FC DELCO Development Academy

FC DELCO Proves Too Much For Vardar In Academy Action

SARASOTA, Fla. (May 24, 2009) - Day three of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy Spring Showcase in Sarasota, FL see both the temperature and the action heating up as FC DELCO finds itself in action against Vardar from Michigan. The 16s were first up at 10:00a with the heat and humidity beginning to build. Clearly the man-of-the-match had to be Kevin Matthews who score his first brace of the season. Matthews first goal was unassisted when he intercepted a Vardar pass at midfield. As Matthews began to attack, Vardar's defense continued to retreat. Matthews was ultimately brought down in the box with clumsy challenge and the official signaling a penalty kick. With clinical precision and composure, Matthews stepped up the spot and buried the penalty putting DELCO ahead 1-nil. <more>

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SPARQ Evals & Schmid Feature In Day Two Of Spring Showcase

SARASOTA, Fla. (May 23, 2009) - Day two of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy Spring Showcase in Sarasota, FL has both FC DELCO teams resting from game action and participating in SPARQ testing. As part of a holistic approach to developing the entire athlete SPARQ, which stands for Speed, Power, Agility, Response and Quickness, is an integrated training and testing program. SPQRQ consists of an intermittent beep test to evaluate conditioning, arrowhead agility course, 20 yard spring and vertical leap. The teams had a lot of fun competing with one another and enjoyed their day off.

Later in the day, FC DELCO’s Joe Schmid played for the Academy All- Stars against the US U17 MNT in an exhibition match. The contest was tied at two at the half when Schmid was substituted on. The US U17 MNT went up 3-2 early in the half. As Schmid began to find more of the game the US back line started to come under some real pressure. In the 65’ Schmid combined one of his forwards and found himself through the back line and on to the keeper. Using the famous Kirk Johnson move, Schmid showed the near post committing the keeper and pulled the ball to his left slotting home the equalizer. While celebrating with his DELCO teammates, Schmid received a yellow card for showing offhis incredible physique. The contest was fairly even until the 86th minute when an unfortunate own goal put the US ahead for good. The US added another goal in stoppage time to close the contest out 5-3. For the All-Stars, and Schmid in particular, it was a great showing.

FC DELCO is in action again tomorrow with games against mid-west powerhouse Vardar. <more>

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DELCO Crosses Bridge In Opening Day Action At Spring Showcase

SARASOTA, Fla. (May 22, 2009) - The U.S. Soccer Development Academy Spring Showcase kicked off for FC DELCO today with both U-15/16 and U-17/18 teams in action against the Bridge FA Academy at the Sarasota Polo Grounds. The day was capped off by the U.S. U-17 Men’s National Team match against a Development Academy Select Team. All 146 Development Academy teams were in action for the first of five days of games as the event continues throughout the holiday weekend. <more>

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DELCO's Rosato is Second Player to Draw Honors Through the Prestigious adidas ESP

TACOMA (MAY. 3, 2009) — For the second time in as many months an FC DELCO Under-18 boys Academy player, Robert Rosato (another goal keeper), has been named to the prestigious adidas Elite Soccer Program. As previously reported the adidas ESP is one of the most recognizable development programs in the country. Through its sanctioning from U.S. Youth Soccer, adidas ESP is an official event within the Olympic Development Program. adidas invites players based on the recommendations of a national and highly-regarded scouting network. adidas ESP not only offers the elite player the opportunity to train and compete in front of professional and college scouts alike, but also provides opportunities for the players to learn about college programs, professional paths, and the highly-selective Generation adidas. For more information on the adidas ESP click here.

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FC DELCO Academy Well-Positioned For Final Playoff Push

Foxboro (APR. 19, 2009) — FC DELCO's Academy teams netted 8 points out of a possible 12 this past weekend as it competed in out of conference Academy League tests against the MLS' New England Revolution in Foxboro, MA and Seacoast United in Epping, NH. The FC DELCO 18s recorded two wins in a strong showing and the FC DELCO 16s tied each of the their contests. Both squads are solidly in the playoff picture as they prepare for a PA derby and a critical divisional match up against the PA Classics. Click here for links to the weekend action (NE Revs, Seacoast).

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FC DELCO's Kurtzman Named to Prestigious adidas ESP

TACOMA (MAR. 10, 2009) — FC DELCO's own Max Kurtzman has been selected to be a part of the prestigious adidas Elite Soccer Program. As one of the most recognizable development program today, the adidas Elite Soccer Program continues to create, inspire and enable the elite soccer youth of America. Through its sanctioning from U.S. Youth Soccer, adidas ESP is an official event within the Olympic Development Program. adidas invites players based on the recommendations of a national and highly-regarded scouting network. adidas ESP not only offers the elite player the opportunity to train and compete in front of professional and college scouts alike, but also provides opportunities for the players to learn about college programs, professional paths, and the highly-selective Generation adidas. For more information on the adidas ESP click here.

