HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Bring on 2010!!

SEASONS GREETINGS!

Season's Greetings to the soccer community and all of their friends.

Have a great holiday and an even better New Year.

Atlanta Beat signs Tracy Hamm

Atlanta Beat have announced Tracy Hamm as the newest player to join the expansion team’s roster.

Hamm is a defender from the University of California at Berkeley who was drafted by Bay Area’s FC Gold Pride in 2009. She did not play in the inaugural season of Women’s Professional Soccer but will join the Beat in 2010.

During Hamm’s 2002-2006 collegiate playing career, she amassed 12 goals, was an All-Pac-10 academic honorable mention three times, and started every game of her final two seasons.　 Hamm was a key factor in Cal's defense, which in 2005 set a school record for goals against average (0.475, seventh in nation) and tied school marks for both fewest goals allowed (11) and most shutouts (14) in a season.

Since graduating in 2006, Hamm played with the California Storm and currently serves as both Director of Coaching for Heritage Soccer Club in the Bay Area and　 Assistant Coach at her alma mater.

Atlanta Beat Head Coach Gareth O’Sullivan said this of Hamm - "Tracy has excellent strength and speed and will add depth of our back line.As a college assistant coach, she will bring a great attitude and level of maturity to camp in March."

Video Chat with Lene Mykjåland

Washington Freedom have a video chat with Lene Mykjåland starting at USA time 8.00pm ET.

click HERE for an exclusive interview with the Freedom's latest international.

Lene Mykjaland joins Washington Freedom

Washington Freedom made their first addition to the roster this offseason when the team announced today it has signed Norwegian forward Lene Mykjaland.
The former Roa IL forward has signed after being a post discovery player last season. She didn't make the move last time but this time she has decided to take the plunge.

The 22 year old is looking to join the Freedom after Roa's Champions League Quarter-Final tie against German team Turbine Potsdam in March 2010. She will be the second Norwegian player to sign to the WPS for this upcoming season after FC Gold Pride signed Solveig Guldbrandsen 2 weeks ago.

Mykaland has recently received a championship winners medal with Roa IL after winning the Toppserien(Norwegian league ) for 2009.She scored 21 goals this season to be top of the goalscoring charts.

“To live and play soccer in the U.S has always been a dream for me.” Mykjåland said. “It's the best league with the best players in the world and to get that opportunity to play on that level, and to play professionally, is amazing.”

MARTA & HOPE SOLO GRAB SILVERWARE

After missing out on the WPS title for 2009 Marta of the Los Angeles Sol and Hope Solo, Saint Louis Athletica finally and deservedly get their hand on a trophy.




The Los Angeles Sol forward Marta won her fourth consecutive FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year award last night in Zurich. She finished with 833 points, beating out three-time winner Birgit Prinz of Germany (290), England’s Kelly Smith (252), Brazil’s Cristiane (239) and Germany’s Inka Grings (216).

Having now won the award more times than any other player, the Brazilian sorceress was understandably delighted. "I'm so surprised. I want to thank to God for everything that is happening to me in my life. Also, I want to thank my colleagues at Los Angeles Sol, Santos and in the national team. This is an individual award but without my colleagues I could not stand out and win any prize. I am happy for this 4th award.
I hope it helps women's football to grow."



Hope Solo is the 2009 Female Athlete of the Year, becoming the first goalkeeper to win the U.S. Soccer honor.Solo earned the votes from the public and votes compiled from members of the national media and U.S. Soccer representatives, including national team coaches and the members of the U.S. Soccer Board of Directors.
Solo allowed only one goal in just six matches for the national team.She was named MVP of the Algarve Cup in Portugal in March after leading the USA to the championship over Sweden and helped Saint Louis Athletica to a second-place finish in the WPS regular season.

Topping of a great first season in WPS Solo was named WPS Goalkeeper of the year in August.

“It’s a huge honor but also a really nice surprise to be voted the female athlete of the year for U.S. Soccer,” said Solo. “I especially want to thank everyone for voting for a goalkeeper, as well as our goalkeeper coach Paul Rogers for helping me think about the position in a more sophisticated way, both technically and tactically.” “Certainly, I also want to share any accolades with our defense, from the backs all the way up to the forwards, as well as Pia and our coaches who have put together a great team of people and players as we keep moving forward in a positive direction to the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup.”

Congratulations to both from womans soccer insider.

ALEX SCOTT BLOG 20/12/09 -HAPPY HOLIDAYS

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Hello to everyone,

hope you are all doing well and getting ready for the holidays because over in England we are very ready for it. Not sure if it is very big in the U.S but in England everyone goes mad for christmas. The shops start selling decorations in November and the radio stations start playing christmas songs also which i think is so OTT(over the top) not that i am being a scrooge or anything its just that doing the whole christmas thing in Novmeber is a bit early for me.

But i am now ready for it. In my house i have my christmas tree up - which looks great if i do not say so myself, various decs are up around the house, my two dogs have their head bands ready to wear so when the christmas carol singers knock the door the two dogs look like two little rain dears....... hahaha only kidding, though i really should look for some christmas t shirts for them to wear so they can get into the grove.

ok so i think that is enough about christmas, for now anyway. I wanted to fill you all in on what this Brit as my Boston teammates call me has been up to in the off season.

Read on to find out more of what Alex has been up to HERE

Bachman signs for Atlanta Beat

After three seasons Ramona Bachman is leaving Umeå IK. The super talent from Switzerland will next season to play for the Atlanta Beat in the WPS league.Umeå IK loses one of its biggest stars.

