(Published inthe Evening News & Tribune, September 29)
The draws for the boys' and girls' 16th annual IHSAA Soccer State Tournament series were made yesterday – throwing up some interesting early round ties.
The Jeffersonville and Floyd Central boys' sectionals (59 and 60 respectively) kick off on Thursday, Oct. 8, with the finals on Oct. 10.
The big area teams have avoided each other in the early stages, but at the Jeffersonville sectional, Providence will not enjoy having to play Christian Academy of Indiana in the semi-final.
CAI coach Will Lorigan said the draw sheds new light on its regular season game with Providence on Oct. 6 – two days before they both meet in sectional.
Last year, the Warriors beat the Pioneers 4-3 but were downed by Jeffersonville just days later at sectional.
“ I am not sure it changes our approach,” he said. “We should expect to have to play and beat the best teams in our sectional. We have been preparing for this all season and hopefully we can bring it all together when we need to. We have a solid group of core players and some good young players so if we play to our potential I believe we can complete well with anyone.”
Jeffersonville coach Ryan Bixler will be feeling pretty satisfied with the draw, which sees the Red Devils pitted against Charlestown, a team it beat 14-0 in regular season.
“The great thing about the post season is that everybody qualifies, and essentially we all get to start over with a record of 0-0,” he said. “We will focus on continuing to improve over the next week in preparation for Charlestown. Our team is fully aware that there is only one team that is unbeatable in the last three weeks of October.”
At Floyd Central, the hosts should overcome North Harrison to reach the final, while New Albany will be looking to avenge its regular season 2-1 defeat to Corydon. Silver Creek awaits the winner in the semi-final.
The Jeffersonville and Floyd Central sectional winners will take on each other in the regional semi-final on Oct.14, with the winners of the Seymour and Madison sectionals playing in the other semi. The regional final will take place on Oct.17. All three games are at Floyd Central.
In fact, the Highlanders’ revamped soccer ground will also be the venue for the nine team girls' sectional this, which moves from Jeffersonville and sees games on Oct. 12, 13 and 15, before the final on Oct. 17.
And the tie to catch the imagination again is the sectional quarter-final rematch between New Albany and Providence. Last year, the Bulldogs beat the Pioneers 4-1 before going on to lose to Floyd Central in the final.
Coincidentally, the pair meet tonight at Prosser Field in what could be seen as a dress rehearsal for the big show.
New Albany coach Julie Deuser, now in her second year at the helm, said it looks like another challenging sectional draw for her girls.
“We got the same draw as last year, so we are ready for the challenge,” she said. “Providence is an excellent team and we know we need to be ready for them.”
Pioneers coach Dave Smith said, “We're satisfied with the draw and wish all teams the best of luck in the tournament.”
Floyd Central, winner for the past three seasons, have been drawn against North Harrison, with the winner taking on Jeffersonville in the quarter-final. The winner of that will then play New Albany or Providence in the semi-final.
Jeffersonville coach Michael Dennis said whoever comes out of these battles will be the most likely champion.
“To get to the finals Floyd Central, New Albany, Jeffersonville and Providence all would face off an eliminate each other before the final match,” said Dennis.
What that means is that Charlestown, Silver Creek, Christian Academy of Indiana or Corydon Central will find themselves in the final, as they are drawn in the other half.
The girls' winner at Jeffersonville will play the winner of the Seymour sectional in the regional final at Columbus North on Wednesday Oct. 21.
Boys’ and girls’ semi-state finals will be held on Oct. 24, with the state finals taking place at Kuntz Stadium in Indianapolis on Oct. 31.
Boys’ Sectional Draw (games to be played Oct. 8 and 10)
59. Jeffersonville (4): Match 1 – Providence vs. Christian Academy of Indiana.
Match 2 – Charlestown vs. Jeffersonville. Championship – Winner of Match 1 vs. Winner of Match 2.
60. Floyd Central (5): Match 1 – New Albany vs. Corydon Central.
Match 2 – North Harrison vs. Floyd Central. Match 3 – Silver Creek vs. Winner of Match 1. Championship – Winner of Match 2 vs. Winner of Match 3.
Girls’ Sectional Draw 28.
Floyd Central (9) Match 1 - North Harrison vs. Floyd Central. Match 2 - Charlestown vs. Silver Creek. Match 3 - Christian Academy of Indiana vs. Corydon Central. Match 4 - New Albany vs. Providence. Match 5 - Jeffersonville vs. Winner of Match 1. Match 6 - Winner of Match 2 vs. Winner of Match 3. Match 7 - Winner of Match 4 vs. Winner of Match 5. Championship - Winner of Match 6 vs. Winner of Match 7.
ENDS
Strikers hit the target at Winchester
Southern Indiana United’s U13 Strikers weathered the storms to win the Winchester Classic in Kentucky recently.
Paul Duckworth’s charges beat Commonwealth Blue from Lexington 2-0 and Marietta of Ohio 1-0, before tying with Montgomery Thunder 0-0 in a game shortened by storms.
Strikers then displayed plenty of effort and teamwork against Commonwealth Gold to win the championship 3-1 in a game that had two weather delays.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Sideline rage rages on
(Published Evening News & Tribune, Sept 22 '09)
Every fall, there are parents ejected from high school soccer fields for unsportsmanlike behavior.
