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SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 28, 2016) – Sacramento Republic FC’s U-17/18 Academy team advanced to the Quarterfinals of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy Playoffs after finishing first in Group C during the group stage of the Playoffs, which was held last week in Frisco, Texas.

The U-17/18 team will travel to play Vancouver Whitecaps FC U-17/18s in their Quarterfinal match on July 7 in Vancouver, Canada. Kickoff time to be announced.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 28, 2016) – Sacramento Republic FC’s U-17/18 Academy team advanced to the Quarterfinals of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy Playoffs after finishing first in Group C during the group stage of the Playoffs, which was held last week in Frisco, Texas.

The U-17/18 team will travel to play Vancouver Whitecaps FC U-17/18s in their Quarterfinal match on July 7 in Vancouver, Canada. Kickoff time to be announced.

Republic FC’s U-17/18 Academy won their group on goal differential after going undefeated in group play with a 2-0-1 record. The U-17/18s had a goal differential of 8-5 that beat New York Red Bulls U-17/18’s differential of 7-4. The group consisted of Republic FC U-17/18s, New York Red Bulls U-17/18s, Sockers FC U-17/18s and Pateadores U-17/18s.

Republic FC U-17/18s started group play on June 22, against Sockers FC U-17/18s. After a scoreless first half, Republic FC took a 1-0 lead on a goal scored by Ryley Kraft. The Sockers quickly equalized, but Kraft found the back of the net again to take the lead,. The Sockers once again equalized, however, a late-match goal from Gio Vasquez propelled Republic FC to a 3-2 win.

In their second match, Republic FC’s U-17/18 Academy team squared off against New York Red Bulls U-17/18s, who were ranked fourth nationally and the top seed of the group. After going down 0-1, Republic FC U-17/18s rallied and a goal from Micah Albert earned the club a 1-1 draw.

Republic FC U-17/18s entered their final match against Pateadores U-17/18s on Sunday still deadlocked with New York Red Bulls U-17/18s with both teams holding 4-3 goal differential. However, Republic FC’s U-17/18 Academy team put together a dominating 4-2 performance against Pateadores U-17/18s to secure the match win and advance to the Quarterfinals with a 8-5 goal differential. Albert, Francis Avoce, Alexis Dionicio and Joseph Restani all netted goals en route to Sunday’s win.

Republic FC’s U-17/18s are one of just three non-MLS Academies to make the U-17/18s Quarterfinals and the only USL or NASL operated Academy team to advance out of both the U-17/18 and U-15/16 age groups.

Republic FC’s U-17/18 Academy team has already faced their Quarterfinal opponent, Vancouver Whitecaps FC U-17/18s, twice during the regular season, drawing once and losing once to Whitecaps FC U-17/18s who finished first in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference, while Republic FC U-17/18s finished second.

The winner of the July 7 Quarterfinal match between Republic FC U-17/18s and Vancouver Whitecap FC U-17/18s will travel to Carson, Calif. to play in the Development Academy Championship Semifinals on July 14 at the U.S. Soccer National Training Center.

Republic FC’s U-17/18 Academy won their group on goal differential after going undefeated in group play with a 2-0-1 record. The U-17/18s had a goal differential of 8-5 that beat New York Red Bulls U-17/18’s differential of 7-4. The group consisted of Republic FC U-17/18s, New York Red Bulls U-17/18s, Sockers FC U-17/18s and Pateadores U-17/18s.

Republic FC U-17/18s started group play on June 22, against Sockers FC U-17/18s. After a scoreless first half, Republic FC took a 1-0 lead on a goal scored by Ryley Kraft. The Sockers quickly equalized, but Kraft found the back of the net again to take the lead,. The Sockers once again equalized, however, a late-match goal from Gio Vasquez propelled Republic FC to a 3-2 win.

In their second match, Republic FC’s U-17/18 Academy team squared off against New York Red Bulls U-17/18s, who were ranked fourth nationally and the top seed of the group. After going down 0-1, Republic FC U-17/18s rallied and a goal from Micah Albert earned the club a 1-1 draw.

Republic FC U-17/18s entered their final match against Pateadores U-17/18s on Sunday still deadlocked with New York Red Bulls U-17/18s with both teams holding 4-3 goal differential. However, Republic FC’s U-17/18 Academy team put together a dominating 4-2 performance against Pateadores U-17/18s to secure the match win and advance to the Quarterfinals with a 8-5 goal differential. Albert, Francis Avoce, Alexis Dionicio and Joseph Restani all netted goals en route to Sunday’s win.

