Women's Professional Soccer Updates
Sept. 2, 2011
WPS players head overseas
Now that the 2011 Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) season is in the books, a number of players have already landed in Europe, joining teams in Germany, Sweden, Spain, Finland, Norway, Russia, France, and Cyprus. Some players are on short-term deals, while others signed lengthier contracts. Here is the most up-to-date list. Note that the list includes players who made at least one appearance in a WPS game this past season.
Atlanta Beat
India Trotter - Sweden (Dalsjöfors)
Angela Salem - Finland (Aland)
Katie Bethke - Norway (Arna-Bjørnar)
Boston Breakers
Alyssa Naeher - Germany (Turbine Potsdam)
Niki Cross - Norway (Medkila IL)
*Ifeoma Dieke - Cyprus
**Aya Sameshima - France
Megan Mischler - Sweden (Östersund)
magicJack
Johanna Rasmussen - Sweden (Kristianstads DFF)
Ashleigh Gunning - Sweden (Eskilstuna United)
Philadelphia Independence
Val Henderson - Sweden (Örebro)
Danesha Adams - Norway (Medkila IL)
Joanna Lohman - Spain (Espanyol)
Lianne Sanderson - Spain (Espanyol)
Veronica Boquete - Russia (Energiya Voronezh)
Holmfridur Magnusdottir - Iceland (Valur)
Sky Blue FC
Karen Bardsley - Sweden (Linkoping)
Carolyn Blank - Sweden (Vittsjo)
Petra Hogewoning - Germany (FCR Duisburg)
Western New York Flash
Caroline Seger - Sweden (Malmo through the fall; begins two-year deal with Tyreso in 2012)
Beverly Goebel - Finland (PK-35)
Becky Edwards - Sweden (Hammarby)
Whitney Engen - Sweden (Tyreso)
Gina Lewandowski - Germany (Frankfurt)
*Dieke is headed to play in Cyprus, presumably for Apollon Limassol, her former club, but this is not 100 percent confirmed.
**Sameshima has landed with a French club, reportedly Montpellier, but this is not 100 percent confirmed.
WPS players head overseas
Now that the 2011 Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) season is in the books, a number of players have already landed in Europe, joining teams in Germany, Sweden, Spain, Finland, Norway, Russia, France, and Cyprus. Some players are on short-term deals, while others signed lengthier contracts. Here is the most up-to-date list. Note that the list includes players who made at least one appearance in a WPS game this past season.
Atlanta Beat
India Trotter - Sweden (Dalsjöfors)
Angela Salem - Finland (Aland)
Katie Bethke - Norway (Arna-Bjørnar)
Boston Breakers
Alyssa Naeher - Germany (Turbine Potsdam)
Niki Cross - Norway (Medkila IL)
*Ifeoma Dieke - Cyprus
**Aya Sameshima - France
Megan Mischler - Sweden (Östersund)
magicJack
Johanna Rasmussen - Sweden (Kristianstads DFF)
Ashleigh Gunning - Sweden (Eskilstuna United)
Philadelphia Independence
Val Henderson - Sweden (Örebro)
Danesha Adams - Norway (Medkila IL)
Joanna Lohman - Spain (Espanyol)
Lianne Sanderson - Spain (Espanyol)
Veronica Boquete - Russia (Energiya Voronezh)
Holmfridur Magnusdottir - Iceland (Valur)
Sky Blue FC
Karen Bardsley - Sweden (Linkoping)
Carolyn Blank - Sweden (Vittsjo)
Petra Hogewoning - Germany (FCR Duisburg)
Western New York Flash
Caroline Seger - Sweden (Malmo through the fall; begins two-year deal with Tyreso in 2012)
Beverly Goebel - Finland (PK-35)
Becky Edwards - Sweden (Hammarby)
Whitney Engen - Sweden (Tyreso)
Gina Lewandowski - Germany (Frankfurt)
*Dieke is headed to play in Cyprus, presumably for Apollon Limassol, her former club, but this is not 100 percent confirmed.
**Sameshima has landed with a French club, reportedly Montpellier, but this is not 100 percent confirmed.
Western New York Flash Crowned WPS Champions
Christine Sinclair celebrates her goal against Philadelphia in the WPS Championship. (Howard C. Smith/ISI Photos)
By Jeff Kassouf
Christine Sinclair did not need convincing to join the Western New York Flash. On Saturday, one of the first players to commit to the 2011 WPS expansion team scored the most critical goal of the season for the Flash.
Western New York defeated Philadelphia 5-4 on penalty kicks after playing to a 1-1 deadlock following extra time in Saturday’s WPS Championship. Sinclair struck for the Flash’s only goal from the run of play in the 64th minute when she sent Candace Chapman’s chipped through ball into the back of the net.
“She’s given us everything,” Flash Head Coach Aaran Lines said. “She made a decision to come to our club within three days where others took three weeks. I have so much respect for that player.”
Sinclair also finished Western New York’s second penalty kick in the shootout. After both teams made their first four kicks from the spot, Yael Averbuch finished the fifth one for the Flash to put the pressure on Independence forward Laura del Rio.
Del Rio hit her kick to the left of Flash goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris, but Harris got her left hand on the ball to push it wide and begin the celebrations for the first-year club. For Philadelphia, it was heartbreak again. It was the second-straight season in which the Independence lost in the final.
“It’s a very tough feeling for our team right now,” Independence forward Amy Rodriguez said. “We worked so hard to make it here. We had countless chances. I personally had countless chances. It makes you want to kick yourself because you can’t get those moments back. I wish there was a different outcome today.”
Rodriguez’s goal in the 87th minute brought the game to extra time. After Philadelphia defender Kia McNeill ventured forward and received the ball, she slotted Danesha Adams into space in the 18-yard box.
Adams hit a right-footed shot off the post that hit Harris’ head and popped back out to Rodriguez inside the six yard box. Rodriguez buried it between Harris’ legs at the near post for the late equalizer.
Philadelphia had all the momentum heading into overtime. Rodriguez fired a volley just wide of Harris’ left post in the 102nd minute to give the Flash a scare. Flash midfielder Beverly Goebel, who entered the match as a substitute in the 77th minute, received her second yellow card in the 108th minute for a tackle on Veronica Boquete, reducing Western New York to 10 players.
But the Independence could not capitalize on the advantage. Western New York had the best chance of extra time in the 120th minute when Caroline Seger’s header looked destined for the lower corner. But Independence goalkeeper Nicole Barnhart reached behind her body to make a diving save and bring the game to penalty kicks.
Barnhart got her hand on the first two penalty kicks by Marta and Sinclair but could not save either of them. It summed up the evening for Philadelphia: Close, but not close enough.
“I thought we created the better chances – the more clear-cut chances,” Philadelphia Head Coach Paul Riley said. “But we didn’t put them away and if you don’t put your chances away you finish second. We didn’t put our chances away and we finished second.”
Lifting the trophy was a dream ending for the Flash, particularly for Sinclair, who was named the championship MVP.
“It’s perfect. The World Cup didn’t go as I had hoped for Canada,” Sinclair said. “It was important for me to come back and play more soccer and to end it with a trophy like this is the perfect way to head into a little bit of a break.”
Jeff Kassouf is the Managing Editor of Equalizer Soccer, www.equalizersoccer.com. He covered the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup for Fox Soccer and is a WPS columnist for SI.com.
Christine Sinclair did not need convincing to join the Western New York Flash. On Saturday, one of the first players to commit to the 2011 WPS expansion team scored the most critical goal of the season for the Flash.
Western New York defeated Philadelphia 5-4 on penalty kicks after playing to a 1-1 deadlock following extra time in Saturday’s WPS Championship. Sinclair struck for the Flash’s only goal from the run of play in the 64th minute when she sent Candace Chapman’s chipped through ball into the back of the net.
“She’s given us everything,” Flash Head Coach Aaran Lines said. “She made a decision to come to our club within three days where others took three weeks. I have so much respect for that player.”
Sinclair also finished Western New York’s second penalty kick in the shootout. After both teams made their first four kicks from the spot, Yael Averbuch finished the fifth one for the Flash to put the pressure on Independence forward Laura del Rio.
Del Rio hit her kick to the left of Flash goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris, but Harris got her left hand on the ball to push it wide and begin the celebrations for the first-year club. For Philadelphia, it was heartbreak again. It was the second-straight season in which the Independence lost in the final.
“It’s a very tough feeling for our team right now,” Independence forward Amy Rodriguez said. “We worked so hard to make it here. We had countless chances. I personally had countless chances. It makes you want to kick yourself because you can’t get those moments back. I wish there was a different outcome today.”
Rodriguez’s goal in the 87th minute brought the game to extra time. After Philadelphia defender Kia McNeill ventured forward and received the ball, she slotted Danesha Adams into space in the 18-yard box.
Adams hit a right-footed shot off the post that hit Harris’ head and popped back out to Rodriguez inside the six yard box. Rodriguez buried it between Harris’ legs at the near post for the late equalizer.
Philadelphia had all the momentum heading into overtime. Rodriguez fired a volley just wide of Harris’ left post in the 102nd minute to give the Flash a scare. Flash midfielder Beverly Goebel, who entered the match as a substitute in the 77th minute, received her second yellow card in the 108th minute for a tackle on Veronica Boquete, reducing Western New York to 10 players.
But the Independence could not capitalize on the advantage. Western New York had the best chance of extra time in the 120th minute when Caroline Seger’s header looked destined for the lower corner. But Independence goalkeeper Nicole Barnhart reached behind her body to make a diving save and bring the game to penalty kicks.
Barnhart got her hand on the first two penalty kicks by Marta and Sinclair but could not save either of them. It summed up the evening for Philadelphia: Close, but not close enough.
“I thought we created the better chances – the more clear-cut chances,” Philadelphia Head Coach Paul Riley said. “But we didn’t put them away and if you don’t put your chances away you finish second. We didn’t put our chances away and we finished second.”
Lifting the trophy was a dream ending for the Flash, particularly for Sinclair, who was named the championship MVP.
“It’s perfect. The World Cup didn’t go as I had hoped for Canada,” Sinclair said. “It was important for me to come back and play more soccer and to end it with a trophy like this is the perfect way to head into a little bit of a break.”
Jeff Kassouf is the Managing Editor of Equalizer Soccer, www.equalizersoccer.com. He covered the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup for Fox Soccer and is a WPS columnist for SI.com.
WPS Championship Preview: An interview with Western New York Flash forward Alex Morgan
Alex Morgan (ISI Photos)
Aug. 26, 2011
To say Alex Morgan has had a whirlwind year would be quite the understatement. The No. 1 pick in the 2011 WPS Draft has split time between her Western New York Flash club and the U.S. Women’s National Team at the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup. Upon her return to the states, Morgan has made a number of television appearances, took a walk down the red carpet with U.S. teammate Hope Solo at the Entourage premiere, and now is set to play in the biggest game of her pro career Saturday at Sahlen’s Stadium in Rochester, N.Y., in the WPS Championship.
