You helped make 2015 a huge year for Soccer in the Streets and our kids. We wanted to share a few of our highlights with you below. 

Supporters like you make it possible for Soccer in the Streets to provide life changing opportunities to youth in need. 2015 was an outstanding year, and 2016 is shaping up to be even bigger-but we need your help. 


Thank you for supporting our kids in 2015! 
3:42 PM

Sons of Pitches FC

Winter Leagues Start Soon - Get registered!

Soccer in Christmas sweaters!
Happy holidays from SOPFC! 

We have the perfect place to rock your Christmas sweater in the New Year: at our 7v7 Winter Leagues! Although with the weather lately, you might just wanna ask for more tshirts.

Join one of our leagues as a free agent now, before prices go up on Dec 27th. We'll find a team for you, guaranteed. If you have friends who'd like to sign up too, you can even request to play on the same team.

Scheduled Start Dates for Winter Leagues:

Jan 4 - Monday Competitive
Jan 6 - Wednesday Social
Jan 9 - Saturday Competitive
Jan 12 - Tuesday Competitive
Jan 24 - Sunday Social
REGISTER TO PLAY!
Guardians Team
Register now to play Winter Soccer Leagues before pricing goes up on Dec 27th
10:22 AM

 

  Thanksgiving Food Drive

FC Georgia United has been out spreading goodwill and Thanksgiving cheer. The Senior Soccer organization has been raising funds to supply entire Thanksgiving meal packages to families in need through the support of the New House of Refuge annual charity drive. Over fifty families will enjoy a feast this week thanks to the contribution of our soccer community. This effort was spearheaded by John Kaziow and assisted by Peter Kealy, who represented the Club as the packages were officially distributed. Many thanks for the individual club donations of funds from our members. For those wishing to still contribute, please make a check payable to FC Georgia United and deliver to Jeff Freemyer or Steve Lang. 

 
Also special note and acknowlegement are the owners of FINAFLEX who also contributed meals to this charity and assisted us in the delivery of our food packages - check their web site for the finest athlete energy and nutrient supplements www.finaflex.com - they really work!

9:17 AM
US Adult Soccer Association


Join us January 15-18, 2016 for the Florida Classic at Lake Myrtle Sports Complex in Auburndale, Florida.

12 divisions - 8 different age groups - 11v11/beautiful grass fields - teams from US/Canada/Caribbean.

3 game minimum
Cash prizes
Beer garden
Free team party
Great hotel & attraction discounts
Near Disney, Busch Gardens, Legoland

Early bird discount ends 11/23/15 - don't miss it!

Registration and more details can be found at:
www.floridastatesoccer.com
9:12 AM

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9:09 AM
FC Utrecht International Academy
Elite Player ID Camp
December 11-13, 2015
Camp starts this Friday!  Register HERE.

CSA Impact | 770-704-0187 | www.csaimpact.com
12:30 PM
CASL YMCA Invite you to join us
In making a difference this Christmas..
 
2015 St. Nicholas Charity Soccer Event
Sunday December 06th, 2015 at Custer Park, off the Square in Marietta
 
Great, Fun filled Day of friends, competition, Candy Canes, Hot Chocolate and more!
 
Just bring a New, Unused, Unwrapped Toy or Gift, valued at $25.00 or more and get three games!!
100 percent of your donations go to the Must Ministries Toy Box to benefit In Need families in Cobb & Cherokee Counties. 
Teams and individuals still welcome to register - contact Karon at st.nickcharity@gmail.com 

Too much on your calendar to play but you still want to participate? Drop off a toys as you are out doing your holiday shopping.
11:11 AM
Atlanta United invites you to Bring Your A-Game!
The Atlanta United technical staff is conducting professional try-outs to identify undiscovered talent in the greater Atlanta area. These early stage try-outs will give Atlanta United a jumpstart on player identification, and will allow regional talent the opportunity to be evaluated by professional scouts as the team begins building its roster.
This will be the first in a series of regional professional identification try-outs leading up to Atlanta United’s inaugural season in 2017, and a great way for aspiring players to get on the radar early.   The club’s primary goal is to identify regional talent with potential to sign to with Atlanta United.
Limited spaces available. Spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. No applications will be accepted after December 10.
Entry fee: $150
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
6:07 AM

Goodbye Dekalb...Hello Cobb!


