Thank You

I want to thank all of you who have joined us this past season on "Coach D's Blog", and wish you a very happy holiday season. I will publish occasionally during the off season, to keep you up to date on any LMSAA info, as well as the LM indoor & summer league happenings, and start up again in earnest next fall for the 2010 Aces soccer season.

I would also like to welcome our newest class of LM Soccer Alumni (listed below), who will graduate this coming June, 2010. We all wish you the very best next year, and hope you get a chance to come out and join us at one of our future LMSAA functions.

Julien Aoyama
Alex Cope
Jonny Dolezal
Sam Gross
Izzy Nunez
Ben Sataloff
Momadu Sluwar
Max Tassano
Tusia Tamir

End of a Decade - Let's Compare

30's -- 95-33-21 -- 5 League Titles

40's -- 113-34-21 -- 7 League Titles

50's -- 113-25-28 -- 4 League Titles, 2 District Titles

60's -- 108-25-10 -- 6 League Titles, 2 District Titles, 1 Inter-Dist. Title

70's -- 43-65-26 -- 0 League Titles

80's -- 136-43-37 -- 4 League Titles, 1 District Title, 1 State Title

90's -- 109-69-24 -- 1 League Title

00's -- 122-50-23 -- 4 League Titles

2009 PIAA State Playoffs Final

Last Saturday night in Hershey, District 12 (comprised of the Philadelphia Public & Catholic leagues) champion Father Judge and District 3 champion Lower Dauphin played to a 0-0 tie, thru regulation & 2 overtimes. As the PIAA rules dictate, the 2 teams were declared state co-champions, as a state championship game is not allowed to be determined by penalty kicks. The last time this happened was in 2001.

LM Boy's Soccer Team Records

Best Overall Record:

22-1-5 (1987)






Best League Record:

8-0-0 ('63, '64, '65)




Most Overall Wins in a Season:

22 (1987)





Most Wins in a Regular Season:

16 (1989)





Most Playoff Wins in a Season:

8 (1988)





Fewest Losses in a Season (no picture shown here):

1 ('33, '43,'44, '50, '59, '64, '65, '67, '68, & '87)



Most Overall Shutouts in a Season:

17 (1988)






Most Shutouts in a regular Season:

12 (2008 shown here + '89)





Most Consecutive Shutouts:

7 (1989 shown here, & '44)





Fewest Goals Allowed in a Season:

5, (.31 per game, 1944)





Most Goals Scored in a Season:

97 (1965)








Best District One Finish:

1st, (2007 shown here, + '54
'58, '65, '68, '& '88)




Best State Finish:

1st (1987)

State Playoff Update

In the PIAA State quarterfinals, District 1 would lose one team, and another would keep going. Central Bucks East lost a 1-0 heartbreaker to District 12 champion Father Judge, while Unionville beat District Three's 2nd seed Red Land 3-1. In the state semifinals last night, played at Harriton High School, Father Judge beat Unionville 2-1 in double overtime, and moved on to the PA State Final against District 3 champion Central Dauphin. It would be the 1st time in the last 9 years that District One did not have a team in the state final game.

Amazing Defensive School Record

Today's posting will be honoring the 1944 LM soccer team. Besides winning the Suburban One league championship, this Aces squad also went undefeated & unscored upon in league play. But, the most amazing thing about this team, was their defensive domination. After beating Haverford School & Central 4-1 and 5-1 respectively in their first 2 games, only one team scored against them in their last 14 games. That equates to 13 shutouts in 14 games. Their goals against average was .31 per game, and still stands (65 years later) as an LM boy's soccer team record.

Congratulations to all the fine soccer players on that record breaking team.

Faces Behind LM's Individual Soccer Records

Most Goals Scored in a Single Game



6 - Arthur Campbell 1941









6 - Walter Lownes 1943





Most Goals Scored in a Season


31 - Steve Davidson 1965




Most Goals Scored in a Career


64 - Steve Davidson '63, '64, '65




Most Shutouts in a Season




16 - Jason DiLullo 1988





Most Shutouts in a Career





34 - Drew Cotler '03, '04, '05, '06







Most Games Played in a Career






81 - Chris Schreiner '86, '87, '88

PIAA State Playoffs & Honors

After the 1st round of the PIAA State Playoffs, just two of the four District 1 boy's soccer teams remain. Central Bucks East defeated District 11 champion Stroudsburg 2-0, while Unionville beat District 12 runner-up Washington 1-0 in the 2nd overtime.

Downingtown West lost 2-1 to District 12 champion Father Judge, and Souderton lost to District 3 champion Central Dauphin 2-0.

LM's All-Central League boy's soccer team selections:
1st Team - Sr. Jonny Dolezal & Sr. Jordan Wolf
2nd Team - Sr. Jack Van Adelsberg, Sr. Julien Aoyama, & Sr. Momadu Sluwar
HM - Jr. David Rosenfeld

2009 LM Boy's Soccer Hall of Fame Inductees

John Wynn ‘45

John played defense (left fullback in those days) for the Aces, and was a 3-year starter in ’42, ’43, & ’44. During that time his teams won the Suburban One soccer league title all 3 years, compiling a total record of 35-6-5. In his senior year John was chosen captain of his team, picked for the All-Suburban league 1st team, as well as being named to the All-Scholastic team. Also, in that ’44 season, John, along with his teammates, only allowed 5 goals the entire season (still sharing an LM team record with the ’67 team), including going unscored upon in league play.

After the ’44 season, John played for the American Reserves/Hosiery club team, until he entered Lafayette College in the fall of ’45. At that time, because of World War II, Lafayette had temporarily dropped the men’s soccer program. Undeterred, John asked for a key to the uniform bin, recruited players from around campus, and temporarily reinstated the program for a 4 game season.

After that season John went into the service for a year and a half, during which time Lafayette hired a new soccer coach to keep the program going. When John came back, he was named the co-captain of the team, and in his senior year was chosen to the All-America 2nd team, and awarded one of the first “Hurlbert Awards” at Lafayette.

After college John joined the Germantown Cricket Club team, who dominated the league for years, and who played one year in an international tournament in Bermuda. After 5 years he joined the Merion Cricket Club team, became chairman of soccer, and established an area youth soccer program for boys & girls. In 1968, John started the first junior boy’s club soccer team in Lower Merion, and in 1972 did the same for the girls. He coached youth soccer for 15 years, and was awarded the “Pioneer Award” by the Delco Soccer League. John continued to play in the Cricket Club League until he was 45, and was a big international soccer fan, going to the World Cup in France in 1998. And in the early 60’s, when the US women’s team was in it’s infancy, he saw them play their 1st international match against China at the UGH field in Neshaminy.



Doug Brown '76

Doug was a 3-year starter for Lower Merion from 1973-1975. As a sophmore forward he earned All-League recognition. Doug moved up to midfield as a junior, and, scheduled to be the go to guy in the middle for the Aces, he sustained broken bones in his right foot in the first game of the season. Despite playing hurt the entire season, he still managed good numbers and helped keep LM in every game. As a healthy senior co-captain, he led the Aces to their first winning seasons in several years, and was named 1st team All-Central League. He was also named to the All-District team, and chosen MVP of his Aces team.

