1999 Season News - Looking Back

[1999 Division Standings]

PLAYOFF TIME FOR BUCKS

Tournament May Be Last Opportunity For Some Bucks To Shine In Mid Michigan

When the Mid Michigan Bucks play host to the Central Conference Championship Tournament this weekend at White Pine Stadium in Saginaw Twp., several players may be seeing their final action in a Bucks uniform, as the team's phenomenal season should open doors for them to higher leagues next year. "I am sure that we will lose some of our guys to the A-League next year, but that is what we are all about," said Bucks general manager, Jim Duggan.

"Our players have proven that we are competitive with the higher leagues and they should now reap the reward of being able to make a living at soccer. Hopefully they will leave Saginaw in style." Rodrigo Costa, Mike Dodd, Benji Djeukeng, Eric Pogue, Alan Placek, Dwyane Demmin, Tino Scicluna and Scott Emert could all get tryouts with A-League or MLS teams next season. Stephen Armstrong enters his final season at Butler University as a leading candidate for the Herman Award, college soccer's equivalent to the Heisman Trophy.

Mid Michigan (14-2) will face the Sioux City Breeze (13-3) at 7pm on Friday followed by the Twin Cities Tornado (14-2) vs. the Chicago Sockers (12-4) in the night's second Semifinal match. The two winners will square off on Saturday night at 7:30pm for the Conference Championship and a trip to the National Championships in Spokane, WA next weekend. Reserved Section weekend passes are available for $10 at participating 7-11 Stores in Midland and Saginaw, all Saginaw County Little Caesars and at Kick It Around Sports in Flint. Plenty of $7 Reserved Section tickets are also still available for both nights and will be on sale at the gate one hour before kick-off each night.

The quality of teams gathered in Saginaw will be impressive. "League officials who have seen teams from all over the country say we may have four of the very best Premier Development League teams. Sioux City and Twin Cities are really tough and we know how good Chicago is," said Duggan. The Sockers beat the Bucks 1-0 last week to qualify for the playoffs. Chicago is led by the outstanding goalkeeping of Adam Throop and forward Andy McDermott.

Sioux City has two explosive scorers in Brazilian Fabio Eidelwien and Matt Byers, while the defense is led by Chad Reid. Twin Cities matches up on Friday against Chicago with 1996 Mr. Soccer in Minnesota, Marshall Morehead. Morehead scored a blistering 15 goals in the Tornado's first 12 games. Their backfield is led by two-time PDL "Team of the Week" player, Mark Schulte. Fans are asked to call (517) 781-6888 for additional ticket information.

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  July 30, 1999

TOURNEY TICKETS ON SALE SATURDAY

Limited Number of Reserved Section Passes Available For Conference Championship

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team announced today that a limited number of advanced tickets for the Premier Development League's Central Conference Championship Tournament will go on sale tomorrow, Saturday, July 31st at 9am. Reserved Section Weekend Passes will be available for $10 at participating Saginaw and Midland 7-11 Food Stores, Saginaw County Little Caesars, Flint's Kick It Around Sports and at tomorrow's Bucks game at White Pine Middle School Stadium in Saginaw Township. The passes are good for guaranteed seating at all three games at White Pine: Semifinals on Friday (7pm & 9pm), August 6th and the Championship on Saturday (7:30pm), August 7th. Individual game tickets, as available, will be $7 at the gate on game days.

This year, the Premier Development League (PDL), the USL's third level of minor league soccer, will use a "final four" format to determine the three conference winners, who then will continue on in the national playoffs. The Spokane (WA) Shadow will round out the national championship field as host on August 14th and 15th. The Bucks were awarded the Central Conference Tournament by the league on Tuesday. The Sioux City (IA) Breeze and the Twin Cities (MN) Tornado, the top two teams from the Heartland Division, will meet the Great Lakes Division's top two teams, including the Bucks, who have won their fourth consecutive division title. Chicago or Wisconsin will qualify as the second seed from the Great Lakes, depending on this weekend's final regular season matches.

The Bucks are hoping to draw the same kind of excitement that led to their biggest crowd ever on July 12th against the Tampa Bay Mutiny, which drew 4,887 fans in a 2-1 loss, but will be unable to add seating for this tournament. "Without the extra stands, we wanted to make sure that everyone who bought tickets in advance to this event would be guaranteed seats," said Bucks general manager Jim Duggan. Groups of 10 or more may call the Bucks office to reserve weekend passes (517-781-6888).

Paul Scicluna Tribute At Final Home Game Tomorrow

The Bucks have only one regular season game left, against Chicago, in what could be a possible showdown in the conference tournament. In Saturday's game, which will be a must-win match for the Sockers, the Mid Michigan Bucks will honor former co-owner Paul Scicluna with a halftime tribute. Scicluna passed away this spring in a tragic automobile accident. All tickets will be $4. Fans are asked to call (517) 781-6888 for additional ticket information.

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Bucks Press Release, July 27, 1999

BUCKS TO HOST CHAMPIONSHIP

Central Conference Crown To Be Decided At White Pine

The United Soccer League (USL) announced today that the Mid Michigan Bucks will host the Premier Development League (PDL) Central Conference Championship Tournament on August 6th & 7th in Saginaw Township. The Bucks qualified for the tournament by winning their fourth consecutive division title. The top two teams from each division (Heartland and Great Lakes) in the Central Conference will compete in the single elimination tournament to be played at White Pine Middle School Stadium.

"The Bucks have proven on and off the field that they are worthy of hosting the conference finals," said USL Associate Commissioner, David Askinas. "With the quality of teams in those two divisions, the fans in Mid Michigan are in for an exciting weekend of soccer." The Bucks are currently 14-1 in division play, 18-1 in league games and 20-2 overall this season, including a tremendous run in the US Open Cup, which ended with a 2-1 loss to Major League Soccer's Tampa Bay Mutiny before nearly 5,000 fans at White Pine on July 12th.

While the Twin Cities (Minneapolis) Tornado (13-1) and the Sioux City Breeze (10-3) have qualified from the Heartland Division, the final Great Lakes playoff spot will not be decided until after this weekend's final regular season games. The Chicago Sockers (10-4) hold a one-game lead over the Wisconsin Rebels (9-3) with two games remaining. The tentative schedule for the Semifinal match-ups on Friday will feature the Bucks vs. the #2 seed from the Heartland Division at 7pm, followed by the #1 seed from the Heartland Division facing the #2 seed from the Great Lakes Division. Complete game schedule and ticket information will be announced on Thursday, July 29th.

"We are looking forward to hosting these games because the intensity is so great; you lose and you're done. And having two outstanding teams here that we have not seen in Sioux City and Twin Cities should also add to the appeal of the tournament," said Bucks general manager and co-owner, Jim Duggan. Three conference champions and host Spokane (WA) Shadow will vie for the PDL title on August 14th and 15th in another "final four" format.

Final Regular Season Home Game: In this Saturday's game, which will be a must-win match for the Chicago Sockers, the Mid Michigan Bucks will honor former co-owner Paul Scicluna with a halftime tribute. Scicluna passed away this spring in a tragic automobile accident. All tickets will be $4. There will also be a postgame party at Shooters of Saginaw immediately after the game: By presenting their ticket stub, fans will be able to purchase a meal and a seat at the private comedy show, both for only $10. Fans are asked to call (517) MMBUCKS for additional ticket information.

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Bucks Press Release, July 26, 1999

BUCKS BID COMPLETE

Decision on Conference Tournament host to come Wednesday

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team will find out from the United Soccer League (USL) office on Wednesday if they have won the right to host the 1999 Central Conference Tournament. This year, the Premier Development League (PDL), the USL's third level of minor league soccer, will use a "final four" format to determine the three conference winners, who then will continue on in the national playoffs. The Spokane (WA) Shadow will round out the national championship field as host on August 14th and 15th. If the Bucks are selected to host, the top two teams from the Heartland Division and the Great Lakes Division would square off to determine a champion on August 6 & 7 at White Pine Stadium in Saginaw Township. The Bucks are hoping to draw the same kind of excitement that led to their biggest crowd ever on July 12th against the Tampa Bay Mutiny, which drew 4,887 fans in a 2-1 loss.

"To host the conference tournament would mean a lot to the players, since the stakes are even higher than they were for Open Cup," said Coach Steve Burns. "This is what we play for. You lose and the season's over, so playing in front of our own crowd would give us an enormous boost." Sioux City and Twin Cities have already advanced in the Heartland Division. So far, only Mid Michigan has qualified out of the Great Lakes Division, as Chicago and Wisconsin are still fighting it out for the last spot in the conference tournament. Currently, Chicago is in second place with 45 total points ahead of Wisconsin by 4 points. Chicago has two games left versus Rockford (home) on 7/28 and at Mid Michigan on 7/31. Meanwhile, Wisconsin is home for their last two games, both against last place West Michigan.

The Mid Michigan franchise has now won the division championship for the fourth consecutive year, but have their eyes on the bigger prize. "We want to win a national championship," says Burns. "But the guys know they have to take care of business to get there. We have heard that Sioux City and Twin Cities are very strong sides." The Bucks have only one regular season game left, against Chicago, in what could be a possible showdown in the conference tournament. After Mid Michigan defeated Chicago in two tightly contested meetings early in the season, the Sockers went on an eight-game winning streak.

In Saturday's game, which will be a must-win match for the Sockers, the Mid Michigan Bucks will honor former co-owner Paul Scicluna with a halftime tribute. Scicluna passed away this spring in a tragic automobile accident. All tickets will be $4. There will also be a postgame party at Shooters of Saginaw immediately after the game: By presenting their ticket stub, fans will be able to purchase a meal and a seat at the private comedy show, both for only $10. Fans are asked to call (517) MMBUCKS for additional ticket information.

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Bucks Press Release, July 25, 1999

BUCKS STREAK ENDS, 3-2

Team regroups after loss at Wisconsin; final home game on Saturday vs. Chicago

After 17 consecutive wins in the Premier Development League (PDL), the Bucks proved they were not invincible on Friday night in Wisconsin, as Mid Michigan's minor league soccer team lost 3-2 to the Rebels. The team started out roughly against Indiana on Saturday in South Bend as well, but rebounded to score four goals in the final 30 minutes to win 4-0. With one game remaining in the regular season, the Bucks (14-1, division; 18-1, league; 20-2 overall) have clinched their fourth consecutive division title in four years in the PDL. Mid Michigan's final regular season match will feature the second place Chicago Sockers (10-4), who are looking to wrap-up the second, and final, Great Lakes Division playoff spot.

Stephen Armstrong and Rodrigo Costa each had one goal and one assist on Friday, but Wisconsin scored two late goals to pull out the victory to keep their playoff hopes alive. The third place Rebels (8-5) are nine points behind Chicago. Complete league standings will be released following the weekend's games. Armstrong and Costa again provided the offense on Saturday against the Invaders. Costa assisted the first two goals which were both scored by Armstrong. Newcomer Jeremy Harkins scored (from Armstrong) and Costa finished up the scoring (from Chris King). Alan Placek was in net for both games and is now 7-1 during the regular season with a 0.86 Goals Against Average.

FINAL HOME GAME

Mid Michigan's final home game of the regular season will be at White Pine Middle School on Saturday, July 31 at 7:30pm. The night has been set aside as a special game to honor Bucks' former co-owner, Paul Scicluna, who died tragically in an auto accident in April. In addition to a number of tributes at halftime, several former Bucks players are expected to attend. All tickets for this game will be just $4 at the gate. There will also be a postgame party at Shooters of Saginaw immediately after the game. By presenting their ticket stub, fans will be able to purchase a meal and a seat in the comedy club for only $10. Fans are asked to call (517) MMBUCKS for additional ticket information.

BUCKS HIGH SCHOOL CAMP

Players interested in registering for the Bucks' High School Camp at White Pine Middle School on August 2nd through 5th should call 517-799-7867 to reserve a place. Cost is $65 for the four-day camp featuring Bucks players and runs daily from 9:00am to 2:00pm. Campers (grades 9 through 12) should bring lunch, a ball and water.

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Bucks Press Release, July 23, 1999

PLACEK, SNAPE LEAD LEAGUE

The top goalkeeper and assist man belong to the Mid Michigan Bucks

Goalkeeper Alan Placek and forward Paul Snape are on top of two statistical categories (regular season) in the Premier Development League (PDL) for the Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team. Leading the way in assists is Snape, collecting eleven in nine games. Snape also has seven goals on his way to leading the Bucks to a 13-0 regular season record (18-0 overall). Anchoring Mid Michigan's defense is goalkeeper Alan Placek with a 0.67 Goals Against Average (G.A.A.) allowing only four goals in six games. Placek and Eric Pogue(6-0; 0.82 G.A.A.) have a combined 0.75 G.A.A in guarding the net for the Bucks. The superb play of Placek and Snape has lifted Mid Michigan to a fourth consecutive division title. The team has now captured the division title in each year of their four-years of existence.

"It's nice to be leading the league in individual categories," says Placek. "But my goal is to help our team be successful in the playoffs."

