MIAMI FC-LATEST NEWS

[Frank Cunha]

Miami, March 6, 2008 - Miami FC is gearing up to its first-ever practice session on the beach. The team will be at Ocean Drive and 8th Street this weekend, as part of a new training program being implemented by new Head Coach and former Brazilian World Cup champion Zinho.



Former Miami FC player Romário, who’s in town to participate in a Footvolley tournament in Fort Lauderdale, is scheduled to make an appearance at the Miami FC’s session on Saturday to support his former teammates such as Walter Ramirez, John Pulido, J. P. Rodrigues and others, in addition to his good friend Zinho.



“I believe this is going to be an excellent test of endurance for our players coming out of the off-season,” remarked Zinho. “The resistance provided by sand will certainly strengthen cardio, as well as challenge previously unused muscles. This kind of session is an integral piece of training programs in places like Argentina and Brazil and we want to take advantage of the fact that we have the beach just minutes away from our training facility. And if Romário shows up, it will be a great incentive, especially for our younger players.”



This weekend will mark the first time Miami FC as a team holds practice on the beach and is expected to be a great opportunity for the community to get a more intimate look at this year’s talent.



The first session is scheduled to take place at 4 pm on Saturday, March 8th, at Ocean Drive and 8th Street, with a follow up session on Thursday, March 13th, in a location to be announced. Players will also be made available for photographs as well to discuss information on the upcoming season with members of the media and fans in general.



Miami FC’s cheerleaders, the Angels, will also be present handing out pocket calendars with the 2008 schedule of home and away games.



Miami FC will begin competition for the 2008 season on Saturday, April 12th, at Tropical Park Stadium against the Charleston Battery at 7:30 p.m. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting Miami FC - USL Professional Soccer or by calling 305-728-2612. Single game tickets are available by calling 1-866-57-MIAMI.

[Frank Cunha]

Miami, March 13, 2008 – Very exciting news coming out of Miami FC today as the club officially announced the signing of two playmakers, Cauê Santos da Mata (“Cauê”) and Leandro Bispo de Souza (“Mineiro”); both midfielders hailing from Brazil. The move is part of an effort to beef up offensive production under new head coach and World Cup Champion Zinho.



Cauê Santos da Mata, better known as “Cauê”, at the young age of 21 already brings with him a cache of international experience. He began his professional career when he signed a contract at the age of 16 to play with Brazilian club Vitória on their “B” squad. With Vitoria, Cauê won a number of international titles, including the 2001Nike Premier Cup, in Berlin, Germany, and the 2004 Philips Cup in Eindhoven, Holland. In 2007, he played for club Consadole Saporo in Japan’s J2-League. Sapporo won the title and was awarded promotion to the 1st division J-League.

“I just got to Miami and I love this city. Although I am a very quiet guy who loves to be at home, the fact that I played in Japan gave me some international experience and this will benefit the way I play here, for Miami FC,” Cauê was quoted as saying.

Head coach Zinho also reflected on the signing by stating that “Cauê comes backed up by some very good credentials from Brazil and Japan. He’s a player who likes to come from the back and attack, but is also strong as a marker. This is definitely another good addition to Miami FC.”

Leandro Bispo de Souza, or simply Leandro “Mineiro”, also brings with him an excellent résumé, including many local Miami FC connections. In 2003, he played alongside Zinho with the Brazilian club Nova Iguacu, and also spent time under former Miami FC head coach Chiquinho de Assis while with club Vitória. Mineiro has also played for Imperatriz/MA and also Flamengo and Botafogo, both from Rio de Janeiro, at the youth division levels.

“I want to contribute everything that I can to the team, and go ahead and win a championship while with Miami FC,” Mineiro said. Being the first time he will compete in the United States, expectations are very high but tempered with an understanding that competition in the U.S. may involve a more physical style of play.

“He’s a very strong player; the type of athlete that every single coach loves to have on his team. He is a player who can move the span of the field, and really be the workhorse that drives this team,” remarked head coach Zinho.

Miami FC will begin competition for the 2008 season on Saturday, April 12th, at Tropical Park Stadium against the Charleston Battery at 7:30 p.m. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting Miami FC - USL Professional Soccer or by calling 305-728-2612. Single game tickets are available by calling 1-866-57-MIAMI.

