Thursday Girls Soccer – Chiefs Surprise Ozark

McKenna Adams, Kickapoo (2011) shoots and scores against Ozark

McKenna Adams, Kickapoo (2011) shoots and scores against Ozark

Kickapoo Chiefs – 2 (pk’s)
Ozark Tigers – 1
The Chief’s continue to improve as the season progresses, even as they face even more injury woes. Tonight’s game saw the Chiefs win with a 4-3 advantage in penalty kicks with junior Kate Bess between the pipes. The third keeper used this season after McKenzie Danzer went down against Nixa and Danielle Smulczenski was injured Saturday against Lafayette. Bess stood tall and two of the Tiger’s kickers put their shot over the crossbar. The Tiger’s Paige Hemphill stopped one Chief’s shooter when she anticipated well and stepped in front and caught the shot.

The Tiger’s got an early lead in the 8th minute on an indirect kick by junior Jayme Braun from the 22 yard circle. Her shot got past Bess when it deflected off a defender and redirected it. The game was active with both teams understanding the importance of this game for District 11 seeding purposes. The Chief’s tied the game midway through the second half when McKenna Adam’s received a ball on the right side, split a pair of defenders and moved square to the box. Her shot from 18 yards out (pictured above) was buried into the upper 90 beyond Hemphill’s reach while bringing the student section to their feet.

Kickapoo has now beaten both Nixa and Ozark and will face Parkview next Thursday before the final match against Glendale on May 12th. Glendale has beaten Nixa but lost to Parkview twice last week and faces Ozark Monday. Parkview has beaten Nixa and Glendale and face Ozark May 7th, after the game against Kickapoo next week. It’s getting interesting!

Photos will be available Friday.

Central vs McAuleyCentral Bulldogs – 3
McAuley Warriors – 1
The undermanned Warriors, playing with only 9 players, gave up a PK in the 2nd min tonight. They tied the game in the 48th when Sammi Graham slipped her shot to the far post after a 40 yd run on a thru ball from Lucy Borgmeyer but the girls were not able to maintain pace with the Bulldogs, especially once Niki Murphy entered the game in the second half. Her pace allowed her to get behind the defense and bury a pair of shots from the left side. The Bulldog’s PK was scored by Rachel …, the goalkeeper who also helped keep the Bulldogs close in the first half when she made several important saves on Warrior breakaways and kept the defense organized. The win is the second for the Bulldogs.

McAuley is partnering with College Heights next season to enter a combined team that will continue to be Class 1 but allow them to draw from a larger pool and offer both boys and girls soccer next year.

Photos are up on Facebook and available for purchase as well.

Willard Tigers – 1 (PK’s)
Logan-Rogersville Wildcats – 0
Willard keeper, Brittaney Dunn, blocks 3 PK’s. PK’s hit by Rebecca Skinner, Brittaney Dunn, and Lindsey Owens for the Tigers. Rogersville keeper blocks shot by Rebecca Mann. Willard wins in PK’s (3-1).

Carl Junction Bulldogs -
Carthage Tigers -

Springfield Soccer Club U15′s Go Undefeated In Midwest Regional League

Springfield SC U15 - 2010 MRL 1st Division Champions

Springfield SC U15 - 2010 MRL 1st Division Champions

This past weekend saw 3 Springfield SC teams travel to Overland Park, KS to play games in the Midwest Regional League (MRL). The 15I, 16, and 17 boy’s teams all currently play in the First Division. The weather was perfect for playing soccer. The 17 boys played their first game of the year against Springfield Fire (IL) and came away with a 4-1 victory. That’s a great way to start things off! The 16 boys played twice and came awaywith a split weekend. On Saturday they defeated KCFC (KS) 3-2 on a great goal right at the end of the game. Sunday saw things go the other way with a 2-1 loss to Omaha FC (NE). They played very well and were unlucky not to get 2 wins on the weekend.

The 15I boys played their last 3 games of the season. On Saturday they defeated NFC Qdoba (NE) 3-1 in the morning followed by a 4-0 win over Kansas City United (KS). Sunday saw the boys go up against the Kansas Rush (KS) and come away with a 5-0 win. That win put the boys at 6-0 on the season and a lock for first place. This marks only the 2nd time that a Springfield SC team has won the MRL First Division. This time around it also means that they are automatically promoted to the MRL Premier Division. In their six games, the boys scored 21 goals and while only giving up 2.

This is the 2nd team in SSC history to participate in the Premier Division, the other being the SSC 90/91 boys who went on to win the Premier League once in their two years as well as winning two State Championships in their age group.

