Re-post January 15, 2010 Erin Guthrie Q-and-A

Big East Goalkeeper of the Year, Erin Guthrie, a captain at Rutgers this past fall, answered several questions via email prior to the 2010 WPS Draft.

Q. How much did Karina LeBlanc mean to your development?

I owe so much to Karina for my overall development at Rutgers during these past 4 years. I am a completely different keeper now than I was as a freshman. All around Karina developed my technical abilities, confidence and tactics and honestly without her training and motivation pushing me everyday I would not have accomplished what I did at Rutgers as well as help Rutgers soccer accomplish all we did as well.

Q. Are you satisfied with how the team finished this season?

I am very proud of how the team performed under all the adversity we faced with injuries this year. Being that it was my last collegiate game I did not want it to end and obviously wanted us to go further even though we put up a great fight. I believe our team accomplished a lot and I do think we had the potential to go even further.

Q. And from an individual standpoint, are you happy with your performance?

For the most part I'm never totally satisfied with how I do. Whenever we lose or give up a goal I feel as though there were things I could have done to prevent it. In general I feel pretty happy with how I performed in my college career.



Q. Are you looking forward to the WPS Draft?

I am looking forward to the draft and hopefully I will have good news come January 15th.

Q. What have you done between the end of your collegiate career and the WPS Draft to prepare for a potential professional career?

Since the season ended I have worked to stay fit as well as continued to strength train. I have also trained with Paul Blodgett once a week to keep my technical game sharp in hopes of having a career in the WPS.

Q. Do you have a favorite save from the season?

I would have to say my favorite save from the season was in the West Virginia game. There was a cross that went to a player on West Virgina who was on the 6 yard line and she redirected it in the opposite direction so I dove back and grabbed it on the goal line. It was my favorite save because we had been working on situations with crosses just like that in practice for awhile.

Q. And a favorite clean sheet?

A favorite clean sheet from this year would be the South Florida game. We tied 0-0 in South Florida. We had just come from the freezing rain in Marquette a day earlier. We were dead tired in the heat as a team so to give up no goals in circumstances like that spoke measures of the Rutgers team.

Q. Can you give us a preview of how the Rutgers women's team will do in 2010?

2010 is going to be a great year for Rutgers Women's Soccer. The talent that the team will have is going to be some of the best and I am predicting a memorable season for them. Returning Gina DeMaio is huge for the team who had to red shirt this year for a knee injury is huge for Rutgers.

Photo Credit (Both Photos): Tom Ciszek, Rutgers Athletics

Please note: This interview originally published at Player Interviews, a distant cousin of the Football Friendlies blog.

Six-a-side with Charlotte 49ers midfielder Amanda Jones

The Charlotte 49ers women's program ended the 2012 season with a 2-0 loss to La Salle at the Atlantic 10 Championships. With the Niners' transition to Conference USA this fall, leadership from players such as left-sided midfielder Amanda Jones will be paramount to the process.

The sophomore attacking player, an All-Atlantic 10 Second Team member, returned from an injury-marred freshman campaign and in 2012 scored seven goals with five assists.

The Mahwah, New Jersey, native kindly spoke via email about her brace against VCU, the move to Conference USA and what food she could eat every day.

1. In terms of your development as a player, what are you able to do now on the field that you weren’t able to do before playing at Charlotte?

Since playing at Charlotte I feel like I have a much greater presence on the field. I work so hard in practice and in everything we do off the field that once I am on the field in a game I know I am prepared to help my team as best as I can.

I love to intimidate my opponents. I want them to dread playing against me, especially the opposing team's right back. I want to make her life miserable.

2. What are your thoughts on the move to Conference USA?

I am very excited! Of course we are unsure as to what exactly we are up against since we will be playing brand new teams, but I think we are going into the conference with a good mind set. We want to make a statement and let the other teams know that we are Charlotte and we won't back down without a battle.

3. Care to take us back to the emotions and thoughts you had after your brace in the Atlantic 10 opener versus VCU, especially after an injury-marred end to your freshman season?

Wow I can't even put it into words! It was astonishing and we deserved that win. We played so hard that night, I was just thrilled that I was able to finish the game off for my team.

I just so happened to score in the last 3 seconds of overtime which made it even greater and dramatic to walk away with the first W of conference play.



And three for fun:

4. Best off campus food/restaurant?

Sushi for sure! I could eat sushi every day.

5. What's playing on the iPod?

A little bit of everything, just depends on my mood! Can't Stop Me by Afrojack is my favorite pump up song to listen to before every game.

6. Player or club you supported growing up?

Well when the old Women's Soccer League was around I was a big fan of Kristine Lilly and the Boston Breakers.



Read more Six-a-side Spring 2013 interviews.

Links:
1) Charlotte 49ers Athletics official website
2) Charlotte 49ers Athletics official website
3) Charlotte 49ers Athletics official YouTube channel
4) Adidas Impossible Is Nothing official YouTube channel

Photo Credit: Sam Roberts/Freeze Frame Photo

Six-a-side with Oregon State forward Jenna Richardson

Oregon State and Canadian Under-20 national team forward Jenna Richardson rejoined her collegiate teammates last September after competing in Japan at the 2012 U-20 Women's World Cup.

