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Lightning Ink Safet Kovacevic to New Deal

September 24, 2010 - Professional Arena Soccer League (PASL)
Louisville Lightning News Release


Last season, Safet Kovacevic quickly became a fan favorite with the Louisville Lightning. Now the Bosnian star is back, putting pen to paper on a new contract that will keep him with the Lightning through season two.

Safet Kovacevic is a well-traveled soccer star, polishing his skills in Bosnia and Germany before moving to the United States. Kovacevic used his European experience to make his mark in the PASL last season, finishing third among all scorers in the league with 28 goals on the season. He also earned 24 assists in 16 appearances, making him an invaluable part of the Lightning offense. One of Kovacevic's biggest games came in January, when he exploded for five goals and added two more assists in an 18-4 romp over the Ohio Vortex. His performance for the Lightning earned Safet All-PASL First Team honors in the team's inaugural campaign. Impressive enough are his 52 points from last season, but now Kovacevic is looking to contribute even more.

Coach Ted Nichols said the signing of Kovacevic is pivotal to his team's success this season. "Safet was a big part of our success last year, not only because of his goal-scoring abilities, but because of his knack for the game. He finds himself in the right places and when he's not scoring, he sets up his teammates and makes those around him better," Nichols said. "Having him back, with a season of PASL soccer under his belt, is huge for our club."

Adjusting to indoor soccer in the United States hasn't been an issue for Kovacevic. He's one of the most experienced players on the team,and he's accustomed to various styles in different countries. Safet was born in Bosnia, and the 6'2 versatile scorer played for FK Sarajevo in his native homeland. His skills on the attack there led to appearances on the Bosnian U-13, U-15, U-17, U-19, and U-21 National Teams.

After developing his skills in Bosnia, Safet moved to Germany, quickly adjusting his game to the German style of soccer. He played for the Stuttgart Kickers and Sportfreunde Siegen in Germany before then moving to VFL Aalen and VFL Lubeck. In a country where Bundesliga crowds regularly lead all European soccer leagues in attendance, it's safe to say that Safet picked up top-notch training in a soccer-mad nation.

After adapting to the German way of life and soccer, Safet and his parents moved to the United States. Now the Bosnian forward and midfielder calls Louisville home, and Mockingbird Valley Sports Complex is where he showcases his skills. For Safet, it's a new home in a well-traveled career. For the Lightning and their fans, it's the continuation of a new era in Louisville soccer; one that brings top European talent to Mockingbird.



Professional Arena Soccer League Stories from September 24, 2010


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