Where are They Now..with Mark Watson

Mark "Watto" Watson

Most Battery fans will remember Mark "Watto" Watson as the man who was the league Defender of the Year,  players from opposing teams surely remember the hard-nose defender that lead the Battery's backline from his crunching tackles and tight marking.  Watto played close to 100 matches for the yellow and black from 2002 to 2004, including being a vital member of the 2003 Championship team, and during his return to the Battery from 2006 to 2007. 

As part of our "Where are They Now" series, No Quarter caught up with Mark Watson, the former Charleston Battery and Canadian National team player, and now assistant coach with MLS' San Jose Earthquakes for a few words.

No Quarter:  Give us a brief summary of how things have been going for you since you left Charleston?

Mark Watson:  Everything has been going well since I left Charleston.  I spent the end of the 2009 season as an assistant coach at New England and then in the off season I joined San Jose and have been there ever since.

NQ:  What are your duties with San Jose?

MW:  Assistant coach:  planning/running training sessions, scouting, video and game preparation.

NQ:  How did playing for Canada and assisting in Charleston help you in coaching with San Jose?

MW:  All of your experiences help prepare you for a career in the game.  Most of the issues you deal with on a daily basis are things I have been through any times which make you more comfortable making a decision.

NQ:  What are your fondest memories of Charleston, do you make it back much?

MW:  I really enjoyed my time in Charleston, both the city and the club were fantastic.  Unfortunately I am not able to make it back much but do keep in touch with friends there.

NQ:  With your past connection with the Battery do you ever speak professionally about Battery player with Coach Anhaueser or the Battery?

MW:  Occasionally, we have spoken a few times about players and brought Jose Cuevas in last year to train with us.

NQ:  You were known as a hard nose tough defender, does that transfer to your coaching style or are you more of a "good cop" to other coaches"bad cop"?

MW:  I think I am quite a laid back coach but probably still have a little bit in me from time to time!

NQ:  Anything you would like to add?

MW:  Yes, I would like to thank the club for having me there for five great years!

If you get a chance, watch a couple San Jose games this season and you'll be sure to see Coach Watson on the sidelines.

Thanks Watto for answering our questions and best of luck!

Carolina Challenge Cup Wraps Up

The Carolina Challenge Cup ended Saturday with the Chicago Fire winning the tournament after defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 2-1 while the Charleston Battery ended the 10th annual preseason tournament on a high note defeating the Houston Dynamo 2-1.

Overall the play was great. The weather; not so much. Rain, wind and freezing cold keep most fans away but the Battery staff did a great job in keeping the field pristine and running the show.   The fans that did come were rewarded with a total of 22 goals scored in six games.  A some fantastic goals they were too including a stellar diving-scorpion kick by Vancouver's Daigo Kobayashi that has gone viral on You Tube.

Odisnel Cooper

Fans also saw an eye opening performance by the Battery's Cuban goalkeeper Odisnel Cooper in the final match against Houston.  The Battery look very competitive against the MLS teams, showing resilience in coming from 3 goals down to nearly earn a draw with Vancouver in the opening match and only failing to take points off Chicago in Wednesday match up with a fantastic last second strike by the Fire's stole a well deserved draw from Charleston.

The consensus in the Three Lions Pub following the final kick on Saturday is this Battery team is looking good, no doubt bolstered by the fact that 14 to 15 players are returning from the last years squad.  But the returning Battery veterans look to have some competition this season.  Antiguian national team player, Quinton Griffith looked very good playing right back and right midfield and has the wheels to get up and down the flanks.  Cuban Evier Cordovez only came on as a substitute in two of the matches but showed strength up top. College of Charleston alumni, Sean Ferguson also was solid in the center of defense.

Quinton Griffith

Other players on trail that impressed, Austin Savage with his game winning goal against Houston, Jarad Van Schaik worked the wings well and Gibson Bardsley didn't look out of place against the MLS squads.

Unfortunately we were unable to see the third Cuban, Maikel Chang.  After looking very impressive in the Battery player trials, he was sidelined with a hamstring injury.  He is the type of player that has the ability to take on defenders and has very good ball control.

Next up for the Battery, a preseason match with the College of Charleston listed for Thursday at 2pm 2:30pm at Patriots Point.

Battery News Roundup

This week saw the Battery defeat the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, find out their US Open Cup opponents, saw a couple players make the USL Pro team of the week, and played a match against the Myrtle Beach Mutiny.

Nicki Paterson scored the only goal to give the Battery the 1-0 win over the Riverhounds.  You can read the match review in our post Battery take down Riverhounds.

Also, head over to our friends at The Beautiful Game to read their post match review.

US Soccer also announce the first two round pairings for the 2012 US Open Cup.  The Battery have a by in the first round and will enter in the second round taking on the winner from Reading United AC (PDL) v. NY Greek Americans (USASA).  The match will be played at Blackbaud stadium on Tuesday, May 22 at 7:30pm.

