Thunder signs 6'4" Japanese forward Keisuke Ota

Published on March 14, 2007 under USL First Division (USL-1)
Minnesota Thunder News Release


ST. PAUL, Minn. (Wednesday, March 14, 2007) - The Minnesota Thunder announced today the signing of 6 foot 4 inch Japanese forward Keisuke Ota. The former J-League second division player was discovered at the Thunder combine that took place in February.

Ota joins the Thunder after spending the last five seasons playing in Japan. Hailing from Shizuoka, Japan, Ota spent four seasons (2002-05) with Avispa Fukuoka of the J-League second division. While there he recorded 12 goals and 11 assists during his tenure although he played sparingly during his first two seasons. He spent the 2006 season with Thespa Kusatsu, also of the second division, where he tallied four goals. Ota was also a member of the Japanese College National Team in 2001.

"We were intrigued by Keisuke's resume even before the combine and were very excited about how he actually played once he arrived," said Thunder head coach Amos Magee. "We feel like he gives us a big solid target forward presence that this team has lacked since forward Gerard Lagos. He is very advanced tactically and one of the smartest players we have ever seen come through the combine."

The 27-year old forward was the tallest player in the J-League over the past three seasons and has a strong aerial presence. He will join signed forwards Leo Gibson and Sasha Gotsmanov in the Thunder attack.

"Keisuke plays very well with his back to the goal," said Magee. "He will give our other forwards and midfielders a dangerous option to make runs into the box and get into scoring position. I'm excited about the possibilities."

Keisuke is the first player signed from the Thunder's annual combine. The Thunder Combine took place in February and included more than 60 players from countries all over the world. Past combine discoveries have included Morgan Zeba, Zafer Kilickan, Johnny Menyongar, and Leo Gibson.

The Thunder opens its home season on Sunday, May 6 at 5:05 p.m. at James Griffin Stadium against the defending champions, the Vancouver Whitecaps. For ticket information call 651.917.TEAM or visit www.mnthunder.com

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