LATEST RESULTS AND STANDINGS
JULY 1, 2008
FC Indiana 10, West Michigan 1
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W-LEAGUE MIDWEST DIVISION STANDINGS
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|
|
|
|
TEAM |
P |
PTS |
W |
L |
T |
F |
A |
| 1. |
FC INDIANA |
10 |
28 |
9 |
0 |
1 |
49 |
3 |
| 2. |
Chicago |
9 |
21 |
7 |
2 |
0 |
24 |
6 |
| 3. |
Minnesota |
7 |
17 |
5 |
0 |
2 |
15 |
5 |
| 4. |
Cleveland |
9 |
16 |
5 |
3 |
1 |
19 |
17 |
| 5. |
Michigan
|
11 |
13 |
4 |
6 |
1 |
12 |
18 |
| 6. |
Kalamazoo |
10 |
5 |
1 |
7 |
2 |
3 |
24 |
| 7. |
Fort Wayne |
9 |
4 |
1 |
7 |
1 |
7 |
26 |
| 8. |
West Michigan |
9 |
3 |
1 |
8 |
0 |
6 |
37 |
FC Indiana and Minnesota to clash Sunday
July 3, 2008
 FC Indiana will place one hand firmly on the Midwest Division title if they beat third-placed Minnesota Lightning at Elizabeth Robbie Stadium on Sunday (6.05 p.m.) in what promises to be a thriller.
Given FC Indiana’s superior goal difference, victory would effectively see them Midwest Division champions.
FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski has insisted his team will dig deep and fight for 90 minutes.
He told FCI-TV: "There is pressure on us to deliver as our fans expect us to win, but it’s good pressure," said Borkowski. "If you can’t deal with the pressure and enjoy an occasion like this then you shouldn’t play soccer. We’re playing with confidence and I feel we can win this game. We will do our best."
FC Indiana should approach the game with more calm nerves because even a tie will still leave them in pole position to win the title. For Minnesota who have not lost at Robbie Stadium this season, a win is a must to keep the pressure on the leaders. Victory on Sunday will see Minnesota go second in the standings. A defeat or a draw for Minnesota will make their July 10 trip to Chicago a must win. FC Indiana are in the lead with 28 points, ten more than Chicago and eleven more than Minnesota.
Striker Caroline Smith (7g) once again remains Minnesota’s key player. In the midfield, the player to watch is Chelsea Cline (4g, 5a). The duo is capable of scoring goals when the going gets tough. Goalkeeper Ann Gleason is a very reliable player between between the posts and last time the two teams met her performance has saved Minnesota.
At FC Indiana, Australian defender Aivi Luik is expected to play after missing the 1-1 draw the last time the teams met in Indiana three weeks ago. The main threat in FC Indiana’s line-up Laura Del Rio (9g, 7a) has scored spectacular goals this season in an attack composed of Annie Hamel and Monica Ocampo. The combination has been very effective claiming 16 of the 49 goals FC Indiana has scored this season.
FC Indiana interested in Indianapolis Busch Stadium
July 2, 2008
FC Indiana, North America’s only women’s professional soccer team is in early discussions with its host city to help develop a plan to renovate Busch Stadium, in the hopes of attracting women’s and men’s professional soccer franchises for the area.
The ownership of FC Indiana, a United Soccer Leagues W-League team playing its home matches in Indianapolis, proposed to help develop a plan to renovate Busch Stadium to professional soccer league standards, stated FC Indiana’s Shek Borkowski.
The FC Indiana ownership group believes that "In the light of the demand... for modern soccer facilities - the time is right," said Borkowski. Among Busch Stadium’s needs, according to Borkowski, are general renovation and clean up to the Stadiums interior and exterior, a new field turf playing surface, a new clubhouse, luxury suites, new offices and seating.
Opened in 1931, Bush Stadium was the longtime home of baseball in Indianapolis, serving as the home of the Indianapolis Indians.
It opened as Perry Stadium in 1931 and was renamed Victory Field in 1942 to honor the United States victory in World War II. The ballpark was renamed Bush Stadium in honor of former player, manager and team president Owen J. Bush on August 30, 1967.
FC Indiana ranked third
June 30, 2008
On the heels of its unbeaten W-League and US Open Cup runs, FC Indiana women’s team jumped to No. 3 spot in the world, its highest ranking in 3 years.
Women’s soccer website, www.WomensWorldFootball.com ranks FC Indiana third, with the 2008 UEFA Women’s Cup winners FFC Frankfurt (GER) and the Washington Freedom (USA) first and second respectively.
FC Indiana is one of five W-League clubs in the top 20, with Pali Blues the big mover in the list, going up from unranked to fifth. Also ranked are the Ottawa Fury and the Jersey Sky Blue.
“For us, all the world rankings get thrown out the window come August 3rd,” FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski said. "On that day W-League will determine its champion. The rest is just for media hype.”
In its four year existence, FC Indiana has a record of 61-5-6 and has outscored its opponents 299-29. The record includes seven wins over international opponents, including the World Cup and Olympic qualifiers Australia and New Zealand.
FC Indiana advances to US Open Cup Final Four
July 27, 2008
FC Indiana defeated Ann Arbor FC to claim the final US Women’s Open Cup Final Four spot and keep Ann Arbor FC from their first ever appearance in the Open Cup Finals.
FC Indiana, the Open Cup winners in 2005 and finalists in 2007, will appear in their third Open Cup Final Four in four years and will face the United German Hungarians Elite from Philadelphia, PA. The other semi-final will see Dallas Sting take on Ajax America. The games are slated to be played on Friday, August 8 in Seattle, WA.
SEMIFINAL 1: FC Indiana vs. United German Hungarians Elite (PA)
SEMIFINAL 2: Dallas Sting (TX) vs. Ajax America (CA)
FC Indiana came into the game knowing that a tie would do them no good in qualifying, so they came out attacking from the opening whistle and nine different FC Indiana players scored.
FC Indiana schedule does not get any easier, as they return home to Kuntz Stadium on Tuesday to take on the West Michigan Firewomen, kick-off at 7:00 p.m.
