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Eclipse Select forward Jarsombeck commits to Creighton for 2013

2012-01-23T22:05:00.000-06:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club forward Paige Jarsombeck has announced her commitment to play for Creighton University's women's soccer team. The Tinley Park, Ill., native and Andrew High School junior will join head coach Bruce Erickson's Bluejays in 2013.

"I always wanted to go to a private and small school somewhere with a special education program, and I've always loved the city of Omaha," Jarsombeck said of the Nebraska school. "I've been there for soccer and loved it. After meeting with Coach Erickson and their team, I knew I wanted to go there."

Creighton also was the school of choice for Eclipse Select defender and Darien, Ill., native Jessica Mutters, so she and Jarsombeck will continue their soccer careers as teammates in college.

"We've played together for about three years, so it's cool to know that I will play alongside her in college," Jarsombeck said. "We practice with each other, and being teammates at Creighton is a bit of a coincidence. To know someone from Eclipse, I'm guessing that will probably help on the field because we know each other's game."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Ricardo Clark scores in stoppage time to lift U.S. MNT over Venezuela

2012-01-22T01:00:00.012-06:00

U.S. Soccer Communications

GLENDALE, Ariz. – The U.S. Men’s National Team opened the year in dramatic fashion as Ricardo Clark tallied a game-winning goal seven minutes into second-half stoppage time for a 1-0 win against Venezuela at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz.

The U.S. kept Venezuelan goalkeeper Jose Morales on his toes all night and finally earned the well-deserved victory in the final moments when Clark emphatically headed home a Jermaine Jones corner kick from the right side. Jones, serving as the U.S. captain for the first time in his career, capped off his Budweiser Man of the Match performance with the assist. The game-winner was the second in Clark’s career, following the lone goal in the 1-0 win against Trinidad & Tobago in qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The U.S. improved to 3-0-1 all-time against Venezuela and earned its first win against a South American team since a 3-1 win against Ecuador on March 25, 2007.

Read more at USSoccer.com.

U.S. WNT routs Dominican Republic 14-0 in CONCACAF Olympic Qualifier

2012-01-21T01:30:00.008-06:00

U.S. Soccer Communications

VANCOUVER, Canada – The U.S. Women’s National Team rolled past a young and over-matched Dominican Republic side to open the 2012 CONCACAF Olympic Women’s Qualifying Tournament with a dominating 14-0 victory in a match played indoors at BC Place.

The 14 goals set a U.S. WNT record for most goals in a game, breaking the previous mark of 12 established during back-to-back 12-0 wins in 1991 CONCACAF Women’s World Cup Qualifying against Mexico and Martinique.

Second-half sub Amy Rodriguez tied an individual U.S. Women’s record with five goals (all in the second half) for her second career international hat trick. Abby Wambach (Oct. 23, 2004 vs. Ireland, also all five in the second half), Michelle Akers (Nov. 24, 1991, against Chinese Taipei in the FIFA Women’s World Cup), Tiffeny Milbrett (Nov. 2, 2002 in CONCACAF Women’s World Cup Qualifying) and Brandi Chastain (whose five came in that rout of Mexico on April 18, 1991) also have five-goal games to their resume.

Read more at USSoccer.com.

San Jose picks Eclipse Select alum Tiemstra in MLS Supplemental Draft

2012-01-18T19:15:00.002-06:00

David Tiemstra

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alum and Clarendon Hills, Ill., native David Tiemstra is headed to Major League Soccer's San Jose Earthquakes.

Tiemstra, a graduate of Hinsdale Central and a two-time Big Ten Conference Defensive Player of the Year out of Ohio State, was selected by San Jose during Tuesday's 2012 MLS Supplemental Draft. Tiemstra was the sixth pick in the third round (44th overall) during Tuesday's draft. The 19 MLS clubs picked a total of 75 players who were not selected during the previous week's MLS SuperDraft.

For more Eclipse Select news, visit EclipseSelect.org.

Development Academy alum Wenger picked No. 1 in MLS SuperDraft

2012-01-12T17:00:00.002-06:00

No. 1 selection Andrew Wenger

U.S. Soccer Communications

U.S. Under-23 defender and U.S. Soccer Development Academy alum Andrew Wenger out of Duke was the top selection by the Montreal Impact during Thursday’s MLS SuperDraft held at the NSCAA Convention in Kansas City. Three of the first five selections in the draft had Development Academy ties.

The 2011 Hermann Trophy winner and ACC Offensive Player of the Year had 17 goals and eight assists last year, and he is the first Hermann Trophy recipient since Alecko Eskandarian (2002) to be taken first overall. The versatile Wenger was the ACC Defensive Player of the Year in 2010.

Wenger told the ESPN crew that he would like to play in the midfield for the Impact.

For more, visit USSoccer.com.

GKs Hamid, Johnson look to make most of U.S. MNT opportunity

2012-01-11T18:30:00.010-06:00

Goalkeeper Sean Johnson

U.S. Soccer Communications

The 21-year-old Bill Hamid and 22-year-old Sean Johnson are prime examples of young talent hoping to get noticed during the U.S. MNT’s January camp. Both have taken on significant roles with their respective MLS teams and also trained abroad during the offseason in Premier League environments. Now they want to have an impact at the international level.

Read more at USSoccer.com.

Lower-division teams relish chance to host U.S. Open Cup matches

2012-01-11T17:15:00.001-06:00

U.S. Soccer Communications

The 2012 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup begins May 15, and with the 99th edition comes a multitude of changes. For lower-division teams, the most significant is the random selection process for determining home teams from the first round through the quarterfinals.

In previous years, all teams pursued this opportunity through a bidding process.

“In the last three to five years, MLS teams have actively been bidding on games,” said Andrew Bell, president of the USL PRO’s Charleston Battery. “Usually we were successful drawing to host games, but there had been a power shift with MLS teams. Looking from the outside, they’re taking the Open Cup a bit more seriously, at which point I think it became increasingly difficult to get a game against an MLS team.”

Now with a random selection process in place, the likelihood of a Division III team such as the USL PRO’s Richmond Kickers to host an MLS team should improve significantly.

“The opportunity for lower-division teams to host a game is a crucial component, especially from a brand exposure standpoint,” Kickers head coach Leigh Cowlishaw said. “We’ve had some successes on the road, but in the past we’ve also hosted the likes of D.C. United with [former D.C. forward] Freddy Adu and the LA Galaxy with Landon Donovan. Those memorable games leave a lasting impression not only for the players and coaches, but the fan base.”

Read more at USSoccer.com.

Eclipse Select alumna Scofield named to U.S. U-23 WNT roster

2012-01-10T21:00:00.004-06:00

Eclipse Select and U.S. Soccer Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and Notre Dame freshman defender/midfielder Sammy Scofield (Geneva, Ill./Geneva) was one of 24 players named to the U.S. U-23 Women's National Team for a Jan. 15-22 training camp in Sarasota, Fla.

Scofield unites with newly-named U.S. U-23 WNT head coach Randy Waldrum of Notre Dame.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select Alumni: Buczkowski re-signs with Independence

2012-01-10T18:30:00.003-06:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and former Notre Dame midfielder Jen Buczkowski (Elk Grove Village, Ill./Elk Grove) re-signed with Women's Professional Soccer's Philadelphia Independence, the team announced Friday. Buczkowski was named to the 2011 WPS Best XI and was named the team's 2011 Ironwoman after logging every minute of the 18-game regular season last year.

"I'm so thankful and happy to have re-signed with Philly," Buczkowski said in a team release. "[Owner] David Halstead and Coach [Paul] Riley have established an organization built on the right principles, and being a member of the Independence is something I take great pride in."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select 2, PWSI 1: ESPN Wide World of Sports (video)

2012-01-05T20:19:00.000-06:00

Check out coach Scott Fonfara and Kristen Janicki chatting with ESPN Wide World of Sports following Saturday's 2-1 win over PWSI.

Eclipse Select's Summer Schafer commits to Memphis for 2013

2012-01-03T20:52:00.000-06:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club forward/midfielder and Downers Grove North High School junior Summer Schafer announces her commitment to play for Memphis University's women's soccer team in 2013.

"I think it will be a really exciting experience going to a college that not a lot of people from around here go to," Schafer said. "They play good soccer and it's really exciting to go play for another offensive team. It will make me a better player."

The Oak Brook, Ill., native will be joining a Memphis squad that is coming off a program-best 22-1-1 record this past 2011 season and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Memphis' offense posted a robust 62-13 scoring advantage.

One big factor in Schafer's decision to join the Tigers is her view of the similarities between Memphis head coach Brooks Monaghan and Schafer's Eclipse Select coach, Mike Nesci.

"He really reminded me of my coach now, Mike Nesci, and everything that he was saying is what my coach would say," Schafer said. "That was really the main reason, because both coaches have an offensive focus and I'm an offensive player."

For more, visit EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select defender Mutters commits to Creighton for 2013

2011-12-28T16:30:00.010-06:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club defender and Hinsdale South High School junior Jessica Mutters announced her commitment to play for Creighton University's women's soccer program starting in 2013.

The Darien, Ill., native's older sister Danielle played for Missouri Valley Conference rival Illinois State, and her parents also attended ISU. But Jessica found everything she wanted in the Omaha, Neb.-based Creighton both on and off the pitch.

"I wanted to go to a small private school that had good science -- I'm looking into majoring in biochemistry," Mutters said. "I've also gone to their summer camp for the past two years and have had a chance to interact with the team. Their coaches are really nice, and I got to play with or against the players running the camp and got a feel for the team. It was at the top of my list."

Mutters will attend a Creighton side that posted a respectable 4-1-1 record in the MVC this past season. By the time Mutters takes the pitch, the Bluejays will have a younger defense and squad overall. The majority of the 2011 team's defensive line consisted of upper classmen, and nine seniors are graduating following Creighton's most recent season.

A collegiate soccer path has been in Mutters' eyes since watching her sister at Illinois State.

"Ever since I've seen my sister play in college, I knew I wanted to play," Mutters said. "I've been wanting it for years now, so this is a dream come true."

For more about Eclipse Select, visit EclipseSelect.org.

• Suburban Life Publications: Hinsdale South defender Jessica Mutters commits to Creighton soccer program

Catching up with Eclipse Select alumna Jen Buczkowski

2011-12-28T15:19:00.000-06:00

By Charlie Corr
Eclipse Select staff

Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and former Notre Dame midfielder Jen Buczkowski is coming off a successful third season within Women's Professional Soccer.

The 26-year-old Elk Grove, Ill., native was named to the 2011 WPS Best XI as voted by select media, and her Philadelphia Independence advanced to the WPS title match, eventually falling to the champion Western New York Flash.

Independence head coach Paul Riley has called Buczkowski "the best pure defensive midfielder in the league," and she wants to return to Philadelphia for a third straight year in 2012.

"I have not officially signed, but I have talked to Paul and [owner/CEO] David [Halstead]," Buczkowski said. "Many people have not signed, but maybe in the next week or two you'll see a lot more signings. But the plan is to stay in Philadelphia."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select alumni Bock, Buczkowski playing for L.A. Vikings

2011-12-23T09:55:00.000-06:00

Brittany Bock

Our Game Magazine took the time to interview L.A. Vikings President and head coach Robert Kleinberger. This winter the team has incorporated a heavily Women's Professional Soccer-based roster to face the U.S., Canadian and Mexican national teams.

