28 Aug.

Jimmy Nielsen named to MLS All-Star inactive list, one of two good signing under Vermes. Personally I think the problem was not C.O., it was the technical director that need to be fired.

Kansas City Wizards vs Manchester United Highlights 2 – 1

Chettri Desperate to leave Kansas City Wizards? Why is this an issue? Did the Technical Director do his research on Chettri, or does the coach think he was a poor signing?  Yes Mike (of Down the Byline)…I know the coach and the technical director are the same guy.  Just wondering why you sign someone to sit them on the bench.

More Chettri

MLS PICK’EM – WEEK 18

Wizards-ManU In Photos

I (now) love Man U? Not me,  Peter Grathoff of the Kansas City Red Star is infatuated with Man U.

Chhetri is ‘happy and settled’ in KC, despite reports from afar, Also from the RED Star. If the Star prints it it must be true.

AG

Advertisement

Mundane’s reviewed

Davy Arnaud pays a visit to the Border Patrol on 810 WHB to discuss the Man U match.

Wizards sell 700 season tickets the day after beating Man United.    How many are returning season ticket holders who just want to get one of the first 2011 seats (in the new stadium) released yesterday? I got mine do you get yours?

Man Utd’s Giggs and Nani Complimentary of Kansas City Wizards

Devil of a match for Kansas City

Kansas City Wizards Beat Down of Manchester United Spurs Ticket sales

Heineman announces on 810 WHB

Robb stated this afternoon on Kevin Kietzman’s show, 810 WHB, that OnGoal LLC is looking to re-brand the Wizards.  (Hopefully  WHB will do a podcast of that interview) He also stated that they are in negotiations for naming rights and they are still hunting for a forward. Is it just me…or do we really need midfield to feed the forwards we have?

Man U Loses to Wizards

What a Victory. Wizards over Man U. Who would have thought? 52,000 in the stadium is great. Just think, if the Wizards converted just 1% of those in attendance, that’s 520 new season ticket holders. With the victory I would say 1% is very conservative, should be closer to 3-6%. If they only manage to convert 1% after… a victory against one of Europe’s juggernauts… what a wasted opportunity.

23 Sept. News and Blogs you might have missed.

Season Ticket Holder? Go somewhere else.

MLS Dogpile | Night of the Living ‘Zards?

Former Wizard to Hall of Fame

Diving is a Symptom, not the Disease

Was trading Kamara a good move or a bad one?

MLS Issues Additional Fines, Suspensions To Saragosa, Spencer, Yallop

AG

22 Sept. News and Blogs you might have missed.

Weekend Recap: Playoff Race Gets Tighter

Are Urban Projects DOA?

MLS Week 27: A Look Back

The Kansas City Wizards Stadium Thread soccer247com Forums

MLS Week 27: Reaching into My Bag of Cliches (+ CCL Update)

Kansas City Wizards Weekly Update

* Weekly Schedule – Wizards Close Gap on Pack for MLS Cup Playoffs
* Wolff Continues Torrid September with Goal of the Week Nomination
* Colorado Rapids Visit Wizards September 26 on School Night
* Wizards Kick Off Greener Goals Event Tuesday With Player Reading, Book Donation
* Wizards, Metro Sports to Host College Doubleheaders Before MLS Games
* Kansas City, Arrowhead Stadium Make Short List for USA Bid to Host FIFA World Cup™
* The Jimmy Conrad Show Runs Wednesday at New Time
* Spanish-Language Coach’s Show Airs Thursday

WEEKLY SCHEDULE:
The Kansas City Wizards play their second straight match at home after posting a dramatic 3-2 win over FC Dallas last Saturday to move closer to the pack in the race for the MLS Cup Playoffs. The Wizards fought back from a 2-1 deficit with a pair of late goals to earn three vital points. The Wizards are currently six points back of the final playoff team (D.C. United) with five games to play. The Wizards will train at 10 a.m. CT each day Tuesday-Friday this week, with the team’s weekly press conference held at 12 p.m. CT on Thursday.

Date                                                       Time                                       Location
Tuesday, September 22                    10 a.m. CT                            Swope Park Training Center
Wednesday, September 23              10 a.m. CT                            Swope Park Training Center
Thursday, September 24                   10 a.m. CT                            Swope Park Training Center (Weekly Press Conference)
Friday, September 25                         10 a.m. CT                            Swope Park Training Center
Saturday, September 26                 7:30 p.m. CT                        CommunityAmerica Ballpark vs Colorado Rapids

Eight teams qualify for the playoffs. Playoff berths will be determined by points in the standings upon the completion of the regular season. All 15 teams will have played 30 games. The top two teams in each conference qualify and are seeded 1 & 2 in their respective four-team playoff conference brackets. The four MLS teams with the next most points, regardless of conference, receive “wildcard” berths:

The four wildcard teams will be seeded according to conference first.
If more than four teams qualify from one conference, the team(s) finishing lower than fourth in its conference will shift over to the other conference bracket.
A team switching conference brackets will be seeded below all other teams in its new conference playoff bracket.

