By Datti Jinkiri
Brilla Coach Mark McKeever has kept the team's Omaha link active with his two latest signings. Forward Noor Hamadi will return to Clinton for the second consecutive year, and defender Joey McCain will be joining him. McCain is the younger brother of Jake McCain, a Brilla standout from last season.
Hamadi played in 17 matches and made one start for the Mavericks in his sophomore season. He was a key attacking piece for the Summit League regular season champs. He netted twice, including a key goal in the conference tournament semifinal against Eastern Illinois.
Hamadi also played in three matches for Brilla last season. His impact was brief was important, as he provided the game-winning assist against Peachtree City MOBA. However, he later succumbed to injury, which knocked him out of most of the season. McKeever is looking for Hamadi to be at full-strength this season.
“Noor is the only player from last year that is returning, which reflects my opinion of him,” McKeever said. “Last summer he was unfortunate with injury, but I feel we will see a newer, stronger, and more talented Noor Hamadi this time around. He is a very versatile player that can play a number of roles, and I know that he has a huge appetite to compete for a championship this year!”
McCain made six starts out of the 11 games he featured in for the Mavericks. The Mavericks racked up five shutouts in the matches he featured in. McCain also gave the team key defensive minutes in both of their games against Denver, a College Cup semifinalist.
“Joey has a great engine, and he is good on both sides of the ball,” McKeever stated. “He is very composed, and his quality service from the flanks will create good opportunities for us.”
Brilla’s first home match of the 2017 season will take place on Thursday, May 25 at Clinton High School Arrow Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 pm.
Brilla’s first home match of the 2017 season will take place on Thursday, May 25 at Clinton High School Arrow Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 pm.
Noor Hamadi |
Joey McCain |