Former Eclipse Select Soccer Club players Brittany Bock (Western New York Flash) and Jen Buczkowski (WPS free agent, played for Philadelphia Independence in 2010 and 2011) are on the squad.

Read about how this came together at OurGameMagazine.com.

Fire GK Johnson to join U.S. MNT

2011-12-22T13:17:00.001-06:00

Sean Johnson -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

Chicago Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson, who is entering his third season in MLS, has been called up by U.S. National Team head coach Jurgen Klinsmann for a January training camp.

The session starts on Jan. 3 as the U.S. prepares for a Jan. 21 match against Venezuela in Glendale, Ariz., followed by a Jan. 25 game against Panama in Panama City.

"I'm definitely excited about it," Johnson said. "There's a lot to look forward to in getting to play alongside the guys that are going to be there. We have two games to cap off the camp, so I think it will be good competition, and one that will help prepare for the season, as well."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse Select alumni: Gurson earns NAIA All-Mideast Team honors

2011-12-20T14:52:00.000-06:00

Gordy Gurson --
Robert Morris athletics

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alum and Robert Morris sophomore forward Gordy Gurson (Buffalo Grove, Ill./Stevenson) was named to the 2011 NAIA Men's All-Mideast Team, the NSCAA recently announced.

Earlier this month, Gurson also was named an NAIA All-America Honorable Mention as he made an immediate impact for the Eagles after transferring from Memphis. Among all NAIA players, Gurson ranked 12th in goals (18) and 16th in points (40).

Gurson was the 2011 Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Year and he led Robert Morris to its first CCAC regular-season title.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Catching up with ... Eclipse Select alumna, Breakers MF Leslie Osborne

2011-12-19T11:02:00.000-06:00

By Charlie Corr
Eclipse Select staff

CHICAGO -- Former Eclipse Select Soccer Club player and coach Leslie Osborne was one of many Women's Professional Soccer players waiting to hear about the league's future this week. And for the past several months, Osborne's WPS franchise, the Boston Breakers, has been trying to secure additional ownership after majority owner Gary Loveman put his share of the organization on the market.

Things are looking a bit better on both fronts now.

The 28-year-old Brookfield, Wis., native and Breakers midfielder said on Wednesday that additional ownership is on board with Boston. And from a league standpoint, after WPS met with the U.S. Soccer Federation here in Chicago, the U.S. Soccer Board of Directors formally approved WPS's division one sanction request provided the league expands to minimally six teams in 2013 and eight teams in 2014.

"It has been a long couple of months," Osborne said. "Boston had to find more investors for the team, magicJack was kicked out -- it's been a roller coaster for me. Personally, I was going to retire if the league was going to fold. If the league was around, I wanted to play in Boston. For me, [Tuesday's U.S. Soccer announcement] was just a blessing to continue to play and be the Breakers' captain. I'm excited. But I was ready in case it didn't work out."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select Girls ranked No. 2 in country by Soccer America

2011-12-16T13:25:00.000-06:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- The Eclipse Select Soccer Club was ranked No. 2 in the country in Soccer America's 2011 Best Girls Clubs list, which was released Wednesday. Eclipse Select's girls finished runner-up for a fourth straight year, as the New Jersey-based Players Development Academy was awarded the top position.

Eclipse Select has been the model of top-level excellence during Soccer America's annual rankings. The Eclipse Select Girls were ranked No. 1 by Soccer America in 2006 and 2007, followed by No. 2 rankings from 2008 through 2011.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Fire select Dube in re-entry draft

2011-12-12T20:30:00.003-06:00

Kheli Dube -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Chicago Fire chose forward Kheli Dube with their selection in the second stage of the MLS Re-Entry Draft on Monday.

The 28-year-old Dube tallied 14 goals and eight assists in 72 games with the New England Revolution, and the Fire now begin negotiations with Dube on a contract.

Dube only saw the pitch five times and logged 114 minutes in 2011. The Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, native was a regular starter for the Revs in 2009, starting in 20 of 26 games played and tallying a personal-best eight goals that season.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse Select alumni: Fortune named to NAIA All-America 1st Team

2011-12-12T16:45:00.003-06:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and Lee University sophomore midfielder Leah Fortune (West Chicago, Ill./Wheaton Academy) was named to the NAIA Women's All-America First Team, which was announced last week by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America.

Fortune capped off her 2011 season with a goal and an assist during Lee's 3-0 NAIA national championship victory over Concordia (Ore.) on Dec. 3. The Lady Flames were 23-2-0 on the season, becoming the first women's soccer program to win four straight NAIA national titles.

Fortune began her collegiate career with the University of Texas, then transferred to Lee University, which is based in Cleveland, Tenn.

"I thought Leah Fortune made a huge impact on our squad this year," Lee head coach Matt Yelton said in a release. "Over the course of the year she improved so much from game to game and day to day, and absolutely played her best soccer of the season down the stretch in the national tournament."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select alumna Rachel Quon, Stanford win first College Cup

2011-12-06T16:10:00.011-06:00

Rachel Quon -- ISI Photos

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- The third time was the charm for Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and Stanford junior defender Rachel Quon (Lake Forest, Ill./Lake Forest). Quon and the Stanford defense posted its 18th shutout of the season, none bigger than Sunday's 1-0 win over Duke to win the NCAA Women's College Cup in Kennesaw, Ga.

Quon was part of Stanford's 2009 and 2010 teams, which advanced to the College Cup only to suffer 1-0 championship game losses to North Carolina and Notre Dame, respectively. But this year was different as the Cardinal posted a 25-0-1 record this season and capped things off with the program's first national championship.

"There were a lot of emotions afterward, I can't even explain it," Quon said. "I'm just proud of my team, that we were able to finish it off this year. This team has never worked this hard over the last year, going back to when we lost last year and coming back in the winter and spring. It's incredible that we finally got that championship."

Quon topped her former Eclipse Select and Lake Forest High School teammate, Duke junior midfielder Nicole Lipp (Lake Forest, Ill./Lake Forest), to win the crown. Lipp was named to the College Cup All-Tournament Team, and she contributed a corner kick assist to cap off the Blue Devils' scoring during Friday's 4-1 semifinal victory over Wake Forest.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select alumni Quon, Lipp headed to Sunday's College Cup final

2011-12-03T12:22:00.002-06:00

Stanford defender and Eclipse Select
alumna Rachel Quon (left) -- AP photo

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO - It is guaranteed that a former Eclipse Select Soccer Club player and a Lake Forest, Ill., native will win Sunday's NCAA Women's College Cup.

Stanford junior defender Rachel Quon (Lake Forest, Ill./Lake Forest) and the Cardinal advanced to the final with a 3-0 blanking of Florida State in Friday's first semifinal. In the nightcap, Duke junior midfielder Nicole Lipp (Lake Forest, Ill./Lake Forest) assisted the Blue Devils' final tally as Duke rolled to a 4-1 win over Wake Forest. Quon and Lipp were teammates at Eclipse Select and Lake Forest High School.

Sunday's final kicks off at noon CT on Sunday and will be televised on ESPNU and available at ESPN3.com.

Among other Eclipse Select alumni participating in Friday's semifinal round, Florida State junior forward Jessica Price (Libertyville, Ill./Vernon Hills) logged 45 minutes off the bench for the Seminoles. And Florida State junior backup goalkeeper Taylor Vancil (South Elgin, Ill./St. Charles North) played five and a half scoreless minutes to close out the match against Stanford.

For the latest College Cup news, visit NCAA.com.

Eclipse Select Alumni: Quon, Lipp, Price preview Women's College Cup

2011-12-01T18:45:00.009-06:00

(L-R) Rachel Quon, Nicole Lipp, Jessica Price

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- The NCAA Women's College Cup is all the buzz heading into the weekend in Kennesaw, Ga. Locally, there are Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumni playing for three of the remaining four teams as Stanford faces Florida State and Duke takes on Wake Forest in Friday's semifinal matches for the right to play for a national championship on Sunday.

Eclipse Select alumni and Stanford junior defender Rachel Quon (Lake Forest, Ill./Lake Forest), Duke junior midfielder Nicole Lipp (Lake Forest, Ill./Lake Forest) and Florida State junior forward Jessica Price (Libertyville, Ill./Vernon Hills) had a chance to talk before Friday's semifinals.

Stanford's Quon on her multiple back roles: "I played outside right back for the first two years and with Eclipse Select at outside right back. I started working on everything with my left this season because I just wanted to help my team out. If it meant moving to the left, I wanted to do it. I think having the experience of playing both sides helps. I have more confidence, and my teammates helped me with that transition."

Duke's Lipp on seeing Eclipse Select alumni at this stage: "Honestly it's a credit to the coaches that not just one or two former players are here. I think it says a lot about the training that we got at Eclipse. The fact that we're all here and seeing some familiar faces compete against one another, without that training I wouldn't be here today."

FSU's Price on returning from her ACL injury in 2010: "It was definitely really difficult to get ready physically and mentally again. I wanted to have a strong impact on the team and I just kept reminding myself to do the best that I can and get back. It was a typical ACL rehab -- six months or so. I got back on the field this spring, which was kind of a struggle. But this summer I got more comfortable."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Fire GK Johnson to train with Everton

2011-12-01T11:30:00.005-06:00

Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

Chicago Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson has noted in the past that he relates closely with Tim Howard's style of play in the goal. Now Johnson will train alongside the U.S. National Team and Everton goalkeeper.

The Fire announced on their official site Thursday that Johnson is taking part in a week-long training session at Everton's Finch Farm training ground starting this Sunday and running through Dec. 10.

"For a young goalkeeper like Sean, it's great that he's continuing to train and develop in the offseason," Fire head coach Frank Klopas said. "He'll be in a different environment where he can learn from a talented 'keeper in Tim Howard and go up against Premier League players. It benefits us as much as it does for him to have that experience."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire scour globe for added talent

2011-11-30T22:55:00.006-06:00

Frank Klopas -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

In the coming weeks, the Chicago Fire should be announcing an abundance of player options that they are picking up heading into 2012. The Fire have yet to officially state the return of midfielder Pavel Pardo or comment on other players' contract status, but in all likelihood a large portion of the 2011 squad should be on board next season.

"We're still going through that and evaluating the whole season," Fire head coach Frank Klopas said Tuesday. "We've worked very hard to bring a lot of players and feel good with the base that we've built."

So pending the formality of the team announcing the return of much of its roster, Klopas is focused on an overseas trip to find potential talent to fill in some gaps and build off the momentum that Chicago had in the latter half of the previous season.

"We're way ahead of where we were last year as an organization," Klopas said. "We've worked hard to build relationships and find the kinds of players who fit in here financially and with the characteristics of this league."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse Select's Sarah Rivich named Player of Year by Times of NWI

2011-11-29T14:10:00.007-06:00

Eclipse Select's Sarah Rivich

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club midfielder and Crown Point High School junior Sarah Rivich is coming off a stellar girls soccer campaign that included her recently being named The Times of Northwest Indiana 2011 Girls Player of the Year.

