There is so much going on at The Villages SC Complex this week. Players started arriving, first practice was on Monday and the stadium set-up has begun.
Players
While building the 2021 roster it became clear, early on, that most of the 2019 players would not be able to return. Some because of signing professional contracts, some due to injury but many because they simply could not get to us.
After securing only 3 return players, Coach Anderson hit the ground running. There were hundreds of videos, referrals, and multiple tryouts. Now that the roster is taking shape we are ready to tell you about the Buffalo players of 2021.
We'll begin with what the 3 returning players had to say about coming back.
Yago Lopes “There is no greater motivation than playing for The Villages SC.”
How does it feel to be coming back after last year's cancellation?
I feel very happy to be back at The Villages SC. It is always very rewarding tobe able to play alongside top professionals and great players.
How have you continued to train/play during the past year?
I was always very focused on my goals. I trained individually at the gym to stay fit at first. Then, in the past few months, I played for my college. I can say that I am 100% prepared to give my best to the club.
What are you most excited about in the upcoming 2021 Season?
There is no greater motivation than playing for The Villages SC. I am the player who has been in the club for the longest time, so I have been able to see the evolution of the club year by year. The work that has been done on and off the field makes me very excited for this season. The facility, the European-level soccer fields, and the high-level staff shows me that this club will grow even more and it makes me very happy that I am a part of this family. Being in this club is a huge blessing for me. Go Buffalo!
Leonardo Paiva “I’ll do everything that I can help the team. It feels so good to be back!”
How does it feel to be coming back after last year's cancellation?
It feels so good to be back to The Villages! It's the club that I feel like I'm at home.
How have you continued to train/play during the past year?
In 2020 I was playing professionally in Jordan and it was a great experience. This year things changed and I had the opportunity to come back so I have continued to train hard to get there at my best. I'll do everything that I can to help the team.
What are you most excited about in the upcoming 2021 Season?
I'm excited to see the facility as it continues to be built. I know that this is something no other club has at this level. It shows how professional the club is and how much passion and effort they put into this project.
Weston King “I’m excited to be back with the Buffalo Family this year and can’t wait for the season to start.”
How does it feel to be coming back after last year's cancellation?
After last year's cancellation, I was pretty bummed not getting to play but I am excited to be able to come back with the Buffalo Family this year and can't wait for the season to start.
How have you continued to train/play during the past year?
This past year I have been training almost every day and was lucky enough to have the opportunity to spend some time with the Tampa Bay Rowdies and NYCFC in their pre-season training.