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DELCO Academy Achieves Mixed Results as it Vaults Into The Playoff Picture

WAYNE (MAR. 8, 2009) — FC DELCO Academy goes 1-1-2 this past weekend netting 5 points against divisional opponents New York Red Bulls and Baltimore Bays in Academy League play at Eastern University. The highlight for the weekend had to be the Under-18's 5-nil victory over MLS Academy powerhouse New York Red Bulls. Weekend goal scorers were Schmid, Weiss, Soroka, Wilson and Trainor with two assists each by Schmid and Soroka and one assist each by Pierce and Weiss. All goals came in the second half in what amounted to nothing short of a barn-burner. The Under-16s didn't fair as well as they encountered their first real bump on the road to Greensboro. The Red Bulls nicked a goal in first half stoppage time taking the wind out of DELCO's sails. Although the game ended in a 1-nil loss to DELCO they were not without their chances. Late in the game, Zach Shiposh had a golden chance to equalize when his uncontested header finished just wide of the far post.

Even though the Baltimore Bays games ended in ties, both teams felt that they each left 2 points on the table. The Under-16 game was, by far, the more evenly matched of the two. DELCO felt confident in the 76th minute (4 minutes from time) that they had captured all three points after Jake Lister finished a Chas Wilson cross. The euphoria turned to amazement when the Bays turned around a minute later to equalize on a Fernandez break away goal. The Under-18's game was a bit more one-sided with DELCO out shooting the Bays 14-2 with zero shots on goal by the Bays. Unfortunately for DELCO this isn't wrestling and they don't give points for riding time! The game ended nil-nil with each team taking a point in the division race.

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Big Weekend for DELCO Academy in League Conference Play

WAYNE (FEB. 14, 2009) — FC DELCO Academy takes 9 points out of a possible 12 this past weekend in Academy League conference play at Eastern University against tough New York competition. After a long holiday break, the East conference teams got back into action this weekend with games up and down the coast. For FC DELCO this meant conference games against BW Gottschee of Brooklyn, NY and Albertson SC of Long Island, NY. Last year the FC DELCO 16s tied Gottschee 2-2 and defeated Albertson 2-1 while the 18s bested Gottschee 3-2 and tied Albertson.

The weekend's action opened with the DELCO 16s playing Gottschee to a 1-0 loss. As frequently happens in the world of football, DELCO had the better of the play for most of the day but failed to capitalize on at least 4 clear scoring opportunities. Gottschee sounded the warning bells for DELCO late in the first half with their first of two shots on goal. Only a spectacular initial save by DELCO's Max Kurtzman and a goal line clearance by Alex Beatty saved the go ahead goal. In the 65th minute DELCO, pressing forward in the attack, got caught in a man-to-man situation defensively with a long ball over the top. Kurtzman charged off his line to cut down the available angle but a toe-poke kissing the inside of the far post found the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, DELCO continued to pound the opposition's goal to no avail. The game ended handing the FC DELCO 16s their first loss of the season.

Next up on the Saturday double header pitted the FC DELCO 18s against the BW Gottschee 18s. After an early goal in the 6th minute by Andrew O'Malley off a corner, the result seemed be in little doubt. Out shot 18-5 and finding it difficult to maintain any kind of possession in the midfield, Gottschee never really found their footing. A late goal by Alec Weiss put the finishing touches on a tidy piece of work by DELCO.

The early game on Sunday saw the FC DELCO 16s up against Albertson SC from Long Island, NY. This was a physical defensive battle that saw little in the way of offense. As the game wore on, it became clear that a defensive error would be needed to break the nil/nil stalemate. And that's exactly what happened 3 minutes from time when a pass out of the back was intercepted by DELCO's Kyle McCord. McCord immediately played a charging Chris Somerville into the corner. Somerville was able to get behind the defense and cross a low ball back to McCord who placed it on frame. Albertson's keeper, Peter Maxted, made a tremendous initial save but coughed up a rebound with McCord finished for the win.

The marquee match of the weekend had to be the FC DELCO 18s playing the Albertson SC 18s. From the start this was not going to be a game for the feint of heart. The disciplinary report on this match registered 4 yellows and 34 "called" fouls for both teams! Football can be the cruelest of games some days and Albertson certainly felt aggrieved this day. In the 73rd minute, DELCO's Kyle Soroka lined up a direct kick from about 30 yards out. Soroka, known for his heavy foot, put a lashing on the ball that took a devilish deflection off of an Albertson defender and found the back of the net. The officials report logged the goal as an Albertson own goal but the dubious goals panel currently has it under review.

