In the Land Down Under ...

Wollongong Beach Soccer

2011-12-09T09:45:00.000+11:00

Dear readers

I have been away and apologise for not writing regularly over the last few months.
I have been very busy, focusing on a few new projects and was taking the time to get them on their way before I came back with any news.

Last year I spent most of my time coaching youth soccer and I found it very rewarding to work with kids.
I had the opportunity to work with several people that allowed me to gain experience and also get my senior coaching certificate.
Some of the places where I did some coaching were: Football NSW Academy, Illawarra Sports High School, South Coast Wolves and Illawarra Junior Football Association.

I had a terrific year of coaching and this year I decided to take a big challenge and accept to coach a first grade team.
My new club is the Albion Park White Eagles from the Illawarra Premier League.

The club is mainly supported by Serbian supporters so I'll be bringing a bit of Portuguese culture into the club.
I hope it works well (I guess we will find out a couple of weeks into the season, if I still have the job) Lol

We are now planning the pre season, that will start on the 18th of January. I will bring you more news about the club and the season in January.

Also very exciting and happening this weekend is the 2nd Wollongong Beach Soccer Tournament 10th & 11th December 2011.

The WBS is the only Beach Soccer tournament in this region and last year had an awesome outcome.

Everything is looking good to be even better this year.

For more info visit:
Website: www.wollongongbeachsoccer.com
Facebook: wollongong beach soccer
Twitter: wbeachsoccer

Enjoy this festive season and I will come back soon with news.

P.S - Its good to be back ;)

I am back ...

2011-03-08T11:41:00.010+11:00

Its been a while since my last post, but since I got back from my trip to Portugal, Spain & Malaysia last September, I have been busy off field.

On the 11-12 December it took place in Wollongong the first "Wollongong Beach Soccer Tournament".

It was two full days of games, music and entertainment at the most popular beach in Wollongong, North Beach.

Attracting more than 3500 people over the weekend, the feedback was great and cant wait to the WBS 2011.

Here some of the photos and video.

WBS 2010 from Alfredo Esteves on Vimeo.

Alfredo Mousinho-Esteves

YOU MAKE US ALL PROUD ...

2010-09-30T10:14:00.002+10:00

TIMOR LESTE U-16 NATIONAL TEAM

A quick visit to Kuala Lumpur

2010-09-30T10:08:00.004+10:00

- Heading to Chinatown in a taxi, I barely could see the road, as the wind shield was full of stickers..Lol

- Here I tried a new method of cleaning your feet. Hundreds of little fishes eating the dead skin off your feet.. Hilarious feeling..Lol

- Then a visit to the Bird Park, very beautiful some of the species.

- The famous Petronas Twin Towers 482 mt high, impressive.

- To finish, relaxing at the hotel by the pool

Fado at Alfama, Lisboa

2010-09-30T10:04:00.003+10:00

FADO is a tradicional Portuguese music from the 1820's.
While me and Chantelle dine, the music took us through beautiful inspiring lyrics.
By the way, dinner was monkfish, prawns and clams with a delicious sauce.

SL Benfica vs Sporting CP

2010-09-26T07:39:00.008+10:00

On Saturday 19th, already in Lisbon, I watched Benfica beat Sporting 2-0 at Estadio da Luz, 51.000 supporters with a great atmosphere.

Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid

2010-09-26T07:28:00.010+10:00

On may way from Barcelona back to Lisbon i stopped for 3 days in Madrid.

I had the opportunity to visit Real Madrid Training Centre where i was welcomed by Paco De Gracia, the youth chief scout for Real Madrid.

Being in Madrid i also went to Majadahonda to visit Atletico Madrid, this time Edorta Murua was my host, showing me the facilities and their youth teams in training.

Lisboa - Estoril

2010-09-26T07:22:00.005+10:00

Barcelona

2010-09-23T01:42:00.009+10:00

My first visit to Barcelona was pretty fast, as there's so much to see that you need more than a few days.

The beautiful art pieces of Gaudi are just unreal, absolutely amazing, specially the Sagrada Familia.

Then a visit to the Barcelona training center with Pepe Costa, who introduce me to the best player in the world, Leo Messi, what an honor.

And the last night met with Matt and Vanessa, both from Wollongong, traveling through Europe during 2 months before getting married in December.

AFF Suzuki Cup 2010

2010-09-16T08:36:00.002+10:00

Timor Leste will be back in action soon at the National Sports Complex in Vientiane, Laos.

Our qualifying group include games vs Philippines (22 Oct), Cambodia (24 Oct) and Laos (26 Oct) ...

Stay tuned for more news.

Sintra

2010-09-16T08:28:00.006+10:00

Visited Palacio da Pena and Castelo dos Mouros

Finished the night having dinner in the old part of Lisbon, Bairro Alto, with my girlfriend and two friends from High school, Nuno and Ricardo.

Visited Palacio da Pena and Castelo dos Mouros

Finished the night having dinner in the old part of Lisbon, Bairro Alto, with my girlfriend and two friends from High school, Nuno and Ricardo.

Aveiro / Barra / Costa Nova

2010-09-16T08:21:00.006+10:00

Aveiro is a beautiful city filled with water channels and green spaces.

Barra and Costa Nova right on the coast

North of Portugal

2010-09-09T07:12:00.006+10:00

We started by visiting the Grahams Caves where they make a nice Port Wine.

Then went on a cruise up the Douro River and a sightseeing tour in a double decker bus.

Later we also visited Guimaraes, the Castle of Dom Afonso Henriques, 1st King of Portugal.

Time to visit Porto.

Tomorrow Aveiro

Torreira

2010-09-09T07:04:00.005+10:00

A visit to Torreira for the festival Sao Paio, always on the 1st weekend of September..
Didn't stay to watch the fireworks but managed to eat a roast pork sandwich and drink a cold beer ... Lol

Dinner in Aveiro

2010-09-07T10:05:00.007+10:00

Since 2003 I have been organizing a dinner with my friends when I'm in town.

We had a great time ... like always!

Thanks to all who could make it.

Algarve is cool ...

2010-09-02T20:41:00.007+10:00

We went for breakfast at Luis Figo's and Paulo China's Bar by the beautiful Marina of Vilamoura.

Then we headed to a festival of sand sculpture, which was pretty amazing to see such great pieces of art in sand.

A stop at the beach N. Sra da Rocha in Armacao de Pera for a swim, and then we drove to Lagos to have dinner with a few friends at the Vila Gale, where we stayed over night.

The night went on and we end up singing karaoke ... Lol.

Algarve (Portugal) beaches

2010-09-02T20:37:00.005+10:00

Algarve has some of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen.
We got to visit some nice one's in Albufeira.
Here some of the pics.

Enjoy

Sunday in Belem

2010-08-30T12:11:00.007+10:00

Today we went to Pasteis de Belem, where they make the famous Portuguese custard tarts.

We had only had one each, but I promise I will have to be back again soon, before return to W'gong..Lol

After i watched the final of the Euro Beach Soccer League.

Portugal beat Italy 3-2 and in the end I got to interview Madjer (Captain Portuguese National Team) which won as well MVP of the final.

For the evening a short drive south, to Algarve for a few days.

Dinner at Docas, Lisbon

2010-08-30T11:45:00.003+10:00

Our first dinner was at Docas. This beautiful place is in Lisbon right under the River Tagus Bridge.

Used to be old barns for boating equipment and storage that was turned into a magnificent area with restaurants, bars.

Great dinner was followed with a walk by the river.

Alfredo Mousinho-Esteves

From the Gong to Portugal ... back in 30 days!

2010-08-26T21:15:00.000+10:00

Hi guys,
I'm off to Portugal, Spain and Malaysia with my girlfriend.

I will keep you posted with photos of places and people we will meet during our trip.

Stay tuned to all the news.

Ciao

My first season as a Head Coach

2010-07-30T10:17:00.002+10:00

During my playing years, I never thought much about coaching, but as you get older and the legs start getting heavy (Lol), other projects then start to make more sense and become very interesting.

I accepted the invite to coach the South Coast Wolves U13's this year and it was an amazing experience.

I had the opportunity to coach a great group of boys that throughout the season I enjoyed watch them develop, individually, as a team and as persons.

We have one game left this Saturday and I wanna finish with a good performance and a good win.

I wish them the best luck in the future.

To all the boys and manager Frank Belsito, THANK YOU for such great season.

Coach Esteves

Match Against Poverty'10

2010-07-20T01:29:00.000+10:00

8 weeks have gone ...

2010-07-14T10:49:00.004+10:00

8 weeks have gone and I am feeling better ...

I have been doing physiotherapy 3 times a week with Dave Becconsall at Physio Therapy in Wollongong.

I have known Dave since I arrived in Wollongong, and I know I am in good hands, but Dave and Dr Tim want me to wait until the 12 week mark before I start jogging.

