The mission of FC COPA is to identify, develop and educate current and future youth soccer players and coaches in a positive, structured, challenging and fun atmosphere. More importantly FC COPA strives to develop young men and young ladies of character.
Click on this TRYOUT link or select the Team Tryouts link on the left menu for dates and locations
Please complete the Evaluation Information Form before attending a tryout session
The mission of F.C. Copa is to identify, develop and educate current and future youth soccer players and coaches in a positive, structured, challenging and fun atmosphere. More importantly F.C. Copa strives to develop young men and young ladies of character and prepare them to succeed in life.
"Teams of Excellence" Named by Eastern Development Program
The Eastern Developmental Program has designated FC Copa Juniors U14 Boys as one of the 25 “Teams of Excellence." These teams will participate in a program of weekly matches and events organized by Mid-Atlantic Premier Soccer during the 2010-11 seasonal years.
The EDP offers a high level of competition throughout the year for excellent teams in a positive developmental atmosphere. "The initial reaction to this program has been very positive" says EDP Program Director, Bohdan Portyko. The EDP will provide the highest level of competition available on the East Coast for accepted teams and starting in the Fall of 2010 will be the highest MAPS flight in the MSSL Player Development System. The focus of the EDP is player development and progression, and providing all high potential players an effective path to identification by National programs, Colleges and Professional Teams.
"We are incredibly proud to continue to have our players, teams and program recognized as one of the top organizations in the Easter Region" said Roberto Aguas, Director of Player Development and founder of FC Copa. "We belive the EDP will reflect the type of competition and environment we strive our players to be in while continuing their development via our curriculum."
The EDP is intended for "Teams of Excellence" from Greater DC/Baltimore to Greater Boston that have a competitive track record, a qualified coaching staff and a proven commitment to player development. EDP Flights are designed to complement other high level playing opportunities. The Schedule will allow for State Cup and Region I League participation.
"As the coach of this team since U11, I have seen the growth, maturity and development of the players and the team every year. To be selected as 1 of the 25 initial 'Teams of Excellence" is a great reward for all the hard work, loyalty and belief the players have shown" said Mike Reid, coach of the FC Copa Juniors.
Best effort affords the best results. Good luck boys!
FC Copa Furia U16G wins 2010 Virginian Tournament!
The U-16 Girls Furia returned from the Virginian with the GOLD! After narrowly losing their last tournament in a PK battle in the championship match, the team was determined to come home with a big W.
In torrid heat, the Furia team remained undefeated for all five games; 2-0 against the Alleycat Predators, NY ; 4-1 against the GSC Premier Elite, VA; 2-1 against the McLean Liberty, VA and 3-0 replaying the Alleycat Predators for their spot in the finals. They out-played their opponents with an aggressive offense and tight defense, only giving up 2 goals the entire series. The intense championship game against the Vista Fury, a local favorite in scorching heat was won with a single goal in the 90 minute game. Coach Randy Velasco commented "The team demonstrated their sheer endurance, determination and perseverance bringing everything they had on the field and coming out on top".
The Furia dedicated their championship win to Jessie Natale and Katie Amato both veteran players who recently underwent surgery and didn’t finish the season.
Congratulations to the FC Copa Furia for a victorious end to the regular season!
FC Copa Real U15G champions & FC Copa Forza U17B finalist at ADIDAS Potomac Tournament
Both teams battled through intense heat and tough opponents to reach the finals of the prestigious ADIDAS 2010 Potomac Memorial Day tournament.
The FC Copa Forza U17B took on some of the top teams in the east coast and Canada. Along the way to the finals the Forza won vs Sigma FC from Canada 2-0 and PA Classics Elite (PA) 2-1, while drawing in their last pool play game versus Blackwatch 1-1. In the semi-finals they met with New Jersey rival PDA Beckham and prevailed with a score of 4-1.
On Memorial Day Monday, under the excitement of playing in the Stadium field, the Forza met GFA 92, the Great Falls Athletic team is the second ranked team in Virginia. The Forza started the match playing faster, winning more balls and controlling the middle on their opponent. At the end of the half, in very hot playing conditions the game was still anyone’s for the taking. With all goals quickly answered by both sides, the boys moved into overtime on a 2-2 score line. After another 20 minutes in the heat each goal scored still left the young men of Forza tied 3-3. While no one wants to see a match like this end in PK’s the officials were preparing for the line up. On this day, while FC FORZA outplayed the opponent, they ultimately fell to the Virginians and lost in the penalty kick round. We congratulate the boys on reaching the finals of this premier tournament.
The FC Copa Real had a similar path to the finals with one exception, they prevailed at the end via PKs! In pool play , the Real faced Empire USA Syracuse and tied with a 2-2 score, outplayed the home state teams ASA 3-0 and MSI 7-0 in a very one sided game. In the semi final, they moved on to meet Beachside (CT), the 6th rank team in Connecticut, and prevailed with a 1-0 score. In the finals they would meet Connecticut’s number 5 team and state cup finalist, FSA FC United WHP. Poised to capture their state’s cup on June 6, 2010, this game proved to be a great battle of wills!