Kudos to Nicki Paterson and Andrew Dykstra for being chosen for the USL Pro team of the week.  Nicki's header and great play and Dykstra's vital saves and keeping a clean sheet were the key to their selection.  John Wilson and Sallieu Bundu were also given honorable mentions.

Photo by Kim Gregory

Sunday, the Battery took on the Myrtle Beach Mutiny, a new NPSL team coached by Patrick Olalere.  Unfortunately, we couldn't make it out to the match but we do know the Battery won 4-0 and JC Mack scored an incredible goal from about 30 yards out. One of the Regiment's own was out there and she shared her photos of the match HERE.

The Battery take on Antigua Barracuda this Friday night for the first time in the Battery's history.   The Barracuda's are virtually the Antigua National team, the same ones that will take on the US Men's National Team June 8 in Tampa, Florida in World Cup Qualifying.

Antigua will play the Wilmington Hammerheads on Wednesday before traveling to Charleston to take on the Battery.  Following the Battery match, Antigua will travel to Trinidad to compete in the qualifing rounds of the CONCACAF Champions League.  It will be interesting to see how their squad approaches the travel and the compact schedule of matches.

Up the Battery

Battery add Pair of Keepers

Alec Kann and Kevin Klasila were announced by the Charleston Battery as the clubs latest signings.

Kann a four year starter at Clint Dempsey's alma mata Furman University, stands at 6' 4".

Klasila from Santa Clara University has a great personality.  He made a point of speaking with many of the fan that were at the Battery meet and greet just prior to the Carolina Challenge Cup.

Kann has been getting the starts and most time during the few preseason matches we have witnessed.  Klasila had an inauspicious start with the Battery after giving up a soft goal during the Carolina Challenge Cup when a powerful shot from then DC United now Battery trialist Ryan Richter went through his hands.  other than that he has looked solid.

Best of luck to both players and welcome to Charleston!

Battery v. Portsmouth FC

We'll No Quarter has been a little quite lately but that is because, I am currently in England.  Combining a family visit with a wedding plus some much needed R&R for the weary, things are going well.  When the fixture list came out, this looked like the perfect time to head accross the pond, missing only one match in a three week period.

Then the announcement came for the Portsmouth match.

It always is disappointing to miss a match, but a match against and English opponent is even more disappointing.  And when it is a club with the history of Portsmouth, it can be down right disappointing.
  Fortuanately, this is the age of the Internet and if things go well,  I'll be wearing my Battery Jersey, watching the match on http://www.usllive.com/, listening via a radio broadcast or at the very least following Twitter updates.

For those in the neighborhood, make sure you get to this match.

Here is a good link from my fellow Battery blogger in the lead up to the big match.

Who is this Blue Army? from the Beautiful Game

Up the Battery!!!

So your coming to the Colonies ( Or Some tips for our friends visting from across the pond)

Portsmouth have some great fans to be sure.  For all they have gone through over the last couple years you can't help have a soft spot for someone who has stood beside their club.  And while they have one of soccer's most recognizable and (in?)famous fans in John Portsmouth Football Club Westwood, there are scores of others that are  equally as passionate about the club.

On July 17, Portsmouth FC will take on our local boys, the Charleston Battery.  Portsmouth will also spend the majority of their time training here in the States based in Charleston.  So for those supporters making the trip over, here are some tips and suggestions while you are staying in the Charleston area.

1.  Its hot and humid.
You likely will get of the plane and think you've walked into a steam bath.  Most visitors are going to want to take advantage of all the sites and scenery Charleston has to offer but pace yourself.  Drink plenty of water and try to do things early in the morning or late afternoon.  Take lots of breaks.  Charleston is a laid back type of place so popping into a bar or pub while downtown in the middle of the afternoon is totally acceptable.

Make sure you wear sunscreen or a hat, getting sunburned the first day can make things pretty miserable for a couple days. 


2. Things to see
There is a lot to do and see.  Of course, everyone has their own likes and dislikes, so here is a link to the local visitor center be sure to check out the video gallery (25 different videos) and links to most things in the area.

For me here is the top places to visit and things to do while in town in no particular order:
Carriage ride -good way to start the visit as it gives you a some history of the city plus you can get a good layout of downtown and go back to visit some of the places along the tour if you wish
Market Street- four blocks of local vendors selling everything from paintings to jewelry to Charleston's famous sweet grass baskets. 
The Aquarium - not the biggest or best in the States but it is nice and a good way to get out of the heat for the afternoon
The Beach- lounging around on holiday is always a top priority.  Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island are all within about 15 min of downtown.   If you want to try your hand at some local fishing, you can get a single day license and rent all the kit at the pier on Folly Beach.
Take a walk- You really will appreciate Charleston by walking.  You can wander the streets looking at the houses and gardens and our famous wrought iron fences, gates and ornaments or you can check out one of the many walking tours including Ghost walks, Pirate walks, Garden walks and a few others.
Get on the water-whether you take a harbor tour or rent a kayak on Shem creek.  One of my favorites is the sunset sails on the Schooner Pride 
Fort Sumter- for history buffs, its where the American Civil War began.
USS Yorktown- an American aircraft carrier with a lot of static displays of aircraft,
Check out a plantation  Boone Hall, Drayton hall, Magnolia or Middleton Place are all nice.  Boone Hall feature the quintessential oak lined avenue leading to the front of the house.

