad she has seen it through!
Miki was chosen 3 times to be Player of the Game during this year.
Helped secure hard fought wins in the Beaverton tourney to take 1st Place
The team started out the Spring season 4-7-2 and has gone up to 7-4-1 ( with Crossovers) in the Fall.
While she still has things she would like to learn, and has learned something from each coach she has had, she has come a long way from the original U-11 team she was on. ( 1-13-0)
:mrgreen:
#11 ALLISON WPFC BLACK: From Alli’s dad…Allison should be Player of the Year because since the season started in April she has been incredibly consistent in her play at training and in games. Her play has been excellent at a very high level each every day she steps onto the pitch. She has worked extremely hard on Offense and Defense, and has demonstrated to the Coaches, teammates, peers and supporters that she is a very good all around SOCCER Player. Allison has a great attitude on and off the field. Time and time again has created opportunities for her teammates thru her hustle and intelligent play.
From a team parent…(not Allis parent)
- Of the top shot takers on the team, she's the most consistent scorer (scores about 30% of the shots she takes)
*Despite the team's drop-off since summer, Alli's play has stayed the most consistent
- She's relentless to the ball when applying pressure
- She's one of the fastest players you'll come across up front
- She's got one of the best one-touch/through-ball passes you'll see
- Most importantly, she's an excellent teammate and a great kid...
#1 MADI MRFC COSMOS & (WPFC White):Madi was POTW for scoring 2 goals with her off foot, coming off the bench, in a 2-0 Cosmos win.
Madison led MRFC Cosmos in scoring throughout the summer tournament season and had the game winning shot in the Blast Off Championship shoot out. She changed teams to WPFC and has continued to lead the team in goals and assists throughout PDL U-12 B play. Her first practice with WPFC, during conditioning, she noticed a teammate crying as she was having troubles finishing. Madison, ran up to her, stuck with her and encouraged her to the finish line increasing their pace along the way! During her first game with WPFC vs. Eastside, she started the scoring with a header off a corner to make it 1-0 Premier. Second half she scores again to seal the deal, 2-0 win, and hasn’t looked back since. You can see game recaps from Husky Dawg on how WPFC did throughout the year. Madison’s love for the game is evident to anyone that watches her play and her will to win is infectious and makes those around her better.
#24 JENNA REIGN PURPLE:No write up sent in, here is her original from her potw win-
Jenna had a wonderful weekend playing hard and being a beacon of team work. Her overall play helped all her team-mates reach that Heart & Fire level! Way to go Jenna, Dragon is proud of you little leader!
#4 KENDALL WPFC WHITE: My nomination for player of the year is Kendall #4 who plays for Washington Premier White (U12 Girls). Kendall played on the Washington Premier U10 (Baby Royals) and the U11 Black team. She started the year with a "slump on her shoulder" because she made the "White" team. However, she was bound and determined to put all her efforts into soccer. Kendall spends most of her playing time as a defender, however, when the team needs her, she steps up and plays a forward position. Not only does she give everything she has at practices and during games, she also trains to improve her foot skills. Kendall has come a long way this year. She always plays 110% on the field. You can always hear her encouraging her team members on the field and off the field. At home you can even see Kendall helping her younger brother how to play soccer. If you want to see Kendall play, just watch them play and look for those "red shoes".
Great job Kendall!!!! Keep it up and it will bring rewards to you.
U13#1 MADDY EVERGREEN WHITE:No write up sent in, here is her original post for potw-
This young superstar played with pure Heart & Fire all weekend to keep her team from getting a "L". She had a beautiful cross on Sat to even up the Game with Dos White, then on Sunday facing her first ever "off side trap" it took her a while to figure it out, but by the second half she not only scored, but got her first Hat Trick Ever!! Great job little star, may you have many more in the future! Dragon is proud of you!
