January, February, March 2008

Spring Best of the Midwest Brackets Announced

04/30/2008 -- The Chicago Magic announced today their brackets for their upcoming Spring Best of the Midwest soccer tournament. A few spots remain open in the following age groups: Boys U10, U11, U13, and U18, Girls U10, U11 and U13. Apply now for one of these spots, first come first serve!

Chicago Magic and Fire Combine Players at U19

04/29/2008 -- The Chicago Magic announced that the Chicago Magic U19 players and the Fire Juniors U19 players have joined forces at this age group for the upcoming spring and summer seasons. Under the agreement, the combined team will enter various competitions, including the Illinois State Cup, under the Fire Juniors name. "We are pleased to be working with the Chicago Fire . As an organization, the Magic have always put the development of players first and feel for players at this age, they must be exposed to a professional MLS environment in order to farther their development," said Mike Matkovich, Director of Soccer for the Chicago Magic. "As the game of soccer keeps evolving, we as soccer leaders in the country must constantly be looking forward in better ways to improve player development."

Lockport Bridge Repair

04/28/2008 -- The Chicago Magic would just like to make sure that the Magic families know that starting May 1, the bridge in Lockport , (over the Des Plaines River) will be closing until September. There will be a detour made available by public officials. Please allow extra time for this inconvenience.

Magic Player to Join Women's National Camp

04/27/2008 -- Twenty-four participants were invited to participate in a U.S. Women's national team camp and Chicago Magic's Shayla Mutz is one of those lucky girls. Shayla, along with her camp mates will be competing for a roster spot in the eighteen person selection process. These eighteen women will represent the U.S. in Denmark from June 28 th to July 6 th. Good luck to Shayla!

Magic Standouts Invited to National Camp

04/17/2008 -- The U.S. Soccer Federation is conducting a camp for a potential spot in their full time Residency Program in Bradenton , FL . Included in this exclusive tryout is Chicago Magic standouts Jacob Bushue and David Caban. Both players have demonstrated through their U.S. Soccer Development Academy play, that they are two of the top players for their age. This tryout is a very important step in the early identification of the pool of players that will represent the United States in the U17 World Cup Qualifying and the U17 World Cup being held in Nigeria in the summer of 2009. Jacob and David will be in Bradenton , Florida beginning April 23 rd and return on the 27th. Good luck to both!!!

Magic Academy to Play Chicago Fire Teams

04/16/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Academy teams will travel to Bridgeview this weekend for their U.S. Soccer Development Academy matches against the Chicago Fire . Spectators are welcome to attend the matches, which will be held on the Toyota Park training field at the North/East part of the complex. Gates open at 10:00 AM. The U16's will begin at 11:00 AM while the U18's start at 1:00 PM. Come cheer for the Magic!

Magic Player Gears Up His Passport

04/09/2008 -- The US U20 Men's National Team will travel to Beja , Portugal for the Campos Verdes International Tournament from April 13-19, where they will play three international games in a round-robin tournament. Coach Rongen has selected twenty one players for his roster including Magic's very own Brendan King. Brendan and the US side will train for two days in Beja, leading up to its games against Northern Ireland on April 15, the Cape Verde Islands on April 16 and Portugal on April 18.

US Soccer Academy Recap

04/06/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Academy teams faced the US Youth National teams yesterday. After the day ended both Magic sides remain in sole possession of second place behind the USYNT's in their respective Mid-America Divisions. Boys Program Director Todd Bailey said, "They certainly impressed the college coaches and national team scouts at the game today. It's great to see so many of them in the stands watching the games." During the U18 match, t he Magic were first to score against the US squad and held the lead until late in the match when the US found an equalizing goal. "It was a great day and using Northwestern's field added another level of excitement for the juniors on the team who are looking at playing college ball here." said Steve Lucianek who scored the Magic's goal, "We really looked forward to playing them since we played to a scoreless draw the last time we met."

Best of the Midwest Registration Still Open

04/02/2008 -- Best of the Midwest tournament applications are still being accepted through April 13, 2008. Come join a tournament that has traditionally been touted as one of the premier youth tournaments in the USA . This tournament is hosted at the Hallmark Convention and Sports Complex in Hebron , Indiana on some of the premier fields in the Midwest .

Magic Win Odeum Men's League

04/02/2008 -- The Chicago Magic U18 boys faced the Schwaben Men's team from Buffalo Grove in the Men's Championship match. The Magic side went down 1-0 but fought back with brilliant goals from Philip Galounis, Dean Wern, Kino Warren (2), and Wes Hollis. The Chicago Magic were handed the first place trophy following the 5-3 victory. "I give the boys a lot of credit." said head coach Todd Bailey, "Fundamentally they kept doing all the right things and earned themselves the win."

"2" is a Magic Number

03/31/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Academy teams remain in sole possession of "2" place behind the US National teams. Saturday produced "2" wins for the Magic academy with Dylan Mares and Arturo Garza each scoring "2" goals in their 4-0 route of the U16 FC Milwaukee team. The Magic U18 side also had "2" goals scored by Kevin Bick on the way to their "2" -0 victory. Sunday would prove to be just as successful with "2" more wins from the Magic sides versus the Sockers FC. Both age groups won with "2"-1 scores.