Some other cool things;  Charleston Museum, Firefly Distillery (sweet tea vodka), Charleston Tea Plantation, Morris Island lighthouse, Waterfront Park, Ft. Moultrie (fort that was attacked in the movie "Glory" by the all black unit the 54th Massachusetts during the Civil War), and Charles Towne landing.  


3.  Eat
Charleston is a great place for food.  Everything from upscale to down home.  Seafood, fresh vegetables, pork.  There are some dishes which you have to try; Shrimp and Grits, pulled pork with a mustard based BBQ, boiled peanuts, steam local oysters, Fried Green tomatoes and any local seafood.  Generally, servings are big and prices are reasonable.  Feel free to ask for recommendation based on what you want and how much you want to spend in the comments area and I'm sure we can help you out.


4.  Bars and nightlife
There are several places downtown that are pretty good,  The Gryffin and Liberty Tavern for more traditional pub feel.  Big john's Tavern for those that want to experience a true American dive bar.  For those wanting to let there hair down, Market Street Saloon (think of the movie Coyote Ugly were the girls occasionally dance on the bar)  Outside of downtown,  our local bar that shows footie if its on television is the Madra Rua (owned by a Liverpool supporter but we all get along (normally) when we watch matches) ,  very quaint and a place the locals go. Not really in the nicest part of town but definitely worth stopping by for a match and a couple pints.  Again, let us know what type place your looking for and we'll direct you in the right direction.

5.  Shopping  I'm sure someone will want to go shopping,  There are four retail shopping malls in the area,  Northwoods and Citadel malls are traditional shopping malls,  couple big department stores, with tons of smaller stores.  There is an Outlet mall where most major stores sell last years lines or overages usually for a pretty good discount.   there is also a big outdoor style mall in Mt. Pleasant area.  Another good place for shopping is King Street downtown (near the Market).  Many of the high-end shops have stores their but there are quite a few locally owned shops that are pretty reasonable as well.




Charleston is a great city, and different from most American cities.  There is a sense of community pride normally found in small towns.  People are mostly friendly and it is easy to strike up a conversation. 

Battery win big, take on Wilmington in Southern Derby match Thursday

The Battery defeated the top team in the league, Orlando City FC, 1-0 on Saturday night in a late, wet match.

A two hour weather delay saw the game kickoff at 9:30 at night but most the crowd had given up by that point and gone home.  For those that stuck around, they saw the Battery win with an excellent header from Alex Caskey, his first goal of the season.  The goal came in the 65 minute from a cross from Mike Zaher.

The Battery defense was solid all night as well, Colin Falvey and Johnny Wilson were rocks in the center of defense and Andrew Dykstra made a couple key saves in the match as well.

A win was a great way to cap off a great day out at the 'Baud.  It all started with a massive Regiment tailgate where they hosted the The Ruckus and Iron City Firm from Orlando.

It was great to meet fans from around the country and the folks from Orlando are gracious and welcome back anytime.  We had a fantastic time regardless the weather and even though Orlando loss, and most of them went back having enjoyed their trip.

The Regiment also raise more than $400 dollars and filled the back of a small SUV up with clothes for the Pascoe Family.

But it doesn't stop there, The Regiment will be hosting the Frisbee toss at the match on Thursday night so get a couple Frisbees and try to win a free meal at Five Guys burgers and fries.  All the money raised will go toward the Pascoe Family fund.

the match holds double importance for the Battery.  First Wilmington is breathing down Charleston throat in the American Division table with only one point between the two clubs.  Secondly, the game doubles as a Southern Derby Cup match. Read Jim Gregory's excellent article about the Derby HERE


Charleston, Wilmington and Charlotte are even in the standings with three points after two matches each.  Charlotte actually has the lead based on goal differential.


Wilmington will be looking for revenge after the Battery defeated them during the nationally broadcasted Fox Soccer Channel match June 11 by 2-0.


Here are the remaining matches in the Southern Derby Cup



Wilmington @ Charleston 7-14
Charlotte @ Wilmington 7-23
Charlotte @ Charleston 8-12

Charleston looks like they will be without the services of J.C. Mack (foot)

Up the Battery

Busy weekend for the Battery

This weekend sees the Battery with two matches.  One away on Friday night and one at home on Saturday night.

