..... TheRobleeReport.com

Home Opener: LIVESTRONG Sporting Park: June 9, 2011

2011-06-11T13:56:00.000-07:00

William Jewell College Women's and Men's Soccer Teams Selected to National Championships; Jewell Hosts 1st Round Games on November 20th

2010-11-15T14:32:00.000-08:00

William Jewell College women's team (14-2-2) and men's team (17-2) have each been selected to the 2010 NAIA Soccer National Championships. William Jewell College will host both a women's and men's first round game on November 20th. The WJC women will host Ashford-Iowa (15-4-2) at 4pm. The WJC men will host Concordia-Oregon (16-2-1) at 7pm.

BC Soccer: Golfing

2010-06-05T20:56:00.000-07:00

Benedictine soccer players Courtney Danze and Kelsey Schieber take some swings at the Benedictine Ravens Soccer Boosters Golf Tournament.

KC Brass (PDL) featured on Metro Sports (5/25/10)

2010-05-26T21:18:00.000-07:00

MAY 17: Kansas City Screening of Pelada

2010-05-13T13:05:00.000-07:00

Kansas City Screening of Pelada

Plus Q&A with director Ryan White immediately following the film!

Monday, May 17th at 7:00pm
Studio Movie Grill
7430 NW 87th Street
Kansas City, MO 64153Tickets: $10

Away from professional stadiums, bright lights, and manicured fields, there’s another side of soccer. Tucked away on alleys, side streets, and concrete courts, people play in improvised games. Every country has a different word for it. In the United States, we call it “pick-up soccer.” In Trinidad, it's "taking a sweat." In England, it's "having a kick-about." In Brazil, the word is “pelada,” which literally means "naked"—the game stripped down to its core. It’s the version of the game played by anyone, anywhere.

Pelada is a documentary following Luke and Gwendolyn, two former college stars who didn’t quite make it to the pros. Not ready for it to be over, they take off, chasing the game. From prisoners in Bolivia to moonshine brewers in Kenya, from freestylers in China to women who play in hijab in Iran, Pelada is the story of the people who play.

KC Wizards (MLS) Win 5-0 vs Evansville

2010-04-05T16:24:00.000-07:00

Picture: Lincoln Roblee and Jefferson Roblee pose with KC Wizards guest players (left to right) Haggai Leboo, J.D. Warman, Ryan Hennessy and Manny Tovar after the KC Wizards (MLS) 5-0 win over the University of Evansville at the Anheuser Busch Conference and Sports Center in Fenton, Missouri on April 3, 2010. All four guest players were multi-year players with the KC Brass (PDL) and all four also played youth soccer with the 87/88 KC Pace.

Notes: Ryan Hennessy (NKC HS/Missouri State) and Manny Tovar (Hickman Mills HS/William Jewell) each were issued a yellow card for hard tackles during the match...this was the 3rd appearance for J.D. Warman (Liberty HS) in a Wizards exhibition match (1st of 2010)...this was the first Wizards appearance in an exhibition match for Haggai Leboo (Washington HS/Rockhurst U), Hennessy and Tovar.

Goals:
KCW: Graham Zusi, 43rd minute
KCW: Sunil Chhetri, 47th minute
KCW: Sunil Chhertri, 62nd minute
KCW: Sunil Chhertri, 80th minute
KCW: Mauro Fuzetti, 89th minute

KC Wizards lineup: Eric Kronberg; Jonathan Leathers, Pablo Escobar (Ryan Hennessy 45), Aaron Hohlbein, Korede Aiyegbusi (J.D. Warman 60); Mauro Fuzetti, Graham Zusi (Manny Tovar 60), Haggai Leboo; Kyle Brown, Sunil Chhetri, Igor Kostrov.

2010 KC PACE FASTFORWARD PROGRAM

2009-12-03T22:17:00.000-08:00

KC Pace FastForward Program kicks off on March 10th!

The KC Pace FastForward Program is an exciting and elite soccer experience designed to accelerate the youth soccer player’s (boys and girls ages 10-18) development. Directed by the Jefferson Roblee, Lincoln Roblee and Burke Slusher: coaches of the 2005&2006 Missouri state champion KC Pace and the Kansas City Brass (PDL). The FastForward Program will give field players and goalkeepers a fun, progressive environment loaded with proven advanced training techniques of soccer champions.

Wednesday Nights at William Jewell College: March 10-April 28
5:30pm-7:00pm: 3rd-12th grade boys & girls
8 Training Sessions and adidas training jersey
Cost: $150/player (ENROLLMENT LIMITED TO FIRST 20 PLAYERS)

***KC Pace FastForward Program staff have coached more than 70 players who have gone on to achieve All America honors or sign professional contracts.**

PLAYER REGISTRATION & MEDICAL RELEASE
(Registration deadline: March 3, 2010)

Player name____________________________Position_________

Boy______Girl_____
Player birthdate____________________ Current Age____________
Address__________________City______________State_____ZIP_________
Player T-Shirt Size (Circle one): Youth-L Adult-M Adult-L
Parents Names__________________________________________
Home Phone Number___________________________

Parent cell phone #___________________ Accept text messages?_____
Best e-mail address________________________________________
School____________________________________

Club Team________________________________
Club Team Coach___________________________

Club Team Coach Phone #__________________________________
Club Team Coach e-mail____________________________________

I do hereby grant the permission to the KC Pace FastForward Program staff and their respective agents to secure such medical aid and hospital services as they deem necessary for the child noted on this form in the event he/she should sustain and injury or illness while attending the KC Pace FastForward Program. I agree to assume the cost of transportation and medical treatment in such an emergency situation. I have also indicated below any medical information of which the camp should be aware in consideration of the child’s physical and mental well being.
Player Name__________________________________________
Parent Signature_______________________ Date_____________
Family Doctor__________________________________________

Doctor Telephone________________________________________
Special Notes (Allergies)___________________________________
Family Health Care Carrier_________________________________
Health Care GroupName___________________________________
Health Care Policy # ______________________________________

Preferred Hospital________________________________________

I agree that the KC Pace FastForward Program staff and coaches shall not be liable for any injury or loss which my children may sustain while participating in the KC Pace FastForward Program, and I agree to indemnify and to hold harmless the KC Pace FastForward Program from any claim whatsoever. The above applicant is in good health and has my permission to participate in this program. In case of emergency, I grant permission for my son/daughter to be given emergency treatment at a local hospital.
Parent Signature______________________________ Date________________

Please make check ($150) payable to KC Pace FastForward and mail to:
KC Pace FastForward
Attn: Jefferson Roblee
8614 N. Cleveland Lane
Kansas City, MO 64156

Contact Jefferson at FastForward@kcpace.com or (816) 213-1876 for more info.

July 9, 2009: KC Brass win 1-0 over Springfield Demize

2009-07-24T01:33:00.000-07:00

Below is a short video of the July 9, 2009 PDL game of the KC Brass vs Springfield Demize at William Jewell College. KC Brass won the game 1-0 (Brass is wearing white).

July 4 Race

2009-07-04T23:24:00.000-07:00

KC Wizards vs Houston Dynamo in MLS, USA vs Grenada in Gold Cup, Serena vs Venus at Wimbledon or Kobiashi vs hotdogs...All of these match-ups were great July 4 competitions. Another July 4 competition that may or may not make SportsCenter is the match up of Jefferson vs Katie. Who will win the race?