For now, gym and swimming is all I can do, besides being patient.

I am very anxious to start playing and miss the game so much.

But I have to think long term and recover well before I step onto the pitch again.

In the meantime stay tuned for new posts.

I leave you guys with a video of an interview in Timor-Leste in Oct 2008.

Alfredo Mousinho-Esteves

Força Portugal!

2010-06-16T08:35:00.000+10:00

Força Portugal!

Today Portugal play its first game v Ivory Coast.

The game will be at 12am, Australia time and I will be with my shirt and scarf on ready to watch every second of it.

Let's go Tugas let's go..

World Cup 2010

2010-06-13T09:00:00.005+10:00

Welcome to the World Cup ...

Its been a very exciting last couple weeks, watching all the preparation to the World Cup.

Last World Cup in 2006 I was in United States playing soccer, and got to embrace the spirit of the WC with all my Yankee friends.

However they didnt do very well and didnt make it past the first round..

Well, now I am in Australia and I am very excited to see my Socceroos friends succeed.

Portugal and Australia are my favourites :) but I want to wish a good luck to all my friends from America, France, Brasil, Italy, Slovakia, Nigeria, New Zeland, Chile, Switzerland, Mexico, England, Spain, Japan, Cameroon, Ghana, Uruguay and South Africa

And as Captain of Timor-Leste National Team I want to wish good luck to all the participating countries in the World Cup 2010.

Week 1

2010-05-31T10:45:00.002+10:00

My 1st week is gone and I had consultation with Dr Tim.
The knee is looking well and the swelling is almost gone.
Dr Tim says, that because of the cartilage damage it will take around 6 weeks untill I can start running, and then about 4 weeks to maybe start playing.

This week I started on the static bike and monday will remove the stiches and start the exercices in the swimming pool.

Well, good news for now.
Catch up soon

Physioterapy with David Becconsall

2010-05-25T08:09:00.002+10:00

I had surgery last Thursday and I saw Dave the physio the day after, on friday.

I have known Dave since I'm in Australia and usually is the person that I advice with and do physio when I need.

After surgery I had a bit of swealling and a bit of pain, but with a couple pain killers I controled the pain and sleept well.

During the weekend got to feel much better and the swealling started coming down and I'm getting more mobility as I can bend better the knee.

Today Monday I had physio in the afternoon, did massage all around the surrounding area of the knee and also treatment to help cicatrization faster.

The physio said I may be able to start using the static bicycle and go in the pool for exercices soon as I take off the stiches.

Wednesday I will have physion again and Thursday will see the Dr Tim Musgrove.

More news soon

Congratulations Mourinho

2010-05-24T09:04:00.005+10:00

Here is the Champions League trophy for Inter.

Mourinho simply has done a great job winning the Champions League for Inter 45 years after the last one.
Even though Mourinho's football at times isnt the best well played, theres no doubts that he knows what do to to win.

At Fc Porto won the CL 17 years after the last one and 5 other trophys in only 2 years.
At Chelsea won the Championship title again, 2 times in a row, 50 years after, and 4 other trophys, all in 3 years.
And now at Inter win the CL, trophy that Inter didnt win since 1965 and 4 other trophys.

Do you want more titles?? And all this in just 12 years of career, wow.

Back to the surgery table ...

2010-05-20T19:14:00.003+10:00

(Picture taken in May 2007 - Minnesota, USA)

May 20th, 2010

Today i went back to the surgery table, for an arthroscopy to repair a meniscus tear on my left knee.

If you guys remember in June 2007, I had a ACL reconstruction on my left knee, which I fully recovered, as you guys could follow through my daily posts here on the blog.

It was for that reason I started this blog, to share with readers around the world my recover process and to help others that went through the same process.

Look forward for a quick recover and to get fit asap.

This year I will represent the Albion Park White Eagles, playing in the Illawarra Premier League.

The season started 5 weeks ago, and its been very hard to watch the games from the stands.

Well, this time it was a quick surgery and the procedure took around 45 minutes. I left the hospital after a couple of hours.

I will keep you guys posted with my recover once again.

This pix was taken in 2007 after my ACL recostruction done by Dr Aimmee Klapach in MN United States.

This time I'm in Australia and the Dr is Tim Musgrove.

See you guys soon with more news.

Many Thanks

Football League in Timor

2010-04-30T08:48:00.003+10:00

Digicel Group signed a 4 year contract with the FFTL to create a new football League in Timor, "Taca Digicel".

Digicel aims to develop football in Timor, using a local league to allow the players to play a regular competition and well structured.

The new League will start in may 8th and games will be at the Estadio Municipal.

The League will have 14 clubs and will be divided into three pools.

Pool A - Dili Leste, Aileu, Viqueque, Covalima

Pool B - Oecussi, Bobonaru, Lautem, Manufahi, Baucau

Pool C - Dili Oeste, Liquiça, Ainaro, Manatuto, Ermera

The schedule

1-Dili Leste v Viqueque 8/5/2010 15:30 Estádio Municipal
2-Aileu v Covalima 9/5/2010 14:40 Estádio Municipal
3-Baucau v Bobonaro 9/5/2010 16:25 Estádio Municipal
4-Manufahi v OeCussi 14/5/2010 14:40 Estádio Municipal
5-Dili Oeste v Liquiça 14/5/2010 16:25 Estádio Municipal
6-Ainaro v Manatuto 15/5/2010 14:40 Estádio Municipal
7-Aileu v Dili Leste 15/5/2010 16:25 Estádio Municipal

This is a very important moment to the Football in Timor and to all the Timorese.

I want to wish good luck to everyone and a great season.

Soon more news here or at www.renovatimor.blogspot.com

Europa League with RED clash tonight

2010-04-09T00:55:00.002+10:00

All the eyes will be at Anfield Road when Benfica walk onto the pitch to face Liverpool.

Having an advantage from the first game, it won't be an easy match, but I'm very confident that we will win.

I will be up at 4.45am to watch broadcast live from down under.

Let's go Benfica, good luck to all Benfica supporters and Portuguese soccer supporters around the world.

My visit to the Timorese Embassy in Lisbon

2010-03-20T09:40:00.004+11:00

After my participation in the Match to Help Haiti at the Estadio da Luz, I had the pleasure to meet with the Timorese Ambassador in Lisbon at the Embassy.

Natalia Carrascalao congratulated me for my participation in the match and for representing Timorese in support to the ones in need.

Timor's participation in such event is also returning the support we have been blessed by other nations before.

I was also interviewed to the sports paper A Bola.

Obrigadu barak ( Thank you very much )

A night to remember ...

2010-01-27T06:48:00.002+11:00

God Bless Haiti ! - Match Against Poverty 2010

2010-01-19T02:48:00.003+11:00

Benfica Allstars V Zidane-Ronaldo & Friends

This year's "Match Against Poverty" will be played on the 25th of January, in my hometown Lisbon, Portugal and at Estadio da Luz home of my favourite club - Sport Lisboa e Benfica.

Therefore when i received the invitation i felt very honored and excited. Playing at that Stadium, being part of another Evening of Charity carrying Timor-Leste flag and to be able to support Haiti is something ... indescribable.

For the 7th time since 2003, Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo both Goodwill Ambassadors of the UNDP - United Nations Development Programme, have once more organized a charity game to raise funds supporting specific initiatives to reduce poverty. FIFA and UEFA will also support this event.

Considering the recent events in Haiti, the organizers decided to entirely dedicate the funds to be raised towards the recovery of the devastated Caribbean nation.

I am leaving to Portugal later this week and will keep you posted on this journey.

God Bless Haiti

Happy New Year '10

2009-12-31T12:15:00.001+11:00

Santa Claus Pub Crawl

2009-12-22T10:28:00.003+11:00

Santa Claus Pub Crawl is a charity event to raise money for the Salvation Army in the Illawarra region.

It was originally started by a small group of friends as a means of raising some Christmas spirit, and having some fun at the same time.

The event went so well every year that this was the 15th year in a row.

The event is now one of the longest running Santa Pub Crawls in the world!

The only requirement is for participants to dress in something Xmassy.

The event has grown over these years to become one of Wollongong's most celebrated and well participated social and charity nights.

Over 2500 people attended the evening this year and over $30 000 worth of donations were passed on to the Salvation Army.

I did my first Santa Pub Crawl and helped those in need.

Talented Soccer (and Piano) player

2009-12-02T10:47:00.002+11:00

One of the kids I coach, has an unusual talent.

He is 10 years old and loves soccer, which is normal for so many kids in is age.
What I didn't know is that he also plays Piano.

He has been learning the famous "Suzuki Method".
Lachlan had is first performance at the Utzon Room Opera House, and did very well.

