retired_mallory08

Draft Lottery Results Announced

After a secret ballot, the new MLS Commissioner announced that the selection order for the upcoming reinauguration draft had been decided.

The draft, which is to take place on Sunday and Monday in Las Vegas, will take the serpentine format (1-2-3-3-2-1) in an attempt to be as fair as possible in this combination of both a new player and dispersal draft.

In an unforseen twist, the Commish also announced that the previously anticipated team in Ontario, Canada had been scrapped and that a consortium would be taking ownership of the final team. Although they would be present and active at the draft, a team name had not yet been announced. What drama for the team that, it turns out, holds the #1 overall pick! An interim manager - Nick di Benedetto - has been appointed to oversee the draft, and with an eye firmly fixed on the permanent position.

Here is the draft order, pending any trades:

1. Chicago (Nick)
2. Marquette (Et)
3. Anchorage (Russ)
4. New Liskeard (Stu)
5. Rochester (Tristan)
6. Lexington (Al)
7. Vancouver (Omer)
8. Nashville (Lee)
9. Austin (Ryan)
10. Boston (Brian)
11. Toronto (Ricky)
12. Muskegon (Frank)

The hype is building over the draft day, and it's believed that the rapid-fire selection system put in place by the league could wreak havok - with GM's liable to choke under the pressure. It should be a hell of a day!



MLS SUPERDRAFT : Day 1




The reinauguration draft started with a bang as interim GM Nick di Benedetto traded away the #1 overall pick to Ricky Lung and his Toronto team. Ricky was seemingly blinded by the desire to have Landon Donovan as the foundation of his team and paid a heavy price for the selection. Toronto gave up their #11, #14 overall picks as well as a token pick in the 14th round. Fans and Managers/GM's alike gasped as the deal was announced.

What fireworks, what drama, and what a way to kick off the new league!

Young talented players with cap exemptions seemed to be the focus of teams on the day, and no surprise - with a modest $1.9m annual cap, managers must be thrify if they are to assemble a comeptitive team.

Some of the bigger names in the draft were passed over early, as the 'Buy North American' trend continued. Only the Texas Longhorns, based out of Austin, selected a foreigner, former Chivas USA starlet - J.P Garcia in the First Round.

By the end of Day One, most of the US MNT and likewise the Canadian national side were selected, along with some of the marquee talent - Gio van Bronkhorst (ROC), Luis Figo (TBA), Paolo Maldini (TBA), Oliver Kahn (MAR), Edgar Davids (MAR), J-J Ockocha (VAN) and former World Player of the Year, Rivaldo (TEX).

The first 7 rounds were completed on Day One and the drama will continue on Monday as the Managers once again shuffle for an advantage. The second day gems are likely to be where the new league is won and lost, and with 1300 names still in the pool, there's still plenty of talent to choose from.

retired_mallory08

Clark Speaks to the Press

After avoiding the camera since his announcement as the new Manager of 1st year MLS team, the Kentucky Kaisers, Al Clark today took the podium to discuss his appointment and the recent dealings at the draft.

“Thanks for coming down……I feel like I’m at the bottom of a long hill, but at the top of the hill there are great riches and rewards. I want to get up the hill as fast as I can. But I’m a big lad, and if I don’t pace myself, I might not get there at all. But I will get there.�

The bemused media gathering could be heard whispering ‘not since Cantona’, and ‘seagulls’.

“Now, to business…..I’m delighted to be here in the Bluegrass, this is a beautiful part of the country, one that is often overlooked by major sports. This town [Lexington] has only a ‘A’ baseball team to talk of in the way of professional sport. Sure, folks around here bleed blue [UK] but I think it’s about time they awakened to follow pro-sports, and in particular soccer. UK has had a decent soccer program here for a while, and we’ve purchase Commonwealth Stadium off the city to use as our home. The bleachers have been converted into seats and it will be an excellent facility, with room to grow if need be.�

Responding to question about the team name…..�Kaisers? Well, it wasn’t my decision, of course, that came from the board, but Kaiser means Caesar, so you can translate it to Emperors if you like�.

The team jerseys were also revealed, a striking blue and yellow for the home kit, very reminiscent of the 2005 Parma Away kit. The road colors were akin to Willem II’s from the Dutch league. Finally, the 3rd kit, should it be required, is based upon Inter’s Third kit. “They’re some good looking uniforms. I hope shirt sales will be strong, that would only help motivate our team if they took the field to a sea of shirts in our home colors. Plus, the revenue would help ensure our competitiveness.�



Moving on to draft matters, Clark was clearly still recovering from the exhausting two day event. “We got some great players, truly excellent professionals. We have a great blend of youth and experience. We focused mainly on established nationals, and younger foreigners, this will give us time to develop them my way, and also give them a good shot at obtaining a green card, if that’s what they want to do.�

“We brought in a total of 7 US internationals, and a Canadian regular. That’s 8 internationals that wont count against our foreign player limits. I think the veteran experience of Brad Freidel and Claudio Reyna, the USMNT Captain, will be priceless. I not only think I got the best goalie in the draft, if not American history, but also the best leader in Reyna. Neither came cheaply, but I felt were important to the direction I’ve set for this team�.

The supporting cast included starlet Eddie Johnson, who was secured to a 4 year deal. “His wages are high, but he’ll be cap-exempt for the duration of his contract. Of course, at some point he’s likely to want to jump to Europe, and that will be a great boost to our coffers when he does. Julian de Guzman, the 2nd Rounder, who had been plying his trade for Spanish giants Deportivo, “will bring a combination of tenacity, creativity and versatility that is second to none. In my opinion he’s the best Canadian player, bar none.�

Nick Garcia, Jimmy Conrad and Chris Albright, all current or past internationals help form a robust looking line in front of Freidel. “We’ve also got Lomic, Ridgewell and Galindo, three top prospects and will be YI’s on our squad. I anticipate big things from all three, even in their rookie MLS season.