The club tried to persuade Bachmann to remain in Sweden. But a visit to Atlanta helped her make a decision about the move.
Club director Britta Akerlund said in a statement "Ramona is a unique talent, We have been fortunate to have her with us for three seasons and have seen her develop into a true global player.It is a great loss not only for Umeå IK but for the whole Damallsvenskan when she chooses to go to the WPS league. We wish her with all our hearts good luck in the U.S. and keep my fingers crossed that she will achieve its ambitious goals"

"Ramona is one of the most exciting young players in the world," said Atlanta Beat Head Coach Gareth O'Sullivan. "She is confident on the ball, has good pace, and is very direct in the way turns to take players on."

"Ramona is one of the world's best," said Beat GM Shawn McGee. "We are excited about the future Ramona will bring to Atlanta, and we are positive that she will be an integral part of leading us to a Championship."

Bachman says she is looking forward to playing in the league to hopefully become the best player in the world.

"Many of my teammates are playing in the U.S., and I really believe that, in 2010, WPS will be the best women's league in the world," said Bachmann. "In seeing the number of players who are now leaving Sweden for the American league, I think right now the best players are in WPS, and I want to play both with and against the best players in the world."

"The Atlanta Beat wants to be the best team in the world, and since I want to be the best player in the world, it will be an honor to join an organization such as the Atlanta Beat."

2010 WPS Home Openers

Women’s Professional Soccer today announced the bulk of its home openers for the 2010 WPS Season, which features two new teams entering the league with the Atlanta Beat and Philadelphia Independence as 2010 expansion franchises. League play will begin with a full slate of games on the weekend of April 10-11, two weeks later than the start of the inaugural season in 2009 in order to accommodate warmer weather and avoid playing on the Easter holiday weekend. It will be the first time ever that four WPS games take place over one weekend.

The opening game for Fox Soccer Channel’s WPS Sunday on FSC national telecast package, which will return with the same appointment-television format in 2010, will feature 2009 WPS Champion Sky Blue FC (NJ/NY) playing host to the Chicago Red Stars on April 11 at 6pm ET. Sky Blue FC played their final home game of the 2009 season in front of a sell-out crowd at Yurcak Field in Piscataway, NJ, before its 3-game run through the WPS Playoffs, and will be looking for a successful start to their title defense. The Fox Soccer Channel national game in Week 2 will then feature the first television appearance for a WPS expansion team with the Philadelphia Independence traveling to play the Boston Breakers at Harvard Stadium in Cambridge, MA on April 18, also at 6pm ET. The game will be a return to the Boston area for former No. 1 overall draft choice Amy Rodriguez and star defender Heather Mitts – both of whom played with the Breakers last year before signing with the Independence during the off-season.

Other home openers on the weekend of April 10-11 include Philadelphia hosting the Atlanta Beat in a match-up of expansion teams, Saint Louis Athletica taking on FC Gold Pride in St. Louis, MO, and the Washington Freedom hosting East Coast rival Boston at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, MD. FC Gold Pride will host its 2010 home opener against Sky Blue FC on April 17 at Castro Valley H.S. Athletic Stadium, a temporary venue, while the Chicago Red Stars will face regional rival Saint Louis Athletica with its first home game at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, IL.

Home openers for the Los Angeles Sol and Atlanta will be announced soon with Atlanta expecting to play its first home game in May at its brand new stadium built specifically for Women’s Professional Soccer at Kennesaw State University.

click HERE for fixtures so far.

PHEWWWWW! WE ARE BACK

OK. had some problems but we are back up & running , just in time for all the WPS news that has been happening over the past 4 weeks.

Some exciting news on the soccer front. Stay tuned!!

CATCHING UP WITH ENIOLA ALUKO

Eniola Aluko...
...has not had much time to catch her breath since her first season with Saint Louis Athletica ended. Aluko had to depart St. Louis before the season was even finished since she was required to report to England’s training camp in preparation for the 2009 Women’s European Championships. In fact, her last game with Athletica was on August 9 in San Jose, California. 48 hours later she was back across the Atlantic.

The European Championships turned out to be a coming out party for Aluko on the international stage. She was able to continue her fine play from the WPS season as she carried her scoring touch straight into the tournament in Finland.

“Personally, I think I had a successful tournament and was pleased to score such a memorable winning goal against Finland,” said Aluko from London. “It was very important for me to have a good tournament to continue the momentum I gained in St. Louis. I feel that getting to the Euro final made up for the disappointment I felt after missing the playoff game against Sky Blue FC.”

Aluko’s England survived the group stage of the tournament, and eventually advanced to the championship where Germany beat them 6-2. Aluko’s fine goals, including a 50-yard run and score, capped off a terrific 2009 season for her. She would score three times while in Finland and add one assist.

Aluko has been busy with her other career, law, since returning from Finland. But she did get to enjoy a holiday in Egypt with her family where she was able to watch her brother, Sone Aluko, represent the family’s native Nigeria in the U-20 World Cup. Sone Aluko plays professionally for Aberdeen in the Scottish Premier League.

“Unfortunately, the Nigerian boys did not do very well and only reached the play off stages, but I am sure there is more to come from them in the future,” exclaimed Aluko. “Nigeria definitely has bundles of talent in the team.”

In Egypt Aluko and her family took a Nile cruise, and got to ride on camels around the pyramids.

“My family socialized with the players and managers from all the World Cup teams,” said Aluko. “It was a lot of fun!”

Aluko is currently working as a paralegal at the law firm of SC Andrew in London. Her work there will conclude in February when she returns to St. Louis to begin Athletica’s pre-season camp. Aluko has also begun work on her New York bar legal course, which she describes as “quite intense.” Her daily duties at SC Andrew keep her extremely busy for now.