The heat of the day was clearly going to be a factor while the temperature was hovering in the nineties. It did not stop the girls from playing FC Copa possession soccer, effectively moving the ball well on the ground, often pulling the opponents out of shape. They created several chances by getting past the defensive line but were unlucky and did not convert. While there were many scoring opportunities and crossbar being struck, the ball did not want to go in the net. After a well played regulation period the scoreless game moved into the 20 minute overtime period. Once again the overtime period could not break the deadlock and once again an FC Copa team would head into PK’s to decide the championship. After the initial 5 PKs, each team remained even, forcing the game into the sudden death shootout where the Real prevailed after a magnificent save by its keeper and a final PK brought home the championship.
FOR CURRENT and NEW U11-U14 FC COPA PLAYERS & NEW U15-U18 PLAYERS
JOIN US THIS SUMMER!!
FC Copa is proud to announce the 5th year of SOL Summer Premier soccer for 2010! Players on current FC Copa U11-U14 Academy teams are not required to tryout – if you plan to play with the team this summer - you simply need to Register. If you would like to tryout for the team and are not currently an FC Copa player, please complete ourevaluation information form, and we’ll contact you with tryout information.
Shannon Murphy, alumni of FC Copa Fuego, has been selected to the US Women's National Futsal Team for 2010.
The National Futsal Team is comprised of 12 outstanding female futsal players from various states, including, California, Missouri, New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts. Many of the women on the team have or will be graduating from Division 1 soccer programs and have a vast amount of Futsal competitive experience.
Shannon states, "If you have a dream, always work towards it with determination, don’t let anyone tell you it can’t be done. I believe that having heart and training/playing with passion is what makes it all fun. During my time with FC Copa, Roberto thoroughly encouraged me to seek out my dreams and work toward them whenever I got the chance." Roberto Aguas, Director of Player Development commented " While at FC Copa, Shannon continually worked hard and never stopped believing in her dream. This is a big step towards achieving her goals and it is an inspiration for all our young players to mimic"
Shannon will report to the National Futsal team training camp in mid-June in preparation to participate in the 25th Anniversary 2010 Futsal National Championship in Long Beach California in early July. She will have a private graduation ceremony at her High School since the training camp is 3 weeks before the end of the school-year. After returning from the Futsal National Championship she'll have a couple of weeks off before she takes yet another step in her soccer journey and reports to pre-season camp at Georgian Court University, where she has chosen to attend and play collegiate soccer.
Congratulations Shannon and best of luck at the Futsal Nationals!
The Juniors continued their winning ways this spring season as they culminated their State Cup run with tough wins over Pasco Jr in the semis and Jersey United in the finals on May 16th. The road to the championship began with a shutout win against Medford and the Juniors followed that with a 3-1 victory over Millstone United, who had knocked them off in last year's competition. They then advance to the semis where they faced the defending champions Pasco Jrs. In similar fashion with Millstone, the Juniors jumped to a 3-0 and hung on for the another 3-1 win. The team stayed on course with its stifling defense to win the championship 2-1.
As a team, the Juniors yielded only 3 goals the entire tournament with a defense that shutdown teams that are used to putting up numerous goals in their games. It was a total team effort as the offense put up 14 goals of its own during the tournament.
FC Copa Juniors U13B, FC Copa Chelsea U14B, FC Copa Real U15G and FC Copa Forza U17B reach US Club "State Cup" Semi Finals
In a historic moment for FC Copa, we want to congratulate and wish four of our teams the best of luck as they compete this weekend in the semi-finals and finals of US Club Soccer's 2010 New Jersey Cup. The FC Copa Juniors, FC Copa Chelsea, FC Copa Real and FC Copa Forza will all represent our club proudly as the competition now moves to a central location, Mercer County Park, on Saturday and Sunday to crown the champions in their respective age groups.
"The growth of our club is not only reflected in the number of players , families and teams we now have within our development system, but equally as important are the successes we are starting to see on and off the pitch" commented Roberto Aguas, President and Founder of FC Copa. He went on to say "We are incredibly proud to have four formidable competitive teams representing the entire FC Copa family at this weekends' US Club "State Cup" and look forward to posting the positive news as they look to bring home the cup."
Bob Kuzbyt, Director of US Club Soccer's New Jersey Cup commented by stating that ``FC Copa has been a strong supporter of the New Jersey Cup, and US Club Soccer's other events, for many years. The New Jersey Cup is now in its sixth year and it has grown just as FC Copa has grown as a club. I personally want to thank FC Copa for all it does for youth soccer in general.''
On behalf of the entire FC Copa Family we wish all our players, parents and coaches the best this weekend!
FC Copa Real U15G and FC Copa Furia U16G, both reach finals at YMS Epic 2010.
