Good luck Stars tomorrow

[sir alex]

Kick butt.

[MASoccer]

http://www.pic4ever.com/images/297.gifDumb question, but what's the time change in Texas?

http://www.pic4ever.com/images/greenstars.gif http://www.pic4ever.com/images/greenstars.gifhttp://www.pic4ever.com/images/greenstars.gifhttp://www.pic4ever.com/images/greenstars.gifhttp://www.pic4ever.com/images/greenstars.gif


http://www.pic4ever.com/images/clap.gifAnyway, make us proud Stars! We're rooting for ya!http://www.pic4ever.com/images/clap.gif

[MASoccer]

Never mind found my answer http://www.pic4ever.com/images/4fvgdaq_th.gif
Stars play at 9:30 AM CDT vs CUSC that's 10:30 AM EDT.

[FSM]

Here's their schedule:


JUL 25 9:30 AM FC STARS OF MA UNITED CUSC ACADEMY 93

JUL 26 7:30 AM FC STARS OF MA UNITED STING DALLAS ROYAL

JUL 27 9:30 AM SLAMMERS FC FC STARS OF MA UNITED

Here's the link for scores and standings: http://www.t7sports.com:8080/2005/B101451.htm

Games are being scheduled early because of the heat, but surprisingly the forecast in Texas dosen't seem a lot different then the weather we are expecting: High: 92, Sunny. Highs in the lower 90s. Southeast winds 5 to 10 mph.

stars up 3-1 with 10 minutes left

[sccrdad]

stars up 3-1 with 10 minutes left

YEAHHHH!!!!!!!!!! GO STARS..........YOU REPRESENT US WELL!!!!!!!!!

Final STARS 3 CUSC 1

[MASoccer]

Final STARS 3 CUSC 1

Nice start, noticed that the Slammers won 3-0 should be a great matchup on Friday! Either way, if they win tomorrow, they're in the final. Way to go Stars!

I hope some of the Stars will relate their experiences including their impressions of their opponents when they return.

[Blue Devil]

Final STARS 3 CUSC 1

To quote the great Homer Simpson "Woo-Hoo" Nice work Stars!

I know I'm jumping ahead but let's say for the sake of discussion that the Slammers and Stars both win tomorrow. What would the game strategy be for Friday's match? This would be the same matchup as the championship game. Given the heat, etc. would you play the subs and not show your cards? Something else?

Fields are great. 9:30 games very hot but not as hot as Saturday of the round robin at Amherst. All the girls played really well. Went up early on a header off a beautiful corner, gave up a garbage goal within about 10 minutes. Second half pretty much dominated and scored two goals on combination plays. Everyone made it into the game and played well when they got there.

CA team supposedly completely dominated Sting.

Fields are great. 9:30 games very hot but not as hot as Saturday of the round robin at Amherst. All the girls played really well. Went up early on a header off a beautiful corner, gave up a garbage goal within about 10 minutes. Second half pretty much dominated and scored two goals on combination plays. Everyone made it into the game and played well when they got there.

CA team supposedly completely dominated Sting.

Calf. teams are very tough. Stars has a good team and will have a tough game against the Texas team.

They got the best game early to get it going with the weakest of the four teams today.

Good Luck..

The game against the Dallas team should be a good one. They tied 3-3 last time they played. I heard the Stars dominated today but also heard they where very tight and nervous. Hopefully this game got that out of them. However the next two games go the team should be very proud of themselves.

The paragraph below is from the USYSA National Cup website.

http://championship.usyouthsoccer.org/i ... _well_id=2 (http://championship.usyouthsoccer.org/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=32&url_subchannel_id=&url_article_id=915&change_well_id=2)


The Under-14 Girls Stars of Massachusetts are making a name for themselves at Pizza Hut Park wining 3-1 over Indiana’s Carmel United SC Academy 93 this morning. In the second minute of play the Stars got it started with Hayley Brock who scored off a header. In the 12th, the Star’s Stephanie McCaffrey slipped through and found the back of the net. Carmel’s Haley Keller countered in the 15th taking advantage of a moment of hesitation from the Stars. It was over by the 21st when Phoebe Tateronis powered the ball to the back of the net.

“We started the game very well scoring two in the first minutes of play. We should have had several more in the first 10 minutes. Then we let them have a sloppy goal in the middle. Overall it was a good game and a good start to this week’s play. Now we press on,â€￾ said Jason Dewhurst, the head coach of the FC Stars of Massachusetts. “Any win in the first game puts pressure on the others and takes it off us a little bit, but now we have to think about our second game.â€￾

I know I'm jumping ahead but let's say for the sake of discussion that the Slammers and Stars both win tomorrow. What would the game strategy be for Friday's match? This would be the same matchup as the championship game. Given the heat, etc. would you play the subs and not show your cards? Something else?

it is too early to worry about this, win on Thursday and then worry about Friday... ON FRIDAY

[skinny maradona]

I know I'm jumping ahead but let's say for the sake of discussion that the Slammers and Stars both win tomorrow. What would the game strategy be for Friday's match? This would be the same matchup as the championship game. Given the heat, etc. would you play the subs and not show your cards? Something else?

Play keep away in their own half for last 30 minutes. It worked for last years champions. Just make sure no spectators have a camera. :D

Here's their schedule:


JUL 25 9:30 AM FC STARS OF MA UNITED CUSC ACADEMY 93

JUL 26 7:30 AM FC STARS OF MA UNITED STING DALLAS ROYAL

JUL 27 9:30 AM SLAMMERS FC FC STARS OF MA UNITED

Here's the link for scores and standings: http://www.t7sports.com:8080/2005/B101451.htm

Games are being scheduled early because of the heat, but surprisingly the forecast in Texas dosen't seem a lot different then the weather we are expecting: High: 92, Sunny. Highs in the lower 90s. Southeast winds 5 to 10 mph.

any update for today??

I believe it was a 4-2 loss. Went down 2-0 at the half, brought it to 2-1 and then in the last 4 minutes as everything opened up 3 goals were scored (3-1, 3-2, 4-2) to bring it to the final. Looks like Slammers beat CUFC 1-0 so it will all come down to the games tommorrow.

Stars 2 Tx 4
Slammers won 2-0

[MASoccer]

Tough game that if they win would come down to a three way tie. Love figuring these point differentials! Too many scenarios to calculate. It should, however, be a great game. Good luck Stars!

three way tie rules are as follows:

Most wins
goal Differential to maximum of 4
goals against
penalty kicks

Standings are

Slammers 2-0 6 pts 5 GF 0 GA GD +5
Stars 1-1 3 pts 5 GF 5 GA GD 0
Sting 1-1 3 pts 4 GF 5 GA GD -1
Carmel 0-2 0 pts 1 GF 5 GA GD -4

Good luck tommorrow

[MASoccer]

three way tie rules are as follows:

Most wins
goal Differential to maximum of 4
goals against
penalty kicks

Standings are

Slammers 2-0 6 pts 5 GF 0 GA GD +5
Stars 1-1 3 pts 5 GF 5 GA GD 0
Sting 1-1 3 pts 4 GF 5 GA GD -1
Carmel 0-2 0 pts 1 GF 5 GA GD -4


Good luck tommorrow

But the current goal differential means nothing if the Stars and Sting both win. That would give a lower differential to Slammers and increase Stars' and Sting's. Also, if Stars win and Sting lose Stars would win on head to head. Yikes, my head is spinning! :smt119

This is one of those examples of when you simply can't pay any attention to the math possibilities and have to just go out, play hard and hope for the best

mathman, any correlation that 3 of the 4 in this group have team names starting with an "S"?

[JustForFun]

hello writes:

mathman, any correlation that 3 of the 4 in this group have team names starting with an "S"?

The last place team has a name that does not start with an S - therefore is very obvious that club names starting with S are critical!!

Also I understand that the Slammers coach reads a lot of soccer books and if you look at the Slammers website you can see his Top 10 suggested reading list! And the Slammers have 7 kids from urban areas, all on partial or full scholarships! And the Slammers only teach running at their opponents taking defenders on 'one on one'.

Those are the keys to success:

1. A club name that starts with S
2. A strong reading list
3. Scholarships from the Burbs
4. Taking on defenders 'one on one'

How do you think the Slammers were smart enough to know all four keys to success. Do the Stars have keys number 2, 3 and 4?