It looked like Dekalb county was all set to be the home of the training facility for Atlanta United FC but in a turn of events, the club will have its training facilities in Cobb County. According to "official" sources, the decision was based on economic reasons. The $35 million dollar price tag was ok but the cost of developing the land somehow exceeded expectations. However, word on the street is that this all has something to do with the corruption scandal that is currently enveloping Dekalb County.

“We are also appreciative of [DeKalb County CEO] Lee May’s willingness to explore alternate locations in DeKalb,” Blank said.  “However, as we previously indicated, we were working concurrently on due diligence on a site in Marietta given our time constraints, and we have made the decision to finalize discussions with the City of Marietta and Cobb County regarding the property located on Franklin Road.”

Many people in Cobb County are concerned that the taxpayers will be on the hook to pay the bill with similar concerns to the costs of the new Braves stadium. We shall see!



8:50 PM

Atlanta United to Join U.S. Soccer Development Academy


Atlanta United Will Begin Development Academy Play in Fall of 2016
CHICAGO (Oct. 12, 2015) – Atlanta United will join the U.S. Soccer Development Academy in the fall of 2016. 
At a luncheon held for youth development leaders around the greater Atlanta area, Atlanta United Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra and club President Darren Eales announced the team’s plans and outlined the timeline for the club’s youth soccer development program. They shared their plans to partner closely with local and regional youth soccer clubs as they build their Academy structure, explaining that the club’s objective is to contribute to the advancement of youth soccer not only in Georgia but regionally and nationally. 
Launching in the fall of 2016, Atlanta United will join the U.S. Soccer Development Academy at all age groups. At that time, Georgia United Soccer Alliance (GUSA) will remain in the Academy at the U-13/14 age groups, and their two older teams will conclude. During the transition period and beyond, Atlanta United will work with GUSA to build upon GUSA’s successful organizational structure for developing elite level talent.  Concorde Fire Soccer Club will continue as an Academy member club in all age categories. 
“It’s fantastic that Atlanta United is making player development a priority even before the first team gets started,” said U.S. Soccer Technical Director Jürgen Klinsmann. “Atlanta is an important soccer market and having a first class training environment will be fantastic for elite players as well as help raise the bar in the area overall.” 
Following a comprehensive review of elite player development in the United States and around the world, U.S. Soccer created the Development Academy, a program that provides education, resources, and support to impact everyday club environments in order to develop world-class players. The Academy was established in 2007 for male players in the U-15/16 and U-17/18 age groups.  
In 2013, the Academy expanded to include the U-13/14 age group, which has continued to improve development for younger players by setting standards and improving the everyday environment for players and clubs. 
According to Eales, GUSA’s approach in developing youth talent is superb and innovative.  Atlanta United will build upon the success of the GUSA model consisting of a structured alliance of six metro Atlanta clubs. The clubs joined together to share resources and player talent providing a high level training and competition environment for elite level players in the state of Georgia.  Atlanta United’s plan is to take this model to the next level by working with all clubs in the Atlanta area to bring the region’s top young talent to Atlanta United’s Academy, with the aim that they will one day represent the Club in MLS. 
“The U.S. Soccer Development Academy looks forward to continuing to build upon the strong foundation built by Georgia United and Concorde Fire with the addition of the Atlanta United Academy,” said U.S. Soccer Development Academy Director Jared Micklos. “The club leaders are committed to providing the Atlanta community with a professional club dedicated to player development and creating an environment for young talent to grow.” 
Through their extensive experience in youth development both in the U.S. and abroad, as well as through visits to multiple academies around the globe, Eales and Bocanegra are looking to implement best practices at Atlanta United to ensure that its Academy will be recognized as a leading developer of youth talent. 
Developed as a player in the U.S., Bocanegra played in Major League Soccer as well as top leagues in France, England, Spain and Scotland enabling him to experience youth development operations first-hand. As former executive director for the Barclay’s Premier League Tottenham Hotspur Football Club (THFC), Eales sat on the Technical Board of THFC’s Academy, known as a leading developer of youth talent. Considered to be one of the best academies in the Premier League, THFC produced five full England international players between 2012 and 2015 including Harry Kane and Ryan Mason. 
Both Eales and Bocanegra are confident that the U.S. youth development model is only getting stronger, and believe it is most efficient when clubs work together toward the common goal of producing top level talent.   Atlanta United will follow this approach and ensure that the development process is inclusive and collaborative.  
Atlanta United Academy players will train at a new, state-of-the-art training facility due to be completed prior to the club’s first match in 2017. The club considers it to be fundamental in the development of youth players to have the academy train at the same facility as the first team.  Sharing the training complex will allow an aspirational environment for Academy players as they observe and interact with Atlanta United’s first team and strive to follow in their footsteps.  A shared training facility also supports the club’s broader philosophy that the Academy should not only produce elite players, but serve as an environment that creates well-rounded, professional individuals.
10:22 AM


