ELITE ACADEMY LEAGUE GROWS WITH ADDITION OF NORTHEAST CONFERENCE

As we continue our efforts to provide the best environment for our players to develop. We are excited to announce Met Oval Academy will join the new Elite Academy League.

“The Elite Academy League is an Elite platform developed to address the needs of its membership primarily assisting with developing top players inside the elite club’s player pool. It allows the member clubs of the “MLS Elite,” to work together to promote the highest standards in competitive soccer, and integrate both leagues with this common goal and direction.”

ELITE ACADEMY LEAGUE

Domestic Youth Soccer Landscapes Evolves into Major League Soccer’s Elite Player Development Platform

As one of the most historic soccer clubs in the country. We are proud to be one of the founding members of the new MLS youth development league. This platform will further strengthen Met Oval's ability to develop professional and college players, and remain the top developer of elite talent in the Northeast.

This marks a new era for elite soccer in the United States, the MLS and the elite youth academies joined forces to create the premier platform for youth soccer players. This will provide a pathway to the pro ranks and will challenge our players in all aspects of the game. We are excited about this new chapter about to take place in the United States.

" The goal of MLS and Elite Academies is aligned to create the premier platform for the development of world class youth players. By providing a bespoke pathway to the professional game, this union will kick off a new era in elite talent development." - Jeffrey Saunders (Met Oval Sporting Director)

This new pathway will Impact more than 8,000 soccer players across the U.S. and Canada. The joining of forces between the Elite youth clubs along with MLS, will create opportunities here and abroad never yet experienced in North America. “There is strong positive momentum and excitement among MLS club academies and elite academy clubs to co-create a platform that will deliver an unparalleled experience for the nation’s top players and clubs,” said Fred Lipka, Vice President and Technical Director of MLS Player Development. “The development of professional and elite players requires a comprehensive and integrated approach, beyond just the competition format, and we are having daily conversations with academy clubs across the country who are committed to building that environment with us.”

This new platform will consist of elite all year round competition, as well as player identification initiatives, coaching education opportunities, and extra programs that will benefit the player development environment.

The alignment of the MLS’s objectives along with our club gives us great confidence in our main focus on developing elite talent. Here at Metropolitan Oval the “youth center of excellence” we always look for different avenues to improve as a club in all aspects of soccer. With our main focus on the individual development of players, we want to provide an elite environment for our athletes and opponents. Our VR cognitive training system immerses our athletes into real game-like situations. This enables us to provide our players with really specific information on decision making in certain areas of the pitch. Expansion plans are underway at our historic facility to include an indoor gym. This investment will aid in our players strength development and injury prevention, along with a focus on nutrition and healthy eating. At the “youth center of excellence” we prepare each player to be the best version of themselves while at the oval.

VIDEO LINK: NEW MLS YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PLATFORM

Youth Landscape Evolves

Met Oval confirms the announcement made by US Soccer on, Wednesday, April 15th, that the USSDA Development Boys & Girls Academy has been terminated, effective immediately. 

This announcement from US Soccer was never formally communicated, nor discussed with our Academy club members, and the lack of communication from US Soccer is disappointing. 

Rumors of such an announcement have been circulating through the soccer community in recent days, and in response to these rumors, the Northeast Regions’ DA clubs have been working in tandem on solidifying a unified solution, in anticipation of the recent USSF announcement. 

Met Oval and our neighboring Northeast Region DA clubs have committed to continuing the highest level of youth soccer development, as a group, and in conjunction with DA clubs from around the nation. We plan to continue the 10-month season model as the best proven method to develop players. 

We applaud the communication, effort, and willingness of the neighboring DA clubs to work together, prepare, and provide the best youth developmental environment for the future. 

There are a number of 10-month league solutions at hand, and once the best and final decision is confirmed, we will notify our Met Oval families ASAP. 

These are unprecedented times, and this recent news does not help. We’re kindly asking for your trust and patience, to make the best decision possible for our club members and youth soccer as a whole. 

These decisions should not be rushed or forced. Ultimately, Met Oval in unison with our neighboring DA clubs will make the best decision possible after concluding due diligence on all options. We thank you for your trust and understanding during these difficult times. 

