We went down to watch the first weekend of Chattanooga FC tryouts on Saturday (along with 25-30 other spectators) to see the 50 or so soccer hopefuls show their stuff. There were at least 5 or so kids who didn’t belong out there at all, 4 or 5 pretty talented guys who should definitely get considered and at least 7-10 players from last year’s squad. Notable absences from last year were folks like Fynn Glover, Omar Cooke and Richard Masters — will they try out later? Or are they on to bigger and better things?
Yours truly, John Q. had to leave early, so I didn’t get to see the full field scrimmages: would anyone care to weigh in on the skill level? I found it encouraging that so many kids turned out and was not disappointed with the overall quality of play, but I was also not blown away by anyone in particular either… What about the rest of you hooligans?
Looks like the next set of tryouts is coming up on Dec 19. Be sure to let your favorite players know and maybe we’ll see some of the talented players again at that tryout and we can start to get a better grasp on what the 2010 squad will look like…
In other news:
There’s a rumor that the NPSL Southeast Division only has four teams signed up – that’s down from 5 last year. Can anyone confirm? If so, what will the organization do about even fewer home games? Can we get VW to pull some strings and send us a lower division German team for an exhibition perhaps?
I was there as well and stayed for some of the full-sided scrimmage. I’d agree with your sentiments on talent level for the most part. As for the “missing” players from last year, I heard that coaches are still waiting to hear from some of the top players and others will be coming in December 19th for the “invite-only” tryout. I’m going to swing by to check out the talent again. Anyone else going?
I’m pretty sure that’s correct, the returning players will be at the Dec 19th tryout. I plan to be there, weather permitting and will be SURE to be dressed warmer this time! Have they set a time yet?
When I spoke with the NPSL Southeast Commish a few weeks ago, he said Nashville had replaced Saturn. So, that makes at least 5 teams for 2010. You can see video of the interview on NPSLInsider.com
Ryan, Paul Rustand here from the CFC board… We got word from Andy (the NPL Southeast Commish) just 2 weeks ago that Nashville had backed out… We’re working on helping encourage Nashville to stick with it AND prodding Knoxville to think about jumping in. But we can use any help anyone can give us!