In what turned out to be a heartbreak of a day, both the Real U15G and Furia U16G reached the finals of the 2010 YMS Epic tournament only to see both games end up not going their way.
The Real U15G lost 1-0 in a very tight game under challenging winds. The goal was scored against them early and although the team created many scoring opportunities, the goal never came. The tournament was played under challenging winds which created a tough environment for a possession based game. Never the less, the team played with high intensity and showed tremendous effort.
The FC Copa Furia U16G had an even tougher ending. Having won all three preliminary games on the road to the finals, the team faced the same opponent from last year. The Furia played well as it overcame all three preliminary opponents while only giving up 1 goal. With a tough defense anchoring their successes, the Furia found the back of the net 4 times in preliminary play, but was denied a goal on the main stage of the championship game. The game was pushed into overtime and at the end of the two sudden death periods, the game remained scoreless which meant the tournament would be decided via the dreaded penalty shootout. Although the team performed well, they came up just shorts as they saw some of their shots miss the net.
We want to congratulate both teams on a great tournament and we wish them well as they now go on to compete at the Potomac Memorial day tournament and The Virginian College Showcase.
Portuguese Women’s National Team invites FC Copa’s Melanie Santos to camp
Melanie Santos, co-captain of the FC Copa Furia U16G, has been invited to the upcoming Portuguese Women’s National Team camp which will be held from April 8 through April 11 in Oeiras, Portugal where the national team trains.
“It's an honor to be invited to the training camp but even more special to possibly be considered for the National Team in the future" said Melanie. "It's the highest achievement in soccer for any player”
FC Copa Furia’s coach, Randy Velasco, is quick to add, "Melanie has proven to be a great player and teammate. I admire her work ethic on the soccer field where she always gives her best. Even more impressive is that Melanie is not only a great player but an exceptional young lady". Coach Velasco goes on to state that “as a team captain Melanie has demonstrated the ability to be a consistent leader on and off the soccer field and can play any position even GK."
"Well liked and respected, it is easy to understand her mounting accolades. As an original member of the FC Copa Furia U13G in 2006, Melanie has been, since its inception, one of the team's key players and scorers." stated Roberto Aguas, President and Founder of FC Copa.
The entire FC Copa family is confident that Melanie will bring the same focus and dedication she has shown throughout the years to her experience in Portugal.
James "JMAC" McCarthy, sign professional contract and fulfills a lifelong dream!
As a member of the outstanding FC Copa Classico team coached by TJ Kostecky, which saw 18 players go on to play in college, James McCarthy has taken it one step further as he became the first FC Copa alumnus in club history to sign a professional contract this month with AC St. Louis of the North American Soccer League (NASL).
James was an outstanding striker while part of the FC Copa U15 and U16 teams where he terrorized his opponents with tremendous technical skills and a tenacious drive for the goal. After laying his roots at FC Copa, James crossed the pond to attend the Manchester United Soccer School where he was the recipient of the Best Player Award and was offered a professional trial with an English premier team. James returned state side to play his U18 year with the IMG Premier Development Academy before signing with AC St. Louis.
"I was very fortunate and proud to have played for FC Copa. Under the leadership of Roberto Aguas, FC Copa's founder, the club has provided the vehicle for young players to improve their lives on and off the field." said James as he prepared to sign his professional contract. James' FC Copa connections do not stop with his early youth years at the club; he credits Paul Newman, FC Copa staff coach and Director of SAQ (Speed, Agility and Quickness) as being a major part of his success. "Paul has been my soccer trainer/mentor for five years and has been instrumental in improving my overall agility and quickness, functional strength, nutrition; while focusing on soccer specific technical skills and tactical philosophies."
"This is another validation point of our mission and goal at FC Copa of focusing our efforts in developing players to play at the highest level while preparing them to succeed in life" stated Roberto Aguas, President and Founder of FC Copa. "We are so happy for James and the entire McCarthy family as we celebrate this great accomplishment with them. We wish James the best of luck!"
James summed up the moment best by stating "My advice to the younger players is to never stop playing and always have fun. It is the relationship between you and the ball that will allow you to be creative and this will impact your team." He went on to say "FC Copa allowed me to apply these skills on the pitch which raised my overall level of play."
You can follow James and his journey in the professional ranks via the links for the AC St. Louis Facebook site and the European Football Group client page.
Vivian Barone to fill new role as Director of Communications for FC Copa!
Since our inception in 2004, FC Copa has had the privilege to assist in the development of hundreds of New Jersey’s youth soccer players. Our mission to identify, develop and educate current and future youth soccer players and coaches in a positive, structured, challenging and fun atmosphere. More importantly to develop young men and young ladies of character and prepare them to succeed in life, continues to thrive and is evidenced by the hard work that our players bring to the practice fields each week and to the game pitch for every scrimmage, league or tournament match.
