My expereince writing the longest story of my life

Writing “Finding Happiness” was not easy for me to do. Initially, I knew the story was there. I’ve known Lyndsey for a little less than a year and I’ve gotten to know her fairly well. She’s talked with me before about some of the things she’s went through in the past, but nothing to the extent of what was in the story. Knowing what I had from past conversations, she was really an inspiration to me and the possibility of writing this story was a way for me to really showcase who she is and put her story into words.

The thought of asking her to let me write this story though was nerve-wracking. Despite being good friends, she is very private, especially when it comes to her negative experiences. I nearly didn’t want to write it just based on that fact. It didn’t want this story to come between our friendship. But I knew that the story had to be written if allowed so I asked her. Surprisingly she said that she would do it.

Then the questions came. I hit her with a lot of questions. Anything from the details of the sports she played growing up to the dark memories of her days in Greensboro to her reflections on things after moving to Iowa. Some answers were obviously easy to digest, but the dark memories were difficult. They answers were difficult for her, but they were also difficult to receive. Hearing about some of her worst experiences (things related to coaches, the alcohol, the depression) and her reflections, this story really got real for me. I tried to take the friend aspect out of it, but it was impossible. I feel like if I were to write any story with the gravity of this story, I’d almost have some sense of closeness and trust with that person. The friendship that already existed made this an emotional piece. I almost couldn’t take hearing some of the answers. It was a bit intense. I didn’t know how to respond. I was left speechless at points.

When I spoke with her mother and Mary, I was able to get a better understanding of Lyndsey. They shed some light on who she is, sides that I’ve never seen. They were great additions. The phone interviews were relatively laid back. Nothing to the extent of that with Lyndsey. I was laughing more than anything. Some parts I was surprised about, but they weren’t I was never completely speechless.

When it came to the writing process, I first transcribed all of my interviews which gave me nearly 30 pages of information. I printed it all out and went about cutting each piece of information and putting things into piles. As with most stories, especially the lengthier ones, I see them as a puzzle that I have to put together. This was unlike any puzzle I’ve ever done before. It took me a couple of days to get this process done. It was actually emotionally draining. Going back and constantly reading Lyndsey’s quotes really hit me hard. I actually got to a point where I just didn’t want to write the story. I felt like I had nothing left and I couldn’t live up to my expectations or do her story justice with what I would write. But Lyndsey never gives up, so how could I give up on writing a story about her? I couldn’t. So I went along with writing it.

I began writing the story the first week of November and sporadically worked on during the following weeks. Working on it straight through was not an option. For one, the story was just too long to write like that. And two, I kept hitting points where I had to stop. The section “Three Years of Questioning” took me a long time to do because of that. Everything was hitting me emotionally it was just very difficult to write a lot at one time.
When I was finally finished writing Lyndsey’s story, I had a sense of relief that it was done. I didn’t know if that was a good or bad thing. I was amazed at what I had accomplished. It was about a month and half’s work. It was a very long process which felt good to have it done, but emotionally, it was good to have it done because I don’t think I could’ve taken much more.

I was exhausted, but felt proud of what I had written. When the final draft was a done a few weeks later, the timeline for the entire project was nearly two months. I may have worked on it sporadically throughout that time frame, but looking back, it felt like I was constantly working it. Little by little, I was always getting pieces done. I don’t think I can measure the time put into this piece in hours. I would only be able to measure in days, adding all of the hours together.

Despite all the time I put in it, the emotional drain that I went through, the utter exhaustion of writing such a lengthy story, as I gave Lyndsey the final draft tonight, her reaction was validation enough. I began writing this story for this class, but I ended up writing it for her. Since she has yet to read it, I still don’t know what to think, but her smile said it all. She was initially happy with what she saw. And that’s all that mattered.

15 reasons to love sports

There’s all sorts of reasons to love sports, but here are 15. And by 15 I mean 1. The women who work in sports.

What man doesn’t love a woman who can loves sports? Something is seriously wrong with you if you don’t.

(Yeah I couldn’t limit this to 10. That would just be way too difficult. This was already difficult enough.)

15. Jaime Little

Unless you pay attention to action sports or motorsports, you most likely haven’t seen her. She’s currently ESPN’s pit reporter for NASCAR. Maybe I have a reason now to watch racing.

14. Jillian Reynolds (Barberie)

She doesn’t have much to do with sports aside from being known as the weather girl for NFL on FOX. I don’t really think it matters though.

13. Lindsay Soto

She won any Emmy in 2005 for best sports reporting so she’s got something else going for. It’s a shame that much of her work has been for FSN West and now she’s on the NFL Network, neither of which I get. Yeah I need to get satellite. I think it might now be worth it.

12. Ines Sainz

I don’t understand what she’s saying, but she’s a fútbol reporter in Mexico in when not modeling. What a combination.

11. Heidi Watney

Hosts the The Red Sox Report for NESN. I sure wish I lived in the Boston area so I could see more of her.

Apparently, she makes guys a little nervous on the air.

10. Jill Arrington

She may have only been with ESPN for one year, but that doesn’t mean she shouldn’t be on here. She apparently left for personal reasons. I wonder if it was because he knew she was being used as eye candy. Then again, she did pose for FHM.

9. Rachel Nichols

She can do it all for ESPN. And she’s got class when doing it. She’s quite possibly the best reporter on this list.

(edit: Megan Cabalka wants it known that Nichols is a moron who name drops far too often.)

8. Adriana Monsalve

Don’t know much, but she’s an anchor for ESPN Deportes. And I’m just wondering why ESPN doesn’t have women who look like her as SportsCenter anchors.

7. Lisa Dergan Podsednik

She USED to be on FOX sports. And she’s a former playmate. But what she sees in Scott Podsednik is beyond me. He played for the Brewers and White Sox. Can you find a bigger loser?

6. Bonnie Bernstein

Like Nichols, she seems to do a bit of everything for ESPN. And like Nichols, she looks good doing it, just a little better.

5. Michelle Beisner

I NEED to get the NFL Network NOW! I really don’t have anything else to say.

4. Maria Sansone

I don’t when the last time she has work for a sports network, but she has! And that’s all that matters. She’s currently the host for “Pop Tub Daily” featured on YouTube.

3. Charissa Thompson

She seems to be everywhere these days. FOX seems to work her pretty hard having her work different sports and showing off her versatility. Most notably, she’s a correspondent for The Best Damn Sports Show Period. That show is quality. She even works for the Big Ten Network, which I get so that’s good.

2. Ashley Russell

I’m…umm…speechless. I don’t know what say. The Big Ten Network did a good job hiring her. I’m still speechless. If you met her, you’d be speechless too.

1. Erin Andrews

Was there any doubt that she would be number one? She’s every red-blooded male’s perfect woman. Met her too and thought I had died and gone to heaven.
Just enjoy the tribute video to the one and only EA

And she's still single, making every college guy across America think that there's still a chance.