Looking forward to see him play again soon... Either in a soccer field or on a stage...Lol

Weekend at the races ...

2009-11-16T23:31:00.007+11:00

This weekend to celebrate Chantelle's birthday he went to the horse races at Kembla Grange and then had dinner at a Turkish restaurant in town.

The races are always a fun day, and the weather was just perfect. It is normal to most people to try and bet, trying to win something. After 10 races and after some of us tried very hard to pick a winning horse, the biggest win went to Kieran with $44...Lol...

Well, later heading into town, dinner was at a Turkish restaurant, with sounds of Turkish popular music and very good food.

As the dinner went on, the night only got better and better, and the Belly Dancers that were suppose to come didn't really come, we got to handle the dance floor and somehow so well that everyone at the restaurant had a dance and a good time.

Here some photos from that day.

Robert Enke R.I.P.

2009-11-12T11:22:00.003+11:00

I'm very sad for Robert Enke.

I had the pleasure to see him play for Benfica between 1999/2002

My condolences to his family and friends.

Benfica Allez !

2009-11-12T10:46:00.005+11:00

I have to congratulate SL Benfica for the great season so far.
A couple of nights ago, at Godison Park for the Europa League Cup SL Benfica defeated Everton FC of the aussie Tim Cahill.

With 2 goals in the second half, Saviola (63') and Cardozo (76') Benfica secured the first place in their group.

SL Benfica is my favourite team since I was born.

NEW STADIUM

Always with my Grandfather and my Dad I watched many SL Benfica games from a private box at the old, Stadium of the Light.

OLD STADIUM

Good old times..Lol

Keep it up Benfica, Im hoping to celebrate the Championship title this season.

The future is bright ...

2009-10-03T08:08:00.003+10:00

I am really proud of you kids!!!

Timor-Leste U-16 soccer team guaranteed their spot on the AFC Championship 2010 Finals with a 13-0 win over Macau, with one game left to the end of the qualifiers.
The coach Kim Shin-Hwan’s said “We have already been training together for six years so we have a very good understanding between the players”

“We have traveled a lot to gain experience. We have played against teams in Brazil, Korea Republic, Singapore and even DPR Korea.”

But this is the first time ever Timor Leste have confirmed their place in the finals of an AFC Finals competition and their qualification has added more spice to the drama, leaving hosts China and Singapore to fight it out for the second qualifying spot from the pool

My congratulations to all the team and my special thank you to coach Kim Shin-Hwan, for his amazing job.

It is good to see the next generation of Timorese players succeeding at the youth level.

I will be cheering for you guys in the finals

Allez Timor Leste Allez !

Live music in Wollongong with Sol Nation

2009-09-26T18:14:00.004+10:00

Sat, 26 September, 2009

Besides football I also like music, even more when the vocalist is my cousin.
Jojo, his name for the Family and Friends.. Lol

Today for the first time the band will be performing in Wollongong at the Oxford Tavern.

They are originally from Melbourne and they are on tour through NSW atm.

They are a Seven piece band, drawing its members from some of Australia's top world and reggae bands mixing superb musicianship with a charismatic stage presence that creates an exuberant, colorful, spine tingling and exciting live show.

Stylistically the music draws its influences from Indigenous and Jamaican reggae, traditional East Timorese folksong, African dance music, funk and soul, Latin dance and hiphop. The band has used music to highlight the problems faced by the people of East Timor, and to push for International justice on their behalf.

With a strong global conscience and a commitment to presenting high energy and infectious music to audiences around the world, Sol Nation is a unique Australian musical experience and a live tour de force!

You are welcome to attend tonight's concert ...

Cheers, see you guys there...

Off Season down under

2009-09-17T20:52:00.001+10:00

Now that the soccer season is over, I have to find some distraction.

Wasn't I passionate for sports, I have been doing some running and playing futsal..

Great running and biking tracks along the beautiful Wollongong coast, offers great landscaping to relax when jogging.

And once or twice a week I get together with a very multicultural team and go for a kick.

Portuguese/Italian/Chilean/Korean and Australian..Lol

Back row - Eraldo, Kieran, Giordano, Alfredo
Front row - Kirra, Frank, Johnny

Its always good fun..

On the other side, I still focused in completing my business course..
Which is going very well, specially with such great classmates..

Well, will be back soon with more news..

P.S - To my friends in Europe and U.S I hope they have enjoyed their summer...Lol
Because now its time for me to enjoy.. We still in September but theres been great sunny days..

Ciao to all

Donate Blood

2009-09-04T09:37:00.002+10:00

For some of you donate blood, is very scary. I know ...

But everyday there's people in need of blood for many different reasons.

500ml donation of your blood can save lifes.

I did my first blood donation in Australia last year.
Since then, I have been to the W'gong Donor Center a couple times.

Yesterday afternoon got a text message asking me to donate, and there I went ...

Trip to Bendigo

2009-08-25T20:13:00.002+10:00

Illawarra S.H.S boys soccer team

Bill Turner Cup is a School competition for U-15 boys and girls.
With more than 600 teams from NSW – VIC – QLD playing in a knock-out form (loser is out), the schools goal is to reach the finals in Newcastle.

We left Berkeley last Thursday morning at 6am in the school bus. All the way from Illawarra NSW to Bendigo in VIC. Close from 900km we arrived to Bendigo at 6pm. Too many hours in a bus to play 1 hour game (30+30) next day…

Ready to play the 6th round, with only 16 teams remaining at this stage, would be another good game versus Bendigo High School. Getting to the last 16 teams I reckon is very good when you have more than 600 teams from 3 different states of Australia.
Well our dream’s to be in Newcastle for the finals didn’t last much longer.
We started the game well and scored first, although we never manage to play the way we had been playing till then and Bendigo found the back of our net twice. The final score was 2-1.

The boys were sad to be out of the competition but that was the end for us.
Next year we will be back…

I want to wish good luck to Bendigo S.E.H.S in their next round.

After all, the trip went well and thanks to our driver Ernie with 73 years of age got us back to Berkeley safe and sound...Lol

Thanks to everyone

The team
Manager - Alan
Coach - Alfredo
Bus Driver – Ernie

Gk
Nick
Defenders
Matt / Shaun / Fillip / Emile / Nathan / Brad Acer
Midfielders
Campbell / Dyan / Chris / Jake / Brad Moreira
Forwards
Jason / Rodney / Jesse

End of season for Wollongong CFC

2009-08-16T09:24:00.000+10:00

I have to say that I'm glad that season is over.
When in January we started preseason, even starting the preparation later than all the teams in the league, I was happy the way we put up good performances. We had good results in preseason and the first 4 games we got to do a few points.
What I didn't expect was the nightmare to come. Five points in a season is the worst score I have ever had as a soccer player. I really wish the players and the club to take something positive out of this season for the next season.

Thank you to all the supporters that stayed with the Club till the end and good luck in the future to all my teammates.

Now, its time to focus in my next move.. Heres a bit of what I will be keeping you guys posted..

I decided to go back to school, and joined the TAFE to do a Business course.
Also keeping my U-15 boys soccer team from Illawarra Sports School in shape, as we got to win the last game 2-1 against Edmund Rice College. The next game will be in Bendigo in Victoria.

Well, see you guys soon with more news from Down Under

"Wollongong the place to be"

What a fantastic SportS year so far!

2009-07-19T23:30:00.003+10:00

This has been a great year in sports.

Golf - Tiger Woods is back and strong. After last years knee reconstruction to is left knee, his back, playing very well, winning and about to start is next tournament, Open Championship in U.K
Good Luck Tiger

Tennis - Roger Federer have won his 15th Grand Slam in Wimbledon and is back in 1st place. The sisters Venus and Serena Williams also won in Wimbledon. In the singles facing Venus in the final, Serena won 7-6(3), 6-2, losing only eight points on serve. This gave Serena her third Wimbledon title and her 11th Grand Slam singles title. Serena and Venus teamed up to win the women's doubles title at the event for the second consecutive year, their ninth Grand Slam title in women's doubles.

Moto GP - With 9 races so far we have Rossi, Lorenzo and Stoner with 16 points apart, fighting for the 1st place in the championship.
This years Moto GP I reckon the fight will be till the end.
I go for Rossi first and Stoner after ... Lol

F1 - Mark Webber, originally from Queanbeyan New South Wales Australia, won this weekend at the German GP. He became the first Australian to win since Alan Jones in 1981. Well done Mark

Soccer - Barcelona's great season, winning three titles and having still to play UEFA Super Cup against Shakhtar Donetsk. Meantime Real Madrid does the most expensive transfer ever with Cristiano Ronaldo, spending $94 Million euros for the Portuguese player, its without any doubts a lot of money, but only in the first day Real sold 3000 Ronaldo jerseys..Looks like the investment is already giving back is return.. Not to mention that 80.000 fans went to Santiago Bernabeu just to see CR presentation. FC Porto, the money-making machine. Winning the Portuguese league and Cup in 2009 Porto is taking advantage of their achievements and their players momentum. FC Porto have received 295 million euros in player sales since winning the Champions League in 2003/2004. And that astonishing sum is likely to surpass the 300 million mark in the near future, with Bruno Alves and Aly Cissokho expected to be sold in the close season. And congratulations for Australia National Team Qualification to WC 2010 in South Africa. Its great to see the socceroos doing well.