“Since the World Cup players came back, the focus has been on the WPS title. There are no more World Cup distractions,” Morgan said via cell phone from Western New York Thursday night. “It’s important for me to get mentally prepared. After the World Cup, I was emotionally drained. Being able to practice and having one thing on our minds helped us see our potential for a WPS title.”
Morgan, 22, has four goals and three assists in 13 games (six starts) for the Flash. She’s only played 24 minutes against the Independence. It came on May 29 in a 2-1 WNY win in Philadelphia. The other two matches (a pair of Philadelphia victories), Morgan was off with the U.S. Women’s National Team.
“We’ve been preparing day in and day out. It’s definitely going to be a close game," Morgan said of Saturday's matchup. "They are the only ones who have been able to capitalize on us. It’s definitely going to be a battle."
Since the Flash won the regular season WPS title with a 13-2-3 record, they earned the right to host the WPS Championship. That gave the team 13 days to prepare for Saturday's game.
"It is difficult to stay focused for two weeks not having played anyone,” Morgan said. “But after five games in two weeks, it’s good to recover our bodies. We’ve been able to keep the competitiveness high in practice. Being at this point, I think we’ve all put in the hard work. Our team is pretty deep. (WNY Head Coach) Aaran (Lines) picked a good squad of players, and we’ve only lost twice.”
Morgan said she had a good feeling about the Flash's chances this season, even before she was drafted out of California.
“Seeing they had the first pick, and I had seen who they had from the expansion draft, it was a quality group of girls. I saw the potential,” Morgan said. “On paper, we would match up better than any other team in the league. It was just a matter of getting to know each other. The team pretty much vibed off the bat. I didn’t know what to expect my first year coming into the league. I followed the league the last two years, and I was anxious to play in the league. I’ve tried to make the most of it. It’s definitely been the busiest year I’ve ever had. I think these two weeks without a game helped me relax and enjoy the past year I’ve had with the National Team and the Western New York Flash.”
Along with the success she had with the U.S. Women's National Team at the 2011 World Cup in Germany came new fans, several hundred thousand of them, which has made life a little different for Morgan.
“I’m definitely recognized a little bit more walking down the street. It’s a little different than usual, but I’ve always said I’ll do anything to promote women’s soccer,” Morgan said. “I want to keep gaining attention for the sport and continue to promote the games.”
Since she returned from the World Cup, Morgan said all of her attention has been on the Flash, particularly the time she spends off the field with her teammates.
“We’ve definitely noticed that we only have a little bit of time left with each other, so we’re trying to get to know each other better, making friendships and keeping friendships,” Morgan said. “We’ve gone to Niagra Falls, the movies, out to dinner, out for ice cream, sitting on the couch watching soccer.”
What are Morgan's plans once the WPS season ends on Saturday?
“Relaxing,” she said. “Enjoying time with family and friends and then trying to prepare ourselves for the Olympic qualifiers.”
The WPS Championship, presented by Citi, takes place Saturday, Aug. 27, at 4 p.m. (ET) at Sahlen's Stadium in Rochester, N.Y. Tickets for the game are available through TicketMaster.
To say Alex Morgan has had a whirlwind year would be quite the understatement. The No. 1 pick in the 2011 WPS Draft has split time between her Western New York Flash club and the U.S. Women’s National Team at the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup. Upon her return to the states, Morgan has made a number of television appearances, took a walk down the red carpet with U.S. teammate Hope Solo at the Entourage premiere, and now is set to play in the biggest game of her pro career Saturday at Sahlen’s Stadium in Rochester, N.Y., in the WPS Championship.
“Since the World Cup players came back, the focus has been on the WPS title. There are no more World Cup distractions,” Morgan said via cell phone from Western New York Thursday night. “It’s important for me to get mentally prepared. After the World Cup, I was emotionally drained. Being able to practice and having one thing on our minds helped us see our potential for a WPS title.”
Morgan, 22, has four goals and three assists in 13 games (six starts) for the Flash. She’s only played 24 minutes against the Independence. It came on May 29 in a 2-1 WNY win in Philadelphia. The other two matches (a pair of Philadelphia victories), Morgan was off with the U.S. Women’s National Team.
“We’ve been preparing day in and day out. It’s definitely going to be a close game," Morgan said of Saturday's matchup. "They are the only ones who have been able to capitalize on us. It’s definitely going to be a battle."
Since the Flash won the regular season WPS title with a 13-2-3 record, they earned the right to host the WPS Championship. That gave the team 13 days to prepare for Saturday's game.
"It is difficult to stay focused for two weeks not having played anyone,” Morgan said. “But after five games in two weeks, it’s good to recover our bodies. We’ve been able to keep the competitiveness high in practice. Being at this point, I think we’ve all put in the hard work. Our team is pretty deep. (WNY Head Coach) Aaran (Lines) picked a good squad of players, and we’ve only lost twice.”
Morgan said she had a good feeling about the Flash's chances this season, even before she was drafted out of California.
“Seeing they had the first pick, and I had seen who they had from the expansion draft, it was a quality group of girls. I saw the potential,” Morgan said. “On paper, we would match up better than any other team in the league. It was just a matter of getting to know each other. The team pretty much vibed off the bat. I didn’t know what to expect my first year coming into the league. I followed the league the last two years, and I was anxious to play in the league. I’ve tried to make the most of it. It’s definitely been the busiest year I’ve ever had. I think these two weeks without a game helped me relax and enjoy the past year I’ve had with the National Team and the Western New York Flash.”
Along with the success she had with the U.S. Women's National Team at the 2011 World Cup in Germany came new fans, several hundred thousand of them, which has made life a little different for Morgan.
“I’m definitely recognized a little bit more walking down the street. It’s a little different than usual, but I’ve always said I’ll do anything to promote women’s soccer,” Morgan said. “I want to keep gaining attention for the sport and continue to promote the games.”
Since she returned from the World Cup, Morgan said all of her attention has been on the Flash, particularly the time she spends off the field with her teammates.
“We’ve definitely noticed that we only have a little bit of time left with each other, so we’re trying to get to know each other better, making friendships and keeping friendships,” Morgan said. “We’ve gone to Niagra Falls, the movies, out to dinner, out for ice cream, sitting on the couch watching soccer.”
What are Morgan's plans once the WPS season ends on Saturday?
“Relaxing,” she said. “Enjoying time with family and friends and then trying to prepare ourselves for the Olympic qualifiers.”
The WPS Championship, presented by Citi, takes place Saturday, Aug. 27, at 4 p.m. (ET) at Sahlen's Stadium in Rochester, N.Y. Tickets for the game are available through TicketMaster.
WPS Championship Preview: An interview with Philadelphia Independence forward Lianne Sanderson
Lianne Sanderson (ISI Photos)
Aug. 26, 2011
Lianne Sanderson knows what it takes to win a championship, actually several championships. The 23-year-old Philadelphia Independence midfielder helped Arsenal win the quadruple in the 2006/07 season, taking home the UEFA Women's Cup, FA Cup, Premier League, and League Cup. She now has her sights set on winning the 2011 WPS Championship.
"It would be absolutely amazing,” Sanderson said Thursday via cell phone on Philadelphia’s bus ride to Rochester, N.Y. “It was a dream come true when I was in England and played for Arsenal and won a lot of trophies. I’ve always been quite lucky. Last year, no one ever thought we (Independence) would get to the final. As an expansion team last year, we learned a lot, and I think the squad this year is better all-around.”
The Independence had one of the toughest roads to the 2010 WPS Championship, churning their way through two playoff games, both of which went to extra time, and then had only two days to prepare for the well-rested FC Gold Pride in the title game. Gold Pride came away with a 4-0 victory to win the championship.
“We were happy to get to the finals, but by then we could barely run,” said the English international.
The Independence have had a few more days to recover this year. They beat magicJack, 2-0, last Saturday in the WPS Super Semifinal. But despite having a few more days to prepare for the final compared to last season, that doesn’t mean the team took this week lightly.
“We still have been training very hard,” said Sanderson, who has three goals and three assists in 17 games (eight starts) this season. “It’s very competitive in training. I think with that competitive edge, you get better as a player.”
Philadelphia finished second to the Flash in the final regular season WPS standings, but the Flash’s two losses came at the hands of the Independence. Sanderson assisted on Danesha Adams’ game-winner in a 1-0 victory on June 12 in Rochester, handing the Flash their first loss of the season. They also beat the Flash, 2-1, at home on July 9, taking sole possession of first place. Their only loss to the Flash came on May 29, a 2-1 defeat on the road.
Sanderson commended Philadelphia Head Coach Paul Riley for the work he did forming a team that didn’t suffer as much of a World Cup impact as other teams in WPS when players left for Germany. The Independence were without forward Amy Rodriguez, midfielder Lori Lindsey, and keeper Nicole Barnhart, but other players filled those roles.
“Paul was very calculated the way he put together the team this year,” Sanderson said. “He put it together the best way possible.”
It seems as if it has all paid off for Philadelphia, a team that is just one victory away from winning its first WPS Championship. They bring an overall record of 12-4-3 (which includes their win over magicJack last week) to face the Flash, who finished the regular season at 13-2-3.
“We match up with them pretty well,” Sanderson said. “They’ve got some of the best players in the world, and we’ve got heart, ability, and spirit. We don’t have egos. We are very down to earth. We work hard for each other, and we’ve showed them how good we are. We’re confident, but obviously we’re the underdogs. They’ve got all the pressure on them.”
The WPS Championship, presented by Citi, takes place Saturday, Aug. 27, at 4 p.m. (ET) at Sahlen's Stadium in Rochester, N.Y. Tickets for the game are available through TicketMaster.
Lianne Sanderson knows what it takes to win a championship, actually several championships. The 23-year-old Philadelphia Independence midfielder helped Arsenal win the quadruple in the 2006/07 season, taking home the UEFA Women's Cup, FA Cup, Premier League, and League Cup. She now has her sights set on winning the 2011 WPS Championship.
"It would be absolutely amazing,” Sanderson said Thursday via cell phone on Philadelphia’s bus ride to Rochester, N.Y. “It was a dream come true when I was in England and played for Arsenal and won a lot of trophies. I’ve always been quite lucky. Last year, no one ever thought we (Independence) would get to the final. As an expansion team last year, we learned a lot, and I think the squad this year is better all-around.”
The Independence had one of the toughest roads to the 2010 WPS Championship, churning their way through two playoff games, both of which went to extra time, and then had only two days to prepare for the well-rested FC Gold Pride in the title game. Gold Pride came away with a 4-0 victory to win the championship.
