From days gone by at Bristol City in England to playing in front of the rabid fans at Toronto FC, former player Jim Brennan has taken up his role as the first manager of York9 in the soon-to-be underway Canadian Premier League. One thing is for certain: experience is part of the gameplan.
Jim Brennan Ready for Opening Day
“We’ve had a lot of time to build and once we get that first game underway, the season starts and everything you’ve worked toward is ready to roll out. We’re looking forward to it being a local derby as well. It’s even more special. We’re hoping to have a large following out there with our supporters.”
It is rumoured that York9 will bring with it 1000 fans from the GTA on it’s opening day match at Forge FC in Hamilton. In what is sure to become a fierce rivalry, Brennan has his team prepared.
“It’s a bit more special because it’s a local derby and we’ll have York9 presence in the stands, but we want to get out there and have a good start to the season and hopefully come away from that game with three points. It’s always exciting, but to kick off the Canadian Premier League and make history makes it a special game for everybody.”
Experience Will Be Pivotal
Early on, clubs will need to rely on their more experienced players to create an identity. Brennan’s side has just that in players such as Joseph Di Chiara, who has experience playing in three continents. Finding a solid base oftentimes starts with a strong centre back pairing, which Di Chiara is sure to be an important part.
To complement Di Chiara is towering defender Roger Thompson. At 6’4, he offers crucial height in front of goal. Sure to be an important player on set pieces, Thompson returns to Canada having gained experience playing football factory Germany, as well as Sweden, and Finland. Not only is his physical prowess crucial, but he adds to the experienced players already signed for Brennan’s team.
While a nucleus must have a strong backbone, part of that needs to come with some flair — after all, you can’t win if you can’t score. Kyle Porter is another player who brings a wealth of experience. Having played for four Canadian pro teams as well as being capped by the national team, the winger is sure to provide much-needed spark.
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