Back-to-back USL MVP Finalist, Enzo Martinez and 2017 USL Defender of the year candidate, Joel Johnson have trained with Charlotte Independence’s MLS affiliate Colorado Rapids since January 22nd. The trial period presents an opportunity for the pair to make the Rapid’s roster.
The question Independence fans now have is obvious. Will two of the most talented players in the USL leave the Independence for MLS? That’s still to be determined, but for Martinez, who says every player aspires to be at the highest level, it’s an irrelevant question.
“I don't like to focus on things I can't control,” said Martinez. “Early on in my career, I did. I focused on things I didn't have control of or things that actually did more damage, than what helped. Being older and more mature, that's something I've learned and I feel like I stick by it. Not just in soccer, but in every aspect of life.”
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But the issue remains; how does the Independence benefit from having players scooped up by the Rapids?
“Our ability to provide opportunities for players to advance their careers is one of the reasons players come to Charlotte,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. ”Our relationship with Colorado allows the Rapids staff to get to know our players well and give them the opportunity to compete for a spot on the MLS roster in preseason.”
In recent history, the MLS-USL affiliation has been more than just a pipeline of loaned players. To begin 2017, the Rapids signed Cody Mizell to a short term contract before a breakout season with the Independence. A 2016 Charlotte-Colorado Combine participant, Callum Ross fielded interest from the Rapids and ultimately stayed under their close watch ahead of his fan-voted Rookie of the Year season.
Promotion to the Rapids roster or not, the on-field benefits are plenty.
“The opportunity to try and make the Rapids' roster is the most important factor for Enzo and Joel,” said Jeffries. “The fitness component is a plus; however, the ability to play and work with top players is a bigger positive factor.”
Martinez says regaining getting his fitness is primary, but the speed of play is an asset.
“In every preseason, I feel that's what takes a little bit longer to get,” said Martinez. “Fitness comes quicker, but that speed of play is the biggest advantage for me and Joel here.”
Coach Jeffries and his coaching staff have joined the Rapids in Casa Grande, Arizona for the first leg of training camp. Time well spent as the Independence coaches get to know the Rapids’ new coaching staff and potential Independence loanees.
“In our sport, as in many, the relationships you build as you work with different groups are fantastic,” said Jeffries. “If some of the players they currently work with end up coming to Charlotte, their transition will be easier.”
Independence fans, who may not be sold on their return on investment for potentially losing Martinez or Johnson, can possibly find solace in the relatable comments Martinez had for bigger things ahead.
“I don't focus on that. If things like that come, they come. If they don't, they don't. Every player welcomes that opportunity, but if you play for that reason you lose sight of what you have in front of you.”
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Back-to-back USL MVP Finalist, Enzo Martinez and 2017 USL Defender of the year candidate, Joel Johnson have trained with Charlotte Independence’s MLS affiliate Colorado Rapids since January 22nd. The trial period presents an opportunity for the pair to make the Rapid’s roster.
The question Independence fans now have is obvious. Will two of the most talented players in the USL leave the Independence for MLS? That’s still to be determined, but for Martinez, who says every player aspires to be at the highest level, it’s an irrelevant question.
“I don’t like to focus on things I can’t control,” said Martinez. “Early on in my career, I did. I focused on things I didn’t have control of or things that actually did more damage, than what helped. Being older and more mature, that’s something I’ve learned and I feel like I stick by it. Not just in soccer, but in every aspect of life.”
Recent News: Independence Bring Home Goalkeeper of the Year
But the issue remains; how does the Independence benefit from having players scooped up by the Rapids?
“Our ability to provide opportunities for players to advance their careers is one of the reasons players come to Charlotte,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. ”Our relationship with Colorado allows the Rapids staff to get to know our players well and give them the opportunity to compete for a spot on the MLS roster in preseason.”
In recent history, the MLS-USL affiliation has been more than just a pipeline of loaned players. To begin 2017, the Rapids signed Cody Mizell to a short term contract before a breakout season with the Independence. A 2016 Charlotte-Colorado Combine participant, Callum Ross fielded interest from the Rapids and ultimately stayed under their close watch ahead of his fan-voted Rookie of the Year season.
Promotion to the Rapids roster or not, the on-field benefits are plenty.
“The opportunity to try and make the Rapids’ roster is the most important factor for Enzo and Joel,” said Jeffries. “The fitness component is a plus; however, the ability to play and work with top players is a bigger positive factor.”
Martinez says regaining getting his fitness is primary, but the speed of play is an asset.
“In every preseason, I feel that’s what takes a little bit longer to get,” said Martinez. “Fitness comes quicker, but that speed of play is the biggest advantage for me and Joel here.”
Coach Jeffries and his coaching staff have joined the Rapids in Casa Grande, Arizona for the first leg of training camp. Time well spent as the Independence coaches get to know the Rapids’ new coaching staff and potential Independence loanees.
“In our sport, as in many, the relationships you build as you work with different groups are fantastic,” said Jeffries. “If some of the players they currently work with end up coming to Charlotte, their transition will be easier.”
Independence fans, who may not be sold on their return on investment for potentially losing Martinez or Johnson, can possibly find solace in the relatable comments Martinez had for bigger things ahead.
“I don’t focus on that. If things like that come, they come. If they don’t, they don’t. Every player welcomes that opportunity, but if you play for that reason you lose sight of what you have in front of you.”