"Sarah is a special player," Eclipse Select Northwest Indiana coach Tom Naumoski said. "Even with our club, she would do whatever we ask of her. She simply excels. She is always the first person on the field and the last to leave, and she pushes herself to be the hardest worker on the pitch."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select defender Schissler joins U.S. U-18 WNT training camp

2011-11-29T13:00:00.005-06:00

Taylor Schissler

Eclipse Select and U.S. Soccer Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club defender and New Lenox, Ill., resident Taylor Schissler is one of 26 players who were called in to participate in the U.S. U-18 Women's National Team's final training camp of 2011.

The Lincoln-Way Central junior will take part in a Dec. 11-18 training session in Sunrise, Fla. Technical director April Heinrichs will lead this group, which likely will form the core of the team that will compete toward qualification in the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Canada.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Fire's home opener set for March 24

2011-11-29T11:15:00.004-06:00

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Chicago Fire will play in their earliest regular-season home opener when they kick off their 2012 Major League Soccer campaign.

The Fire and other MLS teams announced their 2012 home dates on Tuesday, and Chicago hosts a match at Toyota Park on March 24. Opponents and time slots will be announced at a later date. It marks the second straight year that Chicago has hosted a March home opener. The Fire topped Sporting Kansas City, 3-2, on March 26 this past season at Toyota Park.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire roster untouched in draft

2011-11-23T16:45:00.005-06:00

Justin Mapp -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

Any concerns over losing a portion of the Chicago Fire's roster were put to rest as the Montreal Impact made 10 selections outside of the Fire's unprotected player pool during Wednesday's MLS Expansion Draft.

Former Fire midfielder and Impact head coach Jesse Marsch inherits a franchise that selected former Houston Dynamo forward Brian Ching with the top pick in the draft. Despite reports that Ching said he would retire if selected in the expansion draft, the Impact took him No. 1 anyway.

The Impact's third selection was former Fire midfielder Justin Mapp out of the Philadelphia Union. Mapp started in 24 of 29 games this past season, tallying three goals and four assists.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse Select U-17's Hillsman commits to St. Louis University

2011-11-23T15:00:00.000-06:00

Bridget Hillsman

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club U-17 midfielder and Elmhurst, Ill., native Bridget Hillsman has made a verbal commitment to play for St. Louis University. The Fenwick High School junior will join the Billikens for their 2013 campaign.

"It's a huge relief. I'm so excited," Hillsman said of making the commitment. "I've been looking forward to this since I was really little."

The St. Louis program clearly was in a rebuilding mode this year. But by the time Hillsman joins St. Louis, it should be a mostly veteran team. This year's Billikens roster featured three seniors, five juniors, and the top two scorers were underclassmen as they still finished around the middle of the pack in the Atlantic 10 Conference.

"I'm pretty optimistic," Hillsman said. "I know they have a young team, but looking at how they played throughout the season, they have a lot of freshmen who will be juniors when I get there. It will be a little bit of a different situation."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select alumni report: Duke's Lipp assists 2, advances to Elite 8

2011-11-22T12:00:00.006-06:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and Duke junior midfielder Nicole Lipp (Lake Forest, Ill./Lake Forest) assisted both of her team's goals as the Blue Devils defeated Ohio State, 2-1, on Sunday to advance to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament.

Duke had to overcome a 1-0 halftime deficit, and Lipp stepped up in the 54th minute as she took a free kick from the right side and found the feet of freshman Kelly Cobb to tie the score at 1-1. The match stayed that way until the 80th minute, when Lipp took a free kick from a good 40 yards away and found sophomore Kaitlyn Kerr, who headed in the game-winner just inside the far left post.

Duke now prepares for a match against Long Beach State on Friday at Koskinen Stadium in Durham, N.C.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Gargan among Fire's unprotected list

2011-11-21T18:15:00.003-06:00

Dan Gargan -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Chicago Fire and other Major League Soccer teams submitted their 11-player protected lists Monday in preparation for Wednesday's MLS Expansion Draft for the Montreal Impact.

Among some of the Fire's noteworthy players left unprotected are forward Diego Chaves, midfielder Daniel Paladini, and defenders Dan Gargan, Josip Mikulic and Yamith Cuesta.

Fire's 11-player protected list: Sean Johnson (GK), Cory Gibbs (D), Jalil Anibaba (D), Gonzalo Segares (D), Pavel Pardo (M), Logan Pause (M), Marco Pappa (M), Sebastian Grazzini (M), Orr Barouch (F), Patrick Nyarko (F/M), Dominic Oduro (F)

Unprotected list (available for Impact selection): Jon Conway (GK), Alec Dufty (GK), Yamith Cuesta (D), Dan Gargan (D), Steven Kinney (D), Josip Mikulic (D), Pari Pantazopoulos (D), Mike Banner (M), Michael Videira (M), Daniel Paladini M), Baggio Husidic (M), Cristian Nazarit (F), Gabriel Ferrari (F), Diego Chaves (F)

Exempt from selection (Generation adidas or homegrown status): Corben Bone (M), Kellen Gulley (F), Victor Pineda (M)

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

2012 schedule changes benefit Fire

2011-11-20T22:45:00.002-06:00

Sebastian Grazzini -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Chicago Fire struggled mightily against Western Conference teams this past season with a 3-8-7 record, compared to a very respectable 6-1-9 mark against their fellow Eastern Conference sides.

The days of a balanced schedule will come to a close with the Montreal Impact joining MLS as the league's 19th team next year. There will be some significant changes within the league in both the regular season and postseason.

The Impact, coached by former Fire midfielder Jesse Marsch, will become the 10th Eastern Conference team. Next year during the regular season, each Eastern Conference side will play a total of 25 conference matches and nine matches against West teams within the 34-game schedule.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Northwest Herald: Cary-Grove's Holland to play soccer at Marquette

2011-11-17T00:10:00.005-06:00

By Joe Stevenson
Northwest Herald

Erin Holland has played soccer at an elite level since joining the Eclipse Select Soccer club when she was 11 years old.

Holland, a Cary resident and junior at Cary-Grove, made sure she will be playing with another elite team when she goes to college in two years. Holland recently committed to play with NCAA Division I Marquette, which just won its third consecutive Big East Conference American Division title and plays Penn State in the second round of the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament on Friday.

Holland has seen several Marquette games and has a cousin, senior defender Lauren Thut, on the team.

“[Thut] told me she loved everything there and thought I would love it there too,” Holland said. “I visited there a couple times to make sure it felt right. The players all seemed to be really close and I liked that.”

Read more at NWHerald.com.

Eclipse Select U-17 defender Schissler commits to Ohio State

2011-11-15T12:45:00.004-06:00

Taylor Schissler

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club U-17 defender Taylor Schissler found everything she wanted in Ohio State University's women's soccer program.

The New Lenox, Ill., resident and Lincoln-Way Central junior announced her commitment to play for the Buckeyes starting in 2013, and she joins a Big Ten Conference program that created some national attention last year in advancing to the NCAA Tournament's Final Four.

"It's unbelievable," Schissler said of making the college commitment. "It really hasn't set in yet. I've always wanted to play at the D-I level, a Big Ten school. Last year's Final Four caught my eye, and when I visited there, I think I knew the weekend before I told them that I wanted to go there."

Ohio State was Schissler's top choice, and she also considered Arizona State during her search.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Bradley's Egyptian side falls in debut

2011-11-14T17:55:00.005-06:00

Bob Bradley -- AP photo

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

Former Chicago Fire head coach Bob Bradley, coaching for the first time since his tenure with the U.S. National Team, saw his Egyptian national team debut end in a 2-0 loss to Brazil on Monday in Doha, Qatar.

Brazilian forward Jonas netted goals in the 39th and 59th minutes to pace his side past Egypt.

Bradley last coached the U.S. to a 4-2 loss to Mexico in the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup final in front of 93,000-plus at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse Select alum David Tiemstra named Big Ten Defender of Year

2011-11-10T21:57:00.002-06:00

Back-to-back Big Ten Defender of the Year
David Tiemstra of Ohio State

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alum and Ohio State senior defender David Tiemstra (Clarendon Hills, Ill./Hinsdale Central) was named the Big Ten Conference Defensive Player of the Year, the conference announced Thursday.

Tiemstra, who also was included on this year's All-Big Ten First Team, led an Ohio State defensive group that allowed only 20 goals in 18 regular-season matches, and only seven goals in six Big Ten games. This marks Tiemstra's second straight Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honor.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Fire wrap training, focus on 2012

2011-11-10T21:00:00.008-06:00

Frank Klopas -- AP

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire capped off their final training session on Thursday, and now the focus squarely shifts toward head coach Frank Klopas' club making the necessary moves to improve their fate for 2012.

The Fire, who posted a 9-9-16 record and put together a winning record in the final third of the season, anticipate that a bulk of this year's team will be retained for next season. That would be a big change of pace considering how hectic the player movement was after the 2010 campaign.

"We did a lot of that last year," Klopas said of the previous personnel changes. "Obviously we have to look to get better. With the expansion draft (Nov. 23, Montreal Impact) there's a possibility that you might lose a player there. Like any team you're looking to get better. I think we feel very good with the base that we have. Now we've got to continue to build on that, and that's the important thing."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse Select U-17 defender Holland commits to Marquette for 2013

2011-11-07T17:42:00.000-06:00

Erin Holland

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club U-17 defender and Cary, Ill., native Erin Holland has made a verbal commitment to play for Marquette University's women's soccer team. The Cary-Grove High School junior is competing in her seventh year with Eclipse Select and will take her game to the college level heading into the Golden Eagles' 2013 season.

Holland looks forward to playing for a Marquette program that won its third straight Big East Conference American Division title, posting 10-1-0 Big East record and now gearing up for this year's NCAA Tournament. Holland said that Marquette's build-from-the-back style under head coach Markus Roeders resonates with her.

"Our Eclipse Select team right now likes to keep the ball in play and maintain some rhythm," Holland said. "That's pretty much how [Roeders] wants to play."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Fire's Klopas best suited on sidelines

2011-11-03T08:35:00.005-05:00

Frank Klopas -- AP

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire have learned at times the hard way that every move has to serve a specific purpose.

Fire owner Andrew Hauptman began Thursday's introduction of now full-time head coach Frank Klopas with an initial dinner meeting the two had before the 2008 season. It ended with Hauptman expressing to Klopas that he wanted him on board that year. But Hauptman did not know right away what that specific role would be.

Following a tough stretch as the team's technical director and then producing a mostly successful interim coaching stint to close out the 2011 season, the results clearly showed that Klopas was best suited to lead the team on the sidelines.

"We made mistakes, we've had some successes, but I think we've all grown a lot along the way," Hauptman said. "This year, when they came to me and said they were going to make a change with the head coach, it made a lot of sense for me at that point for Frank to step in as head coach. I felt like the timing was right. No one really knew the club better than he did. No one knew the players better than he did. And no one understood the possibilities more than he did."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Ex-Fire F Carr steps up for Dynamo

2011-11-02T11:30:00.008-05:00

Calen Carr -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

Former Chicago Fire and current Houston Dynamo forward Calen Carr has had his share of injury spells over the past several years. This year it was a concussion that he suffered during the Fire's preseason in February when the team was training in Ave Maria, Fla.

