MLS 2014 USL Pro Clubs

[Shway]

It seems FC Dallas and another unnamed club will be the first to enter USL pro culbs.

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2013/11/25/fc-dallas-field-usl-pro-team-club-staying-quiet-pieces-may-be-falling-place

I wonder if TFC is going to field a reserve team in the USLpro.
I think this set up will be beneficial for the larger markets, and for the smaller ones (example; RSL) they can revert to the affiliation.

IMO, this will help with the development gap between the ages of 19-24

[Yohan]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2013/11/25/source-houston-dynamo-strike-usl-pro-affiliation-pittsburgh-riverhounds
Houston teams up with Pittsburgh

[Initial B]

I wonder if TFC is going to field a reserve team in the USLpro.
That's the plan - they're going to move the Lynx to Hamilton and run them as USL Pro franchise out of the new stadium. I think there was a thread on one of the blogs that had an entire set of documentation of what went before Hamilton city council for a vote. Can't remember where I saw it though.

[Leedsoronto]

And deafly silence since. Don't look like goer !!

If the other MLS teams take their reserve teams into USL Pro, who will our reserve team play ?

[Yohan]

Sacramento supposedly in partnership with Portland

http://www.mercedsunstar.com/2013/11/28/3360845/sacramento-soccer-franchise-has.html

[tfcmanu]

Remember this:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bas_Ent

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dayton_Dutch_Lions

There was whispers & write up that TFC would partner up with DAYTON DUTCH LIONS in 2010!!!!

[flamehawk]

Remember this:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bas_Ent

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dayton_Dutch_Lions

There was whispers & write up that TFC would partner up with DAYTON DUTCH LIONS in 2010!!!!

Always thought that connection had something to do with Winter and De Klerk?

I'd prefer something closer to home like Hamilton or Ottawa.

[Haddy]

Here's a question to TFC FO:

Are you willing to sacrifice a year's worth of development / much-needed minutes while you wait for Hamilton to come to fruition?

I'm sure there is much more going on underneath it all and I truly hope TFC thinks, or knows, Hamilton will happen by the spring. Otherwise, why not sign a one-year deal with another club as a buffer?

[Initial B]

Well, I'm sure Ottawa Fury would take a couple of players on loan - not too many as they want a core of their own players, but it would be a higher level of play that USL PRO. In theory, anyways.

[jasper]

Looks like the Lynx's plans for relocation are going to be nixed by Hamilton City Council, according to http://www.hamilton.ca/NR/rdonlyres/6394F7D5-6392-4FA5-B75F-C8983BE5EB36/0/Dec0253PW13095.pdf

[Initial B]

Argh, that gets me steamed. The Ti-Cats don't have the expertise to build a soccer team, so it looks like the stadium is now going to be underutilized for the sake of the CFL. What really gets me is this line repeated several times in the document:
"The City is committed to presenting the highest level of soccer in the Stadium."

The highest level is MLS and they aren't ever going to get that. The best they can hope for is NASL, which I guess isn't a bad thing if Quebec City and Calgary (and hopefully Winnipeg) also get NASL teams. 3 Div I, 5-6 Div II, and teams in Div III semi-pro regional leagues don't looks so bad. Heck, it would be better than anything we have now.

[Haddy]

Looks like the Lynx's plans for relocation are going to be nixed by Hamilton City Council, according to http://www.hamilton.ca/NR/rdonlyres/6394F7D5-6392-4FA5-B75F-C8983BE5EB36/0/Dec0253PW13095.pdf

Well, this is very unfortunate. But after digesting Hamilton's reasons, I understand where they are coming from. They didn't spend all that money on a new venue just to fill it with an average USL Pro crowd of approx. 2500.

I guess it's NASL or bust for them. But, I hope they realize that there is a limit to Canadian teams in NASL.

I won't lie, times like this I wish I had millions to blow on a 6000 seat stadium to plop in a burb somewhere and bring (forgive the hockey comparison) OHL-quality D3 soccer to Ontario. I believe proper venues, just like in MLS, will be a key contributor to D3 success around here. Come to think of it, the Lynx and TFC should just link up and built a tiny stadium at Downsview. Why the heck not?

[Leedsoronto]

League 1 Ontario "semi pro" any one ?

[ag futbol]

Well, this is very unfortunate. But after digesting Hamilton's reasons, I understand where they are coming from. They didn't spend all that money on a new venue just to fill it with an average USL Pro crowd of approx. 2500.

