San Antonio FC missed out on the playoffs by one game last season despite injuries to their starting unit. Now with returning players and fresh faces, SAFC will look to build on their inaugural season and take that next step for the franchise.
Spurs Sports and Entertainment submitted their bid to get an Major League Soccer franchise to San Antonio during the offseason, but Powell says he and the team cannot let that be in their heads as they get ready for the new season.
“We know the long term goal is to get Major League Soccer in San Antonio – we are aware of it,” Powell said of the bid. “We know success is something they (MLS) look at when selecting where to put a team. The fans will have to do their part and fill the seats. Our goal to win an USL championship.”
Powell’s players echoed what he told me at the team’s second annual media day: They are aware of the bid, but won’t think about it as they take the pitch.
However, Michael Reed offered a different approach to how he sees the bid.
“It’s like we can’t screw up or the city is screwed,” he joked. “Seriously though, I am thinking of it for myself. I know what I have to do in order to help our team be successful. We aren’t feeling heavy pressure about the bid, but I just see it as a difference sense on how to look at it.”
SAFC had several key additions to its backline in the offseason, but addressed their offense as well. Billy Forbes will be back in the Alamo City and hometown product Devin Vega has been the surprise of training camp and preseason.
“Year one was a learning experience for all of us,” Powell said. “Now in year two we look to make progress on what we’ve done. Billy is someone who loves this city and the city loves him. He can help us in so many ways. Devin is someone who is just 18, but his passion is something I love in him.”
“Billy is our X-Factor,” Reed said.
With the MLS bid behind them, SAFC’s focus is clear: Go hard every night and win. Success and the MLS will find them.
