Georgia Rush Hosts U13 Girls National Rush ID Camp

Georgia Soccer affiliate Georgia Rush played host to some of the top U13 girls talent that Rush Soccer has to offer this past January. From January 2-6, U13 girls players from all over the county, including Colorado, Michigan, Texas, and even Hawaii traveled to Georgia to show that they belonged amongst the elite players in the Rush Soccer program.

55 total players traveled to Atlanta just after the holidays and stayed with 55 of the local Georgia Rush families. Over the four days of the ID Camp, Georgia Rush Technical Director Russell Finch put the girls through intense training and simulated matches to identify the players he wanted on his Rush National Team roster. In addition to their training, the U13 Rush ID girls also played matches against Georgia Soccer’s 98 and 99 ODP teams. This Rush National team will be the group Finch will take to a number of prestigious international youth tournaments across the county, including the Del Sol Cup in Arizona, the Open Cup in Alabama, and Surf Cup in San Diego.

An underappreciated honor was the decision to have Georgia Rush host this ID Camp for the U13’s. Rush Soccer is the world’s largest youth soccer club, boating more than 40,000 players worldwide. Because of Rush Soccer’s decision to name Russell Finch as the head coach for the U13 girls team, Finch was able to bring the acclaimed ID Camp to Atlanta. With the ID Camp also came a nice boost to the local businesses in Milton, GA.

Georgia Soccer is proud to be a home to accomplished youth soccer clubs who are focused on player development, such as Georgia Rush.

www.GeorgiaRush.com

- See more at: http://www.georgiasoccer.org/story/2013/2/27/georgia-rush-hosts-u13-girls-national-rush-id-camp/#sthash.wKFxzZXS.dpuf

5:31 AM

Jane Campbell, perhaps the most well known prospect from Georgia in
recent memory, will be continuing her storied career at Stanford University this
fall. Jane has many of the accomplishments of her college bound peers, including
club success with Concorde Fire SC, Georgia ODP, and high school successes with
the Darlington School. She does, however, have one section on her resume that
very few youth players can claim – playing in the 2012 U17 Women’s World Cup.
Jane played every minute as the starting goalkeeper for the U17 Women’s National
Team in Azerbaijan this past summer. Jane was also recently named NSCAA
National Youth Player of the Year. To cap off her remarkable 2012, Jane was named
as one of 29 players to attend the Senior USWNT 2013 Training Camp. Her
experience at the highest levels, as well as her exceptional
soccer skills, are why Jane Campbell is considered the best
incoming women’s freshmen recruit for 2013.

From Georgia Soccer Magazine

5:24 AM

North Ga. Christian girls open season with win

The North Georgia Christian girls soccer team opened its season with a 3-0 victory over visiting Cumberland Christian Academy at Allen Creek Soccer Complex on Thursday in Gainesville.

Drake Spratlin, Sarah Rhodes, and Liz Wethington all scored for North Georgia in the first half. Georgia Clark and a stiff Lady Charger defense preserved the shutout.

The Lady Chargers (1-0) will take on Horizon Christian on Thursday at Allen Creek. 

