DATE: June 2009
SFC At U-16 West Virginia Region 1 Championships

SFC At U-16 West Virginia Region 1 Championships

Welcome to the u16 Synergy FC blog from West Virginia. This blog will feature daily updates and interviews from the players. You can also check www.region1.com for more information about the 2009 Region 1 championships.

The team flew from Burlington on June 30 and arrived in Baltimore, Maryland. The team then spent the rest of the day driving to Huntington, West Virginia. On the drive down the team had the opportunity to stop and see the West Virginia University, the athletic facilities, and meet the men's soccer coaching staff.

Monday, July 6

After an entire day of rain and no football (Sunday) the Synergy FC U16 Boys returned to the field to face Group C winner Hicksville Strikers (NYE) in semifinal play.

Due to extremely poor field conditions some of the semifinal matches (U15 boys) were moved to turf fields at nearby high schools, but the U16 semifinal was held on the grass fields at Barboursville.

Five minutes into the match Hicksville sent a long pass into the corner of the field. The wide midfielder seve3d the ball low and hard into the box and the left midfielder finished off the cross with a low slotted finish past, Amir Pasic, the Synergy keeper.

Synergy Director and Head Coach Hugh Brown, We did a very poor job of tracking the run and failed to maintain proper positioning on their #10. It is so important to track runners and to stay ball side goal side while maintaining contact at this level. We paid the price and gave Hicksville the early lead."

During the next 30 minutes of the match both teams enjoyed equal amounts of possession while the most challenging factor for both sides was the field conditions.

It is very upsetting to play a major match on a field that is not up to standard. Yes, it is true that both teams had to deal with the field, but to see so many bad bounces and to see the players struggle to control the ball due to field conditions is simply ridiculous", commented Brown.

In the 35 th minute a Hicksville player served a long flighted ball from midfield, which bounced on the edge of the Synergy penalty area. As the Synergy keeper came out to claim the ball SFC center back Gavin Millay also continued to pursue. A Hicksville striker also chased after the ball and in a mix up between the SFC keeper and Millay the ball was headed back by Millay and into the Synergy goal from 16 yards out.

Both Gavin and Amir are incredibly consistent players and to have a miscommunication which lead to an own goal is just unlucky," commented Brown.

Down 2-0 at the half Synergy began the second half of the match determined to take the game to Hicksville. SFC started to create chances and began stringing sequences of passes together deep inside the Hicksville half.

After several corners and services into the box SFC standout Keagan McDonnell dribbled past several Hicksville defenders and surged into the box. Just before Keagan slotted a pass to El;ia Louis he was taken down by the last Hicksville defender. Louis went on to score the goal, but the referee called a stop to the play and awarded SFC a free kick from the top of the 18 dead center to the goal.

It was shocking at first that the referee did not play advantage, but I believe he felt that the foul may have caused the Hicksville players to stop playing," Brown commented.

After a long delay to sort out the call and to move the Hicksville players 10 yards back from the ball SFC veteran Elia Louis stepped up and buried the free kick in the left upper corner of the goal.

The goal came in the 72 nd minute and gave Synergy new life. For the next 10 minutes SFC pressed Hicksville to the limit, serving balls into the box time after time. Unfortunately time expired and the Synergy U16’sRegion I title run was ended.

It is always difficult to lose a semifinal or final match in a major competition. We have not been able to produce our best football in big moments this year. We came up short in the finals at Disney and again at the finals at US Club Soccer Regionals. It is great to be in big matches, but we need to close the deal as we move forward," commented Brown.

We have had a very productive year on and away from the field. I am very excited about the future of this team and the future of Synergy Football Club. We will proudly display the Region I bronze medal at our club, but will also let it fuel our desire for gold next year."

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Today was an uneventful day for the Synergy FC U-16 team. After it rained in Barboursville, West Virginia from the afternoon of July 4 th to noon today, the U-16's game was canceled. The results of the scheduled game wouldn't have stopped Synergy from going to the semi-finals. Synergy will be fresh and prepared for the game tomorrow. Synergy prepared today by working on shape and ball movement, inside the gym of the Huntington High School. For the rest of the day Synergy went to the game of their future opponent, to scout the competion. The team learned that they are playing Hicksville American Strikers from NYE.