I guess it's NASL or bust for them. But, I hope they realize that there is a limit to Canadian teams in NASL.

I won't lie, times like this I wish I had millions to blow on a 6000 seat stadium to plop in a burb somewhere and bring (forgive the hockey comparison) OHL-quality D3 soccer to Ontario. I believe proper venues, just like in MLS, will be a key contributor to D3 success around here. Come to think of it, the Lynx and TFC should just link up and built a tiny stadium at Downsview. Why the heck not?
I'm with you on this one. A few more small venues could work wonders.

TFC needs to keep digging on this one and potentially find a new location.

[Shway]

I think the route of affiliating with existing USLpro teams is the affordable alternative route. It is basically going 50% of trying to improve your development system, because you can't afford to go 100%. Rogers has the money, and Leiweke seems like he has some money to splash to setup the proper infrastructure for Toronto, so why not do things right?

They need to field their own USLpro reserve team, where games are played at downsview (wasn't there suppose to be a grandstand built), they can control, track, and progress development instead of this loan out 5 players 1,500km away; "monitor" their development from a distance(scoring?assists?clean sheets?) and then hope that atleast 1 is "performing".

IMO, based on the talent that is in the GTA, Toronto could put a strong USLPro team where they can sign 12 players to USLpro 2 year contracts.
The team could consist of:

Top local players (4)
Scholarship players(young scouted prospect international players where they are on a TFC university scholarship, and signed for the reserve team. (3)
Graduated Academy Players (5)


Too much young GTA talent goes to waste because there isn't the proper pyramid in place for a professional football club that has access to over 150,000 players.
https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/p480x480/1450786_10152132037606579_1314315137_n.jpg

[Shway]

....and also I think its wayyy to early for Canadian pro teams to be affiliating with each other. Toronto - Hamilton wouldn't help with the creation of the supporter culture, when to fans it would be your rivals far team

[Yohan]

http://gazette.com/usl-soccer-franchise-coming-to-colorado-springs/article/1510347

Colorado Springs in 2015

[tfcmanu]

http://www.thespec.com/news-story/4251117-ticats-deal-means-no-pro-soccer-for-hamilton-next-year/

No go For Lynx - TFC in the Hammer

[PopePouri]

Montreal is going the PDL route and after the Lynx issue, I suspect we'll be doing the same.

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2013/12/03/building-pyramid-montreal-impact-u-21s-compete-pdl-next-season

[Yohan]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2013/12/04/report-alliance-between-portland-timbers-and-usl-pros-sacramento-republic-fc

Portland and Sacramento 'official'

[Yohan]

http://www.lagalaxy.com/blog/beat/2013/11/29/bruce-arena-confirms-la-galaxy-going-ahead-full-speed-usl-team-plans

LA expecting USL pro team for 2014

[Yohan]

http://soccer.si.com/2013/12/18/mls-usl-pro-tulsa-nielsen-kansas-city-sacramento-oklahoma/

Must read. Lots of info on latest happenings with USL Pro. USL is making a big push in next 2 years. (First one to suggest pro/rel gets a falconpunch to the nuts) :p

[TFC07]

I hope TFC just gets their own PDL team and have them play at Lamport Stadium or BMO field. Let Hamilton try to get into NASL.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Think they are trying to set up a OPDL team if im not mistaken

[Yohan]

Canadian D3 is never going to catch up with US D3, and if I was Canadian MLS teams, I'd reject any notion of putting a team in Canadian D3 league.

[mowe]

I was really bummed that Hamilton didn't work out, although it's understandable why they rejected it. TFC (and MTL/VAN) really need to operate their own USL team in Canada. It would be huge for club and country. We need as many professional clubs as we can get, and this MLS-USL partnership is a great way to become part of an established league.

[TOBOR !]

I was really bummed that Hamilton didn't work out, although it's understandable why they rejected it. TFC (and MTL/VAN) really need to operate their own USL team in Canada. It would be huge for club and country. We need as many professional clubs as we can get, and this MLS-USL partnership is a great way to become part of an established league.

Not me. Being a TFC affiliate it would never garner the local support the local soccer culture deserves. Sure, you'd get some TFC supporters coming out to watch the youth/loanees, but mostly only out of curiosity. The team would have moved within the first couple of years anyway.

There's a thread knocking about over on the Voyageurs forum, which quotes another thread, that has Bob Young stating there's work being done in the background to bring top-flight soccer to Hamilton, but not until after the Pan Ams.

