As the season opener draws closer, expect many more signings to be announced in coming days and weeks as Miami FC continues its roster-building process.
With the signing of central defender Kyle Veris on February 24, the team’s core is beginning to take shape as the month of March approaches.
It is an exciting time for both the team and fans alike, as the pieces continue to fall into place in what is anticipated to be a very competitive team in the U.S. Soccer Division 2 Professional League this season.
Building a strong defensive unit is the most important component in building a championship team, and the team is well on its way to establishing the best back line in team history.
Here’s a quick rundown of the players the Blues have picked up for 2010 so far:
Zach Kirby
Zach is back, and after a strong showing in 2009 that earned him praise from coaches and fans, the Atlanta native is expected to shine in the backfield again for Miami FC in 2010.
Kirby, a defender who played in the MLS and with the Atlanta Silverbacks prior to coming to Miami, played in 23 games in 2009 while logging in close to 1800 minutes on the pitch. Opposing teams had a hard time penetrating and creating goal-scoring opportunities with him in the way.
The Atlanta native brings a sense of continuity as well as valuable experience to a team that is expected to be young and scrappy. Expect him to continue to be a leader on and off the pitch this season.
Bryan Perez
Perez was the first midfielder signed for the 2010 season. Fans should look for Perez to provide an offensive spark for Miami FC. After concluding a decorated collegiate career at the University of Missouri Kansas City, the Kendall native became the all-time record holder in goals (29), shots on goal (160) and games (78).
He is an explosive offensive midfielder that has shown the ability to speed past defenses in the open field as well the ability to maneuver past defenders deep in opposing territory.
Take a look at some of his highlights for yourself:
JP Rodrigues
Rodrigues is a familiar face who is intertwined with Miami FC’s history. When the team had the first overall pick as an expansion franchise in the USL in 2006, the Blues chose the young defender from Tampa.
He spent three seasons with the squad, and performed admirably in 51 overall matches for the team, while compiling over 4,500 minutes in a Miami FC jersey.
He returns to the team and is ready to make an immediate impact in the backfield. He provides additional experience and is familiar with the coaching staff and organization that gave him an opportunity to start his career.
As a member of the Guyana national team, Rodrigues has nine caps.
Jarryd Goldberg
A fan favorite thanks to his hard work ethic and his friendly demeanor, Goldberg will suit up for his third season in Miami and will serve as a player who will continue to help anchor the midfield presence with his persistent defensive play and his awareness on the field to set up opportunities on offense.
Goldberg was a staple of the midfield for the Blues, playing in 25 games throughout the 2009 season and over 1,730 minutes.
Originally from New Jersey, Goldberg played at Boston College, where he won Big East honors and was also a major piece to the roster.
Kyle Veris
Miami FC’s latest signee brings even more additional experience to the Blues’ back line. Veris played two seasons at the MLS level with the LA Galaxy, where he played over 1200 minutes.
Afterward, the Ohio native traveled overseas to play in the Norwegian first division with I.L Hood Football Club before signing with the Puerto Rico Islanders. During his time with the Islanders, Veris played in the knockout stage of the CONCACAF Champions League.
Veris will provide a physical presence as well as valuable experience that has been missing the past several seasons and will be a welcome compliment to Kirby and Rodrigues in the backfield.