Mid Michigan also received some more good news this week when defenseman Benjamin Djeukeng was named to the PDL team of the week. Djeukeng's goal in the 5-1 win over Rockford helped the team to maintain their undefeated season. The Bucks players are taking their accomplishments on the road this weekend for a pair of games versus Wisconsin and Indiana. This is the team's last regular season road trip of the year, eventually concluding at home on July 31st against Chicago. The first stop is Wisconsin on Friday, July 23rd at 7:30 p.m. The Bucks have won the two previous meetings this year with the Rebels, both played in Mid Michigan. Wisconsin is currently in fourth place of the Great Lakes Division (GLD) with a 7-5 record. After finishing on Friday night, the Bucks travel to Indiana on Saturday for an evening contest with the Invaders. With a 7-8 record, Indiana sits in third place thanks to seven bonus points. Forward Rodrigo Costa has three goals and one assist this year against the Invaders in helping the Bucks outscore them 14-1.

In their final home game of the year on Saturday, July 31st, the Mid Michigan Bucks will honor former co-owner Paul Scicluna with a halftime tribute. Scicluna passed away this past spring in a tragic automobile accident. In celebrating his legacy, all tickets will be $4. There will also be a postgame party at Shooters of Saginaw immediately after the game: By presenting their ticket stub, fans will be able to purchase a meal and a seat at the private comedy show, both for only $10. Fans are asked to call (517) MMBUCKS for additional ticket information.

BUCKS TO BID FOR CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Mid Michigan Bucks are bidding to host the conference championships slated for August 6-7. The top two teams from the Great Lakes Division and the Heartland Division square off to determine a champion. This is the first time the PDL has used a "final four" format to determine the three conference winners, who continue on in the national playoffs. The Spokane (WA) Shadow will round out the national championship field as host on August 14th and 15th. A decision on regional host selection's is expected on Wednesday, July 28th by the league.

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Bucks Press Release, July 21, 1999

BUCKS EYE DIVISION TITLE

After beating Rockford, Mid Michigan looks to take of business on the road

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team travels to Wisconsin and Indiana this weekend looking to stay unbeaten in Great Lakes Division play this season. The Bucks come off a 5-1 home victory of the Rockford Raptors on Saturday in Saginaw. Playing without leading scorers Stephen Armstrong and Rodrigo Costa, the team placed the offensive load on forward Dwayne Demmin. Demmin scored quickly in the 6th minute and again in 51st minute. He also assisted on Adam Heinemann's goal at the end of the first half. Benjamin Djeukeng and Chris King scored within one minute of each other late in the second half to secure the victory. Mid Michigan was in total control the entire game outshooting Rockford 38-10. Goalkeeper Eric Pogue played steady making five saves, allowing only one goal for his seventh victory.

Mid Michigan (13-0 division; 17-0 league; 19-1 overall) looks to keep their division record untarnished when they travel to Fox River, WI challenging the Wisconsin Rebels. The Bucks have defeated the Rebels in both their meetings this year. Most recently on June 19th at the Midland Soccer Club, Paul Snape and Rodrigo Costa each scored twice and Alan Placek made four saves to shutout the Rebels 7-0. On Saturday, Mid Michigan travels to South Bend, IN to take on the Indiana Invaders starting at 7:30 p.m. In their three previous meeting the Bucks have outscored the Invaders 14-1 in winning each game. "It is very difficult to beat a team three or four times in a season, so we had better be prepared," said a cautious Bucks coach, Steve Burns.

Rodrigo Costa is the Bucks leading scorer through 13 regular season games, accumulating ten goals and six assists totaling twenty-six points. Mid Michigan will look for his offensive spark heading toward the playoffs. After collecting three assists on Saturday, forward Paul Snape is still the leading assist man with eleven total along with his seven goals. Goalkeepers Alan Placek (6-0) and Eric Pogue (7-0) have been marvelous at the net compiling a combined 0.75 Goals Against Average (G.A.A.).

PAUL SCICLUNA NIGHT

In their final home game of the year on Saturday, July 31st, the Mid Michigan Bucks will honor former co-owner Paul Scicluna. Scicluna passed away this past spring in a tragic automobile accident. In celebrating his legacy, all tickets will be $4. There will also be a postgame party at Shooters of Saginaw immediately after the game: By presenting their ticket stub, fans will be able to purchase a meal and a seat at the private comedy show, both for only $10. Fans are asked to call (517) MMBUCKS for additional ticket information.

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Bucks Press Release, July 15, 1999

BUCKS FOCUS ON REGULAR SEASON

Mid Michigan to play Rockford at home this Saturday in Great Lakes Division play

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team is back at home this Saturday, July 17th against the Rockford Raptors at White Pine Stadium starting at 7:30 p.m. This will be the Bucks first game since their tough 2-1 loss to Major League Soccer's Tampa Bay Mutiny in Round Three of the U.S. Open Cup, played in front of a club record 4,887 fans at White Pine Stadium this past Monday. It was the first time Mid Michigan had ever advanced to the third round of the U.S. Open Cup and the second time a Premier Development League (PDL) moved that far into the tournament. Bucks are currently 12-0 in division play (16-0, league play; 18-1, overall) so far this season. They are in first place in the Great Lakes Division (GLD) with 55 total points, ahead of second place Chicago by 21 points.

"The Tampa game was a great experience for our team to compete with one of the top teams in the country," said Coach Steve Burns. "But that's over with now and its time to refocus our attention to our main goal and that's to win the division and have a chance for a national championship."

Mid Michigan has beaten Rockford in their pair of meetings this season played in Rockford. On May 23rd, forward Stephen Armstrong scored three goals and goalkeeper Eric Pogue shutout the Raptors with four saves to clinch a spot in the U.S. Open Cup for the Bucks in their final qualifying game. On June 5th, the Bucks repeated their performance with forward Ryan Mack scoring three goals and goalkeeper Alan Placek made two saves to shutout the Raptors 4-0 once again on their home field.

Rockford is currently in 6th place in the GLD with 10 total points and a 2-9 record. Founded in 1994, the Raptors are the longest-running United Soccer League team in Illinois. Rockford is coached by Dave Huson, who was a member of the league champion Chicago Sting in 1981 & 1984. Forward Ryan Hartberg leads the offense after scoring three goals in a 4-3 loss to the Wisconsin Rebels. Leading the defense are Andrew Barks and Chris Robbins who both split the goalkeeping duties. This is the Raptors first year in the PDL after five years in the D-3 Pro League, finishing last year with a 10-8 record.

This Saturday's game is Scout Night at White Pine Stadium presented by the Lake Huron Area Council, Mitten Bay Girl Scout Council, and the Mid Michigan Bucks. All scouts, boys, girls, and parents will be able to purchase their tickets for only $3 per person, all other tickets are $7, $5 for students. Shooters of Saginaw will also be hosting a pre-game party starting at 5:00 p.m. By presenting their Bucks tickets, fans will receive $2 in free tokens. Fans are asked to call (517) MMBUCKS for ticket information.

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My News Release, July 13, 1999

BUCKS GO DOWN FIGHTING 1-2

The Bucks give the Mutiny all they can handle

The field was packed with 4,887 involved fans surrounding the players watching a great soccer game between the amateur PDSL Bucks and the professional MLS Mutiny. Mutiny's Musa Shannon scored first with a easy looking goal at 1:44 and you could almost hear the crowd think it was going to be a slaughter. However, the Bucks stayed in it outshooting the Mutiny 14-3 in the first half. Shannon scored again in the second half giving the Mutiny a 2-0 lead. But it was just four minutes later when Stephen Armstrong blasted a Bucks shot past the Mutiny's goalkeeper to make the score 1-2. And that's how it ended.

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Bucks Press Release, July 9, 1999

CUP SOCCER GAME TO INCLUDE DETROITERS

Mid Michigan Bucks vs Tampa Bay Mutiny in Saginaw will feature some of Detroit's best

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team will host Round Three of the U.S. Open Cup on Monday, July 12th welcoming Major League Soccer's Tampa Bay Mutiny. This is the first time the Bucks have advanced to Round Three of the tournament. This will also be the first MLS game ever held in the state of Michigan and only the second time in history that a Division IV Premier Development League (PDL) squad will have faced an MLS (Division I) team in the Open Cup. Tickets are now available for $7 ($10 at the gate on game day) at the following Detroit area locations: The Trading Post in Plymouth; Oakland Yard in Waterford, three Soccer World stores in Sterling Heights, Rochester Hills and Livonia. Tickets orders of 10 or more can be reserved by calling (517) 781-6888.

Most Bucks players are amateurs and have ties to the state. Adam Heinemann, Ryan Mack, Ryan Mollien, Chad Schomaker, Scott Emert, Alan Placek, Eric Pogue, Will Purdy, Adam Schomer, Tino Scicluna and Nick Stockyj are all former High School All-State selections in Michigan. Mid Michigan is currently 17-0 overall, maintaining first place in the Great Lakes Division. Tampa Bay is led by international superstar, Carlos Valderrama. Leading scorer Musa Shannon leads the offense (7 goals), while All-Star goalkeeper Scott Garlick leads the defense. Here's where the Detroit area Bucks reside and a profile on each:

Redford
Brothers Mario and Tino Scicluna are both Bucks veterans. Tino was an All-State selection for Detroit Country Day and currently plays professionally for the Detroit Rockers. At Butler University, he was an All Conference Selection and a 2-year captain. Mario, vice-president of Soccer Waza, was part of the Olympic Development Program.

West Bloomfield
Midfielder Scott Emert and defenseman Adam Schomer are both fixtures on the Bucks team. Emert had a great collegiate career at Madonna University. He was the 1998 Conference Player of the Year and Honorable Mention All-American (NAIA). Schomer, a Cornell University graduate, was an All Ivy league selection in 1996 and Most Improved Player in '95. He was an All-State selection for Birmingham Groves High School in 1992.

Shelby Township
Alan Placek has been steady in goal for the Bucks allowing only one goal in five league games, carrying a 0.20 Goals Against Average and also plays for the Rockers. Alan was a two-time Dream Team member for Detroit Country Day. Defenseman Nick Stockyj has provided depth on this year's Bucks squad. He was a Michigan High School Dream Team member in 1995 and earned All-State honors in '94 and '95 for Eisenhower High School.

Livonia
Chris King, Ryan Mollien, and Michael Skolnik all are first year Bucks players. Mollien was a All-Conference and All-Region in four years at Madonna University. Skolnik, a sophomore at Oakland University, was a Michigan High School Dream Team member. King currently plays for Eastern Michigan University.

Macomb
Macomb's Paul Doroh was a Division I All-American at Oakland University, he also earned All-State and All-Conference honors in high school. The defenseman returns for his second year with the Bucks defense.

Orion
Michael Dodd earned 2nd team All GLAC at Oakland University in 1996. He is currently a junior at Oakland University and is the third leading scorer on the Bucks.

Birmingham
Birmingham's Ryan Mack was Mr. Soccer in Michigan in 1997 and was a freshman starter on Indiana University's national championship team in 1998. This season, he has netted 5 goals and 4 assist in league play.

Rochester Hills
Goalkeeper Eric Pogue, from Rochester Hills, has allowed 5 goals in 6 games with a 6-0 record and a 0.79 G.A.A. He was three-year captain and two-time Team MVP for Western Michigan University. A 2nd team ALL-MAC member, he also earned All-State honors at Athens High School.

Pontiac
Chad Schomaker directs the Bucks offense from the midfield position. He was a 1992 Michigan High School Dream Team member in 1992 and a Captain at Oakland University.

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Bucks Press Release, July 8, 1999

U.S. OPEN CUP COMES TO MICHIGAN

Mid Michigan Bucks will play host to the Tampa Bay Mutiny in Saginaw

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team will host Round Three of the U.S. Open Cup on Monday, July 12th welcoming Major League Soccer's Tampa Bay Mutiny. This is the first time the Bucks have advanced to the round of 16. It will be the first MLS game ever held in the State of Michigan and only the second time in history that a Division IV Premier Development League (PDL) squad will have faced an MLS (Division I) team in the Open Cup.

Dating back to 1914, the U.S. Open Cup is the oldest cup competition in United States Soccer and is among the oldest in the world. Open to all affiliated amateur and professional teams in the United States, the annual U.S. Open Cup is an 86-year old single elimination tournament. The tournament is very similar to domestic cup competitions around the world. The competitions, which run concurrent with a country's league season, are open in the early stages to any club that can qualify, giving local amateur teams a chance to compete against the best teams a country has to offer. The winner is automatically placed into a tournament to compete against neighboring countries cup winners.

In the U.S. Open Cup, teams compete in one of the following four categories; professional outdoor Division I (Major League Soccer); professional outdoor Division II (A-League); professional outdoor Division III (D-3 Pro League) or Amateur Division (Premier Development League & U.S. Amateur Soccer Association). Teams are paired geographically through the quarterfinals. In the semifinal, teams are matched by a blind draw. Eight MLS clubs enter the competition in the third round and eight A-League teams enter in the second round. In the first round, eight D-3 Pro League teams battle eight amateur division representatives (PDL or USASA).