Read - NASL.

[Areathrasher]

Canadian D3 is never going to catch up with US D3, and if I was Canadian MLS teams, I'd reject any notion of putting a team in Canadian D3 league.


I've heard that the CSA would block any USL-PRO teams playing/setting up in Canada. I wonder if TFC would consider setting up a USL team in or around Buffalo.

[Pint]

I thought they would make an exception if it were owned or operated by one of the MLS clubs? Didn't TFC have a letter from the CSA supporting the Hamilton USL initiative

[Areathrasher]

The CSA did some backtracking when the conucil in Hamilton were discussing the plans. Said they would only consider it or something to that effect.

[jaahuuu]

I've heard that the CSA would block any USL-PRO teams playing/setting up in Canada. I wonder if TFC would consider setting up a USL team in or around Buffalo.

Theres an NPSL (US D4) team in Buffalo, they draw less than 1000 most games. I doubt a USL team would do much better.

[Prof]

TFC should just put their own reserve team in the USL Pro. Upgrade one of the fields at Downsview to seat 7000 k. Play there and allow season seat holders of TFC free entry. Their games should be scheduled on weekends that TFC are playing away or during the week when the big club is at home. For those that aren't SSH keep the ticket price low. They will make some money from beer/food sales but most importantly they will have fans at their games.

[Initial B]

I think TFC should choose to put a team in some city that wants a USL franchise. I would suggest London, but I get the feeling that the CSA is getting cold feet on this. TFC may have to set up a team in the US to circumvent the CSA and just "git r dun" I don't think Buffalo would have enough interest, but what about levels of interest in Cleveland, Akron, or Detroit?

[Yohan]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2013/12/19/columbus-crew-announce-affiliation-usl-pros-dayton-dutch-lions

Columbus affiliated with Dayton

[Shway]

....after all these monumental news, I wouldn't be too surprised if TFC fields its own USL pro team. It would go with Super Club Ambitions.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

....after all these monumental news, I wouldn't be too surprised if TFC fields its own USL pro team. It would go with Super Club Ambitions.

fingers crossed, several people have been suggesting as such with the Hamilton signing

[tfcmanu]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FC_Buffalo
http://www.detcityfc.com/

[Haddy]

fingers crossed, several people have been suggesting as such with the Hamilton signing

On last week's Soccer Central Radio, Dichio made note to say he believes players like Hamilton aren't ready for the first team. They need a bit of time at a level like D3. He went on to claim TFC is close to partnering with a USL Pro club.

[Shway]

fingers crossed, several people have been suggesting as such with the Hamilton signing

One would think.

Because of the players/ambitions that are in place for this year, there would be way too potential prospects who I think won't get a sniff this year like the Apracio, Bekker, Welshman, Roberts to name the Canadians few.
Unless there are some rules or stipulations that will not allow the team to play at lamport or bmo, I say forget that Buffalo FC crap. Even though its close, what is the benefit?

I'm sure the first team doesn't need 4 assistant coaches - the infrastructure IMO is already there.

[tfcmanu]

Detroit city fc????

[Ron Manager]

One would think.

Because of the players/ambitions that are in place for this year, there would be way too potential prospects who I think won't get a sniff this year like the Apracio, Bekker, Welshman, Roberts to name the Canadians few.
Unless there are some rules or stipulations that will not allow the team to play at lamport or bmo, I say forget that Buffalo FC crap. Even though its close, what is the benefit?

I'm sure the first team doesn't need 4 assistant coaches - the infrastructure IMO is already there.

We were already looking at something like this by moving the Lynx to Hamilton. Why not just keep them in Toronto....or move them into York region.

[tfcmanu]

Partnerships USL PRO




Team
City
Stadium (Capacity)
Founded
First Season

MLS Affiliate


Charleston Battery (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Charleston_Battery)
Charleston (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Charleston,_South_Carolina), SC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/South_Carolina)
Blackbaud Stadium (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Blackbaud_Stadium) (5,100)
1993
2011




Charlotte Eagles (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Charlotte_Eagles)
Charlotte (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Charlotte,_North_Carolina), NC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/North_Carolina)
Dickson Field (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Queens_University_of_Charlotte#Athletics) (5,000)
1991
2011




Dayton Dutch Lions (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Dayton_Dutch_Lions)
Beavercreek (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Beavercreek,_Ohio), OH (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Ohio)
Beavercreek Stadium (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Beavercreek_High_School) (5,000)
2009
2011

