The 2008 trip is now history as our teams returned from England on August 10, 2008. With over 140 people traveling with us to the tournament, we had quite an experience full of excitement, joy and opportunity.
Upon their arrival on Saturday August 2nd, the first group headed to Old Trafford where they were able to see the 2008 EPL Champions, Manchester United take on Espanyola in a pre-season tuneup before heading to Shrewsbury. On Sunday August 3rd, the second group arrived in time to watch the FCNY BU11 group play in one of two opening exhibition games. Upon the conclusion of the game, all of the teams in attendance were invited to participate in the opening ceremonies with our FCNY girls leading the parade, waving American flags as they entered the stadium.
Monday August 4th brought the start of the boys tournament with each of our 4 teams 1997(BU11), 2)1995/96 (BU12) and 1993/1994 (BU14) participating. Additionally, our girls 1995/96 (GU12) were treated to a special training session led by Mr. Andy Baker, coach at the exclusive Shropshire Girls Centre of Excellence. The girls play began with an exhibition match on Tuesday August 5th with match play beginning on Wednesday the 6th. As play continued during the week, our teams were matched against academy teams from such powerhouse clubs as: Cardiff City (English Coca Cola Championship League and 2008 FA Cup Finalist), Swansea City (English Coca Cola Championship League), Bangor City (Welsh Premier League), Levadia FC (FC Levadia currently play in the Meistriliiga, the highest level of Estonian football) and Blackpool FC (English Coca Cola Championship League) amongst others. Three of our oldest players had the unprecedented opportunity to play for a 1991/92 (BU16) squad from the Roman Road FC, our "sister" club from across the pond, coached by Mr. Steve Greene. Steve was most accomodating and his boys welcomed ours to their team with open arms. They inspired our younger players who had an opportunity to watch this exciting, hard hitting squad take on teams such as Ulster Schools FC and Newtown Town FC. Our BU14 team had the opportunity to play with a group of players assembled to play for FCNY by our "sister" club. With the addition of players from the local Shrewsbury club, we had several boys join us from Manchester, Wales and Scotland. At the end of the trip, all of the boys exchanged email addresses so that they could stay in touch. Our boys did not even realize the depth of the cultural differences between this diverse group. Under normal circumstances the dislike between the Welsh and English boys would have led to a "civil war" (the closest relationship we have in the States is the relationship between Bostonians and New Yorkers). What a tremendous cultural experience for our boys...not only did they get to play against boys from other countries, they got to play with them!!
In between match play, we were able to squeeze in a mid-week trip to Old Trafford to see United take on Serie A powerhouse, Juventus. Although the trip was tiring, it was an unforgettable experience for those who joined us (0-0 draw) as they saw world class players Van Der Sar, Teves, Ferdinand, Scholes, Giggs, Buffon, Camoranesi, Sissoko and Del Pierro perform on the beautiful, manicured pitch.
The week also brought visits from Shrewsbury Town defender Marc Pugh (future EPL player?) who took photo's with and gave autographs to the entire girls squad, Shrewsbury Deputy Mayor Mr. Alan Parkhurst, former Manchester City striker Carl Griffiths and Mr. Mike Smith former manager of the Welsh and Egyptian National Team Squads. Place this link into your web browser to see copies of the Village News which provided a daily summary of the previous day's events...http://www.soccerdestinations.com/index.html
An added bonus for our club was the attendance of scouts from professional English Premier Academies Manchester City, Manchester United, Aston Villa FC, Blackburn Rovers, Everton FC and the Chelsea FC! While watching the dozens of daily matches, several of these scouts approached the FCNY coaching staff to inquire specifically about two of our players...Shaquell Moore and Trevor Howe
Shaquell, who hails from Georgia was recruited to join our squad specifically for the opportunity he would be presented by playing with FCNY for this event. Trevor, a local Long Island product who hails from Bellmore, NY plays for the POB Pirahna's in the Long Island Junior Soccer League. Upon the conclusion of the tournament, both boys were asked to stay on "trial" with several English Premier Acadamies.
Trevor Howe
Began trial with Aston Villa FC on August 12, 2008
Began trial for Manchester City FC August 15, 2008
Began trial for Blackburn Rovers FC August 18, 2008
Shaquell Moore
Began trial at Manchester City FC August 11, 2008 (Shaq has been offered contract by Manchester City – currently negotiating)
Began trial with Aston Villa FC August August 12, 2008
Began trial for Blackburn Rovers FC August 18, 2008
Began trial with Chelsea FC on August 20, 2008
We will continue to track the boys progress with postings on our website.
