NISA Week 2 Preview

John Howard-Fusco is half of the Knights Who Say NISA podcast. He dug into the upcoming weekend and has the preview of every match.

LA Force v Stumptown Athletic

Friday, 3/6 10:30PM ET

Jesse Owens Stadium, Cal State LA, Los Angeles CA

It’s an All-Cali Weekend as all three matches in NISA will be played on the left coast. LA Force is once again hosting some Friday night footy, with Stumptown Athletic making its first cross-country journey. The home team needs to find some offense, and possibly a few more fans in the stands. Facing Detroit City FC in its opening match was a tall order, but LA Force showed some capacity to press and create chances.

Stumptown demonstrated some offensive prowess in its opening draw with 1904 FC and look to continue their scoring ways. The midfield earned both goals last week, between Tate Robertson’s wonder strike off a free kick from distance and pacy Jalen Brown delivering the other.

Should Stumptown come away with a result, we must give this club some early consideration for being a potential playoff candidate.        

Oakland Roots v Michigan Stars FC

Saturday, 3/7 8:10PM ET

Laney College Football Stadium, Oakland CA

The Roots played a rock-‘em, sock-‘em 1-1 draw with Chattanooga FC last weekend, the highlight match of NISA’s opening card of games. And while Michigan Stars may not be the same level of opponent, their defense will deliver plenty of rock-‘em and sock-‘em. It will be interesting to see how the capacity home crowd will react to seeing their local lads get a little roughed up.

In comparison to last week’s game, don’t expect the same back and forth kind of action from Oakland. Expect Michigan to bog down the middle and look to counter. But with a poacher like Jack McInerney, the Roots may only need one chance to break through.   

The Roots produced a limited-edition T-shirt celebrating McInerney’s game-tying goal from last week. Just imagine what will happen if they win a game. This is the game they need to win.

1904 FC v Cal United Strikers FC

Sunday, 3/8 8PM ET

Lincoln High School, San Diego CA

Fifteen goals given up in six games during the fall, 1904 gave up two more in the opener against Stumptown Athletic. So who’s coming to the club’s home opener? Why, it’s Gustavo Villalobos, Christian Thierjung et al from Cal United – the club that handed Ought Four losses of 3-0 and 4-1 last fall. Yikes.

The good news is that it is 1904’s home opener, and playing their home games at Lincoln High School’s field should help create a more lively atmosphere. Will it help in the win column? That all depends if the club can do a similar job in slowing down Cal United that Michigan Stars did last week. It says here that’s not likely to happen.

With back-to-back games against 1904, along with Detroit City FC having two weeks off, Cal United has a chance to be the spring season’s early pace setters.

MPLS City's Return to the USOC

When the Uncorporate soccer club rolls into town, it brings with it a host of expectations both on and off the field. With a carefully crafted social media strategy, the club has created a fan base around the world. Paired with their innovative approach to merchandise and marketing, those fans can sustain their love and pride of the club by dressing in some of the coolest kits and tshirts in the game. And all that off the field success is being paired with a club stocked with some of the best talent in the country, all from their home state of Minnesota.

Now the Uncorporate machine prepares to take on the largest and longest running domestic soccer competition, the US Open Cup. We sat down with head coach Matt VanBenschoten and club co-founder Dan Hoedeman to discuss the upcoming match and what we can expect when the Crows fly into Chicago.

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It would be stupid if I didn’t ask about the last time MPLS City competed in the USOC, can you discuss what happened?

Dan: Back in 2017, we had qualified for the first round from the open qualifiers--first amateur team from Minnesota to do it near as we can tell--but we moved to the NPSL from the now-defunct PLA and USSF disqualified us from the tournament. You can't change leagues while in the tournament, though that only impacts amateur teams. For example, that same year Minnesota United moved from NASL to MLS and stayed in.

The next year, in 2018, we did the qualifier route as well. I was actually coaching the team for the qualifiers. We were drawn away to Sante Fe Wanderers in Kansas City but they had issues with international clearances for their players and forfeited. Then we were drawn away to Aurora Borealis in Chicago. We went there and won 3-2 in extra time. We really bossed the game, but knockouts are knockouts. Extra intense. And it's really hard to play away at this level, but our boys made it happen.

Then we had to travel to Rochester, NY. It was winter, snowing, we played on a park field, had an unheated bathroom as our "locker room" (but it wasn't open until the game started). Really frustrating because we had an indoor facility and an old NASL stadium lined up as options, but such was the draw. We scored in the first minute I think. Their goalie had an astonishingly good game and they had an excellent forward who hit us twice on the break. We had the run of play, but credit to Rochester. They did what they had to do. No surprise, that goalie ended up in USL Championship, he was fantastic. Anyway, win the game and we would have qualified but we missed out on the 2018 first round.

Did you take any lessons from your previous experience?

Dan: Traveling at this level is really, really hard--especially in the qualifiers or in March when you're dealing with proper amateurs with day jobs (and not college kids). Inevitably, some guys have to work or otherwise can't make it. The travel schedule has to account for their day jobs and not just the perfect travel experience. Pregame and all that happens in inexpensive hotels and often the pre-game kickaround is in the hotel parking lot, that's just how it is at that level. We have learned a lot about how to manage logistics, scheduling, players, and pre-game prep.

It's still a tall ask to win away in general and even moreso at this level, but we won't make the same mistakes we made in 2018.

The club has been very successful in the NPSL, so what does success look like in the USOC?

Dan: This tournament is a little bit of a blank slate because of when it starts. We're building our tournament roster right now and it hinges on who is available. Our college guys are out. We also have guys checking their work schedules too and trying to plan for that. Our team is in flux.

 Our scouting is in flux, too. Who will Chicago FC United play? It won't be their typical USL2 roster. Will they rely on their (very successful) academy? Chicago is full of elite ballers. Will they pull from them? We're not even sure what team we're playing.

It's hard to know what to expect. 

I can tell you that the guys who were there in 2017 when we were kicked out feel like there is unfinished business they have with the tournament. We're keen to get a win and move on. The dream is to face a pro team. Can you imagine us, say, hosting Forward Madison? Or playing Minnesota United at the Allianz? We can. Not saying we expect it! But this tournament is about dreaming a little bit and those are our dreams.

Matt: Success in the Open Cup for us is to make a run into the 2nd or 3rd rounds. It’s incredibly ambitious, but what every person in this club understands is that being part of MPLS City is a sacrifice and a privilege. It’s a bond that few other teams have. When you look around and know that every single person you see next to you is giving something up to be there with you fighting for the same thing, it’s indescribable. We will certainly play teams that are more talented than us, but they won’t have that same passion/dedication that I see on a weekly basis from our players. 

Round 1 you’ll be facing a USL2 side in Chicago FC United. Thoughts?

Matt: It’s definitely an intriguing draw. Chicago FC United has a very good reputation throughout the soccer community and if you look at their results the past few years, they are one of the best USL-2 teams. The biggest wildcard for all of these first round matchups is what non-college players will each team be able to field. Since US soccer made the ruling that all current college players can no longer participate in the Open Cup, it will have a drastic impact on how teams form their rosters.

Dan: Top to bottom, Chicago are a great organization in a city full of top players. Again, not sure what their team will look like given the time of year, but facing a top opponent is the point of the tournament. They're a top opponent.

How will you approach the match?

Matt: To be blunt, our approach is to prepare well and go win. There’s a history with MPLS City and the Open Cup. Given who we are and our propensity to ruffle feathers (no pun intended), we have to prove it on the field otherwise no one will take you seriously. It’s arguably the biggest game we’ve had as a club in our small history, therefore we’ll be preparing as such.

Do you feel like you have something to prove in this match?

Street art from last year’s MPLS City-coordinated visit from Dutch street artists, Kamp Seedorf

Dan: At our best, we're this traveling circus that likes to play soccer. We just want to have fun and play good teams. Our attitude is not that we have anything to prove.

That said, Minnesota isn't a big soccer state, this is our first run in the cup proper, we all remember 2017... We're punching up against Chicago. We're used to that, though, to punching above our weight-on-field and off. It's part of the fun.

You'll be playing in an MLS stadium, excited about that experience?

Dan: It's fantastic to play at a stadium of that quality.

We played our 2017 qualifier against Oakland County at the National Sports Center when Minnesota United had just moved out of it but before it had been converted. Playing on an NASL-qualify surface is something the guys all enjoy. And our fans loved being back at the NSC, it was nostalgic. But this is going to be a level up, and it's a dream scenario. We spend a lot of time playing in high school stadiums, so are we excited about playing in an MLS stadium? Hard to express how excited we actually are.