4:38 AM

Quick LinksWFT Contact Us  Partners      This Memorial Day weekend, kick off your summer soccer season in beautiful Charleston during the famous Spoleto Festival USA.  Copa Charleston 6v6  May 25-26  Welcome to the inaugural WFT Copa Charleston 3v3/6v6 tournament to be held in Charleston, SC over the Memorial Day weekend. The event is a qualifying event for the WFT World Cup IV on July 27-28 also in Charleston. The event will feature both 3v3 for youth teams (U6-U14 on Saturday) and 6v6 for the U16/18 and adult divisions on Saturday-Sunday.  CLICK HERE to visit Copa Charleston 6v6 CLICK HERE to visit Copa Charleston 3v3 For many teams, Copa Charleston will kick off their summer WFT season, competing in local and state cup tournaments in their state. Some of you we will see again at our WFT World Cup IV to cap the 2013 WFT Tour. Charleston is the ideal city to celebrate the beginning of summer with the famous Spoleto Festival USA, its awesome beaches, ranked golf courses, award winning restaurants, and live music to enjoy the night life. The 2013 WFT 3v3/6v6 Tour will feature: Over (30) local 1-day WC IV qualifying events in VA, NC, SC, GA, and TN (MAY-JULY) Playing in any WFT event makes all teams eligible to compete in their WFT state cups   (3) WFT 1-day state champions cups in NC/SC, GA, and TN(JULY 13)   WFT 3v3/6v6 World Cup IV in Charleston, SC on JULY 27-28 WFT 3V3/6v6 Rankings: State and National WFT 6v6 Divisions: U16, U18 Boys/Girls  Men, Women, Coed Open (Gold & SIlver) Men, Women, Coed Masters 30 *Men, Women Masters 40 *Men Masters 50  * All teams qualify for WFT WC IV Learn more about the WFT: CLICK HERE    COPA CHARLESTON features: Same great destination! Same beach houses!    Bring soccer kids to play 3v3 (U6-U14) on Saturday and watch parents play on Sat-Sun    Party on Sunday night (near Folly Beach) Cash prize for each division winner ($50 for each team in division) Division winners also receive Free Voucher at (1) Local event + Team/Individual awards   Top 2 teams in each division qualify for WFT World Cup IV (see exceptions above)   10 player roster Match duration: 2 x 20 mins  3 games guaranteed   Entry fee @ $300 Hotels 10-15 mins from complex on James Island  NO USASA PASSES REQUIRED COPA CHARLESTON WEBSITE TO REGISTER   IF YOUR TEAM IS INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING AND YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, PLEASE EMAIL US: COPA CHARLESTON   On behalf of Lowcountry Soccer and our staff, we look forward to helping your adult futbol team have a great Memorial Day weekend in Charleston. Thank you, Kenyon Cook Director Lowcountry Soccer World Futbol Tour  COME SEE WHY CHARLESTON IS THE  #1 RATED DESTINATION IN NORTH AMERICA Lowcountry Soccer LLC Charleston, SC www.lowcountrysoccer.net

3:02 PM

COACH JAY YEAH BABY 10K/5K/MOHAWK MILE RUN North Atlanta Soccer Association is proud to announce the Coach Jay YEAH BABY 10k/5k/Mohawk Mile Run to be held Sunday, April 21, 2013 at United Quest Park. Jay Ingram was a U10 Girls Academy Coach who was killed while running on January 27, 2012. Jay was a Physical Education teacher, soccer coach, father of two (Aiden and Kailyn), husband of almost ten years, son, brother, uncle and friend and a Christian. He was 32 years old when he was hit by a car while on his morning run on January 26, 2012 on North Booth Road. He was called to his heavenly home on January 27, 2012 from injuries to his head. God blessed this world with Jay as he made an impact on thousands of people and his footprints continue to be seen every day. Jay was able to donate all of his organs as they were in perfect shape and was able to pass on the gift of life to others, a sacrifice he would have gladly made in any situation. Jay loved to wear a mohawk hairstyle and his favorite color was yellow, which is fitting, since it resembles the color of the sun and Jay was a ray of sunshine to all the people he met. On behalf of NASA, we would like to invite you to attend the Coach Jay Yeah Baby Run. As a club, we wish to show our support to Jay’s family and children. To do that, we need runners! Click here to register. If you wish to volunteer: Click this link to go to our invitation page on VolunteerSpot Enter your email address: (You will NOT need to register an account on VolunteerSpot)  Sign up! Choose your spots - VolunteerSpot will send you an automated confirmation and reminders. Easy! VolunteerSpot does not share your email address with anyone. We are currently looking for a DJ for the event as well as sponsors. If you are able to help, please contact Dean Harris.

2:01 PM

The University of Georgia soccer team will host its annual Alumni Weekend April 5-7 in Athens

Georgia Soccer's Alumni Weekend is set for April 5-7, 2013

Feb. 21, 2013

Alumni Weekend Brochure (PDF) 

ATHENS, Ga. --- The University of Georgia soccer team will host its annual Alumni Weekend April 5-7 in Athens, including its "Golf 4 Kicks" fundraiser and a scrimmage between program alumni and the 2013 squad.

Below is a schedule of events.

See the attached PDF document for more information and to register. Information on the golf fundraiser can be found here. Book hotel room at group rate here. 

All forms must be received by the soccer office no later than April 1.