Columbus Crew (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Columbus_Crew)


Harrisburg City Islanders (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Harrisburg_City_Islanders)
Harrisburg (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Harrisburg,_Pennsylvania), PA (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Pennsylvania)
Skyline Sports Complex (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Skyline_Sports_Complex) (4,000)
2004
2011

Philadelphia Union (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Philadelphia_Union)


Los Angeles Blues (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Los_Angeles_Blues)
Fullerton (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Fullerton,_California), CA (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/California)
Titan Stadium (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Titan_Stadium_(Cal_State_Fullerton)) (10,000)
2010
2011




Oklahoma City Energy (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Oklahoma_City_Energy_FC)
Oklahoma City (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Oklahoma_City), OK (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Oklahoma)
Pribil Stadium (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Bishop_McGuinness_High_School_(Oklahoma)) (7,000)
2013
2014

Sporting Kansas City (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Sporting_Kansas_City)


Orlando City (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Orlando_City_Soccer_Club)†
Lake Buena Vista (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Lake_Buena_Vista,_Florida), FL (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Florida)
ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/ESPN_Wide_World_of_Sports_Complex) (5,300)
2010
2011

Sporting Kansas City (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Sporting_Kansas_City)


Phoenix FC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Phoenix_FC)
Tempe (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Tempe,_Arizona), AZ (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Arizona)
TBA
2012
2013




Pittsburgh Riverhounds (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Pittsburgh_Riverhounds)
Pittsburgh (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Pittsburgh), PA (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Pennsylvania)
Highmark Stadium (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Highmark_Stadium) (4,000)
1999
2011

Houston Dynamo (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Houston_Dynamo)


Richmond Kickers (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Richmond_Kickers)
Richmond (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Richmond,_Virginia), VA (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Virginia)
City Stadium (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/City_Stadium_(Richmond)) (22,000)
1993
2011

D.C. United (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/D.C._United)


Rochester Rhinos (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Rochester_Rhinos)
Rochester (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Rochester,_New_York), NY (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/New_York)
Sahlen's Stadium (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Sahlen%27s_Stadium) (13,770)
1996
2011

New England Revolution (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/New_England_Revolution)


Sacramento Republic (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Sacramento_Republic_FC)
Sacramento (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Sacramento,_California), CA (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/California)
TBA
2012
2014

Portland Timbers (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Portland_Timbers)


Wilmington Hammerheads (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Wilmington_Hammerheads)
Wilmington (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Wilmington,_North_Carolina), NC (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/North_Carolina)
Legion Stadium (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/wiki/Legion_Stadium) (6,000)
1996
2011

[tfcmanu]

It will be CHARLESTON BATTERY...Yeah Myrtle Beach SC, There has been history with TFC & Charleston.

[tfcmanu]

Why Does Sporting KC have to affiliations with Energy fc and Orlando

[Red CB Toronto]

Why Does Sporting KC have to affiliations with Energy fc and Orlando
Because Orlando is moving up to the MLS for the 2015 season and they were their affiliate last year, so beginning in 2015 OKC will be their sole affiliate.

[Initial B]

Well, since Orlando is going into MLS, SKC had to find another affilate. OKC is closer to them anyways so it's easier to keep tabs on players. <edit: D'Oh! Ninja'd.>

And Charleston would be a good choice because Porter flies direct to Myrtle Beach, but I'd still prefer someplace closer to Toronto. Unfortunately, Anselmi et al were incompetent so other teams snapped up the teams closest to them.

[Yohan]

Well, since Orlando is going into MLS, SKC had to find another affilate. OKC is closer to them anyways so it's easier to keep tabs on players. <edit: D'Oh! Ninja'd.>

And Charleston would be a good choice because Porter flies direct to Myrtle Beach, but I'd still prefer someplace closer to Toronto. Unfortunately, Anselmi et al were incompetent so other teams snapped up the teams closest to them.
I think Charleston is affiliated with Vancouver

[tfcmanu]

Not According to the chart

I think Charleston is affiliated with Vancouver

[notthesun]

Rollins saying our affiliate will be the Wilmington Hammerheads.

Link (http://www.canadiansoccernews.com/content.php?5180-A-hammerhead-alert)

[Cas87]

I have a feeling for 2013 we'll be like SKC and split over two clubs (sharing with another MLS team) and then hopefully help launch our own affiliate for 2015.

