Jim Sadowski Elected USASA President
USASA SOCCER ELECTS JIM SADOWSKI NATIONAL PRESIDENT AT ITS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM)
(Chicago, IL) Jim Sadowski was elected President of the United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA) at its Annual General Meeting in Dallas, Texas, this past weekend. The USASA is the preeminent adult amateur soccer organization in the U.S. with a membership of 70 member organizations including national and multi-state leagues, affiliate member organizations and state associations, including over 220,000 players. Sadowski will begin a 2-year term, starting immediately. Sadowski succeeds John Motta who had been President of USASA for the last 10 years.
Said, Sadowski, “With courage, belief and commitment, we can take advantage of the tremendous opportunities that lie ahead, including membership growth, diversity, addressing the referee shortage and other goals. Already, Sadowski is spearheading a 5-year planning effort and strategic business plan, for USASA. He observes, “Planning is never enough. We must execute to achieve our goals.”
Sadowski enjoys an active and diverse career in soccer. He has been on the board of the USASA since 2023, as well as serving on its governance committee and numerous other positions. He was President of the Metropolitan DC/Virginia Soccer Association and inducted into the Virginia-DC Soccer Hall of Fame in 2018. He also founded the Capital Coed Soccer League and oversaw its growth from 8 teams to over 36 teams. Sadowski is currently a Grade 8 referee having officiated at over 600 matches, and is currently a USSF referee.
Sadowski is also an attorney/Partner of the law firm, Greenstein DeLorme & Luchs, where he has worked since 1982. He received his Juris Doctor degree from The Columbus School of Law at Catholic University. Jim has a Bachelor’s Degree from George Washington, where he played varsity soccer, as a walk on, from 1985-1987. He was also captain of the Arlington Tigers and GWU Colonials competitive men’s teams, from 1986-1999. Jim played and served as manager for the Mall Rats Coed team from 1994-2009.
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ABOUT USASA
The United States Adult Soccer Association is the national association for adult amateur soccer in the United States. Established in 1982, USASA oversees a wide range of adult soccer programs, leagues, and competitions, providing opportunities for players of varying skill levels to engage in the sport. It is a member association with nearly 70 member organizations including national and multi-state leagues, affiliate member organizations and state associations, including over 220,000 players. USASA promotes the growth and development of adult amateur soccer at both the recreational and competitive levels. USASA is a member of the United States Soccer Federation and plays a vital role in advancing adult soccer in the United States.
United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA)
7000 S. Harlem Ave.
Bridgeview, IL 60455
Phone: 630-614-1280
USASA Soccer Hall of Fame Release
For more information or to schedule
an interview, please contact:
Leo Levinson – 215-545-4600
leo@grouplevinson.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
USASA SOCCER HALL OF FAME INDUCTS 3 AT ITS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) GALA
(Chicago, IL) American adult soccer luminaries, Rob LaVielle, Fritz Marth, and Cezar Wasecki-Wislocki, will be inducted into the USASA Soccer Hall of Fame during tonight’s AGM gala in Frisco, Texas, according to Bruce Bode, Executive Director of the United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA), the preeminent adult amateur soccer federation in the U.S. with its membership of fifty-four state associations and over 220,000 players. Said Bode, “We celebrate our 2024 Hall of Fame inductees for their leadership and direct impact on the significant growth in participation and fandom of adult amateur soccer in the United States. Their energy and love of the game has helped enhance soccer’s presence and made it accessible to more people, at every level, than ever before.”
The three inductees are honored for their significant accomplishments and contributions to the sport of soccer in the United States:
Rob LaVielle:
LaVielle’s work was invaluable to the growth of adult amateur soccer in Florida during his time as Florida State Soccer League President and Florida State Soccer Association President. Not only did adult participation and referee development dramatically improve under his leadership, he was able to foster a soccer environment that lead amateur side Kickers FC to capture three National Amateur Cup trophies and the 1989 US Open Cup title. On the national stage, LaVielle was a invaluable presence as USASA Region III Director and USSF Adult Council Commissioner, helping provide more socceropportunities nationwide.
Fritz Marth:
Player, coach, referee, administrator, team owner, Fritz Marth was born into a soccer-loving German immigrant family – in fact the Fitz Marth USASA Amateur Cup, now in its hundredth year was named for his father. Marth became the manager/coach of Hoboken FC’s Men’s Reserve Team and then served on Hoboken FC’s Board of Directors and as a Trustee of the Cosmopolitan Soccer League. Nationally, he was appointed Regional Cups Commissioner for USASA Region I, Regional Deputy Director and Regional Director, serving eight years on the USASA National Board of Directors. In 2024, he was re-elected to an unprecedented seventh term as an Adult Commissioner and elected to the United States Soccer Federation’s Board of Directors.
Cezar Wasecki-Wislocki:
A dedicated player from a young age, Wasecki-Wislocki would join the Bay State Soccer League after graduating from Boston University. He would eventually ascend to the role of league president and beyond that, President of the Massachusetts Adult Soccer Association. Under Wasecki-Wislocki, membership rose by 20% and MASS became the second-largest adult soccer association in the nation. Nationally, Wasecki-Wiscoki successfully oversaw Region 1 tournament operations and the prestigious Veteran’s Cup at SoccerFest in his role on the USASA Board of Directors.
