The Roster Dance is a long running feature of 3rd Degree. It is an effort to break down the FC Dallas roster into its various components with all the trialists and draft picks competing for spots. The Roster Dance includes things like nationality, age, status, green cards, and anything else that might impact space on the roster and the players that might fit into it.
Last updated: 2/9/12
Senior Roster (18 to 20)
For now MLS rosters hold at up to 30 players. Players 1 to 20 are on the senior roster and have to fit in the salary cap. (MLS teams may carry only 18 players on this senior roster if they wish)
FCD has 8 international slots in 2010 with 8 currently filled.
Players occupying roster spots 1-24 will earn at least $42,000 in 2011.
Off-Budget Roster (10)
Roster Spots 21 to 30. Generation adidas, developmental players, and home grown. Players 24 and under that don’t count on the salary cap. MLS teams can have a maximum of 10 off-budget players.
Players occupying roster spots 25-30 will earn at least $32,600 in 2011.
Other Players
Anyone connected, rumored, tried out, waived, training invited, or signed as a short term player.
Last updated: 2/9/12
Senior Roster (18 to 20)
For now MLS rosters hold at up to 30 players. Players 1 to 20 are on the senior roster and have to fit in the salary cap. (MLS teams may carry only 18 players on this senior roster if they wish)
FCD has 8 international slots in 2010 with 8 currently filled.
| 1 | David Ferreira | 32, Colombian F/M. (8/9/79) Got his green card. |
| 2 | Daniel Hernandez | New 5 year coach/player deal. 35, US M/D (7/23/76) |
| 3 | Jair Benitez | 33, Colombian LB, (1/11/79). Green card. |
| 4 | Blas Pérez | (I1) Panamanian striker, turns 31 this year. (3-13-81) |
| 5 | Brek Shea | 20, US Nats MF. (2/28/90). |
| 6 | Ugo Ihemelu | 28, US D. (4/3/83) |
| 7 | Kevin Hartman | 37, US GK. (5-25-1974) |
| 8 | Zach Loyd | 24, US Nats M/D. (7-18-87) |
| 9 | Fabian Castillo | (I2) 19, Colombian striker. (6-01-92) |
| 10 | Ricardo Villar | (I3) 32, Brazilian, AM. (8-11-79) working on green card |
| 11 | Andrew Jacobson | 26, US DM. (9-25-85) |
| 12 | Hernan Pertúz | (I4) 22, Columbian U23, D. (3-31-89) |
| 13 | Chris Seitz | 24, US GK. (3-12-87) |
| 14 | Bobby Warshaw | 23, US M/D. (11-21-88) |
| 15 | Carlos Rodriguez | (I5) 21 year old Panamian M/D from Tauro FC. (4-12-90) |
| 16 | Nicolás Gianni | (I6) a.k.a. Nicolas Cridani. 29, F/M. (3/9/82) starting for Ferreira. |
| 17 | Scott Sealy | T&T F. 30, Previously with KC and SJ. (6/4/81) green card. |
| 18 | Bruno Guarda | 26, Brazil MF. (2/6/86). Green card |
| 19 | Daniel Cruz | (I7) 30, Colombian, M. Injured. (5-3-81) May be in roster trouble… |
| 20 | Jack Stewart | 28 year old US D. (5-29-1983) He gets John’s spot for now. |
| -- | George John | US CB. (3/20/87) Not currently on FCD roster, loan ends in March? |
| -- | Rodolofo Espinoza | (I9) 30 year old Mexican M, Chivas USA 10-11. (6-14-81) |
| -- | Kleyner Bejarano | (I10) a.k.a. Kleyner Bejarano Mena 22, Colombian D. (9/16/89) |
Players occupying roster spots 1-24 will earn at least $42,000 in 2011.
Off-Budget Roster (10)
Roster Spots 21 to 30. Generation adidas, developmental players, and home grown. Players 24 and under that don’t count on the salary cap. MLS teams can have a maximum of 10 off-budget players.
| 21 | Matt Hedges | UD D, ‘12 1st pick. (4-1-90) Senior roster? |
| 22 | Andrew Wiedeman | (Ga1) 22, US versatile. F/M/D. (8-22-89) |
| 23 | Bryan Leyva | (HG1) 20, Mexican U20 MF (2/9/92) green card. |
| 24 | Ruben Luna | (HG2, I8) 19, Mexican U20 striker. (2-10-92) |
| 25 | Victor Ulloa | (HG3) 19, US Midfielder. (3-4-92) |
| 26 | Moises Hernandez | (HG4) US D, former U20 (3-5-92) |
| 27 | Jonathan Top | (HG5) 19, US striker. (1-26-93) |
| 28 | Richard Sanchez | (HG6) 17, Mexican keeper US Citizen. (2-28-94) |
| 29 | Scott Gordon | 23 year old US D, 3rd round pick in 2011. (4-6-88) |
| 30 | Christian Ibeagha | 22, US U17 from OK (born Nigeria). (1-10-90) |
| -- | Alex Lee | 2012 pick, D from Maryland. Just arrived in camp. |
| -- | Ian Kalis | 2012 Supplemental Draft pick from SMU. Injured? |
Players occupying roster spots 25-30 will earn at least $32,600 in 2011.
Other Players
Anyone connected, rumored, tried out, waived, training invited, or signed as a short term player.
| Marvin Chavez | Traded to San Jose. |
| Walter Hines | M, preseason trialist |
| Martin John | LB, preseason trialist |
| Joe Madigan | M, preseason trialist |
| Jackson | Brazilian M, on loan to Cruzeiro |
| Mykel Galindo | Waived in off season. |
| Edson Edward | Waived in off season. |
| Josh Lambo | Former Ga GK, waived in off season. |
FC Dallas PR/video department has started a series of "Mic'd Up" videos, the first two of which are coaches wearing audio mics. Schellas Hyndman and Drew Keeshan are first up.
The video's offer a nice little look into a typical practice, if not 100% authentic. "They got me mic'd up, so I gotta be careful what I say," says Hyndman right off the top.
Schellas Hyndman Mic'd Up
The video's offer a nice little look into a typical practice, if not 100% authentic. "They got me mic'd up, so I gotta be careful what I say," says Hyndman right off the top.
Schellas Hyndman Mic'd Up
Drew Keeshan Mic'd Up
US U23s to face Mexico U23s at FC Dallas Stadium
February, 8, 2012
Feb 8
1:10
PM CT
The U.S. Under-23 Men's National Team will face the Mexico Under-23 National Team on Feb. 29 at FC Dallas Stadium in Frisco, Texas, in an important match before the Men's Olympic Qualifying tournament begins. The match kicks off at 9 p.m. CT, and fans can follow on ussoccer.com's MatchTracker and Twitter @ussoccer.
The U.S. U-23s will convene in Frisco on Feb. 19 to train in preparation for the match. U.S. U-23 head coach Caleb Porter will name his roster in the near future.
"This game is very important for our players and comes at a critical time for us before the start of Olympic qualifying," said Porter. "In this camp we expect to have the majority of the players who are in contention for final roster spots for qualifying. A match against Mexico will serve as a great measuring stick both individually and collectively as we put the finishing touches on our roster selection."
Advance tickets starting at $20 go on sale to the public Friday, Feb. 10, at 10 a.m. CT through ussoccer.com, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and at all Ticketmaster ticket centers throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex (including Walmart and Fiesta stores). Groups of 20 or more can obtain an order form at ussoccer.com or call 312-528-1290.
As a sponsor of U.S. Soccer, VisaŽ is pleased to offer all Visa cardholders access to an advance ticket sale for this match before the sale to the general public. This advance sale starts Thursday, Feb. 9, at 12 p.m. CT and runs until Friday, Feb. 10, at 8 a.m. CT at ussoccer.com. Visa will be the only payment method accepted through the Visa presale and is the preferred card of U.S. Soccer. Terms and conditions apply.
CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying begins on March 22, with Group A games being played at LP Field in Nashville and Group B games at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif. The USA was drawn into Group A with Canada, Cuba and El Salvador, while Group B is composed of Mexico, Honduras, Panama and Trinidad & Tobago.
The U.S. and Mexico U-23s could face each other in the elimination rounds of qualifying if one team finishes first in its group with the other team in second place in its group. Should the USA advance out of Group A, it will play in the second semifinal match at 8 p.m. on March 31. The teams could also meet in the final if they advance to separate semifinals and win.
The semifinal and final matches will be played at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park in Kansas City, Kan., on March 31 and April 2, respectively. Individual tickets are on sale for the games in Nashville and Carson , and series tickets are available for the knockout phase in Kansas City.
The U.S. U-23s last met Mexico during qualification for the 2004 Olympic Games, with Mexico emerging with a 4-0 victory. Current U.S. Men's National Team players DaMarcus Beasley, Kyle Beckerman and Landon Donovan were part of the U.S. squad.