Tryouts Announced

03/25/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Soccer Club is proud to announce open tryouts for both their Boys and Girls programs. Joining the #1 club in Chicago-land is easier than you think. You can start the process of joining the #1 club in the Chicago-land by attending one of our upcoming Boys or Girls tryout sessions.

New Coaches Join Magic Staff

03/24/2008 -- Two new full-time coaches have joined the Chicago Magic coaching staff. Cole Bushue played collegiately at Millikin University and most recently was head coach of his high school alma mater. Cole accumulated a record of 36-8-6 in his two years at Centennial. Derrick Clanton played 7 seasons for the Chicago Magic from U10 through U16. He won 4 state titles with the club and was a runner up in the region 2 finals in his U-15 season. Both coaches have National USSF "D" licenses.

Season Begins at Dallas Cup

03/23/2008 -- The Chicago Magic U14 boys headed down to Dallas Cup for their first outdoor event of the season. The team was challenged in pool play by Champions League Select, CFI Guadalajara and Celtic Green winning each game with a 1-0 score. "I am very impressed with the boy's efforts." said Nathan Pitcock, Chicago Magic Coach, "especially when you consider this was our first time outside." In their quarterfinal game the U14 Magic lost to the eventual Dallas Cup champion, CD Guadalajara .

Chicago Magic Academy Update

03/17/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Academy U16 program added six points to their table total with two solid wins over Scott Gallagher and Metro United. The 16 boys had the crowd cheering with some amazing shots, including a volley from Dylan Mares. "It's just one of the everyday things Coach Sole has us train on." said Chicago Magic midfielder Dylan Mares, "I just turned and shot all in one motion and seeing the ball go into the net was awesome." After this weekend's action both Chicago Magic Academy sides are in second place behind the US National teams.

Merci Beaucoup

03/17/2008 -- Whitney Sharpe will be saying "thank you" in another language soon as she joins the Region II Girls Olympic Development Program for a trip to Paris , France from March 22 nd through March 31, 2008. "Whitney continues to impress everyone." said Chicago Magic Girls Program Director Scott Fonfara. "I know she will have a great time in Europe both on and off the field."

Chicago Magic Academy vs. USMNT U18

03/10/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Academy U18 program had an undefeated streak going into Bradenton , Florida. The streak is alive and well as the Chicago Magic Academy U18's fought for 90 minutes against a brilliant US Men's National team, which also included Magic alum, Perry Kitchen. The day was perfect for a soccer match with temperatures in the mid sixties and a slight breeze. Indiana University head coach, Mike Freitag and National team scouts were on hand to watch the battle between the sides. "You could not have asked for a better day." said Chicago Magic midfielder Bob Novak , "I am happy all of us stood up to the challenge that Coach Bailey gave us before the game and we came up just short in getting a 0-0 draw." The boys have the April 5 th date circled on their calendars as that is when the USMNT will be the visiting team.

From USWNT Camp to Spain

03/04/2008 -- The U.S. Under-18 Women's National Team swept matches against three Southern California college teams last week and will now focus on its first international competition of the year, traveling to La Manga, Spain , from March 7-16. Magic standouts, Whitney Sharpe and Casey Short and the remainder of the U.S. U-18s will play three matches against teams preparing for qualifying matches for the European U-19 Women's Championships. The USA will face Sweden 's U-19s on March 10, take on Norway 's U-19s on March 12 and finish with an always talented France U-19 side on March 14.

Magic Player Headed to West Ham Academy

02/22/2008 -- United Soccer Leagues announced the list of 12 players chosen from last month's Super Y-League ODP National Camps held in Cocoa , Florida that will accompany USL on their joint venture with English Premier League side West Ham United. Included in the roster is Chicago Magic standout Antonio Schneider. Players will begin traveling to West Ham United on Friday, March 28. During their ten day venture, players will train within their corresponding West Ham Academy age group and attend English Premier League matches.

Magic's Players Invited to US National Camp

02/21/2008 -- The newly re-instated U.S. Under-18 Women's National Team will hold its first training camp of the year from February 17-24 at The Home Depot Center in Carson , California. Head coach Dean Duerst has called in 24 players including Magic's very own Whitney Sharpe and Casey Short. Congratulations to both of them

President's Day Recap

02/19/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Girl's program enjoyed some sunny weather this past weekend in Phoenix , Arizona. This was the girls first steps on an outdoor field this year. Even without outside experience under their belt the girls did very well. The U14 side lost in PK's to the current Arizona state champions, Sereno SC '94, in the quarterfinals while the U17 girls advanced to the semifinals and lost to the eventual champion, Connecticut FC United.