Moving into midfield, Clark seems blessed with an embarrassment of riches. The afore-mentioned Reyna and de Guzman, are complemented by Brian Mullan as a current international, along with Christian Rodriguez, Bart Ogbesche and project Jacob Lensky. These three youngsters have what it takes, and although Lensky may be something of a project, the 16 year old has all the potential in the world. There seems to be enough versatility to play out a number of formations, though Clark is known to be a firm believer in the 4-4-2 system. “I brought in players to play my system. I think that only makes sense. But, those guys are versatile, and should I need to switch things up they are capable of adapting. That’s why they’re here.�

Up front seemed to again be Clark’s priority. The first round (#6) pick went on Eddie Johnson – at 20 already one of the brightest stars in US soccer. He was complemented with Pedro Junior, a Brazilian in every sense. Electric and at just 18, has the footballing world at his feet. Rookie Knox Cameron was added late on to give some support off the bench. Herculez, written-off two years ago, also made the squad with Clark’s last pick. “The key isn’t just that we brought in 4 strikers…Brian Mullan and Bart Ogbesge can also both play up front – that gives us a total of 6 options for 2 starting jobs. I love that competition for places�.

All said and done Clark felt happy with his two days at the draft “There were a couple that I feel got away, and I definitely feel I have missed out on some real talent. But who hasn’t, and to be fair there was a lot to go around. I drafted to a system that I play, and because of that I couldn’t be happier. Sure, I know some of the fans would have liked to see a Shearer, Cafu or Larsson [amongst others] but I feel the group I assembled was the best value for money. And no one can say we’re lacking star-power with the likes of EJ, Reyna and Freidel in the team! Wait until they see some of those youngsters – especially Pedro Junior – they’ll see what I was trying to achieve here. And hell, we’ve still got $380k in cap room should we need to make some moves.�

“All in all I’m delighted, and I can’t wait to get onto the practice field so I can get this show on the road!�

retired_spaulsen

Youth, Speed, and Brazilians for Texas

With the ongoing radical changes of professional soccer within North America, some saw Austin, TX and its general lack of professional sports as an opportune location for a new MLS 'franchise'. Austin is a college town though and many felt it would be difficult to establish a new professional identity as long as The University of Texas at Austin and its student athletics were around to compete for the same supporters and revenue. However, due to Big 12 Conference and Title IX rules, UT did not have a collegiate soccer team for men. Perhaps it was this fact that gave a few prominent Texas alumni the idea of creating a MLS team and naming it in honor of their alma mater. After agreeing on the financial details with The University on future profits and revenue, as well as for the rights to use the name, logo, and colo(u)rs, the Texas Longhorns of Major League Soccer were finally a reality. Reportedly, UT was also pleased with the added publicity the team might bring to the school. The team would play in UT's Mike A. Myers Track & Soccer Stadium. Due to a positive response in Austin, discussions are ongoing about removing the running track (then obviously reproducing it in a new venue elsewhere) and making the stadium soccer specific. The decision was also made to name Ryan Thompson, a Texas alum himself, the team's first manager.

As with all the other fledgling MLS teams, the initial draft would be important in determining the team's success and identity:
1st round pick: Juan Pablo Garcia (Chivas USA). Texas made the young Mexican its first pick, as well as the first foreigner (non American or Canadian) to be selected in the draft. The attack-minded midfielder has a solid game already at 23 years of age, and brings immediate flair and creativity to the Longhorn lineup.
2nd. Jonathan Spector (Man Utd). While Spector is only 18, Thompson is said to expect the young defender to pay immediate dividends. Spector runs well for a defender and has good size.
3rd. Nik Besagno (Real Salt Lake). At 16, Besagno can barely drive; yet Thompson has already been quoted as saying the defensive midfielder can be an important contributor right away.
4th. �ndio (Ipitanga). The 18 year old Brazilian wingback is said to have lots of potential and the ability to play now.
5th. Cory Gibbs (Feyenoord). Tall and with exceptional athletic gifts, Texas will look to the 25 year old American international to be a stalwart in their backline.
6th. Rivaldo (Olympiakos). At 32, the former Barcelona superstar and World Cup winner may be on the downside of his career, but Thompson still hopes the world class playmaker will still have something left for the Longhorns.
7th. John O'Brien (ADO den Haag). The talented American international is versatile and can help fill a number of holes for Texas. However, O'Brien is quite prone to injury and insiders say Thompson views him solely as a wildcard instead of having him penciled in anywhere.
8th. �vine (Bahia). Not too much is known about the 16 year old left sided player, but scouts say the Brazilian is a promising talent.
9th. Thomas Prager (Heerenveen). 19 year old Austrian midfielder should be able to contribute in midfield right away.
10th. Bruno (Juventude). Young Brazilian attacker is seen as a good prospect. Will be given every chance to prove he is ready to play now.
11th. Will John (KC Wizards). 19 year old American forward prospect.
12th. Benny Feilhaber (HSV). American midfielder who should be useful and at 20, has some upside.
13th. Olexandr Shovkovskyi (Dinamo Kiev). Veteran goalkeeper is expected to step in between the Texas pipes immediately, especially as he was the only signficant addition towards the salary cap on the second day of the draft.
14th. Stephen Ademolu (Tromsø). 22 year old American forward is said to have some upside remaining.
15th. Quentin Westberg (Troyes). Young and raw American keeper. Definitely a project. Likely to be Shovkovskyi's understudy.
16th. Ryan Cochrane (Houston). Mobile and young American defender should provide depth.
17th. Kelly Gray (Houston). Defensive midfielder who can also fill in at fullback if necessary.
18th. Jemal Johnson (Blackburn). Another raw prospect. 19 year old American attacker needs to add some polish.