In the wake of the past few losses there has been a lot of discussion about the cause of our problems. We lost to Mexico in a fairly well contested game and will now not be going to the Confederations Cup. Klinsmann decided then to bring in some new players and test them out against Costa Rica and the team again lost, and this time it was not so well contested. The morning after each game I look at what the press is saying and listen to a talk show on XM radio. Most of the press seem to think that we do not have good enough players to win. There are also individuals who think Klinsmann is picking the wrong players. When I watch a game I see something completely different. The National team players are not working as a group defensively, especially in the other team's end. The higher ups at US Soccer must realize what we have and find a way to win. Instead of looking for a new striker to put the ball in the goal or a new center back to win balls in the back, find a way to win with the players that are here now. 

There will be times when the other team has better players than the United States has produced. When a team has better players you defend with a group, you keep the spacing very tight defensively, you force them to play negative balls. The coaching staff needs to adjust instead of talking about what they don't have. There are plenty of countries able to more with less than what we have available. Maybe we need to follow the model they are using. Instead of looking at how Germany does it why not look at how a nation without as much talent can find a result. Find a way to win. 

When I watch the US team play I see players trying to win balls defensively while the rest of the team watches them. The entire team must be engaged all of the time, there should not ever be only one player on the field playing. The United States culture with all of the highlights, chest pounding, and celebration of great individuals will never help us win in international soccer. To win in international soccer we need a team of players who work tirelessly and selflessly for one another and help one another on the field. We don't need better players, we need a great team. I am not sure if Klinsmann has the right approach. 
by 
12:38 PM
Rovers FC are throwing a party at Los Arcos tomorrow at 830 pm ...this is a guaranteed fun time.

We will have entertainment and Manny will have every thing set up for us.

We will be raffling out shirts after every goal and we will have other giveaways 

Please let me know if you can make it so that I can tell Manny....bring family and friends.

    Address: 3101 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062
    Hours: 
    Open today · 11:00 am – 10:30 pm




    Address: 3101 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062
    Hours: 
    Open today · 11:00 am – 10:30 pm
5:52 PM

Rest in Peace Michael Childers


The Soccer Community Mourns the passing of Michael Childers

The morning of September 11, 2015, our community lost one of our own; Michael Childers. Our hearts are hurting as we say good bye to a great friend and an important part of our community. From a youth coach to leader on men with Rovers Green, Michael will be sorely missed. We all had the honor to have known Michael as a positive influence on us all.


With a sharp sense of humor and an infectious smile, Michael was a staple on our Sundays games and weekday kick-arounds. His musical talents were something to behold….especially when laying tribute to others with his bagpipes. His ability to tug a our heartstrings when serenading others left a mark on all of us.
As players and competitor, he played with intensity and passion. He was a speedy striker that worked hard through out the match and scored his share of goals. He chased down lost causes and always ran the channels. He was a good teammate to his brothers on Rovers Green and a gracious opponent. Win or lose, he respected his opponents and left the pitch with a smile.


He was never shy about letting us know his Irish blood and all things Ireland. We are proud to have known Michael and are deeply saddened by his passing. We will miss him dearly. The Rovers Club mourns along with the Atlanta Soccer Community.

Rest in Peace Michael Childers....you will be missed!



Michael was the proud father of twin daughters, Jennifer and Jessica, as well of his son Matthew and daughter Michelle. Michael is also survived by his wife Regina, his mother Rosina, his sisters Rachel and Melissa. Anyone who knows Michael knows that in addition to adoring his family, Michael loved soccer, whether it be playing it with passion beyond compare, watching and vigorously cheering on his daughters, or coaching his U10 team on to victory. He was certainly at his best during these times where he was his truest self and he will be sorely missed.
Winkenhofer Funeral Home in Kennesaw.
2950 Cobb Pkwy NW, Kennesaw, GA 30152
(770) 422-7299
Service Information
Memorial Service
Thursday, September 17, 2015
7:00 pm
Visitation
Thursday, September 17, 2015

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Information for the Michael Childers Memorial trust.