The U.S. U-23s will convene in Frisco on Feb. 19 to train in preparation for the match. U.S. U-23 head coach Caleb Porter will name his roster in the near future.
"This game is very important for our players and comes at a critical time for us before the start of Olympic qualifying," said Porter. "In this camp we expect to have the majority of the players who are in contention for final roster spots for qualifying. A match against Mexico will serve as a great measuring stick both individually and collectively as we put the finishing touches on our roster selection."
Advance tickets starting at $20 go on sale to the public Friday, Feb. 10, at 10 a.m. CT through ussoccer.com, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and at all Ticketmaster ticket centers throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex (including Walmart and Fiesta stores). Groups of 20 or more can obtain an order form at ussoccer.com or call 312-528-1290.
As a sponsor of U.S. Soccer, VisaŽ is pleased to offer all Visa cardholders access to an advance ticket sale for this match before the sale to the general public. This advance sale starts Thursday, Feb. 9, at 12 p.m. CT and runs until Friday, Feb. 10, at 8 a.m. CT at ussoccer.com. Visa will be the only payment method accepted through the Visa presale and is the preferred card of U.S. Soccer. Terms and conditions apply.
CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying begins on March 22, with Group A games being played at LP Field in Nashville and Group B games at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif. The USA was drawn into Group A with Canada, Cuba and El Salvador, while Group B is composed of Mexico, Honduras, Panama and Trinidad & Tobago.
The U.S. and Mexico U-23s could face each other in the elimination rounds of qualifying if one team finishes first in its group with the other team in second place in its group. Should the USA advance out of Group A, it will play in the second semifinal match at 8 p.m. on March 31. The teams could also meet in the final if they advance to separate semifinals and win.
The semifinal and final matches will be played at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park in Kansas City, Kan., on March 31 and April 2, respectively. Individual tickets are on sale for the games in Nashville and Carson , and series tickets are available for the knockout phase in Kansas City.
The U.S. U-23s last met Mexico during qualification for the 2004 Olympic Games, with Mexico emerging with a 4-0 victory. Current U.S. Men's National Team players DaMarcus Beasley, Kyle Beckerman and Landon Donovan were part of the U.S. squad.
Marcelo Saragosa Catches on in Nation’s Capital
February, 7, 2012
Feb 7
8:14
PM CT
It appears that former FC Dallas midfielder Marcelo Saragosa has returned stateside as the 30-year-old Brazilian recently caught on with DC United. If you’re wondering where he’s been the last few years, you’re not alone.
That’s because Saragosa has been playing professionally in Azerbaijan for the last two seasons, yes they actually have professional soccer in that country neighboring the former Soviet Union.
Saragosa was with FCD between 2006 and 2009 and appeared in 54 games. He then saw action in 22 more games with Chivas USA but hasn’t been in the league since 2010, when he went into the MLS Re-Entry Draft but found no takers.
He was always a likeable guy off the field during his time with FCD but had his share of injury issues. Current Dallas manager Schellas Hyndman traded him to the Red-and-White in July 2009 and while his time here was definitely up and down, it’s nice to see him back in MLS if not for the mere fact that he’s really close friends with some guy named Kaka.
That’s because Saragosa has been playing professionally in Azerbaijan for the last two seasons, yes they actually have professional soccer in that country neighboring the former Soviet Union.
Saragosa was with FCD between 2006 and 2009 and appeared in 54 games. He then saw action in 22 more games with Chivas USA but hasn’t been in the league since 2010, when he went into the MLS Re-Entry Draft but found no takers.
He was always a likeable guy off the field during his time with FCD but had his share of injury issues. Current Dallas manager Schellas Hyndman traded him to the Red-and-White in July 2009 and while his time here was definitely up and down, it’s nice to see him back in MLS if not for the mere fact that he’s really close friends with some guy named Kaka.
FC Dallas drops preseason scrimmage to New York Red Bull 2-0
February, 7, 2012
Feb 7
6:20
PM CT
FC Dallas fell 2-0 to Red Bull New York today in preseason action in Cancun, Mexico. New York’s goals were scored by former FC Dallas forward Kenny Cooper and Red Bull’s 2011 first round SuperDraft selection, Corey Hertzog.
FC Dallas nearly took the lead in the ninth minute when Fabian Castillo sped by a defender on the right flank and delivered a pass inside to Blas Perez, who was making his run 12-yards from goal. Perez hit a shot with his first touch, striking the outside of the right post. It would not be the last time Dallas would be denied by the post.
Castillo looked creative on the ball once again in the 14th minute. The young Colombian weaved his way through three defenders before New York goalkeeper Ryan Meara charged off his line to take away a goal.
Despite holding an advantage in possession, FC Dallas surrendered the first goal of the match in the 33rd minute. The play began when Red Bulls defender Jan Gunnar Solli fed the ball up the right flank to Dane Richards, who split a pair of defenders and found Cooper making a diagonal run to the front post. Cooper waited on the pass before striking a turn-around shot into the far side netting with his first touch.
FC Dallas battled back and earned a throw-in deep in Red Bull territory in the 40th minute. U.S. National Team defender Zach Loyd took a quick throw, picking out a streaking Perez at the top of the area. Meara charged off his line to intercept the pass, but Perez arrived first and nodded a ball past the goalkeeper only to have his second attempt of the day ricochet of the near post and dribble out of bounds.
Both teams opted for a fresh 11 to start the second half and Red Bulls guest player Jose Angulo could have made it 2-0 when he was through on goal off a Hertzog through ball. Angulo, however, was unable to keep his left-footed shot down. With 20 minutes to play, FC Dallas hit the woodwork for the third time, as Bruno Guarda’s first-touch volley slammed off the left post and shot back into play. The play was setup by FC Dallas Homegrown player Bryan Leyva, who looked dangerous the entire second half.
A questionable call went against FC Dallas in the 85th minute. Defender Christian Ibeagha looked to have a clear path to goal just before being hammered to the ground by a Red Bull defender well inside the area. Unfortunately for Dallas, the referee allowed play to continue, only to have a penalty kick go against them in the 90th minute.
On the play, Red Bulls defender Jonathan Borrajo was adjudged to have been fouled in the box by Ibeagha. Hertzog stepped to the penalty kick and delivered a shot to the left side of goalkeeper Chris Seitz to hand FC Dallas a 2-0 loss.
The next time the two teams will face off will be on Sunday, March 11 at FC Dallas Stadium at 2 p.m. CT in a match to be televised live by NBC Sports Network – the first MLS game broadcasted by the League’s new national partner, NBC.
FC Dallas returns to Frisco to train at FC Dallas Stadium on Friday, Feb. 10.
Scoring Summary:
NY: Kenny Cooper (Dane Richards, Jan Gunnar Solli) 33
NY: Corey Hertzog (penalty kick) 90
Disciplinary Summary:
FCD: Brek Shea (caution) 41
FCD: Bruce Guarda (caution) 48
NY: Brandon Barklage (caution) 82
Lineups:
New York Red Bulls (First Half) – Ryan Meara, Jan Gunnar Solli, Markus Holgersson, Stephen Keel, Roy Miller, Dax McCarty, Victor Palsson*, Rafa Marquez, Joel Lindpere, Dane Richards, Kenny Cooper
New York Red Bulls (Second Half) – Jeremy Vuolo (GK), Jonathan Borrajo, Matt Kassel, Leobardo Alvarez*, Connor Lade, Jhonny Arteaga*, Ryan Maduro*, Brandon Barklage*, Giorgi Chirgadze* (Sacir Hot 61’), Jose Angulo*, Corey Hertzog
FC Dallas (First Half) – Kevin Hartman (GK), Zach Loyd, Ugo Ihemelu, Hernan Pertuz, Jair Benitez, Andrew Jacobson, Ricardo Villar, Fabian Castillo, Scott Sealy*, Brek Shea, Blas Perez
FC Dallas (Second Half) – Chris Seitz (GK), Kleyner Bejarano*, Matt Hedges, Christian Ibeagha*, Scott Gordon, Bruno Guarda, Bobby Warshaw, Rodolfo Espinoza* (Andrew Wiedeman 81’), Bryan Leyva, Nicolas Gianni* (Moises Hernandez 81’), Ulises Mendivic*
* - Trialist
FC Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman
General thoughts on the game
This is preseason and we’ve been working awfully hard, doing a lot of fitness running on the beach. I noticed a few players had heavy legs today. We still managed to hit the post three times. Bruno Guarda hitting that cross from Bryan Leyva, Blas on a header and again after taking that pass from Fabian Castillo.
We had some nice combinations and we created some really nice scoring chances. We’re not were we want to be but we’re also in preseason. We’re working hard. These types of games are always important because they send a message to the opposition. They also send a message within our own team. If you work hard, you get the results you want. We had a lot of players do their best today. The breakdowns came. It was a very difficult day for both teams but the game was a lot closer than the score indicates.