“My main role is to assist the solicitors (attorneys) in their legal research. The research I do is used either to advise the client or to build a case that is going to court. Because SC Andrew is dedicated to litigation, I also get to do fun things like take documents to court, and sometimes I actually attend live court cases with the clients.”

An offseason in London for a soccer fanatic like Aluko should bring plenty of chances to see big matches, yet Aluko has been so busy she has not been able to attend one. Although, she will be in the stands at the November 9 Chelsea v. Manchester United match at Stamford Bridge, which should make up for not being able to see any games thus far. Aluko also recently went to a stage production of the American film The Shawshank Redemption. Leaving London would seem tough but Aluko is eager to get back to St. Louis.

“I am looking forward to the forthcoming WPS season. It has been exciting to see the movement of all the players. It is a sign that all the teams are going to be even stronger for the new season,” stated Aluko. “I have missed seeing my teammates in St. Louis everyday at practice, but it has been nice getting updates from them about how their offseason is going.”

WPS UPDATE - FC GOLD PRIDE TRADE GK

As part of the team’s first-ever trade, FC Gold Pride acquired the 10th and 12th overall draft selections in the upcoming WPS General Draft from the Atlanta Beat. In return, the Beat receives Goalkeeper Allison Whitworth and the Pride’s third-round selection (23rd overall) in the draft.

“We are grateful to Allison for the contributions she made to our team and organization,” said FC Gold Pride Head Coach Albertin Montoya. “She is an excellent goalkeeper and a pleasure to work with. She has a lot to offer the Beat on, and off the field. We wish her well as she returns to the South and look forward to seeing her continue her career in the WPS.”

The Pride is now in possession of two first-round (3rd and 10th) and two second-round (12th and 14th) draft picks, the most of any WPS team. The 2010 WPS General Draft will be held on Friday, January 15 in Philadelphia, PA in conjunction with the NSCAA Annual Convention.

“Having the opportunity to make multiple selections in the first and second round of the upcoming draft is a huge advantage for any team,” said Montoya. “There is a tremendous amount of talent and potential coming out of the collegiate ranks this year. These women are players that I can see coming into WPS as starters and making an immediate impact for our team and the league. ”

Whitworth, a native of Birmingham, AL, started four games for the Pride in 2009. She made 17 saves and allowed five goals in 360 minutes of action.

“I had a great year in the Bay Area with FC Gold Pride,” said Whitworth. “It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had with soccer, getting to play and starting my career with WPS. The Bay Area organization has been very supportive, and has helped me grow as a player. I’m excited to be back in the South and still playing in the league. I’m grateful for the experience with FC Gold Pride.”

GERMANY 0 - 1 USA

The classic match of Germany v USA was played in drizzly , damp ,slippery conditions where the US won 1-0 thanks to an Abby Wambach goal in the 34th minute.
In front of a sold out crowd of 28367 in the Impuls Arena,Augsburg.

The Germans dominated the 1st half with Fatimire Bajramaj whizzing by Heather Mitts down the right time and time again. Has Mitts got slower or has Bajramaj always been that quick we all wondered! Anyway the Germans were causing problems down the flanks but they couldn't get that telling ball to their forwards. The US for the most were pretty solid in the centre of defence Amy Lepielbet,Rachel Buehler and Hope Solo all had a good match.

The US's goal came against the run of play, with a ball from Yael Averbuch from the left wing (yes she was playing as a left winger!) into the middle of the box.Defender Saskia Bartusiak tried to clear it but only suceeding in knocking it up into the air. A bad idea when Abby is about. Wambach got her head to the ball before the on rushing keeper Nadine Angerer could punch it clear. Classic Wambach goal, USA up 1-0.

The Germans huffed and puffed for the remainder of the game but couldn't create any definite openings. The US defending like we knew they could.
After 70 mins both teams looked like they were spent with each giving up passes to the other.

Players from both sides went missing O'Reilly, Laudehr...some players enhanced their reputations Kulig,Boxx.

Not a classic game but a game which showed their really is nothing between 2 big strong teams who in a way cancelled each other out. Roll on 2011.


Germany - Nadine Angerer, Linda Bresonik,Saskia Bartusiak, Annike Krahn,Babett Peter,Kerstin Garefrekes(Bianca Scmidt 83),Simone Laudehr,Kim Kulig,Fatimire Bajramaj(Celia Okoyino Da Mbabi 66),Inka Grings(,Anja Mittag 66) ,Brigit Prinz (C)(Martina Muller 89)

USA - Hope Solo, Heather Mitts, Amy Lepeilbet,Rachel Buehler,Lori Chalupny (C),Heather O'Reilly,Shannon Boxx,Carli Lloyd,Yael Averbuch(Kacey White 60),Abby Wambach,Amy Rodriguez (Ella Masser 73)

CLASH OF THE TITANS!

Tomorrow Thursday 29th October 2009 remember the day.Women's soccer has the match up we have all been waiting for. Germany v USA.

The USA is ranked No. 1. Germany is No. 2.

Germany have just come of the back of a dominating European Championships in Finland where they went undefeated to take the title. Beating England 6-2 in the final game.


The USA on a high from their Gold winning performance in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing against Brazil. Undoubtedly the two best teams in the world at the moment clash in an exciting and very interesting game.

Tomorrows game in the Impuls-Arena in Augsburg has no Olympic or World Cup ramifications but is nevertheless a clash of superpowers in one of the venues for the 2011 World Cup. See that's what it is all about,publicising for the Women's World Cup. But to the player's and coaching staff and also to the fans it's no friendly.


