Tophat 02 Gold

The Tophat 02 Gold team represented the Tophat Soccer Club of Atlanta in the U18 age group for the 2001-2002 year. The year was a remarkable experience during which the players proved themselves against adversity. 5 players were lost to the likes of injuries and illnesses during the year. Yet the team competed successfully against the best talent from around the country, finishing as Georgia State Runner Ups. In the state final game, the Hatters had the powerful AFC Lightning squad tied at the end of regulation and reeling from Tophat pressure. Several Tophat shots at the end of regulation narrowly missed keeping the Lightning hopes alive. Lightning composed themselves in overtime to collect the hard-earned victory, and we wish them the best of success at Regionals and hopefully Nationals. It has been an honor for Tophat to compete against them over the past many years. Many of the girls will see each other at the next level and will carry forward a mutual respect.

In keeping with the Tophat tradition of excellence, Tophat 02 Gold meet the best competition across the nation and abroad at prestigious tournaments like the Potomac Memorial, San Diego Surf Cup, WAGS, the Raleigh Shootout, and the Miami Orange Classic. The team also competed in several strong local tournaments including the Tophat Invitational, the Atlanta Cup, and the State Open Cup. Tophat tied and defeated several national top-20 teams at these tournaments, including two national champions. See the teams we played in all tournaments on our Team Record page.

Most of our players are looking forward to college-level soccer and Tophat has been a great instrument of preparation for that experience. We thank the coaches, trainers, and organization for helping each player reach their full potential. We will gather together again next year after our freshman year at our respective Universities, and proudly wear our Tophat uniforms as we compete for another state championship!

See Tophat 02 Gold

Tophat 02 Gold Staff

Tophat 02 Gold was coached by Todd Shulenberger and was previously coached by Gregg Sheen from 1994-1997. Gregg accepted the assistant women's coach job at the University of Dayton and Todd Shulenberger took over prior to the 1998 season. Todd is currently the Technical Director of Tophat Soccer Club. He was previously the Director of Soccer Programs at the Buckhead YMCA.

Todd played Division I college soccer for Robert Morris College in Pittsburgh, where he was coached by John Kowalski, the former US Men's National Team coach. Todd also formerly played with the Canton Invaders organization in the National Professional Soccer League (NPSL). In addition to his experience as a former college athlete, professional, and coach, Todd holds a USSF "C" License.

Assisting Todd with physical training was Dorri Buchholtz, a certified athletic trainer from Gulf Coast Trainers. Player Development Director Andy Trevers provides additional council and coaching support.