A Program Of
S p o r t s f o r S o c i a l C h a n g e i n W a s h i n g t o n D C
Recent News and Press
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Street Soccer DC Metro, 2011
Winter Kicks League, Week 1 Re-Cap
October 30, 2010 – SSDC's pilot project, the Winter Kicks League, started today with smiles all around and much promise for the weeks ahead. The WKL groups volunteers with SSDC players into 8 teams, creating both a social and competitive environment. For most volunteers, this was a first interaction with SSDC and Neighbors Consejo, our partner organization in Columbia Heights.
Despite an early venue false start, attitudes remained positive and expectations high as a field change was ordered. Players met their teammates for the first time, and before long the action got underway in slightly chilly but bright conditions.
The league's inaugural round began with Red versus Black. William and Marcos, two 2010 SSUSA Cup participants made the difference for Black as they ably worked their way past a spirited Red team featuring Jose M in his SSDC debut. Strong displays from Hannah and Mark kept the contest close.
Next up were Yellow and Green. This matchup featured just two volunteers for this week, Alex of District Sports fame and Tim, a volunteer from our partners at Deloitte. The match was extremely tight and ended in a narrow one-nil victory for Yellow, Milton executing a calm finish after a sweeping move. The standout performance came from Wilbur, whose defensive work ensured that the lead was preserved.
The third match of the day between Light Blue and Dark Blue featured several recent additions to the program, including German, Porfilio and Gustavo. That, however, did not do anything to reduce the pace of the match. With an early deflected goal for Dark Blue, the match opened up quickly. Volunteer Hope powered home two quality finishes to ultimately settle the contest.
That left White and Orange to close out Round 1 of the WKL. The match was very close throughout, but excellent movement from Lorenzo, Aaron and Ryan carried the day for Orange. Jose G and Jonathan fashioned several chances for White, with Joseph and Julie swapping defensive duties. The premier performance of the match goes to David E, whose series of excellent defensive blocks kept Orange ahead.
Special thanks go to Joel, our budding photographer who expertly captured the morning's proceedings. You can see the photos of WKL Week 1 here.
Thanks to all for a fantastic opening day, and see you next Saturday!
Winter Kicks League, Week 2 Re-Cap
November 6, 2010 – Now in its second week, The WKL got its first taste of life on the grass as the 4v4 action moved to the newly re-laid DC Parks HQ pitch. The conditions were sublime with the surface providing ample pace after a wet end to the week.
As the space allowed for it, two matches were played simultaneously. On the near field, White came through a tough test against Light Blue thanks to constant running from Jose G, Nelson, and Jonny. Fill-in Milton pulled the strings with some beautifully weighted passes and dribbling skills. As the match progressed, Milton and Mark shared referee duties, giving Omar a chance to shake off the cobwebs after a lengthy layoff. Thanks, guys!
Meanwhile, two winners from last week, Orange and Dark Blue, faced off on the far field. It was an extremely close yet free-scoring encounter as Orange just edged it out thanks to a double from Green team native Tim. Good passing was evident all around, as assists came from four separate players! Kalia and Lizzie teamed up to ref the encounter - nice work, ladies!
For the second round of matches, Red and Green took to the near field. The match stayed scoreless through the opening quarter, with quick passes and frequent possession changes. As the half wore on, several players' participation in earlier matches began to show, and Green finally broke the deadlock. Manuel combined well with Tim several times for Green in an extremely exciting contest throughout.
The far field saw Nelson in his full refereeing debut as he oversaw the match between Black and Yellow. Birthday girl Kalia bagged a double to help Black to their second win in two weeks. The goals were shared all around as Arun, Jose O and Jose C also chipped in. Yellow kept it tight throughout, with Jose G grabbing a hat-trick on top of Brady's strike.
Alex organized an impromptu "Happy Birthday" song for Kalia to cap the week off in style. Thanks to everyone who came out and see you next Saturday!
(Unfortunately, our photographer, Joel, couldn't make it out today. We hope to have him back for next week!)
Winter Kicks League, Week 3 Re-Cap
November 13, 2010 – Week 3 of the WKL brought arguably the best weather and most exciting play yet. As teams begin to gel, players are gradually learning more about one another and building confidence in both themselves and the group.