“It’s a fantastic moment to win any league. It makes it even better that this time it is the Midwest Regional League and the boys are promoted into the Premier Division where every game will feel like a State Cup game. It feels wonderful to have Springfield SC once again represented among the elite. It speaks volumes to the work the boys have put in over the past months and years. We can enjoy this for a bit, before we get back into it and prepare for State Cup,” commented Eric Sorlie, Director of Soccer Operations. “I’m also looking forward to watching the other teams finish their MRL season on a strong note as there is still a lot to play for in both divisions”

Bottom Row L to R: Evan Loyd (Greenwood), James Straus (Catholic), Jesse Bihlmeyer (Nixa), Evan Craig (Catholic), Dallas Moses (Pershing Middle School), Turner Adams (Kickapoo), Matt Call (Glendale),

Middle Row: Aaron Strunk (Kickapoo)

Top Row L to R: Evan Garrad (Glendale), Hunter Durham (Kickapoo), Chase Grubb (Kickapoo), Josh McCutcheon (Kickapoo), Andrew Schenck (Nixa), Elliot Williams (Kickapoo), Braedyn Mitchell (Clever), Jakob Neidig (Ozark), Mitchell Moncada (Catholic), Head Coach Eric Sorlie

The photos below are from a game September 2008, the first season the boys played in the Midwest Regional League

Dr Tom Hoff – 20 Under 30

Dr Joe Kofron, Andy Cooper, Dr Tom Hoff, 2008 State Finals

Dr Joe Kofron, Andy Cooper, Dr Tom Hoff, 2008 State Finals

I don’t normally spend much time checking out 417 Magazine, but I’d heard a rumor that a member of the Springfield soccer community was recognized in their April issue as one of their 20 under 30. Low and behold, there was former Drury player and current Springfield Catholic boys assistant Tom Hoff featured in their pages. Even that might not have been enough for me to put this little piece together but Tommy hooked me with the Q&A responses. Guess which one is my favorite!

Q&A: Get to know Tom Hoff

How do you get your news?
“USA Today and the News-Leader. I get dental news from Dental Economics.”

What’s one website you check daily?
“Sgfsoccer.com”

What did you want to be when you grew up when you were 5?
“I wanted to play soccer for Juventus.”

Thanks and well done Tom!

Tuesday Central Ozark Conference Girls Soccer – Nixa, Bolivar Win

Maddie Chandler, Nixa Eagles (2010)

Maddie Chandler, Nixa Eagles (2010)

Nixa Eagles – 8
Neosho Wildcats – 0
The Eagles beat Neosho on Senior Night, with all 3 seniors scoring this evening – Maddie Chandler, Jo Pavlowsky and Ashlyn Robillard. Lauren Moats added a pair of 2 goals and 2 assists along with Courtney Frerichs, Kelsey Bartell and Maddie Chandler each adding a goal and an assist. There was also an own goal and Kristin Miller earned the shutout. Record now 10-3

Carthage Tigers – 0
Branson Pirates – 2
Branson goals were scored by Chenelle Delgadillo, her 1st of the season, and Neva Raschel (5th)

Ozark Tigers -
Willard Tigers -

Bolivar Liberators – 4
Marshfield Blue Jays – 0
The Liberators solidify their hold on the Class 2 top seed as they shutout last years #4 seed.

Springfield Catholic – 3
Logan-Rogersville Wildcats – 0

Tuesday Ozarks Conference Girls Soccer – Parkview Beats Glendale

Jacinda Lemons, Glendale (2011) pushes out a Parkview corner kick

Jacinda Lemons, Glendale (2011) pushes out a Parkview corner kick

Parkview Vikings – 3 (OT)
Glendale Falcons – 2
After beating the #11 state ranked Falcons for the first time ever in program history on Saturday, the Vikings pulled off the same remarkable result for the second time in four days this evening. They did it by scoring a pair of quality goals in the final 18 minutes of regulation, and getting the winner 2 1/2 minutes into the first overtime.

The Falcons opened the scoring early this evening with junior Lacey Ragar scored in the first 10 minutes. The Falcon’s improved on that in the second half when Lindsey Sprouse took advantage of a defensive miscue to score in the 7th min. It seemed the game would play out in that fashion except for some remarkable individual play supported by strong team play. The Vikings created their own momentum in the 62nd when a long ball into the box on a set piece was initially cleared (photo above) only to see Molly Robb bury the loose ball into the roof of the net. Shortly afterwards, Shelby Stewart took matters into her own hands when she collected a loose ball in the center circle, made a couple of cuts before turning towards goal at high pace. Her shot to the far post was pushed wide by goalkeeper Jacinda Lemons but picked up by Kelsey Loderhose. Her shot hit a defender and fell into Melanie Allen’s path, and Allen buried it before the defense could react, tying the score and sending the game to OT.

The game winner by Loderhose was sweet. A high ball was coming down at the center of the pitch. Kelsey controlled it with her back to the goal, made a quick turn and took a few strides towards goal before unleashing a shot from 30 yards out. As if on a string it slipped in between the keepers outstretched arms and the crossbar, settling into the net and setting off the second celebration of the game for the Vikings.

