Ryan's Weekend Wrap Up 7/10-7/12

THE ROJA LEAGUE

Diablos Estudiantes 2 - 0 NTX Rayados

I’ve been a bit slow to the lesson, but consider me now properly instructed on not ever doubting the abilities of Denton’s junior side. The Estudiantes have grown, and risen to the occasion, of each match, and every opponent, presented to them. This was never more evident as it was in their body of work vs NTX Rayados on Saturday night, where the Estudiantes posted an early two- goal lead in the first half, then showed a discipline they’d be lacking in earlier outings by shutting down the veteran Rayados and preventing any opportunity or hope for the visitors that they might make a comeback or share a point.

Estudiantes have held onto their league lead atop the standings, and will play the rest of the season out with a target on their back. Perhaps it may be too daunting a task to maintain their place at the top, but don’t choose against the youngsters yet.

Denton Diablos 4 -1 Fort Worth Vaqueros

Be honest, If you were tuned into this match, and not from Fort Worth, you were pulling for the Diablos. We all love an underdog story, and while The Chisolm Trail Clasico may only be in its second year, it’s already brought much heartache to the Denton side still seeking an inaugural victory against the Vaqueros after two 2019 NPSL regular season matches, one playoff match, and two eNPSL matches.

From the opening kickoff, the Diablos were committed to setting the pace and closing that chapter of heartbreak, and they’d score first at the 21st minute with an expertly turned shot beyond the diving effort of the Fort Worth goalkeeper and buried in the bottom left corner of the net. Seemingly aware of past histories versus the Vaqueros, in which Denton had scored the opening match in all past meetings, the Diablos continued to maintain a predominantly offensive shape and struck for a second goal 4 minutes later. Denton fans may have seen ghosts of Chisholm Trails past when the Vaqueros found a score just before halftime to shave the Diablo lead to just a goal, but a converted penalty in the 61’ and a final score in the 87’ gave Denton an emphatic first win against Fort Worth. The Diablos will also travel down to Cowtown for the second leg of the clasico with a commanding lead.

Inocentes FC 3- 3 Irving FC

Inocentes was a worthy favorite, along the likes of NTX Rayados, to win the inaugural Roja League, at least in my mind. They're a club rich in history, culture, community and developing highly competitive sides, most recently reaching the UPSL championship game in the Fall 2018 season, where they would only fall to the now-professional side California Strikers in penalties.All that history and success clearly hasn’t been lost on their opponents so far in the Roja League season, as Inocentes is absorbing everyone’s evident best shot. Denton’s first team kept clawing back in a season opening, thrilling, 4-4 draw. Fort Worth, while woeful in other contests, brought their A effort to the inaugural Cowtown Clasico in a 1-1 game. And now Irving FC, desperate to improve their position in the standings after an admirable in a 3-2 loss to Rayados and a draw with Denton, clawed their way back from an early deficit to claim a 3-3 finale. Both sides have looked strong and been highly competitive on the pitch, but they’re each still looking for their elusive first victory of the season.

THE HEARTLAND SUPER CUP

Southwest Region

Garden City Potrillos FC 2 - 0 Atletico Liberal FC

The southwest region of the heartland Super Cup kicked off in west Kansas this past weekend, with the Potrillos, or “Colts” of Garden City claiming a 2-0 advantage over neighboring Atletico Liberal FC.

Dodge City Toros FC 0 - 1 FC Wichita U20’s

Proving that playing their under-20 youth to winning results isn’t limited to the Denton Diablos, FC Wichita’s U20’s traveled to western Kansas and battled a stout Dodge City Toros lineup to a scoreless stalemate late into the match. The Reds then found a late goal, and 3 vital points with it, to carry back to Wichita ahead of hosting the rest of their group matches this weekend.

North Region

Iowa Raptors FC 7 - 0 Raptors Reserves

Springfield FC 3 - 0 Raptors Reserves

Iowa Raptors FC 2 - 0 Omaha Kings FC

Springfield FC 1 - 1 Omaha Kings FC

USL League 2 expansion side Iowa Raptors hosted the North Region in Cedar Rapids, and easily swept aside the Reserves, before defeating the Omaha Kings FC inaugural outdoor side. Omaha, a member of the indoor PASL league, would put together a strong effort in a draw versus the UPSL’s Springfield FC. The side from Illinois would later find a win against the Raptor’s Reserves. The group enters the second weekend of play with Iowa Raptors leading with 6 pts, Springfield sitting at 3 points, Omaha with a 1 point and the Reserves at 0.

UNITED PREMIER SOCCER LEAGUE

Panther United FC 2 - 0 APTX CDF 

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Panther United FC 2 - 3 Houston FC 2 

It was a mixed bag of results for Panther United FC this past week. They scored a win and a clean sheet against APTC CDF on Tuesday, then fell in a surprisingly close effort to Houston FC 2 over the weekend in Central Conference - South, Division 2 action.

Houston FC 2 - 1 Athletic Houston FC

The UPSL Central Conference - South, Division One Battle for Houston, bragging rights, and the division lead was as well contested, and thrilling, a match as was hoped for. HFC and AHFC competed intensely all 90 minutes,through the hot and humid conditions, of their midday match. Houston scored two goals late in the first half, then hung on through an Athletic Houston rally for the victory.

Celta Gunners 0 - 2 The Mix SC

No two teams have met so far this season in the midst of such drastic changes in fortunes. Two matches ago, Celta Gunners were a victory away from the Southeast Conference - Central Florida West, Division One lead. In contrast, The Mix were wading through their inaugural season with great struggle, trading the basement of the standings at turns with Diaspora United CC. After The Mix spring the commanding upset of Celta though, the Gunners sit in last place and The Mix are in the mix (sorry!) for postseason play.

Leg A-Z International SA 3 - 1 Clay County SC

In the battle for second place behind Southeast Conference - Central Florida East’s leading OFC Barca, Leg A-Z InterSA may be the only club remaining with a chance of knocking off OFCB. They headed off the visitors from neighbouring Clay County by a 3-1 margin and claim one of only two undefeated records in division play. The other? Leg A-Z INterSA’s next opponent, OFC Barca.

FK Orlando 4 - 2 Orlando Rovers FC

One of the better matches I watched this week, from one of the more interesting selected angles. Much of the game was partially obscured from the camera’s perch in the far corner of the pitch by the timed lawn sprinklers, but from what I could make out, FK Orlando proved the better team on the day and quietly hangs around to make things interesting for future fixtures against OFC Barca and Leg A-Z InterSA. The Orlando Rovers, meanwhile, continue to provide competitive play on the field, just without the elusive win. That should come in a few more of their matches to come.

OFC Barca 4 - 2  Macca Ballers FC

Macca Ballers gave a competitive effort against division leaders OFC Barca, but OFCB eventually pulled away for a comfortable, two-scores, win.

Royal Palms SC 0 - 10 Sporting Orlando SC

Remember last week when I said this match could get ugly, fast? Well, this match got ugly, fast. Sporting Orlando SC carried to hangover from their loss to OFCB into this matchup, and instead took out their frustrations from the week prior on Royal Palms SC, a side now boasting an alarming -17 goal differential through just three games.

Arctic Rush 1 - 1 Fairbanks SC

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Fairbanks SC 1 - 4 Arctic Rush

The northernmost team in a national league, Fairbanks SC debuted against Arctic Rush in Anchorage, playing a doubleheader between the sides over the weekend. The visitors held their own in a game one, earning the draw and a point. However, Arctic came back in dominant fashion the following day to pick up a victory ahead of a rematch versus Last Frontier Conference leaders, Alaska Timbers, next week.

FC Arizona U23 0 - 4 Olympians FC

Another week, another victory, another clean sheet, another three points for Olympians FC in Southwest Conference play. It doesn’t look like they’ll find a serious competitor in the conference until post-covid pay returns and the likes of Sporting Arizona, FC Grande, and Southwest FC make their reappearance. If you aren’t yet watching Olympians FC, and have them as potential favorites for the national title, you should be.

Diaspora United 3 -3 Florida Tropics SC 2

Diaspora United continues to improve each week on the pitch, following up their draw with The Mix SC last week with a draw versus Florida Tropics SC 2 this weekend. The Tropics meanwhile, have just one point in the past two matches and appear to be fading down the stretch if they can’t turn the results around this week.

Alaska Timbers 12 - 4 MatSu United FC

The Timbers certainly arently looking ahead to the rematch versus Arctic Rush. MatSu United might be competitive against Fairbanks SC, maybe.

REMAINING UPSL ROUNDUP

Greenspoint Gunners FC 2 - 2 Barca School of Excellence, FORO SC 2 -1 Arlington FC, NTX Legends 2 - 0 Real Irving CD, APTX CDF 3 - 2  La Maquina , FC Arizona 1 - 2 East Valley FC, Almeyda FC 2 1 - 0 Houston Hotshots,

FC Sharp Keys 4 -3 FC Bago, Junior FC 0 - 3  Kernow Storm FC, Roc City Boom 0 - 0 Greater Binghampton FC, 

& Roc City Boom 1 - 1 Krajisnik FC 

FRIENDLIES & EXHIBITIONS

Philadelphia Lone Star FC 3 - 0 Allentown United FC (Friendly), Santa Fe NY 1 - 0 Connecticut Roma (Friendly)

Livonia City FC 1 - 1 Grand Rapids FC (Friendly), and Sunflower State FC 5 - 0 Arkansas Wolves FC (Friendly)

Protagonist Picks 7/14-7/19

Guest picker for this week is Danny Woodfill, owner of FC Austin Elite of the UWS. John Howard-Fusco will finally have a record for us to mock him on, no more N/A for John.

The current leader of the Protagonist Picks is our guest picker (last week Mario Alcala of Inocentes FC).

NPSL Keeps 2020 Club Fees Despite Cancelling Season

In a developing story, broken by Apyramid_blog on twitter, the NPSL has decided to keep the club fees for 2020, regardless of the fact that the league has cancelled the season. In an internal email, sent from a journalistic source, the league explained it’s rational.