The opening match on the near field between Red and Yellow was truly a joy to witness. End-to-end buildup play saw underdogs Red match their high flying counterparts for pace and passing. William and Milton pulled the strings for their respective sides and Wilbur and Hannah both put in stellar defensive performances. Brady, Cassie, Bernarda and the tireless Manuel L showed some brilliant connective play, with Manuel even trying for an audacious overhead kick.
The far field match, reffed by Jose Garcia in his first officiating experience, produced a close encounter featuring Green and Black. Both teams continued to impress this week despite missing a few regulars this week. SSDC Coach Felipe made his debut for Black in style, while Jose R and Jose O put on a great one-on-one display throughout the match. Tim, Gustavo, Jose C and new player Arnolfo rounded out the quality laden match.
At the break, players refreshed and socialized in the beautiful sixty-five degree sun. The pitch, though a little dry this week, had provided the right surface for quick movement and accurate passing. This was again on display as White and Dark Blue kicked off the second hour on the near field. Coach Jonathan teamed up with two-time cup veteran Jose G for White, while Dark Blue saw William and Manuel L play in their second match of the day together. The goals came from everywhere as referee Felipe kept the match flowing.
Finally, Orange and Light Blue rounded out the day on the far field with a number of players making their second appearance of the day. Orange has so far fielded the most consistent squad of the league, and it showed as they gelled quickly to produce some free-flowing play. Beth unleashed several powerful shots from distance after great buildup play through Solomon, Ryan and Aaron. Light Blue began the game defensively, with Hannah and Wilbur putting in crucial defensive displays and the latter showing some creativity in transition as well. Milton and Gabriela provided the link through the middle as Light Blue kept within striking distance until late in the match.
Overall, it was a fantastic day for both the players and fans! Joel was on hand to capture all the action, which you can see by clicking here. Thanks again for making the WKL such a success, and see you all next Saturday!
Winter Kicks League, Week 4 Re-Cap
November 20, 2010 – The WKL heads into the holiday break after yet another fantastic day to be outside. Week 4 produced play that continued to impress and a tribute to National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.
The talent expo that was the opening match between leaders Orange and tied-for-second Yellow was just such an example. Only Milton could represent Yellow's regular starting lineup, and to be fair, his capable but unfamiliar teammates could not have expected to challenge the most consistent team this season. However, with the scores level at halftime and big contributions from super subs Jose R (Orange) and Brady (Yellow), the match see-sawed to a thrilling finale, with Yellow just edging it out in the end.
The second match between Light Blue and Red brought together two teams that have seen quite a bit of turnover over the weeks - thankfully, much of it has been due to the fact that the Neighbors players have been working at new jobs! Jose G scored an amazing seven goals as Light Blue recorded their first win, but Red can take heart in a great team performance that was good enough to win, particularly the stout defending of Hannah and Jose O. Thanks to Mark for reffing the encounter with poise and precision!
Today's mid-day break brought a special activity as players and volunteers signed and wrote hopeful messages on squares of cloth. SSDC veteran Juan F will sew the squares into a flag for everyone to remember this experience and to comemorate National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.
After a break and some refreshments, the day rolled on with White and Green kicking off on the near field. Brady and Jose R were at it again, linking well with their new teammates in a back-and-forth contest that had Jonny, and Julie hustling in transition. Alex showed a particular fondness for the inbound chip, but Hannah and White's solid defensive rotation was able to repel the aerial threat and hold on for the win.
Last but not least was the far field encounter between Dark Blue and Black. Sarah Guy commanded the whistle for the first time, and controlled play ably as both teams looked for the opening. Some great defensive play from David, helping out in his first outing away from his native Orange side, helped keep Black in the match as they traded scoring opportunities. Manuel L, Arun and Jose O contributed to the scoresheet as the match ended 2-2, the season's first draw for any team,
Click here for photos of the Week 4 action. Thanks to Sarah and Andy for handling the camera, oranges and apple cider. Let's hope for the great weather and good times to continue after our holiday break - see you in December!
Winter Kicks League, Week 5 Re-Cap
December 4, 2010 – Our first week back after the Thanksgiving holiday was a chance to stretch the legs, re-connect with now familiar faces and test out the new venue for the remainder of the winter. While the pitch at 10th and Spring Streets isn't quite the freshly re-laid haven of DCPR headquarters, it proved a flat and reasonably forgiving surface.
Due to the absence of several participants this week (many of whom had work commitments, a genuinely good thing), a full-field scrimmage was the order of the week. 3 points for everyone this week!
