Now Get Your Own Pizarro Love

SF over at The Offside Rules has decided that our man Nelson Pizarro has something special about him. So much so, that he wants to feature a fan QnA on his blog about the young KC midfielder. Head over to the site and submit your questions to SF. We'll have Nelson answer the best of the best, and the very tip-top question will receive some sort of prize from SF, Hillcrest or the both of us. Enjoy.

Leathers Gets a Makeover

Rookie defender/midfielder Jonathan Leathers likes his hair shaggy. So much so that he didn't get a haircut from the time he joined the Wizards in KC (January) to the team's return from Dallas early this month (July 5). Holy cow! That's a long time. The kind people over at ink decided that Jonny need a trim, and were generous enough to set it up. Read the ensuing "Manformation" article over at inkkc.com here (main story) and here (Leathers focused, with pictures) or pick up your own copy at one of those neat little green receptacles around town.

KC Star Features Juniors

For those of you who didn't see today's D-7 section of the KC Star, jump over to kcstar.com's version of Bob Luder's feature on some KCW Juniors players. Luder focuses on some of the kids who are making long treks (three from Iowa, one from Wichita) to practice and play each week with our Juniors.

As you know, the program has been a huge success in its year-plus of existence. Our U-19s just finished as runners-up in the U.S. Youth Soccer National Championship event and the U-17s were runners-up a year ago in their first-ever tournament, the inaugural SUM U-17 Cup. Our program will continue to grow until, hopefully, we see some homegrown talent take the field at Hillcrest Road, the stadium.

Pizarro Gets Some Love

Our friend Bob Rusert, regular Wizards contributor at MLSnet.com and kcwizards.com posted a nice story after Saturday's match about the debut of midfielder/forward/defender Nelson Pizarro. I list all those positions because, well, I've seen him play in all of them. Pizarro has three goals and two assists this year for the reserve team, scored one goal against Atlas AC and helped create the winner with a long run and low, hard shot that the goalkeeper couldn't save. He's a bundle of energy all the time and always has a smile on his face. I remember Pizarro from the open tryout. He looked good then, and he continues to look good whenever he steps onto the field. His is a truly good story.

Pizarro here on the left with fellow Open Tryout dude Kevin Souter shortly after the pair signed developmental contracts.

HAHA Moment of the Day

You've probably all seen this by now, but check out this blunder in the South Korea-Ivory Coast match yesterday.



The U.S. Olympic team takes on Ivory Coast tomorrow at 5:30 a.m. CT in a pre-olympic mini tournament called the ING Cup. Check out the Olympic team's blog for more inside info here. The game won't be on TV, but you can watch live updates on ussoccer.com's match tracker system.

Thank You Fans

To everyone that came out yesterday, a huge THANK YOU. Though we didn't get a victory, the atmosphere was outstanding. Chicago supporters forced The Cauldron to be as loud and boisterous as ever. I sat outside the press box for most of the match and enjoyed the sights and sounds, including this view currently up at kcwizards.com.


Yes, those are fans who couldn't get tickets to the sold-out match standing on top of a vehicle to watch the game from the CAB scoreboard.

Don't forget, if you didn't make this match but want to see us take on the Fire this year, we host them again on Sunday, October 5 at 2 p.m. CT (Telafutura match, so a mid-day start time) at CommunityAmerica Ballpark. Buy tickets for that here now, as it will likely also sell out. Hopefully some people who came out yesterday only to see Blanco enjoyed the environment at CAB and will come back out again.

Oops...Late School Supply Drive Notice

Sorry for the late notice everyone, but hopefully you still have time to get prepared for tomorrow's "Stuff the Bus" activity. As some of you have heard on 94.9 KCMO, we're collecting extra school supplies at tomorrow's match to assist the City Union Mission in providing school supplies for those less fortunate. Bring your donations to Gate A prior to the match and receive a special Wizards gift item and signed player cards.

For those still interested in tickets for tomorrow's match against the Chicago Fire, don't plan on walking up and getting them. We're VERY close to a sellout already, so if you still want tix, get to kcwizards.com fast or call in to the ticket office at 913.387.3400. Some sales people will be around the office for a couple more hours.

Also, we have a fun family event taking place over at Ward Parkway Center until 5 p.m. tonight. Wizards inflatables, a soccer volleyball net and Disney Radio 1190 AM are on hand with great activities for the whole family. Some players (Ryan McMahen, Tyson Wahl, Ryan Pore and Kevin Souter) will be available from 2:30-5:00 p.m.

All-Star Recap

Hmm, Hillcrest predicts a 3-1 MLS win with goals from Gomez, Cooper, Beckham and Faubert. We get a 3 (nice)-2 MLS win (nice) with goals from Gomez (nice), Blanco and De Rosario for the All-Stars. Ashton scored twice for West Ham. Three correct predictions on the match? Not bad. Correctly predicting the most important aspect (the winner), even better. What were the highlights of the match?

-Blanco's amazing back-heel pass to Gomez for the first goal. That was sick. Let's hope he doesn't do it this weekend at CommunityAmerica Ballpark.

-Blanco's cut inside and perfectly bent ball to the back post

-De Ro's run into the area that led to the foul and bouncing finish on the PK (ok, so that covers the goals)

-Angel's run behind the defense and amazing near-post finish that was (incorrectly) flagged for offside

-Conrad standing up several West Ham attackers throughout the night

-Watching Shalrie Joseph continually hold off challenges from West Ham midfielders

-Looking at West Ham's jerseys...they're sweet.

-Seeing Jimmy wearing the captain's armband with so many other leaders on the squad. That Becks guy is the captain of LA and England, for goodness sake.

KCW Juniors 1-1 Solar Red (N. TX)

The Juniors scored first today and went into halftime 1-1 against their already-determined opponent for Sunday's U.S. Youth Soccer National Championship. Many of the Juniors reserves played in the match, and some regulars played in other positions. No word on how Solar's team was composed. In the second half, the game was pretty stagnant, with each side keeping possession for long stretches but few hard challenges from either side. Alex will post a full recap later at www.kcwjuniors.blogspot.com.

Now, on to the finals Sunday at 10:45 a.m.

MLS All-Stars v West Ham

Alright ladies and gentlefellow, the mid-season time is here. You know that means, time to prove to the world our best players are pretty darn good. This year's opponent is West Ham United, an English Premier League club from East London. It happens to be brother Hillcrest's favorite team, so he's a little torn tonight. The match starts at 6 p.m. CT, live on ESPN, Telafutura, ESPN360.com and CBC for those up in Canuckistan. Peep it on your TV so those sponsors see the ratings they love.

Conrad is for sure starting, traded messages with him not long ago. He didn't want to offer a prediction but said that everyone is very much looking forward to an awesome experience tonight at BMO Field in Toronto.

My prediction? 3-1 MLS All-stars. MLS goals from Cooper, Beckham and Gomez. WHU goal from
Faubert. Conrad will have fun wrestling with Craig Bellamy all night.

