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NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE SELECTS, TORONTO, CANADA
NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE SELECTS, TORONTO, CANADA  
 
 
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  Welcome  
 

Sunday, January 6
The NSL Selects of Toronto, Canada, has successfully won the Dallas Cup 4 (four) times and competed in 6 (six) championship finals - 2 in Under 17 and 4 in the top 19 years old division (the Under 19/20 "Super Cup"). The NSL Selects also won, among many successes in various countries, back to back to back Ian Rush International Tournament championships in Wales, United Kingdom, defeating several European pro sides in so doing.

The Super Cup NSL Selects went back to back, to back, to back, to back, to back ( 6 consecutive semi-final apperarances) at the Dallas Cup in Texas, USA., and which yielded four Super Group finals. These were strong NSL Selects performances against several of the world's best clubs and national teams. With the proper break here and there, void of the very real irritating exterior obstacles which were beyond our control, we have no doubt we would have added to our glittering four gold medal Dallas Cup championships and to our many other international successes which, even today, have never been equalled by anyone.

The Dallas Cup Super Group was, in 1990, reclassified or description changed (name change) from the description Under 19 A Division. There was only one (1) Under 19 Division so, of course, only the best teams were invited to participate in the Under 19 A Division (such as NSL Selects, Mexico Olympic team, Tauichi Academy (Bolivia) – 4 consecutive championships, Nigeria, Uruguay, Chile, Germany and many others, and this did not change when it was renamed "Super".

The Dallas Cup, when changing the name to "Super', then created an additional second tier Under 19 Division. This is an obvious observation and history cannot be changed by trying to create something that already existed albeit under a different description.

The now second tier Under 19 Division is for teams not accepted into the top tier (Super) Under 19 Division.

Similar to the renamed Super Cup, the Under 19 A Division played several games in Lake Highland Stadium, including some preliminary round robin games, and all knock out rounds encompassing quarter final, semi-final and final games.

The second tier Under 19 Division in the Dallas Cup does not provide for the second tier teams to play in the Stadium (now Pizza Hut Park Stadium) but do play in the Stadium if they reach the final at least. The other groups, Under 17 downwards also play in the stadium when they reach their division final at least.

The Dallas Cup is rightly centred around the Under 19/20 Super Cup and has brought huge numbers of top South American, African and European professionally affiliated clubs (many of the the biggest names in the soccer world) to the event since inception over thirty years ago. One can argue that, without the academy teams, reserves, etc., of these fine clubs, and in some cases, National teams, which attend to play in the Super Cup, the Dallas Cup would be similar, but still hugely awesome and better, than the Minnesota USA Cup, California Surf Cup, Florida Disney Classic and several other fine events featured annually in the United States.

NSL Selects has been to many events both in North America (including Mexico) and Europe and have always felt the Dallas Cup was our "World Cup" and we took our participation very seriously indeed - as our performances clearly certify.   

Held in high regard by almost everyone we met, NSL Selects always put the interest of the game in Canada foremost in our efforts and, we believe we did that very convincingly.

NSL Select's great players, discipline, fitness, coaching, management and direction were the ingredients for the unprecedented success of our teams.

NSL Selects performances may never be emulated again by any entry from Canada. Indeed, at this time the NSL Selects is the only Canadian entry to win the Dallas Cup (and we did it four times) - which just tells all of our supporters how good we were. update ended.

At this time, the NSL Selects is the only Canadian entity to win a Dallas Cup. As written here, we not only won a Dallas Cup, we won four of them.

There are plenty of Canadian outfits, whether amateur or professional affiliations together with the national U20 team of Canada, who have gone to Dallas either once or multiple times hoping to win a Dallas Cup final (or indeed even reach that level) in the divisions in which we competed. We have always wished them well.

Players like Marco Antonucci, probably the best player to ever wear our uniform, was simply outstanding on the pitch and a gentleman off the field. The critical goals he scored won the day in several big events for us. Marco, among others, inspired our NSL Selects teams to unprecedented international gold medal championships. Brilliant player, wonderful personality and all around great person and athlete. The awesome performances he gave in Dallas, Wales, Bermuda, the USA and elsewhere inspired the NSL Selects to unprecedented heights of success. The winning goal against Swansea City (currently of the English premier league) in the U19 Ian Rush gold medal championship was just brilliant and worthy of even a bigger stage for him. Likewise the superb goal which won the Under 19 Diadora Cup in Bermuda was another superb effort. The goals he scored against formidable European sides in Bermuda adds to his legacy. Thanks to some consistent support from his team mates, Marco feasted on the great openings which our brilliant players created not only in the gold medal games mentioned but basically every game we played no matter in which country. Furthermore, Marco's incredible solo runs made with great pace and ball control was just simply beautiful. Marco won many championships with the NSL Selects. Bravo.

John Caricato, the captain of the first Super Cup win by the NSL Selects. Just a great player and leader whose influence on our performances was always evident for all to see. His influence on the teams performances as they won every game in the Super Cup and conceding just 2 goals in the entire process, was superb in every way. Bravo.

Elmar Tannis, two Super Cup wins. Who can ever forget the brilliant goal he scored in the last minutes of the gold medal victory over FC America of Mexico City. His strength and tremendous skill on and off the ball made him a top performer for the NSL Selects. Whether he attacked from the left or right made no difference. He was a constant threat every time he had the ball and our opponents did everything they could to stop him.

Steve Schaefer, another double gold winner of the Super Cup. Just an outstanding player and individual who always appeared unflustered no matter who we played against. Could never have won the double without him and the other greats which made up our squads.

Dominic Macina, another double gold winner of the Super Cup. Just an incredible goalkeeper who never let us down. Another brilliant performer who turned in displays of the highest quality possible. It was hard enough for our opponents to get past our defenders but most of the time quite impossible to get a shot or a header past our outstanding goalkeeper.

Gino Ferrin, captain of the NSL Selects second Super Cup gold medal. Mature and such a calming influence on the players in every game. His leadership of the team whether it was in the gym in the months of practice we went through to be ready for the Dallas Cup or at the event itself, he was a great man and to whom we will always be grateful for his tremendous efforts on our behalf.

Peter Sloly, a gold medalist in our second Super Cup triumph against F.C. America of Mexico City. An unbelievable athlete, strength, power, tremendous ability, pace and vision. Great qualities in a player and a pleasure to have on our squad. Started every game and gave professional performances every time. Another NSL Selects great and who was a brilliant performer whose contribution to the success of the team is incalculable. A leader on and off the field of play. NSL Selects was truly blessed with such talent.

Nick Kiriakou, winner of our second Super Cup glittering gold medal against F.C. America, the top professional side from Mexico City at that time, played every game with the class and professionalism of a senior professional. Playing in the support area of our central defence, Nick was just immense, cool and calm as he brought the ball out of the defence and always found the right NSL Selects player to begin our frequent assault on our opponents. None better in his role. Just simply superb.

Nino Adamo, Super Cup gold medal winner versus the full National team of Mexico in the NSL's first Super Cup championship. Nino is a brilliant attacking midfielder who starred in every game we played. Tremendous skills in both feet, talented, superb quickness. No opponent ever tied him down as the NSL Selects marched on to it's first Super Cup gold medal. Unbelievable talent.

Joe Cutrozzolla, also a gold medal winner against Mexico's full National team in the Super Cup final. Joe is a big, strong centre forward whose contribution in every game we played was vital. Several important goals were scored by him. We remember well, in particular, the goal he scored in the Super Cup quarter final against a well fancied Texas all star team which was played in an absolute hurricane strength wind, or so it felt. Playing in the stadium, the NSL Selects kicked off with the ferocious wind in the first half and found that the wind just kept blowing the ball out of the stadium repeatedly. Facing the strong wind in the second half against a very formidable opponent, NSL Selects played the ball with short firm passes generally and on the ground every time and controlled the play and, midway through the second half, Joe quickly got between opposing defenders to score the winning goal. NSL Selects really dominated the game but the wind was very challenging. Joe's a really good guy and well liked by everyone on the squad.

Joe Corapi, captain of the NSL Selects 16-17 year old team in it's second gold medal U16-17 age group Dallas Cup triumph against top seeded Nomads from California. Mature central defender, calm and cool everytime. Steady as a rock. This division was also very tough with many fine teams and the NSL Selects had to be at their best every game. Joe led the team magnificently throughout and was inspirational in the great victories of the NSL Selects in their second Under 16-17 gold medal in the Dallas Cup without losing a game - including an interesting encounter verus the United States National team.