“The NPSL believes the best thing for soccer in the United States is to ensure that we have a strong platform for teams like yours, and thus we optimize for keeping the league healthy, operational, and moving forward. Therefore, we were focused on finding a healthy balance between keeping the league healthy and sustained for years to come, while also providing relief for our teams. As we considered the sustainability of the league, heavily factored was the NPSL brand and where the league is positioned in the U.S. market. We are a year-round business, providing a platform for teams to build a business in their communities that has year-round relevance and a vision for the future. We have a small but high-level staff supporting that model and we are known for the level of professionalism and quality with which the league is operated and managed.”

Because of this, the league decided to keep the entirety of the $5,500 fees that were assessed to each club on entry to the 2020 season. What the league did offer to clubs was a credit - “Teams will receive a $2000 credit effective immediately.The league will review other ways to give more relief in the future. This is a credit refund as opposed to a cash refund. Credits will be applied to balances and benefits teams that see their future in the NPSL.”

Many clubs are not happy about this news and one NPSL club owner speculated that “30-40% of the league could be lost” with a “bunch of the clubs going to the UPSL.”

Things are challenging and appear to be getting worse.

CAFF and CONIFA - An Alternative to National Team Nonsense

In October of 2019 the Western Washington Premier League, a regional league in the state of Washington, announced its direct affiliation with the Cascadia Association Football Federation (CAFF). While CAFF was conceptualized as early as 2011, with fan-designed badges and kits emerging in 2012, the concept took a step towards organization in 2013 when interested members held a general meeting, elected a board of directors, and ratified bylaws. Anybody who lives in the bioregion known as Cascadia has at least heard the word, and probably could tell you a thing or two about where and what it encompasses; however, few outside of the Pacific Northwest could accurately speak on the subject.

The conversation on bioregionalism and the environmental movement could take us far away from the topic of soccer in the Pacific Northwest, but getting an overview on the topic of Cascadia will help us understand why a soccer federation was established. Conceptually, Cascadia stretches beyond conventional borders and includes stretches of Canadian British Columbia, Washington State, Oregon, and in some descriptions, it can include portions of Northern California, the Yukon, Idaho, Nevada, Montana, and Wyoming. “A bioregion is defined in terms of the unique overall pattern of natural characteristics that are found in a specific place.” However, depending the lens with which one is looking at a region, those borders are dynamic.

The supporter-created and staunchly maintained Cascadia Cup.

In the case of soccer, the focus of Cascadia largely includes BC, Washington, and Oregon – the idea of Cascadia as a soccer-specific territory was promulgated by the supporter groups of its largest soccer teams: (In alphabetical order) Portland Timbers, Seattle Sounders, and Vancouver Whitecaps. These vociferous and socially active organizations are not only responsible for tethering the love of their home to supporting their local soccer teams, regardless of league, but they created the first North American fan-run rivalry-specific table and trophy, The Cascadia Cup. They are activists inside as well as outside the stadium and the primary protagonists in the founding of a Cascadian-specific soccer team.

In 2013, shortly after the 2012 London Olympics, CAFF became organized and sent a representative to submit an application and to plead their case to the CONIFA board to be admitted to the international organization. CONIFA, the Confederation of Independent Football Associations, was itself founded in 2013 with the intent to bring non-FIFA sanctioned diasporas or underfunded nations together in the name of soccer. The qualifications for admittance include: ethnic or linguistic minority, indigenous group, cultural organization or territory which is not directly represented by a member of FIFA. Cascadia is joined in its unique status as an unrepresented nation and people in North America with Montreal and Hawai’i, both of which also have membership status in CONIFA. Though the specific circumstances behind every member of CONIFA is going to vary, the concept is that under-represented or diasporas of ethnic and linguistic minorities can come together to celebrate soccer, just at their larger FIFA-sanctioned neighbors do.

The squad representing CAFF in the 2018 CONIFA World Football Cup (Photo: CAFF via Facebook)

Though CAFF, and its respective FA, CONIFA, are relatively young they are absolutely essential in fighting the power consolidation and crippling corruptness so openly displayed by both US Soccer and by FIFA. These larger organizations flaunt their misogyny and disinterest in equity with reductive announcements about female athletes and a casual dismissal of rampant racism within the borders of their own member nations. Meanwhile, the base of organizations like CAFF openly fight against racism and gender inequality. Soccer has a long history of bringing together those that organize against tyranny, oppression, and wielding control for economic gain – it takes supporters of independent soccer to view something like CONIFA in the same light that they would look at grassroots soccer; full of its own shortcomings, but genuinely trying to make soccer available to all on a shoestring budget.

One of the shortcomings of CAFF, in its brief existence, has been its filling the roster with willing players from abroad instead of with players directly plucked from the ranks in its very own defined borders. Though an argument could be made for each player who started for Cascadia during its participation in the 2018 CONIFA World Football Cup and the federation’s subsequent friendly versus Darfur in Kent, Washington. Firstly, the Cascadian federation isn’t totally loaded with expendable cash and it’s far less expensive to hunt down players in England with roots to the Pacific Northwest of US to play in a series of international matches based in London. Secondly, you have to start somewhere – case in point is the exhibition CAFF hosted in July, 2019, where the majority of players came from the college and regional league ranks of Washington.

July 27, 2019 – Cascadia hosted Darfur in Kent, Washington in a CONIFA int’l exhibition (Photo by Paul Kahl, via PROSTAMERIKA.com)

The future of CONIFA and CAFF is busy, with upcoming matches at the Southern Frontier Cup in Surrey, England this May as well as the 2020 CONIFA World Football Cup in North Macedonia through June; the 10th ranked men’s team will be playing loads of soccer in the early summer. Additionally, Cascadia may be releasing a colorful addition to its pantheon of custom kits – just in time for those summer international matches. The hope is, that through their recently agreed upon affiliation with the WWPL, those brilliant new shirts will be worn by natives of the Pacific Northwest, plucked from the teams associated with the regional league – but be patient with them and understand their finances. It costs a lot to send a whole team of local lads around the world and significantly less to recruit European-based players with Cascadian ties to travel a third of the distance or less. Surely it wouldn’t hurt to buy one of their new kits when its released, to put some money in the coffers.

Another reason to consider buying shirts and scarves from CAFF is to help fund a proposed addition to the federation. CONIFA’s first ever women’s match was a friendly between Kibis Türk FF and FA Sápmi, which was played in Northern Cyprus on November 10th 2018. Since then CONIFA have added Kelly Lindsey as its Director of Women’s Football and she’s determined to host a Women’s World Football Cup as soon as possible. Kelly has created a solid, six core values and functions plan with the intent to recruit and incorporate a strategic team of women leaders “who would positively challenge, disrupt and transform the way the world looks at women’s sport, women’s football – in my mind – the ‘women’s’ game globally, that encompasses women, across all sectors, at all ages.” It would absolutely glorious to see Cascadia join the ranks of the women’s teams joining CONIFA and be leaders in giving women the respect and recognition they deserve which FIFA and US Soccer fail to recognize.

The first ever CONIFA women’s match was in November of 2018, here’s to hoping its one of many more to come and a catalyst for a CONIFA Women’s World Football Cup

Old Man Yells at Sky: Enough NISA Already!

1. So NISA, huh? - NISA fever is sweeping the country and no amount of CDC warnings are gonna stop it. Ok, maybe that’s an exaggeration, but the truth is if you watched the week 1 matches, there is a lot going on in this league to be excited about. The clubs are solid on the field, some are downright great, the broadcasts have been good so far, the league seems to be shaping up, and don’t forget, next season we see even more sides hopping in, including NY Cosmos. Sort of wish Miami FC hadn’t pulled the plug on their NISA launch, but whatever, enjoy being the 10th-12th ranked club in USL-C.

2. Icarus is the gem of lower league soccer kits. - So many beautiful kits coming out of the genius mind of Robby Smuckler. I don’t know when, in his trajectory, that I met him, but every interaction with the guy has been top notch, class. I don’t understand why more clubs aren’t working with him, he’s simply the best. Every time I see another bland, generic kit I think, why didn’t you call Icarus?

3. NPSL regular season is underway, huh? - Yeah, the southwest clubs are already at it in the NPSL, way before we see the rest of the league kick off. Can’t express it enough, this is not a positive thing. It leads to all sorts of imbalance and gaps at the end of the season. Standardize the start times, guys! It would be better for everyone involved, OR have a smaller league with multiple tiers. It doesn’t make sense that Napa Valley kicked off their season last weekend and MPLS City’s opener is MAY 16th. That’s a full 2 months from now. What the hell.

4. Anyone else see that mock up of if Hummel made MPLS City’s kits? - @KonceptKitz is a handle out of England that focuses on football kits and reimagined MPLS City kits if Hummel had done them. mmmmmm. Yeah. Not good, Bob. If any club nails their kits, it’s MPLS City. Hummel would have generated some boring ass kits, apparently.

5. Picking up my Locomotive season tickets today. - Yeah, I’m a shill and a traitor.

6. Chipotle. Really? - Chipotle is now “the official Mexican restaurant” of US Soccer. How hilarious that a place that doesn’t serve real Mexican food is the official Mexican food of a plastic organization like US Soccer (which is so little dedicated to actual soccer). So maybe it’s the perfect fit? Also 9 times out of 10 I get a stomach ache from consuming what they are serving?

   On a side note, I’m glad they are picking up sponsors, but wish they’d focus on building up the talent development.

7. Politics - If you follow me on social media, you know I’m very into politics and have strong takes on pretty much everything political. We may not agree, but I feel strongly about things and express myself. I’m very left leaning. I’m a Bernie guy, without the shitty aggressiveness online to people with different opinions. Just as in 2016, super Tuesday has left me really disappointed with many of my fellow voters. Especially after recently coming back from Europe, seeing so many amazing things that a country can do for its citizens if it wants to put its money where its mouth is. Instead, in the United States we whine about costs, cut taxes on the rich, cut social programs, and let our weak and mentally unstable wander the streets. Sigh.

8. OVPL expands into WOSO. - I’m glad, but are they growing faster than sustainable? Feels like it, but I don’t want to be THAT GUY. I am that guy. Patience, people. You’ll dominate the world someday, but today is not that day. I wish them well though!

