Before we go into the 2022 season we would like to take a moment to look back at 2021. For starters, the sheer fact that we even had a season was pretty incredible. Before the season began we had the biggest tryouts of our club. That was a pleasant surprise to our coaching staff since we were just starting to come out of restrictions they had no idea what to expect.
Getting to see everyone after a year of uncertainties was very special. In years past, by the time the first game come around, we would have gotten to see many of you around town during an event or at the season tickets handout. In 2021 we had to wait until the first home game after a year and a half without seeing most of you. When the day came we were like kids on Christmas morning hoping for a nice gift, and that's just what we got. I know that people talk about how valuable fan support is and it may sound superficial sometimes but believe us when we say -your support of our club REALLY matters.
Then there was light.
The addition of the lights and being able to play a little bit later was a game-changer for us (I hope for you as well). As the sun goes down it gets much cooler and nicer out, don't you think? Another major improvement to the facility was the sound system, adding some barricades and a small store.
We had a good group!
The players in 2021 were some of the kindest group of players we have ever had. There wasn't much (if any) friction outside the field and there was a lot of joy within the team. Yes, we call ourselves the Buffalo Family and we do see it that way but even in families sometimes there are differences and disagreements. The past season, so many players offered to help it was very encouraging. From announcing or manning the camera for the live stream, being the mascot, welcoming visiting teams, teaching kids at our Summer Camp, and even helping to lay parking stops, painting the field, or spreading grass seeds. It was encouraging how many of them genuinely wanted to help.
The game level was insane!
Those of you who were there at the Florida Elite game when we came back from being down 0x1 with 2 red cards against us to win 2x1, know what I'm talking about. We are playing in a "pre-professional" league but the games sure felt high level.
Talking about games...
How cool was it to play River Plate? Very cool! It was unfortunate that we weren't able to stream the game but the Buffalo did not disappoint. Our players did not let the million-dollar budget of River Plate get to them, we only wish you could have been there. Another nice friendly was versus Orlando City B. When talking with coach Anderson, he noted that even though we went on to playoffs without 5 of our starters due to injury, some that might have been prevented if we had not played those games, he still feels that the opportunity it provided for the players and his staff was invaluable and he would say "yes" again given the chance.
End of season. We won at home. Southeast Division Champions once again :-)
We hope your memories of the Buffalo in 2021 are just as sweet as ours.