If trends are to be found from Texas' selections, one is certainly that they generally took young players. Texas currently has the youngest average age of players on its roster of any team in the league. This could be a problem up front as they seem to lack proven goal scorers. At least there is cap space left to address this problem if necessary. Thompson evidently covets pacey players as well, as there is speed at all positions. Also notable is that Texas selected four Brazilians. Completely missing are pure wingers. This might say something about the sort of formation and tactics Thompson has in mind...

retired_lappel

FC United of Boston

Brand new MLS franchise FC United of Boston today announced their new manager. Young manager Brian Lofrumento was all smiles today at his unveiling press conference in front of a large mass of media at Foxboro Stadium.
"Today is a new era in Boston sports," exclaimed Lofrumento. "The Red Sox have brought many smiles to baseball fans, the Celtics had their day, but FC United of Boston will bring joy to all sports fans in the Boston area."
Lofrumento went on to reveal that he was sad to see the old-look MLS go, but was insistant that he would make sure the new Boston area club moves forward from the recent success Steve Nicol had built with the Revolution. Lofrumento certainly tried to get these fans on his side in the draft as he picked up fan favorite Clint Dempsey in the second round. It is worthy to be noted that FC United of Boston is the team with the lowest wages, most salary cap space, and the most domestic players on the roster, with only two foreigners in the entire squad. Below is a break down of the players picked for the new look FC United of Boston:

Round 1 Pick: Giuseppe Rossi This young and quick forward will provide FC United of Boston many goals for quite a few years to come. The former Man Utd player has been asked by Bruce Arena to appear for the United States in the coming World Cup, and playing on this team will undoubtedly help with that. Rossi is expected to be utilized in a squad rotation system up top until he is ready for consistent starts.

Round 2 Pick: Clint Dempsey Dempsey is one of the two remaining Revolution players left in the Boston area. He saw his teammates get thrown around the new league, including poor Shalrie Joseph getting shipped all the way to Alaska. Dempsey is expected to pay a prominant role in the FC United attack. He is definitely a man the FC United fans can expect consistency out of.

Round 3 Pick: Edson Buddle This former Columbus Crew striker is expected to partner with Dennis Bergkamp up top. The young yet proven striker can win balls in the air as well as use power and pace to get past defenders. We expect Buddle to be a face in Boston for at least a few more seasons.

Round 4 Pick: Brad Davis Lofrumento singled out Davis as one of the picks he wanted to make sure he got. Davis is expected to have a lock down on the left-midfield spot in Lofrumento's side. "We don't need a Ryan Giggs when we have Brad Davis." Expect Davis to play an integral role in the Boston side for years to come.

Round 5 Pick: Jose Burciaga Jr In round five we saw Boston select yet another left sided player, this time in the defense. It is obvious Lofrumento is looking to work his team down the flanks, and Burciaga is the man to do this. A solid performer in the old MLS, Burciaga will probably take the left defense spot as his own.

Round 6 Pick: Jeff Parke Every team needs a utility player, and Boston is counting on Parke to play that role. Twenty-two year old Parke can play anywhere across the back line and Boston fans must be pleased about his versatility.

Round 7 Pick: Tamandani Nsaliwa Boston fans may not know a lot about this young Canadian player, but Lofrumento has high expectations for the former Saarbrucken player. He may be a hidden gem, and we can expect him to play some role in the right side of this Boston side.

Round 8 Pick: Nat Borchers Borchers was a very crucial pick to Lofrumento's plans. It was always known that Borchers was going to be a mid-draft pick, and Lofrumento has revealed that he is ecstatic Borchers landed in Boston. Several other managers have expressed an interest in Borchers but instead they can now watch him play against their own teams. There could be an interesting defensive partnership between Borchers and veteran Ehiogu.

Round 9 Pick: D.J. Countess Every team needs a good goalie, and that is exactly what young Countess is. Touted by the media to be in the Tim Howard mold, Countess will most likely start the season as FC United of Boston's number two keeper.

Round 10 Pick: Joshua Gros Josh Gros is another utility player in the side. The former DC United man can play either left or right midfield, and Boston is expected to take full advantage of his versatility.

Round 11 Pick: Brian Carroll Carroll joins former teammate Gros in potential midfield spots. He is widely expected to be groomed as the team's defensive midfielder for the future, so look for him to feature here in some games. The question remains as to whether or not this is where his future is. Lofrumento has given minor hints about the availability of Carroll in a trade for a proven and experienced midfielder. Carroll is an excellent prospect for the future, no matter where he ends up.

Round 12 Pick: Mike Magee Magee is another of Lofrumento's young American prospects. Magee can play in both an attacking mid role and a position up front. It is yet to be seen where he will feature in this Boston side, but rest assured he will be here for the forseeable future.

Round 13 Pick: Zach Thornton "Big Zach" is widely touted as this season's number one at Boston. Backed up by Countess, Thornton must be on his toes throughout the season. "If his fitness gets in the way, we won't let Zach get in the way; out the door he will go," warned Lofrumento. For now, Thornton will occupy the net in front of Lofrumento's back four.

Round 14 Pick: Ugo Ehiogu Round fourteen finally saw Boston choose a non-domestic player. Ehiogu is a player who will add much needed grit and determination to the back four. As one of the most experienced players in the side, Lofrumento will count on Ehiogu to lead by example. Perhaps the second most exciting player we will see on a regular basis in Boston this season.

Round 15 Pick: Dennis Bergkamp Former Arsenal striker is without a doubt the most exciting player in this Boston lineup. He will put fans in the stands while serving as club captain and probable leading goalscorer. Bergkamp rounded out Lofrumento's two non-domestic players and will perhaps be the most important player of the season. Boston fans must hope, however, that Bergkamp can keep his fitness throughout the season as they do not want to see their captain out for long stretches of the season.

Round 16 Pick: James Riley Young Riley, fresh out of Wake Forest, made ripples around the Boston media last season with the Revolution. He is expected to do the same this year in the same environment, only this time under new manager Brian Lofrumento. Picked in round sixteen, Riley could turn out to be the most valuable pick of the round. He can play many different positions, from defense to attacking mid. Riley is an exciting prospect down the flanks.

Round 17 Pick: Brian Dunseth Dunseth is a former Revolution player that has jumped around MLS for quite a few seasons before landing himself in Salt Lake. Now he is back in Boston and is expected to play a large role throughout the season in the Boston defense.