#3 JULIA CROSSFIRE AMY:No write up sent in, here is her original post for potw-
What can Dragon say about this young star? Her along with her team mate Texas and their awesome defense helped secure their teams first PDL A win! The proof is in the picture on how happy this young star was (see the picture in this issue). Dragon is very proud of you little super star! I think you have many many more game winning goals to come in your soccer career!
#5 KRISTEN EASTSIDE RED:Kristen was a player who hardly smiled when she first came over, but worked her tail off. She knew how to have fun....she did it doing soccer. She smiled when she was told great job, you work so hard, I love it, or when her team would score.
After watching her confidence increase throughout the year, Frenchie noticed that she had the talent to add a new dimension to her team and had her do some guest playing. Come tryouts, Kristen had no idea what was coming, but Frenchie called her up and she was crying when she was asked because she was so happy her hard work paid off and yet so sad to leave behind her friend from her team she just joined the year before.
This season, Kristen has had to work out the level of play that EFC Red plays against. Many would say it was the cream of the crop. Kristen, being moved up from the B team, is learning how different things really are one level up. The game is faster, the players more technical, and her decision making had to get caught up. She is learning this throughout the year and it is showing by her nomination for Player of the Week. She is developing in the PDL due to the game itself as the teacher. Frenchie coaches her some and allows the game to teach her the rest. Kristen is obviously in the right place for her development as the PDL and EFC are helping her to blossom into a really good forward with the vision to score as well as the enjoyment of assisting the goals!
#8 BECCA SOUTH HILL REVOLUTION: Daughters quote age 8: “I want to play college soccer.” Age 11: “I will play college soccer and would like to play on the national team.” I have to explain my daughters schedule to let you know why I think she is the POTY. She does all of the following with no complaining and still manages to do her home chores and get almost straight A's. I've told her at any time I see she can't handle it I would make her tone it down, haven't seen it yet. Easy way to get her to clean her room is tell her she can't go to the extra practices or the gym. Her uncle is a personal trainer and trains her.
Monday: Off the bus at 4:40 Practice 5:30-7:00 with Revolution U13 team
Tuesday: Rides home with friend on the U14 Revolution team – goes to U14 Rev practice – practices with them
Wed: Same as Monday
Thurs: Same as Tuesday every other week goes to Gym instead of U14 practice.
Friday: Juggling 30 minutes at home w/foot drills
Saturday: Game day, if no game she goes to U14 game roots for Revolution team and friend then goes to Gym that evening
Sunday: Goes to Gym or goes and works with dad at school on various drills.
#17 DEE DEE SSFC WHITE:Dee Dee has progressed tremendously as a soccer player over the last year and I have watched her develop new skills throughout this season. Header goals being one of the many skills she is proud of.
Dee Dee is full of teamsmanship, she loves to bring the ball up the outside and create opportunities to score. She doesn’t consider herself a goal scorer, she considers herself a play maker.
She has recently had to take a step into the back and play defense since the team was hit pretty hard with some injuries. She has played the position well and enjoys developing the ability to play wherever her coach puts her.
Dee Dee is devoted to soccer, not just to her team, but to the little players as well, where she coaches and trains a U-5 team and a U-7 team in what little spare time she has.
There have been numerous times that I have wanted to nominate her for POTW, but someone else beat me to it! If I had to sum up her season with one word I would say: FANTASTERRIFIC!!!!
#1 EMMA CROSSFIRE PORTER:No write up sent in, here is her original post for potw-
This little superstar turned into a scoring machine this past weekend, racking up 3 goals over two games in helping to lead her team over NWN Blue and EFC Red this weekend! Great job little superstar, Dragon is proud of you!
#8 EMILY EASTSIDE WHITE: Emily plays forward and Mid for EFC White. She is one of the leading scorers on the team and is always causing fear with opposing keepers.
Even with a broken arm this season, Emily would still suit up and play hard.