Happy birthday to me...and some famous athletes

So I’m bored and I’m turning 23 on Sunday so I got to wondering what famous athletes were also born on November 16. Here’s a few that I can hang my hat on and I SAY I CELEBRATE MY BIRTHDAY ON THE SAME DAY AS THEM.


Dwight Gooden: November 16, 1964

Despite the drug problems that many know of him for, he was one of the most feared pitchers in the game while in his prime. Dominant as a 19-year-old, “Doc” won 17 games and was the youngest All-Star selection in baseball history and was the 1984 NL Rookie of the Year. In his second season, his numbers were just sick, unheard of, whatever adjective you want to say for amazing. He led the National League with 24 wins, 268 strikeouts, a 1.53 ERA, 16 complete games, and 276 2/3 innings pitched. Obviously, he won the Cy Young that year. He went on to be a 4-time All-Star selection, all in the 80s with the Mets, and 3-time World Champion, once with the Mets and twice with the Yankees.


Terry Labonte: November 16, 1956

I’m not a fan of NASCAR. I’ve never really watched it, but when I have in the past, I do always remember hearing his name. He’s been at it for 30 years now. That’s one long career. In 1998 he was even named one of NASCAR’s 50 greatest drivers. That’s impressive, especially since he’s still racing a decade later.


Paul Scholes: November 16, 1974

I’m happy to see that I have a birthday with a world-class footballer. He’s one of the better players that England has developed in its football rich history. He’s a one club man, playing for Manchester United his entire career. I’m not happy about that, but he’s just good and is one of the more admired guys in the sport. He’s always done it the right way players across the globe respect him for that. Throughout his career, he’s made over 400 appearances and counting for Man U and 66 for England before retiring from the national side in 2004.


Amare Stoudemire: November 16, 1982

To think that this guy is only three years older than me is just mind boggling. He’s arguably one of the best players in the NBA. If it weren’t for microfracture surgery in 2005 causing him to miss the entire 05-06 season, he could be even better. Averaging just under a double-double in his career, he’s one the most feared big men in the league because of athleticism. Aside from Kevin Garnett and now Dwight Howard, big guys in the league have never been so athletically gifted. Since his career began in 2002, he’s a 3-time All-Star and won the Rookie of the Year award for his 02-03 campaign. Still only 25, it’s hard to imagine where he can take his game. I wonder how good he would have been if he started playing organized basketball before the age of 16?

Oklahoma St. vs. Texas Tech live blog

Let's take a look at what I've just learned.

1. The only team that can stop Graham Harrell is Graham Harrell. He needs to win the Heisman Trophy. The only way he doesn't is if he falls off of the face of the Earth.

2. Michael Crabtree is a better running mate than Sarah Palin. He's helping Harrell win the Heisman.

3. Mike Leach aka the Mad Scientist should be coach of the year. Who really saw Texas Tech being this good?

4. Texas Tech is definately better than Texas. Oklahoma State nearly beat them in Austin. Let's see how Tech does with a week off before heading to Norman.

5. Texas Tech should be #1 in the next BCS poll after Alabama needed OT to beat LSU.


10:15 Finally the blood-bath has ended and I'm exhausted. Somewhere Bob Knight is a happy man right now.

56-20 TTU

10:14 FIRST DOWN OSU. Haven't seen that in awhile. Too bad there's under 2 minutes left.

10:09 Screen to left and Woods tight-ropes down the sideline for a 16-yard gain and puts another touchdown on the board.

56-20 TTU I guess I was right earlier week. I thought this game would come down to the winner being the first to 50 and I was right. I just expected it to be a little closer than this.

10:05 Harrell's night is finally done. 40 of 50 for 456 and 6 TDs. Harrell for Heisman! It's now Taylor Pott's turn. I've heard that name somewhere before. I think he was on that show on ESPN with incoming freshmen football players. I think it's called Summer House or something like that.

10:02 It's another three and out for the Cowboys. When did Texas Tech learn how to play defense. I guess Mike Leach got creative this offseason. His team now has a rushing game and a defense to go along with his arial game. I'm not sure they can be stopped! That guy is a genius!

9:59 Red Raiders fumble again! They lose it again! I guess that's the only way their offense can be stopped. They need to lay it on the turf a few more times and OSU needs some quick strikes and we might have a game again.

No..no I don't think that is possible. They're down 29 with 6 minutes left.

9:58 Breaking bleachers and passing them up to get rid of them? Never heard of that one before but very intersting. Nice reporting Lisa.

9:55 OSU now punts after a three and out. That's just what they needed. Give it back to a team that doesn't know how to not score. This just keeps getting worse for Mike Gundy. Thankfully he's a man and will be able to handle the beating.

9:52 Commercials...commercial...How I'm really starting to hate you right now. This game needs to end quick because it's beginning to get painful to watch. I'm really starting to feel bad for the Cowboys. They're completely over-matched. And I thought they had a chance coming into the game. I guess NOW we all know Texas Tech IS FOR REAL.

9:47 Another touchdown run for Woods on a 13-yard scamper.

49-20 TTU This is just getting rediculous. The only thing that has stopped Tech is Tech. If it weren't for a fumble on the first possession they could be perfect!

9:44 And Tech is again past midfield. They just keep on rolling.

9:39 What a mistake! Robinson looking toward the endzone and it's picked off by a diving Macbath at the 4-yard-line. Robinson didn't have a receiver in the vicinity of that one.

9:34 The Cowboys are looking to score again. Robinson rushes across the Tech 40 and then finds Bryant inside the 20.

42-20 at the end of the third. State may be driving, but this isn't looking good for them. It's going to take a miracle for them to win this.

9:26 And it's Harrell to Crabtree again. High toss to the corner and Crabtree brings it down with one foot in.

42-20 TTU This game is as good as over. The Red Raiders offense just can't be stopped.

9:24 Screen pass taken inside the 20.

9:23 Deep ball to the endzone and it's in and out.

9:20 Tech looks to score again.

9:17 Hunter runs it up the middle for the touchdown.

35-20 TTU

9:15 Davis goes up and snatches it out of the air at the 10.

9:13 Robinson finds Bryany and he dashes down the right sideline to Tech's 39. They need some more big gains like that the rest of the way.

9:12 OSU starts at their own 24.

9:08 Harrell finds Crabtree on the slant and Tech has opened this thing up.

35-14 TTU OSU better sure up their defense cause there's no way they're going to come back if they can't stop 'em.

9:07 Raiders inside the 10.

9:02 It's a fumble! Pettigrew loses it at midfield. And the Raiders take over looking for more.

9:00 And the second half is underway.

28-14 Texas Tech at the half. Lucky for the OSU they get the ball to start the second half. They need to get back within one score.

8:38 Hail Mary and Bryant gets his hands on it. He nearly catches. He would have it weren't for his own man getting in his way!