Region 2 Women’s Open Cup Final
FC Indiana vs. Ann Arbor FC
Bowling Green, KY
STATS:
Shots: AAFC 1, FCI 34
Saves: AAFC 9, FCI 1
Fouls: AAFC 1, FCI 11
Offsides: AAFC 0, FCI 9
Corners: AAFC 0, FCI 6
Fort Wayne 0, FC Indiana 6
June 24, 2008
 FC Indiana took another step towards qualifying for the W-League playoffs when they shut out the Ft. Wayne Fever, 6-0 at Hefner Field in Fort Wayne Tuesday night.
FC Indiana established control of the game from the beginning, but failed to score with their early pressure. Lena Mosebo finally broke the scoreless draw in the 29th minute when she scored, after taking a corner kick cross from Annie Hamel. The offensive attack continued for the remainder of the first half, but FC Indiana scored only once more before the break when Lauren Sesselmann finished from Del Rio in the 36th minute.
FC Indiana Coach Shek Borkowski made six half-time changes to put more pressure on Fort Wayne. His substitutions paid off quickly as Monica Ocampo pounced on a defensive miscue to make it 3-0 in the 47th minute.
Veronica Phewa scored off a quick pass from Corie Moore in the 60th minute to basically put the game out of jeopardy. In the 73rd minute Ocampo scored her second goal of the match after Fort Wayne goalkeeper Shannon Lynn spilled a powerful Phewa shot, and Annie Hamel made it 6-0 after a great square pass from Maria Ruiz. FC Indiana goal keeper Kristin Luckenbill was forced to make only one save in recording her sixth shutout of the season.
All the focus now shifts to the showdown with the West Michigan Firewomen on Tuesday night. Kick off is 7:00 p.m. at Kuntz Stadium.
FC Indiana: Luckenbill, Jeffers (Luik 46’), Shaner, Nault (Moore 46’), Parker (Milyak 46’), Sitch, Leyva, Mosebo (Ruiz 46’), Sesselmann (Phewa 46’), del Rio (Ocampo 46’), Hamel
Fort Wayne Fever: Lynn, Inglis, Aligier, Blake, Yeager, Sorg, Beck, Killion, Faron, Ward, Wilson, McHenry
GOALS
1-0 Mosebo (Hamel) 29’
2-0 Sesselmann (Ruiz) 36’
3-0 Ocampo 47’
4-0 Phewa (Moore) 60’
5-0 Ocampo (Phewa) 73’
6-0 Hamel (Ruiz) 79’
SHOTS: FCI 44, FWF 1
SAVES: FCI 1, FWF 22
CORNERS: FCI 9, FWF 0
Attendance: 155
Look at Germany
June 23, 2008
FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski has been outspoken about the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) in the past, and now he is calling for improved investment in women’s soccer at the grass root level.
Borkowski is very adamant that the U.S. is losing ground to other countries, especially to Germany, and the federation needs to tackle some of the serious problems surrounding the women’s game if the U.S. wants to remain in the position of a global leader in the sport.
"The money, I am told, is there and it should mean better facilities for women’s clubs and investment in the sport in general," said Borkowski. "But it isn’t so, financial resources are very simply misallocated. The USSF President Sunil Gulati must reexamine how we are allocating money.”
“It would be really unfortunate but the way things are going, the rest of the world is catching up to the U.S. in terms of player development and even bypassing us in terms of investment in the game,” Borkowski said.
Borkowski believes that some sweeping changes are in order.
“Unless concrete steps are taken to boost women’s soccer at all levels, the game will stagnate. The new pro league will have spots for maybe 80 non-national team players, it won’t be enough.”
“But the truth is that the investment in the game is revolving around just the national players. Following Germany’s example, it needs to be broader”
“A lot of work needs to be done to lift the infrastructure and there are too many promising post college players who walk away from the game because they see no future in it.”
Borkowski also offered his support to efforts to establish a federation operated US Open Women’s Cup. This, according to Borkowski, would be of benefit to all clubs, pro and amateur alike, and bring added attention to women’s soccer in the country.
Borkowski praises Parker
June 21, 2008
 FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski praised the contribution of his Canadian midfielder Kelly Parker as the club are on top of the Midwest Division of the W-League. Parker joined FC Indiana after spending five seasons with the Ottawa Fury and earning the league’s MVP award in 2004.
“She is a strong personality in the team. She likes to win, she likes to work, she is a team player. And she gives a big contribution, not just in soccer terms but also in psychological terms.
"She is a person who is difficult to break, person who wants to give everything - not selfish or thinking about herself but about the team. We are very lucky to have her this season."
The versatile Canadian has impressed with her consistency and her attacking threat.
"She’s done well in matches, she does a lot of work that goes invisible to most fans. She opens up space for teammates, creates passing lanes with her movement, and is always available to receive passes," Borkowski said. "Her performance is always very stable, always controlling her direct opponent. She is very confident in the build-up, she is playing very well for us."
FC Indiana 3, Cleveland 0
June 18, 2008
Julianne Sitch again scored what proved to be the winning goal to spare FC Indiana blushes as the Midwest Division leaders toiled against the Cleveland Internationals at Kuntz Stadium on Wednesday night.
Borkowski: We must do better
FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski was not impressed with his squad despite his team outshooting Cleveland 33-0.
“Our defenders were solid in difficult circumstances because we kept losing the ball in midfield and attack. But in attacking areas we did not play well. In the first half we were too slow and the players didn't look motivated. In the second half we improved, we were a bit better.”
FC Indiana: Luckenbill, Jeffers, Nault, Shaner, O’Rourke (Phewa 46’), Sitch, Leyva (Mosebo 70’), Parker, Hamel (Ruiz 70’), Del Rio, Sesselmann (Ocampo 46’)
Cleveland: Betts, Balconi, Graeff, Imhoff, Povoa, Ford, Praus, Hubka, Augustine (Pappas 70’), Knaack (Riezo 75’) , Young
Scoring Summary:
FCI - Sitch (Sesselmann) - 28’
FCI - Phewa - 46’
FCI - Del Rio - 85’
Statistics:
Shots: CLE 0, FCI 33
Saves: CLE 16, FCI 0
Fouls: CLE 9, FCI 16
Offsides: CLE 0, FCI 3
Corners: CLE 1, FCI 9
Mid-season review
June 16, 2008
fcindiana.com: Coach, your thoughts on the season so far?
