100 Years of US Soccer ~ 1913-2013
U.S. Soccer was originally known as the United States of America Football Association. It formed on April 5, 1913 and on August 15 of that year was accepted as one of the earliest member organizations of FIFA and the first from North and Central America.
U.S. Soccer was originally known as the United States of America Football Association. It formed on April 5, 1913 and on August 15 of that year was accepted as one of the earliest member organizations of FIFA and the first from North and Central America. The affiliation was temporary and at the following year’s FIFA Congress in 1914, the USFA, as it was abbreviated at the time, was accepted as a full FIFA member along with the Spanish federation. The governing body of the sport in the United States did not have the wordsoccer in its name until 1945, when it became the United States Soccer Football Association. It did not drop the word football from its name until 1974, when it became the United States Soccer Federation.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Us_soccer#History
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The US Men’s Soccer Team at the 1930 World Cup
The United States men’s national soccer team, often referred to as the USMNT, represents the United States of America in international association football (soccer) competitions. It is controlled by the United States Soccer Federation and competes in CONCACAF (the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football). The team is ranked 28th in the world according to the FIFA World Rankings, and 26th in the World Football Elo Ratings.
Source: .http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_men%27s_national_soccer_team
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The US Women’s Soccer Team – 1991 World Cup Champions
The United States women’s national soccer team, often referred to as USWNT, represents the United States of America in international association football competitions. It is controlled by United States Soccer Federation and competes in CONCACAF (the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football). The U.S. team won the first ever Women’s World Cup in 1991, and has since been a superpower in women’s soccer. It is currently ranked first in the world by the FIFA Women’s World Rankings.The team has also won the 1999 Women’s World Cup, four Olympic women’s gold medals (1996, 2004, 2008 and 2012) and eight Algarve Cups (2000, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2011).
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_women%27s_national_soccer_team
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FIFA Coach of the Year 2012 - Pia Sundhage
(US Women’s Natl Soccer Team Coach 2008-2012)FIFA Women’s World Player 2012 – Abbey Wambach
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.Centennial Celebration Underway on ussoccer.com
In commemoration of its 100th anniversary, U.S. Soccer is embarking on a year-long celebration honoring the history and setting a path for the future of the sport throughout 2013.
CHICAGO (Jan. 2, 2013) – In commemoration of its 100th anniversary, U.S. Soccer is embarking on a year-long celebration honoring the history and setting a path for the future of the sport throughout 2013.
The Centennial will be marked by a number of different initiatives, including the creation of a commemorative book featuring articles, interviews and photos from U.S. Soccer’s archives, historic content on ussoccer.com with rare photos, unique videos and engaging interviews, and several unique grassroots activities in conjunction with its membership to help celebrate the milestone.
Fans can also look forward to specific Centennial events in 2013, including a celebration of the Federation’s 100th anniversary on April 5, 2013, and a weekend this summer that will include a U.S. Men’s National Team match, U.S. Soccer’s Annual General Meeting and a number of activities for supporters. Overall, the Centennial will be a focus during all of the U.S. Women’s National Team’s matches, and the U.S. Men’s National Team’s campaign to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
For more: http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Centennial/01/Centennial-Celebration-Underway.aspx
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Let’s Move – Soccer Tips for Beginners from U.S. Olympic Gold Medalists Nicole Barnhart
Pass, Shoot, Score
Posted by Lea Prohov on October 19, 2012
Editor’s note: The U.S. Soccer Foundation is a nonprofit organization that seeks to improve the health and well-being of children in urban economically disadvantaged areas using soccer as a vehicle for social change.
This past summer, the U.S. women’s soccer team brought home the gold from the 2012 London Olympic Games–showing America the true spirit of team work, and amazing us with their athletic abilities. They played a series of challenging games, but pulled together to win.
Soccer is a great sport that lets you be active while playing outside with your friends! Listen to U.S. Olympic Gold Medalists Nicole Barnhart and Becky Sauerbrunn share why they love soccer, and offer some tips for beginners:
Last May, U.S. Soccer Federation teamed up with Let’s Move! and the Partnership for a Healthier America to engage 12,000 youth in 13 cities through their Soccer for Success program, providing free, afterschool programming to urban youth. In 2011, the program reached 8,000 kids in 8 cities. Visit the Partnership for a Healthier America’s Olympics Page to learn more.