Kickapoo Chiefs – 5
Joplin Eagles – 0
The Chiefs got goals from Megan Melugin, Brittany Baker, assisted by Rachel McIntyre, and Casey Weitzel in the first half. Second half goals by Lauren Rowland on a header, following a rebound off the cross bar on a shot by Brittany Baker and a second by Melugin for the final margin. Junior Kate Bess earned the shutout in goal, as McKenzie Danzer continues to rehab from her injury last week.

Rolla Bulldogs – 1
Waynesville Tigers – 0
Senior Jaclyn Standfast scored on a header off a corner kick in the 50th minute, served by senior Kaylyn Stoll, helping Rolla defeat Waynesville 1-0 on Kiwanis Field at the Bray Sports Complex. Rolla improves to 6-4 overall and 4-1 in the conference. Waynesville falls to 2-7 and 1-3.

Hillcrest Hornets – 0
Lebanon Yellowjackets – 3

West Plains And Camdenton Kicking Cancer Tonight

Select Pink Kicking Cancer soccer balls, News-Leader photo

Select Pink Kicking Cancer soccer balls, News-Leader photo

The West Plains Zizzers and Camdenton Lakers have been involved in a season long effort to raise funds to support the fight against cancer this year. The events culminate this evening as the teams compete in an Ozark Conference Soccer match at West Plains.

The teams will wear special jerseys for the game. West Plains will wear Lavendar (The Awareness color for Cacner in General) and Camdenton will wear Yellow (The Awareness color for Childhood Cancer). goalkeepers for both teams will wear Pink (The Awareness color for Breast Cancer). The teams will use special Pink “The Cure” Game Balls by Select. The Balls are special Awareness Balls and will be autographed by the players and auctioned off after the games. On that date, the team that raises the least amount of money will have some fun “consequences”. As part of the effort to raise awareness of cancer, a speaker will be talking to the teams and interested fans. The Howell County Relay For Life Committee will be at the games to hand out information provided by the American Cancer Society.

For 2010, the teams set a goal to each raise $1500. The money raised will go to the American Cancer Society and Camdenton will give some money to the Jaxon Downen family as Jaxon courageously battles leukemia (Jaxon is a student in the Camdenton School District). The Teams have been selling White T-shirts so people can help “White Out” Cancer and are using other ways to help raise money.

In addition to selling T-shirts, the Lady Zizzers are selling Awareness Bracelets (Purple, Yellow, and Pink). The Lady Zizzers will also donate $1 from each box of cookie dough sold in their annual fundraiser to the cancer fund. Other events planned include a car wash ($517 raised!), and baked goods for sale at home games. There is a website page dedicated to the Zizzer’s effort and the effort features prominently on the Lady Laker’s website.

Coach JD Hunter following Kickin' Cancer match

Coach JD Hunter following Kickin' Cancer match

UPDATE From Coach Schmitt: Camdenton wins the Ozark Conference match 2-0 at West Plains this evening. Ashleigh Paschel scored on PK in 34th minute and Miriam Taylor scored off a rebound in the 69th minute.

A Grand Total of $4400 (Camdenton – $2050 and West Plains – $2173) was raised between the two teams! It was great fun! Coach Hunter was a good sport as the West Plains girls buzzed his hair as the “consequence” of the Zizzers earning a larger share of the money during the one month effort. Look for pictures of the hair buzzing on zizzersoccer.smugmug.com

We’ll do it again next year at Camdenton.

Harry Cooper Recognized For Support of Missouri State Soccer

Harry Cooper with Missouri State Bears and alumni

Harry Cooper with Missouri State Bears and alumni

On behalf of the entire Missouri State University Bears Soccer Family, thank you for your generous support and unconditional devotion to the MSU Men’s Soccer Program! MSU Soccer Alumni Weekend, April 17, 2010

For those who were unable to attend Saturday’s annual Alumni game at Plaster Stadium, a short ceremony was held beforehand to recognize Mr Harry Cooper for his support of the program since it’s inception 30 years ago. As can be seen in the photo (provided by Kevin White, Missouri State Photo Services) Mr Cooper was presented a framed MSU soccer jersey with his name on it and the number 1. Very appropriate.

It was a short presentation, and the team had to surprise him with the jersey since Mr Cooper does a good job of avoiding these events, preferring that the light be shined on the players rather than himself. Coach Leamy read an email from an alumnus and Mr. Cooper addressed the group. There were over 30 Alumni who returned for the weekend events and participated in the presentation.

Barcelona vs Inter Today!

Lionel Messi, Barcelona

Lionel Messi, Barcelona

Did you set your DVR? If not, Fox Soccer Channel is replaying the game at 5pm today as well.

