Forward Aaron Paye Returns To Thunder For 2007

Published on May 15, 2007 under USL First Division (USL-1)
Minnesota Thunder News Release


ST. PAUL, Minn. (Tuesday, May 15, 2007) - The Minnesota Thunder announced today the return of forward Aaron Paye, pending USSF approval. The Thunder also signed forward Darren Spicer, pending USSF approval and international clearance, and defender Alejandro De la Mora.

Paye returns to the Thunder after having a disappointing season in 2006. The previous season, Paye proved to be a spark off the Thunder bench tallying seven goals and two assists in 1,122 minutes played. Last season Paye was only able to contribute one goal and one assist in 552 minutes. The Liberian forward has impressed head coach Amos Magee heading into the 2007 season.

"Aaron and I both thought our season was a disappointment for him," said Magee. "I challenged him to improve in several areas in the off-season and he met and surpassed my expectations for his off-season regimen. I believe he can be a force in this league."

Paye spent his collegiate career at Farleigh Dickinson and was a third-team All-American selection during his senior season. He helped to lead FDU to four straight NEC tournament titles and three straight NCAA tournament appearances. He finished his collegiate career with 29 goals and 14 assists for 72 points.

Spicer joins the Thunder after being drafted by Chivas USA with their first pick in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft. The 5-11, 165 pound forward played his collegiate career at Princeton University where he tallied 27 goals.

After college, Spicer departed for Germany where he spent time with Brinkum S.V. of the Overliga. While there he racked up four goals and eight assists in his short stint.

"Darren came highly recommended by one of the youth national team coaches," said Magee. "Once he got here, I loved his work rate, toughness, attitude and ability to play end line to end line."

De la Mora, a native of Cancun, Mexico played for several Mexican professional teams in his teens including Serpientes de Cancun, Tucanes de Cancun, Tecos, and Inter Playa del Carmen. He also spent one season at Dakota County Technical College. De la Mora is the first Mexican player the Thunder has signed since Luis Labastida in 2000.

'Alejandro is a very good, young defender," said Magee. "He is outstanding defending one on one and is absolutely fearless in tackles and in the air. His work rate and tenacity are unmatched. Once he gets better in possession, he will be a great player for the Thunder.'

The Thunder's next home game is on May 26, at 7:35 p.m. against the Puerto Rico Islanders at the National Sports Center. This match is the second game of a double header featuring the Minnesota Lightning's first game of the season at 5:05 p.m. against the Chicago Gaels.

For tickets please call 651.917.TEAM or visit www.mnthunder.com


Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



USL First Division Stories from May 15, 2007


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central