Shortly into this year's regular season, the injured Carr found himself headed to Houston as the Dynamo swapped forwards with the Fire, sending Dominic Oduro to Chicago shortly after Houston's regular-season opener.

Oduro found his shooting touch with the Fire en route to 12 goals in MLS play. Carr needed several more months of healing time before he even had a chance to prove his worth for the Dynamo.

"It's been really frustrating not being able to have a run of games where I can put together a full, healthy season," Carr said. "The concussion, some injuries have been freak injuries -- the knee injury was a freak play. The concussion was a freak injury that I felt it would just take a couple weeks but it took longer than I was expecting. I think I've done a good job of coming back from injuries and putting them behind me. I haven't had as much work this season as I would like, but I'm looking to make the most of it."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse's Dalton earns Big Ten GK of Year; Forbes takes Horizon GK honor

2011-11-02T10:20:00.002-05:00

Wisconsin's Michele Dalton (left) and
UW-Milwaukee's Jamie Forbes

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Two Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumni earned top goalkeeper accolades in their respective conferences this week.

On Tuesday, Wisconsin senior Michele Dalton (Mount Prospect, Ill./John Hersey) was named Big Ten Conference Goalkeeper of the Year. And on Monday, Wisconsin-Milwaukee junior Jamie Forbes (St. Charles, Ill./St. Charles North) earned Horizon League Goalkeeper of the Year and was named Co-Defensive Player of the Year, sharing that honor with Detroit's Alexandra Suschak.

Dalton also was included on the All-Big Ten First Team, becoming only the third Badger in the program's history to accomplish the feat, joining Julie Johnson (1996) and Ursula McKnight (1994). Dalton has played every minute in goal for Wisconsin this year. She is tied for second in the Big Ten with six shutouts, and is fourth in goals against average (0.91), save percentage (.825) and saves (85).

Forbes, an All-Horizon League First Team goalkeeper, has started in 17 of the Panthers' 18 games this season. Forbes has posted a 0.64 goals against average, a .851 save percentage and nine shutouts -- all top marks among Horizon League goalkeepers. During conference play, Forbes allowed only two goals in approximately 620 minutes for a 0.29 goals allowed average.

For more, visit EclipseSelect.org.

Tallahassee Democrat: Dream comes true for Eclipse Select's Brockmeier

2011-10-26T01:55:00.013-05:00

Caroline Brockmeier -- Democrat photo

By Jim Henry
Democrat writer

Caroline Brockmeier has developed into one of the country's top youth soccer players. The sophomore goalie at Chiles High was invited to a national select camp two years ago and actually plays club soccer in Chicago. Established collegiate programs have started to express interest.

Impressive, yes.

But a dream came true over the weekend when Brockmeier earned an invitation to the U15 Girls National Team Camp next month in Carson, Calif. Thirty position players and two to four goalies will be vying for spots on the final roster during the week-long camp.

"It has been a goal of mine for a long time and I've always dreamed of doing it," said Brockmeier, who recently turned 15. "I've always worked hard, but I am going to work 10 times harder trying to get fit and ready and being the best I can when I get into camp."

Brockmeier plans to rely on her experiences to help in her preparation. Her Eclipse Select Club in Chicago travels and faces some of the country's best competition. Brockmeier also learned plenty when she attended the national select camp in Oregon with more than 70 age-group players also recognized for their skills and talents.

Read more at Tallahassee.com.

Eclipse Select alumni: Wisconsin GK Dalton again earns Big Ten honors

2011-10-25T20:15:00.005-05:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- University of Wisconsin senior goalkeeper and Eclipse Select alumna Michele Dalton (Mount Prospect, Ill./John Hersey) was named co-Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week on Monday following her nine-save 2-0 shutout victory over Indiana on Sunday at McClimon Soccer Complex in Madison, Wis.

Dalton shares the honor with Illinois goalkeeper Steph Manozzo. Dalton's efforts helped the Badgers clinch a spot in the 2011 Big Ten Tournament. The big highlight for Dalton came in the 58th minute when she stopped an Orianica Velasquez penalty kick to maintain the clean sheet.

"She believes she is going to make a difference in the game," Wisconsin head coach Paula Wilkins said. "She made it in the first half with the save toward the near post and she did it on the PK to keep the game at 1-0. Give huge credit to a senior who feels desperate at the end of the season and wants to make an impression."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Oduro is ESPN Chicago's Fire MVP

2011-10-25T17:10:00.000-05:00

Fire's Dominic Oduro -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Houston Dynamo thought that Dominic Oduro was so much of a liability after missing a sitter in the season opener that they immediately cast him off to the Chicago Fire, trading him for Calen Carr.

Houston's misstep was Chicago's offensive answer, particularly in the final two thirds of the season, as Oduro received ESPN Chicago's vote for being the team's most valuable player in 2011.

Oduro netted 12 goals, becoming the first Fire player since Damani Ralph in 2004 to reach double-digit tallies in a season. That number more than doubled Oduro's previous-best five goals in 2008 with FC Dallas and last year with the Dynamo. And that goal production tied him for fifth among the league leaders.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Should Klopas stay on as Fire coach?

2011-10-24T14:30:00.005-05:00

Fire's Frank Klopas -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire have not exactly established continuity with their head coach over the past five seasons. Five different coaches have been at the helm since the start of the 2007 season.

With the Fire's 2011 season in the books, the focus once again turns toward the sidelines, where Fire technical director and interim head coach Frank Klopas posted an 8-5-10 record after replacing Carlos de los Cobos.

Chicago missed the playoffs for a second straight season, but the team rebounded in the final third of the campaign to climb close to the postseason picture.

So will Fire management remove the interim tag and keep Klopas as the head coach? Will he focus squarely on the technical side while the organization once again goes through the routine of an extensive coaching search?

Fire personnel certainly feel that the right person for the job already is in place with Klopas.

"There's nobody else who should be in that position," Fire defender Cory Gibbs said. "I don't say that just as a player when I speak the truth. I think he interacts with the team well. And he has a lot of heart and a lot of passion. He gets us ready for games. What more do you want from a coach? We're the ones playing, and we just have to follow his guidance and go out there."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire top Crew in season finale

2011-10-22T23:15:00.002-05:00

Fire's Jalil Anibaba (left) and
Diego Chaves -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire wanted to end their season on a high note, and they did so by reaching the .500 mark for the first time since April 9.

Fire forward Diego Chaves scored his second game-winning goal in as many games and Fire defender Jalil Anibaba had two goals as Chicago topped the Columbus Crew, 3-2, on Saturday in front of a sellout crowd of 20,237 at Toyota Park.

The Fire completed the season with 9-9-16 mark (43 points), but Chicago missed the postseason for a second straight year and the third time in the team's 14-season history.

"Obviously we're disappointed not to be in the playoffs because that was our goal from the beginning," Klopas said. "But I feel very good at this point of the season where we are as a team. There's a lot to build from this."

As the Fire move into next season, the first major question is whether they will remove Klopas' interim tag and have him continue as the team's head coach.

"In the next couple weeks we're going to sit down as an organization and make the best decision going forward for the Fire," Klopas said. "But I've enjoyed every single second of my professional job, especially what I did now as the interim coach. I really enjoyed it with this group, because I've always believed in this group."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire 'playing for something' vs. Crew

2011-10-21T23:05:00.002-05:00

Patrick Nyarko -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire's postseason hopes were erased Thursday night with the New York Red Bulls clinching the final playoff spot. But that does not mean there is little value to the Fire's home finale when they host the Columbus Crew.

Chicago (8-9-16, 40 points) has come a long way during the second half of the season to even be a part of the postseason dialogue over the past several weeks. So the Fire would like to maintain that trend with one final positive result heading into 2012.

"The most important thing, and our focus, has to be on making sure we finish the season strong," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said. "We're playing at home against a very good team -- a big rival of ours. It's just important to continue to be building and getting better every game."

"I feel like we're playing for something," Fire forward Patrick Nyarko said. "We're playing for three points, playing for a win, playing for our fans who have been with us all year through torrid times."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse Select College Showcase: Programs turn to club, locally & afar

2011-10-21T15:15:00.004-05:00

Randy Waldrum (right) -- NCAA

By Charlie Corr
Eclipse Select staff

CHICAGO -- The Eclipse Select Soccer Club recently held its 2011 Eclipse Select College Showcase, with more than 40 collegiate programs in attendance in Oak Brook.

Headed by Eclipse Select President Rory Dames and Eclipse Select Director of Soccer Mike Nesci, the showcase provides college recruiters with an opportunity to see the club's top-level soccer talent. This year's showcase attracted a number of programs, including defending NCAA champion Notre Dame and head coach Randy Waldrum.

"Over the years we've had a really good relationship with Rory and Mike at Eclipse, and I think it's probably fair to say that around the country they do as good a job as any club in the country," Waldrum said. "They're certainly one of the reasons why we recruit their club so heavily. We know that when we get one of their kids, they will be ready to play right away. They do a good job developing talent, and to be mentally ready. Only a few clubs do that. A lot of times players out of the youth system need some time to develop to a top program like ours. It seems like they're veterans from the get-go."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Fire miss playoffs for 2nd straight season following Red Bulls' win

2011-10-20T21:35:00.000-05:00

Fire's Dominic Oduro -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Chicago Fire were eliminated from postseason contention on Thursday when the New York Red Bulls defeated the Philadelphia Union, 1-0, at Red Bull Arena.

Though the official ruling was an own goal by Union goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon in the eighth minute, it was the Red Bulls' Dane Richards who put his header on frame to lead to the game's only goal. The 5-foot-7 Richards was unmarked by the Union defense in the box, and his header bounced off the post, hit Mondragon in the back when he was sprawled out on the pitch, and the ball crossed the goal line for an early 1-0 Red Bulls lead.

New York (10-8-16, 46 points) clinches the final postseason spot, eliminating both the Fire (8-9-16, 40 points) and the expansion Portland Timbers (11-14-8, 41 points). Chicago will wrap up its 2011 season on Saturday when it hosts the Columbus Crew at Toyota Park.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

ESPNHS: Eclipse Select, Michigan Hawks fight for first in Midwest

2011-10-20T11:00:00.000-05:00

By Chris Ackels
ESPNHS.com

It doesn’t take much to realize the importance of this weekend’s ECNL matches between Michigan Hawks and Eclipse Select.

At the U18 level, it’s a battle between the first-place Hawks and the second-place Eclipse. For the U17s, it’s last year’s US Youth Soccer Region II Champion against last year’s best ECNL record. At U16, it’s a chance for two squads to prove themselves against a rival club. And at U15, Eclipse sits in second place with the Hawks right behind them.

From top to bottom, at every age level, this weekend’s matches will have significant implications on the Midwest Conference standings.

“There’s definitely a mutual respect between the clubs,” said Michigan Hawks U17 head coach Doug Landefeld. “It’s like Michigan versus Michigan State. This week is different. The training is different, and the expectations are different.”

Eclipse head coach Mike Nesci agrees: “They are a fantastic club with a great coaching staff,” Nesci said of Michigan Hawks. “They’re also a huge reason why our club has gained prominence. They make us better because we are constantly competing with them.”