Republic FC’s U-17/18s are one of just three non-MLS Academies to make the U-17/18s Quarterfinals and the only USL or NASL operated Academy team to advance out of both the U-17/18 and U-15/16 age groups.

Republic FC’s U-17/18 Academy team has already faced their Quarterfinal opponent, Vancouver Whitecaps FC U-17/18s, twice during the regular season, drawing once and losing once to Whitecaps FC U-17/18s who finished first in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference, while Republic FC U-17/18s finished second.

The winner of the July 7 Quarterfinal match between Republic FC U-17/18s and Vancouver Whitecap FC U-17/18s will travel to Carson, Calif. to play in the Development Academy Championship Semifinals on July 14 at the U.S. Soccer National Training Center.

Sacramento Republic FC’s MLS stadium at the Railyards continues to take steady steps towards becoming a reality. On Thursday, the City of Sacramento will host a Joint Planning & Design Commission and Preservation Commission Meeting to discuss the project at 5:30 p.m. at the Hart Senior Center, located at 915 27th Street. The meeting is open to the public.

Located just north of downtown Sacramento, the Railyards will soon be home to a dynamic mixed-use, transit oriented development that includes Republic FC’s MLS stadium. The proposed development includes:

• 6,000-10,000 dwelling units,
• 3,271,297 – 4,371,297 square feet of non-residential uses,
• 771,405 square feet of flexible mixed use,
• 1,228,000 square feet of medical campus,
• 1,100 hotel rooms (keys),
• 485,390 square feet of historic and cultural uses,
• 33 acres of open space and
• A soccer specific stadium.

Republic FC fans are encouraged to attend Thursday’s meeting, which will include discussion on a variety of topics in relation to the Railyards development such as bicycle lanes, open space use and historical and cultural preservation efforts.

WHAT: Joint Planning & Design Commission and Preservation Commission Meeting
WHEN: Thursday, June 30, 2016 at 5:30 p.m.
WHERE: Hart Senior Center
915 27th Street

Sacramento Republic FC’s MLS stadium at the Railyards continues to take steady steps towards becoming a reality. On Thursday, the City of Sacramento will host a Joint Planning & Design Commission and Preservation Commission Meeting to discuss the project at 5:30 p.m. at the Hart Senior Center, located at 915 27th Street. The meeting is open to the public.

Located just north of downtown Sacramento, the Railyards will soon be home to a dynamic mixed-use, transit oriented development that includes Republic FC’s MLS stadium. The proposed development includes:

• 6,000-10,000 dwelling units,
• 3,271,297 – 4,371,297 square feet of non-residential uses,
• 771,405 square feet of flexible mixed use,
• 1,228,000 square feet of medical campus,
• 1,100 hotel rooms (keys),
• 485,390 square feet of historic and cultural uses,
• 33 acres of open space and
• A soccer specific stadium.

Republic FC fans are encouraged to attend Thursday’s meeting, which will include discussion on a variety of topics in relation to the Railyards development such as bicycle lanes, open space use and historical and cultural preservation efforts.

WHAT: Joint Planning & Design Commission and Preservation Commission Meeting
WHEN: Thursday, June 30, 2016 at 5:30 p.m.
WHERE: Hart Senior Center
915 27th Street

Introduced by FIFA in 2014, hydration breaks are still relatively new to the beautiful game, but are a crucial part of the sport, especially during the grueling summer months for leagues such as the USL and MLS.

Hydration breaks were introduced at a large scale during the 2014 FIFA Men’s World Cup in Brazil, where temperatures were among the hottest in tournament history. The first-ever hydration break in tournament history was held in the 39th minute of the United States’ 2-2 draw against Portugal in group play.

While most breaks didn’t last the full three minutes, they marked an important global shift towards changes designed to protect players and maintain a high level of athletic performance.

“Water is required for many of the body’s processes including circulation, digestion, nutrient absorption and physical performance. In terms of safety, the most important function is sweating – the process by which the body cools itself,” explained Dr. Jesse Saenz, who leads Republic FC’s sports and science staff. “During the course of a match, a player can lose as much as five percent of their body weight. As a player dehydrates, they lose the ability to regulate their body temperature with sweat. Hydration breaks are meant to reduce the chance of heat illness.”

