CLUBWAKA MLS Countdown to Kick-off!

CLUBWAKA MLS COUNTDOWN:

Hopefully everyone is as excited as I am for Sunday to get here.  As it will be here before we know it, I wanted to provide a variety of updates for all of you devoted readers out there. 

CAPTAINS MEETING

REMINDER FOR ALL CAPTAINS -- We will be meeting at Tradition Brewing in City Center - Newport News on Tuesday, April 3rd at 6:45 PM.  Captains, if you can't make it please be sure to send a representative. If anyone else wants to roll out and socialize, feel free. 

RULES

I highly encourage every player to read the rules prior to the start of the season as there are some differences from your normal 11 v 11 league.  Rules are located here. 

That being said, I know how lazy I am about these things.  I thought it would be good to give a few quick bullet points highlighting some of the rule differences:

1. Physicality: We have spoken with the head of referees and instructed him to call the game much more like futsal than your normal outdoor league.  We understand soccer is a physical sport but knowing we're adults, have jobs, and the priority is fun, we thought it best to limit physicality.  For those that haven't played futsal, it's 5 v 5 indoor and physical contact is called very tightly.  Also to note: there is absolutely no slide tackling. 
2. *(!&%&$*:We're all adults and we all shank shots over the goal from the 6 from time to time.  Shouting expletives to the skies will not result in a card unless it's excessive.  Shouting expletives at the ref or other players will result in a card.  We'll reiterate this a million times throughout the season, but this league is about enjoying the fun of the game.  This isn't the World Cup.
3. On the field: 7 players and at least two females.  You can play with 5 to avoid a forfeit, but 2 of them must be females.
4. Free Kicks: All free kicks will be direct.  All my free kicks will be direct...ly over the goal.
5. Safety: Shinguards are HIGHLY recommended, but not a requirement.  Football helmets and brass knuckles are not allowed. 
   
    
6. Offsides: This one is easy. No offsides.
7. Goal celebrations: Encouraged as long as they do not take a good deal of time.  So no coordinated 15 minute Ace of Base dances just because you scored a sitter.
8. Substitutions: Subs are on-the-fly meaning you can sub at any time. Subs MUST be made from half field so consider the midline to be a door and you have to enter and exit through it.
9. Goalkeepers: No punting.  Only throws or kicks from the ground.  No throw or kick should go past the midline.  If it does, it's a free kick for the other team.  So no cherry pickin' hail marys! 

SCHEDULE

A reminder to all players and captains that the website will always have the most updated schedule on it.  There were some minor tweaks after the first rendition, so if you printed it please be sure to re-print it to ensure you have the most updated schedule.  Pro Tip: bookmark the schedule on your phone.  Link here.

JERSEYS

I'm not sure whether t-shirts will be in by tomorrow, but if they are I will bring them.  If not, I'll have them for you at the fields on Sunday. 

VOLUNTEERS

**Crickets**  I think I just saw a tumbleweed blow by.

Anyone who is interested in making this league the best soccer league you've ever played in, please let me know at the Captain's meeting or week 1.  Looking for folks to compile stat posts, help scout players for awards each week, write a blog, be a multi-team mom or dad, and brainstorm some social opportunities.  Watch parties?  Bar activities? 

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT #4

ALLIE JOHNSTON - UTTOTPHJ

What is your soccer history? I've played fairly consistently since 5th grade, so approximately 16 years.  As a kid, I played for Newport News FC and then moved to intramural leagues during undergrad at University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa and club while working/attending William and Mary.  I haven't played competitively for a little over a year.

Favorite halftime snack: Clementines and fruit snacks. 

Position: Center Defense, but occasionally right mid.

Looking forward to: Playing soccer in general.  Though it is exciting to meet other CLUBWAKA players, as I've generally stuck with the volleyball leagues. 

Favorite Players: Andres Pereira and David De Gea

Favorite Club: MAN U ALL THE WAY

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT #5

KAYSON BELL - KICK IN A BOX

What is your soccer history? I've played ever since I had the ability to run.  I played for several local advanced youth leagues in Norfolk growing up. 

Favorite halftime snack: Orange Slices

Position: Forward/Striker

What are you looking forward to most about the new league?  Getting to play my favorite sport with new people.

Who is your favorite soccer player of all time?   Thierry Henry (cheers to that one! - bk)

Do you support a MLS or European club?  Chelsea FC, Real Madrid, NY Red Bulls

Thanks everyone!  Hoping to have one more blog before the season starts.  If anyone has anything to contribute, hit me up!  bkirby@kickball.com

-bk