Missouri State University is celebrating another successful season after winning the Missouri Valley Conference.
Under the direction of Head Coach Jon Leamy and Associate Head Coach Michael Seabolt, the Bears won their second MVC title in the last three years.
Three key performers in the Bears line-up over the season were James Fawke, Andrew Turner and Ben Griffiths.
All are former Apprentice players of Football League Club’s and their experience and ability played an important part in Missouri State’s success.
Freshman Turner, formerly of Doncaster Rovers, was a consistent presence in the centre of defence helping to organise the team from the back.
Griffiths (ex-Colchester Utd) provided the team with some steady defending as well as raiding forward from the fullback position.
While James Fawke (ex-Cheltenham Town) was MSU’s Mr. Versatility playing in every position across the back four without a problem.
Ben Griffiths (Image Courtesy of Missouri State Photographic Services)
Associate Head Coach, Michael Seabolt, said:
“The young Englishmen have helped set the tone for the team’s recent success. They all played important roles throughout the season. It is great to see how they have integrated themselves into the team and the academic programme as well.”
“Their background and experience with quality English sides has prepared them well to compete at a high level.”
“We are looking forward to Jack Roberts (ex-Lincoln City) coming into the side to compete next year, after sitting out this year due to NCAA enrollment regulations.”
“We feel he can make an immediate impact in midfield or up front. We are confident that we will have a very strong team in 2012 with our returning players and new additions from England, the USA, and around the globe.”
Andrew Turner (Image Courtesy of Missouri State Photographic Services)
“We’ve got seven players from England, one from New Zealand and one from Mexico. The rest of the team is made up of players from around the United States including Missouri, Georgia, Florida, and California.”
“Our diversity makes us stronger and adds to the academic and athletic experience for the young men.”
“The challenge now for all the players is to maintain their academic progress and come back for the next season ready to go and take this team to the top of NCAA Division I soccer. The team and coaches have a vision to get there and believe we will make it happen.”
“I’d like to place on record my thanks to LFE for helping us to recruit Jack, Ben, James, and Andrew as they looked to further their education and football careers after leaving their English clubs.”
