Soccer legends meet to support the new Strikers. Player movements and Robert Scorca.

Miami FC was able to bring together some of South Florida's most notable soccer legends this past Thursday, December 2, 2010 at Chima Brazilian Steakhouse in Ft Lauderdale.

It was an electric atmosphere! Hearing the stories, laughter and watching these legends of the game reconnect was special. It's what the return of the Strikers is all about - family and passion. We take great pride in perpetuating the Strikers legacy and look forward to writing the next chapter of this storied franchise with the full support of those who embodied the Strikers spirit in South Florida," said Commercial Director Tommy Knapp.

You can read more at www.miamifc.com

We were able to gain inside information from 'sources' that the following ex players were present. Soccer greats Teofilo 'Nene' Cubillas, Arnie Mausser, Nico Bodonczy, Michael Ortiz-Velez, Ernst Jean Baptiste, Eric Eichmann, Branko Segota from the Strikers. Ian Bishop and Jim Rooney from the Fusion. There were also Traffic USA staff and other Soccer personalities.
Jeff Rusnak, of the Sun Sentinel, was present at the event and wrote a piece about the meeting.

The late conversation, as it almost does on such gatherings, centered on how to get more people to support the local pro team, in this case, the new Strikers. "Quality of play," Bishop said. "What you put on the field." Bingo.

Read more: HERE
Notable absences were that of GOL TV Commentator Ray Hudson, U.S. under 20 coach Thomas Rongen, ex coach Ron Newman, and former Ft Lauderdale Strikers owner Tim Robbie.

The most vocal of the group was said to be former Strikers Arnie Mausser and Nico Bodonczy, and Ex Fusion Ian Bishop. Discussions ranged from what the name of the team should be (Most agreed that if you bring the name back you should go all the way and name it Fort Lauderdale Strikers) to ways of bringing more people into the stands. No doubt that with the support of ex-players and fans the Strikers will be successful!

Strikers Announce new Historian.

If you didn't know his name you knew who he was just by looking at him. It seems a soccer game in South Florida is never the same if he is not there roaming the stadium. Robert Scorca is one of those people that you always see at soccer games, a character rivaled only by Hot Shot the team mascot himself. Robert missed maybe one or two games since the beginning of the Miami Football Club and I can remember him from back in the Miami Fusion days too. But Robert was at Lockhart during the old Striker days and even attended Miami Toros and Gatos games! Well folks, Miami FC /Strikers have recognized his commitment and named Robert the new team Historian.

"Robert's unparalleled passion and knowledge of South Florida soccer history and that of Fort Lauderdale's Lockhart Stadium, the home of the Strikers make him a natural for this position," stated NASL Communications Director Kartik Krishnaiyer, who has known Scorca for years.

Read more HERE
Robert has been a contributor to this blog as a photographer and writer, interviewing players and local soccer personalities for a couple of years now. He has also contributed to www.miamisoccerfan.com and other blogs. Robert was also a founding member of the Miami Ultras Soccer Fan club.
We wish Robert much success and we will miss his witty blogs. (Burrito, the blogging dawg will miss him the most).

Miami FC / Strikers players on the move.
Looks like Defender Aaron Holbein will not be back next season with Miami FC / Strikers. Holbein, played with Miami FC this past season on loan from Kansas City and contributed to the unbeaten streak at the end of the season which still stands. Turns out Aaron was selected in the MLS Re-Entry draft by the Columbus Crew. But Holbein still has options... read more HERE
JP Rodrigues (pictured at left) has had a busy year when it comes to his playing time. He has played for Miami FC, the Milwaukee Wave (MISL), DC United and the Guyana national team. But it seems he hasn't stopped there. JP is on his way to Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to be exact. More details will follow when we get it.
In case you missed it, the new Strikers have already confirmed 4 players. Forward Aaron Wheeler from FC Tampa Bay and Miami FC veterans defender Zach Kirby, Midfielder Paulinho Le Petit, and Goalkeeper Matt Glaeser.
We've heard rumors of a few more players that have been signed. If we hear a name we'll let everyone know!
Player picture by Robert Scorca.
Alumni meeting pictures courtesy of Miami FC.