Teams lined up as blue and not-blue, and the action was fast and furious from the off. Plenty of great passing and movement defined the chilly morning match, but after 3 Golden Goal replays, the not-blues took the prize. Over ninety minutes of play and many smiling faces - not a bad day out at all.
Click here for the photos from Week 5, and look for us again on the 11th!
Winter Kicks League, Week 6 Re-Cap
December 4, 2010 – The WKL season rolled into Week 6 with a more palatable (and less windy) day than last week. The group first got loose with some defensive circle games. Milton then led a creative stretching routine that ended with some calf-stretch-hops. On to the game!
This week featured another full-field scrimmage, so 3 points for everyone this week. As before, it was Blue vs. Not-Blue, and David was the early star in goal for the motley side, denying Tim and others in a watertight first 30 minutes. Not-Blue countered to spectacular effect and scored three goals in the opening exchanges, but Blue clawed a goal back just before half-time, and were happy to head to the water cooler on the front foot.
The second half was a see-saw of possession and goal-trading, and in the final minutes Blue actually took the lead before conceding in the Golden Goal round. A fantastic morning that ended in a draw, the fair result for all the great play.
Click here for the photos from Week 6. Check out the finale of the WKL next Saturday!!
Wish Us Luck!!
January 28, 2011 – Today is a first on many fronts. The DC Knights have embarked on their maiden road-trip experience as they travel to North Carolina for the first ever Street Soccer regional tournament.
This is also a first bus trip for many of us, though the luxury accomodations (courtesy of Megabus) are a far cry from the interstate transport services of old. This update comes to you courtesy of the free on-board Wi-fi, and the team has enjoyed passing the time talking, reading, working and of course, eating!
As we make our way toward Charlotte with hopes high, we'd like to thank the Charlotte team for making this experience a possibility and wish all teams the best of luck.
Vamos, DC Knights!
Re-cap - Great People, Great Tournament
January 30, 2011 – On our way home following an exhausting but enjoyable two days, there is an air of tranquility about the team.
Some take the opportunity to catch up on on sleep, others watch the scenery pass by out the window. All of us, though, are no doubt reflecting on an experience that connected us with so many that share our love of the beautiful game and the hope it provides to everyone in the Street Soccer USA program.
The Knights fared well against a very tightly contested field. Each player upped their game this weekend, but none more than David E, who has taken up the goalkeeping position and made it his own. Through watching other experienced keepers ply their trade, taking constructive feedback of his own performances, and introspectively analyzing his game, David has shown true accountability and leadership and grown in stature as a result. In the last match, which was ultimately lost to eventual champions Minneapolis, David's increased positional awareness and quick feet kept DC ahead for long periods.
A willingness to extend themselves personally also created many new friendships for the boys from DC. We are fast becoming a favorite among fans and players alike for our positive attitudes and good sportsmanship. The atmosphere in the Knights camp was lighthearted in a competition that was, at times, very tense. We are immensely proud of the example our players set when they stepped on the court, and impressed at the poise and affability they displayed while off it.
We'd like to thank the countless volunteers that organized, hosted, greeted, cooked, cleaned and made us feel so welcome in the great city of Charlotte. The team wanted to extend a special thanks to Pete Fink, SSUSA Charlotte's program manager (you can find out more about their program here), as well as Rochelle, Matt, the Watershed soccer club, Warehouse 242 and everyone who joined us there, Luke at the Futsal Factory for the amazing facilities. Christine for the glorious chocolate cake, and of course to our esteemed colleagues and friends from the Street Soccer programs that came together to make this momentous experience possible. We hope to see you all again in DC for the SSUSA Cup this summer!
District Sports 7v7 Saturdays, Week 1 Re-cap
March 19, 2011 – The DC Knights (and friends) made their competitive bow this weekend by joining the District Sports 7v7 Saturday league. Plenty of familiar faces joined us on Week 1; Jose G, Jose O and Milton M represented the Knights proper, along with coaches Jonny and Felipe and program director Omar. Winter Kicks League alums Cassie Kalia, Hannah and Beth re-joined the crowd, while newcomers Jared and Jillian entered the fray for their Knights debuts. We took the field against a side assembled by Thrive DC's own Nathan Mishler, aptly named NM United, in plate glass 65 degree conditions.