Read more at ESPNHS.com.

Grazzini still hampered by hamstring

2011-10-19T18:30:00.004-05:00

Sebastian Grazzini -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- Chicago Fire midfielder Sebastian Grazzini's hamstring problems continue to persist. Heading into the Fire's home finale against the Columbus Crew on Saturday at Toyota Park, Grazzini's status could change day by day.

Grazzini netted a stoppage-time equalizer during the Fire's dramatic 2-1 come-from-behind win over D.C. United on Saturday. But on Wednesday he cut his training short because of the left hamstring injury that has plagued him off and on for nearly a month.

"He was out here earlier running, jogging, but when he tries to open up a little bit, he still feels it," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said following Wednesday's training. "We'll see how he feels. He's day-to-day."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse U-17 midfielder, Winnetka native Jenna Miller commits to Illini

2011-10-18T21:00:00.006-05:00

Jenna Miller

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club U-17 midfielder Jenna Miller did not need another year to make her collegiate decision. Miller, a native of Winnetka, Ill., and a junior at New Trier High School, has announced her verbal commitment to play for the University of Illinois women's soccer program beginning in 2013.

"Both of my parents went there and it was always one of my top two schools," Miller said. "They showed interest in me, and it feels so nice to be able to get to the next level. That's been a goal of mine for the seven and a half years I've been with Eclipse Select. It's nice to know that a soccer team wants me to play there."

Miller will be joining an Illini program that currently is second in this season's Big Ten Conference standings and is led by long-time head coach Janet Rayfield. Not only has Rayfield achieved success at the college ranks, but she has served with the U.S. Women's National Team coaching staff, most recently assisting during the U.S.'s memorable 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup runner-up showing.

"She's really personable and easy to talk to," Miller said of Rayfield. "She laid it out there and said, 'what do you want with a soccer program?' Her practices and everything are so competitive. She will play whoever is on the top of their game, no matter the age. She doesn't stick to seniors and plays whoever competes."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select alumni: W. Michigan's Brittney Pavlica earns MAC honor

2011-10-18T20:25:00.006-05:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and junior forward Brittney Pavlica (Kenosha, Wis./Mary Bradford High School) netted a pair of game-winning goals and was named Mid-American Conference Offensive Player of the Week. Pavlica shares this week's honor with Miami Ohio forward Katy Dolesh.

On Friday, Pavlica scored the lone goal during the Broncos' 1-0 victory over Central Michigan, handing the Chippewas their first MAC loss of the season. In the 33rd minute, Pavlica took advantage of a misplayed free kick by Central Michigan, got to the ball and flicked it over the goalkeeper and into the back of the net. On Saturday, Pavlica netted the game-winner with only 1:52 remaining in double overtime to edge Eastern Michigan, 1-0.

Pavlica has four goals on the season, and all four happen to be game-winning tallies.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Fire's playoff hopes hang by thread

2011-10-17T23:45:00.006-05:00

Sebastian Grazzini and Logan Pause
-- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The turn of events during the Chicago Fire's comeback win over D.C. United on Saturday brought out a supreme sense of adulation on one end, and dismay and shock on the other side.

Major League Soccer must be loving the way things have turned out heading into the final week of the regular season. Combine the Fire's late heroics and the New York Red Bulls' loss to Sporting Kansas City on Saturday, and the league now has a scenario where four teams still have a mathematical hope for the final wild card spot.

"It's never over until it's over," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said after Saturday's 2-1 win over D.C. "We pushed it and brought a couple subs in that had an impact on the game. I think in the end, some special players made special plays, and when we had the chances we finished them."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire net dramatic win over D.C.

2011-10-15T23:45:00.001-05:00

Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The elements were not in the Chicago Fire's favor.

They had three suspended starters. They were playing on the road. They were playing down a goal heading into stoppage time. And anything less than a win would have officially spelled the end to Chicago's small, but lingering, playoff hopes.

Fire midfielder Sebastian Grazzini tallied an equalizer and second-half sub Diego Chaves netted the winner three minutes into stoppage time as Chicago posted a miraculous 2-1 come-from-behind victory over D.C. United on Saturday at RFK Stadium.

"It was an incredible five minutes, first for D.C. and then finally for us," Chaves said. "It was really, really intense."

Chaves' goal was his first since April 23, when the Fire played to a 1-1 draw against the Houston Dynamo. Chaves tallied four goals in the Fire's first six games to lead the team at the time, but he got out of his scoring funk at the right time as defender Gonzalo Segares assisted the game-winner.

"He was at the right place at the right time, and I'm glad he was there," Segares said of Chaves. "He's been working hard for a long time and I'm just happy that he got that goal. I'm sure that's going to motivate him."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire look to regroup at D.C. United

2011-10-14T16:45:00.005-05:00

Cory Gibbs -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- Now that the playoffs are more or less out of the picture, the Chicago Fire are simply looking to finish out their final two matches on a positive note.

But the Fire (7-9-16, 37 points) will be dramatically shorthanded when they face Eastern Conference foe D.C. United on Saturday at RFK Stadium.

Defenders Dan Gargan and Cory Gibbs are suspended because of yellow card accumulation, and midfielder Pavel Pardo is out because of a straight red card from Wednesday's 2-1 home loss to FC Dallas.

"We have to finish strong," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said. "Every time we have an opportunity to step on the field and train or play, it's all about improving as a team. We don't believe in excuses."

"We need to regroup and go over there in D.C. and look for the win," Fire defender Gonzalo Segares said. "[The Dallas loss is] definitely a big blow for us. We've been pushing really hard these past couple of months during the late run and it got us pretty close to being in the position in which we could have been fighting for the playoffs. But with the result [Wednesday], it's just really tough to swallow. We've got two more games to play and like every other game we've got to go out there and get a win."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Six Eclipse Select players invited to U.S. Club Soccer id2 Camp in N.J.

2011-10-14T11:32:00.000-05:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Six players from the Eclipse Select Soccer Club have been invited to participate in this weekend's U.S. Club Soccer id2 Camp this weekend in New Jersey.

Eclipse Select U-15 midfielder Ann Marie Niro (Barrington, Ill.), and from the U-14s Eclipse Select midfielder Marissa Bosco (St. Charles, Ill.), forward Alissa Gorzak (Naperville, Ill.), midfielder Mikaela Niermann (Geneva, Ill.), forward Zoe Redei (Highland Park, Ill.) and midfielder Cassie Rohan (Palatine, Ill.) are all taking part in an id2 Program Training Camp, which started on Thursday and runs through Sunday at the PDA Soccer Complex in Zarephath, N.J., for 1997-98 girls.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Fire's Pardo wants long-term stay

2011-10-13T10:45:00.003-05:00

Pavel Pardo -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- Two games remain for the Chicago Fire, but midfielder Pavel Pardo will be limited to Chicago's home finale on Oct. 22 against the Columbus Crew. Pardo picked up a red card during the Fire's 2-1 loss to FC Dallas on Wednesday and is suspended for Saturday's match at D.C. United.

Pardo signed a six-month contract for the Fire, and on Wednesday he expressed his desire to stick with the organization for the long-term.

"Of course I'd like to come back," Pardo said. "I was talking about this situation with the people from the Fire, and they want me to be here for the next year. And I want to be here, but not for one year. I'd like to be here for more years. I've integrated with this team, the club and the fans. I'm very happy playing for the Chicago Fire."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire's playoff odds nearly erased

2011-10-12T23:15:00.003-05:00

Sebastian Grazzini -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire missed out on the Brimstone Cup yet again. But even worse, their postseason hopes virtually have been eliminated.

Sebastian Grazzini's late goal for the Fire was all Chicago could muster as FC Dallas gained a two-goal lead and held on for a 2-1 victory on Wednesday in front of 10,362 at Toyota Park. Dallas' Jackson and Daniel Cruz netted goals as the team retained the Brimstone Cup, which has been in its possession since 2002.

The Fire (7-9-16, 37 points) still are mathematically in the playoff picture, but they would need to win out, a couple of teams would need to lose out and Chicago would have to make a jump in goal differential.

Dallas (14-11-7, 49 points) was in control for the entire match, creating its share of scoring chances, while minimizing the Fire's attack. Chicago did not register a shot on goal during the first half, while Dallas lingered around the goal for many stretches, especially in the first 45 minutes.

"We were flat from the beginning," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said. "We weren't sharp. We were just a step behind everything. Give credit to Dallas. They came out and made it difficult for us."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

The Doings: Meyer family puts focus on soccer

2011-10-12T21:45:00.000-05:00

The following story features Eclipse Select players Christian Meyer and Mitchell Meyer.

By George Wilcox
Pioneer Press

For the Meyer brothers of Clarendon Hills, sometimes watching the Fox Soccer Channel and playing soccer video games isn’t enough.

Brothers Will, Christian and Mitchell are planning a return trip to England later this year to see an English Premier League game involving Fulham at Chelsea. Christian and his brothers became Fulham fans while following American soccer players abroad and the brothers already saw a game last spring at Fulham.

“The fans are pretty insane,” said Christian, a Hinsdale Central sophomore. “The Fulham stadium is small and the fans are pretty loud.”

The brothers will travel with their father, Keith, who also watches NFL games and is a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. But with three boys currently playing in the Devils program, soccer is No. 1 with the Meyer clan.

The start of the playoffs next week means opportunities are dwindling to see both Will and Christian on the field at the same time. Will, a senior, is the starting goalkeeper for the Red Devils while Mitchell, the twin brother of Christian, is the starting keeper for the sophomore team.

Read more at ClarendonHills.SunTimes.com.

Eclipse Select alumna, Wisconsin GK Dalton earns weekly Big Ten honor

2011-10-10T17:45:00.002-05:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and University of Wisconsin senior goalkeeper Michele Dalton (Mount Prospect, Ill./John Hersey High School) was named the Big Ten Conference Defensive Player of the Week on Monday.

Dalton recorded a season-high 11 saves during Wisconsin's 2-0 victory over Nebraska on Friday in Lincoln, Neb. She also earned her fifth shutout of the season.

"It was probably one of the best goalkeeper performances I've seen in my career," Wisconsin head coach Paula Wilkins said after Friday's match. "She made a big difference because they were very good at creating some opportunities, and she really helped us keep a clean sheet."

For more Eclipse Select alumni updates, including Illinois Wesleyan junior Kyle Gorgol's two-goal performance, Texas junior goalkeeper Alexa Gaul's 17th career shutout and more, visit www.EclipseSelect.org.

Grazzini vital during Pappa's absence

2011-10-07T19:00:00.006-05:00

Sebastian Grazzini -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- Chicago Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas was been cautious from the get-go when the team brought in midfielder Sebastian Grazzini.

Klopas limited Grazzini's minutes at the start to integrate him with the team by midseason. But even still, Grazzini has endured setbacks -- the latest being a hamstring injury that kept him out of a 1-1 draw against the Houston Dynamo on Oct. 1 and limited him to the final minutes of Chicago's 2-0 loss to Seattle Sounders FC in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday.