Saenz explained that hydration is key not just for ensuring proper body temperature, but also for maintaining Republic FC players’ high level of athletic performance. As players become dehydrated, they begin to lose body mass and as research indicates, as little as a two percent drop in body mass can negatively affect a player’s ability to sprint and dribble.

Proper hydration practices—before and during a match—help ensure that the player does not lose significant body mass due to dehydration. For the average Republic FC player weighing 171 pounds proper, losing as little as 3.42 pounds in water weight can begin to affect athletic performance, so in high temperatures or humid conditions when a player is more likely to sweat, hydration breaks allow players to properly rehydrate to ensure optimal performance levels.

At the USL level, hydration breaks were introduced last season and remain a critical part of the match. The match referee determines whether or not hydrations breaks will be used in a match with extreme heat or humid conditions.

Using the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature—which factors in humidity—hydration breaks in the USL are mandated when the temperature is above 82° degrees Fahrenheit when the fourth official measures the temperature at the kickoff spot at the conclusion of prematch warm ups and before the start of the second half.

Prior to each half, should the temperature be high enough (or in the case of the second half, not drop by at least ten degrees), the officials then inform each club’s coaches, captains and necessary staff that there will be a water break.

Each break lasts up to three minutes and occurs approximately 30 minutes into each half, at the 30th and 75th minute marks once the ball goes out of play. From there, the clock continues to run and the allotted time is then calculated as part of stoppage time. Both sides return to their team bench areas, but active players must remain on the pitch, while bench personnel—including coaching staff—must remain in their respective technical areas.

However, hydration breaks are not the only time when Republic FC players and technical staff are closely monitoring the team’s hydration levels. For optimal match performance, players need to be properly hydrated not just immediately before and during a match, but also after the match and during training sessions throughout the week.

“Soccer is unique in that you have few opportunities during the match to hydrate,” said Saenz. “Hydration is an ongoing process. We keep ‘urine color charts’ in the restrooms at the training ground so players can judge whether they are properly hydrated.”

Additional steps Republic FC players and staff take to ensure players are properly hydrated is through replenishing electrolytes, which help with fluid absorption and muscle function. As electrolytes, like water, are also lost through sweat, it is important players have an adequate amount of electrolytes in their system.

“We use sports drinks on match day to replenish some of the electrolytes lost in sweat,” said Saenz. “We avoid drinking sports drinks in the hour before the match as this will cause an insulin spike leading to low blood sugar and early fatigue during the match. Players may begin drinking sports drinks during the warmup, at half time, and throughout the match.”

Lastly, the final step players take to ensure proper hydration levels and optimal performance is eating a prematch meal or snack which usually consists of healthy carbohydrates such as fruit.

“We provide carbohydrates [in the locker room] to keep energy levels high,” said Saenez. “All these steps help us regulate and maintain players’ performances on the pitch so they continue to perform and at a high level, especially in the summer.”

Introduced by FIFA in 2014, hydration breaks are still relatively new to the beautiful game, but are a crucial part of the sport, especially during the grueling summer months for leagues such as the USL and MLS.

Hydration breaks were introduced at a large scale during the 2014 FIFA Men’s World Cup in Brazil, where temperatures were among the hottest in tournament history. The first-ever hydration break in tournament history was held in the 39th minute of the United States’ 2-2 draw against Portugal in group play.

While most breaks didn’t last the full three minutes, they marked an important global shift towards changes designed to protect players and maintain a high level of athletic performance.

“Water is required for many of the body’s processes including circulation, digestion, nutrient absorption and physical performance. In terms of safety, the most important function is sweating – the process by which the body cools itself,” explained Dr. Jesse Saenz, who leads Republic FC’s sports and science staff. “During the course of a match, a player can lose as much as five percent of their body weight. As a player dehydrates, they lose the ability to regulate their body temperature with sweat. Hydration breaks are meant to reduce the chance of heat illness.”

Saenz explained that hydration is key not just for ensuring proper body temperature, but also for maintaining Republic FC players’ high level of athletic performance. As players become dehydrated, they begin to lose body mass and as research indicates, as little as a two percent drop in body mass can negatively affect a player’s ability to sprint and dribble.

Proper hydration practices—before and during a match—help ensure that the player does not lose significant body mass due to dehydration. For the average Republic FC player weighing 171 pounds proper, losing as little as 3.42 pounds in water weight can begin to affect athletic performance, so in high temperatures or humid conditions when a player is more likely to sweat, hydration breaks allow players to properly rehydrate to ensure optimal performance levels.