9. Las Vegas Lights, corny on purpose - When I write these columns, I like to scroll through my twitter feed and find subjects based on what’s going on. LVL is always there and usually I ignore them, but today I wanted to make a point. I think they have the most overrated, ugly kits in the game, that their mascot is moronic, and their marketing is shitty. And you know what, it’s perfect for their hometown. It’s not about a one size fits all approach, it’s about finding what works for your fanbase and doing that. Be you, LVL.

10. Music: “My Companjera” - Gogol Bordello. If you haven’t listened to this “gypsy punk” band, I’d really suggest it. Great band full of international influence without the general douchiness that comes with “international music.” Fantastic music.

The State of the WPSL

WIth all the excitement of the United Soccer Coaches finally dying down, the WPSL stepped into the spotlight last weekend when it held its Annual General Meeting in Las Vegas. Representatives from clubs all over the country came together to discuss plans for another successful year for the league. All indicators from the meeting indicate a strong and growing organization on the rise. In a press release that came out today, Sean Jones, league President,  highlighted the strength of the league, “we have added strong clubs to the league, which demonstrates the league’s commitment to provide young women an opportunity to play at a very high level and pursue their goals in soccer.”

That growth is a sure sign of the health of the league. Today, the WPSL announced that the 2020 season would see a total number of 131 clubs. That number is up 12 from last season. At this point, the WPSL is the largest women’s soccer league in the world, even dwarfing most men’s leagues. The continued growth of this league has been fueled by a spike in interest in the women’s game and the expansion of men’s clubs into women’s soccer. It doesn’t hurt, from an operational perspective, that the lack of professional options for many players continues to drive talent into the amateur game. Players need time to develop their skills to get into highly coveted paid roles with the few professional leagues in the world. The WPSL’s expansion fuels and benefits from the high quality players fighting for a chance.

The spot currently occupied within the women’s game in this country, of course, has other rivals. The UWS is a competing amateur league with a large number of talented clubs. While both leagues talk nice about each other, they are clearly competing for top spot. The UWS has less clubs, but, off the record, some in the league have claimed the talent was a higher standard. That argument may be dissipating with the recent announcements of the last two UWS Champions, the LA Galaxy OC (2019 Champions) and Houston Aces (2018 Champions) are transitioning to the WPSL. Two other UWS clubs, El Paso Surf and Colorado Pride, are also swapping leagues.

All that said, it should be made clear that the UWS continues to be viable, but certainly the financial pressures on a smaller league are harder to manage for member clubs. The rival league did add multiple clubs in the off season, further reflecting the spike in interest in the women’s game.

Does continued growth mean the WPSL can claim supremacy in amateur women’s soccer? Hard to say at this point, but Sean Jones’ leadership appears to be having a positive effect on the league as a whole. One of his goals was growing the league to reduce travel costs, which appears to be happening. In an August interview with our site, he highlighted this “I think a lot of teams that thought about joining one league or the other, are now looking at us and saying ‘there’s no reason to join the UWS, this is a better league.’ And when I say better, everything else is done well and they don’t have to spend the money on travel. For that reason, I think our league makes more sense.” That pursuit of reducing expenses has led to this year’s expansion and the split of two conferences, the Mountain Conference and Coastal Conference, into two divisions, making distances between teams even shorter.

The expanded WPSL map released today.

When I spoke with James Polling, WPSL Director of Communications and Match Operations, he was clearly on a post AGM high. “Last weekend’s AGM was a great indicator of the continued grow and passion supporting the women’s game at a grassroots level. The excitement among our attendees representing 131 clubs was palpable. Whether it be social media, gameday experience, compelling out-of-conference friendlies, and so forth, our clubs are committed to our league’s mission in providing the highest level of developmental opportunities for women in this country.”

- Dan Vaughn

Old Man Yells at Sky: Old People Suck, Young People Suck, All People Suck Edition

1. Life Advice - If you’re waiting on other people to do something, just do it yourself. If the thing is important enough to bug you, you can’t wait for other people to do it. You’re spending time and effort being frustrated, just throw yourself into the solution of it. People will ALWAYS disappoint you. Accept that fact and move on. Get moving!

2. Greenville goes on hiatus - I know GVLFC is relatively new in the NPSL, joining just two years ago, but goddamnit I am sick of clubs doing this. And I’m not angry with the club, I’m angry with the league, the fans, the situation. I want the next DCFC, the next CFC, instead clubs keep dropping like flies. It’s depressing. Sustainability is becoming my catchphrase. I yell it at every club I meet, every league official I talk to, every fan dealing with a struggling local club: SUSTAINABILITY! We have to change the state of things.

3. Which are worse? - I work customer service in my day job so a question came into my head the other day - do young people suck more than old people or is it the other way around? Young people are messy, stupid, and generally pains in the butt, while old people are demanding, can’t hear, complain constantly, and are generally pains in the butt. Both groups have zero problem rearranging your furniture, cutting in line, demanding service above and beyond. I think I hate everyone, regardless of age. So maybe that’s my answer.

4. Ohio Heart Cup - I like this idea. A local cup, ran by local clubs, for the promotion of all clubs involved, regardless of league affiliation. More of this please.

5. #GirlDad - What began as a cute way to acknowledge the special relationship between fathers and daughters (sparked by the untimely death of Kobe and Gigi Bryant), has officially jumped the shark. Last night, Jezebel ran an article highlighting everything the author saw wrong with this celebration. I am not telling anyone how to feel about anything, but being contrarian will only get you so far. Maybe it will get you clicks, I dunno. Maybe I should be more contrarian, start raging against kittens and pizza. Lighten up, people.

6. USWNT - We’ve got Olympic qualifiers going on and apparently everyone forgot to show up in Houston?! Just over 4,000 for the reigning World Cup Champions? Houston should NEVER again get a sniff of this team. Defenders of the city are saying it was a lack of marketing and promotion, wrong time of year, bad opponent, the stars aren't aligned, the list keeps building, but come on. Show up for our national team, the rest of the world is in awe of our women and we don’t deserve them. If we have to play every match in Portland, so be it.

7. Queensboro FC - Anyone gonna tell David Villa there’s no promotion/relegation in the US system? Maybe he’s hoping that changes at some point? More players need to call for pro/rel or nothing will change.

8. Forward Madison Burnout - Name a famous band. The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, The Strokes, Pearl Jam, U2. All have great catalogues, good songs, super talented, no reason to hate them. Then you get surrounded by fans of one of them and it’s nonstop how great they are, how every song is life-changing, and no other bands compare. Except, for all their greatness, there are bands that compare, there are other bands that are good, and hearing about the same band over and over again makes you want to pull your heart out because its denying the reality that other great bands exist.

   Forward Madison has done some great things in their rollout: savvy social media, great design, a cheeky approach to marketing, so much to celebrate. But people, get over yourself. Just because the rest of the USL1 is falling behind on promotion doesn’t mean there are NO OTHER CLUBS KILLING IT. There are so many great clubs doing similar work with less payroll, less employees (some with NO paid staff), and less time. So let’s be realistic in our praise of FMFC - great job, one of many doing a great job.

9. Comparing Leagues - I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately. How would the best NISA team (in my opinion, DCFC, at the moment) do against a USL1 schedule? Could DCFC win that league? What about Championship? How would DCFC do against Louisville or El Paso? Hard to say, but we need more friendlies to figure this out. Considering DCFC has played FC Juarez, who share ownership partners with Locomotive, it should be an easy one to set up. Just sayin.

10. Music Recommendation - Sigur Ros - “Hoppipolla” - I’m always looking for music to write by, so generally I’m looking for music without words or, and this leads to today’s rec, music in another language. Sigur Ros is a go to for sure in that category. Love this band, who sing mostly in Icelandic, and heartily recommend you put them on in the background while you work today.

Taking the Next Step: Gilberto Garcia

The first time I met Gilberto, he was playing for the UPSL’s FC Grande, in Las Cruces, New Mexico. As a supporter of the club, I could see his talent, that was obvious, but, more than anything, it was his passion that shone every match he played. Even the matches he didn’t play, he was always on the bench, trying to catch the coach’s eye to get into the match. And after the matches, he always made a point to talk to the fans and supporters. This season he played with San Antonio Runners, but has been working hard on landing an international spot. He’s a bright talent with a story, and, with a big move to Spain happening this month, we’re letting him tell it.

- Dan

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What’s your backstory?

My name is Gilberto Garcia, I’m 22 years old and I was born in El Paso, Texas but I spent the first few years of my life in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico(where my family is from). I picked up soccer when I was 4 years old, I played for a local club in Juarez and fell in love with the sport, I just wanted to be like my older brothers who also played. I’m grateful my father was such a big fan of the sport, who also played his whole life but never had the support that I’ve had.

Can you describe your playing style, preferred position, players you model yourself after?

I would say my playing style has evolved throughout the years, I must admit I hit a stump in my career while in high school. I stopped taking it serious after I got a knee injury my junior season, as I was coming off winning a district championship and being the youngest on my varsity team. So in high school I would rely heavily on just speed then it evolved once I got to college, becoming more of a finishing player. I modeled my game after Luis Suarez, Lewandowski, you know all the great strikers. Once I got into the semi pro scene, I kept my striker mentality and also started becoming a better passer. I feel like I’ve now turned more into a playmaker but can still finish the play when needed. I started watching players like Isco & Neymar. So all in all, I like playing striker and CAM. 

The UPSL’s Southwestern foes, like Sporting AZ FC, helped Garcia to be ready for his move to Spain.

You’re a veteran of the lower league scene in the US, where have you played and what was the experience like?

I’ve been in the trenches of the lower leagues in the US since summer of 18’ after I decided college wasn’t really getting me noticed. It’s definitely been a learning experience as you sometimes play against grown men so it gives you that Sunday league rawness. I’m grateful for the expansion of all these leagues as it made players like myself have more opportunities to get themselves out there. I’ve been at it for 3 seasons now, having my debut with FC Grande in Las Cruces, New Mexico. You’d be surprised how much local talent there is near the border, I then switched teams to the San Antonio Runners, in San Antonio, Texas to be closer to my sports agent Dr. Mario Sanchez. We had been cooking up the idea of playing in Spain for a few months so it was a good move. 

Where are you headed next?

I am now headed to Alicante, Spain to play for Santa Pola CF. 

How did you attract international attention?