I was at the game today, what an absolute tribute to the level these girls play at. I am not a parent from either team. I am actually a parent who used to live in MA but now reside in TX. Sting went up early with a shot that should have really been saved by the Stars GK. They made it 2-0 with a very well taken free kick. Sting physically outmatched Stars in the first half and stopped Stars passing the ball. The halftime 2-0 was definately earned by Sting.
The second half was a different story though, not sure what the Stars coach said at half time but it worked. He switched to what looked like a 3-4-3 system which was a hell of gamble against Sting. It worked though Stars ran the play and created many chances with the Sting GK making 2 excellent saves. Stars scored to make it 2-1 and then where hit on the counter to make it 3-1 then Stars went back up and scored a tremendous goal though 1 touch combinations. Stars pressed even more and had a great chance to tie right at the death, then Sting scored an exact goal as their 3rd one to win 4-2. Sting are a tremendous team and Stars matched them and where probably better in the second half. I heard Sting played the worst they have for years against Slammers yesterday and found out what happend when you dont perform. In anycase it was a great tribute to the game of soccer at this level, soccer of the highest quality. Tommorrow will be very interesting I saw a little of the Slammers against Carmel and it was tight for quite a while with Slammers scoring their second goal right at the death. Congrats to all the girls.

[FSM]

Texas Guest, what was the style of play for Slammers and Carmel?

Just For Fun, I'm convinced more than ever that you are Mr. Stats aka Just Another Dad.

I was at the game today, what an absolute tribute to the level these girls play at. I am not a parent from either team. I am actually a parent who used to live in MA but now reside in TX. Sting went up early with a shot that should have really been saved by the Stars GK. They made it 2-0 with a very well taken free kick. Sting physically outmatched Stars in the first half and stopped Stars passing the ball. The halftime 2-0 was definately earned by Sting.
The second half was a different story though, not sure what the Stars coach said at half time but it worked. He switched to what looked like a 3-4-3 system which was a hell of gamble against Sting. It worked though Stars ran the play and created many chances with the Sting GK making 2 excellent saves. Stars scored to make it 2-1 and then where hit on the counter to make it 3-1 then Stars went back up and scored a tremendous goal though 1 touch combinations. Stars pressed even more and had a great chance to tie right at the death, then Sting scored an exact goal as their 3rd one to win 4-2. Sting are a tremendous team and Stars matched them and where probably better in the second half. I heard Sting played the worst they have for years against Slammers yesterday and found out what happend when you dont perform. In anycase it was a great tribute to the game of soccer at this level, soccer of the highest quality. Tommorrow will be very interesting I saw a little of the Slammers against Carmel and it was tight for quite a while with Slammers scoring their second goal right at the death. Congrats to all the girls.

Good recap, both are very good teams.

[mathman]

mathman, any correlation that 3 of the 4 in this group have team names starting with an "S"?

Of course. "S" teams gain more ratings points when they beat non-S teams, and lose fewer points when they lose to non-S teams. It's all built into the algorithm.

[JustForFun]

But you were convinced that I was Onion Bag and 4-4-2. And now I am Mr. Stats aka Just Another Dad? It is all a mystery - think back to that dark, smokey ............................

Texas Guest, what was the style of play for Slammers and Carmel?

Just For Fun, I'm convinced more than ever that you are Mr. Stats aka Just Another Dad.

No kick and run teams in this group. They are fast and athletic all over the field and look to spread the field out, maintain ball possession and find a way to create lots of pressure by strikers and outside middies making runs into the offensive third.

Sad loss for the Stars but to a better team (on this day - IMHO). Sting's third goal was offsides so we're saying it was a 3-2 game which seems about right. ;) Stars did change formation and it helped against a strong Texas midfield.

Slammers supposedly played without their midfield today - hope that's not true.

Anyhow - both Carmel and Sting were great and Slammers should be awesome as well. We're kind of hoping the jet lag from their Europeoan trip finally kicks in!

Wish the girls luck!

[Blue Devil]

mathman, any correlation that 3 of the 4 in this group have team names starting with an "S"?

Of course. "S" teams gain more ratings points when they beat non-S teams, and lose fewer points when they lose to non-S teams. It's all built into the algorithm.

Could Carmel gain points by claiming that their team name uses the soft C and should be pronounced phonetically as Sarmel? ;)

[JustForFun]

FSM, it appears as you are perplexed and my conscience is feeling bad. The truth is I am Hammer, AKA Ilya Gersh. But since we are friends, please feel free to skip the forum user name and call me what all my friends call me, The Big Stallion.

FSM, it appears as you are perplexed and my conscience is feeling bad. The truth is I am Hammer, AKA Ilya Gersh. But since we are friends, please feel free to skip the forum user name and call me what all my friends call me, The Big Stallion.

If you were/are Onion Bag, shouldn't we be calling you The Big Scallion?

FSM, it appears as you are clueless and my conscience is feeling bad. The truth is I am Hammer, AKA Ilya Gersh. But since we are friends, please feel free to skip the forum user name and call me what all my friends call me, The Big Stallion.

[MASoccer]

From TopDrawer Soccer

U14 Girls

Sting Dallas Royal 4, FC Stars of Massachusetts 2
Sting opened the scoring early when Ashton Geisendorff floated a cross over the penalty area for Brittney Nash, who then chipped the keeper for a 1-0 lead. Sting doubled its advantage a bit later Jessica Howard hit a laser beam into the back of the net.

A long serve by Stars nearly eluded everyone for a goal, but Sting goalkeeper Nicole Cipriano just managed to stop the ball before it crossed the line. Sting then had a near miss when Katherine Donahue hit a corner that Emily Bowman met with a powerful header, but the ball crashed off the crossbar and the score remained 2-0 for the Dallas side.

Stars then pulled a goal back with Alexandra Doody doing the honors via a well-placed chip from the right. The match's intensity began to pick up by this point with a lot of tough challenges being made and every ball contested.

Sting's Brittney Nash made a good run down the left before hitting a cross that Jessica Howard chested down and then knocked home from close range for a 3-1 Sting lead.

In the 2nd half, Stephanie McCaffrey scored a lovely individual goal to cut the margin to 3-2, but Jessica Howard finished her hat trick on a good assist from Shannon Byrd for a final 4-2 scoreline.

Along with Howard, who performed well in midfield along with scoring the 3 goals, Sting got especially good play from Nash up front and Cipriano in goal. Stars had a strong match from offensive standout Hayley Brock.

Slammers FC 2, Carmel United 0
In a match that was beginning to look like a good candidate for scoreless draw, Slammers began asserting itself in the midfield midway through the 2nd half and a period of sustained possession led to a winning goal against a tough Carmel team.

The first half didn't feature a lot of clear chances but instead saw much of the play in midfield. Slammers' sweeper Alexandrea Elliott was the dominant player, covering acres of space and winning every ball that came close to her, while Jordan O'Brien was effective at winning battles near the center circle.

Kassidy Hause and Emily Dillon had the best efforts on goal for the Southern Californians in the 1st half, with Samantha Muschi earning the best chance of the half for the Indiana side. Erin Sullivan was solid in the Carmel defense.

The 2nd half started slowly but Slammers began to pick up the pace, and Kaitlin Hellman forced Carmel goalkeeper Mickinzie Roberts-Lahti into a diving save with a hard shot. Sullivan then headed the resulting corner away, but Slammers were clearly looking dangerous. Hause played a good ball to Jazmine Rhodes, whose shot was only just tipped off by the agile Roberts-Lahti.

After Francesca Coxe hit a shot wide for Slammers, George Larsen's team conjured up a winning goal. The sequence started when Hause won a ball just outside the area and hit a curling shot that Roberts-Lahti could only parry. Emily Dillon secured the rebound on the right and sent in a perfectly-place grounded serve that Tessa Andujar deftly redirected into the back of the net for the winning goal.

In the closing minutes Hellman hit a drive for a sharp angle that found net for a 2-0 margin of victory. A pretty unlikely combination of results and scoring margins are all that can keep Slammers out of the final now.


Age Group Standings (Place, Team, Wins, Losses, Draws, Points, Goals For, Goals Allowed

1. Slammers 6
2. Sting Dallas Royal 3
3. FC Stars of Massachusetts 3
4. Carmel United 0

Website says Stars lost 2-0

Website says Stars lost 2-0

Good season for the Stars, I am not from your area, but just wanted to say good job.

The Texas vs. Calf. should be a battle for the Championship.

Is your team going to stay and watch it?

FSM, it appears as you are perplexed and my conscience is feeling bad. The truth is I am Hammer, AKA Ilya Gersh. But since we are friends, please feel free to skip the forum user name and call me what all my friends call me, The Big Stallion.

If you were/are Onion Bag, shouldn't we be calling you The Big Scallion?

:lol:

Stars had about 4 or 5 very good chances against Slammers. The GK from Slammers made 3 tremendous saves. Slammers are a very good team but to be honest Stars matched them for most of the match. They should be very proud of their year, they are definately up there as one of the best teams in the nation. Good luck to both Slammers and Sting in the final, should be a hell of a battle. Both teams are very physical and athletic.

[Blue Devil]

Congratulations on a great season to the Stars!!

