Los Angeles Blues News Release -- www.bluessoccerclub.com
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
LOS ANGELES -- With less than a month to go until the Los Angeles Blues kick off their inaugural season in USL PRO, the team has added two more key players to their roster.
Chukwudi Chijindu, a 25-year-old forward, joins the LA Blues on loan from Major League Soccer’s CD Chivas USA, while Leonard Griffin, a 28-year-old defender, arrives on loan from Orlando City of USL PRO, pending USL and USSF approval.
LA Blues Head Coach Charlie Naimo said having been able to sign both players so close to the start of the season will have a huge impact for the team.
“Both players have MLS experience which will be invaluable,” said Naimo. “Leonard is the final piece we have been looking for in our back line, while Chuk can provide electricity up top."
Chijindu, a SoCal native, played for Damien High School in La Verne, California, where he earned several state and national honors while leading the team to multiple championships. He then went on to the University of Connecticut where he scored 26 career goals. He was signed by CD Chivas USA in 2009 where he played in 11 games, scoring one goal along with an assist. In 2010, Chijindu was sent on loan to Miami FC of the USSF Division 2-Pro League.
Griffin played locally for UCLA before being drafted 11th overall during the 2004 MLS SuperDraft by the Chicago Fire. He spent time with the Portland Timbers and Columbus Crew during 2007 and 2008. He moved to the L.A. Galaxy in 2009, but after suffering an injury was sent on loan to Hollywood United Hitmen of the USL Premier Development League. In 2010 he signed with the Austin Aztex of the USSF Division 2-Pro League.
For more information about the Los Angeles Blues, visit the official team website at www.bluessoccerclub.com. Season tickets, flex plans, and individual game tickets can be purchased online or by calling 310-264-4649. Stay up to date with all the latest team news by visiting the Los Angeles Blues facebook page and following the team on twitter @LABLUESPRO.