As I mentioned, I linked up with my agent through one of my high school teammates who also went to Spain. I just messaged him one day and asked how he got noticed. I went to San Antonio in July of 2019 and conveniently the coach was in town visiting my agent so we met up and discussed the possibility of me going overseas and it took of from there. 

What’s your goal for your first season in Spain?

My goal for my first season in Spain is to develop into a lethal striker, and honestly work on my all around game. 

Any particular advantage of Spain versus another country?

I feel Spain has one of the most competitive leagues in the world being La Liga, so being in that country will turn me into a better player and hopefully I can climb up the ladder and make it onto a higher league team. The sky is the limit at this point so God Willing things will go well. 

What are the biggest problems facing players in the states?

I believe the biggest problem in the US is that we don’t have the same system they have in Europe, where they play year round in professional  academies. In the states, you have to fight to earn a scholarship and play college ball. In my opinion, it’s not the best route as you’re only in season about 3 months, and honestly Soccer isn’t viewed the same in the US as it comes second to American Football and Basketball. 

Gilberto played the 2019 Fall season with the UPSL’s SA Runners.

Do you see yourself as a success story yet?

I like to think of myself as a success story in the making, I was a young kid when tragedy struck my family. We hit rock bottom and I have had to climb myself out of it for the past 5 years. Having to work full time jobs and still having to go to training an hour away then coming home to family issues can be draining on a young adult, but I know the most successful people come from struggle so I’ve always had a chip on my shoulder. So this is only the beginning of my story, I want kids younger than me to have somebody they can relate to and to know that no matter what life throws at you there’s still a way out. 

What are your long term goals?

My long term goals are to make it to the big leagues, I know this career path isn’t forever but if I can get a good 10-15 years doing this then I’m happy. I just want to make my momma proud, my dad is the reason I got into the sport and my mom is the reason I never gave up. I want my brothers to live through me. 

Oakland first, always.

Nominated for Protagonist Club of the Year, Oakland Roots showed from day one their ability to connect with their city and its fans in ways that most grassroots clubs haven’t. We sat down with Edreece Arghandiwal, club cofounder, CMO, and one of the primary drivers of the young club’s branding. With year one in the books, Arghandiwal opened up about the club, their first year successes, and how Oakland will remain the primary focus in every decision moving forward.

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First season in the can, what went right? What could you have done better season one? 

2019 was a dream start for the Roots. People have asked us how we did it, and the answer is quite simple; Oakland did it. The Roots acted as a vehicle for the ideas, passion, and interest that already reside in our community. We not only sold out games, but were able to build an identity that is synonymous with Oakland. We had a team that represented the community, had incredible game day experiences, and built a safe place for people to just be themselves. There were many successes, but we will not stop there. I don’t think we will ever stop, because Oakland hasn’t ever stopped. Walt Disney said that Disneyland will never be done as long as there is an imagination. Roots aren’t quite Disneyland, but I hope you get the point. Diverse people, ideas, creativity, and culture exist in Oakland and as long as those things exist, we will always have to think differently. We are constantly looking at ways to challenge assumptions. We have an opportunity to do things the Oakland way. 

This past year, our team was left with one wish; to do even more in the place we love the most. 

What’s your favorite memory of this first season? 

At our first game, we shutdown East 10th street for a block party, and the response was overwhelming. We had local artists perform, food trucks serving food, good drinks from local breweries, and more. I remember being in the middle of the concert and hearing the chorus of one of the songs that was being performed, “O-O-O-O-Ohhh.” As I looked around I saw everyone throwing up an “O” for Oakland. I got emotional, and I won’t forget it ever. Our first ever game landed on my 30th birthday, so it was a perfect mesh of happenings. 

One of my favorite songs is Telegraph Ave. by Childish Gambino, and there is a part of the song where Gambino says “we’ll both be thirty soon in Oakland.” I always thought about the day I would turn 30 in Oakland, and it happened in a way that I could have never guessed. I am grateful. 

Jack McInerney was your 2019 offensive player of the year, how did having a player of his caliber on the club shape the offense this season? Will he be returning to the club next season? 

Jack is a helluva player and human being. His attitude and style scream Oakland, and we are blessed to have him in our group. We hope to see Jack return next season. Roster decision announcements will be made soon so stay tuned for those. 

Overall, the club was unable to get much momentum in the table in 2019. Did that play a role in the separation of Paul Bravo? Why was the decision made to move on? 

I will just point you towards the comment from our club President and my Co-Founder when the decision was made a month ago. “The entire front office is thankful for the work Paul put in to help build this team in the first season. He was a true professional throughout the year and is a pioneer for the Oakland Roots, join the club based on our vision. We wish Paul the best as he continues to serve the Bay Area soccer community with the De Anza Force and the California Thorns. He will always be a welcome member of this family.” 

Can you talk about the promotion of Jordan Ferrel and why he was the best candidate for your club? What are you expectations for his performance in the upcoming NISA season? 

I'll leave the roster and technical decisions to our technical staff, but I can say that we're excited to have Jordan Ferrell serve as our next head coach. Jordan has a lot of ties to this community, and he's a great choice to serve Oakland and lead our team. His passion and desire to see Oakland succeed is what makes this a perfect fit. 

The club drew well in your first season, how was that accomplished from a club-planned approach? 

Oakland has always had an appetite for the sport of soccer. It was only a matter of time for that craving to come to life. We wanted to build a club that embodied the principles of The Town. Oakland First, Always. This doesn’t have to mean you have to be from Oakland to be a fan of this team. “Oakland First, Always” means you appreciate and respect the arts, culture, and diversity. Roots is bigger than a club. It’s a movement, and a way of life. 

What approach does Oakland Roots take to maintain connection with the city and the fans? 

We listen, and we try to always live up to what we say. Being in Oakland means you have to be present. You have to listen, and you have to be about the action. You have to walk the walk in this city, and we plan to do just that. If we slip up along the way, I hope people hold us accountable. 

Our team made an effort to be at every major community event, not with the mission of converting folks to ticket buyers or season passes, but to genuinely connect and build commonalities. I am a believer in word-of-mouth marketing. People will spread the love, if they feel love. 

Early on we built a community advisory board of people that represented Oakland; the shakers and movers of our community. We rely on them to keep us on the right path. I am forever grateful for them. 

What’s in the works looking forward? 

As you might have seen we launched Project 51O a reserve team that will play in the NPSL and function as the clubs reserve team. A project is “an individual or collaborative enterprise that is carefully planned and designed to achieve a particular aim. For Roots, the aim is to help develop soccer and promote culture in the 51O. 

As much as the club has been about the team on the field, there’s been a tremendous amount of focus on brand identity. Can you talk about what went into that from a foundational perspective? What goals did you set for branding? 

Branding is not just about slapping a logo on a t-shirt. That’s the thing I hope people truly understand. A crest and an identity have to speak loudly about the people that wear it. It has to feel good associating with. Most importantly, it has to look good. Good design is a big part of our brand approach. We spent a lot of time developing our brand, because we care about it. Everything is done with intention...otherwise what’s the point? 

Several moodboards turned into think groups, and think groups turned into many crests. We landed on the crest because it embodied the color and diversity that exists in our community. The Oak Tree is a big part of the brand identity of the city, so it was a must-have on the crest. We want the crest and identity to be associated with city-pride, culture, arts, sports...LIFE. Soccer happens to be our vehicle, but Oakland Roots is a bigger idea. It’s a wave. 

Which gear-wearing celebrity thrilled you the most? 

Dame Dolla. Period. Dame is real Oakland. The man is genuine, cares about where he comes from, and is insanely humble despite the fame and fortune. You have to know where you come from in order to know where you are going. 

Can you talk about what makes Roots (as a brand), Oakland? What is Oakland style? 

Different. 

Looking towards Spring 2020, how can Roots continue the positive flow? What steps is the club taking to maintain momentum? 

Do more, do Oakland. Reach more people by spreading the message of love, community, and sports. 

Any potential friendlies on the horizon?

We are always looking at potential friendlies we can play but nothing to announce as of now on that front”

Club of the Year Nominee: Detroit City FC

In every industry, there’s a gold standard. Every competitor aims to replicate its success, to mirror results, to match the reputation, but the item that occupies that top spot is universally appreciated and admired. Even the haters and detractors throw their barbs with the knowledge they are doing it out of jealousy and they’d trade spots in a heartbeat, if they could. But no amount of wishing ever gets a thing to the apex position, instead it is achieved through hard work, dedication, passion, consuming ambition, fierce aggression, and a recognition that building something that will last will require massive amounts of sacrifice.

The history of the lower leagues is a bloodbath, awash with the corpses of thousands of clubs that have come and gone. Each year, clubs bow out of competitions and leagues, shut up shop and send out defeated emails to fans. It’s not the exception, but the rule in the current American landscape. Well-intentioned men and women have wasted millions of dollars and thousands of hours trying to create a lasting legacy of success for their club, only to watch the stands sit empty and the bill pile up, until eventually, emptied of resources and devoid of confidence, they give up. Sometimes it’s the plan, sometimes it’s finances, sometimes it’s the lack of fan support, sometimes it’s the players, sometimes sponsors can’t be found, and sometimes it just wasn’t meant to be.

To get to the mark of the gold standard, acts of faith and sacrifice are required. Honestly, there’s so much advice against trying it, most friends will have to be ignored. You’d be insane to believe you’re going to be the club which makes it. All of the facts tell any reasonable person to find something else to invest your time into. And the money, people have gone bankrupt doing this, throwing away retirement funds, burning bridges by borrowing operating expenses, maxing out credit cards in pursuit of the dream. None of it makes sense, but if you can push through, maybe you can climb the mountain of dead and failing clubs. That’s the dream anyway, that’s Detroit City FC.

Detroit City FC (DCFC) played its first season in the NPSL in 2012 and Alan Jacobson, a member of the Northern Guard Supporters Group (NGS), was there. Alan had watched other clubs try to connect with the city, but when he met Sean Mann, one of five DCFC owners, he sensed something different. “Sean made it clear that active support would not only be ok, it would be appreciated. The willingness to allow an organic culture to develop at DCFC is an example of the approach the team owners would take in terms of managing the team. As Sean has said in the past, they (the owners) are the “hosts of the party, not the stars of the party.” For a lot of people this was a big contrast to sporting events run by the big pro teams, where every game day element seems to be contrived and controlled.” Mark Navarro, a fellow member of NGS, seconded that idea of organic connection. “City stands out over other clubs because it genuinely cares about the community in which it plays and wants to see that community thrive, not just in soccer, but also in the well-being of the people who live there.”