Barcelona are the defending UEFA Champions League holders and last faced Inter in group play last Fall. Here are the talking points for both coaches from the UEFA Champions League website There’s a 3 1/2 min video worth checking out!

FC Internazionale Milano coach José Mourinho believes his side are “much stronger” now than when they faced FC Barcelona in the group stage as the two teams prepare to meet again in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. While Mourinho was happy for Barcelona to be considered favourites ahead of Tuesday’s first leg at San Siro, his opposite number Josep Guardiola was concerned too much expectation was being placed on the holders, particularly after a gruelling 14-hour bus drive to Milan.

José Mourinho, Inter coach
Barça deserved to win in November. They are as strong now as they were then, but we are much stronger. I don’t mind if the football world considers them favourites, I think we have a 50% chance of playing in the final. What I do not like is to talk about this game as if it were a final; the real final will be played in Madrid. Lyon and Bayern have the same chances of winning the trophy as Barcelona and Inter have.

Everybody talks about Messi, but football is not an individual sport, though of course he is a player who deserves special attention. I worked with Puyol ten years ago, but he seems to be the same player. He looks like a 21-year-old, not a 30-year-old. Success has not changed him and that’s the best thing for a player.

Josep Guardiola, Barcelona coach
It’s not just us playing; Inter are as well. They have been Italian champions for four years in a row. It is not the ideal situation for us to travel 14 hours by coach after a league game and before a semi-final against Inter, but you cannot stop a volcano, can you? We decided to use two busses to have more space and I didn’t travel with the players because I think it’s better for them not to always have their coach with them. Luckily Inter eliminated CSKA so we haven’t had to go to Moscow by bus!

I don’t want to think about the league; we are in a Champions League semi-final for the third time in a row and I want to savour it. [Saturday's 0-0 draw at] Espanyol is history. Inter can play in a variety of ways. They have versatile players who do whatever their coach asks. I have no idea which Inter to expect. We want to be ourselves – we have to.

Monday Soccer – West Plains Surprises Marshfield

Kelly Smith, West Plains clears ball in front of Jennifer McArthur, Marshfield

Kelly Smith, West Plains clears ball in front of Jennifer McArthur, Marshfield

Marshfield Blue Jays – 0
West Plains Zizzers – 1 (2nd OT)
She’s back! Sophomore Tasha Ugbah, who played a 10 minute shift in the second half for her first minutes of the season, came on at the start of the second overtime in the scoreless tie at Marshfield and got the game winner in the first minute. A thru ball sent Ugbah in a foot race with the defender and as the keeper came out, Ugbah poked the ball past her into the empty net. A key for the Zizzer’s was the play of junior Sammi Phegley in goal as she made several says during the course of the game to deny the Jay’s.

It was a lively game, despite the fact that Marshfield was coming off their Tournament win at Branson this weekend and a stretch of 6 games in 8 days. The Jays created more opportunities in the game, especially in the second half and first overtime period, but were unable to get the final touch on the ball including an early breakaway as well as a pair of crosses by senior Dannyca Mostrom from the right side that went right through the six yard box. A tough loss for the Jays as they battle to stay ahead of West Plains and Logan-Rogersville in the Class 2 District 5 seeding race.

Warrensburg Tigers – 1
Bolivar Liberators – 3
Another Class 2 District 5 game and a rematch of last years final, won by Bolivar 3-0, earning their first ever girls District title. The Liberators repeat tonight, solidifying their position as the likely top seed a month from now.

Glendale Falcons – 3
Nixa Eagles – 2
Molly Brewer scores the game winning goal on an assist from Emilee Williams. The Falcons also got goals from Williams (1G/1A) and Lindsey Sprouse. Nixa goals were scored by Jo Pavlowsky, unassisted and Kelsey Bartell, assist by Lauren Moats. Nixa’s record is now 9-3.

Caylin Manary, Parkview Vikings (2010)

Caylin Manary, Parkview Vikings (2010)

Branson Pirates – 1
Parkview Vikings – 4
The Pirates took the lead in the first half with senior Neva Raschel’s unassisted goal, only to see Parkview tie the game on Jessica Maerz’s unassisted goal. The 2nd Half was all Parkview as Shelby Stewart scored a pair and Mary Langbartel, assisted by Emily Courtney, completed the scoring.

Neosho Wildcats – 3
Carl Junction Bulldogs – 2
This local derby was a lively affair tonight. Neosho jumped out to a 1-0 lead. A hand ball in the box gave Kelsey Swarens a chance to tie the game which she did from the penalty spot. Later in the first half a Neosho corner kick and header gave them another lead, 2-1 going into half. In the second half the Bulldogs once again tied the game. Kelsey Swarens had an unassisted goal to tie it 2-2. Later in the second half Neosho had a good shot outside of the box to take the lead 3-2. That end up being the final score. It was a good game both teams played hard. Carl Junction will play Carthage Thursday at home.