Billy Domazetis, captain of the NSL Selects 16-17 year old team in our first gold medal in that age group of the Dallas Cup. Another wonderful player who performed fantastically well up front as the main striker. Scored several crucial goals as the team beat all comers to win the gold medal. Billy was such an excellent player that one has to wonder why Canada's national team failed to realise the full potential within him deciding, to everyone's surprise, to pass him over at some stage in a manner similar to another 16 year old player at that time named Owen Hargreaves who we all know eventually carved out a career in England and Manchester United among others but who was eligible to play for Canada if chosen.

Patrick Kelman, played in many international events for the NSL Selects with great success. Powerful wide player in a 4-4-2 formation who relentlessly attacked his opponents in the most direct way. At the Ian Rush event in Wales, UK., Patrick's performances were huge in the NSL Selects winning another of it's three back to back to back championships. Patrick's performances against Swansea City (English Premier League status) were of dynamic standards. Swansea City had abolutely no answer to Patrick's pace and power resulting, in the end, with the NSL Selects beating Swansea City two times, firstly 2-1 in the round robin portion of the event and 1-0 in the championship gold medal Under 19 game. Swansea brought a strong side with several players being professionals. Patrick showed to be a terrific team player who never gave anything less than 100% effort. Worked exhaustingly in every game we played and never, ever gave up. Tremendous athlete.

Frank Palumbo, captain of the NSL Selects in several gold medal success at the under 18 level. In particular, he led a powerful and talented NSL Selects team to the UNICEF Cup gold medal at Giants Stadium in New York. Every game was won in that event and the team and Frank had to work hard for their success. A naturally gifted left footed player who played his heart out in defence and in whatever role he was given. Frank played every game with terrific enthusiasm and displayed excellent skill heart and determination always. His leadership of the NSL Selects in their many successes at the U18 level was superb and he stood tall among all NSL Selects team captains.

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See below for details of our 2013 USA Scholarship and Europe pro trials program.

SOCCER SCHOLARSHIPS, EUROPE PRO TRIALS,

FOUR DALLAS CUP CHAMPIONSHIPS

THREE IAN RUSH (FOOTBALL CUP OF WALES) (WALES, UNITED KINGDOM) CHAMPIONSHIPS

TWO DIADORA CUP (BERMUDA)CHAMPIONSHIPS

MANY OTHER PRESTIGIOUS CHAMPIONSHIPS AT VARIOUS FOREIGN LOCATIONS

COUNTLESS PLAYERS OBTAIN AMERICAN SCHOLARSHIPS THROUGH NSL SELECTS ACADEMY PROGRAM

SEVERAL PLAYERS SENT TO EUROPE ON PRO TRIAL AGREEMENTS

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2013 NSL SELECTS ACADEMY (AMERICAN SCHOLARSHIP ASSISTANCE PROGRAM).

2013 NSL SELECTS ACADAMEY (EUROPE PROFESSIONAL TRIALS PROGRAM).

A PROVEN SUCCESSFUL AND DYNAMIC SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM OPEN TO ALL MALE PLAYERS 18-20 YEARS OLD. WE WILL OPEN THE DOORS FOR YOU TO GET A GREAT EDUCATION AND PLAY SOCCER WITH A FIRST CLASS NCAA UNIVERSITY IN THE UNITED STATES.

A PROVEN EUROPE PRO TRIAL PROGRAM OPEN TO ALL MALE PLAYERS 18-25 YEARS OLD. WE CAN OBTAIN REAL ACCESS FOR YOU TO PRACTICE AND TRY OUT WITH THE TEAMS OF PRO CLUBS AND PERHAPS WIN A PROFESSIONAL CONTRACT.

NOTE: ENGLAND AND SCOTLAND OF THE U.K. HAVE CERTAIN NATIONALITY RESTRICTION ON WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO PLAY PROFESSIONALLY. WE WILL ADVISE IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE SHOULD YOU MAKE CONTACT WITH OUR PROGRAM. THOSE BORN IN THE U.K. OR HAVE PARENTAGE HISTORY ARE ELIGIBLE TO PLAY (WORK) UNRESTRICTED IN THE U.K.

EUROPEAN UNION PERSONS WITH EU FAMILY HISTORY MAY BE ELIGIBLE. UK ALSO HAS THE ABILITY TO GRANT WORK PERMITS FOR PLAYERS WHO QUALIFY THROUGH NATIONAL TEAM INVOLVEMENT WITH A FOREIGN COUNTRY TO A CERTAIN DEGREE. NOTE NATIONAL TEAM INVOLVEMENT MEANS FULL INTERNATIONAL STATUS - HAVING PLAYED IN NATIONAL YOUTH TEAMS DOES NOT COUINT AS INTERNATIONAL STATUS.

CERTAIN OTHER WESTERN EUROPEAN COUNTRIES HAVE MORE RELAXED REGULATIONS REGARDING PLAYING(WORKING)IN THEIR COUNTRIES. FOR MANY, THIS IS THE WAY TO GO FOR THEM IF NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THE U.K.

THERE IS NO COST TO ANYONE FOR THIS SCHOLARSHIP AND PRO TRIALS PROGRAM.

NOTE. WE CAN ONLY ASSIST PLAYERS WHO WISH TO PLAY IN EUROPE IF THEY WERE BORN IN, OR HAVE A PARENT OR GRANDPARENT BORN IN, ANY EU COUNTRY. BECAUSE OF THE LIMITATIONS OF NON EU PLAYERS IN MANY EU COUNTRIES, IT IS ACCEPTED THAT IT IS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO BE RECRUITED IN THE EU IF YOU DO NOT HAVE AN EU IMMEDIATE FAMILY BACKGROUND (NO RELATIVES, ONLY IMMEDIATE FAMILY PARENT/GRANDPARENT) TO AT LEAST QUALIFY TO PLAY IN THE EU IF SELECTED FOR TRIALS. THE U.K. IS EVEN TOUGHER BECAUSE OF THE DETAILS AS DESCRIBED ABOVE IN REGARD TO ELIGIBILITY. THE UK IS TOUGHEST IN EUROPE.

PLEASE EMAIL nslselectstorontosoccer@yahoo.com WITH DETAILS OF CAREER, YOUR TEL NUMBER, TOWN IN GREATER TORONTO AREA WHERE YOU LIVE, CURRENT SCHOOL/COLLEGE (IF ANY), EDUCATIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS - SAT SCORE IF ANY, HIGH SCHOOL GRADE, CURRENT TEAM PLAYING WITH IF ANY, DATE OF BIRTH, CURRENT COACH/MANAGER NAMES AND TEL NUMBERS.

ALL PLAYERS FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP AND EUROPE PRO TRIALS PROGRAM MUST BE OF GOOD CHARACTER, SUBSTANTIALLY ABOVE AVERAGE SOCCER SKILLS, DESIRE TO WORK HARD TO ACHIEVE TARGETS, INTELLIGENT AND OUTGOING AND BE QUALIFIED TO PLAY AND WORK IN THE EUROPEAN UNION AND IN PARTICULAR THE UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND.

A SCHEDULE OF YOUR INDOOR/OUTDOOR GAMES AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED.

ALL COMMUNICATIONS TO THE PROGRAM WILL BE HANDLED IN CONFIDENCE.

ALL PLAYERS WHO RESPOND TO THIS INVITATION WILL BE CONTACTED IN DUE COURSE.

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Some results and our picture gallery below. Please check links for other football sites including the NSL Minor Division.

Our successful "All Star" teams destroy myth of poor level of abilities of the best
Canadian players.

All international events we won were in the top bracket every time. We always competed against the best teams in the event at Dallas, Wales, Mexico, Italy, UK countries, Bermuda and various USA locations including Fort Lauderdale, Cocoa Beach, Washington D.C., etc.

Sensibly selected, carefully moulded, the NSL Selects are a match for most top
level opponents worldwide.

We show it on a consistent basis.

No flukes, just proper management of the talent available to us.

A genuine sign of our consistency is shown with our back to back to back to back
Dallas Cup finals ( 4 championships - 6 finals) and back to back to back "Ian Rush"
(3 Championships in a row), Cup of Wales, U.K. (when that event boasted some of
the best teams in Europe). Recent years, the event may have regressed just
a touch making it perhaps less of prestigious tournament for top notch teams to enter.