The semi final game is scheduled for 12 p.m. on July 6 th, so stay tuned to see the results on www.region1.com.

Saturday July 4, 2009
Day 5 of the SFC u16 regional adventure was a memorable one. In fact, it will go down in the VT youth soccer history books because the team defeated Pittsgrove Premier (NJ) 2 to 0, to secure a birth into the semi-finals of the region 1 championships.

The game was full of hard tackles, intense challenges, great saves, and emotion. Synergy FC midfielder/striker Keagan McDonnell scored the game winner in the 62 nd minute, and Elia Louis secured the victory with a 30 yard blast in the 78 th minute.

Lueth Lueth, Number 12, Defender/Midfielder
Q: Tell us your thoughts about today's match.
A: It was a hard fought game, and it was very physical. It was hard to defend a team like Pittsgrove that had a very good offense. We never gave up, and that is how we got the win.
Q: How many years have you been with the team?
A: This is my first year.
Q: Describe your first year with the club.
A: I was nervous when I first joined the team, because I had never played at such a high level. My coach had an opened mind to teach me how to play well. Now I am playing whole games, due to the things that I have learned. I enjoy playing on this team, and this is the behappens.st team I have ever played for. This team is like a family, and I like that we are all brothers, always looking out for each other, no matter what
Q: Lueth, tell us a little about your background.
A: I am from Southern Sudan, next to the Nile River. My culture is very different. There is a lot farming where I am from, kind of like Vermont. Living here with out my family is tough, but I try to be a man and live strong.
Q: Do you have any plans for playing football beyond the youth level?
A: It depends on what college I go to, but I do want to play soccer at a higher level.
Q: How do you feel about your level of play during this event?
A: I think that I am playing well, and I really like playing defense. Playing with Gavin in Blake is awesome, because they help me out a lot. Amir also lets me know where I need to be. We have a couple more games, and I want to keep playing hard. I am tired of going to the finals, and coming home empty handed.
Q: What is your focus for the game tomorrow?
A: I don't want any goals to be scored, and I am going to try to not dive in on attackers.

Gavin Millay, Number 2, Center Defender.
Q: How many years have you been with synergy?
A: I have been playing with synergy for 5 years.
Q: Tell us your thoughts about the game today against Pittsgrove.
A: I thought that we maintained a really positive attitude, and we defended really well today. I thought our heart triumphed over their skill today.
Q: What moment stands out in your mind from the game.
A: When Amir made a save that kept us in the game. It sent the message that we would not be scored upon.
Q: How would you rate Pittsgrove against other teams that we have played this year?
A: I rate them one of the top 5 teams we have played. The are very skilled and have a determined attitude. I have a lot of respect for them. We feel overjoyed about the win, but also humble.
Q: What do you think it will take for your team to make it to the finals?
A: We have to defend as one unit and not let in any goals, because defense wins championships. ranked skier, and you gave up skiing this year to focus 100% on soccer?
Q: Gavin you were nationallyoccer. How do you feel about your decision at this point?
A: I feel like it was a good decision, not only because I have become a better soccer player, but because I have more passion for soccer than skiing

TO SEE POST GAME INTERVIEWS FROM COACH HUGH AND ELIA LOUIS GO TO: www.championship.usyouthsoccer.org

July 3, 2009

West Virginia
Team opened first round play today at 1:15, with a match against Spirit United Copa (PAE). This was the first meeting of Synergy FC and Copa. Spirit united Copa is currently ranked number 1 in region 1, according to www.gotsport.com.

Copa started the match strong, putting a lot of pressure on the Synergy back line. As the first half progressed Synergy (SFC) began to control the tempo of the match, and started playing rhythm football. This created several good scoring opportunities. Finally in the 25 th minute right midfielder Max Hale (5) broke through off of a wicked thrown in by Keagan McDonnell (22). Synergy's back 4 had a very solid match. Standouts Gavin Millay and Blake Begnoche held off the athletic Copa strikers, and outside backs Nathaniel Horton and Lueth Lueth shut down the Copa wide midfielders. The second half was extremely hard fought. Copa raised their level of play, and enjoyed more sustained possession than in the first half, but Synergy remained calm and organized. SFC continued to control the match. In the 72 nd minute Keagan McDonnell broke through the Copa defense, and hit a driven ball passed the keeper into the lower left corner. Keep looking at www.region1.com for more scores and updates.

