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Happy 2012, As Passion for Soccer Continues to Grow in the USA!

2011-12-31T16:29:00.000-08:00

On a big scale, 2011 was a big year for the Soccer realm here in the USA. The No.1 men's Soccer league, Major League Soccer (MLS), continued to grow in many different directions and closed its season very successfully. I was most impressed by the growth in the league's gear store's stock and product creativity, its social media use and fan engagement, as well as its introduction of big name international stars as Designated Players(DP's) and moreso, the addition of two more teams to the league! On the women's side, we witnessed an increased recognition and passion of the once not so cared for leagues and teams, get so much attention- the Women's Professional Soccer League (WPS) and the US Womens's Soccer Team, respectively. Of course the FIFA Women's World Cup played a big role in that too, but, the media wasn't hesitant to boost this sector of the Sport either. Phenomenal!We saw the enthusiasm for Women's Soccer exceed any imaginable expectations in 2011, and that is priceless! We saw individuals like Hope Solo, Abby Wambach, Alex Morgan and other Internationals who play in the WPS and for their national teams just continue to thrill the U.S sports scene as well as the international Soccer realm- on and off the field. Of course it was not a year without drama of sorts. The Women's Professional Soccer League(WPS) came so close to losing its Division 1 status due to the lack of the basic requirements to continue existing as one. However, it was so exciting to see the passion that surrounded the whole scenario as active advocacy to petition US Soccer to give the league a chance, despite its limitations, went viral!!! For the first time ever, my attention to College Soccer was way deeper than it ever was and I think it's because I was surrounded by influences who continuously blogged, shared via social media or just enthusiastically talked about about the college events. Several college games were scheduled in my local area and invitations by players and friends to attend via social media, created and drew more awareness to the games. My desire for 2012? More major Soccer prone entrepeneurship breakouts that will expand the sport's sponsorship base and create more job opportunities. Looking forward to an exciting 2012!!!

BA CUP 2012: Travel, Socialize and Play Soccer in Buenos Aires!!!

2011-11-07T20:18:00.000-08:00

It's time to get ready for the BA Cup 2012 tournament. The BA Cup is a Buenos Aires- (Argentina) based tournament aimed at attracting Soccer and travel loving individuals( and groups of individuals) to participate, at mainly amateur level, in a one-week Soccer extravaganza. Next year, this exciting event will be held July 22-28th 2012, so start planning now! Plan to travel, socialize and play Soccer in the beautiful city of Buenos Aires come 2012!!! For more info, you may visit their website at www.ba-cup.com or email anna@ba-cup.com

Skype: buenosairescup

Picasa: http://picasaweb.google.com/buenosairescup

Blog: http://bacupsoccer.wordpress.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BACup.Argentina.

With Most MLS Teams Raising "Home Grown Players", What's the MLS Superdraft's Future and Relevance like?

2011-08-31T23:15:00.000-07:00

It's evident that Major League Soccer(MLS) teams are investing more effort in "home grown player" development. Any diligent observer wonders what the future and relevance of the costly and time consuming MLS Superdraft held every year, is. Arguably, there is still need to keep college Soccer programs in business (and the NCAA organization, maybe) because a budget has been made available to run them by most colleges. Question is, are they really worth the effort these college players and their coaches put into preparing, training and persevering collegiate tournaments when out of so many players only 54 (for the year 2011) end up being drafted by MLS teams- which rarely have them starting any games or even sitting them on the bench as substitutes? The logistics are clear. Despite the MLS team- and team roster expansion, the teams already have veteran players and are only looking to add one or two great, but inexperienced professional players. The team rosters have spots reserved for internationals, then the (now) popular Designated Players (DPs) and (boom!) the "home grown players"- which players teams prefer to their superdraft counterparts, due to their ready and steady availabilty for training at a much younger age. It's sad that a player goes through the MLS superdraft, celebrates being drafted by a dream MLS team only to find he almost never dresses up for any game all season. Some MLS teams are flexible and will loan these players out to lower league teams or to moderate international teams, which has ironically, made some players more marketable to MLS and to other foreign advanced leagues, later on. For some players, in this situation, it's the beginning of an irreversible disgraceful "disappearance". The core issue at stake here is, is it even worth having an MLS superdraft anymore for the college graduates? Is MLS wasting its (and the event's participants') money and other resources, organizing this grandiose annual event with trivial results? Is it time for strategy change and resource re-allocation to benefit all this young talent? Food for thought, as college season approaches...

RAW YOUTH SOCCER TALENT COULD REMAIN UNTAPPED OWING TO PARENTS' FINANCIAL MISHAPS.

2011-06-30T21:37:00.000-07:00

When Mom and Dad are working double day- shifts or night shifts, hence left with only time to come home to rest and to take care of the basic responsibilities at home, afterwards, life for a youth athlete with a desire to develop their potential is not easy. Children with parents who can afford to send them to summer (Soccer) camp are often a step ahead of their counterparts whose parents cannot afford the same. One may argue that there are a lot of other free or sponsored alternative programs offered out there, but with Soccer (and Sports in general) logistics are a little more complicated...Unlike other activities that are usually located at the same facility in the neighborhood, Sports requires alot of travel and it's not always possible to be secure a ride to an away-game, for example. The cost of signing up for the programs plus the extra expenses on kits and food while practicing, are quite a portion when it comes to an average income family. This raises a simple question: how many talented children have we missed or shall we continue to miss just because their families' economic situations keep them left out of the loop? Is the Soccer development realm yet to come up with some very innovative ideas of tapping into this less travelled path? Happy summer!!!

Soccer Season- 2011 has already taken off; Is it Soccer "Spring"?

