Touchline - PA West Soccer Association

TOUCHLINE 

affiliated with US Youth Soccer, US Adult Soccer, US Soccer Federation and FIFA 

The Official Publication of PA West Soccer Association January 2012 

INSIDE 

Executive Board 

Page 3 

Youth News Page 4-5 

Coaching Page 6-7 

Over 40 Playoffs 

Page 9 

Adult News Page 10 

Referee News 

Page 14-15 

PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS UNVEIL 

STADIUM PLANS 

The Pittsburgh Riverhounds announced on January 10th they would be constructing a multi-sport stadium to 

serve as their home field. The stadium will be constructed in Station Square on part of the former Trib Total 

Media Amphitheater site and a portion of the parking area to the east of that site; a completion date during the 

summer 2012 is expected. 

The stadium will operate year-round; it will host training programs, games and tournaments for soccer, football, 

lacrosse, rugby, and softball. Stadium users will include youth, high school, college, adult, and professional 

athletes. Management is also assessing plans to incorporate outdoor ice rinks in the winter for public skate 

hours and amateur hockey games, as well as the potential use of the stadium for concerts and music events. 

Anticipating over 600,000 visitors per year, the stadium reinforces Station Square’s position as a travel destination, 

bringing visitors to Pittsburgh from across the country. 

The stadium will seat approximately 3,500 on the south and east sides of the field. The north side of the field 

will remain open to welcome inward views from a refurbished Riverwalk Trail and outward views of the Pittsburgh 

skyline. 

Architectural designs of the stadium were done by ThenDesign Architecture (TDA), an Ohio-based firm 

opening offices in Pittsburgh. Also involved in the stadium designs was Pittsburgh-based real estate developer 

and management company Millcraft Industries, Inc. 

The estimated $7 million stadium is currently a privately financed project by local investors. Corporate support 

for this project is coming from Highmark, who will receive naming rights to the stadium, as well as Trib 

Total Media, and #1 Cochran. 

Non-Profit Org. 

U.S. Postage 

Paid 

Permit #12 

Indiana, PA 

(l to r) Craig Cozza, Gene 

Klein, Paul Halford, Jason 

Kutney, Natalie Schwoeble, 

Tim McCoy, and Dave 

Wilke following the 

announcement of the 

Riverhounds Stadium 

development plans. 

SOCCER ASSOCIATION 

111 Whitehead Lane, Suite 200, 

Monroeville, PA 15146 

KLINGENBERG CALLED TO US WOMEN’S 

NATIONAL TEAM CAMP 

Former PA West Soccer ODP standout Meghan Klingenberg was among the 

29 players called by Head Coach Pia Sundhage in to the US Women’s National 

Team Camp in Carson, CA. The camp was from January 7 to 15 in advance of 

the team leaving for 2012 CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying. 

The Gibsonia native and current member of the Boston Breakers is one of 

nine defenders called into camp. Klingenberg will be competing for a spot on 

the team with several veterans from last summer’s Women’s World Cup, including 

Rachel Buehler, Ali Krieger, Amy LePeilbet, Christie Rampone, and Heather 

Mitts, as Sundhage trims the roster to 20. 

The Olympic Qualifying tournament will be held in Vancouver, Canada from 

January 19-29. The US is in Group B with Dominican Republic, Guatemala, 

and Mexico. They begin play on January 20 against Dominican Republic. The 

matches will be broadcast on the Universal Sports Network.

www.facebook.com/PittsburghRiverhounds

January 2012 Page 3 

EXECUTIVE BOARD NOTES 

November 21, 2011 

- Approved the date of July 22, 2012 for the Annual General Meeting. 

The AGM will be held at Slippery Rock University. 

- Confirmed an email vote approving the lease of a Xerox Work Center 

5745 from Amcom Office Products. 

- Unanimously approved a policy requiring all clubs to report changes 

to their Boards on or by March 1 and August 1 of every year. 

- Unanimously approved a policy requiring all clubs to hold elections 

between November 1 and January 31 of the following year beginning in 

November 2013. 

- The Board rejected a uniform sponsorship proposal from Score. 

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 

SET FOR JULY 

The 2012 Annual General Meeting of PA West Soccer Association will be 

held on Sunday, July 22. The AGM will convene at 2:00 PM in the Advanced 

Technology and Science Hall Auditorium on the campus of Slippery Rock 

University. 

The meeting is held to conduct the business of the association including 

election of officers for positions with expiring terms, approval of the 2012-13 

budget, and approval of any proposed amendments to the Constitution or 

Bylaws. 

The voting members of the State Council include a representative from each 

affiliated youth club and sanctioned adult league. Attendance is mandatory 

for all youth clubs; clubs not attending will be subject to a 300.00 fine. Registration 

for all state council members will begin at 1:00 PM. 

TOUCHLINE 

EXECUTIVE BOARD 

EXECUTIVE BOARD CREATES 

ELECTION WINDOW 

At its November meeting the Executive Board unanimously approved a 

policy requiring clubs to hold elections between November first of one year 

and January 31st of the next. The board took the action to create the threemonth 

election window to solve a persistent problem and proactively 

reduce the likelihood of another. 

Over the years, PA West Soccer has consistently had problems getting 

clubs to report changes to Board of Directors. However, the problem hasn’t 

been consistently from the same clubs. The failure to report is often the 

result of Board changes and the outgoing officers provided little or no support 

to the incoming officers. Thus, the new members do not know to alert 

the state office of the change and the state office has no record leading to 

continued correspondence with old officers who usually fail to pass the 

info along. 

Attempts have been made to track down changes but those efforts often 

result in an exercise similar to chasing one’s tail so the goal is to have all 

the elections held in the same time period allowing the staff and volunteers 

to know that by February 1st all clubs will have completed elections and 

new officers should have been reported. Tracking down stragglers won’t 

be hit or miss as when elections are held throughout the year. 

Secondly, having all elections completed in a specific time period will 

allow PA West Soccer to offer training specific to newly elected officers. 

The goal is to help new Board members hit the ground running. 

Recently, the number of calls and incidents due to poor Board operation 

has increased significantly. It is hoped this new initiative will help our 

newly elected officers be more informed and better prepared to begin performing 

their duties. Better performing officers will help clubs provide 

better service to their members. 

President 

Natalie Schwoeble 

4133 Homestead-Duquesne Rd. 

West Mifflin, PA 15122 

412-462-9385 

natjos@comcast.net 

Vice President - Youth 

Thilo Boensch 

P.O. Box 274 

Zelienople , PA 16063 

724-316-8903 

Thilo@zoominternet.net 

Secretary 

Peggy Neason 

82 Lookout Ave., 

Monongahela, PA 15063 

(H) 724-379-5386 

pneason@comcast.net 

Member-At-Large 

Norman G. Hasbrouck 

160 Quarry Lane, 

California, PA 15419 

(H) 724-938-3620 

bod-hasbrouck@pawest-soccer.org 


Bill Kamienik 

2514 Bonnie Dell Drive, 

South Park, PA 15129 

412-653-4095 

bill.kamienik@gmail.com 

Vice President - Adult 

Keith Renner 

1021 McClure St Apt #3 

Munhall, PA 15120 

412-464-0829 

RDKSportsinc@aol.com 

Treasurer 

Tom Beecher 

4212 Tanglewood Dr. 

Allison Park, PA 15101 

412-486-2550 

tbsoccer1@verizon.net 

Immediate Past President 

Larry Solomon 

24 Timberline Court, 

Pittsburgh, PA 15217 

(H) 412-521-8971 

soccersol@aol.com 


Cheryl Bejgrowicz 

PO Box 8926 

New Castle, PA 16107 

724-714-1811 

nerdudette@gmail.com 


TBA 

2012 is here! With the start of each New Year we offer resolutions in 

hopes of being a better person. Some only last until dessert is offered with 

our New Year’s Day meal but not all resolutions are broken. Here are some 

that will make playing and watching our game more enjoyable and meaningful. 

