BMO - the Bank of Soccer in Canada - named First Founding Partner of Vancouver Whitecaps FC

BMO – the Bank of Soccer in Canada – named First Founding Partner of Vancouver Whitecaps FC

• Four-year partnership extends and enhances BMO’s support of Vancouver Whitecaps FC
• Partnership has a youth focus with Kickin’ with the ‘Caps program
• BMO “Power of Blue” program continues at all Whitecaps FC MLS home games

VANCOUVER, BC – BMO – the Bank of Soccer in Canada – and Vancouver Whitecaps FC today announced a new four-year sponsorship agreement, which will see BMO become Whitecaps FC’s first Founding Partner. BMO’s new partnership with the club builds on its current five-year relationship and will focus on the bank’s continued support for youth soccer.

As Whitecaps FC’s first corporate partner in the Founding Partner tier, BMO will be the presenting sponsor of the Kickin’ with the ’Caps community program. Kickin’ with the ’Caps connects youth soccer clubs throughout the province of BC and integrates them into each Whitecaps FC MLS home match, providing them with a unique “field experience” and opportunities to fundraise for their club. Approximately 115 youth will participate in the program at each match.

“We’re thrilled to join Whitecaps FC as a Founding Partner as they enter into their inaugural season in MLS,” said Rob Serraglio, Senior Vice President, BMO Bank of Montreal, BC & Yukon Division. “BMO is pleased to be adding its brand to the beautiful and globally popular game of soccer through this Whitecaps FC partnership agreement. The expanded sponsorship with the Whitecaps youth programs fits in very nicely with our current grassroots support of girls’ and boys’ teams across Canada.”

BMO Financial Group supports soccer in Canada from youth players in local neighbourhoods and communities, to the professional level. BMO’s deep commitment to soccer is evident with their grassroots support of close to 500 youth teams nationally.

BMO will also buddy-up with youth players in Vancouver through BMO Club Nights and Whitecaps FC training sessions featuring “chalk talks” from Whitecaps FC staff and autograph sessions with the Whitecaps FC players.

“BMO has been a tremendous partner throughout the years and we are very excited to have them with us as we enter into a new era with our club,” added Paul Barber, Chief Executive Officer, Whitecaps FC. “This partnership demonstrates our mutual commitment to growing the sport of soccer in BC and Canada, and as our second major partner announcement, continues to build on the excitement for Major League Soccer.”

In addition to presenting the “Kickin’ with the ‘Caps” program, BMO customers will continue to enjoy BMO’s Power of Blue program at all Whitecaps FC MLS home matchers. The program delivers unique perks and privileges to customers attending BMO sponsored events across the country.

At every Whitecaps FC MLS match, BMO customers will have:
• The opportunity to get seat upgrades and VIP treatment with the BMO Move of the Match
• Unique experiences through other BMO Power of Blue elements


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FIVE PLAYERS WILL NOT BE BACK WITH THE IMPACT IN 2011

MONTREAL - The Montreal Impact announced Thursday that five players will not return next season. The club will not offer new contracts to forward Eduardo Sebrango, midfielder Patrick Leduc, as well as defender Wesley Charles. Midfielders Rocco Placentino and Filipe Soares will also be left off the roster for 2011.

More details from the Montreal Impact by clicking here.

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Midweek Podcast is Available

The latest edition of the Full-Time Midweek Podcast is now available. Click here to listen or subscribe to iTunes.

This week we discuss the retirement of Martin Nash and his new role as a Staff Coach with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC.

We also hear from Martin Nash.

MARTIN NASH ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT AS A PLAYER - TAKES ON NEW COACHING ROLE WITH THE CLUB

VANCOUVER, BC – Martin Nash today announced his retirement from competitive soccer as a player, while also announcing he has accepted an offer to take on a new role with Vancouver Whitecaps FC as a member of the coaching staff.

"I’m incredibly proud of what I've accomplished over my career as a player at both club and international level, and am pleased to be able to finish this chapter of my career at home, with the club where it began," stated Nash. "I'd like to thank the fans, the clubs, my teammates, my coaches, and my wife and children who have given up a lot for my career - it's been an incredible time. This was a tough decision, and while I know I’m going to miss playing, I’m looking forward to contributing to the success of Whitecaps FC in a new way. I'm hopeful I can help the club carry forward the tradition of success and excellence we’ve become known for."