The Mid Michigan Bucks qualified for the tournament via four straight wins in PDL play, then defeated the D-3 Pro League's Austin (Tex.) Lone Stars in Round One on June 8th, advancing to a Round Two showdown with the Minnesota Thunder in Blaine, MN. Mid Michigan fired two quick goals in the first half and held on the rest of the way to pull of a stunning 2-1 upset. This was the first Round Two win in Bucks history, who lost in 1997 to the A-League's Rochester (NY.) Rhinos.

Tampa Bay features international superstar, Carlos Valderrama, plus two former U.S. National team players, Domenic Kinnear and Steve Trittschuh. The Mutiny's leading scorer is Musa Shannon, the sixth leading scorer in MLS (7 goals), while the defense is anchored by All-Star goalkeeper, Scott Garlick. In addition to a couple of international players, the Bucks feature mostly amateur, and a few professional players. Game time on Monday is 7:30 pm; General Admission tickets will be $10 at the gate or are available in advance for $7 by calling 517-781-6888.

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Bucks Press Release, July 6, 1999

BUCKS STAY UNDEFEATED, BARELY

Tickets For Open Cup Going Quickly; Go On Sale In Detroit Area On Wednesday

Mid Michigan's minor league soccer franchise kept its perfect season intact, but needed a shootout victory over the Kalamazoo Kingdom in Portage on Saturday night. Dave Hall and Tino Scicluna each buried their shootout attempts, while Bucks goalkeeper, Eric Pogue, stoned the Kingdom on four out of five shots to preserve the victory. The Kingdom remained in third place (5-6, 25 points), four points behind the Chicago Sockers (7-3, 29 points) for the second and final playoff spot from the Great Lakes Division, where the Bucks remain comfortably in first place (11-0, 50 points).

Bucks 4 v Kalamazoo 3 (SO)

The Bucks paid for sloppy play early on Saturday as Kalamazoo's Rob Maxwell scored in the game's eighth minute on an assist by Brian Foxworthy. Mid Michigan's Dwyane Demmin scored at the 22 minute mark on a beautiful play by Tino Scicluna, but the Kingdom answered 10 minutes later on a goal by Eric Ripley. Bucks defender Mike Dodd opened the second half with two goals to give his side their first lead, which lasted only eight minutes as Gunnar Halvorsen sent the match into overtime. 15 minutes of scoreless overtime play preceded the shootout.

Open Cup Preparations

Mid Michigan has one league game remaining prior to their Round 3 US Open Cup match against the Tampa Bay Mutiny of Major League Soccer (MLS), as the Bucks face the West Michigan Explosion in Grand Rapids (1-10) on July 8th. Bucks fans can get an early look at their US Open Cup opponent as the Mutiny play on the 8th as well, on national television (ESPN @ 7:30pm), against the San Jose Clash in an MLS league match. The historic Open Cup match will be played in Saginaw Twp. at White Pine Middle School Stadium on Monday, July 12th @ 7:30pm. Only one other Premier Development League (PDL) team has ever advanced to Round 3 (Central Coast RoadRunners, 1997), and none has ever upset an MLS team.

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July 12 Ticket Information

MUTINY TICKETS ON SALE TODAY

Bucks Also Have League Game on Saturday in Kalamazoo

Tickets for the Round 3 US Open Cup match between the Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team and the Tampa Bay Mutiny of Major League Soccer (MLS) will go on sale at 3pm today (Friday, July 2nd) at area Tuffy, Little Caesars and 7-11 stores.  Tickets are $7 in advance and $10 at the gate for the historic match on Monday, July 12th (7:30pm) at White Pine Middle School Stadium, located on Center Rd., north of M-46 in Saginaw Twp.  This will be first MLS game ever held in the state of Michigan and only the second time in history that a Division IV Premier Development League (PDL) squad will have faced an MLS (Division I) team in the Open Cup.

Tickets will go on sale in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Traverse City, Kalamazoo and Detroit next week. Groups of 10 or more may reserve tickets by calling (517) 781-6888.

With all the excitement about the once-in-a-lifetime event against the Mutiny, the Bucks (10-0 in league play) still have to take care of business with the Kalamazoo Kingdom (5-4) on Saturday.  The regular season match, to be held in Portage, MI (7:30pm), is important to both squads as the Kingdom is fighting for the second and last playoff spot within the Great Lakes Division, while the Bucks hope to keep their perfect season intact.  "Sure it will be tough to keep the guys focussed on league games with the Mutiny just around the corner," said Bucks coach, Steve Burns, "but I think our players take a lot of pride in being undefeated.  I will be surprised if we do not play well in Portage."  The Bucks' final game before Tampa Bay is at West Michigan on July 8th.

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Bucks Press Release, June 30, 1999

Tampa Bay Mutiny in Saginaw

Bucks Finalize Plans to Host MLS Team from Tampa Bay

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team's storybook season continues with the most interesting chapter of all, as the Round 3 US Open Cup match against the Tampa Bay Mutiny is now confirmed for July 12th at White Pine Stadium in Saginaw Township. Game time is 7:30pm against the Major League Soccer (MLS) team, whose marquee player is Columbian World Cup star, Carlos Valderrama. Only sixteen teams will remain in the country's oldest soccer tournament upon completion of the second round on July 10th, with eight qualified MLS teams facing the eight Round 2 winners.

After winning four qualifying matches in the Premier Development League (PDL), the Bucks (currently 16-0) then upset the Austin Lone Stars (Division III), 3-2, with a goal in the final minutes of regulation. Last Wednesday, Mid Michigan pulled off the most stunning result of the year by knocking off the (Division II) A-League's Minnesota Thunder, 2-1, in Blaine, MN. The Thunder were A-League runners-up in 1998. Tampa Bay is one of three MLS clubs scheduled to play the third round on the road and will travel to Saginaw Township's White Pine Stadium, which has a capacity of less than 3,000.

"To say our fans are excited would be an understatement," said Bucks general manager and co-owner, Jim Duggan. "This is not only a huge game from an Open Cup standpoint, but it is also the first time an MLS team has played in Michigan. Despite being held on a Monday night, and with such short notice to promote the event, we expect to have a terrific crowd." Before the game was even finalized, the Bucks office had received requests for large blocks of tickets from Detroit, Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Individual tickets are expected to go on sale Friday, July 2nd, at participating Mid Michigan area Tuffy Auto Service Centers, Little Caesars and 7-11 stores. All seats will be General Admission and cost $7 in advance, $10 at the gate. Groups of 10 or more may call 517-781-6888 for assistance.

Coach Steve Burns is looking forward to the historic game as well. "What a great opportunity for our players, our fans and for the entire State of Michigan to get an MLS game, especially when it is not an exhibition," said Burns. "I told our players to get the autographs out of the way before warm-ups." In addition to Valderrama, the Mutiny feature two former US National team players in Domenic Kinnear and Steve Trittschuh, as well as All-Star goalkeeper Scott Garlick. Musa Shannon is currently tied for sixth in MLS in scoring with seven goals.

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Bucks Press Release, June 28, 1999

BUCKS HIT SWEET 16

With Three More Victories, Mid Michigan's Winning Streak Tops 1997 Run

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team extended their winning streak to a club-record sixteen straight wins with a trio of wins last week. After defeating the Minnesota Thunder in Round Two of the U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, the Bucks returned home on Saturday and beat the Kalamazoo Kingdom 3-0, then Sunday they traveled to South Bend, Indiana to upend the Indiana Invaders 4-1. Mid Michigan is still undefeated on the season and remains atop of the Great Lakes Division with a 10-0 record, outscoring their opponents 47-3. The Bucks will next travel down to Portage, MI on Saturday, July 3rd to face the Kalamazoo Kingdom. After tangling with the West Michigan Explosion on July 8th, the Bucks prepare to challenge Major League Soccer's Tampa Bay Mutiny in Round Three of the U.S. Open Cup. Mid Michigan most likely will host the game on July 12th, but the location has yet to be confirmed.

The Bucks shutout Kalamazoo thanks to the steady play of goalkeeper Eric Pogue. Pogue made nine saves on 11 shots for his third shutout this season. Dwyane Demmin jump started the offense, in his first game of the season, scoring in the 31st minute on a pass from Rodrigo Costa. Demmin played for the Bucks last season. Costa would add to the lead six minutes later helping the Bucks take a 2-0 lead into halftime. A defensive battle took place in the second half with Kingdom goalkeeper Carl Whitehouse making some spectacular saves to keep the game close, but the Kalamazoo offense could not put one past the Bucks defense and Mike Dodd would seal the game with a goal in the final seconds to give Mid Michigan a 3-0 win.

With no time to celebrate, the Bucks were back in business on Sunday traveling to South Bend, Ind. for a third meeting with the Indiana Invaders. Mid Michigan scored quickly when Scott "Junior" Emert booted in a pass from Stephen Armstrong to give the Bucks a 1-0 lead. The Invaders evened the game with 5 minutes to go to make it a tie game at halftime. In the second half, forward Rodrigo Costa made sure the Bucks stayed in front with two goals in a span of six minutes thanks to assists by Chad Schomaker. Six minutes later, Chris King netted his first goal in a Mid Michigan uniform to seal a 4-1 victory. Alan Placek preserved his 5th win, even though he allowed his first goal in five divisional games. The Bucks next league home game is set for Saturday, July 17th against the Rockford Raptors. An official announcement on the venue for the U.S. Open Cup game vs. the Tampa Bay Mutiny is expected sometime this week.

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Bucks Press Release, June 25, 1999

BUCKS RIDING HIGH

Mid Michigan advances to Round Three of the U.S. Open Cup for the first time

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team prepares to face a Major League Soccer (MLS) team for the first time in their history after defeating the the A-League's Minnesota Thunder 2-1 on Wednesday. The Bucks now move on to face a even bigger challenge, the Tampa Bay Mutiny (MLS), most likely to be played in the Mid Michigan area. The MLS is three divisons higher than the Premier Development League's Bucks. The game will be equivalent to the Lansing Lugnuts Single A minor league baseball team playing Major League Baseball's New York Yankees. An exact game date or time has yet to be determined, but it should take place sometime in the second week of July.

Mid Michigan earned the Round Three matchup by connecting on their only two shots in the first half. Mike Dodd fired in a feed from forward Paul Snape to give the Bucks a unexpected 1-0 lead in the 21st minute. The Bucks quickly added on to their lead six minutes later thanks to a deflection by Chad Schomaker on a shot by Stephen Armstrong to give Mid Michigan a 2-0 advantage through halftime. The Thunder came out on the offensive in the second half doubling their shot production from the first half but only managed a single goal by defenseman Kazin Bankov. The Bucks held them off the rest of the way to earn their first Round Two win in their existence. "We came out right away and showed them we could play with them," said Coach Steve Burns. "Luckily, that quick start helped us withstand their offensive strategy in the second half."

Until the Tampa Bay match, the Bucks still have business to take care of with their Great Lakes Division (GLD) rivals. This Saturday, June 26th, it's International Night at White Pine Stadium as the Bucks welcome the Kalamazoo Kingdom starting at 7:30pm. The teams faced each other once before this season on May 27th when the Bucks handed the Kingdom a 8-1 loss. Mid Michigan will quickly pack their bags the next day on Sunday, June 27th when they travel to South Bend, Indiana to face the Indiana Invaders at 5:00pm in their third meeting of the year. The Bucks have outscored the Invaders 10-0 in their two previous matches.

SNAPE, ARMSTRONG MAKE PDL TEAM OF THE WEEK

Forward Paul Snape and midfielder Stephen Armstrong were voted to the Premier Development League's Team of the Week. Snape had four goals, one assist in leading the Bucks to pair of GLD wins. Armstrong added to his splendid season with a one goal and three assists in 7-0 rout over the Wisconsin Rebels.

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My Press Release, June 23, 1999

The Bucks Beat the Minnesota Thunder in U.S. Open Cup play!

The Thunder is an A league pro team and have only been scored on twice this season until they met the Bucks. Now they've been scored on twice more. The next step for the Bucks in the U.S. Open Cup is a game against the Major League Soccer team Tampa Mutiny in July. The local news rumored it may be at the SVSU stadium. GO BUCKS!

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BUCKS REMAIN UNBEATEN IN LEAGUE PLAY

Mid Michigan's Soccer Franchise to Face Much Tougher Competition on Wednesday

The Mid Michn Bucks minor league soccer team completed the first half of their Premier Development League (PDL) regular season withiga lopsided victories over the West Michigan Explosion (6-0 on Monday) and the Wisconsin Rebels (7-0 on Saturday).  The Bucks sit atop the Great Lakes Division with an 8-0 record (37 points).  Paul Snape and Rodrigo Costa scored two goals each in the win over Wisconsin, while Alan Placek recorded his fourth shutout in net for the Bucks.  Standings and individual statistics are included with this release.

Mid Michigan's coach, Steve Burns, was not elated with the past two games.  "The level of play this week was incredibly low, especially considering we are going into our match with the Thunder," said Burns.  The Bucks face A-League powerhouse, the Minnesota Thunder (10-2) in Round Two of the US Open Cup tournament on this Wednesday night in Blaine, MN. (7:05 CST).  The winner advances to Round Three vs. the Tampa Bay Mutiny of Major League Soccer (MLS).  "The team that we will see Wednesday will be ten times better than the two we just played, so I hope we can raise level of our play significantly," said Burns.