“We were happy to get to the finals, but by then we could barely run,” said the English international.
The Independence have had a few more days to recover this year. They beat magicJack, 2-0, last Saturday in the WPS Super Semifinal. But despite having a few more days to prepare for the final compared to last season, that doesn’t mean the team took this week lightly.
“We still have been training very hard,” said Sanderson, who has three goals and three assists in 17 games (eight starts) this season. “It’s very competitive in training. I think with that competitive edge, you get better as a player.”
Philadelphia finished second to the Flash in the final regular season WPS standings, but the Flash’s two losses came at the hands of the Independence. Sanderson assisted on Danesha Adams’ game-winner in a 1-0 victory on June 12 in Rochester, handing the Flash their first loss of the season. They also beat the Flash, 2-1, at home on July 9, taking sole possession of first place. Their only loss to the Flash came on May 29, a 2-1 defeat on the road.
Sanderson commended Philadelphia Head Coach Paul Riley for the work he did forming a team that didn’t suffer as much of a World Cup impact as other teams in WPS when players left for Germany. The Independence were without forward Amy Rodriguez, midfielder Lori Lindsey, and keeper Nicole Barnhart, but other players filled those roles.
“Paul was very calculated the way he put together the team this year,” Sanderson said. “He put it together the best way possible.”
It seems as if it has all paid off for Philadelphia, a team that is just one victory away from winning its first WPS Championship. They bring an overall record of 12-4-3 (which includes their win over magicJack last week) to face the Flash, who finished the regular season at 13-2-3.
“We match up with them pretty well,” Sanderson said. “They’ve got some of the best players in the world, and we’ve got heart, ability, and spirit. We don’t have egos. We are very down to earth. We work hard for each other, and we’ve showed them how good we are. We’re confident, but obviously we’re the underdogs. They’ve got all the pressure on them.”
The WPS Championship, presented by Citi, takes place Saturday, Aug. 27, at 4 p.m. (ET) at Sahlen's Stadium in Rochester, N.Y. Tickets for the game are available through TicketMaster.
Aug. 20, 2011
Philadelphia beats magicJack, advances to WPS Championship
The Philadelphia Independence topped magicJack, 2-0, Saturday afternoon at PPL Park in Chester, Pennsylvania, in the WPS Super Semifinal. With the victory, the Independence move on to face the Western New York Flash in the Aug. 27th WPS Championship at Sahlen's Stadium in Rochester, New York. Tasha Kai scored in the 46th minute, and U.S. Women's National Team forward Amy Rodriguez scored in the 81st minute to send the Independence to their second straight WPS title game. Last year, the Independence lost, 4-0, to FC Gold Pride in the championship match.
Saturday at PPL Park, in front of 5,410 spectators, the host Independence stopped the South Florida based magicJack just three days after magicJack beat the Boston Breakers, 3-1, in the first round of the WPS Playoffs. Kai's goal, her team-leading 10th of the season, bent around magicJack keeper Jillian Loyden. Rodriguez scored off an assist from Danesha Adams. It was her third goal of the 2011 season.
The 2011 WPS Championship is scheduled for a 4 p.m. ET start on Saturday, Aug. 27, and will be aired live on Fox Soccer and via live webcast on the Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) website.
Philadelphia beats magicJack, advances to WPS Championship
The Philadelphia Independence topped magicJack, 2-0, Saturday afternoon at PPL Park in Chester, Pennsylvania, in the WPS Super Semifinal. With the victory, the Independence move on to face the Western New York Flash in the Aug. 27th WPS Championship at Sahlen's Stadium in Rochester, New York. Tasha Kai scored in the 46th minute, and U.S. Women's National Team forward Amy Rodriguez scored in the 81st minute to send the Independence to their second straight WPS title game. Last year, the Independence lost, 4-0, to FC Gold Pride in the championship match.
Saturday at PPL Park, in front of 5,410 spectators, the host Independence stopped the South Florida based magicJack just three days after magicJack beat the Boston Breakers, 3-1, in the first round of the WPS Playoffs. Kai's goal, her team-leading 10th of the season, bent around magicJack keeper Jillian Loyden. Rodriguez scored off an assist from Danesha Adams. It was her third goal of the 2011 season.
The 2011 WPS Championship is scheduled for a 4 p.m. ET start on Saturday, Aug. 27, and will be aired live on Fox Soccer and via live webcast on the Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) website.
Aug. 17, 2011
WPS Announces Year-End Awards
On Wednesday, Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) announced its 2011 Year-End Awards. Philadelphia's Veronica Boquete won the Michelle Akers Player of the Year Award. The 24-year-old Spanish international scored five goals this season for the Independence, including four game-winners, in 11 games. Philadelphia racked up two more awards. Paul Riley was named WPS Coach of the Year, and Nikki Krzysik earned the Citi Sportswoman of the Year award for "her exemplary leadership displayed both on and off the field."
Stanford University grad and 2010 Mac Hermann Trophy winner Christen Press was voted U.S. Soccer Federation Rookie of the Year. Whitney Engen of the Western New York Flash was named WPS Defender of the Year, and Engen's Flash teammate Ashlyn Harris gets the nod for U.S. Coast Guard Keeper of the Year. Brazilian international and Western New York Flash forward Marta won the Golden Boot, finishing with 10 goals this season. It was her third straight golden boot award in WPS.
WPS Announces Year-End Awards
On Wednesday, Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) announced its 2011 Year-End Awards. Philadelphia's Veronica Boquete won the Michelle Akers Player of the Year Award. The 24-year-old Spanish international scored five goals this season for the Independence, including four game-winners, in 11 games. Philadelphia racked up two more awards. Paul Riley was named WPS Coach of the Year, and Nikki Krzysik earned the Citi Sportswoman of the Year award for "her exemplary leadership displayed both on and off the field."
Stanford University grad and 2010 Mac Hermann Trophy winner Christen Press was voted U.S. Soccer Federation Rookie of the Year. Whitney Engen of the Western New York Flash was named WPS Defender of the Year, and Engen's Flash teammate Ashlyn Harris gets the nod for U.S. Coast Guard Keeper of the Year. Brazilian international and Western New York Flash forward Marta won the Golden Boot, finishing with 10 goals this season. It was her third straight golden boot award in WPS.
July 16, 2011
Sky Blue FC Holding Soccer Celebration Sunday
Sky Blue FC, the WPS team based out of New Jersey, will hold a World Cup Final viewing party prior to its game against the Western New York Flash on Sunday, July 17th. The event is part of the team's Summer Soccer Celebration. It begins at 2:45 p.m. when fans can come to Yurcak Field in Piscataway, New Jersey, and watch the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup Final between the U.S. and Japan on a big-screen TV in the parking lot. Sky Blue FC will then take on the Western New York Flash at 6 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by calling 888-SBFC-TIX or by visiting skybluefc.com. Sky Blue FC players will be wearing pink kits during their game against the Flash as part of PUMA's Project Pink initiative that raises awareness of breast cancer. Fans may bid on the players' pink jerseys, and the money will go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Veronica Boquete - WPS Player of the Week (ISI Photos)
June 24, 2011
Veronica Boguete Named WPS Player of the Week
Philadelphia Independence forward Veronica Boquete scored a goal and added three assists in Philadelphia's 6-0 win last week over magicJack. Her performance earned Boquete Women's Professional Soccer's Player of the Week honors.
Boquete set up goals by Danesha Adams, Lianne Sanderson, and Holmfridur Magnusdottir, and she scored the fifth goal of the match to help Philadelphia improve to 4-2-3 and into second place in the WPS table.
"Vero has settled in quickly and is growing in confidence," Philadelphia Head Coach Paul Riley said. "She is smart, crafty, clean on the ball, and understands the game down to its final detail. I think she has been an important ingredient in the Independence getting some momentum going into the break. She is already a fan favorite, and her ability on the ball alone makes her worth admission."
The WPS Player of Week is selected by a panel of journalists from the North American Soccer Reporters.
Week 1: Allie Long (Sky Blue FC)
Week 2: Alli Lipsher (Atlanta Beat)
Week 3: Alli Lipsher (Atlanta Beat)
Week 4: Christine Sinclair (Western New York Flash)
Week 5: Marta (Western New York Flash)
Week 6: McCall Zerboni (Western New York Flash)
Week 7: Caroline Seger (Western New York Flash)
Week 8: Abby Wambach (magicJack)
Week 9: Meghan Klingenberg (Boston Breakers)
Week 10: Alyssa Naeher (Boston Breakers)
Week 11: Veronica Boquete (Philadelphia Independence)
Veronica Boguete Named WPS Player of the Week
Philadelphia Independence forward Veronica Boquete scored a goal and added three assists in Philadelphia's 6-0 win last week over magicJack. Her performance earned Boquete Women's Professional Soccer's Player of the Week honors.
Boquete set up goals by Danesha Adams, Lianne Sanderson, and Holmfridur Magnusdottir, and she scored the fifth goal of the match to help Philadelphia improve to 4-2-3 and into second place in the WPS table.
"Vero has settled in quickly and is growing in confidence," Philadelphia Head Coach Paul Riley said. "She is smart, crafty, clean on the ball, and understands the game down to its final detail. I think she has been an important ingredient in the Independence getting some momentum going into the break. She is already a fan favorite, and her ability on the ball alone makes her worth admission."
The WPS Player of Week is selected by a panel of journalists from the North American Soccer Reporters.
Week 1: Allie Long (Sky Blue FC)
Week 2: Alli Lipsher (Atlanta Beat)
Week 3: Alli Lipsher (Atlanta Beat)
Week 4: Christine Sinclair (Western New York Flash)
Week 5: Marta (Western New York Flash)
Week 6: McCall Zerboni (Western New York Flash)
Week 7: Caroline Seger (Western New York Flash)
Week 8: Abby Wambach (magicJack)
Week 9: Meghan Klingenberg (Boston Breakers)
Week 10: Alyssa Naeher (Boston Breakers)
Week 11: Veronica Boquete (Philadelphia Independence)
June 21, 2011
Interviews with Emma
Part 9 – A Conversation with Boston Breaker Leslie Osborne
Who would want to go to a soccer game on Father’s Day?! Well, for the opportunity to share another activity with my little interview partner, I certainly would. And as I found out during our interview, so would Leslie’s father…traveling all the way from Wisconsin to see her play. Prior to our interview, I told a few people that we would be talking to Leslie. “Super nice” and “a real sweetheart” were some of the phrases used to describe her.