2011-04-20T19:10:00.000-07:00

Like the change of climatic seasons, it's refreshing to see new things unveil every time a new Sports season begins. Soccer season is already in progress and at least most professional league teams have put in two or more games. Special credit to Major League Soccer (MLS) which has exhibited a lot of remarkable developments every other year, by effectively introducing at least an expansion team or more each year. This stability and tenacity remain very intriguing. The expansion teams have demonstrated the untapped affinity for the Sport as these teams seem to bring more crowds to their stadiums and possess outstanding numbers of social media followers and subscribers than ever before- even more than the veteran teams(oops, sorry for the observation)! The best part about these expansion teams (coupled with expanded player rosters) is that they have opened doors for the more seasoned, as well as rookie players, to play in this league. Hmmm... and who is not thrilled by the international studs the teams in the league have signed lately, creating a more exciting, but even more competitive atmosphere? This spices up the flavor and aroma; or in floral terms, it just escalates the scent and fragrance of the bloom!!! But wait: it gives the "lazy bones" who were previously reluctant to work harder, a wake-up call. Most notable achievement of the MLS, though, is the now obvious intent by MLS to recruit players from its Player Development League (PDL)/Team pool. Also paid attention to- in serious detail- is the league's ability to boost its use of Digital Technology, as a Marketing and Communication tool, which has enabled the fan base to more involved than ever before. Bless the innovations' department and whoever is involved. Oh; 'recently browsed MLS store and noticed how so diversified in merchandise, it has become within just a one-year period. There's a lot more to choose from especially for Soccer "fashionistas", yay! Now, like other developed and established Soccer leagues in the rest of the world, MLS has found its place in that realm and has successfully proved its pessimistic critics of the past, wrong. Looking forward to the rest of 2011!!! Fullsite: http://www.soccerfloflo.com/

Soccer and Television Media Marketing

2011-02-27T23:15:00.000-08:00

Last June, there was great enthusiasm and hype when ABC Television Network featured an extended ESPN broadcast of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final game(s). One wonders whether Soccer organizations have deliberately stayed away from regular TV networks in an attempt to protect their contracts with traditional Soccer TV allies/ networks. This has somehow kept the Sport within the confines of the same Soccer passionate crowd or audience with no significant growth...Has this hampered the rate of the growth of the Sport's visibility and appreciation? Why have Soccer organizations presumed that every Soccer- loving individual can afford (basic) cable/ dish network services? Even more, why has it been assumed that every Soccer fan is tech- savvy with the ablity to use computers and online technology? The questions go on, and one wonders if this enhances or handicap's the intrisic value of the Sport, the players and all those involved. Sometimes loyalty has to be foregone in the Marketing world for dynamic changes to occur. In this case boundaries in Television Network collaborations have to be extented beyond the so-called traditional Soccer stations which are not usually very attractive to a mediocre Sports fan, who has other Sports Channels lined up right next to each other, to shuffle through. The cable/dish service providers use this as their effective competitive marketing tool, but it sometimes serves as a detriment to less privilleged (Sports) channels. Siting an example- Oprah Winfrey could easily pull this kind of this stunt off, because she is already established enough, to "pull" a substantial crowd with her into a private cable network setting. Soccer organizations may, therefore, have to find a way of being more visible elsewhere other than just confine themselves this tight loop. Looking forward to all the 2011 Soccer season- women's and men's at all levels. The public has to become more acquainted with the Sport before it can be totally "secluded'' to boost revenue. Gear up!!!

A BRIGHTER "SOCCER USA" 2011?

2011-01-27T20:38:00.000-08:00

It's 2011 and all the beginning- of- year "chaos" is over. So far, all the major leagues (women's and men's) in the United States have already had their Super Drafts, as well as Extented Drafts, and are now headed for the pre-season. It is amazing how home-grown- player recognition and prioritization by the leagues rose significantly this Soccer year, giving hope to the younger players considering this Sport for their future career... Still, this does not cater to the faster growing supply base of Soccer talent coupled with the slower growing demand for the same. Player development programs are being expanded , but even with the addition of new teams, in the case of Major League Soccer (MLS) , together with the expansion of their rosters, accomodation of the ever growing talent is still limited. Hence wondering if other than shoving the not-so-lucky, but talented, young players into the lower leagues(out of which they may never advance to a higher league), there are some other alternatives we are yet to see unveiled!
Turning to the women's league- are we eventually going to see more of sustainable growth and stability in the Women's Professional Soccer league(WPS) and an end to its "team-in/ team- out" drama every year? What are the odds of this unpredictable scenario coming to a close?
On a brighter note, still enthused and psyched by the greater energy being exhibited in the Youth stars on the rise, one envisioning their "generation", four to five years from now, being a phenomenal one- only comparable to the economic "dot.com bubble" of the 1990's !

Happy Holidays and Replay of 2010 !!!

2010-12-23T23:00:00.000-08:00

As the year 2010 comes to a close, one cannot help but to look back at how eventful it was. The greatest highlight being the 2010 World Cup, an event that was held on the continent of Africa for the very first time in history. (Better to focus on that than the referee scandal, ha!). How about the FIFA scandal which allegedly involved three FIFA executives who were bribed to rig the World Cup host selections? Aha, then came the dramatic moment where one of the smallest countries in the world, Quatar, (and another surprise, Russia) shattered the hope of other countries like the United Kingdom and the USA to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cup events.
The integrity of FIFA as a World Football/Soccer governing body has, since then, become more questionable than ever before. One wonders whether FIFA's shortcomings are of its top- man's making or of the crew he cannot control, or both. Does that take away from the excitement the Sport brings around the whole world? No. Great to see that Soccer is slowly, but steadily growing and breaking through in the USA, at all levels- from youth leagues to Major League Soccer(MLS) and the Women's Professional Soccer league(WPS). Hopefully 2011 brings an even greater and bigger Soccer experience. Happy holidays!!!

After Soccer (Player) Career, What Next?