As of today, the top two teams in each conference and four wild card teams that would qualify for the playoffs (bold print), the order in which they would be seeded, and their total Points (in parentheses), and Games Remaining [in brackets] is as follows:

Eastern Conference:                                          Western Conference:
Rk   Team                     Pts       GR                   Rk  Team          Pts                   GR
1.       Columbus             (43)      [5]                    1.   Houston     (43)                   [3]
2.       Chicago                (40)   [4]                       2.   LA              (41)                    [4]
3.       D.C. United           (36)       [4]                    3.   Seattle        (38)                  [4]
4.       Toronto                 (34)       [4]                    4.   Colorado    (37)                   [5]
5.       New England         (34)       [6]                    5.   Chivas        (37)                  [6]*
6.       Kansas City           (30)      [5]                    6.   RSL            (34)                   [4]
7.       New York             (17)      [4]                    7.   FC Dallas    (27)                  [5]
8.   San Jose    (21)                   [7]

* As the fifth qualifier from the West, Chivas USA would move over to the Eastern Conference bracket for the playoffs.

WOLFF CONTINUES TORRID SEPTEMBER WITH GOAL OF THE WEEK NOMINATION:
Striker Josh Wolff continued his excellent September form Saturday with his 4th goal of the month in a come-from-behind win over FC Dallas. Wolff started the month by winning MLS Player of the Week honors after scoring two goals and creating two more in a 4-2 win at the New England Revolution. He has since scored in a 1-0 win over the New York Red Bulls and Saturday’s 3-2 win over FCD to help the Wizards climb back into the MLS Cup Playoff picture. Wolff’s strike Saturday is up for the MLS Goal of the Week award. Fans can watch the goal here and vote for Wolff at: http://web.mlsnet.com/sights/goal_of_the_week/.

Wolff is closing in on 200 MLS games after playing in his 198th career contest Saturday against FC Dallas. Should Wolff play Saturday night against Colorado, he would be on track to reach the 200-games milestone Sunday, October 4 at Houston.

WIZARDS HOST COLORADO RAPIDS SEPTEMBER 26 ON SCHOOL NIGHT:
The Colorado Rapids come to town Saturday for a 7:30 p.m. CT contest on School Night at CommunityAmerica Ballpark. Students who bring a test with a grade of a “B or Better” and receive a FREE Wizards t-shirt at the game. Students can also send essays to the Wizards detailing what makes their teacher great. One lucky winner will receive a Wizards player meet and greet and a FREE catered lunch for their class in addition to having their teacher named the winner of the Wizards Teacher Appreciation Award at halftime of the game.

All teachers nominated will be recognized on the field during the Wizards match. The first 400 students that order tickets get the opportunity to high five the players on the field as part of the “Human Tunnel” before the game. For more information about purchasing tickets through this package, call the Wizards at 913-387-3400. School groups of 50 or more will receive free bus transportation to and from the game.

For only $20, the School Night Package includes:

One (1) bleacher ticket to the Wizards vs. Rapids match
One (1) Wizards drawstring backpack
One (1) 2009 Wizards Sticker Book compliments of State Farm
One (1) Hot Dog
One (1) Soda

Email all Teacher Appreciation Essays to customer.service@kcwizards.com. Please title each email “Teacher Appreciation”.

WIZARDS KICK OFF GREENER GOALS EVENT TUESDAY WITH PLAYER READING, BOOK DONATION:
The Kansas City Wizards will kick off their “Greener Goals” program Tuesday with a book reading by defender Matt Besler at New Stanley Elementary in the KCK School District. Following Besler’s reading Tuesday, the Wizards will donate copies of The Lorax by Dr. Seuss to students of New Stanley Elementary. Next Tuesday, Besler, his teammates and Wizards staff members will visit Ruby Park in KCK along with students from New Stanley Elementary to conclude the two-part “Greener Goals” event.

Who: D Matt Besler
When: Tuesday, September 22; 1:15-2:15pm
Where: New Stanley Elementary, 3604 Metropolitan, Kansas City, KS
What: Matt Besler will be visiting Stanley Elementary to talk to the students about “greener goals” in the community. He will be reading the Dr. Seuss book, The Lorax, and then working with the students to make individual “green” pledges on how they can help the environment. Following, Matt and the Kansas City Wizards will be making a donation of The Lorax to almost 100 students, and the Kansas City Soccer Foundation will be donating 100 Kansas City Wizards tickets to the students for that Saturday.

Who: KCW Players, KCW Staff, and New Stanley Elementary Students
When: Tuesday, September 29; 1:15-4:15pm
Where: Ruby Park, Kansas City, KS
What: The entire Wizards family will be holding the 1st Annual “Greener Goals” clean-up event at Ruby Park in KCK and have invited children from New Stanley Elementary to participate as well. The group will be picking up trash, cleaning up the park, painting benches, fixing up the playground, and painting a soccer mural over graffiti on the bridge. This annual event will be held to improve local parks and create “green” awareness.