Individually, the year already was a success for country; now Richardson turned her attention to the Pac-12 Conference. The junior scored seven goals and added an assist helping OSU to a 11-6-3 record concluding with a loss to Oregon during the rival's annual meeting known as the Civil War.

Top Drawer Soccer ranked Richardson as one of the nation's top performers at season's end.

In addition to this and other postseason accolades, the forward earned an invite to the Canadian national team year-end camp.

The assessment-based camp, a nine-day training experience, marked Richardson's first call up into the senior team, no doubt a result of her strong performances at last March's CONCACAF U-20 Championship and the U-20 Women's World Cup in concert with her fall campaign at Oregon State.



The Surrey, B.C. native kindly spoke via email about competing at the U-20 World Cup, the best away venue in the Pacific-12 and her experiences training with Canadian superstar Christine Sinclair.

1. Can you give some insight into the U-20 Women's World Cup now that you've had some time to reflect on the experience?

The U-20 Women's World Cup was an amazing experience in some surreal venues. We all felt very accomplished qualifying and went into the tournament with big expectations and goals. Although the results were disappointing the experience made for amazing memories. Playing and starting for my country and playing against teams like North Korea and Japan (exhibition) were so beneficial to my play.

Coming back from Japan I realized how much knowledge I had absorbed through my time with Andrew and the rest of the staff and my teammates. Being at Oregon State now I constantly refer back to that World Cup and use what I have learned to better myself and my teammates.

2. The Pac-12 is a fantastic women's soccer conference, perhaps the best in the country. Which away venue is your favorite?

The Pac-12 is an amazing conference. Very physical and competitive!

My favorite away venue would have to be Stanford because it is always a huge game and that is when my team is truly tested. The atmosphere is always loud and exciting which makes for an intense game. Can't complain about the weather either!

3. How has the rapport between you and head coach Linus Rhode developed since you arrived on campus?

I think the relationship between me and Linus has made great progress over my past 3 years here. I was initially interested in his coaching style when I found him similar to my Whitecaps coach (Jesse Symons) back at home. Overtime, I have come to respect him and his program here at Oregon State.

And three for fun:

4. Best off campus food/restaurant?

Cheba Hut is a new sub shop that popped up on Monroe and I can't get enough of it! I have also grown to like Mexican food which is a fan favorite around here.

5. What's playing on the iPod?

ED SHEERAN is sheer perfection. I am going to see him this summer <3

6. Player or club you supported growing up?

Growing up I supported (surprise, surprise) the Canadian Women's team and The Women's Whitecaps.

Kara Lang was one of my favorite women's players along with Christine Sinclair and I would always chase them around trying to get their autographs wherever I could!

Being at camp with Christine this past winter break was surreal (she probably didn't know I secretly idolize her).



Read more Six-a-side Spring 2013 interviews.

Links:
1) TopDrawerSoccer.com
2) Official website of Oregon State Athletics
3) Official website of the Canadian Soccer Association
4) U.S. Soccer official YouTube channel
5) Official website of Oregon State Athletics
6) Official website of Vancouver Whitecaps FC
7) Cheba Hut
8) Vancouver Whitecaps official YouTube channel

Photo Credit: Oregon State Athletics

Six-a-side with Washington State midfielder Micaela Castain

In 2012, embracing change, often the difference between success and failure, aided Washington State midfielder Micaela Castain.

The junior's acceptance of a position change helped the Cougars return to the NCAA Tournament and garnered Castain awards and accolades including being named to the 2012 NSCAA All-Pacific Region Third Team.

Moving from her more natural forward attacking role to the midfield allowed the Castro Valley, California, native more possession on the ball and thus increased play-making opportunities. The results spoke to the tune of 11 goals, five of which were game-winners.

Castain kindly spoke via email earlier in the month about the switch to the midfield, her interactions with Washington State's first-year head coach Keidane McAlpine and other topics in this edition of Six-a-side.

1. Ten career game-winning goals, what do you attribute to this knack for scoring when the team needs it most?

I enjoy helping my team towards winning a game; I try to put myself in spots where we will be successful.

2. Thus far you've enjoyed a successful collegiate career, what goals do you have for your senior season?

I just want to continue to keep contributing to the success of our team, and be a big influence in games. I want my senior year to be the best season I will have. I would like to help my team achieve more than we ever have and I think we are more than capable.

3. Keidane McAlpine is known as a teacher of the game; care to share some knowledge that you acquired working with the Cougars new head coach?

I think Keidane has been great this season sharing his view of the game with us. At first when Keidane wanted me to switch from forward to midfield I didn't think it would go well. But after he showed me how to play the position and what he wanted me doing from this spot on the field it got a whole lot easier. I think he is a very good teacher of the game.

And three for fun:

4. Best off campus food/restaurant?

I really like eating Panda Express when I'm on campus, although it may not be the healthiest choice.

5. What's playing on the iPod?

I like to listen to anything.

6. Player or club you supported growing up?

I loved watching Mia Hamm play while growing up.

Read more Six-a-side Spring 2013 interviews.

