On Wednesday (5-3), the Riverhounds F.C. held Media Day at Falconi Field. I arrived a little late, but when I arrived I found the team in their Red shirts and black shorts, in left field, formed in a circle and practicing with the ball. Head coach Gene Klein was standing nearby watching. He appeared to be the only coach around and there were very few other media around.
The light rain that had fallen earlier in parts of the area had given way to partly sunny skies.
I was issued my credentials along with a couple other things, before I approached the sideline.
New additions to the hounds are defenders Gabe Bernstein and Jason Kutney, from the Charleston Battery (USLD1). Kutney had been with the hounds during the '04 season, when the team played at Moon H.S.. Another returning player is Midfielder Edward Child, the son of hounds Assistant coach Paul. Child had joined Cincinnati (of the old A-League). Other new members are Tyler Suffron, joining the hounds from the Nashville Metros (PDL), Forward Walter Blake, from the Boulder Rapids Reserve (also PDL) and midfielder Stephen Mellor a defender out of Duquesne Univesity.
Most of the team is returning though, like fan favorite David Flavius. Cody Bragg, Anthony Calvano, Dan Hartung, Matt Mehler, goalkeepers Chris Robinson and Terry McNelis and the newest elected captain, Nathan Salsi, among others.
Head Coach Gene Klein admitted that he does not know what to expect from the team, but the league will be a very competitive one this season. He feels the new additions will blend it well, though. Both he and goalkeeper Chris Robinson admitted that Harrisburg will be a tough challenge, coming off their opening day loss. Robinson added that the team will have to be prepared. Both are anxious to get the season started, though.
After last year's finish, I have no doubt.