Let’s resolve to engage in “Fair Play”. Reward the skillful play and discourage 

the tactics and efforts that turn a blind eye to the spirit of the game. 

Let’s resolve to put the welfare of the players before the result of the 

game. 

Let’s resolve to have a positive attitude at the field…recognizing that all 

three teams (yes, three teams - home, away, and referees) will be trying to 

do their best but mistakes are part of the game. Less criticism and more 

encouragement will help the game be a positive experience for everyone. 

Let’s resolve to understand there is nothing wrong with wanting to win 

but it’s wrong to want to win at all costs. 

Let’s resolve to encourage a love of the game. By appreciating the game 

for its value and beauty we’ll want skillful, sporting soccer from both teams 

instead of a game filled with rule bending and attempts to manipulate the 

referees. 

Let’s resolve to learn more about the game. We’re never too old to learn 

and the game is always evolving. The coach, referee, or spectator who 

thinks they know everything about the game will quickly find they don’t 

know as much as they once did. 

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION 

Let’s resolve to contribute more to the game. Take the referee or coaching 

course and help boost the ranks of our officials and educated coaches. 

We don’t have enough qualified officials (especially adults) and coaches. 

Even if you don’t referee or coach you’ll have a much better understanding 

of the laws and how they should be applied and the game and how it should 

played and coached. 

Let’s resolve to understand the importance of player development. Players 

should be encouraged to try new things and take risks, even if they 

result in mistakes. Mistakes usually provide us with the best lessons. 

Those achieving the greatest success are usually those taking the biggest 

risks. Mistakes are only bad when we don’t learn from them. 

Let’s resolve to keep the lines of communication open. Situations can be 

resolved if concerns are shared openly and honestly. Whether you don’t 

like the coach’s method of coaching, a club’s handling of team selection, or 

color paint used to paint the field’s bleachers…talk to someone and share 

your concern. 

Most importantly, let’s resolve to enjoy our time together on the pitch or 

along the touchline. The game provides a special bond; take advantage of 

the opportunity for friendship, fellowship, and sense of community it provides. 

Think of your own soccer resolutions to add to these. Then make them 

habits in the coming year.

Page 4 January 2012 

TOUCHLINE 

YOUTH NEWS 

GEORGE ALLAN 

SCHOLARSHIP 

APPLICATIONS BEING 

ACCEPTED 

The George Allan Scholarship is an annual award from PA West Soccer 

to a high school senior who will be pursuing a collegiate education. The 

$1000.00 award is given to recognize the outstanding contributions to the 

game, community, and school and is open to any high school senior who is 

registered with PA West Soccer as a player, referee, or coach. 

The scholarship is named in honor of PA West Soccer’s first referee to 

earn a national badge. George Allan’s many contributions to the game 

helped the association grow and helped many young players and referees 

develop a love and respect for the game. 

The deadline to apply for the scholarship is March 31, 2012. The application 

is available on the Forms Page of the PA West Soccer web site. 

Applications can be mailed to PA West Soccer, 111 Whitehead Lane, Suite 

200, Monroeville, PA 15146 Attn: George Allan Scholarship. 

OPEN TOURNAMENT 

Don’t miss the 2012 Open Tournament! Every travel team that plays in 

a spring travel league is eligible. 

Please note some of the age groups and genders have switched weekends. 

June 15-17, 2012 

◆ U-10 Girls 

◆ U-11 Boys - Div. 4, 5, 6 

◆ U-12 Boys - Div. 4, 5, 6 

◆ U-13 Girls and older - Div. 4, 5, 6 

June 22-24, 2012 

◆ U-10 Boys 

◆ U-11 Girls - Div. 4, 5, 6 

◆ U-12 Girls - Div. 4, 5, 6 

◆ U-13 Boys and older - Div. 4, 5, 6 

For questions you can email Patty Plaisted at patty.plaisted@gmail.com. 

WWW.PITTKEEPERS.COM 

8 Week Winter Goalkeeper Clinic 

Jan. 29-Mar. 25, 2012. 7:30-9:00pm 

NO SESSION SUPERBOWL SUNDAY, FEB. 5 

COST: $ 159 00 • Location: "Club for Life" - Monroeville, PA 

Ages 9-18 • Minimum 10 keepers and Max 25 keepers 

Must register by Jan. 25, 2012 

412-651-0362 or www.pittkeepers.com 

Keepers trained by keepers 

SUBMISSION TIME FOR 

PROPOSED YOUTH DIVISION 

RULES CHANGES 

The PA West Soccer Youth Board reviews the rules and procedures for 

the Youth Division at their monthly meetings between March and May. The 

review and approval of the rules during that time period establishes the 

playing rules and accompanying procedures for the upcoming playing season. 

Any member may submit a proposed rule change to the Youth Board for 

consideration. All proposals for the 2012-2013 season must be received by 

February 1, 2012. 

Proposed rules should be submitted using the proper format on the rule 

change submission form. Rule change proposals should list the current 

rule with strike marks through the portions being removed/changed (if necessary) 

followed by the proposed rule with all new portions underlined. 

Lastly the proposed change should include the rationale for the proposed 

change. 

Anyone with questions should contact Tim McCoy at the State Office by 

calling 412-856-8011 or emailing tim@pawest-soccer.org. 

TRANSFER WINDOW OPEN - 

WHAT DOES THAT MEAN 

Players and their parents occasionally find a need to switch classic clubs 

mid-year. The reasons are many, like no longer being able to regularly 

attend their current club’s practice because of moving to a new home, the 

burden of too much tournament travel, or discovering the player is not a 

good fit with the team’s style of play. For that reason a transfer window 

was created to help fix those situations. 

The PA West Soccer Classic Division Transfer Window is open until January 

31, 2012. That means players currently rostered to a classic division 

team can make a request to begin the process of leaving their current team. 

To start the process, the player’s parent(s) should make a written request 

for a transfer by the deadline. The letter should be mailed to the PA West 

Soccer office with a copy mailed to the Classic Division Director Kelly 

Genard. The letter should indicate which team the player is seeking to 

leave along with the reason. Incomplete letters or improperly applied 

requests will not be considered. 

Once the letter is received, the Classic Division will undertake evaluating 

the request to determine whether it should be granted. Should the 

request be granted, a player will then be free to contact other teams to seek 

other openings and schedule tryouts. 

Players seeking a transfer are not free to contact other teams until after 

the transfer has been granted. Any coach having contact with a player 

whose National Championship Series declaration is still tied to another 

team’s roster can be charged with illegal recruiting per the Classic Division 

Rules, this includes discussions about possible positions, attendance of his 

team’s training, and attending a tryout. A finding of guilt could result in 

the coach receiving a one year suspension from all PA West Soccer activity. 