2010-11-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

It is very easy to blossom while the career blossoms and grows. It is exciting when, as a youth, an individual begins to get the recognition of all who see the prospect in him/her. Even awesome, when they break through into a professional or even a semi professional Soccer arena and become some form of icon. As long as...everything is going well, it's rare that these talented individuals ever realize that their career will eventually start to slow down. Then what next? There has developed a traditional trend of ex-players engaging in Soccer-related careers, like Marketing, Coaching, Media reporting and Journalism, and modelling, or even some form of Management and Administration. However, because the increase in this population of veterans, such opportunities are becomming highly competative and rare to find- at meaningful pay rates. This can be a very frustrating and if it prevails for a longer time than anticipated, concerned veterans' lifestyles (and those of their families) can be negatively affected. This raises the question, how does a veteran Soccer player effectively prepare to transition into their post player-career, without significant drawbacks in-between? The essence of this discussion is to challenge prospective, current and retired pro-Soccer atheletes to prepare for this stage, which if well planned, can be a very rewarding transition. Also, this discussion matters especially when we consider what this picture portrays about the sport to very young prospective athletes. Hopefully, the more successsful veterans and Soccer affiliated entreprenuers, as well as strategists, will consider pursuing this aspect of athlete moulding, preparation and development. This way, Soccer will not only be a sport worth playing while the playing career lasts, but will also ensure a meaningful livelihood in a post-player status like several other sports!

Women's Professional League 2010 Playoffs and Final's Week!

2010-09-20T06:55:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Women's Professional Soccer League (WPS) playoffs are here. Already one of the stronger of the four qualifying teams, Washington Freedom, has been eliminated in the quarter finals leaving three, namely; the new Philadelphia Union, regular season strugglers,Boston Breakers, and the all- season tough FC Gold Pride. Boston Breakers was one of the most shocking surprises in these playoffs, never mind ending up in second place in the playoff qualification. Question: are we about to see a surprise upset of the predominant team of the season or will consistency pay off for FC Gold Pride? Will the all new Philadelphia Union make a mighty sweepthrough to make History of a new comer winning in their first year in the league? OR: Will under-estimated Boston Breakers seal their amazing comeback deal with a blissful victory? Young and upcoming Soccer players, Co-ed coaches, Soccer Moms, Soccer Dad's, Soccer lovers , families, friends, supporters, affiliates; be a part of this eventful week in Women's Professional Soccer history when the semi finals and finals will be played!!! * For more about WPS, visit http://www.womensprosoccer.com/.

The Conflict Of Interest in Sports Agency & Representation.

2010-08-08T21:15:00.000-07:00

The conflict of interest within Sports agency and representation is such a paradox. It's amazing, yet intriguing, how agencies continue to successfully represent players, coaches and Sports journalists (who cover the Sport) at the same time. How these agencies, representing two or more completely contradictory parties, manage ( especially when a crisis arises), leaves alot to be desired. How would one reconcile this conflict so that all the parties involved are fairly, satisfactorily and, consequently, effectively represented without bias? First of all, do we agree it's a conflict? If so, why and how? If not, why not? Any thoughts and ideas? Get on board and share your views!

A "ZANGALEWA/ SANKALEWA" climax for the Republic Of South Africa!!!

2010-07-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

Whatever the result of today's World Cup final, it's thumbs up for the Republic of South Africa (R.S.A) for planning, preparing for and successfully hosting this 2010 World Cup. This is phenomenal for a country with a history of apatheid, inter-tribal struggles, but also with a living revolutionary legend, Nelson Mandela to witness it!

Today, Netherlands gets to engage in a world unifying event's final in the very country that was once its colony. Surprisingly, the two countries seem to have overcome their past strife and united in this venture. This depicts high level diplomacy and reistates a personal ling time belief that Soccer/Football is a universal language, but also the greatest potential conduit for world peace and reconciliation and peace. It may not be the end to conflict resolution, but the means to the same-- or both. Bravo, South Africa on this spotlight moment in which you have gained more International respect and credibility. It's indeed a "Sankalewa"/celebration moment for this nation. Regretfully, a powerful South African music legend, LUCKY DUBE, who sang alot of anti-apatheid songs that inspired the release of President Nelson Mandela, didn't live to see or even perform at this event (May he rest in peace). All due respect and congratulations to His Excellency the former president of R.S.A, Nelson Mandela!!!

World Cup on African Soil did not bring African teams much luck...

2010-06-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

It is phenomenal that for the first time, the African continent has hosted a Soccer World Cup, ever! Yet this excitement has not been reflected in the performance of the qualifying African teams. After watching Cameroon's hopes to proceed vanish yesterday, and now seeing Cote d'ivoire crumble under Brazil's pressure, one wonders what this historical event means to the continent.This could be the beginning of a new era in the African Soccer/Football legacy and a wake-up call to the African continent to rise to its potential. Many African players have often looked at their best propects for their Soccer/Football career being in the more developed countries, which is true in alot of ways. However, it may be time for them to see that their home-base could use past international talent to harness the great potential in the Sport and make a world mark. Other social, economic and, sometimes political factors may stand in the way, but the solidarity of Soccer/Football is comparable to no other. This is all it will take for Africa to claim her fame on the world scene as a Soccer/ Football power continent!

BRING THAT WORLD CUP GAME TO BOSTON, MA 2018/2022 !!!

2010-06-10T11:44:00.000-07:00

A great call, a great opportunity...sign that petition for the bid!!!

Buenos Aires Cup International Soccer Tournament 2011... Travel and Play Soccer in style!!!

2010-05-27T18:22:00.000-07:00

You (or people you know) interested in travelling and playing Soccer in Buenos Aires Argentina? Consider being a part of this event coming up 2011. Visit: http://www.buenosairescup.com/ or contact Anna Renery at anna@buenosairescup.com Also contact Anna at (415)-738-8653 or (323)- 282-3450 for questions and details.Travel, play your favorite Sport, meet new people from allover, have fun with family and friends - all this adventure at once!!Don't wait... plan to register as soon as possible! * Buenos Aires Cup- Buenos Aires International SoccerTournament : www.buenosairescup.com Torneo Internacional de futbol. Sitio Oficial del evento más importante del año en sudamerica. Torneo Internacional de futbol. Sitio Oficial del evento más importante del año en sudamerica.

