US Soccer’s Open Cup reaches the final stage on Wednesday,  September 2, when D.C. United, current Open Cup holders, hosts the Seattle  Sounders at RFK beginning at 7:30 pm. We urge all our parents,  coaches, and players to consider attending this crucial match.
 
The US Open Cup, initiated in the early 1900s by the  early soccer pioneers in the U.S. and modeled after the English FA Cup, is  the only soccer competition in the U.S. open to all teams--amateur and  pro.   It is a "one-game knockout" competition that usually pits  underdog amateur teams against the leading MLS teams--with numerous  upsets.  Last year, for instance, the Charleston Battery gave DC United a  run for the money when they played in the final at RFK, only to lose 2-1. 
 
The US Open Cup winner receives $100,000 for the victory, and  a spot in the CONCACAF Champions’ competition next year.  
 
Having played in the US Open Cup during my own pro career in  the late 1950s-early 1960s, I can vouch for the uniqueness and intensity of the  competition.  A lot is at stake.  I have been USSF’s Match  Commissioner for the four preliminary, quarterfinal, and semi-final games played  in our area, and will probably be asked to do so again for the Final.  I can assure you that the D.C. United players will be going all-out to win  it.
 
So plan on attending this interesting match on September  2.  You won’t be disappointed.
 
Tickets are available through Ben  Hawkins, DC Stoddert’s D.C. United community liaison, 202-587-5422
 

by Len Oliver, DCST Director of Coaching

7/29/2009