Friday nights away match is against Wilmington Hammerheads.  This match will be broadcast live on Fox Soccer Channel and there is a Watch Party hosted by the Regiment to watch the match at the Madra Rua in North Charleston.   The Game kicks off at 8pm but some of us will start congregating there around 7.  Come on down, support your local team and get some food and drinks at a pub that has been very supportive of Battery and for that matter all soccer fans!

Saturday, the Battery will be home against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.  It is Toy's for Tots night and if you bring a NEW and UNWRAPPED toy, you will receive FREE admission.  Also there will be a Teddy Bear toss at half time so bring out your stuff animal but try to wait til halftime to throw them (we know sometimes the refs can be tempting targets!)



The Regiment will also be firing up the grills around 5:30pm near the East Stand Entrance!  Come join the Battery Supporters Group for some grub (looks like Hot Dogs and whatever others bring) and a pre- match bevvie or two and support the Battery!

Also kicking off at 9pm that night the USA will play Mexico at the Rose Bowl in LA (hearing it is already sold out)  in the Championship match of the Gold Cup.  I know the Three Lions will have it on but if you are headed back downtown, check out O'Malley's on King Street or head over to Madra Rua in North Charleston. 

Finally, the Regiment have set a date for the Player Appreciation Picnic.  It will be August 14 so if you want to go and haven't renewed your Regiment membership for 2011 yet, there is still time.  More details about the picnic out in the next couple weeks.

US Open Cup; Battery take on Regals FC

Tuesday night starts the US Open Cup for 2011 where the Charleston Battery take on Regal F.C., an amateur team out of Houston, Texas.    One of the oldest cup competitions in the world, it doesn't garner the attention it deserves from main stream media, but the potential for upsets and the underdog winning will keep most soccer fans interested.

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Charleston has always taken the US Open Cup seriously, advancing to the finals in 2008 against DC United.  A equally fought match that with some controversial calls during the match that the Battery loss 2-1.   The Battery has been successful making it to the later stages of the knock out cup for many years.

This years first round opponent, Regal F.C. is a very organized amateur club out of Houston, Texas.  looking at their roster they seem to have a lot of Mexican and Central American players on the team.  We have been told that they have a hard work ethic and play and attractive style of soccer and they are excited to be playing in the fine facility the Battery have and against a professionally run club in a quality stadium..  With nothing to lose, we expect them to come out hard as making it to this point in the USOC is a big accomplishment for the team.

Charleston has been idle since the last minute 1-0 defeat in Harrisburg nearly 10 days ago.  The boys have had a few day of rest and recuperation but have been training hard.  A few of them said last week they didn't know exactly what to expect of Regal FC but that they take the US Open Cup serious and they want to win.

But who will take the field on Tuesday night?  On one hand,  time between competitive games gives the squad time to heal but it can also cause a squad to loss its edge and become "rusty".  This match could allow Auggie to stretch the legs of the starters and have them ready to go for Friday nights match up against Dayton.

On the other hand, on paper the Battery should win this even if they don't play there starters.  Most of the fringe players will be looking to impress and should put out a hard working performance trying to impress the Coach Anhaueser.

We at No Quarter believe we'll see something in the middle, a mix of starters and fringe players in the opening 45 minutes, followed by a few subs of fringe for starters and depending on score line, some of the starters to come off for a few other players.

As far as injuries, barring any mishaps at practice, Dugoni and Peverly are the only two that wont be available for the match.

The Baud will only be open  on the West side as typical for early round USOC matches, so E10 will be in W10 for the match.  Tickets are only $5 and season ticket holders get complementary tickets to this match which can be picked up at will call on game day or the office Monday or Tuesday.

July 16...who will the Battery play?

Earlier this year, Andrew Bell and Coach Mike Anhaueser met with the Regiment to discuss the 2011 season and pointed out that Saturday, July 16 was open on the schedule.  The next sentence was that the Battery enjoyed the match with Bolton last season and we like to do something similar this season.  Without saying it directly, it looked like we could look forward to another great exhibition match at Blackbaud Stadium this summer.

Since then, there have been rumors floating around about various clubs that might fill the date.  The one that seems to have the most legs is Portsmouth as we mention in this article.  Since that was written, Portsmouth continue to talk about a trip to Orlando and Charleston, but neither USL Pro club has publicly announced anything.

As expected, the Battery are keeping pretty quite about it.

"We are still looking at several possibilities for a summer exhibition; we enjoyed hosting Bolton Wanderers last July and would love to do something similar again." said Andrew Bell when asked about the potential match.  "At the moment, there is nothing definite planned."

Between negotiating fees, making sure everything is taken care of  and the standard of not announcing anything until it is a signed contract, you can't blame them.

As of now six EPL teams have announces US summer tours.  Manchester United, Everton, Newcastle United, Bolton Wanderers, Manchester City and West Bromwich Albion, with a good chance that other clubs will announce tours of the US soon.

So are any of those teams potential candidates?

