So, now that the participants of the MLS Cup Final are set, here is my take on how the game will play out.
Dallas (12-4-14) and Colorado (12-8-10) only finished four points apart in the ultra competitive Western Conference. Both teams are very physical and have a couple of difference makers in David Ferreira and Omar Cummings, respectively. Each team has a strong back line - Dallas only allowed 9.7 shots per game while Colorado allowed 10.2. To put this into perspective, Supporter's Shield winner Los Angeles allowed 9.63 while eighth playoff seed San Jose allowed a whopping 13.6.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Sunday, October 10, 2010
This is a coaching post.
Yes, I'm going to rant a bit. Not about coaching per se, but about something that comes with coaching younger players - parents.
Obviously dealing with parents is part of youth sports. There are many types - quiet, loud, nice, mean, control freaks, etc. However, what I've realized is that the hardest thing to deal with when it comes to parents is that there are often about twenty to thirty of them, and only one of you. Which makes it more likely that throughout the course of a week, one out of thirty will have a problem (with the coaching, playing time, finances, training schedule, game schedule, the list goes on) and they'll expect you to fix it.
Not all problems are bad. I have no problem (pun intended) in arranging something with a parent or family so that they can afford to have their kid play at a higher level.
Obviously dealing with parents is part of youth sports. There are many types - quiet, loud, nice, mean, control freaks, etc. However, what I've realized is that the hardest thing to deal with when it comes to parents is that there are often about twenty to thirty of them, and only one of you. Which makes it more likely that throughout the course of a week, one out of thirty will have a problem (with the coaching, playing time, finances, training schedule, game schedule, the list goes on) and they'll expect you to fix it.
Not all problems are bad. I have no problem (pun intended) in arranging something with a parent or family so that they can afford to have their kid play at a higher level.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
MLS: Opening Day 2010
Game Recap
Despite much early uncertainty about whether or not Major League Soccer would hold its 15th season, the MLS 2010 opener went off without a hitch as 2009 expansion side Seattle Sounders hosted their incumbent, the Philadelphia Union.
The game started off with an early (1st minute) yellow to Danny Califf for an off the ball altercation with Fredy “Learn How to Spell Your Name” Montero. Way to go, ESPN, for showing the replay. I had to rewind the feed to catch a glimpse of what happened and that camera angle was even poor. Sometimes I question the production quality of MLS broadcasts. Montero’s ensuing free kick (and follow up) hit the wall, crisis averted.
Despite much early uncertainty about whether or not Major League Soccer would hold its 15th season, the MLS 2010 opener went off without a hitch as 2009 expansion side Seattle Sounders hosted their incumbent, the Philadelphia Union.
The game started off with an early (1st minute) yellow to Danny Califf for an off the ball altercation with Fredy “Learn How to Spell Your Name” Montero. Way to go, ESPN, for showing the replay. I had to rewind the feed to catch a glimpse of what happened and that camera angle was even poor. Sometimes I question the production quality of MLS broadcasts. Montero’s ensuing free kick (and follow up) hit the wall, crisis averted.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Observations from the USA game against the Netherlands.
Positives:
1. The play of Stuart Holden until leaving the game at the half-hour mark. Holden played sharp passes, was consistently open, and even was solid on the defensive side, helping Jonathan Spector contain Dutch wingers Elia and Robben. After being on the receiving end of a dangerous studs-up tackle by Nigel De Jong, Holden was substituted. I really think that in a higher stakes game, De Jong would have been sent off. Good to see my man Beasley get some time, though.
1. The play of Stuart Holden until leaving the game at the half-hour mark. Holden played sharp passes, was consistently open, and even was solid on the defensive side, helping Jonathan Spector contain Dutch wingers Elia and Robben. After being on the receiving end of a dangerous studs-up tackle by Nigel De Jong, Holden was substituted. I really think that in a higher stakes game, De Jong would have been sent off. Good to see my man Beasley get some time, though.
Friday, February 26, 2010
The rant
I know I'm flattering myself when I write this, but I apologize to the large readership for having to read my previous post. It was hastily written and fueled by fresh frustration and anger, and a small amount of hurt pride that came with a confrontation by phone with a parent that I had last night.