The USASA Hall of Fame was established in 2006 to honor individuals who significantly contributed to the growth of adult amateur soccer in the United States. For a complete list of all members of the USASA Hall of Fame, visit: https://usadultsoccer.com/usasa-hall-of-fame/
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ABOUT USASA
The United States Adult Soccer Association is the national association for adult amateur soccer in the United States. Established in 1982, USASA oversees a wide range of adult soccer programs, leagues, and competitions, providing opportunities for players of varying skill levels to engage in the sport. Through its fifty-four state associations, with over 220,000 players and national leagues, USASA promotes the growth and development of adult amateur soccer at both the recreational and competitive levels. USASA is a member of the United States Soccer Federation and plays a vital role in advancing adult soccer in the
United States.
United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA)
7000 S. Harlem Ave.
Bridgeview, IL 60455
Phone: 630-614-1280
Email:
Website: https://www.usadultsoccer.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usadultsoccer
Twitter: @usadultsoccer
Instagram: instagram.com/usadultsoccer
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Oldest Ongoing Soccer Tournament In The U.S. To Celebrate Its 100th Anniversary With 2024 Amateur Cup Championship
The winner of the title of National Amateur Cup Champion is the top distinction that an elite amateur soccer club can earn in the United States.
We’re pleased to celebrate 100 years of amateur soccer in the United States with this prestigious tournament. It is a testament to the longevity and growing popularity of the sport in America.”
— John Motta – President, USASA
CHICAGO, IL, UNITED STATES, May 22, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ — The competition to compete and win the Fitz Marth Cup, awarded to the winner of the National Amateur Cup Soccer Tournament, will occur July 25-28, 2024 in DeKalb, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. The competition is held under the auspices of the USASA (United States Adult Soccer Association), the preeminent amateur soccer association in the United States with over 220,000 members. The winner of the title of National Amateur Cup Champion is the top distinction that an elite amateur soccer club can earn in the United States. The amateur soccer club, SC MesoAmerica of Los Angeles, was the 2023 champion.
In 2024, The National Amateur Cup Soccer Tournament brings together four elite amateur teams from throughout the United States to compete, in the semifinal and final games. The tournament will feature 4 days of men’s and women’s semifinal matches, leading to the final. Teams qualify to compete in the semifinals after first winning their own State’s or region’s championship. Unlike other amateur competitions in the U.S., the National Amateur Cup tournament is open to any amateur adult team in the U.S., that enters and competes in one of the regional qualifying events.
Said John Motta, President of USASA, “We’re pleased to celebrate 100 years of amateur soccer in the United States with this prestigious tournament. It is a testament to the longevity and growing popularity of the sport in America.”
DeKalb Illinois, where the National Amateur Cup soccer tournament is being held, returns the national championship to its home, Chicago, Illinois, the site of the first amateur soccer championship competition, which was held in 1924. The local USASA club, Dekalb County United, will serve as the host organization.
The winner of the Fitz Marth Cup also receives a place in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup competition. Another historic tournament, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup competition is conducted on a single-game, knockout basis and open to professional and amateur teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer.
In addition to the competition on the field, the 100th-anniversary celebration will include a variety of festivities, according to USASA Executive Director Bruce Bode. He said, “We are planning fan zones and special guest appearances. We will also highlight the history of this tournament during the build up to and at the finals. We want to create an unforgettable experience for players, fans and families, and create an environment for attracting and welcoming many new fans to the U.S. soccer community.”
The Rise Of Amateur Adult Athletes In A Society Of Pros
The amateur adult athlete doesn’t get paid to play. Ironically, most actually pay to play sports as adults. Quite simply, amateur adult athletes play for love of the sport and the camaraderie of a team.
The common thread that ties amateur and professional adult athletes together is sport. However, this article will highlight the unabashedly American tradition of playing sports as an adult and its contrast to the professional scene
The Birth Of The Amateur Athlete
The word “amateur” comes from a French derivation of the Latin word “amator”, which means lover. When applied to sports, it refers to someone who participates in a sport because they love the game and not because they are being paid for their activity.
Although the idea of amateurism has been mistakenly attributed to the ancient Greeks, it is more likely a romanticized concept enhanced during the resurrection of the modern-day Olympics in 1896, where it was stipulated that only non-professionals could participate.
Money Changes Everything
In recent years, the Olympics have modified their amateurs-only stance to include professional athletes’ eligibility to compete as well. In fact, in much of elite-level sports today in the United States, there is little about the athletic experience that has not been monetized.
Although The Masters golf tournament still reserves a spot or two for a top amateur golfer, most other elite sports competitions are strictly among professionals.
Whether it’s record-breaking transfers, multi-million dollar contracts, or the advent of NIL deals at the collegiate level, today, little separation between elite sports and money remains. This thought begs the question: where does organized sport leave the amateur athlete, the ones playing for nothing more than kinship and glory— the ones who step onto the field night after night emboldened simply by the love of the game? Is there room for the amateur athlete in today’s sporting world
Soccer Leads The Pack Of Amateur Adult Athletes
Few sports in the United States embrace their amateur roots as much as soccer. It would not be until the 1990s that the country saw the founding of an established professional league in the game. Despite that tenure, which continues to this day, professional soccer in the United States continues to be slower in achieving acceptance by the general population than other sports.
By comparison, amateur soccer, at both the youth and adult levels, has enjoyed meteoric growth throughout the country, exemplified by the hundreds of new amateur teams that continue to form every year.
Community & Heritage Run Deep For Amateur Athletes
When you look at America’s amateur soccer teams, there is a major unifying factor—community. Initially, American soccer gained popularity largely through the play of immigrant communities in the Northeast. This can still be seen today at the adult amateur level.
Look at any adult amateur league, and you’ll find teams such as NY Pancyprian-Freedoms and RWB Adria, names that proudly proclaim their cultural heritage. This is in stark contrast to the increasingly international and mercenary façade of professional sport.