I say sign with Orlando and Charleston (sharing with SKC for the latter).

[Yohan]

Not According to the chart
Caps sent bunch of their youngsters down to Charleston for 2013. I wouldn't be surprised if this became a formal relationship sooner or later.

[Yohan]

I have a feeling for 2013 we'll be like SKC and split over two clubs (sharing with another MLS team) and then hopefully help launch our own affiliate for 2015.

I say sign with Orlando and Charleston (sharing with SKC for the latter).
I think the rule is, USL team can affiliate with only 1 MLS team

[Leedsoronto]

http://www.wakingthered.com/2014/1/9/5292604/toronto-fc-to-partner-with-wilmington-hammerheads-of-usl-pro

WTR has it as Wilmington Hammerheads

[OgtheDim]

Hmmm.........wikipedia says artificial turf at their home field but then so would have been the field in Hamilton.

Edit: http://www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com/stadium.html says its grass.

Soccer specific stadium

$12 for General Admision. Season runs April to August.


FWIW, Myrtle Beach is about the same distance from Wilmington.

[notthesun]

Wilmington Hammerheads teasing about some news coming out today on their twitter page. Official announcement of TFC-Wilmington partnership coming?

[Yohan]

Wilmington Hammerheads teasing about some news coming out today on their twitter page. Official announcement of TFC-Wilmington partnership coming?http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/01/17/usl-pro-announces-plan-stream-all-2014-games-free-youtube

All USL games to be streamed free on youtube. So all the TFC geeks can keep tabs of on loan players (if Wilmington is official affiliate)

[notthesun]

Just saw that also. I'll be getting my geek on this year. :D

[Red CB Toronto]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/01/17/usl-pro-announces-plan-stream-all-2014-games-free-youtube

All USL games to be streamed free on youtube. So all the TFC geeks can keep tabs of on loan players (if Wilmington is official affiliate)

Also depending on the date, we could all head down to Rochester when Wilmington is in town and give our lads a big RPB welcome.

[Mark in Ottawa]

Because Orlando is moving up to the MLS for the 2015 season and they were their affiliate last year, so beginning in 2015 OKC will be their sole affiliate.

But ... from http://www.okcnasl2015.com/
On July 25, 2013, the North American Soccer League Board of Governors unanimously approved a new expansion franchise for Oklahoma City, scheduled to begin play at the renovated Taft Stadium in Spring 2015.

Would they have two teams?

[Mark in Ottawa]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/01/17/usl-pro-announces-plan-stream-all-2014-games-free-youtube

All USL games to be streamed free on youtube. So all the TFC geeks can keep tabs of on loan players (if Wilmington is official affiliate)
NASL was doing this last season and is moving to a paid subscription service ($5 USD per month) for 2014.

[notthesun]

Wilmington announcement was for a new logo and website. We'll have to wait a bit more for the partnership if it is happening.

[Shway]

I hope if a partnership is announced that its only for 1 year, or we are fielding our own USLPro team in 2015. It would be good for the fans and supporters

[Haddy]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/378800000078382763/81574ca1d99b731713aa2914e317297e_normal.pngBrian Straus‏@BrianStraus (https://twitter.com/BrianStraus)

Hearing that Toronto FC soon will be announcing an affiliation with USL Pro's Wilmington Hammerheads.

https://twitter.com/BrianStraus/status/426020945011044352

[Pint]

It's official... 1 year deal which to me says that we will own/operate our own team in 2015

http://www.torontofc.ca/news/2014/01/toronto-fc-partners-wilmington

[gdg_9]

Does anyone know how these partnerships work as far as loaning and recalling players, and the Cap implications?

My head goes to NHL cap-world, where a player's cap hit is only applied pro-rated based on the # of days he is recalled, and does not count on days he is assigned to the minors.

Would MLS work similar?

Someone really needs to infiltrate Garber's office and create a capgeek.com for MLS!!!

[Yohan]

Does anyone know how these partnerships work as far as loaning and recalling players, and the Cap implications?

My head goes to NHL cap-world, where a player's cap hit is only applied pro-rated based on the # of days he is recalled, and does not count on days he is assigned to the minors.

Would MLS work similar?

Someone really needs to infiltrate Garber's office and create a capgeek.com for MLS!!!
I'm pretty sure there is no limits on sending/recall, as long as MLS domestic transfer window is open.