SOCCER 411
* Soccer allows kids the chance to build relationships with other players; having players with different responsibilities encourages communication and cooperation while developing a sense of team.
* Keep the ball on the ground: A ball on the ground is easier to control and can be moved more effectively by the team.
* Playing soccer combines basic motor skills like walking, running or jumping with soccer skills like dribbling and shooting. It is great for cardiovascular endurance and strength, helping to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
* Soccer can be a great family activity, whether you’re coaching your child’s team, supporting from the sideline or helping your child practice, spend quality time together and enjoy the sport as a family.
* Soccer is very simple to start playing and anyone can participate right away. Whether it’s a recreational or competitive league, there are opportunities available to all ages and skill levels.
* The 1999 Women’s World Cup Final between The United States and China was the most watched soccer game in the U.S. ever. The United States defeated China on penalty kicks after a scoreless tie, culminating with Brandi Chastain’s iconic celebration.
* Abby Wambach has attracted attention on the soccer field since early childhood. (FIFA Women’s World Player 2012) Growing up in Rochester, NY, she played in her first youth league at age four but only lasted three games with her team. After scoring 27 goals in three games she was transferred to the boys’ team! The youngest of seven children, Abby felt right at home with the boys’ team, since she spent her childhood roughhousing with her four older brothers.
* The Boxx sisters have won four gold medals between them. Older sister Gillian won a gold medal at the 1996 Olympics in softball before Shannon went on to win three gold medals as part of the U.S. Women’s National soccer team at the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics.
To learn more: U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Soccer for Success Curriculum
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100 Years of US Soccer ~ 1913-2013
U.S. Soccer was originally known as the United States of America Football Association. It formed on April 5, 1913 and on August 15 of that year was accepted as one of the earliest member organizations of FIFA and the first from North and Central America.
U.S. Soccer was originally known as the United States of America Football Association. It formed on April 5, 1913 and on August 15 of that year was accepted as one of the earliest member organizations of FIFA and the first from North and Central America. The affiliation was temporary and at the following year’s FIFA Congress in 1914, the USFA, as it was abbreviated at the time, was accepted as a full FIFA member along with the Spanish federation. The governing body of the sport in the United States did not have the wordsoccer in its name until 1945, when it became the United States Soccer Football Association. It did not drop the word football from its name until 1974, when it became the United States Soccer Federation.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Us_soccer#History
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The United States men’s national soccer team, often referred to as the USMNT, represents the United States of America in international association football (soccer) competitions. It is controlled by the United States Soccer Federation and competes in CONCACAF (the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football). The team is ranked 28th in the world according to the FIFA World Rankings, and 26th in the World Football Elo Ratings.
Source: .http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_men%27s_national_soccer_team
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The United States women’s national soccer team, often referred to as USWNT, represents the United States of America in international association football competitions. It is controlled by United States Soccer Federation and competes in CONCACAF (the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football). The U.S. team won the first ever Women’s World Cup in 1991, and has since been a superpower in women’s soccer. It is currently ranked first in the world by the FIFA Women’s World Rankings.The team has also won the 1999 Women’s World Cup, four Olympic women’s gold medals (1996, 2004, 2008 and 2012) and eight Algarve Cups (2000, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2011).
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_women%27s_national_soccer_team
Ballon D’Or
FIFA Women’s World Player 2001 – Mia Hamm – US
FIFA Women’s World Player 2002 – Mia Hamm – US
FIFA Coach of the Year 2012 - Pia Sundhage (US Women’s Natl Soccer Team Coach 2008-2012)
FIFA Women’s World Player 2012 – Abbey Wambach - US
Centennial Celebration Underway on ussoccer.com
In commemoration of its 100th anniversary, U.S. Soccer is embarking on a year-long celebration honoring the history and setting a path for the future of the sport throughout 2013.
Jan. 2, 2013 ussoccer.com
CHICAGO (Jan. 2, 2013) – In commemoration of its 100th anniversary, U.S. Soccer is embarking on a year-long celebration honoring the history and setting a path for the future of the sport throughout 2013.
The Centennial will be marked by a number of different initiatives, including the creation of a commemorative book featuring articles, interviews and photos from U.S. Soccer’s archives, historic content on ussoccer.com with rare photos, unique videos and engaging interviews, and several unique grassroots activities in conjunction with its membership to help celebrate the milestone.