Juniors Win 3-1 at Nationals

Our U-19s continued a strong run at Nationals today with a 3-1 victory over Colorado Nike Rush in a match that just wrapped up. Intern Alex will post a full recap shortly over at the KCW Juniors blog. We're now 2-0-0 and have the inside track to a place in the championship game on Sunday. Great work, once again, lads!

Harrington Named Alternate for Olympic Roster

U.S. Soccer put out a press release a couple of minutes ago naming Dax McCarty (FC Dallas) as an injury replacement for Nathan Sturgis (Real Salt Lake) on the U.S. Olympic team roster. With McCarty moving to the full roster, our starting left back Michael Harrington has been added to the three-person alternate list. Harrington is an attractive alternate due to his extreme versatility. Though right footed naturally, Harrington plays comfortably on the left both in defense and midfield. As you could expect, he is also capable of sliding to the right side if necessary. In college, Harrington also played games at forward and central midfield.

2008 U.S. MEN’S OLYMPIC TEAM ROSTER BY POSITION
GOALKEEPERS (2): Brad Guzan (Chivas USA), Chris Seitz (Real Salt Lake)
DEFENDERS (4): Patrick Ianni (Houston Dynamo), Michael Orozco (San Luis), Michael Parkhurst (New England Revolution), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)
MIDFIELDERS (8): Freddy Adu (AS Monaco), Michael Bradley (SC Heerenveen), Maurice Edu (Toronto FC), Benny Feilhaber (Derby County), Stuart Holden (Houston Dynamo), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Dax McCarty (FC Dallas), Danny Szetela (Brescia Calcio)
FORWARDS (4): Jozy Altidore (Villarreal), Charlie Davies (Hammarby IF), Brian McBride (out of contract), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew)

Alternates: GK Dominic Cervi (out of contract), D/M Michael Harrington (Kansas City Wizards), D Frankie Hejduk (Columbus Crew), F Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake)

Wizards Blood Drive/KCW Juniors

This week, the Community Blood Centers have partnered with us on a blood drive event at each of their nine area locations that is highlighted by appearances today from Starting 11 Girls, Dynamo and players at the CBC's central location at 4040 Main in KCMO between noon and 2:30 p.m. Anyone who registers to give blood today will receive a free commemorative T-shirt. Donors can register to win:

-4 VIP tickets to this Sunday's game against the Fire.
-4 Tickets to the September 13 match against the Los Angeles Galaxy
-An autographed Wizards soccer ball

Head out to 4040 Main today to help save some lives and get some Wizards benefits in the process.

Also, don't forget to check out updates on the KCW Juniors over at their new blog, www.kcwjuniors.blogspot.com. Intern Alex has been keeping us up to date with video highlights from yesterday's dramatic comeback win and some off-the-field details. The U-19s are back in action today at 11:30 a.m. against Colorado Rush Nike. A win today means we would be very likely to play in the U-19 National Championship game on Sunday. A loss would eliminate Colorado Rush.

For those of you who don't feel like jumping over, here are the highlights from yesterday:

More on the Juniors

KCW Juniors U-18 team member Christian Duke was recently selected by Soccer American as part of their expanding coverage of youth soccer and the MLS developmental programs. Check out the piece from Joseph Addison here.

News and Notes

Several Wizards have been included in stories in the last couple of days that we haven't yet linked up.

First, Chance Myers and Roger Espinoza were touted as two of "tomorrow's All-Stars" by Ives Galarcep at ESPNSoccernet.com. Read it. (Chance was also featured in the picture.)

Next, Davy Arnaud got some love from Port Arthur, TX, just outside Davy (and Lance Watson's) hometown of Nederland. Read it.

Also, Jimmy Conrad's chat transcript is posted at ESPN.com. Check it out.

Finally, intern Libby comes through again. This time, a fellow named Benton Smith of the Tonganoxie Mirror ventured to CAB to take in his first-ever MLS match. Benton seemed to enjoy the experience, and though he got a few facts wrong, he gave a good review of the experience. Read it.

Juniors Win 3-2!

The Juniors won their first match of the U.S. Youth Soccer National Tournament this morning, coming back from two goals down with three goals in the final 15 minutes for a 3-2 final score line over Freestate United (Maryland). Great work Juniors. Wizards intern Alex Haueter is in Little Rock and will be posting a full match report and more on the KCW Juniors new blog, accessible at noon CT at www.kcwjuniors.blogspot.com.

Great work guys! Check over at the Juniors blog later for more details.

Full Reserve Recap

Below is today's press release. Pizarro's goal was a serious rocket. I couldn't describe it as such in the release quite enough, and the own goal was created by Pizarro's great ball that would have been converted by Kraus even if the defender didn't touch it. At one point in the game, we kept the ball for over two minutes and completed at least 35 straight passes (they were counted) without New York touching the ball. Wow.

KCW Reserves Down New York Red Bulls Reserves 3-0

Kansas City Gets Goals From Josh Wolff, Nelson Pizarro to go Along with New York Own Goal

MLS Reserve Division Match
Tuesday, July 22, 2008 – 10:00 a.m. (CT)
Kansas City Wizards Swope Park Training Center – Kansas City, Kansas
Weather: 83 and clear

Score: 1 2 F
KCW Reserves 0 3 3
New York Reserves 0 0 0

Scoring Summary:
KC – Josh Wolff 1 (Ryan Pore 1) 58
KC – own goal 66
KC – Nelson Pizarro 3 (Ryan McMahen 2) 79

(July 22, 2008) – The KCW Reserves improved to 4-1-2 Tuesday morning with a 3-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls Reserves at Kansas City’s Swope Park Training Center. The Wizards exploded for three goals after halftime and goalkeeper Eric Kronberg made a handful of quality saves to earn his first shutout of the Reserve Division season.

With the score tied in the 36th minute, New York broke through to goal after a quick combination in midfield. Second-year midfielder Sinisa Ubiparipovic was free to goal, but Kronberg came quickly off his line to block the close-range shot and smother the ensuing rebound. Four minutes later, Wizards midfielder Carlos Marinelli struck a 25-yard shot off the right post, and teams entered the half tied 0-0.

Kansas City opened the scoring in the 58th minute after a long string of possession in midfield. Striker Josh Wolff made a long diagonal run from the left flank, and midfielder Ryan Pore slipped a ball between defenders to put Wolff through to goal. Wolff finished by neatly chipping the ball over sliding goalkeeper Caleb Patterson for a 1-0 Wizards lead.

The Wizards added to the lead in the 66th minute after Nelson Pizarro cut in across the field from the right flank. Pizarro worked a give-and-go with midfielder Kerry Zavagnin to get in behind the defense. He then cut a low pass along the top of the six yard area in the direction of substitute forward Michael Kraus, but a New York defender deflected the ball into his own goal to put Kansas City up 2-0.