The NSL Selects of Toronto, Canada, is the dominating touring " all star " team of
the National Soccer League Minor Division (Toronto, Ontario, Canada) and
undoubtably the most successful select team programme in North America and,
coupled with our dynamic USA athletic scholarship programme, we are the envy of many in the game.

Qualifying for the play-off rounds and the subsequent winning of the championships
of premier tournaments such as the Dallas Cup( in the United States ) and the Ian
Rush (of the United Kingdom ) and many others, showed clearly that the NSL Selects had to confront, and dispose of, some powerful opponents on a daily basis.

We feared no team from anywhere.

When you consider only one, or maybe a maximum of 2 teams from your round robin
group may qualify for the next rounds, it was required that the NSL Selects teams
worked relentlessly to move onwards to the final rounds.

Defensively, the NSL Selects were formidable and, coupled with players who could
create and finish a few of our good scoring opportunities, we frequently found we
were in a position to advance and win any event we entered.

Winning a game 1-0 against a tough opponent was acceptable to us every time.

It was not necessary to defeat every team in our groups, however, tactically,
it was important to qualify.

The NSL Selects invariably either won the events or placed highly at the end
of the day.

Classic matches against the Nigerians, the Uruguay pro teams, the Chile pro teams,
the European sides, the brilliant Mexican National team and pro sides, and some
of the best USA teams and many other countries entries, all resulted in non stop
effort from start to finish by our players.

It goes without saying that a sensible approach to discipline attitudes on and
off the field, helped make the NSL Selects of Toronto, Canada, one of the most
feared and respected opponents on the international tournament circuit.

Having skilled, motivated and players with self discipline, cemented the mix.

There was no time for fooling around by anyone.

Our successes show just how committed we all are.

It will not be easy (probably impossible) to equal the record of the NSL Selects
by any team from North America (the USA and Canada specifically).

Indeed, top sides from anywhere would have a hard time matching it.

We earned our respect. That's for sure!

There are very few teams that have won more than one Dallas Cup.

We believe no team has equalled our 6 cup final appearances and several
semi-final appearances (nine, in total) in that competition.

Monterrey from Mexico has had successes at the Dallas Cup in the 12-16 age group
and won a Super Cup. (Super Cup renamed from U19 A previously).

Tauichi Academy from Bolivia, South America, has also won 4 U19 Dallas Cups
(renamed "Super") in 4 finals appearances - beating our teams in two U19 Super
finals in the process 1-0 (last 50 seconds or so) and 2-0 (end to end game
which could have gone either way (but fell the way of the South Americans),
NSL Selects hitting opponents cross bar no less than 3 times and the Tauichi
second goal (some say yards offside, as does the tape!) coming near the end
when NSL pushing forward trying to equalise), the NSL Selects only cup final
losses in 6 finals).

Real Madrid from Spain has won 2 Dallas Cups.

West Ham United from England has won one Dallas Cup.

Corinthians from Brazil has won two Dallas Cups.

Sparta Prague of the Czech Republic has won one Ian Rush.

Zimbabwe National team has won one Ian Rush.

Vitoria from Brazil has won 2 Dallas Cups.

Nigerian National team has won one Dallas Cup.

Tauichi has won one Ian Rush (Wales and 4 Dallas Cups.

Sao Paulo has won 3 Dallas Cups.

Liverpool F.C. from England has won one Dallas Cup.

Clearly, we are in very good company and feel good about it too.

The NSL enjoyed the Dallas Cup as we treated it as something special.

It was certainly a big hit with our teams - in particular when we reached so
many quarter finals, semi-finals and finals and played in front of spectators
in the stadium numbering up to 12,000.

Invariably, the popular NSL Selects finals were crowd sell outs as was our semi-final game versus the Bolivians from South America.

It has always been the motivation of this site to list as many of the players and coaches who participated with the NSL Selects.

Players who were involved with the NSL Selects over the exciting years of operations are many and they know who they are.

As mentioned further in this web site, the NSL Selects always competed at the highest levels possible in several Florida location, New York, Washington, Dallas (we didn't only win at the Dallas Cup, we also played and won twice the Cotton Cup Scholarship Classic also held in Dallas in November of each year), Mexico, Wales, England, Scotland, Italy, Bermuda, etc. We entered many USA scholarship show cases and performed spectacularly. The beneficiaries of the scholarship events were always the players. Huge numbers of full athletic scholarships at top US Universities gave a whole new direction to their lives.

We did not knowlngly enter an event unless it was the top bracket.

Participating in a lower status bracket in an attempt to win it was just not tolerable to anyone involved. A waste of time, actually. Many USA teams in lower divisions adopted the names of top European or South American sides. The similarity ended there - although those at home in Canada not at the tournament might see a team result showing Barcelona losing 1-0 to some obscure team - but the team was not Barcelona (Spain) and the list goes on.

Who would want to travel thousands of miles to play lower (much lower) standard teams? Not the NSL Selects, that's for damn sure!

To say the NSL Selects finest hour was the defeat of the National Olympic team from Mexico in the Dallas Cup final in 1984 (under 19 and later renamed Super Cup) would be an understatement. Defeating the National team of Mexico (with many Mexicans looking well over 20 years of age) was indeed their finest hour. What a great team we had. Just wonderful. As John MacMahon (NASL Toronto Blizzard Director of Player Development and for many years the National men's team manager of Canada) told us several months after we returned from that historic performance, at least 11 of the Mexican team the NSL Selects beat in Dallas were in the squad of the full Mexican men's team that beat the full national team of Canada 2-1 at Toluca, Mexico in the Olympic qualifying game only five months later.
Dallas Cup

The Dallas Cup is an international football tournament for invited youth teams, held annually in Dallas, Texas. It was first held in 1980.

Contents:

List of Supergroup champions

Titles by team

Titles by country


The Dallas Cup is sponsored by Dr Pepper.


List of Supergroup champions
Year Champion Country
1980 Texas Longhorns USA
1981 Royal Navy England
1982 Lagos Stars Nigeria (semifinals NSL Selects)
1983 NSL Select Canada
1984 NSL Select Canada (plus NSL Selects Under 16 Champions)
1985 Trebor Lions Nigeria
1986 Comets USA
1987 Tahuichi Bolivia (finalist NSL Selects)
1988 Tahuichi Bolivia (finalist NSL Selects)(plus NSL Selects U16 Champions)
1989 Tahuichi Bolivia (semifinals NSL Selects)
1990 Tahuichi Bolivia
1991 Dynamo Moscow Russia
1992 West Ham England
1993 Real Madrid Spain
1994 Real Madrid Spain
1995 São Paulo Brazil
1996 Vitória Brazil
1997 Vitória Brazil
1998 San Lorenzo Argentina
1999 Corinthians Brazil
2000 Corinthians Brazil
2001 UNAM Pumas Mexico
2002 Nottingham Forest England
2003 Tigres Mexico
2004 Atlético Paranaense Brazil
2005 Atlético Paranaense Brazil
2006 Dallas Texans Red USA
2007 Sao Paulo Brazil
2008 Liverpool F.C. England
2009 Sao Paulo, Brazil
2010 Cruzeiro Esporte Clube, Brazil
2011 Eintracht Frankfurt, Germany and
Tigres, Mexico Co-Champions. Weather caused late abandonment of final when 1-1
2012 Cortiba FC, Brazil

Titles by team
Team Country
4 titles
Tahuichi Bolivia
3 titles
Sao Paulo Brazil
Atlético Paranaense Brazil
2 titles
Corinthians Brazil
NSL Selects Canada (plus 2 titles NSL Selects Under 16) total = 4
Real Madrid Spain
EC Vitória Brazil
1 title
Comets USA
Dallas Texans Red USA
Dynamo Moscow Russia
Lagos Stars Nigeria
Nottingham Forest England
Royal Navy England
San Lorenzo Argentina
Texas Longhorns USA
Tigres Mexico
Trebor Lions Nigeria
UNAM Pumas Mexico
West Ham England
Cruzeiro Esporte Clube, Brazil
Cortiba FC, Brazil

