BU15 White defeated Crossfire Select 2-0 in Redmond. This team won the “Challenge Cup” two years ago. They are a great group, with a very strong team ethic, and in my mind have what it takes to win it again.

BU15 Black defeated Crossfire “B” 5-0 at home. I was able to see the match, and they were dominating. Seth would say they have a lot of work to do, which may be true, but his father Gary and I thought they looked good!

BU16 Black defeated Eastside 2-1 in Preston. I’m very impressed with what this team, under Gary Heale, has accomplished. They began the year with only four returning players, having lost 12 to the USDDA, and the fall season was tough as they welcomed almost an entire new squad. However, they persevered as a group, never giving up and playing for one another and it shows. Over the past few weeks they played and won a match to remain in the first division, and are making a strong run in State Cup. Good on ya!

BU18 Black defeated Three Rivers 2-0 in Tri Cities. What can I say about this team? They are the epitome of what is great about WPFC. Many of the players and their families have been a part of the WPFC family for years. I’ve been fortunate enough to see them play quite a bit. They are talented, steady, tough and resilient, which was proven this weekend when they played a man down for the final 20 minutes (so maybe a bit ornery too?).

At Washington Premier FC we are committed to providing excellence for our players and their families; the best training environment and facilities, the best coaching, the best competition and the best customer service. We strive for excellence in every area. The players who join our club will not only have the opportunity to reach their potential as athletes, but will also be expected to remain strong students and leaders in their community. We thank you for your interest and look forward to working with you.

Tryout Information
Final number of teams is dependent upon the assessment of players and the number of players committing to the teams. Typical roster size of each team is anticipated to be between 15-17; however the final number is based on the discretion of the respective coach.

Tryout Schedule
Both WPFC Premier and WPFC Fury Select high school age boys teams tryouts will be comprised of two sessions and are grouped by age March 3rd-5th. Players are encouraged to attend both sessions offered. If you are unable to attend one of the sessions please inform the staff at registration.

Tryout Results
The goal of the club is to publish tryout results on the website within 24 hours of the completion of the final tryout sessions for each age/gender group. Coaches will contact the parent/guardian listed on the registration form to confirm their player’s interest in playing for WPFC. A parent/player/coach team meeting will be scheduled shortly after team selection (generally within 2 weeks) in order to provide more detailed information about that team. Times and venue will be communicated by the respective coach.

Miscellaneous Information

Length of Season
Pre-Season and Summer Tournament Play: May-August Regular Season: September-November Spring Season: January-March Post Season (Training and State Tournaments): March-May

Regular Season Play
WPFC is a member of the Regional Club League (RCL). A season averages 10-14 games. Games are typically played on Saturdays with the older age teams playing on Sunday. There are, at times, “doubleheader” weekends in which teams play games Saturday and Sunday. Travel for league play will vary based on opponents within each of the RCL Divisions.

Tournaments
Most teams will play up to 4 summer tournaments before the start of the regular season. Tournaments may require travel outside of Washington State. Decisions on which tournaments will be played are based on the coach’s/DOC assessment of the team. Please note: each player is responsible for their own travel expenses.

Uniforms
The WPFC player’s kit includes two numbered jerseys, two pair of shorts, two pair of socks, warm-up jacket and pants and a team backpack. All new players to the club will be required to purchase a complete kit. A goal keeper jersey will be provided for goalies. After items are received, numbers will be embroidered on warm-ups and backpacks and will be organized by the team manager for an additional cost.

Practices
Practices will be held at least three days per week for much of the year. Days and times are set by the coach. The majority of practice sessions are held at our field complex on River Road; but during the winter months our teams split their training between our facility and high school turf fields in Pierce County. Practice times are subject to change throughout the year. Team managers will provide adequate advance notice of practice days and times.

Club, Coach and Trainer Expectations
Coaches and trainers are bound by the codes of conduct of WYS and WPFC. Coaches sign a Code of Conduct. You can expect them to be on time and properly attired. Coaches and trainers are role models for the teams and will display behavior appropriate to their position in the club.

Player Expectations
Players will be asked to sign a Player Code of Conduct. They are expected to show up on time for each training session, unless excused by the coach. Players are expected to arrive for games at the designated time ready to warm-up.

Parent Expectations
Parents will be asked to sign a Parent Code of Conduct. They will be supportive of the entire team. They will not interfere with players, coaches or officials during and immediately following games. Positive behavior is expected at all times. Parents will adhere to the payment schedule designated within the team budget.

WPFC Spring Academy
 

A special thank you goes out to the winners of our sales contest for their outstanding personal efforts.

The winners are:

1st Place, Adam King (lower right) selling a whopping 56 tickets—Prize IPad 2

2nd Place, Jared Butler (center) selling an impressive 37 tickets—Prize Xbox 360 with Kinect. 

3rd Place, Paige Serwold (upper right) for selling 20 tickets—Prize Eurosport gift card

4th Place, Marlaina Trahant (far left) for selling 16 tickets prize—Prize Eurosport gift card

Thanks again to all the families!  

