2017 Tryout Date Set for Saturday, February 18th

AFC Ann Arbor will be holding its 3rd annual tryout, continuing the club’s tradition to search for the area’s best undiscovered talents. Sporting Director and Head Coach for The Mighty Oak, Eric Rudland, along with his support staff, will be evaluating talent on Saturday, February 18th at High Velocity Sports in Canton.

He added, "Our open trials are a critical component to our team building process. Our 2016 roster featured a few players who were identified at our open tryouts last February. One of them, Willy Bayemi, became a mainstay for us throughout our inaugural season in the NPSL. We are thrilled to see the talent that will be on display this February as we look to add both quality & depth to our 2017 roster."

Prospective players are encouraged to register right away as space is fairly limited and expected to fill up quickly. To register, click here. 

 

About AFC Ann Arbor

AFC Ann Arbor completed a very successful inaugural campaign in the Midwest Region of the National Premier Soccer League finishing 2nd in the conference while earning the club’s first playoff berth. The club’s third season kicks off in May as The Mighty Oak look to continue their winning ways under Head Coach Eric Rudland. Youth, General and Premium Memberships for Season Tree can be purchased here.

Top 10 Moments of 2016

Here's a look back at The Mighty Oak's Top 10 Moments of 2016. 

Chasing Dreams: Gorrie's Drive To Sign a Pro Contract

If you asked anyone close to Martin Gorrie to describe him in one word, there would be an overwhelming consensus for “adventurer.”

Gorrie has always had a desire to travel and see the world, and football has been a great tool to help him do just that. The adventures began when he left his native Australia to pursue an opportunity to play soccer at the University of Albany. Gorrie always knew if the opportunity to play abroad would come, that he’d jump on it quickly, but the rest was unknown and that didn’t scare him one bit.

Through the ups and downs, the obstacles and the celebrations, Gorrie is more focused than ever on accomplishing his childhood dream of becoming a professional footballer. He will return to Germany after the winter break to continue training and playing with German third division side, SV Elversberg.

 

 

 

Here’s the full interview with 2015 AFC Ann Arbor midfielder, Martin Gorrie.

AFCAA: Football brought you from Australia to the States for college. What was your experience like at Albany?

Going to the states was a big move. It was something I really wanted to do after I finished high school. I was very attracted to the idea of playing football in a professional environment, travelling to another country, experiencing a new culture, meeting new people and also getting a university degree under my belt - and that's exactly what I did. It was a ride full of ups and downs, but it certainly transformed who I am as a person. The first year I was actually deemed ineligible to play, so spent a whole year just training and not playing which really tested my resilience. The second year I went from the starting 11 in the beginning of the season to barely playing at all - meanwhile dealing with some personal health challenges. But I persevered and ended up captaining the team to our first ever regular-season championship in conference history - so it was a big turnaround for me. Overall a great experience.

AFCAA: We were fortunate enough to have you on the roster for our inaugural season. What was most memorable about your experience in Ann Arbor?

The culture surrounding AFC Ann Arbor in its first year was incredible. The job the owners did to put all of that together in the first year was incredible. Not to mention the fans that turned up each week singing and chanting. I felt really at home there, and loved the vibe around the club. Ann Arbor itself is a really cool city as well, so I had plenty of exploring and adventures while I was there.
 

AFCAA: After graduating, you've been busy traveling and playing. Give us a timeline of what you've been up to and how football has played a role in those experiences.

I graduated in December 2015. I spent a month travelling in Hawaii in January, and then moved back to Australia with my girlfriend Abigail (who I stole from America). It was great to be home in Australia for 6 months working and playing football - but it wasn't for long as I was ready for the next adventure. I have always wanted to see if I could crack a professional contract in Europe, so since July I have been playing semi-professional football with SV Elversberg in Germany. It has been an incredible experience so far, playing at a high level, learning a new language, immersing myself in a completely new culture, traveling around Europe when I can, and meeting a lot of cool people!

AFCAA: What's next for you?

I'm finally home in Australia for 6 weeks over Christmas break to visit my family, spend some time in the sun and escape the German winter! I will be coming back over here to Germany to finish the season with my club. From January to July I plan to have an agent who can help me set up some trials and opportunities at professional clubs and really see if I can make it happen. A professional contract is my goal, however I'm embracing the journey and really just enjoying applying myself to something I have always loved to do - play football.

AFCAA: Did you ever imagine football would create the experiences you've had in your life so far?

Football has taken me far and wide, allowed me to challenge and apply myself in all different environments, grow and mature as a man, meet new people, experience new cultures and a whole lot more! I always seen myself travelling and playing football - but sometimes it's hard to comprehend that so many of the great things I have experienced has all been because of the round ball game.

AFCAA: What advice do you have for young aspiring players?

Get clear about what it is you want in football, and how you would like to apply yourself. I believe when players look back on their football careers, it won't necessarily be the level of success they had as a player that will give them fulfillment and satisfaction, but it will be how much they applied themselves, how much effort they gave and how much they enjoyed every aspect of the journey.

AFCAA: Any other stories, thoughts and comments you'd like to share would be awesome if you have them.

For any football player out there that reads this and really wants to take their game to the next level, my college coach Trevor Gorman recently recommended a book to me that has transformed my game over the past 3 months. It's called the Inner Game of Tennis by Timothy Gallwey. It’s all about getting out of your own way, thinking less and more allowing more natural learning to take place in your game. It has also allowed me to really enjoy my football more and understand why I do what I do.

Lastly I would say to any player if the opportunity is there for you to challenge yourself abroad, I would highly recommend and encourage it. Its great for personal development and developing as a player!

 

 

 

Conference Realignment Expands Great Lakes Conference

Coming off the club’s first season in the National Premier Soccer League, The Mighty Oak will look to build off a very successful inaugural campaign.  Head Coach and Sporting Director Eric Rudland will once again lead the charge for AFC Ann Arbor in the Great Lakes Conference of the NPSL’s Midwest Region.

