Unofficial NMIFA Blog

CNMI pulls out of Pacific Games

2011-04-10T15:04:00.002+10:00

It's final, the CNMI will not be sending football teams to the 2011 Pacific Games in New Caledonia.

Northern Marianas Amateur Sports Association president Michael White said Northern Mariana Islands Football Association decided to withdraw from the Games to avoid complications that would arise from its participation in the quadrennial meet.

NMIFA had initially informed NMASA that it will send men's and women's teams to New Caledonia and White then informed the Pacific Games Council that the CNMI will be competing in football.

However, the CNMI's participation to the Games hit a snag after NMASA was informed that the football competition in New Caledonia will be used as an Oceania Football Confederation qualifier for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and OFC, which is sponsoring the tournament, does not want a non-OFC member to compete in Noumea. The CNMI is affiliated with the Asian Football Confederation (associate member) and East Asian Football Federation (regular member).

“To avoid further problems, NMIFA gracefully decided to withdraw from the tournament and respect OFC's decision and NMASA commends the local football association for doing the right thing,” White said during the NMASA meeting on Thursday at the conference room of the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium.

White added NMIFA will not be penalized for withdrawing from the competition as per the Games' rules and regulations. A team that confirmed participation to the Games in February, but pulled out in the last minute will pay $1,000 penalty. However, NMIFA will not be fined, as its withdrawal was done for a good reason. White also said the council assured members that it will be taking necessary steps so conflicts like these will not happen again.

NMIFA through its general secretary Ed Salas, who was present at the meeting, said they made the decision for the best interest of everybody.

“We don't want to risk our application with AFC and FIFA by joining the tournament, which eventually became a Oceania qualifier. We may face possible sanctions from AFC if we do that. Also, we don't want to cause problems for other nations competing in New Caledonia,” Salas said.

While the CNMI is now out of the woods, Guam is not. Guam is also affiliated with AFC and EAFF, but at press time has yet to inform the council whether they will be pulling out or will still compete.

Guam vs Saipan on Guam News

2010-09-01T06:07:00.001+10:00

CNMI football success is Guam's dream

2010-06-26T01:31:00.000+10:00

CNMI football success is Guam's dream

By Roselyn Monroyo
Reporter

A relieved Richard Lai, president of Guam Football Association, showed up at the banquet for the 4th Annual Marianas Football Cup and shared the mixed emotions he felt during the Guam-CNMI tussle last Saturday at the Oleai Sports Complex Field.

“About two minutes before the match ended and with CNMI ahead, I was nervous. It seemed like we were about to lose a game against the CNMI for the first time,” Lai said during the banquet at the Seaside Grill of Saipan Grand Hotel.

After a scoreless first half, the CNMI took a 1-0 lead when Joe Miller nailed a goal in the 68th minute off a gamble by Guam goalie Brett Maluweng.

“But at the same time, I was proud, as several years ago, this CNMI players were just getting the feel of the game and we are helping them reach the competitive level of play by playing against them. Now, CNMI players improved significantly and they were about to beat us,” the GFA head added.

Fortunately, Jason Ryan Cunliffe saved the day for Guam, drilling a late goal in the 89th minute to force a 1-1 tie.

“My boy, Jason came out with the gutsy play and scored, just like what he did during the EAFF preliminary in Guam last year,” Lai said.

Cunliffe made a game-tying goal for Guam in the 91st minute during their match against Macau, allowing Guam to rule the preliminary tournament and beat eventual runner-up Mongolia.

With or without Cunliffe's game-saving goal last weekend, Lai had his hats off to CNMI players, its coaches, and officials for a well-organized event and for giving Guam another tough game.

“It there's one organization which will be proud to see CNMI players improved, it would be GFA. Your success in football is our dream. We will do our best to help Northern Mariana Islands Football Association develop its program and continue improving their players' skills,” Lai added.

Meanwhile, Lai and the Guam men's and women's team members and coaches thanked organizers of the Marianas Cup for providing them a much improved pitch.

Two years ago, Guam strikers struggled in a bit rocky and dry Oleai pitch. Then more than a month before this year's Marianas Cup, NMIFA through the help of both the private and public sectors rehabilitated the pitch, which now resembles the manicured greens of a golf course.

NMIFA president Jerry Tan thanked all those who contributed to the successful staging of the Marianas Cup and vowed to keep the good condition of the Oleai pitch and seek improvement of other fields to ensure safety of the players.

Marianas Cup ends in 1-1 draw

2010-06-24T07:29:00.000+10:00

From the Saipan Tribune:

Marianas Cup ends in 1-1 draw
By Roselyn Monroyo
Monday, June 21, 2010

Almost, but not quite.

The CNMI Men's National Football Team was poised to pull off an upset over rival Guam when Jason Ryan Cunliffe scored a late goal, forcing the two neighbors to share honors in the 4th Annual Marianas Football Cup as the Saturday match at the Oleai Sports Complex Field ended in a 1-1 draw.

The host smelled blood when forward Joe Miller found the back of the net in the 68th minute, giving the CNMI a 1-0 lead.

All the Commonwealth's strikers needed to do was play tough defense and frustrate the visitors' attackers. CNMI goalie Chris Nelson and company did just that for nearly 20 minutes after Miller's goal until Cunliffe found one small lapse on the host's defense.

Guam swung the ball to the left with Cunliffe leading the attack and finding himself inside the penalty box. Two CNMI defenders faced Cunliffe, while Nelson instead of leaning to his left opted to move to his right to provide help defense in case the Guam forward decided to inch in closer and pass his defenders.

Nelson had been successful in running after Guam attackers and quickly diving for the ball in the first half and in the opening minutes of the second half. However, this time Cunliffe read the defense well and instead of moving in closer, he stopped and made a cross kick to the right where CNMI defenders were unavailable to block the shot. Nelson made a last-ditch effort of saving the ball, but was unsuccessful.

Cunliffe knocked down the equalizer in the 89th minute and with only a minute left in the match, Jason Schroeder had two chances to score from the left corner, but just could not get the ball to roll in.

When the game ended past 7pm, it took match commissioners a while to decide how to resolve the draw. Stressing the importance of players' safety and considering the inadequate lighting at the pitch, officials, in consultation with both teams, decided to call it a night and declare the CNMI and Guam as co-champions of theMarianas Cup.

Saipan hosted the Marianas Cup for the second time since its inception in 2007. In the first three editions, Guam came out the winner all the time.

Guam and the CNMI's fortunes seemed headed for a switch Saturday afternoon, as the host turned out to be the aggressor at the start of the match.

The CNMI surprisingly dominated possession in the first half and each time the home team had the ball and went for an attack, it drew loud cheers from the crowd, majority of whom obviously rooted for the Commonwealth's strikers.

The loudest roar came when Miller lit up the scoreboard on a shot inside the penalty box. Yikiomi Adachi started the offensive play when he sprinted to the left corner and made a pass to Miller in the center. Guam goalie Brett Maluweng then saw Miller moving closer, so the former gambled on stealing the ball before the latter could hit it. Maluweng paid a dear prize for the gambit, as he collided with Miller and the ball slipped away from his hands. With Maluweng still on the ground, looking for the ball and Guam midfielder Jude Bischoff a few steps late for a rescue, Miller found himself alone in the center and kicked the ball in.

The remaining minutes after Miller's goal were scary for the CNMI, as it repeatedly tried to foil Guam's attempts to equalize, until Cunliffe found one small opening on the host's defense to save the day for the visitors.

After Cunliffe's goal, the CNMI was left with limited options on offense, as Miller was already on the bench. Miller was injured and was pulled out of the match several minutes after he scored.

The CNMI had three more casualties due to the intense game, which saw a lot of shoving and accidental collisions. First to go out was Edwin Cruz, who fell on the ground after banging against a Guam defender. Next was Peter Houk, who also collided with a Guam defender in the second half. Houk and Cruz both went out of the game in a stretcher, but managed to go home in one piece. Midfielder Gilmark Reusora left the game midway in the second half limping, as he rammed into Maluweng while trying to recover a loose ball near the goal box.

As the game ended in draw, the CNMI was without its four starters, while Guam had two players forced to sit on the bench due to injuries.

“Injury definitely took its toll on us. We're just a few minutes away from victory, but unfortunately, Guam had time to tie the game. Still, I believed we did a pretty good job tonight, as the players gave their all in the game. Maybe next time, we will finally catch them,” CNMI captain Nick Swaim said.

“What you saw tonight was a high-level competition and we're just proud to give Guam a tough match, which something we always strive for every time we play against them,” he added.

1-1 draw makes CNMI, Guam co-champions in 2010 Marianas Cup

2010-06-24T07:28:00.000+10:00

From the Marianas Variety:

1-1 draw makes CNMI, Guam co-champions in 2010 Marianas Cup
MONDAY, 21 JUNE 2010
BY EMMANUEL T. EREDIANO - REPORTER

THE CNMI national team had the bleachers roar in applause by hitting the first goal of the game leading to a jubilant climax of the 2010 Marianas Football Cup at the Oleai Sports Complex’ field last Saturday.

Guam battled from one goal down during the last 15 minutes of the second half, then, Jason Ryan Cunliffe put the ball into the net in the 89th minute to seize an equal share of what the CNMI national team had in their clutches: The 2010 Marianas Football Cup Championship crown.

The first half ran somehow fast as both teams burst into aggressive plays.

“It (the fist half) was supposed to be slow. But it turned out that both teams were excited playing very hard against each other,” CNMI team’s Pete Charles Houk said in an interview after the game. He noted that both teams had equal time of ball possession in the raging first half.

That equality lingered all the way to the presentation of awards that followed after the game as the match commissioner cited inadequate lighting in the field for an over time, thus, declaring CNMI and Guam co-champions of this years’ Cup.

The dawn was over when the time was up so it was decided not to go on with a tie-breaking extra minutes “to avoid unnecessary injuries.” Indeed.

At least five players—four with CNMI and one with Guam—went flat on the ground shrieking in pain due to cramps.

Except for Gilmark “Arkie” Resoura who still managed to rise back on his feet despite cramps on both legs, both team’s casualties left the field on stretcher.

The CNMI begun to have the advantage as early as the middle of the first half when team captain Nick Swaim immediately figured out who in Guam team they need to get rid of.

“Get the No. 12, Get the No. 12,” he always commanded every time they were in the defense. It worked really well depriving Cunliffe the ball and the clear view of the goal all the way to the end of the first half.

For Team Guam, there were so many NMI attackers to get rid of. The one that goalie, Brett Maluweng appeared too confident about was Joe Miller who always poised to attack from the center.

In the 68th minute, Miller was approaching right from the center where he always did from the very start. The ball came his way. Maluweng brace himself for the short-range hit, he knew would he get it.

Guam’s burly goalie blocked the first kick, but the ball bounced off his hands giving Miller another chance then, boom. The audience exploded in cheers, 1-0 CNMI.

Maluweng was sprawling on the ground when he watched the ball hitting the net.

NMI goalie Chris Nelson did excellent defense. In the 40th minute, the ever aggressive Cunliffe nearly hurt him when he grabbed the ball on its way into the box. They stood and held chests up against each other. This earned Cunliffe a yellow card.

Swaim proved himself right about Cunliffe.

With 15 minutes left in the ball game, Cunliffe was a few yards off the goal when he got the ball. His one kick to the right corner of the goal led the Guam Team to jubilate.

Both teams stood their ground in the remaining minutes that ran out with the score, still 1-1.

Guam 1, NMI 1

2010-06-20T21:46:00.001+10:00

While most of the world focuses on the best international teams in football during this year's World Cup, on the tiny island of Saipan in the Western Pacific, 195th ranked Guam challenged unranked Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) in the fourth annual Marianas Cup.

NMI scored in the middle of the second half and led heading into the final minutes, but Guam was able to even the score in the 89th minute.

Team heartthrob, Brad Ruszala, had this to say of today's game, "Guam sucks!"

This was the fifth meeting in four years for the two squads. The teams met twice in 2007; they drew a 2-2 tie on Saipan, but a week later Guam slaughtered NMI 9-0 in Guam. The next year Guam bested NMI 3-2 in Saipan and last year Guam defeated NMI 2-1 in Guam.

Pickup Games

2009-08-24T10:34:00.001+10:00

There are pickup games played every Tuesday and Friday at Navy Hill at 5:00 PM.

Memorial Day Weenie Roast Coed Soccer Tournament

2009-05-21T11:04:00.001+10:00

The idea has only been around for about 10 minutes, but so far two people have committed to play soccer in the First Annual Memorial Day Weenie Roast Coed Soccer Tournament on Navy HIll. That's Steve McKagan and me! One more person and we have half the amount of people we need to play 3 vs 3!

Here's the deal:

Plan to show up at Navy Hill before noon. I'll bring the fire and the condiments. I also have a cooler, tables, and chairs. Somebody else will volunteer to bring ice, napkins, plates, and whatever else is needed for a BBQ.

We'll start playing soccer right away. The entrance fee for the tournament will be a pack of hot dogs, a six pack of drinks, or something else to share with everyone. If you can't do that, just show up anyway.

It might be a little hot for those first few games, but who cares? The hospital is right down the street!

Let me know if you want to play so we can plan.

Goalie Clinic

2009-05-07T11:57:00.000+10:00

Dear Football Club/ Coed League organizers, Youth / Interscholastic/ Men's/ Women's Com chair/ director and National Team Players

I am happy to inform you that Goalkeeper's Clinic schedule has been finalized as below.

( A ) May 31 ( Sun ) 9:00 -11:00 CPA Field
( B ) May 31 ( Sun ) 15:00 -17:00 CPA Field

Above ( A ) and ( B ) are targeted for 15 years and over, men and women including national team player.
Coaches and Coed players are also welcome to participate.
( A ) and ( B ) consists of different programs, so, best to participate both.

( C ) June 2 ( Tue ) 16:30 -18:30 Garapan Elementary School
( D ) June 3 ( Wed ) 16:30 - 18:30 Garapan Elementary School

Above ( C ) and ( D ) are targeted for MP United, Matanza and TanHoldings
players under 15 years old. Coaches from each clubs are also welcome.
( C ) and ( D ) consists of different programs, so, best to participate both.
P.E. teachers from schools are also welcome.