Thank you very much, 

Jeffrey Saunders, Sporting Director 

Metropolitan Oval Foundation 

———————————————-

To showcase our clubs solidarity, the below clubs have agreed to this message: 

Beachside Soccer Club: Mickey Kydes 

Boston Bolts: Marco Koolman 

B.W. Gottschee: Paul McGlynn 

Cedar Stars Bergen: Anthony Nixon 

Empire United: Rory Charcholla 

FC Westchester: Stephen Carson 

Met Oval: Jeffrey Saunders 

New York Soccer Club: Christian Gonzalez 

Oakwood Soccer Club: Rick Derella 

Seacoast United: Peter Decker

MET OVAL Coaches Relief Gofundme Campaign

Click: Gofundme campaign link | All donations are tax deductible

Met Oval produces over 45 players in 4 years for professional academies, while also sending an average of 12 kids per year to play in College

“THE PATHWAY” It’s no secret that elite clubs are often judged by a prevalence of home-grown, youth academy graduates who transition into professional environments. Our 'Professional Pathway' places players in MLS, Int'l academies, collegiate programs and youth national team camps. In the past four  years, Met Oval has placed more youth players in MLS and Int'l academies (40+) than any other club in the region. We have sent hundreds of players into the collegiate game with a number of standouts at premier (d1) soccer institutions, since the inception of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy. 

 Standout MetOval Academy Players

Justin Haak is currently on the first team of NYCFC. He is a center mid smart tactically, high soccer IQ,  physically strong, a ton of vision awareness and wide range of passing. He has the ability to get out of pressure quickly. On the other side of the ball he is aggressive, tenacious and difficult to pass.

Niko Kapanadze studies his trade now at NYCFC, a striker, attacking player with  a lot of quality to be able to finish. He is a hard worker and also unpredictable (Suarez type). Puts opposing teams under 90 minutes of pressure.

Carlo Brown - Currently at NYCFC as a striker , physical, fast, relentless and has a knack for finding the back of the net. Carlo, a long time standout at Met Oval, has improved his technical and tactical ability here at Met Oval. Improved movement in the box to create space where there is none, a real poacher for goal.

Manoli Smalios - NYCFC keeper , great shot stopper, reliable, good feet and decision maker.

 With our strong affiliation with NYCFC we are able to communicate between clubs on what players are ready to make the jump. All NYCFC players were at MetOval during their prime phase 2 development.

Met Oval Places Players in ACC, Big Ten, Patriot League and Ivy league to Name a Few.

Aiden Bora on commitment - “I chose St. John’s because it has a very historic soccer history with a respected past and good academics and they were willing to give me a chance to play for them. 

It is also very close to home which is very helpful. I play central midfield, I have been at Met Oval for 6 months now and I would like to thank Coach Filippo for giving me the opportunity to join his team and showcase my talents, I would also like to thank coach Steve for all of his help and knowledge with the college recruitment process. I have definitely developed my skills and knowledge of the game at Met Oval. They have also had a positive impact on my character development in the past months.”

Marco Cottone on commitment - “I chose NC State because it’s a great school and has a great soccer program that I was looking for at the division 1 level. I play center back. I have been at met oval for 3 years. I would like to thank coach Filippo and coach Giuseppe for helping me get better and progress as a soccer player. I would also like to thank coach Steve for all he has done for me with the recruiting process. Met oval has helped me improve my skills and my character as a player on and off the field. They also helped me understand the game more and gave me an opportunity to play everyday in a competitive environment.”

Wyatt McCarty on commitment -  “I chose Amherst because it offers a very high level education in addition to one of the best d3 soccer programs in the country. I play center midfield. I’ve been at Met Oval for a year and a half. I’d like to thank all the Met Oval staff though notably my head coach Filippo as per pushing my soccer and character development. I honestly think I’ve developed at met oval far more than at any other club I’ve played at. I’ve not only found myself constantly improving but always enjoying it more and more. The staff and players create a soccer culture that encourages competition, joy, and sportsmanship in a manner that accumulates to create one of the best youth development environments in the country.”

Murat on commitment -  “I chose Wisconsin because it’s a great school and has an amazing coaching staff, along with a very professional environment. I play attacking midfield. I’ve been at Met Oval for about 2 years. I am grateful for all the help and support of the amazing Met Oval coaches. Met Oval has given me the chance to constantly learn and grow as a player along with being nurtured to play every minute of the game with enjoyment and no fear.” 