The Bucks gained entry into the US Open Cup tournament by going 4-0 in qualifying play and, subsequently, needed to beat the D-3 Pro League's Austin Lone Stars in Round One by a score of 3-2 to advance this far.  "I believe there is very little difference between the PDL and D-3, talent-wise, because we have so many gifted amateur players who are unable to play for pro eams," said Bucks general manager, Jim Duggan.  "Jumping to the A-League, however, is a big leap. Some of our players can probably play at that level, but beating one of the elite A-League teams will take every player's best game."  The Thunder have given up just two goals the entire season, while scoring 24, in 12 A-League matches.

The Bucks return home to White Pine Stadium in Saginaw Twp. for a regular season match on Saturday, June 26th with the Kalamazoo Kingdom at 7:30pm.  It will be "International Night" with the Hispanic "Low-Riders" car club and the Brazilian cultural dance team, Capoeira.  Fans will receive "2 for 1" on all $7 General Admission tickets purchased for this match at the gate.  For more information, call (517) MMBUCKS.

LAST WEEKEND'S GREAT LAKES DIVISION RESULTS

June 14: MID MICHIGAN 6 @ West Michigan 0

June 18: Indiana 1 @ Chicago 3
Wisconsin 1 @ West Michigan 0

June 19: Wisconsin 0 @ Mid Michigan 7
West Michigan 2 @ Indiana 3
Chicago 1 @ Kalamazoo 3

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Bucks Press Release, June 15, 1999

BUCKS WINNING STREAK AT 12

Saturday's Game vs. Wisconsin in Midland is Final Test Before US Open Cup Match

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team kept its perfect season intact on Monday with a 6-0 victory over the West Michigan Explosion in Grand Rapids. The Bucks (7-0 Division, 11-0 Overall League, plus one win in Open Cup) controlled the game from the beginning, out-shooting the Explosion 24-8. Paul Snape led the attack with two goals, giving him five in the last two games, and Tino Scicluna contributed two assists. Other goal scorers were Ryan Mack, Paul Doroh, Rodrigo Costa and Scott Emert. Eric Pogue raised his record in Division play to 4-0 with a Goals Against Average (GAA) of 0.48 with the shutout.

Finishing a brutal six games in eleven days, the Bucks now welcome a few days off before facing the Wisconsin Rebels (1-2) at the Midland Soccer Complex on Saturday. Game time is 6:30pm. The Bucks faced Wisconsin on May 21st in Saginaw during US Open Cup qualifying, with the Bucks being awarded a 1-0 forfeit when the Rebels coach, Boro Sucevic, refused to leave the field after being ejected with 35 minutes left to play. The physical game was tied at 0-0 when the game was terminated.

"I hope everyone has calmed down since then," said Bucks general manager, Jim Duggan. "There were certainly some hard feelings on both sides in May, but I do not expect it to carry over to this game." Sucevic and Bucks assistant coach, Waldir DeSouza were both fined and suspended for three games for their involvement in the conflict. "They have a young team that always plays us tough and this should be good preparation for our big game next week," said Duggan.

It may be difficult for the Bucks to not look past the Rebels with the Round Two Open Cup match looming with the Minnesota Thunder. The Thunder were the A-League (Division II) runners-up to the league champion Rochester Rhinos last season and will present a difficult opponent for the Bucks on Wednesday, June 23rd at the National Sports Center in Blaine, MN (7:05 CST kick-off). "We won't look past the Rebels, but the guys certainly have one eye on the Thunder," said Bucks coach, Steve Burns. "Every player knows that a victory would show that they can play at that level. It will also give them an opportunity to play the Tampa Bay Mutiny, possibly at home, so I can't blame them for concentrating a bit on Minnesota."

The game against Wisconsin on Saturday, June 19th at the Midland Soccer Complex has been changed to a 6:30pm start (from an original time of 7:30). Fans may get ticket information by calling the Midland Soccer Club at (517) 832-0895.

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Bucks Press Release, June 14, 1999

BUCKS REMAIN UNDEFEATED

Mid Michigan goes to 11-0 this season after defeating Indiana.

The Mid Michigan Bucks (11-0) defeated the Indiana Invaders 7-0 on Saturday at Oakland University in Rochester, MI to remain undefeated this season. The Bucks dominated the game with an explosive offense and an outstanding defense. They outshot Indiana 33-5 despite the wet conditions throughout the game. Paul Snape led the Bucks with three goals and an assist. Also adding goals were Ryan Mack, Rodrigo Costa, Chad Schomaker, and Mike Dodd. Goalkeeper Alan Placek earned his fourth shutout on two saves, thanks to a defense led by the return of Benjamin Djeukeng from injury. The Bucks defense held Indiana to one shot in the second half.

"Our defense created a lot of scoring opportunities for our front guys," said Coach Steve Burns. "They did a great job of playing through the weather conditions making things twice as hard for their offense."

Forward Ryan Mack started the scoring in the 24th minute with his sixth goal of the season on a pass from David Hall. Six minutes later, the Bucks scored again when Rodrigo Costa fired in a shot on a assist from Oakland University grad Chad Schomaker. Schomaker added a goal in his homecoming in the 38th minute to increase the Bucks lead to 3-0. Mid Michigan took the three goal advantage into halftime having outshot the Invaders 14-4.

It was much of the same in the second half, as the Bucks kept firing in on goalkeeper Gerrick Short. Five minutes into the half, Forward Paul Snape collected his first of three goals as he connected with Ryan Mack to increase the lead. Snape would be at it again in the 63rd minute on a rebound from a Paul Doroh header. Some ugly play by Indiana in the 74th and 75th minute led to red card ejections to two Invaders starters to limit them with only nine players on the field for the rest of the game. Defenseman Mike Dodd and Paul Snape finished the scoring to give the Bucks their eleventh straight win.

The Bucks get one day's rest again before heading to Grand Rapids to take on the West Michigan Explosion. The two teams met on Thursday in Saginaw in a tight game until David Hall scored his first goal of the year to put the Bucks ahead 1-0 in front of 1,357 fans, the largest in team history. The score would stand to the end to give Mid Michigan the narrow victory. Mid Michigan outshot the Explosion 36-4 but couldn't get more than one past goalkeeper Aaron Johnson. Eric Pogue earned the shutout win with two saves. This will be their third meeting this season.

The Bucks will be in Midland this Saturday, June 19th hosting the Wisconsin Rebels at 6:30 p.m. Mid Michigan returns to Saginaw on June 26th at White Pine Stadium to take on the Kalamazoo Kingdom.

Mid Michigan is set to meet the Minnesota Thunder on Wednesday, June 23rd in Round Two of the U.S. Open Cup at Blaine, MN. The Thunder are members of the A-League (Division II), one level below Major League Soccer (MLS). Kickoff is set for 7:05 CST.

LAST WEEKEND'S GREAT LAKES DIVISION RESULTS

June 10:  MID MICHIGAN 1 @ West Michigan 0

June 11: Kalamazoo 4 @ Indiana 3

June 12: Indiana 0 @ MID MICHIGAN 7
Chicago 1 @ Rockford 0  SO
West Michigan 0 @ Kalamazoo 3

June 13: Chicago 2 @ Wisconsin 1

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Bucks Press Release, June 11, 1999

RECORD 1,357 SEE BUCKS WIN

Mid Michigan rolls to their tenth straight win with victory over W. Michigan

The Mid Michigan Bucks (10-0) defeated the West Michigan Explosion 1-0 in front of 1,357 fans, the biggest crowd in their four-year history. It was Saginaw Township Soccer Association night and the members saw a scoreless struggle for seventy-nine minutes until David Hall connected on a pass from Paul Snape to put the Bucks ahead for good. Goalkeeper Eric Pogue preserved his third shutout to secure the victory. The Bucks outshot the Explosion the 36-4 but goalkeeper Aaron Johnson kept the game close stealing many chances away giving the Explosion offense a chance to put one in the net. But the offense had trouble creating opportunities, making Pogue's job a little easier. David Hall anchored the defense plus adding his first points of the year with his game winning goal.

"David has played great on defense all year," said Coach Steve Burns. "It's a bonus when we also get offensive production from him."

The Bucks get one day's rest before they welcome the Indiana Invaders at Oakland University in Rochester, MI, playing their fifth game in nine days. The Invaders are currently in second place with a 3-0 record in the Great Lakes Division (GLD). The two teams did meet earlier in the year on May 15th in the Bucks second U.S. Open qualifier. Stephen Armstrong, in his first game, on his first shot, scored in the 4th minute to give the Bucks a quick lead. Mid Michigan never looked back thanks to added goals by "Junior" Scott Emert and Benjamin Djeukeng. Alan Placek earned the shutout on two saves. Since then, the Invaders have yet to lose another contest and are looking for revenge against the Bucks. Leading scorer Stephen Armstrong and star defenseman Benjamin Djeukeng, both of them missed last game with injury, are expected back.

Mid Michigan is set to meet the Minnesota Thunder on Wednesday, June 23rd in Round Two of the U.S. Open Cup at Blaine, MN. The Thunder are members of the A-League (Division II), one level below Major League Soccer (MLS). In 1998, they won the Western Conference Championship and reached the A-League Championship before falling to the Rochester Raging Rhinos. Throughout their first two seasons in the United Soccer League (USL), the Thunder put together an impressive 41-1 regular season record and stretched their home unbeaten streak to 60 games. Kickoff is set for 7:05 CST.

THREE BUCKS MAKE PDL TEAM OF THE WEEK

Defenseman Mike Dodd, Midfielder Scott Emert, and Forward Ryan Mack made the Premier Development League's team of the week last week. Mack had a hat trick against Rockford, Emert scored the OT game winner against Chicago, and Dodd collected one goal, one assist,and lead a great defense to two victories.

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Bucks Press Release, June 10, 1999

BUCKS MOVE ON

Round Two opponent to be Minnesota Thunder on June 23rd

The Mid Michigan Bucks (9-0) defeated the Austin Lone Stars 3-2 in Round One of the U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday. Paul Snape "Doggy Dog" scored the game winning goal with less than two minutes to go in regulation to lead the Bucks to their second Open Cup victory in their four year existence. Mid Michigan now moves to Round Two against the Minnesota Thunder in Blaine, MN. Tino Scicluna and Benjamin Djeukeng each scored goals to help the Bucks advance. The Bucks remained undefeated on the year with a 9-0 overall record and a 4-0 record in the Great Lakes Division.

Minnesota Thunder is in the A-League (Division II) of the United Soccer League. The A-League is one level below Major League Soccer (MLS). Throughout their first two seasons in the USL, the Thunder put together an impressive 41-1 regular season record, stretched their home-unbeaten streak to 60 games and reached the championship match twice. In 1998, Minnesota reached its third national final berth in five seasons as Western Conference Champions. They reached the A-League Championship but lost to the Rochester Raging Rhinos 3-1. "Facing an A-League team will truly be a test on how we stand talent wise as a team," said Coach Steve Burns. Fans can follow the entire tournament on the web at http://us-soccer.com, then click on the U.S. Open Cup icon.

Until then, the Bucks still have business to take care of with their Great Lakes Division rivals starting tonight against the West Michigan Explosion at White Pine Stadium in Saginaw. In their first meeting, Mid Michigan blanked the Explosion 8-0 in the Bucks first U.S. Open Qualifying Match. Despite being winless, West Michigan has played strong of late losing a tough game this past Friday to the Kalamazoo Kingdom 1-0. The game is also Saginaw Township Soccer Association night. All tickets will be $5 at the gate with game time set for 8:00 p.m.

Mid Michigan will again be back in action on Saturday, June 12th against the Indiana Invaders at Oakland University in Rochester, MI. In their first meeting, Goalkeeper Alan Placek shutout Indiana on two saves to secure the 3-0 victory in the Bucks second game of the season. It was Indiana's only loss of the year. They are 3-0 in Great Lakes Division play, one game behind Mid Michigan. Kickoff against Indiana is set for 7:30 p.m.

LAST WEEKEND'S GREAT LAKES DIVISION RESULTS

June 4:
MID MICHIGAN 2 @ Chicago 1 OT
Kalamazoo 1 @ West Michigan 0
Indiana 2 @ Rockford 1 Saturday,

June 5:
MID MICHIGAN 4 @ Rockford 0
Indiana 4 @ Wisconsin 3 OT

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Bucks Press Release, June 2, 1999

BUCKS TO HOST US OPEN CUP

Round One vs. Austin Lone Stars at White Pine on June 8th

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer franchise will host the first round of the US Open Cup tournament at White Pine Stadium in Saginaw Twp. on Tuesday, June 8th against the D-3 Pro League's Austin Lone Stars. The Bucks qualified as the 14-team Central Conference representative of the Premier Development League (PDL) by winning four straight Open Cup qualifying matches. Austin qualified for the 32-team field by going 3-1 in the Western Conference of the D-3 Pro League, which is one division higher than the PDL in America's soccer hierarchy. Game time will be 7:30pm with special prices for the June 8th game only: $5 for adults and $3 for students.