On what he expects on opening day from New York after seeing them today
Most of the players you saw on the field today will be on the field on opening day. They’re going to get Thierry Henry back. They’ll have Luke Rogers back. They may have some other players that step in there for one reason or another, but for the most part that is the team we’re going to face. For us, we’re very pleased with the work we’re getting done. We’ve got to get guys working together. We really haven’t had much of a chance to work on team shape. Next week is an important week for us in Dallas. We’ve got to get some things done. Today set the stage for what I think will be a really good game when New York comes to FC Dallas Stadium.
FC Dallas nearly took the lead in the ninth minute when Fabian Castillo sped by a defender on the right flank and delivered a pass inside to Blas Perez, who was making his run 12-yards from goal. Perez hit a shot with his first touch, striking the outside of the right post. It would not be the last time Dallas would be denied by the post.
Castillo looked creative on the ball once again in the 14th minute. The young Colombian weaved his way through three defenders before New York goalkeeper Ryan Meara charged off his line to take away a goal.
Despite holding an advantage in possession, FC Dallas surrendered the first goal of the match in the 33rd minute. The play began when Red Bulls defender Jan Gunnar Solli fed the ball up the right flank to Dane Richards, who split a pair of defenders and found Cooper making a diagonal run to the front post. Cooper waited on the pass before striking a turn-around shot into the far side netting with his first touch.
FC Dallas battled back and earned a throw-in deep in Red Bull territory in the 40th minute. U.S. National Team defender Zach Loyd took a quick throw, picking out a streaking Perez at the top of the area. Meara charged off his line to intercept the pass, but Perez arrived first and nodded a ball past the goalkeeper only to have his second attempt of the day ricochet of the near post and dribble out of bounds.
Both teams opted for a fresh 11 to start the second half and Red Bulls guest player Jose Angulo could have made it 2-0 when he was through on goal off a Hertzog through ball. Angulo, however, was unable to keep his left-footed shot down. With 20 minutes to play, FC Dallas hit the woodwork for the third time, as Bruno Guarda’s first-touch volley slammed off the left post and shot back into play. The play was setup by FC Dallas Homegrown player Bryan Leyva, who looked dangerous the entire second half.
A questionable call went against FC Dallas in the 85th minute. Defender Christian Ibeagha looked to have a clear path to goal just before being hammered to the ground by a Red Bull defender well inside the area. Unfortunately for Dallas, the referee allowed play to continue, only to have a penalty kick go against them in the 90th minute.
On the play, Red Bulls defender Jonathan Borrajo was adjudged to have been fouled in the box by Ibeagha. Hertzog stepped to the penalty kick and delivered a shot to the left side of goalkeeper Chris Seitz to hand FC Dallas a 2-0 loss.
The next time the two teams will face off will be on Sunday, March 11 at FC Dallas Stadium at 2 p.m. CT in a match to be televised live by NBC Sports Network – the first MLS game broadcasted by the League’s new national partner, NBC.
FC Dallas returns to Frisco to train at FC Dallas Stadium on Friday, Feb. 10.
Scoring Summary:
NY: Kenny Cooper (Dane Richards, Jan Gunnar Solli) 33
NY: Corey Hertzog (penalty kick) 90
Disciplinary Summary:
FCD: Brek Shea (caution) 41
FCD: Bruce Guarda (caution) 48
NY: Brandon Barklage (caution) 82
Lineups:
New York Red Bulls (First Half) – Ryan Meara, Jan Gunnar Solli, Markus Holgersson, Stephen Keel, Roy Miller, Dax McCarty, Victor Palsson*, Rafa Marquez, Joel Lindpere, Dane Richards, Kenny Cooper
New York Red Bulls (Second Half) – Jeremy Vuolo (GK), Jonathan Borrajo, Matt Kassel, Leobardo Alvarez*, Connor Lade, Jhonny Arteaga*, Ryan Maduro*, Brandon Barklage*, Giorgi Chirgadze* (Sacir Hot 61’), Jose Angulo*, Corey Hertzog
FC Dallas (First Half) – Kevin Hartman (GK), Zach Loyd, Ugo Ihemelu, Hernan Pertuz, Jair Benitez, Andrew Jacobson, Ricardo Villar, Fabian Castillo, Scott Sealy*, Brek Shea, Blas Perez
FC Dallas (Second Half) – Chris Seitz (GK), Kleyner Bejarano*, Matt Hedges, Christian Ibeagha*, Scott Gordon, Bruno Guarda, Bobby Warshaw, Rodolfo Espinoza* (Andrew Wiedeman 81’), Bryan Leyva, Nicolas Gianni* (Moises Hernandez 81’), Ulises Mendivic*
* - Trialist
FC Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman
General thoughts on the game
This is preseason and we’ve been working awfully hard, doing a lot of fitness running on the beach. I noticed a few players had heavy legs today. We still managed to hit the post three times. Bruno Guarda hitting that cross from Bryan Leyva, Blas on a header and again after taking that pass from Fabian Castillo.
We had some nice combinations and we created some really nice scoring chances. We’re not were we want to be but we’re also in preseason. We’re working hard. These types of games are always important because they send a message to the opposition. They also send a message within our own team. If you work hard, you get the results you want. We had a lot of players do their best today. The breakdowns came. It was a very difficult day for both teams but the game was a lot closer than the score indicates.
On what he expects on opening day from New York after seeing them today
Most of the players you saw on the field today will be on the field on opening day. They’re going to get Thierry Henry back. They’ll have Luke Rogers back. They may have some other players that step in there for one reason or another, but for the most part that is the team we’re going to face. For us, we’re very pleased with the work we’re getting done. We’ve got to get guys working together. We really haven’t had much of a chance to work on team shape. Next week is an important week for us in Dallas. We’ve got to get some things done. Today set the stage for what I think will be a really good game when New York comes to FC Dallas Stadium.
U.S. Women to hold public training session at FC Dallas Stadium
February, 6, 2012
Feb 6
5:13
PM CT
All U.S. Soccer fans are invited to attend the U.S. Women’s National Team public training session on Friday, Feb. 10, at FC Dallas Stadium from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CT in Frisco, Texas. The East Gate of the stadium will open at 10:30 a.m., and admission is free. Fans wishing to attend the open training session are requested to register by logging onto this site to RSVP: http://www.ussoccer.com/Forms/021012-WNT-Public-Training.aspx.
The U.S. Women will face New Zealand on Saturday, Feb. 11, at FC Dallas Stadium in what will be the first Women’s match following their successful Olympic Qualifying campaign in Vancouver, Canada, in which they scored 38 goals en route to a first-place finish. Kickoff is at 3 p.m. CT.
The game marks the first time the WNT will face New Zealand since the 4-0 win in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. It is also the first time the U.S. Women return to Texas since May 2007. The U.S. is unbeaten in Texas and has only lost once to New Zealand in eight meetings, their first matchup in 1987.
More than 16,000 tickets have already been sold for the match, and tickets are still available through ussoccer.com, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and at all Ticketmaster ticket centers throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex (including Walmart and Fiesta stores).
U.S. Soccer will send out additional information about the session, stadium access points, parking, etc., via email 24 hours prior to the event to those who RSVP. All training times and locations are subject to change.
The U.S. Women will face New Zealand on Saturday, Feb. 11, at FC Dallas Stadium in what will be the first Women’s match following their successful Olympic Qualifying campaign in Vancouver, Canada, in which they scored 38 goals en route to a first-place finish. Kickoff is at 3 p.m. CT.
The game marks the first time the WNT will face New Zealand since the 4-0 win in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. It is also the first time the U.S. Women return to Texas since May 2007. The U.S. is unbeaten in Texas and has only lost once to New Zealand in eight meetings, their first matchup in 1987.
More than 16,000 tickets have already been sold for the match, and tickets are still available through ussoccer.com, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and at all Ticketmaster ticket centers throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex (including Walmart and Fiesta stores).
U.S. Soccer will send out additional information about the session, stadium access points, parking, etc., via email 24 hours prior to the event to those who RSVP. All training times and locations are subject to change.
If there was one position in 2011 where FC Dallas was pretty well squared away, it had to be between the posts. Kevin Hartman started every league game, except for the regular-season finale at San Jose, and was on the pitch for every game in both the CONCACAF Champions League as well as the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
Backup Chris Seitz started both games against Mexican partner Tigres UANL, the Battle for the Rio Grande Plate, and also was in goal for the finale at San Jose, but all in all, the ex-Terrapin never really pushed Hartman for minutes like FCD head coach Schellas Hyndman had hoped he would when they acquired him from Seattle during preseason.
So, how does this position shake out for 2012? Let's take a look.
Kevin Hartman
Big Kev is now 37, but after a season where he started all but one league game and went 15-11-7 with 13 shutouts and had a goals-against-average of just 1.06, is there really any reason to doubt that Hartman won’t again be the man between the posts for FCD this season?