Mathis on commitment - “I chose to attend the University of Penn for two major reasons: 

 The first reason is UPenn's newly hired coaching staff. Head Coach Gill (previously Georgetown), Coach Delano (previously Harvard), and Coach Lowry (Lipscomb) all have had successful and extensive backgrounds both as players and as coaches in college soccer.  That being said, I'm confident that they will both be able to help me develop my game and push the program into a place where it will be able to challenge even the most established soccer programs. The second reason for my commitment to UPenn is the level of education that the school offers. As an Ivy League school, Penn is undoubtedly one of the best school's in the country. My primary position is the 8 (center-mid). There are numerous Met Oval coaches, managers and other members at the club who have played a key role in my development - and I would like to thank them all for their training, guidance and assistance. Jeff Saunders who brought me to the club as a U-13. Chris Welch and David Curmi who managed our teams and always looked out for my best interest. On the coaching staff: Coach Hugo (now NYCFC), Coach Buckle (ex-Academy Director), Coach Filippo (current Academy Director), Coach Mark, Coach Yannick, Coach Giuseppi, Coach Juan and so many others. et Oval has without doubt played a critical role in my development as a player. The club has always prioritized my development as a player and a person -- it is the club’s philosophy. Throughout my 5 years at the club, I have been given the freedom to play multiple positions which has exposed me to different aspects of the game and broadened my skill set. Due to the outstanding coaching that I have received, Met Oval has helped me improve tactically, technically, and physically. In summary, Met Oval has holistically made me a far more complete player.”

Met Oval Pushes/Encourages Standout Youth Players To GO TO Professional Clubs

Davi - NYCFC -  High IQ, physical, always played a year up, disciplined focused coachable, great decision maker on both sides of the ball. Technically improved a lot with us. Consistent performer on the field and a leader as well.

Santi - NYCFC  - A Lot of desire very athletic for his age. Very technical and with us he grew tactical awareness, discipline and focus.

Javier Gonzalez - NYRB - High IQ physical, disciplined focused coachable, great decision maker on both sides of the ball. Technically improved a lot with us. Always had a desire to play and get better everyday.

Met Oval Places More Players in USSF U.S. Youth National Team Training Centers and National Camps Than Any Other non-professional Club in the Region.

Cameron - Haiti u17 - He is a really quick, dynamic and unpredictably creative. His 1v1 ability is very high. We helped improve him tactically at Met Oval

Piero Elias - Center mid Peru u17 -  Physically strong and powerful. Great range of passing defensively dominant, tenacious and tough to dispossess. 

Bella Sember - USWNT u17 - She is technically gifted! Been at the club a long time. Exemplifies a lot of the values of the club. Desire to be the best player on the pitch.. Plays without fear. Tactically smart. Great vision , has a really good final ball and can finish with both feet. 

Club Advancement

Here at Metropolitan Oval the “youth center of excellence” we always look for different avenues to improve as a club in all aspects of soccer. With our main focus on the individual development of players, we want to provide an elite environment for our athletes and opponents.  Our VR cognitive training system immerses our athletes into real game like situations. This enables us to provide our players with really specific information, on decision making in certain areas of the pitch. Expansion plans are underway at our historic facility to include an indoor gym. This investment will aid in our players strength development and injury prevention,  along with a focus on nutrition and healthy eating. At the “youth center of excellence” we prepare each player to be the best version of themselves while at the oval.

Skyline View at Met Oval

There’s Something in the Water at Met Oval as We Finish the Season with Several of the Region and Country’s Top Goal Scorers

As the seasons for our Development Academy teams come to a close several of our players have reached some prolific individual accolades in the goal scoring department.

Starting with the 04 DA, Massimo Murania finished the season with 22 goals, which tied him for the most in the country. However, Massi’s superior goal differential places him at the top of the list for the most goals for the 04’s (U15’s) in the entire nation!

On the 02 DA (U17) team, Balthazar Saunders has amassed 21 goals over the course of the campaign as the team’s primary number 9. This ranks Balthi as the second highest scorer in the region and the fourth in the nation.

For the 05 DA (U14) team our count is unofficial but we have done our research and it looks as if Carlo Brown has scored more goals in his age group than anyone in the region and perhaps the country with a total of 30.

Cyrus Klinenberg led the 06 DA (U13) team with 14 goals. He proved to be a threat on free kicks as well as from open play and was featured on the DA Top Plays.

All four players have had tremendous seasons and we look forward to their return next year.

Met Oval Relaunches Girls Program

Met Oval could not be more excited to announce that we are migrating our Youth Center Of Excellence structure and methodologies to include girls! Met Oval is dedicated to developing New York's elite level soccer talent by offering youth of all backgrounds the opportunity to play soccer in a committed environment.

Met Oval already develops the most talent in the region and now we will add to that by including girls in our program. Our “Professional Pathway” will help these girls to play professionally and in college.