Hosting an Open Cup game is the right afforded the higher level team in the first two rounds, but the Lone Stars' stadium was unavailable. The Bucks qualified for the nation's oldest soccer tournament once previously (in 1997), staging a first round upset at D-3's Wilmington (NC) Hammerheads (3-2) and going to overtime before falling on the road to the "A" League's Rochester Rhinos (3-2) in Round Two. "We never even dreamed of hosting a US Open Cup game as a PDL team, we were just focussed on qualifying, so this is a pleasant surprise," said Bucks general manager, Jim Duggan. "This is a tremendous opportunity for our players to showcase their talents against a great team and a rare treat for our home fans. Who knows when we will get another chance to host a game of this magnitude?" This is the first Open Cup game ever held in Mid Michigan.

 Four United States Amateur Soccer Association (USASA) teams and four PDL teams (Division IV) meet eight qualified D-3 (Division III) Pro teams in Round One in games to be played by June 15th. Round One winners face the top eight "A" League (Division II) teams between June 23-27. The winners of Round Two then face eight qualified MLS (Division I) teams on July 14th. Quarterfinals are held in early August, Semifinals on September 1st, and the Championship is slated for September 14th at the new Columbus Crew Stadium in Ohio.  The game at 8:00pm will be nationally televised on ESPN. The Bucks have drawn a difficult bracket in the tournament, which dates back to 1914. The Austin (TX) Lone Stars have not only qualified for the tournament for three consecutive years, but have advanced to the second round each year.  The winner of the Bucks' first round game faces the Minnesota Thunder on June 23rd at Blaine, MN.  Last year's "A" League runners-up are currently in first place in the Central Division of the Western Conference with a 6-2 record.  The Round Two winner is scheduled to face the Tampa Bay Mutiny of MLS on July 14th in Tampa.

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Bucks Press Release, May 31, 1999

BUCKS WIN TWO REGULAR SEASON GAMES

Possibility Exists for US Open Cup Match to be Held in Michigan

The Mid Michigan Bucks (6-0) won their first two regular season matches this past weekend to remained undefeated on the year in the Premier Development League (PDL). On Thursday, the Bucks trounced the Kalamazoo Kingdom 8-1 at White Pine Stadium.  Stephen Armstrong led the way with four goals, while Rodrigo Costa added two goals and two assists. On Saturday, Mid Michigan defeated the Chicago Sockers (last year's D-3 Pro League champions) 2-0 at Concordia College (one of the four alternate home sites) in Ann Arbor.  Alan Placek earned his second shutout with eight saves. Chad Schomaker and Rodrigo Costa each scored a goal with Stephen Armstrong assisting on both scores. The Bucks have now won their first six games, including the four U.S. Open Cup qualifiers.

 Looking to continue the success of qualifying for the U.S. Open Cup, the Bucks exploded with eight goals against Kalamazoo. Armstrong and Costa each scored in the first half to give the Bucks a 2-0 lead. The Kingdom would answer on a goal by forward Eric Ripley, the first goal allowed by the Bucks defense this year. Until that goal, the Bucks held the opposition scoreless for the first 362 minutes this season. Holding a slim 2-1 lead at halftime, Mid Michigan went on the offensive in the second half scoring six goals, lead by Stephen Armstrong's three goals in a span of six minutes to give the Bucks a tremendous 5-1 lead. Mike Dodd, Adam Heineman, and Rodrigo Costa each added goals to seal the 8-1 victory.

"We were a little sluggish in the first half," said Coach Steve Burns. "It was good to see us make the necessary adjustments in the second half to give us good scoring opportunities." Against Chicago, the Bucks relied on their defense to overcome the heat. With a game time temperature close to 90 degrees, the Bucks limited the Sockers to two shots in the first half giving the offense a chance to connect. In the 18th minute, Chad Schomaker netted his first goal of the season on a pass from Armstrong. Mid Michigan continued to give themselves scoring chances, but Chicago goalkeeper Adam Throop made nine saves to hold the Bucks lead at 1-0 going into halftime. The second half played out much like the first half. Both teams played aggressive defense, keeping each other away from the net. The Bucks finally received some insurance in the 68th minute from Rodrigo Costa connecting on an assist from Armstrong to give the Bucks a 2-0 lead. Goalkeeper Alan Placek took things from there stopping eight shots, including a beautiful diving save to secure the victory.

"This was a defensive battle for 90 minutes," said Burns. "Given the heat and the field playing slow, it made it tough for the offense to create good scoring chances." Added Costa, "They played a good defense, making us work hard to get opportunities at the net."

Chicago will have a chance for revenge this weekend, when Mid Michigan travels to the Sockers home field on Friday, June 4th in the first of a pair of away games. On Saturday, the Bucks will head to nearby Rockford  for a second meeting with the Raptors. The Bucks defeated Rockford 4-0 on Sunday, May 23 to qualify for the U.S. Open Cup. Game time for both games is set for 7:30 p.m.

Bucks to Host US Open Cup?

 There is a possibility that Mid Michigan will host their first U.S. Open Cup game.  The game is set to take place during the second week of June against the D-3 (Division Three) Pro League's Austin Lone Stars, but negotiations regarding the location are still continuing with the United States Soccer Federation, the United Soccer Leagues (USL) and the Lone Stars. A decision is expected on Tuesday of this week. The Bucks finished first out of 14 teams in the USL's Central Conference by winning four straight games (and scoring 16 goals while giving up 0) to qualify for Round One of the tournament.  In the Bucks' bracket, the winner of Round One faces the Minnesota Thunder of the "A" League in Round Two. The Round Two winner then faces the Tampa Bay Mutiny of Major League Soccer. The top eight Division Two ("A" League) teams enter in Round Two and the top eight Division I (Major League Soccer) teams enter in Round Three (with only 16 teams remaining). Each year, only four of 42 PDL (Division Four) teams qualify for the oldest soccer tournament in the US.

The Bucks have qualified for the US Open Cup once before (in 1997), advancing to the second round, but then losing to the "A" League powerhouse Rochester Rhinos (3-2) in overtime. The Bucks played both of those matches on the road (the higher division squad has first right to host). The Austin (Texas) Lone Stars may be unable to secure a stadium on the target dates of June 8th or 9th, opening the possibility for a US Open Cup home game in Saginaw. "Let's not get our hopes up just yet," said Bucks general manager, Jim Duggan. "Hosting a US Open Cup game is really something we have never even dreamed of, since the D-3 teams have the first right (to host). There certainly hasn't been this big of a US Open Cup game in this state in a long time, if ever, so getting the game would be huge. But a lot of things need to fall into place in the next couple of days, and we will not be unhappy if we have to go to Austin. We just can't wait to play."

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Bucks Press Release, May 25, 1999

BUCKS OPEN LEAGUE PLAY

Mid Michigan qualifies to the next round of U.S Open Cup play

 Having qualified for the U.S. Open Cup, the Mid Michigan Bucks (4-0) minor league soccer team look to continue their success with a pair of regular season home games this weekend.  The  Bucks will welcome the Kalamazoo Kingdom Thursday, May 27 at 8:00p.m. at White Pine Middle School.  Then on Saturday, May 29, the Chicago Sockers are set to meet Mid Michigan in Ann Arbor at Concordia College (one of four Bucks alternate home games) at 6:30p.m.  This past weekend, the Bucks earned five points in two qualifying games to earn a spot in the next round of the U.S. Open Cup.  On Friday, the Bucks earned 1-0 forfeit win against the Wisconsin Rebels.  Two days later in Rockford, the Bucks clinched a spot by impressively defeating the Raptors 4-0.  Stephen Armstrong had three goals and Ryan Mack added another to preserve Eric Pogue's shutout win.

 Mid Michigan's next Cup game is still unclear.  "We'll play a team in the D-3 Pro League who is geographically close to us," said Coach Steve Burns.    "It still will be a long way."

 Mid Michigan start their fourth year in the Premier Development League (PDL) looking to win a fourth consecutive division championship.  The Bucks won the Great Lakes Division (GLD) last year defeating the Detroit Dynamite in the championship game 2-0, finishing with a 11-5 division record and earned a trip to the regional championship game.  The Bucks return seven players from last year's club.  Mid Michigan also signed MVP Rodrigo Costa and fan favorite Tino Scicluna.  Kalamazoo finished third last year in the GLD, while the Sockers, formerly the Stingers, won the D-3 Pro League Championship last year.  They will play in the PDL until their move to the A-league next year.

SCHOLASTIC NIGHT AT WHITE PINE

 Thursday's game against Kalamazoo is Scholastic Night at White Pine Middle School.  Students with "B's" or better get in free by bringing a copy of their report card.  All other Students get in 2 for 1 with a coupon.

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Bucks Press Release, May 18, 1999

BUCKS TO HOST BENEFIT GAME

Mid Michigan concludes U.S. Open Cup qualifying this weekend

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team are set to open their home schedule in Saginaw on Friday against the Wisconsin Rebels at White Pine Middle School beginning at 8:30p.m. This is their third U.S. Open Cup qualifying match. The Bucks have won their first two games by a total combined score of 11-0. Qualifying concludes this Sunday in Rockford, Illinois against the Raptors. The top four teams in the Premier Development League (PDL) out of forty-two advance to the U.S. Open Cup. Round one of the tournament, which begins in June and includes the top eight teams from D-3 Pro League Team (Division III). The 'A' League (Division II) and MLS (Division I) enter the tournament in Round 2 and 3, respectively.

Formerly the Fox River Rebels, Wisconsin is lead by Coach Boro Sucevic. Sucevic is entering his second year with the Rebels after previously coaching the A-League's Milwaukee Rampage. The Rebels finished last year in 5th place with a 6-10 record in the Great Lakes Division. They come into this game riding a high note, winning their first two qualifying games against Indiana and Chicago.

The Bucks return to Saginaw after a big 3-0 win over the Indiana Invaders on Saturday in Grayling. "This was a much different game," said Burns. "It's still a feeling out process right now. But we accomplished what we wanted to accomplish." Added Burns, "These next two games will be a real challenge to our team, We need to step our game up a notch to continue our success."

Stephen Armstrong, in his first game this season with the Bucks, lead the team with a goal and assist. On his first shot, Armstrong scored on a pass from Scott Emert. Junior (Emert) eventually would get a goal of his own in the 50th minute on Paul Snape's fourth assist this season. Benji Djeukeng finished the scoring in the 79th minute to give the Bucks the 3-0 win and 5 points in U.S. Open Cup qualifying.

HERITAGE ATHLETIC BENEFIT

This Friday's game is the 1st annual Heritage High School benefit game. The proceeds from the match go to the Heritage High School Athletic Department. The Heritage Girls Varsity (6:30pm) and JV (5:30pm) soccer teams will play Rochester High School preceding the Bucks game. Pre-sale tickets are available at the Heritage Athletic Office Monday through Friday, 8am - 3:30pm. Tickets, good for all three games, will be just $4 for adults and $3 for students. The Bucks can be reached at (517) 781-6888.

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Bucks Press Release, May 17, 1999

BUCKS GO TO 2-0

Mid Michigan holds opponents scoreless for second straight game

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team scored another victory in U.S. Open Cup qualifying with a 3-0 victory over the Indiana Invaders on Saturday at Grayling High School.  The win netted another five qualifying points for the Bucks raising their total to ten.  The top four teams in the Premier Development League (PDL) out of forty-two advance to the U.S. Open Cup.  Round One of the tournament, which begins in June and includes the top eight teams from each of the D-3 Pro League (Division III), the 'A' League (Division II) and MLS (Division I).

Stephen Armstrong, playing in his first game of the season with the Mid Michigan, scored on his first shot in the 4th minute to give the Bucks a quick 1-0 lead.  Scott Emert set up Armstrong for his third assist this season.  Armstrong led the Bucks to a division title last season with eight goals and 4 assists during the 16 game regular season.  Born in England and raised in South Africa, Armstrong is entering his final season at Butler University in the fall and is considered a candidate for "collegiate soccer's Heisman Award", the Herman Award.

"Stephen is one of the most talented players the Bucks have ever had," said Bucks coach, Steve Burns.  "He is so gifted and he proved last season how well he blends with guys like Junior (Scott Emert), Chad (Schomaker) and Doggy (Paul Snape).  He also played with Tino Scicluna in college, so I expect him to fit in right away with this club."  The Bucks have 12 returning players from either the 1997 or 1998 Bucks squads.

The Bucks only managed four more shots in the half, but held Indiana to only one shot holding their slim 1-0 lead into halftime.  "They packed it into their own half.  We'll probably see that quite a bit because of the offensive firepower we have," said Burns.

In the second half, the Bucks would add on to their lead scoring in the 50th minute when Scott Emert scored his third goal of the season on a pass from Paul Snape

Junior (Emert) collected two goals last week in a thrashing of West Michigan. This was Snape's fourth assist, having collected three last week.

Pressing to score a third goal (3 goals in a game are rewarded with an extra point in qualifying) Benji Djeukeng fired in his first goal of the season to increase the score to 3-0 in the 79th minute.  The defense held up from there only giving up one shot on a spectacular save by  Goalkeeper Alan Placek.  The Invaders would not threaten again as the Bucks collected their second win in as many games.

"Our defense has done a decent job, but we still need to be tested a little more," says Burns.