Round 18 Pick: Davy Arnaud Lofrumento didn't expect to see Arnaud still available this late into the draft, but he has told sources that he was delighted. Arnaud is expected to take a spot in the right side of midfield and serve as a Solskjaer-type of player. Arnaud is tipped to play more than an average role in the squad this season.

FC United kicks off preseason shortly and Lofrumento has hinted at making a couple more signings. He has also announced to the league that if anyone is looking to trade one of their midfielders, Lofrumento is interested. "No matter what happens, however, I would like to keep the American feel to this team. I feel that having only two non-domestic players will allow my players to gel and give us the edge over other teams who have simply thrown players together."

retired_vallem733529

Player Profiles (Managers comments underneath.)

Damarcus Beasley, First round draft pick, #2 overall, AM/F, From Indiana Former Clubs: Chicago, PSV

He is the Soccer version of a AI he is fast and has amazing skill he can take amazing amounts of punishment. Get fouled get back up and make a play. He has succeeded on the International level which makes him a great asset. He is a hard worker, amazingly fast and amazingly skilled. I am elated that I could grab him with the #2 pick.

Michael Klukowski, Second Round Draft Pick, #22 Overall, DLC, From Canada (sort of) Former Clubs: Club Brugge, La Louvière

Well Michael is a great Canadian player with some gritty. He played for the Belgium Giant club Brugge, which means he is tested in the type of game I want to see the team play. He is very versatile and can play many positions and fill in holes. This is a man that was once playing in the eight division in France worked his way up to a full time role on a big club.

Edgar Davids, Third Round Pick #25 Overall, DM/MC, From Holland, Former Clubs: Tottenham,Inter, AC Milan, Barcelona, Juventus, Ajax

He is a great veteran midfielder. They call him the pitbull for a reason he is a tough player, he has been there at every level with the champions league victories. There is not much to say we are relying on him to be the rock in midfield hopefully he can teach the young ones a thing or two.

Casey Conor, Fourth Round Pick, #46 overall, STc, From Colorado, Former Clubs:
Borussia Dortmund, Hanover 96, Mainz

Well he is one of the future strikers to lead the United States, he is a scrappy player who has great heading and positioning abilities. He still needs some time to develop but he should be a great threat for us in the league. He will have to fight for the starting job though.

Oliver Kahn, Fifth round Pick, #49 overall, GK, From Germany, Former Team: FC Bayern

Kahn brings everything you could want to the team. He is a perfectionist a great leader a great goalkeeper. He has won the UEFA cup, European championship and was in the World Cup finals he has been great at every level. He will be one of the team’s leaders. I am very excited to have him in the fold.

Robbie Russell, sixth round pick, #70 overall, DR/WBR, From Mass., Former Teams:
Sogndal I.L., Rosenborg

Robbie is another one of those players that have played in the tough northern divisions. He is a aggressive defender that likes to move up tot the attack given the opportunity. He is a good player make a play if he sees one.

Michael Reda, Seventh Round pick, #73 overall, DC, From Canada, Former Teams: Sogdnal, Aab and Toronto

Reda is a player that at every level he has been given a chance has excelled. He was named Songdnal MVP, Former captain of Toronto when they beat 1860 Munich.

Roy Keane, Eight round pick, #95 overall, DM C, From Ireland, Former Teams: Manchester United, Nottom Forest

Roy Keane was a Steve Yzerman like figure to Manchester United. He is a amazing leader. I mean the guy has plays and songs named after him what more do you want. He can still play a top level, even though he has had his fair share of outburst. I have the most respect for him he will be like a assistant manager player to me. He expects to work hard day in and day out and that’s what I expect the team to do.

Emad Meteab (or Emad Moteb), Ninth Round Pick, #98 overall, ST C, From Eygpt, Former Team: Al Ahly

He might be my best pick up at this place he was a steal. He has scored well both for his club and the international level. This will be his first test in a higher level.

Kily Gonzalez,Tenth Round Pick, #119 overall, AML, From Argentina. Former Teams: Boca, Inter, Zaragoza, Valencia

This is the last member of my midfield who I will affectingly call my four horsemen. He adds another strong upper body player with great passing and great crossing. He has played for a team that is very close to my heart (Boca).

Ariel Broggi, Eleventh Round Pick,#122 D/WB L, From Argentina, Former Team: Vélez Sarsfield

He is another young and good attacking wing back. He is fast enough and brings a good pace to the team. He is going to be used heavily in rotation.

Alvaro SaborÃ*o, Twelfth Round Pick, #143, AM F, From Costa Rica, Former Team: Deportivo Saprissa
The Leading goal scorer in the Costa Rican league for a team that would become CONCACAF Champions cup winners. He is going be one of the strikers on rotation. I see bright things for his future.

The Rest
Jon Busch, Thirteenth round pick, #146, GK, From USA, Former Team: Columbus Crew.
(Former A League GK of the year, Capped for USA)

Ramiro Corrales, Fourteenth round pick, #167, D/DM/M L, From USA, Former Team: Hamarkameratene
(Capped 4 times for USA, Drafted in the inaugural MLS draft)

Dwayne De Rosario, Fifteenth round, #170, AM/F, From Canada, Former Team: San Jose
(Capped Canadian player, 2005 MLS best XI, MLS Cup MVP)

[b]Scot Thompson, Sixteenth Round pick, #191, DRC, From USA, Former Team: Portland Timbers

Memo Gonzalez, Seventeenth Round Pick #194, AM LC, From USA, Former Team: Los Angeles

Jamie Moreno, Eighteenth Round Pick, #217, FC, From Bolivia, Former Team, DC

retired_uzy

Muskegon adds Soccer Team, Joins New MLS

With the announcement of the reformed MLS, an ownership group headed by the Muskegon Fury hockey club's Owner and General Manager, Tony Lisman, formed with the goal of bringing professional soccer to West Michigan. While Grand Rapids was originally considered for its size, it was soon decided that Muskegon would be able to support a top-level soccer club, and thus the decision was made. The team will be named the Muskegon Mismatch, and will play in the MLS's Southern Conference.