WIZARDS, METRO SPORTS TO HOST COLLEGE DOUBLEHEADERS BEFORE MLS GAMES:
The Wizards and Metro Sports have partnered to present opportunities for college doubleheaders prior to Wizards Major League Soccer games at CommunityAmerica Ballpark. Fans can purchase tickets for $20 that grants access to the college games during the afternoon and the Kansas City Wizards MLS match that evening.  The games will be filmed by Metro Sports and broadcast at a later date. The college doubleheaders continue September 19 and 26, when the following games will take place at CAB prior to Wizards games:

September 19
William Jewell College 1-0 Sterling College (men’s)
Graceland University 0-2 Kansas Wesleyan University (men’s)
Kansas City Wizards 3-2 FC Dallas

September 26
University of Saint Mary vs Central Christian College (women’s) at 1:00 p.m. CT
University of Saint Mary vs Central Christian College (men’s) at 3:00 p.m. CT
Kansas City Wizards vs Colorado Rapids at 7:30 p.m. CT

KANSAS CITY, ARROWHEAD STADIUM MAKE SHORT LIST FOR USA BID:
The USA Bid Committee Inc. announced August 20 that Kansas City and Arrowhead Stadium are one of 27 cities and 32 venues, down from 70 initial stadia in 52 cities, on the short list to be included in the United States’ bid to host the FIFA World Cup™ in either 2018 or 2022. The USA Bid Committee will submit their bid to world soccer’s governing body, Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), in May of 2010. FIFA will select host countries for the 2018 and 2022 events in December of 2010. The Kansas City / USA Host City Bid Committee is Co-Chaired by Kansas City Chiefs Chairman of the Board Clark Hunt and Cerner Corporation’s Chairman and CEO and Kansas City Wizards co-owner Neal Patterson. Fans are encouraged to show their support for the bid by visiting http://www.goUSAbid.com and signing the petition to bring the FIFA World Cup™ to the United States.

The 2006 FIFA World Cup™ in Germany announced a total economic impact of approximately $6.2 billion and the creation of 50,000 new jobs, while recording that two million tourists spent approximately $766 million. The USA Bid Committee is currently undertaking an economic impact study for an event in the United States in 2018 or 2022.

Kansas City’s bid committee also includes Kansas City Wizards Technical Director/Interim Head Coach Peter Vermes, a former FIFA World Cup™ participant who represented the United States 67 times at the international level. Vermes helped lead a young squad to an improbable qualification in the 1990 World Cup in Italy, the first trip for the United States in 40 years. The United States has qualified for each of the next four FIFA World Cup™ tournaments, one of the longest active streaks in the world.

“Appearing in the FIFA World Cup™ was the highlight of my playing career, and helping to bring the event to my adopted hometown of Kansas City would be a highlight of my post-playing career,” Vermes said. “The FIFA World Cup™ is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event, and I hope everyone here in the Heart of the Continent will experience the energy in either 2018 or 2022.”

The Kansas City / USA Host City Bid Committee features members and expertise from a wide range of Kansas City metropolitan area public and private entities from both sides of the state line, including: The Kansas City Chiefs; Kansas City Wizards’ ownership group OnGoal, LLC; the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation; the Kansas City Convention and Visitors Association; the City of Kansas City, Missouri; the Unified Government of Wyandotte County, Kansas City, Kansas; and POPULOUS, formerly HOK Sport Venue Event.

JIMMY CONRAD SHOW AIRS WEDNESDAY AT NEW TIME:
The Jimmy Conrad Show, presented by Budweiser, will move to a new time this Wednesday from 8-9 p.m. CT. Jimmy Conrad hosts the show each week with guests from the Wizards and around Major League Soccer. The show will be broadcast live from Fox and Hound in Overland Park, Kan. again during the month of September. Fans are always encouraged to call in to talk Wizards, MLS or U.S. National Team soccer at 913-3-810-810.

Fox and Hound – Overland Park
10428 Metcalf Ave
Overland Park, KS 66212
(913) 649-1700
Google Maps Link

In 2009, the Wizards will take registrations from fans at each edition of the Jimmy Conrad Show for month-end drawings. Prizes will include Field Side Reserved tickets, a clinic from a Wizards player, a Football/Futbol double-header package and a VIP Meet & Greet session after a training session. Each fan can enter that month’s drawing each time they attend The Jimmy Conrad Show.

Month                   Prize
September            2 Field Side Reserved tickets to Kansas City Wizards vs. Colorado Rapids Sept. 26
October                 Autographed Wizards jersey and on-field VIP experience at 2009 playoff game

Fans can download archives of The Jimmy Conrad Show from the podcast page at kcwizards.com.

ZONA WIZARDS AIRS THURSDAY ON 1480 AM:
Wizards Interim Head Coach Peter Vermes will join Enrique Morales each Thursday at a new time from 1-2 p.m. CT for the weekly Spanish-language coach’s show Zona Wizards on Ke Buena 1480 AM. This week, Spanish-speaking fans are encouraged to listen for a recap of last week’s three-game road trip to the East Coast that featured wins at New England and New York.

21 Sept. News and Blogs you might have missed.

Just another Pie-in-the-Sky MLS Stadium Proposal?