Links:
1) WSUCougars.com
2) WSUCougars.com
3) WSUCougars.com
4) Panda Express

Photo Credit: Washington State Athletic Communications

Six-a-side with Minnesota forward Taylor Uhl

University of Minnesota forward Taylor Uhl ended 2012 with 51 points, 21 goals scored and nine assists. Sporting an impressive arsenal of attacking skills, the third team All-American (NSCAA) and first team All-Big Ten member earned a place in the discussion as possibly the nation's top collegiate soccer player.

Naturally, if Football Friendlies lists Uhl among the upper echelon of college soccer it's only proper that the sophomore kick off the women's side of the interview series.

The native of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, kindly spoke yesterday via email about improving her game, what motivates her as the upcoming season nears and where to find the best food in Minneapolis.

1. Over the last two years, you enjoyed a run of 11 consecutive games with a point scored and nine consecutive with a goal. Were the streaks something that you mentally kept a tab on?

I wasn't aware of the streak until it had accumulated to 8-9 games. After I found out, I definitely wanted to keep it going, but during the game, this was not in the forefront of my thoughts. I focused more on how to help the team to win.

2. Heading into your junior campaign, what's an area of your game that you will give additional attention to?

I'd like to improve my long-range goal scoring. This past season, most of my goals were scored off breakaways, or shots inside 10 yards. Becoming dangerous from 20-25 yards would add another dimension to my game. Also, I would like to see our team improve on our crossing which would naturally result in more goals off crosses for myself and the team.

3. After a heartbreaking end to the season, how often do you still reflect on the game?

I think about the game against Illinois in the Big Ten Tournament a lot. Being up 2-0, and then to lose on PKs was pretty tough to take in at the time. When I think about the game now, I think more about how I never want to end a season like that again. It serves as motivation.

And three for fun:

4. Best off campus food/restaurant?

I'm a big fan of Shuang Cheng. I get the beef fried rice.

5. What's playing on the iPod?

I like all kinds of music, but currently I'm really into Michael Bublé, Gavin DeGraw, and Adele.

6. Player or club you supported growing up?

Fernando Torres is my favorite soccer player, and I cheer for whichever club he is at. I have a Torres Liverpool jersey and recently updated to his Chelsea uniform.



Read more Six-a-side Spring 2013 interviews.

Links:
1) GopherSports.com, the official site of Minnesota Athletics
2) Video link via University of Minnesota Athletic Department YouTube Channel.
3) GopherSports.com, the official site of Minnesota Athletics
4) Shuang Cheng Restaurant 1320 Fourth Street South East Minneapolis

Fernando Torres Samsung Commercial 2013 video via emitertv YouTube Channel.

Photo Credit: Christopher Mitchell courtesy of University of Minnesota Athletics

Six-a-side Spring 2013

Women:
+ Taylor Uhl - University of Minnesota
+ Jenna Richardson - Oregon State
+ Micaela Castain - Washington State

Men:
+ Mark Sherrod - University of Memphis
+ Magnus Thorsson - Winthrop University
+ Spencer Richey - University of Washington

Six-a-side with Memphis forward Mark Sherrod

This summer, the University of Memphis men's soccer program transitions from Conference USA to the Big East; a critically important aspect of this passage into the new conference will be the play of standout forward Mark Sherrod. The Tigers junior ended the 2012 season with 12 goals and four assists earning his second straight C-USA Offensive Player of the Year award.

With Major League Soccer praise-worthy posts already published and with experience playing for the Portland Timbers U-23 squad, Sherrod appears capable of making the college-to-pro jump at the conclusion of his Memphis career.

The Knoxville native kindly spoke via phone yesterday with Football Friendlies about the scrimmage with FC Dallas, the balance between academics and athletics and the awesomeness of Jimmy Buffett.

1. You recently competed in a scrimmage with Major League Soccer side FC Dallas scoring a goal in the process. What did you take from the experience?

It was a great feeling, obviously, being able to score against professional players but our team didn't win which mattered most. Overall, an amazing experience, observing and learning from professionals.

2. How are you able to balance your academic and athletic responsibilities?

It's pretty tough, to be honest. You decide each day how to commit your time because after practice as soon as I come home it's straight to the books. It really is a balance between the two; I find it helps to work a nap in there.

3. What's your take on the team's move from Conference USA to the Big East starting July 1?

Conference USA has been amazing with some of the best teams in the country; three or four a year are invited to the NCAA Tournament. But the move to the Big East is huge and there are some top teams in the conference like UConn. It will be fun to travel to the schools; the competition alone will be worth it.

And three for fun:

4. Best off campus food/restaurant?

The Chinese Sub Shop [aka Super Submarine Sandwich Shop] is this great hole-in-the-wall place that makes the best sandwiches.

5. Playing on the iPod?

On the iPod, I have to be honest, it's Jimmy Buffett.

6. Player or club you supported growing up?

I still am a huge Arsenal fan. I always admired both Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp, two great Arsenal forwards.



More Six-a-side Spring 2013:
+ Spencer Richey - University of Washington
+ Magnus Thorsson - Winthrop University

Links:
1) TopDrawerSoccer.com (written by J.R. Eskilson & Travis Clark)
2) Official website of Memphis Athletics
3) Video link via SIDMemphis YouTube Channel.
4) FCDallas.com
5) Official website of Memphis Athletics
6) Mark Sherrod Twitter (@marksherrod2)
7) Yelp.com

Mark Sherrod 2012 highlight video via SIDMemphis YouTube Channel.