We have grown from 3 teams in the fall of 2004 to 16 teams in 2010. With the growth and expansion of our club we share in the individual successes of our players and coaches collectively. These successes both on and off the field, athletic and academic, personal achievement or philanthropic endeavors add richness and creates a “living culture” at FC Copa.
In a continued effort to share all of our accomplishments at all levels of the club we are proud to announce that we will now have a utility on our main page that you may access to help us share all of the news within our club.
Vivian Barone, our new Director of Communications will manage your submissions and create, augment and facilitate the timely release of the club’s news. Her expertise in logistics and liaison to local newspapers in her capacity as Schoolwide Enrichment Model Coordinator for her Elementary School, P. S. 54 in Staten Island, can be easily transferred to our organization of learning for our soccer students.
"I am ecstatic to not only add this new role, Director of Communication, to FC Copa, but even more excited to welcome Vivian as she undertakes a critical aspect of our growth. With her extensive background in education as well as organizational and logistical skills, they are a perfect fit for the expansion in this important area of communications" said Roberto Aguas, President of FC Copa.
Vivian added, "I am thrilled to be able to assist in the next level of growth within Copa. Spotlighting the accomplishments of our players and teams is certainly a source of pride. It exemplifies the dedication, hard work and commitment of all the individuals that have made and will continue to make FC Copa a leader in the development of players that have a respect for the game, themselves and the world around them."
FC Copa is proud to send, as our club’s and state’s representatives the following teams to this years Dallas Cup:
FC Copa Chelsea U14B, FC Copa Boca U16B and FC Copa Forza U17B
Recognized as the most prestigious international tournament held in the US, Dallas Cup is a highly competitive tournament and is extremely selective in the teams that it invites. Going back to 2005, the State of New Jersey was not even represented. Since the inception of FC Copa in 2005 only 22 teams from NJ have been admitted. In the five years from 2005 through 2009 there have been nine New Jersey Clubs represented. While it is rare for a club to send more than two teams, it has happened only once in the past 6 tournament years.
FC Copa is proud to announce that this year, THREE teams have been accepted to the world renowned Dallas Cup to compete with the best teams from around the country and the world. "We are incredibly proud of not only our teams but of our club as we represent the largest contingent from the east coast this year. It will be very exciting to see all the players from the three FC Copa teams together during this great tournament. The unity and bonds that are built when we travel and compete together will be invaluable for us all" said Roberto Aguas, Director of Player Development.
Dallas Cup is the oldest international youth soccer tournament in the United States, celebrating its 30th year in 2009. Since its beginning in 1980, Dallas Cup has played host to teams and referees from over 45 states, 100 countries and 6 continents. The tournament is held every spring from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. Bryant Salavarrieta, coach of FC Copa Chelsea U14B states "This 9 day event is made even more special because of it's international flavor. To think that in a few days we will be on the pitch with teams from all over the world" The FC Copa teams are already scheduled to play teams from Mexico, Venezuela and Canada with potential games, if they advance, against teams from Trinidad and Tobago, England, France, New Zealand, China and Costa Rica. Mike Reid, Coach of the U16B FC Copa Boca states "These experiences are unique and exciting for our boys. As we look to match up our skills versus those of players from around the world, we will look to compete by making the proper adjustments to their styles of play."
Every year Dallas Cup brings selective boys teams ages 13 to 19 to participate in seven age groups. The tournament entertains on average more than 160,000 spectators during the week, watching teams from all over the world participate in an extremely intense, explosive and competitive tournament where only the best return home champions. The field of teams consists of approximately 40% international teams, 40% state-side teams and 20% Dallas area teams. The benefits of such cross culture exposure are unlimited. Players disregard any social, ethnic, religious or economic prejudices and walk away making friends for life through the love of the beautiful game.
Good luck gentlemen! Your club is very proud of all of your accomplishments.
FC Copa Juniors U13B won the 2010 MAPS Spring Challenge in Fort Dix this past weekend!
The team started their spring season in the same fashion as they ended their fall season with impressive wins against high level opponents. The road to the championship was a difficult one as Juniors were put into the group of death which included the State Champion from Delaware, a State Semi-Finalist from Eastern Pennsylvania and a State and Region I Finalist (8v8) from Virginia.
In survival mode, they ended up finishing second in their group and advanced to the semis where a 2008 NJ State Finalist from Washington Township awaited them. After an early goal put the Juniors up early 1-0, the talented Washington team equalized the score mid way through the second half. With about 3 minutes left Abby Elsayed took the ball down the right side and struck a bomb that ended up in the side netting and gave the Juniors the win.
The finals culminated a great weekend of soccer as the Juniors outlasted Arsenal World Class 1-0 to take home the trophy. Coach Mike Reid summarized the weekend with these words "Every player contributed to the success and should be proud of their efforts. After five long games, the championship was a complete team win!"
CONGRATULATIONS! FC Copa Forza U17B and FC Copa Chelsea U14B are playing in Region 1 Premier League this spring .