Sunday After Stats

Kei Kamara interview 09/17/09

Kansas City Wizards 3-2 FC Dallas: Highlights video and goals

Cunningham scores again against Wizards

MLS 2009 Week 27 Recap

Wizards’ win keeps them in the hunt

Monday MLS Breakdown: Spoiling for a Playoff Fight

AG

Santiago Hirsig, Josh Wolff, Jimmy Conrad Score for Wizards in Front of Sellout Crowd at CommunityAmerica Ballpark; Wolff Now Tied for 4th in MLS with Career-High 10 Goals

MLS Game #25
Saturday, September 19, 2009 – 7:30 p.m. (CT)
English TV: Metro Sports
Spanish TV: Time Warner Cable Channel 5
Spanish Radio: La Gran D 1340 AM
CommunityAmerica Ballpark; Kansas City, Kansas
Weather: 73 and cloudy
Attendance: 10,385 – SOLD OUT

Score:                                                                                   1              2              F
Kansas City Wizards (8-11-6, 30 pts)                              1              2              3
FC Dallas (7-12-6, 27 pts)                                                 1              1              2

Scoring Summary:
KC – Santiago Hirsig 1 (Claudio Lopez 6) 9
DAL – Dax McCarty 3 (unassisted) 44
DAL – Jeff Cunningham 13 (David Ferreira 5) 54
KC – Josh Wolff 10 (Zoltan 1, Claudio Lopez 7) 77
KC – Jimmy Conrad 1 (unassisted) 80

(September 19, 2009) – The Kansas City Wizards (8-11-6, 30 pts) came from behind to defeat FC Dallas (7-12-6, 27 pts) 3-2 Saturday night in front of a sold-out CommunityAmerica Ballpark. Kansas City has now won three of four matches and is making a push for the MLS Cup playoffs. Striker Josh Wolff recorded his 10th goal of the season, moving him into a tie for 4th in MLS and matching a career high set three times previously. Midfielder Santiago Hirsig opened the scoring for the Wizards, netting his first MLS goal in the 9th minute. Defender Jimmy Conrad scored his first goal of the season, heading home the game-winner in the 80th minute.

Kansas City opened the scoring in the 9th minute after a corner kick from Claudio Lopez. Lopez earned the corner himself, forcing FC Dallas goalkeeper Dario Sala to push a long-range effort over the bar. Lopez then bent a perfectly placed corner to Hirsig at the back post. The Argentine made no mistake, heading home a powerful shot for his first goal in a Wizards uniform.

FC Dallas fought back to tie just before halftime when midfielder Dax McCarty intercepted a pass and scored with a low, left-footed shot from beyond the top of the penalty area. FCD then took a lead in the 54th minute, as David Ferreira picked off a pass and set up Jeff Cunningham for an easy tap-in from close range for Cunningham’s 13th goal of the season.

Kansas City then came from behind to win with a pair of late goals three minutes apart to earn the full three points. The Wizards pulled even through Josh Wolff after another corner kick. Lopez sent a ball to just-entered substitute Zoltan past the back post, and Zoltan cracked a shot across the face of goal. Wolff was there to tap-home the ball from close range for his 10th goal of the season. Wolff tied a career high with the goal, and Zoltan recorded his first assist in a Wizards uniform.

Kansas City then found the winner in the 80th minute after a hustle play from Jimmy Conrad. A cross into the area intended for Conrad was deflected toward his own goal by FCD defender George John. Sala did well to block the would-be own goal, but Conrad followed up and hit a diving-header goal from inside the six-yard area for his first goal of the season.

By scoring three goals, the Wizards activated the Planet Sub Hat Trick Special. Valid tomorrow only at any Kansas City-area Planet Sub locations, any fan can ask for the special and receive a Planet Sub Sandwich, a bag of chips and a cookie for just $3. The Wizards return to action next Saturday night at CommunityAmerica Ballpark when the Colorado Rapids come to town for a 7:30 p.m. CT match-up.

Kansas City Wizards Line-Up: Kevin Hartman; Jonathan Leathers, Jimmy Conrad©, Matt Besler, Michael Harrington; Herculez Gomez (Kei Kamara 46), Santiago Hirsig, Kurt Morsink (Graham Zusi 55), Claudio Lopez; Josh Wolff, Davy Arnaud (Zoltan 77)

Substitutes not used: Boris Pardo (GK), Aaron Hohlbein, Lance Watson, Chance Myers

FC Dallas Line-Up: Dario Sala; Ugo Ihemelu, George John, Pablo Richetti, Jair Benitez; Atiba Harris, David Ferreira, Dax McCarty, Dave van den Bergh (Heath Pearce 62), Marvin Chavez (Daniel Hernandez 46), Jeff Cunningham

Substitutes not used: Ray Burse, Eric Avila, Bruno Guarda, Andre Rocha, Daniel Torres

Misconduct:
DAL – Marvin Chavez (caution; Reckless Foul) 13
KC – Kurt Morsink (caution; Reckless Foul) 19
DAL – Dax McCarty (caution; Shirt Removal) 45
DAL – Pablo Ricchetti (caution; Dissent) 89
KC – Claudio Lopez (caution; Dissent) 93+

KC                          FCD
Total Shots:                                        12                           12
Shots on Goal:                                  7                              5
Saves:                                                   3                              4
Fouls Committed:                             13                           9
Offside:                                                3                              2
Corner Kicks:                                     5                              6

Referee: Jeff Gontarek
Assistants: Nate Clement, Peter Manikowski
4th official: Chris Penso

Notables:

·         Kansas City is now 18-16-8 all-time against FC Dallas, including a 10-6-5 record at home.
·         The Wizards went 1-1-0 this season against FC Dallas.
·         Kansas City has won three of its last four games.
·         Kansas City recorded its 9th sellout of the season.
·         Peter Vermes is now 3-4-0 as the Interim Head Coach of the Wizards.
·         Midfielder Santiago Hirsig scored his 1st MLS goal Saturday to open the scoring.
·         Claudio Lopez recorded his 6th assist on the play, later registering assist number 7.
·         After Saturday’s matches, Lopez was tied for 6th in MLS in assists.
·         Lopez now has 14 assists for the Wizards after recording seven last season.
·         Striker Josh Wolff scored his 10th goal of the season, redirecting a ball from Zoltan after a Lopez corner kick.
·         Zoltan’s assist was his first in a Wizards uniform in his 5th game with Kansas City.
·         After Saturday’s games, Wolff is tied for 4th in MLS in goals this season.
·         Wolff’s 10 goals equal a career high, set three times previously.
·         He scored 10 goals in 1999 with the Chicago Fire and in 2004 and 2005 with the Wizards.
·         Wolff has now scored 72 goals in his career, 40 of them for Kansas City.
·         Wolff is alone in 3nd place for goals in a Wizards uniform, breaking a tie with Chris Klein.
·         Wolff’s 72 career goals put him alone in 14th in League history.
·         Wolff ranks 9th all-time among active players, one behind Edson Buddle who also scored Saturday.
·         Defender Jimmy Conrad scored the final goal, heading home a loose ball after FCD goalkeeper Dario Sala narrowly saved what would have been an own goal off the head of George John.
·         The strike was Conrad’s first goal of the season and the 18th of his career.
·         Wizards goalkeeper Kevin Hartman has now started 107 straight games and hasn’t missed any action in the last 9630 minutes his teams have played.
·         His minutes-played streak constitutes an MLS record.
·         Aug. 1, Hartman became just the 2nd player in MLS history to start 100 straight matches.
·         Hartman made three saves Saturday, increasing his career MLS record in saves to 1216.
·         Hartman is the first goalkeeper in MLS history to reach the 1200-save plateau.
·         Hartman also leads MLS in career wins (146).
·         Hartman is the only player to start all 25 games this season for the Wizards and the only player to play every minute of every game this year.
·         Hartman played in his 328th career game Saturday.
·         He ranks 2nd in League history, trailing only New England’s Steve Ralston (376).
·         Newly acquired forward Kei Kamara made his first appearance for the Wizards, playing the final 45 minutes and generating multiple chances in the second half.
·         Kansas City was without goalkeeper Eric Kronberg, midfielder Kevin Souter and forward Adam Cristman through injury.
·         Jack Jewsbury missed the game through yellow-card suspension.
·         With three goals, the Wizards
·         The USA Bid Committee Inc. announced August 4 that Kansas City and Arrowhead Stadium are one of 27 cities and 32 venues, down from 70 initial stadia in 52 cities, on the short list to be included in the United States’ bid to host the FIFA World Cup™ in either 2018 or 2022.
·         The Kansas City / USA Host City Bid Committee is Co-Chaired by Kansas City Chiefs Chairman of the Board Clark Hunt and Cerner Corporation’s Chairman and CEO and Kansas City Wizards co-owner Neal Patterson.
·         With the three goals scored Saturday, the Wizards activated the Planet Sub “Hat Trick Special” for fans. Any Wizards fan will receive a Planet Sub Sandwich, chips and a cookie for $3 at area Planet Sub locations Sunday simply by mentioning the “Hat Trick Special.”
·         By scoring three goals and winning, the Wizards won all fans in section 107 at CAB 10 free boneless wings at KC-area Hooter’s restaurants.
·         After the game, hundreds of area Scouts camped out on the field at CommunityAmerica Ballpark.

Quotes:

KANSAS CITY WIZARDS HEAD COACH PETER VERMES
On scoring two goals from corner kicks
“One of the places where we felt we could put pressure on them was set pieces, and getting that corner kick goal was something we really thought we could take advantage of. Where it got difficult was we didn’t put the hammer on after that. We needed to go at them because they were ripe for the picking at that point. But give credit to them, they found themselves back in the game when they tied it just before halftime. The two goals they scored were mistakes on our part, which is not a good thing, but we did a very good job outside of that by not giving them a lot.”

On second-half strategy
“We went into the second half and the big thing for us was that we wanted more diagonal balls because we thought that we could expose them wide, because they play so many guys tight in the middle. So then we started getting some playable balls. You could see Davy Arnaud and other guys were getting in, and it gave us a good rhythm, and finally we got that goal to tie the game. Once we got that you could really see the tide turn.”

On Jimmy Conrad’s goal
“I am happy for Jimmy [Conrad]. He struggled with two plays today, and he made up for it in regards to getting that goal. Sometimes the game bites you and then sometimes you get a chance to bite back, which he did.”

On Kansas City’s three subs: Kei Kamara, Zoltan and Graham Zusi
“Kei has a presence physically that puts defenses under major pressure, and then Zoltan is an extremely smart soccer player. You can see when balls get played out to him that very rarely does he lose the ball through the dribble or the pass. He winds up finding guys. Those two are a big help to our team. We will continue to evaluate things as we move forward, but they were great subs into the game. Additionally Graham Zusi did a great job in the middle of the field today. He kept possession for us, and he is a really smart soccer player.”