Born in Regina, Saskatchewan, and raised in Victoria, BC, Nash enjoyed an illustrious professional playing career that spanned more than 16 years in Canada, England, and the United States. This included an impressive 2010 campaign, in which Nash was named to the USSF D-2 Pro League Best XI. He also claimed the Domenic Mobilio Golden Boot Award after leading Whitecaps FC with five goals and eight assists this past season.

"Martin has been a part of some of the truly great moments with this club," said Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi. "He’s been an exceptional leader and role model within our club and community, and we’re delighted he’ll be with us as we enter Major League Soccer in 2011. Martin was also a great player, who had a fine ability of scoring some spectacular goals, especially from long range. He also showed great vision and ability with his passing and distribution from central midfield. These abilities are the hallmarks of a top playmaker."

In his new role, Nash will primarily take on responsibilities with the club's Residency program as an on-field coach, player mentor, and talent scout. Nash will also assist the first team in scouting and will continue to play an active role in community events.

"As a player, Martin was known for his intelligence and his ability to analyze and see the game unfold - attributes which will be incredibly useful as a coach," added Whitecaps FC head coach Teitur Thordarson. "His fiercely competitive nature, tempered by his respectful approach, is one we feel embodies our philosophy as a club, and will be a great asset in working with our Residency players. Having a successful development system is critical to our club’s success, and we know he'll bring the same level of dedication to his new role as a part of our coaching staff, as he brought to the pitch."

A standout with Lower Vancouver Island Metro Selects, Nash began his professional career with Whitecaps FC (then known as Vancouver 86ers) at the age of 19 in 1995.

In the following years, Nash enjoyed success playing with clubs in both England and North America, including back-to-back United Soccer Leagues First Division (USL-1) championship titles with Rochester Rhinos in 2000 and 2001.

In 2004, Nash returned to Vancouver for his third and final stint with Whitecaps FC. It was during this time that the midfielder helped the club win two league titles in 2006 and 2008. In 2009, Nash was named the club's 19th captain and led them to another appearance in the USL-1 championship final. This past season, Nash played 36 matches - including 33 starts - for 2,957 minutes of action.

In total, Nash played 10 seasons with Whitecaps FC and finished as the club's seventh all-time leader in points with 110. This includes 31 goals (15th all-time) and 48 assists (third all-time). Nash also finished sixth all-time in appearances with 285 and fifth all-time in minutes played with 22,942. Including his time outside of Vancouver, Nash scored 45 goals and recorded 74 assists in 421 total appearances.

Throughout his club career, Nash received a number of individual awards. He was named to the USL-1 All-League First Team with Whitecaps FC in 1996, 2007, and 2008, while he earned USL-1 All-League Second Team honours with Rochester in 2000 and Vancouver in 2009. He was also named Whitecaps FC Most Valuable Player and Fan Favourite in 2007.

A Canadian international, Nash appeared for his country at the U-20, U-23 Olympic, and and senior level. He made his senior international debut in a FIFA World Cup qualifier versus El Salvador at Swangard Stadium on April 6, 1997, and went on to earn 38 caps and score two goals for Canada, with his last international appearance coming in 2008. In 2000, Nash helped Canada win the CONCACAF Gold Cup title in the United States.


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Martin Nash Set To Retire

Vancouver Whitecaps FC captain is set to retire from professional soccer in a player capacity. The Province's Marc Weber has the details.

Rumors are that he may take an off field role with the Whitecaps.


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Whitecaps Set to Make Announcements

The Vancouver Whitecaps FC will be holding two press conferences this week.

On Wednesday they will make an announcement regarding a soccer personnel announcement. Marc Weber of the Vancouver Province suggested last week the 'Caps could be hiring former Sparta Rotterdam technical director Richard Grootscholten as their youth director.

***scratch the coaching announcement of Richard Grootscholten. Martin Nash is set to retire Wednesday and move into the front office***

On Thursday, the Whitecaps and BMO Financial Group will host a joint press conference to announce the club and bank have a sponsorship partnership for the upcoming 2011 MLS season.



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Short lists for first FIFA Ballon d'Or gala revealed

Short lists for first FIFA Ballon d'Or gala revealed

Who will claim the FIFA Ballon d'Or and the FIFA Women's World Player of the Year awards for 2010? Who will be the first to win the FIFA World Coach of the Year for Men's Football award and the FIFA World Coach of the Year for Women's Football award? FIFA and France Football have today announced the names of the players and coaches on the short lists for these awards (see below), and the final decisions will be made by the captains and head coaches of the men's and women's national teams as well as by international media representatives selected by France Football.

