Games at FIU, FAU, Barry, FGCU and NSU lead up to home opener April 6

The Strikers have scheduled no fewer than five preseason matches against local colleges and universities in South Florida. The Strikers are capitalizing on the wealth of soccer talent at these schools in order to prepare for their home opener against FC Edmonton on Saturday, April 6 at historic Lockhart Stadium.

“Our home opener is just around the corner and we’re excited to be able to play against many of our local colleges and other good competition as we prepare for Edmonton,” said head coach Daryl Shore.

Several of the trips will be homecomings of sorts for players on the Strikers team who played their college careers here in South Florida. Darnell King’s time at Florida Atlantic University is remembered fondly by the Strikers’ defender.

“I spent some time training with them during the offseason, so it will be good to go back and give them some professional experience,” said King about the players at FAU.

The Strikers will also be making the trip to Barry University, the alma mater of Strikers’ midfielder Mark Anderson who player four seasons with the Buccaneers.

“Going back to the place I played four years, and obviously had a lot of success, will be nice to play against some of my friends and old coaches,” said Anderson. “I’m really looking forward to that one and it will probably be the highlight of my preseason.”

In addition to FAU and Barry, the Strikers preseason trips will also include visits to Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida International University, Nova Southeastern University and the Copa Latina All-Stars.

Complete Preseason Schedule:

Thursday, March 7 at FIU – 7:30 pm

Sunday, March 10 at Copa Latina All-Stars – 4:00 pm

Wednesday, March 13 at FGCU – 7:00 pm

Saturday, March 16 at Barry – 5:00 pm

Wednesday, March 20 at NSU – 7:00 pm

Saturday, March 23 at FAU – 7:00 pm

This Saturday, March 2, is the First Annual Dade-Broward High School All-Star Game at Lockhart Stadium. The game features boys and girls seniors from both counties and admission for the match is just $5. Interested fans can contact the Strikers by calling (954)606-0400. Follow the Strikers on Facebook.com/ftlstrikers, Twitter @FTLStrikers and Instagram (ftlstrikers).