Congratulations on a great year Stars!!
Finishing 3rd in the nation is a heck of an accomplishment. Should be a fun group to watch as this team continues to grow together over the next few years. Go Mass soccer!

Final report from TopDrawer

U14 Girls
Slammers FC 2, FC Stars 0
The impressive Southern Californian side made it 3 for 3 in group play. Jazmine Rhodes made a run down the right and, shooting from a wide angle, hit the ball inside the back post for a 1-0 lead in just the 2nd minute. Paige Larkin then made a run down the left and hit another good cross that a defender, under duress from Slammers' Emily Dillon, put into her own net.

Slammers' Mary Green was very good in winning balls on the flanks and delivering quality crosses. Jordan O'Brien controlled the midfield and showed a lot of skill on the ball. Genessee Daughetee was strong in the back line and won many tackkles, while Linds Luke turned in some good saves in goal, including one on a breakaway from Stars' explosive forward Hayley Brock, and another from a very well-struck ball by Rebekah Landers.

Stars got good play up from from Brock, with Stephanie McCaffrey also dangerously fast. In the midfield Alexandra Doody created chances for the Massachusetts side.

[JustForFun]

Guest wrote:

If you were/are Onion Bag, shouldn't we be calling you The Big Scallion?

Very well struck by Guest - this one definitely sizzled into the back of the net!!!! :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Too bad Guest could not register so it is possible to banter in the future. I will miss you Guest whoever you are. :cry: :cry: :cry:

To answer your question - we will have to wait for FSM -she is the expert on Onions and Horses!

Great year for the Stars U14Gs. It must have been a big thrill for all of the families. A long hard year and a great reward. Congratulations.

Amazing that last year Scorpions U13G were Regional Champs. This year the Stars U14G are Regional Champs. Who will it be next year? An amazing amount of talent at this age group - what would happen if they were all on the same team?

[keeper]

Guest wrote:

If you were/are Onion Bag, shouldn't we be calling you The Big Scallion?

Very well struck by Guest - this one definitely sizzled into the back of the net!!!! :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Too bad Guest could not register so it is possible to banter in the future. I will miss you Guest whoever you are. :cry: :cry: :cry:

To answer your question - we will have to wait for FSM -she is the expert on Onions and Horses!

Great year for the Stars U14Gs. It must have been a big thrill for all of the families. A long hard year and a great reward. Congratulations.

Amazing that last year Scorpions U13G were Regional Champs. This year the Stars U14G are Regional Champs. Who will it be next year? An amazing amount of talent at this age group - what would happen if they were all on the same team?

At this level, by U16 they will and should be on one team.



.

Congratulations to Stars 14s and Coach Dewhurst. Well done!

Congratulations to Stars 14s and Coach Dewhurst. Well done!

Agreed. Well Done! However, knowing Jason, he's already planning for how to win it all next year! Probably see some of those Scorpians come over ...

[Fred Marks]

"Congratulations to Stars 14s and Coach Dewhurst. Well done!"

This was me again... the site wouldnt let me log in for a while. Anyway, Congratulations again. A 5-0 Regional final is impressive and going toe to toe with the best in the Nation is impressive as well.

[FXWLD 24/7]

But you were convinced that I was Onion Bag and 4-4-2. And now I am Mr. Stats aka Just Another Dad? It is all a mystery - think back to that dark, smokey ............................

Can someone provide the 'Newbies" with a little background on the onion references? Or is it an inside joke amongst the touchline elders? It seems to come up in every thread.

Congratulations to Stars 14s and Coach Dewhurst. Well done!

Agreed. Well Done! However, knowing Jason, he's already planning for how to win it all next year! Probably see some of those Scorpians come over ...


I doubt it, for now the two best teams in R1 will continue to be from Mass and will continue to battle it out

[MASoccer]

But you were convinced that I was Onion Bag and 4-4-2. And now I am Mr. Stats aka Just Another Dad? It is all a mystery - think back to that dark, smokey ............................

Can someone provide the 'Newbies" with a little background on the onion references? Or is it an inside joke amongst the touchline elders? It seems to come up in every thread.

Onion Bag was a pseudonym for a user who originally went by the name 4-4-2 on the old forum. He was called out by FSM more than once. He had made contradictory statements on more than one occasion that left him fully exposed. He dredged up a lot of negativity on the previous board especially towards FSM. When FSM recently referred to a poster as "smelling like onions" she was obviously referring to her dear old buddy from the old Touchline.

it was also about him maintaining two distinct identities on the old site, and using both to bolster his positions - of course that would never happen here.

it was also about him maintaining two distinct identities on the old site, and using both to bolster his positions - of course that would never happen here.

deleted

[MASoccer]

Ayone see the final results?

Sting 2 Slammers 1

Looks like that win over the Stars was huge for the Sting, without it they wouldn't have advanced and won the championship! The Slammers had beaten them in their first game 3-0

[MASoccer]

On another note the U14 Boys Blast team lost to Casa Mia Bays in the Region 1 semi finals. Casa Mia went on to win the national championship 2-1 over West Coast FC

[MASoccer]

Decided to look through all the results:

U18 Boys national championship was won by Terryville Fire 1-0 over Arsenal. The Western United boys lost to them 2-1 in the Region 1 final.

[FXWLD 24/7]

On another note the U14 Boys Blast team lost to Casa Mia Bays in the Region 1 semi finals. Casa Mia went on to win the national championship 2-1 over West Coast FC

This Blast team could be one to watch. I believe they picked up a couple of Bolts players and an Inter player that had been playing up.

[MASoccer]

On another note the U14 Boys Blast team lost to Casa Mia Bays in the Region 1 semi finals. Casa Mia went on to win the national championship 2-1 over West Coast FC

This Blast team could be one to watch. I believe they picked up a couple of Bolts players and an Inter player that had been playing up.

They also picked up a 3 time Region 1 ODP player from the Aztecs.

[JustForFun]

FXWLD 24/7 writes:

Can someone provide the 'Newbies" with a little background on the onion references? Or is it an inside joke amongst the touchline elders? It seems to come up in every thread.

I am guilty of bringing it up. Some of it is from the past - some of it is new. FSM is convinced that I am an older user under a new screen name due to my comments, but it might be true or not. She can not be sure so it makes for some fun. FSM is such a renowned poster that the banter might create a chuckle here and there. And FSM, when she is not waxing her legs, is a very good sport about it as well. Also others have joined in from time to time, even Blue Devil added a very good joke! The soccer discussions are fun, but a little side banter adds a bit of flavor to the forum. There is no attempt to create a category of revered Touchline Elders, it is simply 'a bit of fun'. As you read the forum hopefully you will keep a "Just For Fun" outlook and see friends or wonderful people behind the screen names, not adversaries and competitors. We are here to build a dialogue that is complimentary and constructive, an objective which is lost on some posters (predominantly Guests). That is why the Touchline Elders bemoan Guest postings, because if they develop a screen name and consistent postings, they will eventually grow in their understanding through discussion, not detract or snipe at comments that challenge them. I, for one, have enjoyed your posts and am sure you understand the whole faternity.

OK - I lied there is a Touchline Elders group. We meet once a month and decide who can join our fraternity. We drink a lot of beer, Cujo gets really drunk and FSM will only drink champagne. Blue Devil laughs a lot but in a funny way, MASoccer has this deep infectious laugh, Sir Alex smokes his pipe, skinny maradonna is skinny, keeper is too young to attend, Susy Soccer has been absent recently, Zap's spiked hair distressess me, MASC is steady, Nutsforsoccer is Nuts and 'interested' in also very skinny. If you want to join the fraternity, your initiation is very simple. Get Fred Marks to smile and you are in. There are no rules, just get Fred Marks to smile or appear to smile in any of his posts (due to your input or not) and you will be invited to our next monthly dinner!

:?:

[FSM]

But you were convinced that I was Onion Bag and 4-4-2. And now I am Mr. Stats aka Just Another Dad? It is all a mystery - think back to that dark, smokey ............................

Can someone provide the 'Newbies" with a little background on the onion references? Or is it an inside joke amongst the touchline elders? It seems to come up in every thread.

Onion Bag was a pseudonym for a user who originally went by the name 4-4-2 on the old forum. He was called out by FSM more than once. He had made contradictory statements on more than one occasion that left him fully exposed. He dredged up a lot of negativity on the previous board especially towards FSM. When FSM recently referred to a poster as "smelling like onions" she was obviously referring to her dear old buddy from the old Touchline.

It was actually "Soccer Mom" who should get the credit for outing 4-4-2/Onion Bag. I'm not sure whether she knew him through the clubs their sons may have played together or via ODP. While I was able to connect 4-4-2 to Onion Bag through the content and context of the posts, she knew him personally. It is fairly obvious by the tone of some posts, like the recent one directed at MASoccer, that he continues to post, but he does so under the "Guest" function. You can tell his posts, because there is usually some variation of the "You think your so smart, but you're not" theme. In the post to MASoccer, it was not enough to make corrections to what clubs players may have previously played, but to also let MASoccer know he is not as informed as he thinks he is. That edge is one of the milder examples of a typical 4-4-2/Onion Bag post.