Max Hale, Number 5, Midfielder/Striker.
Max is in his rookie year with the team, and has proven to be a clutch performer in his first year.
Q: Tell us about your goal.
A: Well, it started out with Keagan's throw in and I moved in the center from the outside. I didn't expect the ball to go through so many people. I fought through the last defender to poke it past the keeper.
Q: How does it feel to score such a big goal for the team?
A: It felt awesome. I felt really important.
Q: How has your experience been with the team for your first year?
A: This has been the best year I have ever played soccer. Its extreme on all levels, and synergy make me work really hard.
Q: Why did you decide to join synergy?
A: Two years ago I transferred to Far Post from Capital. I learned that Far Post is not serious at all. I always admired all that synergy did, especially the style.
Q: What is the mood of the team after today's victory?
A; I think that we are confident, and we are ready to get a second win.
Q: What will be your main focus going into the match tomorrow?
A: To score another goal!

Keagan McDonnell, Number 22, Striker/Midfielder
Keagan's journey to the region 1 tournament has been interesting to say the least. He has been in Germany and away from the team since June 14 th. Keagan did not depart from Germany until 12 pm on July 2 nd. He flew from Germany to Boston, and then connected to Cincinnati. Keagan ended his journey with driving from Cincinnati to Huntington West Virginia, finally arriving at the hotel at 2 am. Keagan had the assist on the first goal, and then had a goal in the closing minutes of game.
Q: How were you feeling before the game, since you must have had some jetlag?
A: I was really excited, and wanted to have an impact on the game.
Q: Did you have an opportunity to get any touches in Germany?
A: I juggled with a mini ball in my room.
Q: How long have you played for synergy?
A: 3 years.
Q: Where do you live?
A: Proctor, Vermont
Q: How long does it take to get to training?
A: 1 hour and 45 minutes each way, if the practice is at the tree farm.
Q: What motivates you to be so committed to synergy and football?
A: I want to be the best.
Q: How do you think that you have progressed as a player?
A: I have become a better player in all aspects, and I can't even remember how I was as a player before I started playing synergy. The experience of playing at this club, changes players into becoming great player. The atmosphere is great, because I know my teammates and I want a common goal. And it also helps to have such a great coach motivating us.
Q: What are your career ambitions in football.
A: Go to Europe this fall and sign a contract.
Q: What is your favorite experience with team?
A: Being at the Disney Soccer Showcase.
Q: Any advice for young synergy players that want to go far in football?
A: Listen to Coach Hugh.

July 2, 2009

Today the team held a final training preparation session at Huntington High School. Following the tactical session, the team then attended the opening ceremony at Marshall University. Highlights included parachuting by the 82 nd Airborne Rangers, a five versus five between opposing mascots at midfield, a terrific sounding military band, and an outstanding performance of the National Anthem.

Elia Louis, Captain, Number 10, Center midfield
Q: How long have you been with Synergy Football Club?
A: This is my fifth year with the club.
Q: Where are you originally from?
A: I am from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Q: Did you originally speak English when you first arrived in the U.S.?
A: I did not speak English but instead Swahili and French?
Q: What is your best memory when regarding Synergy?
A: My best memory was winning the Jefferson Cup. I remember scoring the winning goal and It was a stunning moment for both our team and the opposition. It gave us regional notoriety and it officially put Synergy FC on the Regional circuit.
Q: How has the team progressed since you joined it?
A: We originally started with just twelve players but because of our small numbers, we created an extremely strong bond and unity. Since then we have grown in numbers to now 16 players.
Q: What is focus going into the match tomorrow against the number ranked team in the region?
A: My focus is to play our style no matter how difficult the opposition.
Q: How will you define whether or not you, personally, have had a successful event?
A: If the team maintains its focus and has a positive attitude.
Q: Any Final thoughts?
A: I think were capable of winning the tournament.

Nathaniel Horton, Number 11, Total Footballer
Nickname: Mago (Magician)
Q: How many years have you been with the team?
A: Four Years.
Q: Why did you transfer from your former team to Synergy?
A: Because of the advanced training and competition.
Q: What is your most memorable moment during your Synergy career?
A: Playing against Casa Mia. Even though we lost it provided me with outstanding experience.
Q: What are your expectations coming into Regionals?
A: They are playing beautiful soccer and being successful.
Q: What is your definition of playing beautiful soccer?
A: Simple yet elegant.
Q: How do you feel the night before the first game?
A: I feel exited, confident and ready to give it my all.