The Knights controlled the match from the off and for long periods, showing poise, control from front to back. Intelligent passing through the forward triangle of Jonny, Jillian and Milton created several opportunities, while Hannah, Cassie and sweeper Alex maintained a stout rearguard. The first round of substitutions introduced Jose G into the action, and it wasn't long before he staked his claim for a starting berth with a wonderfully taken goal. A sweeping counterattack saw him one on one with the NM keeper, and he tucked the ball comfortably into the near corner.
The goal sparked the match to life, and several minutes later NM found an answer, Nathan taking on half of the Knights before rifling into the side netting. As halftime approached, the Knights may have been disappointed to head into the break level. Fortunately, they didn't have to, as Jillian twisted and turned before dispatching a fine effort past the NM keeper.
The second half brought a flurry of substitutions, and though the Knights asked several questions of the NM defense, a goal was not forthcoming. Solid performances from Jose O and Kalia in the back kept the play out of dangerous positions, and Beth, Felipe and Alex, restored to his favored midfield role, pulled the strings confidently. A late diving save from Jared capped an excellent if quiet afternoon for him, and kept the Knights on course for three points.
All in all, a fantastic first day out, and plenty of good lessons to be taken into the coming weeks. Click here for photos of the match, taken by Knights player Roscoe, and join us next Saturday at noon on the Cardozo High School turf field for 7v7 Week 2!
SSDC Welcomes the Arlington Black Tigers Street Soccer Club!
May 6, 2011 – Street Soccer DC has been working with A-SPAN (Arlington Street People's Assistance Network) to launch a new Street Soccer club in the Metro area. The team, dubbed the "Black Tigers", is the first of its kind in Northern Virginia and a welcome addition to the DC-area scene.
Arlington head coaches Sarah Morse and Ken B held the Black Tigers' first practice on Thursday evening at Quincy Park, next to the Virginia Square / GMU Metro station. Along with several A-SPAN volunteers and clients, SSDC was in full attendance including director Omar Abdul-Baki, volunteer coach Alex Bearman. DC Knights star Milton and volunteer players Hannah and Cassie.
After some meeting and greeting, the group split into two teams and played what may have been the most hotly contested inaugural practice scrimmage in the history of Street Soccer. Great passing, shooting and movement was present from both sides in a good spirited, see-saw encounter that ultimately was capped by a fine individual goal from volunter Tij.
We want to thank A-SPAN for their committment to the Street Soccer movement and congratulate them on an amazing start to their campaign. We invite you to join us every Thursday Night at 6:30 pm at Quincy Park in Arlington, and hope to see you there soon!
For directions to Quincy Park, click here.
Three on the Spin!
May 21, 2011 – The DC Knights made it three wins in a row after defeating a very difficult FCBDC team (top right) in the District Sports 7v7 Saturday league. The win puts the Knights at the top of the West divisional table on goal difference.
The 'Christmas Tree' formation that has brought success throughout the season was again employed, with the unflappable Jared in between the posts. Omar, Sahar and Alex formed a sturdy back line while Milton, Felipe and Jillian formed the triangle attack. The opening exchanges were arguably the best football played this season for the Knights, as they dominated possession and shooting opportunities for much of the half. As FCBDC settled in, however their quality began to show as they used the wings well in efforts to get to the byline. The halftime whistle was greeted with some relief as some players sought the shade, with both teams having had opportunities to go ahead.
The second half brought some changes, with Kalia and Cassie resuming their regular positions in defense. Jonny took on the sweeping role and Alex came in to support Manuel in attack. It was Felipe who created the first meaningful opportunity for the Knights and Manuel took it with aplomb, sliding the ball home from close range after some wonderful skill by the midfielder.
And it was not long before the diminutive playmaker was at it again, this time squaring unselfishly in the box for Jose to collect yet another goal this campaign. Just when the Knights appeared to be in cruise control, FCBDC crashed home a close-range free kick to put the match back into the balance. Jared was called into action several times in succession, showing quick feet and strong hands to keep FCBDC from levelling. At the same time, the Knights were beginning to find space in behind on the counter, and eventually the match was made safe with a three player combination, Omar touching on to Felipe and Milton firing the resulting cross high into the net.
A fantastic match with an opponent we will certainly meet again in the playoffs. The Knights will have to be at their absolute best to gain a repeat result. Many thanks and best of luck to FCBDC, and Vamos DC Knights!
To see the District Sports Cardozo Saturday 7v7 standings, Click Here.