Once a new team has been identified by the player, that player will be 

moved from their original team’s roster to their new team’s roster by utilizing 

the player-team status form. 

If you would like more information about the classic division transfer 

process please contact Tim McCoy at the state office.


TOUCHLINE 

YOUTH NEWS 

WANTED A NATIONAL 

CHAMPION - 

2012 STATE CUP NEARS 

The quest to find a national champion starts here in PA West Soccer. Over 

10,000 teams with approximately 185,000 players, the 2012 US Youth Soccer 

National Championship Series begins in early May and the PA West Soccer 

State Cup is part of it. 

The PA West Soccer State Cup is open to any PA West Soccer registered 

team competing in a PA West Soccer or Region 1 sanctioned league. The competition 

is held to determine our top U12-U19 boys and girls teams. But once 

our state champs are crowned the journey is just beginning because those teams 

represent PA West Soccer at the Region 1 Championships from June 28 to July 

3 in Lancaster, PA. 

Deadline for entry for all U12-U18 teams is March 1, 2012; U19 teams’ 

deadline for entry is May 2, 2012. Applications must be completed online; 

club checks must be postmarked by the deadline or hand-delivered to the State 

Office by 4:00 PM the day of the deadline. Please note: All teams entering the 

State Cup must be declared for the spring playing session by March 1, 2012. 

YOUTH BOARD NOTES 

October 10, 2011 

- Approved the appointment of Patty Plaisted as the Open Tournament 

Chair 

- Confirmed email votes approving Parts 1-5 of Youth Division Procedures/Regulations 

November 21, 2011 

- Rejected the 2012 State Cup Rules and Budget. 

- Approved the 2012 Open Tournament Rules. 

January 9, 2012 

- Approved recognizing the changes made to the National Championship 

Series 

- Suspended sanctioning of the Lake Erie Youth Soccer League until the 

league is ready to begin play. 

- Approved creation of the Awards Committee, Indoor Committee, and 

Mediation Committee 

- Approved the 2012 State Cup Rules 

- Approved the application for Membership from Millcreek Soccer 

Academy 

- Approved the transition of operation of LC United to the New Castle 

YMCA 

NEW YORK WEST TO HOST 

NATIONAL Y COURSE 

The New York State West Youth Soccer Association is very pleased to 

announce that we will be hosting a National Youth License (NYL) course on 

May 11-13 and 19-20 at the Webster Soccer Association Indoor Soccer Complex 

in Webster, NY. 

The NYL is a national licensing course and is available to anyone who is at 

least 18 years of age and possesses a current USSF D License. This five-day 

course is designed to provide the knowledge to successfully structure soccer 

environments for children between the ages of four and 12. The course is 

often regarded as the most beneficial and important of the national-level 

courses. 

The course costs is 650.00 but if paid in full by February 1, 2012 it’s only 

590.00. A deposit of 150.00 is due at time of application. Registration is limited 

and will close on April 13, 2012. Tuition must be paid in full by April 13, 

2012. 

For more information contact Chris Hershey, NYWYSA Director of Coaching 

Education, by email at chershey@nyswysa.org. 

NEW FORMAT FOR THE 

2012 STATE CUP 

The 2012 PA West Soccer State Cup will have a new look this spring giving 

each game more importance. The Cup format has been revised to a single 

elimination format; similar to that used for the NCAA soccer and basketball 

tournaments. 

Previous years’ tournaments had utilized single elimination in the first, 

third and fourth rounds, the switch from round robin to single elimination 

in the second round was the result of committee discussion about options 

to deal with annual postponements due to weather and field conditions. 

“The discussion didn’t begin with making a format change. But after looking 

at a number of options this was the one that made most sense,” said Cup 

Chair Tim McCoy. 

The change reduces the total number of games allowing greater flexibility 

in scheduling and re-scheduling should weather again play its part in 

this year’s competition. Based on previous years’ results, the absence of the 

round robin shouldn’t dramatically affect the outcome of the competition; 

most previous champions had won all of their games en route to the state 

title and those picking up a loss in round robin play usually did so after 

securing a spot in the semi-finals. 

The change is a dramatic departure from how the top teams in PA West 

Soccer were determined but the change is in line with many Region 1 state 

associations. “It means teams have to bring their top effort to every game,” 

said McCoy; “This change eliminates the meaningless game…the third 

game of group play between an undefeated team and a winless team or two 

winless teams. Often in those instances neither team wanted to play 

because the game had little effect on the Cup and the committee would 

have to make sure the match was played.” 

The State Cup will continue to utilize site play to maintain the ‘tournament’ 

atmosphere. The reduced number of games will allow for fewer sites 

eliminating the need for multiple sites on the same day. That’s good news 

to parents and coaches involved with more than one team/club. 

Youth Board President 

Thilo Boensch 

see Executive Board 

Youth Board Secretary 

Lindsay Keene 

12 Railroad St. 

PO Box 62 

Allenport, PA 15412 

724-938-8485 

Hearing and Appeals 

Randall A. Lowden 

5059 Windriver Drive 

McKees Rocks, PA 15136 

412-720-7904 

Division 3A Director 

(Boys and Girls) 

Brigid Polliard 

321 Carriage Blvd 


412-400-8765 

bpolliard@inventionhome.com 

State Cup Chair 

Tim McCoy 

111 Whitehead Lane 

Suite 200 


412-856-8011 

tim@pawest-soccer.org 

YOUTH BOARD 

PA West Soccer Open 

Tournament Chairperson 

Patty Plaisted 

162 Seneca School Rd. 

Harmony, PA 16037 

Recreation Director 

Chuck Bauer 

36 Westfield Ave. 


412-931-0694 

East District Director 

Bruce Wiancko 

2661 Farm Spur Road 

N. Huntingdon, PA 15642 

412-607-5229 

bruce@wiancko.com 

Lake District Director 

Alan Wise 

10495 Mohawk Road 

Conneaut Lake, PA 16316 

814-213-0089 

alanpeggy@zoominternet.net 

North District Director 

Ron Hitchens 

115 Colonial Drive 

Sewickley, PA 15143 

412-741-4796 

northdistdir@comcast.net 

Mountain District Director 

Keith Lair 

167 Jodon Avenue 

Bellefonte, PA 16823 

814-359-3450 

klair@mtnittany.org 

West District Director 

Mike Burger 

724-524-0078 

South District Director 

Walt Kivala 

2985 Amy Dr. 


412-805-4443 

kivala@comcast.net 

Classic Director 

(Div. 1, 2 and 3A) 

Kelly Genard 

16 S. 8th Street 

Youngwood, PA 15697 

724-925-1606 

pawestclassic@aol.com


TOUCHLINE 

COACHING 

COACHING COURSES 

ARE IMPORTANT TO 

THE DEVELOPMENT 

OF THE PLAYER 

It has been my view for a long time that the key to 

player development is through coaching development. The coach must 

continually challenge themselves by attending coaching courses and seminars 

to learn the latest methods to allow their players to grow in the game. 

Comments I have heard from coaches: 

1. I played therefore I can coach! The step from being a player to becoming 

a coach is huge and the player that strives to learn more about the game 

past his playing experience will develop into a coach that will help the players 

grow. 