Miami FC's JP Rodrigues on loan to DC United?

Hola amigos! Burrito here with latest gossips.
You gots to love facebook! Just get players to add you on as a friend and they will eventuallys spill the refried beans on somethings the team they play for might want to keep secrets.
This time Burrito's amigo JP Rodriguez does it and here is what the carnal had to says today:

Wow how things change... Going on loan to D.C United! Leave bright and early in the morning! The soccer gods are on my side!

Si, this is second player to go on loan for Miami FC. The first was Burrito's amigo Paulo Jr. who went to Real Salt Lake.
Well, if its true JP then Burrito wish you much successeses and don't for get the little people (or in Burrito's case the little chihuahua!)
If you want to Join the JP Rodrigues Fan page on facebook go HERE
Hasta los huevos amigos!
Burrito

Picture by Robert Scorca

Miami FC Blues vs Tampa Bay Rowdies Preview and Tailgate

It's here folks, one more day until the first of 4 games versus the Tampa Bay Rowdies this season.

The Blues have played 2 games so far this season both ending in ties. fans are hoping this time things will be different against the Rowdies.

Miami FC is announcing a special ticket deal for all groups for the match. When groups of 8 or more buy tickets to the game this weekend, they will receive free tickets good for any remaining regular season home match of their choice. Tickets are currently being sold for $12 at the gate.

As noted in a previous blog post below (click HERE for details), Miami FC has gone all out bringing us a great Tailgate set to begin at 5 pm.

The sponsors are:

Weston Town Center
Regalia Vodka
Good Spirits
Play n’ Trade
Powerade
Speed Shop
Holy Mackerel Beer
America’s Backyard
Dunkin Donuts
Into Energy Drink

With special presentations by:
Miami FC Blue Angels Cheerleaders/Ambassadors
American Top Team
Foot Volley Exhibition
and
Live Band – A Beautiful Cage (tentatively scheduled)

Players to watch:
For Tampa be on the look out for Aaron King. Blues Fans remember him for his short yet productive time with Miami FC. Aaron is the first player in the new Tampa Bay Rowdies team to score.
Though lacking a potent attack so far, the Rowdies do have a midfield that knows how to hold on to the ball.
Possible line up:
GK Sattler, D Valentino, D Valentin, D Kljestan, M Ustruck, M Christie, M Millien, M Nyazamba, M Yamada, F Tan, F King

Miami, much like Tampa, has shown little as far as scoring power in official games. This is the game where midfielder Christian Gomez will need to shine in order to give the Blues their first win.
Possible Line up:
GK Patterson, D Lancaster, D Kirby, D Rodrigues, D Gbandi, M Cameron, M Goldberg, M Gomez, M Paulo Jr, F Thompson,F Santeliz

Look for a midfield battle for ball possession.

Miami FC announced this week that former USA U-17 and U-20 Bryan Arguez has returned from his loan to sister-club Estoril-Praia. Arguez is a midfielder who has been a member of the USA Men's National Team youth system since 2005. Arguez will be available for the Blues game against FC Tampa Bay. Read more HERE

For those that didn't know, the Blues have launched Miami FC TV and this week they have a video of practice leading up to the Tampa game and an interview with J.P. Rodriguez who South Florida soccer guru Robert Scorca also interviewed on this blog (You can read it HERE)
The time has come to support our Miami FC Blues!
Vamos Miami! Beat the Rowdies!

Miami FC vs Barry University play for Haiti Relief, Jersey Unveiling and more...