The Region I Premier League is for the top sixteen teams through out the Region in the U14 to U18 age groups for both girls and boys. The competition is designed to allow the very best teams in Region I to play each other in a League format.
Follow Forza’s and Chelsea’s progress through out the Region 1 Premier League season via the links below. The Forza is currently tied for first place and Chelsea remains undefeated so far so far.
CONGRATULATIONS! FC Copa Boca are playing in Region 1 Colonial League this spring.
These programs have been designed to meet the needs of the elite team and players. They provide the opportunity to play other elite teams in a league format rather than a tournament format.
Follow Boca’s Region I Colonial League season via this link:
FC Copa Fuego goalkeeper, Amanda Wong, has committed to play for Muhlenburg College in Allentown, PA starting next year. A Div 3 school which just completed a trip to the NCAA championship, the first since 2003, and ended the season with a 12-7 overall record and a Centennial Conference record of 9-1.
"We are incredibly proud of Amanda and her accomplishments at FC Copa" stated Roberto Aguas, Director of Player Development and Founder, "Amanda has shown great leadership and unwavering loyalty during her 4 years here and we are confident she will continue to do so at the next level when she joins the Muhlenberg Mules next year"
"I am very happy that Amanda Wong has decided to attend Muhlenberg College. I hope that Amanda will be able to contribute to our team. I look forward to her continuing as a goalkeeper here at Muhlenberg College." said Leslie Benintend, head coach of the Muhlenburg College women's soccer program who currently boasts the most wins in school's history. The program she currently leads has posted a 173-93-22 record in her past 14 seasons which calculates to a .639 winning average. No doubt Amanda is excited in helping the MULES continue the winning tradition.
"My years spent developing my game at FC Copa and Fuego in particular have not only been incredibly rewarding personally but there is no doubt it has prepared me to reach my goal of playing in college and succeed at that level. This could not be more evident then by being accepted to my program of choice."
All of us at FC Copa would like to wish Amanda great success in this season with the Fuego and next year with the Muhlenberg MULES.
FC Copa Coach Marty Berman caps off a great season with the honor of NSCAA Coach of the Year title for the Eastern Region…
It takes dedication and unwavering service to the game of soccer to achieve an exemplary record that Coach Marty Berman has achieved. His Longevity in soccer reaches back for more than 2 decades. He exemplifies sportsmanship and success; the kind of success that being at the helm of a team that can win a second state title in three years with only two seniors in the starting line up can boast.
In addition to his new title of NSCAA Boys Coach of the Year for the Eastern Region, Coach Berman has achieved, elusive for many, his 300th career victory. (Berman is 303-162-42) Seton Hall Prep not only captured the NJSIAA Non Public A Championship but was also dubbed the Team of the Year by Star Ledger/NJ.com, making the claim that his team’s success was due more to “chemistry than physics.”
Coach Berman has brought extensive experience, style of education/coaching and care for his players to FC Copa. In his first season with the U11G FC Copa Celeste, the team reached heights which were unexpected to us all. "Marty has a way of teaching the game that is both instructional and fun" said Roberto Aguas, Director of Player Development. "In all the years I have known Marty, he has always developed wining players and teams. We are very excited and proud that he has joined our staff this year.
The FC Copa girl’s side was well represented at the NJ Wildcats Tournament the weekend of December 5th and 6th, with two teams claiming championships. Both the FC Copa Real U15G and the FC Copa Fuego U18G (playing at U19) took home their respective division’s crown, despite freezing rain, snow, sleet, and wind.
This was the second early-season outing for both teams. After a good first showing two weeks earlier at the MSSL Winter College showcase after a high school season with many of the players’ teams reaching post-season play, Real and Fuego were firing on all cylinders for the first run of the NJ Wildcats Showcase.
Saturday’s games were played in the midst of a frigid early winter Nor’easter, with the weather running the gamut from wind-driven rain to sleet to snow at day’s end. The girl’s stayed focused and dispatched each of their two opponents on the day, giving up only a single goal each. Sunday brought a clearing in the weather but the wind and freezing temps remained. Fuego fought a tough dual with a determined Parsippany side, giving up a last minute goal, but their stingy defense for the weekend was sufficient to break the championship tie on fewest goals allowed.
Real easily rolled past its opponent to finish undefeated, allowing just one goal to nine goals scored for the weekend.
Many of FC Copa’s U15 and older teams took the opportunity to shake off the dust immediately following the close of high school season (where many FC Copa players helped their teams advance deep into county and state championships) to participate in the MSSL 2009 Winter College Showcase tournament the weekends of November 21-22 and 27-29.
While all the teams had a good opening start, one stood above the rest in claiming their division championship – FC Copa U16B Boca. In their first competitive play together after only a couple of practice sessions, Boca opened the tournament with a hard fought game ending in a 2-1 loss. That was the only motivation the boy’s needed as they marched through the next three games without giving up a single goal. When the dust had settled, Boca sat at the top of the bracket, taking the championship away from the team that had woken them up in the first game.
