USL Orange County SC

Orange County SC Adds English Premier League Veteran, Jos Hooiveld

June 5, 2018 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Orange County SC News Release


IRVINE, Calif. - Orange County Soccer Club are delighted today to announce the signing of defender Jos Hooiveld from FC Twente. The vastly experienced center back joins the club following a stellar career in Europe having played for clubs such as Celtic FC, Southampton FC and Norwich City FC.

"We are very excited to bring in a player with the experience and leadership that Jos has. He's played at the highest level & is a winner! He's a highly motivated player that expects a lot from himself & his teammates. He will be extremely valuable on the field and in the locker room as we continue to build a championship winning team," said Orange County SC Head Coach Braeden Cloutier.

Hooiveld, 35 started his career in 2003 with Heerenveen of the Eredivisie, following a three-year spell in his native Holland he then spent time in Austria and Finland. During his time in Finland he won numerous accolades which included the; league's most valuable player and Defender of the Year, whilst leading the club to their first ever league title (Veikkausligga, Finish Premier League).

Following his success in Finland he moved onto to AIK one of the biggest teams in Sweden. In January 2010, Hooiveld made the switch to the Scottish Premier League Champions with Celtic FC and he made his debut in the UEFA Champions League match against Sporting de Braga on July 28, 2010.

"We are delighted to add Jos to our talented roster as we are approaching a crucial part of our season. He is a first-class professional whose vast experience will have a significant impact on our team," said Orange County SC General Manager and Executive Vice President Oliver Wyss.

He made his debut in English football in 2011 with Southampton F.C. where he played alongside current Orange County SC captain, Richard Chaplow. The duo enjoyed a successful period together achieving promotion back to the English Premier League. On their return to the EPL, he became a mainstay in the Southampton backline making over 70 appearances for the club over a 4-year spell.

This past season he was with FC Twente of the Eredivisie, where he made 16 appearances. He joins the squad reuniting with former teammate Richard Chaplow and is eligible to make his debut against LA Galaxy II on Sunday evening.

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