Early in this forum, I initially thought Just For Fun was Onion Bag because of comments directed toward me; however, I began to suspect I was wrong the more JFF posted and his posts began to sound more and more like Mr. Stats who I also suspected was Just Another Dad in the old forum. I wonder if his son's name is Justin.

Here is an example of an exchange between Mr. Stats and JAD that is fairly typical of some of his/their posts in the old forum.

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 6:55 pm


In my never-ending quest to divine entrails and other portents to predict World Cup matches and to try to make sense of so-called US soccer, I came upon the following lines last night from Robert Browning, the poet who was unseemingly too interested in snails on thorns and larks on wings in that overly optimistic "Pippa Passes" poem:

[quote]Zooks, are we pilchards, that they sweep the streets
And count fair price what comes into their net?

Net? Soccer net?

Pilchards are, of course, sardines or minnows. The word "sardine" relates to the island of Sardinia.

Those lines are from another Browning poem titled "Fra Lippo Lippi" (http://www.poetryfoundation.org/archive/poem.html?id=173011). It is about the Florentine painter who lived from 1412 to 1469. I note that the last name of the coach for Italy is Lippi. Also, Inzaghi, the forward for the Italian team, is sometimes called "Pippo" --- Lippo, Pippo, Lippi, Pippa. Coincidence? I think not.

Further, the wikipedia entry for "sardines" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sardines) notes at the end that:


Sardine in popular culture

Portugal

Sardines play an important role in Portuguese culture. Having been a people who depended heavily on the sea for food and commerce, the Portuguese have a predilection for fish in their popular festivities. The most important is Saint Anthony's day, 13th June, when the biggest popular festival takes place in Lisbon, taking the people to the streets where grilled sardines are the snack of choice. Almost every place in Portugal, from Figueira da Foz to Portalegre, or from Póvoa de Varzim to Olhão has the summertime popular tradition of eating grilled sardines (sardinhas assadas).


And didn't Robert Browning's wife, Elizabeth Barrett Browning write the poem cycle titled "Sonnets from the Portuguese"? And isn't Sonnet XLIII (http://www.everypoet.com/Archive/poetry/Elizabeth_Barrett_Browning/elizabeth_browning_sonnets_43.htm) that abject, treacly love note written to Robert Browning:


XLIII

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints,--I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life!--and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.


And didn't Italy confidently march through all opponents except for having some trouble in tying one minnow team, the US MNT, 1-1?


http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/93/2006_sardines_plate_flash.jpg/180px-2006_sardines_plate_flash.jpg
Sardines on a plate ---
key to World Cup 2006
key to US MNT failure[/quote:1q7c680c]

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 8:57 pm

Ah. Now I see.

You are saying that Portugal will dispatch Italy as easily as a Portugese dispatches sardines on a plate.

No. That's not it. No. You feel Portugal will defeat Sardinia, a surprise entrant, in the final. I wasn't aware they had a national team.

Hm. No. Hm.

You feel Portugal will eat too many sardines before the match against Italy, and retch their way to an ignominous performance. Reading Browning will not make them feel better (never has for anyone else, why would it help fish gorging Portugese?)

Yes. That's it.

Well, your pig entrails are certainly saying something very different than my tea leaves, sacre bleu!

How many of us would actually understand the symbolism of Mr. Stat's post? :shock:

On another note the U14 Boys Blast team lost to Casa Mia Bays in the Region 1 semi finals. Casa Mia went on to win the national championship 2-1 over West Coast FC

This Blast team could be one to watch. I believe they picked up a couple of Bolts players and an Inter player that had been playing up.

They also picked up a 3 time Region 1 ODP player from the Aztecs.

WAY Off topic, but....................

One former Bolts player from the western MA who could not stay with the Bolts due to the NCAA rule discussed to death earlier.

As for the Aztec player.......the jury is still out on that one.

You sure seem to post a lot about an age group for someone who doesn't have a player in it.

[JustForFun]

FSM writes

How many of us would actually understand the symbolism of Mr. Stat's post?

I enjoy Mr. Stats' posts. I think some of his symbolism is a bit of a reach, but then again, your connections of me to Onion Bag/4-4-2/Mr. Stats/JustAnotherDad are all a reach as well. What is the difference?

PS Do you like champagne?

[MASoccer]

You sure seem to post a lot about an age group for someone who doesn't have a player in it.

Not so odd, my son played ODP with a number of the U14's and U15's in MAPLE (1992 age group). He is close friends with many of them and believe it or not they actually talk to each other about what their plans are for the future season.

Congratulations to Stars 14s and Coach Dewhurst. Well done!

Agreed. Well Done! However, knowing Jason, he's already planning for how to win it all next year! Probably see some of those Scorpians come over ...


I doubt it, for now the two best teams in R1 will continue to be from Mass and will continue to battle it outNot so fast my friend, the new CFC United team which is made up of girls from CFC's three best U14 teams will provide a challenge.

Congratulations to Stars 14s and Coach Dewhurst. Well done!

Agreed. Well Done! However, knowing Jason, he's already planning for how to win it all next year! Probably see some of those Scorpians come over ...


I doubt it, for now the two best teams in R1 will continue to be from Mass and will continue to battle it outNot so fast my friend, the new CFC United team which is made up of girls from CFC's three best U14 teams will provide a challenge.

Obviously there are a number of teams, including PDA, Delco and Braddock Rd. that are all very, very good and on a level with the Stars and Scorps. Connecticut may be at that level too. The key is that two (and maybe three) teams from Mass are in this group and that is a little unique for a state like Mass.

I would bet that the stars team will not be cutting players after the great season they just completed unlike the Bolts teams of the past.

I would bet that the stars team will not be cutting players after the great season they just completed unlike the Bolts teams of the past.

Do you mean, in other words, that they will not be adding new players? Or that they have enough room on their roster for new players?

Surely you don't think the Stars will stand pat. That would be most unStarslike. :)

[mathman]

I doubt it, for now the two best teams in R1 will continue to be from Mass and will continue to battle it outNot so fast my friend, the new CFC United team which is made up of girls from CFC's three best U14 teams will provide a challenge.

The CUFC 15 team is made up 13 players from Impact, 1 from Wolves, and 4 from Arsenal, so it is mostly Impact. I agree that it should be stronger, but it remains to be seen whether it can challenge Stars and Scorpions. The smoke won't clear until the Labor Day and Columbus Day tournaments.

More like Memorial Day. These girls are entering high school and will likely not play in any fall tournaments. :D

I heard Stars rising U15s are already in at Disney and will be at Vegas in March and PDA Memorial Day to participate in the Red Bull League (they opted out of the first Red Bull League event in Danville CA in August). PDA is participating in Red Bull as well.

Does anyone know what Scorpions and/or the "new" CUFC team are doing for tournaments? It would be great to see other Region One teams going to these events.

The rising Stars U15 team will also be going to the Raliegh Showcase in early December.

PDA rising U15s are playing in the Red Bull league and the new National league, other clubs doing this include Slammers and Dallas Sting. This is a huge commitment. The travel alone will be crazy.

I heard Stars rising U15s are already in at Disney and will be at Vegas in March and PDA Memorial Day to participate in the Red Bull League (they opted out of the first Red Bull League event in Danville CA in August). PDA is participating in Red Bull as well.

Does anyone know what Scorpions and/or the "new" CUFC team are doing for tournaments? It would be great to see other Region One teams going to these events.

THe Red Bull League is for U17 boys only. You must mean the new USYS National League.

This is also the case for the rising u16 Stars. Already accepted to Disney, both age groups have been given a pass for the Ca event for the first RedBull weekend. They will resume the league play at Vegas and PDA.

[FSM]

I heard Stars rising U15s are already in at Disney and will be at Vegas in March and PDA Memorial Day to participate in the Red Bull League (they opted out of the first Red Bull League event in Danville CA in August). PDA is participating in Red Bull as well.

Does anyone know what Scorpions and/or the "new" CUFC team are doing for tournaments? It would be great to see other Region One teams going to these events.

THe Red Bull League is for U17 boys only. You must mean the new USYS National League.

The Red Bull National League expanded to U16 and U15 girls for 2007/2008.

http://www.caslnc.com/files/classic/RBG ... elease.doc (http://www.caslnc.com/files/classic/RBGNL%2015-16%20Press%20Release.doc)

GIRLS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN, TOO
RED BULL NATIONAL LEAGUE EXPANDS WITH UNDER-16 AND U15 GIRLS’ SOCCER TEAMS FOR 2007-08

Santa Monica, Calif. – May 16, 2007 – On the heels of a successful Red Bull National League 17 boys’ soccer season, which concludes Memorial Day weekend at Chicago’s Naperville Polo Fields, comes today’s announcement of the inaugural 2007-08 Red Bull Girls National League for Under-16 and U15 clubs. The girls’ teams kick off the season in August and the expectation is that the action, excitement and top-caliber competition among teams across the United States will similarly resemble that of the first boys’ Red Bull National League 17.

