Cape Cod Crusaders News Release - www.masspremiersoccer.com

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

WALTHAM, MA -- The MPS Cape Cod Crusaders have further strengthened their squad with the news that four players from the University of New Mexico have committed to the club for the 2008 season. The quartet of players is highlighted by midfielder Joel Theissen who has represented his native Australia on the international stage at the U-23 level. Joining Theissen is central defender Simon Ejdemyr and forwards PJ Wilson and Chris Wright.

"We are delighted to secure the services of four players from the University of New Mexico which is a national powerhouse at the Division I level," said Crusaders Head Coach Paul Baber. "All four players come highly recommended and they will play a huge part in our quest to regain the PDL National Championship."

Australian Theissen had a short career in his native homeland before jumping across the water to play collegiate soccer in the US. As a current member of the U-23 Olympic team, Theissen brings a wealth of experience to the Crusaders.

"Over the years, Joel has played with and against many high level players," said Baber. "His experience at the international level will prove him to be a key player in our squad this season."

Increasing the International flavor at the club is Swedish native Simon Ejdemyr. The central defender comes of the back of a breakout year at UNM where he was named Regional All-American on the Far West squad.

"Simon has solidified himself as one of the leading defenders in the high profile MPSF conference," said Baber. "He is a commanding figure at 6’3 and along with his defensive strengths, Simon also has the ability to score goals as he demonstrated last year at UNM."
Rounding off the quartet are forwards Chris Wright and PJ Wilson.

Wright joins the Crusaders after an outstanding 2007 collegiate season where he claimed the MPSF Player of the Year award after netting 12 goals and tallying four assists.

"Chris is an outstanding talent and a real handful for opposing defenders," said Baber. "His 6’5 frame makes him an intimidating presence and he doesn’t lack pace despite his size. We expect Chris to be one of the leading forwards in the PDL in 2008."

Wright will once again pair up with UNM strike partner PJ Wilson who has also pledged his commitment to the Crusaders for the 2008 season. The Indiana native has a fine reputation in the PDL after being named the 2006 U-19 Player of the Year when he competed for the Fort Wayne Fever.

"PJ has valuable PDL experience after playing a number of seasons in his native Fort Wayne," said Baber. "With his chemistry with Chris Wright, we expect our forward line to be one of the most dangerous in the country this season."

The four University of New Mexico starlets will make their Crusaders debut when the club open their 2008 campaign with a home fixture against the expansion New Hampshire Phantoms on Saturday 10th May. The game will be played at the Crusaders new home location of Mass Maritime Academy and kick-off is slated for 7pm.