The "Show"

I first heard this expression from an over eager entrepreneur on the soccer scene in Charleston SC referring to the annual NSCAA Convention. Unlike many of us in the game who use this to network, catch up with old soccer friends, and maybe pick an idea or two (or buy the latest software, website, or training gimmick!) I think he actually thought it was an actual show for him and his cronies to sell their hair-brained ideas about how to make millions off all of us coaches!
I digress....
For those who have never experienced this "Show" it is an awesome experience for anyone who is truly a soccer junkie. Your first time is always unforgettable as there is so much free stuff being thrown around that you end up with more trinkets, mousepads, mini balls and an additional airline fee for all the extra baggage! All that aside, it is a positive experience that allows thousands of soccer professionals from the youth and HS coaches all the way up to MLS to take part in a 4 day soccer extravaganza. You will even find the occasional European, South American, or Asian coach as a guest presenter.

Overall some grow tired or weary of the event with the disclaimer that it's always the same or there aren't any new ideas coming out of the convention anymore. Anytime I am asked about the take away
My response is just that of a coach.... You get out of it what you put into it. For those looking to meet new people in the soccer world, find that cutting edge software, interview some new candidates for a job, or just catch up with those you don't see all year long it is the perfect storm.
Below are some highlights for "The Show" this year but like everyone else my circle may not include some of things that others saw, heard, or weren't supposed to see or hear....
Enjoy.

Most interesting Presenter
Tom-san (Tom Byer) --- The coach most responsible for changing the development in Japan over the last 20 years. An American who played professionally there after college and continued on as Director of Coerver Asia and has now started his own brand, soccer schools, morning TV, and more. His emphasis is the technical development of players ages 5 -12 and creating a buzz about soccer that Japanese kids can't get away from.

Most Crash and Burn Talk
Eric Wynalda - This guy just can't help himself. He must have called out 1/2 of the professional players in the US including Eddie Pope and Freddie Adu as wasted talent. He bashed MLS, how it develops players, how the system runs, and the current timing of the season. If he was going for the shock and awe affect he hit the nail on the head!

Best On - Field Session
Peter Vermes - Manager Sporting Kansas City FC - This session was well prepared and very organized. He had an assistant helping him run the session so he could not only coach the players but also instruct the coaches. Why every coach doesn't have one I don't know! The topic flowed and progressed and the players seemed to enjoy themselves. At this point I rarely write down an entire session but I was taking notes on the entire session to add them to my list of activities. The session was dynamic and actually made the kids in the session better.