In an effort to provide some attention to Canada’s USL teams, the 24th Minute will be providing a weekly digest of news. If you have a tip or a story you think should be covered, please e-mail me at CSNPress@gmail.com
The eastern Canadian USL sides are just getting started this week, while the west teams have been up and running for a couple weeks. As always, CSN encourages you to get out and Support Local Soccer if you live near a USL team.
The digest:
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Victoria – The Highlanders will kick-off their 2011 home season today against the Whitecaps reserves. The game is their “Pink on the Pitch” match, which raises money and support for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation of BC and the Yukon. The players will all be playing in Pink Jerseys which are being auctioned off after the match. You can go to the Highlanders Web site to participate in the auction
Victoria – The Highlanders women headed south for a true test, taking on three California W-League sides, including powerhouse Pali Blues. The schedule/result: LA Strikers (Wednesday @ 7pm, lost 2-0), Pali Blues Friday @ 7pm, lost 2-1), and Santa Clarita Blue Heat (Sunday @ 7pm)
USL – The host of the 2011 Super-20 finals was announced this week, with Tampa’s Brandon Flames getting the nod. The Super-20 Finals, which feature the top amateur clubs for 17-20 year old in Canada and the USA, will take place July 21-24
Canadian USL games this week (all times EDT):
PDL
Today – 10 p.m. - Vancouver Whitecaps Residency at Victoria Highlanders @ Bear Mountain Stadium
Tomorrow – 4 p.m. - Forest City London at Toronto Lynx @ OSA Soccer Centre
Wednesday – 11 a.m. - Hamilton FC Rage at Toronto Lynx @ Centennial Park Stadium
W-League
Tomorrow – 1 p.m. - Rochester Ravens at Toronto Lady Lynx @ Ontario Soccer Centre
Tomorrow – 7 p.m. - Seattle Sounders at Vancouver Whitecaps FC @ Percy Perry Stadium
Tomorrow – 10 p.m. - Victoria Highlanders at Santa Clarita Blue Heat @ Valencia High School
Wednesday – 2 p.m. - Hamilton FC Rage at Toronto Lady Lynx @ Centennial Park Stadium
Friday – 10 p.m. - Colorado Rush at Vancouver Whitecaps FC @ Exhibition Stadium