On Josh Wolff
He [Josh Wolff] has worked his butt off every game that we have played. He has never taken a play off, and it is really evident tonight. His type of attitude and management of the game is very important for us.

KANSAS CITY WIZARDS DEFENDER JIMMY CONRAD
On his goal
“It was a free kick at midfield. Claudio had it. Most of the time I take those, but he wanted it so I went out. I thought he was going to play it to me but he sent it to Harrington so I kept running. Fortunately it found me and I army crawled it into the goal.”

On his defensive performance
“We had to win this game for our season to continue. I had the weight of the world on my shoulders there for a while. There were no defensive mistakes tonight it was just two mistakes by me, which led to two goals. It hurts, but you move on. I am not pleased with my performance overall, but it was nice to get that back with a goal late.”

KANSAS CITY WIZARDS FORWARD JOSH WOLFF
On the game
“Overall it was a scrappy game out there, but we were able to pull it out because we fought hard. We were able to get some goals, which is nice for our fans here at home.”

On the substitutions
“I think the reserves came in and did a great job of coming in and making plays and helping us get some goals. They did extremely well.”

KANSAS CITY WIZARDS FORWARD KEI KAMARA
On his first appearance for the Wizards
“What I bring to the game is my speed and my physical game. Coach told me to make a difference every time I step on the field, which is what I try to do. It was great to get the win tonight in front of our fans.

On being new to the team
“Soccer is the same language everywhere you go. It will not take me long to get acclimated with the team. I have already trained with the team for three days and then the game tonight so going into this week of more training, I should be ready to go next weekend. Soccer is one language.”

15 Sept. News and Blogs you might have missed.

Soccer Complex Plan Still Kickin

Major League Soccer Week 26 Power Rankings: Columbus Crew on top, Galaxy fall

World Cup bid visit to Kansas City

Weekend Recap: Returning To A Mess

Kansas City Wizards Weekly Update

* Weekly Schedule
* Wizards Top 2008 Road Record
* Club America Faces Chivas in Clásico Bud Light Wednesday at Arrowhead Stadium
* Wizards to Hold Season Ticket Holder Event Wednesday Before Clásico Bud Light
* Wizards Host FC Dallas Saturday on Lamar Hunt Night
* Wizards Host Scouts Campout Saturday Night at CommunityAmerica Ballpark
* Colorado Rapids Visit Wizards September 26 on School Night
* Wizards, Metro Sports to Host College Doubleheaders Before MLS Games
* Kansas City, Arrowhead Stadium Make Short List for USA Bid to Host FIFA World Cup™
* The Jimmy Conrad Show Returns Wednesday Before Club America-Chivas Tilt
* Spanish-Language Coach’s Show Airs Thursday at New Time

WEEKLY SCHEDULE:
The Kansas City Wizards are back home after a successful two-win road trip to the East Coast that featured a 4-2 victory over the New England Revolution and a 1-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls. Kansas City’s full squad will resume training Wednesday afternoon at 4:30 p.m. CT, with the weekly press conference after Thursday’s training session. With Thursday’s session starting at 11 a.m. CT, the press conference is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. CT featuring Wizards Interim Head Coach Peter Vermes and last week’s MLS Player of the Week Josh Wolff.

Date                                                       Time                                       Location
Tuesday, September 15                    DAY OFF
Wednesday, September 16              4:30 p.m. CT                         Swope Park Training Center (Season Ticket Holder Function)
Thursday, September 17                   11 a.m. CT                            Swope Park Training Center (Weekly Press Conference)
Friday, September 18                         10 a.m. CT                            Swope Park Training Center
Saturday, September 19                 7:30 p.m. CT                        CommunityAmerica Ballpark vs FC Dallas

WIZARDS TOP 2008 ROAD RECORD:
With two wins on the recently completed road trip to the East Coast, Kansas City has topped their road record from 2008. The Wizards are now 4-6-3 in road matches this season, the 5th best road record in MLS with two remaining road games. Kansas City was 2-8-5 on the road in 2008 and 4-7-4 on the road in 2007. Kansas City’s most road wins came in 1997 when the team went 9-7 in road contests. Games in MLS did not end in ties at that time. The Wizards also posted a strong 5-3-8 road record in 2000 on their way to the Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup Championship. Kansas City has posted four road shutouts this season, second only to the eight posted in 2000.

2009 ROAD RECORDS                    TEAM                                W                 L                   T                  PCT                    Chicago Fire                       6                   2                   5                   .654                    Los Angeles Galaxy             5                   1                   7                   .654                    Seattle Sounders FC            3                   4                   5                   .458                    Columbus Crew                  3                   4                   5                   .458                    Kansas City Wizards         4                   6                   3                   .423                    New England Revolution       3                   5                   3                   .409                    Houston Dynamo                4                   7                   3                   .393                    D.C. United                        2                   5                   7                   .393                    Toronto FC                         2                   6                   4                   .333                    Chivas USA                        3                   7                   2                   .333                    Colorado Rapids                  2                   6                   3                   .318                    FC Dallas                           2                   8                   2                   .250                    Real Salt Lake                    2                   8                   2                   .250                    San Jose Earthquakes         0                   8                   2                   .100                    New York Red Bulls             0                   11                 1                   .042
CLUB AMERICA FACE CHIVAS IN CLASICO BUD LIGHT WEDNESDAY AT ARROWHEAD STADIUM:
Mexico’s most popular teams, Club América and Club Deportivo Guadalajara S.A. de C.V. (Chivas), will add a new chapter to their storied rivalry when the clubs meet for another edition of Mexico’s “Clásico Nacional,” or national derby, this Wednesday at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri at 8:30 p.m. CT. The game, which will celebrate Mexican Independence Day, will be presented by Bud Light.

