Spilger Seeing Green

Chicago Red Stars defender Natalie Spilger protects more than just the goal...she also is a defender of the environment.

Spilger who grew up in the suburbs of San Diego was selected as the 2nd draft pick (16th overall) by WPS's Chicago Red Stars. Spilger, who previously co-captained the Stanford University women's team and played internationally in Sweeden, earned her Masters degree in Construction Engineering Management and her Bachelors' in Civil and Environmental Engineering.

While attending the 2007 GreenBuild Expo in Chicago, Spilger was inspired by speaker Paul Hawken (an environmentalist, author and entrepeneur) to make the green movement "cool and sexy", and to unify all those who cared for the planet. Out of that desire, Spilger created GreenLaces, an organization that "supports earth-friendly causes and provides a solution for a better planet through a simple promise and a pair of green laces."

Spilger asks, through her organization, that everyone make one promise to the earth. GreenLaces asks you to imagine what the world would look like if everyone changed just one thing. Take for example Spilger's promise:

"I, Natalie Spilger, promise to never purchase a non-re-usable plastic water bottle, unless in an emergency situation." - GreenLaces.org

GreenLaces has already garnered support from WPS athletes like Brandi Chastain (who is also on the Board of Directors), Hope Solo and Heather O'Reilly. Spilger has also, just recently, been featured in Chicago Athlete as its 2009 Green Athlete of the Year.

Interested in hearing Natalie Spilger tweet from the sidelines at her first game in a Red Star's jersey this Saturday? Click here!

Highlights: Sol vs Freedom

Check out highlights from last night's WPS inaugural game:


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Sol Outshines Freedom

In the first ever Women's Professional Soccer match, home team Los Angeles Sol defeated opponent Washington Freedom, 2-0, in front of a 14,832-person crowd in Carson, California.

Though Washington Freedom had the first shot of the game, it was the Los Angeles Sol that gained the early lead with a goal in the 6th minute. Off a great set piece by midfielder Aya Miyama, Sol defender Allison Falk was able to beat goalkeeper Briana Scurry midair and get a head on the ball to finish. I am confident the Scurry-of-old would have been able to break up that play easily, since the ball was actually in her hands, but a case of butterfingers surfaced and Falk jumped at the opportunity... literally. To quote WPS Fox Soccer commentators Mark Rogondino and Jenn Hildreth (who happen to be former keepers), "When in doubt, punch it out."

Throughout the first half, and much of the game, the Washington Freedom seemed to be slow on the attack and had very little movement off the ball. Freedom star player Abby Wambach only touched the ball a handful of times in the first 45 minutes. There were numerous times in the game when Wambach was the lone red shirt in a sea of Sol blue. She lacked support from her midfield and fellow forwards.

The best opportunity for the Freedom came in the 24th minute when Sonia Bompastor served a great ball to Wambach, who after a quick touch, blasted the ball toward charging Sol goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc. LeBlanc, who deflected the ball off her right leg, was later named player of the game by LA Sol General Manager, Charlie Naimo (via Twitter) for that very stop.

In the second half, Marta and her Sol-mates continued to dominate, however the Freedom seemed to come out of its shell...sorta. In the 49th minute, Freedom defender Cat Whitehill (the free kick specialist) served a great ball into the box. It caused so much chaos that four players went down, including LeBlanc. This left the net WIDE OPEN for Freedom's Lisa De Vanna, however her shot went over the crossbar. Doh!

The Freedom defense, anchored by Whitehill, was fairly solid throughout the game, however, Marta did catch them offguard on several occasions with fast-paced, creative runs and perfect through-passes. In the 87th minute, Marta proved to be too much of a challenge for Whitehill's warriors. During a Sol counter attack, started by Brittany Bock, Marta sent a beautiful ball to attacking Sol midfielder Camille Abily. Abily was able to draw Scurry out of the net just enough to easily chip the ball over her head and into the back of the net. Needless to say, that goal was the nail in the coffin for the Freedom.

The Los Angeles Sol will travel to Bridgewater, NJ on April 5 to face Sky Blue FC, while the Washington Freedom will take advantage of its week off to scrimmage the University of Virginia on April 4.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Starting Lineups:

LA: 23-Karina LeBlanc (GK), 2- Kendall Fletcher (18-Katie Larkin, 46), 3-Allison Falk, 7-Shannon Boxx (Captain), 14-Stephanie Cox, 8-Aya Miyama, 11-Brittany Bock, 20-Camille Abily, 22-Manya Makoski, 9-Han Duan (13-Christie Welsh, 84), 10-Marta.