( E ) June 4 ( Thu ) 16:30 -18:30 San Vicente Elementary School
( F ) June 5 ( Fri ) 16:30 - 18:30 San Vicente Elementary School

Above ( E ) and ( F ) are targeted for IFC and Paire players under 15 years old.
Coaches from each clubs are also welcome.
( E ) and ( F ) consists of different programs, so, best to participate both.
P.E. teachers from schools are also welcome.

The coach's name is Mr. Masahiko Ashikawa.
He has played as a goalkeeper in Toyota Football Club ( Japan Football League ).
Below are his profile.
1993-1994 & 2004-2008 Nagoya Grampus Eight ( J.League Division 1) Pro Team Goalkeeper Coach
1995-2003 Jef United Ichihara ( J. League Division 1) Pro Team Goalkeeper Coach and Youth Team Goalkeeper Coach

Kindly spread the word and confirm attendance by May 13th.

Should you have any questions, please feel free to send them to me.

Thank you.

Ken / NMIFA

NMIFA OFFERS ADVANCED REFEREE TRAINING IN MAY

2009-04-20T14:23:00.000+10:00

Northern Marianas Island Football Association (NMIFA) moves to strengthen and expand its pool of referees with a two weekend referee certification course in May 2009 by FIFA FUTURO certified instructor George Stewart.

The EAFF Referee 3 Certification Course will be conducted May 1-3 and May 8-9, 2009, qualifying those who pass to referee in any NMIFA-sanctioned match where the requirement for that match does not exceed that level of referee.

"As a new addition to our semi-annual Basic Referee Training Course, this aCertified Class 3 NMIFA Referee training specifically targets individuals who are interested in officiating for high school leagues or older," said NMIFA Referee Chairman Dean Tenorio.

The training is open to all interested individuals with or without experience age 16 and up, although trained referees ages 14-15 who have some experience are also invited. The training schedule will be:

May 1: 6PM to 9PM Classroom (NMIFA office)

May 2: 9AM to 1130AM field work; 1PM to 5PM Classroom
May 3: 9AM to 1130AM field work; 1PM to 5PM Classroom

May 8: 6PM to 9PM Classroom
May 9: 9AM to 1130AM field work; 1PM to 5PM Classroom
May 10: 7:30AM to 10AM Physical Test; 1PM to 4PM Written Test and Certification Presentation

A mandatory fitness test will take place May 10 at 7:30 a.m., rain or shine. The beep test will consist of two 40 meter sprints (7 seconds Male/7.2 seconds female) and five laps around the 400 meter track consisting of 150 meter run followed by 50 meter walk (150 meter run in 50 seconds male/60 seconds female and 50 meter walk in 50 seconds male and female).

Stewart is also Director of Referees and Head Referee Instructor for Guam Football Association. He was appointed to conduct the course by the East Asian Football Federation based on his certification from the FIFA FUTURO Referee Instructor Course, the FIFA FUTURO Referee Instructors Refresher Course, and the JFA International Referee Instructors Course.

"The NMIFA Referee Committee supports the many football leagues we have throughout the year by training interested youth, parents, teachers and other individuals to officiate games," said Tenorio. "Having trained referees is an important part of making the game more enjoyable for everyone and improving professionalism, and we look forward to a strong turnout at this training."

To register, contact the NMIFA Referee Chair Dean Tenorio at deanten@gmail.com, NMIFA Referee Director Vanesa Pritchard at holly_jollyvkp@hotmail.com, or call/visit the NMIFA Office at 235-0173.3rd Floor TSL Bldg. Garapan

2009 Marianas Cup

2009-03-15T18:59:00.000+10:00

These photos are by Peter Bosner.

Spring Coed Soccer Update

2009-02-01T12:56:00.001+10:00

Our Coed Soccer Coordinator, Dr. David Khorram, has sent out the latest update.

Man, I think a person needs a degree in probability and statistics to get all these combinations together! My brain got kinda foggy doing this, but it looks like it all came together.

We have about 60 players, so all teams have 14-15 people, with equal distribution of men and women, and pretty even distribution of skill level, and miraculously, all teams have an average age of 35 years. Each team has two A players who, along with the B players, will help guide the C and D players along. If you were a member of a group that was requesting to all be together, it worked insofar as I was able to keep clusters of you together, but the teams would have been too warped in terms of skill levels to keep the entire groups together. I was able to get everyone on a team with people they know.

There are four teams. I'm assigning each a letter for now, and a team coordinator, who will organize the team. I chose the coordinators fairly randomly, so if you're not an organizer type, and you've been designated as such, get someone else to do it, and let me know who it is. The role of this person is just to get things going. Identify a couple of experienced players to serve as co-captains during the games.

I was going to try to do most of this stuff, but I'm overwhelmed by all the organization involved, and so I'm asking the teams to share in taking care of the details.

Each team will collect it's own registration forms, liability release forms (this one is important - it protects us all from suing each other if we get hurt), and team dues. Liability insurance would have covered us against losses if a "third party" -- a spectator -- got hurt. Since it would have added an extra $15 to the cost, and the risk is low, I decided to skip it. So the dues are only $15. About $8 will go towards your shirts, and the rest will go towards paint to line the field ($35 per week), and a small amount to pay refs ($10 per week). If you gave your registration form and $ to me, I'll pass it on to the team (and the few people that have already paid will be getting $10 back).

Teams will be responsible for the following:
1. Ordering your shirts. I'll set it up with Island Apparel, but you need to get the sizes and numbers finalized and take them down to the shirt place with the money to get them ordered. I"ll send the spreadsheets out later this week.
2. Collecting the dues and forms.
3. Assigning a responsible and trustworthy person on the team to manage the funds.
4. The home team will always be responsible for arranging and paying the referee. Coordinate this with Dean Tenorio who can connect you to the refs.
5. The Monday home team will be responsible for lining the field each week. I'm told ACE Hardware has special cans of spray paint available that spray upside-down. They cost about $6-$8.50 per can, and it takes about 5 cans to line a field. Have one of the A-players help with this the first time. After that, there should be lines visible that just need to be highlighted each week.

The season is 10 weeks long, starting on February 9. Games start at 5:15 PM sharp. WIth 15 players per team, there may be difficulty at times fielding 11 players. If so, just play 9x9 or 7x7 or whatever works. We're here to play and have a good time. Each team plays once a week, and if you can get together another time for a practice, it makes the games more fun.

I'll get the rules and the schedule out this week.

Here are the teams. Coordinators, please get in touch with your team members. If you can't figure out their email from the names above, then send me an email and I'll get the particular email address to you. I'm attaching the registration form and the release of liability form again for those who haven't turned them in already. Take them to the field next week to your team coordinator, along with your $15.

A - Green Team
Rob Epley - Coordinator
Allen Mijares
John Duenas
Michael Deary
Albert Dean
Rob Jordan
Jaime Saiki
Peter Prestley
Linda Anastacio
Louise Oakley
Abi Robinson
Autumn Breechler
Jennifer Lesosek
Veronica Saures

B - Blue Team
Jeff Elliott - Coordinator
Jersh Angeles
Mike Hall
Greg Elliott
David Khorram
Mara Khorram
Kevin Carey
Mieko Carey
Rebekah Yost
Hee Jae Lee
Jimmy Pua
Daniel Lamar
Sami Birmingham-Babauta
Summer Palacios
Amanda Armstrong

C -- Red Team
Dean Tenorio - Coordinator
Jerry Tan
Jung Gon Jun
Fran Castro
Catherine Anderson
Ken Imaya
Laura WIlliams
Krista Hawley
Rob Schultz
Jing Hui
Meihua Rengiil
Mark Robles
Becky Covarrubius
Hazel Tudela

D -- Yellow Team
Maria Orness - Coordinator
Glenn Smith
Angelo VIllagomez
Laurie Peterka
Rachel Rounds
Peter Bosner
Glenn Jewel
Jeff Warfield
Scott Hayden
Adam Miles
Jennifer Backhaus
Tawny Barcinas
Ericka Frink
Rachelle Miles
Kathleen Herrmann

With best regards,

David

If you are still interested in playing in this league, contact us at nmifacoed@gmail.com

Spring Coed Soccer Registration

2008-12-12T06:14:00.000+10:00

The soccer gods have spoken and they say that we are going to have more coed soccer starting in January. Interested? Drop me a line so we can get an idea of our numbers. Here is the story in today's Saipan Tribune:

The Northern Mariana Islands Football Association will be kicking off the 2009 season with the NMIFA Co-ed Soccer Spring League at the CPA Field.

“The co-ed soccer league is starting in January as a non-competitive recreational league to provide the opportunity for adults who are new to soccer, people who are out of shape, or people who are getting creaky, to have an opportunity to learn and to play the world's most popular sport. The main purpose is to have fun and to learn the game.” said David Khorram, who is organizing the league along with Jaime Saiki and Angelo Villagomez.

Khorram added they are looking to start the event on Jan. 5 with one game to be played in each playing day. Games will be played every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday and will start at 5:15pm. But Khorram said schedules are tentative.

An “Intro to Soccer” camp will be held on Jan. 3 to teach participants drills on dribbling, passing, shooting, and other basic skills.

Khorram is inviting interested individuals, especially those with no prior soccer experience to join the camp and the league.

“I've had a great time with the past two summer co-ed leagues. There are lots of opportunities for the island's talented players to be involved with soccer year-round. For those of us with less skill, the co-ed league is the place to be. We're looking at having it run for many more weeks of the year, and drawing only a limited number of the talented players,” Khorram said.

Players joining next month's league will be classified into three categories. A players are those with the ability to play in the men's or women's league, or have significant experience playing soccer. B players have some soccer experience and with moderate stamina, while C types are those new to soccer, or completely out of shape.

“The league will limit the number of 'A' players per team, and the role of these proficient players will be to teach and to support the development of the less skilled players,” Khorram said.

Each team will be composed of 11 players.

If interested to play or for more information, contact Villagomez at 285 6462 or email angelovillagomez@gmail.com.

NMIFA Men's League Finals

2008-11-14T12:29:00.002+10:00

The end of season tournament for the 2008 Fall Men's league is this Sunday, November 16th at Ada field.

The format of the tournament is a seeded team format. The teams' records during the regular season will determine their seed.

Games will consist of tow 35 minute halves with a single 5 minute half time. If regulation ends in a tie, there will be two ten minute overtime periods, and a shoot-out if still tied after overtime.

Schedule:

Game A 11:00 AM Independents v. MPU (2nd v. 3rd place)

Game B 1:00 PM Inter v. MFC (1st v. 4th place)

Consolation 2:30pm loser A v. loser B

Final 4pm winner B v. winner A

The winner takes home the NMIFA Cup. Trophies will be presented at a ceremony across the street on the beach.

Standings after regular season play:

1. Inter 6-0
2. Independents 3-3
3. MPU 2-4
4. MFC 1-5

2009 Coed Winter Soccer League

2008-11-12T13:04:00.001+10:00

Psssst.....

There is going to be a coed league starting up in January. Pass it on.

Link to the Friends of the Monument blog

2008-10-12T16:15:00.000+10:00

Would you like to help spread the word about the Friends of the Monument blog? Just copy and paste the following code into your blog template!

The federal workshops on Saipan are just over one week away! There are ways that you can help to support the monument. Click HERE for more information.

Tournament Schedule

2008-08-29T15:01:00.001+10:00

8 am: Cap't Morgans v. Sureshanks RIO (Devil)
9 am: GMF v. Devil's Advocates DEAN'S PICK(Dean)
10 am: C. Morgans v. Gil Fever PETER L. (Sure)
11 am: Devils Advocates v. Deaniacs GREG (GMF)
12 pm: Sureshanks v. Gil Fever NICK (Captain)
1 pm: GMF v. Deaniacs JASON (Gil)
2 pm: Third Place Final (Champ game team)
3 pm: 2nd Place Final (3rd place team)
4 pm: Championship (2nd place team)

USA is Gold, Gold, Gold!

2008-08-22T14:21:00.004+10:00

The U.S. Women’s Olympic Soccer Team put together a near perfect defensive performance to hold powerful Brazil scoreless for 120 minutes while getting a goal from Carli Lloyd just six minutes into overtime to record a historic 1-0 victory and earn the gold medal.

This victory marked the third gold medal for the U.S. women in four Olympic Games. The USA also won gold in 1996 and 2004 while taking the silver in 2000.

The match was played in front of a raucous crowd of 51,612 on a field made slippery by rain that fell during the entire day and for the first part of the match.

The winning goal came on a shot from outside the box from Lloyd, who took advantage of a nice piece of possession in the U.S. attacking half that saw the ball go from substitute Lauren Cheney to Lloyd, who one-touched it to Amy Rodriguez. The speedy U.S. forward played a cheeky back heel to an overlapping Lloyd, and she took a touch forward before blasting a low left-footed shot into the lower left corner of the goal.

“What an amazing match,” said U.S. head coach Pia Sundhage. “I am so proud and I am enjoying the moment.”

The game was a rematch of the 2004 gold medal game that saw a similar result with the USA winning 2-1 in overtime off a game-winning goal from Abby Wambach.

Hope Solo played a super match in the U.S. nets, catching several dangerous crosses, stuffing Brazilian star Cristiane on a mini-breakaway, denying FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year Marta on an almost-point blank shot and parrying away a terrifyingly dangerous cross near the end.

The U.S. team played Brazil even during the first half, with both teams producing only a few scoring opportunities, but the Brazilians picked up the pace in the second half. That’s when the U.S. defense shined the most, riding a spectacular defensive performance from center backs Kate Markgaf and Christie Rampone and outside backs Heather Mitts and Lori Chalupny to keep the Brazilian strikers off the board despite several close chances.

After a scoreless 90 minutes, the teams entered the overtime period with Brazil getting the nod on scoring chances, but the U.S. defense and Solo would not break.

Solo’s best save of the night, and possibly the biggest of her career, came in the 72nd minute, after Marta got around two U.S. defenders and into the six-yard box. Marta had a clear shot from point-blank range, but Solo reacted with lightning-fast reflexes to block the well-struck shot with her right hand to keep game scoreless.

The Brazilian attack of Marta and Cristiane was dangerous throughout the night, using their dribbling runs at the U.S. defenders to create chances. In the 31st minute, Cristiane got in behind the American back line, but Solo came off her line to smother the ball, sending the Brazilian forward flying into the air. Three minutes later, it was Marta who danced around Markgraf and Rampone, but her low driven ball hit the side-netting at near post.