The Big Weekend Is Back...
June 9, 2011 – The Street Soccer USA Cup has returned to our fair city, and the DC Knights will be representing DC with pride.
For our players, it has been an astonishing year of accomplishment. Most of the current Knights squad have found permanent housingsince joining our program over the last year, and all but one have found permanent housing. Everyone has made great strides in kicking addiction. Sincerest congratulations to all of them are in order.
Our players have also played in three leagues and tournaments this season, as well as volunteered at area charitable organizations nearly one per month. They have coached childrens programs and participated in a forum on homelessness. They have helped start a brand new street soccer club in Arlington, Virginia, and will be joined at this year's tournament by some of their players.
Overall, they have shown commitment, reliability and poise. Most of all, they've shown support for each other all along the way.
And so we welcome the celebratory event of the year, the Street Soccer USA Cup, with smiles wide and arms wide open. The proceedings start this evening, as players and coaches arrive from around the country. The schedule for the next several days is:
WASHINGTON KASTLES STADIUM
800 WATER STREET, SW, WASHINGTON DC
FRIDAY, JUNE 10
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM: Matchday 1, Session 1
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Official Opening Ceremonies << Don't Miss This!!
6:30 PM - 10:00 PM: Matchday 1, Session 2
SATURDAY, JUNE 11
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM: Matchday 2
SUNDAY, JUNE 12
9:00 AM - 3:30 PM: Matchday 3
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM: FINAL MATCHES << Don't Miss This!!
4:00 PM: Awards Ceremonies << Don't Miss This!!
We hope you can make it out to the waterfront to be part of the celebrations! We'll be updating our page with each day's events, and facebooking/ tweeting throughout the weekend.
To check out some of the photos from last year's USA Cup, click here.
SSUSA Cup 2011, Day 1 Re-cap
June 10, 2011 – A long, very hot, and ultimately satisfying day has come to a close at Washington Kastles Stadium. For the DC Knights, it was a day to connect with old friends and also one to lay down a marker of our desire to reach the pinnacle of this year's tournament.
The day began with a match against Portland. Due to work commitments of some players, the Knights played a short 5-man rotation consisting of a single sub. The boys in blue raced ahead to an early lead with Diego and Milton leading the scoring. Some excellent passing was seen all around, and Solomon showed some great skill in defense before hitting the bar on a counterattack. Goalkeeper Ken played a great match, only letting in a pair of goals after some slack marking toward the end of the match.
After the opening ceremonies, the air cooled and the Knights faced what will undoubtedly be one of the more challenging matches against a young and highly skilled Los Angeles side. With an extra player in blue, the subs were more frequent, allowing the players to stay fresh. At halftime, Dalitso made a cameo in between the sticks for the second half, helping to stave off a late comeback and see the Knights through to a closely contested 5-4 win.
Tomorrow, the DC Knights and friends take the field at Cardozo High School for the District Sports Finals before heading back to the Southwest Waterfront for Day 2 of the SSUSA Cup. Come by and support us at 2:40pm at 800 Water Street!
To see the WUSA Channel 9 news coverage of SSUSA and the DC Knights, click here.
A Look Back At A Fantastic Weekend
June 20, 2011 – Two weeks on from the Street Soccer USA cup and District Sports Finals, life has returned to normal. Back to the regularity of training, planning and looking forward to a new and exciting season.
But what a weekend it was. The Knights finished in 7th place after six matches, their best result in a USA Cup to date. And this after a Saturday morning that saw the 'DC Knights and Friends' team win the District Sports Saturday 7v7 Cardozo league (photos here). The significance of the day was that our program graduates, no longer eligible for the USA Cup, got their moment in the sun as well and experienced victory with their SSUSA team counterparts.
We also received a fair share of press that weekend - coverage from Street Sense, the Washington Examiner, Get Out and Give Back (from the following week), and even a spot on WUSA Channel 9 (click here for the video) helped add to the feeling that Street Soccer USA is not only helping the homeless through its actions, but also by sharing the experience and spreading the word in the community.
Now is the time to look forward for Street Soccer DC Metro, a program that will include the Knights, the Tigers of Arlington and, hopefully, Montgomery County Street Soccer before long. Our goal will be to continue to promote Street Soccer as a community-builder and an outlet for our participants, as well as to raise awareness by engaging people in the beautiful game. We look forward to seeing you at our next event!