Leslie Osborne – Midfielder – Boston Breakers
Birth date: May 27, 1983
Hometown: Brookfield, Wisconsin
Nickname: “Les,” (“Ozzie” is one that she’s trying to stop)
Age she started soccer: 10
College: Santa Clara – Degree in Communications with a minor in Broadcasting
Career after soccer: Broadcasting, Division I college coach, fashion design
Why she wears number 12: It was the number she wore on her first National Team call-up
Favorite pregame foods: A small meal…iced coffee, wheat bagel with honey, peanut butter and banana
Workout music: Hip hop (Black Eyed Peas, Lil’ Wayne) “It’s gotta be fast and get me going.”
Superstitions: A long jog (~5 miles) two days before every game. She used to do it with Kristine Lilly, before she retired, and will keep it up.
Favorite Cartoon Character: Princess Jasmine from “Aladdin”…many years of dressing up for Halloween
Favorite Movie: Not a big movie person, but she likes scary movies. As a kid, she liked “Parent Trap.”
Mentor: Her dad, and also her college coach, Jerry Smith at Santa Clara. “He (Jerry) obviously taught me to be a better soccer player, but more a better person. That’s where I think I learned to be a true captain and leader. He helped me prepare for my life outside of soccer, and molded me into the person I am.”
Favorite Quote: She loves quotes and tries to have a new one every day. Many of them are related to the effort you put into things and the heart you have…always having a positive perspective on life.
Favorite Charities: Boys and Girls Club – Wherever she’s lived in the U.S., she’s made sure to be a part of it. Grassroot Soccer – “uses the power of soccer to educate, inspire, and mobilize communities to stop the spread of HIV.” SCORES – an after-school soccer-based program to empower children.
Special Father’s Day Questions….
Her father’s nickname for her: “Lester” – every time he was mad at her.
Leslie’s father in the words of Leslie: Loyal and dependable
Interesting father-daughter memories: “I grew up fishing and hunting with my dad, and I was like a tomboy. I would go fishing with him throughout the middle of the night. I would hunt with him and clean and gut fish.”
Our thanks go out to Leslie for chatting with us. “Super nice” is an understatement
Birth date: May 27, 1983
Hometown: Brookfield, Wisconsin
Nickname: “Les,” (“Ozzie” is one that she’s trying to stop)
Age she started soccer: 10
College: Santa Clara – Degree in Communications with a minor in Broadcasting
Career after soccer: Broadcasting, Division I college coach, fashion design
Why she wears number 12: It was the number she wore on her first National Team call-up
Favorite pregame foods: A small meal…iced coffee, wheat bagel with honey, peanut butter and banana
Workout music: Hip hop (Black Eyed Peas, Lil’ Wayne) “It’s gotta be fast and get me going.”
Superstitions: A long jog (~5 miles) two days before every game. She used to do it with Kristine Lilly, before she retired, and will keep it up.
Favorite Cartoon Character: Princess Jasmine from “Aladdin”…many years of dressing up for Halloween
Favorite Movie: Not a big movie person, but she likes scary movies. As a kid, she liked “Parent Trap.”
Mentor: Her dad, and also her college coach, Jerry Smith at Santa Clara. “He (Jerry) obviously taught me to be a better soccer player, but more a better person. That’s where I think I learned to be a true captain and leader. He helped me prepare for my life outside of soccer, and molded me into the person I am.”
Favorite Quote: She loves quotes and tries to have a new one every day. Many of them are related to the effort you put into things and the heart you have…always having a positive perspective on life.
Favorite Charities: Boys and Girls Club – Wherever she’s lived in the U.S., she’s made sure to be a part of it. Grassroot Soccer – “uses the power of soccer to educate, inspire, and mobilize communities to stop the spread of HIV.” SCORES – an after-school soccer-based program to empower children.
Special Father’s Day Questions….
Her father’s nickname for her: “Lester” – every time he was mad at her.
Leslie’s father in the words of Leslie: Loyal and dependable
Interesting father-daughter memories: “I grew up fishing and hunting with my dad, and I was like a tomboy. I would go fishing with him throughout the middle of the night. I would hunt with him and clean and gut fish.”
Our thanks go out to Leslie for chatting with us. “Super nice” is an understatement
June 18, 2011
WPS Roster Report:
magicJack sign midfielder Sarah Ashleigh Gunning, Breakers sign keeper Kati Jo Spisak
WPS passed its halfway point, and this weekend all but Sky Blue FC are in action. The Independence take on magicJack, while the Breakers travel to Atlanta to take on the last-place Beat. This week, the Boston Breakers inked former Saint Louis Athletica and Washington Freedom goalkeeper Kati Jo Spisak. The following day, magicJack signed former Coastal Carolina and LSU midfielder/forward Sarah Ashleigh Gunning. Here is this week's WPS Roster Report.
Atlanta Beat
Unavailable: Kelly Parker, Carli Lloyd, Heather Mitts
Not rostered: Colleen Flanagan, Katie Fraine
Boston Breakers
Unavailable: Rachel Buehler, Lauren Cheney, Stephanie Cox, Amy LePeilbet, Kelley O'Hara, Aya Sameshima, Alex Scott, Kelly Smith
Probable: Ifeoma Dieke
Injured: Kelsey Davis, Jordan Angeli
Not rostered: Kati Jo Spisak
magicJack
Unavailable: Shannon Boxx, Lisa De Vanna, Jillian Loyden, Christie Rampone, Becky Sauerbrunn, Hope Solo, Abby Wambach, Sophie Schmidt
Injured: Lindsay Tarpley
Philadelphia Independence
Unavailable: Nicole Barnhart, Lori Lindsey, Megan Rapinoe, Amy Rodriguez
Not rostered: Allison Falk, Laurel Fowlkes
WPS Roster Report:
magicJack sign midfielder Sarah Ashleigh Gunning, Breakers sign keeper Kati Jo Spisak
WPS passed its halfway point, and this weekend all but Sky Blue FC are in action. The Independence take on magicJack, while the Breakers travel to Atlanta to take on the last-place Beat. This week, the Boston Breakers inked former Saint Louis Athletica and Washington Freedom goalkeeper Kati Jo Spisak. The following day, magicJack signed former Coastal Carolina and LSU midfielder/forward Sarah Ashleigh Gunning. Here is this week's WPS Roster Report.
Atlanta Beat
Unavailable: Kelly Parker, Carli Lloyd, Heather Mitts
Not rostered: Colleen Flanagan, Katie Fraine
Boston Breakers
Unavailable: Rachel Buehler, Lauren Cheney, Stephanie Cox, Amy LePeilbet, Kelley O'Hara, Aya Sameshima, Alex Scott, Kelly Smith
Probable: Ifeoma Dieke
Injured: Kelsey Davis, Jordan Angeli
Not rostered: Kati Jo Spisak
magicJack
Unavailable: Shannon Boxx, Lisa De Vanna, Jillian Loyden, Christie Rampone, Becky Sauerbrunn, Hope Solo, Abby Wambach, Sophie Schmidt
Injured: Lindsay Tarpley
Philadelphia Independence
Unavailable: Nicole Barnhart, Lori Lindsey, Megan Rapinoe, Amy Rodriguez
Not rostered: Allison Falk, Laurel Fowlkes
Alyssa Naeher earned WPS Player of the Week honors (ISI Photos)
June 16, 2011
Alyssa Naeher Named WPS Player of the Week
Boston Breakers goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher made six saves, including one with less than a minute to go in Sunday's scoreless draw against Sky Blue FC. Her performance earned the second-year WPS keeper the Women's Professional Soccer's Player of the Week honors.
"I thought we played well as a team," Naeher said. "It felt good to get the shutout."
The goalkeeper made a diving stop on Laura Kalmari in the fifth minute and a point-blank save on Kendall Fletcher in the final minute to notch her league-leading second shutout of the year. Naeher has a league-best 60 saves this season and is just 10 saves away from breaking Boston's single-season saves record, which she set last year.
“Alyssa was fantastic in our draw vs. Sky Blue," Boston Breakers Head Coach Tony DiCicco said. "She played 90 minutes of impressive and consistent goalkeeping and she blanked a dangerous attacking group from Sky Blue. Alyssa is young and continues to evolve and clearly her best goalkeeping is still ahead of her, which is exciting news for Breakers fans everywhere."
Born in 1988, Naeher is the youngest of the starting goalkeepers in WPS. She has been a member of the Breakers since 2010, when she was selected by DiCicco in the first round (11th overall) in the 2010 WPS Draft. Since then, Naeher, a former keeper for SoccerPlusCT of the WPSL, has starred in the Breakers lineup as the starting goalkeeper, starting 16 games in her rookie season and all 10 of the Breakers’ 2011 matches.
Prior to beginning her professional career, the Seymour, CT native spent her college career tending goal for Penn State where she helped the Nittany Lions to four consecutive Big 10 conference titles, and earned first team All-American honors in her final three collegiate seasons (2007, 2008, 2009).
Alyssa Naeher Named WPS Player of the Week
Boston Breakers goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher made six saves, including one with less than a minute to go in Sunday's scoreless draw against Sky Blue FC. Her performance earned the second-year WPS keeper the Women's Professional Soccer's Player of the Week honors.
"I thought we played well as a team," Naeher said. "It felt good to get the shutout."
The goalkeeper made a diving stop on Laura Kalmari in the fifth minute and a point-blank save on Kendall Fletcher in the final minute to notch her league-leading second shutout of the year. Naeher has a league-best 60 saves this season and is just 10 saves away from breaking Boston's single-season saves record, which she set last year.
“Alyssa was fantastic in our draw vs. Sky Blue," Boston Breakers Head Coach Tony DiCicco said. "She played 90 minutes of impressive and consistent goalkeeping and she blanked a dangerous attacking group from Sky Blue. Alyssa is young and continues to evolve and clearly her best goalkeeping is still ahead of her, which is exciting news for Breakers fans everywhere."
Born in 1988, Naeher is the youngest of the starting goalkeepers in WPS. She has been a member of the Breakers since 2010, when she was selected by DiCicco in the first round (11th overall) in the 2010 WPS Draft. Since then, Naeher, a former keeper for SoccerPlusCT of the WPSL, has starred in the Breakers lineup as the starting goalkeeper, starting 16 games in her rookie season and all 10 of the Breakers’ 2011 matches.
Prior to beginning her professional career, the Seymour, CT native spent her college career tending goal for Penn State where she helped the Nittany Lions to four consecutive Big 10 conference titles, and earned first team All-American honors in her final three collegiate seasons (2007, 2008, 2009).
McCall Zerboni - WPS Player of the Month (ISI Photos)
June 15, 2011
WNY Flash forward McCall Zerboni named WPS Player of the Month
Two goals and two assists largely contributed to McCall Zerboni earning Women's Professional Soccer's Player of the Month for May. The Western New York Flash forward/midfielder helped her team post a 5-0 record last month. Zerboni appeared in all five games for the Flash in May, logging 353 minutes. She becomes the first player in Flash franchise history to win WPS Player of the Month. She also earned Player of the Week honors in Week 6 after scoring two goals and adding an assist in a 3-2 win over the Boston Breakers. Also in May, Zerboni assisted the equalizer in the Flash's May 29th match against the Philadelphia Independence.