Fans can also look forward to specific Centennial events in 2013, including a celebration of the Federation’s 100th anniversary on April 5, 2013, and a weekend this summer that will include a U.S. Men’s National Team match, U.S. Soccer’s Annual General Meeting and a number of activities for supporters. Overall, the Centennial will be a focus during all of the U.S. Women’s National Team’s matches, and the U.S. Men’s National Team’s campaign to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
For more: http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Centennial/01/Centennial-Celebration-Underway.aspx
US Men’s National Soccer Team 2013 Schedule
Jan. 29, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Canada
8 p.m. CT
BBVA Compass Stadium
Houston, Texas
ESPN2, WatchESPN, Univision Deportes
Feb. 6, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Honduras
3 p.m. CT
Estadio Olimpico
San Pedro Sula, Honduras
beIN SPORT
March 22, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Costa Rica
8 p.m. MT
Dick’s Sporting Goods Park
Commerce City, Colo.
ESPN, WatchESPN, Univision Family
March 26, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Mexico
10:30 p.m. ET
Estadio Azteca
Mexico City, Mexico
ESPN, WatchESPN, Univision
May 29, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Belgium
8 p.m. ET
FirstEnergy Stadium
Cleveland, Ohio
ESPN2, WatchESPN, UniMas
June 2, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Germany
2:30 p.m. ET
RFK Stadium
Washington, D.C.
ESPN2, WatchESPN, UniMas
June 7, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Jamaica
TBD
National Stadium
Kingston, Jamaica
beIN SPORT
June 11, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Panama
6:30 p.m. PT
CenturyLink Field
Seattle, Wash.
ESPN network, WatchESPN, Univision network
June 18, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Honduras
7 p.m. MT
Rio Tinto Stadium
Sandy, Utah
ESPN, WatchESPN, UniMas
July 9, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Belize
8 p.m. PT
JELD-WEN Field
Portland, Ore.
July 13, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Cuba
1:30 p.m. MT
Rio Tinto Stadium
Sandy, Utah
July 16, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Costa Rica
8 p.m. ET
Rentschler Field
East Hartford, Conn.
Sep. 6, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Costa Rica
TBD
Away
Sep. 10, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Mexico
8 p.m. ET
Columbus Crew Stadium
Columbus, Ohio
ESPN, WatchESPN, UniMas
Oct. 11, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Jamaica
TBD
Home
Oct. 15, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Panama
TBD
Away
US Men’s Schedule: http://www.ussoccer.com/Schedule-Tickets/Schedule.aspx
Jan. 29, 2013
U.S. Men vs. Canada
Final Score: Scoreless Draw
U.S. Men’s National Team Drops First Hexagonal Match 2-1 to Honduras
SAN PEDRO SULA, Honduras (Feb. 6, 2013) – The U.S. Men’s National Team garnered a first-half lead, but Honduras rallied for a 2-1 victory in Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in the teams’ opener of the Final Round of 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifying.
Clint Dempsey scored the USA’s goal, only to see Honduras get goals from Juan Garcia and Jerry Bengtson to take all three points.
On the winning Honduras tally, the ball was played to the edge of the box with Honduras midfielder Oscar Garcia, U.S. defender Geoff Cameron and goalkeeper Tim Howard all having an opportunity to get to the ball. Cameron noticeably held back on his run and Garcia took advantage, passing the ball to Bengtson who lost U.S. center back Omar Gonzalez and slotted the ball into the net for the victory.
For more: http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Mens-National-Team/2013/02/MNT-Drops-First-Hexagonal-Match-21-to-Honduras.aspx
U.S. MNT Moves into Second Place in Hexagonal, Tops Costa Rica 1-0 in Final Round World Cup Qualifying at Sold-Out Dick’s Sporting Goods Park
COMMERCE CITY, Colo. (March 22, 2013) – Amid a deluge of snow and wind on the third day of spring, the U.S. Men’s National Team fought through blizzard conditions to earn a 1-0 victory against Costa Rica in the Final Round of 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifying. The match took place in weather conditions never before seen for a U.S. World Cup qualifier in front a sellout crowd of 19,374 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
U.S. forward Clint Dempsey, who was named the team captain by head coach Jurgen Klinsmann for this match and Tuesday’s clash with Mexico, scored his 32 nd-career goal in the 16th minute. With seven goals in this cycle, he has tied Landon Donovan at the top of the USA’s all-time list for goals in World Cup qualifying. Goalkeeper Brad Guzan, starting for the injured Tim Howard, made five saves for his fourth-career shutout in World Cup Qualifying.