[Frank Cunha]

Miami FC Tickets Now Available Through Ticketmaster





Miami, March 17, 2008 – Miami FC has officially announced today an exciting new partnership with Ticketmaster, as part of the preparation for the club’s third year of competition.



Tickets to all home matches may now be purchased directly through Ticketmaster’s website. “This partnership will create an excellent source of ticket availability designed for the convenience of our fans. We are committed to structuring the ticket purchasing process, to make it as hassle-free as possible,” said Miami FC’s Tickets and Concessions Manager Alfonso Pernia.



Fans may also continue to buy their tickets on game day at the box office outside of Tropical Park Stadium, from the official Miami FC website at Miami FC - USL Professional Soccer, or by calling 1-866-57-MIAMI .



Miami FC will resume competition for the 2008 season on Saturday, April 12th, at Tropical Park Stadium against the Charleston Battery at 7:30 p.m.

[Frank Cunha]

Miami FC Announces Preseason Games



Miami FC set to take on Copa Latina Champions Honduras

Cinco Estrellas and USL’s Montreal Impact



Miami FC Kendall U-16/U-18 to face the corresponding

U.S. Men’s National Teams on a tripleheader at Tropical Park





Miami, March 18, 2008 – This upcoming Saturday, March 22, at 6pm, Miami FC will be holding a friendly match against the 2008 Copa Latina champions Honduras Cinco Estrellas.



The popular Miami-based club will be looking to build on their momentum as they come off of their first Copa Latina tournament title. Competition will take place at Tropical Park Stadium and admission is free to the public.



On Sunday March 30, the Under-15 and Under-17 Men’s National Teams will be traveling to South Florida to take on Miami FC Kendall U-16/U-18 teams, as part of the U.S. Soccer Federation Development Academy tournament. The Academy games start with the U-16s kicking off at 4pm, and will continue thereafter at 6pm with the U-18s.



The tripleheader at Tropical Park concludes with a preseason scrimmage between Miami FC and the Montreal Impact, both of the United Soccer Leagues. Gates will be open to the public and admission is free for all three games.



“These matches will be perfect to analyze newcomers and trialists and see how they interact with their colleagues who have played with Miami FC before. This will help me decide about the starting lineup for our first game of the season, which is less than a month away,” said Miami FC’s head coach Zinho.



Miami FC is also set to play Barry University’s Men’s Soccer team in a friendly preseason match on Tuesday, April 8th. The time and location have yet to be determined.



The team is still trying to schedule other scrimmage/friendly games, likely to be played on March 25th and April 5th.



Miami FC will begin competition for the 2008 season on Saturday, April 12th, at Tropical Park Stadium against the Charleston Battery at 7:30 p.m. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting Miami FC - USL Professional Soccer or by calling 305-728-2612. Single game tickets are available through Ticketmaster or by calling 1-866-57-MIAMI.



Preseason Schedule



March 22 6:00PM

Honduras Cinco Estrellas @ Miami FC

Tropical Park Stadium – Free Admission





March 30 Tripleheader 4:00PM

US U-165 @ Miami FC Kendall U-16



6:00PM

US U-17 @ Miami FC Kendall U-18



8:00PM

Montreal Impact @ Miami FC

All games at Tropical Park – Free Admission





April 8 TBD

Miami FC vs. Barry University

[Frank Cunha]

Miami FC ads “12th man” to its roster

Miami, March 20, 2008 - As the 2008 season begins to near, Miami FC would like to officially extend a warm welcome to the newest member of its roster; the Miami Ultras. As a group of avid soccer supporters living in South Florida, the Miami Ultras have committed themselves to becoming the "12th man" on the field by creating as much of a fan presence as possible. Miami FC hopes that this initiative will inspire other groups to follow in suit.

"We also want to create an aura of intimidation for opposing teams as they enter Tropical Park. This sport is about passion, and passion in my opinion is what the Miami Ultras are all about," said Miami FC Marketing Assistant Philippe Zay, who has been working closely with the Miami Ultras to strengthen their relationship to the club.

Pieter Brown, Miami Ultra’s President, commented: "The Miami Ultras and www.miamisoccerfan.com were created for fans by fans. The Ultras believe in doing everything that we can to support pro soccer in Miami. The partnership between Miami FC and Miami Ultras will help bring more attention to Miami FC and will show the nation that Miami can and will support soccer."