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DELCO Academy Goes Hi-Tech With Twitter o_O

WEST CHESTER (FEB. 10, 2009) — The FC DELCO Academy has enters the 21st century with the addition of Twitter technology. In an effort to keep family, friends and coaches updated with the latest Academy happenings, Tweets (short text and image updates) will be periodically posted for our "followers".

Tweets will include everything from critical updates such as field, game and/or practice changes to real time game updates (goals, penalties, results and commentary). To become a follower of FC DELCO simply go to Twitter's website and establish an account if you don't already have one. Be sure to update your profile with your mobile phone device for mobile updates. Then click on "Find People" at the top of the page and the "Find on Twitter" tab. Enter the name fcdelco and click "search". Simply click on "Follow" and that's it! You will now receive real time updates for all Academy happenings. If you want to receive updates to your mobile device be sure to update your profile by clicking on the device tab. Remember, you can always stop following at any time.

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FC DELCO Academy's Dubow Receives NSCAA/adidas High School Scholar All-American Award

ST. LOUIS (DEC. 12, 2008) — FC DELCO Academy stand-out defender, David Dubow, has been named to the NSCAA/adidas High School Boys Scholar All-American team for 2008. A total of 33 players have earned distinction on both the field and the classroom in comprising the 2008 NSCAA/adidas Boys High School Scholar All-America Team. The Scholar All-America selections are invited to be recognized at the annual All-America Luncheon, to be held in St. Louis, Mo., on Saturday, Jan. 17, as part of the 2009 NSCAA Convention.

David, a senior at The Haverford School, recently committed his college career to Jim Barlow's Princeton University Tigers. "David is a natural leader both on and off the pitch," said Kevin Tryon, head coach of The Haverford School's soccer team and FC DELCO Academy coach. Adding, "His selection is not a surprise given is athletic and academic abilities." Alan Mezger, FC DELCO Academy Director, said, "I've known David for a while and he is truly deserving. David's athletic abilities helped lead his team to multiple state and regional championships as well as several trips to the national finals." Adding, "He's a great ambassador for our club and program."

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FC DELCO Nearly Flawless at This Year's Winter Showcase

LANCASTER (DEC. 9, 2008) — The first U.S. Soccer Development Academy Winter Showcase of the 2008/2009 season closed this week in Lancaster California with all 74 clubs and the U17 national teams of the United States, Brazil and Australia competing. Building upon a successful inaugural season, the Winter Showcase demonstrated how the Development Academy is providing players with a superior environment to achieve their potential as elite soccer players. With competitive matches, individualized SPARQ training, Gatorade hydration testing and ProZone analysis, players had multiple experiences geared towards improving their development.

For FC DELCO it was a near perfect performance: Grabbing 16 points out of a possible 18 proved to be the most successful weekend in DELCO's nascent Academy history. As both teams head into the holiday break, the U-15/16s are sitting atop the Mid-Atlantic division standings and the U-17/18s are coming off of their best stretch of games to date. The Academy League starts up again this coming February 14th and goes through the end of June.

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Forgue & O'Malley Receive NSCAA High School All-American Honors for 2008

ST. LOUIS (DEC. 10, 2008) –Two FC DELCO Development Academy players today received NSCAA Boys High School All-American honors for 2008: Brian Forgue (Downingtown West High School/Downingtown, PA) and Andrew O’Malley (Salesianum School/Wilmington, DE). Both players play for the FC DELCO Development Academy Under-17/18 team coached by Academy Director Alan Mezger. Brian Forgue is one of six players this year to achieve the honor for the second year in a row – an incredibly rare feat.

“While there are many DELCO players over the years that have received honors, Brian is in an elite group to receive the coveted NSCAA award for back to back years,” said coach Mezger. Mezger added, “This speaks volumes for his abilities both as a player and a leader.” “This has also been a great year for Andrew with the Chelsea trip, being selected the Gatorade Player of the Year in Delaware as a junior and now the NSCAA honor,” continued coach Mezger.  “Andrew’s trophy cabinet is going to need a little more room if he’s going to continue at this pace.”

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FC DELCO's McCarthy Backs Up North

PHILADELPHIA (Oct. 31, 2008) –When the call came, Jerry Brindisi nearly choked on his dinner.
But after hearing those golden words: "Yo coach, I'm coming to North." The bad taste in Brindisi's mouth was soon replaced by the sweet sensation of knowing he had just scored a major piece to the future success of his boys' soccer program at North Catholic.