8:36 Tech calls timeout after a completion to Dez Bryant. It was his FIRST of the game. That's just shocking since he's statistically better than Crabtree by a hair.

8:33 The ball is thrown deep to Bryant looking to respond but it's jarred loose.

8:30 Handoff to Woods for the touchdown with 47 seconds left in the half. This offense never ceases to amaze me.

28-14 TTU

8:28 Timeout Tech.

8:27 And Crabtree snares one out of the air to get the Raiders inside the 5.

8:26 Harrell scrambles but finds man open for 20 yard gain.

8:25 A simple pitch and catch to Crab at OSU's 40. How did he get wide open?! He's the best receiver in the country!

8:23 Tech starts at the 27. A short run and then a completion to Woods across the 40.

8:16 And Toston busts it in for the touchdown.

21-14 TTU Now let's see if if 'boys D can stop this Raider arial attack.

8:15 On 3rd and goal the receivers is knocked down. Pass interference! 1st and goal from the 2.

8:13 And Hunter picks up a hard earned first down at the 8.

8:11 Hunter and Pettigrew are doing it for the Cowboys now. They're at the 11.

8:09 Hunter breaks it outside and across the 50 down to Tech's 32. They're in business now.

8:07 Big play to Pettigrew across the 40.

8:06 OSU needs to counter.

8:03 Cowboys blitz...Harrell to Crabtree on a slant and he drags his man into the endzone for a 9-yard score.

21-7 TTU OSU better do something quick or this game is going to be over real soon.

Finally a break in the action. I'm getting hungry!

8:02 Woods picks up first down with a run on 2nd and 1.

8:01 Another third down completion to Morris.

8:00 Another completion to the 35. Back in OSU territory.

7:57 Start of quarter number 2! And TT picks up another first down.

7:54 Harrell is smacked in the head. No call??

7:53 Another big play to Morris for a first down. Crabtree follows up with another one.

7:49 And Tech holds AGAIN on third down, but Morris lets the punt get by him for a 71-yard kick to their own 3.

7:48 OSU calls time with the clock winding down on 3rd and 7.

7:46 OSU looks to respond.

7:45 Touchdown Tech! Harrell to the left to Morris who walks in.

14-7 TTU This game won't slow down!

7:44 Harrell scrambles and dumps it off to Woods who scampers for 22 to the 2.

7:42 Harrell plunges forward for a first down.

7:41 The review is in...incomplete pass.

7:39 A first down grab but a fumble! TT jumps on it, but it's under review.

7:36 Cheeky little left-handed toss by Harrell to the back who takes it for a first down. Then another first down to Crabtree. These guys just don't stop!

7:34 Whew. Finally a TV timeout. I can now catch my breath and get changed and start on my dinner.

7:32 The ball is batted down at the line on 3rd and 6. Pettigrew was wide open over the middle. OSU has to punt.

7:30 OSU is now up again.

7:26: Britton with a 16-yard over the shouler catch trying to stay in for the touchdown. Het gets one foot in before sliding out of bounds. What a touchdown grab!

7:25 Back to back first downs after a Crabtree catch and a screen to Batch. This team is responding well.

Harrel goes 5-5 with 51 yards on the drive. Wow!

7-7 This is going to be one high-flying game. Better buckle up.

7:24 Batch with huge run down the left side for a 38-yard gain. Tech has never been that big of running team until this year.

It's 7:22 and I've just gotten home from the Hawks game and Oklahoma St. has already scored on a 2-yard run, capitalizing on a Harrell fumble. They've just kicked off to Tech.

Swedish splash in Seattle

The Seattle Sounders don’t want to be another bottom feeding expansion team in MLS. They want to make an impact from the start.

That all started this week with the signing of Swedish star, Freddie Ljungberg.

There have been people on both sides of this move. He’s 31 and has been injury prone over the past few years. Some believe that’s why he and West Ham made an agreement to terminate his contract. Some say it’s a hefty price to pay a guy like that $2.5 million per season for two years with his kind of issues.

Then again, he did just captain Sweden in Euro 2008 over the summer and looked effective. He has been known to be a very intelligent player who works hard to keep his mind sharp. He already has MLS DVDs on their way so he can start preparing for next season.

Even if he has lost a step or two since his days as been a big shot with Arsenal, those smarts and a knack for being a gritty player and one who makes the right runs, the move may pay off. But that’s all up to his health.

With that being the being biggest negative, the other is his position. He’s always been a winger. Beckham’s a winger too and look how that’s turned out.

If Sounds FC is smart, they’d try out the $2.5 million veteran in the middle and see if he can create. Maybe even slot him behind a striker or two like what Chicago has done with Blanco. His leadership with the new franchise will be huge.

He may not have the most recognizable name to fans, but looks won’t hurt when it comes to getting women in the seats as a he’s a former Calvin Klein model. Let’s just hope that doesn’t mean he’s another Beckham who’s better at posing for pictures than he is on the pitch.

USMNT player to watch

Power. Strength. Intimidation. A beast in the middle of the defense.

At 6-foot-5 and about 215 pounds, Oguchi Onyewu, better known as Gooch, has the size that most every country in the world wishes they had in a center back. His physical presence is a bit scary for most attackers.

With his size, he plays a bit more like a linebacker or hard-hitting safety. It’s that aggressiveness that can also get him in trouble. Being overly aggressive has shown him his share of cards and he’s surely heard enough whistles to last him a lifetime, but not all have been deserved. He’s got a reputation as being too aggressive because of that size.

Harnessing it and staying smart is what he needs to do, especially if he wants to take his game to the next level. At only 26 and one World Cup under his belt, there’s not much doubt that he will lose starting spot over the next two years.

Since 2004 Onyewu has been playing for Standard Liége in Belgium with a half-season loan to Newcastle United in 2007. Accomplishing about all he can in Belgium, he has his sights set on a move to possibly the EPL or another top flight league during the summer after his current contract expires. Standard has already made it known that they want to re-sign him, but they know it will be almost impossible.

It’s a move that Gooch must make this summer to take his game to that next level. He needs the consistency. That will help him and the U.S. immensely when it comes to taking on the world’s best in two years.

Top Ten Best Footballers 21 and Under

10. Carlos Vela – 19, Mexico, Arsenal

He’s finally back in England after being on loan in Spain for two seasons. Breaking into the starting XI will be difficult with their crop of strikers, but their expectations are high. Along with dos Santos, there’s good reason for Mexico to have high aspirations for the future.

9. Theo Walcott – 19, England, Arsenal

Dubbed as England’s “Wonderkid, he’s made his mark throughout English program. In 2006, he became the youngest player ever to score for the England U-21s. That year, he also became the youngest player to make an appearance for Arsenal in European competition.



8. Anderson – 20, Brazil, Manchester United

A crafty midfielder with tremendous pace. A star-studded Man U lineup has made things difficult for him to break into the team’s starting XI.



