The Dayton Dutch Lions FC (USL PRO) are proud to announce the return of three players for the 2014 season. Midfielder Eddie Herstenberg, goalkeeper Matt Williams, and midfielder Irakli Khutsidze have all re-signed with the club.
"All three are players I am happy to see return,” Dayton Dutch Lions FC head coach Sid van Druenen commented. “Matt is one of the best goalkeepers in the league and Ika and Eddie are both very creative midfielders that fit our style of play perfectly."
Herstenberg is a Cincinnati, OH native that has been active in both indoor and outdoor game.
“It is great to be back with the Dutch Lions for this upcoming season,” Herstenberg commented. “I love the people here in Dayton and being close to my hometown, family, and friends. My time spent with the Dutch Lions, on and off the field, has been great. It’s going to be an exciting year and I am happy to be a part of it with the Orange Family.”
He will wear number 18 for the Dutch Lions and can be found on Twitter @hertsenc.
Williams is the Dutch Lions’ all-time leader in games played, wins, saves, and goals against average. He appeared in every game in the 2012 and 2013 season, finishing with 10 shutouts and leading the league in saves. The Portland, ME native is a USL veteran, having played for the Wilmington Hammerheads and Portland Phoenix.
"I'm excited to be back for another year,” Williams added. “We have taken steps every year to improve our team and I'm excited to be on board for another campaign. I think we have some unfinished business after our loss in Richmond last year left a sour taste in all our mouths. We've earned our respect from other teams in the league; it's time to take it one step further and try and win a championship."
Williams can be found on Twitter @willibeats.
Khutsidze made 25 appearances in 2013, adding four assists and one goal to the Dutch Lions attack. His 1730 minutes played ranks among the top ten on the squad.
The Kutaisi, Georgia native is no stranger to the beautiful game, having played for FC Gagra and FC Torpedo in his home country.
“I’m really exited to be back in the Dayton Dutch Lions jersey,” Khutsidze stated. “I really enjoy the Dutch style and it’s definitely my style. Last year we made the playoffs and that was great, but this year with most of the guys coming back and the affiliation with Columbus Crew,we can be a more dangerous team. With hard work we can do better then just making the playoffs.”
Khutsidze will wear number seven for the Dutch Lions.