Western Mass Pioneers News Release

Monday, April 6, 2009

LUDLOW, MA -- The Western Mass Pioneers is proud to announce the verbal commitment of a former UMass Amherst standout, Chris Brown. Chris was the Minutemen’s central defender on the squad that made a miraculous run to the Final Four two seasons ago. Brown’s formal signing is pending USL and USSF approval.

“The commitment of local collegiate talent, like Chris, is huge for our program and our local identity,” states general manager Greg Kolodziey. “I had the pleasure of following the success of UMass over the years as we had a few players from UMass have a big impact on our team. Also, we are fortunate to have a friendly every spring with Umass to prepare for our season,” states Kolodziey.

Former UMass goalkeeper Brian O’Quinn played multiple years with the Pioneers after giving up his spot on 2004. Who cannot forget the most popular Pioneer in recent years, Jeff Deren, who holds numerous records at UMass and last season eclipsed the 100 games played mark with Western Mass.

As another way to give back to the communities who have supported the lone successful Western Mass professional soccer franchise over the years, the Pioneers are proud to announce that they will be hosting a FREE 1 hour soccer clinic prior to every home game. The clinics will start at 5:30pm at Lusitano Stadium and will be open to the 1st 50 kids ages 5-8. “This is a great opportunity to get more of the youth in the area excited about soccer and carry that enthusiasm to the home games that kick off at 7:30,” stated general manager Greg Kolodziey. Everyone ages 5-8 who attends the free clinic, up to 50, will receive a free youth ticket to the game that follows the clinic. Pioneer players will be running the clinics so professionalism will be at its peak.

The Western Mass Pioneers season opener is May 2nd, 7:30pm vs. the Richmond Kickers. May 2nd will also be a “Thank You to the Sponsors Night”.