Doug won a total of 5 varsity letters while at LM, and, as a senior, he won the Dave Erickson Outstanding Player award as the 3rd baseman for the LM baseball team.

After Lower Merion, Doug was a 4-year varsity starter at center midfield for Moravian College’s men’s soccer team. In a distinguished career, the Moravian team went 38-16-9, was often nationally ranked, and played in the post-season playoffs in 3 of his 4 years. Over his college career he accumulated 30 goals and 15 assists, playing out of the midfield. In both his junior & senior seasons he was chosen 1st-team All-Middle Atlantic Conference, as well as also being named conference MVP both years. As a senior co-captain, Doug was named NCAA Player of the Week during the season, and achieved 1st-team All-America status.

During both his high school & college careers, he served as a coach & referee in the LM recreation youth soccer association, assisted numerous clinics, and coached for the Middle States Soccer Camp at Ursinus College. He was also the associate director for the Bethlehem recreation department’s Soccer-at-Night program for disadvantaged children.

Doug has worked and served for the past 20 years in public school, university, and college dining services, winning numerous achievement awards. He is currently the Senior Regional Director for a nationwide dining service contractor, and lives in Overland Park, Kansas, with his wife Joanne. They have 4 grown children living in various cities in the eastern United States.

Playoff Update

In the District 1 final, 4th seeded Unionville overpowered 7th seed Downingtown West 3-0, to capture the District 1 Championship. Unionville will next face Public League champion George Washington in the 1st round of the state playoffs, while Downingtown West takes on District 12's top seed, Father Judge.

In the District 1 3rd place game, Central Bucks East got two 2nd half goals to beat Souderton 2-0. Both these teams also advance to the state playoffs, against an opponent still to be announced.

This year's inductees into the LM Boy's Soccer Hall of Fame will be announced here on "Coach D's Blog" sometime in the next several days.

A Look Back

First, the scores from last night's District One semi-finals;
Downingtown West 3-0 over Souderton
Unionville 1-0 in OT over Central Bucks East
Downingtown will play Unionville Saturday night for the District One Title, while Souderton takes on C.B. East in the 3rd place game. All 4 teams advance to the PIAA State Playoffs.

The 2009 LM boy’s varsity soccer season is now in the books, so lets take one more look back. I know every one of the coaches & players are disappointed they’re still not playing, but the team’s accomplishments were many.

* They compiled an overall record of 17-2-1, with a 64-11 goal differential and 12 shutouts.

* They won the Central League Championship for the 3rd year in a row, and in the 43-year history of the league, an Aces boy’s soccer team has only done this once before, winning the title in ’84, ’85, ’86, & ’87.

* They beat a nationally ranked team, a 3-2 win against St. Benedict’s Prep in the last regular season game of the season.

* And, they accomplished all this after graduating 12 seniors (including 9-10 starters) from last year’s team.

* Looking ahead, the Aces will graduate 11 seniors, including 7 starters, but return 10 juniors, 3 sophmores, and 1 freshman.

Blast from the Past, 1987

The 1987 LM Aces boy’s soccer team holds the distinction of being the first Aces athletic team, in any sport, to win an official PIAA State Championship. And, to this day, they remain the only LM soccer team to have won the State Crown.

Despite a gaudy 22-1-5 final record, still the most wins in a single season in LM boy’s soccer history, it wasn’t until the last Central League game of the season, against undefeated, and nationally ranked Strath Haven, that this Aces team secured their District 1 playoff berth. Win, and they would share the league title with Haven at 8-1-1, lose, and they would drop to 5th place, at 7-2-1, and their season would be over. That's how tight the first 5 teams in the Central League were. LM scored in the first 5 minutes of the game, and made it hold up for a very tense, and deliciously rewarding, 1-0 victory.

In the District 1 Playoffs the Aces had to settle for a 3rd place finish, losing in the semi-finals on penalty kicks to Central Bucks East, and was forced to watch while archrival Strath Haven beat C.B. East in the finals to win the District One Crown. LM, playing as District One's 3rd seed (they beat Downingtown 2-1 in the District One 3rd place game) then won their first two State Playoff games to set up a rematch with archrival Strath Haven in the State semi-finals. Haven was also the defending State Champion, and it promised to be quite a game.

Played in Lebanon, in front of a huge crowd, and in windy snowy conditions, the first half saw Haven strike first, with the Aces tieing it up just minutes later. It was a hard-nosed physical game, between 2 teams that respected, but didn’t particularly care much for each other. There would be no more scoring in regulation, or overtime, and the victor would have to be decided by penalty kicks. With each team converting on 3 of their first 4 kicks, it would come down to each team’s high scorer, both chosen high school All-Americans that year; the Aces Drew Misher and Strath Haven’s Jason Luzak. Misher went 1st, and, after already having scored a PK during the game, again buried his shot in the upper left corner. Luzak was next, and even though Aces keeper Jason DiLullo got a piece of the ball, it still found the net, and it would be on to sudden-death PK’s. First up was LM's junior defenseman Andrew Sherman. As the Panther keeper dove left, Sherman’s kick found the right side of the net, and the pressure was back on Haven. DiLullo made a brilliant save on Haven’s attempt, and the Aces would advance to the State final against District 7 champion Fox Chapel.

This time the Aces got on the board early, which was the 1st goal allowed by Fox Chapel in their 8 playoff games. However, later in the 1st half the Foxes tied it up, and then the defenses took over. There was no more scoring in regulation, but in the 1st overtime LM was awarded a penalty kick, as midfielder David Alten was pulled down in the box. Up stepped Drew Misher, and he drilled it top left, his favorite spot, and the Aces captured the PIAA State Title.

Two of the tri-captains, Drew Misher & Matt Fine would be chosen to the All-Central League 1st team, with the other, Greg Knepper, along with David Alten, would be 2nd team picks. Misher was also tapped for All-State and High School All-America honors, the first ever from LM.

Blast from the Past, The 70's

During the 70’s, in the infancy of the Central League, the LM boy’s soccer team did not win any championships, but they did have many outstanding soccer players come through the system. The 4 listed below are just a few.

1. Larry Wean ’72 – Larry was a 3-year starter for the Aces, and made 1st team All-Central League in both ’70 & ’71. He was one of the 1st players to make the “long throw-in” an offensive weapon. Had he not concentrated on basketball (he went on to play for Penn), who knows how good a soccer player he would have become.

2. Doug Brown ’76 – Doug was a 3-year starter for LM, and was 1st team All-Central League in ’75 (he was injured the majority of his junior year). He was also the team’s captain and league MVP in his senior year. He went on to be a 4-year starter at Moravian College, and was chosen as the conference’s MVP in both his junior and senior years.