SB: So far so good. The team is strong, close and focused. We know what our goals are and how to achieve it.
Early on there was some learning curve. We have a lot of new players who had completely different concepts of training at their old clubs. For example, at many clubs the way they develop an aerobic condition was putting players through sprints. The way we develop an aerobic condition is 4v4, man to man, in a square 25 yards by 25. For some players it’s completely different. But now the players are familiar with, and believe in our methods. Steve (assistant coach Steve Brdarski) has done a great job with our defenders and we are difficult to score on. His work is the foundation of our team framework.
fcindiana.com: What are you focusing now in training?
SB: Our emphasis is on the strength of the team as a unit. A successful team is more than just the sum of the qualities of 11 individuals so we are working on 11 players thinking and playing in the same way. Because of the nature of North American women’s soccer, for the most part the game is played with instinct, but in soccer you have to think. When you play against teams who can think while playing you have to be able to think collectively and don’t play by instinct. You see how especially Germans play collectively. When we work tactically, in pure soccer sessions, I can see the way players can think soccer. In general terms we must think more about our game and not play by instinct. I believe we can become a very strong, singleminded team in 4-6 weeks.
fcindiana.com: Any players who are key to FC Indiana’s success?
SB: No. One question, with all players, that is difficult to answer is – are they committed? Do they have enough motivation? Do they think soccer all the time or are they training but thinking about something else? Right now our focus is good and every player is contributing.
I look for players who can play 20-25 matches a season, putting in consistent performances. For example, in my team I like having Jessica O’Rourke because she’s a low-profile player who is ready to help, ready to fight for the team, ready to do the job I want her to do. If I need her to play right-back, she can do it. If I need her to pick up a player and mark her out of the game, she does it. She is a player who will do whatever it takes to help us win. She fears nobody and fights for 90 minutes.
fcindiana.com: The club has set high objectives for this season. Do you feel the pressure to contribute to the growth of the club?
SB: No. The club has good front office staff which is completely focused on the FC Indiana brand and making us one of the best women’s clubs in the world. My focus is collective performance. You can have the top players to bring the attention, you can have the best stadium, you can have the best facilities, you can have great marketing campaigns. But if we don’t win…all the work these people are doing is forgotten. Ultimately you have to win.
West Michigan 0, FC Indiana 9
June 14, 2008
FC Indiana division title chase gathered pace as they cruised to a 9-0 away win over the West Michigan Firewomen in Grand Rapids on Friday night. The team are now on a seven-match unbeaten run.
While this was hardly the stuff of greatness, five different players scored for FC Indiana. With the victory, FC Indiana (6-0-1) remain in the first place in the United Soccer Leagues (USL) W-League - Midwest Division with 19 points from 7 matches.
Next up is a clash with Cleveland (4-1-0) Wednesday night at Kuntz Stadium in Indianapolis. Kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
FC INDIANA: Kristin Luckenbill (Lauren Mason 46’), Jenny Jeffers, Marie-Eve Nault (Lena Mosebo 46’), Christie Shaner, Julianne Sitch, Kelly Parker (Maria Ruiz 55’), Fatima Leyva, Jessica O’Rourke (Veronica Phewa 46’), Laura Del Rio (Monica Ocampo 46’), Lauren Sesselmann (Corie Moore 46’), Annie Hamel
WEST MICHIGAN: Kristina Nasturzio, Kristen Pelkki, Ellen Phillips, Tara Wegner, Erin Mruz, Courtney Nash, Ali Nicoles, Rebecca Reese, Erin DeYoung (Sarah Kaufman 62), Jacquie Lacek, Erica Rohren
Scoring Summary:
FCI - Del Rio - 12’
FCI - Del Rio (Leyva) - 21’
FCI - Hamel (Parker) - 27’
FCI - Sesselmann (Del Rio) - 31’
FCI - Rohen (own goal) - 33’
FCI - Phewa - 47’
FCI - Ocampo (Hamel) - 49’
FCI - Hamel (Ocampo) - 77’
FCI - Phewa (Ruiz) - 84’
Statistics:
Shots: WM 2, FCI 31
Saves: WM 18, FCI 0
Fouls: WM 4, FCI 5
Offsides: WM 0, FCI 5
Corners: WM 1, FCI 10
FC Indiana 1, Minnesota 1
June 11, 2008
 FC Indiana kept their four-year unbeaten home streak alive (26-0-4) with a 1-1 tie Wednesday night against the Minnesota Lightning at Purdue Soccer Stadium. With the tie, FC Indiana remain in the first place in the United Soccer Leagues (USL) W-League - Midwest Division.
Minnesota struck first when forward Caroline Smith’s 50 yard cross found its way into the net. It took FC Indiana 50 minutes to tie the score when Fatima Leyva found Julianne Sitch 25 yards from goal. Sitch beat two defenders and scored from 18 yards out.
“We were strong in every aspect of the game but Minnesota was well organized and made it very difficult on us,” said Shek Borkowski. “"We produced the match we wanted to. I am very proud of my players who did everything I asked of them. We have potential to be a good team... to be a very good team. We are not there yet but given time...we have possibilities.”
With the tie, FC Indiana (5-0-1) have 16 points from their first 6 matches and travel to Grand Rapids on Saturday when they face the sixth place West Michigan Firewomen (1-2-0).
Lineups:
FC INDIANA: Kristin Luckenbill, Jenny Jeffers, Marie-Eve Nault, Christie Shaner, Julianne Sitch, Kelly Parker, Fatima Leyva, Jessica O’Rourke (Veronica Phewa 60’), Laura Del Rio, Lauren Sesselmann, Maria Ruiz (Lena Mosebo 70’)
MINNESOTA: Anne Gleason, Megan Almanzo, Krystal Kallman, Jennie Clark, Chelsea Cline, Abby Stratton, Rosie Malone-Povolny, Marissa Price, Tamara Strahota (Julie Rezac 62), Caroline Smith, Sarah Johnson (Lindsey Schwartz 46’)
Scoring Summary:
MIN - Smith (Cline) - 28’
FCI - Sitch (Leyva) - 83’Misconduct Summary:
MFCI - Sesselmann (caution) - 84th minute
Statistics:
Shots: MIN 2, FCI 27
Saves: MIN 9, FCI 0
Fouls: MIN 4, FCI 16
Offsides: MIN 0, FCI 3
Corners: MIN 2, FCI 10
Referees: Alan Severs, Andrew Bigelow, Brian DiPiro
Cleveland 0, FC Indiana 5
June 6, 2008
 FC Indiana cruised to a 5-0 win over the Cleveland Internationals to secure their spot in first place in the Central Conference/Midwest Division in W-League. FC Indiana’s (5-0-0) stellar defense racked up their fourth shutout in five games, two by Kristin Luckenbill and two by Lauren Mason.