This is the second straight tournament championship for the U16B Boca, who also won the boys Central Jersey Invitational tournament in July. All of which bodes well for a successful U16 season which will begin to expose the players to the college recruiting process.
Seton Hall Prep capped a storybook season with a 1-0 victory over CBA in the Non-Public A state final Tuesday night at The College of New Jersey. Playing prominent roles for SHP this fall were four members of the Copa Forza U17B team: Matty Berman, Devin Perlee, Owen Buckley and Linas Razgaitis.
The win gave The Prep a 20-2-1 record, was the third championship for the team this fall and solidified the team as #1 ranked team in The Star-Ledger final season poll. Amongst Seton Hall's championships this season is the inaugural Super Essex Conference, American Division, and shared the Essex County Tournament title with Millburn
Berman was the center midfielder for the team and finished the season with three goals and 19 assists. He was also a captain of the squad. Devin Perlee was a major force at outside midfielder and striker until he went down with a back injury in the County final. Perlee still managed to amass five goals and nine assists. Buckley was the starting outside back until he suffered an ankle injury in the County final, Fortunately he was able to return for the final two games of the state tournament, playing a major role in stifling both CBA and Don Bosco, which was the Number 1 team in the state until Seton Hall beat them in the North Jersey final. Razgaitis missed the first half of the season as he recovered from a broken tibia suffered over the summer. His return proved fortuitous as he stepped in for the injured Buckley and was a key member of the defense that allowed only two goals in five state tournament games and fashioned 11 shutouts, including two shutouts of Millburn, the county final and the game that clinched the conference crown. Marty Berman, the Seton Hall Prep coach, is also the coach of the FC Copa U11G Celeste, the new U-11 girls team this year.
We would like to congratulate all the FC Copa / Seton Hall Prep members on their great accomplishment this season. We look forward to having the boys bring their success to the Forza this year!
FC Copa U18B Armada's Freddie Mundt playing for his HS team, Gill St. Bernard's, celebrates his game winning goal against St. Rose, as they went onto win 3-0 during their NJ Non-Public B Boys HS State Championship last Tuesday night at The College of New Jersey.
Freddie Mundt finished a scramble inside the six-yard box to start the scoring. ``We played well all over the field,'' Mundt said. ``I knew we were in control after the first half.''
Mundt, a member of the FC Copa Armada since its inception as a U15B team, credits his club development as being a major part of why he saw great success with his HS team as a senior.
All of us at FC Copa would like to congratulate Freddie on the exciting conclusion to his HS soccer career!
FC Copa would like to congratulate one of is own. Coach Marty Berman, head coach of the U11G FC Copa Celeste, lead his Seton Hall Prep squad to a win this past weekend earning him his 300th HS coaching win and the team the Super Essex Conference American Division Title, in its inaugural year.
We are all very proud of coach Berman and wish him continued success with his Seton Hall Prep team as they continue their quest for this year's state title.
Now that winter is here and we all start to get a bit cold in the sidelines, we tend to find ways to keep us warm. One of those ways is for parents to pace up and down the field, coaching from the sideline. Well it is probably a good time for us to remind everyone of our guidelines.
The proper guidelines to follow from the sideline is that all cheering should be post action statements; "good shot", "nice try", "good run", "great hustle". Focus on making statements that will support the players efforts after they have performed them and not before. When you instruct, most players are likely to be confused and/or embarrassed. As you will see below, in the great real world example, that it is very difficult to think on your own if someone is constantly on you! Enjoy and absorb the exchange between this Mother and Child!
Here is an exchange that was sent to the Club by one of our coaches. It clearly puts in perspective the issues caused by parents when they coach from the sideline. At FC Copa we clearly articulate to all parents, when they join the club, to refrain 100% from coaching.
Coaching from a teenage son
A mother was making a breakfast of fried eggs for her teenage son. Suddenly the boy bursts into the kitchen.
"Careful! Careful! Put in some more butter! Oh my goodness! You're cooking too many at once.
TOO MANY! Turn them! TURN THEM NOW! We need more butter. Oh my! WHERE are we going to get MORE BUTTER? They're going to STICK! Careful!.CAREFUL! I said CAREFUL! You NEVER listen to me when you're cooking! Never! Turn them! Hurry up! Are you crazy?
Have you lost your mind? Don't forget to salt them. You know you always forget to salt them. Use the salt. USE THE SALT! THE SALT!"
The mother stared at him. "What's wrong with you? You think I don't now how to fry a couple of eggs?"
The son calmly replied, "I just wanted to show you what it feels like when I'm trying to play soccer."
Star Ledger High School Athlete of the Week : David Trank, Mendham HS
We would like to congratulate David Trank, a player on FC Copa's U17B Forza, for being named the Star Ledger's Week 4, Athlete of the week. David has been a force on the field this year with the Mendham HS Boys Soccer team, most recently scoring a goal and assisting on another as his HS team upset top ranked Delbarton in the first round of the Morris County Tournament.