There will be some interesting matchups in the match.Not least of the two goalkeepers. Arguably the two best goalkeepers in the world. Nadine Angerer and Hope Solo.Who will truely be no1 or does it not matter till the World Cup? How will Amy Lepeilbet and Rachel Buehler-the USA's relatively new partnership in defence, cope with the experienced Brigit Prinz and Inga Grings?
Will Kim Kulig, the young German midfielder keep up her good form from the Euros outfight Shannon Boxx and Carli Lloyd in midfield?

Both teams are missing key players. Defender Ariane Hingst and midfielder Melanie Behringer miss out due to injury for Germany. Team captain defender Christie Rampone and midfielder's Lindsey Tarpley and Angela Hucles all very experienced miss out for the USA.

No matter what scenarios are thrown up we are excited to watch this match even on tv. German station ARD are broadcasting live. Kickoff 6pm German time.

German Squad -
GK - Nadine Angerer , Ursula Holl
DEF - Saskia Bartusiak, Sonja Fuss, Annike Krahn, Babett Peter, Bianca Scmidt
MID - Linda Bresonik, Kerstin Garefrekes, Kim Kulig, Simone Laudehr, Jennifer Zietz
FOR - Fatimire Bajramaj,Inka Grings, Anja Mittag,Celia Okoyino Da Mbabi, Martina Muller, Brigit Prinz (C)

USA Squad -
GK- Hope Solo, Nicole Barnhart
DEF-Cat Whitehill, Heather Mitts,Amy Lepeilbet, Rachel Buehler, Lori Chalupny (C),Brittany Bock
MID- Shannon Boxx, Lori Lindsey, Carli Lloyd, Yael Averbuch,Tobin Heath, Heather O'Reilly,Kacey White
FOR - Abby Wambach, Amy Rodriguez, Ella Masser

YOUNG GUN FOR SKY BLUE FC

Sky Blue planning for the future?
They have signed Hudson Valley Quickstrike Lady Blues defender Ashleigh Gunning.
The Lady Blues played in the W-League and are an affiliate to Sky Blue.
Gunning is a product of Coastal Carolina University and was a big hit at this years combine. The 2nd one she has attended after last years.

Gunning was an instrumental component in the Quickstrike defense this past season, anchoring their back line to the W-League regular season title and a semifinal appearance in the postseason. She played in all 13 games for Quickstrike and contributed two goals and a pair of assists to its offensive attack.

"I am grateful to Sky Blue FC for the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream," she commented about the signing. “I'm very thankful to have this opportunity, and right now, it's an opportunity. It's nothing guaranteed, and obviously I have to show up and play well to prove that I deserve to be there. It's something I've thought about and worked towards for a long time, but I know that it is not the end of the road. I still have a lot of work to do and there is a long way to go."

Read more about Sky Blue and Ashleigh Gunning HERE

FC GOLD PRIDE BUILD THEIR DEFENCE

FC Gold Pride continues to build upon the team's strong defensive line by adding free-agent and former Saint Louis Athletica defender Niki Cross to the Bay Area roster.

"We are excited to welcome Niki to the Pride," said FC Gold Pride Head Coach Albertin Montoya. "Adding a strong, athletic and tactically savvy player like Cross strengthens our back line and gives us some added flexibility with our lineup. She is a player I've had my eye on for a while now. She has great athleticism and has proven she is a tremendous soccer player and will be an impact player for our team."

A native of New England, the 23-year-old hails from Pembroke, MA. She represented the University of Connecticut (UCONN) from 2003-2006 where she was a regular starter all four years. She finished her collegiate career with 92 games played, 13 goals and eight assists and a MAC Hermann Trophy nomination. Cross will be reunited in the Bay Area with fellow UCONN alum and current Pride defender/midfielder Kristen Graczyk.

WORLD CUP QUALIFYING WEEK

With Euro 2009 been and gone, attention has now turned to the Women's World Cup Germany 2011.
International teams across Europe are playing this weekend hoping to take a step towards the finals.




England start their campaign against Malta on Sunday 25th October at Bloomfield Road, the home of Blackpool FC. Malta have already played one game in the qualifying group with a 13-0 defeat to Spain in September. Coach Hope Powell will be looking for her players to continue their good progress and get the 3 points in the bag and get of to a good start in the group.

England and Malta are in group 5 along with Spain, Austria and Turkey.

The England squad:
GK: Rachel Brown,Siobhan Chamberlain,Karen Bardsley
DEF: Faye White(C),Casey Stoney,Rachel Unitt,Laura Bassett,Lindsey Johnson,Alex Scott,Fern Whelan,Dunia Susi
MID: Dan Buet,Fara Williams,Katie Chapman,Jill Scott,Rachel Williams,Emily Westwood,Jess Clarke,Sue Smith
FOR: Eniola Aluko,Jody Handley,Lianne Sanderson

Anita Asante, Karen Carney and Kelly Smith not involved in squad.

RED STARS HOMECOMING!

The Chicago Red Stars announce their first 2009 free agent signing today, bringing defender and Oswego, Ill., native Julianne Sitch on board for the team's 2010 Women's Professional Soccer season. Per team policy, terms of her contract are not released, and Sitch's official signing is pending the league's approval.

Sitch made her WPS debut this past season for the champion Sky Blue FC. She started in 11 of 16 regular-season games, netting her first goal on June 28 against Saint Louis Athletica.

I am very happy to be coming home to Chicago to continue my playing career," Sitch said. "I've always dreamt about playing in my hometown, where all of my family and friends -- who have supported me throughout my career -- can come and watch. I love Chicago. I love Toyota Park and the energy it brings to the game. I couldn't be more happy and I'm excited for the season to start!"

Sitch has a rich soccer history throughout the Chicago area. She is best known for her groundbreaking efforts for the DePaul University women's soccer program, where she shattered many records during her 2002-2005 tenure.