In the 41st minute, the U.S. turned a half-chance into a great opportunity. Heather O’Reilly made a quick turn near the right touchline and lifted the ball up in the air toward the penalty box. Hucles was there to run onto it and hit a half volley, but her shot went wide.

Solo was called upon to make another big save in the 54th minute, after Cristiane and Marta combined again to get Marta down the end line. She cut in toward the goal and hit a shot from a difficult angle that Solo snared and held onto as other Brazilian attackers crashed in for a potential rebound.

At the other end of the field, the Americans pressed forward late in the game as they looked to win the game in regulation. Brazilian goalkeeper Barbara was called upon to make her best save of the game in the 86th minute when Hucles ripped a one-timer that seemed destined for the side-netting, but Barbara dove to make the save and keep her team in the game.

Just before the end of regulation, Rodriguez found herself in alone on goal as a ball skipped past the Brazilian defense. The 21-year-old striker saw Barbara slip and tried to chip her, but the Brazilian ‘keeper was able to recover and knock the ball down.. With the final regulation chance, it was Rodriguez again who received the ball in the center of field, turned and ripped a low driven shot right to Barbara.

The American momentum carried into the first overtime period and the U.S. Women got the game winner just six minutes after the restart.

Both teams made substitutions after the goal as Sundhage brought on Natasha Kai for O’Reilly and Brazil countered by subbing in Rosana.

The South American side ratcheted up their attack looking for the equalizer and almost got it in the second overtime period. Following a quick restart, Marta got around two defenders on the dribble and hit a hard shot that went just high of Solo’s net.

Minutes later, she took a dangerous-looking free kick from outside the penalty area that took a bounce near the far post before skipping wide of the goal, just out of reach of a crashing Renata Costa.

With Brazil pressing forward, the U.S. took advantage of the counter attack, almost doubling their lead. Kai ran down a ball in the corner and played it across the top of the box, where Lloyd took it on the run and battled through a few defenders before hitting a shot that caromed off the right post and away.

With time running out, Brazil earned three straight corner kicks and the third almost leveled the score. Marta’s corner from the right side swung to the far post for Renata Costa, who got her head on it, but her shot hit the outside netting of the goal. The last chance of the game belonged to Brazil as Renata Costa lofted the ball into the box for Cristiane. She was able to get a head on it and drive the ball low, but Solo was there for the save.

Following the 2008 Olympic Games, the U.S. Women’s National Team will take on Ireland in a three-match tour, hitting stops on the East Coast and Midwest shortly after their return from China. The Fall Tour gets underway on Saturday, Sept. 13 in Philadelphia at 8 p.m. ET at Lincoln Financial Field, and continues on Wed., Sept. 17 at 7:30 p.m. ET at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The last of these three games will be played on Saturday, Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. CT at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Ill.

Match-up: USA vs. Brazil
Competition: 2008 Beijing Olympics – Gold Medal Match
Venue: Worker’s Stadium; Beijing, China
Date: August 21, 2008; Kickoff – 9 p.m. local / 9 a.m. ET
Attendance: 51,612
Weather: Rain – 68 degrees

Scoring Summary:
1 2 E E F
USA 0 0 1 0 1
BRA 0 0 0 0 0

USA – Carli Lloyd (Amy Rodriguez) 96th minute.

Lineups:
USA: 18-Hope Solo; 2-Heather Mitts, 15-Kate Markgraf, 3-Christie Rampone – Capt., 17-Lori Chalupny; 9-Heather O’Reilly (6-Natasha Kai, 101), 7-Shannon Boxx, 11-Carli Lloyd, 5-Lindsay Tarpley (12-Lauren Cheney, 71); 8-Amy Rodriguez (14-Stephanie Cox, 120), 16-Angela Hucles
Subs not used: 4-Rachel Buehler, 10-Aly Wagner, 13-Tobin Heath, 18-Nicole Barnhart
Head Coach: Pia Sundhage

BRA: 12-Barbara; 2-Simone (18-Rosana, 104), 4-Tania, 5-Renata Costa, 16-Erika; 6-Maycon, 7-Daniela (15-Fabiana, 77), 8-Formiga (13-Francielle, 106+), 9-Ester; 10-Marta, 11-Cristiane
Subs: 1-Andeia, 3-Andreia Rosa, 17-Maurine, 14-Pretinha
Head Coach: Jorge Barcellos

Statistical Summary: USA / BRA
Shots: 10 / 15
Shots on Goal: 7 / 6
Saves: 6 / 6
Corner Kicks: 3 / 15
Fouls: 11 / 15
Offside: 0 / 6

Misconduct Summary:
USA – Heather Mitts (caution) 37th minute.
BRA – Rosana (caution) 106+.
BRA – Erika (caution) 108.
USA – Natasha Kai (caution) 114.

Officials
Referee: Dagmar Damkova (CZE)
Asst. Referee: Maria Luisa Villa Gutierrez (ESP)
Asst. Referee: Hege Steinlund (NOR)
4th Official: Christine Beck (GER)

Sierra Mist Woman of the Match: Hope Solo

The Master List Redux

2008-08-18T11:01:00.001+10:00

The Master List of Saipan bloggers has been updated over on The Saipan Blog.

There are currently over 140 Saipan bloggers along with almost 20 Coconuts Abroad.

Bloggers are requested to add a link to the Master List as it is the most comprehensive list of Saipan (and Tinian and Rota) blogs.

Women's CNMI National Team try-outs

2008-08-16T22:03:00.003+10:00

update

CNMI Women's National Team Tryouts:

Location: ADA field

Monday Sept. 8th at 5:15 PM to 6:45 PM
Sat. Sept. 13th 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM

Monday Sept. 15th 5:15 PM to 6:45 PM
Sat. Sept. 20th 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM

Monday Sept. 22nd 5:15 PM to 6:45 PM
Sat. Sept. 27th 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM

There are few weeks to get into as best shape as you can, so everyone can come into tryouts ready.

Game 4: Deaniacs vs Devils Advocates

2008-08-11T11:02:00.001+10:00

The Summer's last place team, Deaniacs, were too much for the Devils Advocates. They whomped them in a 3-2, uh, whomping.

Lar Theotherthaiguy scored both of the Devils Advocates goals. Masa Otsuka scored the first goal for Deaniacs and Pete Lokan scored two others. Pet's goals won't count towards the Golden Boot because he plays for another team.

NMIFA 3-on-3 soccer a go today

2008-08-10T07:41:00.003+10:00

With six full teams running up and down the CPA Airport Field three days out of the week and scores of unsigned players waiting in the wings, the Northern Mariana Islands Football Association is in the midst of its most successful coed soccer league in its three year history.

The most popular sport on the planet has finally gained more than a foothold in the CNMI, and the NMIFA Women's Committee is capitalizing on the excitement by hosting its first 3-on-3 Coed Football Tournament today, Aug. 10, at Navy Hill field

The Women's Committee has already drummed up support from the local community as PTI, Pacific Islands Club, Tan Holdings Corp., Whispering Palms School, and CNMI Parks and Recreation have teamed up to host the event.

Registration is $10 and will begin at 8am at Navy Hill field, adjacent to Whispering Palms School. In order to maximize the action during the tournament, organizers are limiting the tournament to a total of 60 players.

“There is limited space so arrive early! Once registration has closed teams will be chosen at random,” said NMIFA Women's Committee spokesperson, Laura Williams.

Williams added that the proceeds from the tournament will be used to fund equipment for the upcoming Woman's Futsal season, which is set to begin Oct. 1, at the Northern Marianas College gymnasium.

Game 3: Captain Morgans 2, Gil Fever 2

2008-08-07T22:19:00.001+10:00

Another tie game this week. Reigning champions Captain Morgans tied Gil Fever 2-2.

Jason Schroeder scored two goals for Gil Fever, with both goals coming off of crosses from Bradley Whatshisface. Nick Swaim and Chris Nelson scored for Captain Morgans.

3 vs 3 Tournament on Sunday

2008-08-07T10:53:00.003+10:00

The NMIFA women's committee is hosting a 3 vs 3 soccer tournament up at Navy Hill this Sunday. They are raising money to buy futsal goals for the upcoming futsal league.

Tournament Info:

$10 entry fee - additional donations are always welcome
8-8:30 registration, games begin at 9:00
Navy Hill field - 2 fields, no more than 20 teams (that means we hope to get 60 people - if 65-70 show up we will give some teams subs)
Players must be at least 14 years of age
Top 3-4 teams will win prizes - futsal balls, PIC waterpark passes, a date with Brad Ruszala, etc.
Water will be provided and people are more than welcome to bring grills and BBQ

With over 130 people playing COED this summer, spaces are probably going to be limited. Make sure you get there by 8:00 to register.

Game 2: Devils Advocates 4, GMF 1

2008-08-07T07:40:00.004+10:00

In a rematch of the Summer League's 3rd place game, Devils Advocates came out strong to defeat GMF 4-1.

The trio of Patty Coleman, Lyndsay Davis, and Meaghan Hasselhoff (that's not Irish) strung together a series of passes early in the first half, resulting in a goal by Davis.

The D Advocates scored again in the first half, wih Hasselhoff finding the back of the net.

GMF came back strong in the second half. Joe "Miller Time" Miller came out of his first half daze to score off a strong kicked right footer that seemed to break the sound barrier as it blew by second half keep Jetsada Thethaiguy.

With GMF threatening a tie game, the Advocates came back to score two more goals before the end of regulation. Lar Theotherthaiguy scored on a long dribble up the middle and Becky C. nailed a shot after a cross from Angelo Villagomez was deflected by the keeper right to her feet.

Tonight's game features a rematch of the Summer Leagues Championship game.

Game 1: Deaniacs 1, Sureshanks 1

2008-08-05T19:27:00.003+10:00

The opening game of the NMIFA COED Summer League started off with a 1-1 tie between Deaniacs and Sureshanks.

The women scored first, with Zoe Jewel of the Deaniacs nailing a spinning header off a cross from Masa Otsuka in the final minutes of the first half.

Phil Theintern evened things out in the second half and the game ended without a clear winner.

Tomorrow's game features Devils Advocates vs GMF, a repeat of last week's third place final. Devils Advocates won that game 2-1.

A New Season Begins

2008-08-05T15:59:00.003+10:00

The NMIFA COED Summer League ended last week and the COED Fall League is set to begin tonight.

Gil Fever, a team that remained undefeated until the final week of the regular season, took home the championship trophy after a grueling final game against Captain Morgans.

Devils Advocates completed the season in third place.

A brand new season starts tonight with Sureshanks taking on the Deaniacs in the season opener. The game starts at 5:15.

Other games this week have Devils Advocates playing GMF Wednesday, Gil Fever taking on Captain Morgans on Thursday, and Deaniacs playing Devils Advocates on Sunday afternoon. All games are at 5:15, except for the games on Sunday, which are at 3:00 PM.

The fall season will only last four weeks, which each team playing each of the five other teams once. At the end of the season, a tournament will be held to determine the league champion.

Coed Fall League Standings

2008-08-04T16:20:00.006+10:00

I'll keep this as up to date as possible. At the end of the season the top two teams will play each other for first place.

Team	Record	Goal Diff.	Points
Gil Fever	0-0-1	0	1
Captain Morgans	0-0-1	0	1
Devil's Advocates	1-1	2	3
GMF	0-1	-3	0
Deaniacs	1-0-1	1	4
Sureshanks	0-0-1	0	1

New Schedule

2008-08-04T16:00:00.010+10:00

Game #	Date	Day	Home	Away	Result
1	August 5	Tues	Deaniacs	Sureshanks	1-1
2	August 6	Weds	D Advocates	GMF	4-1
3	August 7	Thurs	Gil Fever	C Morgans	2-2
4	August 10	Sun	Deaniacs	D Advocates	3-2
5	August 12	Tues	D Advocates	C Morgans
6	August 13	Weds	Deaniacs	Gil Fever
7	August 14	Thurs	GMF	Sureshanks
8	August 17	Sun	Sureshanks	Gil Fever
9	August 19	Tues	Sureshanks	C Morgans
10	August 20	Weds	D Advocates	Gil Fever
11	August 21	Thurs	Deaniacs	GMF
12	August 24	Sun	GMF	C Morgans
13	August 26	Tues	Deaniacs	C Morgans
14	August 27	Weds	Gil Fever	GMF
15	August 28	Thurs	D Advocates	Sureshanks

There will be a tournament on Sunday the 31 if someone else will organize it.

Sunday games are played at 3 PM (except for the first game becuase of a conflict with the 3 vs 3 tournament). All other games start at 5:15 PM.

Last week final results

2008-07-31T09:19:00.001+10:00

Sureshanks beat Deanicas 2-1.

Devils Advocates beat GMF 2-1.

Tonight is the final.

Last Week of Coed

2008-07-28T19:00:00.004+10:00

...or is it?

Last week marked the end of the regular season.

On Tuesday the Deaniacs defeated the Sureshanks 2-1. Masa Otsuka scored twice for the Deaniacs, while Brenda Shultz scored for Sureshanks.

On Tuesday GMF tied Captain Morgans 2-2. Joe "Miller Time" Miller scored twice for GMF, while Tiger Lee and Vishow scored for Captain Morgans.

In Thursday game, the Devils Advocates defeated the nearly unstoppable Gil Fever 4-3. The game was Gil Fever's first loss. Jetsada Thethaiguy scored three times for Devils Advoates, ending his drought. He hasn't scored since the first game of the season. Gil Fever managed to score three goals (who?), but Patty Coleman put Devils Advocates ahead with a goal.

Oh yeah, we're ending the season on Thursday, but starting a new 4 week season next week.

Soccer Advice from Flint

2008-07-20T16:14:00.000+10:00

Brad, will yelling at Billy help?

Week 6 Games

2008-07-20T10:47:00.002+10:00

Tuesday's game is Deaniacs vs Sureshanks.

Wednesday's game is GMF vs Captain Morgans.

Thursday's game is Devil's Advocates vs Gil Fever.

Now you know. And knowing is half the battle.

Week 5 Results

2008-07-18T07:52:00.001+10:00

Wednesday's game pitting Gil Fever vs Captain Morgans resulted in a 3-3 tie.

The Deaniacs won their first game last night defeating Devil's Advocates 3-1.

It's Miller Time!

2008-07-15T19:24:00.002+10:00

Joe Miller, the starting forward for the Men's National Team, made quit a splash in co-ed league debut. While things were looking up for the opposing Sureshanks during the first half, Miller scored two goals in the second half to force a 2-1 decision in favor of GMF.