2. The coaching schools can’t teach me anything, if you are open minded 

and have the young players development and well-being in mind then all 

coaching schools and seminars you go to will further enhance your knowledge. 

Coaches must keep up with the latest methods of the game as the 

game has changed dramatically in the last ten years. 

Parents if your coach doesn’t have any license to teach your children then 

you need to ask why. Licensing is important, just think, teachers, dentists, 

doctors, plumbers are licensed to practice their trade so don’t you think that 

a position as a youth team coach teaching your child requires the same? 

There are some new developments coming from USSF with regards to 

the coaching license. In October I attended a three-day course on the new 

E license. A change from what was previously an E certificate. 

Below is a review of the courses available 

NEW “Introductory Coaching Certificate Syllabus 

The “Introductory Coaching Certificate” course is designed for the 

coach who may be coaching for the first time and may not have any playing 

background. The course focuses on activities that will identify the proper 

techniques necessary to play soccer at any level and give the participants 

ideas on how to successfully plan and conduct training sessions. While 

technically geared towards enhancing individual’s performance, training 

activities will be presented that will assist in the development of the team. 

Objectives of the “Introductory Coaching Certificate”: 

• To prepare coaches for training players by expanding the player’s technical 

abilities through fun games and activities. 

• To provide the framework and understanding of practical coaching 

tools for the preparation of the players and the team. 

• To introduce attacking and defending tactics in the 4v4 and 5v5 game. 

• To provide the framework and understanding for small-sided games 

Candidate Expectations: 

• To participate in all activities including field and lecture sessions (physical 

participation is not required but encouraged). 

• To bring a properly inflated ball, appropriate soccer footwear, shin 

guards, notepad, pen, water, and willingness to learn with an open mind. 

The required USSF courses are the Youth modules (U6-U8 and U10-12 

modules), the E certificate, (now E license) and the D license. The pedagogy 

of these courses is developed by the national coaching staff with a 

specific goal or goals in mind. Some of the courses award a certificate 

COACHING/PLAYER DEVELOPMENT 

Director of Coaching and Player 

Development 

Paul Halford 

412-856-8011 

Administrative Assistant 

Amy Fogle 

412-856-8011 

afogle@pawest-soccer.org 

Paul 

Halford 

Director of Coaching 

& Player Development 

upon completion while others are pass-fail. 

Youth modules 

These are designed to train novice coaches and 

coaches working with young children the best practices 

for teaching and coaching young children. The 

games and ideals of the modules are rooted in the 

same proven learning philosophies that guide early 

childhood development specialists and elementary 

school teachers. Children think and learn differently than adults and that’s 

especially true with young children. The youth modules provide the most 

effective ways to meets the learning needs of young children. 

The youth modules award a certificate of completion. Coaches are asked 

to demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of learning and how to 

organize an age appropriate training session. 

The E License 

OBJECTIVES: 

The E License is focused on delivering content and instructional methods 

relevant to coaching 9 12 year old soccer athletes. The course is intended 

to be the initial license serving as a stepping stone along the National 

Course pathway. 

DEVELOPMENT TARGETS: 

1. The Coach will demonstrate competency in teaching methods necessary 

to effectively instruct technique and the application to the game. 

2. The Coach will demonstrate competency in organizing a complete, 

appropriate training session for a soccer team in the Basic Stage of 9 12 

years old. 

3. The Coach will be familiar with the Principles of attacking and 

defending as applied to a small sided game. (3v3 to 6v6) 

The course is made up of three components: 

• Independent Study (Pre Course) online work prior to taking the course 

• Core Course; 17 hours of classroom and field work 

• Testing; Field session by the candidate 

At the end of the course a coach will receive a pass or an incomplete. 

An incomplete will mean that the coach must redo some portion of the 

course which can be arranged with the Director of Coaching. 

The D License (is now being reviewed and the new format will be presented 

to the DOC’s at the US Youth Workshop in February) takes the information 

taught in the E course and builds upon it with the refinement of 

some technical elements and the addition of tactical training. The course 

also requires that the candidates recognize certain elements of the game 

and be able to address them. USSF has designed this course as a pass-not 

ready - fail course. 

This course has two primary goals. The first is to prepare coaches to 

teach the appropriate technical and tactical skills for their age group. The 

second goal is to prepare and identify coaches for the C License course. As 

noted earlier there are two passing levels in this course, a state license indicates 

a coach has demonstrated a proficient understanding of the course 

material and is able to conduct a training session well enough to meet the 

cursory requirements USSF believes acceptable. The national license 

means the coach has demonstrated a level of knowledge indicating he or 

she is prepared to take the C License course. 

Once a coach has received a National D, the additional courses are C, B 

and A. All are offered and taught by USSF and those courses only have one 

passing grade. 

USSF has established a curriculum with each course acting as a building 

block for the next. The first two levels focuses on learning and awards a 

certificate of completion because the novice coach has felt it important to 

begin coaching education. The E certificate is also a certificate course but 

becomes more focused on understanding the material for a successful completion 

of the pass-fail nature of the D course. The D course is a transitional 

course between the certificate and the pass-not ready levels of USSF 

Coaching Education as you can not quite meet the level to advance to the


TOUCHLINE 

COACHING 

C course but still receive a passing score. 

The standard for each course is established by USSF. The state association 

instructors are regularly updated on the course materials and related 

standard. While the instructors would like to see everyone pass the passfail 

courses, the reality is that like any educational course with a grading 

scale there will students at the top and students at the bottom. True coaches 

teach their players to fight through adversity, to not let an obstacle take 

them out of the game, and USSF provides the same opportunity for coaching 

candidates who don’t pass the D, C, B, or A License courses. 

“A” and “B” License candidates are graded on a scale of 1 (high) to 5 

(fail), candidates must receive passing scores in all test areas in order to 

become licensed. A single failing score in a theoretical subject qualifies for 

a re-test in that subject. All re-tests will take place at the conclusion of the 

course. A single failing score in either of the methodology subjects will 

result in a failing grade for the course with no re-testing. If a candidate is 

found deficient in only Game Awareness, he/she may still pass the course. 

If an applicant misses any of the course sessions, he/she must return to a 

future school to participate in that session/lecture, even if the candidate has 

passed all of the testing areas. License will be withheld until this requirement 

is fulfilled. 

Based upon the January 2006 “C” License revisions, ”C” License candidates 

are graded either “pass or “not ready” for all components of the 

course and must receive passing scores in all test areas in order to earn the 

“C” License. In order to be awarded the “C” License, the candidate must 

receive a grade of “Pass” in all theoretical and field testing areas. 

If a candidate fails only one theoretical subject (written or oral) they 

qualify for an immediate, on-site Re-Test on that subject. However, if a candidate 

scores “not ready” in any of the following three areas, the Candidate 

must then wait a minimum of six months before they are eligible to re-take 

the field examination at a regional re-test site. 

1 - Both oral examinations, 

2 - one or more practical field examination(s), 

3 - two or more written subjects. 

*Retest guidelines apply to 2006 candidates. Candidates prior to January 

2006 must retake the 'C' License course and are not eligible to retest. 