Midfielder Julianne Sitch celebrated her selection to the W-League Team of the Week by turning in another solid performance with 2 goals and 2 assists.
As usual, FC Indiana relied on their quick strike offense to simplify matters. Tonight it took only seven minutes for Laura Del Rio to find her teammate Lauren Sesselmann, who smacked home the first goal of the evening. In the 30th minute, Sesselmann found a wide open Sitch on the left side. Sitch ripped a blast into the side netting from 7 yards out that gave FC Indiana a 2-0 lead. Sitch would continue her dominant play this week, when she added an assist on Maria Ruiz’ first goal of the year (38th minute) and scored her second goal when he finished an incredible combination play with Monica Ocampo in the 82nd minute. Ocampo scored to make it 4-0 just ten minutes prior.
"We always want to play attractive soccer and today our play was beautiful for the competitiveness, the spirit and the organization," said FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski. "It was a good professional performance and we played for each other. At this point our progress is very encouraging and we are starting to play with good confidence."
FC Indiana now turn to Minnesota when they host the Lightning in West Lafayette on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.
FC Indiana: Luckenbill, Jeffers, Luik, Nault (Shaner 60’), O’Rourke (Milyak 60’), Sitch, Leyva, Parker (Phewa 70’), Ruiz (Hamel 70’), del Rio (Ocampo 70’), Sesselmann (Moore 70’)
Cleveland: Campana (Betts 46’), Balconi, Graeff, Imhoff, Povoa, Cinalli, Rosen, Rostedt, Young, Maxwell (Krawczak 75’), Grubb
GOALS
1-0 Sesselmann (Del Rio) 7’
2-0 Sitch (Sesselmann) 30’
3-0 Ruiz (Sitch) 38’
4-0 Ocampo (Sitch) 72’
5-0 Sitch (Ocampo) 82’
SHOTS: FCI 19, CLE 8
SAVES: FCI 1, CLE 9
CORNERS: FCI 2, CLE 1
Sitch recognized by W-League
June 4, 2008
 United Soccer Leagues announced today the W-League Team of the Week for the seventh week of the USL season and the fourth edition of the W-League Team of the Week for the year, honoring Boston Renegades goalkeeper Meghann Burke as Player of the Week.
FC Indiana midfielder Julie Sitch scored two goals and kept FC Indiana undefeated on the season with a 3-0 victory over Chicago. FC Indiana next travels to Cleveland to face the Internationals.
W-League Team of the Week
GK, Meghann Burke, Boston, 2 shutout victories on the road
D, Sarah Burns, Michigan, 1 goal against Minnesota
D, Kara Kabellis, Pali, 1 goal against Ventura
D, Michelle Edgar, Hamilton, Controlled the backline in shutout victory
M, Jonelle Filigno, Vancouver, Scored game-winner against Fort Collins
M, Julianne Sitch, FC Indiana, 2 goals in victory over Chicago
M, Lyndsey Patterson, Atlanta, 1 goal and set up another in win over Charlotte
M, Emilie Mercier, Laval, 1 goal and assist in win over Western Mass
F, Caroline Smith, Minnesota, Game winning goal against Michigan
F, Christie Rife, Charlotte, 1 goal and assist in win over Bradenton
F, Mercy Akide Udoh, Hampton, 2 goals in victory over the Dynamo
Chicago 0, FC Indiana 3
June 1, 2008
 "We deserved to win over 90 minutes, created more chances, and over the whole game, we’ve never really been hurt by them. We’ve shown good improvement in the last three matches - we’re far more dangerous now," said FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski after his team defeated Chicago Gaels 3-0 Sunday afternoon in Chicago.
"Our backs Luik, O’Rourke, Jeffers and Nault are developing good understanding and are playing better in each game," continued Borkowski.
While the FC Indiana defense was stellar in registering the shutout, it was the exciting offense of Julianne Sitch and Laura Del Rio that electrified the crowd. Sitch scored two gems on Sunday, both assisted by Del Rio. In the 22nd minute, Sitch took a pass from Del Rio at the six yard spot, and smacked home her first game winning goal of the season. Just six minutes later once again it was Sitch who killed off the game with the insurance tally with a 16 yard blast, after being played in by Del Rio. The second half was more attacking FC Indiana soccer, as the visitors pumped a total of 19 shots at goal on the night. In the 72’ substitute Veronica Phewa collected a pass from Ocampo and scored from a tight angle to make it 3-0. While Sitch scored twice against her former team, it was Chicago’s goalkeeper Erin Kane who was the star of the match after she stopped an FC Indiana penalty and made a number of outstanding saves to keep it close.
FC Indiana: Mason, Jeffers, Luik, Nault, O’Rourke, Sitch, Leyva (Mosebo 75’), Parker (Shaner 70’), Ruiz (Hamel 46’), del Rio (Phewa 66’), Sesselmann (Ocampo 60’)
Chicago: Kane, Walter, Bartindale (Spacht 81’), Anderson-Hammond (Carlson 59’), Mutters (Feltes 46’), Maynard, Buczkowski, Shaffer, Doyle, Sitkowski (Sloan 46’), Strini (Ehrhardt 46’)
GOALS
1-0 Sitch (Del Rio) 22’
2-0 Sitch (Del Rio) 28’
3-0 Phewa (Ocampo) 72’
SHOTS: FCI 19, CHI 5
SAVES: FCI 3, CHI 7
CORNERS: FCI 3, CHI 2
Attendance: 357
FC Indiana's Percival ready for Olympics
May 31, 2008
 FC Indiana standout Ria Percival has set her sights on this summer’s Beijing Olympics.
