Thunder announces first two signings of the 2007 season

Published on February 17, 2007 under USL First Division (USL-1)
Minnesota Thunder News Release


ST. PAUL, Minn. - The Minnesota Thunder announced today that is has signed two players, including the first new player on the squad for 2007. Returning forward Leo Gibson has come to terms with the team under a three year contract. The Thunder has also signed former Cincinnati Kings (USL 2) central defender Derek Smith to a two year contract.

Gibson returns to the Thunder for his third season with the team. The 2006 season was Gibson's first true contribution to the Thunder because of a wrist injury early in the 2005 preseason that kept him out all year. Last season Gibson played in 18 games logging 1,081 minutes and contributing to four goals and three assists.

Thunder head coach Amos Magee is excited about Gibson's development this past season and is anxious to see what he can do this season.

Leo was one of the bright spots of our 2006 season," said Magee. "He really matured as the season progressed and became a dynamic force for us by the end of the year. He has worked hard this off-season and will have an opportunity this year to pick up where he left off."

Gibson attended King College in 2002-2003 and was discovered at the Thunder's combine in 2005.

Smith comes to the Thunder after two straight seasons as a USL Second Division All-League First Team selection with the Cincinnati Kings. The 6-2, 205 pound central defender also has experience in the USL First Division after spending part of the 2004 season with the Virginia Beach Mariners. This past season he played in 17 games logging over 1,100 minutes and contributing to three goals and one assist.

We are always looking for strong and tough defenders," said Magee. "I saw Derek last year on our preseason trip and liked him enough to keep him in the back of my mind for this season. He was one of the top defenders in the USL Second Division and I feel his size and game can translate to the First Division. I hope he can become a mainstay on the Thunder for the future."

The Hopkinsville, Kentucky native attended Union College from 2000-2003 where he received several honors including the teams Defensive Man of the Year and Most Valuable Player in 2002. He also earned All-American Honorable Mention and First Team All-Region in 2001 and 2002.

This is a great opportunity for me to be a part of a good club with a strong history in the United States," said Smith. "My ambitions are to be the best player I can for the Thunder. I want to learn from the players and coaches who have experience at this level and higher. I want to be able to succeed in all aspects of the game with the team and individually. I am very excited for this opportunity with the Thunder!'

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