The
“Shrewsbury International
Soccer Tournament”
The founding father and organizer of the Wales International Soccer tournament has extended a personal invitation to FCNY to attend their 2nd annual Shrewsbury International Soccer tournament. This tournament, held in Shrewsbury, England has been designed to attract top level professional academies in the brand new state of the art Shrewsbury Sports Village, sixteen field soccer facility. Shrewsbury is conveniently and easily accessible due to it’s border location between Wales and England. Shrewsbury is a central Hub on the British rail system making major cities (London, Manchester, and Birmingham) throughout England readily accessible for sightseeing excursions.
The 2008 trip includes:
About the town of Shrewsbury
Shrewsbury is a busy and attractive market town, sited on the River Severn. Its Castle was the centre of medieval power in the region and the Abbey was founded in 1063. Not far away is the Roman City of Wroxeter and the World Heritage site of Ironbridge is full of interest and will be the base for some teams. There is an incredible range of shops from independent stores in the cobbled streets and alleys to those in the modern shopping centres in the town centre. It offers all kinds of activity including bowling alleys, a multiplex cinema and a chance to take to the water on the Severn.
Shrewsbury is linked to the motorway and has frequent rail services to all parts of the country and is the birthplace of its most famous son, Charles Darwin.
For more information about Shrewsbury, click
Shrewsbury is linked to the motorway and has frequent rail services to all parts of the country and is the birthplace of its most famous son, Charles Darwin.
For more information about Shrewsbury, click
"Shrewsbury Tourism"
Testimonials 2006 Trip
Paul and Jim,
We cannot thank you enough for the opportunity to go on the trip to Wales. Christopher had such a fabulous time playing soccer as did Steven watching soccer and drinking ale and sightseeing etc.
They have not stopped talking about the experience since they returned, Christopher has also not stopped talking about how much he enjoyed playing with everyone, and he is already saying he wants to go again if you plan to go next year.
The trip exceeded their expectations and you two did such a great job, THANK YOU!!!
Regards
Kris, Steve and Christopher (Seibel...BU15)
As a 13 year old athlete I have enrolled in many interesting trips. Wales, was by far the most exciting and extravagant experience I have ever encountered. It wasn’t just a soccer tournament it was also an educational environment. Going to historical landmarks wasn’t the only thing we were able to learn from. Playing in the Ian Rush tournament opened up a whole new world of soccer. We played at a much higher pace and expanded our knowledge of the game. Something that I thought was interesting was the love of the game. Fans filled the side lines (some not even from either side) anticipating a great match. The opposing team’s crowd did something I have never seen before in my whole athletic career in any sport I play. Whenever either team made a great play or had a great run, they applauded. The other teams crowd cheering for us, even if they were losing, showing enthusiasm and pride for the game of soccer.
You would think that a soccer team that was selected for this tournament not knowing each other would not get along. That’s not true. During the duration of this tournament, we as a team shared a great bond. If it was on the field, on the bus, or just hanging out at night at Sam’s Chicken we grew stronger and closer every day. We also met another local team from Wales. We became very close with that team and had a great time with them. It was very interesting to talk to kids from different countries with different perspectives on things. I personally loved having international friends. Some of the players even taught me how to talk Welch. We also hung out with them on the pier at night. Even though they live across the world from us, we had a lot in common.
The highlight of the whole tournament, to me, was intervening with teams from players from other countries. In the hotels we met a lot teams from other countries in the tournament. We played little pick up games against them and had a ball, we never lost. Another great thing about Wales was the girls. Not only were they beautiful, but they were very different from American girls. These girls interacted with us no matter what we did. They also didn’t have many self-concerns.
I would also like to thank all of the coaches that were involved in this trip. John Harrington and Jim Neuburger thank you for enrolling your teams in the tournament. We had a blast hanging out with them. Paul, thank you for putting this whole trip together. I know this took a lot of time and dedication to run this trip. Pete, you were a great coach to us. The way you taught was very interesting. Instead of yelling at us and cursing at the referee, you settled things under control. I liked watching it. You also pulled us to the side and told us what we did wrong. You also made sure we knew how to do it, and if we didn’t, you took the time to help us get it right. In every way I loved this trip and look forward to play abroad soccer.
