By Kieron Coleman |Staff Writer|
Seeing an LA Galaxy game at the StubHub Center is a big deal, but the ‘Yotes playing there is an even bigger deal.
The men’s soccer program has had a very promising season so far, to play on such a field was an exquisite experience for the men.
Many of the boys are from overseas as well as many from around California, it was an experience of a lifetime for all involved.
“It was a dream come true, I’ve been waiting for this day all my life,” stated midfielder Diego Casillas.
The StubHub Center opened in 2003 and hosted the Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star Game, the MLS Cup game and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Women’s World Cup championship all in its first year.
The stadium capacity for soccer is 27,000 and is a perfect pitch for the ‘Yotes to play the ball nice and sharp across the floor.
“StubHub Center is southern California’s home of world-class competition and training facilities for amateur, Olympic, collegiate and professional athletes,” according to the StubHub Center website.
The pitch is a little bigger than Coyote Premier Field, meaning the ‘Yotes were forced to keep good positioning while playing attacking soccer.
“The feeling was amazing; you didn’t need any motivation for this game,” said defender Dan Looker.
“It is every soccer players dream to play in a stadium of that caliber,” continued Looker.
The ‘Yotes were selected to play on this pitch by rivals CSU Dominguez Hills, knowing that it would be a competitive game for both teams.
“It was nice to see some of the Alumni players attend the game, to support us through,” said defender/midfielder Nic Turkington.
The support received this season for the ‘Yotes has been crucial to some of the victories they have earned.
In addition to hosting soccer games, the StubHub Center hosts tennis matches, track and field meets, concerts and track cycling events.
There are also many amenities for local residents to use, including “tennis courts, soccer training fields and a three-mile jogging trail with 12 fitness stations around the perimeter of the development,” according to the StubHub Center.
“It was a great opportunity,” said defender Eric Lavery.
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