The Dutch Lions have signed Dutch Veteran Esajas
The Dayton Dutch Lions FC has signed Etienne Esajas of Holland for the 2015 PDL season. Esajas comes to the Lions after spending most of his career in England playing for clubs Sheffield Wednesday(2007-2010), Swindon Town(2011-2012), and Scunthorpe United(2013-2014).
Esajas is a 5’7” winger who will be looking to spread the pitch for the Lions. Beginning his career with Vitesse in the 2005-2006 season, it didn’t take long before clubs from England came searching. While playing for Sheffield Wednesday he made 60 appearances, tallying five goals. For Esajas, knowing coach Patrick Bal made the decision easy to come play for the Lions.
“When I was in the Netherlands I worked with coach Patrick to stay in shape while in search for a professional club. I had a good feeling working with
Patrick. When he went to DDL I knew that would be a good fit for the summer.
Playing for the Dayton Dutch Lions is a great opportunity to play under pressure in a high pace league, to show myself to other clubs and to develop myself as a player and as person. I'm fit and I want to go back to the pro's. Trying to play a different style in the USA is a huge challenge and I can't wait to help the younger players to a higher level. I'm looking forward to the home opener!"
For Patrick Bal, he believes Etienne’s experience will be a great help to the younger guys on the squad.
"I think Etienne will have immediate impact on the team and even the PDL. He came in late and only practiced with us once, but you can see right away he's a class player. Besides being a great player he has a great personality. He'll show and tell the college players what it is and what it takes to be a pro. I think he will be embraced by the fans and he will be a crowd favorite in no time".
The Lions take on FC London tonight May 21st at 7:30 PM. Make sure to wear orange and support your Lions. DOC Stadium can be found at 5833 Student St., Dayton, OH 45449.