The 3.2 rule requirement 

If a “B” License candidate receives a passing grade of 3.2 or above they 

must wait three (3) years before attempting the “A” License. However, if 

they audit an “A” course within that three-year period, they will be permitted 

to attempt the “A” License after the minimum 12-month waiting period. 

*Taken from the USSF website. 

For more information about the coaching courses offered by PA West 

Soccer visit the Coaching Page of the PA West Soccer web site. 

COACHING CALENDAR 

E License 

January 27 Pine-Richland Youth Center $75.00 

D License 

March 3 California University $175.00 (Completion of 

the E Course Required)

TOUCHLINE 


PERFORMANCE COACHING BEGINS WITH WHAT NOT TO SAY 

By Jack Perconte 

Great coaches, at any level of sport, know how to get the best effort out of teams 

and individuals. Their talented performance coaching skills have often been honed 

over the years, after much trial and error. Their coaching achievements earn them 

great respect and deservedly so. 

However, youth coaches must be careful when watching advanced level sport 

coaches. Professional and college coaches often display behavior that is for adult 

athletes. These coaches often scream, swear, and use negativity to coach and motivate 

players. Coaches at these advanced levels expect players to be mature enough 

to handle these performance-coaching techniques. 

Of course, all coaches are different and for every coach that teaches negatively, 

there are many that use a more positive approach. I am not here to debate the 

best method, although I obviously believe the positive approach is the best one for 

most athletes. However, I am here to state that the only way that should be 

employed at the youth sport level is the positive performance coaching way. What 

may work for adult and professional ball players is not meant for youth athletes. 

To get the most out of youth athletes, positive performance coaching techniques 

are crucial to keep young players motivated and interested with continuing in 

sport. With that understanding, youth sport coaches must be careful they do not 

fall into the negative coaching trap, which is an easy one to fall into. The best way 

to avoid this trap is by being careful of what and how things are said. Following 

are negative statements that generally serve no purpose and only serve to demean 

players’ attitudes and effort. 

What Youth Coaches do not need to say: 

(Listed from bad to worse) 

1. Why did you do that? 

2. What were you thinking out there? 

3. Why didn’t you do what I told you to do? 

4. You will never get anywhere doing that 

5. When I was your age, I used to be able to … 

6. You have to practice more 

7. Look at me when I talk to you 

8. I thought you wanted to play 

9. You are embarrassing me 

10. Do what I tell you or else 

11. We might as well forfeit if that is how you are going to play 

12. Forget it; you are not worth my time 

Some of these may seem like legitimate questions but the emotional way and 

tone of voice they are said or asked, automatically turn kids off. 

Following are what youth coaches could stay instead that have a positive bend, 

but still get the point across. Notice that by just adding a plural sense of “we” to 

most statements instead of “you,” can change the whole tone of the negative statements. 

Things Youth Coaches should say: 

1. We can do better 

2. Don’t think so much 

3. Remember what we worked on 

4. I know some ways we can practice that so it won’t happen again 

5. Here is how I use to practice that 

6. We will work on it together 

7. Watch this 

8. Focus and stay in the moment 

9. We are better than this 

10. Believe me, I know what works 

11. It’s never too late to improve 

12. I will never give up on you guys 

Finally, studies show that the word “you” is the most empowering word there is 

– That may be but in team sports the word “we” empowers more. 

About the author: Jack Perconte is a former Major League Baseball player, 

playing for the Dodgers, Indians, Mariners, and White Sox, with a career BA of 

.270. Prior to his pro baseball career, Jack earned a BS in Sociology from Murray 

State. Jack is now a writer focusing on youth baseball and sports. Jack’s second 

book, “Raising an Athlete: How to Instill Confidence, Build Skills and Inspire 

a Love of Sport,” is an insightful look at his playing, coaching and parenting experiences, 

with valuable advice for parents and sport coaches. Jack’s two web sites 

baseballcoachingtips.net and jackperconte.com offer insightful baseball and positive 

parenting in sports advice, as well as tips for coaching young athletes. 

After 20 years at Geneva College, 

World Cup Soccer Camp has moved to 

St. Vincent College in Latrobe. This 

year’s training will take place on the 

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Dave Murray 

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With Coach Dave Murray 

Pittsburgh’s Largest 

Residential Soccer 

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Visit us online at 

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Boys & Girls Soccer 

Players are trained and 

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Camp Director 

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• Over 20 years of College Coaching 

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SUMMER 2012 

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Camp 

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June 24 – 28 

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July 8 

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TOUCHLINE 

OVER 40 PLAYOFFS 

Premier Champions - Inter United 

Premier Runnerup - Azul 

Series A Champions - Tartan Devils 

Series A Runnerup - CT United 

Bundesliga Champions - Mt. Lebanon 

Bundesliga Runnerup - Indiana


TOUCHLINE 

ADULT NEWS 

2011 ADULT DIVISION 

REVIEW 

As we look back in 2011 the adult soccer leagues continue to grow with 

more adults playing the game in PA West Soccer than ever before. This 

growth shows no signs of slowing down as all our leagues are showing an 

increase in the number of teams and players participating. As we move forward 

there will be a need for more officials as well as more fields to ensure 

that we can accommodate that growth. In regards to the first item, we are 

working with the State Referee committee to have a class for adults only 

who wish to become officials. There is a need for adult officials at all levels 

and for those of you who may be interested it is a great way to stay 

active in the game you love. 

As we approach the upcoming season I look back on this fall with some 

concerns. We had far too many cases of inappropriate behavior on the field 

so as we approach the upcoming season rest assured the adult board is not 

sitting back. It is with this hindsight that in 2012 I am asking all participants 

to focus on one thing only. RESPECT. 

Respect your opponent because without an opponent you have no game 

to play. Respect the officials because without them you cannot play a sanctioned 

match. Respect the fields you play on because somebody had to prepare 

that field and, as the Boy Scouts always say, leave it in better shape 

than you found it. Respect your teammates as everybody wants to play and 

enjoy themselves. But above all respect the game and don't do anything to 

bring it in disrepute. Play hard, play fair and enjoy the beautiful game. 

On a special note I would also ask that you keep the men and women of 

our armed forces in prayer. Many of you have relatives and sons or daughters 

who are deployed serving us and keeping us free to enjoy the beautiful 

game and to live in this great country of ours. I also want to thank the adult 

board who put in countless hours behind the scenes to ensure that the 

games can be played. Their efforts are appreciated by me. Please convey 

your appreciation to them. We also are always looking for volunteers to 

help out. Feel free to contact people within your league or team and I am 

sure they will welcome your help. 

In closing I look forward to seeing you all on the field. 

Yours in Soccer, 

Keith Renner 

Adult President 

Keith Renner 

1021 McClure St Apt #3 


412-464-0829 

RDKSportsinc@aol.com 

Pgh. Masters Director 

Michael Hill 

516 5th St. 

Oakmont, PA 15139 

412-828-7883 

Pgh. Super Masters Director 

Rich Stover 

2437 Saddle Drive, 


412-486-6899 

West Penn Adult Soccer Association 

Harry Heh, Jr. 