Writing about DCFC without discussing the importance of NGS would be ignoring a primary part of what makes DCFC the gold standard. Lindsey Pehrson, DCFC Communication Director agrees. “Without Northern Guard, Detroit City FC wouldn't be what it is today. They are the life and soul of this club and they are largely the reason for the growth the club has experienced over the years. We are supporter built through and through.” Many clubs have attempted to replicate the connection between club and fan, but the organic symmetry between the club on the pitch and NGS in the stands is magic. The rising smoke of the flares, the screaming faces in the crowd, the banging of the drums, the club feeding off that energy on the field, there is nothing like it in ALL of American soccer.

Navarro highlights that feeling as contagious and bigger than soccer. “I’ve met many people in NGS who didn’t care about soccer until they came to a match and saw what NGS does. And, as a result, they’ve fallen in love with the club, which is our ultimate goal as a group. It’s about the environment: Not just the smoke and the drums and all of that, but the fact that all people--regardless of race, gender identity, sexuality, religion, citizenship status, political affiliations, or any other identities--are welcome into our section as long as they love City is vital.”

This year saw the culmination of 8 years of growth with the club announcing a move to NPSL Pro, then Members Cup, and eventually into NISA - DCFC would become fully professional. But the business of the NPSL saw the club win its division, before absolutely dominating the short but heavily stacked Members Cup lineup. Detroit lost a single match in the league, led by a stifling defense which only allowed 4 goals in 10 matches. The play on the field matched the passion of the crowds filling Keyworth Stadium. When asked what stood out, Pehrson listed off the accomplishments, “winning the NPSL Great Lakes Conference before hoisting the 2019 Members Cup championship, beating Atlas FC at home, going nine games unbeaten in 23 league games, etc. It's hard to boil it down to just one moment.” Pair that on the field success with the continued expansion of Detroit City Fieldhouse, a 75,000 square foot indoor multi-sport facility, and the announcement of the creation of a women’s side. 2019 was a ringing success for Le Rouge.

Every club in the country would do anything to have what DCFC has, few are willing to work as hard to achieve that goal. The club has succeeded by putting city on their heart and never straying. And that connection to Detroit has made DCFC’s players family for the fans that fill the stands of Keyworth. They cheer for their club because they cheer for their city. It’s time to recognize the gold standard. It’s time to vote for Detroit City FC.

- Dan Vaughn

Club of the Year Nominee: Pensacola FC

I wanted to introduce this nomination with a list of women from history who have been ignored or slighted due to their gender. I found scientists, social activists, politicians, religious leaders, all of whom died without proper due for their contribution to society. But it all feels too trite, too rote. We all know women don’t get their due in this society or almost 100% of societies that have emerged over the last 200,000 years of human development. And yes, even those that pretend that somehow this current American society is somehow different in this respect, know this. Won’t admit it, of course, but they know it. We all do.

Men have exploited our biological size (on average about 6 inches in height and 35 pounds in weight) to place ourselves at the front of the leadership line. That position in line has allowed us to define what makes a great leader (typically it looks like a man, you can check history) so we can continue to remain at the front of the line. We’ve consistently pushed (mostly metaphorically, but sometimes literally) women into household jobs and raising kids while we fought wars, plowed fields, created businesses, and built empires. Oh, we also enslaved our own kind, committed mass genocide, exploited the weakest of our societies, and destroyed the earth. Yes, we did many good acts, but those get mentioned all the time (usually by men propping up our fragile egos), so maybe we should let the other side of the ledger speak for once.

We’ve social norms, governments, laws, and religions to enforce these rigid ideas about gender, to the point that even in our “progressive” western societies, outspoken women are “shrill,” while men are “bold.” And no single vote will correct this problem, because it runs deep, to the core of everything around us. But maybe it’s time to decide that excellence, regardless of male, female, non-binary, deserves recognition. We can look back into history and admit we screwed up, as a species, in our treatment of our own. Because human excellence doesn’t need to be gendered. And that’s why you should vote for Pensacola FC for club of the year. 

For Pensacola FC, 2019 was one of unparalleled supremacy in the WPSL. Not only did the club score 54 goals, they only gave up 4. That’s an unbelievable goal differential of +49 in an 8-match season. But for David Kemp, founder and head coach, “it was fun!” It’s doubtful his club’s opponents saw it that way. After crushing their Gulf Conference in the regular season, Pensacola rolled into the playoffs. Their dominant goal scoring run would continue throughout - the first match was 4-1, the second 3-1, the semifinal 3-2, and the final ended 4-3 in OT. The club had scored 14 goals in 4 playoff matches against the best teams in the WPSL, including two clubs filled with NWSL reserves. Kemp highlights those final two matches, specifically the final, “the WPSL Semi Final and Championship games were incredible matches against 2 amazing opponents. We showed character coming from behind twice in the Final, and that shows just what type of group this was.”

And what a group. This year’s squad featured forward Uchenna Kanu, who represented her native country of Nigeria in the 2019 World Cup. At 22, she already has 4 appearances for her national team. Also, on the team was Briana Morris, who scored 13 goals in the regular season, and two very important ones in the WPSL Championship match. Three players scored in double digits during Pensacola’s 2019 campaign, though no one may have been as important as GK Kathryn Scheele, who’s 1.12 GAA smothered all WPSL opponents. The lineup was deep, and featured 4 All-Americans. Kemp highlights the big names, but always focuses on the stars who often get passed over. “We had so many performers who were not on the stat sheet, like Celine Rumpf and Heidi Ruth, who are integral to how we play. Their approach to training and playing this game are an example for everyone. We had tremendous success in the attacking areas this season, Bri Morris, Mollie Rouse and Hannah Godfrey all came through with strong seasons, as well as Ana Paula Santos being so adaptable to playing 2 or 3 positions for us.”

This is the third year in a row Pensacola FC has finished their season in the Championship match, but the first win in the final. When I asked Coach Kemp how Pensacola FC was influencing women’s soccer, he cautioned me but then pointed out that “we can be an example to other clubs and owners that you can be successful on a small budget and by promoting all the positive aspects of the game. We do everything with the ball, try to play a style that appeals to the players, and focus on improving the players.” When I asked Uchenna Kanu about her experience with the club, she mentioned that focus on improvement. “Everyone was always working harder than each order and making each other better. The training programs were well organized as well as the coaching staff. Overall, we had the opportunity to build relationships and long-lasting memories within the team. 2019 was an incredible season for me in general.”

I know that the vast majority of the readers of this site are male. I also know that the vast majority of our soccer coverage is focused on men’s soccer. And maybe we should think carefully about why that is. We are a nation that is DOMINANT in women’s soccer. Our national team is indisputably the best in the world, yet out women’s clubs go out of business and our professional league can only sustain 9 clubs. It’s time to recognize that the best soccer played in this country is played by women. And, if that is a fact, then Pensacola FC is one of the best amateur clubs in the world, certainly the best amateur club in the country. Following that logic, Pensacola FC deserves your vote, because they are the best, period.

- Dan Vaughn

"The Referee was Punched in the Face."

The story broke from a tweet by Carlos Alfaro Rodriguez (@carlosalfarorod) who was there covering the match for the Montgomery County Sentinel. Carlos had been live tweeting the UPSL National Quarterfinal between World Class Premier vs. Mass United FC when he posted this: “Update: the referee was punched in the face. It looks like the game is over.” Not a phrase read too often about a soccer match, but for a league that has had some crazy finishes, this was easily the craziest.

The match took place at Montgomery Blair High School, in Silver Spring, Maryland, this afternoon. The scoring in the first half began with Marco Martinez scoring for Mass United FC in the 34th minute. In the 37th minute, Olakunle Banjo equalized by scoring a penalty for World Class Premier after a yellow card for MUFC’s Reda Mokhtari. With the teams knotted up, it looked like the half would end and the clubs would regroup and ready for another 45. According to Evan Raimist, the PR/Communications Director for World Class Premier, this is when things got wild.

“At the stroke of halftime, the ref blew the whistle for halftime and look like one of their players got mad that the ref stopped what he viewed as a counter attack. The ref issued him a yellow (his second). A member of their bench (staff, not player) ran onto the field and then bumped into/punched the ref in the face as the other players were yelling.” With chaos breaking out on the field, the match was called and the police were called to sort out what happened. “The league made the ultimate decision to call the game and have Mass United forfeit. The ref crew called the police who responded, but the decision was left up to the UPSL and they decided a Mass United forfeit was warranted.”

The “member of the bench” mentioned by Raimist was apparently a parent of one of the MUFC players. According to a source with Mass United, it was “a parent of one of the players after a straight red card at the end of the first half.” Everything was still fluid when the clubs were contacted, and whether it was a second yellow or a straight red, that doesn’t really change the result.

For their parts, neither club is happy with the resulting forfeit for MUFC. A spokesperson for MUFC - “All of the players and head coach are extremely disappointed after sacrifices they have all made all year and an inexcusable incident destroyed a very competitive match…We cannot accept poor behavior by anyone that is on the sidelines. Much disappointment for sure for everyone involved. We apologize to all those involved.”

While WCP is thrilled with advancing, Raimist expressed disappointment in the way things ended. “We are happy that we get to go through, but definitely would have rather the players decide the match on the field. It was shaping up to be a good game and the 2nd half looked like it would be some exciting soccer. It’s disappointing the players didn’t get to decide the outcome, but we are looking forward to continuing to work hard and keep this season going.”

World Class Premier celebrate a well-deserved win. (image courtesy of WCP social media)

A league affiliated twitter account responded on social media, “Charges will be pressed we protect our referees across the country.” Whether this is the “official response” of the league, that can’t be verified. Our contact with the UPSL was reach out to, but so far no response has been received. If the league contacts us, we’ll their response to the story.