Tickets are now on sale, starting at $25. Seats can be purchased by visiting the Kansas City Wizards front office at 8900 State Line Road, Leawood, KS 66206 or by calling the Wizards toll free at 1-877-828-7222 or 1-913-387-3400.

Seating Category                           Sections                                                                Price*
End Line (End Zone)                       109-111, 127-129                                                 $25
Corner                                                105-108, 112-115, 123-126, 130-133              $35
Sideline                                              102-104, 116-118, 120-122, 134-136              $50
Club Level                                         201-246                                                                  $50
Half Line                                             101, 119                                                                 $75

*Discounts are available for groups of 15 or more.

WIZARDS TO HOLD SEASON TICKET HOLDER EVENT WEDNESDAY BEFORE CLASICO BUD LIGHT:
The Wizards will hold a season ticket holder event at the Wizards Swope Park Training Center, 6310 Lewis Rd, from 4:30-7:30 p.m. CT before the Clásico Bud Light match on Wednesday between Club America and Chivas Guadalajara.

Wizards Season Ticket Holders will get the opportunity to:
Watch the Wizards practice
Take a tour of the Wizards training facility
Mingle with Wizards players and coaches after practice
Enjoy complimentary food and beverage
Attend a briefing on stadium developments with Wizards President and CEO of OnGoal, Robb Heineman

WIZARDS HOST FC DALLAS SATURDAY ON LAMAR HUNT NIGHT:
The Wizards will return home to CommunityAmerica Ballpark to face FC Dallas this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. CT on Lamar Hunt Night. The Wizards will pay tribute to their founder on the night that FC Dallas, owned by Hunt Sports Group, comes to town. As part of the festivities, Wizards players will wear special “LH” armbands and the initials “LH” will be mowed into the grass at CAB.

Tickets start at just $15 for General Admission seats. Bleacher tickets are still available for $20, as are Stadium Reserved tickets for $25 and All-You-Can-Eat Seats for $35. Tickets are available online at http://www.Ticketmaster.com/kcwizards. For more information, call the Wizards at (913) 387-3400.

The Pepsi/Price Chopper Family 4-Pack is also offered for the matches. As part of the package, fans will receive:

Four (4) Kansas City Wizards Tickets
Four (4) Hot Dogs at CAB
Four (4) Pretzels at CAB
One (1) Stadium Blanket
One (1) Pepsi Coupon Package for redemption at area Price Chopper stores:
One (1) Free 6-Pack of Dr. Pepper or Sierra Mist (20 oz. bottles)
One (1) Free 2 Liter of Crush or Sierra Mist
One (1) Buy One, Get One SOBE Lifewater (20 oz. bottle)
One (1) Kansas City Wizards Merchandise Discount Coupon good for $5 off a merchandise purchase of free customization of a Wizards jersey.
All coupons expire on November 30, 2009

WIZARDS HOST SCOUTS CAMPOUT AT CAB SATURDAY:
After the Wizards take on FC Dallas this Saturday, local Scouts troops will be allowed to camp out on the field at CommunityAmerica Ballpark and watch movies on the video board. Participants will receive the second half of a commemorative Wizards patch after the first half was given to attendees of a game earlier in the season. Proceeds from tickets purchased through the program will go back to the Boy Scouts. Contact the Wizards at (913) 387-3400 for more information.

WIZARDS HOST COLORADO RAPIDS SEPTEMBER 26 ON SCHOOL NIGHT:
The Colorado Rapids will come to town Saturday, September 26 for a 7:30 p.m. CT contest on School Night at CommunityAmerica Ballpark. Students who bring a test with a grade of a “B or Better” and receive a FREE Wizards t-shirt at the game. Students can also send essays to the Wizards detailing what makes their teacher great. One lucky winner will receive a Wizards player meet and greet and a FREE catered lunch for their class in addition to having their teacher named the winner of the Wizards Teacher Appreciation Award at halftime of the game. All teachers nominated will be recognized on the field during the Wizards match. The first 400 students that order tickets get the opportunity to high five the players on the field as part of the “Human Tunnel” before the game. Also, don’t miss a special half time appearance by National Spelling Bee Champion, Kavya Shivashankar of Olathe, Kansas

For only $20, the School Night Package includes:

One (1) bleacher ticket to the Wizards vs. Rapids match
One (1) Wizards drawstring backpack
One (1) 2009 Wizards Sticker Book compliments of State Farm
One (1) Hot Dog
One (1) Soda

Email all Teacher Appreciation Essays to customer.service@kcwizards.com. Please title each email “Teacher Appreciation”.