In the past few seasons, I can remember five ejections while doing my rounds at games. And I know there have been more.
The latest was during the Floyd Central/New Albany girls’ rival matchup last Thursday. The game, as you may already know, also served as a fundraiser for breast cancer awareness and research. Both teams wore pink for the occasion and a good crowd at the Highlanders’ field ensured that the event was a success.
However, an angry parent was requested to leave in the second half after some persistent verbal abuse aimed in particular at one of the assistant referees. It all started after a somewhat controversial decision which resulted in the rewarding of a corner for New Albany.
The AR – a very experienced match official – warned the parent he would be ejected if it continued. It continued, and the parent was ejected.
There were some other flashpoints in the game which annoyed the crowd, and, while not in total agreement with every decision made (whoever is?), I feel the three officials did a very good job in an atmosphere which felt at times far from friendly, making some in attendance uncomfortable.
Last year, a study was published that found ego defensiveness, one of the triggers that ignites road rage, also kicks off what’s known as parental “sideline rage” at soccer games.
Jay Goldstein, who studies sports psychology at the University of Maryland, analyzed 340 parents after they had watched their children play soccer matches ranging in age from 8-15. He asked the parents to fill out questionnaires about whether the game had made them upset.
There wasn’t too much uncontrollable rage -- some brief temper flares – but more than half of all the parents (53 per cent) reported getting angry during the course of the game.
Of those, a third actually vented their anger, and a quarter of them said the anger had to do with their own child, or the performance of their own child. Discourteous opponents, hostile remarks or gestures, coaches and illegal play were among other irritants.
These are just the ones who admitted to getting angry. Goldstein believes the number who actually got angry and “lost it” was probably much higher. The parents he dubs THOSE (Tempestuous, Harried, Overwrought, Self-absorbed and Emotional) tend to underreport negative behavior.
The study also found that those who lost it during games tended to be both control freaks and people who measured their own worth by criteria established by others: The kind of people who were willing to get themselves deep in debt to buy a luxury car to keep up with the Joneses.
They tended to see questionable calls by the referee, or poor performance by their children or their children's teams, as being personal reflections on their own honor.
Some US youth leagues are taking parental sideline rage seriously, and have introduced “Dum Dum” brigades -- people designated to go up to parents who can't shut up and stick a lollipop in their mouths.
Not a bad idea, but seeing that the officials prompt much of the sideline anger, some organizations are looking at more thorough referee training, as well as training parents better on the rules of the game. It’s a weak grasp of the latter which can cause most confusion and unnecessary anger.
Maybe schools could help sponsor courses for parents in conjunction with our local referees’ associations, while those ejected should be made do an exam on the laws before they’re allowed back to see a game. Actually officiating a matchup prior to their return mightn’t be a bad idea either.
Not only would that help bolster referee numbers, but it would also ensure that fewer referees -- especially younger ones -- are frightened away from the middle by the sideline ragers.
Every fall, there are parents ejected from high school soccer fields for unsportsmanlike behavior.
In the past few seasons, I can remember five ejections while doing my rounds at games. And I know there have been more.
The latest was during the Floyd Central/New Albany girls’ rival matchup last Thursday. The game, as you may already know, also served as a fundraiser for breast cancer awareness and research. Both teams wore pink for the occasion and a good crowd at the Highlanders’ field ensured that the event was a success.
However, an angry parent was requested to leave in the second half after some persistent verbal abuse aimed in particular at one of the assistant referees. It all started after a somewhat controversial decision which resulted in the rewarding of a corner for New Albany.
The AR – a very experienced match official – warned the parent he would be ejected if it continued. It continued, and the parent was ejected.
There were some other flashpoints in the game which annoyed the crowd, and, while not in total agreement with every decision made (whoever is?), I feel the three officials did a very good job in an atmosphere which felt at times far from friendly, making some in attendance uncomfortable.
Last year, a study was published that found ego defensiveness, one of the triggers that ignites road rage, also kicks off what’s known as parental “sideline rage” at soccer games.
Jay Goldstein, who studies sports psychology at the University of Maryland, analyzed 340 parents after they had watched their children play soccer matches ranging in age from 8-15. He asked the parents to fill out questionnaires about whether the game had made them upset.
There wasn’t too much uncontrollable rage -- some brief temper flares – but more than half of all the parents (53 per cent) reported getting angry during the course of the game.
Of those, a third actually vented their anger, and a quarter of them said the anger had to do with their own child, or the performance of their own child. Discourteous opponents, hostile remarks or gestures, coaches and illegal play were among other irritants.
These are just the ones who admitted to getting angry. Goldstein believes the number who actually got angry and “lost it” was probably much higher. The parents he dubs THOSE (Tempestuous, Harried, Overwrought, Self-absorbed and Emotional) tend to underreport negative behavior.
The study also found that those who lost it during games tended to be both control freaks and people who measured their own worth by criteria established by others: The kind of people who were willing to get themselves deep in debt to buy a luxury car to keep up with the Joneses.
They tended to see questionable calls by the referee, or poor performance by their children or their children's teams, as being personal reflections on their own honor.