Pizarro then added a spectacular goal in the 79th minute for the final 3-0 score line. After a New York clearance, substitute midfielder Ryan McMahen won a tackle near the center circle and fed to Pizarro a full 30 yards from goal. Pizarro turned and immediately struck a right-footed blast that flew into the upper-right corner of the goal, leaving Patterson helpless.

Kansas City’s next reserve match comes Sunday, August 3 at D.C. United. New York’s reserve squad is next in action Monday, August 11 at home against United.

Kansas City Wizards Line-Up: Eric Kronberg, Chance Myers (Jonathan Leathers 46), Rauwshan McKenzie, Tyson Wahl, Matt Marquess, Lance Watson (Nelson Pizarro 58), Ryan Pore (Kevin Souter 68), Kerry Zavagnin (Geoff Miles* 88), Carlos Marinelli (Ryan McMahen 46), Josh Wolff (Michael Kraus 58), Ivan Trujillo

Substitutes not used: Boris Pardo

New York Reserves Line-Up: Zack Thornton (Caleb Patterson 46), Chris Leitch, Hunter Freeman, John Gilkerson, Luke Sassano, Sinisa Ubiparipovic, Mike Magee, Juan Pietravallo, David Roth (Gordon Kljestan 66), Danleigh Borman, John Wolyniec

Substitutes not used: None

Misconduct:
NY – Mike Magee (Caution) 52
KC – Rauwshan McKenzie (Caution) 56

Reserves Top NY 3-0

Our reserve team put on a dominant performance today, defeating New York 3-0 on goals from Wolff, Pizarro and an own goal (set up by Pizarro). Will post full lineups and recap after the press release is written.

Don't forget to join Jimmy's chat at ESPN.com in about 40 minutes.

Conrad Chat Tomorrow on ESPN.com

Captain Kansas City will check in at ESPN.com tomorrow for a live chat beginning at 2 p.m. CT. Have your questions ready and send them Jimmy's way for some always-insightful comments. Careful with him though friends, he's kinda feisty.

KCW Reserves vs NY Reserves Tomorrow

Hey all, we posted last week but just wanted to give a reminder that our reserve squad plays against the New York Red Bulls tomorrow morning at 10 a.m. at our Swope Park Training Center. The first-team will be practicing simultaneously on the adjacent field, so tomorrow is a good day to get out and see everyone in action. No word on if Harrington's golden locks have become less bright with time. Come see for yourself tomorrow morning at Swope.

This game was originally scheduled for Friday, July 11, but our reserves beat Mexican partner club Atlas AC that day. The Reserves last MLS RD match came June 15, when we lost 3-2 to Columbus on a late goal after fighting back to equalize.

Inaugural Foot Wedge Cup

Greetings Hillcrest followers. I'm checking in live today from the inaugural Food Wedge Cup from gorgeous Loch Lloyd Country Club in southern Kansas City. The event marks our organization's first-ever golf tournament, with proceeds going directly to our charitable arm, the Kansas City Soccer Foundation. KCSF is a newly formed charity that supports soccer in our area by supporting various charitable endeavours such as The Guadalupe Center, Kicks for Kids and Places to Play.

The event is a one-of-a-kind tournament that includes players, owners, selected VIPs such as Fred Patek and Eddie Kennison and those who purchased entries to the tournament. What sets us aside from other golf tournaments? Well, members of the Cauldron will be out yelling at participants as they tee off at one hole. On holes 7 and 16, participants can purchase a "Food Wedge." If they choose to, a member of their party can punt a Wizards mini ball from the place of the group's best drive. The group's next shot will then be taken from wherever that punted mini ball lands, even if it ends up in the rough or worse. 810 WHB will be out with a live radio remote from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., so tune in and listen to updates on the inaugural Food Wedge Cup.

Revs Management Subdue Airline Crazy

As I say every time I do this, "I don't usually do this." But, this story is just too much not to pass along. Members of the Revolution's management helped airline officials stop a man who, apparently not acting of his right mind, emerged from a lavatory naked and then later made a beeline for an emergency exit door while the plane was still in flight. Wow.

Crazy Tie on ESPN!

Wow that was a nutzo game. I have to admit to pumping my fist and screaming while taking notes for the press release. Good thing I wasn't in a press box at the time, that is generally frowned upon. Here are some notables from last night's game...enjoy.

· Following the match, Kansas City sits 5-5-6, 21 pts. in a tie for 5^th place tie in the Eastern Conference with Toronto FC.

· The Wizards are now 17-16-4 all-time against the Crew, including a 8-10-2 mark on the road.

· The Wizards finished the season series 0-2-1 against Columbus

· Kansas City is 2-0-3 in its last five matches and hasn’t lost a road game since May 24.

· Forward Josh Wolff scored the game-tying goal in his first game back with Kansas City since 2006.

· Wolff’s tally moved him into a tie with recently departed forward Scott Sealy for 5^th on Kansas City’s all-time list.

· Wolff and Sealy each have 28 goals for Kansas City and teammate Davy Arnaud trails just behind with 26.

· Wolff holds the team’s best all-time goals per game mark with 28 goals in 81 games for the Wizards.

· Midfielder Kurt Morsink recorded his second and third career assists. His first came last week against New York.

· Morsink also set up the first Kansas City goal, first serving a dangerous pass that was headed into the Columbus goal by Crew defender Frankie Hejduk.

· Defender Jack Jewsbury recorded the primary assists on both goals assisted by Morsink.

· Jewsbury now leads the team with four assists on the year, already a career high for the 6^th-year professional.

· Espinoza recorded his first career goal in front of a hometown crowd of sorts. Espinoza attended Ohio State University in Columbus for one season and had several friends and former teammates in attendance.

· The teams combined for five first half goals, the most in any first half of the season in MLS.

· The six total goals are the most in any Wizards game this season.

· Kansas City equaled its season high with three goals.

· Wizards goalkeeper Kevin Hartman made four saves tonight.

· Hartman now has 1084 career saves, trailing only former Wizards standout Tony Meola on the all-time MLS list.

· Meola retired with 1136 career saves and Hartman is on pace to surpass Meola’s mark this season.

· Hartman and defender Jimmy Conrad are the only Wizards to play all 1440 minutes so far this season.

· Forward Claudio Lopez sits just behind Conrad and Hartman with 1426 minutes and has played the entire 90 in 12 matches.

· Midfielder Lance Watson started his first game of the season at right midfielder. With Watson’s start, the Wizards have now started 20 different players in 2008.

· When Wolff made his first appearance in the second half, the Wizards played their 21^st different player of the season.

Tonight's Game on ESPN

Hey all, I know there has been some confusion about tonight's game. It will be on ESPN proper, one of only two games (next week's All-Star game being the other) on the channel this year. Two will be on ABC (well, one was...the LA/DC tilt prior to the Euro Final and MLS Cup in November) and the rest are on ESPN 2. JP Dellacamera and John Harkes have the call, so it should be a good one. If you don't want to sit at home and watch by yourself, head to O'Dowd's at Zona Rosa or Barley's in Shawnee. Hell, tell your favorite local bar to tune it to ESPN and create some fans around you!