Manchester United is out  too big and already have five cities on their schedule. 

Bolton already has a pretty full schedule as well.

Man City might be too big of a fish too and they are playing Vancouver on July 18 and said they will announce two other clubs later but the logistics with the date would be tough.

Newcastle have announce a date against Sporting KC on July 20 and the word is that they will also play Orlando in July so that could be a possibility.

Everton is another team that have announce two matches but have heard their name from more than one person about a possible match here in Charleston.  They currently have matches against DC United and Philadelphia scheduled for the last part of July.

West Brom look to be heading to the West Coast as well with a match scheduled against San Jose on July 17 so they are out.

There could be a few that havent been mentioned as well.  Stoke, recent runners up in the FA Cup, have mutual owners with Orlando City and it would seem very likely if they do a tour of the US, they will be in the South East.

So who would you like to see?  Are you happy with the English teams or would you like to see someone from Italy or Germany?

It looks good that the Battery will face an international opponent this season and whoever it is I'm sure the Baud will be full and a good time will be had by all!

We've had Better Weekends

After a disappointing weekend and only picking up one point out of six, the Battery return to Charleston and will be looking for a way to find the back of the net.

Friday night's match against Pittsburgh ended in a 0-0 draw.  The cold and wet night saw Jamaican midfielder Evan Taylor getting a straight red in the 53 minute of play.  Charleston still out shot the host 12 shots to Pittsburgh's seven.

The Battery created several chances and took a point from the match.

Coach Anhaueser made several change to the line up in the Rochester match on Saturday nights, typical of back to back games.  The Battery started out very cautious against Rochester.  The Rhinos had several good chances coming down the flanks and were rewarded for their efforts in the 24 minute as Rochester midfielder Tony Donatelli took a shot from outside the box which hit off the goal post and then rebounded into the net off the back of Battery keeper, Keith Wiggins.

The second half saw the Battery looking much more dangerous but were unable to find the equalizing goal.

The lack of goals is concerning but it isn't as if the Battery aren't creating chances.  That would be far more concerning.  Playing back to back matches is never easy and getting points on the road isn't easy in this league, but Charleston loss puts it in third place in the American Division. The Battery will want to turn it around this Friday night at home against FC New York to keep pace with the Richmond Kickers, who will face a tough road schedule the end of May and first part of June. 

Friday night's match will see the Battery hosting newly formed FC New York for the first time this season.  FCNY are currently 0-2-2 and looking for their first win.  The match will be available live on www.usllive.com for those unable to make it to the stadium. 

There will not be a tailgate for Friday's match but I'm sure there will be a few Regiment members in the parking lot near the East Stand Entrance having a pre-match beverage.  Feel free to join us in E10 and help support the Battery. 

Up the Battery!

Charleston to play Portsmouth?

A recent online article in a Portsmouth newspaper Pompey boss Steve Cotterill seems to suggest a pre-season tour of the US with a week-long stop and a match in Charleston and a week in Orlando.


"If it all comes together, we could be based in Orlando and Charleston, a week in each, which would be really good," said Cotterill in the article.  "Hopefully, there will be three games sorted out – one in Charleston, two in Orlando."

Portsmouth are currently sitting in 16th position in the English League Championship (Division 2) table after being relegated from the EPL last season almost certainly a direct result of being docked nine points for financial issues.  The club nearly went into liquidation in October of 2010 but was saved by a last minute deal.

John Portsmouth Football Club Westwood

Charleston currently has the weekend of July 16 free of any match games and club president, Andrew Bell said in an interview on this blog in October that they were interested in bringing over another English team during the summer.

But as of now the Battery are keeping quite.

"We are still looking at several possibilities for a summer exhibition; we enjoyed hosting Bolton Wanderers last July and would love to do something similar again." said Andrew Bell when asked about the potential match.  "At the moment, there is nothing definite planned."


Portsmouth typically brings good traveling support, including the famous John Portsmouth Football Club Westwood.  Westwood, who legally changed his name in 1989, can be recognized by his large stove pipe hat, blue curly wig, more than 60 Portsmouth tattoos and by the sound of his bells at Portsmouth matches around the world.

Pompey are rebuilding since their relegation and financial woes and have a very storied history and strong support.   While not as high profiled as Chelsea or Manchester United, it certainly is a club that would be a good match for the Battery.

We want you...to join the Regiment!

Do you support the Charleston Battery?  Do you like hanging out with like minded people?  Do you like saving money?  Then what are you waiting for, Join the Regiment!

Started in 1999, The Regiment is the official supporters group of the Charleston Battery. The Regiment's main goal is to elevate the atmosphere at Blackbaud stadium.  We hold regular tailgates, organize trips to away games, create banners, and try to be "the twelfth man" for the players on the pitch.  And at the end of the year, we fire up the grills, break out a few cold beverages, invite the players and staff and enjoy an afternoon of food and fun.