At the USL level, hydration breaks were introduced last season and remain a critical part of the match. The match referee determines whether or not hydrations breaks will be used in a match with extreme heat or humid conditions.

Using the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature—which factors in humidity—hydration breaks in the USL are mandated when the temperature is above 82° degrees Fahrenheit when the fourth official measures the temperature at the kickoff spot at the conclusion of prematch warm ups and before the start of the second half.

Prior to each half, should the temperature be high enough (or in the case of the second half, not drop by at least ten degrees), the officials then inform each club’s coaches, captains and necessary staff that there will be a water break.

Each break lasts up to three minutes and occurs approximately 30 minutes into each half, at the 30th and 75th minute marks once the ball goes out of play. From there, the clock continues to run and the allotted time is then calculated as part of stoppage time. Both sides return to their team bench areas, but active players must remain on the pitch, while bench personnel—including coaching staff—must remain in their respective technical areas.

However, hydration breaks are not the only time when Republic FC players and technical staff are closely monitoring the team’s hydration levels. For optimal match performance, players need to be properly hydrated not just immediately before and during a match, but also after the match and during training sessions throughout the week.

“Soccer is unique in that you have few opportunities during the match to hydrate,” said Saenz. “Hydration is an ongoing process. We keep ‘urine color charts’ in the restrooms at the training ground so players can judge whether they are properly hydrated.”

Additional steps Republic FC players and staff take to ensure players are properly hydrated is through replenishing electrolytes, which help with fluid absorption and muscle function. As electrolytes, like water, are also lost through sweat, it is important players have an adequate amount of electrolytes in their system.

“We use sports drinks on match day to replenish some of the electrolytes lost in sweat,” said Saenz. “We avoid drinking sports drinks in the hour before the match as this will cause an insulin spike leading to low blood sugar and early fatigue during the match. Players may begin drinking sports drinks during the warmup, at half time, and throughout the match.”

Lastly, the final step players take to ensure proper hydration levels and optimal performance is eating a prematch meal or snack which usually consists of healthy carbohydrates such as fruit.

“We provide carbohydrates [in the locker room] to keep energy levels high,” said Saenez. “All these steps help us regulate and maintain players’ performances on the pitch so they continue to perform and at a high level, especially in the summer.”

In a close Western Conference, every point counts for Sacramento Republic FC as the club earned a critical road point in 1-1 draw against Arizona United SC. A late equalizer from substitute Mac Pridham could prove crucial as Republic FC look to reach the top of the Western Conference table.

Check out highlights from the match below.

Match highlights presented by Northern California Honda Dealers. Learn more at norcalhondadealers.com.

In a close Western Conference, every point counts for Sacramento Republic FC as the club earned a critical road point in 1-1 draw against Arizona United SC. A late equalizer from substitute Mac Pridham could prove crucial as Republic FC look to reach the top of the Western Conference table.

Check out highlights from the match below.

Match highlights presented by Northern California Honda Dealers. Learn more at norcalhondadealers.com.

Every point counts for Sacramento Republic FC as they approach the midway point of their USL season. This was especially true in their most recent road match when they snatched a point in the waning minutes of Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Arizona United SC.

With 25 points, Republic FC sit in third place, one point behind second place LA Galaxy II (26) and four points behind conference leaders Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 (29). Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC and Rio Grande Valley FC Toros round up the top five in the West, with 23 points each.

In the middle of the pack, Republic FC have a match in hand against Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 and two in hand against Los Dos and the Toros. Meanwhile, the Switchbacks have played just 13 matches, the fewest matches of any of the top five, and have a match in hand against Republic FC.

The intensity in the Western Conference will only continue to heat up during Week 15 of the 2016 USL Season. Republic FC will look earn six crucial points at home in the club’s two lone July home matches that take place against Seattle Sounders FC 2 and Real Monarchs SLC on July 2 and July 6, respectively.

On Saturday, Republic FC will host S2 as they look to add fuel to their offensive run and extend their eight-match unbeaten streak. Republic FC have lost to Sounders FC 2 just once in their all-time series and have defeated S2 by a combined 8-0 goal differential in their past four meetings.

Republic FC will have a quick turnaround for their next and final home match in July when they host Real Monarchs SLC on Wednesday, July 8. After failing to capture a win against the Monarchs in 2015, Republic FC have defeated the Monarchs in the clubs’ two earlier meetings this season.