Titles by country
Country
11 titles
Brazil
4 titles
Bolivia
England
3 titles
USA
2 titles
Canada (plus 2 Under 16 Dallas Cup Championships) = 4 Gold Medals
Mexico
Nigeria
Spain
1 title
Argentina
Russia

Notable players

Yesterday Dallas Cup, Today World Cup The list of Dallas Cup alumni is like a "Who's Who" in the world of professional soccer. Dallas Cup has been very fortunate to have had such high caliber teams compete over the past 27 years and with those teams top players have gone on to play for professional clubs all around the world. Professional players that played in Dallas Cup who are now on professional teams and World Cup teams are:

Alumni Player Professional Team National Team Adolfo Bautista Guadalajara (Chivas) Mexico Diego Ordaz CF Monterrey Gerado Torrado Cruz Azul Mexico Jaime Lozano Tigres Mexico Horacio Sanchez Pumas Gerado Galindo Pumas Duilio Davino Club America Braulio Luna Veracruz Alberto Medina Guadalajara (Chivas) Gonzalo Pineda Guadalajara (Chivas) Mexico Rafael Marquez FC Barcelona (Spain) Mexico Israel Lopez Toluca Oscar Rojas Club America Mexico Salvador Carmona Cruz Azul Pierre Ibarra CF Monterrey Jose Corona Tecos UAG Mexico Luis Perez CF Monterrey Mexico Ramon Ramirez Chivas USA Francisco Rodriguez Guadalajara (Chivas) Mexico Eduardo Regis Tigres Raul Real Madrid Spain David Beckham Real Madrid England Maicon Monaco Brazil Luizao Benfica Brazil Landon Donovan Los Angeles Galaxy USA Freddie Adu D.C. United USA DaMarcus Beasley PSV Eindhoven USA John O'Brien AJAX USA Jonathan Spector Manchester United USA Brian McBride Fulham USA Oguchi Onyewu Standard de Liege USA Michael Owen Newcastle United England Wayne Rooney Manchester United England Peter Crouch Liverpool England Jermaine Defoe Tottenham Hotspurs England Harry Kewell Liverpool Australia Fabio Costa Santos FC Xavier EC Victoria Alan Delcon EC Victoria Kieber Sao Paulo FC Brazil Edu Valencia Brazil Rubinho Corinthians Gil Corinthians Bobby Convey Reading USA Edmilson FC Barcelona Brazil Shumacher Ascoli Ewerthon Real Zaragoza Brazil Ledley King Tottenham Hotspurs England Ian Harte Leeds United Ireland Michael Carrick Tottenham Hotspurs England Hakeem Olajuwan Retired NBA All-Star Nigeria

The Ian Rush, with it's superb playing fields, comfortable accommodations, helpful
hosts, good officials for all games and skilled opponents, made it unique in the
tournament calender.   

The Ian Rush did develop "pro" age group divisions and attracted large numbers
of professional teams.

The St. Andrews tournament in Scotland also has a pro youth division among
other classes.

Both the Ian Rush and St. Andrews events are scouted by the professional
clubs of Britain.

It was not uncommon for NSL coaches to be chatting with the scouts for
Manchester United, Tranmere Rovers, Leicester City, Nottingham Forest,
Hibernian etc., at games or socially.

The NSL Selects did not physically compete at St. Andrews but we have
scouted the event and liked the facilities and the competition. We just
never took the chance to go there officially and compete.

Below are some of the several outstanding performances by our teams.

The cup final championships were the culmination of enormous effort
throughout the preliminary rounds, quarter and semi finals.

The success is also due to the training and conditioning sessions held in
Toronto for months prior to challenging some of the world's best teams in
Dallas and elsewhere.

To win a Dallas Cup took 6 games.

To win the Ian Rush took up to 7 games.

Most of our games were against polished, modern soccer teams who were generally
either National or professional squads.

Against USA teams, the NSL Selects always seemed to bring out the best in our
opponents - a USA/Canada rivalry we presume.

This resulted in some good tournament games but the Americans were never
a match for us.

SOME RESULTS:

NSL Selects U19/20 1,   Y.S.F.O.N. Stars (Youth Soccer Federation of Nigeria
Stars) 0
(Dallas Cup opening round)
Coach: John Debenedictis
Manager: Tony Spataro
Captain: Joe Fimiani

NSL Selects U19 1,   Aberdeen (Scotland) 0
(Ian Rush Int'l Cup final, Wales, U.K.)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U18 3,   Bayern Munich/Munich 1860 Select (Germany) 0
(Ian Rush Cup final)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19    1,   Tranmere Rovers (English Div 1 ) 1
(Ian Rush opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19      1,   Swansea City (English League) 0
(Ian Rush Cup final)
Coach: Ken Dawson
Manager: Tony DaSilva

NSL Selects U19    2,    Cardiff City (English League) 0
(Ian Rush opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19      1,    Cardiff City 0
(Ian Rush 3rd place game)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19    0,    Aston Villa (English Premier League) 0
(Ian Rush opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19   2,    Swansea City 1
(Ian Rush opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson,
Manager: Tony DaSilva

NSL Selects U19/20   1,    National Olympic Team of Mexico 0
(Dallas Cup final)
Coach: Ken Dawson,
Asst Coach: Bill Johnstone
Captain: John Caricato

NSL Selects U19/20    2,   America ( Mexico Div 1 champions at the time) 1
(Dallas Cup final)
Coach: Ken Dawson,
Asst Coach: Bill Johnstone
Captain: Gino Ferrin

NSL Selects U19/20   3,    Nacional ( Uruguay, South America Div 1 )   2
(Dallas Cup opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U18   3,    Bohemians (Prague)
(Czech Div 1 ) 1
(Ian Rush semi-final)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U18    3,    Ontario Provincial U18 team   1
(Toronto Cup semi-final)
Coach: John Knox

NSL Selects U16    2,    Canada U16 Selection 1
(played at Ivor Wynn Stadium, Hamilton, Ontario)
Coach: Jim Harvey,
Manager: Rick Coulis

NSL Selects U18    5,    Ontario U18 Selection 1
(played at Ivor Wynn Stadium, Hamilton, Ontario )
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19/20   11,   Guatemala 1
(Dallas Cup opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19/20    5, Portsmouth RN (England) 1
(Dallas Cup quarter final)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19/20    2, Texas Longhorns (Dallas) 1
(Dallas Cup semi final)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19/20    2,   Loyolla Nomads (San Diego, California) 1
(Dallas Cup opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson
Manager: Albert Grandy

NSL Selects U16/17    2, Loyolla Nomads 0
(Dallas Cup final)
Coaches: John Knox and Joe Rando
Captain: Joe Corapi

NSL Selects U16/17    2, Bermuda National Team 0
(Diadora Cup final, Bermuda)
Coach: Jim Harvey,
Manager: Rick Coulis

NSL Selects U19/20    2, Bermuda National Team 1
(Diadora Cup final, Bermuda)
Coach: Ken Dawson,
Manager: Charlie Sciberras

NSL Selects U16/17    1, U.S.A. U17 National Team   1,
(Dallas Cup opening round)
Coaches: John Knox and Joe Rando
Captain: Joe Corapi

NSL Selects U19/20    3, Dallas Comets 0
(Dallas Cup opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U16/17    3, Wexford    2
(Dallas Cup Final)
Coach: Bill Johnstone
Captain: Billy Domazetis

NSL Selects U19/20    5, Santa Clara ( Portugal Div 1 ) 1
(Diadora Cup, Bermuda opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson.
Manager: Albert Grandy

NSL Selects U18    1, National ( Cairo, Egypt Div 1 ) 0
(Robbie "all star" Cup final, Toronto)
Coach: Alex Moore

NSL Selects U19/20    1, Dallas Hornets 0
(Dallas Cup opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson,
Manager: Albert Grandy

NSL Selects U19/20    0, Huachipato (Chile Div 1 team ) 0
(Dallas Cup opening round)
Coach: Ken Dawson,
Manager: Albert Grandy

NSL Selects U19/20    0, Wels ( Austria Div 1) 0
(Dallas Cup opening round)

NSL Selects U19/20    0, Bremerhaven (Germany) 0
(Dallas Cup opening round)

NSL Selects U19       4, Syracuse University, USA (NCAA Div 1) 1
(at Syracuse, New York, on grass surface) Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U21       2, Boston College 0
(NCAA) (at Boston, USA)
Coach: Victor Rubio

NSL Selects U19       2, Cornell University, USA (Ivy League) 0
(at Cornell, New York State)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19      2, Cleveland State University, USA (NCAA Div 1 ) 0
(at Cleveland, Ohio)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U19       0, Syracuse University 0
(NCAA Div 1 at Syracuse on artificial grass surface)
Coach: Ken Dawson

NSL Selects U 19/20      0, Hartwick College, USA ( NCAA Div 1 ) 0
(USA Soccer Hall of Fame game at Oneonta, New York State)
Coach: Ken Dawson

Coach Ken Dawson also includes a 2-1 win over the full German National team
(the German team 6 weeks beforehand played England at Wembley)- in a competitive
international event involving England, Scotland, Germany, Canada, etc., etc.,-
and a game which the Germans desperately wanted to win. The victory over the
Germans provided the impetutus for Dawson's team to march onto the the
Championship gold medal, a 4-3 win over Manchester City (EPL), 2-0 win over
Crewe Alexandria (England Div One) and other notable successes. British League
championships, Cup winners both local and regional plus national club final
(at the highest level possible in the country) all in the UK, plus direction
to several UK based players towards long professional careers in the UK.