Photo Credit: University of Memphis Athletics Communications

Six-a-side with Winthrop midfielder Magnus Thorsson

Six-a-side's next guest is Winthrop University midfielder Magnus Thorsson; the Eagles men's soccer standout earned a spot on the 2012 Big South All-Freshmen Team.

The Reykjavik, Iceland native competed in 22 games scoring in the team's 3-2 comeback victory over Coastal Carolina in the Big South Conference championship.

Thorsson kindly spoke via email with Football Friendlies about his journey from Iceland to Winthrop, the team's response to losing inspirational leader Alex Isern and why as a supporter of English football, he'll never walk alone.

1. Can you talk about the journey that led you to play at Winthrop?

In my home country, Iceland, we are only able to play soccer on natural grass 3 or 4 months out of the year. The United States was a great opportunity to play and train in fair conditions all year round. An ex-NCAA Icelandic player named Kristjan Palsson was a great help to me and got me in contact with the coaches at Winthrop University. Winthrop struck me as a place with a really reputable soccer program and top quality facilities. To be able to combine soccer and studying abroad was something that fascinated me and looking back I am very happy that I made the decision to come here.

2. Now that you've reflected on your successful freshman year, what are you most proud of?

Being a part of the first Winthrop team to ever reach the NCAA round of 32, in my freshmen season, was something special. Winning the Big South Conference was also a huge milestone, one of my proudest soccer moments. I was also pleased to receive some individual awards and I definitely intend to build on that in the coming years.

3. How will the squad respond now that Alex Isern, who was such a dynamic player, has concluded his career?

Alex was a great player for us and of course will be missed dearly next season. Not only was he important on the field with his goals and assists but was also a great captain and leader. Next year will be an opportunity for other returners to step up and embrace the responsibility; I’m confident of that happening. Currently we have a solid backbone to the team returning and hopefully a great recruiting class coming in.

And three for fun:

4. Best off campus food/restaurant?

I am a big fan of Panera Bread and a Japanese restaurant here in Rock Hill called Ichiro.

5. Playing on the iPod?

I like all kinds of music but at the moment the most played band on my iPod is the Icelandic band “Of Monsters and Men”.



6. Player or club you supported growing up?

Since I’ve been little I have always been a huge supporter of Liverpool FC. I have always been an admirer of midfielders Steven Gerrard and Zinedine Zidane.

More Six-a-side Spring 2013:
+ Spencer Richey - University of Washington

Links:
1) Big South Conference
2) Winthrop Eagles official website
3) Ichiro Sushi Bar, Teriyaki Grill (Rock Hill, SC) Facebook Page
4) Video via OfMonsterAndMenVEVO YouTube Channel

Photo Credit: Dr. Steven Limentani; Courtesy of Winthrop Eagles Athletics

Six-a-side with UW goalkeeper Spencer Richey

Last fall, University of Washington goalkeeper Spencer Richey helped the Huskies return to the NCAA Tournament; the men's soccer program last enjoyed a run at the end-of-season competition back in 2007.

The junior played every minute of every match in 2012 as the team finished with a 12-4-3 record. The Huskies paced the Pac-12 conference in fewest goals allowed with fifteen, posted a 0.74 goals-against average and tallied nine shutouts.

He kindly spoke via email about the rapport he has with head coach Jamie Clark, the advanced leadership role he is transitioning into and what separates good from great goalkeepers in our first installment of Six-a-side, a new question-and-answer section here at Football Friendlies.

1. Coach Jamie Clark has returned the program to the upper echelon of the Pac-12 with back-to-back 12+ win seasons. You've played a critical role in this transformation. Care to give some insight into the player-coach relationship?

Jamie is a great coach, and he is an even better player's coach. What I mean by that is he is extremely good at communicating what he wants and what his expectations are to the players. Decisions on playing-time and other things rarely come out of left field, because he is straight forward with his players about what they need to improve on and what they already do well. Since he got here he has continued to push the expectations of our program to higher and higher levels, and it has shown through our play and our results.

2. You and your teammates lost several key players to graduation. Are you looking to take a more advanced leadership role in 2013?

Although I did consider myself to be a leader on the team last year, with the departure of our two captains Dylan [Tucker-Gangnes] and [Ben] Fisk, I definitely am going to have to step up to try to fill their shoes. It is crazy how time flies in college soccer. It felt like just last month I was arriving here as a freshman and next thing I know I am a senior and young guys are looking up to me. Heading into my fourth off-season here at UW, I feel prepared and ready to help lead our young team to another PAC-12 and NCAA tournament run.

3. What aspect of your game will you look to improve upon as you head into the 2013 campaign?

Two things that I think separate good goalkeepers from great goalkeepers is their ability to make good decisions and their ability to organize what is in front of them. These are two big areas I'm constantly working on and the off-season/spring season is a good time to do so.

And three for fun:

4. Best off campus food/restaurant?

I'm a big sucker for Chipotle. It never seems to get old no matter how often I go, but that is a little mainstream. The best under-the-radar place is probably Teriyaki 1st, or "T-1" as we like to call it.