USA Should Begin Preparing for 2014 in 2010

2009-06-03T22:38:00.000-07:00

You may have watched Wednesday night's World Cup qualifier: USA men lose 3-1 at Costa Rica. Landon Donovan's 90th minute penalty kick goal for the USA could give an impression that could confuse fans who didn't watch the game. The game wasn't as close as the score indicated. The USA was bad. Costa Rica was good. USA may have been more bad than Costa Rica was good. It looked like a 5-0 game (Costa Rica was playing "Ole Futbol" in the FIRST HALF). The USA has no excuses. On Wednesday night the USA was beaten by a better team. Costa Rica's players were better than USA's players. So which USA players should see significantly less or no playing time?: Altidore and Wynne are still works in progress. Both players need a lot more skill, savvy and experience to succeed at the international level. Torres looked good. Play Torres. Involve Robbie Rogers. If Rogers is not in the starting 11 have him available off the bench. Rogers is a talent and a risk taker. Of course Frankie Hejduk (injured, did not play) could have helped. Hejduk has developed into a very reliable right back. Wednesday night made me wonder if the soon to be 37 year old Brian McBride and the soon to be 46 year old Preki wanted to wear the USA jersey again....OK now I'm thinking that any team that could play as badly as the USA played Wednesday night couldn't possibly have any chance in 2010. It would be impossible for any truly good team to play so badly and then turn things around so quickly (a year with limited time together) and succeed later vs better competition. Once we qualify (USA should still qualify) for 2010, for the good of our national team, we should prepare for the 2010 World Cup and use players in the 2010 World Cup who could play in the 2014 World Cup (Freddy Adu, Jozy Altidore, Jonathan Bornstein, Michael Bradley, Kenny Cooper, Charlie Davies, Landon Donovan, Maurice Edu, Eddie Gaven, Tim Howard, Brad Guzan, Sacha Kljesten, Michael Parkhurst, Heath Pearce, Robbie Rogers, Jose Francisco Torres, etc.). The 5 year time span would provide a significant amount of time for the coaching staff to develop a very competitive and successful 2014 team with an advanced and understood style of play that is needed to have a chance to win a World Cup.

Josh Howard Scores for Soderhamns FF (Sweden)

2009-06-03T15:41:00.000-07:00

Josh Howard (Lee's Summit North HS, KC Attack, William Jewell College, KC Brass) has earned Man of the Match for Soderhamns FF (Sweden) in his two most recent matches. Photo: Josh celebrating his first professional goal in Soderhamns FF 2-0 win over Rasunda.

R.I.P.: Andy Shields (Funeral Arrangements)

2009-05-30T16:38:00.000-07:00

Funeral Arrangements for Andy Shields can be found at www.wjcsoccer.com .

R.I.P.: Andy Shields

2009-05-28T23:53:00.000-07:00

Andy Shields saved 8 of the 11 penalty kicks he faced during the 2006 regular season, playoffs and national tournament shootouts while in goal for William Jewell College. Note: Andy actually made all 8 PK saves...none missed the goal. Pictured: WJC goalkeeper Andy Shields makes a game winning PK shootout save at the 2006 NAIA National Tournament.

Andy Shields, 23 yeards old, passed away today, May 28, after suffering a severe stroke on May 25th. Andy is best known in the Kansas City soccer community for his goalkeeping excellence at Olathe North High School, Arsenal youth and William Jewell College. Andy was a starter and standout performer on William Jewell College's 2006 HAAC Champions, NAIA Region V Champion, National Tournament Qualifying and NAIA National Final Four team. His goalkeeping was the talk of the 2006 NAIA National Tournament which included incredible saves during two WJC shootout victories at nationals. Andy was named NAIA National Tournament All Tournament team in 2006. Prayers go out to the Shields family. Andy was loved and will be greatly missed and always remembered.
Link related to Andy Shields soccer: http://naia.cstv.com/sports/m-soccer/spec-rel/111806aah.html

Classic Matchup

2009-05-25T23:55:00.000-07:00

I know a lot of readers of this blog can't wait for Wednesday's (May 27, 2009) Champions League Final of Manchester United vs Barcelona...Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi It's going to be a good one. In the meantime I provide you with another classic matchup...Katie vs Emily. My nieces may not have the skills of C. Ronaldo and Messi (yet) but the joy is fun to watch.

Vote for Your Favorite Brazilian

2009-05-06T21:49:00.000-07:00

Check out the videos below and then vote for your favorite Brazilian soccer player in the left column of TRR.

May 3 in Iowa

2009-05-04T16:15:00.000-07:00

Lincoln Roblee, Kathryn Roblee and Jefferson Roblee celebrated May 3, 1971 together on May 3, 2009.

After recruiting May 1-2 for our respective women's college teams at the Tournament of Champions in Burlington, Iowa; we spent Sunday with our mother and grandmother in Perry, Iowa. Church, family, yardwork and some cake made for a good Sunday.

KC Pace FastForward Program

2009-04-22T20:55:00.000-07:00

Although it's been a few years since the 87/88 KC Pace graduated from youth soccer to elite college soccer programs and the PDL, the KC Pace still lives strong through the KC Pace FastForward Program (the annual 8 week program begins in March and ends in April). Below is a video of three 2009 KC Pace FastForward players going One v Camera.

Glimpse at KC Pace Video Diary

2009-04-20T23:27:00.000-07:00

Below is a few minutes of the KC Pace Video Diary (2006). The video is a glimpse of the team's success. In this part of the video you see some goals by various KC Pace players at events such as Friendlies in Springfield, Missouri and Omaha, Nebraska as well as the Tulsa Soccer Club Friendship Cup in Oklahoma, Metro United Showcase in Illinois, Disney Soccer Showcase in Florida and USYSA Regional Championships in Wisconsin.

Driving the Ball

2009-04-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

I know when you read "Driving the Ball" as the title of this article you probably thought the videos below would be more about passing the ball over distance, crossing the ball or shooting on goal...usually you would have been correct.

Rewind: 2006 U18 Missouri State Final: KC Pace win 3-1 over Scott Gallagher

2009-04-18T01:16:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Missouri State Cup brackets were recently announced. Let's rewind to 2006 State Cup. Below is a video of the 2006 U18 Missouri State Cup Final. The KC Pace won 3-1 over Scott Gallagher to win their second straight State Cup championship. Goals in this game were scored by Brant Bishop, Matt Happy and J.D. Warman. Video shot by Steve Ole Olson of sgfsoccer.com .

Rewind: Maradona the Player

2009-03-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

This past weekend included some interesting matches. The first match of the inaugural WPS season (LA Sol beats Washington Freedom 2-0 in front of 14,000+ at Home Depot Center), Week #2 of MLS and a 2010 World Cup qualifying weekend. USA's men had a dramatic 2 goal comeback to tie at El Salvador 2-2.

In other World Cup qualifying Argentina won 4-0 over Venezuela. Argentina's coach is the legendary former player Diego Maradona. Maradona, the player, had a mix of confidence, attitude, skill and soccer savvy. Some soccer enthusiasts wonder if a player like Maradona would be as successful on the field in the today's soccer world. For those of you who still wondering I can answer that for you. Maradona would be very successful in today's soccer. If you have any doubts just look at Argentina's newest #10, Lionel Messi. Messi could be considered a version of Maradona-light...and Messi is already the leading candidate for 2009 World Player of the Year. Wondering over. Maradona was unique and would be successful in any era.

Most of today's college and youth players never saw Maradona play. For those players I recommend this video. I approve and recommended the video for all audiences.

America's Team

2009-03-21T00:41:00.000-07:00

The Kansas City Wizards begin their 2009 MLS regular season tonight vs Toronto FC. Now although Major League Soccer was created to help develop american soccer players for the U.S. National Team (no more than 5 foreigners were allowed on each roster in the innaugural 1996 season) the league rules have changed. MLS teams now average 9 foreign born players on each roster. FIFA's Sepp Blatter has recently suggested that leagues adopt a 6/5 rule...At least six players with citizenship of the league their club plays in playing on the field at one time, allowing no more than 5 foreign players playing at one time.

