SYRACUSE -- The Syracuse Silver Knights today announced the signing of a former local star Jon Gruenewald to their 2011-2012 roster, pending league approval. Gruenewald, a native of Manlius, New York, was Central New Yorks Player of the Year in 2004. Now after turning professional in 2010 the midfielder is welcomed back to the city of Syracuse to compete in the 2011-2012 MISL indoor season.
Gruenewald graduated from Rollins College and started playing with the USL Premier Developmental Leagues Central Florida Kraze from 2008-2009. Gruenewald began his professional career with USL PROs Charleston Battery. With the Battery, Gruenewald has played two seasons from 2010-2011, winning the USL Second Division Championship in his rookie campaign. Throughout his professional career, Gruenewald has played in a total of 23 games, averaging over 500 minutes a season.
"I think J.D.s speed and his technical ability along with playing the indoor game his entire life will make him a great player in this league for years to come" said Head Coach Tommy Tanner.
"I think its every players dream to play professionally in their given sport and to be able to represent your hometown while doing so makes it a dream come true" said Gruenewald. "I am very excited about the opportunity the Silver Knights have given me and hope to bring a championship to Syracuse in our inaugural season."
Fans can watch Gruenewald take the field on Friday, Nov. 4th at the Oncenter War Memorial Arena as the Syracuse Silver Knights kick off their MISL regular season against the Rochester Lancers. The home opener will be played at 7:30 p.m.
The Silver Knights will play 24 games this season, 12 at home, 12 on the road and will compete against teams from Milwaukee, Missouri, Baltimore, Rochester, Wichita, and Norfolk.
Courtesy: Syracuse Silver Knights Soccer