WSH: 1-Briana Scurry (GK), 4-Cat Whitehill, 11-Emily Janss, 21-Alex Singer, 22-Becky Sauerbrunn, 6-Lori Lindsey (3-Jill Gilbeau, 72), 8-Sonia Bompastor, 9-Allie Long, 10-Homare Sawa, 20-Abby Wambach (Captain), 25-Claire Zimmeck (17-Lisa De Vanna, 43).

Goals: Falk (6'), Abily (87')

For more stats on the game, visit the WPS Matchtracker.

WPS: Lets Get It Started

Tomorrow, Women's Professional Soccer will introduce itself to the world. It will make a simple statement -- women's soccer is here to stay.

Though the league's predecessor, the WUSA, only lasted 3 years, WPS is committed to making sure women's professional soccer sticks this go-round. "The quality of each and every team is instantly better (than the WUSA days)," Milbrett says. "The game has grown so much."

With that said, let's take a look at our teams: (in the order I see them placing this season)

Chicago Red Stars
If this team works as hard as its star player, Lindsay Tarpley, the Red Stars will fair well in this league. Tarpley will have great support in her US WNT teammates Megan Rapinoe and Carli Lloyd. Rapinoe, the 2008 West Coast Conference player of the year, has the potential to make big things happen offensively for the Red Stars. Lloyd, who will be the controlling force in the midfield, is a smart, skillfull player who has great vision on the pitch. Other players to watch out for are Brazilian forward Cristiane and Sweedish midfielder Frida Ostberg. This is a great team with a dynamic leader in coach Emma Hayes. They also get my vote for the most "connected" team.

Los Angeles Sol
I'd hate to be the one to tell Marta that she is looking at a repeat of the '08 Olympics, but I think she's going to see silver again this year with WPS. She may be the world's best female soccer player, but she can't do it all. Don't get me wrong, Sol is solid. With players like Shannon Boxx, Aly Wagner, Stephanie Cox, Camille Abily and Han Duan, the team will go far. Coach Abner Rodgers plays a possession-focused game and that is something the US WNT players on the team understand from the get-go.

Sky Blue FC
Christie Rampone brings leadership and stability. Heather O'Reilly brings speed and a brilliant right foot. And Natasha Kai, well, she's bringing her spunk and (hopefully) a lot of goals. Coach Ian Sawyers has called this team a melting pot, though I think most teams in WPS are. With 6 international players on its 21-person roster (and a whole lot of W-League stars), SBFC is going to bring exciting soccer to its fans week after week. Sawyers, who was WUSA's coach of the year in 2001, led the San Jose CyberRays to a championship in its inaugural season and I think he'll make a good run for the championship this year with Sky Blue.

St. Louis Athletica
Ok, so his English may not be that great, but Athletica coach Jorge Barcellos sure knows his soccer. Barcellos, the former Brazilian Women's National Team coach, will be bringing his fast flowing, attacking style of play to the WPS. He really values technique and understands the importance of strength and physicality in the modern game. He handpicked a team filled with skill and speed. Oh, did I mention he also snagged the world's best goalkeeper, too? With US WNT players Lori Chalupny and Hope Solo, coupled with 2-time MAC Herman Trophy winner Kerri Hanks, and Brazilian midfielder Daniella, this team is stacked.

Boston Breakers
One name -- DiCicco. Now, this is a coach who knows how to field a team. He's got Kristine Lily. He's got Kelly Smith and Alex Scott. He's got A-Rod. If that wasn't enough, he also has former National Team players Angela Hucles and Heather Mitts. Oh, I'm not done yet. Have I mentioned WUSA veterans Kristen Luckenbill and Nancy Augustyniak Goffi? Or how about Canadian forward Christine Latham? This team is deep with a capital D.

Washington Freedom
Luckily for Coach Jim Gabarra, the Freedom got a head start on the competition. When the WUSA folded in 2003, Gabarra and the Washington Freedom continued on as a W-League team. Come draft-time for the WPS, Gabarra was able to keep 12 players from his W-league team for his WPS roster. Talk about an advantage! US star Abby Wambach and Australian foward Lisa De Vanna will anchor the Freedom offense while US WNT player Cat Whitehill will bring her extensive experience to the back line.

FC Gold Pride
Fact: "Only a small percentage of the world’s wines get noticeably better with age, but those that do are worth the wait." I think the same of soccer players. At 40 and 36, Brandi Chastain and Tifeny Milbrett will prove to be worth our wait. We haven't seen much of them in the past few years, but now that they are back I'm sure we'll see some new tricks. FC Gold Pride also has former US WNT denfensive midfielder Leslie Osborne. Osborne has been recovering from her 2008 ankle and knee surgeries and doesn't feel quite at the top of her game yet, but is confident it will come back quickly. Other players of note are former UCLA midfielder and MAC Herman Trophy finalist Tina DiMartino, and Brazilian teammates Formiga, Adriane and Erika.