LESLIE OSBORNE LANDS IN BOSTON

Former FC Gold Pride captain Leslie Osborne has made the move to the east coast to the Boston Breakers. Osborne who was a free agent at the end of the 2009 WPS season agreed terms with the Breakers and joins her former Pride teamate Tiffany Weimer.
Osborne started in 18 of the club’s 20 matches and lead the team with 1,622 minutes of playing time. Her iron-woman performance marked a successful return from a torn ACL and ankle injury suffered during United States National Team training in May 2008, which caused Osborne to miss the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

"Leslie Osborne is a proven midfielder who has a wonderful soccer pedigree and a track record of success,” said Boston Breakers Head Coach Tony DiCicco. “She is talented, tough and a team leader, all qualities that will make the Breakers better. I am looking forward to coaching her and introducing her to our Breaker fans."

“I am tremendously excited to play for the Boston Breakers,” said Osborne. “Boston has a special place in my heart and I am ready to give everything I have to this great organization. This is a great opportunity to learn from such an experienced coach like Coach DiCicco and to play alongside some of the best players in the world. Being in the same city as our sponsor Puma is only another positive for me. I cannot wait to arrive in Boston and begin to prepare for the 2010 WPS season.”

ENGLAND CAPTAIN HELPS OUT CHELSEA LADIES

Here is a story concerning women's football we think needs to be seen and heard about.
It shows what some of the hardships women's football teams go through and how something can be done about it all in one story.

The story concerns the Chelsea Ladies football team.



The Chelsea and England captain John Terry has come to the rescue of his club's women's team following a cut in funding that, says the captain Casey Stoney, would have adversely affected Blues' hopes of chasing major honours this season.

For the first time since officially becoming part of Chelsea FC five years ago, the women's team have had their annual budget reduced. "It was a blow when we were told what was happening," said Stoney, who also works as a coach at the Chelsea Academy. "I mentioned it to a friend who's also a mate of JT's, and when he was told about it JT came to find me at the training ground to ask if he could help.

"He ended up putting his hand in his pocket and persuading some of the other players to do the same, so now we can keep going on the same footing we had last year. We need that level of funding if we are going to compete at the top end of the Premier League and do well in the big cup competitions, so the help we've had from the guys has been invaluable. JT has also become president of the women's club and he's been with his family to see us play, so he's taking a real interest."

If only more clubs take Terry's view and commitment. It doesn't take much money to fund the Ladies' teams certainly not as much as paying some of the extortionate amounts of money some clubs spend.

WPS UPDATE- ANOTHER SKY BLUE SIGNING?

Although not confirmed by NJ Sky Blue FC yet, it looks like they have signed a new international defender Daphne Koster from the Netherlands. That is according to her club AZ.

AZ coach Ad Engelkes said he wishes Koster the very best in the US. “She is ready to make the switch to professional competition. In the US she can now play against the best women players in the world. You might only get a chance like this once, so you’ve got to take it.”

AZ have announced that the Dutch Captain has signed for one year with a further year option to continue.

Koster was one of the stars of Euro 2009 in Finland as she guided the Netherlands to the Semi-Finals beating the much fancied France and Denmark on the way, finally bowing out to England in extra-time. They got there by there strong defence led by Koster.

Keep checking Sky Blue website for updates HERE

CARLI LLOYD TO SKY BLUE

WPS rumour mill was in full force today with news that US Women's national team midfielder and Chicago Red Stars star Carli Lloyd is on her way to New Jersey Sky Blue FC.


It looks like it was true.

The Delran native, who opted for free agency Sept. 30, agreed to terms with WPS champion Sky Blue FC Monday. She will not only be returning to her home state, but will be playing her home games on the same field where she earned All-America honors during her years at Rutgers University.

Lloyd was one of a number of high-profile players who chose to become free agents.

Lloyd, 27, started 14 games for the Red Stars last season and collected two goals and one assist.

Chicago, however, finished sixth in the seven-team league with a 5-10-5 record and failed to make the playoffs. The Red Stars finished six points behind Sky Blue for the fourth and final playoff berth. Sky Blue went on to upset the top three seeds — all on the road — in a surprising run to win the league championship.

WPS UPDATE 2!!!

Due to Angela Hucles retirement from professional and International soccer, Chicago Red Stars forward Ella Maser has been called up to the US Women's National squad for the game against Germany on October 26th.
Maser has already played with the u23's and U21 team. Last year in the U23's 2008 Nordic Cup championship match, a 3-0 win over Germany, Maser scored twice.






Brazilian international Fabiana returns to Boston for the 2010 season. The midfielder who was a free agent has agreed new terms with the Breakers. Fabiana who started only getting onto the field with the Breakers towards the end of the WPS season due to her recovering from an ACL injury, will come into the 2010 season fit. Only half fit in the inaugural season she still gave glimpses of her skills to the Breakers fans.

WPS UPDATE-ANGELA HUCLES RETIRES

With immediate effect Boston Breakers midfielder Angela Hucles has retired from professional soccer and international soccer.
Hucles will not travel with the U.S. National Team for its match against Germany on October 29 and she will not return for the second season of Women’s Professional Soccer after playing with the Breakers in 2009.