The girls program will relaunch at Met Oval East for the 2019/20 season with girls born 2007-2011.

The Head Coach of the 2007 Girls team will be Michael Filippi. The team will train in Hicksville, New York, alongside the boys teams and play their games at Metropolitan Oval field in Maspeth.

“We’re very excited to be able to finally bring a girls program to Met Oval,” says Met Oval East Director Yannick Salmon. “It has been a goal of ours for years but we feel that now is the right moment. As our program continues to grow out East, we look forward to spreading our club values and philosophy to aspiring players all over Long Island.”

Met Oval's Carlyle Smart commits for Division One school George Washington University

Congrats to Met Oval’s Carlyle Smart of the U19 NPL team who has committed to George Washington University! Carlyle took some time to answer a few questions about his decision and Met Oval.

Why did you pick George Washington University?

I picked George Washington because they have a strong soccer program with many international players, and players from MLS academies. Yet at the same time they are great academically. Also, after speaking to the coaches I will have a big role next season within the team.

What is your primary position?

Left Wing

How long have you been at Met Oval?

Two Years

Is there anybody that you would like to thank?

I would like to thank Filippo for bringing me into the club and recognizing my potential, and making me feel welcome and important when I first arrived. He’s the one who gave me my first opportunity at Met Oval

I would like to thank Mark, he was my first coach when I came to Met Oval he really helped develop me as a player, I felt like I grew a lot under him and improved many aspects of my game, and I feel that he used my set of skills very well within the team and we accomplished a lot with the team that year, it will be a season I’ll never forget.

Also Coach Juan he has helped me this year, really polishing my game especially with the decision making aspect, I have improved a lot under him and have become a more efficient player.

Lastly Coach Steve he helped a lot reaching out for teams and giving me advice about the college process, and as you can see now I’m committed to GW so clearly he’s done a good job in a short period of time.

How has Met Oval helped your development?

Met Oval has helped develop me a lot as a player and as a person. I have become a stronger, smarter, more technical player during my time here. I believe in their philosophy and how they teach kids the “right” way to play football. Every practice is intense and we make each other better. I wouldn’t be the player or person I am today without this club.

USSF DA Tryouts at Met Oval - For Current DA Players

Met Oval is having tryouts for current players of other USSF DA’s that are interested in Met Oval. Per USSF rules, these tryouts must take place after the DA regular season.

Current USSF DA Players Only

Wednesday June 26

Thursday June 27th

@ Met Oval 

2007, 2006, 2005

5:30 registration 
6-7:30 tryout

2004, 2003, 2002/1

7pm registration
7:30-9 tryout

Please email clare.metoval@gmail.com to register with the following information:

NAME

DATE OF BIRTH

EMAIL

CURRENT CLUB

TELEPHONE NUMBER

MET OVAL ACADEMY FULL DAY GOALIE CAMP - GK COACH SEBASTIANO MANA (italian_goalkeeping)

When: July 1st – 3rd

Time: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (early drop off at 9 AM and late pick up at 5 PM available on request)

Where: Met Oval Field – 60th St. & 59th Ave, Maspeth, NY 11378

Who: The camp is aimed at the goalkeepers of all teams between the ages of 10 (2009 born) and 17 (2002 born)

What: The camp will be focused on ball attack, getting up techniques, position recovery, coordination, explosive strength.

Fees: $75 per day – $200 all days. Cash payment on site

Registration deadline: June 28th. To register write to sebastiano.metoval@gmail.com

Daily program structure

9:30 to 10          Arrival at Met Oval Field

10 to 10:30          Warm up

10:30 to 12    Morning session      

12 to 1:30            Lunch break

1:30 to 2:30 Video

2:30 to 3          Warm up

3 to 4:30          Afternoon session

4:30 to 5 Dismissal

Technical program

Monday: ball attack - how to make your body bigger and the goal smaller. Courage, timeliness and reactivity.

Tuesday: getting up techniques – pros and cons of European and South American style.

Wednesday: position recovery – follow up of the getting up techniques, from theory to practice.

A couple reminders on what to bring:

• Players should wear long sleeves and long pants;

• At least two t-shirts;

• Bring a water container;

• Packed lunch;

• Snack;

• Suntan lotion;

• Printed medical information that the coaches may need (allergies, etc...);

• Some money for ice cream.

Memorial Day Weekend Clinics at Met Oval

Met Oval will be hosting Clinics over the Memorial Day weekend which will be run by our Director of Coaching, Filippo Giovagnoli, and other Met Oval coaches.

May 26 Sunday, May 27 Monday.