Some US youth leagues are taking parental sideline rage seriously, and have introduced “Dum Dum” brigades -- people designated to go up to parents who can't shut up and stick a lollipop in their mouths.
Not a bad idea, but seeing that the officials prompt much of the sideline anger, some organizations are looking at more thorough referee training, as well as training parents better on the rules of the game. It’s a weak grasp of the latter which can cause most confusion and unnecessary anger.
Maybe schools could help sponsor courses for parents in conjunction with our local referees’ associations, while those ejected should be made do an exam on the laws before they’re allowed back to see a game. Actually officiating a matchup prior to their return mightn’t be a bad idea either.
Not only would that help bolster referee numbers, but it would also ensure that fewer referees -- especially younger ones -- are frightened away from the middle by the sideline ragers.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Rivals with a Cause
Both the Floyd Central and New Albany girls soccer teams will be going pink this Thursday in an effort to raise money for breast cancer awareness and research.
The game between the two local rivals — entitled “Passionately Pink for the Cure” — is sure to bring out a big crowd at Floyd Central (8 p.m.). It will be preceded by a boys’ varsity game between the two schools (6 p.m.), and half of the gate proceeds will go towards the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. Donations will also be taken at the venue.
The Bulldogs will be wearing hot pink T-shirts and socks, while the Highlanders will be suited up in light pink shirts with white socks.
New Albany coach Julie Deuser said she got the idea from her own high school team, East Jessamine (Ky.), who played its crosstown rival West Jessamine (Ky.) last year in a successful fundraising game entitled “Rivals with a Cause.”
“I spoke with one of the coaches about it and he said it was great for the girls and the community,” Deuser told “Kick It.” “I thought it would be a good idea for our girls to get involved in this since so many of us know someone suffering from cancer. When I spoke with the Floyd Central coaches, they were very interested and excited to be involved.
“We hope to bring some recognition and awareness to breast cancer as well as raise money for research to one day find a cure for this disease. It is going to be a great event.”
Highlanders’ girls’ coach Lewie Stevens said he loved the idea when it was presented to him by Deuser, and both schools' athletic directors got on board immediately.
“What we hope to achieve is awareness about this disease that touches so many families,” said Stevens. “As a coach of a girls’ team, I think it is particularly important and appropriate to try and highlight prevention and early diagnosis. Our girls can benefit by being aware of something that may potentially affect them either directly or indirectly.”
Stevens said they also hope to raise the level of attention that girls’ soccer gets around the community.
“If nothing else, we would like to get the kids at (Floyd Central) down to the field in big numbers for support,” he said.
Meanwhile, the game itself is much anticipated. New Albany, going into it unbeaten (7-0-1), will be confident of reversing last year’s 3-0 sectional final defeat against Floyd Central.
The Highlanders (4-4-2), however, will be hoping to bounce back from last week’s 2-1 defeat to another rival, Providence. On Saturday, it had a scoreless tie against Columbus East, and had the same 0-0 result against Seymour last night (Tuesday).
The game between the two local rivals — entitled “Passionately Pink for the Cure” — is sure to bring out a big crowd at Floyd Central (8 p.m.). It will be preceded by a boys’ varsity game between the two schools (6 p.m.), and half of the gate proceeds will go towards the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. Donations will also be taken at the venue.
The Bulldogs will be wearing hot pink T-shirts and socks, while the Highlanders will be suited up in light pink shirts with white socks.
New Albany coach Julie Deuser said she got the idea from her own high school team, East Jessamine (Ky.), who played its crosstown rival West Jessamine (Ky.) last year in a successful fundraising game entitled “Rivals with a Cause.”
“I spoke with one of the coaches about it and he said it was great for the girls and the community,” Deuser told “Kick It.” “I thought it would be a good idea for our girls to get involved in this since so many of us know someone suffering from cancer. When I spoke with the Floyd Central coaches, they were very interested and excited to be involved.
“We hope to bring some recognition and awareness to breast cancer as well as raise money for research to one day find a cure for this disease. It is going to be a great event.”
Highlanders’ girls’ coach Lewie Stevens said he loved the idea when it was presented to him by Deuser, and both schools' athletic directors got on board immediately.
“What we hope to achieve is awareness about this disease that touches so many families,” said Stevens. “As a coach of a girls’ team, I think it is particularly important and appropriate to try and highlight prevention and early diagnosis. Our girls can benefit by being aware of something that may potentially affect them either directly or indirectly.”
Stevens said they also hope to raise the level of attention that girls’ soccer gets around the community.
“If nothing else, we would like to get the kids at (Floyd Central) down to the field in big numbers for support,” he said.
Meanwhile, the game itself is much anticipated. New Albany, going into it unbeaten (7-0-1), will be confident of reversing last year’s 3-0 sectional final defeat against Floyd Central.
The Highlanders (4-4-2), however, will be hoping to bounce back from last week’s 2-1 defeat to another rival, Providence. On Saturday, it had a scoreless tie against Columbus East, and had the same 0-0 result against Seymour last night (Tuesday).
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Watch out!
(Published Vype High School Magazine, September '09)
You won’t see a lot of hardware in the trophy cabinets of these players’ teams, but watch out for them this season. They -- and their programs -- may surprise you!