It was doubly as delicious when those words emanated from a player who was expected to attend one of the school's main rivals. That was three years ago, when goalkeeper John McCarthy informed the coach of his decision not to attend Father Judge, spurning his father's alma mater in the process.
"It was a real plum when (McCarthy) decided to come down to North Catholic," Brindisi said. "It's always nice when a Judge alumnus sends their kid down to North." It's a decision the tall, lanky junior admittedly struggled with, but hasn't thought twice about since. "I came here because I wanted a better education with smaller classes," said McCarthy, adding he didn't take as much grief as he may have expected from his dad, who, along with his grandfather, all share the same name. "It wasn't that big of a deal. He gave me the decision. He wasn't pushing me in any way," McCarthy said. <more>

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Whippets Capture Ches-Mont Title On The "Head" Of FC DELCO's Sutcliffe

DOWNINGTOWN (Nov. 2, 2008) – Last night the Downingtown High School soccer team, led by FC DECLO Academy players Cantrell, Forgue, Harmon, Rosato and Sutcliffe, captured the boys Ches-Mont District 1 Class AAA title by defeating Neshaminy High School 1-nil in overtime.

Early in the game Downingtown's Bobby Sutcliffe and Neshaminy's Tristan Emig collided heads with both players leaving the game. When Sutcliffe returned his head was bandaged with gauze; a wound that will require stitches later. For now, there was work to be done. The injury had no effect on the Sutcliffe's foot as he supplied the game-winning goal 8:30 into the overtime period giving the Whippets the District 1 Class AAA title. "We've always known that Cliffe was impervious to pain," said FC DELCO Academy Director Alan Mezger. Continuing, "Bobby has been known to shed much of his blood in the cause of soccer - he feels no pain - or sympathy for his opponent."

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DELCO Academy Standout Commits Future to the Tigers of Princeton University

BRYN MAWR (Oct. 18, 2008) – Today, the latest in a long list of outstanding FC DELCO players, David Dubow, committed his colligate future to the venerable institution of Princeton University. The Princeton Tigers are led by head coach Jim Barlow. Barlow enters his 13th season this year at the helm of the men’s soccer program at his alma mater Princeton. He has guided the Tigers to an 87- 86-33 record during his 12 seasons, as the second longest tenured coach in the Ivy League. Barlow has led Princeton to two Ivy League Championships, in 1999 and 2001, and two subsequent NCAA Tournament appearances. Dubow will join fellow FC DELCO player Devin Muntz (Crunch) next year who will be in his senior year.

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Development Academy Update

Winter Showcase Announcement and location change

CHICAGO (Sept. 5, 2008) – U.S. Soccer’s Development Academy will kick off its second year this weekend with the continued mission of providing players with a superior environment <http://www.ussoccer.com/articles/viewArticle.jsp_9601025.html>  to improve their development and achieve their potential as elite soccer players. The first matches will take place on Saturday, Sept. 6, with six South Conference games taking place in the Under-15/16 and Under-17/18 age groups. (Full Schedule <http://ussda.demosphere.com/Schedules/index_E.html> ) More...

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Forgue is on the brink of greatness

By Christopher Parish
ESPNRISE.com

When Downingtown West senior boys' soccer player Brian Forgue graduates, he wants to study law. Which is fitting, because right now he's the star member of one of Pennsylvania's best defense teams.

Need some evidence? Downingtown West surrendered just eight goals in 28 games last season, and Forgue was a big reason why. In his junior season, the 6-foot-1, 180-pounder was named an NSCAA/adidas All-American for his defensive efforts. Forgue was one of only two non-senior defenders in the nation to earn the honor and was one of only three players from Pennsylvania at any position.

At a young age, Forgue laced up his cleats and took to the pitch. Some of his earliest memories are of standing on the sidelines at his older brother's games. By the time he was 6 years old, he was already playing club soccer. It was then that Forgue caught the eye of John Hatt, one of the local club coaches and the man who would eventually be his varsity coach at Downingtown West.

"Even at 6 years old, you could see his work ethic," Hatt says. "He was a good young player."

Forgue auditioned to play for the Spirit United/FC Delco Strikers but decided to try out for one of the club's older teams. Surprising even himself, he made the squad. For much of his young club career, he played with and against older and more advanced players.

As a seventh-grader, Forgue made the FC Delco Hammerheads squad, eventually captaining the team for four seasons. His coaches and teammates were clearly a good judge of talent. His teams won three Region I championships and seven EPYSA State Cup championships, in addition to finishing as national runners-up in 2006.