In today’s world, people feel like they see themselves less and less in their “local” professional teams. Yet amateur sport provides a true place close to home where someone can identify and feel like they belong.
The Goal Is Different For Amateur Athletes
Additionally, amateur athletes are the antithesis of the “hustle culture” that has become increasingly popular in many online spaces, such as TikTok and Instagram. This contemporary mentality advocates that everything should be done in the pursuit of growing followers and or creating a material benefit. In this culture, hobbies cannot simply be something one does for fun. Instead, they must be a source of revenue or growing connectedness.
“Work without a tangible benefit” is derided as not “maximizing your potential.” However, the goal of amateur athletics is purely individualized. The amateur athlete plays for other reasons, such as fitness or discipline, or simply because he or she enjoys participating as part of a team effort. Amateurs play because they love the sport and their sporting community.
Another advantage adult amateur sports offers is that it promotes diversity in skills and openness to all. In the sport of soccer, there are numerous websites, like Adults Play Sports, where one can find a team nearby, no matter what skill level one has.
Although it is true that there are elite amateur teams and leagues that are so skilled that they can–and do– compete against professional teams, amateur soccer teams are plentiful. Most open the door to all, including beginners and those whose rusty college skills need awakening.
What motivates an amateur player, if not money? The beauty of amateurism is that every amateur athlete gets to decide what they want to get out of participation.
For some adult athletes, it’s simply a way to get out of the house for a couple of hours a week. For others, there is a defined fitness goal they are striving toward. For some, it is simply being part of their team’s community. For others, they eye participation as a means of enhancing their skills, leading to upward progression in the sport. Everyone gets to set their own goals.
One can strive to be the best, but for most, the expectation is to be the best version of oneself and to have fun.
Love Of The Game: From Pro To Amateur Adult Athlete
The love of the game is exemplified by a story about soccer star Sacha Kljestan, who had a storied career in professional soccer.
One day, after retiring from professional soccer, Sacha was in his gym working out when he had a chance meeting with someone who suggested that he join their amateur team. Kljestan joined the Des Moines Menace team as an amateur for their US Open Cup first-round match, where he contributed to their upset win.
Sacha said that it was his love of the game that brought him back—spoken like a true amateur.
The United States Adult Soccer Association Bridges The Gap For Adult Soccer Players
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) estimates that just 0.9 percent of collegiate athletes go on to compete professionally, which leaves the door wide open to those who would like to continue to play sports as adults. In amateur soccer, the only barrier to entry is the ability to find a place to play.
Although there are a number of valuable apps that help amateurs find nearby teams, the United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA) is America’s largest amateur organization, with over 2000 men’s and women’s member teams throughout the U.S., encompassing all levels. Visiting their website can help connect players to nearby compatible teams.
Amateur Sports Fans: The Unsung Heroes
I cannot write an article on amateur sports without mentioning the importance of amateur sports fans. The efforts of millions of amateur athletes around the country must be supported. Amateur teams need their local communities to stand up and support them and cheer them on from the sidelines of whatever venue they find to play at. Even just one cheering fan can make all the difference.
In today’s hyper-competitive world, the amateur athlete is more important than ever. For themselves, amateur sports provide an escape from the digital world and the 24-hour media cycle while enjoying a safe, healthy, competitive pursuit.
Amateur athletes help keep sports alive and thriving. There will always be a place for the amateur athlete.
Bruce Bode
Guest Post Contributor
DeKalb County United to host USASA National Amatuer Cup
With women fresh off state cup title, president John Hall hopes to increase local awareness about club
Since its founding in 2017, the DeKalb County United soccer club has been looking to elevate itself in the community.
This week, president John Hall said the club is making a big splash in that department, hosting the 100th United States Adult Soccer Association National Amateur Cup at Northern Illinois University’s soccer stadium in DeKalb.
“For us, since we started the club, it’s been hard to put ourselves in the forefront of the community,” Hall said. “There’s still a lot of people who don’t know we exist. So this was a way, through some extra marketing and extra attention, maybe people realize we’re here.”
FC Arizona and FC Milwaukee Torrent will play one men’s semifinal Thursday and New York Pancyprian Freedoms and Tobacco Road FC will play in the other, with the title game at 7 p.m. Sunday.
On the women’s side, the Rochester Lazers will face Winger FC in one semifinal while Pan World Women and Edgewater Castle FC will meet in the other. The title game will be Sunday.
Before the men’s final Saturday, United will face Steel City at 4:30 p.m. in its season finale.
“We’re proud of our community, and we’re proud of our club,” Hall said. “This was a way to showcase it on a little bigger stage than just the Midwest Premier Leagues or women’s leagues or state cup. It was our first opportunity to do something bigger, and we jumped all over it.”
Hall said memorabilia from 100 years of the event will be displayed throughout the weekend.
Back in November, Hall said he started talking with USASA president Bruce Bode about hosting the event. What started as informal talks snowballed quickly into DeKalb hosting the event.
“I’ve known him for a few years through this soccer journey, and I just kind of mentioned off-the-cuff actually how it would be really cool to bring to DeKalb,” Hall said. “We could help with marketing and bring attention to it. I think a light bulb went off through a series of phone calls and emails. We put a proposal together and made the official bid. Fortunately, they decided to go with us.”
While Hall said that hosting the tournament helps put the team in the national spotlight, he’s really hoping it helps make an impact locally.
“Certainly it’s nice for people around the country to understand we’re a club and what we’re about,” Hall said. “Everybody loves our logo and all that. But national attention doesn’t really move the needle as far as we’re concerned with community impact and sustainability.”