Miami Ultras will be hosting an official tailgate party to kick off the 2008 season outside of Tropical Park on April 12, opening day. Festivities are set to begin at 5:30 pm.

For more information on the Miami Ultras, please visit http://www.miamisoccerfan.com/.

Miami FC will resume competition for the 2008 season on Saturday, April 12th, at Tropical Park Stadium against the Charleston Battery at 7:30 p.m. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting Miami FC - USL Professional Soccer or by calling 305-728-2612. Single game tickets are available through Ticketmaster or by calling 1-866-57-MIAMI.

[Frank Cunha]

Miami FC tops Honduras 5 Estrellas



March 24, 2008 – Miami FC won its first pre-season game of 2008 against Copa Latina Champions, Honduras 5 Estrellas. The final score was 2-0. The scrimmage game was played with heavy clouds hovering over Tropical Park, with scattered thunderstorms. Zinho tried new players as the team comes closer to opening day on April 12th at Tropical Park Stadium, against the Charleston Battery.



Miami FC had plenty of opportunities to score. Defender J.P. Rodrigues with a header and midfielder Sean Fraser scored for the home team on the first half.



The second half saw Miami FC make numerous changes to its lineup, and the team was unable to score again. The game was a physical affair amassing a few yellow cards.



The action continues next Sunday, March 30, when Miami FC plays USL-1 counterpart, the Montreal Impact at 8 pm. Also on Sunday, the Under-15 and Under-17 Men’s National Teams will be traveling to South Florida to take on Miami FC Kendall U-16/U-18 teams, as part of the U.S. Soccer Federation Development Academy tournament. The Academy games start with the U-16s kicking off at 4pm, and will continue thereafter at 6pm with the U-18s. All games free of charge.



Miami FC will begin competition for the 2008 season on Saturday, April 12th, at Tropical Park Stadium against the Charleston Battery at 7:30 p.m. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting Miami FC - USL Professional Soccer or by calling 305-728-2612. Single game tickets are available through Ticketmaster or by calling 1-866-57-MIAMI.



Preseason Schedule



March 30 Tripleheader 4:00PM

US U-165 @ Miami FC Kendall U-16



6:00PM

US U-17 @ Miami FC Kendall U-18



8:00PM

Montreal Impact @ Miami FC

All games at Tropical Park – Free Admission





April 8 TBD

Miami FC vs. Barry University

[Frank Cunha]

Miami, April 4, 2008 – Miami FC will have its full club on display this Saturday, April 4th at Tropical Park Stadium when the club hosts its second tripleheader featuring its Under-16 team, Under-18 team and professional team. Unfortunately, the first time Miami FC hosted a tripleheader, on March 30th, half of the second game (Miami FC Kendall U-18 vs. US National Team) and the pro match of the evening (Montreal Impact @ Miami FC) had to be cancelled due to severe weather.

Below is the schedule of games.

Saturday, April 5, 2008

4PM Miami FC Kendall U-16s vs. Clearwater Chargers



6PM Miami FC Kendall U-18 vs. Clearwater Chargers



8PM Miami FC vs. Nova Southeastern University Men’s team

Miami FC will begin competition for the 2008 season on Saturday, April 12th, at Tropical Park Stadium against the Charleston Battery at 7:30 p.m. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting Miami FC - USL Professional Soccer or by calling 305-728-2612. Single game tickets are available through Ticketmaster or by calling 1-866-57-MIAMI.

[Frank Cunha]

Miami, April 4, 2008 – Miami FC announced yesterday during their first press to introduce the 2008 season, the exciting new signing of Brazilian striker Alex Alfonso. The 27 year old forward is currently one of the top 5 leading goal scorers in the First Division São Paulo Championship, which is considered to be the biggest and most competitive Brazilian regional league. Alfonso’s arrival could not come at a better time for the club, which’s season opener is less than 10 days away on April 12th.



“We are continuing to look for players who can finish scoring opportunities,” remarked Miami FC General Manager Luiz Muzzi. “I believe that (Alex) Alfonso can provide that scoring touch that we lacked last year after the departure of Romário,” he continued to say. “He is going to be one of our more experienced players, having played in Portugal in addition to Brazilian clubs such as Fortaleza and Palmeiras, to name a few.”



