Saturday June 14^th saw FC Wisconsin host its first Army National Guard College Showcase. This was a free College Showcase that was offered to players from across the state of Wisconsin, to give them an opportunity to be coached by, and play in front of some top college coaches from across the country.

 

The Showcase attracted over 100 players from Wisconsin and Illinois and ran from 9am – 4pm, with lunch being provided to all players.

 

The morning portion of the event, saw players take part in a training session run by their respective College Coaches for the day, followed by small sided games of 6v6 and 8v8.

 

Lunch was provided to all players and within this portion of the day, players were given a ‘College recruiting talk’ which provided important information regarding the recruiting process and steps they need to take, what college coaches look for in players, as well as recruiting do’s and don’ts. This was then followed by an informational talk by the Army National Guard and their involvement within the soccer community.

 

The afternoon session saw the players take part in 11v11 games which enabled them to showcase their talents to all the College coaches present. The level was extremely competitive and some excellent soccer was played throughout the day!!

 

“This was a great opportunity not only for the kids but for us coaches as well.  To be able for us to evaluate both Wisconsin and Illinois players, and be able to see them in a training environment and games is truly a valuable experience.  We were able to identity players we feel will not only fit into our program but will help elevate it.  Truly a great experience for all and I look forward to coming back again next year”  said Ed Joyce from Division 1 Campbell University out of North Carolina.

 

Below is a list of the College Coaches that took part in the event.

 

Army National Guard College Coaches present:

Keith Tiemeyer – University of Wisconsin (NCAA DI)

Dan Popik – University of Wisconsin Green Bay (NCAA DI)

Ross Brady – Northern Illinois University (NCAA DI)

Ed Joyce – Campbell University (North Carolina) (NCAA DI)

Kevin Brennan – Cardinal Stritch University (NAIA)

Joe Luedke – Wisconsin Lutheran University (NCAA DIII)

Marty Lataille – Concordia University (NCAA DIII)

 

As a Club we would like to thank the respective College coaches and programs listed for taking part in the College Showcase along with all the players that were in attendance.

We look forward to offering this opportunity again next year.