The RBGNL will be comprised of an ‘Elite Eighteen’ group of the nation’s best girls’ club programs entering their teams into separate Under-16 and U15 national leagues. The following nine West Region and nine East Region clubs will showcase their exquisite talent and teamwork in three national tournaments (each team plays three matches per tournament).

EAST REGION TEAMS HOMETOWN
Atlanta Fire United Duluth, GA
CASL Elite Raleigh, NC
Dallas Texans Dallas, TX
Dallas Sting Dallas, TX
Eclipse Select SC Chicago, IL
FC DELCO Downingtown, PA
Michigan Hawks Livonia, MI
Players Development Academy (PDA) Zarepath, NJ
St. Louis SC St. Louis, MO

WEST REGION TEAMS HOMETOWN
Colorado Rush Littleton, CO
Crossfire Premier Redmond, WA
Irvine Strikers Irvine, CA
Mustang Soccer Club San Ramon, CA
Real Colorado Douglas County, CO
Real SoCal Calabasas, CA
Sereno Golden Eagles Phoenix, AZ
Slammers FC Newport Beach, CA
Surf FC San Diego, CA

The first RBNL U16 and U15 tournaments will take place Aug. 10-12 in Danville, CA (hosted by Mustang Soccer Club). The second event will be held March 14-16, 2008 in Las Vegas, NV. (held in conjunction with the Las Vegas College Showcase). The first RBGNL Champions in the U16 and U15 divisions will be determined in the season’s final event May 24-26, 2008 in Zarepath, NJ. The final tournament will be hosted by the Players Development Academy (PDA) and held in conjunction with the PDA Girls College Showcase. Strap on your shin guards because the opening whistle is about to blow on an unprecedented, thrilling venture!

"We're going to get an opportunity to shape a new landscape for elite girls’ soccer in this countryâ€￾, said Mike O'Neill, Girls Director of coaching for the PDA. "This progression for player development is needed. I think you'll see every major college in the country represented. The college coaches and national staff will follow this league closely. You look at the 18 clubs involved and the level is amazing. It will be the best playing the best and the girls will view it as a Champions League. This is special because I am not aware of anything similar to this in the country. We're trying to make good decisions for the development of elite girls’ soccer and this is just a start."

"This will give elite female youth soccer players the opportunity to compete against not just the best clubs in their region, but the best in the entire country. We are excited to be a part of a league that will showcase the top elite girls’ soccer teams in the United States," said Leighton Walters, FC DELCO Girls Director of Coaching. “The charter members intend to maintain our focus on the quality of the soccer and the quality of the experience for our players. This is a culmination of almost seven months of dialogue and discussion and we feel that all 18 clubs are committed to changing the landscape of elite girls’ soccer. This is a great first step but we feel that the best is yet to come. We intend to expand the league in the future but getting our first season completed will be the primary focus of the members.â€￾


BACKGROUND ON RED BULL NATIONAL LEAGUE

The inaugural Red Bull Girls National League will unite the top 18 Under-15 and U16 teams from across the country in the spirit of true competition and elite player development. The leagues consist of three weekend-long tournaments in which each team competes in nine regular season matches to determine the RBGNL champion. Each team will play three 90-minute matches at each event (one match per day) and will play opponents from the region opposite its own. League standings will include all 18 teams on a single table and there is no playoff. Throughout the season, teams will get three points for a win, one point for a tie and zero points for a loss. The RBGNL champions will be the teams accumulating the most points after the final day of the season-ending tournament in Zarepath, NJ on May 26, 2008. For media inquiries, including interview opportunities and photos, please contact Ellie Applen at (310) 460-4532 or ellen.applen@us.redbull.com, or contact Toby Zwikel, Damian Secore or Noah Gold at (818) 344-6195 or via e-mail at tobyz@bzapr.com/damians@bzapr.com/noahg@bzapr.com.

So while USSF is trying to rein in the boys, it seems the girls side is going insane.

The CUFC 15 team is made up 13 players from Impact, 1 from Wolves, and 4 from Arsenal, so it is mostly Impact. I agree that it should be stronger, but it remains to be seen whether it can challenge Stars and Scorpions. The smoke won't clear until the Labor Day and Columbus Day tournaments.I agree they should be a stronger team but until they actually play, its TBD. The lone Wolves player is one of three CT players invited to the u15 national camp.

I heard Stars rising U15s are already in at Disney and will be at Vegas in March and PDA Memorial Day to participate in the Red Bull League (they opted out of the first Red Bull League event in Danville CA in August). PDA is participating in Red Bull as well.

Heard that some of the players from stars are attending a high school camp all week in Worcester. Fresh off a plane from Dallas, parents the kids need a break. You will burn them out.

I am sure Jason Dewhurst is very happy about this?????? I know he is very much against high school soccer. I believe he was part of a meeting at Nationals with all the other DOCs about high school soccer aswell as other topics. He is one of the many DOCs in this country that do not look to favourably on it.

I am sure Jason Dewhurst is very happy about this?????? I know he is very much against high school soccer. I believe he was part of a meeting at Nationals with all the other DOCs about high school soccer aswell as other topics. He is one of the many DOCs in this country that do not look to favourably on it.

Then lets have all the players just up and quit because Jason says so....thats great.

I am sure Jason Dewhurst is very happy about this?????? I know he is very much against high school soccer. I believe he was part of a meeting at Nationals with all the other DOCs about high school soccer aswell as other topics. He is one of the many DOCs in this country that do not look to favourably on it.

who cares what 'jason' might think (you're not jason in disguise, are you??). club coaches whine about hs soccer. but if all of the players were so hot on club and so against hs, we'd see club teams over 15 yrs of age playing year round. simple reason they don't is because they wouldn't have any players because the vast majority of the kids want to play for their hs.

now you all can say 'no, that's not the case' and bring mr stats in with 'hs so called soccer' but the facts speak for themselves. ask the players how many will play hs in the fall and virtually all will be doing so.

and as to 'burning the kids out', these kids are hs age and can choose for themselves. you just don't miss 'hs camp' to take a break unless you're injured. despite what you all may WANT to believe,it is important to parents, players, the school, etc.

interested

Jason in disguise, I do not think so. I am not sure why he would waste his time on something like this. Unlike me though who cannot get enough of it. As a parent I love reading this stuff. I probably should not of brought his name into this.

Many clubs around the nation are going to the year round programs to give their players an alternative from playing HS. It is inevitable that the top players will not be playing for their HS in the near future. You may not like it but it is true.

and as to 'burning the kids out', these kids are hs age and can choose for themselves. you just don't miss 'hs camp' to take a break unless you're injured. despite what you all may WANT to believe,it is important to parents, players, the school, etc.

interested

These kids are certainly old enough to make their own decisions. It doesn't really matter whether it will lead to injuries or not as long as they get to do what they WANT. :roll:

and as to 'burning the kids out', these kids are hs age and can choose for themselves. you just don't miss 'hs camp' to take a break unless you're injured. despite what you all may WANT to believe,it is important to parents, players, the school, etc.

interested

These kids are certainly old enough to make their own decisions. It doesn't really matter whether it will lead to injuries or not as long as they get to do what they WANT. :roll:

Pressure from peers and high school coaches have nothing to do with their decisions either.

[ask the players how many will play hs in the fall and virtually all will be doing so.




Because there are no alternatives!! My daughter would love to skip HS soccer and play club year round, she considers soccer a completely separate facet to her life, unrelated to school, academics and her social life there. Soccer friends are not school friends, and I highly doubt that is going to change just because she plays soccer in HS, no matter what anyone says about the camaraderie. She has asked and asked various clubs/coaches she has known to offer some alternative but no one bites, because there is no competition and no one wants to be the first. Honestly, I don't get it.


Many clubs around the nation are going to the year round programs to give their players an alternative from playing HS. It is inevitable that the top players will not be playing for their HS in the near future. You may not like it but it is true.

Too late for us, though.

Pressure from peers and high school coaches have nothing to do with their decisions either

You are kidding right?

[ you just don't miss 'hs camp' to take a break unless you're injured. despite what you all may WANT to believe,it is important to parents, players, the school, etc.



Definitely not a true statement in every case. My daughter cannot understand the ensuing panic about the HS team, it's a sport to do in HS for fun, that's it (and only because there are no alternatives)... certainly not a stepping stone to any future in the sport. She has no interest in the camps (she has her own schedule for preparing for the season) and could care less if not attending hurts her chances to make the team because if it DOES, then there is a bigger problem. Now because it's this forum, I am talking about the more serious soccer player in this state, not the recreational player.

