Louisville City FC ink two to growing roster

Yesterday, in preparation for their inaugural season come this March, Louisville City FC signed two more players for their first-year roster, both coming from California.

Tarek Morad comes to the squad after a season with another team in the USL (United Soccer League), the OKC Energy, in which he played 13 matches but didn’t register a goal. His youth career comes fairly accomplished, having spent time with Arsenal FC’s California youth club and was a member of the UC Irvine men’s team, as well as a member of the now-defunct Chivas USA development club. Before his time with OKC last year, he had a tryout with the Seattle Sounders (MLS), but didn’t make the cut.

Morad is an iron man of sorts, as he lead the Anteaters in minutes on the pitch his senior season with 2,316. LCFC head coach James O’Conner said this about Morad coming to the ‘Ville.

"Tarek has great ball control and physicality. He has the kind of leadership qualities that we’re looking for to be one of the leaders on our team.– Lousiville City FC head coach James O’Conner on the signing of Tarek Morad"

While Morad will look to bring experience and minutes to the defense for Louisville City, Enrique Montano will be making his professional debut, and will look to bring his youth to the Louisville City midfield. Fresh out of San Jose State, Montano started 16 games his senior year and scored a goal and an two assists on the campaign. While he doesn’t have the miles that Morad has, coach O’Conner was still excited about the youth Montano will bring to the club.

"We see so much potential in what Enrique will be able to bring to our club. He’s another player we are happy to have signed and know he will play huge role in our success.– Louisville City FC head coach James O’Conner on the signing of Enrique Montano"

With the two signings, Louisville City FC can now field a team! Morad and Montano represent the 11th and 12th signings before the upcoming year, but haven’t inked a goaltender yet. Morad is the fifth defender signed while Montano is the sixth midfielder.

How close are you keeping an eye on LCFC before the season starts? Are you excited to have pro soccer in Kentucky? Will you be attending games? Let us know in a comment below or on twitter @BlueGrassDom.