Meanwhile, Forgue was also earning playing time for Downingtown West. He made the varsity team as a freshman but spent much of the season on the bench. But as a sophomore, Forgue earned a starting job and the results spoke for themselves. The team won the Ches-Mont League in 2006, then repeated in 2007, advancing to the state tournament.

Forgue's tenacious defense helped lead his team to the PIAA Class AAA state championship game against Peters Township last season. But an overtime loss shattered West's hopes for a title. Peters Township's Shane Pruitt, now a freshman at Lafayette, scored the clincher in the extra period, deflating fellow All-American Forgue and the Whippets, 2-1.

"It was tough to come that far and not finish the job," Forgue says. "Up to that point last year, we had surpassed every obstacle that we had met. But it kind of hurts to be crushed at the last moment. A lot of guys won't voice it, but it's all inside of us. We need to avenge that loss."

Rebounding from such a loss won't be easy, especially when the defeat is still on the minds of so many returning players this season. Hatt tries to stress a mentality of one game at a time, urging players to do the little things first before working their way up to the ultimate goal. This year, that might be tough.

But when asked how he intends to keep everyone focused, Hatt barely hesitates. "That's Brian's job," he says. "That's my captain's job." Forgue isn't particularly concerned with the captain title he earned as a junior - just the responsibility that accompanies it.

"It's not even about wearing the arm band during the game," he says. "Leadership is an action, not a position. You're a family out there, and you have each other's backs. To be viewed as their leader means the world to me."

Forgue takes a lot of pride in his ability to help his team win. He couldn't care less about his goal-scoring totals or the number of assists he tallies. "I'm not that concerned with statistics," says Forgue, who recorded four goals and eight assists last year. "The greatest accolade that I can win next year is a state championship."

With Forgue leading the defensive effort this season, the team will benefit in other areas of play. Forgue's very presence affords Hatt strategic versatility. "We're able to take a lot more chances," Hatt says. "We can significantly change formations, and that makes it tough for other teams to prepare for us. We build our team from Brian out."

Preparation is what often separates good lawyers from great lawyers, so it's no surprise that preparation and a willingness to work hard have always been among Forgue's strengths. "He had that work ethic when he was 6 years old, and he never lost it," Hatt says. "He is vocal but he leads by example."

For his part, Forgue is constantly driven by a desire to win.

"I love the competitiveness of soccer," he says. "I have a strong competitive nature, whether it's just pickup games with friends or anything. Every time I step onto the field I like to win, and I just want to be the best that I can, whether it's a night game under the lights against a cross-town rival or a day game against a no-name team. That's my mentality."

Forgue has made a verbal commitment to play soccer for Penn State, relishing the opportunity to compete in the Big Ten. But for now, Forgue's mind is on that elusive state championship.

Until he's met that goal, the defense won't rest.

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Disney USA "All-Stars" Ready for World's Best in England

LONDON, UK (August 20, 2008) — Cobham will host an array of football teams from around the world this weekend when the Academy's international competition begins on Saturday. The three-day international tournament is a celebration of football to unveil or new Academy and Community Replacement Building at Chelsea's training ground, with eight of the world's top Under 16 teams joining the festivities.

The teams will include Ajax and Bayern Munich, who have some of the best youth systems in Europe. Ajax's youth system can boast greats like Johan Cruyff and, more recently, Dennis Bergkamp, the De Boer brothers, Patrick Kluivert and Edgar Davids. But not only will Ajax and Bayern Munich be taking part in the competition, River Plate and Suwon Samsung Bluewings will also be in contention as well as Russian side Tolyatti FC, the US's Disney Soccer 'All-Stars' and Lebanon's Al-Nejmeh FC from Beirut, who are representing Chelsea's Global Charity Partner, Right to Play. The Disney Soccer 'All Stars' are made up from 18 of the US's best young players, who were selected after the Chelsea sponsored Disney Soccer Showcase.

FC DELCO's Andrew O'Malley was selected, along with 17 other players at last year's event, to represent the top youth talent from the United States. The US All-Stars marshall up at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex for a light training session and media gathering before heading off to the Chelsea's new training facility in Cobham, just outside of London. Once in the UK, the All-Stars will get in a few training sessions as well as a Stamford Bridge stadium tour before the tournament begins. The All-Stars open the tournament this Saturday against Tolyatti Academy (Russia) after which they will be treated to an Chelsea FC vs. Fullham FC Premier League game at Craven Cottage. On Sunday the All-Stars face two of the best academies in the world; Bayern Munich Academy (Germany) and AJAX Academy (Netherlands). On Monday, the semi-final and consolation matches take place with the finals to be held at Chelsea FC's historic home grounds, Stamford Bridge.

