US football 7-a-side team hold training camp

It is pleasing to see that the players are relishing this environment and are now thriving within what has become a very tight group with a winning mentality.

The USA football 7-a-side national team is taking part in its last training camp of 2014 this week (30 November-7 December) at the US Soccer’s National Training Centre in Chula Vista, California.

Head coach Stuart Sharp has named a 17-player roster for the camp.

The US team last played in September’s 2014 America Cup at the University of Toronto, Canada, taking third place in the tournament.

The USA capped off the event with a 3-0 victory against hosts Canada. Midfielder Gavin Sibayan scored two goals and defender Kevin Hensley contributed a goal.

“It is great to gather the players together again after a two-month break since the America Cup,” Sharp said. “This camp will serve as a great opportunity to reset some targets and focus on what will be a busy 2015, with both the World Cup and Parapan American Games being held next summer.”

While there are many familiar faces in the group, Sharp has also brought in six new players to the camp.

“To freshen things up a little, we are using this camp to introduce some new faces and also bring back some players who were on the periphery in 2014,” Sharp said.

“As a result, the competition for starting spots is continuing to grow. It is pleasing to see that the players are relishing this environment and are now thriving within what has become a very tight group with a winning mentality. I know both the players and staff are looking forward to getting back on the field together again and building on what was a very successful 2014 season.”

The squad

Goalkeepers: Keith Johnson

Defenders: Chris Ahrens, Bryce Boarman, Kevin Hensley

Midfielders: David Garza, Edgardo Gonzalezchacon, Davon Hardeman , Daniel Hoffman, Jarrett Razon, Gavin Sibayan, Jerreme Wade, Jordan Weise

Forwards: Corey Laycock, Jackson McCabe, Robert McChrystal, Michael Moore, Rene Renteria