In other exciting news coming out of the Thursday’s press conference, Miami FC announced in conglomeration with Radio Caracol (1260AM) a new show that will be broadcast on the station’s airwaves every Thursday night at 9-9:30pm during the 2008 season. The show will feature news and commentary on all things related to the club and other relevant soccer news and will be hosted by Ernesto Barrera, along with Augusto Blacker – the official voice of Miami FC.



Also, the Miami FC players and Miami FC Angels unveiled their new uniforms for the 2008 season, as part of an effort to add a sleeker image for the team. The team’s jersey sports the same blue for home and white for away, with a far more modern edge.



The event was also a great opportunity for the organization to recognize Miami FC’s 2008 confirmed sponsors which include to date: Bud Light, Joma, Marriott Miami Airport, Mercy Hospital, PowerAde, Sección Amarilla, BKTT, Pack Rat and Radio Caracol.



Miami FC will resume competition for the 2008 season on Saturday, April 12th, at Tropical Park Stadium against the Charleston Battery at 7:30 p.m. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting Miami FC - USL Professional Soccer or by calling 305-728-2612. Single game tickets are available through Ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-866-57-MIAMI.

[Frank Cunha]

Miami preview
United Soccer Leagues (USL)

[Frank Cunha]

Miami inks Saunders from Islanders
Miami FC announced that it will be entrusting 27-year-old former Puerto Rican Islander Josh Saunders with its goalkeeping duties for the 2008 season. The news was officially released to the public Thursday on the premiere of “El Show del Miami Fútbol Club,” a Spanish language program featured on Radio Caracol 1260 AM that covers all news and updates regarding the club. [+]

[Frank Cunha]

Miami, April 19 - Miami FC’s new head coach Zinho, suffered his first defeat with a 2-1 loss against the visiting Montreal Impact. The Canadians, with a 2-0-3 edge in head-to-head encounters against the Blues prior to this match, came to South Florida looking to clinch three points after losing last week away to Vancouver. Last week’s season opener and at Tropical Park saw Miami FC draw 2-2 against the Charleston Battery.



The match was a hard fought battle with both sides going heavy on challenges. In the 15th minute, Miami’s Walter Ramirez made a powerful run in the left flank and connected with Juan Pablo Galavis, however his ensuing cross was wide. A minute later, Alex Afonso scored Miami FC’s first ever goal against their Canadian opposition, with a powerful header after a superb Sean Cameron cross.



Both defenses had their work cut out. Montreal’s Adam Braz was yellow carded in the 19th minute after bringing down Leandro Mineiro. Montreal’s defender Stefano Pisoli did well to stop a Miami FC counterattack led by Alex Afonso and Sean Fraser.



In the 32nd minute, Montreal earned a free kick just outside the 18-yard box. The defensive wall blocked the free kick, which led to a dangerous Miami FC offensive break with Galavis, Afonso, and Cameron connecting well with nifty passes. Montreal responded well with midfielder Joey Gjertsen hitting the post with a powerful left-footer drive.



As the first half was drawing to a close, the visitors began pressuring more for an equalizer, with long free kicks that Miami keeper Josh Saunders controlled well. At halftime, both teams entered the dressing rooms with Miami FC leading 1-0.



The second half began with both teams making no substitutions. In the 48th minute, Montreal was determined to defend their undefeated record against Miami, and scored the equalizer with Robert Brown. Minutes later, during a Miami FC push which saw keeper Matt Jordan make crucial saves, Sean Fraser injured his elbow after a collision with teammate Galavis and was replaced by fellow Jamaican forward Sean Barrett.



Alex Afonso, Miami FC’s most dangerous player, almost took his season tally to 3 after his 66th minute effort past keep Matt Jordan went wide. Josh Saunders did well to save a close-range shot by Montreal after a defensive lapse by the Blues as match became a back and forth affair. The referee Sanchez ignored substitute Eric Vazquez’s penalty appeals after being brought down in the 18-yard box.



Later in the 76th minute, Vasquez slipped the ball in the middle for Leandro Mineiro to unleash a powerful cracker that hit the right post. Vasquez, in sparkling form, would later threaten the Montreal goal with a brilliant solo effort.