5. Playing on the iPod?

I love all kinds of music. I like everything from country to techno to rap. For pre-game purposes though, I like to stick to techno or rap music.

6. Player or club you supported growing up?

My favorite European club growing up was and still is Arsenal. In MLS, I like both the Sounders and the Timbers, if that is even allowed. I grew up in Seattle, so I am a die hard Seattle sports fan, but I played for the Timbers U-23s last summer and I grew to really like the Portland organization, so I am in a bit of a pickle. My favorite players are probably Tim Howard, Iker Casillas and Thierry Henry.


Photo by Stephen Brashear courtesy of University of Washington Athletics

Links:
1) FootballFriendlies.com
2) UrbanSpoon.com
3) PortlandTimbers.com

Former Old Dominion standout Yannick Smith offered chance to compete with Major League Soccer's Houston Dynamo

Photo Credit: Old Dominion University Athletics

Former Old Dominion standout Yannick Smith, drafted by the Houston Dynamo with the 75th pick in the fourth round at the 2013 MLS supplemental draft, savored the moment offering up effusive replies to Dynamo faithful via Twitter. He also took to the social media platform and cheekily noted his place in the draft as Mr. Irrelevant, the term coined for the event's final selection.

Now Smith will work towards maintaining his place on the Dynamo roster, and with it an all-important professional contract, as Houston's February training camp rolls toward the season kick off this March. Before joining the professional ranks, the attacking player completed a massively successful collegiate career with the Old Dominion University Monarchs. He ended his career ninth on the all-time goal list and 11th all-time in assists.

Primarily, a center forward in college, Smith transitioned to a left-side attacking role during his senior season, becoming more of a facilitator versus a finisher.

"The majority of my life I've played center forward, but this year I was more of a left winger," Smith said via a December 2012 email interview. "At first it was frustrating because I did not understand the position completely but as the season went on I got more and more comfortable with it."

Smith's training sessions during the 2012 summer often focused on his positional change. "I put an emphasis on working on my combination play," the Dynamo draft pick said. "At ODU we played a very attractive brand of soccer and it's made me a much better player; last summer was devoted to my touch, passing, and playing quicker."

Upon completion of his senior season, Smith earned an invite to the 2013 Major League Soccer Combine held in Florida. Like many combine invitees, he was able to rely upon a former collegiate teammate for advice and guidance. Old Dominion alumnus, David Horst, a 27-year-old defender currently with the Portland Timbers, spoke with Smith about the expectations that come with the event.

"Once I found out I was selected to the combine, I wanted to reach out to Dave to talk to him but he beat me to it," Smith said. "Dave has been a great help, always giving me positive advice and I’m extremely grateful he reached out to me when he did not need to."

Prior to the combine in December, Smith noted some areas in need of improvement as he looked to transition to the pro ranks. "I want to continue working on my touch and get stronger," Smith said. "I believe I have a lot to bring a professional team and if I can continue to improve those parts of my game it will only give my game more versatility."

In the coming weeks, Smith will work towards cementing his roster standing with Houston. Perhaps he might even join the Dynamo's list of late-round draft picks who through development and patience went on to achieve at the sport's highest level.

Links:
1) Old Dominion University Athletic Website
2) Dynamo Theory - A Houston Dynamo Community at SB Nation
3) Yannick Smith Twitter @Yanaldinho4
4) Old Dominion University Athletic Website
5) Geoff Cameron Profile at Football Friendlies

2013 MLS Combine and SuperDraft Coverage Center

Check back often for articles, interviews and player profiles as the march towards the 2013 Major League Soccer SuperDraft begins.

Combine and SuperDraft Schedules

+ Friday, Jan. 11
2 p.m. -- adiPower vs. Prime
3:45 p.m -- adiZero vs. adiPure

+ Sunday, Jan. 13
1:30 p.m. -- adiPower vs. adiZero
3:30 p.m. -- Prime vs. adiPure

+ Tuesday, Jan. 15
10 a.m. -- adiZero vs. Prime
11:55 a.m. -- adiPower vs. adiPure

+ Thursday, Jan. 17
The Major League Soccer SuperDraft begins at noon at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. The draft comprises of two rounds totaling 38 overall selections. A four-round supplemental draft will take place via conference call on Tuesday, Jan. 22.

Player Interviews and Profiles

+ Dylan Tucker-Gangnes - Washington Huskies

+ Luke Spencer - Xavier Musketeers

Articles of Note

+ 2013 Mock Draft Version 2.0 via Soccer By Ives

+ Generation adidas-splosion via No Short Corners

+ 2013 MLS SuperDraft Big Board (Version 3.0) via Soccer By Ives

+ 2013 MLS SuperDraft Coverage via SBNATION.com

+ Ten MLS Combine snubs worth a look ~ Written by J.R. Eskilson & Travis Clark at TopDrawerSoccer.com

Re-Post: 2011 MLS Draft Profile: Dartmouth midfielder Daniel Keat

The former Dartmouth product and native of New Zealand enjoyed a strong showing at the 2011 Major League Soccer Player Combine. Speaking via email last month prior to the Combine, Daniel Keat was eager for the opportunity to make the jump to the professional level.