Well, and this is just a couple of the sports I usually follow more often.

Keep me posted and enjoy the game..Lol

R.I.P. Michael Jackson

2009-06-26T22:25:00.002+10:00

My prayers and thoughts are with Michael's Family, Friends and Fans.

Thank you for all you gave us. God Bless you Michael!

Luis Figo Farewell

2009-06-01T21:17:00.004+10:00

It was Luis Figo's last match this Sunday.
At the age of 36, Luis decided to retire from Football. Winning the fourth scudetto with Internazionale ends a beautiful career.

Figo started playing football with the modest Uniao FC "Os Pastilhas" before signed with Sporting. From then till today achieved many trophies with Sporting, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Internazionale and Portugal National team.

I had the pleasure to meet and play alongside Figo, at Figo AllStars games in the Algarve (2005) and in Bucharest (2008).

It was a great honor to be his guest.
It was one of the best moments in my career, to have the chance to be on the same pitch and team as Figo.

I want to wish Luis and his Family all the best in this new chapter of his life.

Career Honours

Sporting:
Portuguese Cup 1995

Barcelona:
La liga 1997/98 - 98/99
Copa del Rey 1997 - 98
Supercopa de espana 1996
UEFA Cup 1997

Real Madrid:
La Liga 2000/01 - 2002/03
Supercopa de Espana 2001 - 2003
UEFA Champions League 2002
UEFA Super Cup 2002
Intercontinental Cup 2002

Internazionale:
Serie A 2005/06 - 06/07 - 07/08 - 08/09
Coppa Italia 2006
Supercoppa Italia 2005 - 2006 - 2008

Portugal National Team:
Euro 2004 runner-up
U-20 World Cup 1991

Individual Hounors
Ballon d'Or 2000
FIFA World Player of the Year 2001
FIFA World Cup AllStar Team 2006
FIFA 100
UEFA Team of the Year 2003
Portuguese Player of the Year 1995 - 1996 - 1997 - 1998 - 1999 - 2000
Portuguese Golden Ball 1994
Best Portuguese player in the past five years (A Bola)

What to say, WOW!!!

Thank you Luis Figo

Let's go WCFC ...

2009-05-28T00:00:00.002+10:00

It has been a difficult season for the Club and to all the supporters.

After last year's successful campaign all of you were expecting more.

It has been a real challenge weekend by weekend, but the points are just not happening.

I haven't been in the last position on the table since I was 16 ... Its a terrible feeling and no one likes it for sure.

I hope this second part of the season will bring us better results.

Last weekend's round had a few games canceled, inclusive ours, because of heavy rain that hit Wollongong during the week.

However we had training Sunday morning versus the U-20's and tested the formation for next game.

It was a good practice and the players look sharp on the park.

We welcome the new signings to the Club - Lachlan Cahill, James Vaughan and James Monie.

Next game will be Saturday 30th kick-off 7.30pm against Bonnyrigg White Eagles.

I will face my good friend Jay Lucas, recently transferred to Bonnyrigg.

Let's go Wollongong supporters

Happy 7th Anniversary - TIMOR LESTE !

2009-05-20T09:03:00.006+10:00

May 20th, 2009

Seven years ago today Timor Leste restored Independence ... this is a happy date!

Million paws walk

2009-05-18T05:03:00.001+10:00

Sunday May 17

This morning I was driving by Fairy Meadow when I saw lots of people walking their dogs.
Well, it was the Million Paws Walk, an event that as place once a year all around Australia.

The main purpose of the event is raising funds. Funds raised through entry fees and the sale of merchandise help assist the RSPCA to operate its animal shelters, support its Inspectorate services and provide community education on animal welfare issues.

The dog is our " best friend " let's take good care of our dogs and help so many other dogs without a shelter.

Auufff!

Timor Leste football in the news ...

2009-05-04T21:43:00.003+10:00

"No league of its own, but tiny Timor aims to take on the world"

May 4, 2009

It's one of the world's newest and smaller nations, but East Timor is determined to make a splash in international football, Sebastian Hassett reports.

LIKE the young nation they proudly represent, the story of the East Timor football team follows a path of struggle and sacrifice, bravery and hope.

While most Australians know something about the forging of East Timor because of our political and military involvement, few have any idea of the nation's football exploits.

On the face of it, their record is not especially noteworthy. Ranked 197th in the world, East Timor is ahead of just nine nations. They were admitted to FIFA only in 2005. There is no national league; just a handful of sporadic tournaments with grandiose names such as the "Presidents Cup" or "Prime Minister's Cup".

But football is unrivalled as their number one sport, and now Australia's ties with Timor include the world game.

Leading the charge is Timor's charismatic national team captain, Alfredo Esteves. The 32-year-old has played professionally in the United States and Europe but now calls Wollongong home after he signed with Wollongong FC in the NSW Premier League last season.

"It's absolutely beautiful here, it's one of the most amazing places I've ever been to," he said yesterday. "I can see the ocean any time, I can get around town, and as a city, it's not too big here or too small."

It's a far cry from East Timor, which Esteves admits is still ravaged by civil war. "It's still got a long way to go, but from the first time I visited in 2004, it has improved each time I have gone back," he said.

It's not just the beaches and sunshine that have Esteves excited about Australia. He's on a scouting mission, too.

"There's only two players in the East Timorese national team playing abroad [the other plays in Indonesia]," he said. "But there must be others like me who have heritage from East Timor or family still living there, and we have to try and find them."

Esteves believes many overseas players will be eligible for the Timor team through their parents or grandparents, many of whom fled to other nations as instability flared during various stages in the 20th century. His mother left for Spain in 1969, where Esteves was born eight years later and spent the majority of his life.

"I think more would have come forward if they actually knew there was a national team," he said. "But a lot of people don't. I was at a Timorese party in Sydney recently, and people were surprised to hear we even had a team."

Esteves already has a pair of potential converts in his sights - Marconi duo Chris Nunes, who trialled with Sydney FC, and former Australian schoolboy representative Nahuel Arrate.

"They are both excellent players, and I would love for them to play for East Timor," Esteves said.

Arrate, 28, qualifies for the East Timor side through his wife, and is awaiting the arrival of a Timorese passport before he can pull on the quad-coloured jersey.

However, getting Nunes to convert might take a little more time.

"It would be fantastic if Chris could play for us, to see how much football means to people in East Timor and how passionate they are," Esteves said. "But he is quite young, and he is eligible to play for Australia too, and he knows that once he plays for one country at senior level, he can't go back."

To call on players of such calibre would unquestionably provide a huge boost to the national team's chances of success.

However, while the definition of "success" to Australians is measured by silverware, the former Portuguese colony has a far simpler goal - to win. A match. Just once.

"We have never won a match but we recently drew with Cambodia in the AFF Suzuki Cup qualifying, and everyone was so delighted," Esteves said, omitting to mention that they squandered a 2-0 lead late in the game. "We know we are close, especially with the ASEAN Games coming up in December. The celebrations will be huge when we eventually win a match."

Nothing seems to come easy in East Timor. It was one of five nations told by the Asian Football Confederation they could not take part in this year's AFC elections after they failed to participate in at least three confederation competitions in the past two years. Sympathetic to the plight of those nations, FIFA overruled the decision.

It is hard for East Timor to field an international team. There is no money and, even in the capital, Dili, no grass pitches.

"There are two fields but our main stadium is unsafe, and the other is just dirt and rocks, so we can't play matches there," Esteves said. "But FIFA have said they will help us out. They've promised to build a new pitch by the end of 2009."

Just like the nation, football is a work in progress.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

2009-05-04T21:35:00.002+10:00

Another fun adventure I did a couple weeks ago.

The Harbour Bridge in Sydney is open for visits all year around.

Its one of the major Sydney's attractions for tourists. Between 300 to 400 people do the Bridge Climb daily.

My group was composed by 12 people - 8 Americans, 2 Dutch, 1 South African, 1 Aussie and 1 Luso-Timorese ... Lol

Skydiving over W'gong beach!

2009-04-24T07:18:00.008+10:00

Probably the most challenging adventure I've had so far!

Its not everyday you get to jump from a plane at 14000ft in the sky, free fall for about 50 seconds and reach the speed of 240km/h ...

WOW ... that was amazing and intense at the same time.