Boys
Layth Masri, Louisville Collegiate
It may have never won a district, regional or state championship, and it may have only 100 plus boys in upper school, but look out for Louisville Collegiate this fall.
In particular, pay attention to Layth Masri.
Described by his coach Brad Davies as "special," Masri has just returned from England after he was chosen along with Javanon '92 teammate Taylor Hafling (Male) to train and compete at Chelsea FC in London.
The pair also participated in the US Youth Soccer National Championships for the second successive season with Javanon.
"Technically and tactically, Layth is very good, and he is a fantastic athlete," says Davies. "His biggest asset, and the one that will help his game continue to improve in college and beyond, is his psychological approach to the game. Layth embraces a growth mindset. As a result, mistakes are not moments where he begins to doubt or criticize himself, but rather opportunities to learn and become better."
Davies says Masri, who has verbally committed to Northwestern University, competes with class. "He is the best player on our team, but has not fallen victim to the narcissism that can often accompany high praise.”
Since 2000, Collegiate has enjoyed seven winning seasons and some very exciting district and regional championship games.
"We believe our program is making great progress," says Davies. "Competing with the larger schools is a very fun challenge."
Drew Mattingly/Andrew Rosenberg, Christian Academy of Indiana
Christian Academy of Indiana sounded a warning shot last year days ahead of sectionals that they were no longer cannon fodder for powerhouses Jeffersonville and Providence. They knocked off the Pioneers 4-3.
Helping the Warriors that day was goalkeeper Drew Mattingly, who made 11 saves, and Andrew Rosenberg, who scored a hat-trick.
In fact, Rosenberg, whose season tally was 24, was ranked ninth in goals scored in Indiana last year.
"Andrew has great footwork, explosive speed and can put away shoots on goal with both feet," says CAI coach Will Lorigan. "He has emerged over the last two years as a genuine goal scoring threat regardless of the opposition."
Mattingly, a senior, has recorded 16 career shutouts, seven of them last year, earning him a place on the Indiana Soccer Coaches' Association's All-District 5 first team.
CAI also has a solid core of lower and upper classmen to add strength, experience and ability to the lineup, highlighted by junior sweeper Ross Heinz and sophomore midfielder Chris Smith.
Rob Daugherty, Bullitt East
This year's Bullitt East boys' team will be the best in its history, says coach Mike Brangers, thanks in no small part to a senior group which started playing in the Bullitt County YMCA and became part of first competitive soccer team in the county, YMCA Thunder.
One of them is standout senior Rob Daugherty, who as a junior was one of the top strikers in the area with 15 goals.
"Rob has the respect of his team, coaches and opponents," says Brangers. "Most of the team's defense key on Rob from the kick off - his effort in a match is top notch."
Bullitt East is clear in its goal this season, says Brangers: to win an elusive district championship, and a trip to the regional final.
With 15 returning seniors, the Chargers may achieve it.
Taylor Shaver, Shelby County
Shelby County has been overshadowed by district rivals Oldham County, North Oldham and South Oldham for years, but confidence is high that this year the Rockets will finally secure some hardware.
Coach BJ Andriot, who was a member of the first Shelby County team founded in 1984, says striker Taylor Shaver will have a big say in the destination of trophies as he spearheads a 4-3-3 formation.
"He is an amazing hold-up player who is very crafty, and for a 6-foot guy, moves a lot and combines well with the midfield," says Andriot.
In fact, Shaver scored the opening goal in the Rockets’ first game of the season against reigning state champion St Xavier. Although going down narrowly 2-1, the team drew a lot of confidence from the game.
It's by no means a one-man show at Shelby County, which returns 10 seniors. Other Rocket men of note are junior Brandon Shuck, Carlos "Mighty Man" Carias, Louis Cervantes, John Lisby and David Breen.
"I think, teamwise, this is the best we've had -- there are no weak links," says Andriot.
Girls
Lucijana Vrebac, Atherton
It’s the Atherton girls' misfortune that they are in a district which features two of the best girls’ teams in Kentucky in the shape of Sacred Heart and Assumption.
However, Atherton is no slouch, finishing 2008 with an 8-6 record. And in 2007, it posted a 13-4 record and scored 73 goals, placing it among the top six teams in Kentucky in scoring.
According to coach Carlo Ellard, the Rebels have a good incoming freshman class which must fill the gaps left by six senior starters from last year. "If everyone can stay healthy, I believe we will have a successful year," he says.
One player he will be praying the soccer gods will sprinkle full fitness dust on is Croatian born Lucijana Vrebec.
Vrebac has scored 60 goals in her high school career thus far, netting 14 last year to add to the 26 and 20 goals in her sophomore and freshman years respectively. As a sophomore , she was an honorable mention member of the all-regional team.
Vrebec attended Noe Middle School and played soccer on their all-boys' team. In fact, she's played against males a lot. She lives near Douglas Park, where playing pickup soccer with boys and grown men has helped cultivate her creativity.
"One interesting thing about Luci is that she [would] rather meg a player than score, which points to the fact that she loves being creative on the pitch," says Ellard. "I believe this was something born out of the pick-up soccer she played at Douglas Park. It is something that at one point I tried to temper but I now realize it needs to be encouraged." [ED: What does “meg a player” mean?]