Hucles said in a statement this afternoon:

“I always wanted to involve myself in things I was passionate about and give 110 percent,I feel like I’ve come to a point where I no longer can give that much and I know that there are other players who are ready to step up to the plate in order to bring the World Cup trophy back to the U.S. and carry on the growth of professional women’s soccer in the United States as well.
Thank you to everyone for allowing me the opportunity to reach and achieve my dreams and goals through playing a game,”

The 31-year-old Hucles has been a Breakers icon since the start of Women’s United Soccer Association (WUSA). In 2001, Hucles was chosen in the 12th round (93rd pick overall) by Boston in the WUSA inaugural draft. Hucles played in all 21 games, starting 19 in the Breakers' first year and posted two goals for the season, including the first goal in team history. Highlighting her WUSA career was the 2003 season, where she started all 17 games, and had one goal and four assists to help the Breakers achieve their first appearance in the WUSA playoffs. Hucles earned All-WUSA second-team accolades as a result of her play in the final season of WUSA.

“Angela has been a great contributor to the Boston Breakers and the Boston soccer community for years, dating back to the WUSA and continuing through the start-up and first year of the WPS,” said Owner and Managing Partner Michael Stoller. “Her presence on the field will be missed, but we are very hopeful that Angela will be a long term contributor off the field to the Breakers and youth soccer in New England for years to come.”

WPS Update - MIKE LYONS BACK TO NEW JERSEY

Defending Women’s Professional Soccer champion Sky Blue FC announces today the staff that head coach Pauliina Miettinen will take into its 2010 title defense. Returning to the bench next season will be assistant coach Mike Lyons, with Finnish U-19 National Team head coach Anne Parnila and goalkeeper coach Rick Stainton joining the staff.

“I am excited about the fact that we have our staff together,” Miettinen commented. “Everybody in this team is dedicated, hard working and committed to excellence. We also have a great mix of experience and knowledge, which is beneficial to the players and the game itself. Now we have everything in place so we can concentrate on organizing the best people to play for Sky Blue FC and continue the success the club has had.”

Lyons returns to the bench after assisting Christie Rampone, a player he began coaching at the youth level, in bringing the inaugural WPS Championship presented by MedImmune to Sky Blue FC in 2009. He had an extensive coaching history prior to joining the staff, including a stop with the men’s soccer program at the University of Notre Dame. He has also manned the sidelines for the New Jersey Girl’s Olympic Development Program and led Wall Township (NJ) High School to four state championships.

“Going into next year, we look to build upon what was created at the end of this past season,” Lyons remarked. “Our players truly enjoy playing with one another, and they enjoy playing at a high level. Overall, that creates a great environment for soccer.”

A key person that aided Lyons in the creation of that environment was Rampone, who looks to return to the field solely as a player about midway through next season following the birth of her second child.

"This is a staff with incredible experience, both nationally and internationally,” Sky Blue FC General Manager Gerry Marrone stated about the coaching staff. “In addition, Sky Blue FC is proud to be only the second team in the nine-team Women's Professional Soccer league with both female head and assistant coaches. What's more, the team is the only one that can boast a WPS Championship coach in Mike Lyons. It's a great start for the 2010 season!”

Read more HERE

HEATHER MITTS MAKES THE MOVE TO PHILLY

US Women's and Boston Breaker's fullback Heather Mitts has made the move to the Philadelphia Independence. Mitt's has agreed terms with the new franchise in a return to Philadelphia where she previously played for the Philadelphia Charge of the WUSA league.

As soon as the Independence was named as an expansion team of the WPS, Mitt's was one of the first names to be associated with the team. It has not been a surprise that she has finally signed for them.

According to Mitts, “Philly has always had a special place in my heart, so I’m very excited to have this opportunity. It’s where I began my professional career and most likely where I will end it. I’ve been impressed with the organization and its plans for the team. I’m thrilled by the depth of players already acquired and look forward to playing in front of the passionate Philly fans once again.”

Get full story HERE

WPS PLAYERS OFF-SEASON

Ever wondered what some of the WPS players do in the off-season?
Are they lying on a beach somewhere recovering from a tough season, toping up their tans like David Beckham or dancing up a storm in the top nightclubs ala Cristiano Ronaldo. Unfortunately not! Well at least for most of them.
Most WPS players have taken on other jobs as the WPS season lasts for 6 months only and they only get paid for the length of the season. From the end of the previous season to the next some players will be coaching at colleges stateside, taking soccer clinics, going back to complete their own degrees or jump into the world of proper employment . Ahhh!!!

However there are some lucky ones who get to play for some of the best women’s clubsides in the world, continuing their soccer education on loan from their WPS teams.
Here is a rundown of where some of your favourite WPS players have ended up during the off-season.

Australia - Westfield W-League

Saint Louis Athletica’s back-up goalie Jillian Loyden ,midfielder Kendall Fletcher and Chicago Red Stars defender Lydia Vandenbergh have ended up playing for the Central Coast Mariners.
They got off to a great start in the league last weekend defeating the glamour team Sydney FC. All three were in the starting line-up and contributed to the 3-1 win.
Sydney FC had Athletica’s native Australian striker Sarah Walsh and Chicago Red Stars Heather Garriock in their starting 11. Walsh scored Sydney’s only goal.

Washington Freedom players defender Alex Singer and Aussie striker Lisa DeVanna , along with Sky Blue’s Aussie midfielder Collette McCallum have hooked up with the Perth Glory. DeVanna and McCallum reunite with their previous team after a successful stint in the WPS.
Perth Glory lost out in their first game of the season to the Melbourne Victory at the weekend to a 2-1 defeat. Singer didn’t take part in the match as she had just arrived in Australia.
Sky Blue’s midfielder Julianne Sitch was in the starting line-up for the Melbourne Victory win, competing against and coming out on top of her former teamate McCallum.

Chicago Red Stars reserve goalie Lydia Williams returned to her previous club Canberra United.
Williams was in goal at the weekend but went down to a 3-0 defeat to the defending champions the Brisbane Roar.