Sessions will run from 9-11AM & will be $40 per session payable on site at Met Oval - Cash Only.

Please email clare.metoval@gmail.com to register.

VR Training at Met Oval

The Met Oval Mind Gym is now in operation! Sessions are being prepared and coached by our own Stefano Gandini.

On Tuesday’s, from 5:30pm – 8pm various Met Oval players are being selected by the Met Oval staff to train with this cutting-edge virtual reality technology.

On Friday’s, at the same time Coach Stefano is available for private sessions. Single sessions run $45 while there is a discounted rate for various packages.

Some of the goals of the program are to add a sense of tactical awareness to the player as well as providing cognitive and decision training.

Come in and be in the 1st wave of players learning this new technology that help improve your mental game!

For questions and registration please contact Stefano Gandini at Stefano.metoval@gmail.com.

Come to the Party as Met Oval Hosts NYCFC on Sunday, April 7th!

It’s always a big day when NYCFC visits the Oval yet on Sunday Met Oval is pulling out all the stops for this United States Soccer Federation Development Academy battle.

We will be having a Barbeque from 12pm – 6pm in addition to live DJ Frankie FLO!

Plus, Met Oval will be streaming all of our games live (look to our social platforms for a link prior to game time), a first for all Development Academy clubs in the region!

Game times Met Oval vs NYCFC on Sunday, April 7th:

9:30am 2007s (U12)

11:15am 2007s (U12)

1:15pm 2004s (U15)

3:15pm 2002s (U17)

5:15pm 2006s (U13)

7:00pm 2005s (U14)

So come on down to Met Oval for a good time on Sunday! And if you can’t make it then don’t forget to watch the matches streaming live!

Go Met Oval!

Met Oval Juniors Spring Season

Spring Season

10 wk program

2 60min trainings, 1 Game Per Week

Cost: $575

Ages 6-8

Locations

Queens (Maspeth)

Wednesday/Thursday 4-5pm, 5-6pm

Game: 8-9am Saturday 

Long Island (Hicksville)

Monday/Thursday 5:30-6:30pm

Game: 8-9am Saturday (Queens)

Queens program starts March 27th.

Long Island starts April 1st.

Email Clare.metoval@gmail.com for information and registration

SPRING BREAK CLINIC AND GOALKEEPER CAMP

Met Oval will be hosting a week of Spring Break

Training Clinics the week of April 22 - 26, 2019 along

with Saturday, April 20. Sessions will run from 9-11AM

& will be $40 per session payable on site at Met Oval.

Simultaneously, we will be having a GOALKEEPER CAMP at Met Oval.

For information/Reservations for the Spring Break Clinics email Clare.metoval@gmail.com

For information/Reservations for the GK Camp email Sebastiano.metoval@gmail.com

Details for the GK Camp below:

MET OVAL GK COACH SEBASTIANO MANA (italian_goalkeeping)

When: April 22-26

Time: 9.30 – 11.30 AM First group (9-12 y.o.); 11.30 – 1.30 PM Second group (13-18 y.o).

Where: Met Oval Field – 60th St. & 59th Ave, Maspeth, NY 11378

Who: The camp is aimed at the goalkeepers of all teams between the ages of 9 and 18

What: The goal of this camp is to dedicate each session to a different skill that the goalkeepers must have: reactivity, position, high and breakaway saves, communication and feet skills.

Fees: $50 single day session, $200 full week. Cash payment on site

Registration deadline: April 19

Daily program structure

9.30 – 10 AM First group arrival, check-in

10 – 11.30 AM First group practice

11.30 – 12 PM First group dismissal, second group arrival, check in

12 – 1.30 PM Second group practice

1.30 – 1.45 PM Second group dismissal

Technical program

Monday: Reactivity - Many drills of the Spanish school to improve the reflexes and accelerate reaction times.

Tuesday: Position - You do not always need a spectacular dive to make a big save. The right position is the key to success.

Wednesday: High coming out - The goalkeeper must be the master of the penalty area. Some drills of the German school to improve the timing and increase courage and self-esteem.

Thursday: Low and breakaway coming out - The 1vs1 situations are a matter of timing and cold blood. Some drills of the Italian school to improve the ball attacking.

Friday: Communication and feet working - The communication is the most important skill for a goalkeeper, it’s possible to prevent many dangerous situation by only using the voice. Also, the modern goalkeeper touches more balls with his feet than with his hands and plays an important role in the build up. This session will be focused on how to communicate with teammates recreating game situations in which the goalkeeper finds himself using his feet.

