Monday, May 21st, 2012

By Michael Knoff
Lawrence Tech Graduate Assistant Soccer Coach

Over 1,000 fans decked out in Rouge and Gold gathered at Cass Tech Saturday night, May 12, to witness the first game of the Detroit City Football Club (DCFC), a 1-1 draw against  AFC Cleveland.

For a photo report on the game, go to Model D.

Detroit City Football Club (DCFC) is a semi-professional soccer team that plays in the National Premier Soccer League. It is classified as an amateur team for college athletes, who can play without losing NAIA or NCAA eligibility. There has been a huge draw from universities throughout Michigan, including players from the varsity men’s soccer teams from the University of Michigan and Michigan State University.

Three Lawrence Tech players, Danny Reyes, Josh Lance, and Justin Ritchey, attended open tryouts this spring to be a part of DCFC’s historic startup. Reyes was called back for the team’s training camp and played in the first scrimmage of the season, which was held at Historic Fort Wayne. The success of Reyes comes as no surprise to Lawrence Tech’s athletic staff.

“Danny is one of those special players who has come to realize that success is no accident,” Head Coach Will Dyer explained. “It is hard work, a lot of learning, studying, teaching, and sacrifice, but most of all love for what you’re doing.”

“It was a great experience to train with some of the best players and the best coaches in the state,” Reyes explained. “It is also great to be a part of a team that is about much more than just a team. It is about involving the whole soccer community in Detroit.”

As evidenced by the good turnout for the first game, this team represents a tremendous move for soccer in Detroit. Its positive effects on local businesses and morale for the city will undoubtedly be tremendous. Reyes provides a clear example of how Lawrence Tech student-athletes are seeking opportunities within the greater community.

Lawrence Tech has become involved in this soccer movement by helping to sponsor the team. Since the team does not have one corporate sponsor, Lawrence Tech was able to sponsor a player, and as a result the university is publicized on his jersey.

“We are very proud of Danny’s efforts and success. Just like the emergence of Detroit City FC, it is great to see how we at Lawrence Tech are building a soccer program in a similar fashion,” said Dean of Students Kevin Finn.

If you are interested in seeing what all the hype is about, visit detcityfc.com and come out to the next home game on Saturday, May 26.  Tickets are only $5, and they are sure to sell out quickly. Make sure to look for the Lawrence Tech logo out on the field, or buy a customized jersey with the Lawrence Tech logo on the front.

Allez Le Rouge!

 

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