"We are in the process of shaping a team that can build off of our year one success in the NPSL. And I'm happy to be back with The Mighty Oak for a second season,” said Rudland. 

Heading into the 2017 season the NPSL has issued regional realignments to balance some of the new expansion franchises in the region. The Great Lakes Conference welcomes newcomers in FC Indiana and Milwaukee Torrent. AFC Ann Arbor along with the other five Michigan based organizations (DCFC, GRFC, KZFC, Lansing United, Michigan Stars) round out the rest of the 8 team conference. Soccer fans in the state of Michigan can all feel relieved as all 6 in-state teams return for another year, keeping some of the biggest rivalries nation-wide in tact.

The regular season will consist of 14 league games consisting of home and home pairings with the other 7 Great Lakes clubs. League play is set to begin in early/mid May with matches ongoing until the second to last weekend in July. Supporters can expect a full schedule release in early February.

The playoff format for the region is set to be released in mid January, but the regional playoff dates have been confirmed for the last weekend in July.

Stay tuned as playoff details and schedule releases will be released in early 2017.

 

About AFC Ann Arbor

AFC Ann Arbor, also known as The Mighty Oak, is entering it’s third season of competition as Ann Arbor’s very own semi-pro soccer team. After finishing second in their respective conference in 2016, AFC Ann Arbor earned a trip to the Midwest Region semi-finals. Led by Head Coach & Sporting Director Eric Rudland, The Mighty Oak have established themselves as one of the most competitive clubs in the league. For more information on securing your 2017 Membership click here. 

 

 

 

Ann Arbor's Very Own: Tristan Jacob

The Jacob name is synonymous with soccer in Washtenaw County. 

Ask anyone who's close to the game in Ann Arbor, and they've probably played with or watched Tristan or his sister Nikhita (who recently committed to play her college ball at Bowling Green State University). The two of them have been close to the game from a young age. They may have caught the bug from their biggest supporter, their Dad, Verghese Jacob, who played for Eastern Michigan University men's soccer team, before the school stopped endorsing a Division 1 team. 

Tristan, one of only seven players to play for AFC Ann Arbor in 2015 and 2016, not only loves the game of soccer, but also his hometown of Ann Arbor. So much, that he says the biggest moment in his life to date was when he committed to play soccer at the University of Michigan. 

He added, "It means a lot for me to play for my city as well represent the University of Michigan."

Recently, AFC Ann Arbor had a chance to sit down and catch up with Tristan about his soccer career, his love for the area and why AFC Ann Arbor means so much to him. 

 

AFC Ann Arbor: Being a local Ann Arbor guy, and playing for the University of Michigan, you've taken on a role as one of the "local guys" for AFC. That means showing guys around town, helping them feel more comfortable and so on. What has that role meant to you and why have you been so receptive to being one of the key guys that helps the team gel?

Tristan: It’s been such a pleasure being able to represent AFC Ann Arbor as a local Ann Arborite. It means a lot for me to play for my city as well represent the University of Michigan. AFC Ann Arbor has given me so many unique opportunities that is hard to find anywhere else for example playing with different guys from different parts of the world. I think it’s in my personality to always want to help others and make people feel comfortable. So when I heard that we had players coming in from different parts of the world, my first reaction was to show them around the city and try to make them feel at home because I would want the same if I were to be in their shoes. Also growing up in Ann Arbor my whole life, I’ve become so attached to everything and everyone around town and whenever there are guests I love to show them why Ann Arbor is such an amazing city. 

 

AFCAA: You grew up playing with Peter and the two of you went to different colleges so meeting up and playing for AFC the last two season has had to be special. What has it meant to your guys friendship and how has the team made you guys even closer?

Tristan: Yeah Peter is one of my best friends since we were about 8 or 9 years old. We grew up playing against each other and then we eventually joined the same club team in middle school. We’ve always had a really special bond, our personalities just seem to click really well. It’s such an awesome feeling being able to be on the same field with one of your best friends because during the school year I barley ever get to see him and we hadn’t played on the same team for such a long time. But this summer especially was great for our friendship, because we had practice everyday I got to train with him all the time. As well he would drive me to practice and we had a lot of time to spend with each other which is always a good thing. One of the coolest things about this summer and playing with Peter was that we got to represent AFC Ann Arbor on our old field at Pioneer where we have had many great memories during our playing time in high school. 

 

AFCAA: At every match, there's a handful of people just waiting for you to sub in and show your skills on the pitch. You're a definite fan favorite. What does it mean to you to be a role model for kids in your own community? 

Tristan: It really means the world to me to be a role model for young kids because I once was just like them and wanted someone to look up to. It makes me so happy to be able to put smiles on kids faces because you really begin to realize how much maybe something as small as a high five or just a hello means to them. I’m hoping I can always be someone the kids look up to and hopefully it motivates them to see that a player from Ann Arbor has been able to be given such great opportunities to represent a club like AFC Ann Arbor as well as the University of Michigan. 

 

AFCAA: What has been your most memorable moment with AFC?

Tristan: My most memorable moment with AFC was definitely my first ever game with them during the inaugural season, Hollway field was packed and I didn’t really know what to expect at the time. But family and friends were there to watch me which is always special to me. 

 

AFCAA: What has been your most memorable moment in your entire career?

Tristan: The most memorable moment in my entire career was verbally committing to the University of Michigan. It’s been a dream for me to play for them, and at the time I saw all my hard work that I put into soccer pay off. The happiness that it gave to my family is something I will never forget. I remember I couldn’t sleep that night because of the excitement. September 20th, 2012 will always be a special day in my life because I was able to commit to the school I had dreamed of going to. 