WIZARDS, METRO SPORTS TO HOST COLLEGE DOUBLEHEADERS BEFORE MLS GAMES:
The Wizards and Metro Sports have partnered to present opportunities for college doubleheaders prior to Wizards Major League Soccer games at CommunityAmerica Ballpark. Fans can purchase tickets for $20 that grants access to the college games during the afternoon and the Kansas City Wizards MLS match that evening.  The games will be filmed by Metro Sports and broadcast at a later date. The college doubleheaders continue September 19 and 26, when the following games will take place at CAB prior to Wizards games:

September 19
William Jewell College vs Sterling College (men’s) at 1:00 p.m. CT
Graceland University vs Kansas Wesleyan University (men’s) at 3:00 p.m. CT
Kansas City Wizards vs FC Dallas at 7:30 p.m. CT

September 26
University of Saint Mary vs Central Christian College (women’s) at 1:00 p.m. CT
University of Saint Mary vs Central Christian College (men’s) at 3:00 p.m. CT
Kansas City Wizards vs Colorado Rapids at 7:30 p.m. CT

KANSAS CITY, ARROWHEAD STADIUM MAKE SHORT LIST FOR USA BID:
The USA Bid Committee Inc. announced August 20 that Kansas City and Arrowhead Stadium are one of 27 cities and 32 venues, down from 70 initial stadia in 52 cities, on the short list to be included in the United States’ bid to host the FIFA World Cup™ in either 2018 or 2022. The USA Bid Committee will submit their bid to world soccer’s governing body, Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), in May of 2010. FIFA will select host countries for the 2018 and 2022 events in December of 2010. The Kansas City / USA Host City Bid Committee is Co-Chaired by Kansas City Chiefs Chairman of the Board Clark Hunt and Cerner Corporation’s Chairman and CEO and Kansas City Wizards co-owner Neal Patterson. Fans are encouraged to show their support for the bid by visiting http://www.goUSAbid.com and signing the petition to bring the FIFA World Cup™ to the United States.

The 2006 FIFA World Cup™ in Germany announced a total economic impact of approximately $6.2 billion and the creation of 50,000 new jobs, while recording that two million tourists spent approximately $766 million. The USA Bid Committee is currently undertaking an economic impact study for an event in the United States in 2018 or 2022.

Kansas City’s bid committee also includes Kansas City Wizards Technical Director/Interim Head Coach Peter Vermes, a former FIFA World Cup™ participant who represented the United States 67 times at the international level. Vermes helped lead a young squad to an improbable qualification in the 1990 World Cup in Italy, the first trip for the United States in 40 years. The United States has qualified for each of the next four FIFA World Cup™ tournaments, one of the longest active streaks in the world.

“Appearing in the FIFA World Cup™ was the highlight of my playing career, and helping to bring the event to my adopted hometown of Kansas City would be a highlight of my post-playing career,” Vermes said. “The FIFA World Cup™ is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event, and I hope everyone here in the Heart of the Continent will experience the energy in either 2018 or 2022.”

The Kansas City / USA Host City Bid Committee features members and expertise from a wide range of Kansas City metropolitan area public and private entities from both sides of the state line, including: The Kansas City Chiefs; Kansas City Wizards’ ownership group OnGoal, LLC; the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation; the Kansas City Convention and Visitors Association; the City of Kansas City, Missouri; the Unified Government of Wyandotte County, Kansas City, Kansas; and POPULOUS, formerly HOK Sport Venue Event.

JIMMY CONRAD SHOW AIRS FROM FOX AND HOUND IN OVERLAND PARK THIS MONTH:
The Jimmy Conrad Show, presented by Budweiser, will return this Wednesday after hiatus last week due to Kansas City’s game against D.C. United. Jimmy Conrad hosts the show each week with guests from the Wizards and around Major League Soccer. The show will be broadcast live from Fox and Hound in Overland Park, Kan. again during the month of September. Fans are always encouraged to call in to talk Wizards, MLS or U.S. National Team soccer at 913-3-810-810.

Fox and Hound – Overland Park
10428 Metcalf Ave
Overland Park, KS 66212
(913) 649-1700
Google Maps Link

In 2009, the Wizards will take registrations from fans at each edition of the Jimmy Conrad Show for month-end drawings. Prizes will include Field Side Reserved tickets, a clinic from a Wizards player, a Football/Futbol double-header package and a VIP Meet & Greet session after a training session. Each fan can enter that month’s drawing each time they attend The Jimmy Conrad Show.

Month                            Prize
September                     2 Field Side Reserved tickets to Kansas City Wizards vs. Colorado Rapids Sept. 26
October                          Autographed Wizards jersey and on-field VIP experience at 2009 playoff game

Fans can download archives of The Jimmy Conrad Show from the podcast page at kcwizards.com.

ZONA WIZARDS AIRS THURSDAY ON 1480 AM:
Wizards Interim Head Coach Peter Vermes will join Enrique Morales each Thursday at a new time from 1-2 p.m. CT for the weekly Spanish-language coach’s show Zona Wizards on Ke Buena 1480 AM. This week, Spanish-speaking fans are encouraged to listen for a recap of last week’s three-game road trip to the East Coast that featured wins at New England and New York.

AG