WNY Flash forward McCall Zerboni named WPS Player of the Month
Two goals and two assists largely contributed to McCall Zerboni earning Women's Professional Soccer's Player of the Month for May. The Western New York Flash forward/midfielder helped her team post a 5-0 record last month. Zerboni appeared in all five games for the Flash in May, logging 353 minutes. She becomes the first player in Flash franchise history to win WPS Player of the Month. She also earned Player of the Week honors in Week 6 after scoring two goals and adding an assist in a 3-2 win over the Boston Breakers. Also in May, Zerboni assisted the equalizer in the Flash's May 29th match against the Philadelphia Independence.
Interviews with Emma Part 8: A Conversation with magicJack's Sarah Huffman
June 13, 2011
By David Bayer
Our interview this week was a bit of an adventure. We started out the night with a one-hour delay because of lightning in the area. After the game, we ventured down onto the field. We looked around for an opportunity, targeted a subject and made our approach. (Having my cute little partner with me surely helped). Sarah smiled, and we were good to go. Partway through the interview, the automatic sprinkler system started, but Sarah guided us to safety.
Sarah Huffman – Midfielder – magicJack
Birth date: March 5, 1984
Hometown: Flower Mound, Texas
Nickname: “Huffy”
Age she started soccer: 4 (on a boys' and girls' team)
College: University of Virginia – B.S. in Sports Medicine, Masters in Education
Career after soccer: Not sure right now, but teaching is a possibility.
Why she wears number 14: Didn’t really pick the number, but she did wear it on Youth National Teams.
Favorite pregame foods: Chicken, rice, pasta, and salad
Workout music: Country music or something mellow
Superstitions: None
Favorite Cartoon Character: Pumbaa from Lion King
Favorite Movie: She couldn’t think of her all-time fave, but she currently likes Bridesmaids.
Favorite Actress: Jennifer Aniston
Mentor: Steve Swanson, her coach at Virginia
Pets: Two dogs – an English Bulldog and Pug – Kingston and Tex
Life Motto: “Enjoy the challenges of your dreams” – from her coach Steve Swanson
Our thanks to Sarah for the interview and for helping to keep us dry.
By David Bayer
Our interview this week was a bit of an adventure. We started out the night with a one-hour delay because of lightning in the area. After the game, we ventured down onto the field. We looked around for an opportunity, targeted a subject and made our approach. (Having my cute little partner with me surely helped). Sarah smiled, and we were good to go. Partway through the interview, the automatic sprinkler system started, but Sarah guided us to safety.
Sarah Huffman – Midfielder – magicJack
Birth date: March 5, 1984
Hometown: Flower Mound, Texas
Nickname: “Huffy”
Age she started soccer: 4 (on a boys' and girls' team)
College: University of Virginia – B.S. in Sports Medicine, Masters in Education
Career after soccer: Not sure right now, but teaching is a possibility.
Why she wears number 14: Didn’t really pick the number, but she did wear it on Youth National Teams.
Favorite pregame foods: Chicken, rice, pasta, and salad
Workout music: Country music or something mellow
Superstitions: None
Favorite Cartoon Character: Pumbaa from Lion King
Favorite Movie: She couldn’t think of her all-time fave, but she currently likes Bridesmaids.
Favorite Actress: Jennifer Aniston
Mentor: Steve Swanson, her coach at Virginia
Pets: Two dogs – an English Bulldog and Pug – Kingston and Tex
Life Motto: “Enjoy the challenges of your dreams” – from her coach Steve Swanson
Our thanks to Sarah for the interview and for helping to keep us dry.
Emma with magicJack's Sarah Huffman
June 8, 2011
Boston's Meghan Klingenberg named WPS Player of the Week
Meghan Klingenberg set up one goal and scored another to lift her new team past her old one, and the effort has been honored with Women's Professional Soccer's Player of the Week title.
“I’m just so excited to be here in Boston. I was really happy to step out on the field and start. I wanted to put in a good game, and to be honored like that, it’s really special,” Klingenberg said. “I haven’t played a (full) game in a while, so being able to step out on the field with the Breakers and put in a hard 90 minutes was incredible.”
The flank midfielder from the University of North Carolina crossed to Katie Schoepfer for a seventh-minute goal and scored in the 19th to lead the Boston Breakers past magicJack, 2-1, Sunday at Harvard Stadium. Klingenberg becomes the third youngest player in WPS history to win Player of the Week honors. Current Breaker Kelley O’Hara won it with FC Gold Pride on Sept. 15, 2010 (21 years old and 258 days), while Eniola Aluko earned Player of the Week on June 17, 2009 (22 years, 116 days). Klingenberg (22 years, 159 days) is just the second member of the Breakers named as WPS Player of the Week. Kelly Smith earned such recognition in both 2009 and 2010. This is the 51st Player of the Week award handed out by WPS since the inception of the league in 2009.
Klingenberg was originally selected by magicJack in the first round (third overall selection) of the 2011 WPS Draft before being traded to Boston last week for Nikki Washington. The Breakers also received a 2012 WPS Draft pick and a player to be named later as part of the deal. Prior to making the leap to the professional ranks, the Gibsonia, PA native was a fixture on the University of North Carolina women’s soccer team, where she helped the Tar Heels collect three (2008, 2009, 2010) consecutive national championships at the NCAA College Cup. On the international side, Klingenberg has been a part of the US Youth National Team system since the age of 16. She was a member of the US U-20 team that won the World Cup in 2008 under DiCicco. Klingenberg received her first call-up to the full Women’s National Team in January 2011.
Photo By David Silverman/DSPics.com
Boston's Meghan Klingenberg named WPS Player of the Week
Meghan Klingenberg set up one goal and scored another to lift her new team past her old one, and the effort has been honored with Women's Professional Soccer's Player of the Week title.
“I’m just so excited to be here in Boston. I was really happy to step out on the field and start. I wanted to put in a good game, and to be honored like that, it’s really special,” Klingenberg said. “I haven’t played a (full) game in a while, so being able to step out on the field with the Breakers and put in a hard 90 minutes was incredible.”
The flank midfielder from the University of North Carolina crossed to Katie Schoepfer for a seventh-minute goal and scored in the 19th to lead the Boston Breakers past magicJack, 2-1, Sunday at Harvard Stadium. Klingenberg becomes the third youngest player in WPS history to win Player of the Week honors. Current Breaker Kelley O’Hara won it with FC Gold Pride on Sept. 15, 2010 (21 years old and 258 days), while Eniola Aluko earned Player of the Week on June 17, 2009 (22 years, 116 days). Klingenberg (22 years, 159 days) is just the second member of the Breakers named as WPS Player of the Week. Kelly Smith earned such recognition in both 2009 and 2010. This is the 51st Player of the Week award handed out by WPS since the inception of the league in 2009.
Klingenberg was originally selected by magicJack in the first round (third overall selection) of the 2011 WPS Draft before being traded to Boston last week for Nikki Washington. The Breakers also received a 2012 WPS Draft pick and a player to be named later as part of the deal. Prior to making the leap to the professional ranks, the Gibsonia, PA native was a fixture on the University of North Carolina women’s soccer team, where she helped the Tar Heels collect three (2008, 2009, 2010) consecutive national championships at the NCAA College Cup. On the international side, Klingenberg has been a part of the US Youth National Team system since the age of 16. She was a member of the US U-20 team that won the World Cup in 2008 under DiCicco. Klingenberg received her first call-up to the full Women’s National Team in January 2011.
Photo By David Silverman/DSPics.com
June 5, 2011
Interviews with Emma Part 7: A Conversation with Atlanta’s Keeley Dowling
By David Bayer
When Keeley signed with the Beat in the off-season, the only thing I heard about her was that she has an incredible vertical leap. After meeting her, we found there are many incredible things about her. She’s warm, friendly, unassuming, and has a smile that leaps out at you.
Keeley Dowling – Defender – Atlanta Beat
Birth date: February 17, 1983
Hometown: Carmel, Indiana
Nickname: “Keels”
Age she started soccer: 4
College: Tennessee (major: Exercise Science)
Career after soccer: She would like to continue her coaching. She currently assists at her alma mater.
Why she wears number 40: “There are a lot of different meanings for number 40 in the Bible. It’s a very symbolic number as far as trials and tribulations…That’s the big picture for me.”
Favorite pregame foods: “A lot of food.” She likes foot-long subs for carbs and protein. Thirty minutes before a game – a banana and protein bar. Starting to get into coffee. “I need a lot of fuel.”
Workout music: She likes her music “chill and mellow”… country, Christian, Jack Johnson, Coldplay. No heavy metal.
Superstitions: None
Favorite Cartoon Character: Pinky from Pinky and the Brain
Favorite Movie: Princess Bride
Favorite Actress: Nicole Kidman … loved her in Moulin Rouge
Something people may not know about Keeley: She’s played the piano for 14 years. At one point, she wanted to quit, but she’s grateful she kept with it.
Mentor: In soccer – Angela Kelly (head coach at Tennessee) “She took me under her wing. I’ve learned a lot from her. She has a strong character. She’s really into developing the young woman, which I think is really important, not just winning soccer games.” In life – “My mom and my dad. Throughout the years, they’ve been a strong support for me, and great examples of how to be a strong person, and certainly faith being most important.”
Favorite Charity or Cause: She has a passion for working with seniors.
Pets: None, but she likes dogs.
Life Motto: Her favorite verse from the Bible (2 Timothy 1:7) – “For God did not give us the spirit of timidity but one of power, love and self-discipline.” “Self-discipline is what I try to do, because that’s one of the hardest things to do…loving people even if you don’t want to that’s hard too. I just think it’s a really cool verse.”
Keeley in the words of teammate Megan Jesolva : On the field – “Ambitious” Off the field – “Hilarious”
Keeley in the words of Atlanta Coach James Galanis: “Keeley is a leader in the locker room. She is the type of player that everyone loves and listens to. She has had an amazing effect on the young players on our squad. She always encourages, and is always there to push players to work even harder.”
Thanks for the chat, Keeley. We wish you success in continuing the amazing effect with your teammates that Coach Galanis mentioned, as well as your Lady Vols, and many others.
Interviews with Emma Part 6: A Conversation with Atlanta’s Lauren Sesselmann
By David Bayer
We’re back to the Beat, but not just any Beat player…an original Beat player. In fact, the only original Beat player still with the team. (Lori Chalupny joined mid-season in 2010) As such, we’ve had many occasions to meet Lauren ( Emma must have a couple hundred of her autographs), but this was our first “real” conversation.