With the win, the USA (1-1-0, 3 points) moved into second place in the Hexagonal, one point behind Honduras (1-0-1, 4 points).
The USA improved its World Cup Qualifying unbeaten streak at home to 23 games (21-0-2) and 42-6-12 all-time in home qualifying matches.
For more: http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Mens-National-Team/2013/03/US-vs-Costa-Rica-Match-Report.aspx
U.S. MNT Earns Second Point at Estadio Azteca with 0-0 Draw Against Mexico in Final Round of 2014 World Cup Qualifying
March 26, 2013 ussoccer
Brad Guzan Makes Three Saves as USA Defense Posts Second Straight Shutout
U.S. MNT Resumes 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifying on June 7 in Jamaica and Hosts Panama on June 11 at CenturyLink Field in Seattle
USA Hosts International Friendlies on May 29 against Belgium at FirstEnergy in Cleveland and June 2 against Germany at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C.
MEXICO CITY (March 26, 2013) – For just the second time in U.S. Men’s National Team’s World Cup Qualifying history, the USA earned a point at Estadio Azteca with a 0-0 draw against Mexico in front of a massive crowd.
Goalkeeper Brad Guzan made three saves to record his second-straight clean sheet, and the young center back duo of Omar Gonzalez and Matt Besler showed tremendous poise and grit in helping the USA earn a historic result. The only other World Cup Qualifying point earned by the USA in Azteca came during another scoreless draw on Nov. 2, 1997.
For more: http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Mens-National-Team/2013/03/MNT-Secures-Draw-at-Estadio-Azteca.aspx
US Women’s National Soccer Team 2013 Schedule
Feb. 9, 2013
U.S. Women vs. Scotland Women
5 p.m. ET
EverBank Field
Jacksonville, Fla.
ussoccer.com live stream
Feb. 13, 2013
U.S. Women vs. Scotland Women
7 p.m. CT
LP Field
Nashville, Tenn.
ussoccer.com live stream
March 6, 2013
U.S. Women vs. Iceland Women
9 a.m. ET
Estadio Municipal
Albufeira, Portugal
pay-per-view
March 8, 2013
U.S. Women vs. China PR Women
9 a.m. ET
Estadio Municipal
Albufeira, Portugal
pay-per-view
March 11, 2013
U.S. Women vs. Sweden Women
10 a.m. ET
Estadio Municipal
Lagos, Portugal
pay-per-view
April 5, 2013
U.S. Women vs. Germany Women
12:15 p.m EDT
Sparda Bank Hessen Stadium
Offenbach, Germany
ESPNW.com, ESPN3.com
April 9, 2013
U.S. Women vs. Netherlands Women
1 p.m. ET
Kyocera Stadium
The Hague, Netherlands
June 2, 2013
U.S. Women vs. Canada Women
4:30 p.m. ET
BMO Field
Toronto, Canada
ESPNNews
June 15, 2013
U.S. Women vs. Korea Republic Women
7 p.m. ET
Gillette Stadium
Foxborough, Mass.
ussoccer.com live stream
June 20, 2013
U.S. Women vs. Korea Republic Women
7:30 p.m. ET
Red Bull Arena
Harrison, N.J.
NBC Sports Network
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US Women’s Schedule: http://www.ussoccer.com/Schedule-Tickets/Schedule.aspx
Sermanni wins debut as US women’s soccer coach
2/9/13 The Associated Press – 6 minutes ago
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Tom Sermanni coached the U.S. women’s soccer team to a 4-1 win over Scotland on Saturday, making the most of two first-half goals by Christen Press.
It was quite the debut for Sermanni, who was born in Scotland and spent the last eight years as Australia’s coach, He was hired by the U.S. Soccer Federation in October.
Press figured in each of the United States’ first three goals in the exhibition game at the home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, scoring twice and assisting on the third.
She got the Americans on the board in the 13th minute, taking advantage of a poor clearing attempt by Scotland. The ball was batted back in the direction of Press, who deftly lifted a kick over the defenders and goalkeeper Gemma Fay.