Any thoughts on the change to the USOC schedule by shifting round 1 matchups earlier? How will it affect your roster/potential players?

Matt: In years past this would have had a much bigger impact on us. As we’ve evolved as a club, we’ve had to rely less and less on college players or guys who are out of town. In year 5 we now have a solid core of very talented players who are all local guys. Players like Max Stiegwardt, Shae Bottum, Myles Norville and Justin Oliver (just to name a few) have all spent time in and around MLS/USL teams. So we know we have the pedigree to compete at a very high level.

Overall, what do you think about the USOC? Should it be more important to the average American soccer fan?

Dan: I have had a bumpy relationship with the U.S. Open Cup over the years, but I love it. I wish it was bigger, I think it has March Madness potential. It definitely has potential to encourage the growth of lower division clubs. I actually think that the structural changes made this year are positive. I wish it didn't start quite so early, but that's a Minnesota weather issue, not a college player issue. The calendar time between rounds, the ESPN+ deal, the number of "tier four" teams still in the tournament, and when the pro and MLS teams come into the tournament are all moves I've liked. If nothing else, USSF paying attention to and trying to improve the cup is a big thing. I like that it seems to matter to the Federation.

Personally, I like the lower divisions and the underdog stories. I always watch the early rounds of March Madness but haven't seen the Final Four games in maybe 15 years. Part of that is my alma mater does not threaten to make the Final Four, but the other part is the games matter in a different way earlier and I love that David vs Goliath thing. I can watch a league game whenever I want. This is something different.

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MPLS City heads to Chicago to take on Chicago FC United March 24th in their first round US Open Cup match. Follow them on twitter for updates and information.

- Dan Vaughn

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.

DCFC Making Friends on the Road

The quest to find fans and convert disinterested people to true believers is the key to survival in grassroots soccer. Soccer fans are a subset of sports fandom in this country and the field is full of rival clubs, both foreign and domestic. Every supporter group member and player is an ambassador for your club and how they represent themselves can ensure the long-term stability of the organization. And last weekend, Laura Horah became a fan of Detroit City FC.

The story popped up on twitter and was too good to not follow. Laura posted a response to a Detroit City FC post about meeting the club in the hotel they were both staying at.  We reached out for more of the background.

Laura was travelling on business and happened to share the hotel with the Detroit City players who were in town for their match with LA Force. Laura isn’t exactly a soccer fan. When we asked if she followed soccer or DCFC prior to this weekend, she was blunt. “I do not and did not know anything about them prior to this hotel stay.” She happened to spot all the young men wearing Detroit City jackets and her interest was piqued.

I am staying in your hotel and have chatted with a few of you in the elevator and breakfast area. You are all such polite and friendly young men. Your parents should be super proud! Congrats on your win too!

— Laura Jane (@LJHorah) February 29, 2020

“One of the players was in the coffee area trying to determine the various types of coffee being served. I pointed out the Hazelnut, regular and decaffeinated. He asked me what decaffeinated meant and I explained it was coffee without caffeine. I then said ‘I don't know why anyone would even bother drinking coffee without caffeine’ and he said the same thing. He was looking for real coffee like I was. I wished him a nice day and he did the same and thanked me.”

Laura’s dog, Cessna

The next day, as Laura and her husband were trying to make the elevator, “Several players were in that left elevator and yelled out to us, holding the door for us and telling us there was room. I believe George Chomakov and Matt Lewis were two of those players. I think there were 3 or 4 total? I thanked them for holding the door open. We were dressed for exercising and one of them (George I think) asked us if we were headed to work out. I said yes and that we needed to do something to help with the breakfasts they had been serving. He agreed. I asked him when their game was (I said game but I think it's called match, as I now know!) and he said it had been the prior night and that they had won. I told them congratulations. They seemed very excited about the win.”

When she got back to her room, she decided to do some investigating. “Out of curiosity I looked up the team online when I got back to the hotel later that morning. I wanted to reach out because we rarely get anything positive news-wise. Athletes, as well as others in the public eye, are often described as rude and entitled. I have heard all kinds of horror studies. My interactions with this team were so positive I thought it might be nice for them to be recognized in some fashion.”

And now, Laura, who seems like the nicest person on twitter (you can see how cute her dog is), is a fan of the club. “I definitely will. I now know their games are streaming and I plan to check them out. I am a big sports fan so I will add this to my list and will always consider Detroit City FC my favorite soccer team!”

You never know who you are holding the elevator for, maybe it’s your next biggest fan!

- Dan Vaughn

Dan Watches NISA: Week One

Each week, I’ll be writing a recap of the NISA matches, give my thoughts on the matches and give a short power ranking of the clubs at the end. All matches were watched on Mycujoo, because I don’t live within 500 miles of any NISA clubs. Matches will be in random order.

What a week 1! Great rollout for the league with solid attendance in two of four matches and close to 15,000 views of the matches through their online platform partner, Mycujoo. For the most part the broadcasts looked and sounded professional, offering a great connecting point for potential fans of the league. The matches were exciting and delivered goals, cards, and some late minute heroics. I, for one, enjoyed every second of this week’s matches, so let’s get into them.

Oakland 1 - Chattanooga 1

• Several production points and a general point about the pitch. First, Roots (as I guess I should have expected) had the best production of the week. The broadcast also featured the only REAL advertising I spotted this weekend. Even the opening lineups were sponsored. In the end, to survive you have to make money, Roots appear to be in the groove on that part. Laney looked good in the broadcast, with a large crowd, over 5k. But the FIELD. Ugliest field in the history of soccer. Just looked like trash. Gotta find a way to get onto a better rug.

• The match itself was a banger. Hella enjoyable. Both sides looked aggressive and hungry, so early in the season, with all the issues Chatta faced in the preseason, that’s exceptional.

• The goal for Chatta, how was McGrath THAT open? Defenders fell asleep on that one.

• The red card to Hines was the softest red I’ve seen. Yes, he tried to pull the ball from McGrath, but that happens 10 times a match. Defender was stalling to let his defense get into shape and the attacking player was trying to get the ball rolling. And that’s when the ref reaches into his back pocket, so the resulting bump between the players wan’t the trigger, it was the original struggle for the ball. I don’t get it. Shaped the entire rest of the match. Sucks.

• Jack McInerney is a bad man. Dangerous the entire match, multiple scoring chances. He will be a handful all season and I bet his kit will be a hot item for Oakland. The equalizer was a thing of beauty and was the best moment of Week one. If you haven’t seen it, skip to 5:40 and you’re welcome.

Stumptown Athletic 2 - San Diego 1904 2

• Didn’t expect this match to be as good as it was, but Stumptown looked better than I expected, especially considering their disappointing Fall campaign.

• On the production side, went with a solo announcer and dude seemed a little lonely. He was fine, but could have used someone to bounce conversation off. The camera angle was poorly chosen, with an empty field beyond the sideline, fans are part of the match, SHOW them - though it sounded pretty poorly attended on the feed.

• Stumptown kits look good. I like that pattern/gradient combo look. Solid. And SD1904 has maybe the blandest uniforms in NISA. White. Neat. Ok.

• Tate Robertson’s goal, what a banger. That was easily 30 yards out. Crushed it. 

• That first goal for San Diego was ugly. Just a ball in the scrum happening to fall into the net.

LA Force 0 - Detroit City FC 2

• Definitely the match everyone wanted to see on Mycujoo, drawing close to 6,000 views. Easily dwarfing the number of people there to see the match. LA needs to get things together and connect with their market. They are SLOW on social media and the shots posted on twitter of their stands showed a basically empty stadium. Some claimed it was close to a thousand and to those people I say, you’re nuts. I’d guess 400 max. And that included the guys from Michigan Stars who played the next day. If you can’t draw a crowd to see Detroit City come to town, I don’t understand.

• This match was a tale of two halves, with Detroit dominating possession in the first half and LA becoming the aggressor in the second half. The difference, DCFC converted their chances. The first goal resulted from a set piece, when a deflected ball was passed to Matt Lewis, who buried the shot.

• Both clubs pressed this entire match. It was FUN to watch.

• Roddy Green’s goal, which made little difference in the result, was beautiful. The result of Detroit’s press, he could have passed once in the box, but finished confidently. Dude signed his pro contract 5 days earlier. Ice cold.