Unlike in 2010, he was able to stay healthy for the entire season, which was a big plus for the veteran keeper. Not only does he bring a lot to the pitch for Dallas, but he also brings a great deal off the field as a mentor to the likes of youngster Richard Sanchez as well as backup Chris Seitz. Some might think FCD head coach Schellas Hyndman played Hartman a bit too much last year as he also started every game in both CONCACAF Champions League as well as in the U.S. Open Cup, but that was because the gaffer just wasn’t comfortable with putting Seitz in there. Hopefully all that changes in 2012 and the ex-Terp will push Hartman for the top spot.
Richard Sanchez
Last year was a pretty great one for the 17-year-old Sanchez. Who could forget his impressive run between the posts for Mexico in the 2011 Under-17 World Cup? With Josh Lambo now gone, Sanchez is officially the third ‘keeper, which means he figures to get more reps this season.
Is it still too early to expect him to push Seitz to earn some games as FCD’s backup on game day? Probably so, but one thing I know about this kid is to never rule him out. He could make a huge leap this season. Then again, he could spend much of the year getting experience in reserve games and building for what could be a huge 2013 for this young phenom.
Chris Seitz
One has to give Seitz credit. When asked how he appraised his performance last season, he didn’t mince words, saying it wasn’t at the level where he wants it to be. He has come into this preseason in great shape and ready to roll, so maybe his disappointing 2011 was nothing more than a mere aberration. Seitz and Hyndman both hope so because the FCD gaffer wants his current backup to make a legitimate push and put some pressure on Hartman for that starting spot since having such tough competition at keeper each and every day in practice will make them, as well as the entire team, better.
Seitz should have a nice resurgence in 2012 and figures to get some starts here and there to ensure Hartman is well-rested for the second half of the year.
Backup Chris Seitz started both games against Mexican partner Tigres UANL, the Battle for the Rio Grande Plate, and also was in goal for the finale at San Jose, but all in all, the ex-Terrapin never really pushed Hartman for minutes like FCD head coach Schellas Hyndman had hoped he would when they acquired him from Seattle during preseason.
So, how does this position shake out for 2012? Let's take a look.
Kevin Hartman
Big Kev is now 37, but after a season where he started all but one league game and went 15-11-7 with 13 shutouts and had a goals-against-average of just 1.06, is there really any reason to doubt that Hartman won’t again be the man between the posts for FCD this season?
Unlike in 2010, he was able to stay healthy for the entire season, which was a big plus for the veteran keeper. Not only does he bring a lot to the pitch for Dallas, but he also brings a great deal off the field as a mentor to the likes of youngster Richard Sanchez as well as backup Chris Seitz. Some might think FCD head coach Schellas Hyndman played Hartman a bit too much last year as he also started every game in both CONCACAF Champions League as well as in the U.S. Open Cup, but that was because the gaffer just wasn’t comfortable with putting Seitz in there. Hopefully all that changes in 2012 and the ex-Terp will push Hartman for the top spot.
Richard Sanchez
Last year was a pretty great one for the 17-year-old Sanchez. Who could forget his impressive run between the posts for Mexico in the 2011 Under-17 World Cup? With Josh Lambo now gone, Sanchez is officially the third ‘keeper, which means he figures to get more reps this season.
Is it still too early to expect him to push Seitz to earn some games as FCD’s backup on game day? Probably so, but one thing I know about this kid is to never rule him out. He could make a huge leap this season. Then again, he could spend much of the year getting experience in reserve games and building for what could be a huge 2013 for this young phenom.
Chris Seitz
One has to give Seitz credit. When asked how he appraised his performance last season, he didn’t mince words, saying it wasn’t at the level where he wants it to be. He has come into this preseason in great shape and ready to roll, so maybe his disappointing 2011 was nothing more than a mere aberration. Seitz and Hyndman both hope so because the FCD gaffer wants his current backup to make a legitimate push and put some pressure on Hartman for that starting spot since having such tough competition at keeper each and every day in practice will make them, as well as the entire team, better.
Seitz should have a nice resurgence in 2012 and figures to get some starts here and there to ensure Hartman is well-rested for the second half of the year.
FC Dallas defeated Playa Del Carmen 1-0 today on a stoppage-time goal scored by rookie center back Matt Hedges. The goal came via corner kick after forward Scott Sealy earned the chance for Dallas. FC Dallas’ first Homegrown player, Bryan Leyva served the ball into the area, connecting with Hedges for the game-winner.
“I thought tonight’s game was a just result,” said FC Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman. “We decided to give some of our newer players a chance to play since we have three games in a very short period of time. I couldn’t be any happier for our goalkeepers, in particular Richard Sanchez, who played the second half and did very well. And also Matt Hedges for scoring his first goal in an FC Dallas uniform.”
Playa Del Carmen held an advantage in possession to begin the match, but was unable to break down an organized FC Dallas back line. The Mexican second division side had its first chance of the game come via free kick from the right side in the 32nd minute. A lofted ball to the back post nearly found Enrique Campuzano, but fortunately for Dallas, Ruben Luna tracked back from his forward position to force Campuzano’s header wide of the right post.
FC Dallas was lucky not to give up another goal just two minutes later as Playa Del Carmen cracked the left post and crossbar behind goalkeeper Chris Seitz in a matter of seconds.
Dallas’ best chance of the half came in the 36th minute when a corner kick taken by Nicolas Gianni found Bobby Warshaw at the top of the area. Warshaw rose above his marker to hit a line-drive shot on goal, but the attempt was directly at goalkeeper Victor Lopez.
FC Dallas opened the second half on the attack, earning a corner kick in the 51st minute. A lofted ball to far corner of the six-yard box was won by Matt Hedges. Unfortunately for the rookie, his shot was also directly at Lopez.
Scott Gordon got forward on the right flank to knock a lateral pass to Bruno Guarda at the penalty spot in the 54th minute. The Brazilian made a good run to the ball, but once again the shot was hit directly at Lopez and the game remained scoreless.
Playa Del Carmen countered, gaining several free kick attempts near the 70th minute. FC Dallas goalkeeper Richard Sanchez stood tall for the MLS side. The Homegrown player came off his line on multiple occasions to punch away crosses and relieve the pressure.
Nearing full time FC Dallas pressed in search of a game-winning goal. Scott Sealy started the rush, corralling a pass at the top of the area before being tackled to the ground to earn a free kick. The shot attempt taken by trialist Rodolofo Espinoza was partially blocked by the wall, but Jonathan Top hustled to the ball and got off a second attempt on goal that was knocked down and eventually covered by Lopez.
Moises Hernandez made a late run down the left flank that produced a scoring chance for Leyva on the opposite side of the field, but his low shot went just wide of the far post. The chance came seconds before Leyva connected with Hedges for the game-winner.
Scoring Summary:
CF – Matt Hedges (Bryan Leyva) 90+
Misconduct Summary:
PDC – Fausto Ruz (caution; reckless foul) 87
Lineups:
FC Dallas – Chris Seitz (Richard Sanchez 45), Carlos Rodriguez (Moises Hernandez 61), Matt Hedges, Christian Ibeagha, Scott Gordon, Andrew Wiedeman (Rodolofo Espinoza 45), Bobby Warshaw, Bruno Guarda (Bryan Leyva 57), Nicolas Gianni (Kleyner Bejarano 75), Scott Sealy, Ruben Luna (Jonathan Top 64).
Playa Del Carmen – Victor Lopez, Mauricio Gomez (Israez Dimas 45), David Ballesteizos, Saul Nunez, Hugo Alvaizez, Enrique Campuzano (Fausto Ruz 59), Juan Pineda, Roberto Arriaga (Carlos Cauich 59), Leuel Tello (Daniel Vera 67), Mendiui Mis (Alfredo Madera 52), Alan Granados.
28 players named to camp leading to US Women's match at FC Dallas Stadium
February, 2, 2012
Feb 2
10:09
PM CT
Pia Sundhage has named 28 players for a training camp prior to the team's first domestic match of the year against New Zealand on Feb. 11 at FC Dallas Stadium in Frisco, Texas. After a week of training, Sundhage will name 18 players to suit up for the game that will pit two participants from the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup, and should New Zealand earn Oceania's lone berth to London, two of the 12 teams that will be at the this summer's Olympics, as well. The match will kick off at 3 p.m. CT. More than 14,000 tickets have already been sold for the venue that seats 20,500 fans.
"It is always good to play a World Cup team," said Sundhage. "There were many positives to take out of Olympic Qualifying in Canada and one of those was the depth of the team. We have many talented players and the challenge for the coaching staff will be figuring out the best combination of players as we continue to prepare for the Olympics. A good week of training in Texas, followed by match against a quality opponent like New Zealand, certainly helps in that process."