I had this goal since I got to Wollongong and as a birthday gift I finally got it.

Here are some of the photos from "my first jump" ... Yes I said my first jump, because I intend to do it again...eh!

Enjoooooooooooooooooooooooooy!

Ride Cowboy Ride ...

2009-04-14T08:40:00.004+10:00

Happy Easter

Big weekend to enjoy and eat lots of chocolate.
We didn't have game this week, so I had time to relax and eat chocolates and do something different.

Sunday I took the day to go Horse Riding with Chantelle and a couple of Friends.

Last time I did Horse Ride it was probably 20 years ago, in a friends' farm in Anadia Portugal ... and I guess it was a pony, not really a horse.Lool

We went to Otford farm, not very far from Wollongong.

We ride for 2 1/2 through a beautiful scenery with waterfalls, rainforest, ducks, goats, etc.

My horse's name was Cowboy and Chantelle's was Twinkle

I had lots of fun and had chance to learn how to ride a horse.
An experience that I will try again sometime.

Well guys, tuesday I have a bigger challenge ... I'm doing skydiving at 14000ft ...
I just hope the rain stop as its poring in Wollongong like I have never seen before.

More news and photos from the Skydiving later ...

Early in the season

2009-04-03T10:27:00.002+11:00

It is early in the season for the new club.

Everyone has committed to be part of the new WCFC. Well things have been a little difficult to everyone.

This weekend we had another bad game losing 5-1 against Sutherland Sharks.

As a team, we win together and we lose together. What I can say about this weekend it's that we didn't perform our best.

For the three first games of the season I saw us putting a lot of good play.
Playing very well with lots of ball possession and creating opportunities to score.

For a young team surprised lots of people.

Well now for two weekends in a row, our performance dropped radically, having two bad results.

We cant allow this results to affect our confidence and we just have to bring heads up and back to the fight.

Next sunday 3pm at the CUA Stadium Penrith

Cheers to all

Not a good day at Belmore

2009-03-25T08:01:00.002+11:00

Belmore Sports Center, home of Sydney Olympic its a difficult ground for Wollongong boys.

My second time visiting that ground and lost both times.

We knew that would be a difficult game and we were ready for it.

We scored probably the fastest goal in the NSW Premier League ever.

1st minute of the game a long pass all the way from the defense found Ilija in the GK's face, flicking the ball over him and scoring the 1st goal.

Early goal gave us motivation to keep the ball in possession and making better circulation than Sydney Olympic, we scored again.

It was 2-0 for us with only 11 minutes in the game.

Well, Sydney Olympic never quit and showed why is one of the favourite teams once again this year.

Coming back from 2-0 down, they scored 2 goals till the half time.
I must say that in the defense we made it a bit easy for Sydney Olympic.

Two plays that we should have cleared easy they didnt wasted the chances and we went to the sheds with 2-2.

Second half I reckon we gave them to much space and they use it the best way.

Also we never pick it up again our game and they finished their chances created in the second half, giving us no chance to recover till the last whistle.

Heavy 5-2 loss and very disappointing to Wollongong.

Now time to work well this week at training and focus on our next opponent - Sutherland Sharks Sunday at Crehan park.

My shirt ... all the way to Chile

2009-03-19T22:33:00.003+11:00

A couple weeks ago, a friend of mine Giordano, original from Chile, living in Wollongong for many years, came to me and said he had a special request and would need my help.

So Giordano is a big football fan and always follow the games in Wollongong. Giordano's request was for a couple of friends and Family back in Chile that are big football fans. Unconditional Colo Colo supporters in Chile, in Australia they follow and cheer for the WCFC.

They would like to have a shirt signed from me and also a couple of photos where Im with Luis Figo and with the trophy after win the 2008 NSWPL Grand Final.

These are the photos of the boys posing with the shirt and the pics.

Doesn't matter where you are and how old you are. Football is a universal language, I love this game :))

Muchas gracias a todos Chilenos e especialmente para Miguel Andres, Mario Albert Ramirez, Miguel Angel Villalobos e Ernesto Fortunato Villalobos.

Suerte en el futbol Miguel Andres

Miguel Andres Villalobos (game organiser, Colo Colo fanatic, football fanatic ... and a friend)

A good game with a bad result !

2009-03-16T11:41:00.003+11:00

Sydney United was the guest on Crehan Park for the 3rd round.

They are the only team undefeated in the league. A couple of ex socceroos and ex A League players compose a very organized team.

We try to play our game and most of the possession was ours during the 90 minutes.
I can say that on the 3rd game we are playing a very confident football.

However our superiority in the middle of the park wasn't enough to create chances for goal.

I think the crowd enjoyed the game, each team had a few chances to score. But each defense did a very good job to keep the nets clean.

Unfortunately at the 71st minute a shot from outside the box got a deflection on ... me, that eluded Alex (GK) and it was 0-1!

It was the end of the game and a very sad end for us.

Time now to move on and to look forward preparing another difficult opponent next week, Sydney Olympic away game.

Thanks to the crowd that attended the game.

WCFC Inspiratonal afternoon

2009-03-12T14:17:00.005+11:00

First home game of the season, I believe was worth for the crowd that decided to attend to the game.

After the 1st round lost at Bankstown's home, everyone showed up at Crehan Park with expectation to see what we could do at home against Bonnyrigg.

Despite a good start, dominating most of the time, Bonnyrigg found the back of the net twice and got us one man down just before the half time, when Ben side tackle a Bonnyrigg player with the referee, deciding for the red card.

But the break came in the right time. We knew we were the best team on the park and the score , even being two goals and one man down, it was possible to win the game.

Well, thats what we did. We start a great second half and worked till the end.
The unthinkable for some, did really happen.

Ilija scoring twice and Samet scoring the winning goal gave us the 3 points.

Well done lads!!! Great performance of all team.

It was great to see the crowd excited and pushing for the team at the stands.
It feels good to play under that atmosphere.

Thanks to all!

P.S - Next sunday again at home against Sydney United! Dont miss it!!!

New Colours ... New Game ...

2009-03-07T09:46:00.006+11:00

This weekend we will have the 09'WCFC new colours,that we hope will be a winning combination!

We are playing our first home game of the season against Bonnyrigg White Eagles.
The team trained very well during all week and free of injuries we will face Bonnyrigg in 100%.

I hope a good crowd will attend the game.

Lets go boys!

2009 season start ...

2009-03-02T10:46:00.002+11:00

Sunday, March 1st

We were the better side for most part of the game, despite the defunct of the Wolves and the many changes for this year, with new players, having the team the age range around the 22.

The new WCFC stepped up on the field for the first time this year, looking for a good result and bring some points home.

Well as the game went through the confidence raised up and we had a few good chances to score with Ilija, Samet and Josh.

We fought for 90 minutes, and wasn't Bankstown, with a more mature and experienced team, that impressed the "new" Wollongong boys.

However a single goal for Bankstown around the 70th minute gave the 3 points to the home team.

End of the day, I want to congratulate my team mates for a good start of season, that despite the score they never stopped trying to win the game.

Well done lads for a start.

My thank you also for the supporters that followed us from Wollongong.

See you guys next sunday March 8th @ 6pm at Crehan Park against Bonnyrigg White Eagles.

One week for the Kick-Off

2009-02-22T03:59:00.001+11:00

The new club, Wollongong Community Football, is ready for the kick off.
The boys are looking sharp and excited for next sunday to step up on the field at Jensen Park, to play Bankstown City.
I will bring more news about the team soon.

In the meantime I took some free time to relax aboard of the MPI Spirit Americas Cup Yacht along Sydney Harbour.

It was a 3 hours ride, a bit wet though, as it started raining, and the MPI is a racing boat doesnt have area to protect from the rain.

But even with rain it was lots of fun and very enthusiastic to break through the waves.

Well, keep updated through the blog and get ready for another season of great football with the WCFC

Ciao lads

308 th ...

2009-02-17T00:21:00.004+11:00

I want to congratulate RAUL from Real Madrid on his latest achievement ... 308th goal and now Real Madrid's top scorer ever!

With yesterday's goals (2) Raul conquered the place that belonged for so long to other Great player ... Alfredo Di Stéfano!

I was always an admirer of Raul's skills and career. Last May i had the joy to meet him personally and play alongside him in Bucharest at the 08' Champions Evening - Romanian Stars vs World Stars game.

To you Raul ... a Standing Ovation!

Australia Day

2009-01-29T10:31:00.003+11:00

Australia Day, is the official national day of Australia. Celebrated annually on January 26th, the day commemorates the arrival of the first fleet in 1788, the unfurling of the British flag at Sydney Cove and the proclamation of British sovereignty over the eastern seaboard of Australia.