7. Karim Benzema – 20, France, Olympique Lyonnnais

Had a breakout season last year with Lyon, scoring 26 goals and has started off strong in the 08-09 campaign. He’s quickly becoming a staple on the French national team.



6. Alexandre Pato – 19, Brazil, A.C. Milan

At 17, he was linked to a number of top clubs in Europe, but decided on A.C. Milan with a transfer fee of 22 million euros. Made his debut in January for the club and is expected to take over the team’s primary striker in the coming years.



5. Bojan Krkić – 18, Spain, Barcelona

The reason why Gio was allowed to leave for England. He’s a star in making with Barcelona, teaming up with Messi as the future of Barcelona’s attack. In 2008, became the youngest player to play for Spain’s national team in 70 years, at 17 years-old.



4. Giovanni dos Santos – 19, Mexico, Tottenham Hotspur

Just too many bodies in Barcelona allowed the promising Mexican star to leave for Tottenham during the summer. Last summer he finally broke into the first team in the Nou Camp and made 16 starts, showing why he is the future of Mexico’s national side.



3. Sergio Agüreo, 20, Argentina, Atlético Madrid

This kid just knows how to score. He became the highest paid player in Atlético’s history in 2006. Showed at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2006 how bright his future is as he captained the Argentine team to yet another U-20 trophy.



2. Cesc Fabregas – 21, Spain, Arsenal

A flat out playmaker in the midfield. It’s no wonder why he was starting for Arsenal when the 2004-2005 campaign kicked off. Finally had is coming out party at Euro 2008 where his play created a number of opportunities for Spain’s attack as they took home the title.



1. Lionel Messi – 21, Argentina, Barcelona

What he lacks in size he surely makes up for in all other areas. He’s arguably the best and most creative player in the world at the moment.

USMNT player to watch

Silky and smooth. DeMarcus Beasley has be a staple on the national team since the 2002 World Cup and should prove to continue providing leadership for years to come.

At only 26, the left winger has played his fair share of games for the U.S. He may still be young, but his experience is invaluable to squad that has seen a number of new faces join the squad over the past few years. Since joining the squad in 2001, he’s been a high energy player.

In 2002, alongside Landon Donovan, the two made their mark on the World Cup and made the U.S. relevant on the international stage.
Starring with the Chicago Fire in MLS gave him an opportunity to play for PSV Eindhoven in a transfer $2.5 million. He was brought in to replace Arjen Robben who left the club for Chelsea.

He excelled during his first season, helping PSV to their 18th league title. After a disappointing second season in the Netherlands, he was loaned out to Manchester City. His time there was brief, making 22 appearances while battling injuries.

In 2007 he made a move to Rangers in the Scottish Premier League and until an injury cost him most of the season, appeared to have been playing very well, finding his place again. He looked like the player people saw him capable of being during his first season with PSV.

With a horrendous 2006 World Cup, the 5-foot-8 winger will need to play a much more prominent role for this team in the future than he did during that ’06 showing in Germany.

Hopefully that memory is something Beasley has forgotten. His play since has shown that he has.

Beckham heading to Italy

Well it’s true. David Beckham is officially a liar. I can’t believe that I believed him when he said he wanted to help soccer grow in the States.

What a complete load of ****.

The Galaxy said that his impending move to AC Milan is only a loan so Beckham can play for a few months to stay active and then return to MLS when the season starts next April. I don’t believe that for one minute. If you think he's coming back then you're in denial. Beckham is merely focused on himself and playing for England in the World Cup in 2010.

Sorry Becks, but England won’t need you in 2010.

They can lose on their own.

They don’t need an old player to help them lose.

Beckham briefly raised the profile of North American soccer with huge crowds attending games just to see him. But he was simply a novelty act. He and the Galaxy just haven’t lived up to expectations.

It’s true that he is/was one of the better players in the league, but most older top European players would be. Many fans just wanted to a get a glimpse of Becks.

If they want a quick look at him, here’s a couple good send off highlights. Adrian Serioux and Jesse Marsch send their regards.

MLS taking a stand

Every other league in the U.S. is suspending players for using performance-enhancing drugs so why shouldn’t MLS? The league did just that on Thursday.

New York Red Bulls Jon Conway and Jeff Parke were each handed 10-game suspensions for using a banned substance. They were the first players to be suspended under the league’s policy. They tested positive for androstatriendione, which is a metabolite of the steroid boldenone.

Ever heard of this?

Neither have I.

And apparently neither have they.

The substance was contained in an over-the-counter nutritional supplement they bought at a vitamin store that is part of national chain. It still isn’t known whether or not the label mentioned the substance (my guess is that it didn’t), but even if it did, they wouldn’t have known what it was.

Honestly, most people in professional sports probably wouldn’t even know what it is. Most trainers for U.S. professional sports team probably don’t. That’s because most leagues don’t test for it.

MLS is apparently stepping up their game and have a stricter drug testing policy than even baseball and football.

Yeah, I don’t understand the reason for that one either.

I do understand the benefits of performance-enhancing drugs and also the issues that they pose, but I never would have expected soccer players to be suspended for them. To be perfectly honest, I didn’t even know that MLS had a drug testing policy, and a tough one at that.

I guess the only thing that can be learned from this situation for other athletes is to read labels and talk to your team trainers before putting anything in your bodies.

Unfortunately for the Red Bulls, they’ve just lost a starting defender and their starting goalkeeper.

The only solace they can take from this event is that Conway’s replacement, 23-year-old Danny Cepero became the first goalkeeper in MLS history to score a goal when he made his first career start on Saturday.

The goal was on a free kick from his own end which bounced over an outstretched-arm of the opposing keeper.

Maybe they should be testing him too.

Young Americans drop one to T&T

After last night’s 2-1 loss in Port of Spain, I needed to take a day to take in what had happened. Initially upset with the loss, I’ve decided that it wasn’t a bad loss. The team fielded eight non-starters with the after already having advanced to the final round of qualifying.

The game actually played out as it should have. Being on the road and a lack of experience is what did the Americans in. Michael Orozco and Jose Torres Francisco were both making their first starts with senior team. Brad Guzan was in goal. Jozy Altidore was the point man with Freddy Adu playing behind him in the midfield. Maurice Edu and Sacha Kljestan rounded out the youngsters.

It was a squad that’s average age was under 24-years-old. The goal scorers for Trinidad were 40 and 36. Both played the last time T&T beat the U.S. That was 14 years ago.

Just because the U.S. lost doesn’t mean they didn’t play well. That said, there were still some weak spots.


Positives

1. Freddy Adu

I think we’re getting close to the point when all the haters can stop hating on this kid. He flat out has talent. Just let him grow. Some of his moves left T&T players dumbfounded. You just can’t predict what he’s going to do next. He is truly growing into an exciting player to watch. It was unfortunate to see him get taken off in the 69th minute, and he was none too happy, but that did lead to the game tying goal.