The women’s team is fresh off winning the Illinois State Cup with a 7-0 victory over Rockford on Saturday and the men’s team hasn’t lost a league game since June 26.
But Hall said putting on an event the scale of the Cup and bringing in eight teams to the community and the tourism revenue that comes with that is a whole different ballgame.
“It’s an exciting opportunity to bring a bigger event to town,” Hall said. “It will put us on the map a little bit.”
National Amateur Cup tells the story of the beautiful game. By Dan Vaughn
National Amateur Cup tells the story of the beautiful game.
by Dan Vaughn
Soccer America Confidential
July 22, 2024
In a country as young as the United States, 100 years is a long time.
In 1924, the National Amateur Cup final was played for the first time, crowning a champion of American amateur soccer. Every year since, excluding the 2020 pandemic year, amateur clubs from around the country have played through a bracket until the final two face off for the title of best amateur soccer team.
USASA executive director Bruce Bode, describes the history of the Cup as important, though a little complicated in the beginning. “At the time the Amateur Cup was founded in 1924, it was before the founding of U.S. Soccer (the organization), and amateur soccer clubs were the real representatives of American soccer. There were a lot of factory and ethnic teams, primarily from the Midwest and East.”
The first amateur cup final was played between two such clubs: a factory team, Fleisher Yarn, and an ethnic team, Chicago Swedish Americans. Fleisher won the first final 3-0.
Since then, there have been champions from across the country. Teams from Philadelphia to Denver, Dallas to Detroit, have won the National Amateur Cup. The list of past amateur cup holders is the history of the sport, showing the spread of soccer from the East Coast to the Rust Belt and out West. The history of the Cup tells the story of the beautiful game.
This year’s finals will take place in Dekalb County, Illinois, just outside of Chicago, with the semifinals kicking off on Thursday and the championship match on Saturday to see which team will hoist the Fritz Marth Cup. The host organization of this year’s tournament is USASA local member, Dekalb County United.
2024’s Semifinalists
The participants in this year’s semifinals come from across the country, representing the four regions that USASA divides the country into. This year’s teams are a perfect blend of old and new school teams, displaying both the legacy and trends in American soccer.
Region I is represented by the Pancyprian Freedoms, a club founded by Greek immigrants in New York City in 1974. The team is a throwback to the many ethnic clubs that have won the tournament over the years and is highly decorated, winning the U.S. Open Cup three times in the early 80’s.
The team from Region II is a new face in the tournament, Milwaukee Torrent. Founded by former Bayer Leverkusen academy player, Andreas Davi, the team plays in the NPSL and is a perennial playoff contender, including this season. This is the club’s first time playing in the Amateur Cup.
Region III is represented by repeat-winner Tobacco Road FC. Created by a group of former teammates in 2014, the team has grown into a club soccer powerhouse in North Carolina. This marks the second year Tobacco Road has been the Region III winner. Last year it lost in the semifinals to eventual champion, MesoAmerica FC.
FC Arizona, which was just knocked out of the NPSL playoffs, is the champion of Region IV. While the team officially hails from Phoenix, the club has feeder programs throughout the state and extends from age five through semi-pro adult. FC Arizona is a developing program that is expanding in its home state.
Eyes on the prize
While every club sees competitions like these in their unique ways, every team representative highlighted the significance of the USASA Amateur Cup and the value it would bring to their organization and players.
“The Amateur Cup is another great event to bring teams together from across the country. FC Arizona will always look to showcase our players, and look for opportunities to help them go to the next level. A lot of eyes are on our club right now,” said FC Arizona head coach Alejandro Aguilar.
Pancyprian assistant coach Paul Kontonis focused on his team’s storied history and how the Amateur Cup would be the newest addition to the New York club’s impressive resume. “Our expectation is to get to the final and play for a championship. That is what we are planning for.”
“Winning a national championship is obviously something unique. Now that you are in the semifinal, you obviously want to go all the way,” said Torrent’s Andreas Davi. Cedric Burke, Tobacco Road’s founder and head coach, is locked in on how close his team came last year and how he wants this year to be different: “Winning this title is why we started this club.”
For Bruce Bode and USASA, it’s the opportunity to showcase its organization members from across the country for a weekend to a large national audience. “We want to have an event where everyone walks away from it and says ‘this was great!’ We want the teams to have a great experience and want to come back again.”
USASA Announces 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees
The United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA) is proud to announce the inductees for the 2024 USASA Hall of Fame. This year’s distinguished inductees – Rob LaVielle, Fritz Marth, and Cezar Wasecki-Wislocki have made significant contributions to the sport of soccer at both the local and national levels. Their dedication, leadership, and passion for the game have left an indelible mark on the soccer community.
Rob LaVielle: A Pillar of Adult Soccer
Rob LaVielle’s contributions to soccer in Florida and across the nation are truly exceptional, spanning roles as a player, coach, and administrator. His leadership has left an indelible mark on the sport at all levels. As President of the Florida State Soccer League (FSSL), Rob elevated the league, prioritizing services and playing opportunities. He established competitive divisions, including an Over-40 division, and introduced league and division cups, ensuring ample competitive play for teams. Under his leadership, FSSL teams, such as Kickers FC, Raiders FC, and Aztecs FC, excelled in State and National Cups, with Kickers FC achieving National Amateur and Over-30 championships.