United Community Bank
5100 Dallas Highway
Powder Springs Ga 30127
Ucbi.com




7:59 PM
ATLANTA - Soccer in the Streets' seventh installment of the innovative and inspirational Black Tie Soccer Game, presented by Profisee, is returning onSunday, October 18th. Among the goals promised to be scored at Black Tie Soccer Game VII: Soccer in the Mansion, none is more vital than the support raised for Soccer in the Streets' cause - preparing Atlanta's youth for success on and off the field.

"Black Tie Soccer Game VII will be the ultimate sophisticated silly soccer experience. This year we have chosen a stunning venue which befits our fantastic players, who each year dazzle in their amazing outfits, and sparkle on the pitch," said Bill Ford, Soccer in the Streets board member and Events Committee chairman. "At a seven acre mansion in the heart of Buckhead, you will be able to enjoy the most hilarious game of soccer, catered dining from Park Tavern, and party to live music. We're havin' a ball without the gala!"

The Black Tie Soccer Game - a cheeky way to participate in the global game while dressing the part of a philanthropist, complete with black ties and evening wear - has raised more than $250,000 over the past six years. The event makes a direct impact through pledged donations that sponsor each of the event's players - who compete on the pitch in suits, ties or dresses on top of their shin guards and soccer cleats.

Each player is tasked with raising money in order to participate in the match, which offers the integral soccer experience with an authentic British master of ceremonies, an abundance of goals and trophies on the line - for the Best Dressed, Most Valuable Player and the highest fundraiser.The game features rosters with a co-ed compliment and unlimited substitutions. While the score counts, somewhat, each player's sponsorship  - by friends or family; colleagues, congregations or companies - carries the real impact.

The match kicks off at 2 p.m. and the swanky soiree continues with music, dinner and entertainment until 5 p.m. Advanced tickets for the Black Tie Soccer Game are available at www.blacktiesoccergame.com for as low as $10.

The event benefits Soccer in the Streets, an organization that has pioneered the use of soccer for social change since its launch in 1989. Throughout the 1990's, Soccer in the Streets introduced soccer to many urban and underserved communities through soccer clinics, especially during the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups and the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup. Soccer in the Streets is growing in recent years, quadrupling the number of youth being served since 2009. 
About Soccer in the Streets: 
Soccer in the Streets is a sports based youth development organization based in Atlanta, GA. Its mission is to empower underserved youth through soccer, character development, mentoring, and employability programs. With over 25 years of experience, the organization is a pioneer among grassroots soccer programs. For more information about Soccer in the Streets, please visit www.soccerstreets.org. 
3:47 PM

Registration now open for our 3v3 Rooftop Soccer Tournament on Fri/Sat, Sept 18-19!

Sons of Pitches FC and Dragon Goal USA are excited to announce Atlanta's Second Rooftop Soccer Tournament on Friday and Saturday, Sept 18 & 19, 2015 at 98 Cone St in the middle of Downtown Atlanta!
 

Register here for early bird pricing through this Friday, Aug 28th!!


Our Fall 2015 Rooftop Tournament will feature two fields, daytime and nighttime tournaments, and both social and competitive levels of play. Teams of up to 6 players will compete in four separate 3v3 tournaments for glory and prizes. Register as a team captain and then invite friends to join your team, or register as a free agent and we will place you on a team of 6 players (a great way to meet new people!).

Pick from four separate rooftop tournament brackets: Everyone is welcome to hang out on the roof, even if you're not playing in the tournament! There will be food, beer from Sweetwater, music by DJ Pattycakes, FIFA Xbox tournaments, a rooftop photo booth, and a Soccer Art Show. So bring your friends, come party on the rooftop, and take in the beautiful skyline views and games!

Remember, early bird prices end THIS FRIDAY, and spots will fill up quickly, so don't wait to register! 
 
REGISTER NOW!
P.S. Have any friends who play soccer, or would like to party on a rooftop Downtown? :) Can you do us a favor and forward this email to them? Thanks! Alex, Wedge & Court
8:42 AM
Copyright © 2016 Atlanta Soccer News: Art, Music and Culture | By Designscrazed