Coach Dawson does not subscribe to the mentality of "winning isn't important" at
the elite level.

Dawson coached against, among many other elite clubs, Glasgow Rangers at Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow, Hibernian F.C. at Easter Road
Stadium in Edinburgh, Dunfermline Athletic F.C. at East End Park Stadium,
and Aberdeen F.C. in Scotland. (all Scottish Premier League clubs).

No coach can be successful without players who are skilled, intelligent and
have a hard work ethic together with a team mentality.

No coach will ever win at the elite level (or any decent level) without
the support of his players but, saying that, no coach will ever win at the
elite level of opposition if there is little or no talent on his squad and
serious commitment to the program. There are those who say you can't get
blood out of a stone or, better still, you can't make a silk purse out
of a sow's ear - agreed!

The NSL Selects were always put together on the basis that, not withstanding
the skill levels of the players, they also had to be smart enough to understand,
and adapt to, the system of play they were being directed to but, at the same
time, never eliminating the pure talent of any individual to do the unexpected
that wins the big games.

As a national coach stated at the Euro Championships:

"Football is very simple, you have to make the strategy, you have to explain it,
you have to be sure the players understand it and you have to be sure they accept
it - because it is not me going out there it is the players doing it. It is my
job to make sure they are happy and understand it. "

The above quote has been the philosophy of the more successful NSL coaches for
many years.

Fortunately, the NSL Selects had several players who, with everyone else
tuning into the system, also provided that moment of individual brilliance
that helped win the day several times.

In our view, all NSL Select players were in the hero category and may their
achievements be remembered for ever as a monument to the time that Canada's
young soccer athletes (16-20 years old) were a match for the best anywhere
on the globe.

God bless them all and thank you so much.

Winning is everything at the top athlete level and don't let anyone tell
you any different!

Many scores to come. Solid wins, tough losses, credible draws, pictures, etc.
such as:

2 Championships at the Cotton Cup Classic in Dallas (U19) (3 finals)

3 Cocoa Expo International Championships (Cocoa Beach) in Florida (U19) (3 finals)

5 Coral Springs International Championships ( Ft Lauderdale ) in Florida
(3 U19, 2 U16)
(5 finals).

l UNICEF (United Nations) Cup Championship at Giants Stadium, New York City.

3 Ian Rush (Football Cup of Wales) back to back to back.

4 Dallas Cup Championships ( 2 U19 Super and 2 U16 ) and 4 consecutive U19
finals (Super Cup) back to back, to back, to back.

2 Capital Cup (Washington, D.C.) Championships (U19 - in 2 cup final
appearances)

and several more.

Keep coming here to us as we detail more results, highlight our NSL Selects
captains and players, including those who went to full athletic scholarships
at several of the United States top Universities and, for some, who became
team captains and "all Americans".

Even now, no programme has sent more quality players to full USA scholarships
than the NSL Selects.

Now in 2011, players continue to be placed to the USA on massive scholarships,
some sight unseen through our direct recommednations, such is the prestige of the programme.

The programme changed the futures of countless players in a most positive
way.

The following article is from the Dallas Cup web site:

"
Dallas Cup XXV Alumni Memory Lane as of April 10, 2004:

by Ken Dawson, Toronto, Ontario, Canada   Coach - NSL Selects                

Comments:

The Dallas Cup has so many memories for me it is almost impossible to tabulate.


The NSL Selects played in six finals (2 U16 and 4 U19/Super), winning both U16
and 2 U19/Super finals. These would certainly be highlights of our participation
which went almost uninterrupted from 1982-1993.


I would say the nostalgic moments of our teams playing in front of thousands
of spectators at Lake Highlands Stadium and standing to attention for the national
anthems of our country and our opponents will always stay with me.


The wonderful support, and friendliness, we received from the people of Dallas
during our games and generally throughout the City rekindles warm memories.


The competition of the event was always of the highest possible standards
and I know our players and team staff relished every moment when we played
our games.


Certain games are clear in my memory. The 1983 final win over the
National Olympic team from Mexico, the double gold wins for both our U16
and U19 teams in 1984 - within hours of each other, the almost double gold
wins again in 1988 where the U16's won their final and the U19 team lost
to the incredibly talented Tahuichi Academy from Bolivia who scored their
only goal of the game with 45 seconds left in the final in front of more
than 11,000 spectators. In general, the tremendous amount of games we played
against quality opponents was simply fantastic.


I will always remember the Dallas Cup as being fiercely competitive, superbly
organised and of the people who orchestrate the event as being so proud of the
success.


Although the NSL Selects is mothballed at this time, there may be the time
when it will attempt to return. If that day occurs, it will be a great occasion
for the players and team staff who, I know, will enjoy the experience immensely -
just in the same way that I and my fellow staff members, players and
supporters/parents did in the past.

Continued success. You have a truly wonderful event, unique in North America.

More comments from past participants:

Our first registrant was Josh Kaufman from Chicago, IL. Josh played for the
Texas Longhorn Soccer Club and his first Cup experience was in 1989. We would
like to express our thanks to Josh for being Number 1 in our trail of memories.
___________________________________________________________________

Thursday, January 12
Josh Kaufman, Chicago, IL. Texas Longhorns Soccer Club First played in DC X

Comments:

I think it's great that you guys are organizing an Alumni directory of past participants in the Dallas Cup. The tournament is one of the most exciting things I have ever participated in. I played for the Texas Longhorns growing up and playing in the tournament was by far the best part of it.
I am living up in Chicago right now. I was planning on coming to the tournament to help celebrate 25 years, but I am going to be unable to attend.
I will keep up with the scores though through the website and the Dallas Morning News.

Favorite Memory:

There are so many memories from my days participating and watching the Dallas Cup. From the competition to the friendships made to life lessons learned, the Dallas Cup was more than just a soccer tournament. It was a life experience.
I would have to say my best Dallas Cup experience involved the "HomeStay Program."
One of my fondest memories came from my very first Dallas Cup (Dallas Cup X). My team (TX. Longhorns) was hosting a team from Venezuela. My family hosted two boys from that team. Being a young child at the time, this was the first real experience I had with children from outside the United States. Those few days I spent with them was a life changing experience. It was amazing that despite the communication differences, we were all the same. We loved to watch TV, play soccer, get in trouble and all the other things 11 and 12 year old boys liked to do. I remember the boys from Venezuela never had played Nintendo. Well, let’s just say they became quite the experts by the end of the week. While that was an amazing week in my life, it was what happened 8 years later that really shows how special this tournament is. I was watching some of the games when this man came up to me. He asked me if my name was Josh. I said yes, knowing immediately who it was. He was my Venezuelan pal who I had created a bond with 8 years earlier. He was in Dallas for the tournament to watch is brother play. It was a moment in my life I will never forget. It is also the reason the Dallas Cup is such an amazing tournament. It reaches beyond the playing field. Each and every one of us who gets the honor of playing in this exceptional tournament receives life-long memories, life-long lessons and life-long friendships.

Robert Gonzalez, Carrollton, TX Dallas Inter/Dallas Texans '81 I was 18, and 16

Comments:

We got spanked 10-0 against a club named Sparta Prague .