The Miami FC Blues continue their pre-season this week when they play against Barry University with all proceeds going to Haiti Relief. The game will be on Saturday, March 20th. Admission to the game requires a cash or soccer gear donation. The game starts at 7pm at Barry University’s campus. So far the Blues have won 2 games and their only loss coming against the New York Red Bulls. Full details of the game from the Barry University site can be read HERE

Miami FC will also unveil their new 2010 uniforms on Thursday March 25, 2010 from 6 pm until 9 pm at America's Backyard located at 100 SW 3rd Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 just behind Revolution off of Broward Blvd. For directions call 954-449-1030. You will get to meet the players and spend some time with staff. Click on the flyer above for more details!

JP Rodrigues is wrapping things up with the Milwaukee Wave of the MISL (Major Indoor Soccer League) before he joins the Blues for pre-season and we are glad to see he is in great form after playing the last regular game of the season and scoring two goals. The Wave clinched the MISL regular season title on Sunday with a 17-12 victory over La Raza of Monterrey. JP's last two games will be for the Championship against the Philadelphia Kixx in a Home and Away format to determine the Champion. We wish JP good luck and are ready for him to add on to an already strong Miami FC back line.
Check out the video of JP's two goals; the first is right off the bat and the second at about 1:52.

Interview with J.P. Rodrigues

A Florida product John Paul Rodrigues was born and raised in Tampa and the surrounding area. His hometown is Lutz or Land O' Lakes which is 20-25 minutes outside of Tampa. He started playing soccer at 6 when he played for his first team and continued playing youth soccer. He was a scoring machine playing Center Midfielder and Striker/Forward.

J.P. went to Land O' Lakes High School where he was a starter on the varsity team for all 4 years. His junior year he went from 5'-6" to 6'-1". This did not go unnoticed as he started playing on the back line as a Central Defender/Sweeper. Twice during high school his team reached the Final Four. His freshman year they lost in the State Finals to Fort Myers by a 3-1 score. His sophmore year St. Thomas defeated them on penalty kicks in the State Semi-Finals.
J.P. went to Nashville,Tennessee where he attended college at Belmont University where he was recruited to play Defensive Midfielder. A week or two into his freshman year he was switched to Central Defender/Sweeper for the Bruins. In 2005 he was named Defensive Player of the Year and all-conference first team. Upon completion of college he remained in Nashville playing for the Nashville Metros in the PDL.
In 2006 Miami FC's inaugural season J.P. became the first player drafted with the #1 overall pick. He also received the 1st of his 9 caps with the Guyana National Team. A solid defender and a fan favorite he anchored the defense for the better part of 3 years.
Upon leaving Miami he played for the Orlando Sharks of the Major Indoor Soccer League for the 2007-2008 season. He was awarded a spot on the MISL All Rookie Team as he played 25 games with 30 points and 31 blocks. In 2008-2009 he played for the Milwaukee Wave of the Xtreme Soccer League posting 24 points and 17 blocks as his team went 10-10.
J.P. is currently playing for the Milwaukee Wave who returned to the MISL. They are finishing up the 2009-2010 season where they are in first place with a 9-6 record.

Robert Scorca (RS): Who introduced you to soccer?
JP Rodrigues (JP): My Father, we both share a strong love for the game!

RS: From a soccer standpoint who was most instrumental in your career?
JP: Two people... My father as he has always believed in my ability as a player and has always helped me pursue the dream of playing at a pro level. The other would be my High School Coach Mark Pearson as he pretty much made me the player I am today.

RS: Was there a player or players that you looked up to while growing up?

JP: I was always a big fan of Thiery Henry growing up!

RS: Were you a fan of the Tampa Bay Mutiny?
JP: Yes. I was a ball boy for the Mutiny for like 3 years growing up!

RS: What was it like in 2006 Miami FC's inaugural season, playing with Romario, Zinho and Mario Rodriguez?
JP: It was a great experience to play with such high profile players! Especially as a rookie, Its a pretty cool way to start out your career! I learned a lot from each of those guys!

RS: After leaving Miami FC you played indoor soccer for the Orlando Sharks and the Milwaukee Wave. Which do you prefer and why?
JP: I just love to play the game of soccer! Indoor is a bit more exciting for me as a defender because I am able to really get forward and score some goals were as outdoor my main concern is to defend!