"We pushed him the day before [the Open Cup], I talked to him and he said, 'Coach, I think I can give you 10 minutes,'" Klopas said. "My thought was, at that point, if we get to the second overtime to put him in and have him ready to take a PK, because he's one of our guys who's very good on dead balls.

"I want to put the guy on the field more than anything because he's a special player," Klopas said. "But you've also got to respect what the guy says, how he feels and the injury."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire can't halt Seattle's Open Cup run

2011-10-05T01:30:00.004-05:00

Sean Johnson -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Chicago Fire spent a large portion of Tuesday's Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup simply attempting to endure Seattle Sounders FC's frequent attacks and possession.

It was only a matter of time before the Sounders would strike, and Fredy Montero provided the winner in the 77th minute to lead Seattle to a 2-0 win over the Fire in front of an Open Cup-record crowd of 35,615 at CenturyLink Field in Seattle.

"I just think we never got [in] rhythm," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said. "We had a little bit of a momentum change in the first half, then it just seemed that we didn't get that back. And our frontrunners didn't seem to work well off each other."

Osvaldo Alonso added a goal five minutes into second-half stoppage time as Seattle won its third straight Open Cup.

Chicago fell to 4-2 in Open Cup finals, also dropping the 2004 title match to the Kansas City Wizards, while winning the 1998, 2000, 2003 and 2006 Open Cups.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse Select alumna York of Penn named Ivy League Rookie of Week

2011-10-04T17:05:00.001-05:00

Megan York

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and University of Pennsylvania freshman Megan York (Chicago, Ill./St. Ignatius) was named Ivy League Rookie of the Week in women's soccer after posted two goals during Sunday's 3-0 win over St. Francis (Pa.).

York headed in the first goal in the 23rd minute off of a Theresa Yankovich corner kick, then added an unassisted goal in the 86th minute on a rebound. York now has four goals on the season, which ranks second on the team.

For other Eclipse Select alumni accomplishments from the past week, visit www.EclipseSelect.org.

Fire, Sounders vying for Open Cup

2011-10-03T20:03:00.000-05:00

Frank Klopas -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

Chicago Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas will be a part of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in a different light this Tuesday when his Fire take on two-time defending champion Seattle Sounders FC at CenturyLink Field.

Klopas capped off the Fire's inaugural 1998 MLS season with the game-winning goal during Chicago's Open Cup win over the Columbus Crew.

Now Klopas will be on the sidelines, where Sounders head coach Sigi Schmid on Monday made a ringing endorsement, saying that "Frank has to have a conversation with his boss, his technical director, who I think is also named Frank, and get that 'interim' removed from his title."

Klopas' '98 game-winner against the Crew was a banner moment in a banner season. But if the 2011 Fire manage to unseat Seattle in front of its home faithful of 30,000-plus, Klopas said that as a coach it would carry more enjoyment than the '98 Open Cup team.

"If we were to win this, I think the feeling would be different," Klopas said. "It would probably be better to be able to do it also from this side because I know what these players go through every day, their commitment, and the focus. And I think it would be a great feeling to be on this side. It would be a better moment than doing it as a player. It's hard to say. I know it would be different for me. I would enjoy it more."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com. Also, CLICK HERE for a breakdown of the Fire's and Sounders' previous Open Cups.

Oduro, Fire rally to draw Dynamo

2011-10-01T19:49:00.000-05:00

Dominic Oduro -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas certainly was not conceding Saturday's game against the Houston Dynamo. But with Tuesday's Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup at Seattle Sounders FC and a recent 3-0 win at Real Salt Lake three days prior, Klopas decided to put several of Chicago's key cogs on the bench to start out.

One regular starter who got the call to start Saturday was Fire forward Dominic Oduro. Oduro netted a first-half goal against his former Dynamo team as Chicago rallied from a deficit to draw Houston, 1-1, at Robertson Stadium.

Oduro was traded to Chicago for Calen Carr at the start of the season after missing a sitter during the Dynamo's opening match. Now, Oduro is leading the Fire with 12 goals and is in the running for the league's Golden Boot.

"It was good to be back in Houston," Oduro said. "Playing on the other side was a little bit different. At the end of the day, I think the fans appreciated me playing for them and I thank them."

Oduro's day was cut short as he limped off the field with an ankle injury and was replaced by Patrick Nyarko in the 51st minute for precautionary reasons.

"It was just a little bit sore when I made contact in the box," Oduro said. "I should be OK for Tuesday."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire try to stay hot at Houston

2011-09-30T18:30:00.001-05:00

Dominic Oduro -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Chicago Fire do not have any time to savor one of their biggest victories of the season at Real Salt Lake on Wednesday.

Chicago heads into Saturday three points behind the New York Red Bulls, who currently hold the final wild card spot with 39 points. With only four regular-season games remaining, the Fire can potentially eliminate the gap behind New York when they face the Houston Dynamo at Robertson Stadium.

Chicago interim head coach Frank Klopas's squad is in the midst of a three-game stretch in seven days. On Tuesday, the Fire head to CenturyLink Field to take on the Seattle Sounders in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup final.

"Unfortunately we don't have the luxury of games that aren't important," Fire defender Dan Gargan said. "All of these games are massive for us. Frank knows that, and he's doing the best to put out a good side each time we're out there."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Trib Local: Eclipse Select soccer enjoys successful September

2011-09-30T15:15:00.003-05:00

Jeff Vorva/Tribune photo

By Jeff Vorva
Tribune reporter

The Eclipse Select Soccer Club’s five elite girls teams combined for a 23-3-3 record through September, including an 8-1-1 mark in Kansas last weekend.

The organization is based in Oak Brook and uses several practice sites throughout the Chicago suburbs. Players who make the elite squads come from various locations, including Indiana, Wisconsin and Champaign.

“We have totally committed kids,” Eclipse President and coach Rory Dames said. “Besides family and school, this is their top priority. They want to play and hopefully use soccer as a vehicle to get into a good school or financially offset college costs. They are willing to put the time and energy to work here trying to fulfill those dreams.”

Read more at TribLocal.com.

Eclipse Select alumna Brittany Bock returns to WPS's Western N.Y. Flash

2011-09-29T19:12:00.000-05:00

Brittany Bock -- Getty Images

Eclipse Select and W.N.Y. Flash Communications

Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna, University of Notre Dame product and Naperville, Ill., native Brittany Bock is returning to the Western New York Flash for their 2012 Women's Professional Soccer season. Bock and the Flash won the 2011 WPS Championship on Aug. 27 in their inaugural WPS season, defeating the Philadelphia Independence in a shootout. Bock played for most of the match before she was subbed out by Yael Averbuch in the 104th minute.

During the regular season, Bock started in 17 of 18 games played, tallying a goal and an assist in 1,456 minutes. The Neuqua Valley High School grad has played for the WPS runner-up Los Angeles Sol in 2009 and the Washington Freedom in 2010.

Read more at WNYFlash.com.

Pappa nets hat trick, Fire topple RSL

2011-09-28T23:55:00.004-05:00

Marco Pappa -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Chicago Fire garnered a signature win when they absolutely needed it. And most importantly for Chicago, the team now finds itself in a realistic position to catch a playoff spot with only four regular-season matches remaining.

The Fire won for the fifth time in their past six matches and were led by midfielder Marco Pappa's hat trick en route to a 3-0 victory against Real Salt Lake at Rio Tinto Stadium in front of 20,762 at Sandy, Utah.

Pappa had been in a significant scoring funk, having failed to find the back of the net since June 26 against the New York Red Bulls.

Now Chicago (7-8-15, 36 points) is within three points of those Red Bulls, who currently hold the final wild card position with 39 points.

"That was great to see," Fire defender Dan Gargan said of Pappa's performance. "He's a player that we need, and when he's sticking the ball into the back of the net, that's phenomenal for us because that's just another weapon that we have. It's been coming. He comes to training every day and puts in extra sessions. He's such a talented player."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Ex-Eclipse Rodriguez lifts W.Va. in OT; DePaul's Gustafson nets 1st goal

2011-09-28T17:00:00.013-05:00

Bri Rodriguez -- Chicago Red Stars

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and University of West Virginia junior midfielder Bri Rodriguez (Aurora, Ill./Waubonsie Valley High School) tallied a game-winning goal for a 1-0 overtime win over the University of Rutgers in Big East Conference play Sunday in Morgantown, W.Va.

Rodriguez chipped the ball over Rutgers goalkeeper Emmy Simpkins from about 25 yards out for the winning tally.

"I knew I got a hold of it," Rodriguez said. "I just didn't know if the goalie was out far enough where she could get back in. As soon as I saw it go into the back of the net, I got really excited."

DePaul's Gustafson tallies 1st goal in win: Eclipse Select alum and DePaul University freshman Kyle Gustafson (Libertyville, Ill./Libertyville) netted his first collegiate goal during the Blue Demons' 2-1 win over Seton Hall in their Big East opener Saturday at Wish Field in Chicago.

"We got a corner kick in the first half and Mauricio Velasco gave me a good in-swinger that floated over the goalie's head, Gustafson said. "Luckily I was able to get my head down on it. It's always good to get that first one out of the way."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Grazzini likely out as Fire face RSL

2011-09-27T23:00:00.004-05:00

Sebastian Grazzini -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Chicago Fire have won four of their five past matches, but they will likely have to continue pushing on without midfielder Sebastian Grazzini.

Grazzini, who injured his hamstring during the first half of Chicago's 3-2 win over the New England Revolution, is expected to miss Wednesday's match at Real Salt Lake.

The midseason acquisition had a goal and an assist before his departure. Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas told MLSSoccer.com this week that Grazzini would not play against Salt Lake, which is coming off its worst loss of the season, a 4-1 defeat at D.C. United. Grazzini is listed as questionable on the MLS Injury Report.

Klopas likely will return to Baggio Husidic in the midfield for the Fire (6-8-15, 33 points). Husidic replaced Grazzini during Sunday's win over the Revs, and it will be a tough task to match Grazzini's skill set and activity.

"Baggio came in and my message to him was he's got to get the ball and make those passes like Sebastian," Klopas said. "At first he was looking to get behind more and left a little bit of a gap."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

When Sting was king in Chicago

2011-09-27T18:34:00.000-05:00

AP photo

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

Some Chicago sports fans need a refresher course that the 1980s were not completely centered on Mike Ditka's 1985 Super Bowl champion Chicago Bears and the phenomenon of Michael Jordan.
The Chicago Sting was the toast of this city at the start of the decade, winning North American Soccer League crowns in 1981 and 1984.

It was 30 years ago when the Sting captured the Soccer Bowl over the famed New York Cosmos, winning in a shootout on Sept. 26, 1981, in front of nearly 37,000 at Toronto's Exhibition Stadium. That victory, highlighted by defender Rudy Glenn's game-winning score in the shootout, brought the first professional championship to Chicago since the Bears' 1963 NFL Championship over the New York Giants.

"When you think about it, 30 years later people still appreciate that championship game -- the '84 one, as well," Glenn said. "People still come up to you and tell you they're Sting fans. It carries a lot of weight, and I can't even imagine it being duplicated."