Former Dallas Tornado (NASL) and american Kyle Rote, Jr. stated that he would like to see a limit of 5 foreign starters per team. Of course he made that statement in a Sports Illustrated article in 1979 (when the 24 team North American Soccer League required only 2 North American starters per team per game). U.S. soccer players have accomplished and developed a lot in the 30 years since Kyle Rote, Jr. played however today's top american league, MLS, still isn't as domestic player friendly as some would think.

During Thursday's MLS kickoff Seattle Sounders FC played 13 players...6 of those players were foreign born (6 American/5 foreign in starting lineup). NY Red Bulls played 13 players...8 of those players were foreign born (4/7 in the starting lineup). Seattle was victorious 3-0.

Toronto FC curently lists 23 players on their 2009 roster. Only 5 of their 23 players were born in Canada and only 5 were born in the U.S.A. That leaves 13 players on Toronto FC's roster that were not born in Canada or the U.S.A.

MLS should be a global league and Sepp Blatter's 6/5 recommendation is a healthy way of encouraging leagues to develop national talent while allowing for international quality. The recommendation protects, defines and promotes the domestic and international game at the club and country levels. The Kansas City Wizards, Houston Dynamo and San Jose Earthquakes have the fewest amount of foreign born players (4) among the 2009 MLS rosters. The definition of America's Team is up for debate. If America's Team is defined as the most successful MLS team with American players contributing significantly...then let's hope the Wizards' are in the early process of making a case to be America's Team in MLS.

Tryouts

2009-03-01T14:02:00.000-08:00

Wizards head coach Curt Onalfo will be looking for another Kevin Souter or Nelson Pizzaro at this Saturday's KC Wizards tryouts.

This Saturday (March 7) the Kansas City Wizards hold open tryouts. The following Saturday (March 14) the Kansas City Brass will hold open tryouts. Regardless of a player's age, skill level or ability, trying-out for an elite group/team/school is admirable. Realistically, the chance the best players at the Wizards tryout have at making the Wizards: slim chance. However the chance of these tryout participants playing for the Wizards without attending the tryout: no chance. Are there other ways of getting drafted/signed to an MLS team? Yes. But not every good player can get the exposure that a college and/or PDL team could provide. And even then some of those high profile amateur players need the open tryout to help their cause. Last year the Wizards signed two players from their open tryouts: Kevin Souter and Nelson Pizzaro. Both Souter and Pizzaro had solid college and PDL credentials but their performances at the Wizards open tryout is what sold the Wizards staff.

My brother and I participated as players in the MLS discovery tryouts in 1994 and 1995 (MLS orginally planned to kickoff in 1995 however delayed their inaugural season to 1996). Although our play at the tryouts didn't yield either of us a MLS contract, the experience and feedback from US Soccer and MLS coaches working those tryouts (Steve Sampson, David Dir, Ron Newman and Guy Newman) was memorable and valuable. Three players who participated in the same tryouts were drafted in the inaugural 1996 MLS Draft (Shane Battelle, Manuel Catano and Brian Kamler).

Good luck to all of the participants during the next two weekends of tryouts. Hopefully all of the participants will have positive experiences with a few participants getting chances later to train and possibly compete with the first teams.

WILL JOHN SIGNS WITH FIRST DIVISION SLOVOKIAN CLUB MSK ZILINA

2009-02-27T09:05:00.000-08:00

WILL JOHN SIGNS WITH FIRST DIVISION SLOVOKIAN CLUB MSK ZILINA

Former KC Attack youth, Rockhurst High School, St. Louis University, USA U20 National Team and KC Brass player Will John signs with Slovakian First Division club MSK Zilina. Since turning pro at the age of 19 Will has played professionally with the Chicago Fire (MLS), Kansas City Wizards (MLS), Randers FC (Denmark)FK Cukaricki (Serbia) and now MSK Zilina (Slovak).

Josh Howard Signs With Soderhamns FF (Sweden)

2009-02-18T21:28:00.000-08:00

February 18, 2009-Former William Jewell College All American and Kansas City Brass All-PDL player Josh Howard signed a professional contract with Swedish Second Division team Soderhamns FF. After graduating from WJC in 2008, Howard trained with and played with the Kansas City Wizards (MLS) in official reserve league games and exhibition games. Below is official press release from Soderhamns FF website (translation below in case you don't know Swedish).

http://www4.idrottonline.se/templates/NewsPage.aspx?id=260810

Amerikansk spelare klar för Söderhamns FF!
2009-02-18 21:20

Från högsta ligan i USA (MLS) till SFF...

Josh Howard från Kansas City i USA skrev under onsdagskvällen på övergångshandlingarna för Söderhamns FF. Den snart 23 årige amerikanen spelade under fjolårets säsong i USA:s högsta liga Major leuge soccer för Kansas City Wizards.

Josh, som varit uppvaktad av ett flertal klubbar i Sverige, har den senaste tiden besökt Söderhamn vid ett flertal tillfällen och tränat med laget inomhus på Flygstaden.

SFF:s tränarstab bedömer den unge och sympatiske amerikanen som en mycket kvalificerad spelare.

- En försvarsspelare med stor utvecklingspotensial och med spetsegenskaper i huvudspelet, anser flera bedömare.

Föreningen hälsar Josh varmt välkommen och ett stort lycka till Söderhamn och SFF!

Josh Howard from Kansas City in the United States signed Wednesday evening to release the documents for Söderhamns FF. The soon to be 23-year-old American played in last year's season in the U.S. Supreme accordance Major leuge soccer for the Kansas City Wizards.

Josh, who had been canvassed by several clubs in Sweden, has recently visited Söderhamn on several occasions and trained with the team indoors on Flight City.

SFF's training staff deems the young and sympathetic American as a very skilled player.

- A defense player with great utvecklingspotensial (development potential) and with the tip of properties in the main game, the more assessors.

The association welcomes Josh warm welcome and a great success Söderhamn and SFF!

Eric Nichols New Coach at BGSU

2009-02-17T20:16:00.000-08:00

We grew up playing with Eric on the UHS Apollos (If you scroll down the left column to the 1986 section you will see Eric standing next to Mr. Derra). BGSU have a great coach. Congrats to Eric and Bowling Green State University.

Awkward

2009-02-14T21:38:00.000-08:00

David Beckham pondering his upcoming schedule with AC Milan or LA Galaxy.?.

Apparently Friday (Friday the 13th of February) was the MLS imposed "deadline" for AC Milan and the LA Galaxy (and MLS and probably a few special MLS sponsors) to agree on a sale of David Beckham's rights to AC Milan. Now although any publicity of David Beckham, MLS and the L.A. Galaxy could be thought of as good publicity, the "deadline" was not a good idea. What good was it? Because Beckham's loan agreement still has life after the MLS imposed "deadline" any discussion after the imposed "deadline" gives the advantage to AC Milan. If MLS didn't want to sell Beckham, or even if MLS did want to sell Beckham, MLS's comment should have been "Beckham is not for sale". Then when Beckham says he wants to stay at AC Milan, MLS should reply with no reply or reply with "Beckham is not for sale". The message should be consistent. FYI: "Beckham is not for sale" is code for "Beckham is not for sale unless AC Milan (or any other club) is willing to pay A STADIUM FULL OF $$$". Just the fact that MLS is negotiating so early and so publicly devalues Beckham. I hope MLS had their reasons but I'm fearful that the end result will be a disgruntled Beckham returns to MLS to play in front of fans who know Beckham wishes he was someplace else (Milan)...or MLS sells Beckham to AC Milan after the "deadline" for less than what MLS could have sold him for if MLS didn't impose premature "deadlines".

TRR Preview: USA vs MEXICO

2009-02-08T23:26:00.000-08:00

Landon Donovan Scored vs Mexico in the 2002 World Cup. TRR Predicts A Match Winner From Donovan vs Mexico on Wednesday Night.