• One player that caught my eye for Detroit was Tendai Jirira who is listed as a defender on the roster. He is silky smooth on the ball. He has a touch that won’t quit. I was very impressed with his play the entire match.

• Detroit is going to be very good this season.

California United 1 - 0 Michigan Stars

• So the announcer has European charm and gravitas, that’s fine. But did he have to constantly refer to the Michigan Stars as “the red men” the ENTIRE match. The red men sounds vaguely racist, though that wasn’t his intent. If anything, it just sounded dumb. What also sounds dumb is the other announcer calling NISA “N-I-S-A” the entire match. Everyone calls it NISA (nee-suh), get with it, dude.

• Crowd at the match looked legit, filled most of the stands, but would have loved to see a little more “soccer” things - flags, smoke, drums. Maybe there are bans at the stadium?

• Michigan Stars play HARD ASS defense. Aggressive tackles, studs up, teeth clattering challenges, two early yellow cards didn’t stop them from beating up Cal United the rest of the match. The stacked their lines most of the match, bunker style, 9 players against their own box, with a single roving attacking player trying to pick off a pass. I suspect they will end the season with the most cards AND give up the fewest goals.

• The goal for Cal United was interesting because the shot from Michael Bryant was from so far out. Far enough out that, if he was off target he would have been WAAAAYYYY off target. Instead he smashed it and the keeper couldn’t cleanly handle it, spilling the ball into the path of Kevin Jeon, who finished it off.

• Two Cal United players caught my eye. First, Gustavo Viallobos’ footwork and ball handling were a thing of beauty the entire match. The other was 15 year old Shane Kaemerie, who came on as a sub. He’s a product of Cal United’s academy and an exciting prospect for the club. You love to see the next generation.

Dan’s NISA Week 1 Power Rankings

1. Detroit City FC

2. Cal United

3. Stumptown Athletic

4. Chattanooga FC

5. SD 1904

6. Oakland Roots

7. Michigan Stars

8. LA Force

Editor’s Note: There was a point about who owns the rights to DCFC’s Matt Lewis. This was deleted when a twitter user corrected us.

February Heat in Laredo

This time of year, most NPSL clubs are just now starting to fire up their social media accounts and check email, let alone focusing on roster building. Fields are thawing out and grass is slowly going green (not everywhere, but you get my point), so things are waking up and soccer along with it. Some clubs are ahead of the rest of the league, with Round 1 of USOC kicking off early next month, but others clubs are pushing ahead with hopes of getting a head start to the 2020 season. Without a USOC berth this year, the Laredo Heat are focused on this year to climb back into the top spot in their conference. 

John Powell, Heat head coach

John Powell, the head coach for Heat, has high hopes for his club’s chances this season, due to their early focus on roster building. “The squad is coming together nicely for this time of the year. With over two months before the team will report to Laredo, we have over 75% of the team signed. We will continue with the announcement of our signees throughout the next month. My coaching staff and I have planned, recruited, and been in contact with some of the top collegiate players in Texas, Arizona, and California.” The club announced this week the addition of three more players, winger/forward Ryan Goldsmith, midfielder/forward Daniel Ortiz, and outside/center back Gabriel Claudio.

The three players couldn’t come from more diverse backgrounds and that typifies Laredo’s approach to player recruitment. Claudio, from Yuma, AZ, made it onto the club’s radar due to his strong play for Yavapai College, where in two seasons, he scored 12 goals and notched 6 assists. El Paso native, Daniel Ortiz, made his name in soccer in California, and, as Powell puts it, the club is “thrilled to bring Danny back to Texas.” Ortiz brings with him a host of awards from his years with California State University - San Bernardino. Ryan Goldsmith, originally from Cork, Ireland, also played his college ball in California. For Goldsmith, joining Laredo was just the next step of growing his resume - “They [Laredo Heat] are a team and organization that wants to compete at a tough level and win matches. Being part of that culture and environment will help me reach my goals of becoming a professional soccer player”

 When asked about his staff’s approach to player recruitment and retainment, Powell explained their methods. “My coaching staff and I began by watching as many Division I, II, III, and NAIA matches as well as some of the top Junior Colleges in the country from the beginning of August. From there, we built out our ‘wish list’ of players and began making contacts. After the initial contacts, we just continued to grind and show our players that we, as a staff and organization, are willing to outwork others in order to be successful. We then, in turn, ask our players to do the same when they pull that Laredo Heat shirt on this summer. After building a relationship with these players, a common theme in their decision to come to Laredo has been because they feel that the organization is truly invested in them and will help them move their game to the next level.”

Goldsmith playing for CSU-Bakersfield. (Image courtesy of Mark Nessia Photography)

Building a roster that can compete in the Lone Star Division is just the first step to climb back to the top of the standings. After an incredible undefeated debut regular season in 2018 (and a USOC bid), Laredo hit a sophomore slump in 2019, finishing fifth in the division. Powell chalks up that finish to an overall improvement in the talent level throughout the Lone Star Division. “Last year was a big wake up call as almost every team in our conference was made up of some outstanding players and coaching staffs. The overall level of play in our conference from 2018 to 2019 was, without a doubt, much higher. This has forced us to examine many of our processes, mainly our approach in regards to recruitment. This was a major factor that led to our early identification process this Fall.”

If the early bird gets the worm, maybe the early club gets the talent. Laredo is testing that in 2020 and the results should show in the final standings.

- Dan Vaughn

Casa Soccer League - For the Players, By the Players

“Philadelphia is a real hotbed for soccer. The general population is very supportive of the sport. Our league is unique and gives players of all levels a chance to play as an adult and fosters social networking as well.”

— Nolan Bair, current CASA president

Regional soccer leagues have been popping up all over in recent years. Those of us who keep a steady eye on the soccer Twitterverse get all a-tingle when a new league starts up and teases us with announcements of which teams will be joining in the upcoming days and weeks.

Meanwhile, a regional league based in Philadelphia has grown with little fanfare to become a league that as of 2019 had 300 teams and 10,000 members. This is CASA Soccer League, “the largest independent amateur soccer league” in the country, according to its website. Started in 2005 by Tom and Ariane Adams, CASA now boasts six divisions of men’s 11X11 teams, a coed league, a women’s league, 7X7 leagues, an over-30 league, and winter futsal.     

What does CASA stand for? Simple. CASA stands for casa, the Spanish word for house. It’s a moniker that carries a dual meaning. For soccer players in the Delaware Valley region, CASA means being able to play the sport they love in their own backyard. And, calling the league CASA shows that it is open to people of all backgrounds and ethnicities. “CASA was a natural name for the league, “ says Nolan Bair, current president of CASA, “meaning it was a place for both American and foreign players to call home.”

For the men’s leagues, seasons are divided into fall and spring. There are six divisions, and each division is named in Spanish (continuing the CASA theme). The league also offers a promotion and relegation system, where the top team from each lower division, along with the playoff winner of the teams that finish second through fifth, get promoted. 

The culmination of each fall and spring season is the Kelly Cup, named in honor of Shane Kelly. A former player and board member, Kelly was murdered during a failed robbery attempt in the Fishtown section of Philadelphia late one November night in 2011. The site for the Kelly Cup finals is Talen Energy Stadium in Chester, home of the Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer. 

If there’s one team you need to know about in CASA, it’s FC Misconduct. Formed five years ago, FC Misconduct has won the Kelly Cup five times. The team name comes from its sponsor, Misconduct Tavern, located in Center City. And if there’s one player on FC Misconduct who needs to be recognized, it’s Blake Fink. Tied for the league lead in goals scored this past fall season with 23, Fink has won the league’s Golden Boot ten times. Before playing in CASA, Fink had played one year with the Ocean City Nor’easters back in 2012.

But you can’t have a league with only one notable team. Other clubs that have enjoyed success in CASA include South Philly United (winner of two Kelly Cups), Stoney United (Kelly Cup winner) and FC South House (Kelly Cup winner).

“I have not encountered a league like CASA where everyone is out to have fun, but at the same time takes games very seriously and treated like a professional league by the players.” – Nolan Bair

Nolan Bair’s journey to CASA president started in 2013 when he came to Philadelphia to attend Drexel University. He would soon be running the club soccer program at the university. But Bair’s ambition was much bigger than a college club team. In his sophomore year, he started his own club in CASA – Vidas United (now called Vidas United FC). Upon graduation from Drexel in 2018, Bair’s club would grow dramatically. In one year, Vidas United FC would consist of three teams competing in two leagues (CASA and the United Soccer League of Pennsylvania). Currently, there are 60 players that are a part of Bair’s club.   