For the record, we also reached out to the author of the original tweet, to get his perspective, but haven’t heard back. His tweet reflects the importance of citizens/reporters willing to post to their social media about matches not being covered by most media outlets. We appreciate all of you out there and especially Carlos today. Keep up the great work.

End result, World Class Premier advance in the UPSL playoffs and continue a run of dominant play. Mass United’s run ends, but a club shouldn’t be judged by the unhinged actions of a single person.

- Dan Vaughn

Cosmopolitan League Week 9 Recap and Week 10 Preview

Highlights of the Week

After a week off, the Cosmo League was back the weekend of the 16th. Cedar Stars Academy lost their second straight against Doxa FC, Lansdowne Yonkers remain undefeated after defeating NY Greek Americans, and Pancyprians picked up their fourth straight win against Zum Schneider FC 03. NY Shamrock SC lost the bottom of the table clash against Sporting SC in their fourth straight loss. In Division 2 play, Manhattan Celtic added to their goal differential against 2nd place Real Ole FC, winning 5-0, while Richmond County routed Central Park Rangers 6-0. New York’s “finest”, NYPD FC, found time in-between beating up and arresting teens who hopped subway turnstiles to draw DeSportiva Sociedad NY 2-2.

Week 9 Results

Division 1:

Sat, November 16th, 2019

KidSuper Samba AC 0 – 2 NY Athletic Club

Sun, November 17th, 2019

Cedar Star Academy 0 – 3 Doxa FC

NY Greek Americans 0 – 1 Lansdowne Yonkers FC

Sporting SC 2 – 1 NY Shamrock SC

NY Pancyprian Freedoms 1 – 0 Zum Schneider FC 03

Division 2:

Sat, November 16th, 2019

Manhattan Celtic 5 – 0 Real Ole FC

FC Japan 1 – 1 FC Ulqini

Sun, November 17th, 2019

NYPD FC 2 – 2 DeSportiva Sociedad NY

Kelmendi FC 5 – 2 Williamsburg International FC

Beyond FC 2 – 3 Afghan FC NY

Manhattan Kickers 2 – 3 Polonia Gwardia NY

Stal Mielec NY 3 – 1 NY Ukrainians

Central Park Rangers FC 0 – 6 Richmond County FC

Thu, November 21, 2019

Richmond County FC 1 – 1 Stal Mielec NY

Effects on Table

Division 1:

Lansdowne Yonkers held on to the 1st place spot while the Pancyprians moved into 2nd with their win over now 3rd place Zum Schneider. Doxa FC moved into 4th at the expense of Cedar Stars Academy who fell out of a playoffs spot into 5th. Sporting SC and NY Shamrock SC are still in the two regulation spots with four points separating 8th place KidSuper Samba AC and 9th place Sporting SC.

Division 2:

Not much movement in the top of the table with the top three staying the same. Manhattan Kickers fell a spot into 5th as Richmond County took their place in 4th. Central Park Ranger’s loss to Richmond County sends them to the bottom of the table on goal differential, which is -20. The table is still just as congested with only 9 points separating 5th place and last place. Stal Mielec took advantage of the tight table moving from 15th to 8th with their win against NY Ukrainians on the 17th and draw against Richmond County this past Thursday, the 21st.

Week 10 Preview

Not many Division 1 games this weekend as we hit the halfway mark of the season, but five out of the top six teams will be playing. Lansdowne Yonkers will face off against Doxa FC on Saturday, the 23rd, at Tibbert Brook Park Field 3, 8:00 pm. At the same time, NY Shamrock SC will be looking to close the gap on KidSuper Samba AC, at the bottom of the table, and get out of the regulation zone at Baker Athletics Complex. Zum Schneider will be facing Sporting SC at 4:00 pm, Sunday the 24th, at Randall Island Field 75 while NY Greek Americans will play Cedar Stars Academy at 8:00 pm at the Metropolitan Oval.

Games to look forward to in Division 2 will be 1st place Manhattan Celtic taking on 6th place Polonia Gwardia at McCarren Park, the 24th at 10:00 am and Richmond County FC vs Real Ole FC at Corporal Thompson Park, the 24th at 4:00 pm. 17th place, Central Park Rangers, will be taking on FC Japan in a bottom of the table clash which could see the winner jump into safety from relegation, if only for the next week.

Statistical Information from: Cosmo Soccer League

- Paul Kowalczyk

World Class Premier No More

It's been a while since I wrote something substantive on a club. But when I saw that World Class Premier was rebranding to Maryland Bobcats FC, I knew this was the perfect opportunity to get back in the swing of things. I got in contact with the club and was able to get a quick interview done with Communications Director Evan Raimist. Without further ado, here is your Maryland Bobcats.

What exactly led to the rebrand?

The name change comes at a time when there are some big changes in the club, including joining the NPSL, and the ownership wanted to complete this before fans got too entrenched. This helps our future project and helps us start to achieve our goal of representing the whole state and maybe one day bringing a pro team to Maryland. We don't want to be seen as one location, but representatives of the whole state to come together and get behind one project.

How long had this been in the process?

This process has been about a year in the making with it really heating up the last 4-6 months. It isn't a quick process and we wanted to make sure that the transition went as smoothly as possible and that we had everything we needed in place before we announced it.

Why did you choose Bobcats as the mascot?

The new team colors are a tribute to the school where most of the owners met (University of Maryland, Baltimore County or UMBC). By giving the team the gold and black color scheme is their way of paying respect to the school that made them where they are now. The ownership group goes by "The Bobcat Group" so incorporating that into the team identify is important. They had a dream together and have started this project together, so it’s only fitting that the team name incorporate the group that had a dream together and wanted to build something bigger than one individual person.

As a fan, I’m always on the lookout for unique kits and team gear, so this will be a two parter. First, what kit supplier are you guys going with? And will there be gear that fans can potentially buy?

We are working on finishing up designs, but we will have new kits for both our NPSL and UPSL teams next season. Again, we are working through the final details, but it looks like we will be going with Icarus for our kits. We love the work they've been doing and they have been great to work through the designs with. The jerseys will obviously include the new team colors and will be available for purchase. We also are working on getting new scarves that will be available for purchase. As we get closer to the seasons in 2020, we will be adding more gear to our online shop at our new website.

Are there future aspirations of possibly jumping to a pro league?

I think that that is ultimately the goal, yes. We all know the state of professional soccer in the US right now and that it's a bit segregated and disjointed. For now, we are focusing on where we are at. Joining the NPSL is the next big step for us and we are focused on building a competitive squad to kick off in 2020. We always have high aspirating for ourselves, so years down the line becoming a fully professional club is not out of the questions.

Lastly, what can we expect from the team after the rebrand?

You can expect the same high standards that we hold ourselves to as well as continued work in our community. We hope to unite the state of Maryland behind one team and be a club, team, and organization that the community can be proud of. We have already taken a big step with a new website that will be a one-stop shop for all things Maryland Bobcats FC. We are still the same team, same players, and same people behind the scenes with big ambitions, we just have a new name. We're looking forward to finishing this Fall season strong and hoping to have a successful 2020.

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I have to thank Evan for the opportunity to cover the rebrand and I look forward to seeing what the club can do in the upcoming NPSL and UPSL seasons.

- Shawn Laird

Cosmo League Week 9 Preview

Cosmopolitan League Week 8 Recap and Week 9 Preview

Highlights of the Week

Week 8 saw another shake-up of the top four as Lansdowne Yonkers FC are the new league leaders after beating NY Shamrock SC 2-0 in the NYC Irish Derby on November 2nd. The Lansdowne Bhoys also played this past Wednesday the 6th, in the Warner Fricker Open Cup, defeating Cedar Stars Academy 2-0 to advance to the semifinals where they will face Pancyprian Freedoms. Zum Schneider FC 03 Dropped into 2nd as they lost to Doxa FC 3-1. Pancyprian Freedoms beat Cedar Stars Academy 4-1 on November 3rd and shot up into 3rd after defeating KidSuper Samba AC 4-0 this past Wednesday. Cedar Stars Academy fell to 4th having not won a game since their 10-1 thrashing of KidSuper Samba AC during Week 5. NY Athletic Club looked to distance themselves from the relegation zone, now five points ahead of 9th place Shamrocks, defeating last place Sporting SC 1-0. In Division 2 action, Hoboken FC 1912 handed Richmond County FC their first loss of the season while Manhattan Celtic only picked up a point against Williamsburg International FC in a 2-2 draw. On the other side of the table, Kelmendi FC NY picked up their first win of the season, defeating Stal Mielec 1-0.

Week 8 Results

Division 1:

Sat, November 2nd, 2019

Lansdowne Yonkers FC 2 – 0 NY Shamrock SC

Sun, November 3rd, 2019

Sporting SC 0 – 1 NY Athletic Club

Doxa FC 3 – 1 Zum Schneider FC 03

KidSuper Samba AC 1 – 5 NY Greek Americans

NY Pancyprian Freedoms 4 – 1 Cedar Stars Academy

Wed, November 6th, 2019

KidSuper Samba AC 0 – 4 NY Pancyprian Freedoms

Division 2:

Sat, November 2nd, 2019

Afghan FC NY 0 – 1 Manhattan Kickers

Sun, November 3rd, 2019

Polonia Gwardia NY 5 – 1 NYPD FC

Williamsburg International FC 2 – 2 Manhattan Celtic

Real Ole FC 2 – 1 FC Japan

Richmond County FC 0 – 1 Hoboken FC 1912

Stal Mielec NY 0 – 1 Kelmendi FC NY

FC DeSportiva Sociedad NY 0 – 3 Central Park Rangers FC

Effects on Table

Division 1:

Lansdowne Yonkers FC are the new league leaders after Zum Schneider’s loss to Doxa FC. The biggest jump this week was the Pancyprians jumping into 3rd from 6th place while KidSuper Samba AC fell three spots into 7th. NY Greek Americans are still knocking on the door of the top four with only a three point difference between them and 2nd place Zum Schneider FC 03. NY Shamrock SC and Sporting SC are falling further behind the main pack after each picked up another loss this past weekend.