U.S. Women's National Team Roster by Position - Detailed Roster
GOALKEEPERS (4): Nicole Barnhart, Ashlyn Harris, Jill Loyden, Hope Solo
DEFENDERS (8): Rachel Buehler, Stephanie Cox, Whitney Engen, Amy LePeilbet, Heather Mitts, Kelley O'Hara, Christie Rampone, Becky Sauerbrunn
MIDFIELDERS (12): Yael Averbuch, Shannon Boxx, Tobin Heath, Meghan Klingenberg, Lori Lindsey, Carli Lloyd, Kristie Mewis, Christine Nairn, Heather O'Reilly, Megan Rapinoe, Amy Rodriguez, Keelin Winters
FORWARDS (4): Lauren Cheney, Sydney Leroux, Alex Morgan, Abby Wambach
"It is always good to play a World Cup team," said Sundhage. "There were many positives to take out of Olympic Qualifying in Canada and one of those was the depth of the team. We have many talented players and the challenge for the coaching staff will be figuring out the best combination of players as we continue to prepare for the Olympics. A good week of training in Texas, followed by match against a quality opponent like New Zealand, certainly helps in that process."
U.S. Women's National Team Roster by Position - Detailed Roster
GOALKEEPERS (4): Nicole Barnhart, Ashlyn Harris, Jill Loyden, Hope Solo
DEFENDERS (8): Rachel Buehler, Stephanie Cox, Whitney Engen, Amy LePeilbet, Heather Mitts, Kelley O'Hara, Christie Rampone, Becky Sauerbrunn
MIDFIELDERS (12): Yael Averbuch, Shannon Boxx, Tobin Heath, Meghan Klingenberg, Lori Lindsey, Carli Lloyd, Kristie Mewis, Christine Nairn, Heather O'Reilly, Megan Rapinoe, Amy Rodriguez, Keelin Winters
FORWARDS (4): Lauren Cheney, Sydney Leroux, Alex Morgan, Abby Wambach
Many consider Panamanian forward Blas Perez an absolute lock to start up top for FC Dallas this season, so that would leave just two spots where FCD could have a new starter. One of those positions, center back, might not be an issue because there is still an option for George John to man the middle come opening day alongside Ugo Ihemelu once John returns from his loan with second-division English side West Ham United.
So, that would leave right mid as the only question mark heading into the season. At least that’s how they’re characterizing it on the club’s official website. It has been a busy off-season in that corner of the pitch. Dallas traded Honduran speedster Marvin Chavez to San Jose late last year and it was just a few weeks ago that news surfaced that Jackson, who was considered by some as the heir apparent there, would be playing in his native Brazil on loan in 2012.
Even with Chavez and Jackson departing, there are still several viable options and here’s a look at all of them.
Fabian Castillo---If there’s one thing that could set this talented Colombian youngster above everyone else vying for this spot, it’s the incredible pace this kid has. Everyone who saw him play last year as a rookie saw that on full display and the mere thought of seeing him get up and down that right flank, where he can deliver crosses to Perez and FCD’s central midfielders is enough to make most Dallas supporters salivate. However, if Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman is anything, he’s consistent. He expects his players to be good on both sides of the ball and unfortunately, that does not describe Fabian, at least not yet. Hyndman acknowledges that Castillo has made some big strides in that area since joining the team in 2011, but will it be enough for him to start there to begin the year? As it is with every player, it’s a classic debate of risk vs. reward but the potential plusses of playing him on the right look fairly considerable.
Daniel Cruz---Many thought heading into the season that Cruz and Ricardo Villar might be battling for a midfield roster spot. That hasn’t exactly been the case. Cruz is bothered by a knee issue, one that he feels needs surgery, so he has been on the sidelines with several FCD veterans like David Ferreira, Daniel Hernandez and even Ihemelu before his recent return to practice. Hyndman said point blank that he was disappointed that the club didn’t get a bigger contribution from Cruz last summer when FCD needed him the most. Hyndman also iterated that this preseason was huge for Cruz and his possible future in Frisco. With no date set for his return or the strong possibility that Cruz doesn’t practice at all during preseason, it looks like his days with Dallas are definitely numbered.
Carlos Rodriguez---First of all, can we just nip the practice of calling him C-Rod in the bud right now? It’s a complete give up and tired to say the least. Now that we have that out of the way, it’s tough to say how this guy may or may not fit here because his first practice with FCD came during this week’s trip to Cancun, Mexico. But before his club headed south of the border, Hyndman raved about Rodriguez's versatility, that he can play both as a flank midfielder and a fullback, most notably on the right side. The fact he can play both positions likely means he’s a much better two-way player than Castillo, but how is his pace? That’s a question that few will be able to answer until we can see this newcomer up close and personal, which won’t come until after the club returns in the middle part of next week.
Ricardo Villar---Villar’s time with FCD didn’t start off so well as he wasn’t too good in his MLS debut against San Jose last March. But to his credit, he put in the work to acclimate himself in MLS and also to bounce back from a preseason injury and by the middle part of the year, he was a viable option in the middle for a team that sorely missed reigning league MVP David Ferreira. The Brazilian-born midfielder clearly has great vision, a good nose for the game and has displayed an ability not only to deliver a killer pass, but also to be quite formidable on set pieces when called upon. I still think he does his best work in the middle of the field, but that experience, vision and great crossing ability could definitely be put to good use on the right flank but his lack of speed is a big downside to him playing out there.
Andrew Wiedeman---You have to give Wiedeman some credit. He came to MLS as a forward by trade and made a decent transition to playing in a spot completely foreign to him, defender. Wiedeman definitely showed some promise during his time at left back, but Hyndman admits the rationale behind moving him to the back was more about FCD’s lack of defensive cover than it was about the Cal product playing there on a permanent basis. Wiedeman has also played flank midfield in a number of reserve games and scrimmages and honestly, he can deliver a nice ball from the wing and has a high soccer IQ. But it looks like he could be well behind Castillo, Rodriguez and Villar when it comes to being considered for this spot. Still, having someone like Wiedeman to provide midfield depth is never a bad thing. He could also play in the back on an emergency basis if needed.
So, that would leave right mid as the only question mark heading into the season. At least that’s how they’re characterizing it on the club’s official website. It has been a busy off-season in that corner of the pitch. Dallas traded Honduran speedster Marvin Chavez to San Jose late last year and it was just a few weeks ago that news surfaced that Jackson, who was considered by some as the heir apparent there, would be playing in his native Brazil on loan in 2012.
Even with Chavez and Jackson departing, there are still several viable options and here’s a look at all of them.
Fabian Castillo---If there’s one thing that could set this talented Colombian youngster above everyone else vying for this spot, it’s the incredible pace this kid has. Everyone who saw him play last year as a rookie saw that on full display and the mere thought of seeing him get up and down that right flank, where he can deliver crosses to Perez and FCD’s central midfielders is enough to make most Dallas supporters salivate. However, if Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman is anything, he’s consistent. He expects his players to be good on both sides of the ball and unfortunately, that does not describe Fabian, at least not yet. Hyndman acknowledges that Castillo has made some big strides in that area since joining the team in 2011, but will it be enough for him to start there to begin the year? As it is with every player, it’s a classic debate of risk vs. reward but the potential plusses of playing him on the right look fairly considerable.
Daniel Cruz---Many thought heading into the season that Cruz and Ricardo Villar might be battling for a midfield roster spot. That hasn’t exactly been the case. Cruz is bothered by a knee issue, one that he feels needs surgery, so he has been on the sidelines with several FCD veterans like David Ferreira, Daniel Hernandez and even Ihemelu before his recent return to practice. Hyndman said point blank that he was disappointed that the club didn’t get a bigger contribution from Cruz last summer when FCD needed him the most. Hyndman also iterated that this preseason was huge for Cruz and his possible future in Frisco. With no date set for his return or the strong possibility that Cruz doesn’t practice at all during preseason, it looks like his days with Dallas are definitely numbered.
Carlos Rodriguez---First of all, can we just nip the practice of calling him C-Rod in the bud right now? It’s a complete give up and tired to say the least. Now that we have that out of the way, it’s tough to say how this guy may or may not fit here because his first practice with FCD came during this week’s trip to Cancun, Mexico. But before his club headed south of the border, Hyndman raved about Rodriguez's versatility, that he can play both as a flank midfielder and a fullback, most notably on the right side. The fact he can play both positions likely means he’s a much better two-way player than Castillo, but how is his pace? That’s a question that few will be able to answer until we can see this newcomer up close and personal, which won’t come until after the club returns in the middle part of next week.
Ricardo Villar---Villar’s time with FCD didn’t start off so well as he wasn’t too good in his MLS debut against San Jose last March. But to his credit, he put in the work to acclimate himself in MLS and also to bounce back from a preseason injury and by the middle part of the year, he was a viable option in the middle for a team that sorely missed reigning league MVP David Ferreira. The Brazilian-born midfielder clearly has great vision, a good nose for the game and has displayed an ability not only to deliver a killer pass, but also to be quite formidable on set pieces when called upon. I still think he does his best work in the middle of the field, but that experience, vision and great crossing ability could definitely be put to good use on the right flank but his lack of speed is a big downside to him playing out there.