Vidas United FC, which celebrated its five-year anniversary this January, has become Bair’s ‘life project’. His club keeps him quite busy, with games for three teams along with weekly training sessions, an active social media presence, and a soon-to-be-launched club website. Current and former players gather every year for an alumni weekend.  

And If you think that’s enough of a challenge, Bair’s ambition for his club goes further. His ultimate goal is to have his club compete in the NPSL – a goal that he believes can happen in the next five years. “I can only hope that I look back on this all in 30 years and laugh at how small of a goal NPSL is, “ says Bair, “because hopefully by then I'll have achieved even more with this club.” 

All the while, Bair continues to put work into the leadership of CASA. “On a personal level, running CASA alongside balancing the needs of growing my own club is a workload nightmare, “ says Bair, “but I'm learning to manage it and it's very rewarding to watch this grow.”

“I have huge plans for OUFC, and at the risk of setting the bar too high, I speak about them pretty openly.” – Alex Lewis, Oaklyn United FC

Even though CASA is based in Philadelphia, clubs from the other side of the Delaware River have found a home in this league. While New Jersey has a statewide amateur league, the Garden State Soccer League, most of the teams are based in the northern part of the state. For clubs in South Jersey, CASA offers a competitive league with much less travel involved.

One of these South Jersey-based clubs is Oaklyn United FC, run by Alex Lewis. At the heart of this club are a group of players who grew up together in Oaklyn and its next door neighboring town of Collingswood. These players got the soccer bug from a local rec coach from Southampton, England – the father of Lewis’ best friend growing up.

The original Oaklyn United played as an indoor team in 2008, but it wasn’t until Lewis moved to Philadelphia after a time living in New York that he discovered CASA. And after a couple years playing in the league, he decided to get the band back together (so to speak) along with some new friends he had made playing in the league. And a new Oaklyn United was born. But the old times haven’t been left behind. The team’s kit uses the same black and white colors that were worn by Lewis’ rec team as a kid.

As far as the level of play, Lewis draws comparisons between CASA and Sunday leagues in England. “You can come in and have fun, but still know that everyone else is going to be taking it as seriously as you are for 90 minutes,” says Lewis. And with a system of promotion and relegation, Lewis believes that CASA gives players who didn’t think of themselves as being top tier an opportunity to challenge themselves. 

“When Tom and Ariane Adams founded CASA nearly 15 years ago, they envisioned a league for players, by players. With that in mind, it has evolved into so much more,” – Tim Hampson, current player and former CASA president

Tim Hampson has been involved with CASA long enough to have seen significant change. He has been a player in the league for more than ten years, having been a part of South Philly United as well as Spruce Goose FC, Loose Cannons FC, Rapid Daybreak FC and FC Roxton. Off the field, Hampson has served as part of the league board for eight years, four of which serving as league president.

One of the biggest changes that Hampson has observed is the expansion of the player pool. Everyone from the soccer lover who has decided to get up from the TV screen and lace on the boots to those who have played at the higher levels of soccer in this country are finding a CASA club to call home. And when the games are over, the CASA community comes together for volunteering as well as for social events. At the end of each season, players gather to celebrate.

“What Rob has managed to build is incredible, but what’s even more incredible is how friendly to small clubs like us he’s managed to stay, even as his business takes off on the international scene.” – Alex Lewis

No story about CASA would be complete without talking about Icarus FC, the kit-making darling of lower league soccer. Icarus is the work of Rob Smukler, a CASA player who has taken his love for soccer and design to an ever-growing and adoring audience. When negotiations with Hummel broke down over this past summer, Icarus was given priority rights to all teams in CASA. “It's a match made in heaven,” says Nolan Bair, “an independent progressive soccer league partnered with a growing soccer kit manufacturer that is growing in popularity nationwide.”

For Alex Lewis, the kits produced by Icarus for the club have become one of the selling points he uses for Oaklyn United FC and for the league. “Adding aspects to OUFC that build the ‘production value’ and professionalism of the club is really important to me - however silly that might seem, says Lewis. “And I think being able to design our own custom kits and express all these different elements of our identity has been one of the biggest components of it all. This season, we made a kit release video and published it on our Instagram. The response was huge. The guys felt (and looked) like true pros.”

“You drive around Jersey on a Saturday afternoon and see field after beautiful field, completely empty. But when you try to get in touch with the school or club that owns it, they get cagey about letting anyone actually play on it. I’ll never understand it.” – Alex Lewis        

Of course, every league has its challenges. And like many soccer leagues around the country, one of the biggest struggles for CASA is being able to have soccer fields available for scheduling games. Although CASA uses several fields in and around Philadelphia, the league has a constant struggle to fit its scheduling around youth programs and other sports leagues. 

Tim Hampson has seen an improvement in this area over the years. “My first season in the league was on woeful grass fields peppered with unforgiving patches. Over the years, the league has become known for consistently hosting matches at the nicest turf and grass fields in the area.”

The challenge of having playing fields of there is one of Nolan Bair’s goals for the long-term health of the league. Ideally, his ultimate goal would be to obtain a grant that would allow CASA to build its own soccer pitches.   

“I'd like to take CASA further than ever before.” – Nolan Bair

For his club Vidas United FC, Nolan Bair has his sights set on eventually making it to the NPSL, but what does he see for the future of CASA? Expansion of the women’s league and the co-ed league for sure. Further expansion into South Jersey, including having games played on that side of the river on a regular basis. A cup tournament involving clubs of all six divisions of the men’s league. A weekly newsletter to highlight all of what is happening in all six divisions.

Bair is also looking outward. One future idea is to have CASA link up with amateur leagues in other cities. The connections would be not only to potentially have tournaments between leagues but to share ideas. Tim Hampson goes even one step further, believing that CASA could even link up with amateur leagues in Europe.

As far as being a part of the US Soccer pyramid? “CASA has been contacted a couple times by US Soccer on the possibility of a merge,” says Bair. “While it's not something I will entirely write off - given CASA's current state as a recreational league I do not see it as the best option at this time. CASA functions best as an independent, non-profit entity.”

- John Howard-Fusco

A Trip to the Motherland

During my vacation to Europe, I have been asked by at least ten people - “what matches are you attending?” And to each of them, I’ve responded, “I’m with my wife, she already puts up with enough soccer as it is, I’m not dragging her to a match on our vacation.” Maybe not that exactly, but certainly something like it. But we did make one soccer-related stop on our trip so far, in the city of London, to a place I had always wanted to visit from pictures online, Classic Football Shirts.

The shop itself is tucked into a a formerly industrial area, brewery in fact, The Old Truman Brewery. The area has become the home of tons of small, boutique-type shops, featuring kitch, crafts, and art. Sprinkled between the shops is a healthy dose of restaurants, most small and on their way up. It’s the type of area that 15 years ago would be a place to score drugs, but is now a place to buy great one-of-a-kind items (and score a better grade of drugs). The day we visited, the rain was coming down pretty good from Storm Ciara. The storm has made a mess of the day, with buckets of rain falling, matched with a healthy dose of cold wind. Not optimal weather for a quiet day shopping.

The shop was just around the corner from the entrance and as we came around, I turned to my wife and joyfully whispered, “Look!” I’m sure she thought I was an idiot. It’s rad to see something you’ve seen in pictures but never seen in real life. True of a piece of art, true of a building, true of a person, and definitely true of a kit shop! The shop was busy, filled with shoppers and through the window I could see two levels, filled with racks of kits. Behind the front counter, two guys nodded as we stepped in and I wanted to geek out, but managed to contain myself.

The racks are organized into several groups, there’s an under £20 rack, an international rack, some leagues are separated out, it all makes perfect sense. In the bottom level, there’s a legends’ section, which included a XXL Zlatan AC Milan kit for £149. I did not purchase it, sadly. Sizes were an issue for a big guy like myself. Not a lot of XXL and even less XXXL, I assume the healthy people of Europe just aren’t wearing the bigger kits. Us unhealthy Americans on the other hand, are left with what whatever we can get. I did manage to snag two in my size, a slick Danish Superliga kit, SønderjyskE, and a more familiar West Ham kit. The Hammers’ kit ran me £27.99 ($36.51), while the SønderjyskE kit was £17.99 ($23.47).

My finds at CFS.