Brian Strange, McKinney, TX Storm '71 DC X

Comments:

Housing many of the players from different countries....and seeing Pele at the Dallas Cup.

Michael Ryan Black, Calhoun, GA United Quest Red '87 DC XXIII

Comments:

Competition was awesome and really enjoyed the opening ceremonies.

It was great meeting kids from other countries and other states.

Stephen Anderson, Carrollton, TX Texas Longhorns 74 DC VI

Comments:

The most fond memories are around the meeting and hosting people from many walks of life, countries, and the breaking of cultural barriers thru soccer. I truly believe the Dallas Cup facilitated many opportunities for myself and thousands of others, that without this great tournament would not have been possible.
The Dallas Cup has been the gateway for international youth soccer into the US for many years now, lets hope the tradition keeps going. On a different note some of the less fond or say challenging memories from the cup were going to the finals in Dallas Cup VII as a younger team in the age bracket and losing to a team from Oklahoma who were twice our size. Then playing in the finals of Dallas Cup IV and losing after beating out the top 2 seeds for the bracket in the quarter and semi finals. Overall I believe I played in the tourney ever year from 1985 - 1992 and then ironically for my last year of eligibility I played on a team from Mexico in a last minute request, making up the Blonde factor for the team. I know my father is going to read this so I have to put in a word of thanks to him for the many years of effort he put forth in volunteering with the cup on such a wonderful cause we call the "Dallas Cup" Regards, and Cheers to the many years! Stephen Anderson

The fast blonde soccer version of Jim Anderson

Jeffrey Gontarek, Baltimore, MD Referee DC XXIII

Comments:

The friendships formed and lasting relationships is what truly makes the Dallas Cup unique.

Harral Jeffrey, Dallas, TX Andromeda 86 DC XIX

Comments:

Hosting and becoming friends with foreign players for the first time in 1998. Beating top seeded Venezuela in 2000.

 

Richard Sewell, Dallas, TX Dallas Texans DC XXI

Comments:

Housing the team from Costa Rica and meeting a team from South Africa at the host hotel.

 

___________________________________________________________________

Conrad McCue, Round Rock, TX 90 Austin Flyers, TX DCXXIII

Comments:

Trading a jersey with a player Costa Rica. Neither of us spoke the same language, but we were able to make the trade. Watching teams from other countries. Playing top teams in my age group.

Added 3-30-04

Mike Gartenhaus, Arlington, TX Referee 2002

Comments:

I particularly enjoyed working with the Dutch and Scottish referees. I enjoyed the looks on the faces of the U12's that got to have a FIFA ref call their game.

Jason Sebastian, Carrollton, TX Player/Coach West Ham United FC 1992

Comments:

Watching West Ham win the Super Group final in 92

 

George McCaffery, Corsham, Wilts, UK Referee 1990

Comments/Memories:

Too many to mention. Just being involved with such a wonderful organization has been memorable and all of the close friends that have been made and retained over the years.

Gaspar Martinez, Arlington, TX Player/Coach Dallas Texans/Storm SC 1984

Comments:

All the great friendships that are made with other participants, as a player the feeling of scoring a game winning goal against FC Hacken from Sweden in group play.

Eric Mason, Plano, TX Texas Longhorns SC Cups 1, 2, &3

Comments:

The 1982 U-19 Finals - Longhorns vs. Lagos Stars of Nigeria. Pre-game rituals of the Lagos Stars included a medicine man dressed in tribal wardrobe performing ceremonial dances around the field during pre-game warm-ups.

Andy Gibson, Dallas, TX Texas Longhorns 71 1982

Comments:

In the finals of Dallas Cup VI. Against our rivals the 71 Titans. We were down 2-0 at the half. Our coach Eddie McDaniel gave an inspirational speech that led us to a 3-2 victory.

Added 3-31-04

Ross Austin Green Dallas, TX Comets 90 Blue 2002

Comments:

Advancing to the semifinals with an overtime win over the Dallas Texans.

Romina Araiza Dallas, TX Spruce Lady Timberwolves 2004

Comments:

TO ME SOCCER IS THE BEST EXPERIANCE IN MY LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Robert Krimm Chicago, IL Referee 1985

Comments:

Seeing our Dallas area players playing as well as players from countries where soccer is the primary sport.

Watching how top level referees handle their games.

Enjoyed working with the many behind the scenes volunteers who make the Dallas Cup the best in the world.

Philip Rivera Frisco, TX Soccer America 87 Boys XXIV

Comments:

We were sitting in sixth place in Division 1 at the end of the Fall Season in 2002 and found out on Wednesday night before the Sunday kick off of the Dallas Cup that we had made it in as an alternate! Even though our team was not in the program of teams participating we were excited to be among the players! We even won our first game! The best part was tying a team from Southern California that was nationally ranked! We didn't get to play any foreign teams but enjoyed watching the finals and knowing I was part of the 24th annual Dallas Cup.

Something I will never forget!!!

John Richardson Flower Mound, TX Flame 66 (Dallas - Bobby Moffat's) 1980

Comments:

Hosting the Royal Navy....playing in the big game against an English team who had not lost in like a 107 games and taking them to the final pk with the crowd 2 and 3 deep. It was better than any division 1 college game. Watching the Nigerian team warm up...with out a ball...just jogging and chanting then flipping.

Knowing that my son will have a chance in the next year or so to participate in this tournament is exciting but is making me feel kinda old all the sudden...

David Ziebarth Arlington, TX Texas Lightning Black '81 1996

Curtis Morrisson Fort Worth, TX Texas Longhorns SC 1980

Comments:

Favorite Memory: I was blessed to play in the first six Dallas Cups, and for the club responsible for making the tournament possible. At the time, the club founder, Ron Griffith, was in charge of making the whole thing run smoothly, or at least with as few pot holes as possible anyway, and this was made possible only with help of many volunteers, mainly the soccer moms and dads, of which I am proud to say my parents were a part of. That first year, there was to be a reception at Dallas city hall, with mayor, city council members, and participating teams meeting each other. Each team was to receive a statue with a longhorn on it. Where do you find those at? Answer: They didn't exsist, or at least not until the evening prior to the reception. I remember my mom staying up until the wee hours of the night trying to glue those little longhorn hooves to the wooden base of the statues, what a mess, but what a great time! I also remember the first time I ever heard of the Dallas Cup. In 1978, My first year playing for the Longhorns, my family invited Ron ( the club founder, and then president ) over for dinner. While sitting around listening to Ron tell some of those stories, of which he has so many, he told us of his goal to create a tournament in Dallas modeled after the Gothia Cup in Sweden. From a brain storm to the most prestigious youth tournament in North America. Pretty good idea if I do say so myself. Thank you Ron Griffith, for giving me and so many other children, referees, and parents, the opportunity to learn and grow up without borders, and for bringing the entire world to Dallas every Easter for the past twenty-five ( man that's hard to say ) years. Without your dream, this wouldn't have been possible.

Experiences: I believe it was 1983 or '84, when my team hosted a team from Denmark.

I was blessed to have two of the neatest guys stay with me and my family.

We had such a good time taking them around the city, to games, and the many events which surround the tournament itself. The memories are priceless. But it was in 1987 that what this tournament is all about occured. I was sitting in my house, doing nothing probably, when the doorbell rang. When I answered the door, there stood one of the kids, who was now a young man, in my doorway, whom my family had hosted five years earlier. He and some friends from Denmark had flown to Miami and bought a car which they were driving across the United States in, celebrating his graduation from high school. We went out that night, to Billy Bob's, to see a concert, and relive the memories.

Comments: Here's to another 25 years of great games, great times, and the world coming to Dallas!

To those teammates of mine from those great Longhorn teams of the '80s, I miss you, and would like to hear from you. Call me sometime ( the committee now has my number) and we'll get together and have a beer while we sing some of those tunes only those of us who actually played for the Longhorns would know.

Colin Creasy Gillingham, Kent, England Referee 2003

Comments:

The standard of football was much better than I expected, but my main memory was the hospitality of the people of Dallas especially the Nieman family who did so much to make my stay a truely memorable one.

Added 4-08-04

Ale Guerrero California Arsenal Fc-u14 XXIV

Comments:

most memorable thing was when one of our players scored the winning pk in the pk shootout which crowned us Dallas cup champions xxiv... great tourny. Also when Manchester checked into the hotel ( stayed in the same hotel) seeing the black suits when they walked in was a intimidating!