A New Zealander, Percival already has been selected to play for New Zealand at the Beijing Olympics. She also played for her country in the 2007 World Cup. During a visit this week at practice, Percival explained how she can play fullback against bigger and stronger players. "Since coming to Lafayette, I’ve gotten stronger and improved my fitness with two practices a day," she said. "Depending on who I am defending, I go with my speed. I try to get to the ball before they do."
FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski said the club has a good relationship with New Zealand’s women’s team.
"I saw Ria play in Moscow in the U-20 Cup," he said. "She is mobile, like a little engine that is nonstop."
He said Percival is benefiting from playing with and against women who are part of their national teams.
"Playing with FC Indiana, she sees different styles of soccer," he said. "We have players here from Mexico, Canada, Africa, Europe and Australia. "She is getting physically stronger and more confident." more
FC Indiana forward Laura Del Rio nets top honors
May 28, 2008
 United Soccer Leagues announced today the W-League Team of the Week for the sixth week of the USL season and the third edition of the W-League Team of the Week for the year, honoring FC Indiana forward Laura Del Rio as Player of the Week.
Del Rio scored five goals and added one assist in leading the Lionesses to two impressive victories last week. FC Indiana won both games by a combined score of 10-1 and is quickly showing that they are one of the teams to beat in the W-League.
Further South, Carolyn Ford was huge for Atlanta as the Silverbacks finished off their four game road trip with two more wins. The defender helped the Silverbacks add two more clean sheets to their resume. Atlanta has only allowed one goal in their first five games. Ford also notched an assist over the weekend.
Nikki Lyons scored three goals and added one assist off the bench as Charlotte continues to cruise through their opening schedule. The Lady Eagles are now 4-0 and their victory sets up a potential match of the undefeated as Charlotte travels to 5-0 Atlanta on Friday.
Long Island Goalkeeper Megan Frey posted her first shutout of the season as she blanked the Connecticut Passion 5-0. Frey made five saves as she helped the Rough Riders to their second straight win after an opening weekend defeat to the Freedom.
Jennifer Parsons provided all the offense for Washington as she scored three goals in a 3-0 victory over the Lady Gunners on Saturday. The Freedom are now 2-0 and about to start a four game home-stand with their home-opener this Sunday against Boston.
W-League Team of the Week
GK, Megan Frey, Long Island - 4 saves in shutout victory over the Passion
D, Randee Hermus, Vancouver - Game-winner in 2-1 win over L.A.
D, Carolyn Ford, Atlanta - 1 assist and helped defense in two shut out wins
D, Betsy Fredrick, RailHawks - Solid in defense and had set piece goal over Dynamo
M, Alicia Tirelli, Tampa Bay - 1 goal in 3-1 win over Bradenton
M, Josee Busilacchi, Laval - 2 goals in victory over Vermont
M, Aimee Bresani, New Jersey - 2 goals in victory over New York
M, Lyndsey Patterson, Atlanta - 2 goals and controlled midfield in Silverbacks 2 wins
F, Jennifer Parsons, Washington - 3 goals in 3-0 victory over the Lady Gunners
F, Nikki Lyons, Charlotte - 3 goals and 1 assist off the bench over Richmond
F, Laura Del Rio, FC Indiana - 5 goals and 1 assist in 2 games
Reserves (Honorable Mentions)
F, Lauren Sesselman, FC Indiana - 3 goals and 1 assist in 2 games
F, Amanda Janosky, Rochester - 2 goals and 1 assist in 2 games
F, Kylee Rossi, New Jersey - 1 Goal and 2 assists in win over New York
FC Indiana 5, Fort Wayne Fever 1
May 25, 2008
FC Indiana solidified their W-League Midwest Division top spot as Fort Wayne Fever were brushed aside at Purdue Soccer Complex Sunday evening.
FC Indiana scored first when Lauren Sesselmann scored from Del Rio in the 12 minute. With ten minutes left in the first half it was Katie Wilson who tied it 1-1.
Three goals in the space of twenty second-half minutes from Laura Del Rio (2) and Annie Hamel broke the Fever’s resistance before Veronica Phewa extended the margin in the second half.
And with three points virtually assured inside an hour, FC Indiana coach Borkowski was able to rest some of his players ahead of next Sunday’s key match against the Chicago Gaels. "The performance, against a disciplined and organized Fort Wayne, was good. We were patient and methodical in our build up," said Borkowski.
"We played some good soccer and we created lots of chances I have no complaints with my players’ performance."
FC Indiana dominated from the start and Fort Wayne’s goalkeeper Shannon Lynn faced 29 shots.
FC Indiana: Mason, Jeffers (Shaner 46’), Luik, Nault (Phewa 46’), Milyak (O’Rourke 80’), Sitch, Leyva, Parker, Laue (Mosebo 76’), Sesselmann (Hamel 55’), del Rio (Ruiz 80’)
Fort Wayne Fever: Lynn, Godall, Aligier, Blake, Yeager, Schultz, Beck, Killion, Faron, Ward (Sorg 60’), Wilson (McHenry 65’)
GOALS
1-0 Sesselmann (Del Rio) 9’
1-1 Blake 19’
2-1 Del Rio (Parker) 59’
3-1 Hamel (Del Rio) 67’
4-1 Del Rio (Luik) 80’
5-1 Phewa (Parker) 88’
SHOTS: FCI 29, FWF 2
SAVES: FCI 1, FWF 13
CORNERS: FCI 11, FWF 0
Attendance: 205
FC Indiana 5, Michigan Hawks 0
May 21, 2008
FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski was displeased with his teams’ attempt to cruise through their W-League home opener against the Michigan Hawks after his team won 5-0.
“At 3-0 we stopped playing,” he said. “When you lead 3-0 it is natural to think you are going to win – but Michigan is a good team and made it difficult for us and never gave up.
"Our second half substitutes played with a bit more intensity," he continued.
At least one moment had Borkowski cheering. He smiled briefly when Laura del Rio blazed in her third goal after good pass by Moore to make it 5-0. “Everything about that was perfect,” he said. “Moore’ pass was fantastic, and del Rio produced a great finish. It’s important to us that she keeps on scoring.”