This WPS season is going to be full of top-flight soccer and I, for one, am ready for it to get started!

Tweeters Announced

This just in...

The WPS has announced which players will be tweeting from the sidelines at the inaugural game on March 29, 2009.

Los Angeles Sol midfielder, Aly Wagner (@alywagner)

Washington Freedom goalkeeper, Kati Jo Spisak (@kjspisak)

All of you know my feelings on players tweeting from the sidelines, but I will say I am happy with the players the league has chosen to REPRESENT!

I can absolutely guarantee some witty commentary from Aly Wagner.

Rosters Are Rolling In

Visit Women's Professional Soccer throughout the day to find out its teams' opening day rosters.

The Boston Breakers roster is out now. Which team will be next?

Lori Chalupny & Hope Solo Interview

Lori and Hope Interview on KMOV from Saint Louis Athletica on Vimeo.

Shannon Boxx Day

Yesterday, Tuesday, March 24, Torrance, California awarded US WNT and Los Angeles Sol player, Shannon Boxx, the key to the city. They also named March 24, Shannon Boxx Day!

Congratulations, Boxxy!

WPS In French Frenzy

With final rosters due last night, the WPS is still having trouble getting International Transfer Certificates for some of its international players, mainly from France. The French club Lyon, with former players Camile Abily (LA Sol) and Sonia Bompastor (Washington Freedom), is reluctant to sign them over. The club feels as though the team was left in the dust and have decided to make the transfer process as difficult as possible. FIFA even had to be called in by the WPS for assistance.

Check out this interesting article discussing the issue.

To see the drama from WPS's side, have a look at Chief Operating Officer, Mary Harvey's blog.

There is no doubt this will all get settled, let's just hope it happens sooner than later. We are only 3 days away from Opening Day!

WPS Commercials Released

Women's Professional Soccer has released this season's television ads (which can be seen live on Fox Soccer Channel).

Check 'em out:


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What'd ya think? Let me know!!!

The Old Ladies Make Gold Pride Roster

Brandi Chastain, 40, and Tiffeny Milbrett, 36, have made the FC Gold Pride roster!

Brandi Chastain who was chosen in the seventh round (45th overall) by the FC Gold Pride returns to the game after stepping away from soccer (never officially retiring) in 2004. I, for one, am more than excited to have another member of the Fab 5 back on the pitch and playing with that same spirit that inspired the thousands of fans who watched the 1999 Women's World Cup.

Chastain has always been a favorite of mine. I, of course, aspire to have those abs, but more than that, I admire her determination. Some may not know this, but early in her career she started as a bench player and at one point was actually cut from the US Women's National Team. Instead of giving up, like many would do, she rallied -- she worked on her fitness levels and continued playing soccer in Japan until she had a chance to prove herself again. When she got the opportunity she blew her coach away as a defender, and years later she became one of the most recognizable faces in women's soccer. Now she's back at it and bringing a new perspective to the game.

Milbrett, another former US WNT player, actually had to attend tryouts to be invited to preseason camp!

Millie, who was a member of the '96 gold medal team, also played for the WUSA's New York Power. When the WUSA folded, she began playing in Sweeden and more recently for the Vancouver Whitecaps Women. Milbrett is one of the most explosive players this game has ever seen--you never know what to expect. One second she's at midfield, the next, she's put one in the back of the net and you're left wondering what happened in between.

Hats off to Coach Montoya for realizing age is just a number. Chastain and Milbrett will prove to be valuable assets to the team and I am truly looking forward to seeing them back on the field -- doin' what they do best.

Freedom Defeats Tarheels

This just in from my Twitter feed:

DCFreedom: We defeat UNC 3-2 in Wilmington. Zimmeck, Wambach and Moros score for us, Nogueira scores both UNC goals. More details on the blog later.

Note: UNC defeated Sky Blue FC 2-1 on Friday.

One Week To Go

We've waited years...

Now only 7 days stand between us and opening day.

March 29, 2009
Los Angeles Sol vs. Washington Freedom

Home Depot Center, Los Angeles

6pm EST on FSC

Sky Blue FC falls to UNC

Just a quick update on last night's Sky Blue FC/UNC preseason game.

UNC 2, SBFC 1



UNC goals scored by: Tobin Heath and Nikki Washington
SBFC goal scored by: Sarah Walsh

Fun Fact
Four of the Sky Blue players were former Tarheels - Heather O'Reilly, Kacey White, Yael Averbuch and Jenni Branam

SBFC's opening day against the LA Sol is April 5, so get your tickets now.