Andrew Wiedeman---You have to give Wiedeman some credit. He came to MLS as a forward by trade and made a decent transition to playing in a spot completely foreign to him, defender. Wiedeman definitely showed some promise during his time at left back, but Hyndman admits the rationale behind moving him to the back was more about FCD’s lack of defensive cover than it was about the Cal product playing there on a permanent basis. Wiedeman has also played flank midfield in a number of reserve games and scrimmages and honestly, he can deliver a nice ball from the wing and has a high soccer IQ. But it looks like he could be well behind Castillo, Rodriguez and Villar when it comes to being considered for this spot. Still, having someone like Wiedeman to provide midfield depth is never a bad thing. He could also play in the back on an emergency basis if needed.
Five FC Dallas Academy players sign on National Signing Day
February, 1, 2012
Feb 1
5:06
PM CT
Five FC Dallas Academy players signed letters of intent to play collegiate soccer on National Signing Day Wednesday. Danny Garcia, Michael Ambrose, Mark Ashby, Nicholas Rochowski, and Aaron Guillen all committed to college programs.
Danny Garcia joins former FCD Academy teammate Boyd Okwuonu at the University of North Carolina where he will help the Tar Heels defend their 2011 National Championship. Meanwhile, Michael Ambrose, who wears the captain’s armband for the Academy U-18s, has committed to the University of Maryland. Mark Ashby will take his skills on the field and in the classroom to Harvard. The Denton native scored 2140 and 30 on his SAT and ACT, respectively, and is a member of the National Honor Society.
Ranked among the top defenders by ESPNHS, Nicholas Rochowski has committed to the University of New Mexico, while fellow defender Aaron Guillen will join Florida Gulf Coast University.
Michael Ambrose, defender – University of Maryland
Ambrose has been a part of the FC Dallas Academy program since 2009. He was one of eight MLS developmental players invited to play with U.S. U-18s in Northern Ireland’s Milk Cup last summer and serves as captain of the FCD U-18 Academy squad.
Mark Ashby, defender – Harvard University
Ashby has been a part of the FC Dallas Academy program since 2009. He currently attends Denton Ryan High School where he participates in the Student Council and National Honor Society. Ashby has SAT/ACT scores of 2140/30. He was the District 4-A Newcomer of the Year as a freshman before joining the FC Dallas Academy.
Danny Garcia, midfielder – University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Garcia has played with the FC Dallas Academy team since 2008. So far this season Garcia collected 16 goals in 14 appearances with the U-18s. He attends W.T. White High School where he has a 3.45 GPA. Garcia has also appeared in the MLS Reserve League with FC Dallas, scoring a goal against Sporting Kansas City last season.
Aaron Guillen, defender – Florida Gulf Coast University
Guillen is a left-footed defender who joined the FC Dallas Academy this past summer from affiliate club FC Dallas El Paso.
Nicholas Rochowski, defender – University of New Mexico
Rochowski is ranked among the ESPNHS Top 150 as well as the ESPNHS Top Defenders for 2012 graduates. Part of the FC Dallas Academy since 2008, he maintains a 3.9 GPA at Flower Mound High School.
Danny Garcia joins former FCD Academy teammate Boyd Okwuonu at the University of North Carolina where he will help the Tar Heels defend their 2011 National Championship. Meanwhile, Michael Ambrose, who wears the captain’s armband for the Academy U-18s, has committed to the University of Maryland. Mark Ashby will take his skills on the field and in the classroom to Harvard. The Denton native scored 2140 and 30 on his SAT and ACT, respectively, and is a member of the National Honor Society.
Ranked among the top defenders by ESPNHS, Nicholas Rochowski has committed to the University of New Mexico, while fellow defender Aaron Guillen will join Florida Gulf Coast University.
Michael Ambrose, defender – University of Maryland
Ambrose has been a part of the FC Dallas Academy program since 2009. He was one of eight MLS developmental players invited to play with U.S. U-18s in Northern Ireland’s Milk Cup last summer and serves as captain of the FCD U-18 Academy squad.
Mark Ashby, defender – Harvard University
Ashby has been a part of the FC Dallas Academy program since 2009. He currently attends Denton Ryan High School where he participates in the Student Council and National Honor Society. Ashby has SAT/ACT scores of 2140/30. He was the District 4-A Newcomer of the Year as a freshman before joining the FC Dallas Academy.
Danny Garcia, midfielder – University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Garcia has played with the FC Dallas Academy team since 2008. So far this season Garcia collected 16 goals in 14 appearances with the U-18s. He attends W.T. White High School where he has a 3.45 GPA. Garcia has also appeared in the MLS Reserve League with FC Dallas, scoring a goal against Sporting Kansas City last season.
Aaron Guillen, defender – Florida Gulf Coast University
Guillen is a left-footed defender who joined the FC Dallas Academy this past summer from affiliate club FC Dallas El Paso.
Nicholas Rochowski, defender – University of New Mexico
Rochowski is ranked among the ESPNHS Top 150 as well as the ESPNHS Top Defenders for 2012 graduates. Part of the FC Dallas Academy since 2008, he maintains a 3.9 GPA at Flower Mound High School.
Schellas Hyndman's building blocks of a player
January, 30, 2012
Jan 30
1:51
PM CT
During his legendary career as the greatest head coach in college basketball history, John Wooden developed what he called his Pyramid of Success. No matter the sport, every coach has their own type of system, whether it’s a team motto, goals for their players and the like. FC Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman is no different. In fact, the ex-SMU head coach has his own such pyramid, which he calls the Building Blocks of a Player. Here’s a quick synopsis:
BASIC BUILDING BLOCKS
Hyndman’s take: “This is the foundation. These are the things that you can control-team chemistry, lifestyle, fitness level, emotional intelligence.”
Fitness
Hyndman’s take: “That can be speed fitness, interval running, endurance, two-mile runs.”
Team Chemistry
Hyndman’s take: “If you don’t have that team chemistry, it starts to hurt. Every time you try to build, you fall apart. Team chemistry is thinking team first and doing things with your team. We had guys last year and I won’t name players but we had special events at peoples’ homes and they wouldn’t show up. That tears into team chemistry.”
Lifestyle
Hyndman’s take: “Lifestyle is really making the right decisions. You have an opportunity to go out and party but you don’t. Your nutrition, eating the right food, getting the right amount of rest and all those types of things are very important.”
Emotional Intelligence
This one doesn’t really need much explanation for FCD fans. Hyndman used this term a lot last season, specifically to refer to a certain player who is now back in Brazil, Jackson, for his lack of this trait on the field, especially when he got sent off twice in 2011. It’s become a buzzword in terms of what he expects from his players. First coined by Hyndman back in 2010 in reference to Brek Shea.
OTHER BLOCKS
Technical and Tactical Ability
Hyndman’s take: “You’ve got to have good technique. Tactically, you’ve got to understand the game and in between there was a little of a bridge and that was skill. You may not have great technique but if you’re hitting balls out of the air first time and doing bicycle kicks, this is skill.”
Character
Hyndman’s take: “And then on top of everything, and I really made this clear, is the character. You can be a great player and nobody likes you. Character... you steal, you lie, you disrupt the team, all those things go on with all teams. So for us, it was trying to identify players that fit that group. These are the things you can control. This is why you’re here-the technical, tactical ability but what will get you out is your character.”
BASIC BUILDING BLOCKS
Hyndman’s take: “This is the foundation. These are the things that you can control-team chemistry, lifestyle, fitness level, emotional intelligence.”
Fitness
Hyndman’s take: “That can be speed fitness, interval running, endurance, two-mile runs.”
Team Chemistry
Hyndman’s take: “If you don’t have that team chemistry, it starts to hurt. Every time you try to build, you fall apart. Team chemistry is thinking team first and doing things with your team. We had guys last year and I won’t name players but we had special events at peoples’ homes and they wouldn’t show up. That tears into team chemistry.”
Lifestyle
Hyndman’s take: “Lifestyle is really making the right decisions. You have an opportunity to go out and party but you don’t. Your nutrition, eating the right food, getting the right amount of rest and all those types of things are very important.”
Emotional Intelligence
This one doesn’t really need much explanation for FCD fans. Hyndman used this term a lot last season, specifically to refer to a certain player who is now back in Brazil, Jackson, for his lack of this trait on the field, especially when he got sent off twice in 2011. It’s become a buzzword in terms of what he expects from his players. First coined by Hyndman back in 2010 in reference to Brek Shea.
OTHER BLOCKS
Technical and Tactical Ability
Hyndman’s take: “You’ve got to have good technique. Tactically, you’ve got to understand the game and in between there was a little of a bridge and that was skill. You may not have great technique but if you’re hitting balls out of the air first time and doing bicycle kicks, this is skill.”
