CFC Azul News Release -- www.cfcazul.com
Saturday, May 5, 2012
HAMDEN, Conn. – Connecticut FC Azul brings high level soccer back to Connecticut for the first time since 2002 as they host Boston Victory at East Haven High School on Saturday night at 7 p.m. The Azul will play in the Premier Development League, which is part of United Soccer Leagues. The game is also a historic moment for the Victory, who will begin their first season of play in the PDL as well. 
In the past six months, President and CEO of the Azul, Steve Coxon, has busily been preparing and recruiting coaches, players and staff to work for the franchise. Coxon, a member of the Connecticut Soccer Hall of Fame, also played on the last soccer franchise in Connecticut, the Connecticut Wolves of the A-League (now USL PRO). The team folded in 2002 after 10 seasons.
Coxon hired head coach David Kelly (also played on the Wolves) in January and he has since put together his coaching staff as well as a 26-man roster. Kelly currently is the assistant coach of the Southern Connecticut State University Owls but has also coached at Trinity College, Quinnipiac University and the University of Hartford. Kelly is also a staff instructor for the Connecticut State Coaching Education Program and was a former head coach with the Olympic Development Program.
Although the Azul have yet to play a game, Ryan Kinne emerges as the star player to look for big things from. Kinne was a standout at Monmouth University and got drafter in the MLS SuperDraft by the New England Revolution following his senior year. Kinne has already played in the PDL for the Central Jersey Spartans and brings expertise to go along with his talent.
Also bringing experience in the league is midfielder Steve Covino. Covino played professionally in USL PRO last year. Before joining F.C. New York, Covino also excelled in the PDL playing for the Western Mass Pioneers.