Twitter at WPS Inaugural Game

While the WPS mulls over the idea of requiring players to twitter while at games this season, they are definitley saying it will happen on its March 29 inaugural game.

I have always been the biggest advocate for WPS but this decision is wrong.

I really hope, for the league's sake, Twitter stays off the field after March 29.

Twitter Timeout

After much apprehension I finally signed up for Twitter today. I had been putting it off for as long as I could because I already felt "too connected". Why do I need more updates on what people are doing when I have Facebook, Linkedin, and blogs? But, after reading Mary Harvey's (WPS COO) latest post promising a big announcement on Monday regarding Twitter and the league, I figured I should give tweeting a try.

For those of you who don't really understand Twitter, think of it as text messages via the internet. Instead of sending an update of what you're doing to one person, you can send it out to a group of people who have signed up to "follow" you.

Well, I of course added WPS and all of its teams immediately. To my surprise, WPS posed the following question last night:

"WPS is considering having some players tweet during games this season from the sidelines...under discussion at the league level. Thoughts?"

I was floored when I saw it. I actually had to read it a few times to make sure I had read it correctly. I couldn't understand how this was even being considered.

Imagine tuning into a Lakers game and watching Kobe Bryant twittering away on his phone during a timeout. Imagine Lance Armstrong pulling off on the side of the road to update his fans on his Tour de France ride. It's absurd to think of that happening with those professional athletes, so why would it be okay for our players?

Women's Professional Soccer, whether they realize it or not, is in the struggle of its life to prove to the country that they are in fact a viable professional league. Though they will never be the NFL or NBA, they need to maintain the same level of play and professionalism.

Twitter, if required of players during games, could change the whole dynamic of the game.

As a fan, I'd absolutely love to hear from WPS players on Twitter, but I really don't think gametime is the right time. The WPS is the highest level of women's professional soccer in North America. In order to be the best league of women's soccer in the world, you focus on soccer first, promotion second. Once you develop talent and exciting soccer, the rest will come.

I guess my question is, what is WPS's objective for having players tweet during games? As a fan, if I can't be at the game or watch on TV, I only care about the score. Though it'd be interesting to hear what Aly Wagner or Christie Shaner is feeling while on the sideline, I care more that she's focused on the game and prepared to play.

Think about this...You're the coach. There's 10 minutes left in a game. The score is tied 0-0. Your forward has no legs left. You've got a strong player who could come off the bench and possibly put one in the back of the net. You look back to her and she's on her phone crafting the perfect tweet. Has she even been paying attention? Did she even see the last play? Did she notice that new players are on the field for her opponent?

If the league wants to send out Twitter updates during the game, have a social media/marketing intern do it. If players want to twitter on the bus ride to/from the game, after practice, or on their free time I am all for it. But please, don't ask the players to compromise the integrity of the game for league promotion.

WPS is definitley setting a precedent when it comes to social media marketing in professional sports (which I love), but having players tweet during games is too much. Stop while you're ahead.

Want to check me out on Twitter? Visit www.twitter.com/flynnie19

Soccer Sundays

Much love to Fox Soccer for covering WPS.

Sundays have never looked so good!

Here is the schedule for 2009 WPS Sundays:

Sun. March 29 - Los Angeles Sol vs. Washington Freedom - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. April 5 - FC Gold Pride vs. Boston Breakers - 6:00 p.m.
Sat. April 11 - Washington Freedom vs. Chicago Red Stars - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. April 19 - Chicago Red Stars vs. Sky Blue FC - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. April 26 - FC Gold Pride vs. Washington Freedom - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. May 3 - Washington Freedom vs. St. Louis Athletica - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. May 10 - Chicago Red Stars vs. Sky Blue FC - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. May 17 - Boston Breakers vs. Washington Freedom - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. May 24- FC Gold Pride vs. Los Angeles Sol - 7:00 p.m.
Sun. May 31 - Sky Blue FC vs. Boston Breakers - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. June 7 - Los Angeles Sol vs. Washington Freedom - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. June 14 - Boston Breakers vs. St. Louis Athletica - 6:00 p.m.