The competitive game was a far cry from the 8-0 walloping the Bucks served to West Michigan last Sunday.  "This was a much different game," said Burns.  "It's still a feeling out process right now.  But we accomplished what we wanted to accomplish."  Added Burns, ÍWe need to be ready, because our two most difficult opponents in qualifying are ahead this weekend.Î

Mid Michigan opens up their home schedule in Saginaw on Friday, May 21 against the Wisconsin Rebels in another U.S. Open Cup qualifier at White Pine Middle School.  The game is part of the 1st annual Heritage High School benefit game.  The proceeds from the game go to the Heritage Athletic Department.  The Heritage Varsity Girls Varsity and JV soccer teams will play Rochester preceding the game.  Game time is set for 8:30p.m.

The Bucks fourth and final qualifying match is against the Raptors in Rockford this Sunday at 2:00p.m.

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Bucks Press Release, May 6, 1999

Mid Michigan Scores Twice

Sign Former Bucks Star Tino Scicluna, PDL MVP Rodrigo Costa

The Mid Michigan Bucks, participating in the Premier Development League (PDL) of the United Soccer Leagues (USL), announced the signing of two standout soccer players today, completing a roster the team believes to be the most talented ever.  Michigan native Tino Scicluna and Brazilian Rodrigo Costa will add offensive fire power to a squad that already includes the franchise's leading scorers from the past two seasons, Paul Snape (1997) and Stephen Armstrong (1998).  Costa also will be reunited with Ryan Mack, bringing together the PDL's top scoring tandem in 1998 as members of the Detroit Dynamite.  Both players finished the season among the nation's top ten scoring leaders playing for the Bucks' rivals last year.

Tino Scicluna, currently also playing for the Detroit Rockers professional indoor team during the winter, was the third leading scorer for the Bucks in 1997 and returns for his third season in Mid Michigan.  Scicluna played for the D-3 Pro League's Indiana Blast last season.  "Tino was the heart and soul of our team in 1997 and signing him was our number one priority for this season," said Bucks general manager, Jim Duggan.  Scicluna was voted to the all-tournament team at the 1997 national championships that were held in San Luis Obispo, CA.

"We missed Tino's presence last season," said Bucks coach, Steve Burns, who returns for his fourth season with the Bucks.  "He can defend, create and score.  With Armstrong on the left and Tino on the right, we have two of the best players in the country, in terms of taking players on."  Scicluna, 22, will also be reunited on the squad with his older brother, Mario.

Costa is one of the PDL's most decorated players, having won the league's Rookie of the Year award in 1997 and the MVP honor last season, both with the Detroit Dynamite.  The Dynamite folded this year.  The native Brazilian scored 21 goals and had 6 assists, finishing second in the league in scoring.  Costa, 22, just graduated from Union College in Kentucky with a degree in Sports Management and was a three-time NAIA All-American.  "Anytime you can get the league's MVP, you have got to be happy.  He is a natural scorer, and they are hard to find.  I think he will blend in well with this team," said Burns.

Back from last year's division championship team, the Bucks roster also includes Armstrong; Snape; three-year player from West Bloomfield, midfielder Scott Emert; defenders Paul Doroh (Macomb, MI) and Benji Djeukeng (Camaroon); midfielder and three-year Buck, Chad Schomaker (Pontiac, MI); and Mario Scicluna.

Bucks management credits part of the team's success, winning an unprecedented three consecutive division titles, to the development of young players like Scicluna. Defender Jeremy Aldrich became the first Mid Michigan player to play in Major League Soccer (Division 1), starting the last three games for the Miami Fusion.  The team continues its effort to develop Michigan's youth players with the signing of midfielder from Dearborn Eric Nelson (18), goalkeeper from Livonia, Mike Skolnik (18), and forward from Ortonville, Adam Heinemann (20).

Along with Scicluna, the Bucks will also welcome back from the 1997 division championship team goalkeeper Alan Placek, defender Davey Hall and defender Adam Schomer.  Additional Dynamite players playing for the Bucks this season are defenders Nick Stockyj and Mike Dodd, as well as goalkeeper Eric Pogue.  "Everyone is excited about us getting Mack and Costa from Detroit, but I believe Dodd and Pogue may be just as valuable to us as the season progresses," said Burns.  Stockyj is out at least four weeks with a knee injury.

The Bucks open this Sunday with a US Open Cup qualifying match at Cornerstone College in Grand Rapids against the West Michigan Explosion at 2:00pm.  Mid Michigan's remaining qualifying matches are:  vs. Indiana Invaders at Grayling High School on May 15th (7:30pm), vs. the Wisconsin Rebels at White Pine Stadium in Saginaw Twp. on May 21st (8:30pm) and at the Rockford Raptors (2:00pm) on May 23rd.  The Bucks open their regular season at White Pine on Thursday, May 27th (7:30pm) against the Kalamazoo Kingdom. The Great Lakes Division consists of teams from Chicago, Kalamazoo, Wisconsin (Fox River), Rockford (IL), West Michigan (Grand Rapids), Indiana (South Bend) and Mid Michigan.  Fans requesting information can call the Bucks at (517) 781-6888.

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Bucks Press Release, April 26, 1999

Bucks Owner Dies in Weekend Crash

Paul Scicluna's Legacy Includes Eastern Michigan, Michigan Hawks, Michigan Wolves and Olympic Development Programs; Detroit Rockers

The sport of soccer, and thousands of young lives, were dealt a devastating blow this weekend with the passing of Paul Scicluna.  The co-owner of the Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team died Saturday afternoon from injuries sustained in a one car accident in Monroe County, Michigan.  Travelling northbound on US-23, while returning from a recruiting trip for Eastern Michigan, Scicluna's 1999 Chevy Blazer rolled over, throwing him from the vehicle.  No other injuries were reported.

Most recently as the original head coach of the Eastern Michigan University women's soccer team and co-owner of the Total Soccer indoor facilities (Wixom, Southfield, Royal Oak and Fraser), the native of Malta was a pioneer for the sport in Michigan as the driving force behind the Michigan Wolves and Hawks nationally renowned youth club, the girls Olympic Development Program and as the original owner of the National Professional Soccer League's Detroit Rockers.

"It is as if the entire sport in Michigan lost its best friend," said Bucks co-owner and longtime friend, Jim Duggan.  "He affected so many of us, and in so many ways.  His loss is devastating." Duggan played on Scicluna's first high school boys team at Livonia Bentley in 1978 and was an assistant coach under Scicluna at Detroit Catholic Central from 1984-1988,  remaining close friends through the years.  "I have never met anyone who was as good with young people in my life."

Arriving by himself from Malta in 1955 at the age of 14, Scicluna's first job was sweeping the floors at a flower shop in Detroit's Corktown.  Twenty years later, through a tireless work ethic, he would own a chain of flower shops in the metropolitan Detroit area, including his anchor store, Livonia Florist.  Living in Livonia in the 70's, Scicluna helped build the Livonia YMCA youth soccer program into one of the finest in the state and took his first high school coaching jobs at Livonia Bentley in 1978, coaching the first boys and girls varsity programs at that school.

As one of the architects of the famed Michigan Wolves (boys) and Michigan Hawks (girls) programs, Scicluna helped develop in 1985 a "super club" that could compete at the national level, providing the opportunity for the top players in Michigan to raise the level of their game.  After a couple of national championships, many state championships and dozens of tournament crowns, his clubs are known all over the country as teams that not only won, but that played with class.

Seeing the need for players to play year-round, enabling them to compete for scholarships with players from warmer climates, Scicluna sold his flower shops in the 80's and invested in Total Soccer, Inc., a partnership with former Detroit Express stars, Gus Moffat and Brian Tinnion.  After another few years of 70 hour work weeks, the trio had expanded from their original indoor soccer facility in Farmington Hills to three more, in Royal Oak, Fraser and Southfield.

In 1989, Scicluna became the majority owner of the Detroit Rockers, bringing professional soccer back to Detroit, after a seven year absence.  Moffat, Tinnion and Jim Duggan were also partners in the Rockers venture.  The franchise won the NPSL Championship at Cobo Arena in 1992, under the coaching direction of Tinnion.  "Because he was so opinionated and colorful, people laughed at the idea of Paul as a "silent owner", but it was true.  With the Rockers and the Bucks, he preferred to stay out of the limelight.  His interest at the pro level was the same as it was with his under 10's; to see players develop and achieve their goals and dreams."  Mike Ilitch (Little Caesars, Red Wings, Tigers) purchased the franchise during the summer following the championship in 1992.

In 1994, Scicluna accepted the head coaching position of the women's team at Eastern Michigan University (EMU), and the challenge of building the university's first varsity program. Turning the Eastern Michigan program into a nationally respected team was his latest passion in the sport and he was making significant progress toward that end.  In 1998 squad qualified for the Mid-American Conference Tournament, and finished with a 13-7-1 overall record.  "Paul was a great coach and had a tremendous love of promoting soccer at all levels," said EMU Interim Athletics Director Carole Huston.  "He related well not only with the players but also with the entire athletics department staff.  He will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him."

Investing in the minor league outdoor men's franchise competing in the United Systems of Independent Soccer League (USISL) in 1996, Scicluna was again providing an opportunity for players to make it to the next level, with the dream that one day players would reach Major League Soccer (MLS).  The Bucks saw their first player drafted into MLS in February (Jeremy Aldrich, Miami Fusion).  He followed each Bucks team with pride, having several players on the team that he had coached at the youth or high school levels.  The Bucks have won three consecutive division titles.

For all of his contributions to soccer, his impact on young people's lives is what will be missed most of all.  "He was always teaching players 'life lessons', and his integrity and honesty were unparalleled," said Duggan.  "Paul was more interested in helping us mature into responsible adults than in winning.  The things he did that drove us crazy, while we were players, are the same things that hundreds of us are doing now as coaches with our kids.  He was the ultimate role model and family man.  Nothing meant more to Paul than his wife and kids."

Scicluna, 57, is survived by his wife, Jan, and four children, Eric (30), Lisa (28), Amy (17) and Kim (14).  Funeral Services will be held at noon on Wednesday, April 28th at Total Soccer of Wixom, Wixom Rd, 1 1/2 miles north of I-96.  Visitation rights will be held at Fred Wood Funeral Home, 36100 Five Mile Rd. in Livonia (734-464-8060).  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Paul's name to the EMU foundation.

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Bucks Press Release, April 20, 1999

Bucks 1999 Schedule To Be Toughest Yet
Soccer Team Goes For Unprecedented Fourth Straight Title

Mid Michigan's minor league soccer franchise faces a difficult road to winning an unprecedented fourth consecutive division title, participating in the much improved Great Lakes Division.  Returning are franchises from Wisconsin (Fox River), Kalamazoo, West Michigan (Grand Rapids) and Indiana (South Bend) along with newcomers Chicago and Rockford (IL), formerly of the D-3 Pro League (one level above the Premier Development League or PDL).  Only two teams will make the playoffs from the seven-team division, as opposed to the four teams that were eligible in each of the three previous seasons.  The "A" League (Division II), D-3 Pro and PDL constitute the minor league soccer system in the US under the United Soccer Leagues (USL) umbrella (formerly the USISL:  Renamed in the off-season after 11 years).

The PDL (formerly the PDSL) has expanded to six divisions and 42 teams throughout the country, up from five divisions and 33 teams in 1998.  Chicago and Rockford replace Detroit and Lansing in the Great Lakes Division for 1999, both of which folded during the off-season.  The top two teams from the Great Lakes will face off against the top two teams from the Heartland (formerly Central) Division on August 6-8 to determine one of three Regional Champions who will then join the Spoakane Shadow for the final four format National Championship Tournament in Spokane on August 13-15.

"Every regular season game will be important this year, with only two spots available for playoffs," said Bucks general manager, Jim Duggan.  "With Detroit and Lansing folding, the other Michigan teams should benefit, talent-wise.  We have already picked up three outstanding players who played last season for Detroit."  Defender Mike Dodd, forward Ryan Mack and goalkeeper Eric Pogue are among the Dynamite standouts who will be wearing the Bucks' green and orange this year.  "Coming from D-3, I expect Rockford and Chicago to be the teams to beat this year," said Duggan.  Chicago won the D-3 Championship last season.

The Bucks have reason to be optimistic, however.  "This could be our most talented team ever, and that is saying a lot," said Bucks coach Steve Burns, who enters his fourth season with the team.  "In addition to the Dynamite players, we have three guys back from two years ago and six starters from last year's team.  I feel very good about our chances to repeat."  Goalkeeper Alan Placek, defender Dave Hall and defender Adam Schomer return from the 1997 Bucks squad that went 20-6 and won a trip to the final four.  The most significant player to replace will be Jeremy Aldrich, who was taken in the second round of the MLS draft by the Miami Fusion, the first Bucks player to go on to Division I play.