"Obviously it is an honor to be invited to the Combine," Keat said. "I believe in my ability to play at the next level and knew that if I worked hard and played my part on the field rewards like this would take care of themselves."

The leader of Dartmouth's 2010 team, the midfielder continued the New Zealand to New Hampshire pipeline. The list includes his former teammate and current professional Craig Henderson.

"Hanover has been great to me," Keat said. "The people are really nice and Dartmouth is an incredible setting to spend college. I suppose the relaxed lifestyle and people remind me of home and made being here so easy."

Keat added some comments on his final collegiate season.

"I think in general the team made progress from day one and were building all season," Keat said. "Even when we weren't winning in the middle of the season we were playing reasonably well. We were obviously disappointed to go out in the way we did."

After his strong Combine, Soccer By Ives, in its final mock draft, tabbed Keat as an early second-round selection.

Whomever selects the midfielder will find a player willing to push himself as he competes at the professional level. Often described as a hard worker, one not afraid to make the hard tackle, Daniel Keat appears to be the type of player often found on championship sides -- a leader, a winner.

Re-Post: 2011 MLS Player Combine Profile: Notre Dame forward Steven Perry

Men's soccer at the University of Notre Dame is an appealing option for many of the nation's most gifted prep players. One can obtain an education from a first-rate academic institution, play with some of the collegiate game's most accomplished coaches and players at elite facilities in the Big East Conference and use your play on the field as a springboard to the professional game.

The only issues -- playing time. With so many top players coming to campus, finding time on the field can be difficult. But when your chance arrives, you have to make the most of it.

Senior forward Steven Perry seized upon his opportunity of extended play in 2010 and parlayed his increased minutes into a stellar individual season that landed him on several postseason teams. His fine season of course ended with an an invite to the 2011 Major League Soccer Player Combine (January 7-11 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida).

Perry, who had played in 55 contests but only started 13 games in his first three seasons with the Irish, scored 12 goals and added four assists. The goals scored were both team and career highs.

Of those 12 goals, five were game winners.

The offensive outburst, thanks in large part to the fact that the forward started all 20 matches for the Irish in 2010, allowed Perry to be recognized for several postseason accolades at season's end including All-Big East First Team and All-Great Lakes Region Second Team.

"I had the support of my teammates and coaches and couldn't have achieved this success without them," Perry said as he finished up his most recent pre-combine training session.

Unfortunately for Perry and his teammates, the season ended with an exit from the 2010 NCAA Division I Championship tournament after Dartmouth defeated the Irish 2-1 in the second round. Perry spoke about the disappointing end to the season but added that he is proud of the team's overall performance in 2010.

"We obviously had unfulfilled potential and came up short both in the Big East and NCAA tournaments, but overall in 2010 we did quite well as a team."

With the 2010 collegiate season in the books, Perry, along with teammates Jeb Brovsky and Bilal Duckett, now spends much of his time training for the Major League Soccer Player Combine. Not all invitees are able to attend the event with former collegiate teammates and the Irish forward believes this is an advantage to be exploited.

"It is a great advantage because whenever you are put in a pressure situation it is good to have your teammates there, Perry said. "We will encourage each other, offer up advice and be able to talk in between our time on the field."

Perry also turned to former Notre Dame players including Bright Dike and Justin Morrow to talk with them about their combine experiences.

"I had a chat with them about what to expect and to get advice on my playing style since they know my game," Perry said.

The Edmond, Oklahoma native will now continue to work on staying fit, keeping his first touch sharp and his finishing abilities fine-tuned. He also will look to keep mentally focused, a key ingredient to doing well at the MLS Combine.

Oh, and like many players who compete in the Midwest, he is looking forward to the warm weather of South Florida.

"I welcome it," Perry said.

Re-Post: 2011 MLS SuperDraft: Columbus Crew draft selection Rich Balchan talks about his day

With Columbus' first pick in 2011 Major League Soccer SuperDraft, the Crew selected Indiana University defender Rich Balchan.

Balchan, spoke about his reaction to his draft selection tonight via email.

"When I first heard the selection, I was very surprised," Balchan said. "Coming into the draft, I didn't really have high expectations, and I followed an approach of letting the chips fall where they may. I am just so fortunate to be provided this wonderful opportunity."

The defender also responded when asked to comment about the Crew fan base.

"In terms of the fan base, when you hear about the Crew, two things stand out: tradition and passion," Balchan said.

Re-Post: December 2007: Wake Forest midfielder Patrick Phelan

Editor's note: The former blog was Soccer City FC

Soccer City FC recently chatted via email with Wake Forest University's Patrick Phelan. The senior defender/midfielder was an instrumental member of the 2007 NCAA National Champion Demon Deacons who defeated Ohio State 2-1 in the College Cup on December 16.

The Deacons posted an impressive 22-2-2 record enroot to their first National Championship. Patrick has garnered several honors at the conclusion of the 2007 season including being named a 2007 NSCAA First Team All-American as well as being selected to Soccer America's 2007 First Team MVP list. He was recently named as one of the 54 players who will be attending the 2008 MLS Combine which will take place in Fort Lauderdale, Florida from January 11th through the 15th.