Sir Trevor Brooking, the FA's Director of Football Development, will begin the tournament by unveiling a plaque to formally open Cobham training ground's new Academy and Community Replacement Building. 'The facilities at Cobham are a tribute to how much stock the club places in developing young talent,' said Sir Trevor. Academy Manager Neil Bath added: 'These facilities are amongst the best in the world and will play an important role as we develop more and more young players through the Academy system.' The tournament kicks off this Saturday at 11am when Chelsea face River Plate FC. There will be full coverage of the Cobham Cup as the competition unfolds on Chelseafc.com.

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FC DELCO's Schmid Named To U.S. Soccer's Development Academy Mid-Atlantic 'All Division' XI

CHICAGO, IL (July 18, 2008) — Today, FC DELCO U-15/16 Academy's Joseph Schmid was named to the Mid-Atlantic divison's 'All Division' XI squad. In its inaugural season U.S. Soccer has established an annual all-divisional squad for each of its 16 divisions for both age groups. Selection is based on votes by divisional coaches throughout the entire season. In addition to Schmid's All-Division XI section, he has appeared twice this season for the U.S. Under-17 squad in Academy competition. For more information cleck here for the official U.S. Soccer communication.

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FC DELCO Academy Posts Under-15/16 Roster for 2008/2009 Season

DOWNINGTOWN, PA (July 9, 2008) — Today, FC DELCO Academy posted its U-15/16 roster for the 2008/2009 season. The U-17/18 roster is expected sometime later this month. The U-15/16 roster is primarily a combination of FC DELCO's powerful Roadkill squad and younger Academy players from last year's pool. This year's U-15/16 team will be coached by Rob Irvine. Rob, the FC DELCO's Assistant Coach of the Roadkill last year under John Hingley, is the assistant men's soccer coach at the University of Pennsylvania.

At the Division I level, Irvine spent three seasons (2001-03) as an assistant coach for his alma mater, Syracuse University. During that time, he earned his masters in public administration at Syracuse.

During his tenure, the Orange had a player earn Soccer America Freshman of the Year (Jarett Park in 2001) and another, Chris Aloisi, selected in the 2004 Major League Soccer (MLS) SuperDraft. In addition, Irvine coached three players who helped Canada to a quarterfinal berth at the 2003 FIFA World Youth Championship.

Irvine also has experience coaching at the Olympic Development Program (ODP) level, as he was a staff coach for the Region IV camp in 2004. He currently holds an “A” license from the United States Soccer Federation (USSF).

Irvine enjoyed a successful playing career before he jumped into coaching. A two-time captain at Syracuse, he played for Canada’s Under-17 national team at that age group’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in 1991, and in 1993 and 1994 he was in Canada’s Olympic Soccer Team pool of players. Irvine also played professionally for a number of years.