Please mail completed applications to: Washington Premier F.C., Attn: Athena Scholar Athlete Award, PO Box 111643 Tacoma, WA 98411. Applications must be post marked by May 15th. All applicants will be notified of acceptance of their application and award winners will be recognized at our club’s Rainier Challenge soccer tournament in June, 2012.

In this installment of Alumni on the rize, we catch up on Alumna Jordan Salisbury, F.C. Royals/WPFC U10-U18, who has been an integral part in the Redhawks reclassification process back to full NCAA Division I status, as a leader both on-and-off the field. She has been the anchor of the Redhawk central defense over the past four years, starting all 76 games played over her career. During that span, she’s scored six goals and made an assist for 13 career points. Salisbury also has contributed to 23 shutouts and scored a pair of game-winning goals over her career.

The veteran leader had a breakout season in 2011, including award accolades and helping the program reach new milestones.

The more things change the more they stay the same.
Seattleu.edu & Debbie Photography

During the season, she was named to the Viking Soccer Classic All-Tournament Team and to the CollegeSoccer360.com’s National Primetime Performers of the Week, her first career national team recognition. In addition, she helped the Redhawks earn the biggest win in program history, a 2-0 shutout over then-No. 8 Portland on Sept. 2, and win the UNLV NIKE Invitational on Sept. 18. She also tallied four goals and was part of seven shutouts this year, as SU went 12-6-1 on the year.

Salisbury was also recently named to the the 2011 NSCAA Women’s Soccer Division I All-Pacific team.

"We have been blessed to have Jordan in our program over the past four years. She is an amazing person, true competitor, fantastic student and a great leader on our team. She had an amazing collegiate career and impacted our team from the first time she set foot on the field," said head coach Julie Woodward.

Salisbury has also excelled in the classroom, balancing successfully the rigors of athletics and academics. A humanities for teaching major, she boasts a 3.268 cumulative grade point average.

2011: Started all 19 matches ... scored four goals on 14 shots, seven on goal ... defended in seven shutouts ... helped preserve shutout in final defensive start at Loyola Marymount (11/5) ... fired two shots, one on goal in start at Eastern Washington (10/30) ... took one shot on goal in defensive start versus Montana (10/28) ... started on defense at Texas (10/23) ... backline starter in 3-1 win at CSU Bakersfield (10/14) ... scored on three shots, one on target and helped preserve shutout in start at defender versus Hawaii (10/9) ... took two shots in action off the bench versus Boise State (10/2) ... tallied one shot on frame in start at defender versus Gonzaga (9/30) ... started at defender in shut out versus San Francisco (9/23) ... scored header off free kick from Mary Hill in start against San Diego State (9/18) ... started in backline at UNLV (9/16) ... named to Viking Soccer Classic all-tournament team ... started in defense in win at Portland State (9/11) ... played defense in start against Cal Poly (9/9) ... scored on her only shot in start at Washington (9/4) ... started at defender in start at Washington State (8/28) ... took one shot and contributed to clean sheet as defensive starter at Idaho (8/26) ... started at defender at UC Da­vis and contributed to a clean sheet (8/19) ... started at de­fender at Sacramento State, scoring the game-winning goal in overtime with her one shot on target (8/19).

2010: Started and helped Redhawks to a shutout at defender against CSU Bakersfield (11/6) ... started and played all 90 minutes at defender at Cal State Northridge (10/31) ... helped guide the Redhawks to their fifth shutout of the season at CSU Bakersfield (10/29) took one shot at starting defender at Colorado (10/23) ... started and played the entire 90 minutes at UC Santa Barbara (10/21) ... started as defender at Baylor (10/15) ... Tallied her thirteenth consecutive start at defender versus Portland State (10/3) ... started as defender versus Utah Valley (9/29) … attempted one shot on goal in start versus Sacramento State (9/26) … tallied two shots on goal versus University of Idaho (9/24) … started at central defender and helped guide team to 3-0 shutout versus Cleveland State (9/19) … started in central defense at Boise State (9/12) ... scored first goal of the season off a Heather Thomas assist in start at defender at Idaho State (9/9) ... part of starting backline that led SU to 2-0 shutout victory over Gonzaga (9/5) ... had a shot in start at central defense in 2-1 double overtime victory at Eastern Washington (9/3) ... helped guide team to second consecutive victory in start at central defense at UC Irvine (8/29) ... started and was key in team’s 1-0 shutout victory over UC Riverside (8/27) ... started at central defense ... had one shot versus Oregon State (8/22) ... started and played entire game in the backline versus Washington (8/20).