The play of the game award goes to little Sami Birmingham-Babauta who scored a goal after GMF keeper and captain Greg Borja bobbled an easy ball. Sami BB, as she is affectionately known by her fans, is the youngest player to ever score in an NMIFA league game.

Week 5 Game Schedule

2008-07-13T16:59:00.002+10:00

Anybody else want to be a contributor to this blog?

Anyway, Tuesday's game features Sureshanks vs GMF.

Wednesday's game is Gil Fever vs Captain Morgans.

Thursday's game is Devil's Advocates vs Deaniacs.

I am off island until Thursday. I will bring the t-shirts to the game on Thursday. If you have not paid, you will have to pay. If you do not pay by Thursday, you will not play next week...until you pay.

Silver Cross found at Football Field

2008-07-11T10:18:00.000+10:00

An engraved silver cross was found by the airport soccer field Wednesday.

E-mail or phone Peter at 322-0120 or tropical.pete at yahoo dot ca.

Week 4 Results

2008-07-11T08:04:00.003+10:00

We had another great week of soccer.

Tuesday's game pitted the Sureshanks in white vs the Devils Advocates in orange. Both teams were missing some of their star players. Rio Sawhill and Jesse P missed the game for orange and Brenda Schultz and team captain Steve Mckagan were in Guam for white. The game was a close one, with the only scoring coming in the closing minutes of the match...off of an own goal. Devil's Advocates won 1-0.

Wednesday's game was Captain Morgans in red against the Deaniacs in blue. Chris Nelson, aka Rhino, found the back of the net twice in the first half to put Captain Morgans up 2-0. The Deaniacs fought back in the second half, with Madison Smith scoring the goal of the week off a beautiful pass from Jersh Angeles, but it wasn't enough to force a tie or a win. Captain Morgans won 2-1.

Bruce Berline received the second red card of the coed season for slide tackling. He claims he slipped. Whatever.

Who would have guessed that Bruce Berline and Dave Banes would get the only red cards so far? Oh wait, probably everybody.

Thursday game was GMF in green vs Gil Fever in yellow. I had to leave last night's game early to go to an event at the Hyatt. The score was 0-0 when I left, but I am told that Jeff Cloud scored before half time. Dan Westfall scored a great goal in the second half, however it didn't tie the game because he scored the goal against his own team.

Both own goals this week will not count towards the Golden Boot Award.

Speaking of the Golden Boot, Jack Thethaiguy is running away from the competition. Jerk. In the women's category, Lindsay Sosovec leads three other women by one goal.

CNMI U-14 Team

2008-07-07T12:32:00.003+10:00

The CNMI U-14 Team is in Guam this week competing against teams from nine other countries (Guam, China, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Macau, Hong Kong, Mongolia, and Taipei) in an EAFF Football Festival.

Go CNMI!!! Make us proud!!!

Week 3 Results

2008-07-03T18:31:00.005+10:00

There were a couple of great games this week...and the women have done all of the scoring so far.

Ratree (insert Thai name here) scored off a penalty kick to give GMF a 1-0 edge over the Deaniacs. The Deaniacs are winless so far this season. Sucks to be them.

:)

Dave Loan's Captain Morgans put on a great show in the first half of their game against Devil's Advocates. Lindsay Sosevic found the back of the net twice. She drilled the first goal by D. A.'s keeper Glenn Smith, who was caught watching.

He didn't even make a dive!!!

In the early minutes of the second half Dave Banes was ejected for slide tackling Lovelle D'Lonsed.

No slide tackling, Dave!!!

Even though forced to play a man down (you wouldn't like me when I'm angry), D.A.'s managed to keep Captain Morgans scoreless in the second half. Fortunately for the Captain Morgans, they kept the D.A.s scoreless, too.

Dang it.

Gil Fever continued to dominate with a 2-1 win over Sureshanks. Jack Thethaiguy and Jason Schroeder scored for Gil Fever and some unnamed guy who didn't pay his league fee scored for Sureshanks. His goal doesn't count.

Comment!

2008-06-28T08:57:00.003+10:00

I know some of your are reading this. Do you know that you can leave comments?

...comments trash talking the other teams even!

...or supportive comments telling the other players how good they are...

...but trash talking is way better!

Next Week's Games

2008-06-27T10:20:00.002+10:00

Next week Deaniacs will challenge GMF on Tuesday. These two teams are at the bottom of the standings. Cathy Anderson is the referee.

Devils Advocates will challenge Captain Morgans on Wednesday. Both teams are tied for third place. The winner of this game will move into third and possibly second place. Arkie is the referee.

Gil Fever will challenge Sureshank on Thursday. The winner of this game will move into first place, as these teams are currently first and second, respectively. Glen Smith is the referee.

The Coed Summer League is a non-competitive league. While results and goals are tallied, the number one rule of this league is to have fun.

Deaniacs vs Gil Fever

2008-06-27T09:23:00.001+10:00

I didn't watch the game, but Gil Fever took down the Deaniacs 3-2. Jason Schroeder and Jack Thethaiguy were the scorers for Gil Fever. Schroeder scored once and Thethaiguy scored twice.

On the Deaniacs side Masa Otsuka and Jersh Angeles scored.

At the end of two weeks of play, Gil Fever sits atop the rankings with a record of 2-0 and six points. Sureshanks is in second with a win and a tie, good for four points. Devils Advocates and Captain Morgans are tied for third with six points apiece.

Jack Thethaiguy currently leads in the Golden Boot category with 4 goals, while Pattie Coleman leads in the woman's category as the only woman to score so far this season.

GMF vs Devils Advocates

2008-06-26T10:58:00.003+10:00

Angelo Villagomez' helped his team Devils Advocates skadoosh Greg and Mel Borja's GMF last night.

Devils Advocates drew blood in the early minutes of the game with new draftee Pattie "I've got three kids" Coleman scoring off a near perfect pass from Jessie P. Villagomez added to the goal total with a looper from 25 yards out that was too much for keeper Greg Borja to handle.

The score was 2-0 at the restart. Despite some valiant efforts by CNMI National Men's Team starters Brad Ruszala and Dan Westfal, GMF was unable to score.

The game ended 2-0.

Pattie Coleman was the first woman in the league to score a goal. She sits alone in the Golden Boot standings. Villagomez joins the pool of 9 male players who have scored a single goal in the league. Rob Jordan, Jessie P, and Jack Thethaiguy currently share the Golden Boot title with 2 goals a piece.

Tonight's game features the undefeated Gil Fever vs the winless Deaniacs.

Not that I'm partial....but go Deaniacs!!!

Sureshanks vs Captain Morgans

2008-06-26T10:57:00.001+10:00

A star was born in Tuesday game pitting Steve Mckagan's Sureshanks vs Dave Loan's Captain Morgans.

The teams were evenly matched through 35 minutes of play, with neither team managing to find the back of the net. First time soccer player Rob Jordan came into the second half determined to win it for his team.

He nailed two shots in the second half, both on fast breaks, leaving the defenders in the dust.

Sureshanks defeated Captain Morgans 2-0 and Rob Jordan is now tied for the Golden Boot with Jack and Jessie.

Sureshanks vs GMF

2008-06-20T09:05:00.003+10:00

The first meeting of Sureshanks and GMF resulted in a 2-2 draw. Steve McKagan and Tyce Mister found the back of the net for the Sureshanks and Dan Westfall and Daniel Macario scored for GMF.

After one week of play, Gil Fever and Captain Morgans are tied for 1st, Sureshanks and GMF are tied for third, and Devils Advocates and Deaniacs are tied for fifth.

The Thai duo of Jesse Phonsutjit and Jack Thethaiguy are leading in the Men's Golden Boot competition with two goals apiece. The women have yet to score, so everyone in the league is tied for first place!

Coed Standings

2008-06-19T10:12:00.022+10:00

I'll keep this as up to date as possible. At the end of the season the top two teams will play each other for first place.

Team	Record	Goal Diff.	Points
Gil Fever	4-1-1	+4	13
Captain Morgans	3-1-2	+3	11
Devil's Advocates	3-3	-1	9
GMF	2-2-2	-2	8
Deaniacs	2-4	-2	6
Sureshanks	1-4-1	-2	4

Team 1 vs Team 6

2008-06-19T10:08:00.002+10:00

Team 6 won their first game against Team 1 by a score of 3-1.

Can you guys come up with team names, please?

Allen Mijares, Tiger Lee, and Zach Posner scored for Team 6. Brenda Schultz scored for Team 1, but since see plays for another team, her goal won't count towards the Golden Boot award.

Devil's Advocats 2 - Gil Fever 3

2008-06-18T10:30:00.002+10:00

Dang it. We lost 3-2.

Kudos to Jessie for scoring both of our goals and to Jason who scored once and Jack who scored twice for Gil Fever.

It was a great first game.

There are games tonight and tomorrow at 5:15 PM. Come on out and cheer us on!

Still Looking for Women

2008-06-16T13:09:00.003+10:00

49 women and 61 men have signed up for the NMIFA Co-ed Summer League. Are there 10 women out there interested in playing?

Call me at 285-6462 or email me at nmifacoed at gmail dot com.

Game 2

2008-06-12T00:19:00.004+10:00

Team 3 played one hell of a game versus Team 4 today.

Team names are coming, relax...

This was the second day of pre-season scrimmage games. I had a front row seat because I was the center referee.

Team 4 came out of the starting blocks with all cylinders firing. They scored in the 7th, 12th, and 17th minute to end the first half with a score of 3-0.

Team 3 didn't give up though. Part time actor/elementary school teacher Peter Loken put on his special second half boots to score three goals in the second half, tying it up at 3-3.

It looked like the game was going to end in a tie, but the referee (me) made a bad call with minutes to go. He thought he saw a hand ball in the box (most every one on and off the field agreed that it was a bad call) and game team 4 a penalty kick, which they easily slipped into the goal.

The game ended minutes later.

Player of the game bragging rights go to Tyce Mister, who managed to get a yellow card in the first minute of the game. Congrats, Mister Mister!

******
Peter Loken scored all three goals for Team 3, of which he isn't even a member.

Jack Thethaiguywithanamereallyhardtopronounce ,Jersh Angeles, Nong Ikickedangelointheanklelastyearanditstillhurts, and Gil "the Cal Ripken of Godfathers" Birnbrich scored one a piece for Team 4. This was Gil's first game with NMIFA. He recieved a $100 bonus from everyone's favorite 2003 Canadian Moose Call Contest Champion for his feat.

Game 1

2008-06-11T09:05:00.003+10:00

If there was a player of the game, it would have to be Julian Fitial. Julian scored a goal in the second half. It was his first time playing soccer.

Team 1, captained by Meaghan and Angelo, defeated Team 2, captained by Dean and Dora, by a score of 3-1. In addition to Julian's goal, Angelo scored twice for Team 1, and Peter Houk found the back of the net for Team 2.

This game was a scrimmage, so the result and the goals scored will not count towards the points total or the Golden Boot title.

Co-ed League Rules

2008-06-11T08:41:00.009+10:00

COED Rules:

Have fun. This is a recreational league. The goal of the league is to play, win or lose, and for everyone, regardless of skill level, to have fun.
All 17 FIFA laws will apply to the league.
Games begin at 5:15.
Halves will last 35 minutes with a 5 minute half time.
If there is a late start, the referee shall shorten playing time to ensure that the game is only played in full light. Playing at dusk or in the dark can be dangerous.
A team must field at least seven players in order for a game to start.
If a team does not have enough players, they forfeit. The forfeit shall occur 5 minutes after the scheduled start of the game. The score shall be 3-0 if one team forfeits and 0-0 if both teams forfeit. A scrimmage game can be played, however all other rules apply during the scrimmage game (i.e. alcohol consumption).
A team may field no more than 5 men on the field at any one time (the keeper does not count).
If a team is up by three points, the men on the leading team are not allowed to score until the trailing team scores.
If a team doesn't have the requisite five women at the start of the game, they can borrow a player from a team not playing that day. The drafted player can not score.
There will be no consumption of alcohol by players before or during a game. Half time is considered part of the game. Violations will result in a Red Card and a one game suspension.
Substitutions will only be allowed during a goal kick and an own possesion throw in. Substituting with out the referee shall result in a Yellow Card.
Slide tackling in any form will result in a Red Card.
Sexual harassment will result in a Red Card and possible expulsion from the league.
Fighting will result in expulsion from the league.
Teams will receive 3 points for a win, 1 point for a tie, and 0 points for a loss. Points will be tallied at the end of the season to determine who plays in the championship games. In case of a tie, goal differential will determine ranking.

This list of rules will probably grow as new issues arise.

Co-ed Soccer Schedule

2008-06-10T07:29:00.004+10:00

Team 1: Deaniacs
Team 2: Devil's Advoates
Team 3: Sureshanks
Team 4: Gil Fever
Team 5: GMF
Team 6: Captain Morgans

Game # Date Day Home Away
1 10-Jun Tuesday 1 vs 2
2 11-Jun Wednesday 3 vs 4
3 12-Jun Thursday 5 vs 6

4 17-Jun Tuesday 2 vs 4
5 18-Jun Wednesday 1 vs 6
6 19-Jun Thursday 5 vs 3

7 24-Jun Tuesday 3 vs 6
8 25-Jun Wednesday 2 vs 5
9 26-Jun Thursday 1 vs 4

10 1-Jul Tuesday 1 vs 5
11 2-Jul Wednesday 2 vs 6
12 3-Jul Thursday 3 vs 4

13 8-Jul Tuesday 2 vs 3
14 9-Jul Wednesday 1 vs 6
15 10-Jul Thursday 4 vs 5

16 15-Jul Tuesday 3 vs 5
17 16-Jul Wednesday 4 vs 6
18 17-Jul Thursday 1 vs 2

19 22-Jul Tuesday 1 vs 3
20 23-Jul Wednesday 5 vs 6
21 24-Jul Thursday 2 vs 4

22 29-Jul Tuesday 5th vs 6th
23 30-Jul Wednesday 3rd vs 4th
24 31-Jul Thursday 1st vs 2nd

Co-ed Soccer T-shirts

2008-06-10T07:20:00.005+10:00

Norman del Rosario designed our t-shirts for the co-ed summer league.