U.S. WNT Wins Second Straight Against Scotland
Feb. 13, 2013 ussoccer
NASHVILLE (Feb. 13, 2013) — The U.S. Women’s National Team made it two wins in two games as they defeated Scotland 3-1 at LP Field in Nashville, Tenn. Megan Rapinoe opened the scoring with Abby Wambach and Christen Press adding second half goals to seal the victory on a chilly night in the Tennessee capital.
For more: http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Womens-National-Team/2013/02/WNT-Wins-Second-Straight-Against-Scotland.aspx
U.S. WNT Opens the 2013 Algarve Cup with 3-0 Win Against Iceland
ALBUFEIRA, Portugal (March 6, 2013) ussoccer
The U.S. Women’s National Team defeated Iceland 3-0 to open up the 2013 Algarve Cup as Rachel Buehler scored in her 100th cap, Shannon Boxx added a second goal and Abby Wambach closed out the scoring with her 154th goal.
ALBUFEIRA, Portugal (March 6, 2013) — The U.S. Women’s National Team defeated Iceland 3-0 to open up the 2013 Algarve Cup as Rachel Buehler scored in her 100th cap, Shannon Boxx added a second goal and Abby Wambach closed out the scoring with her 154th goal.
The U.S. next faces China on Friday, March 8, at 9 a.m. ET, live on Pay-per-View.
For more: http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Womens-National-Team/2013/03/US-WNT-Opens-2013-Algarve-Cup-with-Win-Against-Iceland.aspx
3/11/13 12:53 ET Final Score:
US Women 1:1 SWE Women
Morgran 5’6 – Dahlvist 4′
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Alex Morgan Scores as U.S. Women Tie Sweden 1-1 to Earn a Berth in the 2013 Algarve Cup Final
March 11, 2013 ussoccer.com
Alex Morgan scored a goal in the second half to give the U.S. Women’s National Team a 1-1 tie against Sweden and a berth in the 2013 Algarve Cup championship game. With the tie, USA advanced to its 10th Algarve Cup Final in the past 11 years and will face Group A champion Germany on March 13 with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. ET at Estadio Algarve in Faro, Portugal. Fans will be able to watch the clash for the Algarve Cup on TV or online via Pay-Per-View and follow along on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker and on Twitter @ussoccer_WNT.
* USA Will Face Germany in Algarve Cup Final on March 13
* American Women Advance to 10th Algarve Cup Final in Past 11 years
* Ashlyn Harris Earns First Cap at Senior Level
LAGOS, Portugal (March 11, 2013) – Alex Morgan scored a goal in the second half to earn the U.S. Women’s National Team a 1-1 tie against Sweden and a berth in the 2013 Algarve Cup championship game.
With the tie, the USA advanced to its 10th Algarve Cup Final in the past 11 years and will face Group A champion Germany on March 13 with a kickoff and venue to be announced this evening. Fans will be able to watch the clash for the Algarve Cup on TV or online via Pay-Per-View and follow along on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker and on Twitter @ussoccer_WNT.
The USA finished first in the Group B with seven points from three matches, followed by Sweden with five points, China with four points and Iceland with zero points. China defeated Iceland, 1-0, in the other Group B match.
For more: http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Womens-National-Team/2013/03/WNT-Wins-Group-B-at-2013-Algarve-Cup-to-Advance-to-Final.aspx
U.S. Women’s National Team Ties Germany in 3-3 Thriller on the 100th Anniversary of the U.S. Soccer Federation
The U.S. Women’s National Team tied Germany 3-3 in a thrilling match on the 100th Anniversary of the U.S. Soccer Federation. The USA got goals from Abby Wambach, Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan in a superb second half that featured six goals in front of a spirited crowd in Offenbach.
OFFENBACH, Germany (April 5, 2013)
The U.S. Women’s National Team tied Germany 3-3 in a thrilling match on the 100th Anniversary of the U.S. Soccer Federation. The USA got goals from Abby Wambach, Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan in a superb second half that featured six goals in front of a spirited crowd of 16,090 on a chilly night outside of Frankfurt.
The U.S. WNT now travels to The Hague to meet the Netherlands on April 9 in a match live on ESPNW.com and ESPN3.com at 1 p.m. ET. Fans can also follow on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker and on Twitter @ussoccer_wnt.
“Overall it was a fair result and a competitive, exciting game that showed the quality of the two best teams in the world,” said head coach Tom Sermanni. “It’s always disappointing when you’re winning the game with 10 minutes to go and you end up drawing. But the positive side for us is we created some very good chances. We knew it was always going to be very difficult to come here and get a result.”