Salisbury controling the center of the pitch

Seattleu.edu Photography

2009: Headed in first goal of the season off a Kassandra Riozzi corner kick versus Washington State ... it was her first career goal (Oct. 11) ... started 14th straight game at central defense at SDSU (Oct. 4) ... had one shot versus UNLV at Aztec Classic (Oct. 2) ... played in the backline versus USF (Sept. 27) ... played 110 minutes at PSU in 1-1 double overtime draw (Sept. 22) ... anchored backline in 3-1 victory over Utah State (Sept. 20) ... played full 90 minutes at Gonzaga (Sept. 17) ... headed a shot on goal at Oregon (Sept. 13 ) ... started and played full 90 minutes versus Oregon State (Sept. 11) ... started at central defense against Cal Poly (Sept. 4) ... part of backline that shutout fourth opponent, Eastern Washington (Aug. 31) ... part of SU backline that shutout third opponent of the season, Utah Valley (Aug. 28) ... played 90 minutes in central defense against Washington (Aug. 26) ... was a crucial part of the Redhawks 1-0 shutout over Idaho (Aug. 23) ... started at central defense versus Boise State ... helped keep Broncos from having any shots in the second half (Aug. 21).

2008: Started all 20 games as a freshman ... had one assist for one point on the season ... was tied for sixth on the team in assists and ninth in shots with eight ... lone assist came in 3-2 win over North Dakota State on Oct. 18 ... was part of the SU defense that shutout six teams and helped preserve 12 wins on the year.

Todd Beamer High School: A 2008 graduate of Todd Beamer High School ... was a four-year letterwinner in soccer as a versatile field player ... helped team reach the state title game in 2007 ... also earned two letters in fastpitch softball.

In all, WPFC placed a total of 13 players on five of Washington’s six teams at the tournament advanced to the semi-final round, with a record four winning their semis to advance to Tuesday’s finals.

The Region IV ODP Championships brought together boys’ and girls’ elite teams in four different age groups from the 14 US Youth Soccer state

Washington Premiers 96 ECNL players, J. Udovich, M. Weaver and M. Spataro ’97 EPD fell short in the Semi finals.

Tay Tay Photography

associations that comprise Region IV - Washington, Alaska, Arizona, California North, California South, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah and Wyoming.  Teams played a round-robin format in two groups Saturday through Monday, with the top-two teams in each group advancing to Monday’s semifinal, and subsequently, Tuesday’s final.  Washington’s Girls 98, lead by coaches Malia Arrant and Lyndsey Patterson, went 2-1 in group play before beating Cal-South’s first team, 4-0, in the semi-finals. That set up a championship game Tuesday with Cal-South’s second team, in which Washington again prevailed, this time bya narrow, 1-0 margin.

The Boys 98 team, led by coaches Dennis Sanchez and Willy Leiste, went 3-0 in group play to face Arizona in the semi-finals where they made a 1-0 shutout-win. The undefeated team then faced Cal North in the finals where they closed the tournament with a 2-0 win.

The Boys 97 team, led by coaches Jason Prenovost and Jamie Bloomstine, went 2-0-1 in group play before beating Utah 1-0 in the semi-finals. The team then went on to face Cal North, who they defeated with a 4-0 shutout.

"What a fantastic weekend for our Elite Player Development program, said Washington Youth Soccer Technical Director Gary White.” “All of our teams showed the required quality of high performance athletes on and off the field and served as wonderful ambassadors for our state. The various trophies are symbolic of the efforts of all of our staff, players and parents over the past few years. The Washington Youth Soccer/ Sounders FC EPD program continues to solidify itself as a leader in modern player development both regionally and nationally; our preparation, presentation, and performance sets us apart. Congratulations to all EPD players, parents and staff I couldn’t be more proud."

In addition to the champions, Washington’s Girls 96 EPD team also reached Tuesday’s finals.  The Girls 96 team, led by coaches Peter Lechak and Fawzi Belal, went 3-0-1 in group play and defeated Oregon 2-1 in the semi-finals. They fought hard in the final against Cal South, coming away the finalists after a 2-0 loss.

The three titles won by Washington teams — plus the appearance of five of six Washington teams in semi-finals, and four of six in finals — is a further sign of the successes being made in Washington’s Elite Player Development (EPD) program, a joint venture of Washington Youth Soccer and Seattle Sounders FC, to train and develop the best players in the state for regional, national and professional competition.

“Each and every team participating in this weekend’s Region IV ODP Championships should be extremely proud – it was hard word and determination that got them to the competition,” said Doug Andreassen, Washington Youth Soccer President. “Our players’ performance on and off the field – their professionalism, sportsmanship and talent – is a testament to the Elite Player Development program and the commitment put in by our players, parents, and volunteers. Thank you to our Technical Department, lead by Gary White for the success on the fields and in the program. Congratulations to all!”

The ’94 ECNL team led by Head Coach, Seth Spidahl, had an equally good showing as they easily handled the Blue Valley Soccer Club squad from Kansas City by a margin of 10-0, lost their second game to the Atlanta Fire 2-0, but finished strong with a 1-0 victory over FC Dallas.

The ECNL was founded in 2009 to enhance the developmental experience of female youth soccer players in the United States. This has been achieved by improving the competitive environment through the creation of a true national competitive league with multiple flights and by improving the process for identifying elite female soccer players for the U.S. Soccer youth national teams through a systematic scouting and identification program based on national competitions. ECNL events are heavily attended by college coaches and provide the female soccer player with a broad level of exposure.