It will be crucial for Republic FC to earn six points during their two-match home stand in early July, as the club will then prepare for a grueling five-match road trip for the reminder of July and early August.

Kickoff for Republic FC’s upcoming matches on July 2 and 6 at Bonney Field is 8 p.m. Tickets are available for both matches and are on sale at Ticketmaster.com.

Every point counts for Sacramento Republic FC as they approach the midway point of their USL season. This was especially true in their most recent road match when they snatched a point in the waning minutes of Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Arizona United SC.

With 25 points, Republic FC sit in third place, one point behind second place LA Galaxy II (26) and four points behind conference leaders Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 (29). Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC and Rio Grande Valley FC Toros round up the top five in the West, with 23 points each.

In the middle of the pack, Republic FC have a match in hand against Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 and two in hand against Los Dos and the Toros. Meanwhile, the Switchbacks have played just 13 matches, the fewest matches of any of the top five, and have a match in hand against Republic FC.

The intensity in the Western Conference will only continue to heat up during Week 15 of the 2016 USL Season. Republic FC will look earn six crucial points at home in the club’s two lone July home matches that take place against Seattle Sounders FC 2 and Real Monarchs SLC on July 2 and July 6, respectively.

On Saturday, Republic FC will host S2 as they look to add fuel to their offensive run and extend their eight-match unbeaten streak. Republic FC have lost to Sounders FC 2 just once in their all-time series and have defeated S2 by a combined 8-0 goal differential in their past four meetings.

Republic FC will have a quick turnaround for their next and final home match in July when they host Real Monarchs SLC on Wednesday, July 8. After failing to capture a win against the Monarchs in 2015, Republic FC have defeated the Monarchs in the clubs’ two earlier meetings this season.

It will be crucial for Republic FC to earn six points during their two-match home stand in early July, as the club will then prepare for a grueling five-match road trip for the reminder of July and early August.

Kickoff for Republic FC’s upcoming matches on July 2 and 6 at Bonney Field is 8 p.m. Tickets are available for both matches and are on sale at Ticketmaster.com.

Sacramento Republic FC travel to face Arizona United SC this Saturday, June 25 at 7:30 p.m. Republic FC come into the match off a 3-2 win over Rio Grande Valley FC Toros and will be looking to keep their seven-match unbeaten streak going and extend their three-match win streak.

Ahead of Saturday’s road match, here’s everything you need to know about Arizona United SC that’s happened since Republic FC’s 1-0 win against Arizona United SC in Republic FC’s home opener on April 2.

KEY PLAYERS

Forward Long Tan continues to be one of the driving forces for Arizona United SC’s offense. Tan was named to the USL Team of the Week for Week 13—the same week Republic FC forward Cameron Iwasa won Player of the Week— for his match-winning goal in Arizona’s 2-1 win over Saint Louis FC. Tan has two goals and one assist in 13 matches for Arizona this season.

Meanwhile, Midfielder Luke Rooney, who made the jump to the United States right before the start of the 2016 USL season, has proven to be a valuable addition to Arizona United SC’s roster this season. The English midfielder was named to the USL Team of the Week for Week 4. In his first season with Arizona United SC, Rooney has recorded one goal and three assists in nine appearances.

Defender Julian Ringhof is currently one of two players on the squad that have played all 13 matches this season. Ringhof signed with Arizona United SC ahead of the 2016 season after having spent part of the 2015 season with USL defending champions the Rochester Rhinos. The 27-year-old defender has one goal on record this season. 

RECENT TRANSACTIONS

Most recently, Arizona United SC signed defender Adam West on June 23, just days ahead of Saturday’s match against Republic FC. The veteran defender has played for a number of American clubs, including the Tacoma Tide, Rochester Rhinos, Fort Lauderdale Strikers and most recently with USL Eastern Conference leader Louisville City FC, where he made 10 appearances in 2015. West was also a part of the then USL Pro side Seattle Sounders FC, winning the USL First Division Championship with the club in 2007. West played collegiately at the University of Washington.

 Midfielder Minh Vu signed with Arizona United SC on June 6. The Phoenix native most recently played with PDL club FC Tucson, recording three goals in four appearances this season. This is not Vu’s first USL season, having played his rookie year with the Rochester Rhinos during the 2014 season. Vu scored two goals during his 20 appearances with the Rhinos. He played collegiately at Penn State University.