Sun. June 21 - Los Angeles Sol vs. FC Gold Pride - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. June 28 - Sky Blue FC vs. St. Louis Athletica - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. July 5 - Washington Freedom vs. Los Angeles Sol - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. July 12 - Boston Breakers vs. Sky Blue FC - TBA
Sun. July 19 - Sky Blue FC vs. Chicago Red Stars - TBA
Sun. July 26 - St. Louis Athletica vs. FC Gold Pride - TBA
Sun. Aug. 2 - Chicago Red Stars vs. Los Angeles Sol - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. Aug. 9 - FC Gold Pride vs. St. Louis Athletica - 6:00 p.m.
Sat. Aug. 15 - First Round - No. 3 vs. No. 4 - TBA (FSN)
Tue./Wed. Aug. 18/19 - Super Semifinal - No.2 vs. Winner of First Round - TBA (FSC)
Sat. Aug. 22 - WPS Final - No. 1 vs. Winner of Super Semifinal - TBA (FSN)

Philly 2010

This April, Philadelphia is set to reveal the name of its 2010 women's professional team.

Today, the WPS board of govenors approved Philly as its eighth franchise team. The force that has been leading the women's effort in Philadelphia is none other than Matthew Driver. Driver, the CEO of Team Dynamics LLC and the WPSL Philadelphia Liberty has also been working closely with the 2010 MLS Philadelphia expansion team to create an innovative partnership between teams.

The women’s team is expected to play at the 18,500-seat soccer stadium being built for the MLS franchise in Chester, Pa., outside of Philadelphia.

As a native Philadelphian, I can't even begin to tell you how exciting it is to have a women's pro team back in the city. The last team, the Philadelphia Charge played at Villanova University Stadium and seemed to be right in the middle of the pack when it came to attendance. Since then, I think the excitement for the sport has only grown in the area, and to piggyback on MLS fans...things are lookin' good for WPS Philly.

Who knows, maybe I'll come out of my 10 year retirement and tryout. Hmmm...

Solo Has Surgery

US WNT and St. Louis Athletica goalkeeper, Hope Solo, had MINOR surgery last Friday to remove "loose bodies" in her left elbow.

She is supposed to be back on her feet and on the practice field TODAY.

Get Well Soon, Hope!!

... And Defense Wins Games

The Boston Breakers have officially signed defenders Nancy Augustyniak Goffi, Amy LePeilbet and Sue Weber along with goalkeeper Kristin Luckenbill.


Both Luckenbill and Augustyniak Goffi played previously with the WUSA. Weber and LePeilbet were members of the W League's Long Island Rough Riders and Arizona Heatwave.

Better Late Then Never

This weekend's WPS preseason scores:
LA Sol 2, FC Gold Pride 0
Sky Blue FC 1, Washington Freedom 0

Upcoming preseason matches of note:
March 17: Los Angeles Sol v. FC Gold Pride 10am @ HDC - Carson, CA
March 18: Chicago Red Stars v. Boston Breakers @ Harvard Stadium - Cambridge, MA
March 20: SkyBlue FC v. UNC 7pm @ Macpherson Stadium - Greensboro NC
March 22: Washington Freedom v. UNC 2pm @ Legion Stadium - Wilmington NC
March 28: FC Gold Pride v. California Storm @ TBD

What's In A Name..

Recently, someone on the WPS boards asked the meaning behind the name Los Angeles Sol. It got me thinking about the meanings behind our other WPS team names and logos. Check out some interesting info I scrounged up, solely for your reading enjoyment:

Los Angeles Sol: Sol is the Latin translation for Sun and the modern word for 'Sun' in the Spanish, Portuguese, Catalan, Icelandic, Danish, Norwegian and Swedish languages. Los Angeles is renowned for its sunny climate and rich heritage. Perfect choice, no?

Boston Breakers: Did you know 'Boston Breakers' was the name of Boston's 1983 USFL team?The USFL Breakers had originally hoped to play at Harvard Stadium (home to our current Boston WPS team). However, the USFL Breakers actually wound up playing at Boston University's Nickerson Field (where the Boston Breakers of WUSA used to play). Talk about a coincidence?

FC Gold Pride: 'Gold' according to the owners refers to the Bay Area -- their "gold standard" and of course the "Golden State". The lioness in the logo demonstrates the characteristics of strength, teamwork, and skill -- They are the providers of the pride. I was a fan of "Aftershocks" but hey, we can't win 'em all.

Chicago Red Stars: The team name is in honor of the four red stars on Chicago's flag. A fifth star was added to the Red Stars' logo to represent Chicago's new women's team. Fun fact: In its public naming contest, the Chicago Wind came in second place.

St. Louis Athletica: Inspired by St. Joan of Arc, the Athletica crest features the silhouette of a woman atop her horse hoisting an "STL" flag overhead. Below the crest, a SAINT LOUIS ATHLETICA banner is flanked by two fleurs-de-lis — a nod to St. Louis as an 18th Century French settlement. The word "Athletica," is derived from the adjective "athletic," with the "a" denoting the newly-created noun as feminine, a common practice in many foreign languages.