Sermanni made six changes to the starting lineup he sent out against Germany on March 13 in Portugal, as young outside backs Kristie Mewis (on the left) and Crystal Dunn (on the right) got the nod alongside center-backs Christie Rampone and Whitney Engen.
There was an excellent atmosphere for the entire match and both sides had good chances in a scoreless first half. That score line would change just two minutes after the break.
For more: http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Womens-National-Team/2013/04/US-Women-and-Germany-Tie-3-3-in-Thrilling-Match.aspx
U.S. Women’s National Team Defeats Netherlands 3-1 in International Friendly at The Hague
The U.S. Women’s National Team earned a comprehensive 3-1 win against the Netherlands on Tuesday. Midfielder Tobin Heath opened the scoring before Christen Press, starting at forward, grabbed two goals either side of halftime to seal the victory.
April 9, 2013 ussoccer.com
THE HAGUE, Netherlands (April 9, 2013) – The U.S. Women’s National Team earned a comprehensive 3-1 win against the Netherlands on Tuesday. Midfielder Tobin Heath opened the scoring before Christen Press, starting at forward, grabbed two goals either side of halftime to seal the victory.
The U.S.-based players will return to their National Women’s Soccer League clubs to prepare for the opening weekend of the new league. The Portland Thorns travel to FC Kansas City on April 13 for the inaugural match of the NWSL.
For more: http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Womens-National-Team/2013/04/WNT-Defeats-the-Netherlands-3-1.aspx
March 26, 2013
Remarks by the President Honoring the Stanley Cup Champion LA Kings and MLS Cup Champion LA Galaxy
East Room
2:00 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Hello, everybody! (Applause.) Welcome to the White House. And welcome back to the back-to-back MLS champion, the L.A. Galaxy. (Applause.) I was telling these guys, they’re starting to get a little comfortable around here because they just keep on coming back.
But this time they brought some company — the Stanley Cup champion, L.A. Kings. (Applause.)
Now, it is great to have both teams here not just because they share a hometown. I’m a little resentful coming from Chicago that L.A. seems to be getting all these championships. But they don’t just share a hometown, they also share a pretty good comeback story.
When it comes to the Galaxy, a team with Landon Donovan on it is rarely the underdog. But when the Galaxy was here last year, their chances of repeating as champions didn’t look all that good. The injury bug plagued the team. It seemed like it might be a rebuilding year. But right after that visit, they turned things around. And you can call it a coincidence, but I just want to point out that right after they visited with me — (laughter) — the Galaxy built the best record in the league.
In the MLS Cup Final, the Galaxy trailed at halftime, and it stayed that way until Omar Gonzalez, who is with the national team today, scored the equalizer in the 60th minute. A few minutes after that, Landon did what he does best and scored the go-ahead goal. And pretty soon, they were up 3-1, and then midfielder Juninho was probably dancing the samba — (laughter) — the MLS Cup belonged to L.A. for the second straight year, and that was the fourth in Galaxy history.
For more: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/03/26/remarks-president-honoring-stanley-cup-champion-la-kings-and-mls-cup-cha
Let’s Move! Q&A with the LA Kings and LA Galaxy
Published on Mar 26, 2013
Sam Kass moderates a Q&A session for students with players from the LA Kings and the LA Galaxy. March 26, 2013.
VP Biden on USA Soccer and the World Cup
Uploaded on Jun 18, 2010
Vice President Biden talks from South Africa about the rise of soccer in America and the hopes for the US to host an upcoming World Cup.
Obama Sends U.S. Men’s Team to World Cup
Uploaded on May 27, 2010
President Barack Obama met the U.S. Men’s Soccer team at the White House. He gave the team an official send off before they travel to play in the World Cup in South Africa. (May 27)
Raw Video: Obama Plays Soccer
Uploaded on Mar 20, 2011
During a visit to a Rio de Janeiro slum, President Barack Obama joined a group of children as they kicked around soccer balls. (March 20)
Michelle Obama plays soccer with kids in Cape Town
Uploaded on Jun 23, 2011
June 23 – U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama kicks around a ball with retired Archbishop Desmond Tutu and children in Cape Town, South Africa. Rough Cut (no reporter narration).