Galaxy Game Moved to Arrowhead

Hey all, just sent out a press release announcing the LA Galaxy game on September 13 has been moved to Arrowhead Stadium. Kickoff will now by 4 p.m. CT instead of 7 p.m. CT. The Chiefs home opener is the next day, so the game was bumped up, in part, to allow more time for grounds crews and stadium crews to change things over.

Tickets are available now through a special season ticket package that includes four games this season (three flex games, plus a free lower-bowl ticket to Galaxy match) and a deposit toward season tickets next year. If you're a big fan but don't yet have season tickets, here's the perfect opportunity to get them. Click this link or call the Wizards ticket office at 913.387.3400.

As you all know, that match is scheduled to be Mr. David Beckham's first appearance in KC. Should be a fun night, as was last year's game even though he wasn't in attendance.

HAIRrington Poll

While this is in no way sponsored by or agreed to by Michael Harrington himself, I thought it would be fun to see what fans want him to do with his hair. These are only four choices, so if you have a better idea, post it in the comments section below. Take a vote, then we'll tell Michael what you all think he should do and see how he responds. The afro might be tough, but I think everything else is manageable. We'll see what he says.

Wizards v Wizards/Wolff Jersey Offer

Alright guys, apologies for the pieces of information, but our KCW Juniors U-19 team is taking on the KCW Reserves (those not traveling to Columbus plus a couple of guest players) in a scrimmage. The Juniors will train first then scrimmage the Reserves around 10 a.m. It might start a little early, so if you're wanting to stop by, I'd get there around 9:30 a.m.

Also, jump over to KCSoccerStore.com for a special Josh Wolff jersey offer. For a limited time, purchase a "Wolff" personalized jersey, and the personalization is free. We've got the nameplates ready, just punch the keys and make the order. It'll save you $20 over what adding a name and number usually costs.

Check out HAIRrington

Wow. That's all that can be said. Mikey goes from the Cristiano Ronaldo look to the Kevin Hartman look? Or the Dennis Rodman look? Either way, it's pretty spectacular. Thanks to Thad Bell for the pic. Check out his blog at www.backpost.net.

Wizards @ Crew Preview

As you know, tomorrow we face the Columbus Crew at 7 p.m. CT on ESPN 2 in our first MLS Primetime appearance of the season. We're 0-2-0 so far this season against Columbus but haven't lost a game since they gave us that nice 3-0 beat down here at CAB. If you recall, the defeated us 2-1 in Columbus earlier this year on FSC on early goals from Moffatt and Rogers. We went down a man through a red card by Espinoza later in the first half, and fought back to within a goal through a Lopez PK.

Jeff Carlisle at ESPN.com previewed the game today. Check it out here.

What's your preview for the match? Are we going to continue our strong run of form lately (2-0-2 in our last four) or play a game similar to the previous two against Columbus? Let us know in the comments section.

Also, Mr. Michael Harrington has switched up his hair a little bit. Pictures and a hair-related poll (by request) coming later.

Try the Barbecue, Piojo

Pete Grathoff of the KC Star checked in today with an article on Claudio "El Piojo" Lopez and his adaptation to live in Kansas City and MLS. Good piece from Pete with some good quotes from Lopez, through interpreter stud Arcelio Zepeda. Click here or on the pic below to read the article.

Some Love From the Outskirts

Thanks to the hard work of one of our interns, Libby from K-State, some outlying newspapers are paying a little more attention to us lately. I missed the printed version then, but a reporter from the Arkansas City Traveler traveled to CommunityAmerica Ballpark and took in a game. Here's the online version.


Also, photographer Elliott J. Southerland has started coming to matches, and got this sweet pic of Trujillo and Conrad celebrating after Jimmy's goal against New York last Thursday. Glad to have you, Elliott.

Arnaud up for GOTW

Davy Arnaud scored his first goal of the season, taking a long pass from Kurt Morsink behind the New York defense and scoring past Jon Conway into the middle of the goal. The goal turned out to be the game-winner after Angel brought one back for NY later in the second half. Go vote for Davy here.

Watch it here:


and here:

Atlas Game-Winner

For those of you who missed last Friday's 2-1 win over Atlas, check out the game-winning goal below shot by Wizards intern Alex Haueter. The clip starts immediately after Atlas was called for a handball near the half line. Sub forward Michael Kraus put the ball down while Atlas players looked around trying to figure out what had been called. He them immediately plays the ball wide for forward Nelson Pizarro running up the right flank. Kraus then cuts to the back post, and, well you can see the rest yourselves. Great play Krausie.

KCW vs Atlas AC Running Commentary

92nd minute: With the kick, the final whistle blows. Kansas City, using a team of largely reserves, defeats Atlas AC 2-1 in front of 7,061 fans at CommunityAmerica Ballpark.

92nd minute: Atlas plays a ball wide for Sanchez, but Wahl pressures him into letting the ball run for a goal kick. Final whistle coming soon.

91st minute: GOAL!! After a hand ball call on Atlas in midfield, Kansas City takes a quick restart wide to Pizarro running free behind the defense. His low, hard shot is stopped by by Hernandez, but the ball squirts free. Kraus hustles to the loose ball and slides it into the net just before falling out of bounds to give the Wizards a 2-1 late lead!!!

89th minute: Guest player Geoff Miles is into the game and wins a battle with Colotto on the left wing. Espinoza is fouled shortly after. After restart, Marquess hits Kraus who chests ball through to Miles. His attempted off-balance cross goes out of bounds for goal kick.

89th minute: Hernandez winds up and punts the ball all the way down the field, one-hopping it to Pardo in the penalty area. Dang...big boot.

88th minute: McMahen sprays the ball wide for Watson up the left flank. He runs at the defense then crosses, but it's blocked out for a throw in.

86th minute: Marquess sends a long curling ball behind the defense toward Pore and Espinoza breaking up the middle. Hernandez comes out but bobbles the ball...he's out of his area but kicks the ball upfield to clear.

85th minute: The referee sets the wall and signals play to begin. The two players in front of the ball split and Bottinelli sends a shot high over the bar without troubling Pardo.

84th minute: Pacheco is fouled 22 yards from goal in the center of the field. Several Atlas players including Bottinelli are around the ball in a huddle.

83rd minute: McMahen swings the ball out at the penalty spot, but Hernandez is quickly off his line to punch clear.

82nd minute: Marquess plays a great ball along the ground behind the defense for Espinoza sprinting wide left. Espinoza cuts back inside and is fouled. McMahen's in-swinger is headed out of bounds by Atlas for a CK.

81st minute: Atlas attempts an attack up the left flank, but Myers slides in to knock the ball into touch.

79th minute: Atlas plays a ball in behind defense toward Pacheco, but Pardo is quickly off his line to hold the ball at the top of the area.

78th minute: Attendance is out...7,061 on hand tonight for this international match against our partner club Atlas AC.