Go Inter Milan!!!

2010-05-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

Thrilled by Inter Milan's win of the Italia Serie A title, 2010... it is well with my soul!!!

Ain't it Crazy Trying to Catch up with All the Soccer Going on?

2010-04-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

World Cup 2010: The Indispensable Guide to Soccer and Geopolitics. Too much Soccer stuff going on, which is a great thing. From local to regional leagues- national and, yes, the international ones! Of course, World Cup fever is rising... Soccer love is filling the whole atmosphere and one can't get enough of it even if interest was narrowed to specific leagues. Here in the US, the Major League Soccer(Men's), Womens Professional Soccer League(WPS) and the NASL ( the men's Second Division league) are all running at the same time! It's tough to decide where to direct loyalty considering that other exciting continental leagues are in action, too. Besides,a lot of focus is being directed to the once-every- four- year event, the World Cup 2010. I am most intrigued by how all this balances itself out, socially and economically and maybe, politically, for an internationally popular Sport like Soccer!!!
2010 FIFA World Cup.

Why Arsenal Will Win The League This Season & Not United Or Chelsea!?

2010-03-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

Why Arsenal Will Win The League This Season & Not United Or Chelsea!?

After reading this article, the judgement is yours. Mine? The odds are in Man United's favor!

The discussion is open...

Soccer AND or VERSUS Technology?

2010-03-11T18:12:00.000-08:00

Technology seems to be evolving faster and faster lately and one can't help wondering whether this is a good thing or a bad thing for Soccer as a Sport and as a sector. With 3-D (Sports) Television networks coming onto the scene...

What will become of the traditional box office and all its beneficiaries? It is enough that the Sport struggled in its sales in 2009(in the US) and this new technology development might only make it worse. Who wants to sit outside in very cold weather to watch a Soccer game if they can have the same thrill and experience within the comfort of their cozy living room? (Soccer is strictly an outdoor Sport unless otherwise specified.) I am not worried about the big time managers, but about the middle and lower class Sports sector employees. Their future in this industry is at stake.
On a positive note, Marketing Biz prospects look great as more corporate sponsors and advertizers scramble for the cutting edge opportunity to maximize visibility infront of the massive audience that will be enticed by this new Television phenomenon.

WOMEN'S PRO SOCCER LEAGUE SITUATION STARTLING AND WORRISOME ...

2010-02-09T17:04:00.000-08:00

Just after one year of existence, the Women's Professional Soccer League has already lost one of its strongest teams, Los Angeles Sol. What could this imply regarding the future of the league?
The team's management could no longer sustain it, so it was dissolved; but good enough, most of the players have been taken up by other teams. The question remains, what is the future of the league- never mind the players' ? What if this happens to more than one team in a given period; what will the fate of the players be? Red flags about how much effort is put into the formation and authorization of these teams are automatically raised. Is it because it is a new league and, therefore, accomodations have been made for short- run inefficiency and failures; or is it due to the unpredictability of investment-outcomes of this new venture? If these two are the underlying factors for this situation, then the failure is excusable. However, if the failure is due to sluggishness and negligent oversight at the time of formulation and authorization of the concerned teams, the Women's Professional League better wake up and address this issue with aggressiveness and urgency; otherwise the league will lose credibility and trust across the board!!!

2010 WPS Draft: By the Numbers...

2010-01-23T11:27:00.000-08:00

Women's Professional Soccer :: 2010 WPS Draft: By the Numbers (Full story at http://www.womensprosoccer.com/Home/news/general/100122-numbers.aspx)

US SOCCER WAVE, 2010, ON ITS WAY!!!

2010-01-13T20:16:00.000-08:00

It's almost time for the pre-season for all the US major Soccer leagues and there is anticipation that this will be an even more exciting year, not only in Men's Soccer, but also in Women's Soccer (WPS). Yes, the tip of the iceberg is the US Men's team opening its 2010 World Cup experience with England's, come June 12th. Who knows what is in store for this team?

Great expectations! One continues to hope to see more Corporate Sponsorship and Involvement in this growing Sport, because this is one of the key avenues for irreversible, sustainable growth of any given Sport. It attracts great talent that would otherwise opt for more profitable Sports, and encourages retention of the same. At the end of the day, the sponsors enjoy the harvest of a great market from the massive fan- base, related business networks and impassioned audiences.
Well it's just exciting enough that the Soccer wave will be felt again soon!

A Happy and Hope- filled New 2010!!!

2010-01-02T09:35:00.000-08:00

It's a new year and a new decade! Yes, the World Cup is here come June this year. National and local leagues continue- all we can hope for is to see a greater 2010 in the Soccer realm.
Happy New Year to you all!!!

And University of Virginia takes the 2009 NCAA Men's Soccer Championship!!!

2009-12-13T13:00:00.000-08:00

The penalty shots did it... nice save by Virginia's goalie and careless shots by Akron to put the championship in the hands of the University of Virginia- 4:3..

A disaster for the all-season undefeated Div I Akron. Both teams were incredible, but there can only be one winner. Thumbs up for University of Virginia, 2009 NCAA Men's Soccer champions!!!

And The Winner of the 2009 NCAA Men's Soccer College Cup is...

2009-12-13T09:10:00.000-08:00

Just less an hour from now the fate of two teams in this year's NCAA Men's College Soccer championships will be determined. Will the all-season undefeated Akron do it one more time...

or will Virginia tame them at their game in this final engagement? Today, at 1pm EST, this mystery will start to unfold!

What Happened To the "Big Dogs" of Men's College Soccer this year?

2009-11-29T18:32:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that all big names in Division I Men's College Soccer are not going beyond the NCAA Third round. What happened to Brown, Notre Dame and St. John's programs?...Well, Wake Forest, Akron and, hopefully, UCLA(still playing UC Santa Barbara right now) will keep the presence of the traditional programs alive in this year's championship. Definites for the Quarter Finals are now Drake, Tulsa, Akron, Wake forest, Virginia, Maryland and North Carolina. The finals of the NCAA Men's Soccer Championship- 2009 will take place December 13th 2009. *For more about the NCAA Division I Men's Soccer championship, visit NCAA website at http://www.ncaa.com/sports/m-soccer/division_i1.html .