CONGRATULATIONS David!
Following is a reprint from NJ.com / Star Ledger's profile on David Trank- Picture by Robert Sciarrino/The Star-Ledger
DAVID TRANK, MENDHAM HS Junior forward, 6-0, 160
JUST THE STATS: Trank has six goals and one assist for Mendham (6-5-1), which has staged a dramatic turnaround over the past two weeks. Mendham -- which has had four sub-.500 seasons in its nearly 40-year history -- was 2-5-1 after a 2-0 loss at Whippany Park on Oct. 2, which was also the fifth time it had been shut out in six games. Mendham has gone 4-0 since, with Trank scoring five times along the way, including an overtime goal to defeat Mount Olive, 2-1, in the preliminary round of the Morris County Tournament on Oct. 4, a hat trick in a 6-1 victory at Pope John in Sparta on Oct. 5 and a one-goal, one-assist showing when Mendham, the No. 16 seed, stunned top-seeded Delbarton, 2-1, in the first round of the county tournament on Sunday.
FAVORITE MUSICAL GROUP: Red Hot Chili Peppers.
FAVORITE TV SHOW: "Dog Whisperer."
FAVORITE MOVIE: "Gladiator."
FAVORITE SUBJECT: Cooking. ``You get to eat a lot of good food.''
FAVORITE ATHLETE: Joe DiMaggio. ``I was a center fielder when I played baseball and I always liked him.''
THREE FOR DINNER: William Wallace, Gandhi and Julius Caesar.
ON BEATING DELBARTON: ``It meant a lot because we lost to them last year in the county final. The whole team was extremely focused and we played the entire game as if it was our last.''
COACH'S COMMENT: ``He's been an integral part of our turnaround,'' Mendham coach Tim Rymer said. ``We decided over the past few games to play him as our only forward and it's allowed us to go with an extra midfielder and to become more aggressive. He's a funny, clever kid and he enjoys playing the game. And once he steps on the field, he's a fierce competitor.''
FC Copa Aventura U14G Wins Labor Day Tournament in Impressive Fashion!
The U14G Aventura won the 2009 EastBrunswickLabor Day tournament, going undefeated in 4 games and earning 29 out of the possible 30 points in pool play with scores of 4-0, 2-0, 3-0 respectively and a 1-0 win in the final via a penalty kick shoot-out.
No other team in either the Premier or Elite U14G divisions earned that number of points, and no other team had 3 shutouts. Although the team went scoreless in the final match, they also held East Windsor PAL Vision scoreless, which forced a penalty kick shoot-out and it meant going through the tournament without giving up a single goal. The Championship was sealed in the seventh set of PKs, as the Vision player missed and the FC Copa Aventura found the back of the net. More than winning a tournament championship, the manner in which the team accomplished it was impressive. Concentration, dedication, focus and hard work at training mixed in with lots of fun and enjoyment proved to be the winning formula.
We are extremely proud of Coach Bob and Steve as they lead the girls on the FC Copa Aventura U14G to a great start this season!
FC Copa Forza returns for a second year to compete in the 2009 US Club National Cup VIII Finals
For the second year in a row the U.S. Club National Cup championships will be held in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and for the second year in a row the FC Copa Forza U16B will be there. The 2009 US Club National Cup VIII will take place from July 25-28 on the pristine fields of the Hampton Roads Soccer Complex and will consist of the champions of the various regionals held throughout the country. In addition to the regional champions, as 2008 National finalist and this years 2009 Region B finalist, the Forza will be amongst the field of 8 elite teams competing for the national title.
The Forza earned its selection into this prestigious cup after an impressive run in last year's National Cup that saw the team reach the national championship game before dropping a heart-breaking 2-1 decision to Santa Clara Sporting FC (CA). This year the Forza was edged by a very close margin of 1-0 in the Region B championship game held in Pittsgrove, NJ, but despite the difficult loss, they were invited to fill the final spot as the lone wild card to round out the field.
As a special feature this year, the US Club National Cup VIII will be held in conjunction with a National College Showcase, as a result, the games will be played before an array of college coaches. Because of the level of play and importance of the games, the tournament has each team play only one game a day. In this year's bracket, the Forza will meet three of the nation's elite teams on three consecutive days: Pride S.C. Predators of Colorado, St. Louis Scott Gallagher of Missouri and White Plains Elite 93 of New York. Interestingly enough, each game is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. so the team will have nearly a full day to rest, recover and prepare for the next match. One of the preliminary games this year will have a special atmosphere to it as the Forza faces St. Louis Scott Galllagher again this year after successfully meeting them in the semifinals last year en route to the championship game and a national ranking as high as No. 2. This tournament appearance caps a remarkable and busy year for the Forza. The highlights included the prestigious Disney College Showcase and the world-renowned Dallas Cup while continuing to retain their #1 NJ Ranking.
