Gibson Returns to Fight for Starting Spot

Published on January 17, 2006 under USL First Division (USL-1)
Minnesota Thunder News Release


ST. PAUL, Minn. (Tuesday, January 17, 2006) -- Minnesota Thunder head coach Amos Magee is showing that he is committed about using Minnesota talent for the 2006 season by signing Richfield, Minn. native and former Thunder player Nathaniel Winkel. The midfielder rejoins the Thunder after spending two seasons playing in Sweden and one season with the Virginia Beach Mariners.

"Not only do I think Nate is the best Minnesota player available, but I believe he was one of the best American players available," said Magee. "He will make an immediate impact in our midfield and Minnesota soccer fans are in for a real treat."

Winkel, 27, was a two-time all-state player at Richfield High School before spending two seasons at the University of Maryland. Winkel transferred to Marquette University before turning pro with the Thunder in 2000. He scored two goals and contributed five assists in 2000 in only 701 minutes. He spent two seasons with the Thunder before heading to Hollvikens GIF in Sweden. In 2004 he returned to the US to play with the Virginia Beach Mariners and in 2005 he made the trek back to Sweden to play with Hogaborgs BK.

The Thunder has also come to terms with Liberian forward Leo Gibson who was on the roster in 2005 but did not see any time due to a hand injury. Gibson, 22, attended King College in 2002-2003 and was discovered at the Thunder's combine this past season. Gibson saw time in several exhibition games in 2005 and showed his goal-scoring capabilities.

Gibson will be fighting for a starting spot along with fellow Liberian striker Aaron Paye. After 2004 leading goal scorer, Melvin Tarley was transferred to Real Salt Lake of Major League Soccer, and 2005 leading goal scorer, Johnny Menyongar, joined the Rochester Rhinos, the Thunder is anticipating these two Liberians to pick up where Tarley and Menyongar left off.

"I've seen what Leo can do on the field and it's exciting," said Djorn Buchholz, general manager of the Thunder. "We have had great success finding Liberian forwards that have a knack for the goal and I feel our goal production will get a boost from these two in 2006."

The Thunder will open up its season on April 23, 2006 at 5:05 p.m. in the Metrodome against the defending USL First Division Champions the Seattle Sounders. Season tickets are currently on sale by logging onto www.mnthunder.com or by calling 651-917-8326.

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USL First Division Stories from January 17, 2006


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