Character
Hyndman’s take: “And then on top of everything, and I really made this clear, is the character. You can be a great player and nobody likes you. Character... you steal, you lie, you disrupt the team, all those things go on with all teams. So for us, it was trying to identify players that fit that group. These are the things you can control. This is why you’re here-the technical, tactical ability but what will get you out is your character.”
In the first moves of the spring, FC Dallas has cut Walter Hines, Martin John and Joe Madigan form the preseason roster. All three were long shots and unlikely to make the roster anyway.
Hines did have two assists in Saturday's scrimmage but it wasn't enough to keep him around. Madigan scored the 5th goal in the same scrimmage.
Hines did have two assists in Saturday's scrimmage but it wasn't enough to keep him around. Madigan scored the 5th goal in the same scrimmage.
FC Dallas downs Houston Baptist 5-1 in preseason scrimmage
January, 29, 2012
Jan 29
2:31
AM CT
In its first preseason scrimmage of the season, FC Dallas defeated Houston Baptist 5-1 today on the adidas Field at FC Dallas Stadium. Forward Scott Sealy had two goals and an assist for Dallas while Houston Baptist’s Kyle Herbison scored the lone goal for the Huskies in the 74th minute.
FC Dallas opened the scoring in the 11th minute when Walter Hines intercepted a pass out of the back by Houston Baptist goalkeeper Kevin Suarez. Following the turnover, Hines quickly beat his defender and picked out Sealy, who had checked to the ball in the center of the area. Sealy collected the pass before chipping a shot past Suarez for a 1-0 lead.
Dallas took a two-goal lead in the 29th minute on a goal from right midfielder Andrew Wiedeman. The play began with high pressure from Sealy, who forced a turnover in Houston Baptist’s defensive third of the field. Sealy took the ball wide before delivering a long cross to Hines at the back post. The speedy St. John’s product had time to bring down the service before sending a line-drive cross to Wiedeman in the center of the six-yard box. Wiedeman calmly headed a shot past Suarez for a 2-0 lead.
FC Dallas controlled play for the first 20 minutes of the second half, but could not break down an organized Houston Baptist defense in the final third of the field. Houston Baptist had a good chance in the 66th minute when midfielder Kris Tyrpak lofted a cross to the back post. Francisco Diaz was in good position to test FC Dallas goalkeeper Richard Sanchez, but defender Scott Gordon used his 6-4 frame to deny the chance, heading the ball away from danger to preserve the two-goal lead.
Houston Baptist did come within one goal of Dallas following the 74th minute goal by Herbison. The play began with Tyrpak maneuvering through FC Dallas’ midfield and drawing a foul in the center of the pitch, roughly 30 yards from goal. Herbison stepped to the free kick, bending a line-drive shot over the wall and into the top right corner of the net for a 2-1 score line.
But FC Dallas retook control of the match by taking a 3-1 lead in the 79th minute on a goal by Homegrown defender Moises Hernandez. Getting forward from his position at left back, Hernandez took the ball, side-stepped a pair of defenders and finished low to the back post.
The lead grew to three goals just four minutes later when high pressure from Homegrown forward Jonathan Top produced a turnover deep in Houston Baptist territory. Top collected the ball before chipping a pass to the center for Sealy, who waited on the ball to drop down to his feet before hammering a low shot by Suarez.
Dallas added a fifth goal in the 90th minute when midfielder Kleynar Mena came free on the right flank and delivered a long cross to the top of the area to Joe Madigan. The Georgia Southern product timed his run well, hitting a strong volley to the back post with his first touch.
Scoring Summary:
FCD – Scott Sealy (Walter Hines) 11
FCD – Andrew Wiedeman (Walter Hines, Scott Sealy) 29
HB – Kyle Herbison 74
FCD – Moises Hernandez 79
FCD – Sealy (Jonathan Top) 83
FCD – Joe Madigan (Kleynar Mena) 90
Misconduct Summary:
NONE
Lineups:
FC Dallas – Chris Seitz (Richard Sanchez 45), Martin John (Moises Hernandez 45), Mark Barone, Christian Ibeagha (Matt Hedges 45), Scott Gordon, Walter Hines (Joe Madigan 45), Bobby Warshaw (Nicholas Cridani 67), Nicholas Cridani (Kleynar Mena 45), Bryan Leyva (Bruno Guarda 45), Andrew Wiedeman (Jonathan Top 45), Scott Sealy.
Houston Baptist - Kevin Suarez, Kyle Herbison, Charlie Gagnon, Walter Kromholz, John McDuffee, Mateo Jiminez, Kevin Alvarenga (Rod Osloub 58), Mark Gendi, Francisco Diaz, Kris Tyrpak, Leo Munoz.
Weather: Partly Cloudy, 41 degrees
FC Dallas opened the scoring in the 11th minute when Walter Hines intercepted a pass out of the back by Houston Baptist goalkeeper Kevin Suarez. Following the turnover, Hines quickly beat his defender and picked out Sealy, who had checked to the ball in the center of the area. Sealy collected the pass before chipping a shot past Suarez for a 1-0 lead.
Dallas took a two-goal lead in the 29th minute on a goal from right midfielder Andrew Wiedeman. The play began with high pressure from Sealy, who forced a turnover in Houston Baptist’s defensive third of the field. Sealy took the ball wide before delivering a long cross to Hines at the back post. The speedy St. John’s product had time to bring down the service before sending a line-drive cross to Wiedeman in the center of the six-yard box. Wiedeman calmly headed a shot past Suarez for a 2-0 lead.
FC Dallas controlled play for the first 20 minutes of the second half, but could not break down an organized Houston Baptist defense in the final third of the field. Houston Baptist had a good chance in the 66th minute when midfielder Kris Tyrpak lofted a cross to the back post. Francisco Diaz was in good position to test FC Dallas goalkeeper Richard Sanchez, but defender Scott Gordon used his 6-4 frame to deny the chance, heading the ball away from danger to preserve the two-goal lead.
Houston Baptist did come within one goal of Dallas following the 74th minute goal by Herbison. The play began with Tyrpak maneuvering through FC Dallas’ midfield and drawing a foul in the center of the pitch, roughly 30 yards from goal. Herbison stepped to the free kick, bending a line-drive shot over the wall and into the top right corner of the net for a 2-1 score line.
But FC Dallas retook control of the match by taking a 3-1 lead in the 79th minute on a goal by Homegrown defender Moises Hernandez. Getting forward from his position at left back, Hernandez took the ball, side-stepped a pair of defenders and finished low to the back post.
The lead grew to three goals just four minutes later when high pressure from Homegrown forward Jonathan Top produced a turnover deep in Houston Baptist territory. Top collected the ball before chipping a pass to the center for Sealy, who waited on the ball to drop down to his feet before hammering a low shot by Suarez.
Dallas added a fifth goal in the 90th minute when midfielder Kleynar Mena came free on the right flank and delivered a long cross to the top of the area to Joe Madigan. The Georgia Southern product timed his run well, hitting a strong volley to the back post with his first touch.
Scoring Summary:
FCD – Scott Sealy (Walter Hines) 11
FCD – Andrew Wiedeman (Walter Hines, Scott Sealy) 29
HB – Kyle Herbison 74
FCD – Moises Hernandez 79
FCD – Sealy (Jonathan Top) 83
FCD – Joe Madigan (Kleynar Mena) 90
Misconduct Summary:
NONE
Lineups:
FC Dallas – Chris Seitz (Richard Sanchez 45), Martin John (Moises Hernandez 45), Mark Barone, Christian Ibeagha (Matt Hedges 45), Scott Gordon, Walter Hines (Joe Madigan 45), Bobby Warshaw (Nicholas Cridani 67), Nicholas Cridani (Kleynar Mena 45), Bryan Leyva (Bruno Guarda 45), Andrew Wiedeman (Jonathan Top 45), Scott Sealy.
Houston Baptist - Kevin Suarez, Kyle Herbison, Charlie Gagnon, Walter Kromholz, John McDuffee, Mateo Jiminez, Kevin Alvarenga (Rod Osloub 58), Mark Gendi, Francisco Diaz, Kris Tyrpak, Leo Munoz.
Weather: Partly Cloudy, 41 degrees
Marco Ferruzzi one of few FCD constants in recent years
January, 29, 2012
Jan 29
2:16
AM CT
Since 2004, the professional soccer scene here in Dallas has seen its fair share of changes. There was the whole rebranding of the Dallas Burn into FC Dallas in 2005, a move that coincided with the opening of the club’s new soccer-specific facility in Frisco, then known as Pizza Hut Park and now FC Dallas Stadium. And in that same time frame, fans have seen three different individuals coach the club, each with varying levels of success.
Yet in that time there has been one constant and that has been assistant coach Marco Ferruzzi.