Lauren Sesselmann – Forward – Atlanta Beat
Birth date: August 14, 1983
Hometown: Green Bay, Wisconsin
Nickname: “Sess” or “Sessy”
Age she started soccer: 7th grade. She played a lot of basketball, and then her mother “forced” her to try soccer. “I threw a boy on the ground, scored a goal, and I said ‘this is what I want to do.’”
College: Purdue – Marketing and advertising
Career after soccer: “I have a lot of aspirations. I would like to own my own businesses someday – a hotel, restaurant, bar, clothing line.” Also interested in sports marketing and advertising. She’s currently working to connect entertainers and athletes with small businesses.
Why she wears number 24: Likes having even numbers and wanted a four as part of it.
Favorite pregame foods: Doesn’t eat much (salad, lean protein, fruit). Has a “huge” breakfast – oatmeal, egg whites, turkey sausage, orange juice and “tons” of fruit.
Workout music: All types – rap, hip hop, country. Her ultimate favorite is Josh Groban.
Superstitions: Gets dressed left side first with everything…shin guards, socks, tape, etc.
Favorite Cartoon Character: My Little Pony
Favorite Movie: “Coach Carter” and “Goal”
Favorite Actress: Sandra Bullock (who she had the pleasure of meeting)
Favorite Color: All shades of pink
Something people may not know about Lauren: She loves to sing. She sang the National Anthem at some of her high school and college games. She has done a lot of acting and musical theater.
Mentor: Her dad. “We’re two peas in a pod. We’re exactly alike. He’s such a go-getter and it has pawned off on me.” Her housemates, Carli Lloyd, Heather Mitts, and Lori Chalupny have taught her a lot.
Favorite Charity or Cause: “I want to get involved in everything I can…until I see something that sticks out to me. I do want to start my own. It’s always been a dream of mine. She mentioned helping smaller communities gain funds needed to have adequate sport facilities. “Sports keeps kids out of a lot of trouble.”
Life Motto: “But I firmly believe that any man’s finest hour, his greatest fulfillment of all he holds dear, is the moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle-victorious.” -Vince Lombardi
Lauren in the words of teammate Keeley Dowling : On the field – “Tough.” Off the field – “Bubbly”
Lauren in the words of Atlanta Coach James Galanis: “…a special human being. She appreciates everything she has and everyone around her. No matter if she is playing or not, Sess is there to encourage and spur on her teammates. She will give you 100 percent effort at all times. Sess is fearless on the field and will never back away from a challenge. Her heart is like a lion.”
If I had to choose two words to describe Lauren, they would be “ambitious” and “driven”. Coach Galanis mentioned that she will never back away from a challenge on the field. I got the same feeling about how she handles her off the field activities. She mentioned many goals to us, and I would not bet against her achieving every one of them.
Thanks Sess!
Interviews with Emma Part 5: A Conversation with Philadelphia’s Leigh Ann Robinson
By David Bayer
It was old home week as Philly (our old hometown) came to Atlanta with two former Beat players, Kia McNeill and Leigh Ann Robinson, both favorites of ours. Our interview was scheduled with Leigh Ann, so we waited … and waited … and waited some more. But we did so patiently because she was busy talking to the many fans who wanted to see her; some even had signs for her. When I think of Leigh Ann, two main things come to mind: the funny way she holds her hands when she has the ball, and the fact that after every game – win or lose – she always made her way to both sides of the stadium to greet the fans.
Leigh Ann Robinson – Defender – Philadelphia Independence
Birth date: August 17, 1986
Hometown: San Diego, CA
Nickname: None yet, but the team is looking.
Age she started soccer: 4 (in an indoor league)
College: University of San Diego – communication studies major (with a minor in Spanish)
Why she wears number 7: It’s the number she was given when she started playing at 4, and she’s stuck with it.
Favorite pregame foods: Chicken breast, pasta, and veggies. She also likes going to Panera & Cosi with Kia.
Workout music: Rap and hip-hop (Drake, Lil Wayne)
Pre-game Music: Something mellow (Jack Johnson), “(to) get my mind right.”
Superstitions: Used to have them, but now she thinks, “It just makes you crazy.”
Career after soccer: Some type of “active profession,” not a 9-to-5 desk job…maybe coaching.
Favorite Cartoon Character: The Oblongs
Favorite Movies: Garden State and Little Miss Sunshine
Something people may not know about Leigh Ann: She and her mother have matching tattoos (Two hearts – a big one and a smaller one linked together)
Mentor: Her dad—“He works hard and gets his stuff done. What more could you ask for?”
In soccer, she likes watching Rachel Buehler. “She has a great work rate.”
Favorite charity or cause: Humane Society (especially dogs). She has also worked for the American Cancer Society.
Pets: Ziggy – a pitbull mix that she got at a shelter in Atlanta last season.
Life Motto: “Live and love” (tattooed on her side). “Live in the moment and love what you’re doing…do everything you’re doing with love for the people around you…for the things you’re doing, do them passionately.”
Leigh Ann in the words of teammate Kia McNeill: On the field – “Determined, hard-working, and gritty.” Off the field – “Genuine and fun.”
Leigh Ann in the words of former teammate McCall Zerboni: “Confident and spunky.”
Leigh Ann in the words of Philadelphia Independence Head Coach Paul Riley: “She is athletic, mobile, a terrific engine and has been a revelation in the locker room … great team player with a determination to improve every facet of her game. She has made a huge impact on the Philly fans already.”
Our thanks go to Leigh Ann for sharing with us. I’m not surprised by her impact on the Philly fans. We felt it here, too.
Interviews with Emma Part 4: A Conversation with Atlanta Beat’s Megan Jesolva
By David Bayer
No game in Atlanta this week? No problem. It was time to talk to a Beat player anyway. Unlike our first three interviews, we went with a rookie this time. I had a couple of brief interactions with Megan, even before the season began, and it was easy to see that she is definitely a “people person.” And, judging
from the amount of cheering that Emma has been doing for her at Beat games, she’s also a “little people’s person.” We caught up with Megan away from the stadium.
Megan Jesolva – Midfielder – Atlanta Beat
Birthdate: October 21, 1988
Hometown: La Mirada, CA
Nickname: “MJ” (with the team) “Mego” (with her family)
Age she started soccer: 4
College: University of California – English major, with a minor in education
Why she wears number 7: Two reasons – A combination of 3 (her number as a kid) and 4 (her older sister’s number). It was also the number of her best friend in college, Emily Shibata.
Favorite pregame foods: PB & J sandwich, yogurt, fruit. And, right before going on the field, about four gummy bears for the sugar rush.
Workout music: Rihanna, Black Eyed Peas, Al Green
Superstitions: Had some as a kid, but not anymore
Career after soccer: Teacher – either first grade or freshman high school English
Favorite Cartoon Character: The minions from “Despicable Me”
Favorite Movie: Loves all of the Harry Potter films.
Something people may not know about Megan: She’s scared of the dark.
Mentor: Her father—“When it comes to anything like that (advice), I always talk to my dad. He’s a good listener and always gives good advice.”
Favorite Charity or Cause: Likes working with kids in underprivileged schools. “I’ve just been really drawn to kids in any way.” She has cut her hair twice for “Locks of Love” and once for a college teammate who had cancer.
Life Motto: “Control the controlables”
Meghan in the words of teammate Keeley Dowling: On the field – “Super energetic.” Off the field – “Very sweet.”
Megan in the words of my wife Carey who sat in on the interview: “Kind, compassionate, and committed to making a difference in the lives of children.”
Megan in the words of Megan: “I’m such a kid at heart. I feel like I relate to kids a lot, because I have a young soul.”
Our thanks go to Megan for taking the time to talk to us. I’m predicting that she’s going to have a huge impact with her teammates on the field, as well as many fans in the stands.
Interviews with Emma Part 3: A conversation with WNY Flash’s Caroline Seger
By David Bayer
I realize it’s still early in this series, but Emma and I decided to take a big step. We went … international! Our guest this week was Caroline Seger. Caroline is not only from Sweden, but she is the captain of the Swedish National Team! I’ll admit that I went into the interview feeling a bit intimidated. Luckily, Emma kept her composure. She broke the ice with her discussions about mosquitoes, her injury in the jumpie, and the 47 eggs she found on her Easter egg hunt. We then moved on to our questions.
Caroline Seger – Midfielder – WNY Flash
Birthdate: March 19, 1985
Hometown: Helsingborg, Sweden
Nickname: “Segs”
Age she started soccer: 5 (with her father’s boys’ team)
Why she wears number 9: No specific reason other than she wore it last year in Philadelphia
Favorite pregame foods: Nothing in particular
Workout music: “I like all types of music. Music is a big part of my life. It’s soccer and music. It keeps me in a good mood.”
Superstitions: None. “I like to just go out and do whatever I have to do.”
Career after soccer: “I’m into helping people. I would love to be a cop. Every day is different, and you need to be athletic.”
Favorite Cartoon Character: Jerry – the mouse from “Tom and Jerry”
Something people may not know about Caroline: LOVES sweets, likes karaoke, and plays the drums.
Mentor: “My mom and dad have always been there. I turn to them a lot. I have a coach also who helps me a lot, basically made me who I am today.”
Favorite charity or cause: childhood cancer, breast cancer, drug addiction prevention
Quote for kids: “Go out there and have fun. As long as you enjoy the game, you’re going to improve. Be good at what you’re good at, and unique in the way you are unique.”
Caroline in the words of a teammate: On the field: “Experienced and consistent.” Off the field: “Fun and sweet.”
Our thanks to Caroline for showing us that great WPS women come from all over the world.
Interviews with Emma Part 2: A conversation with Sky Blue FC’s Carolyn Blank
By David Bayer
We were excited when we heard that we would be interviewing Carolyn Blank this week. She was a favorite of ours when she played with the Beat last season. For me, watching her play was very enjoyable because she always seemed to be in the middle of everything…always hustling. And when there was a “discussion” with a referee, you could always count on Carolyn to be there voicing her opinion…”strongly.” For Emma, Carolyn was a fun teacher at last season’s players’ clinic. She got her to dribble with the inside of her foot, rather than the outside.
After a tough loss, Carolyn came over to us, gave us a big smile and hugs and settled in for her interview. Here’s our report:
Carolyn Blank – Midfielder – Sky Blue FC
Birthdate: March 23, 1988
Hometown: Toms River, New Jersey
Nicknames: “CB” “Care” “Car” “Blank”
Age she started soccer: 4-5
College: West Virginia University – Working on her Masters in Elementary and Special Education
Why she wears number 31: As a kid, she wore #1 and #3, in high school she was #13.