Washington Premier is one of 66 clubs accepted into the ECNL league.  The club’s U15-U18 ECNL squads will be traveling to San Antonio in late February to participate in the third national event before opening league play in March.    

The All-Event Teams from the 2011-12 ECNL National Showcase Event Series- Sanford, FL are:

U-15 All-Event Team
Nathalie Nidetch, Albertson Fury, GK
Grace Vowell, FC Dallas, D
Whitney Brown, Dallas Texans, D
Sara Swafford, Concorde Fire, D
Kayla McCoy, Eclipse Select Soccer Club, M
Ella Stevens, Gwinnett Soccer Association, M
Marisa Kutchma, St. Louis Scott Gallagher, M
Hope Hyde, Dallas Sting, F
Kelly Sweeney, Vardar, F
Natalie Breeden, St. Louis Scott Gallagher, F
Miranda Weslake, Carolina Elite Soccer Academy, F

U-16 All-Event Team
Audrey Sanderson, Birmingham United, GK
Alya Shams, D’Feeters Soccer Club, D
Alexis Urch, Lonestar SC, D
Imani Dorsey, Freestate Soccer Alliance, M
Natalie Goodman, Gwinnett Soccer Association, M
Ashton Miller, Michigan Hawks, M
Katerina Weikert, Ohio Premier Eagles, M
Taylor Timko, Vardar, M
Madeline Huster, Ohio Elite Soccer Academy, F
Mariah Lee, Washington Premier, F
Laya Rybicki, Challenge SC, F

U-17 All-Event Team
Bridget Conway, Scorpions SC, GK
Erin Holland, Eclipse Select Soccer Club, D
Kimberly Slade, FC Stars of Massachusetts, D
Molly Pittman, Carmel United, D
Joanna Boyles, CASL Chelsea Ladies, M
Gabrielle Seiler, Concorde Fire, M
Mikayla Elmer, Utah Avalanche, M
Savannah Jordan, Concorde Fire, F
Meaghan Carrigan, Carolina Elite Soccer Academy, F
Alyssa Fratarcangeli, Connecticut FC, F
Morgan Reuther, McLean Youth Soccer, F

U18 All-Event Team
Caroline Casey, Virginia Rush, GK
Kathryn Thimons, Conneticut FC , D
Allison Mills, FC Stars of Massachusetts, D
Caroline Lindquist, CASL Chelsea Ladies, D
Dayna Tomayko, FC Virginia, M
Cari Roccaro, Albertson Fury, M
Allison Murphy, D’Feeters Soccer Club, M
Gabriele Moreno, Freestate Soccer Alliance, M
Olivia Pappalardo, Eclipse Select Soccer Club, F
Mallory Weber, Michigan Hawks, F
Natalia Pinkney, FC Delco, F

We’ve had some wonderful young men and women graduate from the F.C. Royals, F.C. United, and WPFC  program over the last quarter century. They come to the Club as girls and boys, learn to play team soccer over the years, and they eventually grow to be young responsible men and women. We’re proud of our alumni, current and future players, who will continue our commitment to excellence.

• 1 Rhodes Scholar
• 4 National Championship Titles
• 4 National Finalists
• 20 Regional Championship Titles
• 2 Regional Finalist Appearances
• 4 Regional 3rd Place Appearances
• 112 Regional Appearances
• 114 State Championship Titles
• 11 State Championship Finalist
• Our players have been selected for ODP (state, regional & national levels)
• Teams and Players and National Ranked.
• Teams traveling across the United States.
• Players move on to the top U.S. colleges.
• Student-Athletes who were selected as US Rhodes Scholars
• Student-Athletes who were selected as All Conference
• Players selected as Collegiate All-Americans.
• Players selected as Collegiate Player of the Year
• Players drafted to the professional ranks of MLS and WPS

SEMFINALS AND FINALS FOR BOYS TEAMS

Date	Time	Age	Home	Away	Field
Sat., 12/3/11	1:00pm	11	WPFC 00 Black	VUSA Timbers 00 Red	Grasslawn 2
Sat., 12/3/11	4:30pm	12	WPFC 99 Black	FC Portland 99 Navy	Marymoor 6
Sat., 12/3/11	12:00pm	13	Cascade FC Real Madrid	WPFC 98 Black	Marymoor 6
Sat., 12/3/11	10:30am	14	Willamette Utd. SC Arsenal	WPFC 97 Black	Marymoor 6
Sun., 12/4/11	2:30pm	11	Semifinal Winner 1	Semifinal Winner 2	Marymoor 6
Sun., 12/4/11	10:00am	12	Semifinal Winner 1	Semifinal Winner 2	Marymoor 6
Sun., 12/4/11	11:30am	13	Semifinal Winner 1	Semifinal Winner 2	Marymoor 6
Sun., 12/4/11	1:00pm	14	Semifinal Winner 1	Semifinal Winner 2	Marymoor 6

SEMFINALS AND FINALS FOR GIRLS TEAMS

Date	Time	Age	Home	Away	Field
Sat., 12/3/11	5:30pm	13	THUSC Onyx	WPFC 98 Black	Grasslawn 2
Sat., 12/3/11	4:00pm	14	VUSA Timbers 97 Red	WPFC G97 ECNL	Grasslawn 2
Sun., 12/4/11	1:00pm	12	Semifinal Winner 1	Semifinal Winner 2	Marymoor 2
Sun., 12/4/11	1:00pm	14	Semifinal Winner 1	Semifinal Winner 2	Marymoor 3

Registration for our academies is now open and training sessions begin on Friday, September 16th.  The cost is $150.00 and all participants will receive ninety minutes of instruction every Friday night plus a WPFC Academy t-shirt.