There was a distinct lack of American kits in the building, with the exception of several NYCFC kits hanging on the wall, where they were ignored by everyone. There were no USNT kits either, which I found somewhat surprising, especially considering the class team that the women have fielded FOREVER. I brought up the dearth of American kits to the front desk guys and we joked about no one wanting to buy a NYCFC kit. I’m happy to report that the shade against NYCFC is universal. I wish I had worn one of my grassroots kits that day, but I didn’t want to be THAT guy, so I plugged a couple of clubs and Icarus (of course) and we stepped out into the rain, two kits richer.

Without a doubt, the shop is a must-stop for any soccer fan, especially a kit head. I don’t know where a shop like this could survive in the states, outside of the soccer hotspots like Portland or NYC. There’s just not enough support for soccer to keep the doors open on a kit-only shop. And that’s why you have to make it a point to get to the motherland. The prices are completely reasonable and the selection is fantastic. You will find something to drop money on, without a doubt.

Visit Classic Football Shirts in London, well worth the stop.

- Dan Vaughn

Follow them on Twitter.

Visit their online shop.

On the map.

Old Man Yells at Sky: From Amsterdam with Love

From across the ocean, I’m here, and I’ve got things to complain about.

1. My life isn’t just soccer - I can’t tell you how many people have asked me “what matches I’ve seen “ when I mention coming to Europe. Contrary to what some might think, my life doesn’t revolve around soccer outside of this site. And, beyond that, my wife isn’t that big of a soccer fan. I can’t imagine dragging my wife to something she has zero interest in. That’s not a good approach to marriage typically, heads up, guys.

2. Anyone else fired up for NISA? - We’re so close to the first week of NISA. I’m pumped. I know we’ll probably have some hiccups, which will fire up all the naysayers, but a first year league is going to have some issues to deal with. That much is true AND obvious. So let’s not throw dirt on the grave the first time we see an issue. Let’s see what a new league does to correct things that malfunction. That will be the first REAL test.

3. Maryland Bobcats win UPSL - I don’t know why anyone is surprised anymore by this club. Class group that has talent for days. I think if I were an NPSL club, I’d be worried. I was a little surprised when a certain person on twitter mentioned that they should go pro to NISA (I’m sure it was somewhat tongue in cheek), but they are REALLY good.

4. USSF Vice President - Apparently there’s a race going on. I couldn’t care less. The candidates I’ve seen are all old guard types who have been around forever. When the house needs to be torn down, putting fresh paint on the ceiling isn’t going to cut. Burn it to the ground.

5. Jetlag - Always thought it was bullshit. IT IS NOT. It has made this vacation complicated as heck. It is hell. And I say this while my wife is dead asleep next to me, 8 hours from El Paso time. 3a in Amsterdam, I’m WIDE awake. Jetlag is terrible.

6. USWNT Viewership Numbers - I love these people who point to good (but not great) viewership numbers for the UWSNT matches against CONCACAF rivals. Most of the matches were on 3rd and 4th string channels, with very little promotion. And the haters go really dark really quick with the sexist crap. I don’t mind realistic criticism of underperforming numbers, but give the women a chance. This team is full of superstars, both on and off the field. If the federation would try just a little, they could expand the game massively, instead it’s the status quo.

7. Chicharito to LAG - I don’t write about a lot of MLS stuff, but this signing is really smart. His skills have declined, so that will save you money, however, he’s young enough to still be a draw. And that’s beyond his connection the Mexican national team, which will play well in an LA market full of El Tri fans. It’s a really smart move for LAG and I think it will pay off big time. Will they win? Who knows. Does it matter? Not really.

8. Soccer Kits Abroad - I am sad to report that I saw almost no soccer kits on the streets of London. Spotted an Aston Villa in a pub one day. We did stay in Fulham and I saw a lot of FFC beanies because of the weather, but few kits. Spotted an Ajax or two here in Amsterdam and plan on finding one for myself if it fits in the budget.

9. Inter vs. INTER - Haven’t followed this story very well, but it cracks me up. This is what you get when you continue this ridiculous approach to naming your American clubs with European conventions. Just be you, stop trying so desperately. And now you’re getting sued and you’re losing. Hilarious.

10. Music - Beach House - “Lemon Glow” - Beach House has been a favorite of mine for a while now. Love them. Trippy video. nuff said.

A Check in with Maryland Bobcats

With the UPSL playoffs wrapping up, the Maryland Bobcats are proving yet again to be the class of another league. Lately the club has been all aces, matching their play on the field with a slick rebrand and new kit designs. Set to face Soda City in the UPSL semi-finals, they have continued their run league success. I sat down with Evan Raimist, communications director for the club, to fire off a quick set of questions headed into this weekend.

2019/20 has been a great season, can you talk about what has contributed to your success in the UPSL?

There has been a lot involved in the success we've had the last year in the UPSL. I think a lot has to do with the combination of planning on the team's part as well as the dedication to continue to work and get better by all the guys we have on our roster. With our coaching staff, there's no time to switch off and players know that if they do, there is someone chomping at the bit behind them to take their spot. It sounds cutthroat, but there's healthy competition in the team and guys really do want to see other guys do better. We've used a lot of different lineups, used guys in positions that maybe they weren't used to, but if it could help the team, they were willing to give it a go. The guys are fighting hard for each other and the team, and we also have a lot of really smart, dedicated people involved in the club as well. From Head Coach Phil Nana and Assistant Coach Ben Aryeetey who are as invested and smart as they come to our athletic trainer, our equipment manager, and new Technical Director and Assistant Technical Director, everyone is invested in the same goal. As the saying goes, it takes a village, but in our cause I think the key is that our village all has tunnel vision for the same goal.

Thoughts on your playoff run so far?

I think the only thought from everyone at our club is that we're not done yet. We want to finish this thing off as champions and we feel like anything short of that won't do. We've had success this season, but we came in with the goal of a National Championship and that's what we've been working towards all year.

Your opponent is Soda City, what do you know about your opponent and what's the plan for the semis?

We know they're a strong team and have only gotten stronger. We watched their Quarterfinal game against OFC Barca and were impressed with how hard they worked. To get to the National Finals they are obviously a good team, but we feel like we just have to play our game. The coaching staff has been working with a certain plan in mind, but with the quality of the guys on our roster and how we can switch players in and out (and their positions and formations too) we feel like if we play our game and how we are supposed to play, we can play with and against anyone.

What's the magic sauce? Strong runs in MMSL, UPSL, expansion into NPSL - How are you doing it?

There is no secret sauce and I think that's the secret. It just comes down to a group of highly invested people wanting to make a difference on the field and in our community. From the top down, from our President and ownership group down to each and every player, everyone knows that they are just a piece in a bigger vision and that it is going to take each person doing their job to be successful. On the field it's the guys continuing to work, train, and learn the game even if we don't have a game for 4 or 5 weeks in a row. It's going from work or school to train at 9pm and putting in the work, listening to the coaches, and then taking that and performing on the weekends to be successful. From the staff perspective, it's making sure that we do everything we can to make the guys on the field jobs as easy as possible. From having balls for training to gear so they don't have to think about what to wear to letting everyone know plans and travel details as soon as we can, our goal is promote our guys, make sure they are set up to be successful, and let them do the playing on the field. All of this was not built overnight and neither was our decision to join the UPSL and now the NPSL. Everything is very calculated and the NPSL was the next step. It's another step up, both in play and professionalism, and is another platform to showcase the amazing talent we have in the DMV area and beyond. Our goal is to have our club run as professionally as possible to give our guys the best platform to display their talents. 

What players should we be looking to contribute in the semis?

I may be biased but I think you should be on the lookout for every player on our roster because they can all ball out. If we really wanted to give you some players to be on the lookout for, the three players would be midfielder Alex Kao, forward Elton Joe, and midfielder Levi Houapeu. Alex can dictate the pace of play and find the killer pass that leads to a goal. Elton has an eye for goal as he's shown this season so far and can make chances out of nothing. Levi is as smart a player as they come and can read the game amazingly well. 

The Man with The Cup: Josh Hakala

Since 1914, the US Open Cup has been a fan favorite for soccer fans at every level in the United States. One site has been a major source of coverage for many fans since 2003. That site is the one and only thecup.us. With the tournament just around the corner, I had the chance to talk to thecup.us Senior Editor Josh Hakala about the tournament, the awesome work they do, and their newest merchandise available.

How did thecup.us get started?

This article tells about the background of the site.

What all does the site do?