Two more players from Met Oval’s U19 NPL team commit to college

Met Oval would like to congratulate both Kendell Thomas and Zakhar Pobutskyi for their commitments to college! Kendell and Zakhar are both playing on the Met Oval U19 NPL team. Kendell will be attending Iona and Zakhar has committed to the College of Staten Island.

We asked them both a few questions about their decisions and their time at Met Oval.

Kendell Thomas

 Why did you pick Iona?

I picked Iona not only because they have a competitive Division One soccer program, they also have great academics. A deciding factor for me also was that I am able to get away from Brooklyn but still close enough where I can always come back to see family and friends. I know the majority of kids want to go to school to get away from their home town, but I am from New York City, the best city in the world, and I never want to leave.

What is your primary position?

My primary position is CDM but I am very versatile. I can also play CM and CB.

How long have you been at Met Oval?

I have been with Met Oval for basically my whole career. I played for Saba (a former Met oval affiliate) from ages 9-11, Central Brooklyn Soccer Club ages 12-15 (Met Oval affiliate), Met Oval Academy age 16 to present.

Is there anybody that you would like to thank?

I would like to thank Coach Shomari, Coach Juan, Coach Mark, Coach Yannick, Coach Filippo and Coach Giuseppe for helping me develop both on and off the field. I couldn't ask for a better group of coaches to help me throughout my years in club soccer. I would like to say a special thank you to Coach Steve who has been really helpful with my college recruiting process. I was having a really hard time finding a school before Coach Steve started to help me out.

How has Met Oval helped your development?

Met Oval has helped me develop by helping me find my strengths as a player and allowing me to display them at the highest level. They have also helped me in finding my weaknesses and turning them into strengths. On top of this they have allowed me to make Met Oval my home, a place I can go to for extra training or even spend free time after school.

Zakhar Pobutskyi

Why did you pick the College of Staten Island? 

I have been hesitating what college to pick for a while but made my final decision to go to College of Staten Island. One of the main reasons why I’ve picked this college is the opportunity to continue my athletic career as soccer player, since the college is in the D2 program. Also, they have great academics and great campus.

What is your primary position?

I play a central forward

How long have you been at Met Oval?

I joined Met Oval during my freshman year in high school and been a part of it for almost 4 years

Is there anybody that you would like to thank?

First of all, I’m very grateful to my parents and especially my Dad, who would drive me to a practice every day after a long day at work. I really value such strong support. I also want to thank all the coaches and staff at Met Oval, especially Chris Welch, Steve Halo and Juan Angel de Bernardo, who always believed in us and never let us give up.

How has Met Oval helped your development?

Met Oval has definitely helped my development in many aspects. They have taught me how to build a correct tactic to win. They showed me different techniques and ways to succeed on the field. But most important they helped our team to become friends and supporters of each other. I truly believe that everything that we achieved as a team is a result of hard work and devotion. Met Oval helped me to develop very strong traits in my personality such as determination. They taught me to never give up and always believe in yourself!

Met Oval Awarded Full USSF Development Academy Status

Today the United States Soccer Federation's Development Academy announced that Metropolitan Oval has been awarded the U18/19 Boys Development Academy (DA) team. This addition bestows full academy status onto Met Oval by the USSF.

Full academy status completes Met Oval’s development pathway offered through its Youth Center of Excellence. “Achieving full academy status has been the goal of Met Oval since I arrived at the club in 2015,” says Director of Coaching Filippo Giovagnoli. “Now our top-level players will be granted the continuity that they deserve. Full academy status will enhance the overall reputation of the club while aiding our players in their post Met Oval pathways be it college or professional.”

Metropolitan Oval is a leader in elite player development having placed over 40 youth players into professional academies in the United States and abroad over the past 4 years. With programs based in Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn and Long Island, Met Oval can now offer talented players of the region the avenue, the expertise and the platform needed to pursue their soccer dreams after they graduate from the youth ranks.

Met Oval’s partnership with NYCFC has provided a route for the most talented players in the region to attain their goal of playing professionally. This includes Justin Haak, who spent many years developing at Met Oval before joining NYCFC. Haak recently became just the 3rdplayer to sign a Homegrown deal with the MLS club.