Rob’s influence extended as President of the Florida State Soccer Association (FSSA), where he significantly boosted adult participation, coaching licenses, and the development of referees at state, regional, and national levels. His strategic planning and leadership were pivotal in these advancements. Nationally, as USASA Region 3 Director and USASA Board Member, Rob enhanced relationships and soccer opportunities within the region and beyond. He was a staunch supporter of the Select Team Program and the National Amateur and Over-30s National Championship Cups. His tenure as a USSF Adult Council Commissioner was marked by innovative ideas and strong advocacy for adult soccer. Rob LaVielle’s contributions to soccer at the league, state, and national levels have been profound, making him a deserving candidate for the 2024 USASA Hall of Fame.
Fritz Marth: A Lifetime in Soccer
Born into a soccer-loving German immigrant family, FritzMarth’s passion for the sport was evident from an early age. His parents took him to Schuetzen Park in North Bergen, New Jersey, to watch the Hoboken Football Club of 1912 (Hoboken FC). As a child, he played for the U-10 boys’ team of the Sportsfriends Soccer Club in Wayne, New Jersey, until he was 17. He then transitioned to refereeing, officiating youth and adult games almost every weekend for six years, earning recognition from the Minolta Suburban Youth Soccer League.
After earning a degree in Civil Engineering from Drexel University and working on the Orange Line construction in Chicago, Fritz returned to New Jersey. He became the manager/coach of Hoboken FC’s Men’s Reserve Team, leading them to back-to-back division championships in 1998 and 1999. During this time, he also served on Hoboken FC’s Board of Directors and as a Trustee of the Cosmopolitan Soccer League.
Fritz’s involvement expanded nationally in 1995 when he was appointed Regional Cups Commissioner for USASA Region I. He was later elected Regional Deputy Director in 2005 and Regional Director in 2010, serving eight years on the USASA National Board of Directors. Continuing his service, Fritz has held numerous roles at both local and national levels, including Adult Commissioner for US Soccer since 2012, USASA National Cups Chairman in 2022, and USASA Vice President in 2023. In 2024, he was re-elected to an unprecedented seventh term as an Adult Commissioner and elected to the United States Soccer Federation’s Board of Directors. Fritz’s lifelong dedication to soccer, marked by his leadership and contributions, has profoundly impacted the sport at every level, making him a deserving candidate for the 2024 USASA Hall of Fame.
Cezar Wasecki-Wislocki: A Soccer Leader and Enthusiast
Cezar Wasecki-Wislocki’s commitment to soccer is unparalleled. Beginning his journey at age 7 in Sweden, Cezar played for a local Division 2 club and continued through college and into the Bay State Soccer League in Massachusetts. His passion propelled him from player to team manager, then league president, and eventually to Mass Adult Soccer Association (MASS) President.
Under his leadership, MASS saw significant improvements: streamlined operations, enhanced financial transparency, an upgraded website, and a more efficient registration process. His efforts resulted in a 20% membership increase, making MASS the second-largest adult association in the country. Cezar’s influence extends to the national level, having served on the USASA Board of Directors as an At Large Director and chaired major tournaments like the Veteran’s Cup (SoccerFest) and USASA Region 1 Tournaments. Known for his energy, positivity, and dedication to continuous improvement, Cezar has earned a reputation as an ambassador for soccer. His exemplary leadership and tireless work make him a deserving candidate for the 2024 USASA Hall of Fame.
Region I First Round Complete
First Round Complete
Final 8 Set for 28 April
(15 April) The final match of the first round of our Amateur Cup qualifiers ended with Christos FC of Maryland outlasting the Alexandria Reds of National Premier Soccer League in penalty rounds after a 1:1 draw. This game was rescheduled after a communication gaffe saw their original date without referees. After a scoreless first half, Manny Ruiz opened the affair with a strike in the 50th minute. His goal appeared to advance the Reds to the next round but Kyle Saunderson tied it up in the waning minutes to send it to extra time. Christos prevailed when it went into penalty rounds 4:2.
The prior ties of the first round were played the week prior. Awaiting the Reds/Christos winner was Los Toros of Metro DC/Virginia who handily shutout Lancaster City FC of Eastern Pennsylvania 6:0. Jack Stone led with a hat trick as Seth Cain, Carlos Hernandez and Ziggey Aggrey contributed. The other South brackets winners saw Steel Pulse FC (MD) edge West Chester United (EPA) 1:0 from a goal by Jonny Humberto Ramos at the end of the first half. They will host Eastern Penn’s Vereinigung Erzgebirge who defeated Virginia Marauders FC (MDCVA) 3:1. Alex Hajj, Antoine Hoppenot and Jalen Weatherspoon tallied for VE with Matthew Martinez scoring the lone goal for the Marauders.
The North bracket saw Region cup holder Newtown Pride FC of Connecticut shutout Massachusetts side Sete de Setembro 2:0. Shanardo Green and Gustavo Gomes put the goals through in the second half for Newtown. Their quarterfinal opponent will be the
NY Pancyprian Freedoms of Eastern New York who went through after penalty rounds against their Eastern Premier Soccer League rival Hoboken FC 1912 of New Jersey. In a match that saw the lead see-saw in regulation and extra time, the teams put away 3 goals apiece. Luis Argudo gave the Freedom the lead in the first half but Hoboken’s Jameson Railey drew it even early in the second. James Thristino put Pancyprian ahead briefly only to find Corey Burkhardt tie it again four minutes later. The Jersey side took their first lead on a goal from Alberto Pangrazzi in extra time. That appeared to be the game winner until Thristino hit one at the end of the match. The Pancyprian prevailed in penalty rounds 5:3. NPSL side New York Shockers defeated SC Vistula Garfield (NJ) 2:1. Adel Cekic converted a penalty in the 60th while Filippo Bellu doubled the lead in the 70th. Hubert Dul was good on his penalty kick but it was not enough for the Jersey side. The Shockers will host Providence City FC (MA) in their quarterfinal slot. The first-round match between Providence and NY Greek American (ENY) was not played when Greek American withdrew in protest of field conditions. The protest was reviewed under the auspices of the USASA National Cup Committee and determined that it failed. As the team had abandoned the match, the result was forfeited and given in favor of Providence City FC.