Here are the details:

Sarah Carter, Washington Premier 94 ECNL, U17, Defender: 2011 Washington State ’95 ODP Team; attended Region IV ODP Camp; invited back to Regional Team Pool. Anchored defense which allowed only 4 goals in past 7 games (ECNL PDA Showcase and Rainier Challenge), 2013 Grad; no college commitment yet

Paige Serwold, Washington Premier 94 ECNL, U17, Forward: 2011 Washington State ’95 ODP Team; attended Region IV ODP Camp. 3 goals, 1 assist (7 points) in last 5 matches, 2013 Grad; no college commitment yet

Alyssa Edenstrom, Washington Premier 94 ECNL, U17, Center Midfielder: 1 goal, 2 assists (4 points) in last 5 matches. 2013 Grad; no college commitment yet

Samuel Gomez, Washington Premier FC Boys 96 Black, U15, Midfielder: Works hard to lead the team in all matches and is a leader to his teammates.
 

Congratulations on an incredible 1st year in the Academy Program.

U.S. Soccer Development Academy Match Report
 

Match: Real So Cal vs. Seattle Sounders FC
Date: July 12, 2011
Competition: 2011 Development Academy Finals Week; U-15/16 - Group 1
Venue: Marquette University; Milwaukee, Wis.
Kickoff: 8 p.m. CT
Weather: 77 degrees, mild

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
Real So Cal 0 1 1
Seattle Sounders FC 0 2 2

RSC – Angel Fernandez 43rd minute
SOU – Austin Sweeney 53
SOU – Ian Lange 64

Lineups:
RSC: 0-Jonathan Price; 12-Shane Steffes, 2-Forrest Solis, 21-Brandon Vincent, 6-Kevin Martinez (43-Cory Miller, 74); 11-Juan Samayoa, 33-Dante Nino; 18-Quentin Anson (4-Lewis Perez, 59), 9-Angel Fernandez (8-Daniel Dannas, 76), 16-Luke Rosescu (23-Richard Martinez, 30); 7-Stevie Manios
Subs not used: 1-Jason Trejos, 13-Christian Arteaga, 14-Jesse Gallardo
Head Coach: Terry Davila

SOU: 00-Keenan Townsend; 16-Jeffrey Collings, 6-Michael Gallagher, 18-Ian Lange, 14-Jacob Beck; 23-Miles Rodriguez-Nilson (22-James Nosack, 72), 4-Jordan Schweitzer, 15-Austin Sweeney, 7-Michael Steele (11-Odason Pelogi, 57), 19-Jordan Thompson; 12-Jesse Klug, 13-Ike Crook
Subs not used: 1-Trevor Larson, 5-Jalen Markey, 17-Stefan Bangsund, 21-Chad Radolovich
Head Coach: Richard McCormick


Stats Summary: RSC / SOU
Shots: 5 / 4
Shots on Goal: 3 / 2
Saves: 0 / 2
Corner Kicks: 2 / 4
Fouls: 17 / 15
Offside: 2 / 2

Misconduct Summary:
SOU - Ike Crook (caution) 13th minute
RSC - Brandon Vincent (caution) 50
RSC – Angel Rodriguez (caution) 65
RSC – Shane Steffes (sent off) 69
RSC – Stevie Manios (sent off) 78
RSC - Lewis Perez (caution) 80+2

Officials:
Referee: Tony Crush
Assistant Referee 1: Danny Thornberry
Assistant Referee 2: Giuseppe Agosta
Fourth Official: Emilie Buse

ussoccer.com Man of the Match: Ian Lange (Seattle Sounders)
 

Please mail completed applications to: Washington Premier F.C., Attn: Athena Scholar Athlete Award, PO Box 111643 Tacoma, WA 98411. Applications must be post marked by May 15^th. All applicants will be notified of acceptance of their application and award winners will be recognized at our club’s Rainier Challenge soccer tournament in June, 2012.

In the second consecutive year, a WPFC Alumn has played in the MLS CUP Championship. This year, Tally Hall (Goalkeeper/Houston Dynamo) and last year Ciaran O’Brien (Midfielder/Colorado Rapids). The Houston Dynamo came up short in their bid for a third MLS Cup title in six years, losing 1-0 on the road against the LA Galaxy in the MLS Cup championship game Sunday night at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif.

