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In the heart of Kansas, there is a small soccer community that keeps on growing.
Just last year, Salina got its first UPSL team in its history. For those who don't know, the UPSL (United Premier Soccer League) is a semi-professional soccer league that serves as the 4th tier in the US soccer pyramid. It is known to be the largest and most competitive pro-development league in North America. Bringing this type of competition to Salina and the surrounding areas is huge. Not only does it provide an opportunity for younger players to develop, but it also keeps great people in the community and provides a home in the summer for some players that are out of state during the school year.
This league runs from the spring through the summer. CKU competes in the UPSL Midwest South Division, which includes teams like Dodge City Toros (who made the final four nationals twice in the last three years), Sporting KC U-19 (MLS Academy), FC Wichita (a former USL II club), and several other teams that make the league extremely competitive and provide great experience for our team. Our younger players played at the Sporting KC facilities last year, which I am sure is an experience they will never forget.
There are some great names returning to the team this year. For example, Noel Zimbeva (Zimbabwe): Noel is a guy that any team in the country would love to have. Not only is he a great footballer, but he is the spirit of the team and a great example for any kid watching in the stands. Noel stood out in the tryouts, and we can't wait to watch him dominate the midfield. Aside from Noel, there is some international talent that will strengthen our roster. That includes players like Kamille Kum (South Africa), Tristan Bayssade (France), Sebastian Fernandez (Spain), and Mateo Hoyos (Colombia) who all had great college careers, or are still in the prime of their college career. These are just a few of the guys that we will count on to bring some international flair to our game.
We not only boast exceptional international players, but also possess local talent that will reinforce the belief in the area's potential; they simply need a chance to showcase it. What sets this team apart is the opportunity to have a seasoned player like Jose Escobedo, a 2015 state champion with South High School, play alongside someone like Seth Flores, who was crucial for South's 3rd place state finish in 2024. Both Seth and Jose are making a return this year, appearing as sharp as ever. Jose, affectionately known as Bubu by the locals, will be invaluable for the younger players to work with. Seth is not the only hidden talent we've retained this year. Players such as Rylan Snell and Rodrigo Palacios are also coming back, this time aiming to take on more significant roles within the team. Rylan and Rigo benefit from competition like this as they gear up for their college careers. In this league, they will face seasoned players, requiring them to be even more prepared and determined to excel.
Head coach Marc Martin had a clear message for the guys at tryouts: "Find your why." For most of the guys there on Saturday, the "why" was simply the love of the game, coaches included. That is more than enough. Assistant coach Andres Ruiz is done playing, but because of his love for the game, he decided to stick with it; only this time, it will be in a different role. The coaches, players, and staff all share that in common: they love the game of football, and they want this team to succeed. This season is shaping up to be a good one, and this "small town" team is ready to make big waves.
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