Starters returning from last year's team include leading scorer Stephen Armstrong, 1997 leading scorer Paul Snape "Doggy Dog", defender Benji Djuenkeng, midfielders Chad Schomaker and Scott Emert, as well as defender Paul Doroh.  Reserve midfielder Drew Drummond returns for his third season with the Bucks.  "We are not done recruiting yet, either.  Two more outstanding players' contracts are close to being finalized.  If we get them, I expect us to make a run at US Open Cup again," said Burns.  After each team plays four US Open Cup qualifying games, the top four PDL teams (out of 42) qualify for the nation's oldest soccer tournament, involving the best teams from all levels of play in the country.  The Bucks qualified in 1997, went on to beat a D-3 Pro team in Round One and lost to the "A" League's Rochester Rhinos in overtime.  "We were so close to playing (Carlos) Valderama and Tampa Bay of MLS, and we want another shot," said Burns.

The Bucks begin their season with a US Open Qualifier at Grand Rapids on May 9th and open at Saginaw on May 21st with another qualifying match against the Wisconsin Rebels, the team that eliminated them from Cup qualifying last year.  The 16-game regular season begins in Saginaw on May 27th against the Kalamazoo Kingdom.  Six games will be played this year at Saginaw Township's White Pine Middle School Stadium.  This year's four off-site home matches will be played at Midland, Grayling, Rochester and Ann Arbor.  The Bucks begin training on April 25th.

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 TAMPA, Fla. (August 4, 1998) - Mid Michigans ReidFriedrichs became the first goalkeeper and the second Bucks player in asmany weeks to earn PDSL Player of the Week honors, after making 14 savesand posting two shutouts to lead the Bucks to the PDSL Regional Playoffs.

 Friedrichs, who finished the regular season fourthin the league with a 0.96 goals against average, made six saves in a 3-0shutout of Indiana Friday and rose to the occasion to make eight savesin the Bucks 2-0 win over first-place Detroit in the Great Lakes Divisionchampionship game Saturday. He has earned the club its third Player ofthe Week honor on the season, with the other two awards going to ChrisSlosar in Week 5 and Steve Armstrong last week.

 Other players considered for Player of the Weekwere Jackson midfielder Paul Oyuga (four goals and two assists in two wins),Mid Michigan midfielder and Week 16 POW Steve Armstrong (three assistsin two wins), San Gabriel Valley midfielder Vahe Asatourian (three goalsin two wins) and Des Moines midfielder Seth Modersohn (two goals and oneassist in two wins).

 QUOTE OF THE WEEK "Every team would like to avoidplaying Jackson as long as possible. They have destroyed every team theyhave played." --Mid Michigan Coach Steve Burns, on the possibility of facingthe undefeated Chargers in the Regional Playoffs or PDSL Championship.

August 5 - from Bucks news:

As luck of the draw would have it, the PDSL teams remainingwith the best records will not meet at the final four but in Jackson, Mississippion Saturday, August 8th to determine the Eastern Region Champion and aspot in the Championship Tournament.  The three region champions,along with the host Kingdom, will meet in Kalamazoo on August 14th and15th.  The Bucks have made the finals each of their two previous seasonsin the league, but have never had to beat such an imposing opponent toget there.

"Jackson hasn't just beaten every team they have faced,"said Bucks coach Steve Burns, "they have destroyed them."  No teamhas ever dominated in the USISL's Premier Development League like the Chargers. In their 16 regular season games, Jackson scored a league record 104 goalswhile giving up just 17.  The 13-5 Bucks scored 38 goals while givingup 19 in the regular season.  "I hear they are good defensively andunbelievably explosive on offense with Mariuti and company," said Burns. "We will have our hands full, but I think we'll be up to the task."  The Chargers are led by Boniventure Maruti with 29 goals and 9 assists.

The Bucks will have to battle the travel and the sufferingheat in the south, but Burns is confident.  " I like how we are comingtogether as a team.  We always seem to be ready for the playoffs. I don't think you will see any of our guys being intimidated, because wehave played some tough teams this season."  The addition of Paul Snapeand Joe Malachino has given the Bucks an offensive boost to support midfielderStephen Armstrong, who led the Bucks during the regular season with eightgoals, and contributed three assists in the championship tournament.  Snape had a goal and two assists, Chad Schomaker two goals and defenderBenji Djuenkeng and Malachino each scored over the weekend in the 3-0 semifinalover Fox River and in the 2-0 win against Detroit in the Division Championshipgame at White Pine on Saturday.

July 30 - from Bucks news:

The Mid Michigan Bucks will have one more player for thisweekend's Division Championship Tournament to be held at White Pine Stadiumin Saginaw Twp.  Joe Malachino, who served as the Bucks Captain in1996 and 1997, will be back in a Mid Michigan jersey on Friday, after spendingmost of the season with the "A" League's Cincinnati Riverhawks and thelast week on his honeymoon.  The midfielder, who also plays for theindoor pro team, Detroit Rockers, asked for his release in early July fromthe Riverhawks to return to Michigan for his wedding and to finish theseason with the Bucks.  "Obviously, we are glad to get Joe back,"said coach Steve Burns.  "The impact that he makes will be determinedby how fast he can gel with the rest of the team."

Armstrong Snags Award
Bucks midfielder Stephen Armstrong was named as the PDSL"Player of the Week" for his two goal and two assist performance in lastweek's 5-0 win over Kalamazoo.  This is the third time in franchisehistory that a Bucks player has been so honored (Tino Scicluna, 1997 &Chris Slosar, 1998).  Armstrong is the Bucks leading scorer with eightgoals and four assists, despite missing three weeks spent at Adidas Camp. "Stephen deserves the award," said Bucks general manager, Jim Duggan. "While we have had outstanding defensive play this season from a lot ofplayers, Armstrong has certainly made the biggest impact on offense."

July 20 - from Bucks news:

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team won twomore games this weekend to bring their league record to 10-4 (30 points)and now trail the first-place Detroit Dynamite by five points (13-2, 35points).  Detroit would have to lose their final game of the seasonon Saturday to the Rockford Raptors for the Bucks to have a chance to overtakethe top spot in the Great Lakes Division regular season standings.  For the Division Championship Tournament, the first place team will facethe fourth and the second finishers will face the third in two semifinalmatches to be played at White Pine Stadium in Saginaw Twp. on July 31st(7pm & 9pm).  Winners will meet at the same venue on Saturday(7:30) for the championship.  Division winners from around the countrywill then meet for three regional championship games on August 8th or 9th,with the three regional winners joining host Kalamazoo for the PDSL ChampionshipTournament (in a "final four" format) on August 14th and 15th.

The Bucks found some much needed offense this weekend. In Sunday's 3-2 victory over the Indiana Invaders, Stephen Armstrong scoredtwice:  Once on a free kick (11th minute) and the other on a no-lookpass from Andrew Roff (24th minute).  Roff rounded out the scoringafter converting a Scott Emert rebound off the crossbar at the 36th minuteof the first half.  The Invaders had opened the game with a goal byJaimie Prosser in the 5th minute.  The score was 3-1 at the half,and the Bucks held on after giving up a goal to HenryAiysnero (57th minute). Reid Friedrichs and George Tomasso each played a half in goal (Friedrichsstarted).

In the 3-1 win at Kalamazoo, Friedrichs went all the wayand the Bucks received two goals and one assist from Roff, one assist fromBrett Konley and a goal from Emert.  The Bucks travel to Chicago toface the D-3 Pro League's Stingers on Friday and return to face Kalamazoo'sKingdom again at Midland's Central Intermediate School Stadium on Saturday,July 25th (7:30pm).

July 16 - from Bucks news:

Mid Michigan's minor league soccer team should have someadded offense beginning this weekend with the addition of Adam Hunter andAli Curtis.  Hunter played the past two seasons for the Detroit Dynamiteand has just returned to Michigan after graduating from University of Californiaat Berkeley.  Curtis recently completed the Adidas Camp for the topcollegiate players in the nation.  Both players are expected to maketheir debuts on Friday at Kalamazoo or Sunday against the Indiana Invadersat White Pine Stadium in Saginaw Twp.  Sunday's game time is 2:00pmand all kids under 16 wearing a team jersey (any sport) will get in forjust 1 buck.  The Bucks (8-4, 24 pts) are currently in second placein the Great Lakes Division of the USISL's Premier League behind Detroit(12-2, 32 pts).  The top four teams in the division will meet in a"final four" format at White Pine on July 31st and August 1st.  Thiswill be the first time the Bucks have hosted the Division Championships.

Ali Curtis is coming off a productive freshman seasonat Duke University, where he was named to a Third Team All-American andto the All-ACC's First Team.  The Milan, MI native was a First TeamAll-Stater for Ann Arbor Pioneer and played for the U-17 US National Team. "We have never had a player quite like Ali," said Bucks coach, Steve Burns. "He is so explosive off the dribble, quick and has an awesome left-footedshot."

Adam Hunter, 21, is a player that the Bucks have recruitedfor three years.  "We finally got him and are excited to see how hewill perform.  Adam should fit in well with this team."  TheBloomfield Hills native was an All-League performer for California andwas an prep All-All American at Detroit Country Day High School, wherehe led his squad to four straight state championships.  "Ali and Adamwill give a much needed boost to our front line," said Burns.  TheBucks are currently giving up just one goal a game, while scoring two (the1997 Bucks scored more than three goals a game while giving up 1.5).

from PDSL news:

TAMPA, Fla. (July 16, 1998) - The United Systems of IndependentSoccer Leagues (USISL), the second largest system of sports leagues inthe country, today announced that the Kalamazoo Kingdom will serve as thehost team for the 1998 PDSL Championship.

The championships, which will be played in a true finalfour format, will be played at the Ed Annen Sports Complex in Kalamazoo.The semifinals will be played on Friday, August 14, with the first gameat 6 p.m. and the second game to follow at approximately 8 p.m.

The winners of the semifinals will meet in the championshipgame Saturday, August 15 at 7:30 p.m. The winner of the final will be crownedchampion of the PDSL.
 

Our guys need to understand that losing to Detroit istotally unacceptable!
               --Mid Michigan General Manager Jim Duggan following the Bucks 1-0 to DetroitSaturday
 

July 8 - from Bucks news:

The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer team is makinga run for first place as the season heads into the final stretch. With five games remaining, the Bucks (8-3, 24 points) trail the DetroitDynamite (10-2, 26 points) by two points and a win Saturday would put theBucks in control of the Great Lakes Division.  Two of Detroit's victorieshave been shootouts, gaining 1 point each (vs. 3 points awarded for a victoryin regulation or overtime).  The Dynamite have only four games remaining;standings in the division are determined by points.  A win in regulationor overtime this weekend would also give the Bucks an advantage in a tie-breakerwith Detroit (head-to-head by total points), since Detroit's victory lastmonth over the Bucks was by shootout.

The Bucks are looking for revenge from the 2-1 (SO) losson June 20th in Saginaw.  "We played well against them last time,"said coach Steve Burns, "and they are an outstanding team.  We madeone mistake and paid for it dearly, but I feel very good about this teamright now."  The Bucks have won four straight games since the lossto Detroit, but the Dynamite are carrying a three game winning streak oftheir own into Saturday's contest at Wisner Stadium in Pontiac (7:30pm). The Dynamite is undefeated at home (5-0) this season and feature two ofthe league's top scorers in Rodrigo Costa (11 goals) and Ryan Mack (9 goals).

BUCKS NOTES
* Scott Emert (3 goals, 2 assists, 8 points) is now fifthon the team in scoring after his two goals this weekend.
* Chad Schomaker moved up to a tie for third (4 goals,1 assist, 9 points) with his two goals this weekend.
* Four Bucks are tied for the lead in goals with 4: Schomaker, Jeremy Aldrich, Stephen Armstrong and Andrew Roff.
*  Reid Friedrichs has moved into the top five goalkeepersin the league with a 7-2 record and a 0.97 Goals Against Average.

from PDSL news:

"Junior (Scott Emert) and Chad (Schomaker) were making things happen all weekend."
              --Mid Michigan Coach Steve Burns, after both players had two goals eachin two Buck wins.

July 2 - from Bucks news:
 

The Mid Michigan Bucks (6-3 in league play, 9-4 overall)will attempt to extend their modest two-game winning streak against divisionrivals from Indiana (4-6) and Fox River (4-5) on the road Friday and Saturday. The Indiana Invaders, like the Bucks, won two big games last weekend. One of those wins was against Division Three powerhouse, the Chicago Stingers. The Rebels from Fox River, WI are tied for third place with Indiana (12points), six points behind the Bucks.

Mid Michigan (18 points) has closed the gap with first-placeDetroit (8-2 with two shootout wins for 20 points).  USISL teams areawarded 3 points for a win in regulation or overtime; 1 point for a shootoutwin.  "We had an outstanding weekend," said Bucks coach Steve Burns,"now we need to get on a roll and string some more wins together." The Bucks have played one less league game than Detroit.  "This weekendwill be difficult because Indiana is obviously playing well and we willface a fresh Fox River team the next day."  The Rebels are idle onFriday.

Two Bucks Make PDSL "Team of the Week"
Stephen Armstrong and Jeremy Aldrich were selected tothe PDSL's "Team of the Week" for their performances against Rockford (3-1)and Fox River (4-1) this past weekend.  This honor is given by theUSISL to the league's top 11 players each week.  Goalkeepers ReidFriedrichs and George Tomasso, forward Chris Slosar and midfielder JeffBateson have previously been so honored in 1998.  Aldrich scored twogoals and Armstrong three in the two league victories.  "The ButlerBoys were on fire, offensively and defensively.  We are going to needthat from them the rest of the season," said Burns.  Both playersattend Butler University in Indianapolis. Andrew Roff, Aldrich and Armstrongare tied for the team lead in scoring with 4 goals each.