Andrea Geppert Dallas, Tx Sting Soccer Club and Longhorns Soccer Club Every year women were allowed at Dallas Cup

Comments:

The best memory from Dallas Cup was being able to play in and win the last Dallas Cup that women were ever allowed to play in (1993 I think). We won the U-19 division that year as the Longhorns Soccer Club. There was also a final a year or so before that, which the Sting 75 won in a wonderful game to play in and watch.

Andrew Winston Euless, TX Longhorns 1981 & 1982

Comments:

Dallas Cup II, 1981 - I was amazed at the size of British Royal Navy players (they were huge) and the skill of the Nigerian Team. Although we lost both games, I will never forget the experience. Here's to my Dad (Bob) and the other volunteers (back in the early days) that gave the tournament the momentum to grow into one of the premiere tournaments in the world.

Auggie Trevino Prosper, TX Dallas Flame '72 1988

Comments:

I have several. I think it was the first time we housed a team from Liverpool England.
This was our first of two times in the Dallas Cup tourney. Just being able to experience the entire tourny from start to end is a memory I will never forget. I'm hoping that my son will have a chance to do the same one day.

Can you tell me if any of my other team mates are attending as well? Team - Dallas Flame '72 coached by Randy Phillips

 

Bryan Green Dallas, TX Andromeda '84 1997

Comments:

Dallas Cup is an all-around wonderful experience. The competition is great and the atmosphere is amazing. I'll never forget hosting two Peruvian boys when I was 12.

Carlos Oyervides Texas, USA Texas Lightning Black 2002

Comments:

Had a hat-trick in one of the first round games

Chris Schneider Arlington, TX Solar 89' Boys-Parent XXII

Comments:

No one said anything about the mothers and fathers of the participants and our fond memories! It's all about families, new friendships, and great great soccer. The greatest feeling I have is watching my son Chris play the game he loves with a passion that I cannot describe. Spending time with people that enjoy that same passion is the best gratification I could ever have as a parent. DALLAS CUP IS THE ONE TIME A YEAR THAT ALL THE PEOPLE THAT LOVE OUR GAME SO MUCH COME TOGETHER NO MATTER WHO IS PLAYING TO SUPPORT THE GAME WE LOVE SO MUCH! THANKS FOR SHARING THIS WONDERFUL GAME WITH US.... SOCCER-"KICKING OUR WAY INTO THE FUTURE"

Courtney Linex Barrett Plano, TX Magic and the Tx Longhorns (player / coach) 1988

Comments:

Coached and played in the finals at Lake Highlands Stadium when females still played in the Dallas Cup.

Dave Marshall Dallas, TX Texas Longhorns 1980

Comments:

I was fortunate to play with some of the best youth players in the country, as a part of the Texas Longhorn Soccer Club.

 

Edward Bellion Grapevine, TX Referee 1980

Comments:

I remember well the first games at Moss Park, as well as many of the overseas visiting referees who have been here over the years. We knew then that our US referees compare very favorably with referees from the rest of the world.

James LeBlanc Lewisville, TX Dallas Titans 1984

Comments:

As an Under 14 player for the Dallas Titans in 1984, I will always remember the thrill of playing in the "big" Lake Highlands stadium during our championship game versus the Texas Longhorns. I used to have a great picture of my slide tackle of a Longhorns forward one on one with our goalie. I try to watch some games every year, especially the Friday night Supergroup quarterfinals.

I am glad tohave helped promote the tournament in the early years.

Joseph Cundari Dallas, TX Longhorns Soccer Club 1987

Comments:

One memory is playing Moscow Dynamo, and let's just say it was hard to mark them closely because I don't think any of them wore deodorant. But probably my best memory is playing in the 1992 DC and one game (can't remember against whom) I had to play fullback because of teammates' injuries (my regular position was left midfield) and I felt I played well. I guess I didn't realize how well I played because that night I received calls from coaches at Notre Dame and Navy, who were at the game, about playing for their programs.

Julian Martinez Corona, Ca Atletico/Storm 70'/Titans'/Storm 71/Hornets 71' 1982

Comments:

Our team was invited to the 1982 Dallas Cup (Atletico from Lewisville Texas) and we made it to the finals against Paris, Mexico. Man, we were so close to beating them. It was my first experience with exchanging uniforms. It was great! I'm in Southern California wishing I could be there. I hope the best for all the players from before and all the players to come. Enjoy!

Dallas Cup is definitely an Upper 90 experience!

 

Larry Lopez Grand Prairie, TX Club Dallas 88 1999

Comments:

When the year of 2001 came and we were playing some team and I play sweeper for Club Dallas and my coach (Abel Lopez) put me foward and I scored in the 3 min. I was up there. Another thing is when we played Tigres we lost but it was a great game.

Mark Murphey McKinney, TX Texas Longhorns Soccer Club 1984

Comments:

Playing in the finals and in the feature game.

Matt Shrum Texas, USA FC Lynx '77 1995

Comments:

Opening ceremony win against Nacionale from Uruguay in the Super Group. We were put in the super group because we'd won the classic league premier division the previous fall and everybody expected that we would get beaten badly. Whether it was true or not, we felt that the league directors were punishing us by putting us there because we'd had a lot of cards during the season. So we were really fired up. Tatu prepared us well and made us believe that we could win. By the time the game was over, the stadium was almost full and it was the sweetest victory I had ever been a part of.

We felt like we won for the United States.

Mike Davis Sachse, TX Flame 74 1985

Comments:

I have to say that the fondest memories I have of the tournament are housing the players from other countries. I had the honor of playing on 4 different teams over the course of the 7 yrs I was able to play in this tournament. Flame 74, Club America 74, Spectrum 74, and Inter 75. My team and family housed over those years 2 teams from Mexico and in my final year West Ham from England.

I also will remember the fierce competition of all the teams we got to play against. I was only able to make it as far as the quaterfinals once, but every game was exciting and fun to play in. I was out of state for 4 years serving in the army and always missed this time of year. Since I have been back I love going out to the fields and stadium to watch the action. I hope you all have another great 25 yrs

Patrick Conner Dallas, TX Comets 90 Blue 2002

Comments:

Being the only Dallas team to advance to the semi-finals for our age in 2002. Scott Maxwell Dallas, TX Dallas Titans 68 1980 ,1984

Comments:

In 1985 we hosted a team from Denver. Very cool guys. We partied, hung out, I took them up to my school (Plano). They couldn't believe how many good looking girls we had at Plano, and all the nice cars the kids drove. Well, except me - my parents made me pay for my first car.

Tonda Nuchkasem Garland, TX Dallas Comets '77 1991

Comments:

Playing against my home country of Thailand in Dallas Cup XII, which Thailand won the U14 title. Also qualifying for the quarter-final in Dallas Cup XVI in the Super Group, which was in 1995.

Vernon Seebaran Garland, TX Coach - Flame U16 1984

Comments:

I met Richard Mungioli @ the Robbie Tournament In Toronto in 1982 while coaching with the Maple Leafs SC and our team hosted Flame "68".

I visited Dallas that year with my two sons and spent some time with the Flame team.

The following year my son joined Flame, and I followed in February '84 and I became Richard's assistant. I was really impressed with the Dallas Cup organization and level of competition. The International flavor reminded me of "The Robbie", which I had coached in for eight years.

My 9 year old son followed the Trebor Lions (Nigeria) every day all over the Stadium, dancing to their drums and songs.

I was introduced to The Royal Navy and also spent time with The NSL Selects.

I knew Ken Dawson in Canada, and I had coached seven of the U16 players he brought. They were team mates of my son on the Provincial team and on Maple Leafs.

In one Semifinal @ the Stadium Flame 68 vs NSL Selects U16 played to a 1-1 tie after OT. NSL could have won the game but for a game saving 40 yard run my son made to catch a forward who had run past Jeff Agoos down the middle. My son knew the player quite well, and recovering from right full back caught up and forced him to play the ball over the goal line for a goalkick.

Flame lost on the fifth PK after OT.

This was a highlight for me and I was happy for my former players on the NSL team to have won the Championship eventually.

I followed Richard to Sparta SC of Richardson and became Director of Coaching when he resigned. We were able to field teams in the Dallas Cup the ensuing years and hosted teams from France, Germany, and Uruguay.