Local man Frank Serafinski has been chosen as manager, and was the man in charge for Muskegon in the draft. Muskegon was last in the draft order, however due to the way the draft works, they did get the first pick in the following round. The following players were selected, with the first ten reviewed by Serafinski:

Round 1: Frankie Hejduk (D/M RL): One of the top American players, a member of the US National Team. Getting a bit on in age at 30, but still has plenty of ability, and will be stong in the backfield.

Round 2: Brian Ching (ST): 26 year old American striker. Will be a big part of the attack force, and has recently broken into the US National Team. Having recovered from an injury a couple years ago, we don't believe that will be a liability, and indeed we think that he's better than ever.

Round 3: Kasey Keller (GK): One of the world's top goalkeepers, even at the age of 35. He will be the anchor at the back, and along with our strong defense should ensure that we don't let in too many goals.

Round 4: Aaron Galindo (D): We originally picked him, but soon decided that we could trade him and improve, so he went to Kentucky in exchange for a later pick and a pick in next year's SuperDraft.

Round 5: Willem Janssen (AM/F RC): 18 year old Dutchman, with loads of talent. We're hoping that he can come into the lineup quickly and score some goals, and also believe that he could become a Dutch international player someday.

Round 6: Avi Nimni (AM/ST LC): Maccabi Tel-Aviv's biggest scorer ever, and the captain of the Israeli National Team. While he's another aging player, he will be on the other side of the strike force, and could be our top scorer this season.

Round 7: Drew Moor (D RC): Young American defender with loads of potential. Will be a star in the future, and will probably get plenty of playing time even in this first year.

Round 8: Logan Pause (D/DM/M RC) Another skilled young American, who will hopefully become the anchor of our midfield in the future, and will get lots of playing time to help develop him into his role.

Round 9: Josh Simpson (D/AM L) A young Canadian who's already played in England, now comes back to North America. Strong in that he can both play towards the front and the back.

Round 10: Jose Rafael Alamo (GK) Our second goalkeeper, probably won't get much play behind Keller, but is a very good prospect looking towards the future.

The Rest:

Round 11: Marco Baroni, (D C)
Round 12: Patrice Bernier (DM C)
Round 13: Abdelsatar Sabry (AM C)
Round 14: Mark Wilson (M C)
Round 15: Rodrigo Lopez (M L)
Round 16: Felix Brillant (AM RLC/F C)
Round 16 (From Kentucky): Nolberto Solano (M RC)
Round 17: Tony Sanneh (D/WB/DM R/C)
Round 18: Chris Wondolowski (AM RC/F C)

The Mismatch are nearly $400,000 below the Salary Cap, and plan on signing a few more players before the season is started. By the draft, the team is strong and almost ready to compete in the first season of the new MLS.

retired_hellokity111

Vancouver Lions

With the draft complete the Lions have an interesting season to look forward to. Players have been picked in some key areas but the squad will surely need strengthening before the season gets started.

Pick 7, AM/FRC Eddie Gaven
Gaven was picked early due to the rush for young talent in the early rounds of the draft. He will be required to add more to his abilities before being thrown into the starting lineup.

Pick 18, ST Taylor Twellman
He wasn't expected to go this early either but a hardworking striker with the ability to finish is something that will be appreciated by the Vancouver fans.

Pick 31 GK, Brad Guzan
The Lions picked up possibly the best goalkeeping prospect with this pick. He should feature in the first team despite his young age.

Pick 42, AMLR Justin Mapp
Justin has impressed despite his young age and his versatility on the flanks should be an asset.

Pick 55, AMC Patricio Pérez
The young Argentinian has great dribbling abilty and a lot of upside. He should be slowly eased into the team over the next season.

Pick 66, DC Clarence Goodson
Clarence is a tall and strong defensive prospect who should start the season as a backup but he is expected to come into the first team in the next couple of years.

Pick 79, AMC Jay-Jay Okocha
The Nigerian national team captain was a major pick-up for Vancouver. Still quite capable, Okocha comes to the MLS after playing for Eintracht Frankfurt, Fenerbahce, Paris-SG and Bolton.

Pick 90, D/WBR Steven Cherundolo
The pacy right back was aruably the best U.S. national full back in the draft. He will start the season owning the right back spot.

Pick 103, ST Carlos Ruiz
A natural finisher, Ruiz should be a deadly combo up front with Taylor Twellman.

Pick 114, AM/FRC Brent Carelse
The young South African is highly regarded by the Vancouver coaches. With ability to play up front as well as on the flank, Carelse should complement the Vancouver attack nicely.

Pick 127, DC Danny Califf
The underrated Califf is a strong centre back with good aerial abilities and a good tackler. He will have a starting spot in the heart of the defense.

Pick 138, DCAlpay Özalan
The Turkish international has brought controversy to every club he has gone and Vancouver is unlikely to be any different. On the field, Alpay is a ferocious tackler and a good defensive organizer. He will partner Califf in centre.

Pick 151, DCZak Whitbread
Another strong defender picked by Vancouver for the future. Zak will be a primary backup especially to replace international call ups.

Pick 162, D/ML Heath Pearce
Little known versatile full back should strengthen the Vancouver defense.

Pick 175, ST Alan Gordon
Strong striker will be a huge target up front and will give defenses troubles with his leaping and heading ability.

Pick 186, GK Troy Perkins
Another young keeper who has a lot of potential. The battle for the keeper spot will be a fierce one during the pre season.

Pick 199, DM/MC Emmanuel Sarki
Young nigerian anchorman has a lot of potential. He appears to have the staring spot locked but pre season may prompt the coaches to pick up a more experienced player to complement him.