On Wednesday night, February 11, the U.S. men's national team will play Mexico at Columbus Crew Stadium in a World Cup qualifying match. Given the recent success that the United States has had over Mexico on U.S. soil, I think most fans may be a bit over confident regarding the upcoming game. Sure Mexico will be without a few players due to suspension, but Mexico is never a team to be taken lightly. The United States has a solid team but it's not intimidating. It will be interesting to see how Landon Donovan shows after training and playing with Bayern Munich. Donovan is an emotional player and I'm guessing his emotions are in a good place after seeing the field in both of Bayern Munich's recent matches. Donovan will be a pain for Mexico. I wish Brian McBride could still be his partner on the front line. However McBride is retired from National Team duty and not in the squad for the match. Whoever Donovan is paired with up top needs to be able to hold the ball. I don't think that player is Altidore...I just don't. And yes I do remember Altidore's header goal vs Mexico a couple of years ago. The key to this game is getting Donovan involved. I also wish Bradley could involve Robbie Rogers. Rogers is good, adds edge to the team and will be playing in his home MLS stadium. The fans will be with him and Rogers will have confidance. TRR Prediction: USA win 1-0...goal Landon Donovan.

William Jewell College & UMBRO

2009-01-28T21:36:00.000-08:00

Long-time fans of William Jewell College soccer may notice something different about the Cardinals' men's and women's teams when they take the field in 2009. The style of play will not change but there will be a change of style in uniform. The Cardinals will be wearing UMBRO. UMBRO and William Jewell College soccer have agreed to a partnership that includes outfitting the WJC men's soccer team, WJC women's soccer team and the William Jewell College All-Star Soccer Camps beginning in the summer of 2009.

Another facet of the partnership includes UMBRO bringing WJC men's and women's head coach Chris Cissell to England for a week of observing English Premier League (EPL) club and UMBRO sponsored team West Ham United of London. Cissell will observe training of all West Ham United's U9-U21 teams as well as watching the West Ham vs Arsenal EPL match at Emirates Stadium on January 31 and attending the West Ham vs Manchester United EPL match at Upton Park on February 7th. In addition to the experiences with West Ham United, Cissell will be taken on a tour of Wembly Stadium on February 4th and meet with the England National Team staff.

UMBRO, based in Manchester, England, is a sponsor of numerous soccer teams around the world including: England national team, Ireland national team, Sweden national team, Rangers (Scotland), West Ham United (England), Everton (England), Shelbourne (Ireland), Cruz Azul (Mexico), Althletic Bilbao (Spain), Randers FC (Belgium), Hajduk Split (Croatia), Dynamo Moscow (Russia) and Santos (Brazil).

2009 KC Brass (PDL) Schedule

2009-01-28T14:03:00.000-08:00

2009 Kansas City Brass (PDL) schedule

DATE (DAY) VISITOR at HOME TEAM STADIUM KICKOFF
May 9 (Sat) KC Brass at Real Colorado Foxes Shea Stadium 6:30pm
*May 10 (Sun) KC Brass at Real Colorado Foxes Shea Stadium 1:00pm
*May 17 (Sun) St. Louis Lions at KC Brass William Jewell College 7:00pm
*May 20 (Wed) Sprgfld Demize at KC Brass William Jewell College 7:00pm
*May 23 (Sat) KC Brass at Rochester Thunder Rchstr Comm Tech 7:00pm
June 4 (Thu) Des Moines Menace at KC Brass William Jewell College 7:00pm
June 6 (Sat) KC Brass at Springfield Demize Cooper Sports Complex 7:30pm
June 11 (Thu) KC Brass at Springfield Demize Cooper Sports Complex 7:30pm
June 13 (Sat) KC Brass at St. Louis Lions Tony Glavin Complex 5:00pm
June 14 (Sun) Rochester Thunder at KC Brass Wiliam Jewell College 5:00pm
June 20 (Sat) KC Brass at Des Moines Menace Valley View Stadium 7:30pm
July 2 (Thu) Thunder Bay Chill at KC Brass William Jewell College 7:00pm
July 5 (Sun) KC Brass at St. Louis Lions Tony Glavin Complex 5:00pm
July 9 (Thu) Springfield Demize at KC Brass William Jewell College 7:00pm
July 16 (Thu) Des Moines Menace at KC Brass William Jewell College 7:00pm
July 18 (Sat) Colorado Real Foxes at KC Brass William Jewell College 7:00pm

*Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Qualifying Matches

Columbo is on the Case

2009-01-27T19:18:00.000-08:00

Photo: Detective Lieutenant Columbo is on the case of the disappearing post.

It's been some time since the last post. Why has it been so long? Well...take your pick of the possible reasons for a lack of recent posts:

A. There has been nothing to report.

B. The contributors to TheRobleeReport have neglected the site.

C. There is something to report...however the news is too sensitive, private or incomplete for public consumption (There's always stuff to report).

Actually for those who follow the site regularly...you may have realized that information was recently posted on the site. However, this information was unknowingly "classified" at the time. It didn't long for the gatekeepers of the classified info to contact the contributors to TheRobleeReport and kindly "ask" the contributors to remove the information until the classified information became public at a later date. The information then disappeared from TheRobleeReport (the info was removed).

NSCAA Convention: Wizards Draft Matt Besler with #1 Pick

2009-01-17T20:05:00.000-08:00

Matt Besler Drafted #1 by KC Wizards in MLS SuperDraft. Photo by www.kcwizards.com .

Just got back from the NSCAA convention in St. Louis. The convention has a lot to offer everyone who attends. It's hard not to leave the convention without catching up with old friends, hearing some fresh news and thinking of a new idea. The best news of the convention was Kansas City native Matt Besler being drafted in the first round of the 209 MLS SuperDraft. To make it even better, Matt was drafted by the Kansas City Wizards. Awesome. I've known Matt and watched his soccer progress since 2001. I was at the Draft during the first two rounds. When MLS commissioner Don Garber said "and with the 8th pick in the first round the Kansas City Wizards select (pause) from the University of Notre Dame" (that's all I needed to hear... my fist instinctively shot in the air in celebratory manner).

Another player I'm very familair with, Notre Dame's Jack Traynor, was drafted in the second round (29th overall) by New York Red Bull. Jack played with the Missouri 87 ODP team that my brother and I coached. Like Matt, Jack is a left-footed defender with quality skill. Both Matt and Jack were regulars with the 87 ODP Regional Pool and then moved on to become regulars in Notre Dame's starting lineup. Jack's father, Larry Traynor, had just walked over to my brother and me seconds before Jack's name was called. When MLS commissioner Don Garber announced Jack's name his father bee-lined to unite with his son, running away from numerous "congratulations!" cheers from a few people who knew him and many others who figured out his connection to the newly drafted MLS player.

TRR: Predicting the 2009 MLS SuperDraft

2009-01-12T23:29:00.000-08:00

Photo: California's Stephan Frei will be the first goalkeeper taken in the 2009 MLS SuperDraft.

