Talking MASL3 on Rockford News First

Rockford FC President Mike Creuzer and Vice President Christian Bitangalo joined Derek Bayne on Rockford News First on Monday to talk about the Guardians' first MASL3 season, the Academy, and what a semi-pro team means for Rockford. Thank you to Derek and Rockford News First for having us.

Watch the interview on Rockford News First

A big team for Rockford again

The interview came the day after Sunday's MASL3 tryout, where more than 100 players came out to Elite Sports Center. Thank you to everyone who showed up.

MASL3 is the third tier of the Major Arena Soccer League, and Christian talked about what it means to have a team at that level in the city:

"After Rockford Rampage, we never had another big team here in Rockford. That's what we're trying to do, to bring Rampage back."

Keeping players in Rockford

Christian used to drive to Chicago every day to play at a higher level. A semi-pro team at home gives young players, high schoolers and club players something to aim for without leaving Rockford.

The Academy, and a bus

About 90 to 100 kids played in the Academy this summer, and we're looking at a spring season and new age groups next. Our partners at Hennig are helping us with a bus, so we can pick up kids who need a ride and get them to practices and games.

Christian knows why that matters. When the Academy started, he drove kids to practice himself, five at a time in his car, because a lot of parents work shifts that don't line up with practice.

"The kids, they want to play. You don't want to let those kids down. You want to help them out, like how I was helped when I got here in the United States."

Come be loud

The Guardians open the MASL3 season away at the Cincinnati Swerve on Sunday, December 27. The first home game is Friday, January 8 at 8:00 PM against the Summit City Sentinels, at the Indoor Sports Center in Loves Park.

"Nothing gives us a better winning chance than having screaming fans coming to see you," Mike said.

The full schedule is on the Guardians schedule, and tickets are on sale now. See you there.