The team colors are:

1 Dean & Dora - Blue
2 Angelo & Meaghan - Orange
3 Steve & Nicole - White
4 Jason & Tamarie - Yellow
5 Mel & Greg - Green
6 Dave & Leanne - Red

Co-ed Soccer Summer League starts tonight

2008-06-10T07:18:00.000+10:00

The NMIFA Co-ed Soccer Summer League kicks off tonight for a summer full of action. The first game is tonight at 5:15pm at the CPA Airport Field.

The summer league lasts for eight weeks, with games played on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons. Each team will play one game per week.

Games will start at 5:15pm on game days and will consist of two 35-minute halves with five-minute halftimes.

Players in the co-ed league hail from the NMIFA Men's, Women's, and Youth Leagues. Some of the players from the Men's and Women's National Teams also play.

Brad Ruszala, starting forward for the CNMI Men in this year's annual Marianas Cup, looks forward to competing against his counterpart on the CNMI Women's Team, Brenda Schultz.

“Last year's co-ed season was a great opportunity to go out and stretch my legs once a week and I'm really looking forward to winning my first co-ed game. Maybe I'll have more luck this year”.

Teams were picked last night, but it is not too late to play. The registration form can be downloaded at http://nmifa.blogspot.com. Completed forms can be dropped off at the NMIFA office located on Beach Road in Garapan or emailed to nmifacoed@gmail.com.

The registration fee is only $15 and includes a co-ed T-shirt and eight weeks of play. For questions, contact co-ed league commissioner Angelo Villagomez at 285-6462

Co-ed Soccer Registration

2008-06-02T11:11:00.000+10:00

The registration form for Co-ed soccer is available here. Please print it out and return to me this week. We are going to pick teams over the weekend.

You can email the completed form to nmifacoed@gmail.com or give the form to me. My phone number is 285-6462.

The cost to register is $15 and includes a Coed t-shirt and 8 games. Games will be played on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursday from June 10 - July 30.

Famous in Japan

2008-05-27T20:27:00.004+10:00

Translation:

Weekly Soccer Digest
Monthly Asian Report: Vol.6
“Ambition of The Tropical Resort Island”
by Takashi Morimoto

From The Northern Mariana Islands
Seeking Membership with AFC and FIFA (with Japanese Support)

“Kazuyoshi Miura? Resort destination? What’s the connection? Well, I would like to say that the CNMI is a place for football foremost.” President of NMIFA (Northern Mariana Islands Football Association) Mr. Jerry Tan said.

He has a great ambition. The first step is to obtain membership with AFC and then FIFA. NMIFA applied for the membership three years ago. Today the application is still under the careful review.

The Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands is the US territory, made of 14 small islands in the Pacific Ocean. One of the islands is Saipan, a popular resort destination for Japanese, and recently known as the place where Kazuyoshi Miura was arrested. It is hard to recognized Saipan as a place for football.

By the way, do you know there is one well-known football player of CNMI National Team? The player is Bruce Berline, who is the “celebrity” lawyer for Kazuyoshi Miura. Although he didn’t have any experience playing football, having great athlete nature and challenging sprit, he was selected as a CNMI National Team player last year and played in one of the play-off games against Guam National Team in the preliminary round of the EAFF Cup 2008. He is not playing this year. He would be too busy at the court to be on a field.

So, why has CNMI been working hard for football today?

Mr. Tan replied, “It’s of course impossible to win at the World Cup. The population of CNMI is only 70,000.” Do you think competitive and strong football (FIFA ranking?) is everything? “Of course not.” “The reason why I decided to apply for the membership was that I saw the CNMI matching to FIFA’s philosophy, which is to promote football throughout the world.”

Perhaps Mr. Tan’s background is a foundation of his passion today for football. Born in Hong Kong, he moved to Guam during his early childhood because of his parents business and so he grew up on Guam. At that time, Guam was not a member of AFC or FIFA. There is no opportunity to have an international football match or game. Football on Guam was not popular at all, being lack of fields, facilities, and coaches. Football was not even recognized as a recreational sport on Guam.

However, since 1996 when Guam became the AFC and FIFA member, everything changed dramatically. Today football is the No. 1 sports on Guam, even more popular than American football and basketball, which used to be the most popular sports on Guam.

We see many children playing football after school. Guam also has been helped by JFA (Japan Football Association). JFA sends coaching staffs to help the Guam National Team, such as Mr. Kanbe (2003-2004), Mr. Tsukitate (who was a former head coach for Simizu Youth Club). Guam has also hosted many foreign national teams and clubs as a training place. Recently, the Urawa came to Guam. During that time, Guam National Team played on a practice game against the Urawa. The result was 0-19: Guam lost. However, it was a great opportunity for the non-professional players to play with professional players. Such a huge gap of level (between Japanese professional players and Guam National Team players) surprise Mr. Tan.

Media tends to focus on negative sides of both AFC and FIFA recently, such as messy operation at AFC and reselling the last World Cup game ticket by the officers, but in fact, they have given tremendous efforts and activities to promote football in developing nations and regions.

Mr. Tan settled on Saipan just before he turned 30. His name is famous as one of the most successful business owners of the island, who runs many businesses such as hotels, IT, real estate and amusement services. He is also a chairman of Mariana Visitors Association today. “For many people to love soccer, to improve the technique level, and to deepen the friendship with each other,” Mr. Tan stood up for promoting football through the islands and contributing the local community.

NMIFA’s General Secretary and former National Team Player Mr. Wesley Bogdan recalled the past three years development, “There is only way to express our appreciation toward the generous support from so many and that is to say thank you. Especially, thanks to EAFF which has been incredibly supportive, giving NMIFA the opportunities to participate in the preliminary games for EAFC and in the EAFF U-14 Festival held in China last year and for providing monetary funding for these activities. JFA has also been generous and allowed a JFA member of its International Committee, Ichiro Fujita, to come to Saipan several times now to help and guide our development and hold coaching clinics. He is a special person for us.”

AFC will be visiting the island of Saipan in the middle of the next month to discuss more details for the future membership. Mr. Bogdan said, “The last time when AFC came to Saipan was two years ago. I believe AFC will see and be very surprised how much we have progress and accomplished within these two years. We have opened an office and hired staff and football has increased in popularity in many ways ion response to NMIFA’s activities and undertakings. It is going to take a lot of work, but the NMIFA can absolutely become a member of both AFC and FIFA.”

We look forward to welcoming the 209th FIFA member that would be the 47th FIFA member from Asian Nations.

Co-ed Soccer Schedule

2008-05-10T12:37:00.004+10:00

Alright, co-ed soccer is scheduled to run from June 10 - July 31. It is an 8 week season, with games on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons. All games will be played at the CPA Airport field.

Before the season starts we will play pickup games on Thursday afternoons at the CPA Airport Field. The dates for those pickup games are May 15, 22, 29 and June 5.

We are going to form the teams in the upcoming weeks.

This year we are going to have 6 teams and we are still looking for co-captains. Greg and Mel Borja have agreed to co-captain a team, as have Norm and Dora Camacho.

Please contact Angelo if you would like to be a co-captain.

Stay tuned for more information.

Co-ed Pickup Games

2008-05-09T11:45:00.001+10:00

There will be co-ed pickup games every Thursday in May. We'll play at the CPA airport field starting at about 4:45. Younger players are welcome, but keep in mind that they will be playing against adults. All skill levels are welcome, even Brad Ruszala.

Who wants to watch a soccer game?

2008-05-08T12:35:00.004+10:00

Looks like we're going to be superstars here in the near future because there'll be a screening of the men's 2008 Marianas Cup match between the CNMI and Guam tomorrow night! Yep, so come on down to (Mom's) Round Two for the 6:30pm showing of the big game.

Copies will be available for sale!

*This is not the play-by-play version that will be shown on KSPN2. According to the station, their video is already cut and ready for sale.

PS- Feel free to bring a friend

Saipan and Soccer In The News

2008-05-07T17:51:00.005+10:00

It might not be exactly the way we want it, but here's another reference to Saipan through the Red Mist story that's become somewhat of a legend in Ireland.

This is from The Mayo News, an Irish newspaper that touts itseld as "Eurpoe's best designed paper." How about that? Now that's something to be proud of.

Well, Mayo is not only the name of the paper, it's also the name of a county. I wonder if it's Europe's best designed county, as well. Anyway here it is...Oh, and the link is in the title.

Mayo’s very own Saipan?

Ciaran McDonald’s future divided fans’ opinion online

By Daniel Carey

THERE’S a picture on www.castlebar.ie which was taken at Dublin Airport in March 2005. It shows a raft of water bottles, trays and full-to-the-brim O’Neills bags being checked in by the Dublin kit manager, who’s about to board a flight to Kerry for a league match in the Kingdom. The overhead shot appears under the headline “Why the GAA will never have a ‘Saipan’ incident”.

Until now that is.

Training gear may not be at issue, and the country at large may be indifferent. But six years after the soccer dispute which split the country down the middle, a war of words between a manager and a footballer is again dominating sporting conversation in Mayo.

Some people are firmly behind John O’Mahony, others are entirely supportive of Ciaran McDonald, while many feel there is fault on both sides. And a large number of people seem utterly bewildered, unable to make sense of the events of the last few days.

Ever since the championship panel appeared in The Irish Times last Friday week, Ciaran McDonald was the major topic of discussion wherever Mayo GAA people gathered. In public houses, at matches and on internet discussion boards, the question was the same: ‘What’s the story with McDonald?’

‘RedandGreenSniper’ got the online ball rolling on www.gaaboard.com, noting that McDonald’s omission appeared to signal the end of his inter-county career. “Thanks for the memories Ciaran,” the contributor wrote. “You will always hold a place in the hearts of Mayo fans and, I’m sure, fans of football all over Ireland.”

As of yesterday (Monday) afternoon, the thread which this post sparked had prompted over 200 replies and been viewed over 4,000 times. Variations on the same debate were also ongoing on the Hogan Stand, Mayo Fans and An Fear Rua websites.

As speculation mounted about why McDonald wasn’t involved and whether he would return, ‘IolarCoisCuain’ urged caution, noting: “It’s a long road yet, and there’s no need for hullaballoo.”

But a hullaballoo there most certainly was last Wednesday morning when the Irish Independent carried a rare interview with Ciaran McDonald. The Crossmolina clubman told Martin Breheny that it was not his choice that he was not involved with Mayo and that he was unhappy with John O’Mahony’s handling of the matter.

The first many people knew of the interview was when they turned on Midwest Radio. Having opened his morning programme with a summary of McDonald’s criticisms, presenter Tommy Marren interviewed John O’Mahony, who said there was no reason why McDonald couldn’t play for Mayo again.

As phones hummed and text messages flew back and forth, online reaction was swift. ‘Tubberman’ suggested that neither manager nor player had ‘handled the situation particularly well’ and concluded: “JOM is really under the microscope now and has to deliver this year”.

‘Stephenite’ was of the opinion that ‘if a player wants to play the onus should be on him to stay in contact with the manager and let him know what his situation is’, but ‘the Deel Rover’ disagreed, saying: “The onus is on the management to let the players know whether you … are part of their plans or not”.

Referring to the situation as ‘a serious shambles’, a poster called ‘Barney’ said the McDonald interview had ‘really blown the cat amongst the pigeons’. Criticising contact by text, he added: “For me the problem begins and ends with this daft notion of a public announcement of a championship panel”. ‘Maradona’ (presumably not the Argentinian Maradona) said that he was probably McDonald’s ‘biggest fan’, but that the ‘will he won’t he’ questions which had dogged Mayo teams in recent years went ‘against collective team building’. The ‘ideal scenario’, he concluded, would be for both men to ‘get together and sort out the issues’.

Perhaps the most unlikely scenario outlined on all the discussion boards was the ‘McDonald for President’ call by ‘midLouth’. Mind you, stranger things have happened. After all, Saipan spawned a musical …

CNMI Women in the news

2008-05-05T08:49:00.002+10:00

Newman makes NMASA's Athlete of the Month

After denying the women of Guam a score during last week's 2008 Marianas Cup, CNMI Women's National Soccer Team goalkeeper Rebecca "The Wall" Newman was named as the Northern Marianas Amateur Sports Association's Female Athlete of the Month.

Newman deflected praise as effortlessly as she deflected shots by saying that her defense made her look better than she was. Though she admitted to bringing her "A-Game," Newman attributed most of her success between the pipes to her teammates.

Here's the story from the Saipan Tribune.

NMASA spreads out monthly honors

The Northern Marianas Amateur Sports Association spread the wealth Thursday night when it awarded Athletes of the Month honors to four athletes from different sports.

Northern Marianas Swimming Federation's Rezne Wong and Northern Mariana Islands Football Association's Becca Newman were named the Male and Female Athletes of the Month, while Christian Miller of the Northern Mariana Islands Tennis Association and Lia Rangamar of the Northern Marianas Athletics earned the Male and Female Student Athletes of the Month.

Wong, who is a member of Tsunami Swimming Center Saipan, competed in the 2008 GSF All Island Invitational Swim Meet last Aoril 26 at the Hagatna Pool in Guam.

The Marianas High School student finished first in the 200m individual medley with a time of 2:17.46 and also topped the 100m backstroke after touching the tile in 1:08.38. He competed in the open division.

His time in the 200m IM was just a second and change off the CNMI age group record of 2:16.56 set in 2003 by Dean Palacios. Wong’s 100m backstroke, meanwhile, was just tenths of a second off Juan Camacho’s record-setting pace of 1:07.03 he recorded in 2006.

Wong also finished second in the 50m butterfly and 50m freestyle with times of 29.18, which is just .17 off the 29.01 record of Seung Jin Lee in 2001, and 26.18 almost comparable to the 25.68 set by the immortal John Sakovich way back in 1987.

Newman, meanwhile, helped the unranked CNMI Women's National Football team force Guam to a surprising scoreless draw in last weekend's 2nd Annual Marianas Cup football match held at the Civic Center Field inside the Susupe Sports Complex.

Newman, playing as goalkeeper, put up a defensive wall at the CNMI goal against a Guam team that is ranked 75th in the world. Her impressive stint earned her the tournament most valuable player honors, which were voted on by members of both teams.

She had a total of 17 saves including a number of key stops in the two overtime periods that could have allowed Guam to escape with the win. This was also Newman's second time as a member of the CNMI national team.

Aside from being a member of the Women's Nationals, Newman also serves as a Women's Football Committee member, treasurer of the Paire Football Club, Under-8 coach, and captain of her Women's Football League team.