RS: What is the biggest misconception people have of indoor soccer?
JP: I think the main thing that people don't understand about indoor is that the players are very talented! If you take the time to come watch a pro indoor game you will see the talent that some of the teams have. Our team here in Milwaukee is full of very good players, both indoor and outdoor!

RS: In 2009 your teammate Marco Terminesi and you were voted "Hottest Man Alive". Being a straight shooter I would have trouble answering this question, so for the female fans out there who is Hotter, Marco or J.P.? (See Picture to the right)
JP: Marco because he is Canadian!

RS: With Tampa Bay having a club close to home was it hard to decide whether to return to Miami or Tampa?
JP: Yes and no... I have always dreamed of playing back in my home town in front of my friends and family... But Miami wanted me to come back and play and I want to play where I am wanted and respected as a player. The club in Miami believes in me and for that I am happy to be back.

RS: As a defender who is the player that presents your biggest challenge?
JP: Every player I play against presents a challenge but none more than another. I respect everyone I play against and know that we are all professionals and anyone on any given day can be a tough opponent.

RS: How does it feel to be back with Miami FC? What was your biggest factor on returning here?
JP: It feels great... I am back where I began my career. I have played some of my best soccer in Miami FC colors! When I spoke to the coach and GM over the phone and they said they would like to have me return I was very excited and felt like I have unfinished business here!

RS: What is one thing people might be surprised to know about you?
JP: I love cats and have 2 of them!

RS: What was your biggest soccer moment?
JP: Probably receiving the Motorola Man of the Match award for Guyana when we played Cuba to a 0-0 tie in Gold Cup Qualifying. It was my 6th cap with the national team. Its an amazing feeling to step on the field and know you are representing a whole country!

RS: Any words of advice to youngsters who are starting out playing this game?
JP: Three things: Never say never! Hard work alone will get you very far! If you believe it... It will happen!

RS: Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge?

JP: I would like to thank God for blessing me with my talents and for allowing me to do what I love! I would also like to thank my girlfriend Brittany Hipps who means the world to me! Without her support and help I would not be returning to Miami FC.

RS: In closing is there anything you would like to say to the Miami FC fans?
JP: I am glad to be back... And it is time that Miami F.C. gets back to the playoffs! Vamos Miami!

Check out JP's goal at 1:30 minutes

Vote for Burrito! Vote for the Real Football! plus Miami FC info.

Hola Futbol fans! Burrito want to ask you favors. If you love futbol, if you love Burrito's Blog, then please help us beat all those American Football Blogs running against us on Best Of Blog awards over at the Sun Sentinel. Please go to this link: http://interactive.sun-sentinel.com/community/ssblogcontest/voting/?vote_for=205#205 for Football in Miami and Beyond to win Sports section of contest. You can also go to this link: http://interactive.sun-sentinel.com/community/ssblogcontest/voting/best.php to vote for best overall Blog. Vote for Football in Miami and Beyond and Help us steal pig skin egg they call Football from fish fans! Burrito no hate American Football or Dolphins, Burrito like fish, Burrito bite fish and eat fish and hump fish too! So help us beat them Handeggball people (cause thats what they should call that sport) and Burrito send quesadilla to all you futbol lovers!

Moving on to other news Burrito's compadre Robert Scorca write good piece over at MiamiSoccerFan.com on Miami FC's open tryout that took place this weekend at Weston Regional Park. Burrito was going to tryout pero Ignacio at Miami FC office say dogs not allowed to play on team! Pinche culero! Its ok, Burrito going to pee on his tire next time he see him!
If you want to read Roberto's article go AQUI

Don't forget to vote for Football in Miami and Beyond! Go HERE for Best Sport Blog and HERE for best over all! Let them know what the real Football is!