76th minute: Myers' long throw gets behind the defense but is cleared over the bar for another CK. Espinoza serves to Wahl at the back post, who heads centrally before Atlas clears.

75th minute: McMahen plays the ball short and Pizarro is almost behind the defense, but Atlas pokes it away for a CK. Espinoza's CK is headed out by Atlas for a throw on the opposite side.

74th minute: After a long clearance from Marquess, Pore collects a free ball running toward goal. He is fouled from behind 28 yards from goal. Pore and McMahen are around the ball.

72nd minute: Leathers is fouled in the center 30 yards from goal. Kraus enters for Leathers immediately after. McMahen's cross is cleared...KC keeps possession after ball goes back to Pardo.

70th minute: McMahen curls the ball just wide of the back post. Atlas' goalkeeper looked a little nervous at first, but the ball fell harmlessly out of bounds.

69th minute: Myers pushes up the right and is flipped about 30 yards from goal. McMahen is over the ball, as the Wizards center backs get into the play.

67th minute: Wizards earn a corner on the left...Espinoza serves in but is cleared deep. Pardo comes off his line quickly and plays wide to Marquess who clears.

64th minute: NOW Ayala comes off. D Ricardo Jimenez is on. Wahl called for a foul on the right flank 25 yards out, Bottinelli sends it in. KC clears for throw in on opposite side.

63rd minute: Correction...Ayala moved from left back to right back. Vidrio came off when Flores entered in 58th.

62nd minute: Espinoza spins the ball in toward the back post, but Atlas clears. Leathers breaks up a pass, otherwise Atlas would have been on the break.

62nd minute: Leathers feeds Pizarro running up the right flank behind the defendse. Pizarro's cross is blocked out for CK.

60th minute: McMahen's pass is cleared out for a CK after landing on top of the goal. Espinoza swings a ball in that is deflected to Wahl beyond the back post...Wahl fires toward goal with his right foot, but the ball is blocked out of bounds.

60th minute: McMahen fouled 34 yards from goal on the right side, standing over the ball.

59th minute: More subs now for Atlas...D Ayala, M Rergis and F Mendivil off...D Flores, M Pacheco and F Sanchez on.

55th minute: Rergis pokes the ball free from Myers on the left flank and races toward goal. Pardo comes quickly off his line to shepherd the ball out of bounds, as it was outside the penalty area.

54th minute: Just got a look at our central midfielders. McMahen is on for Zavagnin since half. My bad. Pore now wearing the captains arm band.

53rd minute: Atlas earns a CK, the ball bounces around in the area for a bit before being cleared. Rergis shoots wide from distance.

52nd minute: Watson dispossess Atlas in midfield and plays the ball around the defender, running to the other side to retrieve it. He carries toward goal, but his left-footed effort from 10 yards out at a tough angle goes wide of the near post.

51st minute: Wahl puts Espinoza in behind the defense up the left, but he is flagged for offside.

51st minute: Leathers takes a jog down the side line as Kronberg sends the ball long. Looks like he'll be fine and re-enter the match soon.

49th minute: A Wizards player is down in our goal area. Leathers was the man down. He's being helped off now in the 50th minute.

47th minute: Second half is underway with the ball going back and forth in midfield. GK Bava, M Hernandez, M Valdez and F Romero are off for Atlas. Replaced by GK Hernandez, Flores, Bottinelli and Vargas, respectively. Pardo on for Kronberg for the Wizards. Atlas earns a CK, but is called for pushing in the box again.

At halftime, traditional Mexican dancers demonstrate their talents for the crowd as Wizards reserves get loose. Looks like Pardo may be entering the game for Kronberg.

45th minute: GOAL. Herhandez's cross is popped up into the center. Mendivil rises above a crowd and heads the ball toward goal. Wahl slid along the goal line to clear the ball, but the referee judged that it has already crossed the goal line. 1-1 at the half.

44th minute: Hernandez sends it into the mixer, but Kronberg gets up to punch the ball clear. Hernandez to the other side now for a corner kick.

43rd minute: Myers again called for a foul on Rergis on the left flank, about 25 yards out. Hernandez stands over the ball for an in-swinging cross.

42nd minute: Atlas' bench of 12 players is now up and getting loose, presumably for halftime substitutions.

40th minute: Atlas' 'keeper feeds the ball long for Mendivil, but McKenzie and Wahl again lock him up and take the ball. Zavagnin is eventually fouled near the corner flag after KC double teamed an attacking player there.

37th minute: GOAL!!! After the teams played pinball in midfield a bit, Pore feeds leathers behind the defense on the right. He stops the ball on a dime, allowing a defender to run by. Leathers feeds Pizarro in the middle, who turns to his left and slots past Bava from 12 yards out for the game's opening goal. The Wizards young players have looked sharp early vs. Atlas.

35th minute: Pizarro puts Espinoza through on a mini break up the right wing. Espinoza cuts inside a defender onto his left and lays off again for Pizarro, but his shot goes high over the bar from about 15 yards out.

34th minute: Watson attempts to bend the ball around the wall toward the near post, but the effort goes high and wide.

33rd minute: Watson's cross is cleared by Atlas for a throw in, and the ensuing ball is deflected off KC, Atlas regains possession...Rergis eventually gets the ball into the center, bu tit is cleared and Wizards quickly counter. Pore is fouled at the right corner of the penalty area by two defenders. Espinoza and Watson over the ball for KC.

32nd minute: Watson is fouled on the left side of midfield and stands over the ball as the big bodies push forward for KC.

30th minute: Leathers fouls on the left flank about even with the top of the 18. Rergis sends in a low, hard cross that again skips out of play as Wahl shields off an attacker.

29th minute: Hernandez makes a nice move to get around Marquess up the right, but Marquess recovers well and blocks the cross attempt out of bounds. Hernandez sends in ensuing CK, but Atlas is called for pushing in the area.

27th minute: Watson called for a foul 40 yards from goal in the center. Atlas lines up players on each corner of the penalty area then sends them all central. Left-footed attempt by Rergis skips out of bounds without troubling Kronberg.

26th minute: Espinoza's first CK attempt is cleared for another corner...the second cleared for a throw in. Watson takes a long throw to Pore into the box, but his flick attempt goes out of bounds for a goal kick.

24th minute: Wizards keep possession for quite a while, Wahl eventually freeing Pizarro up the left flank. Ball is headed out for KC throw in...Wizards keep possession, Espinoza crosses...cleared for CK.

22nd minute: After the ref warns both teams about pushing, Rergis finds Colotto at the back post. He heads the ball high in the air, but it is cleared by KC.

22nd minute: Ayala crosses off the back of Myers from the left flank for a CK...Rergis with the left footed attempt.

20th minute: Zavagnin again puts Pore through behind the defense, again a step too late as the offside flag goes up. Atlas is keeping a VERY high line tonight.

20th minute: Zavagnin and Watson stand over the ball, with Zavagnin's effort missing the upper right corner by a decent margin.

19th minute: Espinoza cuts out a pass then dances around a defender into the Atlas half. He is fouled going toward goal about 23 yards off the touch line in the center of the field.