Happy Thanksgiving 2009!!!

2009-11-26T15:56:00.000-08:00

For even the smallest things in your life that make a difference, give thanks...

Now and always... HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

COLLEGE SOCCER- St. Louis University( SLU) Men's Soccer Team are the 2009 ATLANTIC-10 Champions!!!

2009-11-15T18:38:00.000-08:00

At Rhode Island University, today, St. Louis University won the Atlantic-10 Championships against Dayton University with a 2-0 score. First goal scored by No.5, Michael Robson, at the 58 min. 38 sec. mark and the second goal scored by No. 10, Mike Roach at the 87min. 34 sec. mark.

Watch out for the NCAA championships... soon!!! (Visit www.ncaa.com for updates.)

Is The New England Revolution About to Surprise the MLS league like Sky Blue FC surprised WPS League, 2009?

2009-11-04T04:33:00.000-08:00

Like Sky Blue FC in the Women's Professsional Soccer League 2009, it's very possible that regular season struggling New Engalnd Revolution will

go ahead and win this year's MLS finals ... well, that's my prediction. What do you think?

I ENVISION AN INTERNATIONAL /WORLD SOCCER MUSEUM...

2009-10-08T19:49:00.000-07:00

I envision an international Soccer museum some day. Why not? There are several great national Soccer museums in different countries, but we are yet to see the museum that will encompass the Soccer diverse spectrum across the world...
Many countries scramble for the rare opportunity to host the World Cup or even most recently voting for which country would host the 2016 Olympic games took place, an award that went to Brazil. I am of the view that one country or entrepreneur that chooses to take on this challenge of building the world's International Soccer Museum will have undertaken one of the most phenomenal ventures the world has ever imagined!!! What the museum would comprise of? Believe me, the ideas are infinite; but first, who will grab and take off with this vision? The world is waiting!!!
* Here are some famous national museums just to mention a few... National Soccer Hall of Fame and Museum http://www.soccerhall.org/ (NewYork, USA); estádio do Pacaembu (São Paulo, Brazil); the Scottish Football Museum at Hampden Park( Glasgow, Scotland), etc...

Soccer WAGs... How about Soccer HABs?

2009-09-17T19:09:00.000-07:00

I have heard enough of Soccer or other Sports WAGs, but hardly anybody ever talks about the Soccer or Sports HABs (Husbands And Boyfriends). Does it mean that
Soccer or Sports husbands' and boyfriends' roles are so insignificant that they are not worth mentioning or are these men shy about their role that they'd rather not be featured in the spotlight? JUST SOME FOOD FOR THOUGHT!!!
*Want to know "Soccer WAGs of the day "follow this link...http://www.thespoiler.co.uk/index.php/category/wag-of-the-day

Is there A Future Beyond Just being A Soccer Player?

2009-09-08T23:49:00.000-07:00

Like many athletes, this question may or may not linger in the back of Soccer players' minds...
but what more is out there for a Soccer Player? This is a personal reflection issue and a subject open for discussion...

ANITA ASANTE ( US Professional Soccer Player ) takes on Discussion Topic 1- "ROLE OF FAMILY IN A SPORTS PERSON'S LIFE..."

2009-08-27T16:18:00.000-07:00

(Article by Anita Asante: #5 Sky Blue FC and England International Defender.)

Family is important in every one's life and I feel especially important in mine. I guess I just started recognizing the importance of the support I received from my parents and siblings, now that I have grown up and matured with age. As a kid growing up, ("Football" as the Sport is called in Europe) was first thing on my mind the moment I returned from school.All I wanted to do was throw my trainers on and hang out with the boys for a competitive game of Street Football in our local courts...

I sometimes sit back and think; "Wow, aren't I lucky that I have parents that support my ambition in Football?" I am fortunate enough that I was allowed to accrue cuts and bruises while taking on and getting kicked by boys...my dad not "batting an eyelid' and my mum probably hoping this was just a phase. However, when my big opportunity came at fourteen to play in the U 16's Arsenal Centre of Excellence, I jumped at the chance with my dad equally pleased that I was going to play for the team he supported. My mum, at this point was nervous about what role she would have to fulfill in terms of shuttling me around to-and-from training and matches especially because she would rather not have to drive outside a 10-mile radius from our home.

People may wonder why my parents' support for me would at all be questionable. My first answer to this is; I am a female playing Football, which in the earlier days of my participation was considered unusual. (Many, a girl, in the English cities, suburbs and the countryside might be thinking they were the only girl remotely interested in Football, let alone playing with a majority of boys!)
Secondly, my parents are Ghananian and have grown up with the traditional and cultural views that mostly uphold that women should stay at home, look after her children and husband, or alternatively, focus on Education and not consider chasing dreams in Sports- especially Sports dominated by men. I have lived a life where these views have not crept into my childhood, nor in my adult life sofar. My parents recognized my talent, passion and drive, and put in as much effort as I did. Without them I would not be in the position I am now...that of posessing a master's Degree in Politics and of being a professional Soccer Player in the Women's Professional Soccer League in the USA.

Of course my family had doubts and fears...the same fears that most parents hold about their childrens' future. Those fears started off as, "I hope she doesn't get hurt playing with the boys,or get into trouble" and then developed into "what future can can she have playing football... she needs to focus more on her education". In the end my ability to balance both studies and my Football with the support and of my parents assured them that I could manage both. I have many exciting, funny and sad stories through my football experiences, but so do my parents. They enjoyed watching me play and they established friendships with other "Soccer" parents.