Burrito is happier then when Uncle Ed give him bone! Why? Because Miami FC have 4 players, Si, 4 players and they are beginning of the teams that will win new USSF Div 2 Championship (What an estupido name!) Burrito can't wait to see our Miami FC Blues beat those ugly Tampon Bay Poopies (Tampa Bay Rowdies) when they come to South Florida. So far Miami FC have Burrito's carnales Zach "Beowulf" Kirby, Jarryd "The Hammer" Goldberg, JP "Macho Man" Rodrigues and el rookie Bryan "Negro" Perez!

In case you forget, vote for Football in Miami and Beyond! Go HERE for Best Sport Blog and HERE for best blog over all!

Burrito want to ask all you vatos to Join the Miami Ultras! The Ultras want you to be part of the craziest group since the Bee Gees... no, since the Beatles! ...since Hot Sauce at Taco Bell? Never mind. Join the Ultras! It's Free! You get to play drums and cow bell and we have best tailgate in town! So Join us by going HERE

Did Burrito mention Football in Miami and Beyond is running for Best of Blogs on the Sun Sentinel? No? Well Go HERE to vote for Best Sport Blog and HERE for best blog everwhever!

Finally Miami Soccer Fan has re-released the Spanish section of their site. Burrito happy cause Burrito originally from Mexico! Most posts will be translated from English and thats why if you want to write en Espanol then please contact "El Presidente" Pieter Brown at articles@miamisoccerfan.com and help us attract more Spanish speaking fans to the Ultras! GO HERE to read in Spanish!

Football in Miami and Beyond! Best Blog ever! Vote HERE for Best Sport Blog and HERE for best blog everwhever in the universe! If you don't then Burrito will hurt you and hunt you down!
Just kitten! But vote for us human peoples!Football in Miami and Beyond is not to be held accountable nor responsible for any claims, comments, misspelled insults, bad grammar, nor anything written by Burrito. All characters appearing in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
Warning: Frequent reading of subjects brought up by Burrito may cause diarrhea, erectile malfunctions or depression. Children please ask your parents for permission before reading.

Miami FC re-signs Jarryd Goldberg and JP Rodrigues

Miami FC brings back two important players to the team. Read team release HERE

Fan Favorite Jarryd Goldberg returns to the midfield. One of Miami FC's standout players. Jarryd was born November 13, 1985 in Livingston, New Jersey. Goldberg attended Ridge High School in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, and played college soccer at Boston College and Boston University. While at college, Goldberg took part in the 2005 Maccabiah Games, winning a silver medal with the US team.
Robert Scorca recently interviewed Jarryd. To read the piece go HERE

The second player that returns is John Paul "J.P." Rodrigues. JP was with the Blues during the first two seasons of Miami FC's existence playing alongside Romario and Zinho. JP is a Guyanese international soccer player who plays as a defender. Rodrigues has played professionally for the Nashville Metros and Miami FC, and he made his international debut in 2006. JP is currently playing with the Milwaukee Wave

Miami FC has announced that there will be other additions to the roster this week among other interesting information.

Miami Ultra President Pieter Brown wrote a great post called "Miami FC Good and Bad", it's about the current criticisms Miami FC parent company Traffic Sports is receiving by fans. Be sure to check it out. It all stems from the announcement of an Academy and fields proposed by Traffic in Ft Lauderdale. Many soccer fans would like MLS to return to South Florida and see this move by Traffic as a hindrance to their dreams. My recent blog post on this same subject see it HERE shed over 50 comments. My opinion is that this move is a positive thing for Soccer in South Florida. MLS is not going to come any time soon. We need to come to terms with that and support Traffic's willingness to commit. An Academy means we will see our future players develop right here in our hometown. It's time for true Soccer Fans to get behind this and join supporters groups, such as the Ultras. Go and Join them HERE

Miami Soccer Fan has also re-started their Spanish Language site. Be Sure to check it out! I will be translating for the site but if you are interested in contributing please contact Pieter Brown at the site.

Vamos Miami!