[Yohan]

http://uslpro.uslsoccer.com/home/781912.html

[notthesun]

Rollins: (https://twitter.com/24thminute/status/426078449464139776) Canadians aren't considered foreign players in USL-Pro, so we can send as many as we like to Wilmington.

[notthesun]

As per Larson, Wilmington and TFC will collaborate on choosing loanees, and loanees will be guaranteed playing time.

[pdubs]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/01/17/usl-pro-announces-plan-stream-all-2014-games-free-youtube

seems like a great idea

"Soccer in North America continues to grow in popularity, and with it the demand to watch games.

In response, USL PRO announced Friday every game of the 2014 season, including the playoffs, will be streamed free on YouTube (http://uslpro.uslsoccer.com/home/780995.html) through individual team channels. Additionally, matches will be archived so they can be accessed on-demand by viewers, and the league plans to provide other video highlights on their own YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/USLPRO)."

[mowe]

As per Larson, Wilmington and TFC will collaborate on choosing loanees, and loanees will be guaranteed playing time.

Excellent. The USL deal was such a great idea for MLS. Now imagine when TFC fields their own team, they'll have total control over how their young guys get developed. A much needed step between academy and MLS.

[Alonso]

It's about time.

Better late than never. We should plan a Wilmington invasion road trip.

[Red I]

It's about time.

Better late than never. We should plan a Wilmington invasion road trip.

If the team is run as a development team, I doubt it's everyone's cup of tea. The best players and/or team will not always be on the field. wingers will go 1v1 just to test themselves, defenders will try to play out the back when they haven't developed that skill set - it might not be pretty. I will defintely keep up online though!

[Mr. Bigby]

It's about time.

Better late than never. We should plan a Wilmington invasion road trip.

I would certainly be up for that. We have to support the youngsters and let them know they haven't been forgotten!

[Pint]

It's about time.

Better late than never. We should plan a Wilmington invasion road trip.

would probably be down... doesn't appear to be far from Myrtle Beach. No schedules out yet though

Alternatively going to rochester for a wilmington away game is another much closer option.

[Yohan]

and... we sing TFC songs at Wilmington game? seems a bit disrespectful to Hammerheads

[Alonso]

would probably be down... doesn't appear to be far from Myrtle Beach. No schedules out yet though

Alternatively going to rochester for a wilmington away game is another much closer option.


I like that idea.

[Shway]

My four loanees:

Roberts
Bekker
Apracio
Welshman

I know everyone's going to say jayham, but I think they should keep him. He has lots to learn from dero,defoe, and berto.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

We can send AT LEAST ⁴ which in my mind suggests we might send more. No sense in keeping Hamilton if he's not going to play, there will be plenty of time for him to learn from Defoe and Dero

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Wouldn't be surprised if we kept Bekker as he's supposedly shown improvement recently and we will need depth in that position

[Pint]

Roberts, Apracio, Welshmen, Hamilton, potentially lovitz, and Eze if they make the club.

I think at times you could see bekker, hagglund heading down for a week or two stint to get a couple games in.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Feel like Hagglund will be down there too tbh, sounds like hes got talent but needs to play at a slightly higher level before coming to MLS

[prizby]

My four loanees:

Roberts
Bekker
Apracio
Welshman

I know everyone's going to say jayham, but I think they should keep him. He has lots to learn from dero,defoe, and berto.

i think jayham sticks around for a lot of the year, but i could see him out on loan for 2 or 3 months (maybe during the world cup break until the tottenham friendly)

[notthesun]

I think Hagglund might stay just because of our CB depth. If Henry or Caldwell goes down, we put Boss into the starting lineup, then who do we have on the bench as a backup? It would be Hagglund. Only other option is moving Morrow into CB which is less than ideal.

[Fort York Redcoat]

It's about time.

Better late than never. We should plan a Wilmington invasion road trip.

As above, Rochester would be the most likely but imagine revisiting Chareston as their closest rivals Wilmington/TFC...

[gdg_9]

Aparicio, Hamilton, Welshman, Hagglund, Lovitz.

Roberts could go too, but only if he's going to get minutes.
If he's not going to be playing in Wilmington, there's no point.
In that case I'd try to find another lower level team somewhere that's looking for a keeper and loan him there.

Eze could go to, depending on how many player the Hammerheads are willing to take, but chances are, as a late supplemental pick, he doesn't even make it that far and gets cut in pre-season.


Bekker could go on a short stint, but I think he sticks for most of the season - Especially since we'll be losing Bradley for a while to Brazil.