The winners will be revealed at the first FIFA Ballon d'Or gala as part of a televised ceremony at the Zurich Kongresshaus on 10 January 2011, during which the FIFA/FIFPro World XI and the FIFA Puskás Award for the most beautiful goal of the year will also be announced for the second year running. The FIFA Presidential Award and the FIFA Fair Play Award will also be presented during the gala.

The lists of 23 male and ten female candidates, as well as the two lists of ten coaches, have been drawn up by football experts from the Football Committee, the Technical and Development Committee and the Committee for Women's Football and the FIFA Women's World Cup™, as well as by a group of experts from France Football.

The alliance between FIFA and the Amaury Group to create the FIFA Ballon d'Or was signed in Johannesburg on 5 July 2010. The award is a combination of the FIFA World Player of the Year award and the France Football Ballon d'Or.

Meanwhile, the FIFA World Coach of the Year for Men's Football award and the FIFA World Coach of the Year for Women's Football award will be presented for the first time.

On 6 December 2010, FIFA and France Football will announce at a media event in Paris the names of the three men and three women, as well as the three men's coaches and three women's coaches, who have received the most votes.

Short lists for the FIFA Ballon d'Or Gala 2010

The following 23 men (in alphabetical order) are in contention for the FIFA Ballon d'Or 2010:

Xabi Alonso (Spain), Daniel Alves (Brazil), Iker Casillas (Spain), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), Didier Drogba (Côte d'Ivoire), Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon), Cesc Fabregas (Spain), Diego Forlán (Uruguay), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Andrés Iniesta (Spain), Júlio César (Brazil), Miroslav Klose (Germany), Philipp Lahm (Germany), Maicon (Brazil), Lionel Messi (Argentina), Thomas Müller (Germany), Mesut Özil (Germany), Carles Puyol (Spain), Arjen Robben (Netherlands), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Germany), Wesley Sneijder (Netherlands), David Villa (Spain) and Xavi (Spain).

The following ten women (in alphabetical order) are in contention for the title of FIFA Women's World Player 2010:

Camille Abily (France), Fatmire Bajramaj (Germany), So Yun Ji (Korea Republic), Marta (Brazil), Birgit Prinz (Germany), Caroline Seger (Sweden), Christine Sinclair (Canada), Kelly Smith (England), Hope Solo (USA) and Abby Wambach (USA).

The following ten coaches (in alphabetical order, first nationality and then team) are in contention for the FIFA World Coach of the Year for Men's Football 2010:

Carlo Ancelotti (Italy/ Chelsea FC), Vicente del Bosque (Spain/Spain national team), Alex Ferguson (Scotland/Manchester United), Pep Guardiola (Spain/FC Barcelona), Joachim Löw (Germany/Germany national team), José Mourinho (Portugal/FC Internazionale Milano and Real Madrid CF), Oscar Tabárez (Uruguay/Uruguay national team), Louis Van Gaal (Netherlands, FC Bayern Munich), Bert Van Marwijk (Netherlands/Netherlands national team) and Arsène Wenger (France/Arsenal).

The following ten coaches (in alphabetical order, first nationality and then team) are in contention for the FIFA World Coach of the Year for Women's Football 2010:

Bruno Bini (France/France national team), In Cheul Choi (Korea Republic, Korea Republic U-20 national team), Maren Meinert (Germany/Germany U-20 national team), Albertin Montoya (USA/ FC Gold Pride), Silvia Neid (Germany/Germany national team), Hope Powell (England/England national team), Norio Sasaki (Japan/Japan national team), Bernd Schröder (Germany/FFC Turbine Potsdam), Pia Sundhage (Sweden/USA national team), Béatrice von Siebenthal (Switzerland/Switzerland national team).


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Paul the Octopus dead at 2.5 Years

Just months into his retirement after gaining international attention for his football foreshadowing this past summer, Paul the Octopus died in his tank Tuesday of natural causes in the German city of Oberhausen. He was two-and-a-half-years-old.

English-born Paul rose to fame in June and July, correctly predicting the outcome of all seven of Germany’s matches at the World Cup in South Africa. The football forecasts were made when Paul lifted the lid of one of two clear boxes, each bearing a team flag and each containing a tasty mussel.

The invertebrate’s success spawned imitators, including Singapore’s Mani the Parakeet, Lorenzo the Parrot in Hannover, Germany and the saltwater crocodile Dirty Harry, who predicted Spain’s World Cup win.

Keepers at the Sea Life aquarium said Paul appeared to be healthy when he was checked Monday night. However, the famous mollusk didn’t make it through the night.