 

AFCAA: Where do you hope your career takes you over the next couple of years?

Tristan: So I have two more years of college eligibility after this season is over, so I am hoping that I will be able to contribute to our team winning a Big Ten Championship as well making the NCAA tournament and hopefully going far in that. I have high hopes for myself because I am very driven to show everyone what I am capable of on the soccer field. I am also hoping to stay injury free the next two seasons because some injuries have kept me out of a decent amount of games during the season. But I don’t want to look to far in the future and say I want to be here in so and so years. I have a job and that is to represent my family, friends and myself as I play for the University. I want to see my team and myself succeed on and off the field in the coming years. 

2017 Memberships On Sale December 1st

click here for 2017 membership info

When the neighbors arrived in 2015, Ann Arbor soccer changed forever. AFC Ann Arbor will be entering its 3rd season, in the club’s young history, as a staple in the semi-professional landscape. As fans now refer to the team on the field as “The Mighty Oak,” this year’s edition enters the National Premier Soccer League for its sophomore campaign, after competing in the Great Lakes Premier League in the club’s inaugural year.

As the home matches have evolved from season to season, the organizational focus has always been the match-day experience. With the demand for high level soccer, membership sales prior to the clubs inaugural season were nothing short of amazing. It was the club’s goal to hold up their end of the bargain providing each fan the pleasure of not only enjoying high level soccer on the field, but the option to be apart of a match experience in its entirety. Whether it be the league’s best concessions options including BTB Burrito, Cottage Inn and local food trucks, pre and post match performances or post match autographs, the AFC Ann Arbor home match is tailored for this area’s soccer fans.

Accompanying each member to the game for the third straight year will be the new 2017 scarf and an individually numbered membership card. Membership cards grant an individual attendance to all 8 NPSL home matches with additional non-league match privileges to be announced soon. 2017 Memberships go on sale on December 1st for $69.

2017 welcomes a new “Premium Membership” option, which includes a plus one to every match, ten guest passes, complimentary Absopure water at every match and two tickets to the 2017 post-season banquet. All of these perks come in addition to a premium member’s individually numbered black card and scarf. 2017 Premium Memberships go on sale December 1st for $119.

Youth Memberships also go on sale December 1st for $29. For every youth membership sold this season, one will be donated to a less fortunate kid.  

An AFC Ann Arbor 2017 Membership is the perfect Christmas gift for the soccer fan in your family. Order before December 15th to ensure your gift arrives on time for the holidays.

Join over 200 local supporters and become and AFC Ann Arbor member today!

College Soccer Postseason: Who's playing and when

NCAA Division 1 // Bracket

Jeff Medina and Luke Palmateer // University of Albany

America East Champion // National Ranking: 21 // Round: 2

Next Match: Nov. 20th at 1pm vs Winner of Boston College/Fordham match (Nov 17)

 

Zach and Chase Pagani and Peter Tappenden // Colgate

Patriot League Champion

Next Match: Nov.17th at UCLA at 8pm // Round: 1

 

Matthieu Braem // Loyola Chicago

Next Match: Nov.17th vs UIC at 8pm // Round: 1

 

NCAA Division II // Bracket

Jermaine Windster, Bruno Oliveira, Rafael Simoes, Fabi Veit // University of Charleston

Mountain East Conference Champion // Round: Sweet 16

Next Match: Nov.17th vs Urbana University (Ohio) in Brookville, NY

 

NAIA // Bracket

Thapelo Moruti, Dumisani Manyange // UNOH

WHAC Champion

Next Match: Nov.19th vs Columbia College (Missouri) at 2pm

 

Mighty Oak Standouts Fueling Postseason Runs

Although it feels like the 2016 NPSL season just ended, we’re already entering the collegiate soccer postseason. The Mighty Oak are well represented across the nation. Here’s an update on former and current AFC Ann Arbor players and their 2016 postseason run.

University of Charleston

The University of Charleston Men’s Soccer (16-2-1, 9-2-1) team is a powerhouse program in Division II soccer. The Mighty Oak were thrilled to have four Golden Eagles join the club this past summer. One of those four players, Jermaine Windster notched an early goal in last Sunday’s Mountain East Championship match.  A 2-1 finish proved to be good enough for Charleston’s Eighth straight conference championship. For Windster, Veit and Oliveira, this is their last chance at winning a national championship, something they’ve fallen just short of the past couple of seasons.

Following a 2-0 victory over West Chester Saturday evening, the University of Charleston men's soccer team is back in the NCAA Men's Soccer Division II Championship Sweet 16 for a third consecutive season.  The round of 16 match will be held in Brookville, New York with LIU-Post as the host in a repeat of last year’s tournament match against Urbana Men’s Soccer.

 

University of Northern Ohio

The Racers secured the regular season WHAC Championship and this past weekend, also won the tournament championship with a 2-0 victory over Davenport. Pairings for the NAIA tournament will be announced Monday, but the team has so much to celebrate including an All-Academic nod for former AFC player, Dumisani Manyange.

 

Madonna University

Although the Crusaders season came to an early end with Saturday’s loss to Indiana Tech, the Crusaders picked up a number of postseason accolades with high recognition. The Mighty Oak was well represented with former striker, Amadou Cisse earning top honors as Offensive Player of the Year and fan favorite, Yuri Farkas, earning Newcomer of the Year.  

 

Colgate University

Three Ann Arbor locals who play for The Mighty Oak also spend their college season together at Colgate University. The Pagani Brothers (Zach and Chase) along with goalkeeper Peter Tappenden secured a NCAA tournament berth with a thrilling victory against American University to secure the Patriot League Championship.

 

Loyola Chicago

Matt Braem (aka Frenchy) and the Loyola Ramblers secured the regular season Missouri Valley crown with a 2-0 victory over Bradley last week. But after dropping this weekend’s tournament semi-final match, the Ramblers must now await the NCAA selection to see if they’ll receive an at large bid.