Arizona United SC acquired Matheus Silva on loan from the San Jose Earthquakes on May 13. The 19-year-old defender signed with the Quakes on July 15, becoming the youngest player on the roster at 18-years-old. He appeared in the Quakes’ International Champions Cup match against Manchester United on July 21, 2015. He made his first appearance for Arizona United SC in their friendly against the U-20 Mexico National Team on April 17, 2016.

2016 SEASON SO FAR

Arizona United SC sits in 11th place in the Western Conference standings, with a record of 4-5-3. The season started off with five straight road matches for Arizona United SC, including a 0-1 loss to Republic FC on April 2 in the club’s home opener at Bonney Field. Arizona recovered in their next match, defeating Real Monarchs SLC 1-0 and going on to draw in their next three matches. The club recorded losses on May 21 and May 28 to Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC and LA Galaxy II, respectively.

The club is currently on a three-match unbeaten streak, defeating Orange County Blues FC and Saint Louis FC, and tying against Rio Grande Valley FC in their last three matches.

SATURDAY’S MATCH

Fans can attend Saturday’s official Republic FC vs Arizona United SC watch party at de Vere’s Irish Pub in downtown Sacramento. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. The match will be live streamed at https://www.sacrepublicfc.com/matchday/ and fans can follow live updates on Twitter @SacRepublicFC or by using the hashtag #AZvSAC.

Sacramento Republic FC travel to face Arizona United SC this Saturday, June 25 at 7:30 p.m. Republic FC come into the match off a 3-2 win over Rio Grande Valley FC Toros and will be looking to keep their seven-match unbeaten streak going and extend their three-match win streak.

Ahead of Saturday’s road match, here’s everything you need to know about Arizona United SC that’s happened since Republic FC’s 1-0 win against Arizona United SC in Republic FC’s home opener on April 2.

KEY PLAYERS

Forward Long Tan continues to be one of the driving forces for Arizona United SC’s offense. Tan was named to the USL Team of the Week for Week 13—the same week Republic FC forward Cameron Iwasa won Player of the Week— for his match-winning goal in Arizona’s 2-1 win over Saint Louis FC. Tan has two goals and one assist in 13 matches for Arizona this season.

Meanwhile, Midfielder Luke Rooney, who made the jump to the United States right before the start of the 2016 USL season, has proven to be a valuable addition to Arizona United SC’s roster this season. The English midfielder was named to the USL Team of the Week for Week 4. In his first season with Arizona United SC, Rooney has recorded one goal and three assists in nine appearances.

Defender Julian Ringhof is currently one of two players on the squad that have played all 13 matches this season. Ringhof signed with Arizona United SC ahead of the 2016 season after having spent part of the 2015 season with USL defending champions the Rochester Rhinos. The 27-year-old defender has one goal on record this season. 

RECENT TRANSACTIONS

Most recently, Arizona United SC signed defender Adam West on June 23, just days ahead of Saturday’s match against Republic FC. The veteran defender has played for a number of American clubs, including the Tacoma Tide, Rochester Rhinos, Fort Lauderdale Strikers and most recently with USL Eastern Conference leader Louisville City FC, where he made 10 appearances in 2015. West was also a part of the then USL Pro side Seattle Sounders FC, winning the USL First Division Championship with the club in 2007. West played collegiately at the University of Washington.

 Midfielder Minh Vu signed with Arizona United SC on June 6. The Phoenix native most recently played with PDL club FC Tucson, recording three goals in four appearances this season. This is not Vu’s first USL season, having played his rookie year with the Rochester Rhinos during the 2014 season. Vu scored two goals during his 20 appearances with the Rhinos. He played collegiately at Penn State University.

Arizona United SC acquired Matheus Silva on loan from the San Jose Earthquakes on May 13. The 19-year-old defender signed with the Quakes on July 15, becoming the youngest player on the roster at 18-years-old. He appeared in the Quakes’ International Champions Cup match against Manchester United on July 21, 2015. He made his first appearance for Arizona United SC in their friendly against the U-20 Mexico National Team on April 17, 2016.

2016 SEASON SO FAR

Arizona United SC sits in 11th place in the Western Conference standings, with a record of 4-5-3. The season started off with five straight road matches for Arizona United SC, including a 0-1 loss to Republic FC on April 2 in the club’s home opener at Bonney Field. Arizona recovered in their next match, defeating Real Monarchs SLC 1-0 and going on to draw in their next three matches. The club recorded losses on May 21 and May 28 to Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC and LA Galaxy II, respectively.

