By Steven Bernasoni (Strikers Staff)
While many in South Florida spent this Presidents' Day holiday at home, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers reported to Lockhart Stadium for the first day of preseason training. A total of 33 players have been called into preseason camp, including recent signings, returning players, and a number of trialists. With 17 players currently under contract for the 2012 season, many are optimistic of securing a contract with the team.
With the Strikers’ season having concluded at the end of October, the players primary goal is improving their fitness. Today’s practice consisted of two sessions; drills and small-sided games taking place in the morning, and an 11-a-side scrimmage in the afternoon.
Offseason signings Andy Herron, Alfonso Motagalvan, and Scott Lorenz played with their new teammates for the first time today. Brazilian-American Halili Nagime was present, but unable to participate.
Abe Thompson, who was recently named an assistant coach, was one of several returning players from the Strikers’ successful 2011 season. Alongside him were the likes of Matt Glaeser, Walter Restrepo, and Toni Ståhl, all of whom made significant contributions to the team last season.
Polo Morales, who sported a distinct half-yellow and half-black hairstyle last season, returns on loan from Mexican side Tigres. He brings back the same attacking flair, however the hairstyle didn’t make the return trip. His teammate at Tigres, Emilio Orozco, was also in camp. The official announcement of his signing has not yet been made, but should be expected soon.
An encouraging sight was the return of Pat Otte. The 20 year-old winger suffered an ACL injury that left him watching from the sidelines for most of last season. He was visibly happy to be back playing and should feature prominently in the Strikers’ midfield this campaign.
South-Floridian Khori Foster, of Fort Lauderdale Schulz Academy (the youth setup which produced U.S. national team forward Jozy Altidore), was one of five players in camp who had been invited from the Strikers’ open tryout in January. The 19 year-old was motivated by the level of professionalism and skill he saw.
A number of the trialists are coming off of successful collegiate careers. A few are from Toni Ståhl’s alma mater, the University of Connecticut, one of the country’s most prestigious men’s soccer programs.
Absent from today’s sessions were Scott Gordon and Lance Laing. The two defenders are currently on trial with MLS clubs, FC Dallas and Real Salt Lake, respectively. Also missing were Martin Nuñez, Yoximar Granado, and Pecka. The trio are expected to return in the coming weeks.
Those who will not be returning include Bryan Arguez and Gerson Mayen, who both enjoyed excellent seasons with the Strikers in 2011, and have since signed with the Montreal Impact of Major League Soccer. The team has also traded last season’s top-scorer Brian Shriver to the Carolina RailHawks, where he’ll link up with former Striker Mike Palacio. Fan-favorite Martyn Lancaster has also left the club, returning to the Atlanta Silverbacks for family reasons. A number of players have also departed, having seen out their contracts.
Amidst this turnover, Strikers fans have plenty to be optimistic about. The new signings looked right at home here in South Florida, and those trialing with the club have left positive impressions on the coaching staff. The quality of play was very high, indicative of their readiness to challenge for roster spots.
Season tickets for the 2012 regular season are on sale now by calling (954)606-0400. All Strikers games are streamed live online at STRIKERS.com. Follow the Strikers on facebook and twitter @FTLStrikers.