Washington Freedom: C'mon people. You're in Washington. If you can't figure it out, I sure can't help ya. But love the new logo with the soccer ball shaped Capitol Building. Drastic improvement from the Freedom's WUSA logo, no? If anyone knows what the old image was (other than scary) let me know!

Sky Blue FC: SBFC chose to adopt the use of the traditional 'FC' slang - the shortened version of "Football Club" in many parts of the world. The use of FC reflects Sky Blue's European ties with company owners Thomas Hofstetter and Francesco Prandoni originally from Germany and Italy. Plus, add a head coach hailing from England, it's a wrap. The Sky Blue logo features a bird - the swift - flying through the sky.

Now that you know what's behind the names and images of our current WPS teams, how bout some suggestions for our future teams...

What do you think Philly and Atlanta should be called?

Milly Released?

So a rumor has surfaced on the WPS Fan site that former US WNT player Tiffeny Milbrett has been released from the FC Gold Pride.

The rumor is based on the fact that Milly's name is no longer on the Gold Pride's online roster. (To be honest, I'm not sure if it ever actually was.)

The Gold Pride has a preseason game tonight against the LA Sol so we shall see...

(For Gold's sake, let's hope the rumor is wrong!)

Player Spotlight: Kelly Smith

Many would consider Kelly Smith to be the best female footballer in England. Some would say she is one of the best in the world.

Growing up in Watford, England, Smith surrounded herself with soccer. At the age of 16, she became a member of the English National Team. Earning 74 caps and 30 goals, she has been a constant stronghold in the team's offense.

After Smith's freshman year of college in England, she transferred to Seton Hall University in South Orange, NJ. While at SHU, playing under head coach Betty Ann Kempf, Smith became the first athlete in any sport to win the Big East Conference's Offensive Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year awards...in the same year. The following two seasons, Smith took home Offensive Player honors yet again, and was the leading scorer among all NCAA Division 1 teams. Smith became the first athlete (in a sport other than basketball) to have her number retired for the Pirates.

In 2000, Smith was drafted by the WUSA's Philadelphia Charge where she teamed up with current WPS players, Cat Whitehill and Heather Mitts. Due to several injuries, Smith only played one full season with the Charge though she was on its roster from 2000-2003. Smith then transitioned to New Jersey's W-League team, where again she was sidelined by injury.

In 2004, Smith left the States and headed back across the pond to play for Arsenal Ladies. Again, Smith was injured, therefore, delaying her start. In 2005, she returned to the pitch, and has since scored 103 goals in 114 appearances for Arsenal Ladies. In 2006 and 2008, Smith was a top five finalist for the FIFA Women's World Player award ( 2006 honors went to Mia Hamm, 2008 honors went to Marta). This March, Smith, and teammate Alex Scott played their last Arsenal game before leaving to join the Boston Breakers in preseason training camp.

Good luck Kelly! I'd say break a leg, but with you it may be just a bit too literal. ;-)

The Hope Solo Show

Here are some highlights of this week's Algarve Cup Final. Eventhough the US lost this one, Hope Solo had an award-winning performance. Check it out!

This Just In...

Thank goodness for Facebook Updates!!

I was just informed that The U.S. Women’s National Team will be back on home soil facing Japan, the 2008 Olympic semifinalists on Saturday, May 23 at Rio Tinto Stadium. (That's Utah people!)

The game will kick off at 4 p.m. MT. And for all those not dedicated enough to make the trip to Utah, the game will be broadcast live on Fox Soccer Channel.

Now stop reading and go get your tickets!!!

She's Over It?

Last night, the San Jose Mercury News broke the story that FC Gold Pride cut Watsonville waitress Priscilla Meza.

Meza's response, "It's all right, I'm already over it."

Really??!!

I've got to be honest, though I've read other positive comments from Meza regarding her experiences with the WPS preseason, the "I'm already over it," comment really rubbed me the wrong way.

"You're over it"? Well that was quick.

I think the comment begs to ask the question of whether or not she really wanted it that bad in the first place.

Coach Albertin Montoya, who was saddened to let her go, is actually going to bat for Meza by speaking with other teams in the league about their potential needs for a midfielder. The question is, would Meza go to bat for herself? Does she really want to fight for this dream of hers? Or is she just "over it"?

In reading about Meza's story, I of course can't help but feel for her. She came from a tough upbringing (that's an understatement!) and has made something of herself. She is a role model and shows everyone that you alone control your future. However I wonder, is Meza really passionate about playing professional soccer or is she just looking for something more than life as she knows it now?

"I need to get something out of this," she said to SJ Mercury News. "If things don't work out, I am going to look for other doors."