Blake Begnoche, Number 7, Center Right Back
Q: How many years have you been with the team?
A: 5 years.
Q: How many Regional tournaments have you been in?
A: 5.
Q: What is your most memorable Regional moment?
A: Playing FC Delco in the semi-finals in 2006.
Q: What was so memorable about that game?
A: Being the first Vermont team to ever make a regional semi-final game.
Q: Did you think the team can again make history this year?
A: Yes, I feel we play exquisite football and have a good vibe coming into Regionals.
Q: Who is your favorite player in the world today?
A: Gattuso, because he never backs away from a challenge.
Q: What motivates you to train so hard everyday?
A: Some people don’t have the same opportunities as I do and you never know what is going to happen tomorrow
Q: What excites you the most about this year’s regional championship?
A: We have a legit chance of winning the entire tournament.
Q: What is the best team you played thus far this season?
A: Real Madrid at the Disney Showcase.
Q: What do you think is the number one ingredient for team success?
A: I think it is not giving up on your teammates no matter the situation and keeping a common goal amongst yourselves

Wed July 1, 2009:

Team had a light technical training session in Barboursville, the sight of the tournament. We then had a nice lunch at the Golden Corral, and were treated with great southern hospitality. We then had another training session at Huntington high school, to complete day two of the trip.

PLAYER INTERVIEWS
Amir Pasic, Keeper, Captain.
Q: How many years have you attended the region 1 championships?
A: 5
Q: What was your best result at regionals?
A: Beating Connecticut in 06 to then advance to the semifinals.
Q: How do you feel about the team going into to this year's tournament?
A: I feel good, and I think that we are playing really well right now.
Q: How would you define this team's style of play right now?
A: I think that our style of play is two touch, combination football.
Q: What was your finest moment this year with the team?
A: Getting to the championship game at the Disney Soccer Showcase.
Q: What will you do if your team wins the Region 1 title this year?
A: I will run around the complex 500 times, just to calm down.

Carter Lincoln, Number 8, Center Midfielder.
Q: How many years have you played for Synergy?
A: This is my 4 th year.
Q: What is your primary role as a player on the team?
A: Being the oldest player, I want be a leader on and off the field.
Q: You are now a rising senior, do you plan on playing football after your youth career is over?
A: Yes, of course I love soccer and it always be in my life. I want to go to a college that has great academics, but also a great soccer program.
Q: What is your favorite moment at the Region 1 tournament?
A: I have 2 favorite memories. In 2007 and 2008 when we tied McClean Hurricanes, and in the last minute of each game the game was tied by amazing free kicks.
Q: Any expectations for this year's tournament?
A: Yes, I really think we have a chance of winning the whole tournament.
Q: Why's that?
A: We are finally playing a style that cannot be beaten
Q; Tell me one word that best describes the team.
A: Comraderie.
Q: What sets SFC apart from other clubs?
A: We highly dedicated, and we play a style that is not common for northern teams.
Q: What are you looking forward to the most at this year's event?
A: I am looking forward to coming out of our group with 9 points, and with zero goals against.

JP Cyr, Number 15, Striker.
Q: How old were you when you joined the team?
A: I was 11 years old
Q: How old are you now?
A: I turn 16 today July 2, 2009
Q: On the eve of your birthday, what are you looking forward the most at this year's regionals?
A: I'm looking forward to playing some extremely attractive football and having great success at this year's regionals.
Q: Did the team do anything special in preparation for this year's regionals?
A: We did a hard week of fitness, which included a day of marine style training. Coach Hugh had us go through a series of arduous exercises while carrying 200 pound logs.
Q: Where is the team staying this year?
A: The team is staying at the Red Roof inn. The hotel is close to the fields and surrounded by restaurants.
Q: What is your impression of West Virginia and the people?
A: West Virginia is beautiful and the scenery is very similar to Vermont. They have great southern hospitality and the people are really friendly and enthusiastic about the upcoming tournament..

STAY TUNED FOR MORE SYNERGY FC NEW