FC Indiana defender Aivi Luik, meanwhile, echoed her coach’s relief at getting past this hurdle. “We are not pleased at the performance – although it’s never easy to concentrate when you’re three goals up,” she said.
FC Indiana: Mason, Jeffers (Shaner 56’), Luik, Nault (Moore 56’), Milyak, Sitch, Leyva (O’Rourke 80’), Parker (Mosebo 70’), Laue (Hamel 46’), Sesselmann (Phewa 60’), del Rio
Michigan Hawks: Mannino, Delvecchio, Stanczyk, Burns, Carron, Boyle, Finneren, Zickl (Miller 36’), Underwood, Martin, Dobbyn
Goals:
16’ - del Rio (Sesselmann)
22’ - Sesselmann (Parker)
34’ - Sesselmann (Sitch)
81’ - del Rio (Mosebo)
90’ - del Rio (Moore)
SHOTS: FCI - 18, MICH - 3
SAVES: FCI - 2, MICH - 3
FOULS: FCI - 13, MICH - 9
CORNERS: FCI - 7, MICH - 2
VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
Kalamazoo 0, FC Indiana 2
May 16, 2008
"Statistics mean nothing," said FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski after the game. "We played well at times and tried to win but still are not aggressive enough at running at defenders."
W-League valuable away points were at stake at Mayors Riverview Park in Kalamazoo, Michigan as FC Indiana left it late to beat the Kalamazoo Outrage in this entertaining and action packed season opener for both teams. FC Indiana were cruising before the break thanks to Anna Laue’ sublime strike, assisted by Veronica Phewa, but could not put away the hosts despite outshooting them 21-1.
Second half substitute Lauren Sesselmann has sealed the deal for FC Indiana, lashing home from 20 yards out in the 71’, no chance of a comeback.
"They're a great team,'' Kalamazoo coach Tony DiTucci said of FC Indiana. "They've been training together for months and months. They have Olympic-level players, national team players. It was a great team to compete against to give us a great first benchmark to see where we're at.''
FC INDIANA: Luckenbill, Jeffers, Nault, Luik, Parker, Leyva, O’Rourke, Milyak (Sitch 46’), Laue (Sesselmann 60’), Ruiz (Phewa 30’), Hamel (Mosebo 60’)
Goals:
1-0 Laue, 39’ (Phewa)
2-0 Sesselmann, 71’
More from MLive.com
FC Indiana 3, Canada U-20 0
May 3, 2008
 FC Indiana has never lost at home, is now 7-0 against international opposition and Shek Borkowski’s squad made a blistering start to ensure that record was never under threat as FC Indiana eased past Canada U-20 3-0 to win the inaugural PDA International Cup.
Canada U-20 roster included seven players with Canada Olympic squad experience but it was FC Indiana captain Fatima Leyva who scored in the 34th minute to put her team in control in the first half.
Early in the second half FC Indiana Canadian defender Marie-Eve Nault blasted home a 30 yard shot to make it 2-0. Just eight minutes later Leyva got free on the right flank and her teasing cross was finished by Julianne Sitch from close range, 3-0 FC Indiana.
Both Ria Percival and Annie Hamel fizzed their shots narrowly wide but FC Indiana were unable to find a fourth against a well-organized Canadian defense.
FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski:
"We started better than against Mexico, we played well and deserved the win but I was impressed with Bob Birarda’s team. They were well organized and played with good intensity for 90 minutes.”
FCI: Luckenbill, Jeffers, Moore, Nault, Luik, Leyva (O’Rourke 60’), Sitch (Northover 60’), Milyak (Mosebo 46’), Percival (Morales 60’), Laue (Sesselmann 46’), Phewa (Hamel 46’)
CAN: McNulty, Boudreau, Marton, Mailloux, Chapman, Lam-Feist, Keimakh (Ruhe-Lischke 60’), Stewart (Adams 55’), Filigno (Romagnuolo 60’), Armstrong, Jodi-Ann Robinson
GOALS
34’ - Leyva
51’ - Nault (Leyva)
58’ - Sitch (Leyva)
Shots: FCI - 9, CAN - 3
Saves: FCI - 2, CAN - 3
Corners: FCI - 9, CAN - 3
VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
FC Indiana 3, Mexico U-20 1
May 1, 2008
 FC Indiana coach Shek Borkowski conceded that his team must make a massive improvement to have a successful season in the W-League.
Borkowski said: ""The performance was not good enough and we have a lot to do. We didn’t start the game well and we gave the initiative to Mexico. They played well throughout."
Borkowski, whose side allowed two goals against in six pre-season matches, added: "Early on they had a couple of shots against us as a warning. We should have defended better and not given their midfield players the chance to pick their passes.
"Some players didn’t play to their potential. We’ve a game against Canada on Friday and hopefully we can play better."
FCI: Luckenbill, Jeffers, O’Rourke (Luik 46’), Moore, Nault, Leyva, Percival, Mosebo (Milyak 60’), Sitch, Laue (Morales 60’), Phewa (Sesselmann 60")
MEX:
GOALS
25’ - Phewa (Laue)
48’ - Laue (Phewa)
68’ - Mayor
90’ - Percival (Morales)
Shots: FCI - 11, MEX - 10
Saves: FCI - 3, MEX - 5
Corners: FCI - 2, MEX - 2
VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
FC Indiana creates an alliance with Carmel United
April 21, 2008
 USL W-League’s FC Indiana and Carmel United Soccer Club have officially joined forces in an attempt to take girls’ and women’s soccer in Indiana to the next level, the two organizations announced today.
Carmel United, the undisputed number one girls’ club in the State and the #9 ranked program in the US, will be FC Indiana’s Exclusive Girls’ Developmental Partner and Official Girls’ Youth Soccer Club in Indiana. The two clubs will share technical, educational, and commercial opportunities.
"We are proud and honored to be partnering with FC Indiana,” said Carmel United Soccer Club Chairman Jon Jacobson. “The relationship leverages the combined strengths of one of the top 10 girls’ youth programs in the country and one of the top women’s professional teams in the world. Our players will be provided with the ability to watch, enjoy and interact with professional players of the highest caliber."
The relationship will begin immediately as FC Indiana will make its top female players available to assist Carmel United with identification and continuous improvement of future players for the top college, national, and professional teams.