-Bradley Garyn (BU13)
I would like to congratulate the boys for an outstanding team performance (under the circumstances) while in Wales. I witnessed each player experience personal growth as well as contribute unselfishly to a team cause. This, for me, was more humbling than any result. They showed a small part of the world what New Yorkers are made of: pride, self expression, resilience, and steel. The creative all out attacking style played by this group (though risky) was a topic of many conversations for spectators during the tournament. So much so that they were filmed (by ITV & Sky) and will be a feature of the tournament when shown August 31st on Sky Sports in the UK and the “Fox Soccer Channel” here in the US (I will try to find out the broadcast dates in the US).
I would like to acknowledge all the parents that supported this opportunity for their son to play in Wales. Without you this could not have happened. I would like to thank Jim Neuburger for his invaluable assistance on and off the field; and most of all I would personally like to thank all of you (parents and players) for your trust and belief.
The football community is a small one; therefore, I know we will cross paths again. In the mean time stay well and healthy.
Kind Regards,
Paul Maye
Christopher Siebel hasn't even been back for a week, and he's already thinking about a return trip.
The St. Peter's soccer player, who will begin his sophomore year this fall, played alongside Eagle teammate Richard Arkoi at the Wales International Soccer Tournament, July 24-28 in Aberystwyth, Wales, the United Kingdom.
Siebel and Arkoi were among a select group of 15 players who traveled and competed with the Futbol Club of New York (FCNY) 16-and-under team coached by Paul Maye, a former professional player and scout in England.
"It was a lot of fun," said Siebel, who was making his first trip out of the country. "Our coach had brought several teams out to that tournament in previous years, and he said we were one of the best, so hopefully we will look to go back next year."
Arkoi and Siebel earned a spot at the tryouts through their position with the Eastern NY State Olympic Development team and a connection with their travel coaches on the Staten Island United Roma.
The FCNY finished fifth among 16 teams at the event, which was formerly known as the Ian Rush Tournament. The rest of the field was comprised of teams from the England Isles region.
As with any sport, there were adjustments to be made to the foreign competition and the most on-field disparity, as far as Siebel could tell, came in the physicality of play.
"They (the European teams) were being a lot more physical out on the field," Siebel recalled. "They were going in for slide tackles from behind, anything they could do."
The sophomore had a great vantage point from the net. He started all five games for FCNY as the goaltender.
"(On Staten Island) it's all about physical play, so I think this experience will help me on the field for next season."
Siebel also relayed the situation was made more comfortable by the presence of long-time teammate Arkoi.
"I have known Richie and played with him for a long time," said Siebel. "It was good to have someone that I knew so well there."
Two Eagles still flying high after England soccer trip
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE STAFF REPORT
We cannot thank you enough for the opportunity to go on the trip to Wales. Christopher had such a fabulous time playing soccer as did Steven watching soccer and drinking ale and sightseeing etc.
They have not stopped talking about the experience since they returned, Christopher has also not stopped talking about how much he enjoyed playing with everyone, and he is already saying he wants to go again if you plan to go next year.
The trip exceeded their expectations and you two did such a great job, THANK YOU!!!
Regards
Kris, Steve and Christopher (Seibel...BU15)
As a 13 year old athlete I have enrolled in many interesting trips. Wales, was by far the most exciting and extravagant experience I have ever encountered. It wasn’t just a soccer tournament it was also an educational environment. Going to historical landmarks wasn’t the only thing we were able to learn from. Playing in the Ian Rush tournament opened up a whole new world of soccer. We played at a much higher pace and expanded our knowledge of the game. Something that I thought was interesting was the love of the game. Fans filled the side lines (some not even from either side) anticipating a great match. The opposing team’s crowd did something I have never seen before in my whole athletic career in any sport I play. Whenever either team made a great play or had a great run, they applauded. The other teams crowd cheering for us, even if they were losing, showing enthusiasm and pride for the game of soccer.
You would think that a soccer team that was selected for this tournament not knowing each other would not get along. That’s not true. During the duration of this tournament, we as a team shared a great bond. If it was on the field, on the bus, or just hanging out at night at Sam’s Chicken we grew stronger and closer every day. We also met another local team from Wales. We became very close with that team and had a great time with them. It was very interesting to talk to kids from different countries with different perspectives on things. I personally loved having international friends. Some of the players even taught me how to talk Welch. We also hung out with them on the pier at night. Even though they live across the world from us, we had a lot in common.