Funeral arrangements haven’t yet been set. Sea Life manager Stefan Porwoll said Paul may be buried on the grounds, or he may be commemorated with a permanent shrine.

After Paul correctly called Spain’s World Cup victory he retired from public life, returning to his real job of entertaining visitors to the aquarium and giving up the razzle-dazzle of sports prognostication.

Paul was born at Weymouth Sea Life Centre in southern England in 2008

Full Time Podcast October 24, 2010

This weekend's Full Time Soccer Show podcast is up. To listen click here You can also subscribe to the podcast for iTunes by clicking here.

Vancouver Whitecaps goalkeeper Jay Nolly joins the show to talk about receiving the NASL Div 2 Best Goalkeeper award.

Vancouver Whitecaps defender Greg Janicki also speaks on receiving his award for Best Defender in the NASL Div 2.

Vancouver Whitecaps Coach Teitur Thordarsson drops in to talk about players who may make the MLS squad and much more!

Todd Durbin, the MLS executive vice president of competition, labour and player relations joins the program to talk about designated players and much more as Vancouver prepares for it's inaugral MLS season!

Metrotown Physio's Mark Rizzardo joins the program once more to diagnose the most prominent soccer injuries from around the world!

Of course, tune in to the midweek podcast where hosts Tyler Green & Mike Martignago are joined by Marc Weber from The Province to talk more Caps!

Full Time, Vancouver's Soccer Show goes every Sunday from 9p-11p. Only on TEAM 1040!

Jay Nolly Earns Goalkeeper of the Year Honors

CHICAGO (Oct. 21, 2010) – U.S. Soccer announced today that Portland Timbers midfielder Ryan Pore earned the award for Most Valuable Player and Jay Nolly of Vancouver Whitecaps FC was named Goalkeeper of the Year. The Best XI of the 2010 season was also revealed to conclude the rundown of league awards.

Pore, named the Goal Scoring Champion yesterday, was voted the league’s Most Valuable Player after a season which saw him lead the league in goals scored with 15 and points with 35. His five assists were also good enough for a tie for fifth place overall, as he made 29 appearances in 2010 and collected the April Player of the Month Award after the first month of league play.

Goalkeeper of the Year Jay Nolly played every match for a Vancouver defense that allowed a league low 22 goals in 30 games. His 0.735 goals-against-average was also best in the league.

Both Pore and Nolly appear on the Best XI, as does Defensive Player of the Year Greg Janicki. Joining the Vancouver defender on the back line is a pair of Rochester Rhinos in Aaron Pitchkolin and Troy Roberts. Alongside Pore in midfield are Martin Nash of Vancouver, Jamie Watson from the Austin Aztex, Paulo Araujo, Jr. of Miami FC and the Carolina RailHawks’ Daniel Paladini. Montreal Impact forward Ali Gerba and Austin’s Eddie Johnson make up the front line of league’s all-star lineup.

The USSF D-2 Pro League Postseason Awards are selected by a panel of journalists comprised of members of print, television, radio and online media hailing from each of the 12 USSF D-2 Pro League clubs’ local markets, as well as the general manager and head coach of each team.

USSF D-2 Pro League Most Valuable Player: Ryan Pore (Portland Timbers)

USSF D-2 Pro League Goalkeeper of the Year: Jay Nolly (Vancouver Whitecaps FC)

Best XI
Goalkeeper: Jay Nolly, Vancouver Whitecaps FC
Defender: Greg Janicki, Vancouver Whitecaps FC
Defender: Aaron Pitchkolan, Rochester Rhinos
Defender: Troy Roberts, Rochester Rhinos
Midfielder: Ryan Pore, Portland Timbers
Midfielder: Martin Nash, Vancouver Whitecaps FC
Midfielder: Jamie Watson, Austin Aztex
Midfielder: Paulo Araujo, Jr., Miami FC
Midfielder: Daniel Paladini, Carolina RailHawks
Forward: Eddie Johnson, Austin Aztex
Forward: Ali Gerba, Montreal Impact

Full-Time Midweek Podcast

In the Full-Time Midweek podcast, hosts Tyler Green and Mike Martignago are joined as usual with Province writer Marc Weber to discuss all things Whitecaps FC.

This weeks discussion topic is the current players most likely to make the Whitecaps MLS squad in 2011.

Subscribe and Listen via iTunes by clicking here.

Janicki Wins Defender Of The Year

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release: October 20, 2010

JANICKI NAMED USSF D-2 DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

VANCOUVER, BC - The United States Soccer Federation Division-2 Professional League announced today that Vancouver Whitecaps FC centre back Greg Janicki has been named Defensive Player of the Year.