I must mention my brother's and sister's role in supporting me because it is easy for them to get lost in the foray of my Football highs and lows. There is no doubt in my mind at all that my brother Andrew, the second oldest sibling, may have felt sidelined or even overshadowed by my Football events at times, but funny enough Andrew always knew more about what I was doing than I did. For example, I would have to ask him who I was playing on the weekend or who scored the goals in our game or got substituted, the list goes on... ridiculous I know. So, I guess you can see why I was happy for him to be around. He was and is still is hub of information and memory!
I think I've rambled on enough. My family has always been there through the ups and downs. They are always my biggest footy critics, but have also been my reliable "mode" of transportation... just kidding! I know one thing for sure without them I would not be living the dream. ***To interract with Anita Asante on Facebook, click on the link...http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=102186445515&ref=mf

WPS LEAGUE 2009 FINALS' Video

2009-08-24T19:49:00.001-07:00

Sky Blue FC (New Jersey) won this championship after beating Los Angeles' LA Sol 1:0, Saturday August 22nd 2009. Two new teams join the 2010 championships... which one will prevail above the rest? Something to look forward to!!!

Go Sky Blue FC!!! They just won the First Ever WPS Championship(2009)...UNBELIEVABLE!!!

2009-08-22T15:35:00.001-07:00

It's amazing how a fourth seed team can upset an all regular- season "giant" to take the championship( never mind a unique team with a coach-player)... this is INDEED WPS History!!!

KRISTEN GRACZYK( US Professional Soccer Player) takes on Discussion Topic 1- "ROLE OF FAMILY IN A SPORTS PERSON'S LIFE..."

2009-08-20T21:18:00.000-07:00

(Article by: Kristen Graczyk, #13Defender, FC Gold Pride, WPS)

It’s interesting how the role of family can change throughout one’s life in Sports. Initially, at a young age, I relied on my parents in many ways. Most important, of course, was to get me to and from practices. Being that I was 10, I couldn’t yet get around and was at the mercy of my parents to get me to practices and games. This explains why I was late most of the time...

As I got older I relied less on them physically taking me to practice and more on being there to help me make the big decisions; which team to play for, which coach to play for, where to go to college etc. The interesting thing about my parents, as with most parents I’m sure, is that it bodes well for me to listen to them, they are always right. Sure enough, I ended up at one of the top universities in the country, the University of Connecticut, and had the best four years of my life!

The one thing that has stayed consistent with my family (my younger brother included) is that they have always supported me. From the time I was 10 to-date, my parents have been at every single one of my soccer games and have been the first to give me a hug following the game, win or lose. They are my biggest supporters; not in the controlling, telling me what to do, how to pass or shoot the ball type of way. They know their role as my parents and I can’t thank them enough for being there for me!

The role of my family in my soccer career is immeasurable; it’s easy for me to say that without my parents and my brother’s support I would not be where I am today. They are my biggest fans and the first people I lean on when I need advice, a good laugh or most importantly, a hug after a long day on the field. I play because I love the game, but I also play for them because they are as much invested in this as I am.
Interract with Kristen on Facebook by visiting http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wilmellaw.com%2FDisplayPage.php%3FPageID%3D6025%26PID%3D63&h=a7378a194d62170435d906f93f5d8162

Finally, we will have our first Guest Bloggers- this Friday, 08/21/2009!!!

2009-08-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

Every week we will feature one or more guest bloggers. This has been in preparation for a while and now we are ready to take it away!!!

Look out this Friday, 08/21/2009, for our first surprise!!! Our first topic... "The Role/Importance of family in a Soccer player's life"...
***Feel to share your views after reading the articles by Guest bloggers. By the way your can submit an article via e-mail to fdk08m@soccerfloflo.com and after we have proof-read it, we will feature it as an guest-blogger article. The article should be about 500-800 words maximum and NOT disrespectful in any way. This does not mean that it cannot be controversial; Even if it is controversial, it should still maintain the aspect of respect.
*This goes for readers' comments, too.

Thanks for being a part of the Soccer Flo Flo circle!

Women's Pro Soccer Commissioner, Tonya Antonucci, on WPS League State of Affairs (Tuesday,08/18/2009)

2009-08-19T20:05:00.001-07:00

FC SKY BLUE sends WASHINGTON FREEDOM home... It's only the beginning of Soccer Drama in the WPS League!!!

2009-08-16T15:50:00.001-07:00

Sky Blue FC astoundingly sent Washington Freedom packing after a 2-1 win to advance the Super semi finals against St.Louis Athletica. Now this is hot! LA Sol should watch out for Sky Blue FC considering the momentum they have gained over the season... LA might be in for a great surprise!!! *Watch this video, below, of the game between the two teams (courtesy of womensprosoccer.com)

2009-08-16T14:12:00.001-07:00

Womens Pro Soccer League PLAYOFFS TONIGHT!!!

2009-08-15T12:09:00.000-07:00

Today the Womens Pro. Soccer League 2009 playoffs begin. FC Sky Blue will face Washington Freedom in the first round of the playoffs before the winner advances to the semi-finals with the St. Louis Athletica. It is unbelievable that less than a year ago this league was just in the making and now we have the "Real Deal"... atleast the first year has been successful and very organized!

Go WPS!!!

PLAYOFFS FOR THE WORLD'S NO.1 WOMEN'S PRO. SOCCER LEAGUE (WPS) START AUGUST 15th ... All -Star Game Follows

2009-08-08T11:32:00.001-07:00

PLAYOFFS FOR THE WORLD'S NO.1 WOMEN'S PRO. SOCCER LEAGUE (WPS) START AUGUST 15th ... All -Star Game Follows

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BOSTON BREAKERS FACE THE LA SOL SUNDAY!!!

2009-08-05T18:37:00.000-07:00

A game to anticipate and be anxious about... The Boston Breakers face the formidable LA Sol this Sunday, August 9th at 6pm at Harvard Stadium. No doubt both teams harbor most of the US Soccer top-seed and that makes it fun. LA sol has one advantage... whatever the result , they have nothing to lose; at least until they face the semi-final winner in the playoffs. The Boston Breakers, on the other hand, may have to play two games before they can face LA Sol. again in the finals, if they make it. (We all hope they do.)