The loss broke a five-game Dynamo winning streak and a nine-game Houston unbeaten streak. The Dynamo finished the season 10-3-4 in their final 17 games, 15-10-13 in 38 MLS games. The Dynamo are now 9-5-3 all-time in playoff games. It was the second time in three years that the Galaxy eliminated Houston in Southern California, having won the 2009 Western Conference final in extra time.

Tally intensely focused during 2011 MLS Cup.

Getty Images

In his first year as a starter for the Houston Dynamo, Tally Hall followed up a regular-season in which he played every minute by repelling 10 shots as Houston downed Philadelphia, 4-1 on aggregate, in the Eastern Conference Finals. That’s a big number, but he’s already done it. Twice.

Though Hall, 26, didn’t play any league games in 2009 and only five last year, Coach Dominic Kinnear groomed him with appearances in SuperLiga, Concacaf Champions League, and U.S. Open Cup. Those games accounted for his previous 10-save displays, as well as a goal he scored against Isidro Metapan two years ago when one of his long kicks wound up in the net.

“I try not to remind anyone of that goal,” he laughs. “Brian Ching tackling the goalkeeper and the ball bouncing in. Just kick it up to Brian Ching and good things happen. Shock, right? Usually he touches it before it goes in, this time he just cleared the keeper out of the way. It was one of those flukes. I wasn’t trying to do it, so I don’t talk about it too much.”

What he does like to talk about is his team’s strong surge during the second half of the season that straightened out a season veering off-course. There’s a long list of reasons: a great, possibly MVP-caliber season for Brad Davis; a midfield core strengthened by the additions of Adam Moffat and Luiz Camargo; a breakthrough season for Corey Ashe at left back; and a front line bolstered by a healthy Ching and revived Calen Carr, acquired in a trade with Chicago.

“Even though we feel short in the MLS Cup, this year has to be looked at as an overall success, we’ve gotten a good mix of players coming in and guys developing,” says Hall, who took over the starter’s job when Pat Onstad retired at age 42. “Corey Ashe behind Brad has helped out the back line, Adam and Luiz have come in and held down the middle of the park for us.
In his 34 games, Hall allowed 1.21 goals per game and recorded six shutouts; maybe not Onstad quality, but not bad for a keeper who for two years couldn’t get off the bench at his Danish club to play in a first-team game.

“At the beginning of the year, we probably had him tested a little too much but he played some great games, especially at Seattle and at New York,” says Kinnear of the former San Diego State All-American. “When we weren’t playing our best he kept us in games. Then there was a point in the season where I think as every team does as well as every player, you have your ups and downs. I think the last couple of games for us he’s played pretty well, especially on the road. He’s had a couple of shutouts in Dallas and in Portland where I think Tally played particularly well.”

He didn’t get the shutout in Philly but he and the Dynamo did get the win and a one-goal cushion for the second leg. That advantage is mitigated by the fact Philly has won both league meetings in Houston the past two years, with their encounter in this year’s home opener especially frustrating for the Dynamo.

“That’s a team that’s always going to find some chances and we’ve seen the way they defend this year,” says Hall of the Union, which finished just a point behind the second-place Dynamo in the Eastern Conference.

“They scored early on us the first game at home, and for 85 minutes, we threw everything we had at them, and they didn’t break down. Philly’s going to work as hard as they need to get the job done, and we need to have that same mentality and throw it back at them.”

Hall didn’t get much time his freshman season at SDSU and starting as a sophomore in 2004 can best be described as humbling. He gave up 34 goals in 19 games. Then two things happened. The Aztecs moved from the Mountain-Pacific Sports Federation to the Pacific-10, and in this tougher competition a new Tally Hall emerged. He allowed just 10 goals and posted 12 shutouts in 19 games.

Tally make 1 of four saves during 2011 MLS Cup.

Prost Amerika Photography

His work and sacrifice, plus the influence of head coach Lev Kirshner and goalkeepers coach Matt Hall, transformed him into an All-American.

“I stopped wave boarding, I stopped snowboarding, I stopped all extracurricular activities in college to focus on soccer,” Tally Hall says. “It started there but it never really ends.”

He repeated as an all-American the following year and the Galaxy drafted him, but he summoned his adventuresome self again. Like many Americans, he found a small Scandinavian club – Esjberg in Denmark – to launch his pro career. He enjoyed the life there, but soccer never got off the ground. In two years he didn’t get a single first-team game, and signed with Houston in 2009.

“Growing up, Kasey Keller was the man. He’s always going to be a legend in my mind. There was a Showcase tournament when I was 16 and that’s the first time I ever saw him. In my parent’s house I still have a shirt with his signature on it because a couple of us got the courage to go up and ask him.

Tally was selected for two end of the year Dynamo awards: Save of the Year: Tally Hall, (March 25 at Seattle) and Ironman of the Year (most MLS minutes played)

WPFC is built upon the combined traditions of F.C. Royals and F.C. United, which share a rich history of, "creating champions on the field and in life". We take great pride in our Washington Premier F.C. Alumni who come from diverse backgrounds and enjoy a wide variety of expertise in soccer. Please visit our WPFC In the Pros section is dedicated to those who have reached the professional ranks in the MLS and WPS.