Meredith Garner/Margaret Giesel, Kentucky Country Day
Most of the players on the Kentucky Country Day roster have built the four-year-old program from the ground up. Several of the girls have made a huge impact, says coach Sarah Shartzer, especially juniors Margaret Giesel and Meredith Garner.
Giesel is the team's primary keeper, but moves out and up to forward when KCD needs to make an offensive push.
Garner, the school's leading scorer and offensive MVP last year, is primarily an outside midfielder, but can play almost anywhere.
"We have a huge group of juniors on the team, but these two have really stood out in terms of commitment, knowledge of the game and athletic ability," says Shartzer. "At keeper and forward, they are able to control both ends of the field for us, but they probably have an even bigger impact on the rare occasions we get a chance to put them together in the midfield."
Emma Wesp, Jordan Dent, Sophie Higazy, Charlestown
Charlestown introduces a girls' varsity soccer program for the first time this year, making it an exciting one for coach Marcy Satkoski and her 19-strong squad. Five of the team have already tasted action as part of the Pirates' coeducational team, including its three co-captains, Emma Wesp, Jordan Dent and Sophie Higazy.
Wesp, a sophomore, took on the boys as a freshman and also managed to find the net a couple of times.
"I want to see the team grow this year and continue to improve over the next few years," she says.
Also captaining the team are senior Dent and junior Higazy, who will bolster up defense.
Satkoski says all three are great players and have strong leadership skills, and are joined by a nice mix from all grades.
This is Satkoski's first role as head coach, having been an assistant at New Albany for six years. She says she looks forward to the future of the program. "The girls have fantastic attitudes and have been working very hard. We're excited to get out there and see how we match up against other girls' teams."
Ginny Zimlich, Presentation Academy
It is no coincidence that goalkeepers are high profile players, as they are often seen as leaders on the field. Presentation Academy senior Ginny Zimlich fits that bill.
"She is now a three-year starter and very much the 'leading-by-example' leader of this team," says coach Brad Lipe. "She is a 'first to show, last to leave' kind of player when it comes to practice. She even puts in time after practice to work out and fine tune the skills needed to be an effective goalkeeper."
Lipe, a graduate of Bellarmine University where he was a vital member of the men's soccer program, says a couple of sophomores are also expected to step up and take more of a leadership role this year -- Shelby Minton and Andrea Koesters.
"Both provide a lot of athleticism, the ability to learn quickly, and dependability," he says.
Junior Maddy Clark, a vocal leader, will inherit the role of center midfield from Allyson Palmer, now playing at Bellarmine.
You won’t see a lot of hardware in the trophy cabinets of these players’ teams, but watch out for them this season. They -- and their programs -- may surprise you!
Boys
Layth Masri, Louisville Collegiate
It may have never won a district, regional or state championship, and it may have only 100 plus boys in upper school, but look out for Louisville Collegiate this fall.
In particular, pay attention to Layth Masri.
Described by his coach Brad Davies as "special," Masri has just returned from England after he was chosen along with Javanon '92 teammate Taylor Hafling (Male) to train and compete at Chelsea FC in London.
The pair also participated in the US Youth Soccer National Championships for the second successive season with Javanon.
"Technically and tactically, Layth is very good, and he is a fantastic athlete," says Davies. "His biggest asset, and the one that will help his game continue to improve in college and beyond, is his psychological approach to the game. Layth embraces a growth mindset. As a result, mistakes are not moments where he begins to doubt or criticize himself, but rather opportunities to learn and become better."
Davies says Masri, who has verbally committed to Northwestern University, competes with class. "He is the best player on our team, but has not fallen victim to the narcissism that can often accompany high praise.”
Since 2000, Collegiate has enjoyed seven winning seasons and some very exciting district and regional championship games.
"We believe our program is making great progress," says Davies. "Competing with the larger schools is a very fun challenge."
Drew Mattingly/Andrew Rosenberg, Christian Academy of Indiana
Christian Academy of Indiana sounded a warning shot last year days ahead of sectionals that they were no longer cannon fodder for powerhouses Jeffersonville and Providence. They knocked off the Pioneers 4-3.
Helping the Warriors that day was goalkeeper Drew Mattingly, who made 11 saves, and Andrew Rosenberg, who scored a hat-trick.
In fact, Rosenberg, whose season tally was 24, was ranked ninth in goals scored in Indiana last year.
"Andrew has great footwork, explosive speed and can put away shoots on goal with both feet," says CAI coach Will Lorigan. "He has emerged over the last two years as a genuine goal scoring threat regardless of the opposition."
Mattingly, a senior, has recorded 16 career shutouts, seven of them last year, earning him a place on the Indiana Soccer Coaches' Association's All-District 5 first team.
CAI also has a solid core of lower and upper classmen to add strength, experience and ability to the lineup, highlighted by junior sweeper Ross Heinz and sophomore midfielder Chris Smith.
Rob Daugherty, Bullitt East
This year's Bullitt East boys' team will be the best in its history, says coach Mike Brangers, thanks in no small part to a senior group which started playing in the Bullitt County YMCA and became part of first competitive soccer team in the county, YMCA Thunder.