3. Oleh Hnatiuk ’77 – Oleh was also a 3-year starter for the Aces as their goalkeeper, which was very hard to do back in those days. As a senior he was a co-captain, and a 1st team All-Central League selection. During that senior season, despite the fact that his team only scored 8 goals, his goals against average was less than 1 per game.

4. Bill Farquhar ’77 – Bill was another 3-year starter in ’74, ’75, & ’76, and was 1st team All-Central League as a junior & senior. His strengths were his superior soccer skills and incredible fitness level.

A Little Bit of Everything

This morning the Aces took on Downingtown West, with a spot in the District 1 Final Four, and PIAA State Playoffs on the line. The Whippets had some early field advantage, but could not generate much offense, other than off restarts. For the 2nd straight game, LM's first touch was a little off, but they made up for it with great hustle. They did have a few scoring chances, but couldn't capitalize, and the 1st half ended 0-0. Ten minutes into the 2nd half the Aces were awarded a penalty kick, but shot wide right. The momentum switched right over to Downingtown, and with less than 18 minutes remaining, the Whippets took a 1-0 lead, coming from a mis-played ball in the Aces box. For the next 17 minutes the LM players took it up a notch, getting numerous opportunities to tie the game, but couldn't solve the Whippet's keeper. Then, with 7 seconds left in the game, the Aces were awarded a free kick from about 45 yards out. Senior Jonny Dolezal, pushing up from his regular sweeper spot, pounced on a rebound and with only 1.3 seconds showing on the game clock LM had tied it up. Amazing.

Two 15 mnitues sudden-death overtime periods would be played, with the Aces riding high on momentum. Depite LM controlling most of the 1st overtime period, and getting a couple of real good scoring chances, the game remained tied. Midway through the 2nd overtime period, Aces senior Israel Nunoz made a fine move on the baseline and centered the ball to an unmarked Max Tassano in front of the net. Tassano couldn't find the handle in time and the ball was shot just wide. The game, and LM's season, would be decided by penalty kicks.

Last year the Aces lost in the District 1 semi-finals, and in the PIAA State quarter-finals, both on penalty kicks. Lets hope it would be different today. Downingtown went first, and converted on their first 3 kicks, with Aces keeper Jack Van Adelsberg just getting a piece of the 3rd one. LM followed suit, as seniors Jordan Wolf, Max Tassano, and Jonny Dolezal also converted, and it was 3-3 with 2 kickers left. The Whippets scored again on their 4th kick, and then their keeper made a beautiful save on Aces junior David Rosenfeld, so it was 4-3 Downingtown with 1 kicker remaining. Downingtown converted their last kick, and LM would go down again on penalty kicks, and end their season. A very tough way to lose.

More blog tomorrow.

Playoff Match-ups

The Aces take their 17-2 record, the #2 seed, and an 8-game winning streak, into tomorrow’s quarter-final showdown with defending PIAA State Champion, and #7 seed, Downingtown West. The winner will advance into the District 1 semi-finals next Wednesday night (at a site & time to be announced), and play the winner of the Pennridge (#19 seed) vs. Souderton (#6 seed) game. All 4 District 1 AAA teams making the semi-finals will automatically move on to the PIAA State Playoffs.

One of the surprises of the District 1 playoffs so far has been the play of #19 seed Pennridge (who the Aces beat 3-1 early on in the season), who has knocked off #14 seed West Chester Henderson 2-0, and then #3 seed Council Rock North on penalty kicks. The other surprise is #17 seed William Tennent, who first beat #16 seed Downingtown East 3-2, and then upset #1 seed, and tournament favorite, Pennsbury 1-0.

The 4 quarter-final match-ups tomorrow are as follows:

#17 William Tennent at #8 Central Bucks East

#5 Strath Haven at #4 Unionville

* The 2 winners will play each other in one semi-final
____________________

#7 Downingtown West at #2 Lower Merion

#19 Pennridge at #6 Souderton

* The 2 winners will play each other in the other semi-final

Blast from the Past, 1965

The 1965 LM Aces boy’s soccer team could very well be the most dominant team in Aces soccer history. Coming off back-to-back league titles in ’63 & ‘64, the 1965 team was returning many key players from a ’64 team who outscored their opponents 60-6 (an exceptional season in their own right), including their high scorer Steve Davidson.

Davidson, whose 31 goals in a season and 64 career goals still stand as school records for boy’s soccer, captained this explosive team. They also had many other scoring threats in Mark Rash (22 goals), Bill Trimpi, Bill Furber, David Kobinsky, Mike Ross, & Jay Pillard. The ’65 Aces also boasted the best starting midfield line in the district in Jack Pennypacker, Paul Ferst, and Ken Becker. Defensive backs Steve Aichelle and Grover Thompson, along with Jay Littlewood, Steve Mygatt, and standout goalkeeper Toby Pyle, helped record 13 shutouts in 18 games.

After winning the tough Suburban 1 league, and finishing the regular season unblemished with a perfect 14-0 record, the ’65 LM team dominated the first 2 rounds of the District 1 playoffs, pummeling Woodrow Wilson 5-0 in the quarter-finals, and destroying Central Bucks 6-0 in the semi-finals. In the Championship game they took on powerful West Chester, and after regulation & overtime, with the score still tied 1-1, the Aces were awarded the victory, based on a substantial corner kick edge (there was no penalty kick shootout in those days). This victory gave them an invite to the Inter-District game against District 3’s Garden Spot. Playing on a sloppy field at West Chester University, Garden Spot capitalized on a defensive mistake late in the game, and won 1-0, spoiling the ’65 Aces perfect season.

The final stats are mind-blowing, starting with an 8-0 league record and a 17-1 overall record. The offense scored an unbelievable 66 goals in their first 12 games (finishing with 97 for the season), while the defense, in those same first 12 games, recorded 10 shutouts finishing with 13 in all). The closest any other LM team has come to matching their goal total was in 1992, when that team scored 78 goals, and they even played 2 more games. The ’65 Aces also placed a record 7 players on the All-League team; Davidson, Ferst, Trimpi, Rash, Pennypacker, Becker, and Pyle. Davidson & Becker were also picked as All-Scholastic selections.

Playoff Opener

The Aces took on #18 seed Great Valley this afternoon in the 2nd round of the District 1 AAA boy's soccer playoffs. LM welcomed back Michael Lemonick to their starting lineup, after a broken tibia sidelined the junior defenseman almost the entire season, and he would make his presence felt. In the 1st half, the Aces showed some rust from their 10 day layoff, as their usual good first touch and passing game was a little off.

However, with Lemonick's physical play in the back, and co-captain Jonny Dolezal controlling everything else, Great Valley could generate little offense, and the half ended 0-0. Nine minutes into the 2nd half the Aces finally got on the board. Senior Julien Aoyama took a long corner kick from junior David Rosenfeld and ripped a bullit past the helpless Valley keeper. With senior goalkeeper Jack Van Adelsberg playing another solid game in the net, that goal appeared to be enough. Lemonick didn't think so, and with less than 4 minutes remaining he scored on a nice header to ice things up, and the 2-0 win moved the Aces through to the quarter-finals.