USYS Far West Regional

2011 US Youth Soccer National President’s Cup Finalist

The girls G95 Black team recently completed a memorable season by playing for a National Championship in Des Moines, Iowa participating in the National Presidents Cup falling 2-0 to FC Fusion of Kansas.

The journey began in  January with RCL league play where the team won the 2nd Division posting a 9-0-1 mark with hard fought wins over bitter rivals Crossfire and Eastside along the way.  A milestone was crossed as this team will be the first “B” team to advance to Division 1 play with the league crown.  Next up came the Challenge Cup and a chance to erase the past 2 years of bitter exits losing in the semi-finals last year to Eastside on kicks from the mark and a finals defeat to Crossfire in 2009.  This year’s group took those losses to heart  and earned a Championship rematch facing arch rival Crossfire in what turned out to be a slugfest with WPFC claiming the crown 2-1, going 6-0 in Challenge Cup play.

Next in the journey came a trip to Salt Lake City and a chance to perform against the Regions finest.  Facing teams from Utah, Alaska, Northern and Southern California, and of course our nemesis Crossfire, the team buried the competition going 5-0 winning the Region Championship with a 4-0 blistering of Real So Cal Blues.  That day will remain fresh in everyone’s minds as the weather turned into perfect WPFC conditions with gusty winds, 50 degree temperatures and sideways rain.  So Cal stayed in their tent until game time watching our girls warm up as if it was a Thursday night in November.  We knew we had them when the whistle blew to start the match……

With that victory the dream of playing for a National Championship was becoming a reality.  Frantic planning and short lead times were met by a team of supporters to make the trip to Iowa a reality and off we went.  The saying “you just can’t get there from here” kept ringing in my ears as we had players, families and friends scattered all across the US trying to get to Des Moines.  Arriving a day early was a blessing as it allowed the team to acclimate to the heat, humidity and time changes.  Up first was a match against Texas (a team that many thought would be the team to beat) at 8am.  Thankfully, the games were all early and helped offset the hot and humid climate.  The team came out firing on all cylinders and overwhelmed the Texans with 3 first half goals from Whitney Lowe, Madison Adams and Gabriela Pelogi.  Defense has been the strong suit all season and this game was no different with Lauren Crimi, Sierra Shugarts, Chanelle Pederson, Brittney Martin and Alicia Williams shutting down the Texas attack.  The second half was more of the same with Madison Adams adding another goal to put the team up 4-0 and allowing Coach Dan Leeming to take the foot off the gas.  Final score 4-2.  Day two’s match was against New York on a hot, muggy day.  The team was sluggish to start and the New Yorkers were dominating play.  Once the team woke up and realized they were in a fight the game turned quickly in favor of WPFC.  Gabriela Pelogi strikes first getting the 1-0 lead but New York ties it up 15 minutes later.  Whitney Lowe scores in the waning moment of the half to make it 2-1 at the break.  Second half was all WPFC as the team steamrolled their way home with goals from Madison Adams, Zoe Keskey, Sierra Shugarts and another from Whitney Lowe with Ashleigh Cade and Lindsey Hanbidge assisting .  Again, the defense gets feisty and shuts down the Capitals with Crimi, Sierra Shugarts and Brittney Martin playing big in the back.  Final 6-1.  Day three pits the River Road gals against KC Fusion from Kansas.  From the start we see that Kansas is fast, athletic and aggressive.  The fist fight is on and both teams go toe to toe with plenty of physical play.  Megan Charlton playing big in goal.  The second half finds Kansas scoring in the 8th minute to take the 1-0 lead.  Twenty minutes later Ashleigh Cade makes a beautiful diagonal pass to Gabriela Pelogi who is able to drive it home for the goal.  1-1 final with a rematch of the same teams teeing it up for the National Championship.  We wake up to 95 degree temperatures and humidity in the 100% range making it the worst weather day of the tournament.  This doesn’t bode well for the team and the Kansan’s take full advantage scoring in the second minute for a quick 1-0 lead.  The next 76 minutes was knock down, physical play with both teams having a difficult time getting any offensive attack going as the defenses were playing huge!  With time running out, Dan pushes several additional players forward trying to get the equalizer but to no avail.  In the 78th minute Fusion strikes again on the counter attack catching WPFC in an outmanned position and their striker finds the net to put the final touches on a hard fought match.  2-0 final and the dream of claiming the National Championship if over.

Although losing in the National Championship match leaves a bitter taste in our mouths there is plenty of greatness to celebrate.  Winning the elusive Challenge Cup State title while beating a Crossfire team that always seemed to have our number.  Experiencing a Regional event for the first time seeing how awesome it is for the teams there and how well they are treated…..and winning it by beating the big bad So Cal Blues!  Nationals!  The word says it all.  Four teams vying to claim the National title and being able to say we had a shot!  Going 22-1-2 with the lone defeat and 1 of the ties coming at the hands of the eventual National Champion.  All of these memories and more will be placed in the memory banks of all of those that had the chance to participate in this great run. 