One of them is standout senior Rob Daugherty, who as a junior was one of the top strikers in the area with 15 goals.
"Rob has the respect of his team, coaches and opponents," says Brangers. "Most of the team's defense key on Rob from the kick off - his effort in a match is top notch."
Bullitt East is clear in its goal this season, says Brangers: to win an elusive district championship, and a trip to the regional final.
With 15 returning seniors, the Chargers may achieve it.
Taylor Shaver, Shelby County
Shelby County has been overshadowed by district rivals Oldham County, North Oldham and South Oldham for years, but confidence is high that this year the Rockets will finally secure some hardware.
Coach BJ Andriot, who was a member of the first Shelby County team founded in 1984, says striker Taylor Shaver will have a big say in the destination of trophies as he spearheads a 4-3-3 formation.
"He is an amazing hold-up player who is very crafty, and for a 6-foot guy, moves a lot and combines well with the midfield," says Andriot.
In fact, Shaver scored the opening goal in the Rockets’ first game of the season against reigning state champion St Xavier. Although going down narrowly 2-1, the team drew a lot of confidence from the game.
It's by no means a one-man show at Shelby County, which returns 10 seniors. Other Rocket men of note are junior Brandon Shuck, Carlos "Mighty Man" Carias, Louis Cervantes, John Lisby and David Breen.
"I think, teamwise, this is the best we've had -- there are no weak links," says Andriot.
Girls
Lucijana Vrebac, Atherton
It’s the Atherton girls' misfortune that they are in a district which features two of the best girls’ teams in Kentucky in the shape of Sacred Heart and Assumption.
However, Atherton is no slouch, finishing 2008 with an 8-6 record. And in 2007, it posted a 13-4 record and scored 73 goals, placing it among the top six teams in Kentucky in scoring.
According to coach Carlo Ellard, the Rebels have a good incoming freshman class which must fill the gaps left by six senior starters from last year. "If everyone can stay healthy, I believe we will have a successful year," he says.
One player he will be praying the soccer gods will sprinkle full fitness dust on is Croatian born Lucijana Vrebec.
Vrebac has scored 60 goals in her high school career thus far, netting 14 last year to add to the 26 and 20 goals in her sophomore and freshman years respectively. As a sophomore , she was an honorable mention member of the all-regional team.
Vrebec attended Noe Middle School and played soccer on their all-boys' team. In fact, she's played against males a lot. She lives near Douglas Park, where playing pickup soccer with boys and grown men has helped cultivate her creativity.
"One interesting thing about Luci is that she [would] rather meg a player than score, which points to the fact that she loves being creative on the pitch," says Ellard. "I believe this was something born out of the pick-up soccer she played at Douglas Park. It is something that at one point I tried to temper but I now realize it needs to be encouraged." [ED: What does “meg a player” mean?]
Meredith Garner/Margaret Giesel, Kentucky Country Day
Most of the players on the Kentucky Country Day roster have built the four-year-old program from the ground up. Several of the girls have made a huge impact, says coach Sarah Shartzer, especially juniors Margaret Giesel and Meredith Garner.
Giesel is the team's primary keeper, but moves out and up to forward when KCD needs to make an offensive push.
Garner, the school's leading scorer and offensive MVP last year, is primarily an outside midfielder, but can play almost anywhere.
"We have a huge group of juniors on the team, but these two have really stood out in terms of commitment, knowledge of the game and athletic ability," says Shartzer. "At keeper and forward, they are able to control both ends of the field for us, but they probably have an even bigger impact on the rare occasions we get a chance to put them together in the midfield."
Emma Wesp, Jordan Dent, Sophie Higazy, Charlestown
Charlestown introduces a girls' varsity soccer program for the first time this year, making it an exciting one for coach Marcy Satkoski and her 19-strong squad. Five of the team have already tasted action as part of the Pirates' coeducational team, including its three co-captains, Emma Wesp, Jordan Dent and Sophie Higazy.
Wesp, a sophomore, took on the boys as a freshman and also managed to find the net a couple of times.
"I want to see the team grow this year and continue to improve over the next few years," she says.
Also captaining the team are senior Dent and junior Higazy, who will bolster up defense.
Satkoski says all three are great players and have strong leadership skills, and are joined by a nice mix from all grades.
This is Satkoski's first role as head coach, having been an assistant at New Albany for six years. She says she looks forward to the future of the program. "The girls have fantastic attitudes and have been working very hard. We're excited to get out there and see how we match up against other girls' teams."
Ginny Zimlich, Presentation Academy
It is no coincidence that goalkeepers are high profile players, as they are often seen as leaders on the field. Presentation Academy senior Ginny Zimlich fits that bill.
"She is now a three-year starter and very much the 'leading-by-example' leader of this team," says coach Brad Lipe. "She is a 'first to show, last to leave' kind of player when it comes to practice. She even puts in time after practice to work out and fine tune the skills needed to be an effective goalkeeper."
Lipe, a graduate of Bellarmine University where he was a vital member of the men's soccer program, says a couple of sophomores are also expected to step up and take more of a leadership role this year -- Shelby Minton and Andrea Koesters.
"Both provide a lot of athleticism, the ability to learn quickly, and dependability," he says.