Twenty Years of the Women’s Soccer World Cup and Empowering Women and Girls
JULY 15, 2011 TANYA WARD – state.gov
In 1991, I was a sophomore at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Big hair was in, Silence of the Lambs won the Oscar for best picture, and Germany was newly reunited. That fall, I also met my future husband and the United States won the first-ever Women’s World Cup (WWC), which was held in China. Fast forward to 2011. Twenty years changes a lot — pixie cuts are cool, True Grit is this year’s movie, and a quarter of Germans have no memories of a divided country.
I am now a Foreign Service Officer posted to the U.S. Embassy in Berlin, sitting in a stadium in Germany with my husband and our two excited kids, watching a new group of U.S. women take on the world. However much things have changed, however, some stayed the same. The United States remains a women’s soccer power house and an inspiration to young athletes around the world. This year’s refusal to concede the quarterfinal game to Brazil indicates that the new team is more than ready to take up where previous ones left off.
Sports have played a powerful role in the United States in empowering girls and women and in bringing people from difference ethnicities and backgrounds into contact with each other. Multiple studies show that increasing girls’ sports participation has a direct effect on women’s education, employment and overall self-confidence. Following the Landmark passage of the 1972 Education Amendments to Title IX of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, commonly known as “Title IX,” more girls began to play sports in the United States. And soccer has proven to be one of the most popular sports with American girls. Current estimates say that more than forty percent of soccer players in the United States are female.
For more: http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/site/entry/20_years_womens_world_cup/
Team USA: An Inspiration to Girls Around the World
Posted by Dr. Jill Biden on July 18, 2011
I just returned home from an incredible trip to Germany where I was truly honored to lead the Presidential Delegation to the Women’s World Cup soccer final. While in Frankfurt, we were all thrilled to have the opportunity to meet the team and their families, and to cheer proudly and wave the U.S. flag for our heroes on the field.
As I told the team last night, though the final outcome of the game was not what we had hoped, we left the stadium so proud of this incredible group of women – and I am sure everyone at home feels the same way.
Team USA is a source of pride, unity and inspiration for millions around the globe – especially girls and other young athletes who know the power that sports have to change lives. As a teacher, I have seen first-hand the important foundation that Title IX has provided for female athletes and students in America, and I felt particularly proud last night to be a part of an Administration that has worked hard to strengthen its impact. I have no doubt young girls across the country who watched the game were motivated to work even harder to become members of Team USA in the years to come.
So thank you Team USA for your commitment, your sportsmanship, and for setting an example on and off the playing field for people around the world. The President, the First Lady, my husband Joe and I can’t wait to welcome you to the White House in future.
Jill
Presidential Delegates Dr. Jill Biden, Ambassador Philip Murphy and Chelsea Clinton with Team USA at the Women’s World Cup soccer final July 17, 2011. (by State Department, U.S. Mission Germany)
First Lady Michelle Obama Welcomes U.S. Women’s Soccer Team
From: whitehouse | Oct 6, 2011
The World Cup team was at the White House for a Let’s Move Soccer Clinic. October 6, 2011.
First Lady Michelle Obama Hosts Let’s Move! London
Posted by Marissa Duswalt, Associate Director for Policy and Events of the Lets Move!
Initiative on July 27, 2012
Ed note: This post originally appeared on the blog at whitehouse.gov
Today, First Lady Michelle Obama joined 2,000 American military children and American and British students at Let’s Move! London, an event held to spread the spirit of the Olympic Games in London. The First Lady is leading the U.S. Delegation to the Summer Games and Let’s Move! London was designed to turn the inspiration of the Olympic and Paralympic Games into action by encouraging kids to get moving.
“That’s what Let’s Move is all about. It’s about helping kids like you live happier, healthier lives,” Mrs. Obama told the crowd gathered at the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence in London. “And that’s really why we brought you all here today… because we want you to see that there all kinds of ways that you can stay active and have fun doing it. You don’t have to be an Olympian. You don’t have to join a team. But there are so many ways that you can have fun and keep yourselves moving.”
For more: http://www.letsmove.gov/blog/2012/07/27/first-lady-michelle-obama-hosts-lets-move-london
South Lawn Series – Soccer
Uploaded on Oct 21, 2010
140 children from Washington DC area elementary schools participate in the White House’s South Lawn Series event focusing on soccer. Coaches and players from D.C.’s Major League Soccer teams lead the kids in an hour long program of drills and games.
