Former Academy Manager returns to Lions after one year in Munich (Germany)
Dayton, September 10 2012 - Former Academy Manager Eddie Hertsenberg, who left last year with his girlfriend to Europe, is returning to the States and has accepted an offer from the Dayton Dutch Lions FC to return to the club per November 1 2012. This is what Eddie had to say on his return:
How was it in Germany?
"Germany has been such a great experience. I've been able to do quite a lot on and off the soccer field. Europe is the greatest place in the world for soccer and I have been lucky enough to see and experience it first hand. I played personally, I attended the Champions League semi final and final, I attended several Bayern Munich matches and other top level matches around Europe and also did 2 coaching internships through which I obtained my UEFA C license. Besides that I travelled to many countries and cities and learned a bit of German!
What is your new role in the club starting Nov 1?
"I am really excited to be back with the Lions in November and I am looking forward to returning directly into a leading role in the development of the youth academy. I am ready to be back with the Orange family!"
What is the reason you are returning to the DL?
"I was involved with the Club during the first two years playing for the First Team and managing the Academy. I enjoyed much of its growth and success during that time, along with my own. Since the beginning, the Club and I have shared the same philosophy in regard to soccer and with youth development, so I am eager to be back in that environment again. "I am happy to be back with the Pro Club and the Academy along with getting back with the First Team in March."
What have you heard from oversees about the last year?
"I have heard great things about the Youth Academy's progress and growth. The club is near completion of it's own complex, which will raise the professional soccer environment another level. I have tried my best to keep tabs on the youth players that were already involved there when I left and to hear about their successes. I am excited to see their development first hand and to meet some of the new members. I also followed the First Team, watching their exciting run in the US Open Cup while beating rivals Columbus Crew. I was glad to see them finish the season strong."
What are your expectations for the future?
"I am excited about the future. The Dutch Lions will continue to set the standards in youth development and I expect success with the First Team next season. I am happy to have the opportunity to be a part of both."
President Mike Mossel is very pleased to get Eddie back with the club: "I have to say I am very happy Eddie is coming "home". he has been with us from day 1 and besides being a great guy he also built the foundation of the Youth Academy and was part of the Men's Pro team for two years even scoring the club's first goal in the history against the Cincinnati Kings. He is great with kids, eager to learn, very professional and open to all parents in the Academy and he will be of value to the Men's Pro team as well".