491 Sequoia Dr. 

Pleasant Hills, PA 15236 

(H) 412-655-1741 

Adult Registrar 

Ron Dambrosia 

546 Summit Street 

New Kensington, PA 15068 

pasoccerref@msn.com 

724-980-2951 

ADULT BOARD 

GPSL Commissioner 

Randall A. Lowden 

5059 Windriver Drive 

McKees Rocks, PA 15136 

412-720-7904 

Secretary 

Elliott Sheffield 

6207 Antler Hill Drive 

Level Green, PA 15084 

412-374-1203 

sheffield3@mindspring.com 

WGPSL Director 

Rich Stover 

2437 Saddle Drive, 


412-486-6899 

Pgh. Area Co-ed League 

Marina Blocher 

124 Maryland Drive 

Carnegie, PA 15106 

412-276-2224 

January 

PA WEST SOCCER CALENDAR OF EVENTS 

1 Happy New Year 

9 Youth Board Mtg., 6:30 PM State Office 

23 Executive Board Mtg., 6:30 PM State Office 

29 South District Presidents Mtg., 7:00 PM Pleasant Hills Presby Church 

31 Classic Transfer Window Closes 

February 

11-12 Referee Seminar Airport Marriott 


19 Adult Division AGM, 7:00 PM Green Tree Doubletree 

27 Executive Board Mtg., 6:30 PM State Office 

March 

1 Deadline To Declare Teams For Spring 

1 State Cup Registration Deadline 

3-4 Region 1 League Play Begins 


26 Executive Board Mtg., 6:30 PM State Office


TOUCHLINE 

Ohio Soccer 

Tournament 

Series 

www.OhioSoccerSeries.com 

A “NEW” Tournament Series for those teams who want to be rewarded 

for winning Multiple Tournaments 

March 25-26, 2012 

www.TheEarlyBirdSoccer.com 

April 27-29, 2012 

www.bgsoccerchallenge.com 

2012 Members 

May 26-27, 2012 

www.Starburstsoccer.com 

August 18-19, 2012 

www.thegahannafallopen.com 

August 25-26, 2012 

www.bgsoccerchallenge.com 

September 1-2, 2012 

www.dublinsoccerleague.com/ 

charitycup.html

TOUCHLINE 


INJURY UPDATE: MENISCAL INJURIES 

Approximately 80% of all youth soccer injuries occur to the lower 

extremity. In past issues we have discussed injuries mainly involving the 

ankle and this update will start a series of discussions focusing on knee 

injuries. Basically the knee is comprised of four bones, namely the femur 

(thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), fibula, and patella (kneecap). There are 

structures in the knee that connect the bones called ligaments and structures 

that provide a dampening mechanism called menisci. This discussion will 

focus on the diagnosis and treatment of meniscal injuries. 

The menisci are cartilaginous structures that exist between the femur and 

tibia. There is an inner meniscus (medial) and an outer meniscus (lateral) 

that provide stability, nutrients, and a cushioning effect for the knee joint. 

Studies have shown that the removal of the menisci greatly increase the 

joint forces and accelerate the arthritic process. The lateral meniscus is 

more C-shaped and mobile than the medial yet each is equally vulnerable 

to injury. The outer third of each menisci has ample blood supply making 

healing in this area more probable. Healing is based on the type of tear, 

chronicity, and patient age. 

Meniscal tears are usually occur in high energy activities such as soccer 

and maybe associated with other injuries such as ligament tears. The athlete 

often describes a twisting event that may have been associated with an 

audible “pop.” Pain is usually significant and swelling is intermittent. 

These injuries can also present with limping, locking of the knee, and clicking. 

The most common exam findings include joint tenderness, decreased 

range of motion, and an effusion (swelling). Xrays are usually obtained to 

evaluate the bones but the MRI is the study of choice. It is painless and 

provides excellent detail of the anatomical structures of the knee aiding in 

diagnosis. 

The treatment of meniscal injuries is based on the patient’s age, pattern 

of injury, duration of symptoms, and the presence of other injuries. Treatment 

of stable or minor tears in the youth athlete generally includes rest and 

physical therapy. Healing generally takes 6 weeks although the athlete is 

kept out of competition for 3-6 months. Unstable or complex tears usually 

require outpatient surgery to remove or repair the tear. It is crucial to 

preserve the meniscal tissue in the youth athlete to prevent future degenerative 

arthritis. Therefore, all efforts are made to repair the tissue rather than 

removing the torn portion. Rehab and removal from competition may last 

approximately 6 months. 

Stay Healthy, 

Steve Thomas, MD 

Orthopedic surgeon 

WHAT JERRY SANDUSKY MEANS TO YOUR CLUB 

As Central Pennsylvania sits in a holding pattern awaiting the trial to 

consider the charges against former Penn State coach Jerry Sandusky, the 

allegations have forced schools and youth organizations nationwide to look 

at how they protect the kids for whom they are responsible. The big question, 

“Is enough being done?” 

PA West Soccer mandated clearances for all adults who coach, referee, 

or volunteer with clubs a few years ago. The clearance process is in place 

to make sure those working with our kids aren’t a threat to the kids or the 

club. 

But a clearance isn’t the end-all, be-all for risk management. Keep in 

mind, only the child molesters/pedophiles with arrests and/or convictions 

will have a failed background check. If they haven’t been caught their 

background check will be clean and that means they roam among us undetected. 

A background check sends the message, “We’re watching.” 

So beyond clearances what should a club do? Keep in mind, pedophiles 

are looking for access to kids and youth sports organizations are a great 

access point both from within and outside the organization. 

First, always make sure there are at least three coaches at every practice 

and game. This is good practice for many reasons; here are a couple of 

them. If there are multiple adults around the predator will be less likely to 

find the opportunity to isolate him or herself with a child. Also, if there is 

an emergency requiring a coach travel with a player via ambulance to a hospital 

there are still enough adults to continue practice or wait for players’ 

parents to arrive. Lastly, multiple adults protect the coaches from unfounded 

allegations. 

It is good policy to have a policy establishing these guidelines as well as 

spelling out what is acceptable and not acceptable when it comes to interaction 

between a coach and player. Is it acceptable for a coach to give a 

player a ride home when the player will be the only other person in the car? 

Is it acceptable for a coach to take personal contact with a player beyond 

fist bumps and high fives? Is it okay for a coach to engage in conversation 

with players that is personal in nature, like dating or shows a curiosity about 

their drug/alcohol use? 

Second, know the pedophiles living in the area; that means visit the 

Megan’s List web site. One of our clubs keeps pictures of all the child predators 

on Megan’s List living within five miles of their soccer fields posted 

in the concession stand. This allows those working in the concession stand 

to keep an eye out for unwanted visitors and if one of those visitors stops 

to buy a candy bar or can of soda he’ll quickly realize the club knows who 

he is and he is likely to quickly leave. 

Third, make sure there are playground monitors. Kids who aren’t interested 

in watching their brother or sister play are easy targets, especially 

when the playground is away from the field. A couple of adults acting as 

shepherds will keep the wolf away. 

Fourth, web site safety is very important. Pedophiles love youth organizations’ 

web sites because they often provide fertile ground for identifying 

their next victim. Pictures with names make it easy to break the ice with a 

target. Complete rosters give a predator more than enough information to 

convince a child he/she is a family friend who is okay or has been asked to 

provide a ride. 

There are plenty of other steps that can be taken to prevent issues with 

child predators. Your local police department is a good source of additional 

information and steps that can be taken. 