Division 2:

Manhattan Celtic dropping points to Williamsburg International allowed Hoboken FC to match their 19 points with a win against Richmond County FC, only behind on goal differential. Real Ole FC are still in 3rd but only sit a point behind the top two while Manhattan Kickers and Richmond County FC round out the top five sitting in 4th and 5th. The rest of the table has become even more compact as only four points separate 6th place Polonia Gwardia from 17th Kelmendi FC.

Week 9 Preview

No games this weekend, so we’ll have to wait until the weekend of November 16th for Week 9 match-ups. However these matches are well worth the wait as we’ll see undefeated Lansdowne Yonkers faceoff against 5th place Greek Americans at the Metropolitan Oval the 17th at 8:00 pm. While at the same time, a 2nd vs 3rd match-up as Zum Schneider will travel to St. John’s Belson Stadium to play the Pancyprians. Doxa FC will be looking to continue Cedar Stars Academy’s misfortune and NY Shamrock SC will duke it out with Sporting SC in a bottom of the table clash.

Games to look forward to in Division 2 will be Manhattan Celtic taking on Real Ole FC on Randalls Island field 70, the 16th at 8:00 pm and Manhattan Kickers vs Polonia Gwardia NY on Randalls Island field 7, the 17th at 2:00 pm. Another interesting match could be Central Park Rangers against Richmond County FC the 17th at 8:00 pm, Randalls Island field 75. Richmond County will want to come back from their first loss of the season while Central Park Rangers will want to distance themselves from the bottom of the table with a third straight win.

Statistical Information from the league.

- Paul Kowalczyk

Asheville City's Departure for USL

Asheville City Soccer Club’s men’s team will jump from the independent NPSL’s Southeast Conference to USL League Two for the upcoming 2020 season.

ACSC had competed in the NPSL since 2017, the same year its men’s team started competing. The Club made the leap to USL2 due to the high turnover the Southeast Conference has been experiencing over the last three years, according to team president Ryan Kelley. Now, the team will form a part of the USL2’s large group of North Carolina-based clubs, which already includes two U-23 squads and independent teams Wake FC and Tobacco Road FC. It figures to begin play in the same division as those sides: the South Atlantic. ACSC joins AFC Ann Arbor as the second team to bounce from the NPSL to USL2 this summer.

“We were really pleased with the transition to USL. League leadership made themselves readily available and never shied away from answering our questions, which were extensive,” Kelley told Protagonist. “We were deliberate with the process to ensure that that league would provide the best fit for us moving forward.”

ACSC was founded in 2016 when Kelley and five of his childhood friends, Allen Bradley, Andrew Hunter, Jordan Vance, Jimmy Wheeler and Josh Yoakum, noticed that Asheville was missing a local soccer club that citizens would be sure to rally around. Starting with a men’s team in 2017 playing in the city’s famous Memorial Stadium, the club has since expanded to field a women’s team, led by Meghann Burke, Stacey Enos, and Lydia Vandenbergh, in the WPSL. The teams enjoy strong support from the South Side Blues, the local supporter’s group, and from the city on a whole.

“Asheville City has been a beacon for how the game can grow in cities with tremendous civic pride,” said Joel Nash, Vice President of USL League Two, in a press release announcing the arrival of ACSC. “We look forward to supporting and celebrating this club as it continues to reach new heights.”

Asheville City also already has a number of former players plying their trade in the USL, including USL League One finalists Greenville Triumph SC’s Dominic Boland and Cameron Saul and former Lansing Ignite forward Elma N’for.

Kelley was largely grateful for the support of the NPSL over the last three years. ACSC leadership specifically noted that the league offered a platform of relationship-building and learning. Many of the concepts that ACSC runs on to this day were formed by examining best practices at other NPSL clubs.

However, it was not all smooth sailing. In the NPSL, member clubs are tasked with making relevant decisions for the league as a whole. According to Kelley, this system was too slow-moving and challenging to move forward on league-wide policy. Furthermore, the league faces a lot of turnover year-to-year, especially in the Southeast. For ACSC, such turnover on the men’s side threatened the club’s stability on a whole, including its women’s team, academy and Just Play initiative.

So far, the Club has enjoyed the resources that the USL has made available to them. As a growing team with limited resources they have utilized the marketing and communications resources that have been made available through the league. In addition, ACSC is looking forward to opportunities to network with other clubs in higher divisions within the same structure that the USL offers to its member sides.

The Blues are fully aware of the challenge that the new league will pose on the field, however.

“As far as challenges, I think it is fair to say that the level of play will be generally higher in League Two and that we will need to elevate our game to compete for a championship, but I’m confident that we have the right people in the right positions to accomplish that goal,” said Kelley with regards to the new opposition.

Overall, the move to USL2 has been met with excitement and positive feedback from community stakeholders, even local media covered the move between competitions. According to Kelley, fans are hyped to higher quality regional rivalries and the players and coaches are relishing the opportunities that come with playing under brighter lights with connections to larger clubs.

- Jose Davila IV

Cosmopolitan League Update

Cosmopolitan League Week 7 Recap and Week 8 Preview

Highlights of Week 7

Week 7 saw some pretty big games almost half-way through the season. Previous league leaders of Division 1, Cedar Star Academy, dropped points in their second straight game tying NY Greek Americans 2-2. Zum Schneider FC 03 also dropped points losing to Lansdowne Bhoys FC 2-3 with the Bhoys scoring all three of their goals in the second half coming back from a 2-0 deficit to remain undefeated. The Bhoys are also coming off a win in the Amateur Cup New York Section, reaching the semifinals after defeating Doxa FC 3-1. Last season’s champions, NY Pancyprian Freedoms, defeated NY Shamrock SC in a rematch of last season’s semi-finals 5-1. Important to note that the Pancyprians have played two less games than most teams, only seven points away from league leaders, Zum Schneider FC 03. In Division 2, Manhattan Celtic remain division leaders even after losing their first game of the season to Afghan FC NY 1-0. Manhattan Celtic’s loss means 4th place Richmond County FC of Staten Island are the only undefeated team remaining in Division 2 after drawing against 7th place NY Ukrainians 3-3.

Week 7 Results

Division 1

Sat, October 26, 2019

KidSuper Samba AC 4 – 0 Sporting SC

Sun, October 27, 2019

Cedar Stars Academy 2 – 2 NY Greek Americans

NY Athletic Club 2 – 0 Doxa FC

Zum Schneider FC 03 2 – 3 Lansdowne Bhoys FC

NY Shamrock SC 1 – 5 NY Pancyprian Freedoms

Division 2

Sat, October 26, 2019

Manhattan Celtic 0 – 1 Afghan FC NY

Sun, October 27, 2019

NYPD FC 5 – 2 FC Ulqini

Hoboken FC 1912 3 – 2 Stal Mielec

NY Ukrainians 3 – 3 Richmond County FC

DeSportiva Sociedad NY 5 – 4 Polonia Gwardia NY

Real Ole FC 6 – 3 Beyond FC

Effects on Table

Division 1

Falling to second place as a result of their defeat to Zum Schneider FC 03 on the 23rd, Cedar Stars academy once again dropped a place to 3rd after drawing 5th place New York Greek Americans on the 27th. Lansdowne Yonkers jumped into 2nd by beating current league leaders Zum Schneider FC 03. Lansdowne Yonkers are still undefeated and have played one less game than Zum Schneider. NY Athletic Club got out of the relegation zone into 8th by defeating Doxa FC while NY Shamrock SC and Sporting SC both dropped a place, into 9th and 10th respectively, after they each picked up a loss.

Division 2

Not much movement at the very top or very bottom of the table as Manhattan Celtic and Hoboken FC 1912 still sit in 1st and 2nd place while Central Park Rangers and Kelmendi FC sit in 17th and 18th. The middle of the table is pretty tight with only four points separating 6th and 15th place.

Table information from http://www.cosmosoccerleague.com/standings

Week 8 Preview

NYC’s Irish Derby will be this weekend as Lansdowne Bhoys FC will be taking on NY Shamrock SC at Tibbetts Park in Yonkers on Saturday at 8:00 pm. With the Rocks in a free fall to the bottom of the table, the Bhoys will be looking to capitalize and pick up three points to put pressure on Zum Schneider, who will be playing Doxa FC. The biggest game of the weekend, however, will be a rematch of last year’s final; NY Pancyprian Freedoms vs Cedar Star Academy. Hosted by the Pancyprians at St. John’s Belson Stadium on Sunday, Cedar Stars Academy will be looking to regain lost form that has seen them fall into 3rd while Pancyprians will be hoping to break into the top half of the table. In Division 2 play, 1st place Manhattan Celtic will be hosted by Williamsburg International FC at McCarren Park in Brooklyn, on Sunday at 2:00 pm while 2nd place Hoboken FC 1912 will be playing in Staten Island, against 4th place Richmond County FC at Corporal Thompson Park. Central Park Rangers, who were relegated into Division 2 after this past season, are fighting against relegation once again as they face 11th place DeSportiva Sociedad NY, Sunday at 8:00 pm at Randalls Island Field 70.

- Paul Kowalczyk

Maryland Majors Week 8 Recap

Top Matches of Week 8

Division 1: There was no one match that stood out but the over all weekend was full of drama for division one. Both bottom teams faced off and Academy FC came out with all three points. Christos and Steel Pulse keep high flighting forms.

Division 2: Colombia FC vs Dream Team FC: The 9-goal thriller! This was a match I highlighted on last week’s preview, and did it deliver! These two high possession teams found plenty of opportunities to find the back of the net.

Week 8 Results

Division 1

Christos FC 3 – 0 All Stars United

Academy FC 1 – 0 Columbia FC

Steel Pulse FC 4 – 0 La Dolce Vita

World Class Premier 2 – 0 Maryland International

Division 2

North

Baltimore Kickers 5 – 0 Blue Side FC

JA Raiders FC 1 – 0 Robbie’s FC

AFC Dobes 3 – 1 IFK Maryland

South

Colombia FC 5 – 4 Dream Team FC

Motorik FC ALX 1 – 0 Limitless FC

Meade United 2 – 2 Rockville SC

Effect on the tables:

D1 Group A: No Movement, defending champions still lead the pack.

D1 Group B: Christos FC continue with their undefeated run, WCP back in second. That leaves La Dolce Vita and Columbia FC in 3rd and 4th respectively.