17th minute: Marquess dribbles through a couple of defenders on the left flank and earns a corner kick. Espinoza crosses but Atlas clears.

16th minute: Watson spins free of a defender after collecting a loose ball in the left side of midfield. His shot form 30 yards out is held easily by Bava.

14th minute: Myers fouls Mendivil about 25 yards out on the left flank. Hernandez again over the ball, but header from Ayala goes over the bar.

13th minute: Leathers gets to the end line and crosses a ball toward the back post, but Vidrio clears for KC throw in.

12th minute: Mendivil fights off Myers challenge for a high ball near the top of the 18 and attempts to head the ball over Kronberg, but Kronberg holds the ball cleanly.

11th minute: Torres sends a low cross into the area from the left flank near the end line. McKenzie clears for Atlas throw in...throw in deflected out of play for goal kick.

10th minute: Atlas keeps possession and Vidrio attempts a shot from deep on the right wing that sails just high and wide of the back post.

9th minute: Robles gets free up the right flank and crosses toward Mendivil...the pass doesn't connect after Mendivil goes down in the area. No call.

8th minute: Hernandez fakes once then spins in a poor low free kick that Zavagnin clears easily.

7th minute: Myers called for a foul 25 yards off the end line on the left flank. Hernandez over the ball.

7th minute: Hernandez sends a ball behind the defense for Romero, but McKenzie stands him up and Wahl helps clear...good team defending by KC.

5th minute: Zavagnin puts Pore through behind the defense, but the offside flag is up. Atlas' 'keeper was 45 yards off his goal line when the whistle blew.

5th minute: Pizarro and Leathers dispossess Atlas in midfield, but Pizarro's cross looking for Pore sails out of bounds.

3rd minute: Kansas City gets momentum going forward, with Myers finding Pizarro in the right corner. Pizarro's cross is sent central by Pore but eventually cleared away by Atlas.

3rd minute: Atlas tries a long ball over the top, but Marquess is there and calmly shepherds the ball out of bounds for a Wizards goal kick.

1st minute: And we're off. Atlas kicks going right to left and controls possession along the back line.

We're 8 minutes to kickoff and the teams are making the walk through the human tunnel to the center circle. We have to PA announcers tonight, Bobby Day doing his usual wonderful job in English. He also has a Spanish-speaking counterpart for the occasion. The FIFA anthem is playing as I type. Quite a nice song, If I do say so myself.

Here's your spot for running commentary of tonight's match between the Wizards and our Mexican partner club Atlas AC of Guadalajara, Mexico. Lineups for tonight:


KCW- Eric Kronberg, Chance Myers, Rauwshan McKenzie, Tyson Wahl, Matt Marquess, Jonathan Leathers, Kerry Zavagnin, Roger Espinoza, Lance Watson, Nelson Pizarro, Ryan Pore

subs- Boris Pardo, Jed Hohlbein (Aaron's older brother, guest player), Ryan McMahen, Kurt Morsink, Michael Kraus, Geoff Miles (guest player).

Atlas- Jorge Bava, Diego Colotto, Jorge Torres, Hugo Ayala, Nestor Vidrio, Luis Robles, Jorge Hernandez, Christian Valdez, Eduardo Rergis, Mauricio Romero, Ulises Mendivil

subs- Pedro Hernandez, Omar Flores, Ricardo Jimenez, Gerardo Flores, Carlos Armas, Darvin Chavez, Luis Ramos, Oscar Vera, Edgar Pacheco, Ganzalo Vargas, Dario Bottinelli, Alfredo Sanchez

Media Game/Cherryh Wants to Play with You

So, the KC Media Blue team defeated KC Media White team 1-0 last night on a Bob Rusert goal. Props to Mr. Brisendine for predicting the correct final and goal-scorer. We'll give Dynamo the assist on the goal, since he somewhat illegally took the goalkick for 810's Jake Gutierrez directly to Rusert. Gutierrez recovered to make a great save, but the rebound went back to Rusert for an easy tap in (that 810's Nate Bukaty tried to steal with a late touch on the ball). Final? 1-0 Blue. Did it count? White team captain Gutierrez has filed a petition with U.S. Soccer regarding the play. We will let you know how it turns out. He also gave Dynamo a little whooping. Watch the play unfurl down below.

Anyone have a co-ed team? Ms. Cherryh Butler from Ink Magazine wants to play with you. Err, play on your soccer team. She's never played before last night, but now she knows how those shin guard things work and really loves her cleats. She wants to keep playing. Jump over to inkkc.com here and check out her take on the night and her desire to find a rec team.

Jimmy the Incredible

Not only is he an All-Star and leading the team with four goals scored, but he is somehow able to score four goals in a 2-1 win. Check out this article from the New York Daily News before they change the headline.


Well done Jimmy.

Media White Take on Media Blue at the Half

Predictions: Bob Luder (KC Star) says it will be a 1-0 shutout to his white team, with Jake Gutierrez again standing on his head. Steve Brisendine (AP) thinks the blue team will win 1-0. Steve thinks either he or Bob Rusert (MLSnet) will score the winner.

Hillcrest road predicts a 2-1 shocker by the blue team. Gutierrez is a force in goal, but I think Nick Griffith will score off assists from Holly Starr and Erin Bajackson. Brisendine will knock in the other off a mishandled shot from Gutierrez. Cherryh Butler of Ink will score a long-range blast for the white team as Robert Whitman is caught slightly off his line. We'll recap the media game either during the second half or after the match.

White Team - Coached by Kerry Zavagnin

#1 overall--Jake Gutierrez-Sports Radio 810
#3 overall--Cory Anderson-610 Sports
#5 overall--Mick Shaffer-Metro Sports
#7 overall--Raul Villegas-Reyes Media
#9 overall--Cherryh Butler-Ink Magazine
#11 overall--Bob Luder-Kansas City Star
#13 overall--Scott Parks-980 KMBZ
#15 overall--Steve Serrano-Mix 93.3
#17 overall--Andrew Wiebe-The Daily Kansan
#19 overall--Thomas Foote-MLSnet.com
#21 overall--Kurt Austin-Ozcitysoccer.com
#23 overall--Mike Benyo-Channel 41
#25 overall--Bryan Truta-105.1 Jack FM
#27 overall--Kennetra Pulliams-Metro Sports
#29 overall--Ty Wilson-Channel 5

Blue Team - Coached by Jimmy Conrad

#2 overall--Dave Fogel-Star 102
#4 overall--Nate Bukaty-Sports Radio 810
#6 overall--Holly Starr-38 the Spot
#8 overall--Erin Bajackson-Metro Sports
#10 overall--Bob Rusert-MLSnet.com
#12 overall--Nick Griffith-Channel 9
#14 overall--Robert Whitman-Soccerkc.com
#16 overall--Aaron Swarts-Sports Radio 810
#18 overall--Justin Unell-Channel 41
#20 overall--Steve Brisendine-Associated Press
#22 overall--Josh Klingler-610 Sports
#24 overall--Kevin Quinn-96.5 the Buzz
#26 overall--Shawn Roney-Dos Mundos
#28 overall--Ozone-Hot Talk 1510
#30 overall--Eduardo Cardoso-MLSnet.com

It's Official (Times 2)

First off, congrats to Jimmy Conrad, member of the MLS All-Star First XI for the second straight year. Should Jimmy get a starting nod (First XI status doesn't guarantee a start), it will be his 5th All-Star appearance and fifth All-Star start. Press release coming in 30 minutes or so.