This Saturday, on the turf at Arnold Field, LM will play the winner of tonight's game between defending state champion Downingtown West (seeded 7th) and Upper Darby (a dangerous team the Aces beat during the season by a slim 1-0 margin). Gametime will be announced later.

Playoff Opponent Set

Last night #18 seed Great Valley beat #15 seed North Penn 1-0 in OT, so LM will host Great Valley on Thursday, at 3 PM. For all the District 1 playoff results go to:

www.district-one.net/brackets/boyssoccerAAA.htm

Blast from the Past, 1958

1958 was a very unique year for the LM boy's soccer program. The season before, the ’57 Aces went 14-3 and finished 2nd behind Upper Darby in the Suburban One soccer league. Slated to return most of the starters for the 1958 season, Harriton High School opened that summer and absorbed many of the Aces top players.

Despite this setback, Bob Hill’s talented team, co-captained by forwards John Fish & Ed Packel, went 11-1-1 in the powerful Suburban One league and captured the league crown. Fish (11 goals) and Packel (15 goals) provided the scoring, while Jay Ammon, Harry Hasson and junior keeper Stu Ross anchored the defense. The team went on to capture LM’s 2nd District One title in 5 years. Other members of this powerful squad were; forward Ray Truex, John Bernard, George Hofstetter, Ron Tobin & Bill Strong. Packel, Fish & Hasson all were elected to the All-League 1st team. In the District playoffs the Aces beat Unionville 2-1, before falling to Pequea Valley 1-0 in the District final.

Meanwhile, that 1st year Harriton squad finished with a 6-5-3 mark in the same Suburban One league, and between them, LM & Harriton placed 10 players on the All-League 1st & 2nd teams (then called All-Suburban).

On Friday, "Blast from the Past" will highlight one of the most dominant teams in LM Soccer history, the 1965 squad.

District 1 Playoffs Begin

After a week off, the Aces are ready to begin the 2009 "AAA" District 1 Playoffs. As expected, LM drew the #2 seed in the 27 team tournament, right behind #1 Pennsbury. The top 5 seeds receive byes in tomorrow night's 1st round, so the Aces will begin play on Thursday, on the turf at Arnold Field, beginning at 3 PM. Their opponent will be the winner of tomorrow's 1st round match-up between #15 seed North Penn and #18 seed Great Valley.

Other Central League teams making the "AAA" District 1 Playoffs include #5 seed Strath Haven, #10 seed Upper Darby, #12 seed Conestoga, and #26 seed Penncrest (riding the wave of their last week 2-1 upset win over Strath Haven).

In the 5-team "AA" District 1 Playoffs (for mid-size schools), #4 seed Springfield, of the Central League, takes on #5 seed Holy Ghost Prep. No Central League teams are small enough to qualify for the 7-team "A" District 1 Playoffs (for small schools).

LM wins 3rd Central League Title in a row

Yesterday Strath Haven made up their rained out game with Penncrest from last week. Penncrest came out pumped and defeated the Panthers 2-1 (9-1-1 league), handing the 2009 Central League Championship to the Aces (10-1 league). This is the first time that LM has won the Central League Title 3 years in a row since the mid-80's, when they won it in '84, '85, '86, & '87.

A great achievement by all the Aces coaches and players.

Now it's time for the Aces to take their #2 Inquirer soccer poll ranking into the District One playoffs, with the 1st round games beginning next Tuesday, October 27th. The seeding committee meets this Sunday afternoon to determine the seeding order, where the top 5 seeds receive 1st round byes. LM will probably be seeded #2, right behind Pennsbury. With a bye, LM will host a 2nd round game on Thursday, October 29th. All the playoff info will be posted here as soon as it becomes available.

Blast from the Past, 1954

The 1954 Aces, coached by Bob Hill and co-captained by Jack Robb & J. Piercy, were the winners of the very first official District One Championship playoff game, and also represented District One in the very first Inter-District playoff game against the District Three Champion. At the time, these 2 districts were the best in the state, so everyone considered this Inter-District playoff game the “State Championship”.

With most of the scoring coming from All-League forwards Bob Kessler (also chosen to the All-Scholastic Team, which was another name for All-State) & Tom Miller, and the defense boasting 2 more All-League selections in Dave Buten & Don Dougald, LM easily won the Suburban One League title with a 7-1-0 record. Haverford & Upper Darby were tied for 2nd place, with Abington 4th & Cheltenham 5th. The Aces regular season record was 10-2-3, with an early season loss to then powerhouse North Catholic 3-1, and an 1-0 upset defeat at the hands of Haverford High. The offense scored 32 goals, while the defense allowed just 16 (with 8 shutouts, including 5 in a row).

In the Distrcit One Championship game the Aces took down Bethlehem Liberty 3-1. Not knowing what to expect in the very first Inter-District playoff game, LM showed up with their usual 20-man squad, 2 coaches, and about 20-30 parents, students, & Aces fans. Their District Three opponent, North Lebanon, arrived with a band, cheerleaders, and over half the student body. It must have paid off as LM went down 4-1.

Playoff History

LM's only PIAA "AAA" State Champion, the 1987 Aces
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Since the 2013 District One boy's soccer playoffs are getting ready to start next Tuesday, let's look back at when they began, and how they developed.

The District One Boy's Soccer Playoffs began in 1954, when the powers to be decided it would be nice to follow basketball's lead and add a post season to the schedule. It was agreed on that the 2 best teams in the district (determined by record and strength of league) would play a single game to earn the title of District One Champion. The Lower Merion Aces beat Bethlehem Liberty 3-1 in this historic game.

The playoff field was then expanded to 4 teams in 1962, and then to 8 in 1965. In 1973 they expanded once again, with each league champion taking part, along with several more teams from the stronger leagues. The match-ups were determined before the season began, i.e. Central League 1st place vs. Suburban One 2nd place, Del-Val 1st place vs. Chesmont 2nd place, etc.

In the early-80's District One created 3 playoff classes, each playing for their own district championship; AAA (large schools), AA (midsize schools), and A (small schools). In the mid-90's a seeding committee was formed, with each league getting representation, and the teams were seeded by record, league standing, and strength of schedule. Now, in the upcoming 2013 AAA District One Playoffs, there are 28 teams vying for the coveted title.

Below is the link to the District 1 Playoff brackets, with dates & other info. The brackets will be blank until this Sunday evening, when all the seeding has been completed. Then all the playoff teams chosen will be entered according to their seed.

http://www.district-one.net/article/content/2013-piaa-district-one-boys-soccer-aaa-bracket

Regular Season Finale

This afternoon the Aces hosted nationally ranked St. Benedicts Prep. Still stinging from a 1-0 penalty kick loss from last year, LM jumped all over the visitors and held a 3-0 lead at halftime. St. Benedicts came back in the 2nd half, showing why they deserve their ranking, but it was too little too late, as the Aces held on for a 3-2 victory. This win should secure a very high seeding in the District One playoffs for LM, and a 1st round bye.