In the meantime, it's the spirit, the thrill and the warm anticipation of this weekend's encounter between these two teams right here in Boston that makes one sleepless 'til Sunday!!!!

MOMENTS FROM THE SATURDAY GAME BETWEEN BOSTON BREAKERS AND FC SKY BLUE YESTERDAY...

2009-07-26T07:32:00.000-07:00

The game ended in a tie 0:0 between both teams, Boston Breakers and FC Sky Blue.

SOCCER HEAT- WAVE RISING IN MASSACHUSETTS THIS WEEKEND!

2009-07-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

It all begins with the Womens' Pro game tonight starting 6:00pm at Harvard Stadium, in Cambridge. Boston's own, the Boston Breakers, face New Jersey's FC Sky Blue in yet another match whose outcome will significantly affect either teams' current standings in the 2009 Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) league. This will be the last time the two sides play each other before the playoffs next month.

From Cambridge to Foxboro, tomorrow... Yes; the two Italian Serie A teams, AC Milan and Inter Milan, show off their glamour at the Gillette Stadium at 5:00pm . Here in the heart of Boston, one can already see the fans from all-over the United States, Canada and some Latin American as well as Carribean countries flocking in and browsing around. You can tell because most of them are wearing either AC Milan or Inter Milan Shirts and keep asking for directions around. (When one gets to talk a little more with them, they'll immediately tell you they are here in Boston because of tomorrow's game.)

Can't get to the Stadium tomorrow? Just enjoy the game in the comfort of your own home or with buddies at your favorite hang-out place...TV Sports channels, ESPN2 HD, ESPN2 and Fútbol, among others, will be bringing this game to you LIVE starting 5:00pm EST!

Smoky Soccer weekend... ain't it?

INVITATION TO FEATURE ARTICLES/ BLOG POSTS...

2009-07-18T18:05:00.000-07:00

Do you have interesting ideas and views on Soccer? It's time for you to share them with other SoccerFloFlo fans by submitting a simple article that will be featured as a blog post on this blog...short, precise and clear is all it takes. Depending on how many articles are waiting, your article will be posted in the order it was recieved. E-mail your articles to us at fdk08m@soccerfloflo.com . We will give full credit to the articles' writers, so provide with brief personal details you want us to include on the post.

BOSTON BREAKERS AND FC SKY BLUE AT HARVARD STADIUM TODAY...BE THERE!

2009-07-12T13:09:00.000-07:00

The two Women Soccer teams meet this evening at Harvard Stadium here in Cambridge, Mass. Who takes it to the next level? Just be there today at 6:00pm to watch the two teams, Boston Breakers and the Jersey girls, FC Sky Blue retake on each other!!!

A Historical July 26th at Gillette Stadium- Massachusetts!!!

2009-07-05T16:36:00.000-07:00

AC Milan ( Associazione Calcio Milan)

VS Inter Milan ( FC Internazionale Milano)!!!

The two big European giants, AC Milan and Inter Milan, have to decided to get "friendly" at the Gillette Stadium here in Massachusetts!!! How friendly can two great rivals get on foreign ground?Don't ask me for the answer. For many Soccer lovers
(even critics and sceptics) this will be a thrilling experience. Lots of anticipation surrounding not only the game but the celebrity attraction.

Planning to go? Good luck on the traffic and parking. Food??? Great food and drinks are a guarantee at the Gillette Stadium; and food shortage? That's not in their vocabulary... JUST SHOW UP!!!

3-2 Loss By the US to Brazil? It's just the Beginning And Not The End!!!

2009-06-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

That the United States made it to the final of the Confederation Cup and managed to stand up to Brazil with two goals is such an outstanding perfomance! It is sad that the US lost by just one goal, but even then, a great landmark was reached in the History of this team; so here's to the 2009 Confederation Cup Ist Runners up... it's just the beginning and not the end!!!

COULD THE US' LATEST INTERNATIONAL SOCCER SPOTLIGHT ATTACT MORE CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP FOR THE SPORT BACK HOME?

2009-06-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

Given the United States' latest international achievements and presence- not only in the Confederation Cup final with Brazil, but also in the World Cup 2010- one cannot hesitate to hope and speculate that all these events will enhance the image of the Sport back home. Soccer is still one of the lowest paying Sports on the side of players compared to other Sports and this is most likely due to its low Corporate Sponsorship base other factors held constant. Hopefully the US team's international performance will give Corporate Sponsors morale to invest in the Sport here in the US. Looking forward to that dynamic move!

RHETORIC... " WHAT IF ALL WOMEN SOCCER PLAYERS WERE MODELS...?"

2009-06-25T16:23:00.000-07:00

...Just restating someone else's question... "What if all women Soccer Players were models?" That is the question the presenter of these pictures posed... Views about this are unlimited... share your opinion!!!

New Revolution Vs Kansas Wizards

2009-06-24T17:59:00.000-07:00

Game ended 1:1. Revs. Managed to contain game despite losing one player who was Red-Carded in the first half! Salute to the Revs!!!

HAPPY FATHERS' DAY!!!

2009-06-21T08:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Fathers' Day to all Dads out there!!!

US WOMEN'S PRO. SOCCER LEAGUE HEATING UP!!!

2009-06-19T17:17:00.000-07:00

Despite the mixed feelings that surrounded the newly formed US Women's Professional Soccer League (WPS), sceptics are about to be proved wrong because the league is taking off in full gear. It is very likely that this time it's growth is irreversible. Willing to start "simple" and "small" (considering its realistic budget coupled with its low, manageable number of teams) are some of the most brilliant strategies this league has undertaken.

With the current rapid increase in the young female Soccer talent at all school levels in the US, the WPS offers great career opportunity and prospect in the short and in the long run.

There is a definite future for the WPS!!!

* Learn more about the WPS at http://www.womensprosoccer.com/.

"Buying and Selling" Tension... Euro Teams!!!