#12 ANNA EASTSIDE WHITE:Anna has had a great year so far. She has been on the Eastside White team for 3 seasons and has grown the most as a player this year. She normally plays left defender, but when the team was without a goalie at the start of the season, Anna volunteered for the job. She played 6 halves total (sharing the gk dutie with a few other teammates) and had 34 shots against, allowing only one goal. While playing defense, very few goals are scored from her side. She does a great job at shutting down the attack and causing frustration with the attacking forwards. Anna often is seen shifting over to assist the other defenders while still covering her area. Recently, she has challenged herself even more by learning to play outside mid and forward. Both have been quite a transition for her from having played the last two seasons in defense, but she is determined to work hard and figure them out! Anna’s coach has said that she is playing her best soccer this season and her confidence on the field has increased tremendously.
Anna is a true team player that communicates well with her teammates and concentrates on individual improvement to achieve success for her team. She sets a good example for her teammates by her commitment to them and her ability to always see the bigger picture.
Anna was also able to obtain her referee certificate this past summer and refereed her first games at a local recreational tournament.
#14 MORGAN CHIKA LOBOS:No write up sent in, here is her original post for potw-
The smallest player on the field stepped up her game this past weekend. She made great passes and had wonderful vision the whole game and set up several scoring chances. Finally she took matters into her own hands and scored the game winning goal to give the crazy girls their first victory! An MVP performance for sure, Dragon very proud of you little one!
#19 KIAYA CHIKA LOBOS:No write up sent in, here is her original post for potw-
Wow, for the 2nd week in a row a "Crazy girl" has earned the POTW honors! This time had several parents from the opposing team nominate the little super star, one even went so far as to say; "she was the best goalie we faced all year!" Even though it was in a loss, this young Goalie, who recently came up from the B team, put on a goalie clinic for all to see. Too many shots to count were saved by this superstar goalie! Great job Kiaya, Dragon is very proud of you!
U14#5 JESSICA WESTSOUND RED:No write up sent in, here is her original post for potw-
This young star placed her team on her shoulders this weekend in her teams 4-0 win! Not only did she score, but she got a much deserved Hat Trick! Her Heart & Fire for her team helped to motivate them and keep the whole team playing fantastic ball this past weekend! Jessica is modest as ever and will probably blush at even being nominated by one of her team mates. Well great job Dragon says, he is very proud of you super star!
#29 LIZ MUKILTEO LIGHTNING:No write up sent in, here is her original post for potw-
This young star defender was the definition of heart & fire this past weekend. Being down 5 starters she had to work extra hard on attacking as a defender and running back to help stop several breakaways. She ran down at least 6 herself! She was tireless as she wasn't given a moments rest but played in top gear the entire game. During her teams 2nd game on Sunday she even had a beautiful assist on a nice trough ball after she had pushed up and committed the defense. All around a Heart & Fire weekend. Dragon is proud of you little star!
#21 MELANIE TRI MOUNTAIN AVALANCHE:If you focus strictly on skills and talent, Melanie may not be the best player in the State of Washington. Others have more talent. However, she is one of the best players in the State--not because she is a lightning fast, scoring machine (which she is)--but because plays with HEART and FIRE all the time...whether in tournaments, in league, in a "friendly" scrimmage or in practice. She gives it her all, ALL the time.
Mel is playing up a year. She was the last player selected at tryouts. She is now a starting forward, and one of the team's leading scorers (she may very well be the leading scorer). She has had several multiple goal games...including a hat trick where she scored all three of her team's goals (while spending most of the second half in goal replacing our injured keeper). She is a true "raw" talent who gets better and better every day because she works hard on her own, practices hard, is coachable, has a super positive attitude, and wants so much to make her coaches and her team proud! And she has fun all the time...her smile is contagious and she just lights up the field whenever she steps on the pitch!
While other players complained about their lack of playing time, Mel asked her coach: "Coach, I know most of the girls on this team are better than me. What do I need to do to be a starter on this team?" Her coach, Rob Cowles, gave her a list of things that she needed to do. She went to work...and worked hard...to satisfy all his requirements. She blew him away. According to Rob, "No one on this team has progressed as much as Mel...and the sky is the limit because she is coachable, she listens, and she has an amazing attitude and work ethic." He told me that her attitude and desire make her entire team better.
