What does it mean to be a member of the first roster in Chattanooga Red Wolves SC’s history?
It means a lot being able to be one of the first ever players on Chattanooga’s roster. I’m sure twenty years from now I’ll look back on this and only have positive memories. It’s always great to be part of something new.
How would you describe your style of play?
I like to play out the back and find my midfielders and be able to start an attack from deep in our own half. I can also get on the rough and physical side of defending when needed.
When did you know soccer was what you wanted to pursue? Did you always want to be a professional footballer?
I knew from a young age that I wanted to play soccer professionally. It started off with my dad coaching me, and that’s when soccer really became my passion.
Is there an iconic player that you’ve looked up to throughout your career?
Kaka and Ronaldinho have always been two of my favorite players.
What made a move to Chattanooga the right one for you at this point in your career?
I’m still pretty early in my career development, and moving to Chattanooga is a critical decision in my career. The club certainly has high ambitions and is moving in the right direction. I feel it definitely matches my ambitions as a player.
With 2019 being USL League One’s debut season, what are you most excited about? What are your expectations for the 2019 season?
Whenever anything new comes around, it’s a special feeling. Being that the league is brand new, you really have no idea what to expect. I do expect as a player and a club that we challenge for a championship.
How are you prepping for your time here?
I’ve been doing a lot of gym work and making sure my strength and fitness levels are high. I want to come into preseason ready to take off. Also, I’ve been spending a lot of time on the ball and doing technical work which is always an important aspect of the game to stay sharp on.
You spent time with Härnösands FF of Sweden’s Division 2 Norrland—What did you enjoy most about playing there?
I really enjoyed that I was out of my comfort zone—I learned a lot there. Through the good and bad, it made me more resilient and learn different styles of play.
In your opinion, how does play differ in Sweden compared to the United States?
In northern Sweden, where I was, play is a little more physical than in the south. So in that respect, it’s similar to the American style of play. In Sweden, they emphasize playing out the back a little more.
You had a decorated collegiate career. In fact, while at St. Francis College, you helped lead your team to two Northeast Conference Championships. Describe those experiences.
Winning the first championship was massive for us because we weren’t the favorites at the time. Winning the second one was more expected. It felt unreal since we thrashed our rivals LIU Brooklyn in the final 5-0. Getting to the NCAA tournament is always a great experience.
Favorite pregame song?
Dreams and Nightmares by Meek Mill
If you could play any position on the field (other than your primary one), what would it be? And why?
Striker, since I used to play it when I was younger. There’s no better feeling than scoring goals, especially game-winning ones.
What are you most looking forward to about living in Chattanooga?
It’s going to be a change of pace, especially coming from NYC. From what I hear it’s a beautiful city.
What is your favorite thing about your hometown New York, NY?
So much comes to mind that it’s hard for me to name just one. But I would have to say my neighborhood, Roosevelt Island.
Favorite historic soccer moment?
Being in Sao Paulo, Brazil with family when Corinthians won the Copa Libertadores in 2012.
Leo is joining Chattanooga Red Wolves SC for the club’s 2019 Inaugural Season. Keep up with Leo on Instagram.