It is a one of the best public holiday to celebrate. In Wollongong a few streets were closed and through the day had plenty of activities going on, a thong-throwing competition, sand sculpture contest, a sailing regatta, carnival rides and live music kept visitors entertained and a new event for 2009, the hospital bed race, drew quite a crowd ... Lol and to finish the day, fireworks!

Well, it was a great day ...

Ronaldo World Player of Year 2008

2009-01-14T11:48:00.003+11:00

Congratulations Cristiano!

Ronaldo was crowned FIFA's world player of the year 2008.

He helped United win the English Premier League, Champions League and World Club Championship titles.

Also picked up the European Player of the Year crown, the FiFPro World Footballer of the Year honour, the European Golden Shoe and the Ballon D'Or.

I'm very happy for Cristiano as Portuguese and also as a fan of this game.

Thanks CR 7

Below my Figo AllStars game video (in July 2005) when I had my minutes of fame against the Best Player in the World..Lol

(watch second 0:30 closely)

My votes as a Captain of the National Team of Timor-Leste went to:

1* Cristiano Ronaldo

2* Didier Drogba

3* Deco

2009-01-13T09:44:00.002+11:00

Wollongong FC - 2009

2009-01-06T03:22:00.000+11:00

Back to training today ... finally.
After 4 months of off-season, here we are back on the field.

The club suffered a few changes during this off season and there is a lot still to be done, till the start of the official season.
But talking on behalf of the players, everyone is very excited and willing to defend the 2008 Champions title.

The club this year have decided to bet more in young local players in the first grade and focus in the youth development of the club, with the wish, that in 2 or 3 years be one of the best talent supplier to the A-League and overseas.

I want to welcome Tony Pace.
Tony was assistant-coach last year, and now accepted the challenge to be the Head-Coach of the 2008 NSW Premier League Champions, even knowing that he will not have most of the players from last year. Tony is a very experienced coach, and I think the club will win this bet.

Well, good start to all the boys. I will be back with more news of the new WFC 2009

Let's go reds ...

Happy New Year '09

2009-01-01T12:11:00.008+11:00

This is the best season of the Year.

Christmas and New Years are the best for me.

This year unfortunately I didn't have my Family around for this festive season, but as you know had a very good Christmas with Jay's Family.

Now time for New Years.

I will stay in Wollongong and going to have dinner with Friends, maybe watch the fireworks at the harbor and after heading to the club Ivory to turn mid-night and join my Friend Vin turning another year... Luck him get to celebrate is birthday and New Years in once..Lol

Well, I'm saying goodbye to 2008.
My review of the Year I guess I had a pretty good year.

-Winning the Championship with the Wolves

-The first point for Timor-Leste against Cambodia

-Learned to Snowboard

-Visit two new countries Cambodia and Singapore

-Playing for Figo Allstars in Romania

-Enjoying my time in Wollongong and Meet really nice people in Australia

Well here some of the things I did in 2008...

Without a new years resolution but always with my mind open to learn and do something different from yesterday ;)

I wish to everyone a Happy New Year 2009

Thanks to all the people that read my blog ... Really appreciate your support

My Christmas online with Portugal and my Christmas with Jay's Family in Australia

2008-12-26T04:58:00.002+11:00

Today 25th morning we had brekkie, like the tradition say's, barbeque and champagne. Very good bbq cooked by a Family friend, thanks Doug.

Right after I ran to the computer online with the webcam to have the mid-night with my Family in Portugal.

It was so great to be able to see all the smiles, specially my nieces, with the arrival of Santa..Lol

Thanks to the internet I had my first Christmas online, with 18 000km between us.

In the afternoon we relaxed playing pool table and other games.

Later evening the importante meal in Family. Just little before that, in a good Christmas athmosfere we opened the presents.

Great moment specially for little Tayla with only 7 months.
Me for a new member of the Family I did pretty well. Had a couple of nice presents..Lol

The food was wonderfull and the company even better.

Not having my Family with me, Jay's Family made me feel home.

Thank you so much for this day guys.

On the photo from Lef to Right :
Women - Pam, Tarnya, Cheryl and little Tayla
Men - Aaron, John, Jay, Daz

Well, and this was how I celebrate Christmas twice..Lol

Love you all

Aussie Christmas

2008-12-24T11:22:00.003+11:00

This year I will have an Aussie Christmas.

Invited by my good friend Jay Lucas and his Family, I will have my first Aussie Christmas.

As Jay told me, the 24th will be a day to go out and hang out with friends.

On the 25th we will start the day early, with "Champagne breakfast"! Barbecue for breakfast, champagne to follow and opening the presents.

Lunch will be in Family and the day goes, till you can...Lol
This is the Aussie Christmas!

For my first time I will have my Christmas away from my Family.
Specially Mum, Nuno, Vitor, Ana, Maria, Mafalda I will have my thoughts with you guys.

Being away from you guys is the most difficult thing of all the dreams or wishes that I can ever fight for.

Christmas for me, is since the day I born, live Happy every single day having the best Family I could ever dream of.

These are the feelings my Grandfather and Dad teach us.

Love you guys!!!

In other way I will celebrate Christmas twice.
I'm 11 hours ahead from Portugal, and thanks to the Internet I will definitely be "there" when mid-night in Portugal.. Lol

Merry Christmas to my Friends in Portugal, Timor-Leste, United States, Japan, Italy, Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, Mexico, Indonesia, Cambodia, Nigeria, Guinea Conakry.

To finish, a global Merry Christmas to everyone in this World.

Have a peaceful Christmas.

Alfredo Mousinho-Esteves

AFF Suzuki Cup: Arriving at Phnom Penh National Olympic Stadium

2008-12-22T22:52:00.002+11:00

Timor Leste : my National Team ...

2008-12-22T22:49:00.002+11:00

It's Christmas time ...

2008-12-18T23:34:00.003+11:00

Today I went to Red Cross Donor Center in Wollongong.

I have been a loyal member of the Donor Center back in Portugal, but this was my first time in Australia.

There was a big campaign for this festive season and I decided that would be the right time for it.

Unfortunately there's lots of people that need blood everyday.

Most people think donated blood is only used to help people who suffer traumatic incidents, such as accidents or burns, or in surgery. But, in fact, the vast majority of donated blood goes to people with cancer.

So, please do your donation and maybe your giving someone a better Christmas.

2008-12-15T10:44:00.002+11:00

Published at Fox Sports magazine in Nov 2006. Republished in 2008 at newspapers El Espectador (Colombia) and El Nacional (Venezuela) ... by PABLO ARO GERALDES.
http://arogeraldes.blogspot.com/2007/02/el-ltimo-pas-del-mundo.html

THANK YOU Pablo.

You can call me ... Coach!

2008-11-29T10:56:00.003+11:00

Back to school ... and after two exhausting weekends i have the youth coaching license.

Getting ready for the future, I decided to take the youth license.

It was 2 fun weekends learning technics and a little more, from a coach perspective.

Now I hope I can find a team to coach ... i heard Chelsea has an open ... Lol

P.S.: the pics are 2 years old ... but the license is 2 weeks new! lol

Visit of a friend

2008-11-25T09:33:00.006+11:00

Last week i had a visit of a friend.

Miguel is a friend I met a few years ago in Portugal. We have a best friend in common.

Funny is that in my trip to Timor-Leste last month, I went out for dinner with a couple of local friends ... and imagine who I found ? Yep ... Miguel!!!

He has been working in Timor for the past 2 years.

Miguel was planning to go to Japan but changed plans to come to Australia, for the first time and visit me.

We had great fun in Wollongong and Sydney ... and he enjoyed so much his time in Australia, that he promise to be back soon ... Lol!

These are photos in Sydney with NSW friends

Calm week

2008-11-10T07:38:00.001+11:00

Back to Wollongong last week I had a calm week just relaxing from the games and the flights.

I had a great time overseas no doubt lads, and as you can see by the photos either Timor, Cambodia, Singapore or Indonesia they are wonderful places to visit.

And the best of it, it was the time I spent with the team doing all the traveling.. We had great and fun time together..Lol

Timor-Leste I had great moments like, going for a ride to the mountains, do snorkeling, or just lay down at the beach having a coconut water and swimming for hours in the warm and calm waters of Timor or try to watch the unique sunset from the top of Cristo Rei..

Cambodia I discovered a very beautiful place that I never imagine could be so fun.. All the monuments, museums,parks (where I ride a elephant), the temples..Awesome, it was great.. and so much fun go for a ride into town with a tuc tuc ( traditional transport, motorcycle pull a small trailer with 4 to 6 people in the back..fun to visit the city..

Indonesia great place to go in vacations. Lots of activities going on, specially outdoors.. water sports like, parasailing, fly fish, jetsky, etc. . or the great restaurants and bars with magnificent atmosphere and plenty of foreigners that dont stop 24/7..