Favorite pregame foods: Pasta, chicken, salad, vegetables (anything light)
Workout music: Upbeat music (Rihanna) Anything fast to get her going.
Superstitions: Always ties her left shoe first. Always puts her hair in a tight bun, when going into the locker room and again when coming out. If she does something specific and the team loses or ties, she will avoid doing it the next game.
Favorite Cartoon Character: Brobee from “Yo Gabba Gabba”
Favorite Movies: “Little Giants” and “Mighty Ducks”
Something people may not know about Carolyn: She knows a bit of sign language.
Mentor: Many WVU teachers. “To pick one, Dr. Sharon Hayes. She was a teacher of mine throughout my years of college, who helped me a lot. Between the WPS and still being in school, it was very hard…she was able to get me to realize that I loved both so much and to have both, I’m blessed. I was going to take a year off (for soccer), but she’s been pushing me and working me hard.”
Favorite Charity or Cause: She was involved with Big Brothers/Big Sisters in high school. Would like to get back into that and also get involved with Autism. “Basically anything with younger kids, because I like them. They’re cool.”
In the words of her coach, Jim Gabarra: “Carolyn is a real competitor. She works hard and has very good attacking ability…a very smart player.”
In the words of an unnamed teammate: On the field – “Consistent & tough.” Off the field – “Hilarious and flustered. She always has questions to ask at practice before we start any and every drill ”
Our thanks go out to Carolyn… soccer star…role model…friend…future amazing teacher.
Interviews with Emma Part 1: A conversation with Boston Breaker Jordan Angeli
By David Bayer
When I was a kid (a thousand years ago), my first favorite athlete was Cookie Rojas. I’d be willing to bet that 99.9 percent of you have never heard of Cookie. Cookie was a second baseman for the Philadelphia Phillies. I can’t remember why I chose him. If you look him up, you’ll see that he was far from the coolest looking guy. He had a decent career, but his statistics weren’t stellar and the team he played on was pretty terrible. Nonetheless, he was my guy.
Soccer players, like baseball players or any athletes, are much more than numbers, especially to kids. Kids don’t care how many goals a player has scored, how many “caps” they have or how many different “U” teams they’ve been on. They want to connect personally somehow, whether it be a uniform number, hometown, etc.
Emma, my 4 ½ year old daughter, and I are embarking on a journey to explore the many layers of some of the extraordinary WPS women. We will go beyond the stats and try to find out who the players really are.
Our first interview was set to take place immediately following the Atlanta/Boston season opener. Our interviewee, Jordan Angeli, scored an early goal, but later left the game with what looked to be an excruciating leg injury. She spent the rest of the game on the bench. At the game’s conclusion, Emma and I waited on the field, not knowing if we’d speak with Jordan, or maybe another Boston player. Jordan gingerly made her way off the field on crutches, her leg wrapped, and a huge ice pack on her knee. When she reached us, she stopped, smiled, greeted both of us and said she wanted to go ahead with the interview. Out of respect for her injury, I cut our questions a bit short. Here’s our report:
Jordan Angeli – Midfielder – Boston Breakers
Birthdate : May 31, 1986
Hometown: Englewood, Colorado
Nicknames: “Jordy,” “Jordo” (anything short for Jordan) “Bird” (by her parents for her “little bird legs growing up”)
Age she started soccer: 5
College degree: Marketing (Santa Clara University)
Why she wears #4: It was the number she wore growing up during her club days.
Favorite pregame foods : Peanut butter and bananas (protein and fruit)
Workout music: Radio pop with a good beat (Justin Bieber lately)
Superstitions: None – “Just tie my shoes and have fun.”
Favorite Cartoon Character – Tweety Bird
Favorite TV Show: Glee
Favorite charity or cause: “I like working with kids. I’ve been to the Boys & Girls clubs a couple of times, and the Children’s Hospital, talking to kids and connecting with them and brightening up their day. We’re pretty lucky doing what we do, just to spread our joy to someone else is a great thing.”
A follow-up … Jordan’s injury did turn out to be a very serious one, a season-ending ACL injury. I have no doubt that when she spoke to us, she realized the possible severity. But she still took the time, put a smile on her face, and asked Emma about her soccer interests.
As I mentioned above, we wanted to explore the many layers of the extraordinary WPS women. I think we reached a layer that I didn’t expect we would encounter. It was very refreshing, and I feel privileged that Emma was able to meet Jordan. I can see why Boston coach Tony DiCicco described her as a natural leader and an inspiration in the community.
Please join me in wishing her a speedy recovery.
Jan. 22, 2011
magicTalk SC owner Dan Borislow talks about his team and his future plans
Dan Borislow called Our Game Magazine Saturday morning from the invention he named his Women's Professional Soccer team after - magicTalk. Borislow, who owns a majority share of the team formerly known as the Washington Freedom, talked about the team, plans for a major tournament, Marta, and more.
Borislow grew up in Philadelphia. He played baseball and later played college soccer at Widener University. He said he wanted to purchase a WPS team two years ago, but he said the timing wasn't right. "I was considering it, but I was too busy." But this year he stepped in and helped a league that lost two teams in the offseason - the Chicago Red Stars and the 2010 champions FC Gold Pride. The expansion WNY Flash brought WPS up to six teams, but the Washington Freedom were in need of an investor to save the team and essentially save WPS. Borislow said the timing was right this time around for two reasons.
"One is I have two product launches in my business and I saw the league most likely would've gone under with five teams, and women wouldn't have had the opportunity to play in the future because (WPS) wouldn't be there," he said. "Two, I felt the opportunity to get great value for my company and to promote its brand name."
When asked if he believed he saved WPS by purchasing a majority share in the team, Borislow said: "Don't take this the wrong way, but I definitely think we saved the league. Not only that, what I'm willing to invest and some ideas that I have will put the league on the map."
Borislow said he plans to have the team play some of its games in the Washington area and some in Florida. He said he's still working on locations in Florida. He also a few other big plans.
"We're still looking to hopefully sign Marta. I don't know why she wouldn't play in WPS," he said. "The best place for her far and away is our team. We have two million Brazilians in South Florida alone and even more in Orlando. Hopefully between Puma and ourselves, we can land her."
Marta is expected to finish out the season with Santos FC in Brazil. She's in the middle of a three-month loan to the club. The end of her loan would coincide with the WPS preseason, but Borislow has no concerns if Marta were to miss some it not all of the WPS preseason, if she signs with magicTalk SC.
"When you get quality players like Marta, preseason isn't as important. She can step right on the field and play," said Borislow, who wouldn't say whether or not he's currently in talks with Marta's agent. "I don't want to press her and her agent. They know who they can call. They know there's a super opportunity here for them. With or without her, we have the best team that could ever be compiled. With her, we're a legendary team."
Borislow's other big plan - "I'm thinking about having a $1 million winner-take-all-tournament with four international teams." Borislow said the tournament would include magicTalk SC, four international teams, and a club team from Europe, which would play in some sort of a playoff tournament in Europe in order to compete in this winner-take-all-tournament. He said the money the team wins would primarily go to the players.
"For men, they have all these international tournaments. I think this is a great way to publicize how great our league is," Borislow said. "It could trump the Olympics as far as spectators, possibly even the World Cup."
Talking more about his team, Borislow said he has a full roster and plans to make announcements within the next few days about player signings. He's just waiting on the league to approve them. The roster already includes Abby Wambach, Christie Rampone, Ella Masar, and Lindsay Tarpley, and Borislow said that Shannon Boxx is "rumored" to be coming to the team. He also said the team will add two more internationals.
"We have an excellent forward from Australia," Borislow said. "There's a Canadian we'd like to get after the World Cup."
Borislow has had significant success both on and off the soccer field. The inventor of the magicJack, a small device that plugs into your computer and allows users to make phone calls for free from any landline phone, Borislow said his new products are magicTalk, which allows people to make calls from their computers (similar to Skype and Google Voice), and magicJack Plus. In 2009, magicTalk sales topped $100 million.
"It does the same thing magicJack does, but you can use it without a computer," Borislow said said of magicJack Plus. "It's sick. I'm amazed at the voice quality."
In his home state of Florida, Borislow coaches youth soccer, his 13-year-old daughter Kylie's team, magicJack Hot Shots. The team won the 2008 Gothia Cup in Sweden, one of the biggest youth soccer tournaments in the world.
"It was the first time an American team won it in that age division," Borislow said. "There were 55,000 kids there."
In addition to Kylie, who Borislow said is one of the 10 best soccer players in the country for her age, Borislow and his wife, Michelle, have a 14-year-old son, Dan. He plays high school football, soccer, and lacrosse. When Borislow announced that he was buying a WPS team, it wasn't only his children who were excited.
"I think all youth soccer in Florida is pretty excited," he said.
The Florida connection to magicTalk SC runs even deeper. After selecting Meghan Klingenberg and Christen Press with the numbers three and four picks, respectively, in the 2011 WPS Draft, Borislow went local. The team selected Florida State midfielder Amanda DaCosta and University of Florida keeper Katie Fraine from Titusville, Florida.
"I want to work with these Florida schools," said Borislow. "I want to have local college coaches know that it's good for them (to have a WPS team is in Florida)." magicTalk SC also picked George Mason midfielder Omolyn Davis, who was born in Jamaica. "We have a huge Jamaican community in South Florida. Half of the kids on my youth team are Jamaican."
What Borislow's looking forward to is seeing how the team's top two draft picks - Klingenberg and Press - work with his veteran players.
"A young forward ... look how fortunate she'll be working with Abby," Borislow said of Press. "And (Klingenberg) is a workhorse. "
Regarding the look of the uniforms, those will remain more or less the same. The only difference, the jersey will have magicTalk SC splashed across the front. The first game of the 2011 WPS season for magicTalk SC is scheduled for Saturday, April 16, against the Philadelphia Independence at Widener University. The team will be led by Head Coach Mike Lyons and General Manager Briana Scurry, both of whom represented magicTalk SC at the 2011 WPS Draft.
magicTalk SC owner Dan Borislow talks about his team and his future plans
Dan Borislow called Our Game Magazine Saturday morning from the invention he named his Women's Professional Soccer team after - magicTalk. Borislow, who owns a majority share of the team formerly known as the Washington Freedom, talked about the team, plans for a major tournament, Marta, and more.
Borislow grew up in Philadelphia. He played baseball and later played college soccer at Widener University. He said he wanted to purchase a WPS team two years ago, but he said the timing wasn't right. "I was considering it, but I was too busy." But this year he stepped in and helped a league that lost two teams in the offseason - the Chicago Red Stars and the 2010 champions FC Gold Pride. The expansion WNY Flash brought WPS up to six teams, but the Washington Freedom were in need of an investor to save the team and essentially save WPS. Borislow said the timing was right this time around for two reasons.