We also played a Werner Fricker Cup quarterfinal, the rubber match between West Chester and Steel Pulse. The Eastern Penn side got the better of their Maryland rival this time with a 5:2 victory. Kenneth Roby put in a two-goal, two-assist performance including and assist to Joshua Pulla who had his own brace. Ridge Robinson tallied the other goal.
We move onto the Gerhard Mengel Cup, the Over-30 Championship this weekend. First game on Saturday evening with Torres FC (MA) hosting Sportfriends Polonia SC (NJ). On Sunday the other North bracket has New York Ukrainians (ENY) against Greenwich FC (CT) while the South features NoVa FC (MDCVA) playing Vereinigung Erzgebirge (EPA) and Christos FC (MD) traveling to Rochester to meet Spencerport Storm of Western New York.
Region I Kicks Off 100th Anniversary of the Amateur Cup
Sixteen Teams Battle For Region Title
(5 April) Founded in 1923 as the National Amateur Challenge Cup in response to the growing number of teams entering the National Challenge Cup (Open Cup), the first tournament was not completed due to inclement weather. In 1924, the first side to hoist the inaugural cup was Philly powerhouse, Fleisher Yarn, defeating Chicago Swedish-Americans in the final. Fittingly, the 100th edition kicks off in Region I with the winner heading to DeKalb, Illinois, 25-28 July with USASA club, Dekalb County United, serving as the host organization to determine who will lift the Fritz Marth Trophy.
This Sunday, eight first round matches will be played throughout the Region. Newtown Pride SC of Connecticut look to defend their Region title, falling short last summer in the National final to SC Mesoamerica of Southern California. They will host Sete de Setembro of Massachusetts at Newtown High School Blue & Gold Stadium in a northern bracket battle. Another northern tie has SC Vistula Garfield of New Jersey hosting National Premier Soccer League entry New York Shockers. Two Eastern New York clubs with Open Cup pedigree are among the mix. The NY Greek American will travel to Rhode Island to meet Providence City FC while the NY Pancyprian Freedoms are involved in an Eastern Premier Soccer League derby against Hoboken FC 1912 of New Jersey.
The southern bracket features former the winner of the 2016 edition of the Amateur Cup, Christos FC of Maryland, crossing the Potomac River to take on Alexandria Reds of the Northern Premier Soccer League. Three sides from Eastern Pennsylvania are among the southern group with the Hank Steinbrecher Cup holder West Chester United taking visitors Steel Pulse FC of Maryland, Vereinigung Erzgebirge entertaining Virginia Marauders FC of Metro DC-Virginia while Lancaster City FC head down to Los Toros of Metro DC-Virginia.
The winners advance to the quarterfinals that will be played on 28 April. The Region final is scheduled for Saturday, 15 June, at the Ukrainian American Sport Center in Horsham, Pennsylvania.
Adult Soccer Fest 2024 Greensboro, NC
USASA Adult Soccer Fest Kicks Off In Beautiful Greensboro, NC This July. Formerly, Veterans Cup, Adult Soccer Fest Is The Ultimate Soccer experience For Men & Women From Ages 30 To Over 75. Don’t Miss The unparalleled Fun, Camaraderie, And Competitive Adult Games Of The Summer.
In Memory Of Joe Barone: A Leader In The World Of Soccer
It Is With Profound Sadness That We At The USASA Bid Farewell To Joe (Giuseppe) Barone, Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother And Esteemed Past Npsl League Chairman, Who Passed Away Yesterday At Age 57.
It is with profound sadness that we at the USASA bid farewell to Joe (Giuseppe) Barone, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and esteemed past League Chairman for the NPSL, who passed away yesterday at age 57. Barone played an integral part of running the Brooklyn Italians Soccer Club for many years. Later he served as League Chairman for the NPSL, an USASA member, and grew the league to its current status. Joe led the NPSL from 2013 to 2018 with immense pride, during which the league experienced unprecedented expansion and brand recognition. When Rocco B. Commisso purchased the Italian Series A team ACF Fiorentina, Joe was announced to be placed permanently in Florence to serve as the Sporting Director.
Joe was more than just a soccer executive; and is remembered as being a proud Italian American immigrant, who was a tireless supporter of amateur soccer in the USA, and who found joy and purpose in helping young players reach their version of the American Dream, guiding them to find a path to play the game that they love. His passion for the game and unwavering commitment to excellence left an indelible mark on amateur and professional soccer.
Joe’s journey in soccer was fueled by his love for the sport and a remarkable talent. Born in southern Sicily, Barone moved to Brooklyn, New York at the age of eight. Following a successful career in the financial industry before becoming the League Chairman for the NPSL, followed by Senior Vice President of the New York Cosmos. He joined Fiorentina as General Manager in 2019, where he quickly earned a reputation for his dedication to the club’s success that gained the admiration of the Fiorentina fan base. Barone’s legacy in Florence includes the construction of Viola Park, Fiorentina’s new training center, overseeing the women’s team and title-winning youth sector. For five years, Barone masterminded Fiorentina’s player transfer strategy.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joe was beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His warmth, generosity, and fatherlike guardianship endeared him to players, colleagues and fans alike. He was not only a leader but also a mentor and friend, always ready to offer support and encouragement.
In honoring Joe’s memory, USASA would like to celebrate the remarkable life he lived and the countless lives he touched along the way.