Brazil - Copa Do Brazil & Copa Libertadores de Futbol Femenino

LA Sol’s striker Marta, Chicago Red Stars forward Cristiane, Sky Blue FC’s midfielder Francielle and FC Gold Pride’s defender Erika have packed their bags for the return to their native Brazil to play for the top women’s soccer team Santos FC. The ladies will be looking to help Santos defend their Copa Do Brazil championship title and win the inaugural cup the 2009 Copa Libertadores.
Marta and Cristiane especially have scored a bucket load of goals since their inclusion on the team in the past month.

Japan - Nadeshiko Women’s L- League

Washington Freedom’s midfielder Homare Sawa and FC Gold Pride’s Eriko Arakawa return to their previous club NTV Beleza. Sawa also recommended the club to two of her Freedom teamates, midfielder Joanna Lohman and striker Rebecca Moros.
At the moment Lohman and Moros are just training with the team. They have yet to take part in any games. Sawa and Arikawa played in Beleza’s latest match winning 2-0.



England - The FA Tesco Women’s Premier League

Boston Breakers striker Kelly Smith, defender Alex Scott and Chicago Red Stars midfielder Karen Carney have all signed with their former club Arsenal Ladies FC on loan till February 2010.
The trio will train in preparation for England’s World Cup qualifiers and look to compete in some of Arsenal’s matches.
So far Arsenal have only played 1 Premier League match. In the Women’s Champions league they thrashed PAOK this past Wednesday night 9-0 to record an 18-0 aggregate scorline.
Smith, Scott and Carney have yet to play any games as they are recovering from the WPS season and Euro 2009.



Sweden - Damallsvenskan

Former Saint Louis Athletica Swedish defender Sara Larsson has returned to her former club Linkoping’s FC. Linkoping’s currently sit at the top of the league with 4 games still to play. They are also currently still in the Women’s Champions League having defeated FC Zurich 3-0 this past Wednesday to record a 5-0 aggregate win. Larsson has played in all games since her return.

Jennifer Nobis from the Boston Breakers is currently on loan to Pitea IF. The striker is on loan till the end of the Swedish season. Pitea IF are currently 2nd bottom of the league in a 3-way relegation fight.
Nobis has played 2 games and scored 1 goal so far.



France - Championnat De France De Football Feminin

Washington Freedom’s midfielder Sonia Bompastor and Los Angeles Sol midfielder Camille Abily have returned to France on loan to play for Paris Saint-Germain. Both players are on loan for 6 months till February 2010. 2 games into the season Paris Saint -Germain have got maximum points with Bompastor already on the score sheet and are looking to challenge Olympique Lyonnais for the championship with the help of the experienced French internationals.




Germany - Frauen - Bundesliga

Ali Krieger the Washington Freedom defender has returned to former club 1.FFC Frankfurt.
Krieger is now in her 3rd season with the German outfit but unfortunately is out injured with a foot injury sustained in their opening match last month.




Norway - Kvinne Toppserien

Another Washington Freedom defender Becky Sauerbrunn has crossed the Atlantic to join Norwegian powerhouse Roa IL. Roa are currently on top of the league with 4 games left to play and are still very much in the UEFA Women’s Champions League after defeating the English club Everton 3-2 on aggregate. Sauerbrunn has been in the starting 11 since her loan move in September and has already scored her first goal.


D J Simons

WPS UPDATE - WEIMER BACK TO THE EAST COAST

Tiffany Weimer the former FC Gold Pride attacking midfielder has signed for the Boston Breakers.
Weimer a Connecticut native returns to the east coast after being snapped up by the Breakers as a free agent. No stranger to Head Coach Tony DiCicco, Weimer played under him for Soccerplus FC. With 1 goal and 3 assists in 15 games for Gold Pride DiCicco is hoping Weimer contributes to the Breakers search for goals in 2010.

Defender Erika Sutton re-signs for the Breakers after being on a short term contract with them in the 2009 season.She played in 1 game. Does this mean full-back Heather Mitts heads to Philly?







Candace Chapman former defender for the Boston Breakers has gone in the opposite direction to FC Gold Pride. The Canadian international was a free agent and joins national teamate Christine Sinclair in the Bay Area.Chapman played 11 times for the Breakers helping the team to keep 7 shutouts. Something FC Golde Pride need more off.

WPS 2009 - INAUGURAL SEASON IN FILM

5 Minutes of highlights on the inaugural year of the Women's Professional Soccer league.
Sets up the 2010 season, doesn't it?

Philadelphia Independence good news?

Expect some good news out of the Philly camp soon. Well according to General Manager Terry Foley that is.
Foley announced on Twitter that the Independence have now agreed terms with Swedish and Linköpings FC captain Caroline Seger. The formal announcement should be any day now on the Independence's official website.

Great start for Philly. One down four to go for internationals.

If Philadelphia manage to secure all the players they drafted either international or from the expansion, they look like having potentially a very strong team right of the bat. One of the teams to watch in 2010.


Keep checking www.wpsphillyindependence.com/ for updates and Terry Foley's twitter twitter.com/GM_Terry_Foley for the latest news.

WPS UPDATE - Philadelphia Independence trades

The Independence needed a goalkeeper? Well they just traded LA Sol for one.

Valerie Henderson, a standout goalkeeper from Orindo, California is a crucial pickup for the Independence. Val was the backup goalkeeper for the LA Sol in the league’s inaugural season, playing behind WPS All-Star Karina LeBlanc while gaining experience with a top team.






Philadelphia also got the WPS experienced centre-back Alison Falk from LA Sol.Falk a 6’0” center back from Danville, California, had a great rookie season with the Sol in 2009. Selected with the 10th overall draft pick, Allison started in 16 matches for Los Angeles and goes down in history as scoring the first ever WPS goal in the inaugural game. Her presence in the back line was an important component to the Sol’s success this year as arguably the best defense in the league.