The highlight of the whole tournament, to me, was intervening with teams from players from other countries. In the hotels we met a lot teams from other countries in the tournament. We played little pick up games against them and had a ball, we never lost. Another great thing about Wales was the girls. Not only were they beautiful, but they were very different from American girls. These girls interacted with us no matter what we did. They also didn’t have many self-concerns.
I would also like to thank all of the coaches that were involved in this trip. John Harrington and Jim Neuburger thank you for enrolling your teams in the tournament. We had a blast hanging out with them. Paul, thank you for putting this whole trip together. I know this took a lot of time and dedication to run this trip. Pete, you were a great coach to us. The way you taught was very interesting. Instead of yelling at us and cursing at the referee, you settled things under control. I liked watching it. You also pulled us to the side and told us what we did wrong. You also made sure we knew how to do it, and if we didn’t, you took the time to help us get it right. In every way I loved this trip and look forward to play abroad soccer.
-Bradley Garyn (BU13)
I would like to congratulate the boys for an outstanding team performance (under the circumstances) while in Wales. I witnessed each player experience personal growth as well as contribute unselfishly to a team cause. This, for me, was more humbling than any result. They showed a small part of the world what New Yorkers are made of: pride, self expression, resilience, and steel. The creative all out attacking style played by this group (though risky) was a topic of many conversations for spectators during the tournament. So much so that they were filmed (by ITV & Sky) and will be a feature of the tournament when shown August 31st on Sky Sports in the UK and the “Fox Soccer Channel” here in the US (I will try to find out the broadcast dates in the US).
I would like to acknowledge all the parents that supported this opportunity for their son to play in Wales. Without you this could not have happened. I would like to thank Jim Neuburger for his invaluable assistance on and off the field; and most of all I would personally like to thank all of you (parents and players) for your trust and belief.
The football community is a small one; therefore, I know we will cross paths again. In the mean time stay well and healthy.
Kind Regards,
Paul Maye
Christopher Siebel hasn't even been back for a week, and he's already thinking about a return trip.
The St. Peter's soccer player, who will begin his sophomore year this fall, played alongside Eagle teammate Richard Arkoi at the Wales International Soccer Tournament, July 24-28 in Aberystwyth, Wales, the United Kingdom.
Siebel and Arkoi were among a select group of 15 players who traveled and competed with the Futbol Club of New York (FCNY) 16-and-under team coached by Paul Maye, a former professional player and scout in England.
"It was a lot of fun," said Siebel, who was making his first trip out of the country. "Our coach had brought several teams out to that tournament in previous years, and he said we were one of the best, so hopefully we will look to go back next year."
Arkoi and Siebel earned a spot at the tryouts through their position with the Eastern NY State Olympic Development team and a connection with their travel coaches on the Staten Island United Roma.
The FCNY finished fifth among 16 teams at the event, which was formerly known as the Ian Rush Tournament. The rest of the field was comprised of teams from the England Isles region.
As with any sport, there were adjustments to be made to the foreign competition and the most on-field disparity, as far as Siebel could tell, came in the physicality of play.
"They (the European teams) were being a lot more physical out on the field," Siebel recalled. "They were going in for slide tackles from behind, anything they could do."
The sophomore had a great vantage point from the net. He started all five games for FCNY as the goaltender.
"(On Staten Island) it's all about physical play, so I think this experience will help me on the field for next season."
Siebel also relayed the situation was made more comfortable by the presence of long-time teammate Arkoi.
"I have known Richie and played with him for a long time," said Siebel. "It was good to have someone that I knew so well there."
Two Eagles still flying high after England soccer trip
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE STAFF REPORT
The 2008 trip is now history as our teams returned from England on August 10, 2008. With over 140 people traveling with us to the tournament, we had quite an experience full of excitement, joy and opportunity.
Upon their arrival on Saturday August 2nd, the first group headed to Old Trafford where they were able to see the 2008 EPL Champions, Manchester United take on Espanyola in a pre-season tuneup before heading to Shrewsbury. On Sunday August 3rd, the second group arrived in time to watch the FCNY BU11 group play in one of two opening exhibition games. Upon the conclusion of the game, all of the teams in attendance were invited to participate in the opening ceremonies with our FCNY girls leading the parade, waving American flags as they entered the stadium.