We also help various charitable causes and support our players off the field if they need it.

This season, you can become a Regiment member for as little as $20. That's right we dropped the price by $10 bucks this year.   The regular membership package includes a Charleston Battery scarf, 10% discount at the Battery Pro Shop, discounts on away bus trips, tailgates, as well as the invite to the players picnic.  The scarf and discount at the proshop (need a new jersey or t-shirt?) will more than pay for the membership cost and you're helping a good cause. 

Already have a scarf?  The Regiment offers a $40 premium kit that includes a Regiment logo polo shirt in your choice of black, red or yellow, as well as the 10% discount in the proshop, away bus trips, tailgates and the invite to the players picnic. 

The Regiment has a table at each home match under the West Stands in Blackbuad Stadium.  Come by and talk to one of the board members before the match or during half time.  Or find "The Regiment" on Facebook.  The Regiment does a majority of its communication about tailgates and other event there.

During the games you can find a majority of the Regiment members in section E10, waving flags, singing (or attempting to!) songs and cheering out boys onto victory!  Do you have to stand in E10 if you join the Regiment?  No, the Regiment want passionate fans throughout the 'Baud.  So if find it hard to give up those midfield seats or enjoy the company around you, that is fine.  You will still have the benefit of knowing you are helping support your local club.

Still not sure?  Come by one of the Regiment meetings.  The Regiment is now meeting at the newly opened Madra Rua Pub in Summerville.  They meet the second Tuesday of each month at 7pm.  Come by for a beer, see what it is all about and have a good time. 

Convinced?  Download this form, fill it out and either mail it to the address shown or bring it by the Regiment table before one of the Battery matches. We will get your package to you as soon as possible and hope you can join in the fun.

The roster...so far

With about a month until the Charleston Battery retake the pitch at Blackbaud Stadium during the Carolina Challenge Cup, it's time to start talking about who we might see suit up for the Battery in 2011.

Here is the roster of players that the Battery currently has on their website:




• Stephen Armstrong
• Yeniel Bermudez
• Levi Coleman
• Jon Gruenewald
• Alioune Gueye
• Kevin Jackson
• Nigel Marples
• Brandon Massie
• Nicki Paterson
• Zack Prince
• Keith Wiggins
• Mike Zaher 

At first glance it is a solid group returning.  There are some obvious absentees but that is normal with lower division soccer, especially after a team wins the Championship match and offers come in for you better players.  no Quarter will break it down by position starting up top.

With the Tommy Heinemann up with the Columbus Crew, Lamar Neagle looking like he is going to be going back to the Seattle Sounders and Levi Coleman the only forward listed.  I imagine the Battery will be looking for a couple forwards.  Replacing a striking duo like Heinemann and Neagle isn't going to be easy.  An experience striker along with one or two younger ones to add to Coleman would seem in order.

Midfield seems about the same as last season except for the departure of Ian Fuller, who will be an assistant coach with the Orlando City SC and Mayard who is back with Montreal.  Gueye and Armstrong are solid.  Gruenewald looked good in preseason last year but an injury nagged him until late in the season.  Massie and Prince both improved as the season progress.  New boy Nicki Paterson has proved he can play at this level and should be another solid addition to the midfield.  I still think a player or two to deepen the roster would be nice as the season is long and injuries are always likely.

Defense is another area we could use some beefing up.  Zaher coming back would be great. But he is currently on trial in Norway.  Bermudez didn't get the minutes I thought he deserved and thought he was out of contract as he is now living in Alaska.  Marples is solid in the central defense.  Wilson shoes will be hard to fill as his experience was a huge factor.  Colin Falvey is playing in New Zealand, and according to reports, still has an option to play with the Battery this season but hasn't decided yet if he will.

Wiggins was dogged with injury last season but even if healthy I'm sure another keeper is high on Auggie's list.

Now here is where things get tricky.

If you haven't been following the ever twisting saga that is Division 2 soccer in the North America, the US Soccer Federation, revoked NASL provincial sanctioning label.  NASL, made up of Montreal Impact, Carolina Railhawks, Minnesota Stars, Miami FC, FC Tampa Bay, Edmonton FC and the Puerto Rico Islanders was given until Feb 11 to get their affairs in order and could resubmit the bid.

IF the USSF doesn't change their minds about NASL sanctioning, it would create a very interesting dilemma for those clubs.  Without sanctioning, the league could go ahead as a "Rogue League" but players, refs, coach would be banned from FIFA events.  The likely hood of any players doing this are slim as there are serious repercussion for them.

Another option would be to not bid for D2 sanctioning but apply for D3 status.  Aaron Davidson, CEO of NASL, said pretty much its D2 or bust for them so that doesn't seem to be an option.

The third option is for the teams and league to fold.  If this happens, there could be dozens of players looking for a team. 

