Forward Madison Re-Signs Midfield Mainstay Eric Leonard for 2021

February 1, 2021 - United Soccer League One (USL1)
Forward Madison FC News Release

Forward Madison FC defensive midfielder Eric Leonard
(Forward Madison FC, Credit: Justin Nuoffer, Forward Madison FC)

"I'm super excited to be back," Leonard said. "Madison's kind of my backyard, with my family being from Chicago. It's such an awesome community and I'm excited for year number three."

Leonard continued his rise in 2020, achieving a milestone moment on August 19 when he scored his first professional goal via a headed effort against Omaha. According to head coach Carl Craig, Leonard will help bring balance to the team's attacking-minded approach.

"Given the style of football we're looking to play, we need a bouncer, a doorman," Craig said. "We've got to have defense to sustain our forward progress and Eric fits wonderfully into that position. We're very pleased to have him back."

Leonard, who grew up in Palatine, Ill., captained Butler University before joining Nerang Soccer Club in Australia in 2018. Dubbed the "American Import" upon his arrival, Leonard made an immediate impact in the Outback, earning the Gold Coast Premier League Player of the Year award.

After signing his first professional contract with Forward Madison in 2019, Leonard became a mainstay in the midfield, providing the Flamingos with a strong defensive backbone. In 2021, Leonard said he's looking to add a more well-rounded element to his style of play.

"I really feel that Coach Craig is going to take my game to the next level," Leonard said. "Right now, I don't think there's a better place in the country where I can continue to develop and grow than in Madison. Year three, not only for me, but for our club, is going to be the best year yet."

Forward Madison FC defensive midfielder Eric Leonard (Justin Nuoffer, Forward Madison FC)	Forward Madison FC defensive midfielder Eric Leonard (Justin Nuoffer, Forward Madison FC)	Forward Madison FC defensive midfielder Eric Leonard (Justin Nuoffer, Forward Madison FC)
Forward Madison FC defensive midfielder Eric Leonard (Justin Nuoffer, Forward Madison FC)	Forward Madison FC defensive midfielder Eric Leonard (Justin Nuoffer, Forward Madison FC)

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