"Greg was very solid for us at the back and contributed to our many clean sheets during the year," said Whitecaps FC head coach Teitur Thordarson. "We have seen him grow into a very dependable defender this season and are delighted to see the league and media recognize him as the Defensive Player of the Year."

The New Baltimore, Michigan, native was an anchor in Whitecaps FC backline during the 2010 season, with Vancouver surrendering a league low 22 goals. The 6-foot-3 defender started all but one of his 26 regular season appearances for 2,293 minutes of action, with the 26-year-old also finishing in a three-way tie in the club's goalscoring charts with four goals. Janicki's goals came at home to Rochester Rhinos on May 22, away on two occasions to Canadian rivals Montreal Impact (June 30 & July 28), and away to Crystal Palace Baltimore on September 11. In all competitions in 2010, Janicki appeared in 33 total matches for 2,953 minutes of action.

"It's an honour to receive this award," added Janicki. "After leaving D.C. United, it was good for me to play a lot here and gain some confidence back. That's was the most important thing I wanted to get out of this year in Vancouver - to play a lot and play the way I know I can play. I think this award is a testament to the way all of us played in the backline this season. Everyone stepped up when they needed to and it helped us earn results."

Prior to joining Whitecaps FC, Janicki was a member of Major League Soccer side D.C. United from 2008 to 2009. The centre back also played four years of NCAA Division I soccer with Michigan State University.

In addition to the Defensive Player of the Year award, the USSF D-2 Pro League also announced today that Austin Aztex striker Maxwell Griffin was named the league's Rookie of the Year, while former Whitecaps FC and current Rochester Rhinos head coach Bob Lilley earned the league's Coach of the Year honour. With 15 goals during the regular season, Portland Timbers midfielder Ryan Pore was recognized as the USSF D-2 goalscoring champion.

The awards for USSF D-2 Most Valuable Player, Goalkeeper of the Year, and Best XI will be announced on Thursday, October 21.

The USSF D-2 Pro League awards were selected by a panel of journalists, which comprised of members of print, television, radio, and online media that hailed from each of the 12 USSF D-2 Pro League clubs' local markets, as well as the general manager and head coach of each club (Note: the goalscoring champion is based on statistics and was not decided by votes).

Whitecaps FC fans can purchase 2011 MLS season tickets by putting down a $50 deposit. MLS season ticket prices start at $319, and will include a minimum of 17 matches throughout the season. For additional information about MLS season ticket deposits, visit whitecapsfc.com.

About Vancouver Whitecaps FC
In 1974, Vancouver Whitecaps FC played their inaugural season in the North American Soccer League, and in 1979, the club won the NASL Soccer Bowl championship. From 1987 to 1992, as a member of the Canadian Soccer League, Vancouver won four straight CSL titles. In 2002, Whitecaps FC created a full club model that encompasses professional teams for men and women, extensive youth development and grassroots participation programs, facility development, and the Whitecaps Foundation to support specific initiatives related to health and wellness through soccer. Since 2004, Whitecaps FC have won two United Soccer Leagues First Division championships and two USL W-League championships. In 2011, Whitecaps FC will begin their inaugural season in Major League Soccer at Empire Field before moving into the new BC Place Stadium in downtown Vancouver. For additional information on Vancouver Whitecaps FC, visit whitecapsfc.com.

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Whitecaps offseason training and Player substractions

For Immediate Release: October 19, 2010

WHITECAPS FC PREPARE FOR OFF-SEASON TRAINING PROGRAM

VANCOUVER, BC – Having completed their final season at the second division level in North America, Vancouver Whitecaps FC will continue on-field preparations and player evaluations for their inaugural season in Major League Soccer – the top tier in Canada and the United States – with a six-week fall/winter training program. The training camp will commence on Monday, November 1, and conclude on Friday, December 10.

Whitecaps FC will take part in morning on-field training sessions at the Whitecaps Training Centre on the campus of Simon Fraser University, as well as strength and conditioning sessions at Burnaby 8-Rinks for the first four weeks. During the camp, the roster will see an injection of new players, as the club will select 10 players in the MLS Expansion Draft on Wednesday, November 24. Two days later, players and staff will then travel south to California, for the final two weeks of the camp.

"This training program will be extremely beneficial in our preparations for next season, as we transition to Major League Soccer," said Whitecaps FC head coach Teitur Thordarson. "The early start will give our players a strong physical foundation and will allow us to begin our first season in MLS at peak form."