"We were the kings in town in 1981," former Sting forward Pato Margetic said. "The Chicago Sting was something that for some reason the whole city got behind. It was amazing, because everywhere you went, people would grab you and ask you for autographs and tell you how great the team was and wishing us luck. The whole year was like that. It was unbelievable."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse GK Adee commits to Akron

2011-09-27T14:23:00.000-05:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club U-18 goalkeeper Klaire Adee has made a verbal commitment to play for the University of Akron women's soccer team beginning with the 2012-2013 school year.

The Rockford, Ill., native is in the midst of her 2011-2012 senior year at Boylan Catholic High School. Adee has focused primarily on club soccer, joining Eclipse Select at the U-15 level and preparing herself for the next step with Akron of the Mid-American Conference.

"It's definitely a big weight off of my shoulders knowing that I'm going there," Adee said. "I'm excited. It's been my dream ever since I started playing soccer, to play in college. I went on quite a few visits, and Akron is a good fit for me."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Early surge helps Fire edge Revs

2011-09-25T19:00:00.006-05:00

Sebastian Grazzini (center)
-- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire made an early push on the offensive end, and they needed every goal to overcome a late lapse on the defensive end against the New England Revolution on Sunday. Chicago tallied three first-half goals and edged the Revs, 3-2, in front of 14,576 at Toyota Park.

Fire midfielder Sebastian Grazzini had a goal and an assist before leaving the match in the 25th minute because of left hamstring tightness. Dominic Oduro netted his team-leading 11th goal, and Patrick Nyarko's first goal of the season proved to be the game-winner as the Fire took a 3-0 lead into halftime.

It was a much needed victory for Chicago in order to stay within reach of the bottom of the wild card pack. The New York Red Bulls moved back into the final wild card position on Saturday with 39 points after posting a 2-0 win over the Portland Timbers.

"There was a lot on the line -- do or die, I think, for both clubs," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said. "We came out and we had a very good start to the game."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire try to stay in hunt against Revs

2011-09-24T14:55:00.001-05:00

Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The theme for the Chicago Fire will not change over the next several weeks. Chicago is in must-win mode with six regular-season matches remaining. And as long as the rest of the MLS field continues to oblige by keeping the Fire in the mix, that outside chance of a postseason berth remains.

The Fire (5-8-15, 30 points) host the New England Revolution (5-12-12, 27 points) this Sunday at Toyota Park, facing the only team remaining on Chicago's schedule that is in worse shape than the Fire.

"Now that we've put kind of a little run together, we've got to keep it going," Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson said. "We can't afford to take strides forward and then take steps back. We've got to keep pushing, pushing, pushing, until we get to where we want to be. And that's ultimately the playoffs."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire GK Johnson finding groove

2011-09-21T20:30:00.004-05:00

Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- Second-year Chicago Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson has looked more confident and more comfortable on the pitch.

Three victories in a four-game stretch also amplify Johnson's success. But even without those results, it has been apparent that Johnson's progression has made significant strides since the start of the season.

"The progression over last year to this year has gotten better, as a player and as a person," Johnson said. "Mentally and physically I've worked on my game, and I think it has been important for me to see different situations. Now I can kind of relate situations into my starting positions and things like that. I can only get better as I keep playing and get older."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire have no room for error

2011-09-19T23:00:00.003-05:00

Dominic Oduro (left) -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire are hanging around, and considering where this team was in mid-August, it is surprising that a postseason berth still is a slight possibility.

The odds for the playoffs are slim as only six games remain and three other teams are ahead of the Fire in the postseason picture.

But does Chicago have one final gasp at making a realistic run for a playoff spot? Is there enough time to eliminate the current six-point gap that separates Chicago from a wild card berth?

"We've progressively been getting better, and the results have been getting better," Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson said following Chicago's shorthanded 3-2 victory against Chivas USA on Saturday. "But now is the time to turn it up and get three points every time out. We have six games and we need all six. That's our attitude."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse Select Alumni Report: Manski posts two shutouts for Valparaiso

2011-09-19T18:00:00.002-05:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Valparaiso University sophomore goalkeeper and Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna Kristen Manski (St. Charles, Ill./St. Charles North High School) posted a flawless weekend in the net en route to two victories.

Manski opened Horizon League play on Friday with a two-save performance during a 1-0 victory over Wisconsin-Green Bay at Eastgate Field in Valparaiso, Ind. Then Manski made two saves during a 4-0 victory over Bowling Green on Sunday in Bowling Green, Ohio.

Manski has posted three straight shutouts, including a three-save, 2-0 victory on Sept. 11 at Eastern Illinois. Valpo also moves two games above .500 for the first time this season with a 5-3-1 mark. This weekend Valpo hosts the Crusader Classic, starting with a Friday match against Campbell.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Oduro, shorthanded Fire top Chivas

2011-09-17T23:30:00.009-05:00

Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire could not have drawn up a better start. The only question was whether Chicago could finish, especially playing down a man.

In an up-and-down match that included a two-goal lead followed by a level second half, the Fire's Dominic Oduro came to the rescue with a shorthanded, game-winning goal in the 85th minute to lead Chicago to a 3-2 victory over Chivas USA on Saturday in front of 15,246 at Toyota Park.

"These are the kinds of games that are very exciting, for sure," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said. "Memorable ones, things you can build on. You kind of feel that in the past, maybe the team would not have found a way to pull this one out."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire set to host Chivas USA

2011-09-16T15:08:00.000-05:00

Fire captain Logan Pause -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- From Chivas de Guadalajara to Chivas USA, the latter opponent has a bearing on the Chicago Fire's distant postseason hopes.

Chicago hosts Chivas USA this Saturday at Toyota Park, and the team is coming off a 1-0 international friendly defeat to Guadalajara on Wednesday. The Fire (4-8-15, 27 points) enter the weekend in a three-way tie for last place in the Eastern Conference alongside the New England Revolution (which plays late Friday night against the expansion Portland Timbers) and Toronto FC.

The Fire are seven points out of the final wild card spot, and narrowing that gap will take some doing. D.C. United enters the weekend in that fourth wild card slot having played only 25 games to Chicago's 27.

"It's a huge match. It's a match we feel like we have to win," Fire captain Logan Pause said. "Our backs are up against the wall, and we need wins. I'm sure it's going to be an exciting game because Chivas also needs wins. They are on the outside looking in."

Chivas (7-11-10, 31 points) is in the midst of a significant drought. Not only have the Goats lost three straight, but they also have not scored a goal during this stretch.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse's Redei joins U.S. U-14s

2011-09-15T14:40:00.000-05:00

Eclipse Select & U.S. Soccer Communications

Eclipse Select Soccer Club forward and Highland Park, Ill., native Zoe Redei is one of 36 players called up to the U.S. U-14 Girls' National Team training camp, which runs from Sunday, Sept. 18, to Sunday, Sept. 25, at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif. Redei is the only Illinois-based player joining the training camp.

Redei participated in the U.S. U-14 Girls' National Team Identification Camp from July 31 to Aug. 7 in Portland, Ore., where 72 players were selected for evaluation. The upcoming training camp represents the core of the 2012 U-15 Girls' National Team player pool.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org. For the latest U.S. Soccer news, visit USSoccer.com.

Fire fall to Chivas de Guadalajara

2011-09-14T23:15:00.007-05:00

AP photo

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The game had no implications, but the Chivas de Guadalajara fandom came out in full force in the loudest environment at Toyota Park this year.

Chivas' Jorge Mora scored a 61st-minute free kick goal and Guadalajara defeated the Chicago Fire, 1-0, in front of 18,224 at Wednesday's international friendly. It marked Chicago's second international loss this year, having fallen to Manchester United, 3-1, on July 23 at Soldier Field.

"It's one of those things where you don't like to lose," Fire defender Cory Gibbs said. "It's just unfortunate losing on a free kick. We just have to keep pressuring. For morale, it's not good."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire's Grazzini, Oduro to miss friendly

2011-09-13T21:45:00.010-05:00

Sebastian Grazzini -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire more or less are approaching Wednesday's international friendly against Chivas de Guadalajara as a high-profile training session. Midweek typically marks Chicago's hardest training to prepare for a weekend match, and Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas plans to use his lineup significantly when it hosts Chivas at Toyota Park.

"You get better by playing," Klopas said. "You can do certain things out here [in training]. The stuff we want to do out here, it's better to be doing against a very good opponent."

There will be plenty of caution thrown into this match. Fire forward Dominic Oduro hurt his ankle during the Fire's 2-0 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday, and Sebastian Grazzini's hamstring still is tight, Klopas said.

"I don't see them playing," Klopas said.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse alumni: DePaul's Gorden, Penn's York tally winners, 1st goals

2011-09-13T16:45:00.000-05:00

Sarah Gorden -- DePaul Athletics

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Several of the youngest Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumni earned their first collegiate goals this past weekend, with two tallying game-winners.

Eclipse Select alumna and DePaul University freshman Sarah Gorden (Elk Grove, Ill./Conant High School) netted a golden goal in the 100th minute to lift the Blue Demons to a 2-1 overtime win over the University of Minnesota on Sunday at Wish Field. Gorden's strike carried to DePaul to its second straight win after starting the season with five defeats.

"It was an awesome feeling," Gorden said of her first collegiate goal. "I knew after the first step that I had beaten the defender."

York lifts Penn over 'Nova: University of Pennsylvania freshman and Eclipse Select alumna Megan York (Chicago, Ill./St. Ignatius) garnered her first collegiate goal in the 49th minute and it held up the rest of the way as Penn topped Villanova, 1-0, on Friday at the home of Major League Soccer's Philadelphia Union, PPL Park, in Chester, Pa.

"It's very exciting," York said of the experience on the Penn Sports Network. "It's a great opportunity. It's an amazing venue. I couldn't ask for a better result, either."

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse sweeps SLSG in ECNL play

2011-09-12T18:30:00.005-05:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- The Eclipse Select Soccer Club's U-15 to U-18 Girls teams posted a weekend sweep against St. Louis Scott Gallagher (SLSG) on Saturday in Elite Clubs National League action on Saturday in Maryland Heights, Mo.

Eclipse Select U-17 improved to a perfect 4-0-0 with a 4-0 victory over SLSG. The U-17s have outscored their ECNL opponents by a 13-1 margin. Eclipse Select U-15 posted a 3-0 victory over SLSG and improved to 3-0-1. Eclipse Select's U-18s (2-1-1) earned a 4-0 victory and the U-16s (3-1-0) posted a 2-0 win against SLSG.

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Fire take hit with loss to Quakes

2011-09-11T00:35:00.005-05:00

Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

The Chicago Fire's recent success hit a significant bump in the road as they fell to the San Jose Earthquakes, 2-0, on Saturday at Buck Shaw Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif.

Chris Wondolowski had a goal and an assist and Ramiro Corrales also added a goal for San Jose, which ended a 13-game winless streak. The Fire's recent four-game unbeaten run came to a close, and what had been a positive stretch run took a wrong turn on Saturday.

"Dropping points now is not something we can afford," Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson said.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Eclipse's McGowan gains experience, confidence from U.S. U-15 sessions

2011-09-09T15:00:00.010-05:00

By Charlie Corr
Eclipse Select staff

CHICAGO -- Lake Forest, Ill., native and Eclipse Select Soccer Club defender Ginny McGowan has had a busy 2011 on the pitch.