Friday, April 5, 2013

10:00 am: “Golf 4 Kicks” at UGA Golf Course

9:00 pm: Casual Social Hour, location TBD

Saturday, April 6, 2013

10:00 am:  Alumni Game at the UGA Soccer Stadium

12:00 pm: BBQ at the Turner Soccer Complex

6:00 pm:  Social Hour – Hilton Garden Inn (food/drinks not included)

7:00 pm: Dinner – Hilton Garden Inn           

Sunday, April 7,  2013

12:00 pm: Hotel Checkout

6:57 AM

Atlanta Youth Soccer Association 

Congrats to the U13 Boys Blue - SSA Tournament Champions! 

The U-13 boys finally did it! In their last three tournaments, the team made it to the finals, but fell short, losing in PK’s or in another dramatic fashion. This time the boys brought home the championship. Well done boys and good luck in the spring!

6:54 AM

Georgia Soccer is Looking for Volunteers!

Georgia Soccer is a membership organization that relies on our volunteers. With a new year just begun, some of our committees are seeking new talent to complement the expertise of existing members. For you or someone in your soccer organization who has time and talent to contribute to one of these committees, the Georgia Soccer website has brief committee job descriptions and a convenient online volunteer application.

Georgia Soccer Committee Descriptions
Online Volunteer Application

8:13 AM

Special Ticket Offer With Zoo Atlanta

The Atlanta Silverbacks professional soccer team, named after Willie B, have partnered with Zoo Atlanta, the legendary gorilla's former residence, on a ticket offer for the 2013 season opener at Atlanta Silverbacks Park. 
The Silverbacks and Zoo Atlanta, who the club looks forward to partnering with throughout the 2013 season, are offering a joint ticket package for the April 13 season opener against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers. The ticket package, starting as low as $102, will feature four tickets to Zoo Atlanta and four tickets to the Silverbacks' season opener. 
"We're very excited to partner with Zoo Atlanta," said Silverbacks General Manager Andy Smith. "As the city knows, our team name is deeply tied to Zoo Atlanta, so we're looking forward to offering a great package that allows our fans to experience both a Silverbacks game and all of the fantastic things that the Zoo has to offer."
Kickoff will be at 7:30 p.m. on April 13. For more information or to purchase the ticket package, call the Silverbacks ticket office at 404-969-4900.

8:13 AM

Interview with Atlanta Ultras President

Posted on Fri, Feb 22, 2013

Founded in late 2011, the Atlanta Ultras (AU) are the fastest-growing Atlanta Silverbacks supporters group. Known for their unmistakable passion at Silverbacks home games, the Ultras are looking to make a statement in 2013. With the club’s preseason set to begin in about a week, atlantasilverbacks.com caught up with Ultras President STEVE GURLEN to talk about the group’s plans for the upcoming season.
How much fun have you had assembling the Ultras supporters group and seeing it grow over time?
“It's been fun, no doubt. It's pretty exciting for us all to see it grow and become more organized. We’re still a new group, but we have grown well in a short time. We’ll only continue to grow over time and we all can't wait to see what happens over the next few years.”
How would you best describe the Ultras supporters group and its members?
“We’re a group that is extremely passionate about supporting the club as well as the city. We very much view this as our home and our stadium and we let people know that. We have members from all over the world who now call Atlanta their home and call the club their own. We’re very proud of that. We like to stand and sing for 90 minutes at matches and display our passion in other ways as well. We’re accepting of any and all types of people, as long as they’re willing to show the same sort of passion for the club that we do. We’re like a family and all members, both new and current, who show their dedication are treated as such.”  
What is a typical match day like for the Ultras?
“On match day, we always host a proper tailgate. We usually meet up several hours before the match at the park, where we grill out and share drinks together. Usually about 30 minutes prior to kickoff, we do a "march" into the stadium and into our section. From then on, the main focus is on the game and supporting the club as well as whatever special preparations we may have for the match.”
Who is your most hardcore member?
“I would say that the majority of group shares a similar mentality and passion, but we do have some that express it a bit more noticeably. I can’t narrow it down to just one, though.”
What is typically on the grill at an Ultras tailgate?
“Most of the time, we go with burgers, hot dogs, and shrimp. Anybody can really bring whatever they want to cook, though.”
What is the drink of choice at an Atlanta Ultras tailgate?
“Beer and water. You gotta stay hydrated!”
What are some of the things the Ultras have put in place this offseason to formalize and professionalize the group?
“For the first time, we have instituted an official AU membership, so that is the biggest and newest change this offseason. We’re excited to see everyone’s interest in it and certainly hope that it continues.”
Have you gotten to know any of the other supporters groups from around the NASL?
“For the most part, we don't involve ourselves with other supporters groups and to be honest, we’re not really looking to form friendships with opposing teams’ supporters.”
Is there a particular team in the NASL that you guys especially love to heckle or root against?
“We always try to get in all of their heads, but we do tend to focus more on the clubs in closer proximity to us such as Tampa Bay and Carolina.”
How much of a challenge has it been trying to get Atlanta’s hardcore soccer fans to join the Ultras?
“It's definitely been a challenge to get our name out there, but the hard work is starting to pay off. It’s tough because there are so many fans of the game here in Atlanta that only seem to care about MLS or leagues abroad. I think they just somehow need to find a way to redirect some of that passion towards their home club to help it grow and get bigger.”
From what you see, what is the most frequent hesitation among those who aren’t sure whether or not they want to join the Ultras or even come to a game?
“Most of the time, people will look at us from a distance and feel hesitant to come over because they aren’t sure if they’re allowed or aren’t sure if they will fit in. ANYBODY is allowed to come over with us if you share the same passion we do and want to show it.” 
If you could say one thing to an Atlanta area soccer fan who hasn’t been to a Silverbacks game before, what would you say to try to get them to come out?
“Just come to the match, stand with AU, and you won’t regret it. I promise.” 
Why do you think so many Atlanta soccer fans are so fixated on the idea of MLS coming to the city?
“Good question - I don't really know why. I just know that if people put all that aside and just came to support our CURRENT pro team, they may be surprised at what may happen down the road. I can tell you that our group's loyalties will remain with club regardless of what happens in the future.”
Do you have anything special planned for opening night on April 13?
“I can’t give the details, but just make sure you get in the stands early. It’s going to be a great night with a ton of emotions. We all can’t wait.”