Players and staff will then take a six-week break for the remainder of December and the holiday season before reporting to pre-season training camp in January 2011. Whitecaps FC have until the MLS roster compliance date, which has yet to be set by the league, to finalize their roster.

Meanwhile, Whitecaps FC also confirmed today that the club will not offer contracts to goalkeeper Dan Pelc, defenders Nelson Akwari, Zurab Tsiskaridze, and Chris Williams, midfielder Alex Elliott, as well as striker Jonathan McDonald.

"We are very thankful for the fine contribution, both on the pitch and in the community, all of these players made in 2010 and wish them the best in their future endeavours," added Thordarson.

Pelc, 24, arrived in Vancouver last winter from Canadian Soccer League side Serbian White Eagles. The native of Hamilton, Ontario, did not see any first-team action, but made six appearances in the United Soccer Leagues (USL) Premier Development League and registered a goals-against average of 1.83.

Akwari, 28, joined the 'Caps last January from former USL First Division club Charleston Battery. The native of Houston, Texas, started all 27 of his appearances for 2,430 minutes of action, scoring one goal and recording one assist.

Elliott, 23, joined the club midway through the 2010 season following a spell in Germany. The native of Vancouver, BC, started two of his 10 Whitecaps FC appearances for 260 minutes of action.

Tsiskaridze, 24, arrived in Vancouver after spending the 2009 season with Miami FC. The Georgian-born defender started 25 of his 31 appearances for 2,172 minutes of action, recording one assist in the process.

Williams, 29, joined the 'Caps from Charleston Battery in November 2009. The native of Toronto, Ontario, started nine of his 17 appearances for 955 minutes of action.

McDonald, 22, arrived in the summer from his native Costa Rica. The former Club Sport Herediano striker started one of his seven Whitecaps FC appearances for 220 minutes of action.

Whitecaps FC fans can purchase 2011 MLS season tickets by putting down a $50 deposit. MLS season ticket prices start at $319, and will include a minimum of 17 matches throughout the season. For additional information about MLS season ticket deposits, please visit vancouvermls2011.com.

About Vancouver Whitecaps FC
In 1974, Vancouver Whitecaps FC played their inaugural season in the North American Soccer League, and in 1979, the club won the NASL Soccer Bowl championship. From 1987 to 1992, as a member of the Canadian Soccer League, Vancouver won four straight CSL titles. In 2002, Whitecaps FC created a full club model that encompasses professional teams for men and women, extensive youth development and grassroots participation programs, facility development, and the Whitecaps Foundation to support specific initiatives related to health and wellness through soccer. Since 2004, Whitecaps FC have won two United Soccer Leagues First Division championships and two USL W-League championships. In 2011, Whitecaps FC will begin their inaugural season in Major League Soccer at Empire Field before moving into the new BC Place Stadium in downtown Vancouver. For additional information on Vancouver Whitecaps FC, visit whitecapsfc.com.

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Full Time Podcast - October 17

Full-Time's October 17th episode is up! Link to podcast here

And follow us on iTunes by following the link here.

The Pronvince's Marc Weber joins the program to talk about the Vancouver Whitecaps' dissapointing end to the season. The boys breaks down the semi- final loss and also discuss which players will stay and which will go at the start of their inaugral MLS season.

Metrotown Physio's Mark Rizzardo also drops in to diagnose some injuries that are making soccer headlines around the world.

The show also includes complete coverage of all the big leagues around Europe including the EPL, La Liga, Serie A & the German Budesliga!

Also, Producer Corey Basso jumps the 'Mo-vember' gun and unleashes a Moustache musical on this most recent edition of Full Time!

Tune in for the mid-week podcast with Marc Weber as well!

Full Time Soccer Show. Every Sunday 9p-11p. Only on TEAM 1040!

AC Zlatan. Are Milan relying to heavily on Zlatan Ibrahimovic?

It seems ever since Milan made their blockbuster swoop for Zlatan Ibrahimovic, they've been putting all their weight on the Swedish internationals shoulders. Some may say this is a good thing. Zlatan had his best years at cross city rivals Inter Milan while playing in the same role. He was not only the creative cog in that Inter side but also the goal scorer. When Ibrahimovic wasn't in the line up, Inter looked like a shadow of themselves. At Barca, which plays like the ultimate team...he seemed to "struggle"...and he still had a goal every other game.

At AC Milan it appears that Coach Max Allegri has decided to deploy Zlatan in a similar manner, but with with a few alterations. Instead of playing as an out and out striker or as part of a strike duo, Allegri has decided to play Zlatan upfront with Pato and Ronaldinho as his support strikers.