There are a few things you must know before we start discussing the upcoming MLS Draft. First, 70 players just competed in the MLS Combine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Second, there will be 60 players selected in this year's MLS Draft (15 teams and four rounds). Third, probably every team will select at least one player in the MLS Draft that did not attend the MLS Combine. Therefore no more than and probably less than 45 of the 70 players who attended the MLS Combine will be selected in the MLS Draft. So who will be taken and what round will they go? Well without attending this year's combine or having any inside information I have a decent idea of how it's going to look. I know that may sound crazy, but performance and/or participation in the MLS combine has never been the best indicator of draft projection. I've followed MLS and the MLS Draft every year and I've coached or coached against approximatley 100 players that were eventuallly drafted by a MLS team. I was at the MLS Combine in Los Angeles in 2006 and saw first hand the relation between combine performance and selection. I am very familair with many of the top MLS prospects this year. The following list is not a list of who I think is necessarily the best 40 players from the combine but instead a list of who I believe the MLS coaches and technical directors will pick. I am listing the players by who will get drafted and what round they will be drafted. I'm not going say who is going to be picked by what team because which team has what pick is going to change a lot between now and 5 seconds before the very first overall selection will be made. A team could have two first round picks and trade both picks away for an already proven player. And the needs of those two teams immediately change. Expect as many as five of my projected 1st rounders to be selected in the second round and as many as five of my second round projections to move into the first round. Goalkeeper Stephan Frei will be a first round pick but with reduced rosters (28 in 2008 to 24 in 2009) goalkeepers probably will not be in demand. None of my opinion is based on inside information other than some personal experience coaching with or against some current MLS prospects at a youth, ODP, college or PDL level.

Projected Selections 1-15 (1st Round Picks in alpha order):

Kevin Alston (Indiana)

Matt Besler (Notre Dame)

Sam Cronin (Wake Forest)

Daniel Cruz (UNLV)

Stefan Frei (California)

Omar Gonzalez (Maryland)

Jeremy Hall (Maryland)

Baggio Husidic (U-Illinois-Chicago)

Peri Marosevic (Michigan)

Yohance Marshall (South Florida)

Kyle Patterson (Saint Louis)

Chris Pontius (UCSB)

Brad Ring (Indiana)

Rodney Wallace (Maryland)

Steve Zakuani (Akron)

Projected Selections 16-30 (2nd Round Picks in alpha order)

Lyle Adams (Wake Forest)

Quincy Amarikwa (U California Davis)

Calum Angus (Saint Louis U)

Darius Barnes (Duke)

Josh Boeteng (Liberty)

A.J. DeLaGarza (Maryland)

Jokull Elisabetarson (UNC-Greensboro)

Andrei Gotsmanov (Creighton)

David Hertl (Michigan State)

George John (Washington)

Michael Lahoud (Wake Forest)

Babajide Ogunjihi (Santa Clara)

Jordan Seabrook (South Florida)

O'Brien White (UConn)

Graham Zusi (Maryland)

Selections 31-45 (3rd Round Picks in alpha order)

Trevor Banks (Old Dominion)

Brandon Barklage (Saint Louis)

Evan Brown (Wake Forest)

Doug DeMartin (Michigan State)

Jack Traynor (Notre Dame)

OK, I know you want me to list some more players from the MLS combine to be picked...but I'm not feeling it. I think around 25 players who were not in the combine, players MLS teams wanted to hide or have known about for a few years or come recommended by very trusted sources will be picked in the final 25 picks. How accurate are the predictions? We'll soon find out.

2009 MLS COMBINE UPDATE

2009-01-07T15:43:00.000-08:00

Photo: KC native Matt Besler plays in MLS Combine this weekend in Florida.

Matt Besler (BV West HS, KCFC Alliance, Notre Dame) has been invited to and will participate in the 2009 MLS Combine that begins Saturday at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The MLS Combine participants are divided into four teams and play a round robin schedule (Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday). Matt's combine team is adidas adiPure. Coaching Matt's team (college coach and youth coach) will be his own college coach, Bobby Clark (Notre Dame) and youth coach Jeremy Alumbaugh (Springfield SC) from Springfield, Missouri.

Seth Sinovic (Rockhurst HS, KCFC Alliance, Creighton) was on the original 2009 MLS combine list but he withdrew from the combine after the Missouri Valley Conference and NCAA recently granted Seth a retroactive red-shirt season from his freshman year. The red-shirt gives Seth another year of eligibilty that he plans to use.

1

2009-01-01T20:54:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! To celebrate January 1 and goalkeepers everywhere, here's a video of a #1.

KC NAMES, ACHIEVEMENTS AND MOMENTS OF 2008

2008-12-31T10:19:00.000-08:00

Photo: KC native Ryan Raybould played his professional soccer in Europe in 2008.

Kansas City Wizards play a full home schedule (other than LA Galaxy/Beckham game at Arrowhead) at Community America Ballpark.

Kansas City Wizards Juniors begin full year of competition at U15, U16, U17, U18. U19 debut in summer of 2008.

KC Wizards Juniors U19 finish second in the nation in the U19 McGuire Cup.

Three Kansas Citians: Molly Campbell (St. Teresa's Acaemy, KCFC Jazz), Ellen Jantsch (St. Teresa's Academy, KCFC Jazz) and Lauren Fowlkes (St. Teresa's Academy, KC Dynamos) are on the Notre Dame team that finishes runners-up in the 2008 NCAA Division I women's national tournament.

KC natives and former Wizards (MLS) players Will John (Rockhurst HS, KC Attack, KC Brass, Saint Louis U) and Ryan Raybould (Rockhurst HS, KC Legends, KC Brass, Yale) play professionally in Europe. John with Randers FC (Denmark) and Raybould with Gefle IF (Sweden).

Rockhurst High School wins the Class 3 (largest class) Missouri State High School championship with a 3-0 win over Glendale (Springfield) in the final.

Morgan Marlborough (Lee's Summit North, KCFC Intensity) is named The Kansas City Star's Girls High School Player of the Year in Spring of 2008.

Alex Sweetin (Rockhurst HS, KC Wizards Juniors) is named The Kansas City Star's Boys High School Player of the Year in Fall of 2008.

KC natives Michael Ferguson (Pembroke Hill, KC Legends, KC Brass, Loyola Chicago) and Eric Sweetin (Rockhurst, KCFC, KC Brass, St. Louis U) are among 50 players on the initial 2008 Hermann Trophy Watch List.

Benedictine College's women's soccer team wins the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) tournament championship with a 2-1 win over Lindenwood thus qualifying for the NAIA National Tournament championships for the first time in the program's 20 year history.

Baker Univeristy men's team wins the HAAC tournament championship with a 4-2 win over Graceland and thus qualifies for the NAIA national tournament.

Park University's men's and women's teams qualify for their respective NAIA National Tournaments.

Rockhurst University's men's and women's teams qualify for their respective NCAA Division II National Tournaments.

UMKC men's team qualifies for the NCAA Division I National Tournament after winning the Summit League post-season tournament.

In December, three local college players: Tom Heinemann (Rockhurst U), Miguel Rodrigues (UMKC) and Austin Williams (William Jewell) participate in the United Soccer League's Player Showcase in Charleston, South Carolina.

KC natives Matt Besler (BV West, KCFC, Notre Dame) and Seth Sinovic (Rockhurst HS, KCFC and Creighton) are named to the list of players to participate in the January 2009 MLS Player Combine.

Matt Besler (BV West, KCFC, Notre Dame) earns NSCAA/adidas All America 1st Team, Scholar All America 1st Team and is named the NSCAA Men's Collegiate Athlete of the Year.

Wizards make MLS playoffs before losing in first round to eventual MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew.

Three William Jewell College players: Josh Howard (Lee's Summit North, KC Attack, KC Brass, William Jewell), Allan Nekuda (Liberty, KC Legends, KC Brass, William Jewell) and Kevin Nekuda (Liberty, KC Legends, KC Brass, William Jewell) all play in a preseason exhibition game with the Wizards.

U of Missouri and U of Kansas women's teams are at-large selections to the NCAA Division I National Tournament.

Drake University's men's team receives an at-large selection to the NCAA Division I National Tournament. Drake's 1st NCAA Tournament appearance. Six Drake starters are KC natives: Calvin Clark, (STA, BV Stars, KC Brass, Drake), Luke Gorczyca (STA, KC Legends, KC Brass, Drake), Matt Kuhn (Raytown South, KC Legends, Drake), Kevin Shrout (Lee's Summit, KC Pace, KC Brass, Drake), Garrett Webb (SM East, KC Legends, KC Brass, Drake) and Brian Wurst (Park Hill South, KC Pace, KC Brass, Drake).