8:04 AM

Georgia Soccer Releases 2013 Spring Schedule

Steve Holeman

Feb. 20, 2013

ATHENS, Ga. --- The Georgia soccer team and head coach Steve Holeman on Wednesday announced the team’s six competition dates for this spring, beginning March 2 at home vs. Clemson.

After opening the spring schedule next Saturday at 7 p.m. vs. their border rival, Georgia will meet SEC foe Auburn on Tues., March 28 at 7 p.m. in neutral-site action to be held at Greater Atlanta Christian School in Norcross.

The Bulldogs will then host their annual meeting vs. a selection of alumni on Sat., April 6 at 10 a.m., as part of the program’s Alumni Weekend festivities, and will travel to meet Georgia State on Tues., April 9 at 7 p.m. in Conyers. Georgia will host a 7v7 tournament in Athens on Sat., April 13, welcoming Armstrong Atlantic, Clayton State, Georgia College & State University, Georgia Gwinnett College, Kennesaw State, Mercer, North Georgia College, and Valdosta State for the all-day round robin event, before concluding the spring campaign Sat., April 20 vs. Georgia Southern at 7 p.m. at home.

Full schedule is listed below.

2013 GEORGIA SOCCER SPRING SCHEDULE

Sat., March 2 vs. Clemson, 7 p.m., Athens
Thurs., March 28 vs. Auburn, 7 p.m., Norcross, Ga.
Sat., April 6 vs. Alumni, 10 a.m., Athens
Tues., April 9 vs. Georgia State, 7 p.m., Conyers, Ga.
Sat., April 13, 7v7 Tournament, All Day, Athens
Sat., April 20 vs. Georgia Southern, 7 p.m., Athens

7:57 AM

National Women's Championships: Registration Now Open

USASA National Women's Championships June 25-27 (Open) June 28-30 (Amateur, U23 and Over30)  Overland Park Soccer Complex, Kansas   The National Women's Championship will serve as the premier women's competition in the United States. Some of the best amateur women's teams from around the country will get the opportunity to test their skills and play at one of the top soccer complexes in the nation. Overland Park Soccer Complex recently held the 2010 US Youth Soccer National Championships; it consists of 12 lighted synthetic fields with scoreboards and helped Overland Park be named the top soccer city in the United States by Livability.com. Learn more about Overland Park's complex click here. Registration is now open: Amateur Open Over 30 U23 Teams can also mail in their application, click here.     Entry Fee: $300 per team Deadline for entry: April 12 for Open and Over 30, May 15 for U23 and Amateur Format: Round robin, minimum of three full 90 minute matches Roster and substitution rules: Roster pool of 25 due seven days prior to first match, total of 22 may participate at the event, 18 per active match roster, open and unlimited substitutions for each match Match days for Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, final on Thursday Match days for Amateur, U23, and Over 30: Friday, Saturday, final on Sunday Bracketing to be determined after total entry number of teams per division, with a minimum of four teams required and a maximum of 16 teams per division.