The seeding meeting will take place this Sunday, with the 1st round of district playoff games beginning on Tuesday, October 27th.

Also today, the 5th annual Steve Fountain Memorial Golf Tournament was held at beautiful Hartefeld National Golf Club. The event was well attended, fully sponsored, and a great success. We thank all of you who sent in donations, or sponsored a hole.

Blast from the Past, 1942

From time to time I'm going to be highlighting different teams, and players, from years gone by. I want to make this a weekly feature here on "Coach D's Blog", so current and future players can get a feel of the history behind this great program. This week our subject will be the 1942 squad, coached by LM Soccer Hall of Famer Robert Hill. This team started a string of 7 straight league titles for the Aces, prompting several players from this team to later proclaim, "We taught coach Hill how to win".

The team was led by captain Art Campbell and high-scorer Walt Lownes. Both of these players still share the LM record for scoring the most goals in a single game (6). Making up the backbone of the team were; goalkeeper Jeff Shorts, midfielder (then called halfback) Bob Narrigan, fowards Harry Olson & Frank Zinni, and defender (then called fullback) Bill Sapp.

The league they were in at that time was called the Suburban One League, and was comprised of the 4 biggest public schools in District One; LM, Abington, Upper Darby, and Haverford High. The Aces finished at the top with a 5-1 record (as they played each team twice), with the next closest team, Abington, at 2-2-2. LM's schedule that year looked like this, with the score of the game in ( ); Central (4-1), Haverford School (1-3), West Philadelphia (2-1), Abington (4-1), Episcopal (0-2), Upper Darby (2-0), Frankford (3-2), Haverford High (1-0), Hill School (0-4), Abington (5-3), Friends Select (1-0), Upper Darby (2-0), Haverford High (1-2), and Germantown (2-0). Their final record was 10-4, and there was no postseason, as the district playoffs did not begin until 1954.

Beat your Sister

The Aces played sister high school Harriton last night, before a big crowd from both schools. Even though LM was a heavy favorite on paper, with the pride of the school district on the line you can throw out the records & rankings, as most of you alumni reading this are very aware of. The game played out exactly this way for 75 minutes, as neither team could put one home. But, with under 5 minutes remaining, senior co-captain Jordan Wolf hit a rocket past the helpless Ram's keeper, and the Aces pulled out a hard fought 1-0 victory. Also last night Strath Haven squeaked by Radnor 1-0, and with 1 league game to go on Thursday, Haven (9-0-1 league) kept their slim lead over LM (9-1-0 league).

Gamers

Here are a few of the LM Soccer Alumni who represented us this year against Radnor. (left to right) Sherlock Griffith, Tim Lord, Juan Munoz, Bob Davidson, David Bloovman, John Howard, Luke Coyle, Bill Winterle, Bart Brenner, (kneeling, left to right) Harry Olson, David Greenhalgh

Last Week

On Saturday morning, in the rain, the LM Alumni team took on the Radnor over-40 club team for the 2nd straight year. Playing for the Alumni Aces were; Sherlock Griffith '73, Bill Winterle '81, Bart Brenner '83, Greg Knepper '88, Chris Schreiner '89, John Howard '91, 'David Bloovman '97, Juan Munoz '98, Tim Lord '99, Chris Mandarino '99, Luke Coyle '00, and Dave Greenhalgh '05. Radnor got 2 goals in the 1st half on quick counters, and added 2 more in the 2nd half, including one coming from a brilliant bicycle kick. LM had their chances but couldn't capitalize, and went down for the 2nd straight year. A good time was had by all.

Following the Alumni Game the current Aces took apart Interboro 8-1 in a non-league contest. LM next will play at Harriton on Tuesday night, at 7 PM. We hope a lot of you local LM Soccer Alumni can come out and join us in the stands to help cheer on the '09 Aces to another win. On Thursday the Aces host Garnet Valley at 3:45 PM in their final Central League game. Should LM win both games, they would need Strath Haven to tie or lose 1 of their last 2 games to win their 3rd straight Central League crown.

On Monday, October 19th, the 5th Annual Steve Fountain Memorial Golf Tournament will be held at Hartefeld National Golf Club in Avondale. Those who are interested in playing a wonderful golf course, for a great cause, can sign up here on the LM Soccer website. Just click on "Alumni Golf Tournament Info" on the homepage.

Winding Down

In Tuesday’s game with Penncrest, the Lions scored in the first 3 minutes of the game, but it was nothing more than a wake up call for the Aces offense. It didn’t take long for LM to tie it up when senior Julien Aoyama scored on a brilliant header, coming from a Jordan Wolf free kick. A little later Wolf set up senior Max Tassano for LM’s 2nd goal. Right before halftime it was Tassano again, this time coming from a David Rosenfeld corner kick. The Aces scored 2 more in the 2nd half, and this 5-1 victory moved their league record to 7-1. In another key Central League match-up, Strath Haven & Upper Darby played to a scoreless tie, keeping the Panthers in 1st place with an 7-0-1 league mark to LM’s 7-1.

A day after finding out they dropped to #5 in the Inquirer high school boy’s soccer poll, the Aces traveled to Marple for an important Central League contest. Marple played a tenacious game against the superior skilled Aces, hounding the LM offense throughout the game. But the Aces picked up a goal in each half to register their 9th shutout of the season, and took their overall record to 11-2. Tonight Strath Haven beat Conestoga 1-0 to stay on top of the Central League race with LM with just 2 league games remaining.

Don’t forget, Saturday is the “Alumni Game”, on the turf at Arnold Field, so come on out and join us. For those who are planning to play, please arrive no later than 9:15 AM. Kick off will be at 10 AM sharp. After the game lunch will be provided for all LM Soccer Alumni.

Getting Closer

Penncrest scored in the first 3 minutes of the game today, but it was nothing more than a wake up call for the Aces offense. It didn’t take long for LM to tie it up when senior Julien Aoyama scored on a brilliant header, coming from a Jordan Wolf free kick. A little later Wolf set up senior Max Tassano for LM’s 2nd goal. Right before halftime it was Tassano again, this time coming from a David Rosenfeld corner kick. The Aces scored 2 more in the 2nd half, and this 5-1 victory moved their league record to 7-1.

In another key Central League match-up, Strath Haven & Upper Darby played to a scoreless tie, keeping the Panthers in 1st place with an 7-0-1 league mark. Haven has another tough league contest coming up Thursday with Conestoga. Should they tie or lose, and the Aces win their last 3 league games, LM would win the Central League for the 3rd straight year, something that hasn't been done since they won in '84, '85, '86' & '87.

Back on Track

After a heartbreaking 1-0 loss Thursday to arch-rival Strath Haven, the Aces bounced back strong this morning with a 5-0 blowout of Methacton, their 8th shutout of the season. LM now stands at 10-2 overall, and 6-1 in league play, with 6 games remaining in the regular season schedule. This coming week has LM hosting Penncrest on Tuesday (3:45 PM), and traveling to Marple on Thursday (3:45 PM), both league games.