"This is a testament to the high caliber staff at the Oval and the professional development environment which they have crafted. This coupled with investment in our facilities and technology has solidified Met Oval and its youth center of excellence as the leading developer of talent in the region," says Sporting Director Jeffrey Saunders.

www.metropolitanoval.org

About:

The Metropolitan Oval is a USSF Development Academy dedicated to developing the New York regions elite level soccer talent at our Youth Center of Excellence while offering youth of all backgrounds the opportunity to play soccer in a committed environment. Our professional pathway places players in youth national team programs, MLS and Int'l academies and collegiate programs. In the past years, Met Oval has placed more youth players in MLS and Int'l academies than any other club in the region. Met Oval is an affiliate partner of NYCFC and a Nike Premier Club.

The Met Oval's soccer facility in Queens was originally built in 1925 by immigrants from Germany and Hungary, and remains the most historic soccer facility in the United States. The Met Oval is a Non-Profit organization and the only New York City soccer club that owns its own field and related facilities and now has additional programs in Long Island and Brooklyn.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!

Predictions come true, former Met Oval player Justin Haak signs Homegrown deal with NYCFC

It comes as no surprise to Met Oval that our former player, Justin Haak, has signed a Homegrown deal with NYCFC. As reported in Husdon River Blue, an SB Nation site, back in February, 2018, it almost seemed inevitable.

 Justin is playing with the NYCFC U19 academy, which he helped win the 2018 US Soccer Development Academy championship in that age group. NYCFC beat LA Galaxy in the final and Haak provided a man of the match performance.

Haak has turned heads at NYCFC with his tremendous performances for their academy team and also for the US Youth National Team where he was on the U18 squad that won the prestigious 2018 Vaclav Jezek Youth Tournament title in the Czech Republic back in August.

 Haak, a Brooklyn native, even received a write up on mlssoccer.com for his performance in a preseason match in Mexico with the first team.

 As discussed in the previously mentioned article in Hudson River Blue,  Met Oval Sporting Director Jeffrey Saunders is quoted, “He [Haak] would be just as effective in a U-19 academy game as I think he would be in an MLS game. I think you will get the same performance, same maturity level.”

Congratulations to Justin Haak on his next step on his path to pro journey. Met Oval is proud to have played a part.

Metropolitan Oval Produces Two More Division 1 College Soccer Players

Met Oval would like to congratulate both Jose Silva and Mamadou Diallo for their commitments to university! Mamadou and Jose both are playing on the Met Oval 2001 NPL team.

Jose Silva will be attending UMass Lowell in the America East Conference while Mamadou Diallo has committed to Fairleigh Dickinson University in the Northeast Conference. Both have Division 1 soccer programs.

We asked both Mamadou and Jose a few questions about their decisions and their time at Met Oval.

Jose Silva

Why did you pick UMass Lowell?

I chose UMass Lowell due to their success in the America East conference in recent years. Also, their program plays out of the back and likes to keep possession of the soccer ball, a trait we share here at Met Oval.  

What is your primary position?

My primary position is right wing back, as I enjoy going up and down the field.

How long have you been at Met Oval?

I have been at Met Oval since my sophomore year so for 3 years now.

Is there anybody that you would like to thank?

I would like to thank my parents for supporting me all these years and always believing in me. Coach Steve Halo for putting me in contact with UMass Lowell and working restlessly to help me achieve this goal of mine. And coach Mark Van Lith for teaching me how to play soccer the way it should be played and never giving up on me.

How has Met Oval helped your development?

 Met Oval has helped my development in so many ways. Of course, on the field they have taught me how to play my position correctly and other important knowledge for success within this game. And I think the coaches here have proved this with the success of all their teams this season. But just as important, Met Oval has helped me mature and grow as a person off the field. Throughout these years I have been through many ups and downs, but the coaches were always there to offer support and push me to achieve this goal. They truly cared and made me feel like family. It has been a privilege to play for Met Oval and I will always be grateful for this club.

Mamadou Diallo

Why did you pick Fairleigh Dickinson University?

I picked Fairleigh Dickinson University because it’s a great school academically, and they have a great D1 soccer program which I feel is a good fit and will allow me to grow as a soccer player and help get me to the next level.

What is your primary position?

I am a central defender.

How long have you been at Met Oval?

I’ve been at Met Oval for almost 2 years.

Is there anybody that you would like to thank?

I would to thank all the coaches and staff at Met Oval because they all helped in some way to get  where I am today, especially coaches Filippo Giovagnoli, Giuseppi Rossi, and Juan Martin de Bernardo.

 How has Met Oval helped your development?

Met Oval helped my development by making to train at a high level. Also by getting as much exposure as possible by going to tournaments all around the country, and putting me to play against the highest competition in the country. 

Three Met Oval players commit to Division 1 soccer programs!

