Kalamazoo Outrage News Release - www.tkosoccer.org

Monday, April 7, 2008

KALAMAZOO, MI -- The affiliation between the Kalamazoo Outrage and Sheffield Wednesday went one step further today with the announcement that former Wednesday player Scott Ellis will be turning out for the Outrage this summer, pending USL/PDL approval.

Kalamazoo Outrage PDL Head Coach Stu Riddle spotted the 20 year old Ellis on his recent educational visit to Sheffield Wednesday and was excited by the capture. "Scott was a player that immediately caught my eye and I couldn’t believe it when he expressed an interest in playing in the States. I feel he’s perfect for the game in this country and we all expect him to be a marquee type player for us this season."

Ellis, a tricky attacking midfielder who can play on the right, the left or centrally joined Sheffield Wednesday at the age of 9 and at 16 was taken on by the club on a full time basis as a scholar. He signed professional forms with the Championship club at age 17 with his major highlight coming in the pre season of 2006 when he played twice with the Wednesday first team. Ellis’ impressive resume also boasts over 65 reserve team games that have seen him grace the fields and play against some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

In what will be his first trip to the USA, Ellis is extremely excited about the upcoming season. "After talking to Stu during his trip to Sheffield Wednesday, I’m going to be going over there expecting to win things in a good competitive environment. I’m really looking forward to showcasing myself in front of the people of Kalamazoo and also meeting up with the other lads who are going to be playing for the Outrage this season."

Sheffield Wednesday Academy Director Sean McAuley who has played a major role in Ellis’ development in recent years was pleased that Ellis had the opportunity to play for Wednesday’s USA based affiliate. "We are delighted that Scott has the opportunity to play for a progressive club - in the Kalamazoo Outrage. It will hopefully strengthen the relationship between both clubs and I’m sure he will add value to the TKO team."

McAuley also hopes that future players will follow in Scott’s footsteps. "We are delighted to offer this opportunity to all our players as we know under the guidance of Stu Riddle it is a further opportunity to develop our players. Stu is someone we know and trust to enhance the player’s ability and understanding which will enhance the partnership and benefit all parties concerned."

Fans in Kalamazoo can get their first look at Ellis and the Kalamazoo Outrage on Sunday May 4th when they host Club Guanajuato, a local Latino Select side. The match will kick off at 3pm at Mayors Riverfront Stadium in downtown Kalamazoo and will be open to the public free of charge.