The 41-year-old native of San Antonio was first brought in by former Dallas gaffer Colin Clarke in 2004. Clarke knew Ferruzzi well after having coached him with the Richmond Kickers of the USL. Ferruzzi was an assistant under Clarke, a position he retained when Steve Morrow replaced his former boss in 2007.
The ex-Tar Heel Ferruzzi also served as FCD’s interim head coach between the time that Morrow was fired in May 2008 and current head coach Schellas Hyndman took over. Now, the UNC product continues to be an assistant under Hyndman and was recently named to coach the Dallas reserves in 2012, a role previously held by Oscar Pareja, now the head coach of the Colorado Rapids.
“First of all, very happy for Oscar. It’s well deserved,” Ferruzzi said. “He and I have worked together for a long time. Honestly, I’m not going in there to fill Oscar’s shoes. His coaching and his experience speaks for itself and mine is different. I have a familiarity with the reserve team as I’ve coached it in the past. So for me, it’s not necessarily a new thing, but in terms of the league trying to approach the reserve league in a more organized, more professional manner if you will, it is a different step. I’m looking forward to it.”
Sure, his time with Dallas has been filled with plenty of change but as he looks back, and more importantly looks forward, he does so with a great sense of pride and optimism about what the future may hold in Frisco.
“My eight seasons I believe, have gone through a couple of coaching changes,” Ferruzzi said. “A lot of highlights certainly, three different managers with a lot of different roles for me within the club. I think I’ve coached just about every team that this club has to offer. It’s been a valuable experience for sure.”
But it’s not all about his experiences on a personal level with FCD, Ferruzzi is honored to be part of the club’s evolution into what it is now.
“I’ve taken a lot in and most importantly, I’ve seen the club grow from just being a franchise changing brands from Dallas Burn to FC Dallas to a fully functional professional soccer club from the top down. It’s pretty fantastic,” Ferruzzi said. “It’s impressive and I feel fortunate I’ve been able to spend time in each one of those categories.”
No matter who has been coaching the club, this talented assistant has always been a valuable voice among the staff and that’s clearly no different in the current regime.
“Marco has been a tremendous asset to the team,” Hyndman said. “I think the fact that he’s going to be the reserve coach shows all the confidence we have in him. I think he’s very much in line to be a head coach. In fact, I’m surprised he hasn’t been already sought after because I think he’s very good.”
Ferruzzi already has some experience as a MLS head coach, the several games he was FCD’s interim boss at 2010. But as he looks back on his brief stint at the helm, he realizes it wasn’t about him, it was more about the club and getting things in line for when his current boss took over in June 2008.
“Honestly at the time, I wasn’t thinking about head coaching obviously. At that moment in time in particular, it was about the team trying to stabilize, get on track,” he recalled. “We still had much of a season to play for. So whenever those types of changes happen in a locker room, it’s very tenuous. The only thing I tried to bring to the table at that point was some stability and some focus on the games that we had in hand. I wasn’t trying to coach my way into a head coaching position. I was trying to keep the locker room and the squad performing through the interim. That’s why they call it the interim.”
So, considering what a successful stay he’s had in Dallas coupled with the fact that he has coached so many different squads, one has to wonder why other clubs haven’t expressed interest in Ferruzzi to fill their head coaching vacancies. Ferruzzi's current boss has a theory on that.
“Yeah, a little bit, [maybe he’s] flown under the radar and maybe not getting enough hype. I think this will be a year if FC Dallas does well he’s going to get a lot of recognition. [If the] reserve team does well, I think he’s going to get a lot of recognition,” Hyndman said.
However, as Ferruzzi learned during his time as a player and now as a coach, in the beautiful game much as it is in life, nothing is ever certain or guaranteed. So this trusted FCD lieutenant isn’t about to fret about whether or not he ever becomes a head coach in MLS or if he instead remains a trusted assistant for the rest of his career.
“If it happens, it happens. I think it has to be the right environment. It has to be the right fit,” Ferruzzi said. “At the same time, I think it might be a little undersold if you’re doing your job in a competent and professional way and you’re providing for your club. We ask all our players to take roles on the field and if you take your role and achieve it at the best possible level, there’s nothing wrong with being called a top assistant coach who knows his craft.”
Yet in that time there has been one constant and that has been assistant coach Marco Ferruzzi.
The 41-year-old native of San Antonio was first brought in by former Dallas gaffer Colin Clarke in 2004. Clarke knew Ferruzzi well after having coached him with the Richmond Kickers of the USL. Ferruzzi was an assistant under Clarke, a position he retained when Steve Morrow replaced his former boss in 2007.
The ex-Tar Heel Ferruzzi also served as FCD’s interim head coach between the time that Morrow was fired in May 2008 and current head coach Schellas Hyndman took over. Now, the UNC product continues to be an assistant under Hyndman and was recently named to coach the Dallas reserves in 2012, a role previously held by Oscar Pareja, now the head coach of the Colorado Rapids.
“First of all, very happy for Oscar. It’s well deserved,” Ferruzzi said. “He and I have worked together for a long time. Honestly, I’m not going in there to fill Oscar’s shoes. His coaching and his experience speaks for itself and mine is different. I have a familiarity with the reserve team as I’ve coached it in the past. So for me, it’s not necessarily a new thing, but in terms of the league trying to approach the reserve league in a more organized, more professional manner if you will, it is a different step. I’m looking forward to it.”
Sure, his time with Dallas has been filled with plenty of change but as he looks back, and more importantly looks forward, he does so with a great sense of pride and optimism about what the future may hold in Frisco.
“My eight seasons I believe, have gone through a couple of coaching changes,” Ferruzzi said. “A lot of highlights certainly, three different managers with a lot of different roles for me within the club. I think I’ve coached just about every team that this club has to offer. It’s been a valuable experience for sure.”
But it’s not all about his experiences on a personal level with FCD, Ferruzzi is honored to be part of the club’s evolution into what it is now.
“I’ve taken a lot in and most importantly, I’ve seen the club grow from just being a franchise changing brands from Dallas Burn to FC Dallas to a fully functional professional soccer club from the top down. It’s pretty fantastic,” Ferruzzi said. “It’s impressive and I feel fortunate I’ve been able to spend time in each one of those categories.”
No matter who has been coaching the club, this talented assistant has always been a valuable voice among the staff and that’s clearly no different in the current regime.
“Marco has been a tremendous asset to the team,” Hyndman said. “I think the fact that he’s going to be the reserve coach shows all the confidence we have in him. I think he’s very much in line to be a head coach. In fact, I’m surprised he hasn’t been already sought after because I think he’s very good.”
Ferruzzi already has some experience as a MLS head coach, the several games he was FCD’s interim boss at 2010. But as he looks back on his brief stint at the helm, he realizes it wasn’t about him, it was more about the club and getting things in line for when his current boss took over in June 2008.
“Honestly at the time, I wasn’t thinking about head coaching obviously. At that moment in time in particular, it was about the team trying to stabilize, get on track,” he recalled. “We still had much of a season to play for. So whenever those types of changes happen in a locker room, it’s very tenuous. The only thing I tried to bring to the table at that point was some stability and some focus on the games that we had in hand. I wasn’t trying to coach my way into a head coaching position. I was trying to keep the locker room and the squad performing through the interim. That’s why they call it the interim.”
So, considering what a successful stay he’s had in Dallas coupled with the fact that he has coached so many different squads, one has to wonder why other clubs haven’t expressed interest in Ferruzzi to fill their head coaching vacancies. Ferruzzi's current boss has a theory on that.
“Yeah, a little bit, [maybe he’s] flown under the radar and maybe not getting enough hype. I think this will be a year if FC Dallas does well he’s going to get a lot of recognition. [If the] reserve team does well, I think he’s going to get a lot of recognition,” Hyndman said.
However, as Ferruzzi learned during his time as a player and now as a coach, in the beautiful game much as it is in life, nothing is ever certain or guaranteed. So this trusted FCD lieutenant isn’t about to fret about whether or not he ever becomes a head coach in MLS or if he instead remains a trusted assistant for the rest of his career.
“If it happens, it happens. I think it has to be the right environment. It has to be the right fit,” Ferruzzi said. “At the same time, I think it might be a little undersold if you’re doing your job in a competent and professional way and you’re providing for your club. We ask all our players to take roles on the field and if you take your role and achieve it at the best possible level, there’s nothing wrong with being called a top assistant coach who knows his craft.”
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Buzz Carrick
Buzz Carrick has been the owner and publisher of 3rd Degree since it was founded in 1997. A graduate of Texas A&M and Boston University, Carrick has been in television production since 1992, primarily in the field of live sports. For two years Carrick was the co-host of Inside Soccer with Brad Sham. While 3rd Degree is mostly focused on FC Dallas, Carrick has also written MLS SuperDraft Rankings for ESPN Soccernet.