Here is where I think the problem is.

All three of the players just mentioned, thrive with the ball at their feet. Now, while Pato isn't nearly the distributor that Ronaldinho is, he has much more pace than either Ronnie or Ibra and is always compelled to dribble. Zlatan plays similar to Ronaldinho...holding up the ball, then passing off usually in a very flashy manner. In order for an attack to work against the best teams, you need a certain element of variety. Milan's attack is very similar.

Allegri tried to experiment with Inzaghi as the lone striker and Ronnie and Zlatan supporting him,but Zlatan was stranded on the wing with his talent and skill completely isolated. I believe Allegri must go to what Inter did. Use Zlatan as part of a 2 man attackin tandem. I would think Pato & Zlatan with Ronnie in support. Ronaldinho isn't as fit as we'd like to pretend he is...so stop him from dribbling and let him get the ball and quickly distribute to either Pato, who will take off and beat the defense...or Zlatan who can hold up and play around. 2 different element to the exact same trio.

One problem that can't be addressed is the frustration. Too often when Zlatan is being man marked out of the game or stumped against stingy Italian defense...you see him hanging his head or lashing out with vicious tackles. This needs to stop. Zlatan is far too talented and needs to stay motivated. Ronaldinho is very similar. It seems like every other game Ronnie gets stripped cleanly of the ball and stands there with his hands out expecting a call which will never come. Ibra & Ronnie need to learn to pick themselves up and carry on with the job. I know it's been years since his best... but Andriy Shevchenko was the complete opposite of them. When he would get shut down...he would try a different approach and keep plugging away... and he was an absolute monster for Milan. Zlatan and Ronnie can only solve this themselves.

I have no doubt Milan will be succesful in the Serie A... but if they want to go far in the UEFA Champions League...Zlatan needs to find some motivation and in the event he gets frustrated... his team mates need to step up. Milan are one of Europe's most succesful teams...but only the big matches will tell if Zlatan is ready to drop his "big match flop" tag.

One can only hope we see the true Robinho after he opened his Milan account against Chievo this morning. I honestly thought he was doomed to a January transfer window exit after his howling miss against Ajax in the UCL. Allegri has shown faith in the Brazilian and hopefully it pays off. I feel the money would have been better spent in the midfield or as possible cover for Thiago Silva and the injury prone Alessandro Nesta!

The season is still early and only time and big matches will tell if Milan is ready to return to their legendary European status.

They face Real Madrid this Tuesday. These top two european clubs have had some classic encounters in the UCL in past years. Back in 2003, they met eachother in the group stage with Real Madrid winning 3-1 in the Santiago Bernabeau. AC Milan won 1-0 in the return match in the San Siro through a 40th minute Shevchenko marker. That year AC Milan went on to win the UCL.

Last season, they met again in the group stage. Pato scored in the 88th minute to steal an underdog AC Milan side a 3-2 victory in Madrid. AC Milan might have felt hard done by in the return leg. Benzema opened the scoring in the 29th minute from close range. Ronaldinho equalized from the spot after Pepe handled Gianluca Zambrotta's cross. Pato looked to have got the lead in the 36th minute but was whistled down for a phantom foul on Arbeloa. Highlights here

This Tuesday's affair has a completely different element as Zlatan Ibrahimovic goes against his former Coach at Inter, Jose Mourinho.

Can Zlatan lead Milan to glory once more?...I sincerely hope so.

Corey Basso
Full Time Soccer Show Producer

Soccer's So Confusing!

Have a look at this gem...

 

WOW WEE!

Full-Time: Vancouver's Soccer Show - October 10th

Full-Time: Vancouver's Soccer Show returned this week to recap the Vancouver Whitecaps playoff series victory against the Portland Timbers. We re-capped the series with Whitecaps head coach Teitur Thordarson and Province Newspaper reporter Marc Weber. The Whitecaps move on to face Puerto Rico now in the semi-finals. For a complete written breakdown of the match, click here

Full-Time also connected with regular contributor Marc Rizzardo of Metrotown Physio with his usual injury report.

An ESPN 30 for 30 film that is creating a lot of buzz is The Two Escobars. Director Jeff Zimbalist joined us to speak about his film. The interesting story of drug kingpin Pablo Escobar and Columbian National Team member Andres Escobar.

Subscribe to the Full-Time podcast by clicking here.

Listen to the show from October 10th by clicking here.

