USL-1 Rochester Rhinos

Rhinos Sign Key Defenders

Published on December 3, 2008 under USL First Division (USL-1)
Rochester Rhinos News Release


(Rochester, NY)... Rochester Rhinos President and General Manager Matthew Ford announced today that the club has re-signed veteran defenders Scott Palguta and John Ball and added the versatile Ryan Heins to the roster for the 2009 season. All contracts are subject to USL and USSF approval.

"We're thrilled to have Scott and John back on the roster for 2009," said Ford. "Their leadership and experience was invaluable in 2008 as we weathered a tough start and blossomed into a very competitive team. These two players are very important pieces as we look to next year and continue to assemble the defense.

Palguta signs a two year deal and returns in 2009 for his 5th season with the Rhinos after being named a 2008 USL 2nd Team All-Star. Palguta also picked up the 2008 Coaches Award chosen by the 2008 Rhinos coaching team for a stellar season leading the Rhinos back line.

John Ball returns to Rochester on a one year contract after taking a well deserved break from indoor soccer this winter. In 2008, Ball transitioned from midfield to defense and made the right-back position his own with some very solid play. Ball and Palguta join Kenney Bertz on the defensive roster who is already under contract for the 2009 season.

The Rhinos have also agreed terms with versatile newcomer Ryan Heins who saw time on loan from Harrisburg towards the end of the 2008 season. Heins played on defense, in midfield and at striker during his short loan spell and could add depth to any of these areas in 2009. Heins has signed a two-year contract with the club.

"Ryan is such a versatile player and he's made a quick adjustment to this level," commented Ford. "Ryan gives us great flexibility in that he has the potential to start on this team in four or five positions."

The Rhinos will continue to add to their roster as the off-season unfolds with more key signings expected to be announced soon.

"We're having a good amount of healthy conversations and it's great that so many players want to be back," remarked Ford. "Our plan is to balance the right returning players with some new impact signings. It's a puzzle that takes some time to assemble, but we're excited with the progress and the conversations we're having at this time."

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USL First Division Stories from December 3, 2008


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