Singapore, small country,very organized, very friendly, great place for shopping, great resorts, and definitely a place to go back and spent more time..

Wow, miss all that places already..Lool

This weekend I'm taking a coaching course in W'gong, so next week I will tell you guys how that goes..

Take care and have a good weekend

Back to Australia

2008-10-31T22:32:00.003+11:00

For 27 days had a great time representing Timor-Leste.

2008 AFF Suzuki Cup in Cambodia, was the best scenario to play football and I'm proud that me and my teammates left Cambodia with our heads up.

We showed that Timor-Leste has the potential and we will get a win soon.

I want to thanks all the visits and all the comments of support left in my blog.
I really feel proud wearing the Timorese jersey.

I'm so happy to receive comments from people all around the world - from Timor Leste, from Cambodia, from Portugal, from Australia ... from Minnesota-USA ...

To all of you, THANKS ...

P.S- I'm taking this weekend to relax and will be back soon

2008 AFF Suzuki Cup - More pictures ...

2008-10-30T22:53:00.006+11:00

These are just a couple of pictures from my last month.

I am now back home in Wollongong, but in the meantime i went to Timor Leste, Indonesia, Singapore and Camdodia ...

These pictures just tell a bit about it, but in the coming weeks i will bring all the funny stories.

My 10 days in Cambodia ...

2008-10-27T22:52:00.007+11:00

AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 - Round 4

2008-10-27T09:53:00.003+11:00

The game against Laos was our last chance to win our 1st official match. We tried again but it wasn't our hour yet.

It ended 2-1 for Laos, that went on to win this qualifiers and will be in the final phase in December.

Congratz to Laos and Cambodia for their success.

It is sad to have failed our our objective but i also feel refreshed by our quality upgrade.

Laos finished 1st; we lost 2-1 to them.
Camdodia finished 2nd; we draw 2-2
Philippines finished 3rd; we lost 1-0

So, only against Brunei i consider we had a bad game when we lost against a team that isn't stronger than we are.

It is now time to look forward and learn from our weaknesses and mistakes. We all need to improve and most definitely in 2009 we will be better than ever.

In 2009 the National Team will have 2 great competitions: Lusofonia Games (Lisboa, Portugal) and SEA Games (Vientiane, Laos)

P.S.: i scored against Laos, so i want to dedicate that goal to all of you that have been so supportive to Timor Leste. God bless Timor Leste and all of you!

In the news ...

2008-10-27T09:38:00.004+11:00

I was born in Portugal, where Timor Leste is a very dear country.

My presence at the National Team raises some curiosity and following in Portugal and i want to leave you here two news articles about our Cambodian adventure.

AFF interview

2008-10-27T09:35:00.001+11:00

This is the link to my interview to Asean Football Federation www.aseanfootball.org/news_43.asp

TIMOR NEED TO BELIEVE IN THEIR INDEPENDENCE: ESTEVES

East Timor football needs help. And while the valiant effort of their president Lay Francisco Kalbuadi has brought Timor football some form of organisation, they still have some way to go yet to go up against the boys in the region.

And so it is welcome news that newly-appointed captain of the Timor Leste team Alfredo Esteves – who was born in Lisbon, Portugal – has decided to return to the land of his mother to improving the local football scene.

Certainly, the 32-year-old Esteves will have his work cut out for a country which had only gained independence in 2002.
Q:

What prompted your decision to return to play for Timor when you are already based in Portugal?
A:

Two years after the country gained independence, I was invited to play for East Timor. It is always an honour to play for your country and I did not hesitate to pick up on the invitation. Thus far, I have picked up 9 international caps for East Timor.

Q:

But knowing the prevalent conditions in Timor, were you not at all perturbed about going back?
A:

I love the challenge even though I knew that things in Timor were not so good. I look at it as trying to help the country even though I knew the reality that it will not be easy.

Q:

What was it like when you first came to Timor?
A:

I saw a country with football-loving people but they have no facilities. And I feel that I can do something about it. And I plan to do something about it. Although at this point, I can't say what exactly that will be.

Q:

How is the condition now ?
A:

We need to improve on the facilities otherwise; we will see a lot of wasted talent. There are only two fields in Dili (the capital city). And there is no grass on either of them - mostly sand and lots of small stones. We have been training on that for the last two months before coming to Phnom Penh.

Q:

And after being associated with Timor for several years now, what is your assessment as to where they need to go from here?
A:

It is not so much political instability which is the problem but rather, we need patience. People are learning that now although I feel that they need to believe that they are independence and that they can fight for a better future. I can see that it is difficult but I believe that we can do something if we all believe.

Q:

How has the current AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 qualifiers been for you?
A:

We did well enough in our first game against the Philippines which everyone thought was the favourite team. We lost by just one goal as compared to the 7-0 beating we suffered in the last qualifiers. And the second match, we tried very hard but we lost out on experience and gave up a two-gaol advantage. In the third game, we just lost shape and were perhaps a little tired. Playing three matches in six days is not easy.

Q:

What is lacking in the team?
A:

Experience obviously. For about six or seven players, this is the first time that they have been out of the country and playing for the national team. They are only 18 or 19-years-old and they need guidance.

Q:

Do you feel confident that something can be done?
A:

Around 60% of the population is under the age of 25-years-old. So definitely we have the resources to work with. But the problem is finding the right balance between football and family commitment. Some of the players earn less that USD 100 a month. And even now, some of the players told me that they might have to give up football because they have to help their family earn a living. But I'm still confident that we can carve a new future with the right resources.

Q:

Have you ever thought of becoming a national coach of Timor?
A:

At this time, I still love playing football and I have never thought of going into coaching. Maybe in the future, I will consider being the national coach of Timor. After my playing career, I'm thinking of doing projects with the youth in Timor. That will be the best start to help mould the future of Timor football.

Q:

With Timor already out of contention for a place in the December meet, what will be your aim for your last match against Laos?
A:

I just want everyone to band together for this one game and leave this year's qualifiers with our heads held high. We should not be ashamed of how we fared here.

My visit to Cambodia

2008-10-24T22:43:00.006+11:00

We are about to play our final match in the 2008 AFF Suzuki Cup qualifiers, tomorrow 4pm against Laos.
We are already mathematically out, but we will put our hearts on the pitch and will dignify our nation trying to win our first official match.
Spirits are high so let’s hope for the best.

In the meantime I had the pleasure to discover an exciting city – Phnom Penh.

Cambodian culture wasn’t familiar to me at all, so it has been wonderful to cruise the streets, meet the friendly people and visit amazing and truly historic places that I will never forget. Killing Fields is one, National Museums, Central Market, Royal Palace … but more important the friendly atmosphere on the streets with zillions of motorcycles.

As soon as I return home in Australia I will take the time to tell you about all these in detail.

AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 - Round 3

2008-10-22T10:37:00.003+11:00

Our dream turned into a nightmare.

Yesterday our hopes were high. We were facing Brunei and after the last two games versus Philippines and Cambodia we were positive about a win … but it turned exactly the other way and we lost 4-0.

It wasn’t a good game for us. I didn’t perform well. I am sad for this defeat but I am happy to be part of this group of players.

Our country has endured decades of suffering and it is still fighting to arrive at a stable and comfortable social platform.

My team mates are still getting to terms with the world outside Timor Leste. They have the will and they have the wish. They give what they have, especially under conditions that no other football player would survive. We lost the game. We lost it big time. But I stand by their side and I applaud their effort.

I am proud of you guys!

We need to improve on the pitch, which is a fact. But more important is to start improving off the pitch.

We need to offer better conditions to our players. We are representing the good name of our nation, the hopes of our countrymen. We can’t ask more to these players. The standard must be raised off the pitch to match these fine kids heroic efforts.

Now we need to energize the team to fight for our historic first win, on Saturday versus Laos.

Where there’s a will there’s a way.

Viva Timor Leste …

AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 - Round 2

2008-10-20T01:36:00.003+11:00

Sunday Oct 19th, 2008

Today, we almost did it ...

2-2 was the final result against hosts Cambodia in front of a 12,000 people crowd.

We led by 2-0 'til the 70th minute but then our dream escaped with their 2 goals.

Nevertheless it was a good result for us that keeps our qualifying hopes very much alive.

On Tuesday we will be back on the pitch to face Brunei.

Our hearts are full of hope and desire to succeed in the name of our country - Timor Leste!

AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 - Round 1

2008-10-18T09:14:00.005+11:00

I have arrived in Phnom Penh - Cambodia a couple days ago but didn't have the time to "play the keyboards" and tell you everything about it.

The trip from Dili was kind of "busy" ... first stop was Bali. Then Singapore and finally Phnom Penh ... after a lot of hours in hotel lobby's and airport lounges !

Once we got to Cambodia i was surprised to find the spectacular Nagaworld Hotel, that the local FA picked for our stay. Really 5 Star.