The club is currently on a three-match unbeaten streak, defeating Orange County Blues FC and Saint Louis FC, and tying against Rio Grande Valley FC in their last three matches.

SATURDAY’S MATCH

Fans can attend Saturday’s official Republic FC vs Arizona United SC watch party at de Vere’s Irish Pub in downtown Sacramento. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. The match will be live streamed at https://www.sacrepublicfc.com/matchday/ and fans can follow live updates on Twitter @SacRepublicFC or by using the hashtag #AZvSAC.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 23, 2016) – Sacramento Republic FC have loaned Matt LaGrassa to Tulsa Roughnecks FC. The rookie midfielder has joined Roughnecks FC prior to Tulsa’s match against LA Galaxy II tonight, Friday, June 24.

“Matt is in a developmental stage in his career and he is improving constantly,” said Republic FC Director of Football Graham Smith. “We are hoping to speed up his development by sending him to Tulsa where he can get meaningful minutes. This is a positive step in his maturation as a player.”

LaGrassa has appeared in five matches for Republic FC this season including one start. He has played 181 minutes in all competitions. LaGrassa made his USL debut against LA Galaxy II in a 2-0 win on May 7. LaGrassa entered the match as a sub in stoppage time, recording his only USL minute played this season.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 23, 2016) – Sacramento Republic FC have loaned Matt LaGrassa to Tulsa Roughnecks FC. The rookie midfielder has joined Roughnecks FC prior to Tulsa’s match against LA Galaxy II tonight, Friday, June 24.

“Matt is in a developmental stage in his career and he is improving constantly,” said Republic FC Director of Football Graham Smith. “We are hoping to speed up his development by sending him to Tulsa where he can get meaningful minutes. This is a positive step in his maturation as a player.”

LaGrassa has appeared in five matches for Republic FC this season including one start. He has played 181 minutes in all competitions. LaGrassa made his USL debut against LA Galaxy II in a 2-0 win on May 7. LaGrassa entered the match as a sub in stoppage time, recording his only USL minute played this season.

While many of Sacramento Republic FC’s players have spent the past month cheering on teams such as the United States, Colombia and Mexico in Copa America, Republic FC’s European players are looking forward to the knockout stage of 2016 UEFA European Championship.

Four Republic FC players—Thomas Stewart, Derek Foran, Harry Williams and Daniel Trickett-Smith—are from countries that advanced to the knockout stages of this year’s Euros.

“It’s great to see competitive international football again like Euros and Copa,” said Stewart. “The Euros is more of a pennant for us.”

“It’s a bit different watching it in America,” added Trickett-Smith. “But so far I’m really enjoying it.”

While many of Sacramento Republic FC’s players have spent the past month cheering on teams such as the United States, Colombia and Mexico in Copa America, Republic FC’s European players are looking forward to the knockout stage of 2016 UEFA European Championship.

Four Republic FC players—Thomas Stewart, Derek Foran, Harry Williams and Daniel Trickett-Smith—are from countries that advanced to the knockout stages of this year’s Euros.

“It’s great to see competitive international football again like Euros and Copa,” said Stewart. “The Euros is more of a pennant for us.”

“It’s a bit different watching it in America,” added Trickett-Smith. “But so far I’m really enjoying it.”

Stewart’s native Northern Ireland faces off against Wales on Saturday morning, while Foran’s home country, Ireland, will play France on Sunday. Lastly, Williams and Trickett-Smith are eagerly planning on cheering for England as they square off against Iceland on Monday.

For Stewart, his ties to Northern Ireland extend past just his home country roots. Northern Ireland midfielder Naill McGinn, who scored a goal against Ukraine in group play, is Stewart’s former teammate. The pair played together on the youth national level with Northern Ireland’s U23 team in 2007-2008 and later were teammates from 2008 to 2009 at Derry City, a club in the League of Ireland’s Premier Division.

“Seeing Northern Ireland is a bit more for me, so enjoy that,” said Stewart. “I like to see good football and see more players develop. Obviously whenever some players have good performances, they’ll make some transfers out of it. So that’s what I’m really looking forward to seeing who comes out of it and to what team.”

Two more Northern Ireland players also have made brief appearances in Sacramento. Defender Chris Baird and Gareth McAuley both were players for English Premier League side West Bromwich Albion in 2014. Republic FC hosted two international friendlies against West Brom during July of the club’s inaugural season.

Meanwhile, Republic FC defender Derek Foran has endured early mornings to root on the Republic of Ireland’s national team, which is lead by captain John O’Shea, who pulled off a dramatic win against Italy to reach the round of 16 the Euros.