2. Charlie Davies

I still haven’t seen much of him, but from the short time, I’ve come to the conclusion that he should be the third striker behind Ching and Altidore. He came on as a late spark against Nigeria in the Olympics and scored the game tying goal just minutes after coming on for Adu. He’s still pretty raw, but watch out. He’s got the pace that the U.S. needs.

3. DeMarcus Beasley

He’s just been stellar throughout the qualifying process. He really thrived taking over as the team’s captain. He didn’t do as much in the second have due to an apparent leg injury in late in the first half, but I just can’t complain about he’s play lately. He appears to have really come into his own after making the move to Rangers last year.

Negatives

1. Frankie Hejduk

For being one of the elders on this squad, he sure didn’t show much. He was getting down the flanks well, but his crosses were pathetic. He may be having a good year in MLS, but I’ve grown tired of seeing him on in the national team’s starting eleven. It’s about time to find a replacement for him.

2. Brad Guzan

For as much as he has progressed over the past couple years, and the move to Aston Villa will only help, I didn’t see much out of him. The first goal was an unlucky break with the ball bouncing off the post and hitting him in the back of the head and going in the goal. I can’t fault him on the PK either, but his play during the game was sketchy at best. He just appeared to be a bit off; a little late in some situations. I’m not too worried though because he is only the team’s backup and will get better with age.

3. Maurice Edu

I love his upside and I’ve had nothing but praise for him since set foot in the professional ranks, but last night was just ugly. He just couldn’t do anything right. He at times just looked unsure of himself. His typically good distribution just wasn’t there and his defense was a bit spotty. My guess is that it was just an off-night. I still believe in him and I think he just needs more minutes with the starting eleven and last night he certainly was not playing with the usual starting eleven.

Final Thoughts

All in all, it wasn’t a bad game. We learned a lot from a young crop of players that have been wanting to see get some minutes for awhile now. It’s obvious where the talent and potential was within this squad. It was also obvious who shouldn’t be seeing the pitch in critical games. Let’s all hope that these guys can come together better and enter the final round riding high with a win over Guatemala next month.

What will it take for MLS to become larger in US sports?

Unfortunately for myself and die hard soccer fans across the country, it will take a lot. The league is just not respected enough worldwide and even in our own country. It’s seen as a joke. That will be a tough reputation to change, especially with the number of different sports for people to watch.

What MLS needs to do to become legit in the States

Number 1

It’s all about the money. The more money you have, the more options you have. Pockets are deep sports like football, baseball, and basketball, but soccer so far doesn’t have that, especially compared to the owners of European teams. Unfortunately, some of our top sports owners as far as money are buying Euro teams because they see it as a solid investment rather than loyalty to the sport. Plain and simple, the league needs owners who love the game and have deep pockets and are willing to sacrifice now for potential gains in the future. It’s a risk, but if you have enough money and love the game, why not do it?

Number 2

To go along with the money, the league needs every team playing in soccer specific stadiums (SSS). MLS learned this lesson years ago and is pushing it. Many teams now play in these, while those that don’t have building plans in the works. It is also a requirement for all potential expansion franchises to have that in their plans. This has been a smart move on the league’s part because although they cost a good chunk of change, teams will be able to turn profits. Teams will not have to be paying rental fees for playing in half-empty stadiums with these. Doing that caused some teams to lose over $1 million for each game. They are also fan friendly, creating a more intimate environment, much like that of clubs in Europe.

Number 3

Again with the money, teams need to take advantage of international players. To go with this, the league needs to allow teams to have more designated players on their rosters. Two is just not enough, especially when one or possibly both are busts. Bringing in big name international players is a must, even if players are on the tail end of their careers. There are plenty of them out there. This can benefit both the player and the league because it will generate buzz. The player will benefit because it will be a new lease on their career and they can still come here and potentially be a star, while in the process teaching the younger players who are trying to better their games. If it weren’t for Juan Pablo Angel teaching a young Jozy Altidore, I wonder if his game would be where it is today. Also while I’m on acquiring international players, scouts need to find young players in Africa and South America. Bring them here when their young and let them grow and then cash in on transfers. Face it, MLS will never be at European power status so just make it the best league you can and that is a development/send-off-into-retirement league, with a lot of middle of the road players mixed in.

Number 4

The most critical aspect is this. MLS needs more coverage on ESPN and ESPN2. Those are the two main channels that people. Not everyone has ESPN Classic or ESPN 360. Not everyone has FSC or HDNet either. ESPN needs to do their part and start broadcasting more than just MLS game a week. They also need start broadcasting ALL US national team games on ESPN or ESPN2. Having all Euro 2008 games on were nice, now lets start showing your own country some love. How about showing some love on SportsCenter as well. They show hockey and Nascar which are both niche sports, why not soccer.

Closing Thoughts

It’s going to take a lot for MLS to become legit and be on par with a league like the NHL or even Nascar. I think the biggest problem facing the league is number four. I say that because I truly believe that there is horrible bias against the sport by our media. The biggest and most visible names bash the sport with a passion and that is more damaging than anything. They’re basically trying to eliminate the sport from the US.

I guess I have to give props to Michael Wilbon for being the only guy on ESPN that I’ve never once heard negativity from when it comes to soccer. Good job…but unfortunately more people with his power need to be doing the same.

Americans advance with a rout

As expected, the U.S. has once again advanced to the CONCACAF finals tonight thanks to a 6-1 dismantling of Cuba.

It was as easy as one, two, three, four. Four games. Four wins.

The U.S. was far superior to Cuba, but after a 1-0 win last month in Havana, the Americans left much to think about heading into this contest.

After DeMarcus Beasley bagged a pair of goals in the first 30 minutes, it looked like it was going to be all USA. Just after his second, Cuba struck quickly as Tim Howard was caught off his line as a Jenzy Muñoz shot dropped just under the crossbar.

With the game looking like it was heading to the half at 2-1, Cuba’s chances were all but gone as Yoel Colome picked up his second yellow in the 42nd minute. The life was taken out of the Cuban team as they were already playing with a thin bench to due to Pedro Faife and Reynier Alcantara went missing Friday. It’s assumed that they were defecting as many other Cuban athletes have done in the past.

Up 2-1 and a man up in the second half, the Americans rolled by spreading out the Cubans and attacking from all angles. Landon Donovan struck three minutes into the second half. Brain Ching added number four in the 63rd and Jozy and Gooch added numbers five and six in garbage time.

The U.S. dominated the game from the get go and it was good for them to wrap the group up with two matches left. Now it’s time to let the young guys run loose and see what they can do. Adu and Altidore came in as subs, but now with qualification assured for the finals, they could sniff the starting eleven for Wednesday’s matchup against Trinidad & Tobago.