Watch some terrific Adult Soccer
TOMORROW: Watch some terrific #adultsoccer-the 2024 ENYSSA Manning Cup Final on New Logical Sports…for the Premier Cup of Eastern New York Soccer, contested between 2 of the most historic clubs in NYC. https://www.enyssa.org #usopencup #epslsoccer #protagonistsoccer
USASA Region 1 match
USASA Region 1 match for Eastern NY amateur championship starts April 7: Pancyprians will host @HobokenFC1912; Greek Americans to visit @providencecity_. https://x.com/USASARegion1/status/1766497253806448966… #amateursoccer #adultsoccer #USASAsoccer
REGION 2 — Amateur Cup Entry Info
https://conta.cc/48OkO3Y
REGION 2 — Amateur Cup Entry Info — REGION 2
Do you play amateur adult soccer?
Do you play amateur adult soccer? USASA leagues provide the highest quality competition, at every level-like this champ, Southern States Soccer Club of the Gulf Coast Premier League. Use this app to find a team near you https://www.usadultsoccer.com/…/949796-member... #premierleague #USadultsoccer #USASA
National Amateur Cup is celebrating it’s 100th year!
Likely the oldest soccer competition in the U.S., the National Amateur Cup tournament is celebrating it’s 100th year in 2024. Cup championship starts in July, 2024. So register your team to compete! https://www.usadultsoccer.com/amateurcup
#amateurcup #amateuradultsoccer #adultsoccer
Bob Kepner And Sal Rapaglia – U.S. Soccer Life Members
Bob Kepner And Sal Rapaglia Have Been Nominated For Life Membership In The U.S. Soccer Federation, Which Is The Highest Honor Awarded By The National Council And Given To Individuals Who Have Made Significant Contributions In Promoting Soccer In The United States.#
BOB KEPNER
Kepner served as the U.S. Soccer Chairman of Credentials Committee from 2011-19, and is still a member of the committee. But that is only the tip of the proverbial iceberg for him.
He played midfield and served as co-captain for the University of North Carolina. He helped build the foundations of two state associations, serving as president of the North Carolina Amateur and Youth Soccer Associations. He is currently treasurer of both associations and also previously served on several North Carolina soccer committees. Kepner is a member of the North Carolina Soccer and U.S. Amateur Soccer Association Halls of Fame and has won USYSA Region III Director’s Award.
Kepner also played an important role in the formation of the youth and amateur State Cups. In fact, he is so revered in the state that the NCYSA named the President’s Cup tournament the Kepner Cup, in his honor. He also has served as Chairman of the Kids Safe Program for US Youth Soccer.
SAL RAPAGLIA
Born in Sicily, Italy, Rapaglia emigrated to the U.S. at the age of 15. He played with the famed Brooklyn Italians (then known as Palermo SC), before moving up the ladder as a coach and then as President of the Italian-American Soccer League. He stepped down from that post in 1979 to become President of the Eastern New York State Soccer Association. Except for a two-year term as the ENYSSA General Secretary, Rapaglia has held that position for 44 years.
Under Rapaglia’s direction, the state association developed Offerman Park in Brooklyn, N.Y. into the 10-field Verrazano Narrows Complex. With a new wave of immigrants entering the country in the 1980s and 1990s, Rapaglia and Eastern New York welcomed Hispanic and Latino teams and leagues to create a more diverse state association. Rapaglia and ENYSSA also expanded the number of women’s leagues in its membership. He also found time to create and be commissioner of the Northeast Super Soccer League.
Rapaglia, who has served on several Federation committees, was honored with the prestigious Werner Fricker Builder’s Award in 2006, the highest award that the Federation itself can bestow upon an individual. He is also a member of the Eastern New York Soccer Hall of Fame.
Joslynn Bigelow Named Carla Overbeck Leadership Award Recipient
Joslynn Bigelow won this year’s Carla Overbeck Leadership Award for her impactful work in the United States’ broad landscape of disability soccer with TOPSoccer- an adaptive soccer program for athletes with intellectual, developmental or physical disabilities. She serves as a TOPSoccer coach in her home state of Oregon, is the director for two local TOPSoccer programs and has been named the Oregon Youth Soccer Association (OYSA) TOPSoccer Coach of the Year. Bigelow also currently serves as Vice President for Oregon Adult Soccer Association, OYSA TOPSoccer Chair plus is an assistant coach for CP Soccer, and head coach of the Down Syndrome Sports of America Futsal National Team.
Bavarian United Named 2022 National Amateur Champion
The National Amateur Cup, one of the nation’s oldest soccer tournaments, named its 2022 champion August 7 in Milwaukee, WI.
Region II champion Bavarian United defeated Region I champion NOVA FC 1-0 to claim the Fritz Marth Trophy.
The competition featured the four USASA Regional champions from this year:
Region 1 – NOVA FC
Region 2 – Bavarian United
Region 3 – ASC New Stars
Region 4 – Los Angeles Strikers
Region I Finals – 18 & 19 June
FINALS TO DETERMINE WHO ADVANCES TO NATIONALS.
The Region I cup finals are this weekend at the Ukrainian American Sports Center in Horsham, Pennsylvania. Six titles are up for grab as a cumulation state and Region qualifiers that started as early as last September. The winners will go on to represent the Region in their respective national finals.
Our first championship match will be Saturday evening as the Renegades (MDCVA) and Safira FC (MA) battle for the Over-40 Cup. It will be the second final trip in a row for the Renegades who lost out to Fairfield GAC FC (CT) in penalty kicks last season.