June 27 - from Bucks news:
 

 The Mid Michigan Bucks (4-3) travel 130 miles north to Gaylord this weekend for a home match-up with D-3 Pro team Rockford Raptors.  So far, the games between the Bucks and their D-3 Pro League (39 team Division III Professional League) rivals have proven to be high intensity games, losing to the Indiana Blast 2-3 in overtime and the Cleveland Caps 3-1.  "We're pretty salty and ready to knock one of these D-3 Pro teams off, " says Bucks coach Steve Burns.  "They're (Rockford Raptors)  one level above but on paper we're just as experienced as a D-3 Pro team."

 Several Mid Michigan Bucks starters return to home field this weekend.  Midfielders Orlando Bueso and Stephen Armstrong have been at an Adidas camp in Connecticut.  "These players will add positive energy to the team.  These guys were starters when they left, and they've been playing soccer at a high level all summer. We're going to give a good game."

The Bucks play the Raptors Saturday, 8pm @ Gaylord Intermediate School, then return to White Pine Stadium on Sunday for a home game against the Fox River Rebels (3-4).  Fox River is ranked 3rd after the 2nd place Bucks in the PDSL Great Lakes Division standings.

June 25 - from PDSL news:

                We should not have let that one get away.
                --Mid Michigan Coach Steve Burns following the Bucks loss to the Indiana
                Blast

June 16 - from Bucks news:

 The Mid Michigan Bucks minor league soccer teamwill need to recover quickly from Sunday's 3-2 loss in overtime to theD-3 Pro League's Indiana Blast to prepare for two big games this weekend,including the first meeting of the year with the Detroit Dynamite (5-1). Detroit is currently six points ahead of the second place Bucks (3-2) inthe Great Lakes Division standings of the Premier Development Soccer League(PDSL).  The weekend opens for Mid Michigan in Grand Rapids on Fridaynight (7pm @ Calvin College) against the Explosion (0-4), whom the Bucksdefeated two weeks ago in Traverse City, 3-1.

 "The Grand Rapids game worries me because they aredue for a win; and Detroit is a concern, not only due to the strength oftheir team, but also because we have not played well in the second of back-to-backgames," said Bucks coach, Steve Burns.  "We are going to have to pickup the level of our game this weekend."  The Dynamite feature somehigh scoring players, including the 1997 PDSL "Rookie of the Year" andleading scorer, Rodrigo Costa and Michigan's 1997 "Mr. Soccer" out of PlymouthSalem High School, Ryan Mack.  "I have seen them play and they area much stronger team this year," said Burns.

 This is the final week that the Bucks will be withoutstarting midfielders Orlando Bueso and Stephen Armstrong, who are finishingup their stint at the prestigious adidas Camp in Connecticut.  "Whilewe have missed them, I believe their loss will make us stronger by theend of the season, because we have been able to see what some other playerscan do," said Bucks general manager, Jim Duggan.  "This weekend willbe another chance for players like Jeff Fliss, Andy Guastaferro and JeffBateson to get a lot of quality minutes."

Bucks Unveil Web Site:  http://www.mmbucks.com/    [Of course, if you're reading this you already know.]
The Bucks Web Site is up and running, and includes thefollowing Bucks information:  1998 Schedule, 1998 Player Roster, FranchiseHistory, Current Bucks News, Private Club Training, Soccer Links and more. NOTE:  Thursday's training session at Sherman Middle School in Hollywill be open to the media.

June 11 - from PDSL news:

"Two ugly, ugly wins-we'll take them."
--Mid Michigan Coach Steve Burns, on the Bucks' 2-1 and 3-2 victories over Lansing

June 8 - from Bucks news:

 It was not pretty, but the Bucks captured six pointsthis weekend to catch the Detroit Dynamite for a first place tie in theUSISL's Great Lakes Division in the Premier Development Soccer League (PDSL). Both teams are 3-1, with 9 points (in the USISL, three points are awardedfor a win in regulation or in the sudden death, 15 minute overtime periodand one point is awarded for a shootout victory).  During the regularseason, the Bucks will play 16 Regular Season games, including four againstD-3 Pro teams.  The D-3 Pro League is one division higher than theBucks' PDSL in the soccer hierarchy of America.

 The Bucks (6-2 overall record) opened in Jackson,MI with a 2-1 victory, which featured an ejection from each team followinga head-butt by Lansing's player-coach, Danny Gibson, which broke ScottEmert's nose.  Goalkeeper and team co-captain Reid Friedrichs wasejected for the Bucks in a move that clearly upset coach Steve Burns. "The ref actually said he sent Reid off 'to even things out'," said Burns.(Friedrichs and Gibson sat out Sunday's rematch in Midland, serving themandatory one game suspension.)  The Bucks got revenge with a goalby Andy Guastaferro with six minutes remaining to break the 1-1 deadlock. Andrew Roff scored first at the four minute mark on a nice pass from defenderfrom Dwyane Demmin.  Sam Skeels tied the game for Lansing at the 70minute mark.

 Sunday's game went down to the wire again, withRoff scoring in the 89th minute (assist Emert).  Jeremy Aldrich connectedon a penalty kick at the eight minute mark after Chris Slosar was takendown in the penalty area from behind.  Skeels scored for the Locomotive,before Chad Schomaker put the Bucks up 2-1 at halftime on a set-up fromSlosar.  Lansing had tied the game 2-2 in the 60th minute on a goalby Mike Brizerdine.

 The Mid Michigan Bucks' next home game is at WhitePine Stadium in Saginaw Twp on Sunday, June 14th against the red-hot IndianaBlast (6-0) of the D-3 Pro League.  There will be a special 6pm starttime for Saginaw Township Soccer Association Night with the Bucks. Discounted tickets are available from the Association, who are using thisgame as a fundraiser, by calling (517) 799-0726.

June 4 - from PDSL news:

 "That was the first time this season we really played like a team."
 --Mid Michigan Bucks Head Coach Steve Burns after the Bucks 3-1 win over Grand Rapids Saturday.

June 1 - from Bucks news:

Looks like playing two games in less than 17 hours hurt the Bucks. They lost the last U.S. Open Qualifier 0-3 and will miss playing in the U.S. Open.

The Bucks had over 1200 paid admission for their home opener who  watched them beat Lansing Locomotive 6 - 0.

Forward Chris Slosar was named the PDSL Player in the fifth Week for his work in two victories that earned the Bucks nine points and the top spot in Group 2 of U.S. Open Cup Qualifying competition.

May 28 - from Bucks news:

 The Mid Michigan Bucks begin their regular seasontomorrow in Medina, Ohio against the Cleveland Caps of the USISL's D-3Pro League (one league higher than the Bucks' PDSL) at 7:30pm.  TheBucks upset the Caps twice last season and this will be the only meetingbetween the two teams this year.  Mid Michigan plays the Grand RapidsExplosion on Saturday night at 7:30pm in Traverse City.  The Explosionended the Bucks 14 game winning streak last year at the same field. The Bucks' winning streak was the longest of any USISL or MLS team in thecountry in 1997.

 Coach Steve Burns is anticipating two difficultgames.  "Both teams will be gunning to pay us back for last year,"said Burns.  The Bucks eliminated Grand Rapids in the Division Semifinalmatch, 4-3, en route to their second consecutive Division Championship. "I am concerned that we have not played well in the second of back-to-backgames (in US Open Qualifying) so far this year and Grand Rapids will befresh."  Grand Rapids is idle on Friday and opens their regular seasonagainst the Bucks on Saturday.

  "We were able to get a good look at players duringour non-league games and Burnsie will get to look at even more guys thisweekend," said Bucks general manager, Jim Duggan.  "We will have 18guys available this weekend who are all capable of starting in this league. The players are eager to start regular season play."  The Bucks' regularseason consists of 16 games, including four against D-3 Pro League teamsand "home and home" series' with each of  Mid Michigan's six GreatLakes Division rivals.  The Division Championship Tournament is slatedfor July 31st and August 1st at White Pine Stadium in Saginaw Township,and will be the first time the Bucks have ever hosted the tournament.

 Mid Michigan was eliminated on May 17th from USOpen Cup play with a 3-1 loss to the Fox River Rebels from Wisconsin andfinished qualifying play with a 3-1 record.  These games may comeinto play at the end of the season, where "Overall Record" is one criterionfor playoff seeding tie-breakers.  Only the Detroit Dynamite, whoqualified for US Open Cup with a 4-0 record, has a better record in non-leaguegames.

Local Power
 With players from around the country and hailingfrom five countries, the Bucks two Mid Michigan natives have been the team'stop performers.  Grand Blanc's Chris Slosar and Midland's Jeff Batesonwere named in consecutive weeks to the USISL's "Team of the Week" (top11 performers from the 34-team PDSL as selected by the league office inTampa, FL).  Slosar was named "Player of the Week" on May 11th, onlythe second Buck to ever claim the honor (Tino Scicluna in 1997

• Total home game attendance of 7,056 was an increase of 42% from the inaugural season in 1996.
• Second straight North Central Division Championship and trip to the national Premier League Finals.
• 14 game winning streak was the longest of any USISL or MLS team in the country.
• Franchise record 20 wins (12 League, 17 Overall in Regular Season, 3 in Playoffs).
• 17 wins and 4 losses was best overall regular season record in Premier League.
• 81 goals in 28 games shattered team scoring record (31 Goals in 22 Games in '96)
• Qualified for US Open Cup as one of the top four teams in the Premier League.
• "Round One" 3-2 victory at Wilmington, NC (D3 Pro League) advancing to the "Final 24" teams, which included the best eight 'A' League and best eight MLS teams.
   
   

1997 individual Honors:

• Steve Burns - "Coach of the Year" in the Premier League.
• Mali Walton &Tino Scicluna - All-Tournament Team, USISL Premier League Final Four.
• Mail Walton & Paul Snape - All-League Selections, USISL Premier League's Top Eleven Players.
• Paul Snape (19 Goals, 12 Assists, 50 Points) & Dennis Brose (18 Goals, 4 Assists, 40 Points) finished in the Top 10 Scoring Leaders in the Premier League.
• Alan Placek (15-5, 1.45 GAA) finished in the Top 10 for Premier League Goalkeepers.

1997 Win/Loss Records In:

1. North Central Division Games: 12 - 4 (First Place).

2. US Open Qualifiers: 3 - 1 (Qualified).

3. US Open Cup: 1 - 1 (Beat D-3's Wilmington, lost OT to A-League'sRochester).

4. Overall USISL Regular Season: 17 - 4 (Best in Premier League).

5. North Central Division Championship: 2 - 0 (Champions).
    Semi-final: 4 - 3 (Over Grand Rapids).
    Final: 1 - 0 (Over Kalamazoo in shootout).

6. Central Region Championship: 1 - 0 (Champions, 3 - 0 win overDes Moines).

7. Premier League "Final Four" National Championship: 0 - 2 (Fourthin Premier League).
    Semifinal: 0 - 2 loss (to Central Coast (CA)RoadRunners).
    Third place game: 2 - 3 loss (to San Gabriel(CA) Highlanders).

1997 Overall: 21 - 7 (Home 10 - 2 / Away 11 - 5).

Winning eight of their last 10 regular season games gave the 1996Mid Michigan Bucks a shot at the playoffs in their inaugural season. Andthe Bucks made the most of the opportunity, winning the Premier LeagueNorth Central Division championship, and earning a trip to the U.S.I.S.L.'sSizzlin' Six Finals in Cocoa, Fla., in thrilling fashion. In the championshipgame on August 3, defenseman Tim Richey stamped the Bucks' ticket to Floridaby scoring the game's only goal against the Lexington Bluegrass Banditsin a shootout. Goalkeeper Alan Placek made numerous outstanding saves duringregulation and overtime. He then stoned Lexington on each of its five shootoutattempts.

In the semifinal matchup with the Michigan Madness, forward Scott Weigerscored two goals -- including the game-winner 10-minutes into overtime-- in a 3-2 win. The Bucks started their inaugural season off a bit sluggishly,losing six of their first eight games. After that point, the team pulledtogether into a cohesive unit that featured strong defensive ability.

The slow start did help to make the playoff run an exciting one! Afterthe mid-season turnaround, the Bucks won six of seven league contests whilefighting for the final playoff spot. The right to advance to the playoffswasn't clinched until the Bucks routed the Grand Rapids Explosion, 4-0,in the regular season finale. Weiger was again the main offensive threatin the playoff-clinching win, recording a natural hat trick in an eight-minutestretch. Weiger's goal-scoring flurry was unusual for the Bucks, however.

Over the course of the season, they had an extremely balanced attackwith 12 different players accounting for the team's 29 goals. Once in Florida,the Bucks lost their opener, 3-0, to the Central Coast Roadrunners fromSan Luis Obispo, Calif. and were eliminated from the playoffs after a 4-0loss to the San Francisco Bay Seals. Central Coast defeated San Francisco,1-0, in the Premier Division Championship Game.