 

University of Michigan

At the end of October, on AFC Ann Arbor Day at Michigan Soccer Stadium, the Wolverines hosted No. 1 Maryland for the last regular season match of the season. The Wolverines knew the draw of the B1G tournament which meant they would likely see Maryland again in just one week and that’s exactly what happened. The regular season tilt ended up surprising most ending in a 3-2 double overtime victory for Marlyand.

Going into the tournament, Michigan knew beating Marlyand wouldn’t be easy, but was in fact, quite possible. The Wolverines battled  with the Terrapins all match and a beautiful goal by former AFC Ann Arbor player, Tyler Anderson, brought new energy to the Wolverines as they looked to win in regulation. But in similar fashion, the match was headed for overtime where once again, Maryland was able to secure the golden goal winner which in this case, ended Michigan’s season. 

AFC Ann Arbor Day at Michigan Soccer Stadium, Sunday October 30th

Join The Mighty Oak this Sunday at Michigan Soccer Stadium at 1pm. Meet Head Coach and Sporting Director Eric Rudland, or enter to win an AFC Prize Pack which includes an authentic jersey and more. One lucky winner will be selected at random and announced at halftime of Sunday’s match.

In addition to the AFC Ann Arbor giveaways, fans can expect an action packed day of festivities at the stadium.

• Senior Night -- Arrive early as the Michigan Men's Soccer Senior Class will be honored on the field prior to the start of the game.

• Halloween at Michigan Soccer -- Dress up in your Halloween gear for this game. Visit the photobooth on the concourse and tweet in your costume photos using #GoBoo for a chance to see yourself appear on the videoboard.

• Fan Appreciation Day -- Visit the concession stand to receive free popcorn as a thank you to all fans that have supported Michigan Men's Soccer during the 2016 season.

As part of the senior class, AFC defender Lars Eckenrode will dress for his last home match at Michigan Stadium as well as former Mighty Oak players Rylee Woods and Tyler Anderson. Be sure to come out and support Lars, Rylee, Tyler and the rest of the Michigan Men’s Soccer Team this Sunday. Get your tickets here.  

AFC Captain Calls Ann Arbor "Home"

Leigh Rumbold controls the ball at Hollway Field on July 3rd vs. Detroit City FC

Leigh Rumbold controls the ball at Hollway Field on July 3rd vs. Detroit City FC

Footballers are no stranger to traveling the world, and it’s no exception for Leigh Rumbold, captain of The Mighty Oak. Football has helped him find a home away from home in Washtenaw County.

After playing for teams in his native England, Europe, and throughout the United States, Rumbold settled down in Saline in 2013 as he pursued a career in youth coaching. Currently, Rumbold is coaching 4 youth teams for Saline FC and is known as one the best coaches in the area.

Looking to stay active at the semi-pro level, he reunited with Coach Eric Rudland at AFC Ann Arbor, both formerly of Lansing United.

The AFC Ann Arbor captain’s ability to connect with players and people in the Saline and Ann Arbor communities, helped Rumbold earn the “Hometown Hero” award at the 2016 AFC Ann Arbor Awards Dinner. An award that not only surprised him, but also meant a great deal to the midfielder.  

“It was a great honor to lead the team this year and receive the Hometown Hero award, an award I definitely wasn't expecting. I think it gives me a little more responsibility in helping the lads who don't come from this area. Especially helping them get settled as quickly as possible when they first arrive, so they can just focus on playing football and not worry about some of the other things that come with moving to a new area.”

When asked about Rumbold, Coach Rudland said, “Leigh was a great addition to the club this past year. He has a strong connection to the local community and was a respected leader in the team. It was great for me to work with Leigh again after previously working with him in Lansing. He became a mainstay in our team and someone who we hope to keep as part of the club for years to come.”

As a youth coach Leigh’s greatest asset is his ability to teach young players technical skills, while while still being able to impress upon them the larger team skills that allow them to grow as players and people.

“A big reward for me is how you can build character and teach life lessons through team sports. Teaching players how to deal with certain situations on the field that they may face later on in life away from sport,” said Rumbold.

He added, “The thing I love most about coaching is being able to help players improve their technical skills and understanding of the game I love.”

Just as Rumbold has become popular with the kids he coaches, he has also become a fan favorite, after just one season with The Mighty Oak.  “I still get stopped at the supermarket or at tournaments from people who had been to an AFC game last summer and are already looking forward to seeing us play again next year.”

 

About AFC Ann Arbor

AFC Ann Arbor, also known as The Mighty Oak, compete in the Midwest Region of the National Premier Soccer League. Entering just the 3rd season for the young club, AFC has quickly become a community staple in Washtenaw County. Under Head Coach and Sporting Director Eric Rudland The Mighty Oak made the Sweet 16 (out of 80 + teams) in the 2016 NPSL playoffs. 



From Pitch to Parent: The Front Office Transition of Knox Cameron

Everyone in the SE Michigan soccer community knows the name Knox Cameron. After an illustrious career at Michigan, the Jamaican born Cameron found himself working up the ranks of the soccer pyramid with short stints at the Brooklyn Knights (USL) and the Michigan Bucks (PDL) before eventually landing a professional contract with the Columbus Crew of the MLS.

Cameron’s career in soccer hasn’t been limited to the pitch, after his stop in Columbus he continued playing (including 2 seasons with NPSL rival Detroit City FC). As the Director of Saline FC (formerly Saline Area Soccer Association) over the past four years, Cameron has helped grow the game through the youth club platform and continues to make an impact by helping young players fall in love with the game that has given him so much. 

In late 2014, just after Cameron’s stretch with DCFC, he was approached with an opportunity to invest in an up and coming club, AFC Ann Arbor. Cameron didn’t shy away from the opportunity but instead found it was the perfect platform to transition into the next part of his career in the game. 