Kaysie Clark (Liberty HS, KC Select Scream) and Shea Groom (Liberty HS, KCFC Intensity) play wih the U15 USA National Team at the 2008 Thanksgiving ODP Interregional Tournament in Coral Springs, Florida.

Mandy Laddish (Lee's Summit, BV Stars Mallorca) is a member of the USA U17 national team that finishes 2nd in the 2008 U17 World Cup.

KC Select Scream win Missouri's 2008 U14 Girls State Cup championship.

KC Kings complete first indoor season in the PASL.

Lauren Fowlkes (St. Teresa's Academy, KC Dynamos, Notre Dame) is a member of the U20 USA national team that wins the 2008 U20 World Cup.

Disney Soccer Showcase

2008-12-29T15:48:00.000-08:00

Photo: 87/88 KC Pace at the 2004 Disney Showcase presented by adidas

Soccer America rates the Disney Soccer Showcase in Orlando, Florida as the #1 youth tournament in the United States. The 2008 Disney Soccer Showcase (now presented by adidas club Chelsea) for boys is already underway. The U17 KC Wizards Juniors are the only KC area boys team participating. At the time of this post the U17 Wizards had a record of 1-1-1 with an additional consolation game to play. Now, from the outside, most people will look simply at the U17 Wizards record and make some sort of opinion. However Disney is as much of a showcase as it is a tournament therefore success can be measured by more than just wins. Disney provides great competition and exposure. It's kind of like bringing together all four regional championships to one location at the same time in preparation for the real thing (cup competition) six months later. So although every team and player will compete to win, there is still room for positional and tactical experimentation and highlighting of individual players.

In 2004 the KC Pace (U17) were one of only a few teams to be invited who were not the current state champion of their state. Missouri had such a strong reputation in the 87/88 age group that all four Missouri semi-finalists (KC Pace, Scott Gallagher, Lou Fusz, Busch SC) received invites and accepted (only 48 spots). No big surprise since all four Missouri teams were very successful with high-profile players (ODP). College coaches wanted to see them. In our first game at Disney in 2004 we played OK and were unfortunate to lose 2-0 to a good Match Fit Academy (NJ) team. No big deal. We missed some chances, knocked the ball around and got better as the game progressed. And what was most important...we were finding out more about our team and college coaches really liked what they were seeing. In our next game, in front of 40+ college coaches from coast to coast, we defeated Tennessee state champion and Region III Finalist TNFC 3-2 with goals from Eric Wimberley, Haggai Leboo and Brian Wurst. Fun game. Wurst hit the game winner with 3 minutes remaining. In our final game we defeated Atlanta Futbol Club (AFC) Lightning (GA) 3-1 with two goals from Haggai Leboo and one from J.D. Warman. We finished Disney with a 2-1 record playing skillful soccer showcasing all our players. One of our players, Justin True, couldn't play with the Pace at Disney because he was playing with the 89 US National Team at Disney. The 89 National Team's bracket was playing that included all four 88 ODP Regional Teams as well as Anderlecht (Belgium) and the Japan National Team.

Notes: The 87/88 KC Legends (Kansas state champs) were also at Disney in 2004. Legends finished 1-1-1 in group play. Like the Pace, Legends were also playing without one of their regulars: Michael Thomas. Thomas played the 2004 Disney Showcase with the 88 ODP Region II (Midwest) Team.

Almost six months after the 2004 Disney Showcase the 87/88 KC Pace won the 2005 Missouri State Cup championship. The 87/88 KC Pace returned to Disney in December of 2005...Again finishing with a 2-1 record (wins over North Carolina and Virginia state champs, loss vs California North/Region IV champions).

KANSAS CITY STAR ALL METRO BOYS SOCCER TEAM

2008-12-28T21:10:00.000-08:00

Blue Valley High School Senior Mo Ramahi is one of three William Jewell College recruits to be named 2008 Kansas City Star All Metro 1st Team (Peter Nechvatal, Cole Prather). Photo: Mo Ramahi playing with KC Wizards Juniors.

The Kansas City Star listed their annual boys high school all-metro soccer teams on December 27. Congratulations to all the players that were named to the list including Rockhurst senior and SLU recruit Alex Sweetin for being named Player of the Year.

THE KANSAS CITY STAR ALL-METRO BOYS SOCCER
FIRST TEAM
•Ethan Bauer, Olathe South, senior. Chosen the Sunflower League’s offensive most valuable player, Bauer had 18 goals and 13 assists while leading the Falcons to the Kansas 6A state championship. He has committed to play at Tulsa.
•Cole Prather, Raymore-Peculiar, senior. Prather put up big numbers despite playing with a nagging ankle injury for much of the season. He finished with 21 goals and 13 assists for the Panthers. He was an all-state selection and the Big 7 offensive player of the year.
•Mohammad Ramahi, Blue Valley, senior. The East Kansas League offensive player of the year had 16 goals and two assists. Ramahi was the catalyst for an 11-5-1 Tigers team that finished with its most wins in more than two decades.
•Joe Sbarro, Park Hill South, junior. Sbarro was the offense for Park Hill South. He finished with 28 goals and three assists, accounting for more than half of his team’s goals this season. He set the school record for most goals in a season.
MIDFIELDERS
•Christian Duke, Shawnee Mission South, senior. Duke registered seven goals and two assists this season, but opposing coaches touted his worth well beyond those statistics. Raiders coach Travis Gatewood declared Duke one of the top players to ever come out of the program and said he has committed to play at Marquette.
•Chris Robertson, Park Hill, senior. Robertson created for his teammates like no other midfielder in the city. In addition to his 11 goals, he recorded 32 assists. Robertson was the Big 6 player of the year and a Class 3 all-state selection.
•Alex Sweetin, Rockhurst, senior. Sweetin did it all for the Missouri Class 3 state champions. In addition to earning All-American status, he scored 26 goals and recorded 25 assists. His biggest assist came when he set up the game-winning goal in the state quarterfinals from 50 yards out.
DEFENDERS
•Sean Latz, St. Thomas Aquinas, junior. Latz was chosen the East Kansas League defensive player of the year and led the Saints to the Kansas 5A state championship. He had nine goals and five assists and helped Aquinas post shutouts in all five of its postseason games.
•Peter Nechvatal, Oak Park, senior. Nechvatal led a defense that kept opposing offenses frustrated all season. He was a vital part of a defense that had 21 shutouts and allowed just eight goals, leading the Northmen to the Missouri Class 3 quarterfinals. He also scored five goals.
•Austin Trees, Rockhurst, senior. Trees led a defensive charge for Rockhurst that guided the Hawklets to their second straight Missouri Class 3 state title. The defense had 24 shutouts and allowed just .41 goals per game. In the state semifinals and finals, the Hawklets did not allow a shot on goal.
GOALKEEPER
•Christian Krueger, Rockhurst, senior. Krueger recorded 24 shutouts this season for the Missouri Class 3 state champions. He was selected the Class 3 goalkeeper of the year and allowed just .41 goals a game this season. He didn’t allow a goal in the team’s final 12 matches.
SECOND TEAM
FORWARDS
Brendan Copeland, St. Thomas Aquinas, senior; Cam Niederhauser, Oak Park, senior; Kyle Nixon, Smithville, junior; Conor Parrish, St. Pius X, sophomore
MIDFIELDERS
Jeffrey Hirleman, Kansas City Christian, senior; Josh Magness, St. Thomas Aquinas, senior; Felipe Navarro, Rockhurst, senior
DEFENDERS
Matt Bergman, Shawnee Mission Northwest, senior; Laeth Hamil, Olathe East, senior; Michael Oakley, Lee’s Summit North, senior
GOALKEEPER
Kyle Martin, Shawnee Mission Northwest, senior
HONORABLE MENTION
FORWARDS
Tom Adams, Blue Valley, sophomore; Pat Foglio, Lee’s Summit West, junior; Yacine Hamchaoui, Van Horn, senior; Taylor Lemmon, Maranatha Academy, junior; Ross Payne, Pembroke Hill, sophomore; Alex Reynolds, Shawnee Mission Northwest, senior; Sean Verbanic, Piper, senior; Gyer Vierthaler, Lee’s Summit North, senior
MIDFIELDERS
Ryan Buck, Pembroke Hill, senior; Zack Cole, Shawnee Mission Northwest, senior; John Huffe, Olathe South, senior; Brent Neihart, Barstow, senior; Joe Webb, Oak Park, senior; Joey Wood, Lee’s Summit, senior
DEFENDERS
Spencer Brinkmeyer, Oak Park, senior; Danny Cunningham, Rockhurst, senior; Josh Kaullen, St. Pius X, senior; Connor Swiastyn, Kansas City Christian, senior; Jacob Wayland, Olathe South, senior; Devin Zvosec, Bishop Miege, junior
GOALKEEPERS
Tanner Fox, Olathe South, senior; Tyler Phongsavath, De Soto, senior