So two hours a day for four days is going to kill these kids (who haven't even played a game since Friday) Grow up and mind your own business!

[ you just don't miss 'hs camp' to take a break unless you're injured. despite what you all may WANT to believe,it is important to parents, players, the school, etc.



Definitely not a true statement in every case. My daughter cannot understand the ensuing panic about the HS team, it's a sport to do in HS for fun, that's it (and only because there are no alternatives)... certainly not a stepping stone to any future in the sport. She has no interest in the camps (she has her own schedule for preparing for the season) and could care less if not attending hurts her chances to make the team because if it DOES, then there is a bigger problem. Now because it's this forum, I am talking about the more serious soccer player in this state, not the recreational player.

As the parent of a HS soccer player, that's also a three time state cup champion, I can tell you with certainty that my child would NEVER give up playing HS soccer to play club year round. The enjoyment and camraderie that he gets playing everyday after school with his friends is far greater than he gets playing 2-3 times a week (now only in the spring) with his club teammates. I CRINGE when I see someone like you talking about a "stepping stone to any future in the sport". Let your kid be a kid and enjoy playing for her school. I'll even bet that she'll admit that HS soccer was more FUN than club, and if he she takes the positives from HS soccer (mostly training everyday), she'll even improve.

Most good HS soccer players who don't play club, don't play becuase they are multi sport athletes, kind of a throwback to the good old days where kids didn't have to specialize in one sport by the time they start HS...or even earlier!

I think you and your daughter need to relax a bit on the soccer front, and put things in perspective.

So two hours a day for four days is going to kill these kids (who haven't even played a game since Friday) Grow up and mind your own business!

WOW, I bet you are one of these parents who's kid is not at a good level and having top club players on her high school team gives her a sense that she is slightly talented. Get a life will you. I heard the other day that a high school coach emailed everyone and said they had to run 3 miles 4 times per week before tryouts and then they will be timed at tryouts. If they did not get the time he set they did not make the team. Thats fun?????????

Some one is trying to cause trouble saying that an 2 hour a day camp is too much for Stars players. If they want to do it then leave them alone. It is no one else's business. The camp was optional to begin with (as they must be) so if the girls want to or not attend after nationals - that is also their business.

What on earth would make you attack my child because I said it wasn't anyone else's business what those players wanted to do?

[forensic psychologist]

Hey Guest,

"Haven't played a game since Friday"...."get a life"?

Are you kidding? How long has it been since these kids didn't play soccer at all for one or two weeks? Afraid she might lose her "edge"?

You make Friday sound like it was 3 mos. ago. Make sure you get these players to to get in some double-SAQ sessions while you're at it, just in case there is a player in Missouri who might be getting your scholarship!

I'm new to this board, but frankly some of this stuff is just embarrassing...

[ask the players how many will play hs in the fall and virtually all will be doing so.


Because there are no alternatives!! My daughter would love to skip HS soccer and play club year round, she considers soccer a completely separate facet to her life, unrelated to school, academics and her social life there. Soccer friends are not school friends....

I'm not sure I'd want my pre-HS daughter to play one sport year-round yet, but I believe her attitude is similar to your daughter's. Aside from the "separate facet" consideration is the opportunity to continue playing against girls the same age at a generally higher level of skills than most HS teams afford. Plus, club soccer is still a lot of fun for her!

Yes, I know this topic was debated to death on the Touchline forum. And yes, I know everyone says that nothing compares with the HS experience, so it must be true. ;) But I have a hunch there are lots of girls (and boys) out there who would rather play club instead of HS, given the choice. (If you were a skilled musician, wouldn't you rather play with a decent orchestra instead of the HS band?) Yes, I know they are still kids, like we were once, but maybe we didn't play club sports like they do now.

In our town, many club players don't play town travel soccer at the middle-school level. They prefer not to. Who's to say this attitude couldn't take hold at the HS level, given a club alternative? (And who's to say that would be a bad thing?) The kids in "Bend It Like Beckham" seemed to be having a good time on their club team across the pond.

Besides, where's the fun in playing kickball with, and maybe getting clobbered by, older, larger, "athletes"? :(

[keeper]

Time for the annual Club vs. HS Soccer debate.

Whatever your position, it’s a moot point since there is NO Club soccer in the fall. Until there is a viable option for fall club soccer any debate is meaningless. High School soccer is the only thing available, and unless somebody offers something better, that’s what players are going to do.

If you want to deal in hypothetical’s; what would happen if MIAA moved girls’ Soccer to the spring?

Debate that..…





.

Time for the annual Club vs. HS Soccer debate.

Whatever your position, it’s a moot point since there is NO Club soccer in the fall. Until there is a viable option for fall club soccer any debate is meaningless. High School soccer is the only thing available, and unless somebody offers something better, that’s what players are going to do.

If you want to deal in hypothetical’s; what would happen if MIAA moved girls’ Soccer to the spring?

Debate that..…

I'd rather not debate that, thanks. :) And as I acknowledged in my first post, the topic of club soccer vs HS soccer has already been debated to death.

No, the main point of my post was not to offer a position on a debate--although maybe I did--but rather to let Pasta know that his child is not the only one who wishes there were a club alternative to HS ball. Counting my child, that makes two. I'll bet there are more kids who wish so--perhaps many more.

From tiny acorns mighty oaks grow. Maybe someone who knows how to do these things could set up a poll on this forum. Question: "If Massachusetts club soccer had a thriving fall season, would your child prefer to play club soccer or HS soccer?"

Or how about, "If Massachusetts club soccer had a thriving fall season, would your child prefer to play club soccer or middle-school soccer?" No need to ask that one--plenty of kids have already answered that question in favor of club soccer.

Wait, I just remembered something.... I recall that someone in the Touchline forum once pointed out that if there were a fall club season, HSs might not be so willing to rent out their fields to club teams. There are probably other good practical reasons why a fall season would be hard to implement, and which were pointed out as well. (For example, what would combo HS/club coaches do?)

So Pasta, if you're still reading this thread, and if you want to know what impediments there are to fall soccer, you might want to visit the Touchline forum and plow through the relevant pages. :|

In the meantime, I still bet there are kids out there, perhaps many, who would rather play club soccer than HS soccer, given the alternative.

Some one is trying to cause trouble saying that an 2 hour a day camp is too much for Stars players. If they want to do it then leave them alone. It is no one else's business. The camp was optional to begin with (as they must be) so if the girls want to or not attend after nationals - that is also their business.

What on earth would make you attack my child because I said it wasn't anyone else's business what those players wanted to do?

Are you the same 'Guest' who is so active in the MPS thread? What goes around....

"Heard that some of the players from stars are attending a high school camp all week in Worcester."

FSM do you know which camp this is?

[ask the players how many will play hs in the fall and virtually all will be doing so.



In our town, many club players don't play town travel soccer at the middle-school level. They prefer not to. Who's to say this attitude couldn't take hold at the HS level, given a club alternative? (And who's to say that would be a bad thing?) The kids in "Bend It Like Beckham" seemed to be having a good time on their club team across the pond.

Besides, where's the fun in playing kickball with, and maybe getting clobbered by, older, larger, "athletes"? :(

They "prefer" not to? Under threat (express or implied) of losing their roster spot?

At least one of the Stars teams were told they could NOT play middle school. It is only a matter of time before this works its way up to HS.

Part of it is about coaching and some players supposedly picking up bad habits. Part of it is about building a business. The guy who owns the local hardware doesn't like Home Depot either.

[As the parent of a HS soccer player, that's also a three time state cup champion, I can tell you with certainty that my child would NEVER give up playing HS soccer to play club year round. The enjoyment and camraderie that he gets playing everyday after school with his friends is far greater than he gets playing 2-3 times a week (now only in the spring) with his club teammates. I CRINGE when I see someone like you talking about a "stepping stone to any future in the sport". Let your kid be a kid and enjoy playing for her school. I'll even bet that she'll admit that HS soccer was more FUN than club, and if he she takes the positives from HS soccer (mostly training everyday), she'll even improve.

Most good HS soccer players who don't play club, don't play becuase they are multi sport athletes, kind of a throwback to the good old days where kids didn't have to specialize in one sport by the time they start HS...or even earlier!

I think you and your daughter need to relax a bit on the soccer front, and put things in perspective.


You misunderstand me - she already is a high school player. She enjoys club much more. It's just that simple. I think I was pretty clear in stating that not every player feels the same way about high school -- it's great that your player loves it and gets a lot out of it, but certainly every situation, every town, every coach, every group of players is different, and I was simply stating her feeling about it and her experience. And she definitely does not feel that training everyday (especially the training vs her club) is a "positive."