Earlier today, we officially presented Mr. Josh Wolff back to the Kansas City media. The conference took place at 12 noon out at the pavilion in front of our Swope Park Training Center. Picture proof:

Back in Town/All-Star Announcement

Hillcrest is back in town and back on the blog trail. In the first of many posts today, I want to remind people to head over to MLSnet.com at 10 a.m. CT for the MLS All-Star First XI announcement live from BMO Field in Toronto. That will be your first opportunity to find out whether any Wizards make the 2008 MLS All-Star roster.

As you may know, the First XI is chosen by fans (25 percent), players (25 percent), coaches/GMs (25 percent) and the media (25 percent). An additional 7 players will be added at a later date by Revs Head Coach Steve Nicol (5 players) and commissioner Garber (2 players).

Greetings from Pacific Northwest

Hello all, Hillcrest is up here with the team in mild-weathered Seattle. No rain so far. I thought it was supposed to be dreary up here? Tonight's game should be an interesting one. Seattle is one of the stronger teams in USL-1 each year, and with the scheduled move to MLS next year, this squad is no different. Watch the game live at www.USLLive.com. Things to note:

-Former Wizard Taylor Graham will likely start for Seattle.
-KC is 1-0 all-time in Open Cup play against Seattle, with a 4-0 win at home back in 2001.
-We defeated the Sounders last preseason 3-2 at BVDAC in Overland Park, Kan.
-12 Sounders who suited for that match are still on the Seattle roster.
-Youssouf Kante, a guy from France who tried out at the same trial that produced Kevin Souter and Nelson Pizarro, is on Seattle's roster.
-Pizarro is on the trip.
-Hartman is not here, so Kronberg will get his third start in Open Cup play so far this season.
-Former Wizard player and assistant Chris Henderson is Technical Director for Sounders FC, the MLS version, and will likely be at the game tonight.
-If we win, we will face the winner of Charleston Battery vs FC Dallas Tuesday, August 12.
-It will be a road match no matter what.

All-Star Media Draft

The media draft was held today in Power and Light District for Thursday's All-Star media game. Come watch your favorite media personalities play one another during halftime of the Wizards game vs. Red Bull New York. Below are a couple of pictures. More will be available shortly at www.kcwizards.com and a recap of today's draft will be posted later this evening after Hillcrest touches down in Seattle. Off to the airport.

BUSY WEEK

Woah Nellie, do we have a busy one ahead of us. Tomorrow we face the Seattle Sounders (still of USL-1, for now) at Qwest Field in Seattle in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Quarters. Let's keep on rollin', guys. The game will be available again via www.USLLive.com. Watch all the action there.

Wednesday is a travel day, and with the three hours of time difference, the travel party will not train at all. Thursday we will hold a re-introduction press conference for Josh Wolff at Swope Park at 12 p.m. CT. Fans are welcome to come and watch and cheer.

Later that night, of course, we host Juan Pablo Angel and Red Bull New York at 7 p.m. CT at CAB. The third-annual all-star media game takes place at halftime. Come watch your favorite media personalities duke it out on the pitch.

Friday we will be hosting Mexican partner club Atlas AC in the first home international friendly under OnGoal. Come on out for two straight nights of high-quality soccer action.

Phew. Now you can breathe. Vamos Wizards!

Welcome to Dallas, Friends

Just got back in the box after a brief visit with Mike Kuhn, author of www.downthebyline.com. Kuhn and about 15 other Cauldron members made the trip down to Dallas for the game. They're looking for a win, so let's hope the boys send them home happy.

He reminded me that I was remiss by not mentioning after the RSL match the marriage of two of our Cauldron members prior the match. Kathie and Jason, who went to a Wizards match together immediately after meeting one another, were married at 2 p.m., had their reception in the party tent behind the Piojo banner and attended the game in wedding attire. Good stuff. Congrats guys, and sorry for not mentioning earlier!

Hillcrest out. Kickoff is upon us. Vamos Wizards!

Game Day #14

Greetings from the Press Box at warm Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, Texas. The heat isn't oppressive, but it's pretty hot. Players' individual fitness will likely play a part in the match. The field is in very good shape, aside from two patches directly in front of the goalkeepers that have just been re-sodded. Other than that, looks like a fast, smooth surface.

Following the match, PHP is hosting some guy named Freddy in concert, a sweet fireworks display and another concert by the Temptations. Promises to be a good event. Hopefully our boys show up and spoil the soccer portion of the evening for the locals.

Lineups:

KC- Hartman, Jewsbury, Hohlbein, Conrad, Harrington, Arnaud, Morsink, Victorine, Lopez, Sealy, Trujillo

subs- Kronberg, Myers, Zavagnin, Espinoza, Wahl, Leathers, Pore

FCD- Sala, Moor, Davino, Wagner, Rocha, Richetti, Saragosa, Toja, Serioux, Oduro, Cooper

subs- Burse, Avila, Dell-Russo, McCarty, Pitchkolan, Shea, Thompson

The Will Daniel Story

I mentioned this Tuesday before the Open Cup match, but I'd like to go into more depth now that I've had a couple of days to get everything together and talk to more of the parties involved. This is truly a remarkable story--one that shows the compassion and kindness of the players on our team and throughout the League. I think that a lot of people forget sometimes amid all the negative headlines attached to professional athletes that these guys are real people. They're good people, and they enjoy helping others. Here's one example:

The month was December, the year was 1997, and UCLA had qualified for the NCAA Final Four in men's soccer. The event that year was held in Richmond, VA, and Ms. Pat Daniel was host of the Final Four party for participating teams. That evening, among all the young soccer players, many of them soon-to-be-professionals, a young man with Down's Syndrome stole the show. His name was Will Daniel.

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"Come out to win," Will Daniel said while wearing a white Jimmy Conrad Kansas City Wizards jersey Tuesday before Kansas City faced the Carolina RailHawks in a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match. "I don't expect anything special. I want them to do what they've got to do to show Kansas City soccer."

As apparent by that quote, Will is still stealing the show some 11 years later.

Daniel joined the Wizards at the team hotel Tuesday morning before the Carolina match. He stayed in the lobby throughout the day, visiting with Conrad, fellow "Bruin Buddy" Sasha Victorine (who also played on that UCLA Final Four squad), Head Coach Curt Onalfo and any other Wizard who happened by.