Pick 210, WB/M/AMLGrigoris Georgatos
The Greek wing man should be a good pickup for Vancouver as he is likely to attract the large Greek community to the games. Having last played for Olympiakos, Georgatos has also spent some time playing for Inter.

retired_terragyrl

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Part One
Going to New Liskeard

It's a long drive from Toronto I had been warned. Even so, I had decided to take the drive north after disembarking from my plane at the Lester B. Pearson int'l airport. I hoped the long drive would give me a sense of perspective. I hoped it would help me to understand the man behind the audacious bid to bring professional soccer to the wilds of Northern Canada.

I drove up the desolate highway, up through Barrie and into the appropriatley named North Bay. Hulking rockcuts and towering pines crowded the long lonely road retreating only briefly to grudgingly permit the occasional rural outpost or highway gas station.

This road had been hacked out of the wilderness to facilitate the rape of the lumber, minerals, and raw materials needed for the exploding industrial sectors down south. Mother nature had yielded some of her treasures but but seemed contemptuous of
man's feeble attempts to subdue her. Once thriving lumber mills or burgeoning mines lay scattered just km's off the main highway; already nearly entirely reclaimed. Only the occasional mining head frame or concrete foundation lay in mute testament to the towns and people that had once lived and worked there.

Into this wilderness I sped on, forever north. I gradually became more and more immune to the miracles surrounding me. Every rockcut and expanse of trees failed to illicit the admiration that they had inspired at the beginning of my pilgrimmage. That space was instead filled with dread and the knowledge that I was now very much alone, and at the fickle hands of fate. Alone in the desolation.

I was relieved when I spied the new sign, a touch of colour and civilization seemingly out of place on the vast unending highway. I turned the pickup off the road onto a new stretch of tarmac, still radiant in its newness. Up and up the new road rose, sheer cliff on one side of the truck, and a vast expanse of blue on the other. As I climbed, the road finally began to flatten out and I climbed over the last rise to...an unending sea of grey. The parking lot was as huge as it was unexpected, but I had no trouble seeing my final destination.

An ominous spectre encased in glass and steel loomed over me as I parked the truck and walked the final few yards to the barred gates. I stood directly in front of the main entrance and my eyes were helplessly drawn to the menacingly huge red
letters, emblazoned high above. 'The Widowmaker' they proclaimed. And I could believe it.

Part Two
Interview with the chairman

I was granted entry when I explained of my appointment with the chairman of the club. I was lead through back passageways and up countless stairs until I reached a vast room at the top. Out before me, through the vast floor to ceiling windows, lay the stunning green playing field struck with blazingly white lines. I strode across the room captivated by the scene in front of me. A voice checked my advance and I spun around. Seated at the massive oak desk behind me, sat the mastermind of all this madness. The chairman.

He greeted me warmly and offered me a drink. He knew I had questions he said, and he'd do his best to answer them. And the ones he couldn't? Well, he pointed down on the playing surface. I could see a figure restlessly pacing the empty field.
That, is your man, he said.

He answered my queries before I had a chance to ask them. How do I expect to fill a 30,000 all-seater stadia? he asked rhetorically. He knew I had done the math. There was only a generous estimate of population of only 250,000 people in the
immediate surrounding 300 mile area . There was only one highway to get to this area. One. The stadium was perched on a high bluff overlooking Lake Temiskaming. There was only one way in and one way out. Who would finance this madness?

He had, he told me. Tourism was a big part of the economy up here, he explained, and he figured a pro soccer team was just one more lure to get people up here. Brits loved trains and soccer he revealed, and there was plenty of both up here, now.
Americans loved to fish and hunt up here, they might as well take in a soccer match while they did it. And the lack of access? Well, the locals around drove their ATV's everywhere so he figured they'd just drive them right up the side of the cliff to watch the game. That would cut down considerably on after game exit chaos. And once the locals discovered the drinking culture around soccer? Hell, try and keep them away.

Then he ushered me out, said he had prior commitments and that he was sorry, but any other concerns would have to wait for another time.

I took the long trek back down the stairs and wove through the corridors to the visitors dressingroom. I wanted to experience as much as I could, what the visiting team would encounter as they rose up through the tunnel for the first time.

It was an experience.

It wasn't so much a tunnel as a channel. A narrow corridor stretching 50 m to the field only wide enough to permit me sideways. I crept through it gazing upwards at the 12 foot high white wall enclosing me in, onto the expanse of seats looking directly down upon me. This would be a gauntlet of fire every away team would have to run, once before a game, at halftime, and at the end of a tiring match. I knew I wouldn't fancy doing it with a howling mob poised above me, raining down their abuse.

Part Three
The Manager

I exited the tunnel, only to gaze up into the stern features of the solitary figure I had glimpsed from above. He looked as hard and rugged as the rockcuts I had driven through to get here. Not a man to trifle with. Stu 'Not to be confused with
Brian Clough, although perhaps just as good' Hopkins.

In a blink the impression was gone. With a smile, the intimidation I had felt vanished. He too, greeted me warmly and took me by the arm to show me his pride and joy, his vision of the Northmen.

"Here,"he said, pointing to an area just inside the halfway line,"This is where the opponent's attack will die."

"We'll play with a high defensive line of 3 central defenders,"he outlined to me,"Ready to catch the opposition offsides as soon as the ball is first played in."

"And here,"he continued as he pointed to the half way circle,"This is where our midfielders will win the ball back as the opposition finds themselves with the ball and no space, no time, and no where to go."

He became animated as he continued his talk, gesturing wildly to the flanks. "This is where our middies will make life harsh on the opposition, taking on defenders with pace and skill seldom seen on these shores."

"And this space needs no introduction", he said, pointing to the penalty area,"This is Shearer's house, and Alan will distribute to his striking partner and advancing attack minded players...and score the odd goal himself."

He slowed down and shot me a curious look. "But all this,"he said,taking in the field, the stadium, and his visions of grandeur with a simple sweep of his arm,"would not of been possible without the successful completion of my design on draft day."

"Follow me,"he said, and led me off the field, down into the bowels of the stadium...and into his office lair.