I didn't have time to visit the city as we had our first game ... today (Friday).

... and despite the 1-0 loss it was a great game and a very decent result. Last time Timor Leste played Philippines (Nov 2006) the result was 7-0.

We fought a very exciting 90 minutes in front of a good crowd at the Phnom Penh Olympic Stadium.

I am really honored to have captained such brave team. Well done guys!

Next round will be on Sunday against hosts Cambodia, that today beat Laos 3-2.

We will enter the pitch with the same attitude and motivation.

Will be back to you, hopefully with our first points in these AFF Suzuki Cup qualifiers.

Weekend in Dili

2008-10-13T20:15:00.002+11:00

The majority of the population, work all week. So the weekends are spent with friends or Family. Either in someone’s house, beach, rides to the mountain, etc …

My weekend started with a TV interview to RTP i for a show called Contactos, where they focus in the Portuguese community around the world, and the interview was about Timor, the National Team and about my future as a Timorese.

The purpose was to spread the word that Timor has conditions to become a very good country and as a new country has everything to build.

Sunday we had practice at the beach Areia Branca, and it was great playing beach soccer and after everyone went in the water.

In the evening I had dinner in a Thai restaurant. There are many restaurants in Dili already from a variety of cultures, where you can try very nice food.

Well, Monday we'll know who will be travelling and we'll be visiting the prime minister, usual ceremony to wish good luck to the team.

United ... We Are!

2008-10-13T12:03:00.009+11:00

This is a wonderful place ...

2008-10-11T08:01:00.005+11:00

Bom dia from Timor - Leste ...

it has been a great week, despite the heat always around the 30's. Tough but good for a nice tan no doubt ... Lol

Timor has a shortage of sports facilities. There’s only one field available for use.
And there are lots of activities going on during the week. Sometimes it is difficult for us to have the field on time.

Everyday our training is followed by lots of fans. Around 300, always very cheerful every time they see a good play.

But not only football is on at the same time on the field. There are runners, there are people biking, playing volleyball ...

Timor really need facilities where the practice of sports can be done correctly.

The Timorese people is passionate for sports and especially for football.

For me to see all these kids running, kicking the ball around and having fun is wonderful. Some barefoot in a field not that good for the practice of sports.

I hope in a near future something can be done to offer these thousands of kids better facilities.

Everyday I’m more interested to help put the best resources together to help our young nation.

Also during the week (wednesday)I had time to visit a friend.
I visited a very good person and very important in Timor since 1999 - Dr Dan Murphy.

He came to Timor in 1999 as a voluntary to help Timor in health care.
Then he opened a small clinic in Bairro Pite, where now he has 30 nurses helping and attends around 200 people a day.

I first met Dr Daniel in Minnesota in 2006 when I was playing there.
We had a brief chat because he was busy, but we plan to have a drink this weekend and talk a little more.

Well guys, will be back soon with more news.

Leave some comments about Timor if you wish.

All the support that you think that could be interesting to help Timor-Leste, please feel free to contact me.

Best regards

Di'ak ka lae?

2008-10-06T20:46:00.002+11:00

What a great weekend.

After the practice saturday morning I had the afternoon and sunday off. So I had lunch with Elisa (family friend), in a very nice area of Dili, Areia Branca.

Lovely restaurant by the water. We had coconut water to start and grilled fish and salad ... After we decided to take a taxi and cruise around town.

Unfortunatly we took the wrong taxi..Lol
Every 15 minutes the driver had to stop to let the car cool down ... I guess the cooling system wasn't working at all, so every 15 minutes we had to stop ... Lol that wasn't so bad, because the road was by the big sandy coast that follow all Dili, so we had always time to refresh at the beach ...Lol

Sunday it was better, as I got a pick-up truck from the hotel owner to cruise around. Early morning I went to visit some Family in Balide. For lunch I went to Sol e Mar, close from Areia Branca, and after just enjoyed the beach.

The water is so warm that i spend hours in there ... Lol
And the funny it was that I am in Timor but I felt like I was in Portugal! ... There were so many Portuguese at the beach that I was surprised.

Timor have amazing beaches and the mixture of mountains and many miles of sand by the ocean makes it a wonderful place to relax..

Well, tomorrow monday time to be back to practice with double training. 7h30am and 4pm.

More news from Timor soon.. Bye

Yo ... Good Morning from Dili

2008-10-05T09:27:00.001+11:00

Arrived to Dili friday morning, took the day to rest and get used to the temperatures.
Today saturday early morning with practice at 7:30am. The temperatures go up till the 30's and with humidity it is very hot to practice in the afternoon..
I have the rest of the day and sunday off. So I will see some family and friends and enjoy the weekend.

The team who will be travelling to Cambodia wasnt been chosed, so we have around 30 players at training.
It was a good session, with drills and we finished with a game between us..

Monday back to training and I will be back with more news..

On my way to Timor-Leste

2008-10-01T07:11:00.001+10:00

With the NSW Championship title in the pocket, my first season in Australia is over.

Now I’m glad to represent once more Timor-Leste national team.

I am flying to Dili in a couple of days to join my mates in the National Team training camp.

Next month we will play in Cambodia, the 2008 AFF Suzuki Cup qualification.

We will face the national teams from Cambodia, Laos, Brunei and Philippines.

Each team will play 4 games and the first 2 teams will qualify to play the main tournament in December, alongside Asean powerhouses Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar and Vietnam

Last October (2007) we played the qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup, but didn’t passed to the next round, as we played against Hong Kong, losing both games.

There are good news, as we will have joining the national team, 2 overseas players, Nahuel Arrarte that plays for Marconi Stallions in the NSW Premier League and Jose Vide that play for Yarmouth FC in England.

I believe both will bring added value to our team. Both play in good leagues and have experience of games at a higher level.

Well, let’s keep positive and try to get Timor-Leste into the main tournament.

Will keep you guys posted with more news and photos … live from Timor!

Wolves Presentation Night 2008

2008-09-21T01:51:00.002+10:00

2008 season got to the end.

Friday night was Wolves' Presentation Night at Villa D'Oro.

Players, technical staff, management, sponsors and supporters were together to present a terrific night.

I wanna leave my special thanks to all the players.

It was my pleasure to be part of such a good group.

I hope I can see everyone again next season..

If not, I wanna wish all the best, to whoever is not coming back next season.

Once again, thanks Wollongong!!!

Kidz Wish Day

2008-09-19T21:48:00.005+10:00

Today I participated of a noble initiative.

Kids Wish Foundation inc is a non-profit 'local charity' for sick, disabled and disadvantaged children of Wollongong.

I visited a couple of schools, invited by the foundation.

I was among other local personalities, including Miss Australia 2008 and we offered gifts, signed autographs, took photos and spend time with the kids.

To witness the kids enthusiasm and smiles, filled me with joy.

Always remember that, some simple gestures, can make a big difference ...

Foundation Site: www.kidzwishfoundation.org.au

Weekend at the Snow

2008-09-18T20:10:00.003+10:00

Great weekend at Perisher Blue for snowboard.
With a friend from Wollongong we headed to the mountains looking for some fun.
Having a good 6 hours drive we arrived early morning to Jindabyne with a perfect sunny day.

I was very excited to try snowboard.
But because I've never tried before I thought the best idea it was to take a quick course to learn the basics.

After 2h30 of course I was ready to roll.. Lool
I started slowly, sliding from the lowest points of the mountain, but didn't take very long to accept the challenge from my friend and go till the top.
Just love it, yeah yeah!!!

I had a great time and I'm thinking in go back soon..
Well this was my weekend at the snow.

See you guys soon ...

Mad Monday Celebrations

2008-09-15T01:15:00.003+10:00

Following a win in the Grand Final, there is a tradition called Mad Monday.

The tradition says, we have to get a costume and dress up to go celebrate at the local bars, with our fans.

And my teammates said to me, "you are in Australia so you have to celebrate Australian way" ... Lol !

I said, "Let’s do it lads" …

At first I thought i dress up as a Monk, but didn’t find the costume, so we went to a store and I found the perfect one … Really fit me as a glove … Hehe! As you can see in the photos ...

So the tradition started at 11am on Monday and went till … 11pm.
Well, I only can say that I had a great time … Lol!

The Mad Monday Celebration is only another reason they have to have a “few” drinks … Haha!

Will be back with more news soon guys, as I’m considering a career move to snowboarding … Woot Woot

We Are The ... CHAMPIONS !!!

2008-09-07T19:02:00.002+10:00

WOLLONGONG RULZ !!!

Wollongong FC were crowned Champions of 2008 after its 4-2 TeleChoice Championship Series Grand Final victory over Premiers Sutherland Sharks at CUA Stadium in Penrith on Sunday.