Mel is also a very good keeper (could start for many teams). She is the primary back up and has several shut outs to her credit, including going 4-0 with a 0.00 Goals Against Average in this year's Summer Slam tournament when our keeper was not available due to injuries and travel. She will do/play whatever is asked of her...without hesitation and with a big smile.
HEART and FIRE is the motto of WPS Soccer Forums...no one personifies that more than Melanie #21 of the Tri-Mountain Avalanche93!
#13 BRI NEMESIS 93: I have known Bri # 13 (Nemesis 93) for a little over two years. Are families are friends from meeting at soccer events and then playing in the same Club. It has been a pleasure watching Bri grow as a young lady and a competitive soccer player.
Bri and my daughter have played together on the same team last year. She is a great role model for my daughter both on the field and off. She challenged my daughter to be a better player never giving her an inch in practice situation but when it came to game time it was always about the team first. B ri was a natural leader, always leading by example. I don't think soccer has been easy for Bri but because of her heart she has always prevailed.
The first year she tried out for ODP she did not make the cut. At that time she became determined to work and practice hard for next years try outs. She found the right Coach and he gave her the tools to become the best she could be. Sure enough, one year later, she trys out again and makes the team. She set a great example for many young ladies that have a goal.
Bri has had many great opportunities to play with other teams and has done a great job of guest playing becoming a sought after young player. She has been totally committed to her club and team even when it has not been easy. I love that kind of devotion, it show the commitment when things get tough. We all know the grass looks greener on the other side.
I believe Bri is Player of the Year because of her desire, commitment and team leader / friendship qualities.
#12 HANNA NEMESIS 93: Hanna is the leading scorer for the very talented FCSC Nemesis. She is a big, strong, and fast forward for her team (nickname: Moose). She is also a valuable team leader to that squad. She has a good attitude and gives 110% all the time on the pitch. The one thing I wanted to point out was that when my daughter, Mel, went out to guest play for the Nemesis and knew NONE of the girls, Hanna introduced herself, took Melanie under her wing and made her feel welcome (warmed up with her) and introduced her around to the other girls. That is a level of maturity you do not often find in a 14 y.o. girl...she is a great kid...and deserving...
#15 TAYLER WPFC WHITE:This up and coming superstar has worked very hard this year to improve her skills on the field. She would go early to practice, stay late and go to the Black team practices when she could. She decided to stop playing Basketball for a majority of the season so she could focus on her soccer skills. Her hard work has really paid off. Many games Tayler's play on the field helped her team to victory.. not because of scoring, but because of her ability to be a "TEAM" player and know what to do with the ball.. which more often than not was assisting rather than scoring.. She had the opportunity a few times this year to help out the Black team when they were down a few players.
Player of the Year isn't just about their individual skill, but just as much about what they bring to their team, and how they are able to support them. Tayler is very unselfish and cares very much about supporting her team in whatever way she can.
#22 SAMMI MUKILTEO LIGHTNING:No write up sent in, here is her original post for potw-
Talk about playing out of your mind! This young superstar turned it on over-drive this weekend. She came out on fire and proved she is an MVP caliber player but notching 4 goals to help lead her team to victory! Great job superstar, sounds like you were in the "heart & fire zone"! Dragon very proud of you!