The Philadelphia Independence has further strengthened its solid defensive unit with the addition of LA defender Allison Falk and goalkeeper Val Henderson who will both fill important spots in the Independence lineup next season. The Independence completed a favorable trade with the Sol early this week, trading the #5 and #22 picks in the college draft to bring LA players with proven WPS experience to Philadelphia’s defensive line.



Good piece of business for the Independence. Both players are solid and have that 1st season of WPS under their belt. Falk who in our opinion was one of the better defenders in the league is a steal.

ALEX SCOTT BLOG 06/10/09

It's not how you start but how you finish?

So i thought it would be best for me to check back in with you all and give you all a slight insight as to what i have been up to since i left Boston at the end of our WPS season. Nothing much really just playing in a ..................EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS FINAL,ha.

So here goes i will take you all back to the beginning and tell you all how things went down in our camp.

We all meet up at the airport on the Monday morning all suited and booted in our LOVELY!!!! Looking suits, this is the 1st time we have seen each other in our suits so all the banter begins and all the 1 liner jokes are dropped. We know this is the beginning of our journey and the wait is finally over and we are now off to the Euros in Finland.

Was........ IT WAS A LONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNG week!

We had a whole week of hearing nothing else apart from the Italians, so when people (by people i mean media and other teams) said after the game that we took Italy to lightly i would have like to grab these people by the hand and been able to time travel and for them to spend the week leading up to the game in our shoes! I can tell you that going into the game i think to this day i can tell you everything there is to know about every single Italian player there is to no. Panico target player main goal threat very dangerous in and around the box, Gabbiadini #8 tricky player likes to dribble 1v1, gama #3 left back but is predominately right footed, both full backs like to get forward so attack these areas quick etc etc etc etc, i think i can tell you what time they were going to bed also,ha, my point being here is that we had a whole long week to the build up to this game and probably had information overload, but no was expecting us to be a player down in the 1st 15min and that is what we had to deal with.

My reflections on this game - did we play our best football no, we played to many long balls which is not our style at all. At times you could not tell we was a player down, we was still going flat out because we thought we could win, in the end it took a wonder gaol by their #8 (who we had picked out as a possible danger from scouting reports ) to win the game for them ENGLAND 1 ITALY2.

Read the full blog HERE

WPS UPDATE -

New Sky Blue coach checks in & A Rod checks out. Of Boston, that is.


WPS Champions New Jersey Sky Blue FC have announced today that the organization has hired former Finnish international Pauliina Miettinen as its new head coach.
Miettinen is the current head coach for PK-35 in Helsinki, Finland. She will take over from player/coach and captain Christie Rampone for the 2010 WPS season. This will be Sky Blue FC's fourth coach in a year. Read more HERE







Striker Amy Rodriguez has been traded by the Boston Breakers to new WPS team the Philadelphia Independence. Rodriguez who didn't have the best of seasons has been traded by the breakers along with their 1st round draft pick (5th overall) in the 2010 WPS draft. The Breakers get Philadelphia's 1st pick( 2nd overall) and 2nd pick( 11th overall).
The WPS Draft will take place on January 15th. Read more HERE

WPS UPDATE - INTERNATIONAL DRAFT RESULTS

Philadelphia Independence and Atlanta Beat have finished naming their International picks for the 2010 WPS season. Both teams now have the right to negotiate with the named players hoping to have them on their final roster sheets.

Philadelphia Independence


Had 1st pick and no surprise chose Sweden's vice-captain and midfielder Caroline Seger. 24 year old Seger currently play's for Swedish side Linkopings FC in the Damallsvenskan, Sweden's premier women's league.


For their 2nd pick and 3rd pick overall of the Draft, the Independence again chose a Swedish player. Centre-Back Charlotte Rohlin. 28 year old Rohlin also currently plays for Linkopoings FC.

Next on Philly's wanted list was Iceland's Hólmfrídur Magnúsdóttir. 5th pick overall, Magnúsdóttir is a 25 year old attacking midfielder. Currently plays her football in the Damallsvenskan with Kristianstads DFF.

Independence 's 4th pick and 7th overall is England's vice-captain Fara Williams. 25 year old Williams is another midfielder with experience and drive and a thunderous shot. Currently plays for Everton Ladies in England's women's premier league.

Final pick for Philadelphia is a striker. England and Chelsea star Lianne Sanderson. 21 year old Sanderson is a young, strong centre-forward. Part of Arsenal's Quadruple squad in 2007 where she was Arsenal's top scorer in all competitions.











Atlanta Beat

1st pick for the Beat and 2nd overall is Ramona Bachmann. Bachmann is a an 18 year old Swiss forward that play's in the Damallsvenskan for current champions Umeå IK.


2nd pick Danish forward Johanna Rasmussen. Rasmussen also plays for Umeå IK.

3rd pick and 6th overall is no stranger to the American soccer public. Japan's Mami Yamaguchi.23 year old Yamaguchi is an attacking midfielder currently playing for Umeå IK.
Played her college soccer in USA for the Florida State Seminoles. 2007 Herman Trophy winner.

Atlanta's next pick is a young Brazilian midfielder. Maurine Dorneles Goncalves. Simply known as Maurine.The 23 year old currently plays for Brazil's top female side Santos FC.

The Beats final pick is Sweden's veteran midfielder Therese Sjögran. The 32 year old midfielder is an experienced player for the Swedish national team. Currently plays for Malmo FF in the Damallsvenskan. Was the 2007 player of the year.