I imagine we won't be seeing too much movement  from the Battery until this ordeal is finished.  I imagine the Battery has its eye on a few players it would like to bring in; from the combine and trials, from MLS rosters, to overseas players and from other teams, and are waiting to pounce the minute the USSF decision is made. 

2011 USL Men's Player Combine: As the dust settles

Sunday wrapped up the fifth annual USL Men's Players Combine in Charleston, SC.

The final day of the combine featured three more matches.  The teams were supposed to kick-off at 8am but frost on the pitch delayed the start time slightly and forced the first match to be played on one of the Charleston Battery's practice fields.  The second match started off as the sun warmed up the grass and the spectators alike and by the third match it had turned quite pleasant.

The matches definitely were a bit more aggressive, a combination of players wanting to impress and tired legs.  Its always tough to get the whole picture of a player when watching a couple matches with unfamiliar teammates but a few players did impress me over the weekend.

Highlight of the weekend was midfielder Luke Mulholland.  Mulholland scored twice over the weekend, one a wicked free kick from about 25 yards out, but more importantly showed confidence and composure on and off the ball.  Mulholland was a stand out with PDL Reading United AC and will no doubt will find a spot on a team this season.

Another was Ally Hassan.  The 6-3 striker held the ball up and played well with is back to goal.  He was very good with his feet and worked hard off the ball, creating space and opportunities for his teammates.

Tunde Ogunbiyi of Boston College
and PDL side, Ocean City

There were a few others that seemed to shine above the group.  Both the Japanese players, Takashi Kanta and Hodaka Yonesawa played well even they needed to adapt to a more physical style of play.  Forward Aboubacarim Ndaw and Anteneh Lemma  both were very strong on the ball, giving the central defenders fits while they were on the field. 

In the net, Tunde Ogunbiyi (photo at right) seemed to have a good day on Saturday but wasn't really tested on Sunday.

The College of Charleston also had four players in the Combine.  Justin Fojo, Sean Bateau, Sean Flatley, and Kareem Yearwood.  Fojo and Bateau benefited from playing on the same team at the combine.  Fojo seemed to possess some very good leadership qualities in midfield while Bateau made some great runs down the wing.  Flatley was a commanding presence in central defense, winning headers and organizing the back line.  Sadly I didn't get to see Yearwood much and the half he played, he didn't receive the ball much up top. 

But so much more goes into signing a player.  Clubs might be only looking for a certain type of player or a position.  Clubs have budget restrictions, there are limits on foreign players on rosters.  There also are the needs or wants of a player to take into consideration.

Historically only about 20% of the players that attend the combine go on to a professional contract.  I wouldn't be surprised if that number is higher this year.  With MLS expanding their rosters and adding two expansion teams this season and with USL expanding by 9 teams, there are plenty of spots open for these young players.  Good Luck to all the players that attended.

No Quarter would like to than USL and especially Nicholas Murray, Jason Arnold and Jeff McRaney for their support. 

This upcoming weekend the Battery host the second of their open trials.  No Quarter hopes to bring you a bit more insight to those open trials as well.

USL Announces 2011 Combine Players

USL selected 101 players from the USL PDL and overseas to attend the 2011 Players Combine hosted by the Charleston Battery at Blackbaud Stadium.

USL Press Release

The combine kicks off on Jan 20 and last through Jan 23.  

More than 400 players applied to play in the 2011 featuring  2010 PDL All-League selection Frank Alesci (Jersey Express) , and he is joined by players such as former PDL All-Conference selections Carl Reynolds (New Orleans Jesters), Stewart Givens (Michigan Bucks) and Guilherme Reis (Bradenton Academics).

No Quarter plans to be in attendence to bring you some insight into the players and the way the combine operates

Another Local Soccer Blog

This one started up a little over a week ago and here is part three in a series, Top Ten South Carolina Soccer Stories of 2010: 3-1...:

"In the last two days, we've reviewed the number 10 through number 4 soccer stories in South Carolina this year. Here are the top three to wr..."

Check out their archives for the first two parts and some other good articles.

Creating flags and banners

With two months until the Carolina Challenge Cup, it is the perfect time to create you own banner or flag. As we mentioned in an earlier No Quarter entry, here are a few basic tips to get you started.

The Idea

The age old adage of K.I.S.S. (keep it simple stupid) is the best motto. A simple short phrase or logo is the best. I start with an idea and then use Photoshop or hand sketch and then scan the picture to get a basic design laid out. For example, I used the crossed cannons from the Battery logo in a few of my designs. Simple, relevant and easily recognizable. On one design I added a skull above the cannons as a take off the classic Jolly Roger design which has gone on to be used on T-shirts as well as a two-pole banner.