#4 JESSICA SYNERGY RITTER: GU14 Ritter's Keeper deserves a serious look. Jessica was not a Keeper before last season, she stepped up to the plate after the coach asked for volunteers. She came with no bad habits and was eager to learn and quite coachable. During the '06 season Jess was solid, as was her defense. This season, during tryouts Jess asked the new coach if he would look for a full time Keeper so she could be a backup. That didn't really work out so she said "no problem, I'll do it". Now she has stepped up to a new level. After suffering a broken wrist during practice on the Wednesday before LPT's, she came back with no fear, and has performed brilliantly all season. Sometimes people say that Keepers are a different breed, that they are meant for that position and only that position. Jess is not. She is a very good position player as well. Some people have natural talent at certain things. For example, I play the drums (gotrhythm), when I first started playing in the 7th grade I had absolutely no natural ability. I took private lessons since all of my classmates had been playing since the 4th grade. I practiced my ass off every day, and by the time I was in the 9th grade I won a state high school title in percussion. That is Jessica. She trains and trains. At practice she works hard, she hits the ground hard, and she never complains or gets on her defense. She knows there's no need to because if they make a mistake, she knows that they know. If you watch her play, you would say that she is a Natural, but that's the great part....she isn't! She has developed into a great Keeper with hard work and dedication.
Now, Dragon hopes that everyone takes a few moments to read about all these great young superstars, and goes to the Voting Ballot post at the top of the CP section! You have 1 week to vote!!! :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: COME ONE COME ALL!!!! 2007 STATE CUP DRAW!!! 
Just a reminder that this Sat is the State Cup draw! Go to this link on the WSYSA home page to register/RSVP (its free)! :mrgreen:
http://www.wsysa.com/nsurvey.aspx?surveyid=6a668ba4a2b4b7dbcbb94a86ac46df8See ya'll there :mrgreen:
The 2007 PRESIDENTS CUP!!! WPS is There!!!Here at WPS we spend much of our time talking about select and premier soccer but did you know that 80% of youth soccer players still play recreational soccer? Last weekend many of the best rec teams in the state got together to see who will play next weekends finals. To even get to play last weekend each of these teams had to compete with up to 12 teams to see who would represent their districts. While many of us have not heard of the Gladiators, Orcas, Stars or most of the finalists I am here to tell you those teams who have fought to get this far are great teams. Come out this weekend and root these warriors on. Send all your game recaps, pictures, and stories to
presidentscup@hotmail.com
Goal Girlz getting ready for big game!
2 Rampant Lions celebrating a goal!Here is a note Dragon got ahold of. It was a letter from the D6 Commish
I want to take this time to wish all my members and their families a Happy
Holidays and give you all an update of the winter activities I have been
partaking to make positive strives for a bright future for WSYSA District 6:
If you have not heard, the district voted via email and I as district 6
Commissioner appointed Jeff Hulse the new Director of Competition. He
will start this winter prepping for the spring season. Please mark your
calendars for Feb. 2nd as the tentative date for the scheduling meeting to
be held at the Mose Lake- Lake Inn. Jeff can be reached at
pilgram1964@yahoo.com .
Steve Scranton, Jeff and myself have been have been performing Town Hall
Meetings throughout the district with a high success of participation. We
have been looking at the following topics as an open discussion:
Number of league games
Rescheduling policy
Lines of communication
Recreational League U-13 thru U18/19
We have had great feed back from all Associations that have already
participated and will post the meeting notes on the web site once all the
Associations have had a chance to participate in a meeting. Jim Bolding
has graciously agreed to stay on as our District 6 Web Master.
The following is a list of the Town Hall Meetings, if you do not see your
Association on the list they have not scheduled a meeting as of yet and,
if you wish to do so, email me at
mter_sp0co@windwireless.net :
Pullman 11/13/07
Spokane Valley 11/15/07
Spokane 11/20/07
Tri-Cities 12/1/07
As you can see we are making progress for bright future in the District.
Thank you and once again Happy Holidays,
Mike Terris
WSYSA District 6 Commissioner
This section will come alive again once the state cups starts. With Predictions and recaps, etc :mrgreen: :mrgreen:
CRAZY PARENT WATCH:"Shout out to da newbies"Dragon see's a few brand new poster he wants to give a Shout out to! And as always, lets All give a warm welcome to all new posters!
This week Dragon would like to applaude:
Lilly66
MattS
Lucky Dog
Gaucho
Welcome aboard! :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen:
"A view from the Mini-Van"
As we head into State Cup..