Miller, for his part, earned the CNMI top ranking in the boys' 13-and-under division after winning the Spectrum Electric-Marianas Medical Center CNMI Junior Championships in both the singles and doubles events.

The singles and doubles titles in the junior championships were also Miller's fourth crown in April. He won the Under-13 title in the junior championships after a 6-3, 6-1 win against Nathan Nutting then teamed up with Daniel Camacho to score a 6-4, 6-0 triumph against brothers Jake and Aaron Lee in the doubles event in last week's finals.

Early last month, Miller avenged his Coconut Classic loss to Rafael Jones to claim the Pacific Islands Club-Gatorade Tennis Tournament 13-and-under crown with a hard-earned 5-7, 6-1, 7-5 win.

Miller will be the CNMI's top-ranked player heading into the International Tennis Federation-North Pacific Qualifying Event from June 16 to 20 in Guam.

NMA's Rangamar earned the female student honors after a dominating performance in last month's preliminary trials in the 4th Annual McDonald’s All-Schools Track and Field Championship.

The 13-year-old multi-event athlete is coming of age and proved this when she competed against other athletes who are in the high school division. She set national age group records in the 200m run, javelin, and discus throw as well as finished in the Top 3 of three more events.

She clocked in 30.96 seconds in the 200m run, and threw distances of 27.48m and 22m in the javelin and discus throw.

Aside from breaking age group records, Rangamar also topped the 400m run with a time of 1:12.23, placed second in long jump with a jump of 3.75m, then cleared the bar in high jump with a height of 1.25m for another second place finish.

Other nominees for last month's sports plums were NMA's Jessie Brel, Jericho Cruz, and Jacque Wonenberg, NMITA's Amy Arenovski, NMSF's Carol Lynn Pierce, Kaito Yanai, and Fumika Umeda, and NMIFA's Joe Miller.

CNMI Men

2008-05-01T12:36:00.000+10:00

CNMI Women

2008-05-01T12:33:00.002+10:00

Nikki, look out for the b-

2008-04-29T09:11:00.003+10:00

Way to preserve the shutout!

Here'a a shot of the game

2008-04-28T14:40:00.004+10:00

Ben Wood raises his arms in the foreground while Steve McKagan (#4) pumps his fists after scoring the second goal for the CNMI to tie the game, 2-2. Player-coach Nick Swaim (#2)celebrates with McKagan while Norman Camacho (#13) lets loose his barbaric yawp.

Marianas Cup Results Day Two

2008-04-28T11:36:00.003+10:00

The home team suffered a heartbreaking loss at the hands of the Guamanian Men's National Soccer Team when the visitors found the back of the net with 30 seconds remaining to take a 3-2 lead in the second overtime period.

More to come...

Marianas Cup Results Day One

2008-04-26T19:24:00.004+10:00

CNMI Women 0, Guam Women 0

There were no goals scored through the first 90 minutes so the teams went into two seven and a half minute overtime periods. After another scoreless round of play, both women's teams shared the 2nd Annual Marianas Cup.

Without a doubt, the player of the game for the CNMI women was goalkeeper Rebecca Newman. "The Wall" turned away 17 shots from the Guamanians, but the biggest save came on a 20-yard free kick that came right before the end of the first half.

Simone Nicholle Willter's shot was heading for a sure goal under the crossbar when Newman's outstretched arms deflected the ball away. When the CNMI gained possession the ball, referee Rhonda Bamba gave two solid puffs on her whistle to end the half.

Most of the second half action took place in the CNMI's defensive zone and there were many close calls, but the local women denied Guam time and time again.

Willter was definitely Guam's goto player. Unfortunately for the visiting team, Guam was unable to transform her quickness and powerful shot into a score.

Think U Got Skillz?

2008-04-26T13:49:00.001+10:00

Check this out...

Marianas Cup Preview

2008-04-25T13:58:00.003+10:00

The CNMI Men's National Team squares off against the Guam National team this Sunday, April 27, at the Oleai Sports Complex. Opening ceremonies start at 2:45pm followed by the 3pm kickoff.

Be there to support your home team!

Soccer and Snow

2008-04-25T02:01:00.003+10:00

Number 17 is me. Finally got to play again after moving back to the States in the middle of Winter. This winter seems to not want to end. It was about 40 degrees on this day. Since then, I've been wearing long sweats to play, a hat and gloves. Yesterday, I had to be goalie (everyone takes turns for 1/2 of a game). It hailed. Imagine someone flinging little pebbles at your face from the sky. I'm playing in a 30+ women's league and a 30+ co-ed league. During the co-ed game I met a guy on my team who is friends with someone on Saipan. When I pulled out my red, mud stained socks and pulled them on they disintegrated from rot:)

Miss you all!

Midfielders and Forwards

2008-04-24T14:54:00.005+10:00

NMI Learning To Deal With Several Roster Changes

The midfield makeover is perhaps the biggest change for the CNMI men as the Blue Ayuyus made some positional changes and picked up three new players since their 2007 meeting with Guam. Peter Houk served as the home team’s top offensive threat last year, and he’ll maintain his presence at the heart of the CNMI’s attack.

Houk’s footwork will be complimented by returning youngster, Lucas Knecht. The Saipan International School student’s maturity and skill have grown to match his size during the past year, and Knecht looks make the transition to soccer manhood by playing in his second international match.

Knecht has received plenty of pointers along the way from returning starter, Angelo Villagomez. The environmentalist took the field as a striker when the CNMI last played Guam, but Villagomez has transitioned into his new role of midfielder with ease.

Chemistry in the middle of the field is a key component to any team’s success, and the addition of three position players to mix has thus far proved to be a benefit to the CNMI’s central core. Elementary school teacher Peter Loken will play his first international game with the squad, along with fellow rookies, Steve McKagan and Joe Miller.

An accomplished tennis player and part-time actor, Loken has the athletic ability to get the job done, and he garnered the respect of his teammates when he was recently named as the CNMI’s co-captain. McKagan has also proved his value to the squad in his first season of Saipan soccer, as the fisheries biologist added the same experience that helped lead the CNMI All-Stars to a 3-3 tie with Guam last summer.

Miller is one of the youngest players on the team, and the Kagman High School student brings his passion for the game and positive attitude every time he takes the field. Miller has been with the team just under two months after making his debut in the CNMI Men’s League this year.

While the midfielders have plenty of youth, the CNMI forwards have the benefit of years of experience with strikers Chris Guerrero and Choi Yong Woon. For the past seven weeks, Guerrero has spent his days keeping Saipan safe with the Department of Public Safety and his evenings working out with his teammates. After missing out on last year’s home and home series with Guam, he looks to help bring the CNMI its first Marianas Cup victory.

While Guerrero takes care of the ground, Choi spends most of his time minding the skies with Asiana Airlines. Injuries prevented him from joining the squad in 2007, and Choi plans on making the most of his first international competition this Sunday.

The same goes for new forwards Michael Thomas and Brad Ruszala. Both earned spots on the roster last year, but only Thomas found playing time against Guam in both games. After running the flanks in the midfield, Thomas’ offseason training regimen resulted in better ball handling skills and increased endurance.

Ruszala made the move from fullback to midfielder in with the Independents of the Men’s League, and on to striker with the nationals. The former sports reporter turned PTI marketing associate aims at earning his first international cap in front of the home crowd this Sunday.

The 2nd edition of the Marianas Cup gets underway tomorrow afternoon when the women take the field at 3pm with pre-game activities getting underway at 2:45pm. Day Two takes place between the men on Sunday at 3pm with pre-game activities getting underway at 2:45pm, as well. Attendance is free and organizers invite the community to provide the same crowd support that last year’s team enjoyed.

More on the build up to the 2008 Marianas Cup

2008-04-24T10:00:00.006+10:00

New defenders looking to protect CNMI Men

With the CNMI Men’s and Women’s National teams are tapering their training routines and the faint sound of Europe’s 1980’s smash hit is in the air as the final countdown to the 2^nd Annual Marianas Cup has indeed begun.

With only a couple of days remaining before both squads seek revenge for their 2007 debut losses on Guam’s Harmon Field, the players will have to hope that their weeks spent on the training pitch were well spent.

The CNMI Men will take the field against their regional rivals this Sunday, April 27, looking much different than last year’s squad as the home team will be without 11 of players that filled out its roster in 2007.

One of the biggest changes comes between the pipes as starting keeper Greg Borja and back-up Elias Rangamar suit up for their first contest as CNMI goalkeepers. Borja spends most of his time away from the pitch with his family and defending the rights of the others as an advocate with NMPASI. A sage of sports, Rangamar has been molding athletes on the basketball and volleyball courts, as well as on the track and field for many years as on the CNMI’s highest ranked coaches of any sport.

The duo will lean upon each other this weekend, but they’ll also receive plenty of help from this year’s squad of CNMI fullbacks. Nobody knows what the keepers need more than former CNMI net minder, Ben Wood.

The accomplished artist and teacher from Saipan Southern High School made the move to the back line while playing for the Independents during the Men’s League, and he’s never looked back. Joining him are returning starters, Dale Roberts and team co-captain David Dueñas.

A veteran of many international sporting events, Roberts helps to develop the next generation of scholar-athletes as the vice principal of Garapan Elementary School while Dueñas manages oversees the front office of one of Saipan’s most popular resorts: the Pacific Islands Club.

Another one of the new faces to the CNMI Men is outdoor enthusiast, Dan Westphal. Long known locally as “Barno” because of his talents on the beach volleyball haunts, Westphal brings a “no holds barred” attitude with him to the pitch.

Keeping the unit in check will fall on Dueñas’ shoulders, but player-coach Nick Swaim has spent more than his fair share calling the shots for the CNMI during the build-up to the rematch. When he’s not training the CNMI Men, Women, and U14 teams, the former PIC Clubmate is chasing waves on his surfboard or hiking the many trails Saipan has to offer.

All-around athlete Norman Camacho, is another addition to the 2008 roster who didn’t even tryout for last year’s team. Now the family man and PTI communications specialist serves Team CNMI as a utility player that can play with the defenders, mix it up in the midfielders, or pose a threat up top with the forwards.

The 2nd edition of the Marianas Cup gets underway on Saturday when the women take the field at 3pm with pre-game activities getting underway at 2:45pm. Day Two takes place between the men at 3pm with pre-game activities getting underway at 2:45pm, as well. Attendance is free and organizers invite the community to provide the same crowd support that last year’s team enjoyed.

All About Inter

2008-04-24T09:54:00.005+10:00

Inter wins NMIFA men's championship

From Today's Saipan Tribune-

Inter-Godfather's capped their 2008 Men's Winter Football League season with the title in tow after having the most wins in the Northern Mariana Islands Football Association's first league for the year.

Inter-Godfather's won the title after having the most wins.

It came out on top this season with the most wins in the six-team field, compiling a league-best 7-1-1 win-loss-draw record to receive the NMIFA Men's League Cup.

The award ceremony was held last Saturday where other teams and top performers of the past season were also honored as well as the tournament officials.

FC Arirang took runner-up honors with a 6-2-1 slate while Onwel, which also earned the sportsmanship award, placed third after having a 4-3-2 mark.

Onwel took the sportsmanship trophy after being well organized and respected the referees' calls, and were courteous to other players and the fans.

Ol'Aces was awarded the Most Improved Team after showing great improvement in the nine games they played this season.

Joe Miller, who was playing his first season in the men's league, earned the golden boot trophy for scoring nine goals against the other five teams this year.

The league referees were also honored during the ceremony with organizers and players thanking them for their fare officiating. The referees received medals and a special thank you note.

NMIFA Men's Football League director Michael Thomas said they would be holding a tournament in May while the next season opens in July.

Maddie Smith gets her 15 minutes

2008-04-24T09:42:00.005+10:00

Smith ready to face the challenge

From today's Marianas Variety-
SAIPAN International School Lady Geckos center female cager, Madison Smith is not only ready but also excited to face the challenge of managing her time and stamina for the two sports she loves.

Smith a key player of Lady Geckos who contributed most to their wins in the Coalition of Private Schools Sports Association Basketball Tournament is among the six picks in the CNMI Women’s National Football Team draft that will compete with the visiting team from Guam in the second Annual Marianas Cup at the Gilbert C. Ada field at 3 p.m., this Saturday.

The 15-year-old cager said she and Zoe Jewell, her team mate in the basketball team accepted the offer when joining the football national team was brought up to them weeks ago.

In an interview following the basketball game where they defeated the Lady Eagles on Tuesday, Smith said she knows she is going to have tough schedule these following days since the NMI women’s football team is eager to take on Guam’s best.

She and five other picks have started practicing with the veterans and she has already figured out the first time she tried, “I can do it.”

Managing her time for studies, for the basketball games which she usually carried along with Melissa Halaby, and now the preparation for football game, Smith could only laugh and say, “It’s crazy,” but she thinks she has enough energy to accomplish all those things.

The other new bloods that will join the national team are Marianas High School’s Elisa Fejeran, Mariana Gramlich, and Rima Halaby, Saipan International School’s Zoe Jewell and Grace Christian Academy’s Ashley Hofschneider.

Just like the basketball, Smith really enjoys playing football as well.

“The older players (in football) are always willing to help and teach us. It makes it easier to learn the game,” she said, adding that she plans to attend the try-out game for the national team again next year.

Fourteen-year-old Jewell is the only student who was also on the women’s team last year.

Women’s Committee Director Francine Sablan said the girls got involved in playing soccer only through participation in the recreational women’s league until the veteran members saw their potential and invited them to attend a try-out for the national team.

Patricia Coleman, a veteran player who feels having these young girls on the team has helped add a new dimension to the team said, “As skilled as [the young girls] are now, if they continue with the team, in just a few years, they will be able to take the team to a higher level.”

Sablan who looks to the young girls for motivation during practice said that during practice, he observed that the energy and youthful enthusiasm of the girls were contagious.

“During a long, hard practice, I see the high school girls working just as hard as I am, but I see them smiling and enjoying themselves. They remind that I’m playing this sport because it’s fun,” she said.

The girls she added showed maturity when it gets down to business on the pitch.

NMIFA In The News Again!

2008-04-23T15:19:00.008+10:00

AFC team impressed with football development in the Northern Mariana Islands

KUALA LUMPUR: A two-member AFC Vision Asia team recently visited Saipan, the capital of the Northern Mariana Islands, upon the request of the Northern Mariana Islands Football Association (NMIFA) to help start the Vision Asia development programme in the commonwealth, which is about 200km north of Guam.