Another interesting note on the game was the substitution of 20-year-old midfielder, Jose Francisco Torres, who with the cap no longer has the option to play for Mexico. The Texas-native who plays for Pachuca had a desire to play for Mexico in the Olympics, but after not getting a call, decided to play for the U.S. when the call-up came for tonight’s match.

USMNT player to watch

Ever wonder what it’s like to be touted as the next Pele when you’re only 14? Then be called a bust just a few years later? Can someone not even 18-years-old be considered overrated?

Only Freddy Adu can answer those questions.

Many budding soccer stars are hyped just about every year, but none more so than Freddy Adu.

Just two years after moving to the U.S. from his native Ghana, Adu was already getting attention locally and nationally in U.S. soccer circles. At the age of 12, he competed in an under-14 tournament in Italy with an ODP team against some the top Italian youth clubs. His team won the tournament and young Freddy blew them all away with the eyes of Italian giants looking on. Inter Milan and others came calling, but the answer was no.

Since European clubs will only allow foreign players under 18 to play at the youth level, and Adu’s desire to play professionally, he chose to become the youngest American athlete in over 100 years to sign a major professional contract. He was only 14, but D.C. United signed him to four-year $2 million contract.
With the weight of the world and U.S. soccer’s presence, there was no possible way that the boy could live up to the hype.

And he didn’t.

Adu showed flashes of brilliance now and again, but struggled mightily. He was extremely inconsistent. Much of what you should expect of a 14-year-old playing against grown men. He just wasn’t ready mentally and his small frame didn’t help. As he still is today, Adu was only 5-foot-8, but rest of the body wasn’t there. He looked like your typical eighth grader.

After failing to pass a two-week tryout with Manchester United when he was 17, he headed back to MLS to play for Real Salt Lake, who he was traded to when relationships with D.C. went south.

With the world beginning to see that he wasn’t panning out, Adu sure changed some minds with his explosiveness and ability to make something out of nothing during his play at the U-20 FIFA World Cup. He also became only the second player ever to play in three U-20 World Cups.

When it came to playing for Real Salt Lake again after his exposure on the international stage, Adu refused, opting to transfer to Portuguese club, Benfica. After a promising start and the expectations of increased playing time, things changed in hurry.

Benfica just couldn’t find a place for Adu. He’s an attacking midfielder. Not a midfielder. Not a forward. He’s a tweener and the Portuguese club just didn’t know what to do with him.

In July 2008, at 19, Benfica loaned him out to AS Monaco, where he was expected to get more playing time. Thus far, that hasn’t happened. Differences between the manager and owner have left Adu stuck in a difficult situation again. He has an option to join the club permanently after the season, but only time and a major increase in playing will tell.

Recently, Glasgow Rangers has come into the picture as a possibility, especially with Americans DeMarcus Beasley and newly acquired Maurice Edu on their squad.

Despite his movement throughout the world, his game has been progressing (shocking huh?). He will never live up to the original hype, and it’s a shame that’s all most people think about when they hear the name Freddy Adu. He was arguably the brightest spot in a 0-0 draw earlier this year with Argentina and appeared to be the most explosive player on the Olympic team, so it’s about time that he starts getting significant minutes with the national team and be given the opportunity to show people that his truly talented.

He’s had time with them, but not enough. Working toward 2010 is the goal right now, and Freddy is part of the future. The type of play he brings is just different. It’s exciting and something most people don’t typically see from the U.S. side. His play is still inconsistent, but with him in there, there’s no telling what can happen.

Bob Bradley just needs to find him spot and let him play. Let him run. He’s not a player you can keep trapped in a box. Allow him to let his creativity shine and good things will happen.

USMNT player to watch

28 months. 28 months in the MLS and at the age of 18 it was time to make the jump to Europe.

When Villareal came calling and throwing roughly $10 million at the league for his services, it was time for MLS and Jozy Altidore to part ways.

We all knew it was coming. It was just a matter of time for the teenage striker, who has been looked at as being the future of American soccer’s attack since the early stages of his professional career.

Listed at just 6’1, 175 pounds, the teen plays much bigger. He has had no problems throwing some muscle around, while still pulling off some crafty moves when needed. He has shown off his gift ever since he set foot on the pitch for New York. Despite struggles from the team, the youngster has always had the ability to create more than enough highlights with his finishing touch.

On the international stage in 2007, he led the U-20 team with four goals as they advanced to the quarterfinals of the U-20 World Cup. Two of his four goals came in a 2-1 win over Brazil.

In his first start with the senior team, Jozy wasted no time, scoring against bitter rival Mexico in 2-2 draw in February.

With just over two years of professional experience, Spain should do wonders for Altidore’s game as long as he puts in the work. He seems level headed and mature beyond his years, but only time will tell. The Spanish nightlife can easily ruin a young man’s progress if he doesn’t steer clear.

He’s got the size, speed, and ability that anyone could want in someone his age. The sky appears to be the limit for Altidore.

As I’ve been harping on in previous posts, Bradley finally made the move and put the young phenom back on his qualifying roster. He should be starting. There isn’t much competition up top. Eddie Johnson never lived up to expectations. Josh Wolff never was a legitimate prospect for the spot. Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsy just aren’t true forwards. And as for Brian Ching, I just don’t know if he can be trusted at the international level against quality defenses.

Altidore is the future for the U.S. attack and he should be starting from here on out for the national team. In time, he will progress in Europe, which will only help him that much more when he comes back to the states.

Like it was just a matter of time before he took his game to Europe, it’s just a matter of time before he cements his place in Bradley’s starting lineup.

Expect big things from this kid, but be patient.

Europe in their futures

If I would have been asked to look at which players in the MLS could potentially have bright futures in Europe before the summer transfer window closed, I would have without hesitation looked to Jozy Altidore and Maurice Edu.

For still being a teenager, Altidore is an imposing presence up front. His combination of size and speed could render him lethal in a few years. He just needs to get some experience first. He could end up being a solid front-man for Villareal. I still believe his physical presence up top may be better suited in the EPL one day compared to La Liga where strikers rely more on pace and finesse.

Edu may not look like the biggest guy on the field, but he’s a tenacious defender in the midfield. His time at Maryland was well spent gaining valuable experience at the collegiate level and quickly making a smooth transition into the MLS. After two years, he’s made his jump to Scotland to join fellow American, DeMarcus Beasley, with Rangers. Edu is a name American soccer fans will be hearing for years to come.

As for players still in the MLS that could potentially be making it in Europe in the near future, the two names that come to mind are a pair of 23-year-olds. I have left Landon Donovan out of this conversation since he has already spent time in Europe on two occasions and was unable to capitalize on the opportunities. Still, I expect to see him back in Europe very soon.

The first MLS player with the potential would be Kenny Cooper of FC Dallas. He’s currently second in the league in scoring with 15 goals in 26 games. At 6’3” 207-pounds, Cooper is a beast roaming around opposing penalty boxes.