1:29 PM

Vetrans Cup 2013 Veterans Cup 2013 overview and new partnership with Premier International Tours      After one of the most successful Veterans Cups in USASA history, we're excited to announce the Cup will be making a return to Escondido, North San Diego County, California this summer. The tournament will take place June 25-30 at the Frances Ryan Park. The beautiful landscape and top-notch fields were the perfect combination and made the 2012 tournament an experience we'd like to live again.   Registration is now open for the 2013 tournament. This year we'll also be expanding the tournament by adding an Over 65 women's division. Ladies, we know you still have that drive to get on the field, we'd love to see you there.   You can register your team here:http://usasa.leagueapps.com/tournaments/9926-2013-veterans-cup    Hotel information can be found at www.veteranscup.us/lodging    Please visit www.veteranscup.us for more details.   The divisions this year: Men's: Over 30, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 and 65 Women's: Over 30, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 and 65 (new) Coed: Over 30 and 40   We have a new partnership with Premier International Tours who are promoting the Vets Cups across the major football nations in Europe.   They also offer USASA affiliated teams the opportunity to travel and play in Europe. Then use info & links.   USASA and Premier International Tours are announcing their partnership. The goal of this partnership will be to promote international tours for adult and veteran teams.   Premier International Tours is the market leader in international tours and has designed a special page on its website promoting tours to Paris, London, Munich, Barcelona, Amsterdam and Milan. All tours include flights, hotels, meals, ground transportation, guide services as well as the costs for organizing 1-2 games while teams are in Europe and of course the opportunity to visit pro teams such as Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Ajax, FC Barcelona, etc.   More information is available at http://www.premierinternationaltours.com/soccer/usasa, call (800) 724-6076 or e-mail: Loek@premierinternationaltours.com   Premier International Tours is an Official International Team Travel Partner of U.S. Soccer.

1:27 PM

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3:03 PM

Businesses Supporting Soccer Jersey Day

Posted on Tue, Feb 19, 2013

Over the last several weeks, the Atlanta Silverbacks and United Way of Greater Atlanta have been working together to find corporate partners to support their upcoming initiative, Atlanta Soccer Jersey Day. The initiative is aimed at raising money for programs that help Atlanta area youth avoid risky behaviors.
Atlanta Soccer Jersey Day will take place on April 12, the eve of the Silverbacks’ 2013 season opener against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers at Atlanta Silverbacks Park. In advance of the day, the Silverbacks and United Way are looking for support from local businesses and corporations that want to be involved in the initiative as charitable partners. All corporate partners will be providing special offers and discounts for Atlanta Soccer Jersey Day. Every patron that visits the businesses wearing a soccer jersey on April 12 will receive whatever deal is offered at that location.
The Silverbacks and United Way announced the first 10 companies who have pledged their support for Atlanta Soccer Jersey Day. The companies are listed below:

• BODIES: The Exhibition and Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition (Atlantic Station)
• Nationwide Insurance
• Brewhouse Café
• Taco Veloz
• Alma 990 AM
• La Bonita 610 AM
• Ortho Atlanta
• Jewelry Artisans
• Altobelli’s Italian Restaurant and Piano Bar
• Three Dollar Café

Many of the Atlanta Soccer Jersey Day partners will release their discount or special offer for April 12 in the coming weeks, while others, such as the BODIES and Titanic exhibitions at Atlantic Station, will run their discount for the weeks leading up to April 12. To view their offer and all of the others, visit the Atlanta Soccer Jersey Day webpage.
The Silverbacks and United Way have released a promotional video, helping illustrate the importance of helping local youth avoid risky behaviors. This video will be shown in select movie theaters in the weeks leading up to April 12. The video can be viewed here.
Interested businesses and corporations can contact Silverbacks Senior Account Executive Nick Bellisano at 404-410-7406 or nick.bellisano@atlantasilverbacks.com. 

9:51 AM