In the 83rd minute, an awkward clearance by Miami FC’s keeper Saunders left an open net for substitute Dwight Barnett to coolly chip in Montreal’s second goal of the match.



In the closing minutes of regulation time, Montreal looked to close off the match by pressuring forward and Miami FC’s defense looked more and more nervous. With 7 minutes of added extra time mostly due to a horrific fall by Sean Fraser who dislocated his elbow, the Blues could not figure how to get past a well-organized Impact defense. The Blues remain winless against the Canadian squad and Montreal notches their first win of the season.



Miami FC’s visits the Puerto Rico Islanders next weekend and their next home game at Tropical Park is May 4, at 6 PM as they host the Carolina Railhawks. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting Miami FC - USL Professional Soccer or by calling 305-728-2612. Single game tickets are available through Ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-866-57-MIAMI. Watch all games live on USL Live!

[Frank Cunha]

Miami FC announces signing of Avery John, 2006 World Cup Trinidad and Tobago Defender

Head coach Zinho continues adding talent; goalkeeper Sam Reynolds and defender Eddie Gutierrez also signed



Miami, May 1, 2008 – Miami FC officially welcomed today three new players to its roster for the remainder of the 2008 season. The signings included two defenders and a goalkeeper; likely to strengthen the team’s defense debilitated by recent injuries.



“I am still looking to have between 24 to 26 players signed however I will continue to exercise patience in holding out to make sure that we only accept the highest caliber of player to represent this organization,” Miami FC head coach Zinho said after the announcement.



Perhaps the most significant signing of the trio is defender Avery John, the Trinidad and Tobago National who spent the last three years playing for the New England Revolution of MLS. He was also a central part of the 2006 Trinidad and Tobago World Cup Defense which earned international respect after holding Sweden to a 0-0 draw.



After a decorated college career at the American University in Washington D.C. the 32-year-old Point-Fortin native began his professional career in 1999 playing for the Boston Bulldogs, formerly of the American A-League (now known as USL-1) under head coach Steve Nicol, who coincidently later went on to be Avery’s head coach with the New England Revolution.



“I’ve played with a couple of teams in the USL-1 (formerly the American A-League) and I am aware of the level of talent that exists in the league,” Avery said during a recent phone call as he was packing for Miami. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to play in Miami and contribute as soon as possible. This is all about winning a championship for me.”



Making his debut at right-back this past weekend in Puerto Rico sporting the number 2 jersey was new signing Eddie “Moto” Gutierrez, who comes by way of the Fresno Fuego of the Premier Development League.



Gutierrez certainly appeared to earn the respect of the Miami FC coaching staff after playing a full 180 minutes in two games in his debut in Puerto Rico. “Eddie demonstrated an excellent strategic knowledge of the game, and knows how to play his position well,” remarked Zinho. “In my mind, his debut was definitely one of the highlights of this past series in Puerto Rico.”



Also, signed as a backup goalkeeper to Josh Saunders this season is Sam Reynolds, the son of MLS’s Chicago Fire assistant coach Craig Reynolds. LikeSaunders, Reynolds is also a California native.



Reynolds has played in matches for Toronto FC and Chivas USA of MLS, as well as a stint with the Portland Timbers of USL-1 back in 2005. He earned honorable mention All-Big West Conference honors during his college career at Cal State Fullerton, and posted outstanding numbers at Davis High under Coach Ashley Yudin by allowing only 7 goals in a combined 30 matches.



“It is a privilege to play under a guy like Zinho, and to be able to work with goalkeeper coach Ricardo Lopes,” said Reynolds. “I really owe a lot respect and appreciation to my high school coach Ashley Yudin, and U.S. National Team goalie coach Zach Abdel, and my parents because they have given me the tools that I feel are necessary to come in and make an impact here in Miami.”



Miami FC returns home to Tropical Park Stadium on Sunday, May 4th to take on the Carolina Railhawks (1-0-1) at 6:00pm. Festivities are set to begin at 5:00pm for the official “Cinco de Mayo” celebrations, with live music and giveaways. Tickets are available through Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more. Official Ticketmaster site or by calling 1-800-57-MIAMI. Miami FC games can be watched live at USLlive.com.