2009-06-08T05:57:00.000-07:00

It's "buy and sell" time again. For most European teams and fans, this is one of the most crucial decisions to be made. It could cost or redeem a team depending on how wisely they make their transactions. Real Madrid, Man. United, just mention a few... are some of those teams whose decisions are about to make a big difference- positive or negative. We are watching!!!

TOP 100 SOCCER WAGs... PRESUMABLY...

2009-06-02T16:50:00.000-07:00

It's all in the eyes of the beholder.... What's your opinion?

Smokin' Soccer Ball !!!

2009-05-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

A SMOKING SOCCER BALL...Get out of its way!!!

Any More Hope for the N.E Revolution this Season?

2009-05-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

The Revs keep tumbling down and down this year. Is there any hope for a ‘resurrection” or should we just say “Amen” and that’s it for 2009?

HAPPY MOTHERS' DAY!!!

2009-05-10T13:38:00.000-07:00

IMAGINE A WORLD WITH NO MOTHERS! There would be no Soccer anyway; so why even bother to think about it? Anyhow, great tribute goes out not only to Soccer moms but to all "Mother Figures" in the Soccer realm... fans, players, wives of soccer professsionals, promoters, journalists, marketeers, managers, coaches, analysts, and the like.
***I dare persuade all the Soccer boys to stop the ball for One minute in tribute to all the phenomenal women who keep you going!

Happy Mothers' Day- enjoy this poem... (click here) "MOTHER" !!!

What's Your Opinion???

2009-05-10T13:16:00.000-07:00

Some people have argued that soccer is more appealling when more "style" is added to it as depicted by these images...true or false? You reserve all the RIGHTS to your opinion!!!

Soccer makes more Sense???

2009-04-25T08:10:00.000-07:00

To some or many, Soccer has infinite meanings and forms . These might just be some of them...

Whatever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Deal or No Deal for LA Galaxy's DAVID BECKHAM?

2009-04-25T06:18:00.000-07:00

MLS recieving $10M for David Beckham to stay with AC Milan just for the remaining part of the Italian season; why not? I think MLS made a good deal on this and the great thing is Beckham gets to return and play for the rest of the MLS season. What better strategy could be undertakien? Wise move MLS... very economically smart!!!

Cristiano Ronaldo... He may need a "Savior"...

2009-04-18T06:20:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how this great Soccer player could end up in such a dilemma at such a crucial time in his career. He himself is not sure about his own feelings about his future with Manchester United... I hope he doesn't wake up to a shocking surprise!

MLS Has More Momentum This Year!

2009-04-15T13:24:00.000-07:00

This year's MLS teams are alot tougher than I have seen them in the past and that is exciting. Although there's increasing vandalism among the players, one can observe the dynamic increase in tenacity, momentum, tension and unpredictability in most of the games which gives the Sport a greater appeal now than in the past. I hope this continues to grow as the season goes by!

US Women's Soccer League Future?

2009-04-05T15:06:00.000-07:00

I was just thinking about the new US Women's Professional Soccer league and its prospects. There's as much pessimism about it as there is optimism. Rome was not built in a day and it's only wise not to despise humble beginnings. The underground hard work will eventually pay off. It's a matter of patience and time.

GREAT SOCCER INSPIRATIONS...VIDEO CLIP

2009-03-27T04:44:00.000-07:00

WARMING UP FOR WORLD CUP?

2009-03-26T21:01:00.001-07:00

South Africa 2010 is only a few months away. The whole world cannot wait for the golden moment! It is even more exciting that, for the first time, the African continent will host this event. This cannot be taken for granted. Soccer, like other Sports, is one of the most international binding forces. It brings people from all backgrounds in one accord, in such an astounding way. Could this be a signal to Africa that the world is challenging the African people to come out of their small world of "divisionism" into the recognition of Peace, Renewal and Empowerment? Arise, O African nations, to this great call... your freedom lies nowhere else, but in your very hands- you either embrace it or continue to struggle against each other in vain. Harken to this beckon!!!

Is Major League Soccer (MLS) paying Attention?

2009-03-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

Great! The 2009 Major League Soccer( MLS) season is here. Who knows what this year holds? New team Seattle gave a grand entrance by taming 2008 finalists, the New York Red Bulls. Thumbs up for the New England Revolution!

The sad thing, though, is that the league is growing at a far slower rate than that of the supply of new Soccer talent. As a result the contract deals for players are rapidly falling in value. In addition , many drafted young players are still out of contract. Does MLS have any immediate solutions to this problem before the Sport loses its valuable talent? Most of this talent comprises of young college graduates who have real lives to lead. At the present going rate of pay, there's no incentive to continue persuing a Sport that will take them nowhere in life.
Even teams of the other two Divisions, United Soccer Leagues' (USL1 and USL2), are limited on the capacity of their rosters. Besides, due to the increase in MLS division discharges, other divisons are considering former MLS players before new players and getting rid of some of their previous players. The pay being is really absurd. How about the players with families... how are they expected to survive on monthly pays that are averaging $2000 a month without accomodation included? Is there there a way to regulate minimum pay limits for these players?

Forces of demand and supply, alone, should not be the single determinant of the pay and treatment of players. Soccer players are real people with real lives to lead, and they do face real economic challenges.

It's time for Major League Soccer to consider alternatives to the current crisis, before the young and upcoming Soccer talent gives up hope on, and consideration of the Sport.

Want to take Soccer to another level? Join the party right now!

2009-03-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

It's time to talk Soccer... veteran stars, players, fans, agents, managers, promoters, league-managers, name it- even critics...welcome to the table!!! Dining with those minds that appreciate and love, but also those minds that actually despise the Sport with such a passion!

It could never get more exciting...

How about the young, up-and-coming Soccer stars? This is your chance to share your views, concerns and questions and to also learn from a diverse spectrum of experts. One hint of caution; do not let go of your judgement stand!

You think you have what it takes to bring Soccer to another level? Share your views, comments and ideas right here and right now.

Welcome aboard!!!