Following the Over-40 will be the Amateur Cup for the Fritz Marth Trophy featuring 2019 champion Newtown Pride FC (CT) against NOVA FC (MDCVA). This is the first cup run for NOVA who defeated West Chester United (EPA) in the southern bracket semifinal.
Sunday morning, we kick off with the Gerhard Mengel Cup for the Over-30 Championship. This will be a replay of last season’s title match between cup holders Christos FC (MD) and NY Pancyprian Freedom (ENY).
For the second year in a row, we will play the Women’s Championship. Defending champion Sidekicks FC (MA) look hold off Hoboken FC 1912 (NJ).
We wrap it up with the Werner Fricker Cup for the Amateur Open Championship with West Chester United (EPA) taking on Jackson Lions FC (NJ).
Along with the finals, we also will run Men Under-23 Championship for the Gus Xikis Trophy over the weekend with that final taking place on Sunday.
The finals can be seen live on YouTube. Go to our link for finals.
Region Finals Almost Set
LAST SET OF QUALIFIERS THIS WEEKEND.
The Region is down to its final weekend of qualifiers with half of its slates set for next month’s finals that will be played at the Ukrainian American Sport Center in Horsham and the Vereinigung Erzgebirge Club in Warminster. This weekend we will find out who will play for the Amateur, Over-40 and Over-50 titles.
In the Amateur Cup, Newtown Pride FC of Connecticut will host FC Omens of Massachusetts in the northern semifinal. The Pride defeated NY Pancyprian Freedoms of Eastern New York 3:2 in their quarterfinal round. Gabriel Ganzer scored first for Newtown only to see a penalty from Joseph Holland draw it even before Holland put the Pancyprian ahead at half time. At the restart, Ronaldinho Diniz evened it up and Ganzer put away the game winner in the 82nd minute.
In the southern bracket, last season’s Region winner NOVA FC of Metro DC/Virginia will travel to Maryland to take on Sure Sports FC. In its first ever regional match, Sure Sports defeated West Chester United of Eastern Pennsylvania 4:1 to reach the semifinal. NOVA easily handled Appalachia Steel FC of Pennsylvania West 8:2 that included a hat trick from JP Ayolmbong.
The Werner Fricker Cup final will feature two former champions of the competition, West Chester United and Lansdowne Yonkers FC of Eastern New York. Cup holders West Chester defeated Christos FC of Maryland 3:1 to reach the title match. The Bhoys go through with the same result with a victory over Vistula Garfield SC of New Jersey in their semifinal tie.
The Gerhard Mengel Cup will see the NY Greek American of Eastern New York take on Vereinigung Erzgebirge of Eastern Pennsylvania for the Over-30 Championship. Paul Nattoli scored a brace and Sikele Silvester the game winner in a 3:2 win for the Greeks over Sportfriends Polonia SC of New Jersey. Markus Lahtinen and Mark Gallagher tallied for Sportfriends. VE drew 1:1 with the Tartan Devils of Pennsylvania West as Greg Shertzer put the East Penn side up in the 54th minute followed by Jolo Reuben tying it up just before the final whistle. VE edged their cross-state opponent 3:2 in penalty rounds.
In the Over-40 Cup, Christos FC earned its spot in the final after a lone goal from Dan Lader was enough to defeat Phoenix SC of Eastern Pennsylvania. John Schickert earned the shutout. They await to winner between Kel Kau Masters of Massachusetts and Manhattan Celtic Masters of Eastern New York who play this weekend.
The inaugural Over-50 Cup will feature Chesire Azzurri of Connecticut against True Soccer FC of Massachusetts in one semifinal while the Philly Bucks of Eastern Pennsylvania will host Christos FC.
Our finals weekend will be on 17 & 18 June and it includes the Women’s Championship along with the Men Under-23 Championship for the Gus Xikis Trophy. Registration for the U23 tournament is open until Monday, 29 May. Teams interested in the Women’s Championship should contact their State Association.
Region I Kicks Off 2023 Cup Qualifiers
THREE MATCHES START THE NEW SEASON.
The 2023 cup season gets on its way with three matches opening the qualifiers on 2 April: Amateur, Werner Fricker and Gerhard Mengel Cups.
In the Amateur Cup, we have a first round contest featuring West Chester United of Eastern Pennsylvania hosting Albion SC of Delaware 2:00 at Delacey Sports Complex in West Chester, Pennsylvania. This is the first entry of Albion in Region play taking on the experienced United who won the national Werner Fricker Cup last summer.
The Region will continue the tradition of the Werner Fricker Cup, whose roots go back to the National Challenge/Open Cup that for decades was carried by amateur sides. This “open title” features three clubs who have won the championship nationally over the past: Christos FC of Maryland, Lansdowned Yonkers FC of Eastern New York and previously mentioned West Chester United. Sunday we have a quarterfinal match between Christos and Appalachia Steel FC who is representing West Virginia in this tie. It is set for 1:30 at Laytonia Recreational Park in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
The final match kicking of the cup season sees Safira FC of Massachusetts traveling to Massapequa, New York to take on NY Greek American of Eastern New York in the Gerhard Mengel Cup. This Over-30 battle will take place at Field of Dreams at 1:00.
Our Region qualifiers involve teams from eleven State Associations of which several of their clubs competed in state cups to advance to the five events, which also includes the Over-40 and Over-50 Cups. More than 150 sides fought to reach these qualifiers. In addition to these cups, the Region will also hold the Women’s Championship along with the Under-23 Tournament for the Gus Xikis Trophy. It all concludes on the weekend of 17 & 18 June with a number of the winners moving forato the USASA National Cup Finals involving all four Regions.