Lastly, make sure your members know the how and who for reporting an 

alleged incident and that an alleged incident is reported promptly to the 

authorities. Many pedophiles go undetected for years because they aren’t 

reported or clubs are unsure how to handle the “embarrassing” development. 

The only embarrassment is allowing a predator to remain undetected 

causing more harm and misery. 

Background checks are a good first step but there are plenty of loopholes 

to be closed. Clubs with active Risk Management policies will find ways 

to close those loopholes and be more confident they’re making a good 

effort to protect their players. 

Touchline Information: 

PA West Soccer Association 

412-856-8011 

Publishing: 

Indiana Printing & Publishing Co. • Indiana, PA 

Disclaimer: 

Touchline, the official publication of the PA West Soccer Association, is currently published 

four times a year - January, April, July and October. It is mailed free of charge to 

all PA West registered players, coaches, referees and administrators. It is also available 

by subscription. For more information, contact the state office at 412-856-8011 

or at stateoffice@pawest-soccer.org. Materials or advertising should be submitted no 

later than the 1st day of the month prior to publication. 

All rights reserved. PA West assumes no responsibility for unsolicited queries, manuscripts, 

photographs, graphics or other materials. PA West reserves the right to edit 

materials submitted to the editor. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in 

any form without the express written permission of PA West, with the exception of individual 

reproductions not intended for commercial reproduction. 

The contents of articles or advertisements in Touchline are not to be construed as 

official statements, evaluations or endorsements by authors, editors or PA West. Every 

reasonable effort has been made to give reliable data and information, but neither the 

authors, editors or PA West can accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions 

that may be made. The Touchline does not publish articles from anonymous sources or 

contributors. 

PA West Soccer Association is a registered name and trademark of the Pennsylvania 

West Soccer Association. The use of its name and logo are prohibited, except from 

our clubs using it in an official and approved capacity.


GETTING OUR 

MONEY’S WORTH 

In these tough economic times we’re all trying to 

stretch a dollar by finding the best buys and get the 

best value for our hard earned money. Gone are the 

days of buying a car because it looks nice or purchasing 

the ‘it’ brand of electronics without reviewing 

specs, evaluating value retention, and exploring pricing options. 

Tim 

McCoy 

Executive 

Director 

If we do it with cans of beans, paper towels, blue jeans, cars, computers, 

and homes why wouldn’t we do it with soccer? As a parent you have your 

child participate in youth activities, and soccer specifically, for one of many 

reasons. 

Some of us sign up our kids for a recreational opportunity, nothing more 

than a chance to have fun with their friends. Some of us want to help our 

kid or kids grow the athletic prowess they show and playing more competitively 

is necessary for that endeavor. Some of us simply want our kids to 

learn from a sporting opportunity, as in how to be part of a team, how to 

work for a common goal, how interact with others in ‘stressful’ situations. 

No matter what the reason we should evaluate if we’re being provided a 

value or being taken to the cleaners. How do you make this evaluation? It 

would be pretty much the same way you would study for purchasing a car 

or finding a college. 

Cost versus benefits multiplied by opportunity equals value. The costs 

will be set by the provider. We each have our own standards for what benefits 

we’re seeking and those paired the opportunities to receive those benefits 

compared against the various offered costs will determine the value. 

For the following example let’s agree that benefits mean discernible 

items like a commitment to coaching education, proper training to game 

ratios, established club player development philosophy, a proper coach to 

player ratios, and a player focus. Now to our example, if one club offers a 

program that trains twice a week offering five benefits for 50.00 and another 

club offers a program that trains twice a week and plays once a week 

offering three benefits for 50.00 which is more valuable? 

There’s no easy answer because a) one person’s benefit may not be someone 

else’s, b) some items on the benefits list will carry more importance 

than others, and c) the benefits being offered aren’t likely to match from 

club to club exactly. Further, the value has to be based upon what you and 

your child ultimately want from the experience. If you both can’t agree on 

a matching set of goals for the experience then one of you will be disappointed. 

So how do you evaluate/determine the wants, needs, desires to make sure 

your child gets a valuable experience? 

First, talk to your child. Do they want to play soccer? If they do, find 

out why. Do they want to play for fun or are they looking for better training 

and more competition? 

Second, find out which benefits are most important to the kind of soccer 

they want to play. If they want to play so they can be with their friends and 

have some fun then the benefits will be much different than those for a 

player looking to become as good as possible. 

Third, identify the program or programs offering the type of soccer you 

need for your child. Then compare the program offerings with the benefits 

you’re seeking for the best match. 

Lastly, evaluate the comparisons against the costs. This should help you 

find the best value. 

In all cases, here are some general rules of thumb. 

1) You’re paying for training not games. It boils down to this…games are 

like tests while training is the actual teaching. You’re paying the teacher to 

teach not give tests. Tests are only to confirm level of learning/retention. 

Further, you wouldn’t want your child to take a math or science test without 

being taught the subject matter. The teaching should be age appropriate 

and more teaching with fewer tests is usually better. The same applies 

to soccer. You can consult the USSF Best Practices Manual to find out 

what is appropriate for your child. 

2) Education is king. Coaches who continue to educate themselves better 

serve their players because they stay on top of the latest coaching methods 

and trends in the game. Whether they participate in education courses 

offered through the state association and USSF, the NSCAA courses, or by 

attending a variety of coaching clinics and seminars they have an interest 

TOUCHLINE 

in providing your child with the best learning experience 

possible. Many professions (teachers, CPA’s, 

even tradesmen) require Continuing Education, 

shouldn’t soccer coaches approach the game in the 

same manner? 

3) Smiling kids means the world is right. If your 

child is having fun then he or she will have a more 

worthwhile experience. That means whether your 

goal is simply providing a recreational experience or 

is an effort to develop the next Landon Donovan your child will learn and 

grow from the experience. Kids who are having fun don’t want the experience 

to end and can’t wait to go back. 

And while you’re looking for your money’s worth, PA West Soccer has 

also partnered with Nationwide Insurance and Viridian Energy. These partnerships 

are designed to provide our members with the opportunity to 

receive savings on their auto insurance and electricity. The discounts 

offered could provide significant annual savings and are worth checking 

out. 

Our Viridian program also offers a fundraising component that can be a 

turnkey program for our clubs. Imagine finding additional funds without 

sending kids door-to-door with candy or asking parents to sell tickets to an 

event. It easy for the clubs, very little work, and the returns can provide 

significant additional funds that can make your club a better value. 

Of course we’ve also undertaken our own value search in an effort to 

keep costs in line and providing a better value for our members. For 

instance, we upgraded our copying capabilities while lowering our leasing 

fee…more for less is always good. We also continually evaluate our programs 

to find better, more efficient and cost effective ways to run them. 

Periodically I’m asked about what our members receive from PA West 

Soccer. They’re trying to find out what kind of value we provide. First and 

foremost, through PA West Soccer each player becomes a member of US 

Soccer and US Youth Soccer. Secondly membership provides medical 

insurance coverage to each player and liability coverage for each club, not 

to mention Directors/Officers Coverage. 

We organize and manage all our youth leagues, we also offer coaching 

and referee education (including a video library), and we provide access to 

events like Kohl’s American Cup, State Cup, and the Open Tournament. 

