Crusaders' Moves Prepare for Season

Sign Four from New Mexico

March 13, 2008

The Cape Cod Crusaders got a massive boost this week when Graham Munro and Jason Massie announced their intentions to return to the club. This comes as the team signed University of New Mexico players Joel Thiessen, Simon Epidemyr, PJ Wilson and Chris Wright for the 2008 season.

“We are delighted to secure the services of four players from the University of New Mexico which is a national powerhouse at the Division 1 level,” said Crusaders Head Coach Paul Baber.

The four players are highlighted by midfielder Joel Thiessen who has played for his homeland Australia at the U-23 International level. “His experience at the international level will prove him to be a key player in our squad this season,” said Baber. As a current member of the U-23 Olympic Team, Thiessen will bring valuable leadership to the Crusaders

Next is Swedish Native Simon Epidemyr, who is one of the top defenders in the highly competitive MPSF conference. “He is a commanding figure at 6’3 and along with his defensive strengths, Simon also has the ability to score goals as he demonstrated last year at UNM,” said Baber. He was named Regional All American on the far west squad this past year.

Rounding out the foursome are forwards Chris Wright and PJ Wilson. Wright joins the Crusaders after a year in which he was the MPSF player of the year scoring 12 goals and four assists. “His 6’5 frame makes him an intimidating presence and he doesn’t lack pace despite his size. We expect Chris to be one of the leading forward in the PDL in 2008,” Baber said. Wright will be playing with UNM teammate PJ Wilson. “PJ has valuable PDL experience after playing a number of years in his native Fort Wayne,” Baber said. Coupled with Chris Wright, the Crusaders should have one of the most dangerous front lines in the league this year.

Also joining the team on the front line, are Graham Munro and Jason Massie. Munro, a Binghamton University graduate, will bring valuable experience and leadership to the Crusaders in his third season playing for them.

“Graham has been with the club over the last two PDL campaigns so he knows what it takes to reach the playoffs,” said Baber.

Massie, a Rio Grande University standout, will be joining the Crusaders for his second season. The English native, a technically gifted player, looks to help lead the Crusaders to its fourth straight Northeast Division Title in 2008.

The Cape Cod Crusaders kick off their season May 10 against the expansion New Hampshire Phantoms. The game will be played at the Crusaders new home located at the Mass. Maritime Academy and will kick off at 7:00 p.m.

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