As a coach, my actions are (or should be) considered an example to a group of young individuals, my team. I doubt any of them will ever read this, however, just the same, such an expressive display of my opinions should be kept to myself or at least out of the public eye. I have so much more to learn about the beautiful game, but even more to learn about the political/social aspect that surrounds the youth version in America.
I do not take back what I said, because in part I believe that my words are correct. However, the way I expressed them was irresponsible and immature. I will leave that post up as a serve-serving reminder of my need for improvement in that facet of coaching.
As a coach, my actions are (or should be) considered an example to a group of young individuals, my team. I doubt any of them will ever read this, however, just the same, such an expressive display of my opinions should be kept to myself or at least out of the public eye. I have so much more to learn about the beautiful game, but even more to learn about the political/social aspect that surrounds the youth version in America.
I do not take back what I said, because in part I believe that my words are correct. However, the way I expressed them was irresponsible and immature. I will leave that post up as a serve-serving reminder of my need for improvement in that facet of coaching.
Can you just sit down and shut up?
That's what I want to say to you. I am tired of hearing constant shouting and criticism from the sidelines, surprisingly NOT out of my own mouth. I'm pretty sure I say less to your kid than you do last game, but the funny thing is that all the time you spent yelling "Go!" to him did absolutely no good whereas my halftime instruction resulted in several successful passes and a goal for our team.
Look, I'm basically volunteering my time here. Your son is never going to make the world cup team, let alone go on to play college. You're acting like this game is the make it or break it game for your player. What you need to understand is that real development in this game comes from correction, repetition, and dedication NOT mindless screaming.
Furthermore, if you won't take the time to work with your son OUTSIDE of training on his technical abilities then I can assure you I will have no problem finding a new mostly useless forward with slightly better touch for the fall season. I hate to break it to you (but not really), your child is literally the worst player on the team. While you may never read this, I certainly feel better having written it.
Look, I'm basically volunteering my time here. Your son is never going to make the world cup team, let alone go on to play college. You're acting like this game is the make it or break it game for your player. What you need to understand is that real development in this game comes from correction, repetition, and dedication NOT mindless screaming.
Furthermore, if you won't take the time to work with your son OUTSIDE of training on his technical abilities then I can assure you I will have no problem finding a new mostly useless forward with slightly better touch for the fall season. I hate to break it to you (but not really), your child is literally the worst player on the team. While you may never read this, I certainly feel better having written it.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Dissecting the US roster
The US roster for its March friendly against the Netherlands was released today. This friendly will fall on the final FIFA date before the World Cup rosters are released. I am going to analyze these selections and give you my picks for the WC roster.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Cal South Soccer Nation Expo 2010
On Saturday, February 13th, I had the pleasure of attending the annual Soccer Nation Expo at the Los Angeles Convention Center. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the event, as I formerly was, this gathering is organized by Cal South and according to the website is “two amazing days of high-spirited soccer action, education, shopping, networking, and just plain fun.”
Friday, February 12, 2010
Big Weekend in Soccer
Tonight - Coaching academy players. We'll be working on finishing and attacking.
Tomorrow - Heading out to Soccer Nation Expo 2010 in LA. Pretty excited about the classroom and field sessions put on by Dave Sarachan, Bob Gansler, and more! Free stuff too!
Sunday - Besides Valentine's Day, I'll be playing against my former men's soccer team. Shouldn't be too challenging as this team is the worst in the league (hence why I no longer play for them). Pretty sore from last week's loss and training during the week, but this week will be a good chance to get forward from my left back spot and do some attacking!
Tomorrow - Heading out to Soccer Nation Expo 2010 in LA. Pretty excited about the classroom and field sessions put on by Dave Sarachan, Bob Gansler, and more! Free stuff too!
Sunday - Besides Valentine's Day, I'll be playing against my former men's soccer team. Shouldn't be too challenging as this team is the worst in the league (hence why I no longer play for them). Pretty sore from last week's loss and training during the week, but this week will be a good chance to get forward from my left back spot and do some attacking!
Sack Lunch
Yes, it's been a long time coming, but finally I have a new post. Also, check out my brother's blog here where I will write from time to time...
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