Junior Maddy Clark, a vocal leader, will inherit the role of center midfield from Allyson Palmer, now playing at Bellarmine.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Press box dedication to “ultimate soccer mom”
Providence’s new soccer press box was dedicated in honor of soccer fan Kathy Brown last Tuesday ahead of the Pioneers’ girls’ rival game against Floyd Central.
Brown was married to local soccer coach Tim, and was the mother of Providence varsity team members, juniors Trent and Wade, as well as U10 Net-Surfer, Bailey. She died after a brave battle with colon and liver cancer in January.
“Kathy was a loving mother, faithful supporter of Providence and avid soccer fan,” said Pioneers girls’ coach Dave Smith.
Located a lot closer to the action than the previously used baseball press box, it will be blessed by Father Mathew Choorapanthiyil, resident priest and junior high theology teacher at Providence. A brass plaque will be affixed to the exterior in Brown’s honor.
The structure, which measures 28' x 14' and is two stories tall, contains a storage area on the ground floor, and a viewing area on the second floor to accommodate media, photographers, scorekeepers, timekeepers and announcers.
A new public address system and electronic LED scoreboard with wireless controls, which will serve both the soccer and baseball programs, have also been installed.
Construction of the edifice and other improvements was made possible through the generous donations of an anonymous benefactor. In fact, it was the donor’s suggestion to dedicate the box to the memory of Brown.
Kathy's husband, Tim, said he could not think of anything more fitting to honor his wife.
“All I can say is that we all -- Wade, Trent, Bailey and I -- are very honored to have the press box dedicated in Kathy's memory,” he said. “We would like to express our deep thanks to the anonymous donor for honoring her in this special way.
“The boys are honored to be playing in front of a press box dedicated to the memory of their mother, and Bailey hopes to play in front of it one day.”
Tim said that his wife’s courage fighting her cancer was “amazing.”
“Kathy was the ultimate soccer mom who touched a lot of people with her
positive and energetic can-do attitude,” he told Kick It this week.
“She got sick just before the start of the boys’ freshman year, so she really did not get much of an opportunity to support the boys’ soccer program. If she hadn’t have been sick, she would have been right in the middle of the action, working the gate or the concession stand.”
Tim said Kathy had colon cancer that had already gone to her liver before she was diagnosed.
“People should be screened at age 50, or earlier of there is family history of colon cancer,” he said. “Kathy was 47 when she was diagnosed and had no family history of it.”
Brown said the family is greatly appreciative of all of the support it has received
from Providence, Holy Family Church, friends, family, and the local soccer community.
*For more about Kathy and her battle with colon and liver cancer, check out: www.caringbridge.org/visit/kathybrown
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Trio gets set for Hoosier Cup
Three of the area’s high school teams will be involved in this year’s prestigious Hoosier Cup, which takes place in Bloomington this weekend.
Providence and Christian Academy of Indiana boys’ varsity squads will be joined by Floyd Central girls at the tournament, which will be held on Friday and Saturday at three locations and will feature 48 teams from Indiana and Kentucky.
All will face tough opposition in their respective divisions, none more so than reigning sectional champion Providence.
The Pioneers will be pitted at Karst Park against Brownsburg on Friday, before taking on South Bend Adams and Washington — ranked 14th in the latest Indiana Soccer Coaches’ Association poll — on Saturday.
Providence is 1-1-1 after a 2-2 tie with Floyd Central last week and hopes to add to the win column ahead of the Hoosier Cup with a victory at Jennings County tonight.
Christian Academy of Indiana will face Madison at Edgewood High School on Friday night, and it then will take on Edgewood Saturday morning, before finishing out with a matchup against Vincennes, both at Karst Park.
CAI is 3-1-0 this season, following its first defeat on Saturday, a 2-1 loss to Jeffersonville. The Warriors will be hoping to bounce back with a victory at Silver Creek at 6 tonight.
Another of our sectional champions, the Floyd Central girls’ team, will play the current ISCA team to watch Guerin Catholic of Noblesville on Friday evening. The Highlanders will then play Edgewood and Richmond on Saturday. All games will be at Karst Park.
The Highlanders moved to 2-1 on the new season in the past week after a 2-0 defeat at Mercy Academy of Louisville last Thursday, followed by a 3-0 victory over South Dearborn on Saturday. It will prepare for the Hoosier Cup with a game at Jasper this evening.
Brothers in arms! All set for the Hoosier Cup, which takes place in Bloomington this weekend, are Providence’s three sets of brothers (from left): Cody (freshman) and Weston Schrank (junior); Pierce (freshman) and Zev Crawley (senior); and Trent and Wade Brown (both juniors). Says Zev Crawley, “l like playing with Pierce because when I tell him to do something on the field, I don't have to sugarcoat it. He knows I love him regardless. As for playing with the other brothers on the team, it is fun to see how each one reacts when I tell them the other brother is playing better!”
Providence and Christian Academy of Indiana boys’ varsity squads will be joined by Floyd Central girls at the tournament, which will be held on Friday and Saturday at three locations and will feature 48 teams from Indiana and Kentucky.
All will face tough opposition in their respective divisions, none more so than reigning sectional champion Providence.