I totally agree with your second paragraph. But as to your last point (and the poster who suggested I read touchline), no debate necessary and she has a pretty good perspective already, but thanks for your concern. (the condescending tone is why I rarely read or post here - because your son's experience is different than hers, you are right and she is uptight?). I did read touchline, and I don't mean to start another thread on this. When it came time to decide about high school a couple years ago, there were just no other options, so she plays and tries to appreciate it for what it is. I was really just trying to say that everyone is different. Hooray for your son for enjoying it. But we're with Jason D. on this one. If Stars had a fall program, she'd be there in a second, no matter the drive.

P.S.
Maybe it's a boy vs girl thing, I am relieved to see that Mr. M's daughter feels the same way, sometimes I wondered if my own daughter was odd in that way. Maybe it's the clique-iness that SOME high school girls can bring to different aspects of the HS experience, who knows.

And by the way, BD, sorry I made you "cringe" but I don't think I should have to apologize for the fact that my daughter wants to play college soccer and thinks that the club experience will help her more than the HS experience.

[skinny maradona]

My daughter chose to do cross country rather than HS soccer. Crap team with a crap coach. She figured out pretty quick that if you are going to spend most of practice running laps why not be on a running team.

They "prefer" not to? Under threat (express or implied) of losing their roster spot?

At least one of the Stars teams were told they could NOT play middle school. It is only a matter of time before this works its way up to HS.

Part of it is about coaching and some players supposedly picking up bad habits. Part of it is about building a business. The guy who owns the local hardware doesn't like Home Depot either.

In the cases I know about, I don't think there was such a threat involved. But I see your point. To your list of reasons I would add the concern that players may run an increased risk of injury because of dual rostering. I think some players themselves may choose to play club only because of the increasing demands on their time and energy.

I think your speculation "It is only a matter of time before this works its way up to HS" is interesting. Wonder if it will ever happen in Braintree.... ;)

She figured out pretty quick that if you are going to spend most of practice running laps why not be on a running team.

:lol:

[FSM]

"Heard that some of the players from stars are attending a high school camp all week in Worcester."

FSM do you know which camp this is?

I don't know, but was curious myself.

[FSM]

P.S.
Maybe it's a boy vs girl thing, I am relieved to see that Mr. M's daughter feels the same way, sometimes I wondered if my own daughter was odd in that way. Maybe it's the clique-iness that SOME high school girls can bring to different aspects of the HS experience, who knows.



Pasta, I don't think your daughter is odd. I think different kids are motivated to play for different reasons. I don't understand why so many get so bent out of shape over this topic.

I am a parent on a girls team at one of the bigger clubs (actually my daughter used to play for the Stars). I am not sure why Stars is getting press about not liking high school, middle school and town. It is no different with many other clubs in the state. If you asked any coach at the top 5 clubs in the state they would say they do not like the players playing the above. I know our coach does not talk highly of any of the above. The Stars did not choose to play in CA in Aug in the first Red Bull meeting as it would have meant conflicts with high school so maybe Jason D is not the dictator you seem to think he is. I see the 2 teams in the U14G national final will be participating in CA and then the Sting team will be going straight into there season so not much rest involved their. High School does not matter to players and parents on clubs like Sting, Slammers, Eclipse, PDA, Texans, Blues etc and that is why they can do all the leagues such as the Red Bull league and national league without conflicts of high school. Once again small minded people in this state like all of you would not let this happen. This includes parents on the Stars, they see there daughter as one of the best players at high school and love the idea of the school and town revolving around them. Its more about their own social standing than anything else. The Stars are no different than any other big club in their thinking. I wish clubs would start putting together year round programs it would make it very interesting.

If you asked any coach at the top 5 clubs in the state they would say they do not like the players playing the above.

Wonder what Fred would say to this not having his star player for his HS team? I know it was a team effort but have to think the results wouldnt have been different if she wasnt there.

I wish clubs would start putting together year round programs it would make it very interesting.


Maybe all the know-it-alls in these forums should lock themselves in a room and develop a fall league for the clubs to play if Maple isnt interested?

I am a parent on a girls team at one of the bigger clubs (actually my daughter used to play for the Stars). I am not sure why Stars is getting press about not liking high school, middle school and town. It is no different with many other clubs in the state. If you asked any coach at the top 5 clubs in the state they would say they do not like the players playing the above. I know our coach does not talk highly of any of the above. The Stars did not choose to play in CA in Aug in the first Red Bull meeting as it would have meant conflicts with high school so maybe Jason D is not the dictator you seem to think he is. I see the 2 teams in the U14G national final will be participating in CA and then the Sting team will be going straight into there season so not much rest involved their. High School does not matter to players and parents on clubs like Sting, Slammers, Eclipse, PDA, Texans, Blues etc and that is why they can do all the leagues such as the Red Bull league and national league without conflicts of high school. Once again small minded people in this state like all of you would not let this happen. This includes parents on the Stars, they see there daughter as one of the best players at high school and love the idea of the school and town revolving around them. Its more about their own social standing than anything else. The Stars are no different than any other big club in their thinking. I wish clubs would start putting together year round programs it would make it very interesting.

My understanding is that the reason coaches (including Jason, who I've spoken with) don't like high school has little if nothing to do with conflicts to attend tournaments or play in other leagues as a club and more to do with the risk of injury and generally lower level of play that most high school players experience vs club. Again, trying hard here not to stir up anymore debate on this, but I think that for the top notch players who are serious about soccer (like those on that Stars team), they might in fact choose to go the Slammers, etc. route you describe if given the chance. But since there is no where around here to have any competition in the fall, it would mean even more travel expenses to find competition. If just one club would do it, maybe others would follow, but the MA clubs seem to be generally fine with the status quo. Keeper is right, it's not changing anytime soon, but I'm with you on wishing year round programs would evolve. Low blow, however, assuming you know what is going through the heads of Stars players and their parents -- really unnecessary and catty.

My understanding is that the reason coaches (including Jason, who I've spoken with) don't like high school has little if nothing to do with conflicts to attend tournaments or play in other leagues as a club and more to do with the risk of injury and generally lower level of play that most high school players experience vs club. Again, trying hard here not to stir up anymore debate on this, but I think that for the top notch players who are serious about soccer (like those on that Stars team), they might in fact choose to go the Slammers, etc. route you describe if given the chance. But since there is no where around here to have any competition in the fall, it would mean even more travel expenses to find competition. If just one club would do it, maybe others would follow, but the MA clubs seem to be generally fine with the status quo. Keeper is right, it's not changing anytime soon, but I'm with you on wishing year round programs would evolve. Low blow, however, assuming you know what is going through the heads of Stars players and their parents -- really unnecessary and catty.

Very well put

If you read the text from the Redbull press release, it mentions the "elite player" on many occasions. We all know that High School Soccer isn't for the elite player. If a player is at the higher end of the food chain why would they want to waste 5 months playing medicore soccer with a high risk of injury. We know you can get injured in any game, but the level of high school is alot of "uncontrolled running" . I know both club coaches and high school coaches and they have a completetly different mind set when coaching the two different formats. The tide is turning and it will turn, the world isn't flat :)

If a player is at the higher end of the food chain why would they want to waste 5 months playing medicore soccer with a high risk of injury.

There are many you can ask

[two-three-five]

I am a parent on a girls team at one of the bigger clubs (actually my daughter used to play for the Stars). I am not sure why Stars is getting press about not liking high school, middle school and town. It is no different with many other clubs in the state. If you asked any coach at the top 5 clubs in the state they would say they do not like the players playing the above. I know our coach does not talk highly of any of the above. The Stars did not choose to play in CA in Aug in the first Red Bull meeting as it would have meant conflicts with high school so maybe Jason D is not the dictator you seem to think he is. I see the 2 teams in the U14G national final will be participating in CA and then the Sting team will be going straight into there season so not much rest involved their. High School does not matter to players and parents on clubs like Sting, Slammers, Eclipse, PDA, Texans, Blues etc and that is why they can do all the leagues such as the Red Bull league and national league without conflicts of high school. Once again small minded people in this state like all of you would not let this happen. This includes parents on the Stars, they see there daughter as one of the best players at high school and love the idea of the school and town revolving around them. Its more about their own social standing than anything else. The Stars are no different than any other big club in their thinking. I wish clubs would start putting together year round programs it would make it very interesting.

None of us small minded people are stopping you from having a fall club.
Knock yourself out. Build it and they will come.

Those of us who have played and coached HS soccer realize it can be a terrific experience and would like to see the current HS age players enjoy this experience also. I don't hear anyone saying it is perfect.

IMHO the number of players that the trade-off of missing HS activities for their chosen club sport is very, very limited. Currently, HS soccer players are fortunate that they can choose to play HS soccer for 10-12 weeks and still participate in their club.