Academy Winter Showcase Recap

02/18/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Academy program started its season this past weekend in Frisco, Texas. The Chicago Magic U16s were the first to earn points with their draw against a very good DC United side and then followed it up with a victory over FC Greater Boston the next day. On the U18 side, numerous scouts and coaches were on hand to view what many called "the match-up of the weekend" when the Chicago Magic faced DC United on field 5. "Just walking on the pitch prior to the match you could feel the excitement building." said Chicago Magic captain Josh Barnes, "That excitement paid off with the 3-2 win. I believe as we continue our training (together) we will get even better." The boys are off to Atlanta this weekend for their next pair of matches.

CHIVAS USA Names Matko Assistant Coach

02/12/2008 -- The Chicago Magic's direct connection to the MLS coaching level continues as Chivas USA Head Coach Preki today announced the hiring of Magic's very own, Mike Matkovich as the Red-and-White's new Assistant Coach. Matko demands that Chicago Magic players consistently look for ways to improve themselves, be students of the game, and sacrifice in order to get to the next level. He also "walks the talk" as a coach and director as this clearly demonstrates. "Mike Matkovich is one of the most experienced coaches in the country," said Preki . "He brings knowledge of everything from youth soccer to MLS, and has an ability to scout and develop players that will help Chivas USA for years to come. I'm thrilled to have him on our staff."

Great News From Our Club Family

02/11/2008 -- Chicago Magic North Player Antonio Schneider ( Crystal Lake ) was selected to the Super Y League National Team on Sunday, February 10, 2008. Along with his selection, he is in the pool of players that are being considered to travel to London , England this spring to participate in a trial with English Premier League club West Ham United.

Magic Players Receive More Accolades

02/11/2008 -- RISE Magazine is the nation's leading sports and active lifestyle magazine for teens. Since its founding in 1997 this School Sports Magazine has been recognizing outstanding accomplishments of high school student-athletes both on the national and local level. Chicago Magic standout Kevin Bick was recognized on a National level for being the Gatorade State Player of the Year. Several other Magic athletes were recognized for their achievements on a local level. Congrats to all!

Super Y-League Camp is Magic!

01/28/2008 -- United Soccer Leagues Super Y-League ODP National Camps announced their 1991 select girls team this past weekend at the Cocoa Expo Center in Cocoa , Florida. The team is represented by two excellent Chicago Magic players in Allie Newsom and Shayla Mutz. They played in what was described by many coaches as one of the most exciting games of the weekend.

Chicago Magic Announce Academy Rosters

01/24/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Soccer Club is announcing academy player rosters for their program. "As coaches it is our responsibility to field a team and have it perform." said Sole Antonijevic U16 head coach, "The coaching staff has become very familiar with all of the players who did make the academy team as well as all the players who did not. We have coached them on our teams and also against them." Todd Bailey U18 head coach added, "I am encouraged by the players who did not make the team and will continue to fight for a spot. That is what the academy is all about, elevating everyone's skills."

Lambo Joins U20 National Team

01/22/2008 -- U.S. Under-20 Men's National Team head coach Thomas Rongen has finalized his 20-player roster that will travel to the Copa Chivas Tournament in Guadalajara, Mexico next week. The squad which includes Magic standout keeper Josh Lambo will kick off the tournament against America this Saturday, January 26.

Below Freezing Temperatures Outside, Hot Scores Inside

01/12/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Soccer Club hosted its annual Indoor Winter Classic this past weekend. Players and parents came from terrible ice cold conditions outside to a warm and exciting atmosphere inside. The Chicago Magic U11's and U12's reached the championship match along with U18's. The U13's and U14's both won their brackets and were named co-champions, while the Chicago Magic U17's took the crown themselves. Congrats to all!

Chicago Magic and Chicago Wind Merge at Academy Ages

01/12/2008 -- The Chicago Magic Soccer Club and Chicago Wind Soccer Club have jointly approved working together beginning at Academy level ages. Michael Matkovich, Chicago Magic Director, said; "This is an opportunity for two organizations to join together in order to have a superior presence in Chicagoland ." The clubs believe that combining their organizations is fundamentally the right thing to do for soccer. "This is an exciting opportunity, especially for all the kids along the north shore and we are proud to be a part of it." said Sole Antonijevic, Chicago Wind Director. Read the complete press release.

Another Pro Added In Magic's Lambo

01/10/2008 -- The 2008 Generation adidas class was announced today and includes the Chicago Magic's own Josh Lambo. The 17-year old goalkeeper was a member of the U-17 World Cup team that took part in last year's Youth World Championship in Korea. Generation Adidas is a joint venture between Major League Soccer and the United States Soccer Federation aimed to raise the level of young soccer talent in the United States. Congratulations to Josh and his family!

Winter Indoor Classic Registration Will Soon Close

01/02/2008 -- The Winter Indoor Classic Tournament Showcase registration will close on January 7 th. The entire event will be held on the same weekend of January 18-21st. The event will be held at the Hallmark SportsClub in Frankfort, Illinois and will be a great opportunity for college coaches to get a final look at some of the 2008's and prepare for the upcoming class of 2009.