The Pioneers will be pitted at Karst Park against Brownsburg on Friday, before taking on South Bend Adams and Washington — ranked 14th in the latest Indiana Soccer Coaches’ Association poll — on Saturday.
Providence is 1-1-1 after a 2-2 tie with Floyd Central last week and hopes to add to the win column ahead of the Hoosier Cup with a victory at Jennings County tonight.
Christian Academy of Indiana will face Madison at Edgewood High School on Friday night, and it then will take on Edgewood Saturday morning, before finishing out with a matchup against Vincennes, both at Karst Park.
CAI is 3-1-0 this season, following its first defeat on Saturday, a 2-1 loss to Jeffersonville. The Warriors will be hoping to bounce back with a victory at Silver Creek at 6 tonight.
Another of our sectional champions, the Floyd Central girls’ team, will play the current ISCA team to watch Guerin Catholic of Noblesville on Friday evening. The Highlanders will then play Edgewood and Richmond on Saturday. All games will be at Karst Park.
The Highlanders moved to 2-1 on the new season in the past week after a 2-0 defeat at Mercy Academy of Louisville last Thursday, followed by a 3-0 victory over South Dearborn on Saturday. It will prepare for the Hoosier Cup with a game at Jasper this evening.
Brothers in arms! All set for the Hoosier Cup, which takes place in Bloomington this weekend, are Providence’s three sets of brothers (from left): Cody (freshman) and Weston Schrank (junior); Pierce (freshman) and Zev Crawley (senior); and Trent and Wade Brown (both juniors). Says Zev Crawley, “l like playing with Pierce because when I tell him to do something on the field, I don't have to sugarcoat it. He knows I love him regardless. As for playing with the other brothers on the team, it is fun to see how each one reacts when I tell them the other brother is playing better!”
Youth Soccer Month is here
Today (Sept. 1)is the first day of the seventh annual Youth Soccer Month and there are many local activities planned throughout September.
One of the highlights to look out for is Youth Soccer Day at Community Park in New Albany on Sunday, Sept. 13.
The event will feature mini-clinics and friendly matches led by Southern Indiana United coaches, as well as a yard sale of soccer items with nothing costing more than $5. You can still drop off donations for the yard sale at Community Park the day before the event (Saturday, Sept. 12) from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
There also will be a soccer fair on the day with information on proper nutrition and hydration during games, refereeing and coaching and prevention and treatment for common soccer injuries.
Another highlight of note is the SIU club night with the University of Louisville men’s soccer team at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 11 at Cardinal Park.
The Cards will play their first regular-season home game that night against SIU-Edwardsville, and SIU’s coaches will get the opportunity to sit in on the pre-game talks, while the U12 girls’ team will retrieve the balls during the game.
Its U9 Academy will participate in the “Little Kickers” program and will be walking out with the team to be recognized. All youths (18 and under) wearing their SIU jersey will be admitted free.
Other activities throughout September include a number of “Wear Your Jersey to School” days, a Gatorade hydration day, and youth soccer nights at local high school games, which youth soccer players can gain free entry to by wearing their club jersey.
“This is such an important initiative to help make our communities more aware of the impact youth soccer brings throughout Indiana,” said Shannon Stuart of Indiana Youth Soccer. “We want to emphasize the fun, fitness, family and friendship elements of our sport.”
A proclamation has been signed by New Albany Mayor Doug England in which he encourages all citizens of the city to observe Youth Soccer Month.
For further information on events, log on to www.siusoccer.com. If you want to help out with activities, contact Debbie Webb at 812-945-5627 or 502-523-4382.
One of the highlights to look out for is Youth Soccer Day at Community Park in New Albany on Sunday, Sept. 13.
The event will feature mini-clinics and friendly matches led by Southern Indiana United coaches, as well as a yard sale of soccer items with nothing costing more than $5. You can still drop off donations for the yard sale at Community Park the day before the event (Saturday, Sept. 12) from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
There also will be a soccer fair on the day with information on proper nutrition and hydration during games, refereeing and coaching and prevention and treatment for common soccer injuries.
Another highlight of note is the SIU club night with the University of Louisville men’s soccer team at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 11 at Cardinal Park.
The Cards will play their first regular-season home game that night against SIU-Edwardsville, and SIU’s coaches will get the opportunity to sit in on the pre-game talks, while the U12 girls’ team will retrieve the balls during the game.
Its U9 Academy will participate in the “Little Kickers” program and will be walking out with the team to be recognized. All youths (18 and under) wearing their SIU jersey will be admitted free.
Other activities throughout September include a number of “Wear Your Jersey to School” days, a Gatorade hydration day, and youth soccer nights at local high school games, which youth soccer players can gain free entry to by wearing their club jersey.
“This is such an important initiative to help make our communities more aware of the impact youth soccer brings throughout Indiana,” said Shannon Stuart of Indiana Youth Soccer. “We want to emphasize the fun, fitness, family and friendship elements of our sport.”
A proclamation has been signed by New Albany Mayor Doug England in which he encourages all citizens of the city to observe Youth Soccer Month.
For further information on events, log on to www.siusoccer.com. If you want to help out with activities, contact Debbie Webb at 812-945-5627 or 502-523-4382.
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