Parents remember this..
It is still a soccer game. No need to scream louder, No need to try and coach from the sidelines.. remember the coach has known all year that state cup starts in Jan, so they have been planning "their coaching" plan. Your screaming can mess that up when they can't hear their coach over you...
Encouragement and support is even more important now... encourage and support them to do their best and give it 110% no matter what... that goes a lot farther, than.. if you lose your out... you have to win today.. most kids in a sport at this level, UNDERSTAND THAT and pressure themselves..
In the end it's a game our kids love and want to win and succeed... as long as they are doing what their coach asks and giving 110% that's all we can ask.. In a team sport... a win or loss is about the team, not just your kid.
"WPS Paparazzi"
...After Cheese Skidded off the road, the cows decide its time for revenge!"...Out on the Pitch"Please submit pictures for the newsletter to the Pulse email
...This is how we roll up here in the NW! Love it!
...Synergy and Fusion get in on the NW fun!**Please continue to send pix's to the Pulse newsroom! Anything soccer related is welcome!** :mrgreen: "Help! Is there a Doctor in the house?"
Dear Doc,
My DD has hypothyroidism. What are some precautions she can take playing in the winter weather here? She gets cold very fast. Is there a chance of her getting hypothermia easier due to this condition?Wow, do you think I am Sanjay Gupta?? Doc has to put on his thinking cap for that one :lol: But the short answer is
YES!!!!
The thyroid gland manufactures hormones (eg,synthroid) to keep our
motors humming. A low production of these hormones is known as
hypothyroidism. This disorder is more common in women than men. A lack of synthroid can lead to many sympoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and
sensitivity to heat and cold. In young women, a delay in menstruation and small stature may be the first signs of the disorder. When treated with hormone replacement the condition is manageable but these symptoms may still be manifested in a lesser form. Intolerance to cold is a very common symptom and especially noted in our thin athletic DDs who simply lack enough padding to tolerate the blustery, rainy NW. DKs with hypothyroidism are especially prone so special precautions need be made.
Hypothermia occurs when the body is exposed to subnormal temperatures over an extended period of time. Hypothermia is most common in the very young, the very old and those with certain medical conditions like hypothyroidism, Raynauds disease (cold, white fingers in the cold) and diabetes. (And for you CPs who are drinking hot toddies, YOU TOO are at risk
)Unfortunately DKs are quite likely to experience such adverse conditions on the pitch from November through State Cup!!!Cold damp, rainy days are a big concern especially when resting and sitting in soaked clothing. Inadequate clothing and neglecting to adequately cover your extremities, particularly the head (a disproportionate amount of heat is lost through your head) leads to a huge loss of stored heat and can lead to serious outcomes. Common signs to look for are shivering, which is your body's attempt to generate heat through muscle activity, and the "umbles":Stumbles ,Mumbles, Fumbles and Grumbles.Immediate treatment, ie, high tailing it to a warm,dry place is a necessity!
So to prevent hypothermia in your kids especially IF they are known to have hypothyroidism, before you or your children step out into cold air, remember the advice that follows with the simple acronym COLD — cover, overexertion, layers, dry:
1) Wear parkas on sidelines even if it doesn't look
cool when you are not playing
...Think Kenny from SouthPArk
2) Be careful if you feel exhausted and ask for a blow even if your coach gives you the evil eye
3) Wear your UnderArmour
4) Have a parent who will provide DKs with towels and handwarmers for the cold wet days ahead... and if able, get a heater for the sidelines (although they are banned at stadiums)
*Send all medical questions for "the doctor" to the Pulse email address* GIRLS U13 NORTH-CALIFORNIA REPORTS!!!
Hi Washington, I have been so busy with work playing Santa, I have not had time to think. We have been off the last 2 weeks as far as games go. We have a big Norcal game Friday night against Sacramento United deciding who is first in our group and who will play Mighty Mustang in the semi's of Norcal Cup.