If you had not seen the list you have seen it now. Every year there are a lot more quality players that deserve to be listed than the 44 names that are named all-metro. I know that a lot of people get worked up about who makes 1st team and who doesn't...however the best all-metro team is when it's a strong group of 44 players. The Star usually does a decent job of recognizing the better players in KC. The All Metro 1st Team could have been different from week to week however the 1st teamers usually are among the 15-18 players that deserve the 1st team attention (only 11 spots). If you, your friend, the player you coach, your son or your grandson didn't earn All Metro 1st Team...don't get concerned. You're probably not going to believe what I'm about to write, but the following players did NOT earn All Metro 1st Team honors from The Kansas City Star.

Mark Spears (Park Hill)-All American at Cary University. Drafted by KC Wizards (MLS) in 2002.

Cody Anderson (Lee's Summit)-Played professinally with Lazio (Italy) reserve team. Drafted by KC Comets (MISL). Played with KC Wizards (MLS) reserve team.

Ryan Barber (Ray-Pec)-Helped lead UMKC to the NCAA tournament in 2003. Drafted by KC Wizards (MLS) in 2004.

Jake Bleyenberg (Park Hill)-Two time All America at Lindenwood, Played professionally with St. Louis Steamers (MISL). Played with KC Wizards (MLS) in reserve league.

Blake Ryan (Winnetonka/William Jewell)-Two time All America at William Jewell. Drafted by Kansas City Comets (MISL) and Milwaukee Wave (MISL) in disperal draft. Played as guest player for KC Wizards (MLS) and LA Galaxy (MLS) in reserve league.

Ryan Raybould (Rockhurst/Yale)-Played professionally with KC Wizards (MLS) and in Sweden.

Allan Nekuda (Liberty/William Jewell)-All America 1st Team at William Jewell, Drafted by Detroit (MISL), played as guest player for KC Wizards (MLS) in reserve league.

Seth Sinovic (Rockhurst/Creighton)-All America at Creighton. Invited to 2009 MLS Combine.

Josh Howard (Lee's Summit North/William Jewell)-All America 2nd Team at William Jewell. Played as guest player for KC Wizards (MLS) in reserve league.

Jamal Seale (Blue Valley Northwest/Wake Forest)-Member of USA U17 and U20 National Teams.

Vedad Ibisevic (Roosevelt HS in St. Louis)-I know he wasn't eligible for the Star's All Metro team but Vedad (currently the leading scorer in the German Bundesliga) was only a St. Louis Post Dispatch All Metro 2nd team selection during his senior year in high school.

In retrospect, the eleven players listed above read more like Star Player of the Year candidates than 1st Team snubs. Speaking of The Star Player of the Year Award. Below is the list of the Star's annual winners.

1995: Cory Jewell (Kearney)

1996: Ari Rodopolous (Blue Springs)

1997: Sean Walker (Rockhurst)

1998: Jason Cole (Rockhurst)

1999: Matt Jewett (Rockhurst)

2000: Andy Gruenebaum (BV North)

2001: Charlie Peters (Rockhurst)

2002: Will John (Rockhurst)

2003: Keith Gorczyca (St. Thomas Aquinas)

2004: Matt Besler (Blue Valley West)

2005: Michael Thomas (St. Thomas Aquinas)

2006: Coleton Henning (St. Thomas Aquinas)

2007: Coleton Henning (St. Thomas Aquinas)

2008: Alex Sweetin (Rockhurst)

KC PLAYERS EARN NSCAA/adidas ALL AMERICA

2008-12-28T20:25:00.001-08:00

Matt Besler is the 2008 NSCAA/adidas Collegiate Scholar-Athlete of the Year.

Matt Besler

(Notre Dame, Kansas 87 ODP, KCFC, Blue Valley West HS)

2008: NSCAA/adidas All America 1st Team defender

2008: NSCAA/adidas Scholar All America 1st Team defender

2008 NSCAA/adidas Men's Collegiate Scholar-Athlete of the Year

Kevin Shrout

(Drake, KC Brass, KC Pace, Lee's Summit HS)
2008: NSCAA/adidas Scholar All America 2nd Team midfielder

Seth Sinovic

(Creighton, Kansas 87 ODP, KCFC, Rockhurst HS)
2008: NSCAA/adidas Scholar All America 2nd Team defender

Michael Thomas

(Notre Dame, KC Brass, Kansas 88 ODP, KC Legends, St. Thomas Aquinas HS)

2008: NSCAA/adidas Scholar All America 2nd Team midfielder

TRR Lists: KC Natives on National Teams

2008-12-21T22:29:00.001-08:00

Kansas City area native Lauren Fowlkes and her USA U20 teammates became World Champions after winning the 2008 FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in Chile. Photo: Lauren playing with her KC Dynamos club team.

Kansas City Natives on USA Women's National Teams

Amber Reynolds: 1994 (USA U16)

Bridget Darby: 1995 (USA U16)

Lauren Fowlkes: 2005-2008 (USA U18, U20)

Kayse Clark: 2007-2008 (USA U14, U15)

Shea Groom: 2007-2008 (USA U14, U15)

Allison Mallams: 2008 (USA U23)
Mandy Laddish: 2008 (USA U17)

Kansas City Natives on USA Men's National Teams

Craig Kasten: 1981 (USA U19)

Dylan Aiman: 1983 (USA U16)

Chris Porch: 1983 (USA U16, U19)
Scott Vermillion: 1993-1996 (USA U17, U20, U23, senior team)
Jamal Seale: 1997-1999 (U17, U20)

Matt Jewett: 1997 (USA U18)
Scott Case: 1998-1999 (USA U14, U15)
Will John: 1998-2003 (USA U14-U20)

Cody Anderson: 1999 (USA U20)
Justin True: 2003-2006 (USA U14-U18)
Diego Gutierrez: 2004 (USA senior team)
Matt Besler: 2007 (USA U20)
Willie Koss: 2007 (USA U20)
Jonathan Kempin: 2008 (USA U16, U17)

If you can provide more information on this list e-mail TheRobleeReport@kcpace.com .

TRR Rankings: Top 10 KC Brass Victories

2008-12-21T21:01:00.000-08:00

William John scored the game-winning goal vs the Memphis Express in the #3 ranked KC Brass victory.