In the club’s first two seasons, Cameron slowly transitioned from player to overseeing player development, where he played an integral role in the development of the club’s overall talent, spearheading the coaching search that helped land current Sporting Director, Eric Rudland.

The transition on the pitch wasn’t the only change Cameron implemented in his life. In 2015, he began his MBA at the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, an experience he says is, “much different this time around.” But no bigger change came about than the birth of his son, Andrew Patrick Cameron, this past summer. 

As priorities have shuffled over the past couple of years for Cameron, watching him gracefully develop and transition from the star on the pitch to the front office mover and shaker has been astounding.

For this week’s installment of Mighty Oak Monday, we sat down with Knox to learn more about the transition he’s made the last couple of years. 

AFC: The 2016 AFC Ann Arbor season began with the inaugural Saline Showcase, a game where you ended up heading in the game winning goal. What was that experience like for you? 

Knox: The Saline Showcase was very special for a number of reasons.  Certainly it was the beginning of the AFC Ann Arbor season which is a highlight within itself, but to have Saline FC and the entire community host the game proved to be that much better.  Having the opportunity to play and score in front of so many familiar faces was a dream.  Whenever I play, my hope is that I am able to contribute to the team in the form of goals, so I was happy to complete that objective.  It was also great to share the field with Kevin Taylor and Leigh Rumbold.  We have an amazing team of coaches but these two guys are an integral part of executing the vision I have for Saline FC. It was great to share that moment with them and have our kids see us all play. 

 

AFC: On top of your career at DTE Energy, your commitments to Saline FC and pursuing your MBA at U of M, you managed to become a Dad this summer. What has changed about you most after becoming a Dad? How has becoming a Dad impacted you overall?  

Knox: I never thought I would be sleeping less than I already did!  Certainly I don’t think anyone can plan for parenthood but my wife and I were as prepared as we were ever going to be when our son was born.  Outside of the lack of sleep, the impacts have been incredibly positive and life changing.  I feel a deeper sense of purpose and I am even more inspired to make an impact each day.  Parenthood has given me greater perspective on life; I reflect on the sacrifices my parents made to allow me to chase my dreams and I ultimately want the same for Drew.  I am better in all phases of my life because the level of responsibility and accountability that comes with being a parent. 

 

AFC: What are your goals with AFC Ann Arbor and the game of football overall?  

Knox: At this level of play, winning is paramount.  I would like AFC Ann Arbor to be champions of the NPSL, this is not a lofty goal but rather a very realistic one.  I think offering a winning product will help with a lot of the downstream impacts such as the acquisition of new supporters and growing our presence with the Ann Arbor sporting footprint.  I would also like for our brand (players included) to embody a lot of the great things within city of Ann Arbor – diversity, intelligence, efficiency, and honesty.  Football has meant everything to me and I could not have developed as a person without the experiences it has provided.  There is no greater satisfaction than giving and I would like to use the knowledge I have attained to help develop the next generation of talented American players.  The work being done at Saline FC allows me to impact the younger demographic, while at AFC Ann Arbor, I am in a position to help the aspiring professionals get to the next level.

 

AFC: As a former student-athlete at Michigan, we know you bleed Maize and Blue. As you pursue your MBA at Ross, what does it mean to you to be a Wolverine as a grad student? 

Knox: Well first I would like to say that I am much more of student now than I was thenJ.  What is great about Michigan, whether you are a student-athlete or a Ross MBA, is the desire to be a leader and be the best.  I know it sounds cliché but it is very true.  As a student-athlete, everyone came into the university great but still wanted to push their bounds. The Ross MBA experience is no different.  I am doing wonderful things and trying to make a positive impact, but so is every one of my other classmates.  I marvel at some of things people have done, are doing or will aspire to do in the future.  We all want to lead, grow and be the very best at whatever we are doing.  I love everything about the experience because I am learning from great people and I am being challenged to compete daily.  I am happy that I can leverage both my athletic and business experiences because they much mirror each other.

 

AFC: Where is Knox Cameron in 5 years?  

Knox: In the physical sense I will most likely still be close to the Ann Arbor area.  Natalie grew up close by so having her family’s support has been a blessing, particularly helping out with Drew.  I also have a great network of friends and colleagues which would make leaving very difficult.  Outside of location, I want to be 5 years wiser and be poised to make an impact on as many lives as possible. Ironically it was about 5 years ago when I took a hard look at myself, because I felt as though I wasn’t doing enough to maximize my potential.  I had to grow in a lot of areas individually before progressing to this phase of my life.  All of the things I am currently involved with are a direct result of that soul searching exercise and I couldn’t be happier with the result.  As I look forward, I will have completed business school and I want to take the learnings and experience to be a better leader.  I have a burning desire to extend my reach as far as possible and the work that I am doing now is preparing me to do so.  

 

AFC: Anything else you'd like to add? 

Knox: I am excited about the club’s future as I think we have an amazing group of owners helping to steer the ship. Thank you for the opportunity to express a few things about my life and my aspirations.  Ultimately anything in life can be accomplished if you have the 3 H’s working in concert: Hard work, Honesty, Humility. 

The Charleston Boys

The University of Charleston’s Men’s Soccer program is no stranger to winning. The program has flourished since Coach Chris Gassie took the helm 5 years ago. In his short time with Charleston, Gassie has already earned the title of all time winningest coach in program history. Coupled with two consecutive NCAA Division II Final Fours, the success has cemented his ability to attract top notch talent from around the world and brought a plethora of talent to the Golden Eagles.

