Defender Alexis Souahy made his debut last Saturday, included in coach James O’Connor’s starting XI against Atlanta United FC 2 for the first time since signing in the offseason.
A product of Bowling Green State University, the former Falcon spoke with www.loucity.com about making his debut with the first team.
“It was great. It’s amazing on the first time,” said Alexis. “I was waiting patiently and I got the chance so it was a good moment and now I just want to live it again. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the result we wanted but we’ll get back and hopefully, we can bounce back next week.”
A native of Seine-Saint-Denis (near Paris), France, Souahy was considered an under-the-radar signing after standing out in the MAC conference for three years in Ohio. From the first day he arrived, though, his own expectations have been high.
“For anyone, it takes a lot of work. Nothing is given. You’ve got to go earn it,” he remarked. “Unfortunately, I had my injury in the preseason that probably pushed me back. So when I came back from my injury I had to probably work harder than ever.”
O’Connor has been impressed with the rookie’s early days with the club, telling the Courier-Journal in March that what struck him in the immediate was the way he fit the team’s mindset and approach.
“The thing about Alexis is that determination for growth, which fits the culture,” O’Connor said. “I think that’s the biggest thing for us, is he wants to get better.”
With fellow defender and newcomer Pat McMahon out last week due to a nagging leg injury, Souahy is looking to step in and take control of his own destiny.
“I’m just trying to help the team. Hopefully, I can get as many minutes as I can. It was such an amazing moment to be with the guys on the field. I just want to live it again.”