This coming Saturday the annual “Alumni Game” will kick off at 10 AM sharp, on the turf at Arnold Field. It will match our LM Alumni squad against a Radnor Alumni Team, followed by lunch, provided for all LMSAA members in attendance (players are asked to arrive at 9:15 AM). At noon, the current Aces will take on Interboro in a non-league contest. We are still looking for more LMSAA players (and supporters) to bolster our LM Soccer Alumni team, so if you’re interested, and already haven’t done so, please email me at: bubdavidson@comcast.net asap. I need to get your jersey size, and compile a final lunch count. We hope you can join us this Saturday.

See-Saw

Both the LM Aces & Strath Haven Panthers came out a little tentatively at the start of this afternoon's showdown, trying to get a feel for the game. LM got a couple of good scoring chances, especially one coming off a free kick by senior Jordan Wolf that hit the crossbar, but could not convert, and after 40 minutes of play it was 0-0. The limited scoring opportunities Haven was getting were coming off free kicks, and it was up to LM to play with discipline and keep them to a minimum. Strath Haven was keeping 4 and 5 players back, and with their passing game a little flat thru the midfield, the Aces tried unsuccessfully to play the ball forward into the offensive third of the field. With under 15 minutes remaining Haven capitalized on one of those free kicks, deep in the LM end, and the Aces were behind for only the 2nd time all season. The Aces turned it up a notch the rest of the way, getting several great scoring opportunities, but could not get the equalizer. This 1-0 loss dropped LM (6-1 league) into 2nd place, behind Strath Haven (7-0 league). If there is a silver lining, it's the fact that the Aces have beaten both the other two league contenders, Upper Darby & Conestoga, and Haven still has to play both of them.

Next up is a non-league contest with Methacton this Saturday morning, October 3rd, at 10 AM, on the turf at Arnold Field.

Haven Match-Up

LM - Ranked #2 in Southeastern PA
SH - Ranked #11
LM - 6-0 League, 9-1 Overall
SH - 6-0 League, 7-1-2 Overall
LM - League goals scored - 21, Allowed - 1
SH - League goals scored - 22, Allowed - 2

The Central League began in 1967, and in the 41 years of league play, LM & SH have combined for 25 Titles (61%).

We hope to have a good LM Soccer Alumni turnout tomorrow afternoon at LM (3:45 PM) to watch these 2 soccer powers play for a leg up on still another Central League Title.

Hell Week

The Aces learned this morning that they were ranked 2nd in this week's Southeastern PA Coaches Pool, right behind #1 Council Rock North. Joining them in the top 12 were 3 other Central League teams; #7 Conestoga, #11 Strath Haven (this Thursday's opponent), and today's opponent #12 Upper Darby, indicating that the Central League, once again, is this strongest soccer league in the state. If that wasn't enough to get the butterflies going for this young LM squad, their starting goalkeeper went home from school today with the flu, while one of their most dangerous scorers would also not be available. Gut check time.

The Upper Darby game was a tale of 2 halves. LM broke out strong in the 1st half, controlling most of play, but failed to score and the half ended 0-0. The Royals, coached by LM Soccer Alum Tom Farr, controlled most of the action in the 2nd half, but strong play by junior goalkeeper Emmett McConnell kept them off the board. Ten minutes into the 2nd half the Aces got a break, and scored off a rebound coming from a long free kick. With senior Momadu Sluwar playing another outstanding game in the back, and senior Jason Wolf leading the way at midfield, LM held on for the 1-0 victory, a game that could have easily gone either way.

With Strath Haven beating Marple, both LM & Haven currently hold perfect 6-0 league records, and will face off this Thursday at LM (3:45 PM) with the Central League Title on the line. For those of you who live in the area, come on out and join us Thursday, as this promises to be another in a long line of classic games against the arch rival Panthers.

We're still looking for more LM Soccer Alumni, especially you younger guys, to come out and join us next Saturday, October 10th, for the annual "Alumni Game". If you can make it, as a player or just a spectator, please email me at: bubdavidson@comcast.net so we can plan to have enough lunches prepared for everyone.

Finally, thanks to those LMSAA members who have begun to send in their $10 dues. This is really important for us to keep this organization operating & continuing to grow. If you haven't sent it in yet, please make the check out to: "LMSAA", and mail it to Jim VanDusen, 800 Maple Glen Lane, Wayne, PA 19087-4727. Thank you all for your continued support of LM Soccer.

Great Week

The Aces stayed unbeaten in Central League play as they defeated an always dangerous Haverford High team yesterday 2-0. Junior defender David Rosenfeld gave LM the lead in the 1st half, and senior midfielder Max Tassano scored on a pretty 19-yard direct kick to ice it in the 2nd. That's more than the Aces defense & goalkeeper Jack Van Adelsberg would need, as they recorded their 6 shutout of the season.

This brings LM's overall record to 8-1, with a perfect 5-0 in league play. Next week's schedule could very well decide the 2009 Central League Champion, as the Aces travel to Upper Darby (4-0-1 league) on Tuesday, and on Thursday host Strath Haven (5-0 league). Both games are at 3:45 PM.

The annual Alumni Game is only 2 weeks from tomorrow, so clear your schedule and come on out and join us. I need to know in advance who will be playing, as every player will receive a jersey. I also need to know our total LMSAA representation, so we can have lunches ready for everyone after the game. If you haven't already done so, email me at bubdavidson@comcast.net if you plan to join us.

Key League Contest

After losing their 1st game to Parkland last Friday, the Aces slipped to 3rd in the Southeastern PA boy's soccer poll, behind #2 North Catholic and #1 Council Rock North. This afternoon LM (6-1-0) took on #8 ranked Conestoga (6-0-1) in a key Central League match-up. It was a very evenly played game for most of the 1st half, until senior Ben Sataloff converted a cross to give the Aces the lead. With senior goalkeeper Jack Van Adelsberg playing very impressively, and senior Momadu Sluwar controlling the defense, that one goal would hold up, and LM remained perfect in league play. On Thursday the Aces will host Haverford High at 3:45 PM, still another important league contest.

The annual Alumni Game is only 2 weeks from this Saturday, and I hope those of you in the area can come out and join the festivities. Please email me at: bubdavidson@comcast.net and let me know your intentions, as we need a player count for jerseys, and a total count for lunches.

Our LMSAA (Lower Merion Soccer Alumni Association) operates on a very small budget, which we use for things like; costs to maintain the website, providing jerseys, lunches, refs, etc. for the Alumni Game, LM Soccer Hall of Fame induction costs, etc. In order to cover these costs, we need to ask all of our members for annual dues of $10. For those wishing to give more it is not required, but certainly much appreciated. Please make your checks out to “LMSAA”, and send them to: Jim Van Dusen (class of '89) at the following address: 800 Marple Glen Lane, Wayne, PA 19087-4727

We thank all of you for the contribution you made, back in your playing days, to help make the LM Soccer program the great success that it is today. And we also greatly appreciate your continued support of Aces soccer.