Those winning ways came to Ann Arbor as four of Gassie’s top players spent their summers with The Mighty Oak. Fabian Veit, Bruno Oliveria, Jermaine Windster and Rafael Simoes each played a significant role in AFC Ann Arbor’s 2016 campaign, including the 2016 Ironman Award winner, Bruno Oliveria, who competed in every minute of every league match for AFC.

The Charleston Boys came to Ann Arbor looking to make the club’s first year in the NPSL a memorable one.  They wasted no time in making an impact for the club.

Sporting Director, Eric Rudland added, “In the team building process it was really important for us to attract players with winning mentalities. The men from UC have won numerous matches in their youth and collegiate careers. Success breeds success so we knew they would enter our program with high expectations. Without a doubt their inclusion in our inaugural NPSL roster was a key factor in advancing to the playoffs.”

Spending the majority of the season atop the table of the Great Lakes West division of the Midwest Region, the men experienced how tough it is to be the biggest game on every opposing team’s schedule. Lessons that would prove invaluable after Charleston started the 2016 college season 6-1. 

In addition to the hot start and national ranking in NCAA Division II, Veit has earned four clean sheets in the Golden Eagles 6-1 start to help him break the University of Charleston school record for career clean sheets.

 

 

 

We had some time to catch up with the guys for our latest edition of Mighty Oak Monday.

AFC: After last year's disappointing loss in the tournament, how do you feel you are better prepared to go all the way this year? Did your experience with AFC AA this summer help prepare you to compete at a higher level this season?

Bruno: In the last two years we had tough losses, in the national championship in 2014 and in the final four last year. We are very confident that this year can be the one when we will finally win it all, I believe that we are prepared just like the last two years, now all we just need to finish it. Playing in Ann Arbor during the summer was definitely of a great help for me, to keep playing in a high level helped me to come back in a great shape for the fall season. Also, the experience in general in Ann Arbor had a great value for me.

Rafa: We are more prepared this year because we have more experience now and having gone to the final four two years in a row makes the team very experienced in important games.

Jermaine: I think everyone needed to clear their minds and the summer was most definitely a way to do that. Playing with AFC gave me back the feeling of winning and how much I enjoyed it. For myself it was the people behind the scenes that helped me a lot. To always stay positive, to keep looking forward and to make the best out of a situation.

Fabi: Spending the summer with AFC AA was an amazing experience and set the basis in preparing myself for the 2016 College season. I came back to Charleston game-ready and very excited to win the NCAA championship after being NCAA Runners-up and Semi-finalist. It is my senior year and so I want to round up my college-career with a big success for UC.

 

 

AFC: What was your most memorable experience in Ann Arbor this summer? What was the biggest takeaway to help you improve as a footballer?

Bruno: I believe that the most memorable experience was to play at Detroit City in front of 7,000 people, which was the most that I've ever played for. The biggest takeaway was to play with different players and coaches, who always have a different way to think about soccer and that is something that makes a player improve.

Jermaine: The most memorable experience in Ann Arbor this summer was going to one of the owner’s parent’s lake house. I had a great time there with my teammates and it was a good recovery day as well. Coaching kids was one of the most memorable experiences for me too because after I had coached them I would see the same kids at the game. You would instantly create a sort of bond with them that would continue through the summer. There were coaches with lots of experience that wanted to share it with us. Even when practice was over Boyzzz and I would work on some things on our own. It soon caught the eyes of other teammates and started to become a weekly thing.

Rafa: My favorite moment at AFC Ann Arbor was our game away against Kalamazoo, where we won the game and made to the playoffs. And the most important thing that made me improve as a player was the experience from coach Eric Rudland and Coach Boyzzz with the daily practice. I was able to be comfortable and work hard and harder! They are really good and competent coaches that I am really glad to have been coached by them.

Fabi: My most memorable experience was the away-game against Detroit FC, because the entire AFC family was representing the club incredibly well (on the stands, as well as on the field!). The biggest takeaways as a footballer are losses and mistakes, because you can learn from them and improve right away. Personally, I learned that people from a very diversified background and with different experiences can be very powerful together but it bears a higher risk of some mistakes at the beginning. Nonetheless, I am convinced that the big diversity at AFC AA pushes the club forward and I am very excited to see how AFC will develop within the next years.

 

 

AFC: What did it mean to you to be able to spend part of your summer with 3 of your teammates? Have you seen the extra time you've spent together translate to positive outcomes on the pitch yet?

Bruno: I was happy to play with Rafael, Jermaine and Fabian during the summer, they are three of the guys that I like the most in the school so it was awesome to spend the summer with them in a city like Ann Arbor, we had a great time and that definitely helped us to become even better friends and that translates every game on the pitch.

Jermaine: I knew Fabi pretty well going into the summer, but I wasn't with Bruno as much as I was with Fabi. I’m really happy I got the chance to get to know this wonderful guy. Not only did I get to know Bruno more but AFC gave me the chance to get to know others as well. Other then Jake, Frenchie, Rafa, Willy and more, I got really close with Nate and JP. In a short time they had a positive influence on me. I'll probably text a couple of those guys right after this.

Rafa: Playing with 3 teammates really give us more chemistry on the field and make us play with harmony because we know where the other player is able to do it already.

 

 

AFC: Anything else you want to add about the time you spent in Ann Arbor this summer?

Jermaine: I felt really blessed that AFC Ann Arbor gave me the opportunity to be part of their family. I would recommend everyone to play for AFC If they get the chance to. Hopefully I'll be a part of the team next year to. God willing I'll bring home a national championship while striving for another with AFC Ann Arbor.

Rafa: I already miss the people from AFCAA and I really hope I can play my next summer season again for The Mighty Oak.