I am not trying to downplay any of her accomplishments. I'm sure many will think I am. I just have never gotten the feeling, since the first word of Meza hit the media, that soccer was her passion. To play at the professsional level, I think it has to be. It's not something you just walk into lighlty and do on your free time. You do it because you can't imagine doing anything else. You do it because for you...soccer is life.

Don't get me wrong, I wish the best for Meza and hope that I have misunderstood her comments. If I have, I apologize. No matter what, I hope she continues to fight for her dream...whatever it may be.

Update from St. Louis

US WNT co-captain, Lori Chalupny, has OFFICIALLY signed with the St. Louis Athletica!!

(Sure, we all knew it was coming, but it's nice when it's official.)

Inked!

... and no I'm not talking about Briana Scurry's recent signing with the Freedom.

I'm talking about Natasha Kai's tattoos!

How many does she have and what do they all mean?

My records say she is up to 19. But then again, there is a good chance she got 3 more while I was posting this.

Here's a break down of some of her tats:

Rib: "Appreciate the moment. The most precious treasure on earth is my heart...When I share it with you, protect it as if it was your own."
Ankle: a self design with her initials
Foot: the Hawaiian Islands
Bottom of back: her last name
Back: Love and Courage in Japanese
Shoulder: Gemini ( Kai's zodiac sign)
Right arm: the names of her entire family

Check out Christie Rampone, Angela Hucles and Natasha Kai as they make a guest appearance on one of my favorite shows, LA Ink! (Only 1 of 'em actually gets inked. Can you guess who?)

WPS: Surviving the Recession

Talk about bad timing.

After so many years were spent reworking the business model of the women's pro league, it looked as though Tonya Antonucci and team might have got it right. Realizing that they will never be able to fill NFL stadiums and that they must be conservative when it comes to spending (duh!), the WPS model was a massive improvement from that of its predescessor, the WUSA.

But who would've expected that they'd be launching the league right in the middle of one of the worst economies this country has ever seen?

There have been plenty of warning signs in the last few months begging the WPS to tread lighlty and be very thoughtful in its business decisions moving forward. Already, the Arena Football League has suspened its 2009 season. The NFL and MLB have both made significant layoffs. And, minor league hockey teams across the country are closing up shop. Will this be the fate for WPS?

Let's look at the facts.

What WPS has done right:

• Recently WPS signed a 3-year $10 million contract with PUMA. Excellent decision. (Despite the fact PUMA is trying to put our girls in skorts. Not cool PUMA, not cool.)
• For the bargain price of $1.5 million you can purchase a WPS franchise. It's MLS counterparts cost $40 million per team.
• Low player salaries (average salary is est. $32,000). That's right. You won't hear these players screaming, "Show me the money." They actually play because they love the sport.
• Most WPS markets are piggybacking on local MLS team initiatives, something WUSA opposed. (Hey, I'm not big on asking for help, but sometimes you've gotta suck it up for the greater good.)

Where WPS needs some help:

• They need more sponsors. Period. Do me a favor - Go to the website and look on the Official Partner/Sponsor page. I'm no math whiz, but I only counted 3. That's a problem. And a big one at that.
• Fact: The majority of spectator sport fans are men. And let's face it, unless you're a dad bringing your daughter to the game, you aren't coming. (Sad, but true)
• Where are the big names? The WUSA had players like Mia Hamm and '99 World Cup superstars. Only 2 of those stars are coming back and neither are Hamm. Sponsors need a face to get behind and the WPS needs to do a better job of marketing its standout players.

According to an article this month published by the Washington Post, the Washington Freedom has been having problems finding sponsors and ticket sale expectations are far from being met. Additionally, sponsors that the WPS thought they had in their pocket have pushed back their decisions until later this month. And playing devil's advocate, though the WPS prides itself on making significant strides in increasing its partnerships with youth soccer, just because the kids want to go doesn't mean mom and dad have the money to purchase the tickets.

Don't get me wrong, there is no one in this country who wants to see the league succeed more than me. However, desperate times call for desperate measures. I think the WPS needs to think outside of the box in it's marketing initiatives. Though it's social media component is strong, it can't stand alone. Also, corporations need to dive into its budgets and find some extra cash. The WPS does offer a unique market and for some companies, a couple thousand dollars could pay off in very big ways.

Over the next few months, we will keep our eyes on the business of WPS. Until then the question remains, "If you build it, will they come?"

So You Think You Can Dance

Check out the hot dance moves of the Women's National Team.

Tarp - You pickin' up your dance moves from Ellen DeGeneres or what?!

Wrap It Up

I need to hear some thoughts on these "wraps" that the WPS unveiled at its fashion show in New York this February. Don't get me wrong, I love Project Runway like the rest of the women (and gay men) of the world, but I'm not sure why we have to bring Christian Siriano onto the playing field.