The "Cup" became truly the standard for youth teams around the World.

One year I even had the pleasure to assist a team from my home country Trinidad.

I also got to watch my youngest son play in The Cup with Storm 74 coached by Hassan Nazari in U16 and we hosted a team from Latvia. The two Boys we kept were a delight to have. The friendships we've made and the memories will not be traded for anything. I am proud to have witnessed Real Madrid with Raul, Taihuichi, West Ham, USA Youth teams, to name a few along with Dallas Comets, Texas Longhorns,and recently Solar SC and Dallas Texans.

I will always promote your fine tournament and organization and I have never missed one since 1984.

Added 4-10-04

Brian Christie Aberdeen, Scotland Referee 1992

Comments:

Being involved with Dallas Cup over the last 12 years as it has been a great learning experience, it has allowed me to referee different teams from all around the world and have formed many friends from around the world.

Jay Fitzgerald Ft Worth, TX Arlington Chargers 1989

Comments:

I played in 3 consecutive Dallas Cups (X-XII). During Dallas Cup X, I played with the Arlington Chargers and then with the Texas Longhorns '73 for Cups XI and XII. It was great experience for myself, my team, and the soccer community of Dallas. I look forward to the event every year and and glad to see the field get stronger each year. We have 2 teams from our club, the DFW Tejanos Soccer Club, in the event this year and they have done quite well in the U12 and U19 age brackets. I am currently the DOC for the Girls Division of the DFW Tejanos which is based in Tarrant County

Ray McNab Aberdeen, Scotland Referee 1992

Comments:

Its like coming over to see my second family. Wonderful hospitality.

William Young Aberdeen, Scotland Referee 2000

Comments:

Meeting so many friendly people in Dallas. The home stay program allows us to meet new friends.

Tammie Smith Collinsville, TX Texas Spirit 71 1987

Comments:

EASTER!!!!!!!! To me Easter was not to hunt Easter eggs, it was to play in the Dallas Cup. We got to meet so many other girls from other countries, that it was quite an experience and I meet some great friends. My best wishes to all players and Good Luck. This was such an honor to be included in, I can't believe there are not more girls in the alumni. I now have a daughter of my own just starting competitive soccer, and I can only hope that she too gets to experience the life I did in the soccer world.

Abdiel Alvarez Sacramento, CA LaVerne Lasers 1990

Comments:

Driving 18 hours from California in rental vans and participating in the first year of the Group A U19 division. As you know we went on to win the Championship game. It was rewarding to have an opportunity to share these great memories that will last a lifetime with that amazing team. Almost all of the members of that team went on to play collegiate ball at major universities around the country. The exposure they had at the Dallas Cup gave many of these boys that college opportunity. By the way the 18 hour drive home felt like 30 minutes.., we had a blast!

Congratulations to you the Dallas Cup on your 25th anniversary.

The Dallas Cup is truly a first class event!!!! Thanks...

Jamen Amato Pasadena, CA Samba-West Valley 2002

Comments:

Easter Sunday morning winning the U 17 Championship! First US team since CA Flyers years before--1995--a wonderful accomplishment. A great tournament, a fantastic team, and super friends! **End of Article**



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NSL's Steve Schaefer - 2 Dallas Champion
Presentation being made by Ken Dawson, NSL president and coach of the team to 2 time Dallas Cup champion member Steve Schaefer.

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NSL's Paul Murphy v Mexico Nats Dallas

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NSL Selects before Dallas Cup final win

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NSL Selects & Mexico before Dallas final
Big victory for NSL Selects over Mexico National team coming up in the Dallas Cup final.

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NSL captain Gino Ferrin Dallas Cup final

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NSL captain Johnny Caricato Dallas final

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Giants Stadium, New York. NSL UNICEF win

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Dallas Cup champion - Cosimo Commisso

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NSL Selects win Cocoa Expo Cup Florida
Workmanlike 100% performance by the NSL Selects in Florida.

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Good Dallas shot. NSL Selects v. Nigeria
Action personafied pictures with NSL Selects against Nigeria at Dallas Cup.

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Outstanding Brasilian team ready in N.Y.
Solid team from brasil who won the UNICEF U19 age group at Giants stadium. NSL Selects won the U17 UNICEF cup just hours after the Brasilians did.

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Bill Johnstone. NSL Selects U16 coach
Hardworking coach and NSL VP.

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Bermuda and then Mexico City
Nice places but too political in their dealings with soccer as far as NSL concerned.

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NSL Selects players - Dallas Cup final
Exchanging pins, etc., before the NSL Selects take on and defeat previouasly unbeaten America of Mexico City in the Dallas Cup final.

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Joe Cuttrozolla. a hero in Dallas wins.
Joe Cuttrozolla. Great striker throughout Dallas Cup wins

Presentation made by Ken Dawson, president of the NSL and coach of the team.

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Elmar receives award from NSL
NSL Selects player Elmar Tannis. A hero of Dallas Cups.

Presentation being made by Ken Dawson, NSL president and coach of the team.

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Powerful NSL Selects pose for N Y media
NSL Selects at Giants Stadium in New York after victory


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NSL Selects ready to face Mexico's best
Dallas Cup final versus Mexico's National Olympic Team

The NSL Selects proceed to centre field with the National team of Mexico just prior to the start of the Dallas Cup final which was won 1-0 by the NSL Selects.

World famous FIFA referee Abraham Klein of Israel carries the match ball.

Pictures from Dallas Cup games

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Players enjoying themselves

Nigerian player performs spectacular over-head kick

NSL Selects skipper Johnny Caricato proudly lifts Dallas Cup up high to acknowledge the fans after NSL Selects defeat Mexico's National Olympic Team

Dallas Cup pictures

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Nigerian player moves forward during 1/4 final game at Dallas Cup versus NSL Selects.

NSL Selects squad team picture before United States Hall of Fame game versus Hartwick College at Oneonta, New York, USA.

Robert Vallesse turns around to meet his team after slotting home winning goal versus Mexico's National Olympic team in Dallas Cup final at Lake Highlands Stadium, North Dallas, Texas.

Dallas Cup pictures versus Nigeria

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Action picture shows Nigeria strikers leaping high with great determination in an attempt to score.

Nigerian player, under pressure, bringing ball under control

Nigeria and NSL player working hard at Dallas

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Both players in the pictures never take their eyes off the ball.

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Prestigious Championship in New York
NSL Selects prepare to win in Giants Stadium, New York.

The NSL Selects U17 squad are seen in Giants Stadium, New York, 24 hours before they were due to play in the United Nations U.N.I.C.E.F. cup final.
On game day, the squad defeated a USA selection 2-0 and were presented with their medals at half time during the New York Cosmos (NASL) game in front of 38,000 spectators.

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NSL Selects determined to win again
NSL Selects ready to win another Dallas Cup

The NSL Selects U19 squad pose for a picture at the opening ceremonies of the Dallas Cup. The squad had worked hard indoors and outdoors for months and were determined to win the event.
True to their commitment, the team won every game they played in the competition and defeated the National Olympic Team of Mexico 1-0 in the final in front of thousands of spectators.
Another notable conquest for the NSL Selects with the winning shot coming from Oakville resident Robert Vallesse.
Travelling with the official NSL group was Mr. John MacMahon, Director of Player Development for, at that time, the North American Soccer League (NASL) team the Toronto Blizzard. No less than 5 of the NSL Selects team was drafted by the NASL team.

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NSL Selects U19 defeat America (Mexico)
NSL Selects defeat America (Mexico) Dallas Cup Final

NSL Selects celebrate Dallas Cup championship win over professional Club America of Mexico City.

Played before several thousands of spectators at Lake Highlands Stadium, and with world famous FIFA referee Abraham Klein as a linesman, the NSL Selects excited the large crowd with a 89th minute winning goal from Elmar Tannis after receiving a through pass from defender Marco Dimonte and carrying the ball some 20 yards before unleashing an unstoppable shot from the edge of the Mexican penalty area. The spectators went wild with excitement as the NSL recovered from being a goal down early in the second half to win the Championship 2-1.
Many of the NSL Selects team were awarded full athletic scholarships at famous universities such as Maryland and Syracuse. These scholarships were already achieved by separate means before playing in the Dallas Cup.

   
NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE SELECTS, TORONTO, CANADA
NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE SELECTS, TORONTO, CANADA
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