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Cal United Strikers FC Announce First Roster Moves Ahead of 2021 Season

16 players return from 2020 squad. Beto Navarro to assume coaching and ambassador role.
Published Feb 14, 2021

 

ORANGE COUNTY, CA – California United Strikers FC announced on Sunday the first roster decisions ahead of the 2021 season.

On a day reserved for sharing love and affection, the club confirmed its relationship with 16 players who return from the 2020 squad. The move ensures the nucleus of the team remains intact and carries forward the winning culture and tradition of Cal United Strikers FC.

“Although we are approaching only our third season in NISA, some of these players are entering their fourth and fifth years with the organization. There is a longstanding winning tradition in this club and it’s important that new players understand this. Having the majority of our players return – one year removed from being West Coast Champions – ensures that winning mentality is maintained.” Said Michael Collins, Cal United Strikers FC President and General Manager.       

With 12 of the 16 players hailing from Southern California, the club cements its commitment to being the “home of the dream” and providing a professional pathway for locally developed players. Amongst the returnees are the 2019 NISA Golden Boot (Leading Scorer) and Golden Ball (MVP) winner, Christian Thierjung; 2020 NISA All-Tournament Team striker, Omar Nuño; and club captain and center back, Xavier Fuerte.

The club also announced on Sunday that fan favorite and California native, Beto Navarro will remain with the club in a coaching and ambassadorial capacity. “Beto exemplifies everything that Cal United Strikers FC is all about. He is well respected by the players and has an undeniable passion and commitment to this community. We are thrilled he will remain with the club in this new role,” added Collins.

Fans can expect further signings in the next few weeks as the club continues its preparations for the recently announced 2021 NISA Spring Tournament which will kick off in Chattanooga, TN from April 13-25, 2021.

Stay tuned to calunitedstrikers.com or follow the club on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook for the latest news and info. Full roster details can be found here.

The following 16 players are currently under contract for the 2021 season:

GOALKEEPER (1): Steven Barrera

DEFENDERS (6): Chris Klute, Aydan Bowers, James McGhee, Gonzalo Salguero, Xavier Fuerte, Michael Bryant

MIDFIELDERS (5): Duncan Capriotti, Evan Waldrep, Shinya Kadono, Gustavo Villalobos, Minjae Kwak

FORWARDS (4): Christian Thierjung, Omar Nuño, Tony Lopez, Shane Kaemerle