 

 

 

Adeniyi Continues to Press for Pro Contract

The inaugural season of AFC Ann Arbor was filled with excitement, surprises and a lot of firsts.  One of the most memorable highlights of the 2015 campaign came during the league opener at Hollway Field when The Mighty Oak earned a 4-1 result over Oakland County FC (formerly Oakland United FC). Leading the charge for AFC was Fuad Adedapo Adeniyi, better known as Ade to his teammates and coaching staff, who netted two goals in the match. Since then, Adeniyi has continued to make his mark on the club, becoming a fan favorite and one of the biggest impact players to come through the system.

 

The British born Nigerian has used the game of football as his international passport having traveled all over the world as he continues to search for his first pro contract.  Along the way, Adeniyi has played for the U21 Nigerian National team, University of Mobile, UC- Santa Barbra, AFC Ann Arbor, FC London (Ontario) and most recently, Sporting Kristina in Finland.

 

After the deflating loss for The Mighty Oak in the NPSL playoffs, Adenyi joined Sporting Kristina very late in their campaign, but wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to see a new part of the world, develop his game and hopefully make an impact that would add yet another positive mark on his CV.

 

The 4th tier Finish team was slated to take on a top tier team upon Adeniyi’s arrival.  No one gave Sporting Kristina a chance to win this match, but Adeniyi knew that he was as talented as some of the players competing in the top tier, and wanted to prove his value right away.  He wasted no time scoring 2 goals in his debut, helping Sporting Kristina earn the unlikely victory.

 

Ade recently completed his short stint with the Finish side, and had a chance to catch up with us about his experience.

AFC: How did your path lead from Ann Arbor to Finland?

Ade: Even before coming to Ann Arbor, I had been in touch with an agent to help me explore all possible options. As things wrapped up in AA, I went back to Cali hoping to get a bigger opportunity but this was the best, most immediate option I had. Even though it was late in their season, I decided to join them and make the most of the experience.

AFC: When did you start playing with Sporting Kristina and what was the role you played on this team?

Ade: I was with the club for less than a month arriving in the middle of August and returning to California about 4 weeks later.  I see my self as a leader from the back and one of the better players that can help out the younger players who don't have the experience that I have.

AFC: As you keep climbing the ladder in the international world of soccer, what's your next goal on this journey?

Ade: My next goal is the goal I have always had and thats to play at the highest level I can

AFC: Having played for AFC Ann Arbor two years in a row, what did that experience mean to you and how did it help you become a better footballer?

Ade: AFC AA has helped me on and off the pitch, playing with people that have different backgrounds has helped me see the game differently and has helped my game on the pitch for the better.

AFC: What was your most memorable experience in Ann Arbor?

Ade: The most memorable moment from the first year was when I met my housemates who are now like my brothers and to this day some of my best friends.  The second year was when I came back and saw how much better the club was ran and how my FAMILY had developed for the better. I could never forget theses two summers.

AFC To Honor Abby Wambach at Memoir Tour Event

Abby Wambach, two-time Olympic gold medalist, FIFA Women's World Cup Champion, and the 2012 FIFA World Player of the Year, will be visiting Ann Arbor this weekend as part of a national book tour to promote her new memoir, Forward.

Literati Bookstore will be hosting Wambach at Rackham Auditorium Saturday, September 17th at 7pm, for an interview with Doug Tribou, the host of Morning Edition on Michigan Radio.

AFC Ann Arbor Head Coach & Sporting Director Eric Rudland will be presenting Abby with an authentic AFC Ann Arbor kit after the interview. Having just ended its second season with an NPSL playoff appearance, AFC Ann Arbor is becoming a unifying influence for soccer in Ann Arbor and Southeast Michigan. The team is honored to partner with the superstar for her appearance.

Coach Rudland added, “This Saturday is going to be a great event for all of SE Michigan. It’s massive to have a world-class player, such as Abby, come share her experiences with us right here in Ann Arbor. And it demonstrates the strength of the soccer community here in our city, and we couldn’t be more excited to be a part of it.”

A six-time winner of the U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year award, Wambach has been a regular on the U.S. women's national soccer team since 2003, earning her first cap in 2001. As a forward, she currently stands as the highest all time scorer for the national team and holds the world record for international goals for both female and male soccer players with 184 goals.

Tickets are still available and can be purchased online here.

Collegiate Players Back In Action After Summer With AFC Ann Arbor

After a successful inaugural season in the NPSL, many of The Mighty Oak players have returned to their respective college programs across the country. With over 20 players playing at the collegiate level, AFC Ann Arbor will be well represented this fall at campuses throughout the nation.

For fans who just can’t wait until next May, this is a great opportunity to keep up with some of their favorite players in a very competitive atmosphere.  

Sporting Director Eric Rudland is excited for the college season to get underway.

He added, "With another college season upon us, I'm looking forward to seeing our men in action for their respective university programs. The early feedback from college coaches is that our Mighty Oak players have come into pre-season fit & sharp, so we are hoping they make big impacts throughout their fall campaigns. I know our owners, staff and fans will be in attendance to support players throughout the fall as much as possible."

 

University of Michigan

Lars Eckenrode, Tristan Jacobs, Noah Kleedtke, Ryan Kobakof, Braden Horton

The University of Michigan Men’s Soccer varsity program fielded their first team 17 years ago.  Two notable alumni of the program played huge roles in AFC Ann Arbor’s success this summer in Knox Cameron and Kevin Taylor. Player/Co-owner Cameron saw limited action on the field for The Mighty Oak this summer but made an impact with the game winning goal in the Saline Showcase vs. Northwood while staying very active in the club’s front office.

Kevin Taylor, another former Michigan player turned pro, returned to The Mighty Oak this season and played a pivotal role in the team’s defensive schematic. His experience and expertise helped bring a level of leadership and organization AFC’s backline that helped the club advance to the NPSL Sweet Sixteen in just their first season in the league.

As “Team 17” prepares to take the pitch this fall, The Mighty Oak have 5 current Michigan players who spent time with the club over the summer. Ann Arbor native and Pioneer High School graduate, Tristan Jacob, suited up for his second season with AFC and returns to the Wolverines for his junior year.

