“The club’s significant heritage, longstanding success, and solid membership base were impossible to resist”, states CSL chairman Domenic Di Gironimo in making the announcement. “Hamilton Croatia is a fine example of the future of the CSL, with its strong community ties, and a commitment to youth development.”
In existence since 1957, the club’s recent successes include finishing the 2008 OSL South Region season undefeated, and ending on top of the OSL West Division table in 2009 during its first year after being promoted to the OSL’s highest league. Ron Davidson, recently named OSL Coach of the Year, has been an instrumental part of Hamilton Croatia’s winning ways both on and off the field, leading the bid for promotion to the CSL.
The CSL team will be hosted at the new Croatia Sports and Community Centre in Stoney Creek, where the club intends to extend its rich history for many years to come.
“We plan to announce a few more expansion clubs for 2010 within the next few weeks as we conclude the reviews and negotiations with several prospective communities.
By 2011, the CSL will complete its reach across Ontario, ensuring that the top young athletes in every region will have an opportunity to excel in the sport without sacrificing education or home life,” closed off Di Gironimo.
Mark Vuksan, president of the Croatia Sports and Community Centre of Hamilton, responded with: “With our extremely passionate fan base and the support of the local soccer community, we are very excited to be able to bring professional soccer to the city of Hamilton. Our club is determined to create a winning environment and provide opportunities for all soccer fans and players in Hamilton. “
Davidson added his comments: “I am both excited and thrilled to be coaching the team as we enter our first season in the CSL, I have gotten to know the Hamilton Croatia organization over the past three years and we have the perfect ingredients to be very successful in the CSL. “
Joining Ron on the sidelines will be assistant coach Jason Allen, goalkeeper coach Ante Culina and team Manager Mike Radencic. ”All three staff members will be a tremendous asset to this team as we move forward in this new direction,” said Davidson
“In addition to our CSL squad we are committed to the U21 reserves, our rep team program, and a newly formed house league. We are proud to offer our athletes the CSA/OSA’s complete Pyramid for Play. We believe that every soccer player in Hamilton now has the opportunity to excel,” added director of soccer operations, Allan Perin.
The Canadian Soccer League will kickoff its almost 5-month long regular season on May 7 through to the end of September, to be followed by the playoffs and the Championship final during October.