First Blemish

The Aces traveled to Parkland yesterday to make up the postponed contest from last Saturday. As it turned out, they should have cancelled the game altogether. LM came out flat, and Parkland scored first, on a deflection coming from a corner kick, to take a 1-0 lead. This was only the 3rd goal given up by the Aces defense this season. Senior co-captain Jonny Dolezal tied it up just before halftime, and it looked like LM had a little momentum coming out for the 2nd half. However, 2 more goals by Parkland sealed the deal, and the Aces had their first loss of the season. The only silver lining was that it came against a non-league opponent, and may prove to be a wake-up call for the young LM team.

This coming Tuesday the Aces play their biggest game of the season so far, when they host the undefeated Conestoga Pioneers in a key Central League match-up at 3:45 PM.

Keep those emails coming about joining us at the October 10th Alumni game. I heard from quite a few of you last week and am looking for many more to join us. If you plan to play, or just be a spectator, we would love to see you there. Please email me at: bubdavidson@comcast.net with your intentions. Players, make sure you include your shirt size.

Solid & Consistent

The Aces continued their solid, consistent play last night at Radnor, winning 2-0, recording their 5 shutout in their first 6 games. Not bad for a team who graduated 12 seniors, including 9 starters & 2 High School All-Americans. This keeps LM tied for 1st in the Central League with Strath Haven at 3-0, with Upper Darby & Conestoga, playing to a scoreless tie last night, both at 2-0-1. The 2009 Central League champion certainly will come from one of these 4 teams.

LM's game last Saturday at Parkland, postponed due to rain, has been reschedule for this Friday at 3 PM, followed next Tuesday with a huge Central League contest at home with Conestoga (3:45 PM).

It's good to see the emails coming in from those of you who plan on attending our annual "Alumni Game" on Saturday, October 10th, at 10 AM. Keep them coming, as we would love to get a record turnout. If you plan on playing, or just attending, the "Alumni Game" please email me at: bubdavidson@comcast.net (players make sure you include your shirt size).

Thank you all for your continued support for LM Aces soccer.

Moving Up

With a perfect 5-0 record thus far (2-0 in league play), the LM Aces moved up to #2 in the Southeastern PA Soccer Coaches Association Poll, right behind #1 Pennsbury. Other Central League teams in the top 20 are Conestoga (3-0) at #11 and Upper Darby (4-0) at #13.

LM has a tough match-up with Central League rival Radnor tomorrow night at the Raiders home field (7 PM), followed by an open weekend.

I am starting to get a lot of response for the upcoming annual LM Soccer Alumni game, which will take place on Saturday, October 10th, at 10 AM sharp. If you're interested in attending, either as a player or spectator, please email me at; bubdavidson@comcast.net. It promises to be a great day to dust off the old spikes one more time, renew old acquaintances, and watch the 2009 Aces take on non-league opponent Interboro. Spread the word and let's have a record turnout.

Speaking of renewing old acquaintances, I would like to hear from anyone out there who has an LM Soccer memory to share, and/or an old picture of your LM Soccer days. I'll gladly post these on a regular basis for all of our fellow LMSAA members to see.

Still Perfect

The Aces played their first home game of the young 2009 season this afternoon against Central League opponent Ridley. The offsides trap the Green Raiders employed only seemed to work in their favor for the first 15 minutes of the game, until senior Jordan Wolf got LM on the board. From then on it was all Aces, as Wolf would go on to score a hat trick, senior Momadu Sluwar would add 2 goals of his own, and LM walked away with a 12-0 victory. This kept them a perfect 2-0 in Central League play, and 5-0 overall.

Next on the schedule will be a trip up route 30 to play a tough Radnor squad in a key Central League match up, this Wednesday night at 7 PM.

Alumni Game - October 10th

As I have mentioned before, both on this blog and in the emails, our annual "Alumni Game" will be played on Saturday, October 10th, on the turf at Arnold Field. Game time is 10 AM sharp! As we did last year, our LM Aces alumni team will be playing against a Radnor alumni club team. Last year our LM team was low on numbers, sustained a few sidelining injuries, and wound up on the wrong end of a 4-2 score. We want a little payback this year, so we need a good turnout from our proud LM Aces Alumni players, especially those who have graduated in the last 10 years, who have been conspiciously absent these past several alumni games. As they say, you can't coach youth.

If you plan on playing, please email me at: bubdavidson@comcast.net. We will provide a jersey for all players (include your shirt size in your email) , as well as lunch after the game, so I need an accurate count. For those of you who have played your last game, but would still like to come out and root our LM Aces Alumni team to victory, we would love to have you join the fun. You can also email me as well, and let me know you're coming. Once I begin putting out all the names of who will be there, I'm sure other LM soccer alumni will follow suit.

League Opener

The Aces traveled to Springfield Delco this afternoon for their Central League opener. And it didn't take long for LM to get a wake up call. While they were content taking shots from 25 yards and out, the Cougars capitalized on an Aces defensive mistake and scored on their first, and only, shot of the game. Despite plenty of LM pressure, this 1-0 Springfield lead held up through halftime. The Aces finally got on the board, midway through the 2nd half, to knot the score at 1. Just 5 minutes later senior Julien Aoyama put LM ahead 2-1 with a pretty goal, placed beautifully in the lower right hand corner. With only 8 minutes remaining, senior Momadu Sluwar made it 3-1, to put the game away.

Next up for the Aces is a trip to powerful Parkland on Saturday, followed by their 1st home game of the season on Monday, a 3:45 PM Central League contest with Ridley.

Keep on truckin

In the 1st area polls of the season, the Aces, despite losing 9 starters to graduation, have been shown a lot of respect. The Philadelphia Inquirer has LM ranked 4th, behind #1 Pennsbury, #2 Germantown Academy, and #3 North Catholic. And the Southeastern PA Soccer Coaches Association poll has the Aces at #3, behind #1 Pennsbury and #2 Downingtown West.

After starting the season with two 4-0 blowouts on the road, one would have to wonder if the young 2009 Aces would be overconfident, and let these high poll rankings go to their heads. Yesterday they traveled to #9 ranked Pennsbury, to see if they were as good as everyone else seems to think they are. Well, they didn't disappoint. LM came away with a 3-1 win, to keep their record perfect. It was the first goal given up by the Aces defense, led by senior goalkeeper Jack Van Adelsberg. Tomorrow LM opens up their Central League schedule, as they travel to Springfield to take on the Cougars at 3:45 PM.

Just another reminder. Our annual "Alumni Game" will be played this year on Saturday morning, October 10th, on the turf at Arnold Field at 10 AM sharp. We hope to get a big turnout this year so clear that date now. Everyone is invited, whether you're playing or not, so come on out and join us. Lunch will be provided after the "Alumni Game", as they current 2009 Aces take on non-league opponent Interboro at noon.