2008/2009 U-15/16 Academy Roster

FC DELCO Academy Taps Villanova's Tom Carlin As Newest Staff Member DOWNINGTOWN, PA (June 5, 2008) — In a move to further enrich the Academy experience, FC DELCO Academy Director, Alan Mezger, today named the Head Coach of Villanova's Men's soccer program, Tom Carlin, to his already stellar list of staff coaches. "Tom brings not only his credentials of coaching to the Academy, but his experience and knowledge about college soccer and the recruiting process which is very important for our athletes," said Mezger. "This brings our total Academy staff to 10 coaches and supporting personnel; one of the best and most committed within U.S. Soccer's Developmet Academy," he added.	FC DELCO Teams Compete In U.S. Soccer's Development Academy Spring Showcase ROCKFORD, IL (May. 26, 2008) — This past weekend FC DELCO participated in U.S. Soccer's Development Academy's largest showcase event of the year at the Rockford Sportscore in Rockford, IL (just west of Chicago). With 126 teams competiting, including the U.S. Under-17 Residency team, the National Development Academy Spring Showcase was the highest concentration of U.S. soccer talent ever gathered at one location. This fact was not overlooked by various collegient, Professional, and national scouts that were in attendance. It was a mixed weekend for DELCO as the Under-17/18 team went 1-1-1 and the Under-15/16 team went 0-1-2. Both squads took the opportunity to augment their rosters. The Under-17/18 called up three players from the Under-15/16 squard and the Under-15/16 took the opportunity to call up two players from their developmental roster
FC DELCO Academy Taps Penn's Rob Irvine For Next Season's Under-15/16s DOWNINGTOWN, PA (May. 14, 2008) — Today FC DELCO announced that it has tapped into its deep and rich pool of coaches to name University of Pennsylvania's assistant men's soccer coach as next season's head coach for the Under-15/16 division of their U.S. Soccer Development Academy. "Rob was a natural choice for this position with his current experience with our highly-successful Roadkill team, USSF A license, and significant college recruitment experience - which will be critical for our Academy players," said Academy Director, Alan Mezger.	MLS Philly makes hires as it grows - Rob Smith comes on board as expansion club begins long process CHESTER, PA (May. 12, 2008) — Keystone Sports and Entertainment, LLC, just became a whole lot stronger. And more experienced. The ownership group for Major League Soccer Philadelphia 2010 announced the hiring of two more key executives on Monday -- Rob Smith as director of operations and Dave Debusschere as chief financial officer. Both executives will officially begin their assignments on June 2. Smith is currently the president of FC Delco and the varsity women's soccer coach at Downingtown (Pa.) High School. FC Delco, which was ranked as the No. 1 soccer club in the United States in 2004 by SoccerAmerica, has produced seven USYSA national championship teams and six runner-up appearances since '91.
FC DELCO Faces Off Against The Red Bulls At Giants Stadium RUTHERFORD, NJ (Apr. 27, 2008) — Both FC DELCO Development Academy teams tied their Academy league games this past weekend at Giants Stadium against the New York Red Bulls. The games were part of an all-day event that included the New York Red Bulls MLS game against the San Jose Earthquakes. While the New York Red Bulls toppled the San Jose Earthquakes 2-nil, both Academy games drew 1-1 with spirited play on both sides. It was a great experience for the boys to perform in an environment such as Giants Stadium and just one more example of how U.S. Soccer's Development Academy is differentiating itself from our traditional notion of premier-level youth soccer.	Poor 2nd Half Performances Gives Match Fit Academy the Day PRINCETON JUNCTION (Mar. 16, 2008) — A poor 2nd half performance by both FC DELCO Academy teams allow Match Fit Academy to take all the points last Sunday in US Soccer's Mid-Atlantic conference clash at the Mercer County Community College. While FC DELCO Under-16 squad seems to struggling to find last season's form, the Under-18 performance was particularly hard to take as they let a 2-nil lead slip starting in 1st half stoppage time.
FC DELCO's Under-18 Academy Squad Prevail Over Potomac SC GERMANTOWN (Mar. 2, 2008) — Potomac SC and FC DELCO kicked-off round two of US Soccer’s National Development League under sunny winter skies yesterday at the vast recreational complex known as the Maryland Soccerplex in Germantown , MD. The Under-18 game pitted last year’s national finalist FC DELCO against the up and coming Potomac SC.	Academy League Off to a Slippery Start on Heels of Ice Storm USTC gets hit with overnight ice storm; "All Hands to the Pumps!" DOWNINGTOWN, PA (Feb. 18, 2008) — For a while there it didn't look like FC DELCO or PA Classics would get their first game of the Academy League season in last week when the Downingtown area was hit with a freak overnight ice storm. At 8:00 Sunday morning, the turf field at the United Sports Training Center was covered with 2" of ice and only a skeleton crew on board for the relatively light schedule of winter events.
FC DELCO Mourns the Loss of Cole Ballay Former FC Delco Hammerhead player, Cole Ballay, was tragically killed on Tuesday afternoon in a car accident in Whitemarsh Township near his high school, Germantown Academy. Cole was an integral member of the Hammerheads since his U-13 season and also was an EPYSA ODP member and former Region 1 ODP player as well. Cole was a great athlete, student and friend and will be sadly missed by his teammates, coaches and club members. Everyone at FC DELCO sends their prayers and condolences to Cole's family including his parents, Nan and Tom, on their loss.	FC DELCO opens Academy League in Texas Winter Showcase The 2007/2008 US Soccer Academy League opens up this weekend for many of the 64 Academy clubs in Frisco, TX at the beautiful Pizza Hut Park; home of the MLS FC Dallas. Forty-four of the country's top teams from all over the country in the under-16 and under-18 age groups will converge on Pizza Hut Park for two days great competition and fun. Amazingly, in its short existence, the Academy has emerged as the primary vehicle for US Soccer to identify talent for the national programs. As such, US Soccer, including MNT head coach Bob Bradley, will have an enourmous presence at this weekend's games. In addition to national team scouts, many of the top college programs will be present to identify top college recruits for the next few years.