SG: First Off, I want to extend my congratulations to you and your teammates regarding the season. What memories do you have from the 2007 College Cup experience?

Patrick Phelan: Thank you; it sure was the perfect way to end my athletic career at Wake Forest. I think when I look back on the College Cup there are a few things that stick out. The first memory I have is of handing the National Championship trophy to our coach, Jay Vidovich. If people around the country knew how hard he, and the rest of our staff, has worked since our loss against UCSB last season they would understand how much it meant to him to finally win a National Championship.

Another memory I have is of my teammate Julian Valentin and the bloody scar he had on his face. Having known Jules for 5 or 6 years now, I can say that was actually an appropriate way for him to end his career at Wake. He's truly a warrior and the way he puts himself, and his body, before the team was a big reason for our success of our program in the past 4 years. A final memory I have is walking out of the locker room after the game and celebrating with my family who rarely get the oppprtunity to see me play so it was very special to have them there.

SG: Did you have any reservations about making the switch mid-season from backline to midfield?

PP: I had no reservations whatsoever. I think that for me, and for the coaching staff, it made the most sense to move me into the midfield. In practice I used to have a tendency to push forward quite a bit and I felt very comfortable moving into the midfield. It also made sense for the future of the program as it would have been difficult to replace two senior centerbacks. By moving me forward, Ike Opara was able to gain a valuable year of experience which will be crucial to our success in the next few years.

SG: Now that you can reflect back upon the 2007 season what means more to you from an individual standpoint: scoring your first two collegiate goals on October 9th or being a part of the squad's fifteen shutouts?

PP: It's obviously got to be the latter of the two. It was very special to finally score, especially at our home field, but I came to Wake Forest to win a championship and scoring two goals against Appalachian State was not as vital to our success as the performance of our defense was. Posting 15 shutouts also illustrates the consistency of our defense and when you look at the difficulty of our schedule the achievement becomes even more special.

SG: You were born in Houston, Texas but now live in Enfield, Connecticut. What were you thinking during the 2007 MLS Cup?

PP: It's great to see that soccer has really taken hold in Houston. Living in New England, however, I was sympathizing with the Revolution who had come so close the past few years. I guess I was in a sort of win-win situation if you want to look at it that way; I'm good friends with a few players on each team. Nonetheless, I was more interested in the quality of play.

SG: What sort of expectations and objectives are you looking at regarding the upcoming 2008 MLS Combine?

PP: Even though I'm 22 years old it doesn't mean that I have stopped developing so I'm going to approach it as I would approach any training session and just try to get a little better each day. I am not going to be too concerned with impressing coaches or the other players. I'm thankful for the opportunity to participate in the combine and just hope that I can represent myself and my school well.

SG: Is there anything that can be said about being able to attend the combine with teammates Brian Edwards and Julian Valentin?

PP: It's very special to have them there with me. Both players definitely deserve to be at the combine and it reflects well on the university and the soccer program. To have 75% of the graduating class invited to the combine is a testament to the quality of Coach Vidovich's program. I'm sure they will both do very well and will have successful careers as professionals.

SG: Will you be in attendance at the 2008 MLS Draft or will you be with family and friends?

PP: I sure hope so but at this point I cannot say yes or no. There is a possibility that I will be in camp with the U23 Men's National Team during that time but I'm not certain on that quite yet. However, if I can attend I will certainly try to be there.

SG: I want to thank you for your time and again extend my sincerest wishes on your upcoming soccer future; best of luck at the combine.

PP: You're quite welcome. Thanks so much.

Re-Post: January 2008: U of Rhode Island midfielder Geoff Cameron Feature

This interview originally posted at Soccer City FC on January 4, 2008.

Geoffrey Cameron and several of his University of Rhode Island teammates have just returned from an early morning run on the beach. You would expect his next logical destination to be some well-maintained field. However, the harsh New England winter has forced the URI midfielder indoors as he prepares for the 2008 MLS Combine.

"It is tough for me because I am living up north in Rhode Island. You can’t hit balls outside in the grass or anything like that. I am training in a gym doing technical drills, sprint, and endurance. In the morning, I run two to three miles on the beach with a few of my teammates and then we go the gym for a technical session in the afternoon. I am just trying to stay as fit as possible. When I get down to Florida, I will have to adjust quickly to playing on grass again and I will have to get used to the warm weather."

Cameron joined the team for the 2006 and 2007 seasons after transferring from West Virginia. The Rams found team success in his first year ending with a win in the Atlantic 10 Championship and a seed in the NCAA Tournament. This year the team began slowly and never found their 2006 form. They eventually lost in the A-10 semifinals 1-0 to UMASS. URI ended with a 9-8-2 record. Cameron reflected upon his two years at URI.

“I have a lot of memories with my teammates from the last two years. We had a really good 2006 season. We won the A-10 Championship and made it to the second round of the tournament, but fell short. This year we had a tough schedule, especially our first five games. We weren’t clicking, but we pulled through the hard times and made it to the semifinals of the A-10 Tournament.”

Although the team’s ultimate goals were not reached, Cameron’s midfield work was recognized as he was named the 2007 Atlantic 10’s Midfielder of the Year.