The goal of the site is to give the tournament the full coverage that it deserves from the first round of qualifying to the US Open Cup Final. One of the biggest goals of the site has always been to educate people on the rich history of the tournament, so we've spent countless hours digging through newspaper and magazine archives, interviewing former players and coaches in an effort to put together a complete history of this tournament so that future generations can look back at how this country's soccer culture began and how it has evolved. The goal has always been, and we've been pushing for this more in the last year or so, to provide more ways for people to learn about the tournament and its history. I'm hoping to re-launch the radio show that got this site started and do more with social media and I'm hoping I can find some people to help create some special features with our website and possibly create a mobile app down the road. We have so many great ideas of how to grow our coverage, so we launched a Patreon account to fund it.  

What do you do in the offseason?

In recent years, we've seen the qualifying tournament for next year's tournament begin before the current tournament is over. In our early days, state qualifying for the following year would often begin within a month or so of them crowning a champion. So we don't really have an offseason, and our amount of downtime in the fall and early spring keeps getting reduced as the tournament, and its qualifying tournament, expands.

But during the, we'll call it the "less busy" time, I use it to catch up, and to work on features, historical research and recruiting help with the site. I do so much of my statistics and historical research manually, so much of the offseason is spent catching up on the previous tournament's results and updating my numerous spreadsheets. The hope is to some day create a database for all of the info in these spreadsheets. Under normal circumstances, my plan is usually to spend the "offseason" catching up on historical research and feature stories. I've got dozens of stories on the back-burner, but I just don't have the bandwidth. In a perfect world, I would find someone, or ideally, a team of people, to handle the site and its coverage of the current tournament, so that I can focus on historical research, feature stories and getting the radio show back up and running again. I've worked in broadcasting for 20 years and would love to create more US Open Cup multimedia for fans to enjoy and to learn from.

Tell me about those super cool shirts.

As I mentioned before, between part-time jobs, freelance broadcasting work, and being a husband and a father of three, I don't have a lot of free time. One of the projects that kept getting pushed to the back-burner was to create some revenue streams for the site. We don't aim to get rich doing this, but if we can at least get paid for our time, and have the ability to pay freelancers to help us to improve our coverage of the tournament, then it can make a big impact. So I had always wanted to create some shirts that we can sell to raise some money. In recent years, I noticed that during the NCAA college basketball tournaments, teams have these themed shirts. I thought, what "theme" could we come up with that exists across all the teams and fans in the competition? We've been using the "We Want The Cup"  hashtag for a while now and I thought since we've adopted that as our site's tag line, and thought it would be a perfect way to do it. Since we don't have the rights to put team logos on a shirt, we thought, why not take the approach of the college basketball teams and have a similar themed shirt and we would make them available in every team's color scheme. Because every team "wants the cup". It seemed like a perfect rallying cry for every team in the competition. We've had a lot of really great feedback from them so far and I have to give a shout out to Zac Freeland (Twitter/IG: @ZacFreeland) for designing the shirt. 

One of those cool shirts.

And my personal favorite is the "national champions" shirt in the style of the "John, Paul, George and Ringo" Beatles shirts, only with ours, we are featuring the five pre-MLS teams that won four or more US Open Cup titles: Steelmen (Bethlehem Steel), Marksmen (Fall River Marksmen), Ukrainians (Ukrainian Nationals), Greeks (New York Greek Americans), and Maccabees (Maccabee AC). Much like the Beatles shirt, if you see someone with that shirt, and know your soccer history, you'll get the reference. It's also a good opportunity to give someone a brief history lesson about how soccer has been around for more than a century in this country. A little soccer evangelism opportunity.

What are you looking forward to most in the USOC this year?

Every year, since I don't have a rooting interest, I just root for the tournament to be dramatic and compelling. Another thing I'm looking forward to is seeing the tournament grow using their digital streaming partner, ESPN+. I think putting every game on ESPN+ last year was a huge boost to the US Open Cup and I'm looking forward to watching games from Round 1 to the Final on my TV and on a variety of devices. 

What lower league (USL L2/NISA or below) do you think will make the biggest splash?

With the new schedule change, I have a feeling we're not going to see as many upsets from USL League Two and NPSL teams. I would love to be proven wrong. Although, it's impossible to know because we've never seen teams from those leagues try to operate in the US Open Cup without the use of college players. So I'm curious to see, most of all, what those rosters even look like.  

What first round matchup intrigues you the most?

I know they're probably not happy about playing each other again, because they've played a lot recently in league and cup play, but VE and West Chester United will be an interesting Philly-area matchup. They know each other really well, so that should be a fun rivalry game. The Pancyprian Freedoms against FC Motown will be interesting as well. Out west, the matchup that looks the most interesting is Ventura County Fusion, who has been one of the top USL League Two teams over the years, against Cal FC, who always brings a lot of young talent to the US Open Cup.  

What can people do to support what you guys do at thecup.us?

The best way to support the site is to join our Patreon team (www.patreon.com/usopencup). If we can continue to add to our Patreon team, we'll be able to meet so many of the goals we have to expand our coverage of the tournament. That includes a site redesign, create a mobile app, a March Madness-style bracket contest, create a studio show to recap the tournament or other video features, and to re-launch a US Open Cup podcast. Anyone who is familiar with the National Public Radio funding model knows that if enough supporters each contribute a small amount, then you can make a big difference. Patreon is an ideal way to provide long-term support for the site, but fans can also purchase one of our "We Want The Cup" shirts. If a financial contribution is not in the cards, then sharing our fundraising efforts with your circle of soccer friends is always helpful. We're also always looking for people to help out with the site if you are a writer, editor, have skills in audio and video editing, graphic design, or website design, then I encourage people to reach out to the site.

- Aarik Long

Old Man Yells at Sky: Off to Europe Edition

1. The Loons wise up! - So in all the trash releases of trash 2020 MLS kits, did you happen to spot the return of an old favorite? It’s a throwback to the NASL Loons kit, with the black wing on gray top. It’s spectacular and wonderful and it might even get me to buy an MLS kit, which I haven’t done in at least 3 years.

2. Speaking of Kits - Anyone see that USNT kit? The one “inspired by maps?” Ugliest kit I have seen in forever. Hate it. And I buy USA kits, not this one. On that note, which USNT kit stands out as your favorite. Bomb Pop kit was solid. The Centennial was always a favorite, though I’d never wear it because white kits attract my food way more effectively than my mouth. While a lot of people hated the last USMNT kit (the wifi bars), I liked it. The USWNT WC kit was solid last year. My wife bought me one and I promptly ruined it with grease. I’m telling you, white kits are the devil. But yeah, this new kit is trash, especially when you compare it to the new Nigeria kit. Oooooh, that’s fire.

3. eMLS - I’ve ranted about this before, but I just stumbled on a whole series of social media posts with “eMLS stars” wearing the new MLS kits. So, my opinion on the new kits is pretty obvious, but watching a bunch of video game players wearing them isn’t helping anything. In fact, the opposite is true. Do I care what kit Ninja is wearing? Seriously? The league’s dedication to the stupidest ideas saddens me. 

4. UPSL Playoffs - The UPSL playoffs are about to wrap up and it’s exciting, if you’re paying attention. So much of what’s going on in the UPSL is under the radar because coverage is sparse. The size of the league is massive so coverage, for a group like Protagonist, is complicated and spotty to say the least. We try to get to what we can, but we often miss the stories that aren’t headlines. I’m really pulling for Maryland Bobcats (formerly World Class Premier) to win the title. Such a great club! Of course, me picking them is the kiss of death, better luck next year, kids!

5. Michael Douglass died - So I have zero appreciation or connection to Douglass so I’m not bothered either way, I only want to say that when someone like this dies, people always, literally ALWAYS, say “Gone too soon.” Say that about Douglass, I dare you. Dude died at 103. That’s a full life. Checked out on top.

6. Democratic Primary - If you aren’t Democrat, a post about the DEM primary isn’t worth reading so move on to the next point. Obviously, you have your candidate and good luck with that. On this side, however, there’s chaos in the race with 5 viable candidates and a ton of confusion about where this goes in the end. What I cannot stand is the people who say your vote is a waste of time, doesn’t count, is pointless. Screw those people, nah, go vote. Too important not to.

7. Upcoming Vacation - I’m headed to Europe tomorrow, and I’m pumped. 2 weeks of walking the streets of multiple cities 3 and 4 times older than our country. It’s wild. I’ll still be posting, trust me.

8. Cigar Smoke and Rush Limbaugh - I’m not beating up on Rush, regardless of our political differences. I wouldn’t wish cancer on anyone, it’s a terrible, evil disease, and no matter how terrible a person you are, you don’t deserve that. On the other hand, is no one going to point out that Rush, aside from his radio show, was known for smoking cigars all his life. Like, to the point that he was on the cover of cigar magazines and stuff, it was part of his identity. I know that smoking a cigar isn’t the same as a cigarette, but if you do it all your life? Do cigars come with a warning? Something to think about. 