Part Four
The Players

"We had a sound strategy as we approached the draft,"Stu Hopkins explained,"Pick the best available U-23 North American player. We theorised that there was plenty of excellent int'l players available and that it made no sense to waste a high pick on one of them, when we could draft essentially the same player later on."

"But there are a finite number of good young Americans or Canadians who can step in and both play and not count against the salary cap."

"We knew we had the fouth pick and we couldn't decide between the two players we felt likely to still be available; Eddie Johnson and Eddie Gaven. We honestly couldn't believe that Freddy Adu fell to us at 4th. We felt he would be either the first or second pick. It was like winning the lottery."

"With our second choice, we continued our philosophy of the best North American available when we selected tireless midfielder Atiba Hutchinson. He has skill and he works hard; the two basic requirements to becoming a 'Northman.'"

"For our next picks we knew exactly what we wanted; good young north american central defenders with a tremendous upside. We had four picked out that we really wanted. All four are awesome at playing the trap and show tremendous work ethic. We got two of them. Chad Marshall and Michael Parkhurst."

"Next, I opted for some experience at the back to anchor the young fellas...stalwart pro Pablo Mastreoni."

"We finished day one of the draft with two more young North Americans with tremendous upside, Iain Hume and Danny Szetela.

Two more youngsters with a tremendous work ethic...and tremendous upside."

"We entered day two of the draft, eager to find more young talented north americans, and also ready to start signing some big names from Europe. But first, the youngsters."

"We grabbed Jon De Guzman with our first pick of the day, (and eighth pick of the draft), the forward has a lot to learn, but has perhaps the largest upside of anyone this side of Adu."

"Danny O'Rourke was picked next, a defensive middie with a limitless engine and limitless potential."

"We then grabbed Jan Blazek, the first of three Czech stars we selected. I thought it was imperative to get an experienced commanding goalie to go with the overall youth of our team."

At this point, Stu Hopkins grew bored with our conversation and wandered off, presumably to dream of opening day.

To quickly round off the roster are several kids: young Ecuadorian DC Geo Caicedo, young GK Matt Pickens, young Czech DR Michel Svec, and young Romanian wingback Christian Pulhac.

The New Liskeard strategy seems to have been to load up on kids, and then spend the entire salary cap on a few key veterans.

And did they ever receive value for their buck.

New stars for the Northmen are England legend Alan Shearer, Midfield maestro Karel Poborsky, Goal poacher Tomasz Radzinski, and fleet ball wizard Darren Huckerby.

Doubtlessly, the world waits breathlessly for MLS opening day, and their first glimpse of the New Liskeard North Football Club...'The Northmen.'...or as their fans chant....'Green Machine.'

retired_terragyrl

Youth, Speed, and Brazilians for Texas

With the ongoing radical changes of professional soccer within North America, some saw Austin, TX and its general lack of professional sports as an opportune location for a new MLS 'franchise'. Austin is a college town though and many felt it would be difficult to establish a new professional identity as long as The University of Texas at Austin and its student athletics were around to compete for the same supporters and revenue. However, due to Big 12 Conference and Title IX rules, UT did not have a collegiate soccer team for men. Perhaps it was this fact that gave a few prominent Texas alumni the idea of creating a MLS team and naming it in honor of their alma mater. After agreeing on the financial details with The University on future profits and revenue, as well as for the rights to use the name, logo, and colo(u)rs, the Texas Longhorns of Major League Soccer were finally a reality. Reportedly, UT was also pleased with the added publicity the team might bring to the school. The team would play in UT's Mike A. Myers Track & Soccer Stadium. Due to a positive response in Austin, discussions are ongoing about removing the running track (then obviously reproducing it in a new venue elsewhere) and making the stadium soccer specific. The decision was also made to name Ryan Thompson, a Texas alum himself, the team's first manager.

As with all the other fledgling MLS teams, the initial draft would be important in determining the team's success and identity:
1st round pick: Juan Pablo Garcia (Chivas USA). Texas made the young Mexican its first pick, as well as the first foreigner (non American or Canadian) to be selected in the draft. The attack-minded midfielder has a solid game already at 23 years of age, and brings immediate flair and creativity to the Longhorn lineup.
2nd. Jonathan Spector (Man Utd). While Spector is only 18, Thompson is said to expect the young defender to pay immediate dividends. Spector runs well for a defender and has good size.
3rd. Nik Besagno (Real Salt Lake). At 16, Besagno can barely drive; yet Thompson has already been quoted as saying the defensive midfielder can be an important contributor right away.
4th. �ndio (Ipitanga). The 18 year old Brazilian wingback is said to have lots of potential and the ability to play now.
5th. Cory Gibbs (Feyenoord). Tall and with exceptional athletic gifts, Texas will look to the 25 year old American international to be a stalwart in their backline.
6th. Rivaldo (Olympiakos). At 32, the former Barcelona superstar and World Cup winner may be on the downside of his career, but Thompson still hopes the world class playmaker will still have something left for the Longhorns.
7th. John O'Brien (ADO den Haag). The talented American international is versatile and can help fill a number of holes for Texas. However, O'Brien is quite prone to injury and insiders say Thompson views him solely as a wildcard instead of having him penciled in anywhere.
8th. �vine (Bahia). Not too much is known about the 16 year old left sided player, but scouts say the Brazilian is a promising talent.
9th. Thomas Prager (Heerenveen). 19 year old Austrian midfielder should be able to contribute in midfield right away.
10th. Bruno (Juventude). Young Brazilian attacker is seen as a good prospect. Will be given every chance to prove he is ready to play now.
11th. Will John (KC Wizards). 19 year old American forward prospect.
12th. Benny Feilhaber (HSV). American midfielder who should be useful and at 20, has some upside.
13th. Olexandr Shovkovskyi (Dinamo Kiev). Veteran goalkeeper is expected to step in between the Texas pipes immediately, especially as he was the only signficant addition towards the salary cap on the second day of the draft.
14th. Stephen Ademolu (Tromsø). 22 year old American forward is said to have some upside remaining.
15th. Quentin Westberg (Troyes). Young and raw American keeper. Definitely a project. Likely to be Shovkovskyi's understudy.
16th. Ryan Cochrane (Houston). Mobile and young American defender should provide depth.
17th. Kelly Gray (Houston). Defensive midfielder who can also fill in at fullback if necessary.
18th. Jemal Johnson (Blackburn). Another raw prospect. 19 year old American attacker needs to add some polish.