"I had no clue! We were in Ohio at the A-10 Tournament and they announced it before the tournament started. When they said that I received the A-10 Midfielder of the Year, I was completely shocked. I got compliments from coaches after games, but I wasn’t expecting it. I tried to be consistent in every game. It was a great honor; I am sure it helped me out with being selected for the combine."

While he admits that he is anxious for the day to arrive, he is also confident that his abilities will show through once in Florida.

"You want to stand out but you don’t want to be flashy or go out of your realm. I am going to keep it simple, but also use my creativity both on and off the ball. I am going to look for a good first touch. I want to stay consistent. You have to play up to your best ability."

The midfielder is not the only Ram who will attend the MLS Combine. Forward Lukasz Tumicz also was invited. Cameron feels that having his teammate and roommate down in Florida will only work to both players’ advantage.

"We know each other so well having been teammates these last two years. We will keep each other positive down there."

Cameron committed to countless hours on the beaches of Rhode Island in preparation for the MLS Combine. Shortly, he will be playing up to his best ability with his collegiate peers under the warm Florida sun on a field of fresh, green grass. Positive thinking under such conditions will be simple.

Re-Post: 2011 Major League Soccer Player Combine Profile: JMU forward CJ Sapong

CJ Sapong is focused on his potential professional career after a successful collegiate season.

"I am trying to get to the next level," Sapong said.

The forward leaves James Madison as one of the program’s all-time players. Sapong ranks fifth in points (95), seventh in goals (37) and fourth in game-winning goals (12). He also earned four All-CAA First Team selections from 2007-10 culminating in being named the 2010 Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Year.

This past fall, the senior scored 12 goals, four of which were game winners, and added nine assists. He was also named as a captain for the Dukes. "I tried to bring cohesiveness to our team," Sapong said.

Now, the former JMU player will join 53 other Division I college seniors from January 7-11 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida at the 2011 adidas Major League Soccer Player Combine.

Sapong is excited for the opportunity and currently training for the event. He has spoken to several former combine invitees including 2010 MLS draftee Adam Welch. The two competed at Reading United AC in the PDL this past summer.

"I am confident in my abilities," Sapong said. "It's important to settle down and play well at the combine."

Re-Post: 2010 NCAA Player Profile: Slippery Rock's Greg Blum

Slippery Rock goalkeeper Greg Blum, a two-time first team All-PSAC (Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference) selection, ended his collegiate career this fall.

He leaves The Rock as one of the program's all-time keepers. Blum started 72 games; his record stands at 46-23-4 with 21 shutouts. In 76 total games played, he allowed only 86 goals scored for a 1.15 career goals against average.

"I am pleased with my performance at Slippery Rock," Blum said via email. "I worked hard my four years here but I owe it to the players, especially the defense anchored by Tom Pool."

Blum also added an All-Atlantic Region First Team selection in 2010. The Ambridge, Pa. native has been awarded this honor during multiple seasons. "The competition in this region is top notch with a lot of nationally ranked teams," Blum said. "To be voted one of the best by the coaches means a lot. Its nice to see hard work pay off."

The Rock goalkeeper hopes to parlay his solid play into a pro career. "I would like to continue to play," Blum said.

"Coming from a Division II school is difficult but not impossible. I am in contact with some USL teams and hope to do a combined USL and MLS tryout."

The Rock goalkeeper could very well capitalize on this potential opportunity. "I hope someone will give me a shot," Blum said.

Re-Post: 2010 NCAA Player Profile: University of Washington's Taylor Mueller

University of Washington co-captain Taylor Mueller, hailed as one of the Pac-10's top defenders in each of the last three seasons, believed the 2010 Huskies season ended on a successful note even without an invite to the NCAA Division I men's soccer tournament.

"Although it's a very bitter taste after not being picked in the 48-team playoff, we had an extremely successful season," Mueller said via email.

"I was very confident going into the selection that we would be picked, and we were playing our very best soccer of the year at the end. It was a very memorable season that I would compare to my freshman year when we made the playoffs."

A tough, tireless worker on the field since his prep days at Eastlake High School, Mueller paid extra attention to his foot skills when he arrived on campus. "This was something I really wanted to improve while I was at UW," Mueller said.

"I wanted to be the best foot-skilled defender on the field. Since my freshman year I feel that I have come a long way and have improved a lot with composure and skill on the ball."

The three-time All-Pac-10 Second-Team selection helped the '10 Huskies log nine shutouts. The central defender, known for being strong in the air as well as a solid tackler went up against some of collegiate soccer's most skilled attackers.

The Pac-10 has sent several skilled midfield and forward players to professional leagues such as Major League Soccer in recent years, most notably Oregon State product and 2010 MLS Rookie of the Year finalist Danny Mwanga.

Mueller noted that Mwanga was the toughest forward he had to mark in college. "Seeing him chosen first in the 2009 MLS SuperDraft was really cool; knowing that we played against the number one pick during our season and off-season," Mueller said.

Now, the UW product hopes to make the leap to the next level, much like
former Huskies defender and current FC Dallas player George John.

"It is my preference to play in MLS, if it so happens to be in the Northwest that would be a dream come true, but playing in MLS is ultimately my goal," Mueller said.