Take Care,
CP Reporter
We all look forward to hearing about the Peppers return to action! :mrgreen:
OTHER NEWS AND GOSSIP AND TIDBITS:"SIDELINE SNIPPETS"CP at a game;
"I heard Dragon is going to the State Cup Draw, Do you know what he looks like? I want to meet him...does he really look like Brad Pitt?"LMAO :lol: you betcha
Seen out on a Local pitch:
Goalie Scores on a Punt!
On Sunday, Dec 2nd Goalie Sean L. of the BU18 Division 3 Flyers scored a goal on a long punt that bounced once and then hit the bottom of the crossbar and into the net. It was an impressive punt that unfortunately was not caught on tape. :cry:
"COACHS CORNER!"This weeks topic for the coach is
"Winter Weather"
Great question this weekend in prepairing your team for winter.
How do we set up our team different for the winter weather?
What is the best style of play for this crappy weather?
The first question "how do we set up our team different for the winter weather?" im assuming your talking about formation, and not adding and dropping people. Personally I dont think you should change your style or your formation just because its going to be colder outside. I would say field conditions make a larger difference. If you play on turf you shouldn't have to even worry about that to much. However passing does becuase a little more complicated on wet or muddy fields.
"What is the best style of play for this crappy weather?" Every coach has their own opinions, but it also matter what you want to accomplish. If your goal is to win, as it is for most of us during state cup, then you will see more and more teams going direct. With wet and poor conditions you will see more and more errors commited. So the question you have to ask yourself is would you rather have those errors on your half or the other teams half. 75% of the goals you will see this winter during poor weather will be from mistakes by the defensive team. I personally think a team that is well organized and understands where mistakes are acceptable are the ones that will do the best. Teams that dont mess aroud with the ball in the back, but have enough skill to bring it down and control it in the midfield and forwards are going to do the best in state cup.
"VIEW FROM BEHIND THE WHISTLE"Myths of the Game and other Nonsense
Dear Ref,
When a game only has 1 ar or no ar's. Is this a protestable game? How about if a parent from one of the teams "fill in" at AR. Is that ok?
Only misapplications of the Laws are grounds for protests. The number of referees present or absent at a particular match does not create grounds for a protest. WSYSA encourages games to be played even when NO referees are present, just agree on a person to officiate and get the game played:
301.6 Officiating
…
(c) Failure of a scheduled referee to show up will not be the cause for canceling the match. A substitute official must be chosen upon agreement by both coaches and his decisions will be final.
As for a parent as an "AR," it depends. If the parent is a registered referee and is acceptable to the assigned referee, then she/he becomes a full member of the officiating crew for that match.
If the parent is not a referee, the person can only act a "club linesperson" for that match. This person can only indicate when the ball goes into touch (ball goes fully over the touch/goal lines). Regardless of any indications or signals made by the club linesperson, the referee must make all decisions including those regarding offside and restarts (e.g. which teams gets the throw in), .
Technically, if the referee accepts and acts on advice from a club linesman for something the referee did not see, then that is a misapplication of the law.
However, just because a club linesman is flagging direction for a throw-in or signaling offside does not mean the referee is acting on that advice. A protest must be able to demonstrate that a referee acted solely on the advice/information from club linesperson. This becomes a violation of Law 5.
"Dear Eggy"Dear Eggy,
As a coach I always debate how long is appropriate time to give off during the holidays as there are always so many players missing at random times and functional practices are nearly impossible.... the problem is that it is crunch time as we get closer to state cup games.... any advice??? Dear Coach,
Good questions! If it were left up to me I would give about a 2 week break from Thanksgiving to State Cup draw announcements. The problem is that some of the PDL teams are still playing as of this week.
During December there are a number of issues that cause players and coaches to be absent from practice. I think it would be good to set 1 practice a week as mandatory (game time effected if absent) and then have 1 or 2 (depending on field availablity) as non-manditory.
January brings about normal practice rules and days.