Soccer Tips for Beginners from U.S. Olympic Gold Medalists Nicole Barnhart
Pass, Shoot, Score
Posted by Lea Prohov on October 19, 2012
Editor’s note: The U.S. Soccer Foundation is a nonprofit organization that seeks to improve the health and well-being of children in urban economically disadvantaged areas using soccer as a vehicle for social change.
This past summer, the U.S. women’s soccer team brought home the gold from the 2012 London Olympic Games–showing America the true spirit of team work, and amazing us with their athletic abilities. They played a series of challenging games, but pulled together to win.
Soccer is a great sport that lets you be active while playing outside with your friends! Listen to U.S. Olympic Gold Medalists Nicole Barnhart and Becky Sauerbrunn share why they love soccer, and offer some tips for beginners:
Last May, U.S. Soccer Federation teamed up with Let’s Move! and the Partnership for a Healthier America to engage 12,000 youth in 13 cities through their Soccer for Success program, providing free, afterschool programming to urban youth. In 2011, the program reached 8,000 kids in 8 cities. Visit the Partnership for a Healthier America’s Olympics Page to learn more.
SOCCER 411
* Soccer allows kids the chance to build relationships with other players; having players with different responsibilities encourages communication and cooperation while developing a sense of team.
* Keep the ball on the ground: A ball on the ground is easier to control and can be moved more effectively by the team.
* Playing soccer combines basic motor skills like walking, running or jumping with soccer skills like dribbling and shooting. It is great for cardiovascular endurance and strength, helping to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
* Soccer can be a great family activity, whether you’re coaching your child’s team, supporting from the sideline or helping your child practice, spend quality time together and enjoy the sport as a family.
* Soccer is very simple to start playing and anyone can participate right away. Whether it’s a recreational or competitive league, there are opportunities available to all ages and skill levels.
* The 1999 Women’s World Cup Final between The United States and China was the most watched soccer game in the U.S. ever. The United States defeated China on penalty kicks after a scoreless tie, culminating with Brandi Chastain’s iconic celebration.
* Abby Wambach has attracted attention on the soccer field since early childhood. Growing up in Rochester, NY, she played in her first youth league at age four but only lasted three games with her team. After scoring 27 goals in three games she was transferred to the boys’ team! The youngest of seven children, Abby felt right at home with the boys’ team, since she spent her childhood roughhousing with her four older brothers.
* The Boxx sisters have won four gold medals between them. Older sister Gillian won a gold medal at the 1996 Olympics in softball before Shannon went on to win three gold medals as part of the U.S. Women’s National soccer team at the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics.
To learn more: U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Soccer for Success Curriculum
U.S., Plan Zimbabwe partner to promote health awareness
September 19, 2012 http://harare.usembassy.gov
Harare, September 19, 2012: The United States Embassy and Plan Zimbabwe are supporting a volunteer campaign by nearly 100 youth in Harare and Chitungwiza starting September 22nd to raise awareness about the need for youth to take responsibility for their personal health and immediate environment through practical clean up campaigns and sport.
The first exercise will be held this Saturday at Chitungwiza Town Centre at 9 am with the soccer tournament taking place at Nyatsime College at 11 am. Future events will be held monthly in the suburban areas in partnership with district councils and local organizations working with young people.
The campaign brings together youth groups Obama Boys (U.S. Embassy) and Plan Zimbabwe Former Students Alumni both of whom partner the Harare Residents Trust (HRT), a grassroots advocacy group working to promote residents’ rights. The theme of the campaign is ‘Our Place, Our Community, Our Responsibility’ and it mainly targets out of school youth.
“We are excited about this partnership,” said Jillian Bonnardeaux, Deputy Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy. “We are always exploring creative ways to reach young people with messages about protecting the environment and protecting oneself from HIV/AIDS. We hope the youth are inspired by both exercises,” she said. U.S. Embassy staff work with out of school and therefore at-risk youth in the Belgravia/Alexandra Park community. After three months playing soccer together, the team is now known as ‘The Obama Boys.’ The U.S. Embassy, through the President’s Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), is one of the leading supporters of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment in Zimbabwe.
U.S. Embassy staff work with out of school and therefore at-risk youth in the Belgravia/Alexandra Park community. After three months playing soccer together, the team is now known as ‘The Obama Boys.’
For more: http://harare.usembassy.gov/us_plan_partnership.html
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