Also, if you haven't already done so yet, check out our new LM Soccer website at: www.lmacessoccer.com.

Bye Bye Summer

Now that the 2009 summer is officially behind us, the Aces season begins in earnest. After two 4-0 blowouts over the weekend, this week has LM traveling to Pennridge Tuesday night for a 7 PM non-league contest. On Thursday, the Aces begin Central League play at Springfield, at 3:45 PM. Both results will be reported here on the blog.

Just a reminder, the annual Alumni Game will be held 4 weeks from this Saturday, October 10th, on the turf at Arnold Field. The game will begin promptly at 10 AM, so we are asking all participants to arrive by 9:00 or 9:15 so we have plenty of time to stretch & warm-up. We will also be giving out jerseys to all players. After the game the LMSAA will provide lunch for the players, as the current LM Aces will play non-league opponent Interboro at noon. We hope to get a big turnout this year, and even though your playing days are over, please come out and join us for this festive occasion.

So we know how many jerseys to have on hand, as well as lunches, please email me of your intentions to play. bubdavidson@comcast.net. And thanks again for your continued support of LM Soccer.

Back to Back

A little more than 24 hours after defeating Upper Dublin 4-0, the Aces traveled to West Chester East for another non-league contest. LM jumped on East early, and built a 2-0 halftime lead. Coach Fadely substituted freely most of the game, and the Aces came away with their second straight 4-0 shutout. I guess nobody told the 2009 Aces players that they lost 9 starters from last year, as they're off to another strong start.

The first PA state rankings came out this week, with the top 5 listed below:
1/ Pennsbury
2/ Germantown Friends
3/ Mount Lebanon
4/ North Catholic
5/ Downingtown West

Aces win opener

Aces rout Upper Dublin 4-0 in their 2009 regular season opener. Tomorrow they take on West Chester East. Details of both games will be posted here on Sunday.

The Season Begins

The Aces open their 2009 regular season this morning, at 10 AM, at Upper Dublin. Tomorrow, they come right back at 4 PM, at West Chester East. Both are non-league games. I will have the summaries of both games up here on the blog on Sunday morning.

As you may have noticed on the home page of the website, there is a tab for all the info on the 5th Annual Steve Fountain Memorial Golf Tournament. Click on the tab for the complete history of the tournament. We always have a good turnout from our fellow LM soccer alumni, and I hope this year is no exception. If you can't make the event, and want to a sponsor a hole, or make a donation, just follow the instructions. Thank you in advance from all the tournament organizers, and Steve's family.

Scrimmages continue

Yesterday the 2009 LM Aces had two more tune-up scrimmages, before their opener this Friday at Upper Dublin. The first scrimmage found LM shuting out West Chester Rustin 1-0 with some strong defensive play. After an hour break the balls began going into the net, as the Aces won more comfortably against William Tennant than the 3-2 score would indicate. With a key injury to returning starting defenseman Mike Lemonick, one of only 2 starters returning from last year, the rebuilding Aces will have to pick up the slack come Friday, when they open their 2009 regular season schedule with a non-league contest at Upper Dublin.

I hope all of our LMSAA members have been regular visitors here at Coach D's Blog. As I stated last week, I am trying to put out all the info I did last year here on the blog, and eventually doing away with the emails. Just to give me an idea of how many of you are reading this, please email me at: bubdavidson@comcast.net and just say "Yes", or, click on "comments" below and leave me a message. Thanks for your continued support of LM Aces Soccer.

Scrimmages begin

The 2009 Aces had their first scrimmage day last Thursday, taking on Pennsbury (one of the pre-season favorites to win the District One title this year), and a very strong, and highly ranked West Chester Henderson team. Considering the nature of scrimmages, the results, in themselves, don't really tell too much. However, the rebuilding Aces held their own, giving Pennsbury all they could handle in a 2-0 loss, and getting nipped by West Chester Henderson 2-1. Next up are scrimmages with West Chester Rustin (3:00 PM) and William Tennant (5:15 PM) this Monday, at LM.

I also want to let you all know that our LM Aces/Alumni website is now completely operational, with just the video link needing a little more tweaking. Our own fellow LM Soccer Alumni, Juan Munoz, has done an outstanding job putting this together for us.

If you browse the LM Aces part, you'll see that the bios are up for this year's varsity players, as well as some pictures from last Thursday's scrimmage.

If you browse the Alumni part of the website you'll see that all the info, from 1924 thru the present, has been put in easy to read tables, and more links to get back to the home page have been added to let you navigate a lot easier. Be sure to check out this website at: www.lmacessoccer.com, and be a frequent visitor, as info is added on a regular basis.

Special Olympics at LM

Wednesday evening the Delaware County Special Olympics soccer team came to Arnold Field to train with the 2009 Aces soccer team. From warm-ups, thru the skills session, and into the scrimmages, the LM coaches & varsity players were wonderful hosts. Every Special Olympics soccer athlete throughly enjoyed what the Aces had to offer, and took home some wonderful memories. And the Aces players & coaches were equally touched by the experience.

Memories from the past

I recently received an email from Jim Jenkins, class of '53. I wanted to share it with all his fellow LM soccer alumni.

Here is a picture of Archie Gentles (on left) and Jim Allan (on right) from the 1950-1952 era. I played fullback at the same time. I was "lucky" to be sent to Germany for a year (1956-1957). I played Army soccer and met some fine former collegiate players, and in the evenings I played with the European guards at the base. It was a real learning experience. I ended my career at the age of 35 with the University of Alabama in Huntsville, AL (club soccer). Soccer is big down here at the youth & high school levels. I'm enjoying your website and would like to see something on the "old days" but I know that is very hard to do without good archives. Good luck to you and the Aces.

Be a regular visitor

Hopefully by now many of you have had a chance to check out this new website. If you haven't, make sure you do. If you have, you'll see that the Aces open their 2009 schedule on Thursday, August 27th, at 10:00 AM, at Pennsbury. Before then, they will have a couple of pre-season scrimmages coming up this week. We'll keep an eye on their progress.

I just want to remind all of you of two of our LMSAA functions this fall.

On Saturday, October 10th, we'll hold our annual "Alumni Game" on the turf at Arnold Field. It will be held in the morning, followed by lunch, and an LM non-league game with Interboro. More details to follow. We would like to get a big turnout this year so save that date.

On Monday, October 19th, we'll be hosting the 5th annual "Steve Fountain Memorial Golf Tournament" at Hartefeld Golf Club. The shotgun start will be at 1:00 PM, followed by dinner & drinks. All the info is posted on the "Alumni" portion of our website. We hope you will be able to support this great cause.

First Post

The new LMSAA part of the joint website is being worked on as we speak. We hope to have everything up & running no later than the middle of next week. If you are reading this post, it means that you can now get to my blog from the home page of the LM Aces-LMSAA joint website by clicking on the box that says "Coach D's Blog".

Coach D