On behalf of the parents, WPFC staff and the entire organization a huge shout out goes to this team for a fantastic season.  On behalf of the players, they’d like to thank their parents for the undying support in this 15 month long season and a special “Thank You” to Charlie Dent for always believing in them, to coaches Bill and Mike White for building the foundation of this great team and to Coach Dan Leeming for asking them to dream big, believe in themselves and work hard to find that greatness he knew they all possessed.

Congratulations ladies you have made us all proud!

2011 US Club National X Cup Super Group Champions

Temperatures were not the only thing hot in Boise as the girls 96 ECNL team wrapped up the summer tournament schedule with a victory at the US Club National Cup held in Boise, Idaho, clinching the Super Group Title. Coach Seth Spidahl and the 96 ECNL squad had a great run at the National event defeating Bay Oaks SC Botafogo and Sonoma County Alliance, two very strong California teams in pool play. Those wins, guaranteed the team a spot in the finals where they faced the NSA Premier Jaguars, the reigning Illinois State Champions.   Having lost to the Jaguars 2-1 in preliminary play, the Premier girls took to the field and played a solid game, limiting the Jaguars to one goal off a set piece, while finding the back of the net twice. Check out the last day of action at the National Championships Championship Day Highlights. This is the first US Club National Title won by a Washington Premier Team. 

WPFC is built upon the combined traditions of F.C. Royals and F.C. United, which share a rich history of, "creating champions on the field and in life". We take great pride in our Washington Premier F.C. Alumni who come from diverse backgrounds and enjoy a wide variety of expertise in soccer. Please visit our Legacy section dedicated to the accomplishments of our players at the state, regional, and national level.

The Northwest Champions League staged their U11 – U14 championships the weekend of December 3-4 in at Marymoor Park in Redmond, Washington and we are proud to announce that our U12 and U13 boys can both lay claim to being the best team in the Northwest! It capped an impressive weekend for the club which saw six of our teams advance to the semi-finals. Congratulations are in order for all of the teams that represented the WPFC family so well since the competition began in August. Our boys U11 and U14 and girls U13 and U14 teams lost hard-fought matches on Saturday, but the boys U12s and U13s advanced with dramatic one-goal victories to propel them into the finals.

Championship Sunday began with the U12’s facing a rematch of the U11 state championship as WPFC squared off against Crossfire. Kobe Middlebrooks opened the scoring for WPFC with a goal just before halftime to send our boys into the break with a lead in a back-and-forth match. The game remained tight until a free kick from Zak Gregg found the net, which was soon followed by a blast from Calob Mejia which went in off the post, putting the result beyond doubt. A 3-0 shutout was a fitting end to a terrific, undefeated campaign for the boys!

The U13’s took the field immediately after the 12’s and were facing a familiar rival in Eastside F.C. Both teams found it difficult to break each other down, going into halftime scoreless. The game turned on a moment of magic from Marcos Santos, who beat three defenders and struck an inch-perfect shot inside the far post from a difficult angle. From that point on the boys turned up the pressure and their efforts were rewarded with an Oscar Zepeda header off a corner kick and another stunner from Santos, this time a rocket from twenty-five yards. It was another 3-0 win for WPFC in a championship match ending another undefeated NWCL season.

Thanks to all of our teams who participated in the NWCL!  You continue to represent our club very well and we wish you the best of luck in 2012!

WPFC is excited to announce Kelly Bendixen has been hired to the position of GK coach, which encompasses the role of coaching for the entire program for the upcoming year. Seth Spidahl said, “I know last year it (coaching) was split between youth and senior GK’s... Kelly will now train every GK in the club as I wanted to get to one person for this position.“ All GK training will be every Monday starting this Monday 4/4.

Our coaching philosophy is heavily based around technique, because the more technical a goalkeeper becomes, the less prone to mistakes he or she is. By lessing the amount of mistakes, the goalkeeper becomes more consistent, and consistency in goalkeepers is an attribute desired at every level on the pitch

Kelly Bendixen has recently finished his 15th and final year as an Assistant Coach and Goalkeeper Coach at the University of Puget Sound (UPS), serving for five years with the Men’s soccer program, and the last 10 years with the Women’s program. As a former All-Conference member of the Men’s team at UPS, he brings a wealth of experience and talent for developing goalkeepers. Bendixen has a U.S.S.F. National "A" Coaching License and a NSCAA National Level I Goalkeeping Diploma.

He is also a licensed Washington State staff Goalkeeper Instructor for youth ages 8-13 and 13-19. He has recently served as a staff goalkeeper coach for Tony DiCicco’s Soccer Plus Goalkeeping School and with various youth teams and organizations including FC Royals and FC United Premier Club, Norpoint Soccer Club, and the Washington State Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program.

Also, please visit our "Coaches" page to learn more about the rest of our coaching staff and view a coach’s bio.