OKC Energy FC News Release -- www.energyfc.com
Friday, February 14, 2014
OKLAHOMA CITY – OKC Energy FC has announced the signings of Philip Lund, Paul Wyatt and Gareth Evans General Manager Jason Hawkins announced today. Lund and Wyatt’s signings are pending visa processing and receiving their international transfer clearances.
Lund, a central midfielder from Vejle, Denmark, played in one game for the Seattle Sounders during the 2013 season. Prior to coming to MLS, Lund played four seasons in Denmark.
“When Philip first signed with Seattle Sounders, I was very happy for him,” said Energy FC Head Coach Jimmy Nielsen. “I have followed his career in the Danish League. He is a young and hungry player, and he's the kind of player who can make a difference in games. When he was released from the MLS, I didn't have to think twice about signing him to our team. He will be a great addition.”
While in his home country, Lund played for second-division side FC Lyn, Vejle Boldklub in the first division and spent time with Kolding FC on loan. Lund also played for the Danish Under-19 national team.
“I am happy to sign with Energy FC,” Lund said. “I see a lot of positive perspectives and potential that I’m drawn to. We are building this club together, and we will represent it as best we can. I want to do my best to show people this is a sustainable project we’re working to establish in Oklahoma.”
Wyatt, a native of Modbury, England, was a four-year starter at forward/midfield for James Madison University, registering 28 goals and 11 assists for 67 points in 73 games.
“I was aware of Paul from his time at James Madison University where he was the driving force behind a successful team,” said Energy FC assistant coach Chris Spendlove. “He has two good feet and is extremely athletic with good size and power. With his engine and mentality we are excited to have him on board and have no doubts he will give us everything he has in every practice and game.”
Wyatt was named to the NSCAA All-South Atlantic Region First Team and All-Colonial Athletic Association as a junior and senior. He was also named to the CAA All-Tournament team, a Soccer America Preseason All-America, Top Drawer Soccer Top 100 Underclassmen Preseason list, CAA Preseason Co-Player of the Year, College Sports Madness Preseason All-CAA First Team and named to the Hermann Trophy watch list as a senior. He earned NSCAA All-America Second Team honors as a junior.
Wyatt led the Dukes in goals (9) and points (21) and finished his career tied for fourth in goals (9) and tied for sixth in total points (21). He was named JMU’s Athlete of the Year and the team’s Most Valuable Offensive Player as a senior, earned team Co-Most Valuable Offensive Player as a junior and was named Rookie of the Year as a freshman.
He played for Reading United of the PDL in 2012.
“Oklahoma City has one of the fastest growing soccer fan bases in the country and becoming part of the first professional soccer team in the city is an extremely exciting and humbling prospect,” Wyatt said. “It’s clear the coaching staff is putting together a squad based on not only a mix of youthful energy and experienced minds, but also players who want to work for the club and for each other. I look forward to getting started and believe that this is the beginning of an exciting journey for the club, the fans and the city.”
Evans previously played for USL PRO’s Wilmington Hammerheads for the last three seasons. He also played with the Carolina RailHawks. Prior to his success in Wilmington, Evans began his North American career with the Austin Aztex and later played with the Real Maryland Monarchs.
“We are thrilled to have a player of Gareth's experience and ability to anchor our backline this season,” Nielsen said. “He has continued to develop and mature, and I have no doubt he will be a leader for us this year. Gareth brings all the qualities we are looking for, as well as invaluable multi-year league experience.”
Evans played in the Welsh Premier League for Newi Cefn Druids and then signed a professional contract with Wrexham in 2006.
“I’m very excited to join Energy FC,” Evans said. “I knew as soon as I spoke with the coaching staff this is where I wanted to be, and I’m very thankful to have the opportunity. I am 100-percent focused and determined to do everything I can to repay the faith shown in bringing me here. I want to help this organization be successful from the beginning.”
Season seat holders who have paid in full may participate in the team’s Select-a-Seat event on February 22. Those individuals who have not paid in full and wish to select seats as soon as possible may contact their account representative at 235-KICK.