Plenty of talent on display as Tropics host open tryout in anticipation of season start next month

LAKELAND – Some 30 hopefuls turned out Saturday to see if they had what it takes to play for the Lakeland Tropics, everyone from local high school stars to those who have already played in the USL's Premier Development League, where the Tropics will debut May 11 in a road match against FC Miami City.

The team's home opener – the first of six  Saturday “Soccer Nights in Lakeland” – will be May 20 at historic Bryant Stadium in a 7:35 start against The Villages FC, who has been invited to play this year in the prestigious Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The Buffalo are also the PDL's southeastern division defending champions.

Tropics head coach Eoghan Conlon said several players caught his eye at the open tryout which will be used to help fill out the 26-player roster, 18 of which will dress on game days.

“We got what we came for,” Conlon said. “There was plenty of talent on show. Now we have to identify the players that will work for how we want to play. The competition (for rosters spots) is going to be tough. It's going to be a headache making those decision, but it's a good headache to have. There's going to be good quality.”

The Tropics full side is expected to hit the training pitch together by May 1.

Noel Mais recently moved to Lakeland, and has a soccer resume that includes 21 goals in 54 career games with the University of South Carolina-Aiken, and a stint with the Mississippi Brilla of the PDL.

He's seen first hand the impact a PDL team can have on an area like Lakeland.

“Soccer is a growing sport here in the U.S. and it can help unite the community,” he noted.

Julio Medina was a star with the Mulberry Panthers, a high school in southwest Polk County and for some of the area's top amateur teams including the Plant City Lancers and Lakeland Lazers.

“I just wanted to come out and see what I had, and have a tryout experience,” Medina said. “It was fun, it was good competition.”

Tickets for all seven home games, including six Saturday night starts under the lights, are available online at www.lakelandtropics.com (or by calling 863-240-0101). More information on the team and season, including the complete 14-game schedule can be found at the team's website as well.

The proven developmental leader in North American soccer's evolving tiered structure, the Premier Development League features 72 franchises in four conferences throughout the United States and Canada, including 16 clubs that are owned and operated by a professional club, or that hold a partnership with a professional club. The PDL has proven to be an important stepping-stone for top professionals now playing throughout the world, with nearly 70 percent of all MLS selections since 2010 having PDL experience. The PDL provides elite and collegiate players the opportunity to taste a higher level of competition while maintaining their eligibility. In addition to league play, PDL teams compete in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as well as various exhibitions.