After high school, Cooper signed with Manchester United, but never could crack the first-team, spending his days stuck with the reserves. After being loaned out, United quickly terminated the deal due to him not receiving playing time. He soon found himself headed back to Dallas after the English club released him because he wasn’t progressing as they would have liked. In his almost three seasons now with FCD, he’s been a dominant force. During the summer, he was linked with Cardiff City of England and Rosenborg of Norway, but Dallas rejected both offers. Still, it appears as though his time in the MLS is coming to as close. He should be making a move to Europe during the January transfer period.

The other is Sacha Kljestan. He easily has the most potential between the two. Now in his third season with Chivas USA, Kljestan has the pace and ability to play overseas, but what separates him from many is his knowledge of the game and ability to read on the fly. Having the instincts to see what’s coming has made him a valuable commodity. It’s allowed him to be versatile, playing both central midfield and out wide on the wing for the U.S. team in the Beijing Olympics.

At only 23, the scary thing is that he still has the potential to further his awareness. As with Cooper, I expect to see him cross the pond in January. His technique and pace would work well in Spain, but I would almost rather see him take the route of DeMarcus Beasley and Michael Bradley and head to the Dutch league for couple years. That league has a way of developing young talent like few other leagues can claim to do. He’s just yet another piece to the young talented crop of American players who have the future of U.S. soccer looking bright.

USMNT player to watch

As a weekly post, I’ll be taking a look at key players on the U.S. men’s national team. I will be expecting these players to play pivotal roles for the team throughout the World Cup qualification process as well as the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.


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No team can win without being solid in the back. Every team needs someone they can rely on to make up for their mistakes. The most important player on every team is the goalkeeper and the U.S. has a solid one in Tim Howard.

He’s got all the attributes. At 6-foot-3-inches, he’s an agile big man that has the intelligence and reflexes to match. He is quickly becoming the next great U.S. keeper. He could already be the best that our country has ever seen and he has yet to debut on the world’s biggest stage.

He began his professional career in the MLS with the New York/New Jersey Metrostars in 1998. Throughout his years in the MLS he’s split time with NY/NJ and the U.S. youth national teams. In 2000, he was a member of the U-23 team that finished fourth at the Olympic Games in Sydney. The following year, he became the youngest player in MLS history to win the Goalkeeper of the Year Award.

After back-to-back successful campaigns in 2001 and 2002, Howard made to this day one of the biggest transfers in MLS history. The move sent him English giant Manchester United, where he quickly became the team’s number one keeper.

After a tremendous 2003-2004 season, Howard was voted EPL Goalkeeper of the Year, becoming the second straight U.S. keeper to be awarded with the honor. After an up-and-down second season, where he saw his time being split, Howard was offered a contract extension, which he accepted, later learning that team was not looking at keeping him as their top choice.

United signed Dutch international, Edwin van der Sar, arguably one of the game’s top keepers at time. The move enraged Howard who is typically not an outspoken individual. In May of 2006, Man U agreed to loan their unhappy backup to Everton. Howard was the replacement they were looking for after the retirement of Nigel Martyn. He has been a mainstay in goal for the Merseyside club since the move, making his stay permanent in 2007 after the two sides agreed on a transfer.

After splitting starting time as the national team’s keeper in 2007, Howard has clearly taken over the full-time starting spot for the U.S. in 2008. Despite the progression of Brad Guzan, it is expected that the experience and abilities of Howard will keep him in the top spot through South Africa.

With Howard manning the net and making up for the mistakes of those in front of him, U.S. fans shouldn’t have any worries about that spot. He’s rock solid between the pipes and should come up huge from time to time during the next couple years.

Donovan heading to Germany…again?

If at first you don’t succeed, try try again. And if you don’t succeed the second time around, why not give it another shot. That’s what U.S. international and Los Angeles Galaxy star Landon Donovan is considering. The 26-year-old has done all that an MLS player can do, winning both MLS cups and MVPs. He is arguably the best player that the U.S. has ever produced, but he has yet to prove his worth in Europe. He has made it apparent that he wishes to give it another shot in Europe, but he was reportedly considering England or Spain.

In comes German giant Bayern Munich.

He’s twice floundered for Bayern Leverkusen, so I’m unsure why he would try it again in the Budesliga. As big as Munich is, why is it that Donovan would really want to go there? He does know the Munich boss, Juergen Klismann, well after he lived for a number of years in Southern California. Also, one of Klismann’s top assistants, Martin Vasquez, was an assistant for the Galaxy in 2004.

The drawbacks though far outweigh a little comfort with the coaching staff. Bayern Munich is one of the bigger clubs in the world and has an abundance of attacking talent. Their roster already boasts Miroslav Klose, Luca Toni, Ze Roberto, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Franck Ribery. I don’t see Donovan starting over any of them so where will he play and how much time would he actually spend on the pitch compared to being parked on the bench.

As talented as Donovan can be, I just don’t see his game fitting well in Germany, or England for that matter where players have to be more technical and physical. Without a doubt though, he needs to leave the MLS and head to Europe to challenge himself. His best destination would be to make a move to Spain where the game is more free-flowing and feeds off creativity and pure athleticism. Maybe playing there would also help him re-learn how to be creative and he can in turn bring that back to the national team where the team will be relying on his leadership once again in 2010.

WPS eyes Brazilian talent

During the WPS international draft yesterday, teams were able to select international players to gain the right to negotiate with them. The creativity of the Brazilian national team must be something that the new league is looking for. Of the 28 players selected, 10 were Brazilian, with four going in the first round and three in the second round. The biggest issue for the league now is team’s being able to sign their international players. With some players still under contract, team’s will need to negotiate transfers and prices could be too steep for the start-up league, but things are looking up if the majority of the talented crop do sign. Let’s hope some international flavor can put fans in the seats.

Team-by-team breakdown

Bay Area: Formiga (Brazil), Christine Sinclair (Canada), Eriko Arakawa (Japan), Erika (Brazil)

Boston Breakers: Kelly Smith (England), Fabiana (Brazil), Maycon (Brazil), Shinobu Ohno (Japan)

Los Angeles: Marta (Brazil), Aya Miyama (Japan), Han Duan (China), Margret Lara Vidarsdottir (Iceland)

St. Louis: Daniela (Brazil), Renata Costa (Brazil), Lotta Schelin (Sweden), Melissa Tancredi (Canada)

Chicago Red Stars: Christiane (Brazil), Heather Garriock (Australia), Karen Carney (England), Caroline Jonsson (Sweden)

Washington Feedom: Homare Sawa (Japan), Sonia Bompastor (France),
Lisa De Vanna (Australia), Louisa Nécib (France)

Sky Blue FC: Sarah Walsh (Australia), Rosana (Brazil), Ester (Brazil), Kelly Parker (Canada)

Biggest surprise(s):

It’s a toss-up between Marta going third and the Boston Breakers taking Kelly Smith and Fabiana of which is most surprising. Although Marta is arguably the best and most entertaining player in the world, it is rumored that she is looking for $400,000 and LA was the first team in the draft that has the available cash to pony up to sign her. As far as Boston, I’m not understanding what they are trying to do. They just took Lilly and Hucles last week, now they add a Brazilain striker and an English striker. Fabiana and Smith are exteremely talented so it’s hard to fathom why the team needs four strikers at this point. I guess DiCicco is expecting that he can he can keep the ball up front at all times during their games and pray that they can outscore their opponents.