Met Oval could not be happier as three of our players: Cyrus Margono, Mathis Varin, and Marti Farre, have made their respective college commitments and will all be playing Division 1 soccer next season! All three players are currently on the 2001 NPL team coached by Juan Martin De Bernardo and are high school seniors.
 
Cyrus will be attending the University of Denver, Mathis will be attending the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), and Marti will be attending St. Bonaventure University.
 
Met Oval is proud to be able to provide a challenging and inspiring learning environment for accomplished youth soccer players to develop and reach their goals while striving to be a leader in the development of the next generation of talent.
 
Met Oval builds players that represent the highest standards of character both on and off the field embodying the core club values of Passion, Teamwork, Effort and Creativity.
 
In the cases of Cyrus, Mathis, and Marti, Met Oval is thrilled to be able to assist them in a huge life goal of attending and playing soccer in college. All the best.
 
The players were kind enough to sit down and answer some questions from us regarding their recent decisions.
 
Cyrus Margono
 
Why did you pick the University of Denver?
 
I chose to play soccer at the University of Denver because they have consistently been a top 10 program, with world class facilities and a coaching staff who made me feel like family. I truly believe they have the culture and program to help me achieve my goal of having a professional career playing at the highest level of soccer. Also, their academic programs are fantastic and offer what I want to study. 
 
What is your primary position?
 
Goalkeeper
 
How long have you been at Met Oval?
 
I have been at Met Oval since the summer leading up into my freshman year of high school. 
 
Is there anybody (coaches?) that you would like to thank?
 
Without many of the coaches at Met Oval I couldn’t have dreamed of being where I am today. Coach Filippo, Mark, Steven, and Fulvio all developed me into the player and person that I am today. More recently, without the help of coach Steve I wouldn’t have been able to get into any high-level program like Denver. Also, Jeff Saunders and Chris Welch have been very influential in my time at the Oval as they worked with me on all aspects of my life. 
 
How has Met Oval helped your development?
 
When I was 12, I first tried out for Met Ovals u14 DA because I was leaving my old club (NYSC). Met Oval believed in me and gave me the tools to succeed. Without the help of the coaching staff I wouldn’t be where I am today. They have developed and given me fantastic opportunities as a person and soccer player. 
 
Mathis Varin
 
Why did you pick UPenn?
 
I chose to attend the University of Penn for two major reasons: 
 
The first reason is UPenn's newly hired coaching staff. Head Coach Gill (previously Georgetown), Coach Delano (perviously Harvard), and Coach Lowry (Lipscomb) all have had successful and extensive backgrounds both as players and as coaches in college soccer.  That being said, I'm confident that they will both be able to help me develop my game and push the program into a place where it will be able to challenge even the most established soccer programs. 
 
The second reason for my commitment to UPenn is the level of education that the school offers. As an Ivy League school, Penn is undoubtedly one of the best school's in the country. 
 
What is your primary position?
 
My primary position is the 8 (center-mid). 
 
How long have you been at Met Oval?
 
I have been at Met Oval for 5 years. 
 
Is there anybody (coaches?) that you would like to thank?
 
There are numerous Met Oval coaches, managers and other members at the club who have played a key role in my development - and I would like to thank them all for their training, guidance and assistance.
 
Jeff Saunders who brought me to the club as a U-13.
 
Chris Welch and David Curmi who managed our teams and always looked out for my best interest.
 
On the coaching staff: Coach Hugo (now NYCFC), Coach Buckle (ex-Academy Director), Coach Filippo (current Academy Director), Coach Mark, Coach Yannick, Coach Giuseppi, Coach Juan and so many others.
 
How has Met Oval helped your development?
 
Met Oval has without doubt played a critical role in my development as a player. The club has always prioritized my development as a player and a person -- it is the club’s philosophy. Throughout my 5 years at the club, I have been given the freedom to play multiple positions which has exposed me to different aspects of the game and broadened my skill set. Due to the outstanding coaching that I have received, Met Oval has helped me improve tactically, technically, and physically. In summary, Met Oval has holistically made me a far more complete player. 
 
Marti Farre
 
Why did you pick St. Bonaventure University?
 
For me, the most important thing when it came to picking a school wasn’t the reputation or whether they were ranked in the “Top-25”. It was picking a place where I feel comfortable, knew I would have a great 4 years and most importantly to pick a place where I was wanted. Reputation and rankings can always change, but feeling wanted and comfortable are hard to come by when picking a school, which is the biggest reason as to why I picked St. Bonaventure.