We know that they are once again prepared well to embark on their trip to Virginia Beach and compete at the highest level. The FC Copa family was incredibly supportive last year during the Forza's trip to Nationals. We wish them all the best and we will be following their results once again via the player blog... GO FC Copa Forza!!
This past weekend saw the FC Copa boys side crown two champions at the 2009 Central Jersey Invitational. Both the FC Copa Boca U15B and the FC Copa Forza U16B, won the premier brackets of their respective age groups. In an exciting 2 hour window, both teams emerged as Champions as they played their finals games on the same field.
After a very successful Spring season the newly formed FC Copa Boca U15B, lead by coach Mike Reid, saw a championship which was not snatched away this time by weather. In two previous tournaments, where the team lead after the preliminary games on Saturday, they arrived twice to play on the second day just to see the tournament canceled due to weather. These two previous tournaments fueled the desire of the boys as they looked extremely focused and determined to bring it home this time. Along with the entire team's hard work and focus throughout this tournament, mother nature was on their side this time.
The FC Copa Forza U16B, attended this tournament with only one goal in mind, to work on final preparations before they attend what will be a club first, a second consecutive appearance at the US Club National Cup. The Forza played in the tournament this past weekend with 6 of their players absent due to camps and or previous commitments, but still managed to find a way to battle into the finals and take home the crown.
As the weekend came to a close, both teams left the fields with identical records. Having gone undefeated all weekend with a 4-0-1 record, the more impressive stat was that both teams only allowed ONE goal all weekend in five games.
"We are incredibly proud to continue to have our players, teams and program recognized as one of the top organizations in the Easter Region" said Roberto Aguas, Director of Player Development and founder of FC Copa. "We belive the EDP will reflect the type of competition and environment we strive our players to be in while continuing their development via our curriculum."
FC Copa Furia U16G wins 2010 Virginian Tournament!
In torrid heat, the Furia team remained undefeated for all five games; 2-0 against the Alleycat Predators, NY ; 4-1 against the GSC Premier Elite, VA; 2-1 against the McLean Liberty, VA and 3-0 replaying the Alleycat Predators for their spot in the finals. They out-played their opponents with an aggressive offense and tight defense, only giving up 2 goals the entire series. The intense championship game against the Vista Fury, a local favorite in scorching heat was won with a single goal in the 90 minute game. Coach Randy Velasco commented "The team demonstrated their sheer endurance, determination and perseverance bringing everything they had on the field and coming out on top". 
The FC Copa Real had a similar path to the finals with one exception, they prevailed at the end via PKs! In pool play , the Real faced Empire USA Syracuse and tied with a 2-2 score, outplayed the home state teams ASA 3-0 and MSI 7-0 in a very one sided game. In the semi final, they moved on to meet Beachside (CT), the 6th rank team in Connecticut, and prevailed with a 1-0 score. In the finals they would meet Connecticut’s number 5 team and state cup finalist, FSA FC United WHP. Poised to capture their state’s cup on June 6, 2010, this game proved to be a great battle of wills!
Shannon Murphy, alumni of FC Copa Fuego, has been selected to the US Women's National Futsal Team for 2010. 
FC Copa Juniors Success Continues...
FC Copa Juniors U13B, FC Copa Chelsea U14B, FC Copa Real U15G and FC Copa Forza U17B reach US Club "State Cup" Semi Finals
Bob Kuzbyt, Director of US Club Soccer's New Jersey Cup commented by stating that ``FC Copa has been a strong supporter of the New Jersey Cup, and US Club Soccer's other events, for many years. The New Jersey Cup is now in its sixth year and it has grown just as FC Copa has grown as a club. I personally want to thank FC Copa for all it does for youth soccer in general.''
Recognized as the most prestigious international tournament held in the US, Dallas Cup is a highly competitive tournament and is extremely selective in the teams that it invites. Going back to 2005, the State of New Jersey was not even represented. Since the inception of FC Copa in 2005 only 22 teams from NJ have been admitted. In the five years from 2005 through 2009 there have been nine New Jersey Clubs represented. While it is rare for a club to send more than two teams, it has happened only once in the past 6 tournament years. 
FC Copa U18B Armada's Freddie Mundt playing for his HS team, Gill St. Bernard's, celebrates his game winning goal against St. Rose, as they went onto win 3-0 during their NJ Non-Public B Boys HS State Championship last Tuesday night at The College of New Jersey.
FC Copa coach leads his HS team to his 300th win!
FC Copa Aventura U14G Wins Labor Day Tournament in Impressive Fashion!
FC Copa Forza returns for a second year to compete in the 2009 US Club National Cup VIII Finals
This past weekend saw the FC Copa boys side crown two champions at the 2009 Central Jersey Invitational. Both the FC Copa Boca U15B and the FC Copa Forza U16B, won the premier brackets of their respective age groups. In an exciting 2 hour window, both teams emerged as Champions as they played their finals games on the same field.