"One is I have two product launches in my business and I saw the league most likely would've gone under with five teams, and women wouldn't have had the opportunity to play in the future because (WPS) wouldn't be there," he said. "Two, I felt the opportunity to get great value for my company and to promote its brand name."
When asked if he believed he saved WPS by purchasing a majority share in the team, Borislow said: "Don't take this the wrong way, but I definitely think we saved the league. Not only that, what I'm willing to invest and some ideas that I have will put the league on the map."
Borislow said he plans to have the team play some of its games in the Washington area and some in Florida. He said he's still working on locations in Florida. He also a few other big plans.
"We're still looking to hopefully sign Marta. I don't know why she wouldn't play in WPS," he said. "The best place for her far and away is our team. We have two million Brazilians in South Florida alone and even more in Orlando. Hopefully between Puma and ourselves, we can land her."
Marta is expected to finish out the season with Santos FC in Brazil. She's in the middle of a three-month loan to the club. The end of her loan would coincide with the WPS preseason, but Borislow has no concerns if Marta were to miss some it not all of the WPS preseason, if she signs with magicTalk SC.
"When you get quality players like Marta, preseason isn't as important. She can step right on the field and play," said Borislow, who wouldn't say whether or not he's currently in talks with Marta's agent. "I don't want to press her and her agent. They know who they can call. They know there's a super opportunity here for them. With or without her, we have the best team that could ever be compiled. With her, we're a legendary team."
Borislow's other big plan - "I'm thinking about having a $1 million winner-take-all-tournament with four international teams." Borislow said the tournament would include magicTalk SC, four international teams, and a club team from Europe, which would play in some sort of a playoff tournament in Europe in order to compete in this winner-take-all-tournament. He said the money the team wins would primarily go to the players.
"For men, they have all these international tournaments. I think this is a great way to publicize how great our league is," Borislow said. "It could trump the Olympics as far as spectators, possibly even the World Cup."
Talking more about his team, Borislow said he has a full roster and plans to make announcements within the next few days about player signings. He's just waiting on the league to approve them. The roster already includes Abby Wambach, Christie Rampone, Ella Masar, and Lindsay Tarpley, and Borislow said that Shannon Boxx is "rumored" to be coming to the team. He also said the team will add two more internationals.
"We have an excellent forward from Australia," Borislow said. "There's a Canadian we'd like to get after the World Cup."
Borislow has had significant success both on and off the soccer field. The inventor of the magicJack, a small device that plugs into your computer and allows users to make phone calls for free from any landline phone, Borislow said his new products are magicTalk, which allows people to make calls from their computers (similar to Skype and Google Voice), and magicJack Plus. In 2009, magicTalk sales topped $100 million.
"It does the same thing magicJack does, but you can use it without a computer," Borislow said said of magicJack Plus. "It's sick. I'm amazed at the voice quality."
In his home state of Florida, Borislow coaches youth soccer, his 13-year-old daughter Kylie's team, magicJack Hot Shots. The team won the 2008 Gothia Cup in Sweden, one of the biggest youth soccer tournaments in the world.
"It was the first time an American team won it in that age division," Borislow said. "There were 55,000 kids there."
In addition to Kylie, who Borislow said is one of the 10 best soccer players in the country for her age, Borislow and his wife, Michelle, have a 14-year-old son, Dan. He plays high school football, soccer, and lacrosse. When Borislow announced that he was buying a WPS team, it wasn't only his children who were excited.
"I think all youth soccer in Florida is pretty excited," he said.
The Florida connection to magicTalk SC runs even deeper. After selecting Meghan Klingenberg and Christen Press with the numbers three and four picks, respectively, in the 2011 WPS Draft, Borislow went local. The team selected Florida State midfielder Amanda DaCosta and University of Florida keeper Katie Fraine from Titusville, Florida.
"I want to work with these Florida schools," said Borislow. "I want to have local college coaches know that it's good for them (to have a WPS team is in Florida)." magicTalk SC also picked George Mason midfielder Omolyn Davis, who was born in Jamaica. "We have a huge Jamaican community in South Florida. Half of the kids on my youth team are Jamaican."
What Borislow's looking forward to is seeing how the team's top two draft picks - Klingenberg and Press - work with his veteran players.
"A young forward ... look how fortunate she'll be working with Abby," Borislow said of Press. "And (Klingenberg) is a workhorse. "
Regarding the look of the uniforms, those will remain more or less the same. The only difference, the jersey will have magicTalk SC splashed across the front. The first game of the 2011 WPS season for magicTalk SC is scheduled for Saturday, April 16, against the Philadelphia Independence at Widener University. The team will be led by Head Coach Mike Lyons and General Manager Briana Scurry, both of whom represented magicTalk SC at the 2011 WPS Draft.
Dec. 22, 2010
LdB FC Malmö midfielder Therese Sjögran signs with Sky Blue FC
Therese Sjögran has signed to play for Sky Blue FC of Women's Professional Soccer (WPS). Sjögran will be out on loan from Swedish club LdB FC Malmö, the 2010 Damallsvenskan champions. Sjögran has played for LdB FC Malmö since 2001 and has 63 goals in more than 200 appearances with the club. A member of the Swedish National Team since 1997, Sjögran has more than 200 caps and 18 goals for Sweden."Therese Sjögran was one of the first players that I pursued the minute I accepted the Sky Blue Head Coaching position," Sky Blue FC Head Coach Jim Gabarra said. "I believe that she will be one of the top midfielders in WPS. Her career achievements have been consistently exceptional culminating in being named the Swedish female footballer of the year."
In November, Sjögran won the Diamond Ball, which is awarded by the Swedish Football Association (SvFF) and newspaper Sportbladet. According to UEFA, Sjögran has played in 30 UEFA competitions for Sweden, scoring four goals, her first coming in the 2007 Euro in a 7-0 win against Romania. With Malmö, Sjögran played in six games in the UEFA Champions League.
“I am extremely happy that LDB FC and Sky Blue FC have found this solution for me. This is something I have wanted for a long time, and LDB FC has supported me through the process,” Sjögran said. “The decision fell on Sky Blue (FC) thanks to Jim Gabarra’s interest in me as a player as well as both organizations desire to cooperate. Now I get the opportunity to play professional soccer, World Cup, Damallsvenska game, and Champions League all in one year. I look forward towards 2011 and the challenges that lay ahead.”
When LDB FC won its first Damallsvenskan championship this year, it was the team's first in 16 years. Sjögran played a large part in the team's success.
“Therese has during several years been one of LDB FC’s, Sweden’s, and Damallsvenskan’s best players,” LBD Head Coach Martin Sjögran said. “It feels good that we have reached an agreement with Sky Blue (FC) where we give Therese the ability to play in WPS. Therese has done a lot for LDB FC both on and off the field during her career with us. To (then) finally win the Swedish League with Therese, it feels right to give Therese the ability to pursue new challenges in a different league. Therese will return in August to finish of the Swedish League and to take part (in) our Champions League adventure. This is a great solution for all parties. Hopefully this is the first step towards a deeper and stronger relationship with Sky Blue (FC).”
Regarding the partnership between the two clubs, Gabarra said: "Sky Blue FC is elated to partner with Ldb Malmö and create this pioneering affiliation agreement. This is, if not the first, surely one of the first affiliation agreements between an established international club and a WPS club. We look forward to developing and growing this relationship so that both clubs and women's football can continue to grow and achieve."
Said LDB FC General Manager Niclas Carlnen: “LDB FC constantly works towards developing the organization and club. We look for new partnerships with organizations both nationally and internationally. That we now with Sky Blue FC, one of the best and most stable organizations in WPS both on the field and economically of the field can start a partnership on several levels is very interesting. Players and staff members will get the ability to experience new challenges through this partnership that will strengthen both organizations.”
LdB FC Malmö midfielder Therese Sjögran signs with Sky Blue FC
Therese Sjögran has signed to play for Sky Blue FC of Women's Professional Soccer (WPS). Sjögran will be out on loan from Swedish club LdB FC Malmö, the 2010 Damallsvenskan champions. Sjögran has played for LdB FC Malmö since 2001 and has 63 goals in more than 200 appearances with the club. A member of the Swedish National Team since 1997, Sjögran has more than 200 caps and 18 goals for Sweden."Therese Sjögran was one of the first players that I pursued the minute I accepted the Sky Blue Head Coaching position," Sky Blue FC Head Coach Jim Gabarra said. "I believe that she will be one of the top midfielders in WPS. Her career achievements have been consistently exceptional culminating in being named the Swedish female footballer of the year."
In November, Sjögran won the Diamond Ball, which is awarded by the Swedish Football Association (SvFF) and newspaper Sportbladet. According to UEFA, Sjögran has played in 30 UEFA competitions for Sweden, scoring four goals, her first coming in the 2007 Euro in a 7-0 win against Romania. With Malmö, Sjögran played in six games in the UEFA Champions League.
“I am extremely happy that LDB FC and Sky Blue FC have found this solution for me. This is something I have wanted for a long time, and LDB FC has supported me through the process,” Sjögran said. “The decision fell on Sky Blue (FC) thanks to Jim Gabarra’s interest in me as a player as well as both organizations desire to cooperate. Now I get the opportunity to play professional soccer, World Cup, Damallsvenska game, and Champions League all in one year. I look forward towards 2011 and the challenges that lay ahead.”
When LDB FC won its first Damallsvenskan championship this year, it was the team's first in 16 years. Sjögran played a large part in the team's success.
“Therese has during several years been one of LDB FC’s, Sweden’s, and Damallsvenskan’s best players,” LBD Head Coach Martin Sjögran said. “It feels good that we have reached an agreement with Sky Blue (FC) where we give Therese the ability to play in WPS. Therese has done a lot for LDB FC both on and off the field during her career with us. To (then) finally win the Swedish League with Therese, it feels right to give Therese the ability to pursue new challenges in a different league. Therese will return in August to finish of the Swedish League and to take part (in) our Champions League adventure. This is a great solution for all parties. Hopefully this is the first step towards a deeper and stronger relationship with Sky Blue (FC).”
Regarding the partnership between the two clubs, Gabarra said: "Sky Blue FC is elated to partner with Ldb Malmö and create this pioneering affiliation agreement. This is, if not the first, surely one of the first affiliation agreements between an established international club and a WPS club. We look forward to developing and growing this relationship so that both clubs and women's football can continue to grow and achieve."
Said LDB FC General Manager Niclas Carlnen: “LDB FC constantly works towards developing the organization and club. We look for new partnerships with organizations both nationally and internationally. That we now with Sky Blue FC, one of the best and most stable organizations in WPS both on the field and economically of the field can start a partnership on several levels is very interesting. Players and staff members will get the ability to experience new challenges through this partnership that will strengthen both organizations.”