"I've always been impressed with his fearlessness," Conrad said of Daniel. "He doesn't shy away from any situation. He's never uncomfortable with anybody."

Conrad should know. He and Victorine are two of the players from that UCLA team that has stayed in contact with Will throughout the years. When asked about his favorite memory of those guys, Will can't even pick one.

"Sure Will. Santa Anita," Pat Daniel, Will's mother chimed in.

"Oh yeah, Santa Anita," Will remembered.

Will, a Richmond, VA native, then proceeded to tell a story of sneaking into Santa Anita Park with Conrad, fellow Virginia native Brian Carroll and Bobby Boswell when Carroll and Boswell played together at D.C. United. Daniel was actually in his mid 20's at the time, but his short stature allows others to believe he is much younger. Instead of showing ID upon heading into the park, the quartet decided to sneak Daniel in for a little excitement.

"I just ducked under the bar after they went in," Daniel said with a huge smile on his face. "Brian almost busted a gut laughing."

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Daniel is currently a forward (and goalkeeper, but don't tell him I told you that) on the Henrico County Bulldogs Special Olympics Soccer Team. He has played for four years now, and his team has qualified for the state tournament three times. They've captured two gold medals. If Tuesday was any indication, Will gives the pre-game pep talks.

Tuesday, for the second time in two years, Onalfo allowed Will to give a pre-game pep talk to the players. Will stood there in front of 18 players with the poise of Barack Obama or John McCain.

"First, I'd like to wish Jimmy and his wife Lyndsey a happy anniversary."

The players all clapped and cheered, as Conrad smiled and waved a polite thank-you wave.

Daniel then proceeded to tell the Wizards exactly what he expected of them. He expected them to win. He expected them to dominate. He expected them to slow down Carolina's Matthew Watson (who Will had seen play several times), and he expected them to put on a performance that scared FC Dallas so much that they'd want to forfeit Friday's game. It was a great speech.

"He's a special kid. Just special," Onalfo said almost to himself as Will gave high-fives to the players.

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For their part, Pat Daniel is very appreciative of the things the members of that 1997 Bruins team and other soccer players have done for her son.

"They have been wonderful over the years. They have included him in activities and always shown him that they are glad to see him," Daniel said. "They make him feel welcome anytime he shows up for a game. That's been true of a number of players over the years."

Pat is also impressed by the duration of the friendship.

"Jimmy, Sasha and a few of the other UCLA players have stuck with him for 11 years," she said. "For a professional player to do so speaks a lot to the integrity and compassion on the part of these players. The other soccer players he's met along the way have also responded to him."

As if part of a script, Jack Jewsbury--not a 1997 UCLA player--walked by and waved as he went to board the bus, "see ya Will."

"It has enriched his life considerably the experiences these players and coaches have offered."

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Will rode the bus to WakeMed Park with the team, sitting in the back next to Conrad. He exited the bus and sat in the front row for the match, giving the players high-fives whenever they left the pitch through the mid-field tunnel. This is something Will Daniel, now 27-years-old, will experience again if Conrad has anything to say about it.

"Will's family now--and a welcome addition," Conrad said. "His nickname is the Mayor because he can work a room like nobody's business. No matter who he speaks to, they always leave the conversation with a smile. I'm a better person because Will is in my life.

Aren't we all, Jimmy.

Hillcrest Checks In

Phew, a long day of travel from Raleigh to Dallas and training now behind us, Hillcrest Road is free to check back in. We're settling into the Sheraton Stonebriar hotel here in Frisco. Very nice, and very new. Today on the way to training, Mr. Chet North donned a pair of oh-so-handsome (and not just because they're mine) white sunglasses to go with his "yes-I-have-huge-guns" cutoff shirt. Well played, Mr. North.


After practice, Ryan Pore did his best monkey impression and climbed a 20-foot tree to fetch a ball that had been kicked over the netting during a shooting drill. His pass from the top of the tree, blind, to Alex Paepke our equipment manager was dead on the money. Next time Ryan, just jump up there. We know you don't need to climb to get that high.

Also, the pranking has begun. Davy and Jack took the ice water from practice and proceeded to dump it on Harrington as he showered. Ooo-eee. Cold. Nice work, boys.

We'll be back with more later tonight or tomorrow.

Wizards Remain Undefeated in Cup Play

After collecting the exhibition Saturn Cup and New Mexico Cup, we moved to 2-0 in Open Cup matches. One was a play-in game, but a win is a win. We now play the Seattle Sounders next Tuesday at Qwest Field. Check kcwizards.com for a full recap.

Scoring Summary:
CAR – Santiago Fusilier (Ryan Solle) 44
CAR – Matthew Watson (Dan Antuniak) 58
KC – Ivan Trujillo (Michael Harrington) 68
KC – Claudio Lopez (penalty kick) 82
KC – Ivan Trujillo (Claudio Lopez) 94
KC – Ryan Pore (penalty kick) 119

Highlights from tonight:

Harrington's cut before serving to Trujillo for the first goal.

Lopez's left-footed rocket underneath the bar on the first penalty kick.

Espinoza's darting runs out of central midfield, one leading to a penalty kick.

Trujillo's finishing on the third goal.

Lopez's picture-perfect through ball that Trujillo ran onto for the match-winner.

Lopez's second picture-perfect through ball that put Pore through for the second penalty.

Pore's right-footed blast into the very lowest right corner for the second PK.

Lopez signing every autograph and taking many pictures with fans after the game.

Conrad's friend Will Daniel, story still coming.

Open Cup Match Tonight

We're nearing kickoff here at gorgeous WakeMed Park in Cary, NC. The stadium is quaint and well put together. The field surface looks smooth and short, should be a good night for soccer. Michael Harrington and Kerry Zavagnin are back in their old stomping grounds, playing just half an hour (without traffic) from their college home at North Carolina-Chapel Hill.

Now for the lineups:

KC- Kronberg, Leathers, Hohlbein, Wahl, Marquess, Myers, Zavagnin, McMahen, Espinoza, Marinelli, Pore.

subs- Hartman, Conrad, Harrington, Jewsbury, Morsink, Trujillo, Lopez

CAR-McClellan, Curfman, Stokes, Segovia, Low, Fusilier, Solle, Watson, Nunez, Walker, Antoniuk

subs- Levey, Norkus, Edozien, Sanfilippo, Dombrowski, Lemons, Mackenzie

Watch live at www.USLLive.com. Kris Kelderman will be joining them in the booth just prior to kickoff for a little chat about the game.

We have a special guest at the game tonight, a young man named Will Daniel. Daniel is a special Olympian that Jimmy Conrad has known for some time. We will post Will and Jimmy's story later tonight after the match. It's a great one.

YouTube Made the TV Star

YouTube is this generation's MTV, and superstars everywhere are embracing the trend. Selena Gomez took the time to create a YouTube video of her trip to KC, complete with laughs, hugs and plenty o' autographs. Check it out if you'd like below. If you really want some entertainment, head to the YouTube channel and look at all the comments from her fans. They really love her; no joke.