Defender Lars Eckenrode (Springfield, VA) enters his senior season as one of the nation’s most talented players on the back line. Having started all 17 matches and playing a full 90 minutes in 13 of them, Eckenrode will be a key member of the Wolverines 2016 fall campaign.

In addition to Eckenrode and Jacob, Ryan Kobakof, Braden Horton and Noah Kleedtke, who all saw time with AFC Ann Arbor this summer, will be supporting the maize and blue jersey this collegiate season.

The Wolverines open up their season with a pair of road contests in Florida against USF (Fri, 8/26) and FGCU (Mon, 8/29) before returning to Ann Arbor to host Columbia (Fri, 9/2) and Yale (Mon, 9/5) at the Michigan Soccer Stadium for the Labor Day Tournament. Click here for more information on the University of Michigan’s Men’s soccer season and for their complete schedule.

 

Western Michigan University

Jake Rufe, Tommy Clark, Dzenan Nezirevic

The Broncos are coming off an 11-4-4 season which ended in a heartbreaking 2-1 loss in the MAC Tournament Semifinal to Buffalo.

Three Western Michigan players spent time with The Mighty Oak this summer including Dzenan Nezirevic, Tommy Clark and Jake Rufe.

Rufe, a redshirt freshman who transferred to Western from Indiana, played a significant role in AFC Ann Arbor’s 2016 campaign in the midfield and will look to play a similar role for the Broncos this fall.

WMU opens their season on the road against The Herd of Marshall University  (Fri, 8/26) with the home opener slated for the following week vs IPFW (Fri, 9/2). Click here for the Broncos complete schedule.

 

Northwood

James Vaughan

The inaugural Saline Showcase featured AFC Ann Arbor taking on the Timberwolves of Northwood University at Saline High School’s Hornet Stadium. The Mighty Oak won the match compliments of a late goal scored by Knox Cameron.

Northwood’s junior midfielder James Vaughan went from playing against AFC that match to joining The Mighty Oak midfield for the rest of the summer. 

Vaughan, a Bexhill, England native, will be a key player for the Timberwolves this year as they open their season against the Pumas from St. Joseph’s College (Fri, 9/2). Click here for the Timberwolves complete schedule. 

 

Madonna

Yuri Farkas, Godfrey Kegode

The Crusaders had two players don The Mighty Oak uniform this season in Yuri Farkas and Godfrey Kegode.  Farkas, a native of Brazil, made a huge impact for AFC Ann Arbor right from the start scoring 4 goals in the first 4 games of the season (2 friendlies; 2 NPSL matches).

Farkas and Kegode will play important roles for Madonna this season which kicks off with a road test at Goshen College (Sat, 8/27). Click here for the Crusaders complete schedule. 

 

Schoolcraft

Jake Rosen, Hector Morales

The Ocelots open their season against Morton College (Fri, 8/26) where Sophomore Jake Rosen will play a key role in the midfield.  After his freshmen season with Schoolcraft, Rosen joined The Mighty Oak back line looking to gain experience and ended up playing key minutes for AFC as one of the team’s top defenders.

Joining Rosen for his first season with The Ocelots will be standout player, Hector Morales. Morales, a former Cuban National Team player will look to make an impact right away for Schoolcraft. The Ocelots are going into the season ranked number name and host Morton College in their season opener (Fri, 8/26). Click here for more details on their complete schedule. 

 

University of Charleston

Fabian Veit, Bruno Oliveria, Rafael Simones, Jermaine Windster

The University of Charleston Golden Eagles had four players on AFC Ann Arbor’s 2016 roster including the Iron Man award winner, Bruno Oliveria who played all 90 minutes of every league match for The Mighty Oak.

The Golden Eagles dropped a heartbreaking match in the NCAA Division II Semifinals in 2OT last season and look to get back to the Final Four this year with the help of all four players who spent time in Ann Arbor this summer.

Charleston’s home opener vs Gannon University (Thu, 9/1) can be streamed online.  Click here for the team’s complete schedule.

 

Colgate

Peter Tappenden, Zach Pagani, Chase Pagani

Colgate had three players, all local Ann Arbor natives, return to the area this summer to suit up for The Mighty Oak.  Goalkeeper Peter Tappenden stepped in as the started late in the season and played a significant role for AFC Ann Arbor down the stretch.

The Pagani brothers will look to make an even bigger impact for the Raiders this season as senior Zach spent much of last year injured.  Chase, a defender started six times last year for Colgate and is expected to have a bigger role for the team this year which opens up the season against Loyola Marymount (Fri, 8/26). Click here for the Raiders complete schedule. 

      

Loyola Chicago

Matthieu Braem

The Mighty Oak’s Defensive Player of the Year Matthieu Braem will be returning to Loyola Chicago for his senior year, as a key component to the Ramblers backline.  Braem was 1 of 2 players for AFC Ann Arbor to play every minute of every league match showing just how important of a role he had this summer in the Oak’s defensive schematic.

The Ramblers will host Valparaiso (Sat, 8/27) for the season opener with two additional home matches slated for Labor Day Weekend.  Click here for their complete schedule.

 

Other Mighty Oak college players to keep an eye on:

Cornell- Rhys Moeller

Opening Match: Central Connecticut University (Fri, 9/2) // Complete Schedule

 

Seton Hill- Colin Watson

Opening Match: Wheeling Jesuit University (Thu, 9/1) // Complete Schedule

 

Northern Kentucky University- Diego Martinez

Opening Match: Eastern Illinois (Fri, 8/26) Watch Here // Complete Schedule

 

University of Northwestern Ohio- Dumisani Manyange, Thapelo Moruti

Opening Match: Thomas University (Fri, 8/26) // Complete Schedule