The AFC team held meetings with the Executive Committee of NMIFA to formulate a development strategy to strengthen football on the islands, besides visiting several training facilities in Saipan, an Under-12
football festival, and the training sessions of the Northern Mariana Islands men’s and women’s national teams who are preparing for matches against Guam in the 2008 Mariana Cup.

NMIFA President Jerry Tan was delighted with the visit.

“As a new and developing football association we need benchmarks on how to develop our local football,” said Tan.

“The visit by the Vision Asia team has helped clarify many areas for us. Now the Executive Committee is also fully aware of what needs to be implemented for us to bring our football forward.”

The AFC officials also met the Governor Benigno R. Fitial and discussed football development in the commonwealth.

Since its foundation in 2005, the NMIFA have made many inroads in developing a sport that was virtually non-existent on the baseball centric islands. The NMIFA has organized multiple projects and tournaments for men’s, women’s and youth football as well as coaching and referee seminars.

There are nearly 500 youth aged 4 to 15 currently playing in NMIFA youth leagues, and each of the 15 public schools in Saipan have received a set of goalposts from the football authorities.

With the assistance of Vision Asia, the NMIFA is looking to launch an elite level league competition. There are currently four clubs and the NMIFA has been advised to establish four more so that the elite league can commence.

A schools league is scheduled to kick off in August 2008 and Vision Asia will provide administration, coaching and referee courses for the successful organization of the program.

The Vision Asia team also advised the NMIFA on bringing their statutes in line with international standards and developing their organization structures.

NMIFA In The News

2008-04-21T09:20:00.002+10:00

AFC pleased with NMIFA programs

By Jon Perez
Reporter

Asian Football Conference Vision Asia division development officer Biplav Gautam, left, and AFC development officer Keita Sugihara, third left, join Northern Mariana Islands Football Association officials led by president Jerry Tan, fourth left, for a group photo at the NMIFA office at the TSL building on Saturday. Others in photo are Wes Bogdan, second left, and Vicki Izuka. (Jon Perez) The rapid development of football in the CNMI brought smiles to two Asian Football Confederation officials, which were on island this weekend to assess the programs started by the Northern Mariana Islands Football Association.

AFC development officer Kaita Sugihara and AFC Vision Asia Division development officer Biplav Gautam arrived on Saipan last Thursday and spent Friday and Saturday meeting with NMIFA officials to get an update of its football programs.

Sugihara said he and Gautam even visited the training sessions conducted by the men's and women's national teams in preparation for this weekend's Marianas Cup against Guam.

They also witnessed the Youth Football Festival at San Antonio Elementary School and inspected some of the facilities and venues in football games. Sugihara and Gautam visited the three schools used in football games-Hopwood Junior High School, Saipan Southern High School, and Garapan Elementary School-as well as the Oleai Field inside the Susupe Sports Complex, CPA Field, and the one at American Memorial Park.

“A lot has changed since the first time we came here in October 2006. We can see a lot of positive things in NMIFA's programs. We are very much impressed with the development,” said Sugihara.

Gautam added NMIFA's program is centered on developing the sport at the grassroots level and establishing clubs. “NMIFA is geared towards developing the youth with the establishment of clubs, which is essential part of every football program.”

Sugihara and Gautam said from establishing the youth, men's, and women's programs NMIFA is now geared toward strengthening the club system.

“NMIFA and football on Saipan rapidly change in a short time compared to other countries that are starting with their own program,” Sugihara said.

Gautam added, “They [NMIFA] already have four clubs, which have their own committees and active volunteers. Clubs are important to football development.”

The two also met with Gov. Benigno R. Fitial and played pickup games with some of the local teams before again meeting with NMIFA officials to further discuss their developmental plans and programs.

Support for CNMI MNT

2008-04-17T16:32:00.003+10:00

Support for CNMI MNT continues

Ten days remain before the CNMI men’s national soccer challenges its counterpart from Guam in the 2nd Annual Marianas Cup, and this year’s edition of the Blue Ayuyus received some much needed support along the way from one of Korea’s longtime athletic sponsors.

After hearing of the local team’s efforts on the pitch, Sejoong Tour Mall Saipan Branch/Director Manager, Choi Kyung-Sil, decided to assist the players in advance of their game against Guam by outfitting the men with uniforms and shorts.

Choi said that her company regularly supports soccer teams in Korea and that she had been looking for a way to sponsor one of Saipan’s local teams. When she heard about the CNMI’s up and coming national team, she stopped by one of the practices and was surprised with what she saw.

“I saw the CNMI team wearing old dirty shirts and I wanted to help by donating,” she said.

The donation marked Sejoong Tour Mall’s first donation on Saipan, and Choi picked the bright yellow Team Brazil uniforms for the CNMI “to bring sunshine into their game.”

Team CNMI was appreciative of the donation and the players have regularly donned the new uniforms during team practices. Choi said that she was happy to help and that she and Sejoong Tour Mall look forward to supporting more area soccer teams in the future.

“The same team or another team, no problem,” she said.

Last year, football fans from across the world watched as Team CNMI came within one goal of beating the FIFA ranked Guamanians. The visitors escaped with a 3-2 victory at the Oleai Sports Complex, but the men from Saipan were unable to find similar success a week later, as Guam rebounded with a 9-0 victory on its home field to take the inaugural Marianas Cup.

The second edition of the Marianas Cup takes place at the Oleai Sports Complex on Sunday, April 27, at 3pm, with pre-game activities getting underway at 2:45pm. Attendance is free and organizers invite the community to provide the same crowd support that last year’s team enjoyed.

More Marianas Cup Info

2008-04-16T10:45:00.006+10:00

In less than two weeks, the CNMI men’s national soccer team will defend its home pitch in an effort to do what last year’s squad was unable to accomplish by beating Guam on Saipan.

Last year, football fans from across the world watched as the home team came within one goal of beating the FIFA ranked Guamanians, as the visitors escaped with a 3-2 victory at the Oleai Sports Complex. A week later, the men from Saipan were unable to find similar success against their heavily favored opponents abroad, as Guam dismantled the CNMI at home, 9-0, in the rematch.

Aside from pleasing their fan faithful at Harmon Field, the Guamanians also drew first blood in the inaugural Marianas Cup. This month’s match will mark the second time the regional rivals vie for the giant perpetual trophy, and several new faces will don the home team’s uniforms on Sunday, April 27, at the OSC.

Team CNMI will be without 11 of players that filled out its roster in 2007, as Bruce Berline, Vince Stravino, Wesley Bogdan, Mike Hall, Aaron Lewis, Chris Nelson, Mark McDonald, Kyle Cabael, Jonathan Mafnas, Tyce Mister and former captain Yosh Gabaldon have either opted out of the grueling national schedule or will be unavailable for this month’s match.

The CNMI still has a core of players who remember the bitter pill that Guam served up on Harmon Field, as Ben Wood, Dale Roberts, Michael Thomas, Brad Ruszala, Lucas Knecht, David Dueñas, Chris Leon Guerrero, Peter Houk, and Angelo Villagomez return to the Blue Ayuyus with manager John Ravell.

Filling the vacancies left by last year’s history makers was no easy task, but a crowd new faces survived the training and evaluation process, and is now ready to officially don the blue and white for the first time. Among the rookies added to the 2008 line-up are Peter Loken, Steve McKagan, Dan Westphal, Joe Miller, Choi Yong Woon, Norman Camacho, and Nick Swaim.

Change has been the theme to this year’s team, as Team CNMI made changes at the top with the departure of last year’s coach, Jeff “Ziggy” Korytoski, who has since moved back to the mainland. His replacement, Jason Higgins, will also miss match, as he and the Northern Mariana Islands Football Association quietly parted ways two months ago.

Since then, Swaim has taken the reigns as player/coach for the local squad, and NMIFA officials regard the former Pacific Islands Club Clubmate as a magnificent find who possesses the talent to direct his teammates both on and off the field.

Adding to his already full plate, Swaim is also coaching the CNMI Women’s National Team as well as the U14 squad. The women will compete against their counterparts from Guam on Saturday, April 26, at the Oleai Sports Complex. As with the men’s contest, the match between the CNMI and Guam will serve as the 2nd Annual Marianas Cup between the women.

Last year, the CNMI women journeyed south to the southernmost link in the Marianas Islands chain as underdogs, and fell to Guam, 7-0. Despite suffering a lopsided defeat on the scoreboard, the injury riddled CNMI Women displayed their character by holding off their opponents for a majority of the first half.

Both matches in the second edition of the Marianas Cup take place at 3pm with pre-game activities getting underway at 2:45pm. Attendance is free and organizers invite the community to provide the same crowd support that last year’s team enjoyed.

Be There!

2008-04-15T15:12:00.003+10:00

Big Props to Norman Del Rosario for his creative genius! See you at the pitch. By the way, t-shirts will also be available. More on the designs later. Also, be sure to pick up the paper tomorrow to find out more about the matches.

Rowdy Fans?

2008-04-14T17:01:00.000+10:00

CNMI Women's National Team Blog

2008-04-03T08:23:00.002+10:00

http://cnmiwnt.blogspot.com/

Countdown to the Marianas Cup.

Game of the Week

2008-03-15T18:45:00.001+10:00

Wild Bill's Independants takes on the Arirang Football Club tomorrow at 4 PM.

Should be a good game.

Who said soccer is for sissies?

2008-02-25T10:09:00.007+10:00

Okay, soccer players aren't known for their MMA skills (save for Saipan's Jason Tarkong), but I think that some of Saipan's scrappers would do a bit better in a tussle than these wussy boy Europeans.

What the heck are these guys looking at? Probably at the JumboTron to see if their hair still has the bounce that was advertised on their shampoo bottle.

And is the guy in the middle doing the Thriller dance?

2008 COED League

2008-02-23T19:56:00.003+10:00

The Summer COED League is right around the corner. Anyone interested in helping me plan the season?

So far we have the CPA Airport Field reserved for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday during the summer. If we can get six teams together that means we can have three days of soccer during the week and we'll get to play each team twice.

Give me a call if you are interested in helping out.

Angelo
(670) 285-6462

First Day of Practice

2008-02-22T22:01:00.001+10:00

We're about to start training for our game against Guam in April.

First official practice is this Tuesday at the CPA Airport Field.

Good News, Good News

2008-02-14T11:31:00.004+10:00

We've gotta home! Well, it's not worth living in (or on, for that matter) but it's still a home. Get ready, world. Football in the CNMI is going to improve quickly and we just might beat a FIFA team before you know it (I'm looking at you, Guam).

Read here from today's Saipan Tribune or just read below:

NMIFA finally finds a home

By Jon Perez
Reporter

Gov. Benigno R. Fitial signs the agreement designating a land for the proposed Koblerville Football Stadium yesterday at the Governor's Office conference room on Capital Hill. (Jacqueline Hernandez) A state-of-the-art football facility will soon rise in southernmost village of Saipan after Gov. Benigno R. Fitial and Department of Public Lands Secretary John Del Rosario yesterday signed a land title transfer to the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs.

Present to witness the signing at the Governor's Office conference room in Capital Hill were Northern Mariana Islands Football Association officials led by president Jerry Tan, vice president Sue Knecht, secretary general Wes Bogdan, and treasurer Vicki Izuka as well as DCCA acting secretary Melvin O. Faisao.

The land in Koblerville, measuring, 8.4 hectares, will be for NMIFA's exclusive use as they begin a three-phase process of building a state-of-the-art football facility that will have bleachers, house two adult-size pitches, at least two youth-size fields, two futsal facilities, locker and shower rooms, and a building that will house the association's office and training center.

DCCA will be the custodian of the land as NMIFA and the government prepares a three-phase process of building the facility. “Football is becoming very popular on Saipan and we are excited about it. The government will do whatever it can to help in the construction of the [Koblerville football complex],” said Fitial.

“I met with [East Asian Football Federation] officials when they came to Saipan a few years ago and the interest is high to support us in football development.”

Fitial said China, Japan, and Korea represent the backbone of EAFF and a modern football facility in the CNMI would attract foreign teams to practice on Saipan. “It will attract international competition and it will enhance our economy.”

Tan said NMIFA will be working on a 10-year plan where their first thing to do is to raise $500,000 to begin the first phase of their three-phase plan. “We [NMIFA] will have to finalize with the EAFF of how we can get funding. We will immediately layout the groundwork.”

He said that phase one alone could take them from 18 to 24 months to finish. “Our next move is to put into action of the development of the property. We would begin with phase one immediately and once the groundwork is complete we will begin with phase two. It is a10-year master plan.

Tan said NMIFA will work closely with the Guam Football Association in the design of the Koblerville facility and consult them on what would be their next step.

NMIFA, in a letter to Fitial, requested the land proposing it would transform it to a modern football practice and game facility.

Fitial said his administration is supporting programs that would benefit the community. “Especially sports programs that will promote the health and well being of our people.”

He said that having the facility on island will make the CNMI attractive to other sports organizations that may need a training venue for their athletes or a facility for competitive games from the commonwealth's neighbors in the Asia-Pacific.

“As part of our commitment, the government will contribute $500,000 to NMIFA in support of the program envisioned by the association to construct, operate, and maintain the proposed Koblerville [Football] Stadium provided NMIFA will equally match the government's commitment towards this project.”