I believe that you will find that a majority of your players will be at all of the practices.
Good luck in State Cup and may the pitch always runs down hill for your team(s).
Eggy
"My 2 cents worth...The Posters Voice!"
If we sent our kids to school in shorts and a thin shirt in the winter we would probably be at risk of a visit from child protective services. What I saw last weekend made me ill, parents all bundled up in out fits that would of mad Nanook of the North look underdressed pushing little Stevie and Suzy out of their warm SUV to force them to face a huge winter storm with hurricane winds and sideways rain with snow and ice on the ground for 3 hours. Just minutes before game time our blubber layered, bundled up CP waddle from the parking lot to the field to huddle around a propane heater and watch what will prove to be a joke of a soccer game. The players simply can not get warmed up and get moving right. When they do get their muscles to work the wind catches the ball and tosses it around. Wait Suzy is taking a shot! Darn the ball got caught in a 8 inch deep puddle and now more resembles a rubber ducky. This simply is not soccer and which ever team gets the most goals may or may not be the better team. Those players who do not get hurt are starting to wonder if this soccer thing is all they thought it would be.
Why in Washington do we insist on playing in these conditions? Most select level teams will play 40-50 games in a year. Is this one really that important? I did a cursory look at a number of other states and found most have rain out policies (never mind storms) in place. Most states (including Oregon) take this time of year off. If we are going to keep playing this time of year we as adults need to use better judgment to protect the kids.
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THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO MMMMMMMMMMMMMM?"Black Knights U14 Prediction Challenge!"Hope BK makes a return with this soon! It is fun to see who win's each week!
"Dragon Coachs Interviews!"We have the great one today, and have two more great one's on the way. Including one from a Regional Championship team!!! :mrgreen:
If you are a coach, DOC, trainer, or have anything to do with soccer, contact the editor for your chance to do an interview Guest Editor's, EDITORIAL:
I touched the rain down in AfricaLast year I and my best friend went to South Africa on a safari. It
was an amazing trip in many ways. This picture is a soccer field
that we passed, and it was better than many that we saw. No nets,
no lines, lots of potholes, grass in various lengths. As I watch
the new fields go up at WPFC and on the Eastside, as well as all the
nice grass fields we play on, I often forget what a lot of the world
has. I myself have complained about
terrible field conditions that
our DK's have to put up with at times.
...All our fields look like brand new turf compared to this...But at this time of year especially, I think it's good to remember
just how lucky we are. As our kids write their Christmas lists with
iPods and cell phones and clothes from Hollister and Abercrombie and
Fitch, there are a lot of kids in the world who just wonder whether
they are going to get anything at all. As we all discuss which of
our soccer teams and clubs are the best one, there are kids who can't
play at all because they can't get a hold of a ball. In no way am I
saying that we should feel guilty about what we have. But as we
enter the season of giving, I think it's healthy to examine what we
are blessed with, and make sure that we aren't taking our
circumstances for granted. Our fees for one year in many cases would
be more that these kids will see in the next 5 years, or even
longer!! The kids who play on these fields do it because THEY LOVE
THE GAME, and in the end if we each ask our own DK's why they play,
I believe it is for the same reason, because THEY LOVE THE GAME. So
whether they're playing on brand new turf, or a pasture with stick
goals, it's still soccer, it's still a game, and it's still supposed
to be fun.
Here's wishing each of you and your families a wonderful Christmas
and the ability to remember that you are each blessed in many ways!!!
WOW! Going to Africa must of been awesome for you...have not been there in a long time myself.
Thank you guest Editor! :mrgreen:
Once again the end of another great effort by all on the Pulse staff! Thank you for all your help in getting this out each week! :mrgreen:
***All of you may have noticed as well that the PULSE now has a 2nd email address (the AOL one). You may use either one!***
Thats it for this weeks Issue of the Pulse, hope you enjoy it...and as always never forget to...
Play with Heart & Fire, Heart & Fire Always!