Full-Time Podcast

The show from Sunday, October 3rd, 2010, is now available via the podcast. Guests include Canadian Goalkeeping Coach Paul Dolan and our regular visit with Marc Rizzardo of Metrotown Physio. We also discuss the Vancouver Whitecaps FC as they head to the playoffs to face Portland.

Subscribe to the podcast here.

Listen to the show here.

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Full-Time Midweek podcast - Oct 1st, 2010

Full-Time: Vancouver's Soccer Show with Tyler Green and Mike Martignago and Marc Weber from the Vancouver Province have joined up for a midweek podcast involving all things Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Canadian Soccer.

This week, Tyler and Marc discuss the latest results from League Deuce and the fate of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC and their match on Saturday against Portland. It likely won't mean anything in the standings, but with MLS expansion cousins playing, anything can happen. We also touch on the latest roster announcement from the Canadian National team including former Whitecaps Marcus Haber. And discuss the CSA's Victor Montagliani's recent comments about the disappearance of the Canadian quota for Canadian MLS teams.

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Marc Weber
Tyler Green
Mike Martignago
Full-Time: Vancouver's Soccer Show

Canada announces roster for Ukraine camp

Canada announces roster for Ukraine camp

Canada has announced its roster for the upcoming national camp and Men's International Friendly match in Kyev, Ukraine. The Canadian team will face Ukraine this coming Friday 8 October at the Valeriy Lobanosvskyi in Kyev. The Canadian camp runs 3-9 October.



Coach Hart has selected 18 players for the camp, 17 of whom play professional soccer in Europe. Only Dejan Jakovic, who has been eliminated before the Major League Soccer playoffs, will fly across the Atlantic ocean for the Men's International Friendly.

Four players are taking part in their first national camp of the 2010 season: David Edgar, Marcus Haber, Olivier Occean and Julian Uccello. This means that coach Hart's pool has grown to 47 different players for the 2010 season, thus reflecting Hart's objective to see as many different players in this first year of a new FIFA World Cup™ cycle.

Canada's next major competition is next year's CONCACAF Gold Cup. Ukraine, the 26th-ranked country on the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, is one of the co-hosts for the UEFA Euro 2010 championship.

CANADA

1- GK- Lars Hirschfeld | NOR / Vålerenga Fotball | Edmonton, AB, CAN
2- D- David Edgar | ENG / Burnley FC | Kitchener, ON, CAN
3- D- Marcel de Jong | GER / FC Augsburg | Toronto, ON, CAN
4- D- Dejan Jakovic | USA / DC United | Etobicoke, ON, CAN
5- D- Adam Straith | GER / Energie Cottbus | Victoria, BC, CAN
6- M- Nik Ledgerwood | GER / SV Wehen Wiesbaden | Lethbridge, AB, CAN
7- D- Paul Stalteri | GER / Borussia Monchengladbach | Brampton, ON, CAN
8- M- Pedro Pacheco | POR / CD Santa Clara | Ponta Delgada, POR
10- F- Simeon Jackson | ENG / Norwich City FC | Mississauga, ON, CAN
11- M- Issey Nakajima-Farran | DEN / AC Horsens | Calgary, AB, CAN
12- M- Julian Uccello | ITA / FC Crotone | Woodbridge, ON, CAN
13- M- Atiba Hutchinson | NED / PSV Eindhoven | Brampton, ON, CAN
14- M- Jonathan Beaulieu-Bourgault | GER / SC Preußen Münster | Montréal, QC, CAN
15- M- Josh Simpson | TUR / Vestel Manisaspor | Victoria, BC, CAN
16- F- Marcus Haber | SCO / St. Johnstone FC | Vancouver, BC, CAN
17- F- Olivier Occean | GER / Kickers Offenbach | Brossard, QC, CAN
20- M- Patrice Bernier | DEN / FC Nordsjælland | Brossard, QC, CAN
22- GK- David Monsalve | FIN / Inter Turku | Brampton, ON, CAN

Head of Delegation / Chef de délegation : Victor Montagliani
Head Coach / Entraîneur-chef : Stephen Hart
Assistant Coach / Entraîneur adjoint : Tony Fonseca
Goalkeer Coach / Entraîneur des gardiens : Paul Dolan
Team Manager / Gérant d’équipe : Morgan Quarry
Equipment Manager / Gérant de l'équipement : Mike Moretto
Equipment Assistant / Adjoint de l'équipement : Ryan Bedic
Doctor / Docteur : Dr. Mike Campbell
Physiotherapist / Physiothérapeute : Ted Tilbury
Physiotherapist / Physiothérapeute : Dave Foley