In an article written on the WPS website, Summer Sanders is quoted saying, "As a former athlete and as a woman, I know that there is always a struggle to have a uniform, in my case a swimsuit, that helps you achieve peak performance, is comfortable and also allows you to feel fashionable at the same time."

I guess my question is...would you ever think of creating anything but a swimsuit for a swimmer? No. So why would you think to put a soccer player in anything but shorts and a jersey?

Slide tackle someone in a skirt and then come talk to me about achieving peak performance while looking your best.

I'm sorry PUMA. Love your stuff, but I think the skorts need to go.

Playing Favorites

When it comes to picking a favorite team in WPS, well ... it's kind of complicated.

How does one go about picking a favorite team, anyway? Is it based on geography? Is it based on which team your favorite player plays on? Is it the name of the team that matters? Or should it be based on the colors of a player's uniform?

For me, it gets a little tricky.

Right now, I live outside of Philadelphia (and am originally from here) so geographically speaking Sky Blue FC would be my team. BUT, when the league was announced I was living in San Francisco. AND, while living out there I met US WNT and FC Gold Pride player, Leslie Osborne. She happened to be one of the sweetest people I had ever met, and I was really looking forward to seeing her in action. Sooo...do I cheer for FC Gold Pride?

I suppose I chould choose my favorite team by its coach. If that's the case, Tony DiCicco has always been a favorite of mine and he's coaching Boston. And I did go to grad school in Boston. More importantly, Kristine Lily is on the team. Hmmm...

Decisions. Decisions.

Well, then there is the Washington Freedom. They were a favorite of mine in the old league, so do I stick with them again this go 'round? It's a toss up. They do have Whitehill and Wambach!

OR, I could go the 'favorite player' route...

Honestly, I'm not sure I have one right now. But for some reason, if you couldn't tell from my post yesterday, I'm diggin' Hope Solo these days. She is on fire! Solo and Chalupny could take Athletica far in its' first season. But then if I look to international players there is of course, Marta. She is absolutely phenomenal to watch. I also am a HUGE fan of Aly Wagner. Though we haven't seen her much because of injuries, she is a real solid player and a force to be reckoned with in the midfield. The LA Sol might be a good choice!

But wait, there's one more team to consider --The Chicago Red Stars. I've never been to Chicago, but I like the team's logo. Also I have lived in New Jersey and nothing says New Jersey quite like Chicago star player, Carli Lloyd. She is a Jerzey girl for sure.

I guess I have some thinking to do, huh?

Regardless, I know I'll see good soccer no matter what two teams are playing.

OleOle!

SKY BLUE FC fans ---

I'll be blogging this season on OleOle's Official NY/NJ page: Blue'z The Limit.

To find out the latest on your favorite players, and of course your favorite team, keep your eyes peeled for my first post sometime this month!!!

Until then check out the website:

www.oleole.com

My First Love

I was 5 years old the first time I stepped onto a soccer field. I'm not sure if it was the smell of fresh-cut grass, the sweet taste of oranges at halftime, or the touch of the ball against my laces, but I knew that day that I was in love with soccer... and would be forever.

It has been a love affair with its share of ups and downs. Some of my most cherished memories have been with a ball at my feet, but at the same time, so have some of my biggest heartaches.

I have been able to travel the world because of soccer. I have developed life-long friendships with teammates and coaches. And one of the most important things Ive learned from the game is that I can keep going long after I can't -- a life lesson that pushes me to new levels with every step I take.

The game has introduced me to the strongest group of female athletes in the history of sports : Mia Hamm, Julie Foudy, Brandi Chastain, Joy Fawcett and Kristine Lily. These women, my childhood heroes, fought for equal rights for women in athletics. They fought for a game they loved. And because of them, I, along with so many other girls, got the opportunity to fall in love with the world's favorite game.

Over the last few years I watched their women's professional league form, then fail, then rise up again from the ashes into a new league, Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) which launches this month. I have watched the Women's National Team (WNT) dominate the world, and also have seen it at its worst (both on and off the field) in 2007.

Women's soccer, no matter how many times it falls, always seems to rise up even stronger. It is a testament to the heart and soul of its players and to those who support it. Those who play and follow women's soccer are some of the most passionate people you will ever meet.

For the past 20+ years I have played many roles in the world's favorite game -- player, coach and fan. And as I'm sure you can imagine, the game looks very different from the sidelines. So, as a lifelong friend of the sport, I will share my opinions on the state of women's soccer in the US --- its players, its leagues, its management and of course, its fans.

Hope you enjoy!!!