1. KC Brass win 3-1 at St. Louis Lions to clinch qualification into the 2007 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Brass goals scored by Garret Guthrie, Josh White and Josh Howard.

2. 2004: KC Brass win 2-1 at Des Moines Menace in front of 6,600 fans. Brass goals scored by Jesse Baker and Cody Anderson.

3. 2003: KC Brass win 1-0 at Memphis Express. Brass goal scored by Will John.

4. KC Brass win 2-1 at Colorado Rapids U23s. Brass goals scored by J.D. Warman and Jordan Raybould.

5. KC Brass win 3-2 vs Colorado Rapids U23s. Brass goals scored by Drew Perkins, Blake Ryan and Ryan Barber.

6. 2002: KC Brass win 4-1 at Denver Cougars. Brass goals scored by Brett Coppage, Jake Bleyenberg, Larry Scheller and Ryan Raybould.

7. 2007: KC Brass win 3-1 vs Des Moines Menace. Brass goals scored by Michael Thomas, Keith Gorczyca and J.D. Warman.

8. 2006: KC Brass win 2-1 vs Sioux Falls Spitfire. Brass goals scored by Brian Wurst and Eric Sweetin.

9. 2004: KC Brass win 1-0 at Nashville Metros. Brass goal scored by Kyle Perkins.

10. 2006: KC Brass win 4-0 vs. Cleveland Internationals. Brass goals scored by Matt Blouin, Brant Bishop, Luke Gorczyca and Jordan Raybould.

NSCAA/adidas Scholar All Region Teams Announced

2008-12-20T15:28:00.000-08:00

Four William Jewell College women's players: Lauren Pouche (far left), Katie Brooks (middle left), Kathleen Hatfield (middle right) and goalkeeper Rebecca Ewing (not pictured) and four Benedictine College women's players: Maddy Rogers, Whitney Danze, Ellen Parker and Emily Wright were named to the 2008 NSCAA/adidas Scholar All Region Teams. Photo by Steve Ole Olson at http://www.sgfsoccer.com/ .

Other Kansas City natives to earn NSCAA/adidas Scholar All Region honors include: Matt Besler (Notre Dame), Calvin Clark (Drake), Luke Gorczyca (Drake), Kevin Shrout (Drake), Seth Sinovic (Creighton), Michael Thomas (Notre Dame). UMKC players Brian Harris and Garret Guthrie also earned Scholar All Region honors.

Kansas City area colleges to earn NSCAA/adidas Team Academic Award:
Men's teams
Avila University
Rockhurst University
William Jewell College

Women's teams
Avila University
Benedictine College
Rockhurst University
William Jewell College

FLASHBACK: In the Year 2000

2008-12-20T15:07:00.000-08:00

Photo: Carlos Valderamma draws double coverage from Jefferson Roblee and Lincoln Roblee at the 2000 USYSA Regional Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Roblees were coaching the Kansas U19 state champion KC United team. "El Pibe" was fulfilling endorsement obligations.

New Wizards Assistant Coach: Kerry Zavagnin

2008-12-20T14:38:00.000-08:00

Photo of Kerry Zavagnin (far right), back when he was still playing with the Wizards in 2002. Zavagnin is shown working with high school aged players during the 2002 Wizards Youth Training Program. Pictured high school players (left to right) are Peter Kariotis (Liberty HS, KC Attack SC, Drake University, KC Brass), Will John (Rockhurst HS, KC Attack SC, KC Brass, Saint Louis University, Chicago Fire, Kansas City Wizards, FC Randers) and Andrew Quigley (SM Northwest HS, KC Legends SC, Dartmouth, KC Brass).

TRR: On Location at William Jewell College

2008-12-20T14:04:00.000-08:00

The William Jewell College men's and women's soccer teams had to get a quick kick in during their meida day in 2008.

INSIDE THE MIND OF: Lincoln Roblee

2008-12-20T03:01:00.000-08:00

The Roblee Report caught up with TRR contributor Lincoln Roblee a couple days ago at a remote and hidden diner called Steak and Shake. After a double cheeseburger, onion rings and a strawberry shortcake, Lincoln was ready to tell all.

TRR: How is the food here?

LR: I'm still waiting for my order to arrive.

TRR: So you eat here a lot?

LR: When I'm hungry.... Tell me your questions are going to get better.

Tell me your questions are going to get better.-Lincoln Roblee

TRR: The questions are giong to get better.

LR: Well...

TRR: Hold on. I'm new at this. TRR has been around for only a few days.

TRR: How did you find out about TRR?

LR: I heard there was a new blog that had my name on it...I had to check it out before I contacted my attorney.

KC Brass: NSCAA/adidas All-Region College Honors

2008-12-17T00:52:00.000-08:00

Luke Gorczyca (KC Brass, Drake, KC Legends, St. Thomas Aquinas), Bryan Perez (KC Brass, UMKC, Kendall SC), Kevin Shrout (KC Brass, Drake, KC Pace, Lee's Summit), Michael Thomas (KC Brass, Notre Dame, KC Legends, St. Thomas Aquinas) and Garrett Webb (KC Brass, Drake, KC Legends, SM East) each earned NSCAA/adidas All Region honors at their respective colleges in 2008. Photo: Michael Thomas (right) in the KC Brass' 2-1 win at the St. Louis Lions in 2006.

Andy Fitzpatrick & Lucas Rodriguez: NAIA All America

2008-12-17T00:33:00.000-08:00

Goalkeeper Andy Fitzpatrick (KC Brass, Oklahoma City, KC Pace, Maple Woods CC, Winnetonka High School) was named 2008 NAIA All America Honorable Mention, Sooner Athletic Conference Goalkeeper of the Year and Conference Newcomer of the Year at Oklahoma City University. Midfielder Lucas Rodriguez (KC Brass, MidAmerica Nazarene, JCCC, KC Attack, SM Northwest) was named NSCAA/adidas NAIA All America 3rd Team as well as Heart of America Athletic Conference Player of the Year in 2008 at MidAmerica Nazarene University. KC Brass players Austin Williams (William Jewell College) and Keith Parkhurst (Benedictine College) joined Rodriguez on the HAAC All Conference 1st Team. Photo of Andy Fitzpatrick during KC Brass vs KC Wizards scrimmage in summer of 2008 by http://www.tpbinkc.smugmug.com/ .

Brass Players In Colleges National Tournaments: NCAA I: Drake, Northwestern, Notre Dame, UMKC; NCAA II: Rockhurst; NAIA: Oklahoma City

2008-12-16T23:52:00.000-08:00

2008 Kansas City Brass: Front Row: Miguel Rodriges (UMKC), Manny Tovar (William Jewell), Bryan Perez (UMKC), Andy Fitzpatrick (Oklahoma City), Adam Sokolowski (Xavier), Brian Wurst (Drake), Michael Clayton (Butler), Kevin Shrout (Drake); Back Row: Burke Slusher (Coach), J.D. Warman, Garret Guthrie (UMKC), Austin Williams (William Jewell), Ryan Hennessy (Missouri State), Josh White (UMKC), Levi Coleman (UMKC), Michael Thomas (Notre Dame), Luke Gorczyca (Drake), Jordan Raybould (Yale), Lincoln Roblee (Coach), Jefferson Roblee (Coach). Photo of KC Brass prior to 3-1 win at Springfield Demize in May of 2008. Photo by Steve Ole Olson at http://www.sgfsoccer.com/ .

TRR December Debut

2008-12-16T19:47:00.000-08:00

The Roblee Report is a new blog on an unknown path. Expect the path to have some twists and turns (Pictured above: 87/88 KC Pace player Eric Wimberley twisting and turning in the KC Pace's 3-0 victory over Tulsa Soccer Club in November of 2005. Photo by Dan Peak at www.youthsoccernet.com) .