In the spring, McGowan made an immediate impact for Lake Forest High School during her freshman season, helping the Scouts to a sectional title match, earning team MVP honors and was the only freshman to receive special mention on the Chicago Tribune's All-State selections.

But surrounding the prep season and her club ball with Eclipse Select, McGowan has been a regular part of the U.S. U-15 Girls' National Team as she was invited to its training camp on three occasions this year. She recently wrapped up a session on Aug. 29 in Carson, Calif., and competing alongside some of the nation's top talent has been a valuable experience for McGowan.

"It has brought me confidence," McGowan said. "The level of play, technically it's a lot better and you're competing against each other. When you go through these camps, you're constantly being tested. It's pretty tough."

In the August camp, McGowan was joined by fellow Eclipse Select forwards Kayla McCoy (Lincolnwood, Ill.) and Maya Neal (Naperville, Ill.).

Read more at EclipseSelect.org.

Fire forced into defensive adjustment

2011-09-07T14:56:00.000-05:00

Gonzalo Segares -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Fire have found a rare winning stretch, so the team would prefer few to no changes toward its lineup now that it has a good thing going. Chicago posted back-to-back league wins, followed by a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup semifinal victory over the USL Pro's Richmond Kickers on Aug. 30.

But the Fire (4-7-15, 27 points) have no getting around a lineup adjustment this Saturday when they head out west to face the San Jose Earthquakes (5-10-11, 26 points). Left back Gonzalo Segares is not available because of yellow card accumulation.

That puts Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas on the spot as Chicago shoots for a third straight victory to continue its climb into the playoff picture. Will Klopas simply insert a bench player at Segares' left back position, or will he shift multiple players around within the defense and midfield?

"The whole thing is, who do you put there so you don't disrupt too many things?" Klopas said after Wednesday's training. "Because there's a good line of communication now with the group in the middle and stuff like that. It's just making a decision. Sometimes, that's why you sit around all night and you don't go to sleep, and you try to figure out -- is it this guy, is it this guy, is it this guy? But I have the confidence in any of the guys we put out there."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Buczkowski named to WPS's Best XI

2011-09-07T14:15:00.005-05:00

Jen Buczkowski (right) -- Getty Images

Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and Philadelphia Independence midfielder Jen Buczkowski was named to WPS's Best XI of 2011. The Elk Grove Village, Ill., native and Notre Dame product started and played in 18 regular-season matches for Philadelphia, and capped off her 2011 season with an appearance in the WPS Championship against the title-winning Western New York Flash.

Read more at WomensProSoccer.com.

Eclipse Select alumna Forbes nets Horizon League Player of the Week

2011-09-06T23:00:00.009-05:00

Eclipse Select alumna Jamie Forbes

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and junior goalkeeper Jamie Forbes (St. Charles, Ill./St. Charles North High School) made a whopping 11 saves as the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee defeated the University of Minnesota, 1-0, on Sunday at the Minnesota Gold Classic at Lyle Robbie Stadium in St. Paul, Minn.

For her efforts, which included a four-save performance in a 2-0 win against Iowa State on Friday, Forbes was named Horizon League Player of the Week on Monday. Forbes also was named to the TopDrawerSoccer.com National Team of the Week for Week 3.

Forbes has played in every minute of the 2011 season, posting a 6-0 record, four shutouts and a 0.67 goals against average. Forbes' 11-save effort ties for 14th among the Wisconsin-Milwaukee record books for most saves in a match.

"I thought Jamie Forbes was up to the task when she was called on," Milwaukee head coach Michael Moynihan said following Sunday's match. "She played fantastic. She was a real force back there with a great presence and made some big stops."

The Panthers' 6-0 start ties a program-best record, and they will be in the national spotlight this Wednesday when they host Marquette University at Engelmann Stadium. The match kicks off at 7 p.m. and is televised on Fox Soccer's NSCAA Game of the Week. Forbes is expected to make her seventh start.

Read about Eclipse Select's other alumni news, including Libertyville native Jessica Price's ACC Player of the Week performance for Florida State, at EclipseSelect.org.

Eclipse Select announces programs for West Fall Soccer Skills School

2011-09-01T15:41:00.000-05:00

Eclipse Select Communications

CHICAGO -- The Eclipse Select Soccer Club announced its 2011 West Fall Soccer Skills School, which takes place from September through early October at Just for Kicks, 10200 Soccer Drive, in Plainfield, Ill.

Programs offered include Effective Dribbling with Finishing at Extreme Speed (4:30 to 5:30 p.m.) and Pure Finishing (5:30 to 6:30 p.m.), and the sessions take place on Sept. 9, 16, 23, 30 and Oct. 7. The skills school is for boys and girls, ages 9-14, who are travel-level soccer players. Players will be subdivided by Eclipse staff based on their skill, agility, strength and other criteria.

The cost is $75 per player, per program, and a registration link is available at www.EclipseSelect.org. For questions and more information, contact Eclipse Select Director of Players-West Brian Kibler at briankibler@me.com.

Fire reach U.S. Open Cup final

2011-08-30T23:15:00.003-05:00

Dominic Oduro -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- It was not the smoothest of performances for the Chicago Fire. But the home side did its job on Tuesday in topping the USL Pro's Richmond Kickers, 2-1, in the semifinals of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup at Toyota Park.

"It was a scrappy one, but we got it done," Fire defender Jalil Anibaba said.

Sebastian Grazzini netted a first-half penalty-kick goal and Dominic Oduro tallied a second-half game-winner as Chicago advanced to its sixth Open Cup final appearance. The Fire have won the Open Cup four previous times (1998, 2000, 2003 and 2006) and were the runners-up in 2004.

"Opportunities like this, you can't let them slip away," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said. "It was a special moment for the team, for our fans obviously, to put ourselves in this situation now in the final, to have an opportunity to win something. We knew what was at stake.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

LePeilbet called up to U.S. squad

2011-08-29T18:15:00.009-05:00

Amy LePeilbet --
Getty Images

Eclipse Select Soccer Club alumna and Crystal Lake, Ill., native Amy LePeilbet was called up to the U.S. Women's National Team roster on Monday as part of a WNT "Celebration Series."

The Americans prepare for matches against Canada on Sept. 17 at Livestrong Sporting Park in Kansas City, Kan., and on Sept. 22 at Jeld-Wen Field in Portland, Ore.

LePeilbet is coming off a runner-up finish in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup. The 2009 and 2010 Women's Professional Soccer Defensive Player of the Year advanced to this year's WPS postseason. But LePeilbet's Boston Breakers fell to magicJack, 3-1, in the first round of the playoffs.

Read more at USSoccer.com.

Fire host Kickers in Open Cup semis

2011-08-29T13:45:00.006-05:00

Frank Klopas -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The four-time Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup champion Chicago Fire have touted their best available lineup throughout this year's tournament.

The same cannot be said for some other MLS squads, and you only have to look at the Fire's 4-0 quarterfinal win over a reserve-laden New York Red Bulls side on July 12 to come to that conclusion.

But the semifinal round will not have that type of aura to it as Chicago hosts the USL Pro's Richmond Kickers on Tuesday at Toyota Park (broadcast available at Chicago-Fire.com). Being the only non-MLS team remaining in this year's tournament, the Kickers no doubt will try everything to halt the Fire's deepest run in the Open Cup since their 2006 championship over the Los Angeles Galaxy.

"This is a tournament that we take very seriously," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said. "This has been one of our goals from the beginning, to put ourselves in a position to win the U.S. Open Cup. Now we have a great opportunity on Tuesday. We're not going to underestimate anyone."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire blank Rapids for 2nd straight win

2011-08-27T23:00:00.008-05:00

Fire's Gonzalo Segares -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- Don't look now, but the Chicago Fire have put together a stretch of victories.

Dominic Oduro and Cory Gibbs each netted a goal and Chicago topped the Colorado Rapids, 2-0, on Saturday in front of 15,211 at Toyota Park.

It marked the first set of back-to-back wins for the Fire (4-7-15, 27 points) since the 2010 season, when they topped D.C. United and the Houston Dynamo on April 17 and 24, respectively.

While the Fire are building some needed momentum, the team knows it has to make up for some lost ground in getting back into the playoff picture.

"It's one game," Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas said. "The guys are not satisfied. We're not satisfied. This is behind us. We have to look at this match and look at the good things and what we have to improve."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire host defending champion Rapids

2011-08-26T16:30:00.001-05:00

Fire's Dominic Oduro -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- It has been 16 months since the Chicago Fire have posted back-to-back victories. They have an opportunity to put an end to that trend when they host the 2010 MLS champion Colorado Rapids on Saturday at Toyota Park.

Saturday's match marks the start of a Western Conference-heavy schedule over the next month. After Saturday, Chicago takes a two-week break from MLS action but hosts the USL Pro's Richmond Kickers on Tuesday in a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup semifinal.

The Fire have posted a 1-0-1 mark on their current homestand, most recently earning a 2-0 win against Toronto FC last Saturday.

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Anibaba makes smooth 'D' switch

2011-08-25T21:00:00.009-05:00

Fire defender Jalil Anibaba -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- Chicago Fire interim head coach Frank Klopas made it clear following the team's 2-0 win over Toronto FC on Sunday where he prefers to play rookie defender Jalil Anibaba.

"I like him better as a center back," Klopas said of Anibaba, who opened the season as the Fire's regular right back. "He reads the game better there. For me, I think he can play both. But I see him as a better center back than on the right."

Anibaba's move to center back has been a smooth one, and that was evident when out of the blue he had to replace an injured Cory Gibbs in the opening minutes of a 1-1 draw against the Philadelphia Union on Aug. 3.

"In college, I was able to grow in that position more," Anibaba said. "When I made the transition to center back from attacking mid (where he played in his first two games at Santa Clara), it wasn't easy for me just because it takes time to get used to a new position. It's just a matter of me having more games underneath my belt at center back, and I've been able to transfer my experiences from college at center back to this level."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.

Fire defender Gargan creating buzz

2011-08-23T16:45:00.001-05:00

Fire's Dan Gargan -- Getty Images

By Charlie Corr
ESPNChicago.com

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- Defender Dan Gargan was a bit of a mystery man when he was traded to the Chicago Fire from Toronto FC on July 28.

Chicago appeared to have its defensive group set in stone. Rookie Jalil Anibaba and team captain Logan Pause manned the right back position, and Gonzalo Segares has been the season-long fixture at left back. So it was unknown as to what extent Gargan's immediate impact would be.

Some could argue that when the Fire sent Dasan Robinson to Toronto, the inclusion of Toronto's 2012 second-round draft pick looked like the most enticing part of the entire deal. But Toronto's loss already has become Chicago's gain.

Gargan has started at right back during the Fire's past three matches, posting a 1-0-2 record. Gargan also tallied a goal against his former Toronto squad on Sunday en route to a much-needed 2-0 Fire win.

It was an uplifting moment for the Fire, who earned only their third victory of the season.

"The moment was definitely heightened because of the [winless] run we've been on," Gargan said. "That goal took a little bit of the pressure off of us to win. That's definitely the most important -- getting those three points and hopefully getting us on the right side toward winning games for a little run that we need to go on."

Read more at ESPNChicago.com.