We also offer access to Region 1 leagues and events like the Colonial 

League, Premier League, and the Presidents Cup. The staff is available to 

help members and member clubs sort through issues whether they need 

help with a rule or figuring out how to complete necessary paperwork. 

PA West Soccer offers a fully integrated online registration system to 

each club at no charge. This system can be used by our clubs to register 

players, declare and organize teams, and offers a communication system 

allowing coaches and club directors to communicate with the entire club or 

a single player. The idea is to save the clubs the cost of purchasing or contracting 

their own system. 

Our list of benefits highlights 45 items but it is certainly not a definitive 

list. We provide something for players (youth and adult), parents, coaches, 

referees, and administrators. We’re always looking for new ideas to add to 

our offerings. 

If there’s something you’d like us to consider please feel free to let us 

know. Like the clubs, we’re here to serve you. We hope it’s a valuable 

experience it terms of satisfaction, cost effectiveness, and accomplishment. 

Here’s to a prosperous New Year filled with the value of fellowship, 

friendship, fun, and, most importantly, love. 

Executive Director 

Tim McCoy 

412-856-8011 

tim@pawest-soccer.org 

Office Administrator 

Cheryl Mignogna 

412-856-8011 

cheryl@pawest-soccer.org 

Touchline Submissions 

touchline@pawest-soccer.org 

STATE OFFICE STAFF 

Administrative Assistants 

Carol Gibbs 

412-856-8011 

carol@pawest-soccer.org 

Carolyn Cacolice 

412-856-8011 

carolyn@pawest-soccer.org 

State Office Address: 

111 Whitehead Lane, Ste. 200 


State Office Email: 

stateoffice@pawest-soccer.org 

State Office Phone: 

412-856-8011 

State Office Fax: 

412-856-8012 

See Our Website at: 

www.pawest-soccer.org


TOUCHLINE 

PA WEST REFEREE NEWS 

REFEREES WHO MISSED 

RECERTIFICATION FOR 2012 

Will have to miss officiating games in 2012 unless they do one of 

the following: 

1. Attend any Entry Level Grade 8 course offered. 

2. Attend Bridge course offered—Feb. 25, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, California 

University 

3. Attend Refresher course offered- Feb. 25 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, 

California University 

4. Cost for these courses is $100. 

5. Go online to the PA West Soccer web site—click on referee then 

click on calendar and sign up electronically. 

ENTRY LEVEL REFEREE 

CLASSES 

All Entry-level Grade 8 courses are posted on PA West Soccer web 

site on the Referee Calendar; Recommended age for participation in 

these classes is 14. Cost is $100 and all participants must pass with a 

score of 75. No refunds are given if a participant does not pass. 

UNDER CONSTRUCTION 

Beginning March 1, 2012 the referee registration system will be 

going through changes. Please bare with us until we get the new system 

up and running. 

REFEREE SEMINAR 

Feb. 11: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM; Feb. 12: 9:00 AM-1:00 PM 

The referee committee and adult division will be hosting a referee 

seminar at the Airport Marriott (Montour Run). Cost is $20. 

Advanced registration is required and must be paid by Feb. 5. 

Please send a check made 

payable to PA West Soccer to: Peggy Neason, 82 Lookout Avenue, 

Monongahela, PA 15063. NO WALK-INS 

Guest speakers will include FIFA/MLS top referees: Mark Gieger, 

Rob Fereday and C.J. Morgante along with PA West Soccer Director 

of Coaching, Paul Halford. 

All referees, coaches, and administrators are welcome to attend. 

Those wishing to upgrade should attend. Lunch will be provided on 

Saturday. For more details contact: Peggy Neason at Pneason@comcast.net 

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AFO-0152AO


TOUCHLINE 

PA WEST REFEREE NEWS 

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2012 

DATE EVENT LOCATION 

February 

11-12 Referee seminar Airport Marriott 

March 

3-4 Regional Leagues Begin Various Sites 

8-11 ODP National Championships Frisco, TX 

23-25 Pro-Clinic Maryland 

30-April 1 Spring Session slated to begin 

April 

13-15 Pro-Clinic Columbus Ohio 

13 Advanced Clinic 7:00-10:00 PM Natrona Heights Area-Site TBA 

20-23 Pro-Clinic New Jersey 

May 

12-13 Region 1 Premier League Semi-Finals Kirkwood, DE 

25-28 Presidents Cup Finals Albany, New York 

June 

8-10 ODP Tournament Region 1 Ryder, New Jersey 

15-17 Open Week 1 Edinboro University 

23-24 ODP Region 1 Semi-Finals Kirkwood, DE 

22-24 Open Week 2 Edinboro University 

28-July 3 Region 1 Championships Lancaster, PA 

July 

5-8 Region 1 ODP girls Rhode Island 

6-8 President Cup Finals Des Moines, Iowa 

6-8 Vet’s Cup Florida 

27 Advanced clinic 7-10pm Cal U-Morgan Hall 

27-29 Referee Training Camp Cal U 

29 Fitness test for Grade 5/6/7 Cal U 

28 Re-cert grade 5/6/7 Cal U 

November 

18 State re-cert/Grade 7 1:00 PM-Fitness Gateway HS / 2:00-6:00 PM, Monroeville Sports Center 

REFEREE COMMITTEE 

State Referee Administrator 

John Matter 

3032 Amy Drive 


724-348-6834 

jmatter1@msn.com 

State Youth Referee 

Administrator 

Justin Frear 

933-1 West Whitehall Road 

State College, PA 16801 

jrf281@gmail.com 

State Director of Referee 

Instruction 

Peggy Neason 

(see Secretary - 

Board of Directors) 

State Director of Referee 

Assessment 

Mark Finnegan 

5132 Dorris Drive 

Elizabeth, PA 15037 

412-384-9454 

mjfref@yahoo.com 

Adult Division 

Ron Dambrosia 

546 Summit Street 

New Kensington,Pa 15068 

pasoccerref@msn.com 

724-980-2951 

Mountain District 

Representative 

Linda Shoup 

2117 15th Avenue 

Altoona, PA 16601 

814-940-5668 

North District Representative 

Dave Brooke 

950 Oakwood Place 

Natrona Heights, PA 15065 

724-224-8653 

West District Representative 

Brandon James 

1193 Route 68 

New Brighton, PA 15066 

724-843-5037 

James57@comcast.net 

Lake District Representative 

Allen Sheasley 

PO Box 3321 

Erie, PA 16508 

(W) 814-868-1386 

a.sheashley@juno.com 

East District Representative 

Joe Martin 

521 Buckingham Drive 

Greensburg, PA 15601 

724-850-7218 

jambo297@aol.com 

South District Representative 

George Vargo 

146 Columbus Ave. 

Masontown, PA 15461 

724-583-2343 

gwvargo@yahoo.com 

State Assignor Coordinator 

Norm Hasbrouck 

160 Quarry Lane 

California, PA 15419 

724-938-3620 

bod-hasbrouck@pawestsoccer.org 

Referee Registrar 

Ted Bentley 

4408 Jefferson Avenue 


412-461-8993 

tedbentley@verizon.net

Visit 

WWW.VIRIDIAN.COM/PAWESTSOCCER 

today to enroll!

Touchline - PA West Soccer Association

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