Materials

Pretty much any fabric will work. Cotton or cotton blends probably are the best for the paint but tend to get a bit heavy if they get wet. Plastic tarps don't work too well as the paint flakes off and they only come in limited colors. The best paints are cheap acrylic paints. They are waterproof and while will dry a bit "stiff" will still work just fine on banners. When I designed the bar flags, I used 100 foot rolls of plastic table cloth material that I bought at a party supply store for less than $15.00 a roll. I then cut yellow and black pieces about two foot long and taped them together with black duct tape in alternating colors to give a black, yellow, black pattern that is about six foot long and about 4 foot high (that was the width of the roll, no need making more work for myself!)tape that to a five or six foot length of PVC pipe. I have a flag that cost about $2.00 each and took about 5 minutes to create.

The Work

Now comes the tricky part. Putting those great ideas onto the banner. Ideally you would have a large area in a climate controlled area to work, but anywhere will really do. Access to a computer hooked up to a projector will make the transfer of the design a lot simpler. Just trace the design onto the fabric with a pen. An old school overhead projector would work fine as well but you will have to print out your design onto a transparency. If you really want to kick it old school, free hand your design onto the fabric.

Start painting your design using a variety of size brushes. Start on the edge with narrow brushes and use larger brushes or rollers on the bigger areas.  Make sure you put your new banner somewhere where it will have plenty of time to dry before it starts to rain or the where the neighbor's cat won't walk over it.

Finishing It Up

Now that its dry, you need to figure out how to display it come game time. Depending on it size, you might be able to use a two pole design. Make a sleeve on either side by either using liquid stitch or if you can, sewing a seam up the side and leaving it large enough for a pole. I use PVC pipes for poles because they are cheap and easy to find. A larger banner you might add some grommet holes so you can tie it up with zip ties or string. Even duct tape works well if it isn't too wet out. Blackbaud stadium is pretty open to bringing in flags or banners, as long as you don't hit the ticket takers in the head with the poles trying to get through the turnstiles (sorry who ever that was!) and be mindful of waving a flag in front of other fans. Or to be safe, come on over to E10 where flag waving is welcomed.

All this seem to much work? The Battery Proshop sells a a great two-side 3'x5' Charleston Battery flag that has a sleeve ready for a pole.

Here are a couple instructional videos from the good folks in Toronto. You may have seen many of their banners during the last couple Carolina Challenge Cups. In fact if you watch the second video you will see one of them wearing a Battery jersey and showcasing the scarf banner in section E01 at Blackbaud stadium.

Got an idea, but are stuck? Leave a comment and well do our best to help. We also have a tentative plan to have a banner making BBQ one afternoon come closer to March.

Women's team coming to Columbia

While not officially announced yet, the Central SC Cobras have put all the wheels in motion to compete in the USL W-league for the 2011 season. 

Based in Columbia, South Carolina, the Cobras have been working hard throughout 2010 to make the team a reality.

Several details, such as stadium location and player selection, are still being worked out but they have set up the front office personnel and have established a color scheme and crest, shown at the left.

The Cobras will most likely be put in the W-league's Atlantic Division, playing against the Atlanta Silverbacks, Charlotte Lady Eagles, Hampton Roads Piranhas, Northern Virginia Majestics and the Tampa Bay Hellenic. Typically, the W-league season runs 10 to 12 games.

You can follow them on facebook Central SC Cobras and check out their website for more info.

No Quater will continue to update you as well!  Good luck ladies!

USL Wraps up Annual General Meeting

The USL wrapped up the Annual General Meeting down in Tampa, Florida this past weekend.  The Battery twitted that a tentative schedule has been made and to expect an exciting season.  Several other tidbits of information came out of the meetings via the USL Press Release .

First it looks like there will be 16 teams in USL Pro.  Officially USL has only announced 13 of those teams; Antigua Barracuda FC, Charlotte Eagles, Charleston Battery, Dayton Dutch Lions, FC New York, Harrisburg City Islanders, Orlando City SC (formally Austin Aztex) , Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Richmond Kickers, River Plate Puerto Rico, Rochester Rhinos, Sevilla FC Puerto Rico , and Wilmington Hammerheads.  But rumors on the www.bigsoccer.com point to another team from Puerto Rico joining, Puerto Rico United.

the other two team aren't as clear but the signs point to two new expansion teams.  Ft. Lauderdale in Florida and Pali Blues in LA, California.  Ft. Lauderdale is rumored to actually be the Haitian national team.  The natural disasters the island country has suffered over the last couple years has left no infrastructure for the players or organized soccer.

The Pali Blues rumor comes from a blog posted a month or so ago by someone in the organization claiming they were to be the new coach of the expansion team.  If they are indeed one of the three remaining teams,  it opens up the issues of travel from one side of the country to the other.  Hopefully the team can afford the travel.

The regions and schedules will be released in December according to the press release.

The release tells us that there will be 24 regular season matches, four more than last season for Battery fans.  Playoffs format will also be released in December.

There was also representation from several possible expansion teams at the meetings.   Look for a 20-24 team league in 2012 with interest coming from the Mid-west and West coast.

Well pass along the details as we get them.