If trends are to be found from Texas' selections, one is certainly that they generally took young players. Texas currently has the youngest average age of players on its roster of any team in the league. This could be a problem up front as they seem to lack proven goal scorers. At least there is cap space left to address this problem if necessary. Thompson evidently covets pacey players as well, as there is speed at all positions. Also notable is that Texas selected four Brazilians. Completely missing are pure wingers. This might say something about the sort of formation and tactics Thompson has in mind...

retired_terragyrl

Chicago (Wednesday, January 25, 2006) - Major League Soccer (MLS) announced its 12th and final team at the inaugural player draft on Monday, the Nerdington Express, based in Chicago.

The Express will be lead by head coach Nicolino Di Benedetto, who will make his head coaching debut this season.

"I am very excited to join the Nerdington Express," said Di Benedetto. "We are committed to build a championship team here in Chicago and will do it with class and dignity. We already got to work with our draft and we feel the team is in great shape and the players are a good bunch on and off the field."

The Express will play their home games at Nerdington Station, located in Chicago. Tickets go on sale Monday and prices range from $5-$50, for more information call 1-888-GO-EXPRESS.

Nerdington also unveiled their uniforms at the draft with the home outfit featuring the clubs signature black and blue vertical stripes. The away uniform is white with a blue stripe running verically down the right side of the chest. A special third jersey that is solid light blue with dark blue sections along the sides. Jerseys are for sale via the club's front office and fans are encouraged to call to order any of the three designs.

Nerdington started draft day by trading the first overall selection in the draft to Toronto for its first selection (11th), second round pick, and 14th rounder.

The Express then selected Manchester United goalkeeper Tim Howard with its first selection. The former MetroStars and current United States National Team goalie will step right in between the pipes for Nerdington.

"I am very familiar with Timmy," said Di Benedetto. "We expect big things out of him and he is the best American goalkeeper. We could not have made a better decision to trade the first pick and select him."

Overall review of the inaugural Nerdington Express squad.

GK - Tim Howard: The best American goalkeeper and a valuable selection with the 11th overall pick. He will log a lot of minutes and be at the top of any 'keeper stats category.
GK- Jay Nolly: A bright young prospect from Indiana, who will be able to learn a lot as Howard's understudy.
D RC - Ugo Ihemelu: A top defensive prospect who can step in and play immediately.
D LC - Paolo Maldini: One of the best defenders ever in the game, Maldini was a fantastic selection by the Express. He will captain the team and teach the younger players how to be a professional. His skill has not diminished for an old veteran. Look for him to standout without even trying.
D/DM RLC/C - Tim Ward: The best American left back prospect around. Ward should start immediately along the left side and learn a lot from a man who perfected it - Maldini.
SW/D C - Renato Civelli: Bright young Argentine who is penciled in to start in the central defense along side Maldini, but will compete with Curtin for the job. Under the radar at the draft, the 21-year-old is ready to make the jump to the U.S.
D C - Jim Curtin: Solid veteran central defender. His size makes up for his lack of speed. He is unbeatable in the air and will compete with Civelli for a starting spot in the defense.
D/WB/DM/M R/C/RC - C.J. Klaas: Fantasitc, young, and versatile player who will be valuable for the Express.
AM L - Bobby Convey: U.S. started on the left win comes back to America after a stint with Reading. Will provide great play on the left wing.
D/DM R/C - Ricardo Clark: One of the most gifted athletes in the U.S. game, Clark will be expected to anchor the midfield and provide the transition to the offense.
AM LR - Luis Figo: One of the all-time greats joins Nerdington to man the right flank and with Convey on the left, they give the Express the best flank play in MLS. His leadership is very valuable for a side that is very young.
AM/F RLC - Kwabena Agouda: Versatilve young blue chip Nigerian playmaker. He should develop into a great selection for the Express for a very long time.
AM C - Kyle Martino: One of the more exciting young American playmakers in the game. Martino joins the Express trying to regain his spot in the U.S. national team system and give the team added offensive creativity up the middle.
AM L - Christian Jimenez: Young exciting Florida prospect, who will see time behind Convey along the left side, but will make his way onto the field this season. He is a contributor at 18-years-old.
AM/ST R/C - Quavas Kirk: Another young gifted American for Nerdington. It became obvious that Di Benedetto was attracted to players that can play different positions in order to provide cover during periods of injury. Kirk qualifies for that and is a top American propect who should develop into a star in no time.
DM/M RC - Michael Bradley: Young American impact player in the middle of the field. He may be the best passer of the ball for the U.S. at his age and has great vision. His ability to read the game will get him into the lineup this season for the Express.
DM C - Jesse Marsch: A solid veteran midfielder who is aggressive and determined. Marsch is a leader and a winner with three MLS Cups and four Open Cups to his name. A fantastic late round selection by Nerdington, he will play this season and provide great depth at defensive midfield.
AM/ST R/C - Santino Quaranta: Problematic young American player, he joins the Express witht he chance to step to the next level. His star is rising and it coule shine brightly with Nerdington.
F C - Pauleta: PSG's hitman comes to Chicago. Expected to be among the league's leading scorers, Pauleta may have been the steal of the draft, being selected on the second day. He can score every way imaginable and will be a lock to start.
S C - Ze Eduardo: 17-year-old Brazilian forward who will get time on the field at Nerdington Station. His knack for quality and impact goals did not go unnoticed by the Express.

"I could not be happier with this draft," said Di Benedetto. "We have a great team and we can not wait to get to work and start playing some games against everyone. We wish them all luck, but we are confident we will be in the mix for the playoffs."