O’Shea is another player in this year’s UEFA European Championship that has made an appearance at Bonney Field. The defender is the current captain for English Premier League side Sunderland AFC, who played two friendlies at Bonney Field—one against Republic FC another against Liga MX side CF Pachuca—in 2015.

“I’m not going to hold my breath, but I do think an underdog will win the tournament,” said Foran about his country’s chances of winning the tournament.

Stewart’s native Northern Ireland faces off against Wales on Saturday morning, while Foran’s home country, Ireland, will play France on Sunday. Lastly, Williams and Trickett-Smith are eagerly planning on cheering for England as they square off against Iceland on Monday.

For Stewart, his ties to Northern Ireland extend past just his home country roots. Northern Ireland midfielder Naill McGinn, who scored a goal against Ukraine in group play, is Stewart’s former teammate. The pair played together on the youth national level with Northern Ireland’s U23 team in 2007-2008 and later were teammates from 2008 to 2009 at Derry City, a club in the League of Ireland’s Premier Division.

“Seeing Northern Ireland is a bit more for me, so enjoy that,” said Stewart. “I like to see good football and see more players develop. Obviously whenever some players have good performances, they’ll make some transfers out of it. So that’s what I’m really looking forward to seeing who comes out of it and to what team.”

Two more Northern Ireland players also have made brief appearances in Sacramento. Defender Chris Baird and Gareth McAuley both were players for English Premier League side West Bromwich Albion in 2014. Republic FC hosted two international friendlies against West Brom during July of the club’s inaugural season.

Meanwhile, Republic FC defender Derek Foran has endured early mornings to root on the Republic of Ireland’s national team, which is lead by captain John O’Shea, who pulled off a dramatic win against Italy to reach the round of 16 the Euros.

O’Shea is another player in this year’s UEFA European Championship that has made an appearance at Bonney Field. The defender is the current captain for English Premier League side Sunderland AFC, who played two friendlies at Bonney Field—one against Republic FC another against Liga MX side CF Pachuca—in 2015.

“I’m not going to hold my breath, but I do think an underdog will win the tournament,” said Foran about his country’s chances of winning the tournament.

Lastly, Republic FC youngsters Williams and Trickett-Smith are enjoying the new experience of watching the UEFA European Championship outside of England. This is not only the English duo’s first season playing the beautiful game stateside, but the first summer they are not in Europe for the tournament.

“It’s weird because of the time difference as well, obviously. I’m used to watching it at home with my family and friends or watching it at the pub like that,” said Williams “It’s nice to have another English lad to watch it with, so I’m enjoying that.”

However, like most fans, Republic FC players, while they are exciting to root for their home countries, are just excited to enjoy the tournament.

“I’m looking forward to see how far we, [England] can go and seeing some attacking football,” said Williams.

Northern Ireland is the first country back in action in the round of sixteen and will face Wales at 9 a.m. on Saturday. The Republic of Ireland plays France Sunday at 6 a.m., while England will then play Iceland at noon on Monday.

For fans wishing to catch the Ireland vs France match on Sunday, de Vere’s Irish Pub in down Sacramento will be opening early exclusively for the occasion.

“I’m just looking forward to a good game, to be honest, if I’m getting up at six in the morning,” said Foran.

Lastly, Republic FC youngsters Williams and Trickett-Smith are enjoying the new experience of watching the UEFA European Championship outside of England. This is not only the English duo’s first season playing the beautiful game stateside, but the first summer they are not in Europe for the tournament.

“It’s weird because of the time difference as well, obviously. I’m used to watching it at home with my family and friends or watching it at the pub like that,” said Williams “It’s nice to have another English lad to watch it with, so I’m enjoying that.”

However, like most fans, Republic FC players, while they are exciting to root for their home countries, are just excited to enjoy the tournament.

“I’m looking forward to see how far we, [England] can go and seeing some attacking football,” said Williams.

Northern Ireland is the first country back in action in the round of sixteen and will face Wales at 9 a.m. on Saturday. The Republic of Ireland plays France Sunday at 6 a.m., while England will then play Iceland at noon on Monday.

For fans wishing to catch the Ireland vs France match on Sunday, de Vere’s Irish Pub in down Sacramento will be opening early exclusively for the occasion.

“I’m just looking forward to a good game, to be honest, if I’m getting up at six in the morning,” said Foran.