[Yohan]

Bekker needs to build his confidence. Even if it's bossing around USL players. When Bradley is gone, Bekker returns to TFC. The boy needs to learn to play under pressure, make better decisions and develop composure. If he can do that, he'd be so much better. Technical tools are already at MLS level. It's his mental game that needs work.

[Yohan]

http://www.whitecapsfc.com/news/2014/01/whitecaps-fc-charleston-battery-affiliate-partnership

Caps/Battery affiliation

[Yohan]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/01/23/portland-timbers-san-jose-earthquakes-announce-shared-affiliate-agreement-sa

Sacramento affiliated with SJ and Portland

[Miko]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/01/23/portland-timbers-san-jose-earthquakes-announce-shared-affiliate-agreement-sa

Sacramento affiliated with SJ and Portland



Sweet kits.

http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0246/2081/products/ATH101-MHJ_1e731bc5-2e9a-497e-8e81-56ffe44f4a72_large.png?v=1386274406

http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0246/2081/products/ATH102-MAJ_7e1d1e38-f512-42e3-a6bb-bc6749e85830_large.png?v=1386263217

[Petor]

http://www.whitecapsfc.com/news/2014/01/whitecaps-fc-charleston-battery-affiliate-partnership

Caps/Battery affiliation

I'm surprised that Vancouver not us are affiliated with them.
Nothing against Wilmington, just that TFC had some fun preseasons there.

[notthesun]

LA Galaxy form their own USL-Pro team, LA Galaxy II (http://www.lagalaxy.com/news/2014/01/la-galaxy-announce-usl-pro-team-la-galaxy-ii)

It's a hybrid developmental/reserve team. They'll play in USL-Pro like any other team, but it's fully owned and operated by the Galaxy. Can have first team players, academy players, and players signed directly by LA Galaxy II on the team.

Sounds like a massive advantage on the developmental side of things compared to the rest of the league. Galaxy can have a full squad playing the entire USL-Pro season instead of other MLS teams only sending 4 or so players per year. Toronto should set one of these up next year.

[Pint]

LA Galaxy form their own USL-Pro team, LA Galaxy II (http://www.lagalaxy.com/news/2014/01/la-galaxy-announce-usl-pro-team-la-galaxy-ii)

It's a hybrid developmental/reserve team. They'll play in USL-Pro like any other team, but it's fully owned and operated by the Galaxy. Can have first team players, academy players, and players signed directly by LA Galaxy II on the team.

Sounds like a massive advantage on the developmental side of things compared to the rest of the league. Galaxy can have a full squad playing the entire USL-Pro season instead of other MLS teams only sending 4 or so players per year. Toronto should set one of these up next year.

Reasonably sure that is the route Tim B wants to go and why we only signed a 1 year deal with Wilmington

[Greatest Ripoff]

Really hope Toronto will get there own usl team. It would be a big boost for the development of the young players.

[Red CB Toronto]

LA Galaxy form their own USL-Pro team, LA Galaxy II (http://www.lagalaxy.com/news/2014/01/la-galaxy-announce-usl-pro-team-la-galaxy-ii)

It's a hybrid developmental/reserve team. They'll play in USL-Pro like any other team, but it's fully owned and operated by the Galaxy. Can have first team players, academy players, and players signed directly by LA Galaxy II on the team.

Sounds like a massive advantage on the developmental side of things compared to the rest of the league. Galaxy can have a full squad playing the entire USL-Pro season instead of other MLS teams only sending 4 or so players per year. Toronto should set one of these up next year.

So it appears that that will have three types of players on this team, one from the first team, academy and some that are signed directly to the USL team on a USL contract. The USL contract is where it could get interesting. USL Pro does not have a cap, so what would happen if a big name player was signed to USL contract and then loaned to the MLS team, thus getting around the MLS cap.

[notthesun]

Wilmington schedule is out.

http://www.uslsoccer.com/teams/2014/22403.html#SCHEDULE

[BuSaPuNk]

USLPRO
Sat
Jul 19
7:05 PM ET
Wilmington (http://www.uslsoccer.com/teams/2014/22403.html#)
at
Rochester (http://www.uslsoccer.com/scripts/runisa.dll?M2:gp:870751.0686:72011+Elements/Display+E+47116+USL/+22376+65672522)
Sahlen's Stadium








7/19 9:00PM EDT


MLS Regular Season
at BBVA Compass Stadium

Houston

http://www.torontofc.ca/sites/toronto/files/imagecache/schedule_team_logo/houston_150.png


http://www.torontofc.ca/sites/toronto/files/imagecache/schedule_team_logo/toronto_150.png

Toronto FC





Could be possible for a quick road trip and bar run in Rochester to see both on the same day.

