United effort produces results
Earlier this week, a proposed bill that would have severely restricted field time for youth soccer teams in Virginia was withdrawn from consideration. According to WTOP Radio, upon proposal, Virginia House Bill 1968 received immediate negative feedback in the form of thousands of e-mails from the youth sports community. If passed, weeknight and Sunday usage of fields utilized for youth soccer would have been at the discretion of those living within 65 yards of such facilities.
"The youth soccer community should be proud of the swift and organized effort which led to the defeat of this proposed legislation," said United President and CEO Kevin Payne. "It's nice to see the soccer community flex its muscle a bit. We should do so more often. I encourage the soccer communities in Virginia, Maryland and the District to continue to push legislators on issues that affect them. Due to the sheer number of participants, our sport needs additional fields and facilities. We should work together to ensure this happens in every jurisdiction."
For further information or to get involved on matters affecting soccer fields and their usage in your area contact your local youth soccer club or visit the following websites:
Virginia and D.C.: www.vysa.com (Virginia Youth Soccer Association; also serves Washington, D.C.); http://www.mdcvsa.org (Metropolitan D.C. - Virginia Soccer Association - Amateur and Adult leagues.
Maryland: www.msysa.com (Maryland Youth Soccer Association); www.marylandsoccer.com/ (Maryland Amateur and Adult)
National: www.usyouthsoccer.org/ (US Youth Soccer); www.usasa.com (US Amateurs and Adult Soccer)
Feel free to submit feedback directly to D.C. United by clicking here.
Velocity training
D.C. United spent Thursday morning's training session at Velocity Sports Performance in Alexandria, Va., under the guidance of United Athletic Trainer Brian Goodstein and the VSP staff. Twenty-two players underwent a series of five tests to determine baseline fitness levels. Following testing, the group continued with a grueling session of running and core strengthening exercises.
Velocity Sports Performance, Alexandria is one of two area VSP locations. The nationwide fitness chain caters to athletes looking for individual fitness instruction. A knowledgeable staff and state-of-the-art equipment allow any athlete an opportunity to reach their athletic goals.
Convey leads Reading
Former United standout Bobby Convey scored the final goal in Reading's 4-0 win over Norwich earlier this week. Reading continues to roll toward the English Premier League, as they now are 21 points ahead of third placed Leeds United. Placement in the single table is crucial as the top two in the Coca-Cola Championship this season gain automatic promotion next year to the Premier League.