D2 North: The Kickers keep form and stay in 1st place. With the results, no changes to the table, aside from JA Raiders taking 3rd and Blue Side dropping to 4th.

D2 South: The three-horse race sees some changes again. Motorik is now on top, for the first time this season. Colombia having played one game more, with a tie giving them 2nd place, leaving Dream Team in 3rd with one game more to be played. The rest of the table, with no movement.

Division 1 Standings

Group A

1.Steel Pulse FC 4-0-3

2.All Stars United 3-2-3

3.MD Inter 2-4-2

4.Academy FC 2-5-1

Group B

Christos FC 6-0-0

World Class 3-3-1

La Dolce Vita 3-5-0

Columbia FC 1-5-2

Division 2 Standings

North

Kickers 6-0-2

AFC Dobes 4-0-4

JA Raiders 4-2-2

Blue Side FC 4-4-0

IFK Maryland 2-6-0

Robbie’s FC 0-8-0

South

Motorik FC 5-3-0

Colombia FC 4-3-1

Dream Team 4-3-0

Meade United 2-2-4

Rockville SC 2-2-3

Limitless FC 1-5-2

-Geovanny Monterroso

Head over to league website to learn more: https://marylandmajorsoccer.com

Play the Right Way: World Class Premier's move to the NPSL

“Play The Right Way” are the words for which World Class Premier was born from and lives by. We all know the story of how the club was formed; if you don’t, make sure you check out the Spotlight on the club that ran on April 29, 2019. But this story is less about where there club has been but instead on where the club is going.

On September 26, World Class Premier announced that the club would be joining the National Premier Soccer League for the 2020 season. This is a huge step in the club’s journey, especially if you consider that they only just joined United Premier Soccer League earlier this year. After a full Spring and Fall Season in the UPSL, World Class Premier considers their club ready for the next step and I, for one, applaud the move.

Conversation with World Class Premier

I got a chance to speak with Babajide (Jide) Saba, one of the owners of World Class Premier, and he had a lot to share about this move. Let’s start with the basics: he was super excited with what the future holds for the Club.

What inspired the move to the NPSL?

“The NPSL has always been a goal of ours. The move opens many doors for the club and shows just how much we have grown. To most people this is just a move, but to us and the communities that support us, this is 10 years in the making. But not only that, this always has been for the players, this provides the players with top level competition and more exposure for their playing career.”

Does that mean you will be playing the spring and fall or just the summer?

“For the 2020 year we will only be playing summer, but with the goal to eventually play all year round. Now, if this will be for the year 2021 or later, we will have to see.”

How has the reaction from the community been? How do you plan to engage them to grow support?

“As you know, we have close ties to the Montgomery County Community College. Both first team’s coaches are coach soccer there. We also have established close ties with our community, especially the minorities here in our area. Being that most of our team and staff are from Africa or of African decent so these groups in our community truly hits home. But as far as how we are engaging them, we plan to host more community events and camps for our youth teams. Strengthen ties and grow future players.”

Those are all great ways to strengthen ties. Speaking of ties, what will happen with the leagues WCP have played in, will you still be playing in the Maryland Major Soccer League and the UPSL?

“The UPSL, definitely this is where the second team will be playing. This will give us a chance and a place to have some of the younger guys a chance to play and be exposed to top level competition. As far as MMSL, the only downside to this move is that this will be the last season (Fall 2019) we will be in.”

What does this mean for the leagues they are in or will be in?

First, it’s important to point out that fact that the NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference will now feature three teams from Maryland. We have yet to hear how much this will affect the season, however, on pure assumption, it will only add two games to everyone’s schedule. We will keep an eye out for schedules to see what actually happens. But what does this mean for the other two leagues, MMSL and UPSL?

The partnership with All Star United should pay off for both clubs.

As I mentioned in the conversation with Jide, UPSL will be the platform World Class Premier will use to grow future players. As far as the Majors, in the same conversation with Jide, he wanted us to be the first to announce that they will be partnering with another Maryland Major team, All Star United. WCP will step away from the Majors but will still put all their resources into helping their grassroot soccer side. The goal is to move players from regional leagues to the competitive stage of a national league. And they got their chance.

There is a lot of changing to come for the club, but the future is bright. The leadership at World Class Premier should be extremely proud of what they have done. This is a huge step for the club, now they have the eyes of the NPSL, UPSL, MMSL, and Maryland watching.

-Geovanny Monterroso

"A Leap in the Dark"

Last week, NPSL announced a new season, split between the spring and fall. This season won’t replace the existing summer league, but would be an addition and all clubs that planned to participate in the new season would be required to also participate in the traditional NPSL summer league. The logic behind this expansion, according to NPSL Chairman Kenny Farrell, is that “a longer season will provide more opportunities for our players, while teams will benefit from a year-round presence in their market.” Other reporters have done a great job reporting on this new season and, if you aren’t up on the details, I’d refer you to this Midfield Press’ article.

Rather than repeat the league talking points that you can read in every other article about this move, I’m going to instead try to take the mile-up point of view on what this move actually means. Some basic questions came to mind as soon as I heard the announcement and I’d like to discuss those rather than repeat the carefully-crafted talking points that the league is distributing. I don’t think the league is lying or candy-coating things, I think they are painting this in the best possible light, like EVERY organization would. So let’s jump in with both feet.

Appearances May Be Deceiving

Oh, what could have been.

We all know how the Founders Cup fell apart. It seemed half-baked and reactionary from the start and things began crumbling before the ink had dried on the announcement. There was the issue of minimum standards and what clubs could actually afford to be involved. Then, clubs began dropping out before a schedule was even constructed. Then, the issue of insurance (or the lack thereof) reared its head and finished the thing off. It was a black eye for the league and felt the entire thing felt rushed.

What I didn’t know was that the NPSL held off on announcing this new Spring/Fall league BECAUSE of the Founders Cup, in an effort to give the fledgling pro league a chance to shine on its own. In fact, Farrell feels this delay directly led to the departure of certain big name, former NPSL clubs. “We held off on releasing this league because we were trying to get the Founders Cup off the ground. That may or may not have hurt us a bit because some of the teams had decided they needed to play year round and moved to NISA. Had the league been in place, announced in June like we wanted to, we may not have lost those teams. If we had this organized last year, there would have been no need to go to NISA. But then again, maybe they truly want professional players. It’s up to them on what they want.”

That statement is shocking to me because it REALLY emphasizes how unready the Founders Cup was. This Spring/Fall league may feel rushed and reactionary, but it may be nothing more than on pace with the general movement in grassroots soccer. Rather than a reaction to NISA’s rollout or UPSL’s dual season approach, the NPSL may have been on pace with these other leagues but behind closed doors. However, only now did it come into the public’s awareness. If so, good on them for running that tight of a ship.

But what is 100% clear, Founders Cup was a trainwreck from day one. And it was a damn shame. I can only hope that, no matter what this league ends up being, it has been well-thought out and planned.

Seemingly Obvious Concerns

I do worry about the dilution of what a “NPSL championship” means. It might be my biggest complaint against the UPSL model and it applies to this new NPSL model as well. No matter what the league says, one of these championships will grow to dwarf the other, especially considering one season is longer and requires an opt-in that will only be feasible for the larger and better-funded clubs. When I spoke with Farrell, his first response was that “we just don’t know yet” if one championship would top the other, but that “when they are playing the games, it won’t matter to anyone [meaning the players].” And while he called the traditional summer season the “golden child,” he emphasized that this whole move was part of a process and that “to get to where we want to go, we have to be somewhat flexible and creative. We’re taking a leap in the dark.”

And the requirement that clubs participate in the summer season will certainly hurt some of these clubs’ chances in the longer season. Will we see clubs alternate rosters during the summer season to save their better players for the fall stretch run? Mitigating injuries and managing rosters will creep into managers’ minds because it’s an obvious factor they need to consider. I can see scenarios where a club could be leading the spring/fall season standings and then drop down during the summer season.

And while we’re on the question of rosters, we need to discuss the elephant in the room: college players. NCAA soccer season runs August to November. The NPSL has leaned heavily on college talent traditionally, because how else do you fill the rosters of over 100 grassroots clubs without young people willing to play for the benefits of development. So without this talent to fill rosters, what will that fall portion of the longer season look like when all those student-athletes return to their programs to prepare for their collegiate seasons. One side effect is that clubs will be incentivized to build balanced rosters, but amatuer or ex-pro talent willing to play for free is hard to come by. Considering the growth of the USL system and NISA, that pool of available talent is even shallower.

There isn’t an announced deadline for the spring/fall league, nor is there a branded name for this extended league. Both of these facts are a little troubling, particularly if Farrell is accurate about the planning timeline. The NPSL Chairman mentioned that the league was in the works for close to 5 years. And no one decided what to call the thing? Why not iron out the branding before the announcement so it all rolls out as a complete package? There may be a master plan in place, but, at this point, the logic isn’t obvious to me.

One common complaint against the current iteration of the NPSL is there are too many exemptions for clubs who can’t fulfill league minimum standards. According to the NPSL’s press release, standards will be raised for the spring/fall season. Some of those standards affected specifically highlighted include “stadia, staffing, budget, and referees.” To quote Farrell, “we’re not going to have teams just pushing bleachers up to the fields.” That will be welcome news to many owners who have complained both publicly and privately about clubs not achieving the standards. This requirement alone, if enforced as written, will eliminate many of the current NPSL sides. Long-term it will serve to bring everyone up to a certain level, but many teams may sense that their welcome is wearing thin. Will we see rifts grow between clubs who can afford the longer season and those that can only participate in the summer league?

A Fan First

When we started Protagonist, we decided early on to emphasize the positives in every story. And another, longer league is a good thing, without a doubt. I could have tried to write a glowing article about the exciting aspects of a new, longer NPSL season. But at this point in the site’s development, I am also confident we can speak the truth, even to a partner like the NPSL. There is, of course, a chance my fears are unfounded and everything turns out fine. And regardless of your perspective on me or my work, I promise you, that is my wish. But even Farrell has his own reservations about the unknown aspects of this move by the league. “We’ll see where it goes. We don’t know where this will be in two years. It may fail, I doubt that it will fail, I think it could be one of the most popular leagues in the country.” I hope so, too.

- Dan Vaughn