“We believe, the unique synergy of what the two clubs have to offer will push the level of women’s soccer in Indiana even higher and will undoubtedly provide great incentives for aspiring young people wishing to excel in the sport they love,” said FC Indiana Executive Vice President Anton Maksimov.
Carmel United, which swept the 2007 Indiana Girls’ State Cup Championships and won the 2007 U19 Girls National Championship, will benefit from an annual exhibition game in Indianapolis, coach and staff education programs, and other business and soccer elements.
"This is a great step forward for soccer in our community by creating an alliance that combines a nationally recognized girls’ youth program with a world-class professional team,” said Russell Gee, Carmel United Soccer Club Director of Coaching and Player Development. “It is a tremendous opportunity that will benefit both organizations and our coaches and, most importantly, our respective players."
Other benefits for Carmel United include a position on FC Indiana’s Advisory Board, free tickets to W-League matches for Carmel United coaches, as well as access to FC Indiana players for appearances and coaching opportunities. Both clubs will engage in shared marketing, cross-promotion, and tournament participation. FC Indiana will make its indoor training facility in Lafayette available to Carmel United teams and will conduct an all-girls’ soccer camp in cooperation with Carmel United coaches.
FC Indiana, that will play its 2008 home games at Purdue University and at Kuntz Memorial Stadium in Indianapolis, is the Exclusive Developmental Partner and the Official W-League Affiliate of the yet-to-be-named Chicago Professional Women’s Soccer franchise, which will begin play at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Illinois in 2009 as part of the new top level Women’s Professional Soccer league (WPS).
FC Indiana’s first official home game of the season versus Michigan Hawks will take place at Kuntz Stadium in Indianapolis on May 21st at 7:00PM. Season tickets ($49) and Youth passes ($11) are now available online here TICKETS
FC Indiana will also host Canada U20 Women’s National Team, Mexico U20 Women’s National Team, and Nigeria Women’s National Team as part of the Inaugural 2008 FCI PDA International Cup to be played on Wednesday April 30th and Friday May 2nd at 5 and 7 pm at Kuntz Stadium. Tickets are only $10 ($5 with a student ID) for the doubleheader and can be purchased here TICKETS or at the gate.
More information on Carmel United Soccer Club: www.carmelunited.org
FC Indiana partners with PDA
April 9, 2008
USL W-League’s FC Indiana and Progressive Design Apparel have officially teamed up to promote the sport of Women’s Soccer in Central Indiana and across the Midwest, the two organizations announced today.
PDA, a leading graphic design, custom embroidery and screen-printing company in Indianapolis will sponsor the two-time National Championship team consisting of top ranked female players around the world.
“We’re so proud and excited to be a sponsor of such a great team and organization,” said PDA owners Steve and Challen Powers. “We look forward to the opportunity to make these girls look as good as they play.”
PDA will provide official photography, graphic design, kit decorating, fan wear, and promotional materials for the women’s team.
A well-known champion of the youth soccer scene in Indianapolis, PDA will also underwrite the Inaugural FCI PDA International Cup to be staged at Kuntz Stadium on April 30th and May 2nd, 2008.
Other projects involving both organizations will include summer soccer camps for girls and coaching clinics in Indianapolis area.
FC Indiana, that will play its 2008 home games at Purdue University and at Kuntz Memorial Stadium in Indianapolis is the Exclusive Developmental Partner and the Official W-League Affiliate of the yet-to-be-named Chicago Professional Women’s Soccer franchise, which will begin play at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Illinois in 2009 as part of the new top level Women’s Professional Soccer league (WPS).
FC Indiana’s first official home game of the season versus Michigan Hawks of Detroit will take place at Kuntz Stadium in Indianapolis on May 21st at 7:00PM. Season tickets ($49) and Youth passes ($11) are now available online at http://www.fcindiana.com/tickets/index_E.html.
FC Indiana will also feature as part of the Indiana Soccer Showcase vs. Indiana University Hoosiers on Saturday April 12th at 7:00pm at Kuntz Stadium. Tickets are $5 for the entire day, and all the proceeds from the event will be used to fund the Urban Soccer Development Program conducted by the City of Indianapolis.
Progressive Design Apparel: www.pdacoolstuff.com
Competing globally
April 7, 2008
 After winning two league and one cup titles in three seasons, FC Indiana ownership made a decision to move the club to United Soccer Leagues W-League.
This winter FC Indiana coaches Shek Borkowski and Steve Brdarski have been busy working on their team’s roster as they prepare for the 2008 season.
The odds have seemed always to be against FC Indiana, with other clubs in more glamorous locations and with bigger resources. But with FC Indiana’s scouting system now a global enterprise, there are players on the roster from Europe, Africa, Oceania and North America.
Over the last three years FC Indiana have taken on youngsters from across the world. Elena Danilova from Russia, Monica Ocampo and Charlyn Corral from Mexico and many more.
“We’re trying to identify, track and bring the best young players to this club.” said Borkowski
“Ria Percival, for example, is a typical product of global soccer growth. The New Zealander is a quick, technical midfielder who recognizes opportunities very well, gets forward, can defend and has a winning mentality. And if she improves physically I think she’s got all the other things to progress.”
According to Borkowski top European clubs are spending more and more money on youth systems, youth players, and on player identification. Clubs like Umea IK and Malmo in Sweden, Frankfurt and Potsdam in Germany, Lyon in France are at the forefront.
“It is crucial that we keep identifying top young players to come to FC Indiana - and not just from overseas.
There are many people at FC Indiana who work with these young women - identifying them and bringing them to the club. I’m very proud of our youth identification at the moment. It’s a continuous drive to be in front of everybody else but it’s getting tougher.”
Borkowski, indifferent to the advantages of clubs with bigger attractions, has always gone his own way. That route may yet put FC Indiana in front of their rivals this season and in the years ahead. As the club prepares for the season there was, and perhaps still is, a possibility of FC Indiana starting off slow in the W-League. Borkowski’s training and preparation may be exquisite and the international scouting network is a masterpiece, but it is the club’s commitment and drive to excellence that gives FC Indiana a chance of becoming the very best in women’s international soccer.
Point blank with Shek Borkowski
March 6, 2008
 fcindiana.com: The club has been very successful in the last four seasons, to what do you credit this success?