[Pint]

USLPRO
Sat
Jul 19
7:05 PM ET
Wilmington (http://www.uslsoccer.com/teams/2014/22403.html#)
at
Rochester (http://www.uslsoccer.com/scripts/runisa.dll?M2:gp:870751.0686:72011+Elements/Display+E+47116+USL/+22376+65672522)
Sahlen's Stadium







7/19 9:00PM EDT


MLS Regular Season
at BBVA Compass Stadium
Houston
http://www.torontofc.ca/sites/toronto/files/imagecache/schedule_team_logo/houston_150.png

http://www.torontofc.ca/sites/toronto/files/imagecache/schedule_team_logo/toronto_150.png
Toronto FC




Could be possible for a quick road trip and bar run in Rochester to see both on the same day.

was literally about to post this exact same thing...

[BuSaPuNk]

was literally about to post this exact same thing...

How can you tell i'm on coffee number 6 so far today lol

[Pint]

How can you tell i'm on coffee number 6 so far today lol

Toughest thing will be finding a place that will have the game on.

Not sure us @ houston will be a huge draw in rochester.

[Initial B]

I think Wilmington's last USL game of the season is Sept 7th and it's in Rochester as well.

[BuSaPuNk]

I think Wilmington's last USL game of the season is Sept 7th and it's in Rochester as well.

It is but its a Sunday afternoon not sure people would be up for that. The Saturday has a chance.

[BuSaPuNk]

Toughest thing will be finding a place that will have the game on.

Not sure us @ houston will be a huge draw in rochester.

All matters on how it's broadcast. Will have to wait for the broadcast schedule to come out.

[Red CB Toronto]

USLPRO
Sat
Jul 19
7:05 PM ET
Wilmington (http://www.uslsoccer.com/teams/2014/22403.html#)
at
Rochester (http://www.uslsoccer.com/scripts/runisa.dll?M2:gp:870751.0686:72011+Elements/Display+E+47116+USL/+22376+65672522)
Sahlen's Stadium







7/19 9:00PM EDT


MLS Regular Season
at BBVA Compass Stadium
Houston
http://www.torontofc.ca/sites/toronto/files/imagecache/schedule_team_logo/houston_150.png

http://www.torontofc.ca/sites/toronto/files/imagecache/schedule_team_logo/toronto_150.png
Toronto FC




Could be possible for a quick road trip and bar run in Rochester to see both on the same day.

If we could get 25 or so people together, we could maybe charter a mini bus. They actually sit 29.

[BuSaPuNk]

If we could get 25 or so people together, we could maybe charter a mini bus. They actually sit 29.

I'm sure it's something that we can talk about. To me it all matters if our guys will still be on loan there when the game happens.

[Red CB Toronto]

I'm sure it's something that we can talk about. To me it all matters if our guys will still be on loan there when the game happens.

I believe there will always be at least a player or two during the season, as I can really see some of the young guys being there for the entire USL Pro season.

[BuSaPuNk]

I believe there will always be at least a player or two during the season, as I can really see some of the young guys being there for the entire USL Pro season.

Agreed. But I'm sure people would only make the trip if our lads are involved and over there. I'm sure Wilmington know that it could be a boost to have us come as an defacto away crowd.

[Red CB Toronto]

Wilmington schedule is out.

http://www.uslsoccer.com/teams/2014/22403.html#SCHEDULE

Man that little west coast swing for Wilmington will be a grind, three games in five days including playing on both a Saturday and Sunday, guess that is a reality of the minor leagues.

[Azerban]

USL Pro does not have a cap, so what would happen if a big name player was signed to USL contract and then loaned to the MLS team, thus getting around the MLS cap.

The salary would then count against the cap, as soon as they were loaned.

[Yohan]

http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/02/28/report-sacramento-republic-fcs-plans-new-stadium-approved-cal-expo

Cheap, 8000 seater multiuse stadium approved for Sacramento. They apparently have 4000 season ticket deposits.

[notthesun]

http://www.soccerbyives.net/2014/03/bulls-planning-start.html

Red Bulls launching their own USL Pro team in 2015 like L.A. did this year. Hopefully TFC gets in on this as well next year.