9. Reader Mail - Grant asks “It's still winter but late winter. The Groundhog announced an early spring and with that there is knowledge that the Great Plains Premier league is going to make an announcement soon. Where is it? All the newer leagues that are taking shape for the 2020 season have made their final announcements. Why hasn't the GPPL?” - Well Grant, that’s a great question. We’ve been in touch with a contact in the league and they basically gave us the same response that they gave everyone else. They’re working on it and they’ll get to it when they get to it. We agree, we’d love to know more about what this league looks like and how many clubs they’ve managed to stitch together to make traveling manageable. But contrary to public opinion, we’re at the mercy of the same people as everyone else. And so we wait… (if you want to send in a subject: oldpeopleoftheworldunite@gmail.com)

10. Music Recommendation - Mount Eerie - “Ravens” - If you don’t know about this guy and his heartbreak. Wow. I know it’s dark, but it’s also sort of beautiful. How do we deal with loss? What happens to those that are left here when we are gone? What does death mean? Serious stuff. Depressing stuff. Real Stuff.

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.

Greenville FC Goes on Hiatus

The news broke yesterday afternoon, Greenville FC had decided to pull out of the 2020 NPSL. The press release (as seen below) sites the exit of multiple Southeast conference opponents as the main reason for the decision. This offseason has seen Asheville City (USL2), Chattanooga (NISA), and Atlanta SC (NISA) all depart for other leagues, both professional and amateur. Just looking at the list of clubs from last season (2019) and comparing it to this season, it’s clear the quality of the conference has dropped significantly.

As of the time of this article, the NPSL website has already updated to indicate Greenville’s hiatus, showing the Southeast conference as containing Georgia Revolution, Inter Nashville FC, and North Alabama SC. Also included in the club list for the conference are two placeholders listed as “To Be Announced.” Which clubs these represent isn’t known at this point, but including two (as compared to one) certainly gives the impression that they are specific clubs in mind for the league.

Speculating on the Greenville’s new status, the explanation, centered on the shakeups to the conference, leaves something to be desired. Greenville has been on the rise since their first season in 2018. After finishing near the bottom of the table in 2018, the club made the Southeast conference playoffs in 2019. After the release of the news yesterday, we have spoken with supporters of the team and they highlighted the drop in attendance when the USL1 club, Greenville Triumph, moved into town last season. Those supporters speculated that Greenville FC may be returning to an approach more focused on local talent development, through indoor or small-sided play. They also mentioned the club has been very quiet during the offseason, further contributing to dwindling fan support. All of those concerns and comments are, of course, speculation, but speculation well-informed by the situation on the ground in Greenville.

Regardless of the long-term results of this move, grassroots soccer is better with Greenville FC in it. The NPSL is better with Greenville FC in it. Seeing a playoff-quality club forced to decide to go into hiatus is a bad thing. Soccer leagues need to be more focused on the sustainability of their member clubs, rather than simply adding expansion sides to replace those exiting. We need more clubs outgrowing the leagues than closing up shop. The cycle of clubs expanding and folding should be of great concern to all of us, especially the fans.

Best of luck to Greenville FC in their reorganization efforts.

Ohio Heart Cup Competition Announced

Today, the Ohio Heart Cup was announced. The yearly competition of amateur clubs from Ohio will bring together some of the best known teams in the state, while allowing some brand new clubs the opportunity to compete. The Director of the competition, Samuel Seibert, highlighted the competition as a chance “for Ohio soccer fans to get competitive soccer closer to home.” Seibert, aside from his role with the Ohio Heart Cup, is also the president of participating club Cleveland SC.

The full list of clubs in the competition includes Cleveland SC, FC Columbus, Toledo Villa FC, Cincinnati Dutch Lions, Dayton Dutch Lions, Amish Country United, Forest City FC, Club Toledo, and Youngstown Nighthawks. Those clubs are drawn from three amateur leagues currently operating in the state: USL League Two, NPSL, and NOSL. But that list of clubs and leagues may grow in the future. According to Seibert, the tournament is open to expansion if more clubs show interest; and with the rapid expansion of the UPSL and the brand new OVPL, it wouldn’t be surprising to see more amatuer sides pop up in Ohio, ready to participate.

The structure of the tournament is in two parts, with a round robin style first round. The second round will take the top six clubs and seed them into a knockout style tournament. The final two clubs standing will play for the Cup in a championship match. The excitement for the competition is already building. “We are extremely excited for the cup to kick off,” said Braden Mast, Director of Operations for Amish Country United. “After a long time talking about the prospect of an amateur Ohio cup, it’s cool that these teams just went ahead with it and are starting it. We’re pumped to play the best teams in the area and it should be a real competitive tournament with great exposure for all teams included.” Club Toledo owner, Jake Mercer, spoke in equally glowing terms, saying the tournament had the potential to be “essentially the Ohio equivalent of the Michigan Milk Cup.”

It’s exciting to see clubs from multiple leagues, often competing for the same fans across the state, working together to grow the game in their home state. The Ohio Heart Cup will be a great opportunity for these amatuer sides to face competition and sharpen their talent. And while the announcement caught many by surprise, the ball has been rolling for some time. The competition has been in the works since spring of last year, according to Seibert, and after the 2019 season, they decided to finalize plans for this year. Once the schedule is announced, we’ll make sure to share that with our readers. 

Old Man Yells at Sky: 1917 Edition

Another week, another list. Let’s get it!

1. 1917 - Last week, I mentioned I was headed off to see 1917, the film about World War I that I had been looking forward to for multiple months. Well, I am happy to report that the film is as good as I had hoped and didn’t let me down once. The film was a masterpiece, both in style, technique and story-telling. If you haven’t seen it yet, you need to. And one last bit, see it in the theatre, it’s the kind of film that needs space to be effective.

2. USOC - Round 1 matchups are out this week and I couldn’t be more thrilled. The first round is the best round, because of all the great lower league clubs. In fact, the further we get into the tournament, the less I care about it. Oh, another matchup between the Revs and Union, let me set aside time to watch that. No thanks. I love this first round, full of giant killers. Matches I am pumped for, NTX Rayados takings on Denton. Rayados are always a tough out, so if I were Denton, I wouldn’t take this matchup lightly. The matchup I want to know more about is West Chester United FC vs. Vereinigung Erzgebirge. I watch a ton of grassroots soccer, come in contact with 100s of clubs, I have NEVER heard of Vereinigung Erzgebirge. I need to educate myself, clearly. Expect an article on them in the next month.

3. Dog Hair - Anybody else’s dogs shedding in the winter cold? I’ve got dust bunnies everywhere, including my primarily black work uniform clothes. Wonderful.

4. Murder your Soccer Idols - When I first got into soccer, it was two things. FIFA - which I spent hours playing with my friends. In person, because online gaming didn’t really exist yet. I’d sit in a chair outside the front door, so I could smoke (not anymore) and my roommate would crash on the couch and we’d play and play. The other was Manchester United playing on Saturday morning on Fox. Pretty much the only consistent club that would show up was United, who were in peak form in that era. So I became a United fan, and, while I’ve migrated from Premier League to American soccer, I still consider myself a fan of the red devils. As you may have guessed, this year has been PAINFUL to watch. My god, how is this the same club? Yeah, I’ll continue to be a fan, but this is like three tooth extractions bad.

   Oh, and on that subject, Ole out.

5. Cheating in Baseball - This subject is really fucking with my head a little. So one part is infuriated with the Astros and their cheating crap, just like I am with all the PEDs and that type of stuff. The second part is like, who cares? Everyone cheats, it’s the Wild West, every club for itself. I don’t know which side I’m on this one.

6. The Kit Game - I’m confident I’ve bitched about this before, but the blandness of the MLS kits that have been released in the last week are garbage on top of garbage. Did you see Chicharito in that gray LAG kit? Seriously? That’s the kit that going to inspire someone to drop nearly $100? I can’t imagine wanting to buy the boring crap MLS puts out, even if I was a fan. Then this weekend, USL side New Mexico United, who had been with Adidas, announced a switch to Puma and released a teaser video of some of the boringest kits I’ve ever seen. And don’t get me started on Puma’s fit. Let’s just say you better be in soccer playing shape to wear one. The real creativity is in the lower leagues, I don’t understand why the bigger fish can’t see that.