I am not sure why Stars is getting press about not liking high school, middle school and town. It is no different with many other clubs in the state. If you asked any coach at the top 5 clubs in the state they would say they do not like the players playing the above.... The Stars are no different than any other big club in their thinking.

I'm sure this is right.

I wish clubs would start putting together year round programs it would make it very interesting.

Yes, it would!

If just one club would do it, maybe others would follow, but the MA clubs seem to be generally fine with the status quo. Keeper is right, it's not changing anytime soon, but I'm with you on wishing year round programs would evolve.

Ditto. :)

This topic is old.

The fall HS environment in Mass. is thriving despite its faults. A small percentage of players would prefer year round club. A much higher number would not.

At some point some clubs might try to force it. That wont be soon and it wont be on a statewide level. A club here or there may start by entering a Regional or National level league.

Again, it is my opinion that many players play club soccer so that they may excel at HS soccer.

"Wonder what Fred would say to this not having his star player for his HS team? I know it was a team effort but have to think the results wouldnt have been different if she wasnt there."

It meant so much to her that she skipped a week with the National team to play in one of the HS Championship games. She loved both teams in a different way. I never asked but I think if someone did she would consider her HS experience as important to her, very favorable and significant in her life.

This topic is old.

The fall HS environment in Mass. is thriving despite its faults. A small percentage of players would prefer year round club. A much higher number would not.

At some point some clubs might try to force it. That wont be soon and it wont be on a statewide level. A club here or there may start by entering a Regional or National level league.

Again, it is my opinion that many players play club soccer so that they may excel at HS soccer.

"Wonder what Fred would say to this not having his star player for his HS team? I know it was a team effort but have to think the results wouldnt have been different if she wasnt there."

It meant so much to her that she skipped a week with the National team to play in one of the HS Championship games. She loved both teams in a different way. I never asked but I think if someone did she would consider her HS experience as important to her, very favorable and significant in her life.

Sounds like a good time for Onthree to step in :-). She probably can put this all into perspective better than most.

Onthree has a major conflict of interest

Onthree has a major conflict of interest

Not to speak for her, but I have no idea why? She coaches HS and her child plays Club. She's always open about that. She even signs her name. I give her a lot of credit for that. She provides a lot of insight to this forum and I think most posters/readers appreciate it.

This topic is old.

The fall HS environment in Mass. is thriving despite its faults.

The topic was perhaps framed incorrectly--not surprising, since this is technically the "Good luck Stars tomorrow" thread.

What I see Pasta, myself, and others interested in is not another discussion of the relative merits of high school and club soccer. Instead, we're wondering why there can't be a fall club-soccer alternative to high school, for kids who would rather play club, for whatever reason. Maybe we're naive to do so, but isn't that what forums like this are for?

As for getting a fall club-soccer season started, I have no clue how this would be done. (Yes, I'm clueless. :) ) But if anyone were interested in starting one, they would first want to ascertain whether there is demand for such a thing. Again, that's why a forum like this is useful.

[two-three-five]

Some of these topics are melding together.

I just had this thought. If youth soccer is that important to your family that you were willing to commit lots of time and thousands of $ in fees and travel, why would you not consider

a. moving to a town with a good HS program

b. Sending your child to a private school with a good soccer program

[Red99]

Some of these topics are melding together.

I just had this thought. If youth soccer is that important to your family that you were willing to commit lots of time and thousands of $ in fees and travel, why would you not consider

a. moving to a town with a good HS program

b. Sending your child to a private school with a good soccer program

Can you name some?!

The Camp is a Boston College high school team camp run with Clark University this week in Worcester. Most likely the rising U15's are starting to think about colege $$$ as the Bc coach is present.

[Blue Devil]

This topic is old.

The fall HS environment in Mass. is thriving despite its faults.

The topic was perhaps framed incorrectly--not surprising, since this is technically the "Good luck Stars tomorrow" thread.

What I see Pasta, myself, and others interested in is not another discussion of the relative merits of high school and club soccer. Instead, we're wondering why there can't be a fall club-soccer alternative to high school, for kids who would rather play club, for whatever reason. Maybe we're naive to do so, but isn't that what forums like this are for?

As for getting a fall club-soccer season started, I have no clue how this would be done. (Yes, I'm clueless. :) ) But if anyone were interested in starting one, they would first want to ascertain whether there is demand for such a thing. Again, that's why a forum like this is useful.

Is Mr. Mxyzptlk actually Mr Stats back from the 5th dimesion to share his opinions? (I don't expect an answer - Mr. Mxyzptlk knows all about keeping secret identities - secret. Need to be a Superman fan to appreciate this one)

Is Mr. Mxyzptlk actually Mr Stats back from the 5th dimesion to share his opinions? (I don't expect an answer - Mr. Mxyzptlk knows all about keeping secret identities - secret. Need to be a Superman fan to appreciate this one)

Sorry, I'm not Mr. Stats, and I can prove it. But not now, I've got to go!
;)

[quote=Anonymous]This topic is old.

The fall HS environment in Mass. is thriving despite its faults.

The topic was perhaps framed incorrectly--not surprising, since this is technically the "Good luck Stars tomorrow" thread.

What I see Pasta, myself, and others interested in is not another discussion of the relative merits of high school and club soccer. Instead, we're wondering why there can't be a fall club-soccer alternative to high school, for kids who would rather play club, for whatever reason. Maybe we're naive to do so, but isn't that what forums like this are for?

As for getting a fall club-soccer season started, I have no clue how this would be done. (Yes, I'm clueless. :) ) But if anyone were interested in starting one, they would first want to ascertain whether there is demand for such a thing. Again, that's why a forum like this is useful.

Is Mr. Mxyzptlk actually Mr Stats back from the 5th dimesion to share his opinions? (I don't expect an answer - Mr. Mxyzptlk knows all about keeping secret identities - secret. Need to be a Superman fan to appreciate this one)[/quote:1kgx1jw0]

If you get Mxyzptlk to post his name backwards, will he disappear ?

[quote=Anonymous]This topic is old.

The fall HS environment in Mass. is thriving despite its faults.

The topic was perhaps framed incorrectly--not surprising, since this is technically the "Good luck Stars tomorrow" thread.

What I see Pasta, myself, and others interested in is not another discussion of the relative merits of high school and club soccer. Instead, we're wondering why there can't be a fall club-soccer alternative to high school, for kids who would rather play club, for whatever reason. Maybe we're naive to do so, but isn't that what forums like this are for?

As for getting a fall club-soccer season started, I have no clue how this would be done. (Yes, I'm clueless. :) ) But if anyone were interested in starting one, they would first want to ascertain whether there is demand for such a thing. Again, that's why a forum like this is useful.

Is Mr. Mxyzptlk actually Mr Stats back from the 5th dimesion to share his opinions? (I don't expect an answer - Mr. Mxyzptlk knows all about keeping secret identities - secret. Need to be a Superman fan to appreciate this one)[/quote:21emket8]

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/3e/Mxyzptlk.PNG

A mischievous being from another dimension, Mr. Mxyzptlk possesses powers so advanced they can only be described as magic. He's a prankster, a troublemaker and a genuine threat. He knows Superman's double identity but would never tell, fearing it would lessen the control he'd have over the Man of Steel. Besides, threatening to reveal Superman's secret is much more fun than actually doing it. If he wanted to, Mxyzptlk could kill Superman outright by simply rearranging the Man of Steel's molecules, but again, where is the fun in that? In some weird way Mr. Mxyzptlk considers himself Superman's "pal", always showing up when least expected to throw a surprise into "the big boy scout's" life. Mxy thinks Superman actually looks forward to their running duel of wits as much as he does. Boy, is he wrong. When Mxy's not out trying to destroy Superman, he goes home to the 5th dimension where he enjoys long walks in the park, rock climbing and snuggling with his main squeeze Gsptlsnz.

[MASoccer]

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/3e/Mxyzptlk.PNG



Aaah, summer! People are getting a bit too punchy on those work computers! http://www.pic4ever.com/images/2.gif

The Camp is a Boston College high school team camp run with Clark University this week in Worcester. Most likely the rising U15's are starting to think about college $$$ as the Bc coach is present.

Most likely the rising 15s would like to see their potential AB high school teammates and socialize with the girls they played town travel with for years.

It's more about team building than college prospects. It's cheap and only 2.5 hours for four days - five teams are attending - not sure what towns the other teams come from.

[mathman]

Is Mr. Mxyzptlk actually Mr Stats back from the 5th dimesion to share his opinions? (I don't expect an answer - Mr. Mxyzptlk knows all about keeping secret identities - secret. Need to be a Superman fan to appreciate this one)

Sorry, I'm not Mr. Stats, and I can prove it. But not now, I've got to go!
;)

See you in 90 days...