Another Adu?

The similarities are there. Growing up in Africa and moving to the U.S. and gaining citizenship. An attacking midfielder with pace and the on-ball skills to match. Competing with the U-17 team against international competition and dominating. He’s been on the U.S. soccer radar for a couple of years, and now he’s just getting some real exposure thanks to Europe. Oh, did I mention he’s just 14-years-old. That’s the same age as Freddy Adu when he blew up.

Not to mention, Adu is his idol.

Charles Renken is that man. I mean boy. It’s about time for him to blow up, but the question is can he handle the exposure? The “future star,” who grew up playing barefoot in Zambia with soccer balls made out of plastic bags, has recently been getting looks from Europe, the latest of which has linked him to European power Arsenal. Ironically, it’s an Arsenal DVD which he’ll study for hours.

He’s quickly moved up the U.S. youth soccer ladder and last December is when he began making a name for himself. He made his mark on the Nike Friendlies, helping the U.S. to wins against Brazil and Russia just weeks before turning 14. There’s chatter that he could have already been in Europe developing if it weren’t for an ACL tear eight months ago. Now back and healthy, the chatter is back about this kid.

He may very well be extremely talented and a tireless worker rather than just relying on his raw talent, like his idol has tried to do in the past, but I’m still praying that this exposure will not go to his head. He appears to be level headed, but you never know when it comes to teenagers and fame. Adu has been getting caps with the national team, but his progress was greatly hindered in the past because of too much exposure. Is Freddy mania about to happen all over again? For the sake of U.S. soccer’s future, I sure hope not. Keep this kid’s exposure to a minimum and let him develop like rest of players. Let’s just hope coaches in the U.S. don’t take the creativity out of him before he heads to Europe.

Here's the first major article to be written about Renken:
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=571292&sec=us&root=us&&cc=5901

WPS allocates U.S. WNT players

On September 16, 2008, Women’s Professional Soccer took its first step to assembling teams’ rosters for the 2009 season, set to begin in April. Each of the seven teams was allocated three players from the U.S. National Team player pool. Prior to the allocation, players and teams submitted their preferences, but the decisions were ultimately up to the league as to who went where. Next week, the league will have an international draft of the top players. The order of this draft will be determined by rankings from who is the weakest to who is the strongest team thus far. During this week, teams will gain the rights to negotiate with up to four international players.

Here is a breakdown of the allocation and an evaluation of teams’ current status:

Bay Area
Nicole Barnhart - GK
Rachel Buehler - D
Leslie Osborne - M

Breakdown: Obviously, the team wanted to go defensive and bring local stars back to the area. The team though lacks national team experience. Barnhart was a solid keeper at Stanford (’05), but only has 10 caps with the team, while backing up Hope Solo. Buehler was a defensive specialist for Stanford (’07), but a loaded U.S. backline has left her on the sidelines. Osborne, a graduate of Santa Clara, will be the face of the team. Possibly expecting to land in Chicago, the Wisconsin native returns to the Bay Area looking to pick up where she left off prior to tearing her ACL leading up to the Olympics. She will be a steady player in the center of the midfield as she has quickly been making a name for herself on the national team in recent years.

Outlook: While they’re all young and aside from Osborne inexperienced at the highest level, the sky could be the limit for this trio in the future.

Boston Breakers
Angela Hucles - F
Kristine Lilly - F
Heather Mitts - D

Breakdown: I’m a little puzzled by these picks. They have firepower up top with Lilly and Lloyd and a solid right back with Mitts, but how long with these three be with this team. Mitts’ desire to play in Philadelphia is no secret and will most likely bolt in 2010 when their franchise begins play. Lilly was in the group with Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy so she will most likely won’t be around very long. All three bring a tremendous amount of experience which will be a huge benefit to the organization.

Outlook: A solid group of veterans will lead this team to good first season, but after that, their future will be up in the air.

Chicago Red Stars
Carli Lloyd - M
Kate Markgraf - D
Lindsay Tarpley - F

Breakdown: Chicago went for a little of everything. All three have been staples of the U.S. team for awhile and have played quite well for them. There’s a reason they’ve been in the mix if not starting for some time. They are all very solid players at their positions. This team really got everything a team could ask for with this trio.

Outlook: Led by that trio, this team could be the team looking for a league title at the end of the inaugural season.

Los Angeles
Shannon Box - M
Stephanie Cox - D
Aly Wagner - M

Breakdown: For being a major market, the allocations are a bit questionable unless the team is hoping to nab one of the top international players, preferably a striker. One main reason these three could have ended up here is that they are all California natives. Wagner hasn’t seen much action as of late so it will be interesting to see how she performs. Box is typically solid, but does have her moments and Cox is a solid defender, but has shown signs of inexperience in the past.

Outlook: Unless they bring in some international offense, it could be a long first season.

Sky Blue FC
Natasha Kai - F
Heather O’Reilly -F
Christie Rampone - D

Breakdown: Like Chicago, a very good allocation. Rampone will be a staple on the backline and her experience will do wonders as she returns home to New Jersey. O’Reilly also returns to her home state and will pair nicely with Kai. They could potentially be the most lethal tandem up front if the team brings in the midfield players to support them.

Outlook: They should be at the top with Chicago when it’s all said and done at the end of the season.

St. Louis
Lori Chalupny - M
Tina Ellertson - D
Hope Solo - GK

Breakdown: St. Louis must be feeling comfortable with the world’s top keeper. Paired with the home town girl Chalupny, these two made their allocation. Chalupny has turned into one the most versitle and consistent players on the national team. Ellertson is a wild-card. She’s typically solid, but at times can get a bit risky in the back.

Outlook: This team could potentially be a good team, but other parts need to be filled in to know. If Solo continues progressing, it could be very difficult to score on this team.

Washington Freedom
Ali Krieger - M
Abby Wambach - F
Cat Whitehill - D

Breakdown: Wambach and Whitehill were great pick-ups, if the two can return to form after injuries kept them out of the Olympics. This team will need them to do just that and bring their experience and leadership with them. Krieger is a bit of an unknown, only registering two caps with the national team.

Outlook: High risk, but without the high reward. The talent is there, but there are just too many question marks at the moment.



I will follow up next week after the international draft commences.

*All outlooks are subject to change with the influx of foreign talent.