7. Chicharito - Speaking of the El Tri veteran, anyone catch that video that’s been circulating of him saying that MLS is just a step into retirement? I cracked up. Good times. The truth is the truth, guys. I’ve heard and read people trying to spin it, but watch the video. Also, this other video of Carlos Vela discussing the move has one major crazy thing. What’s going on with his hair? Like seriously.

8. Americans Abroad - There was a time when the only American playing internationally that I paid attention to was Pulisic, but wow has that changed. There are 20 something players, playing all over the continent, for tens of clubs, and doing super exciting things. What a time to be alive! Yes, I know our national team has been hot garbage, but anyone can see that the parts are all there, we just need to assemble them into a functional machine. I’m pumped.

9. Twitter Feeds - I love it when you’re on twitter, which I am, most of the time, and someone is clearly watching a match or a movie or a news event and tweeting about it, but without context. Cracks me up. “That was a foul” without a hashtag or an explanation only creates more questions than it answers. “I hate such and such” always makes me wonder if they are watching something or just suddenly remembered they really hate a person or a thing and needed to vent it. Social media is a trip, peeps.

10. Music Recommendation - Mogwai - “Zidane - A 21st Century Portrait” - If you’ve never listen to Mogwai, one of my favorite ambient rock bands, I highly suggest you do. But how often do you get the chance to check out a new band while watching one of the greatest soccer players ever? This clip is from a documentary on Zidane, Mogwai did the soundtrack. Great band. Great video. Enjoy. n'uff said.

Dan Creel's Quick Hits on NISA 2020

Yesterday, NISA announced the home openers for its spring 2020 season. Some thoughts:

• It’s nice to see they are naming the competition a “season”. Last year, the league went out of its way to not call the fall series of games either a season or bunch of exhibitions. They branded it a Showcase and, throughout the fall, tip-toed a fine marketing line between making it seem important enough to be a season but not *that* important.

• Where’s the full schedule? Home openers are great, but it feels like the league needed to get something out there even though they have a lot of things still up in the air.

• Where’s 1904 FC’s home opener? LA Force is hosting the first game of the season at historic TBD Oval and they even have a home opener scheduled.

• Full schedule is promised to be “revealed” in a couple weeks “featuring its full roster of clubs.” I read that as there are more clubs involved in the spring season than those listed in the home opener media release. If so, again, a bit troubling, that “clubs to be named later” is still a thing when the league announces its home openers and only six weeks before the season starts. Who are these unnamed clubs? Why aren’t they listed in any of the home openers?

• Philadelphia Fury and/or Atlanta S.C. are still prominently featured on NISA’s site at the time of the media release. Philly folded after playing one NISA Showcase match in the Fall. Atlanta has been holding tryouts per its Twitter account but it’s gone silent as of December 27 and the team’s website is gone. Neither club is listed on the new NISA standings page.

• Are they still in the mix? To be honest, it’s worrying if they are and worrying if they aren’t. If they are, it doesn’t feel like the clubs and league have their act together this close to the new season. If they aren’t then, it’s a bit shady to hint at other clubs. Even if there are other clubs about to join, the practical logistics of getting pro teams up and running in such a short time does the league, the other clubs and their fans a disservice.

• A quick historical aside: a big reason why the old American Soccer League collapsed in 1983 was because the league rules allowed a club to let its league franchise go dormant while still having member voting power in league matters. This gave a lot of power to a number of members who no longer had active teams in the league. Those members still held franchise rights over numerous territories and were able to get financially advantageous decisions for themselves to the detriment of the league. I’m hoping that a similar situation isn’t at work with NISA.

• NISA is touting the spring season as a single table format. Now, while I think that’s the best format for any league, I’m concerned that’s going to create a lot of cross country travel. And, that’s going to mean a huge travel bill for each club. That’s costly for any top-level sports team. But, it’s a ton of weight for any Division 3 operation to bear. I would have prefered the league split into two regions with each region playing a single table round robin. There are historical concerns showing that new pro leagues, and especially the clubs in those leagues, buckle and fail due to the amount of expenses necessary to play nationally.

• The playoffs are fine, but Cal United gets the #1 seed because they won the West playoff game last fall? That’s a big benefit for winning a playoff game during a competition that won’t be nearly as tough as the spring season itself. Plus, if Cal United sucks in the Spring, the #4 seed ends up getting a better seeding than top two spring teams. US soccer fans hate when uneven playoffs negate a regular season.

• Bottom line, the NISA home opener release is fine. But, I expect more and NISA has a lot to prove. I want the league to do well and, even more than that, I want the clubs to do well. The league has a duty to take care of the great clubs now taking part in its competition. Because of that, I’m going to continue holding them to a high standard that the US soccer community deserves.

  - Dan Creel

Ranking the NISA Home Openers

For those that missed it, NISA put out a list of the home openers for the Spring 2020 season. With the first match kicking off on the weekend of February 29, we’re sitting 6 weeks out from the kick-off of the expanded season of NISA play with the addition of Chattanooga, Detroit City, and Michigan Stars. The full schedule won’t be released until later this month, so for now, let’s rank the home openers.

- Dan

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★

Stumptown Athletic vs. 1904 FC (2/29/20)

Stumptown Athletic was the runner up in the East to Miami FC, but with Philly Fury forfeiting the season and Atlanta SC’s 2 wins coming in matches that Philly vacated, they have a tremendous amount to prove heading into this season. The addition of heavy hitters in the East will mean that task will be even harder. 1904 only managed two wins in the stronger West and will be desperate to start off their season with a win. This will be a match most will skip out on and, with Stumptown’s attendance issues last season, the stands will reflect that.

★★

Cal United Strikers FC vs. Michigan Stars FC (2/29/20)

This isn’t going to come as a surprise to anyone familiar with the NPSL, Michigan Stars was the little brother in a conference dominated by big name clubs, including their fellow NISA expansion, DCFC. Stars have a lot to prove in their league and will have to kick off their season on the road, heading to Orange County to face Cal United Strikers. Strikers finished the last regular season in second position in the standings. They followed that up by beating LA in the playoffs on PKs. Kicking off their season against an unproven NISA expansion side should be a recipe for a quick 3 points.

Chattanooga FC vs. Michigan Stars FC (3/14/20)

CFC is one of two big names to cross over into NISA during the offseason. With their ability to fill Finley, it’s reasonable to expect a crazy crowd for this first professional match for Chatta. The club should make quick work of their fellow ex-Members Cup opponent. Speaking of Members Cup, Michigan finished with only 2 wins and a negative 8 goal differential. Not good, man.

★★★

Michigan Stars FC vs. Los Angeles Force (3/21/20)

So I’ve dunked on Michigan Stars in two previous previews, so let’s give this home opener a 3 star rating. I’d expect the club to be on a losing streak and this will be a chance to bounce back, facing a club that had to travel over 2,000 miles. Is anyone else a little troubled the match is scheduled at a location TBD? Seems a little late in the game for details like that to not be settled. Anyway, back to the match, so good chance for a bounce back for the hosts, EXCEPT their opponent was the regular season champ in the West and lost on PKs in the playoffs. LA Force will have faced DCFC at home for their opener (more on that later) and we don’t know the rest of the schedule yet, but without a doubt this appears on paper to be a big win opportunity for LA.

★★★★

Detroit City FC vs. Oakland Roots (3/21/20)

Detroit City FC heads into NISA with a ton of steam after soundly defeating the rest of the Members Cup participants in the Fall. Detroit really matched their support and swagger with solid play on the field and look to be the favorites of this first season in NISA. Their first NISA opponent at Keyworth will be Oakland Roots, a club that nailed every aspect of their rollout in 2019, except for their on-field play. With a new coach and a renewed roster, Oakland will be looking to match their looks with substance in 2020.

Oakland Roots vs. Chattanooga FC (2/29/20)

Everything I said about Oakland in the previous preview, but now they get to host the other big boy expansion club, Chattanooga FC. It’s a long trip from Chattanooga, so maybe that helps Oakland? Especially considering Oakland draws well, something that CFC rarely has rarely seen outside of Detroit. I think this match is sneaky good and should show us where Oakland is headed into 2020.

★★★★★

Los Angeles Force vs. Detroit City FC (2/29/20)

Yet another match to be played at TBD, but WHAT a match. The 2019 regular season winner from the West hosts the bad boys of Detroit on the first week of the 2020 season. This should bring all the eyes on opening weekend. Circle this match.

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.