SB: Long term success comes from continuity of coaching, tactical approach, stability and shared vision. We always try to bring in people who buy into our vision. So far we have been very fortunate to get quality players and staff who are willing to work very hard to achieve our aims.
fcindiana.com: What’s your philosophy of coaching and your secret of motivating players?
SB: Successful coaching is all about discipline, organization and surrounding yourself with the right people. When I started coaching, I was always worried about motivating players. Today I don’t worry about it. We look for players with ambition and who are committed. We can only help someone who wants to achieve something. All we can do is give them a method to help them achieve that. That’s the real part of coaching. We try to be very selective when looking for players and afterwards make the players conscious of what we want to achieve.
fcindiana.com: When looking for players, what are the criteria for bringing them to the club?
SB: Motivation and will to win are fundamental for anyone who wants to play for FC Indiana. It is also very important to have a clear vision. I tell them what our targets are and how we want to reach them. When you are evaluating you have to get players who represent the values of the club. At FC Indiana we have a multi-cultural vision. I like the commitment of the US game, the pace and speed but coming from Europe; I like to add some technical values. What is good in soccer is that you don’t need to share the same language. A Russian, a German or a Mexican can play with an American if they both have the same vision. I think that our success stems from our environment in which we successfully fuse different soccer cultures and strengths.
fcindiana.com: How does the team look one week into pre-season?
SB: At the moment I feel we will be strong team defensively. I don’t say we are a defensive team. I say we are a strong team in defensive terms. Right now we lack fluidity going forward because that will take time to develop. Later on in pre-season we will focus on having more control of the game in terms of possession. But the team is going in the right direction.
fcindiana.com: There are many new faces in the squad...SB: Every season we want to sign someone who can come in and will make this team better. I think the players appreciate that as well. Every player worth their salt in at this level likes to see the squad getting good players in and making not only the club better, but making them better players also. When you are at FC Indiana you have to accept competition. If you accept it, competition makes you better. If you do not then you have to move down to another club and be satisfied with no longer being at the top. Right now we have a terrific group of players and there is a good spirit among them.
fcindiana.com: What are your goals for this season?
SB: Soccer is just as much about dreams, about passion as it is about championships. Fans want to be entertained, they want to see passion and commitment. That is what we try to give them. My goal is to get the best out of this team, and then we can let fans judge how good we are or not.
FC Indiana partners with Chicago Pro Women’s Soccer
January 23, 2008
 USL W-League’s FC Indiana and Chicago Professional Women’s Soccer of the newly formed WPS have joined forces to grow the sport of women’s soccer in the Midwest, the two teams announced today.
FC Indiana, that will play its 2008 home games at Purdue University and at Kuntz Memorial Stadium in Indianapolis will be the Exclusive Development Partner and the Official W-League Affiliate of the yet-to-be-named Chicago franchise, which will begin play at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Illinois in 2009 as part of the new top level professional women’s soccer league. The teams will benefit by sharing technical and commercial opportunities.
FC Indiana, which won the historic League and Cup “Double” in 2005 by capturing the WPSL title and the US Open Cup crown in 2005 and repeated as the Premier League National Champions in 2007, will benefit from an annual exhibition game in Indianapolis, coach and staff education programs, and other business and soccer elements...more
Luckenbill re-signs
December 1, 2007
 Kristin Luckenbill who went 7-1 with FC Indiana last season has re-signed for the 2008 campaign.
In 2007, Luckenbiill allowed only 4 goals against, and earned 5 clean sheets in 8 matches, in leading the club to its second WPSL title in three seasons.
In 2003, she played in 18 matches for the Carolina Courage after recovering from an early season finger injury and went 7-7-4. She played in all 21 regular season matches in 2002 (going 12-5-4) helping the Courage to the 2002 WUSA title and was named WUSA Goalkeeper of the Year and First-Team All-WUSA.
A three-time All-American and four-time First-Team All-Ivy selection, she started 70 consecutive matches for the Big Green. Luckenbill still holds the Dartmouth record for all-time shutouts (131) and goals against average (0.68). "Kristin is a key component to us doing well in 2008 as she is one of the best keepers in the country," said Shek Borkowski.
FC Indiana joins W-League
November 15, 2007
 United Soccer Leagues announced Wednesday that FC Indiana, a successful and established women’s team in the United States, has acquired the W-League franchise rights for Indianapolis and will begin play in the 2008 season in the Midwest Division.
“We are thrilled to have FC Indiana join the W-League family,” said USL Executive Vice President and COO Tim Holt. “We have always felt that their club, on and off the field, met the high standards of the W-League, and have no doubt that they will match the excellence already displayed by many of our clubs.”
Established in 2001, FC Indiana has dominated the WPSL since 2004, winning league championships in 2005 and 2007. They also captured the 2005 USASA Women’s National Open Cup and reached the 2007 final. The team is coached by Shek Borkowski, who has a record of 46-5-3 with the team. Under Borkowski, FC Indiana has been unbeaten at home for the last three years.“Joining the W-League represents a new and exciting challenge for all our players and coaching staff,” said Borkowski. “There are some very good teams in our division, and I’m aware of the dangerous players such as Caroline Smith from Minnesota who played for me before, so we expect a very tough competition in every match.” more
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Sun, Jul 06:
WFCI at Minnesota, 6:00 p.m. |
Thu, Jul 10:
WFCI at Michigan, 7:00 p.m. |
Sun, Jul 13:
WFCI vs. Kalamazoo, 6:30 p.m. |
Thu, Jul 17:
WFCI vs. Chicago, 7:00 p.m. |
Fri, Aug 01:
W-League Semi-Final (Virginia Beach, VA) |
Sun, Aug 03:
W-League Final (Virginia Beach, VA) |
Fri, Aug 08:
WFCI at Open Cup Semi-Final, 1:00 p.m. (Seattle, WA) |
Sat, Aug 09:
WFCI at Open Cup Final, 9:00 p.m. (Seattle, WA) |
Fri, Aug 22:
WFCI vs. South Africa WNT, 7:00 p.m. |
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FC Indiana. All rights reserved.
© Copyright 2008
Demosphere International, Inc. All rights reserved.
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