"THE PROGRAM" Winter 2008

2008-01-10T09:38:00.000+10:00

Date WEEK #1
1/1 - Tues 2 mile ball run Juggle 30pu
1/2 - Wed Play game 2 mile ball run Juggle 45cr
1/3 - Thu 12run/3sprint 2 mile ball run 30pu
1/4 – Fri Play game 2 mile ball run Juggle 45cr
1/5 - Sat 12run/3.5sprint 2 mile ball run 30pu
1/6 - Sun 8-120's in 19 Juggle 45cr
1/7 - Mon Day Off

WEEK #2
1/8 - Tues 2 mile ball run Juggle 30pu – 50cr
1/9 - Wed Winter game 2 mile ball run Juggle 30pu – 50cr
1/10 - Thu 9-120's in 19 2 mile ball run 30pu – 50cr
1/11 - Fri Winter game 2 mile ball run Juggle 30pu – 50cr
1/12 - Sat 14run/4sprint 2 mile ball run 30pu – 50cr
1/13 - Sun 8-120's in 19 Juggle 30pu – 50cr
1/14 - Mon Day Off

WEEK #3
1/15 - Tues 2 mile ball run Juggle 50pu – 70cr Jump Rope
1/16 - Wed Winter game 2 mile ball run Juggle 50pu – 70cr Jump Rope
1/17 - Thu 14run/4sprint 2 mile ball run 50pu – 70cr Jump Rope
1/18 - Fri Winter game 2 mile ball run Juggle 50pu – 70cr Jump Rope
1/19 - Sat 3MILE under23 2 mile ball run 50pu – 70cr
1/20 - Sun 10-120's in 19 Juggle 50pu – 70cr
1/21 - Mon Day off

WEEK #4
1/22 - Tues 3MILE under23 Juggle 60pu – 90cr
1/23 - Wed Winter game 2 mile ball run Juggle 60pu – 90cr
1/24 - Thu 10-120's in 19 2 mile ball run 60pu – 90cr Jump Rope
1/25 - Fri Summer game 2 mile ball run 60pu – 90cr Jump Rope
1/26 - Sat 15run/5sprint 2 mile ball run Jump Rope
1/27 - Sun 10-120's in 18 Juggle
1/28 - Mon Day off

WEEK #5
1/29 - Tues 3 mile ball run Juggle 80pu – 110cr
1/30 - Wed Summer game 2 mile ball run Juggle Jump Rope
1/31 - Thu 15run/5.5sprint 2 mile ball run 80pu – 110cr
2/1 - Fri Summer game 2 mile ball run Juggle Jump Rope
2/2 - Sat 16run/6sprint 2 mile ball run 80pu – 110cr
2/3 - Sun 10-120's in 18 Juggle Jump Rope
2/4 - Mon Day Off

WEEK #6
2/5 - Tues 3MILE under22 Juggle 100pu – 150cr
2/6 - Wed Summer game 2 mile ball run Jump Rope
2/7 - Thu 11-120's in 18 Juggle 100pu – 150cr
2/8 - Fri Summer game 2 mile ball run Juggle Jump Rope
2/9 - Sat 17run/6.5sprint Juggle Jump Rope
2/10 - Sun 11-120's in 18 Juggle 100pu – 150cr
2/11 - Mon Day off

Continue with Week 6 until told otherwise

NMI Women's National Football team named

2007-11-26T11:41:00.001+10:00

Monday November 26, 2007

NMI women’s national football team named

By Roselyn B. Monroyo
Variety News Staff

TWENTY female strikers have been named to the NMI national football team after more than a month of training.

Making the list were Natalie Hill, Meaghan Hassel-Shearer, Katie Peters, Emily Gries, Rebecca Newman, Francine Sablan, Jennifer Linden, Maryana Gramlich, Lindsay Davis., Brenda Schultz, Zoe Jewell, Rima Halaby, Divya Sharma, Madison Smith, Elisa Fejeran, Nikki Gabaldon, Patricia Coleman, Ashley Hofschneider, Connie Camacho, and Amanda Allen.

Northern Mariana Island Football Association technical director Jason Higgins will be coaching the team.

Higgins, who conducted a series of tryouts for the NMI Women’s Nationals, is expected to continue holding training sessions over the next four weeks before the holiday break.

Next year, Higgins will be conducting 4 to 5-weeklong training sessions to prepare the NMI female strikers for the 2nd Annual Marianas Cup.

The Marianas Cup is set for spring next year with the NMI hoping to settle the score with Guam.

The NMI bets, who were coached by NMI coach Jeff “Ziggy” Korytoski then, suffered a 0-7 beating at the hands of the Guam strikers at the GFA Complex and Training Facility Field in Harmon in April this year.

In preparation for the rematch, the NMI bets will be playing weekly games against a U15 co-ed team and the Superstar Team. The “Superstars” are composed of selected players from the ongoing women’s fall league. Steve McKagen and Brad Ruszala are coaching the “Superstars.”

Last Saturday at the Oleai Sports Complex Field,, the NMI women’s football team played its first game as one squad and shut out the Superstars, 6-0.

Semi Finals for The Women's League!

2007-11-25T10:20:00.000+10:00

Final League standings!
Wild Fire11
Smith's 8
Marianas Eye 6
PIC 5

Saturday December 1st Schedule
ALL GAMES AT CPA

2:30 1st ranked Wild Bill's Vs 4th ranked PIC
4:15 2nd ranked Smith's plays 3rd ranked Marianas Eye

The winner from these games will play on December 8th for the Championship at 10:00.
The almost winners will play a consolation game on the same day for 3rd and 4th place at 8:15.
An on site award ceremony will occur right after the game. All player's attendance is requested (Jason's Minions as well).

Women's Games for Sat November 24th

2007-11-25T10:16:00.000+10:00

Games info for Saturday November 24th
Wildfire 2-Smith's 2
Wildfire Goal Nicole Leblanc
Smith's goal Madison Smith off an assist from Emily Gries
Wildfire goal Natalie Hill
Smith's goal Emily Gries

Wild Bill's DPOTG: Angie Mister
Wild Bill's OPOTG: Patty Coleman
Smith's OPOTG Madison Smith
Smith's DPOTG Emily Gries

Game 2 Minions (4) VS Marianas Eye (0):
1st half:
Zoe Jewell Scored off an assist from Lucas Knecht
Hana Thompson scored off an assist from Damien Jeon
TeMary Gramlich of Marianas Eye saved 6 shots.
2nd half:
Hunter Thorpe scored 2 goals. The later off a penalty kick.
Minions OPOTG was Damien Jeon
Minions DPOTG was Caleb Arriola
Marianas Eye OPOTG was Karen Klaver
Marianas Eye DPOTG was Allison Livingston

By Popular Demand

2007-11-20T10:44:00.000+10:00

Due to popular demand:
Mon, Nov 19th 4:30 WNT training at GTC (cuts) Superstars at CPA
Wed, Nov 21st 4:30 WNT training at GTC Superstars at CPA
Fri, Nov 23 4:30 WNT training at GTC Superstars at CPA
Sat, Nov 24 10:00 WNT VS Superstars at ChaCha
2:30 Wild Bills Vs Smith's
4:15 Marianas Eye VS Jason's Minions
Mon, Nov 26 4:30 WNT Training at GTC Superstars CPA
Wed, Nov 28 4:30 WNT Training at GTC Superstars CPA
Fri, Nov 30 4:30 WNT Training at GTC Superstars CPA
Sat, Dec 1 10:00 AM WNT vs Jason's Minions at Cha Cha
2:30 1st in points play 4th in points CPA
4:15 3rd in point series play 2nd in point series at CPA
Mon Dec 3 4:30 WNT at GTC Superstars at CPA
Wed, Dec 5 4:30 WNT at GTC Superstars at CPA
Fri, Dec 7 4:30 WNT VS Superstars at ChaCha
Sat Dec 8 8:15 almost winners from last week play for 3rd and 4th
10:00 winners from last week play for 1st and 2nd
Award Ceremony following directly after game ALL are encouraged to attend.
Mon, Dec 10th 4:30 WNT at GTC Superstars at CPA
Wed, Dec 12 4:30 WNT VS Superstars at ChaCha
Until we meet again!!!!!

November 12th Womens League games

2007-11-12T13:49:00.001+10:00

Game 1 PIC Paradise in Cleats Vs Marianas Eye SPECtaculars
PIC 1 Marianas Eye 0
Brenda Schultz scored early in the 1st half off of an assist by Ashley Hofschneider.
Although there were many attempts on goal throughout the game the score stayed 1-0.
PIC's OPOTG Brenda Schultz
PIC's DPOTG Noi Horey
Marianas Eye OPOTG Morgan Rose
Marianas Eye DPOTG Allison Livingston

Game 2 Jason's Minions Vs Smith's Bella Ballers
Minions 4- Bellas 2
The first half was tied 1-1
Zoey Jewell struck first with a goal for the Minions but Madison Smith tied things up off and assist from Tawny Barcinas.
During the second half the Minions began their scoring rampage with goals by Lucas Knecht, Michi Tenorio, and Bradley Brostrom. Bella Ballers also got one more in. Maryana Gramlich scored one in for the Bella Ballers off an assist from Madison Smith.
This game was a muddy mess!!!!!
Minion's OPOTG: Lucas Knecht
Minions DPOTG: Caleb Arriola
Bellas OPOTG: Emily Gries

Bellas DPOTG: Vanesa PritchardPoint standings:

November 12
Wild Bill’s 10
Marianas Eye 6
PIC 5
Smith’s 4

Players "shower off" at Shell after the game.

Monday, 4:30 CPA Field Women's National Team Tryouts begin!!!

2007-11-11T23:33:00.001+10:00

Nothing compares to hearing the anthem being played and knowing you are there to represent the CNMI playing a sport you love!!! Think of all the young women and girls you can inspire to play! Think of the pride you will feel at the end of the day knowing you did it!
Come give it a shot!!! Try-outs are from 4:30-6:00 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at CPA field!

women's rec league continues!!!!

2007-11-10T14:12:00.000+10:00

Hot off the press:
Game 1:
Smith's Bella Ballers beat Marianas Eye Spectaculars 1-0. Both teams were without Captains. Morgan Rose was sidelined due to an injury and Emily Gries was coaching her Community School girls interscholastic team. The score was 0-0 in the first 1/2. Tawny Barcinas crossed a beautiful ball over to Madison Smith who tapped it in for the win. The offensive player of the game for Smiths was Madison Smith and the Defensive player of the game was Vanesa Pritchard. Specs offensive player of the game was Karen Klaver and their defensive player of the game was Linda Anastatio.
Game 2:
Wild Bills Wildfire beat PIC's Paradise in Cleats 2-0. It was a well matched game with actions on both sides of the field. The score was 0-0 at half time. Early in the 2nd half Patty Coleman dribbled down and broke through the PIC defense and dribbled in and shot for the goal. Lindsay Davis scored one in as the slippery ball made it's way through Noi Horey's slippery hands in this mud filled game.
The offensive player of the game for Wild Bills was Patty Coleman and Defensive player of the game was Angie Mister. PIC's offensive player of the game was Brenda Schultz and defensive player f the game was Jenny Linden.

Standings:
Wild Bills 10 pts
Marianas Eye 6 Pts
Smith's 4 pts
PIC 2 pts

October 27th players of the game were:
Smiths OPOTG Madison Smith
Smiths DPOTG Vanesa Pritchard
Wild Bill's OPOTG Connie Camacho
Wild Bill's DPOTG Nikki Gabaldon
Marianas Eye Institute OPOTG Elyssa Fejeran
Marianas Eye Insttute DPOTG Allisn Livingston
Minions OPOTG Zoe Jewell
Minions DPOTG Kai Stahl

CNMI Women's National Team Try-outs!

2007-11-07T13:37:00.000+10:00

November 12th, 2007, 4:30pm at CPA Field is the first day of WNT try-outs.

If you are selected for the team, training will be held Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
with Saturday morning games.

For more information, contact Jason Higgins at jhiggins@nmifa.com.

Action and Reaction Forces

2007-10-28T09:44:00.001+10:00

saves, assists, and goals in Women's Football

2007-10-24T19:33:00.000+10:00

Wouldn't it be GREAT to have CAPS?!?! Someday...

10-13-07
Game 1
PIC VS Wild Bill's
PIC
Jessie Coletta 1 save
Wild Bill's
Vanessa Mobel 3 saves

Game 2
Smith's VS Marianas Eye
Smith's
Maria Ornes 5 saves
Maryana Gramlich 4 saves
Marianas Eye
TeMary Gramlich 3 saves
Becca Newman 3 saves
Morgan Rose 3 goals
Becca Newman 1 goal

10-20-07
Game 1
Marianas Eye VS PIC
Marianas Eye
Te Mary Gramlich 1 save
Becca Newman 3 saves
Morgan Rose 4 goals
Toi Smith 1 goal
Morgan Rose 1 assist
PIC
Noi Horey 8 saves

Game 2
Jason's Minions VS Smiths
Minions
Hunter Thorpe 1 save
Bradley Brostrom 3 goals
Amber Roberts 1 assist
Smith's
Maria Ornes 13 saves
Maryana Gramlich 7 saves

10-21-07
Game 1
Smith's VS PIC
Smith's
Desiree Topper 3 saves
Alleny Tenorio 5 saves
Emily Gries 1 goal
Lovelle D'Lonsol 1 goal
PIC
Noi Horey 4 saves
Brenda Schultz 2 goals

Game 2
Jason's Minions VS Wild Bill's
Minions
Daniel Macario 2 goals
Wild Bill's
Vanessa Mobel 2 saves
Nicole LeBlanc 3 saves

women of the game

2007-10-24T19:13:00.000+10:00

This year we are trying something new. The women take responsibility for Stats: The statisticians for each game choose an offensive player and a defensive player per game. I submit this to the press however, I have been informed that they have not all been getting in the paper sooooo here they are! Brought to you by our rotating statisticians. Keep checking back for more updates!

10-13-07 1st game
Wild Bill's VS PIC
Wild Bill's OPOTG: Lindsay Davis
Wild Bill's DPATG: Nikki Gabaldon
PIC's OPOTG: Brenda Schultz
PIC's DPOTG: Divya Sharma

2nd game
Smith's VS Marianas Eye
Smith's OPOTG: Rhonda Camacho
Smith's DPOTG: Maria Ornes
Marianas Eye OPOTG: Toi Smith
Marianas Eye DPOTG TeMary Gramlich

10-20-07
1st game
Marianas Eye VS PIC
Marianas Eye OPOTG: Morgan Rose
Marianas Eye DPOTG: Leanne Loan
PIC OPOTG: Meaghan Hassel-Shearer
PIC DPOTG: Nicolette Seckeler

2nd Game
Jason's Minions VS Smiths
Minions OPOTG: Bradley Brostrom
Minions DPOTG: Amber Roberts
Smith's OPOTG: Maryana Gramlich
Smith's DPOTG: Maria Ornes

10-21-07
1st game: Smith's VS PIC
Smith's OPOTG: Lovelle D'Lonsol
Smith's DPOTG: Katie Busenkell
PIC's OPOTG: Kathy Pagapular
PIC's DPOTG: Jenny Linden

2nd game:
Jason's Mimion's VS Wild Bills
Minions OPOTG: Zoe Jewell
Minions DPOTG: Amber Roberts
Wild Bill's OPOTG: Connie Camacho
Wild Bill's DPOTG: Nikki Gabaldon