Monday August 4th brought the start of the boys tournament with each of our 4 teams 1997(BU11), 2)1995/96 (BU12) and 1993/1994 (BU14) participating. Additionally, our girls 1995/96 (GU12) were treated to a special training session led by Mr. Andy Baker, coach at the exclusive Shropshire Girls Centre of Excellence. The girls play began with an exhibition match on Tuesday August 5th with match play beginning on Wednesday the 6th. As play continued during the week, our teams were matched against academy teams from such powerhouse clubs as: Cardiff City (English Coca Cola Championship League and 2008 FA Cup Finalist), Swansea City (English Coca Cola Championship League), Bangor City (Welsh Premier League), Levadia FC (FC Levadia currently play in the Meistriliiga, the highest level of Estonian football) and Blackpool FC (English Coca Cola Championship League) amongst others. Three of our oldest players had the unprecedented opportunity to play for a 1991/92 (BU16) squad from the Roman Road FC, our "sister" club from across the pond, coached by Mr. Steve Greene. Steve was most accomodating and his boys welcomed ours to their team with open arms. They inspired our younger players who had an opportunity to watch this exciting, hard hitting squad take on teams such as Ulster Schools FC and Newtown Town FC. Our BU14 team had the opportunity to play with a group of players assembled to play for FCNY by our "sister" club. With the addition of players from the local Shrewsbury club, we had several boys join us from Manchester, Wales and Scotland. At the end of the trip, all of the boys exchanged email addresses so that they could stay in touch. Our boys did not even realize the depth of the cultural differences between this diverse group. Under normal circumstances the dislike between the Welsh and English boys would have led to a "civil war" (the closest relationship we have in the States is the relationship between Bostonians and New Yorkers). What a tremendous cultural experience for our boys...not only did they get to play against boys from other countries, they got to play with them!!
In between match play, we were able to squeeze in a mid-week trip to Old Trafford to see United take on Serie A powerhouse, Juventus. Although the trip was tiring, it was an unforgettable experience for those who joined us (0-0 draw) as they saw world class players Van Der Sar, Teves, Ferdinand, Scholes, Giggs, Buffon, Camoranesi, Sissoko and Del Pierro perform on the beautiful, manicured pitch.
The week also brought visits from Shrewsbury Town defender Marc Pugh (future EPL player?) who took photo's with and gave autographs to the entire girls squad, Shrewsbury Deputy Mayor Mr. Alan Parkhurst, former Manchester City striker Carl Griffiths and Mr. Mike Smith former manager of the Welsh and Egyptian National Team Squads. Place this link into your web browser to see copies of the Village News which provided a daily summary of the previous day's events...http://www.soccerdestinations.com/index.html
An added bonus for our club was the attendance of scouts from professional English Premier Academies Manchester City, Manchester United, Aston Villa FC, Blackburn Rovers, Everton FC and the Chelsea FC! While watching the dozens of daily matches, several of these scouts approached the FCNY coaching staff to inquire specifically about two of our players...Shaquell Moore and Trevor Howe
Shaquell, who hails from Georgia was recruited to join our squad specifically for the opportunity he would be presented by playing with FCNY for this event. Trevor, a local Long Island product who hails from Bellmore, NY plays for the POB Pirahna's in the Long Island Junior Soccer League. Upon the conclusion of the tournament, both boys were asked to stay on "trial" with several English Premier Acadamies.
Trevor Howe
Began trial with Aston Villa FC on August 12, 2008
Began trial for Manchester City FC August 15, 2008
Began trial for Blackburn Rovers FC August 18, 2008
Shaquell Moore
Began trial at Manchester City FC August 11, 2008 (Shaq has been offered contract by Manchester City – currently negotiating)
Began trial with Aston Villa FC August August 12, 2008
Began trial for Blackburn Rovers FC August 18, 2008
Began trial with Chelsea FC on August 20, 2008
We will continue to track the boys progress with postings on our website.
The
“Shrewsbury International
Soccer Tournament”
The founding father and organizer of the Wales International Soccer tournament has extended a personal invitation to FCNY to attend their 2nd annual Shrewsbury International Soccer tournament. This tournament, held in Shrewsbury, England has been designed to attract top level professional academies in the brand new state of the art Shrewsbury Sports Village, sixteen field soccer facility. Shrewsbury is conveniently and easily accessible due to it’s border location between Wales and England. Shrewsbury is a central Hub on the British rail system making major cities (London, Manchester, and Birmingham) throughout England readily accessible for sightseeing excursions.