Summoned to England for soccer Leeds, UK — Andrew O'Malley, 15, will be demonstrating his skills at a special event for Chelsea FC in London, England this summer.	White overcomes racial adversityHis feet have made him a living. They also might have saved his life. It was a pretty typical March evening in Belgrade. Jeremiah White was in his first season (2004) with Serbian soccer club OFK Beograd and had just finished dinner with several teammates.
Leeds United Invites FC DELCO's Nick Irvine to Train In England Leeds, UK — Leeds United, an English football club with a rich history and tradition, has invited FC DELCO Under-16 goalkeeper Nick Irvine to train for two weeks this coming February at their Elland Road facilities in Leeds, England. Leeds United is currently fighting their way back to the top-flight after suffering financial difficulties a few years back.	Announcing The Newest Member of the FC DELCO Development Academy On Wednesday, January 23rd, 2008, at 1:32AM, the Mezger's welcomed the newest member to the FC DELCO Development Academy team, Raegan Louise Mezger. Completing the transaction just before the January transfer window closed, Raegan Louise enters the Academy for a record transfer fee of 8lbs. 9oz. After passing a medical, the gaffer (Alan Mezger) said, "At 22in. Raegan is sure to make a massive impact in our back-line." Both Mom and the center-half are doing well and resting "comfortably."
Chelsea invites top U.S. youth players to train ORLANDO -- Eighteen of America's best youth soccer players, including FC DELCO's own Andrew O'Malley, were named to Disney's Soccer Showcase All-Star Team during a ceremony at Disney's Wide World of Sports.	DELCO Under-16s Produce Mixed Results At Disney Showcase Coming off a good showing at the 2007 Nike Friendlies last month at the IMG Academy's complex in Bradenton, FL, the FC DELCO Development Academy Under-16s were looking forward to a good result against tough competition at this year's Disney Soccer Showcase presented by Chelsea Football Club.
FC DELCO Academy Staff Coaches Playing Professionally Academy coaches Jeff Larentowicz and Jerry White have both made the rounds recently in the media; Jeff as a part of last year's MLS season culminating in a trip to the finals of the MLS Cup championship, and Jerry playing in Denmark. Inside you will find exciting pictures and videos of them in action.	FC DELCO Academy Players Selected To Represent The US National Team At The 2007 Nike Friendlies CHICAGO (Dec. 1, 2007) – U.S. National Team coaches selected twenty-nine Academy players for two U.S. National Training Select Teams participating in this week’s Development Academy Nike Friendlies: Including Dante Marini, Andrew O'Malley and Joseph Schmid.
US Soccer Academy to Stage 2nd Showcase in Frisco, TX, Feb 16-18, 2008by US Soccer 10/19/2007 CHICAGO (Oct. 19, 2007) – The U.S. Soccer Development Academy will stage its Winter Showcase at Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, Texas from Feb. 16-18, 2008. The U-15/16 and U-17/18 age groups will each boast 43 elite clubs from across the country and a total of 86 games that will be played over the course of the weekend. More [+]	US Soccer Development Academy Fall Showcase Resultsby US Soccer 10/12/2007 CARSON, Calif. (October 12, 2007) – With more than 700 players representing 38 of the nation’s best youth teams all in one place, the Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif. was the perfect backdrop for the first-ever U.S. Soccer Development Academy Fall Showcase. More [+] Results Page
US Soccer Announces Showcase Details For The Development AcademyChicago (October 3, 2007) – Today US Soccer announced some important details regarding key Development Academy Showcase weekends starting with the Fall Showcase at the Home Depot Center. National Team (and college) coaches will be on hand to observe Development Academy matches and address all Academy players as a group. All Showcase events will include: Gatorade will be available for all matches DVDs of each match made available to the National Team coaching staff and any collegel coach that requests Player's lounge with food, drink, games, and a place to unwind and relax Wireless network facilites for players, coaches, and press	US Soccer Responds to Region 1 ODP Player RestrictionsChicago (October 1, 2007) – US Soccer to a big step today in advocating on behalf of their Development Academy players. Academy players are strictly managed with respect to the amount and quality of their practices and games. This is a critical component of US Soccer's plan for their National Team. Recognizing that players have made commitments prior to the Academy announcement, US Soccer agreed that they should fulfill their ODP obligations for the upcoming year. Breaking away from all the other USYSA regions, Region 1 has decided to deny their regional players that are a part of the Developmet Academy the opportunity to participate in the Inter-Regionals and any european trips. This is unfortunate as the affected regional players have fully committed and embraced the ODP program. US Soccer has decided to step in and help the Region 1 pool players currently in the Academy. They have invited them to a national training camp to be held over the Thanksgiving holidays (similar to the Inter-Regionals) at the Residency Center in Bradenton, FL; expenses paid. Also, a team will be selected from this camp to represent US Soccer at the upcoming Nike Friendlies in December, again all expenses are covered. Kudos to US Soccer for doing the right thing.