Matthew Lacy is the Victory Lookout – providing inside coverage of Vancouver Washington’s own soccer club. Watch for his columns on your #HometownSoccer club as they stay #ShipShape for the people of Clark County and beyond!

By Matthew Lacy

VANCOUVER, WA—On a rainy Sunday night (4/1), Head Coach Logan Emory and Assistant Coach Scott Lewis stood on the Hampton Inn Championship Field to evaluate a solid group of possible Vancouver Victory players.  “In an open tryout, you are never sure of what will show up.” stated Coach Emory. “But all of them showed up ready to play and there wasn’t anybody there I would immediately send away.”

Emory noticed the positive nature of the group and the workman attitude of the future V2FC hopefuls, most of whom are local players with good roots in our community.  On the sidelines, a contingent of ardent supporters known as the Vanguard were also on hand to, “…see what kind of talent is trying out.” as stated on their Facebook page.  They are a friendly, welcoming lot.

The second round of open tryouts is this Friday (4/6) at Harmony Sports Complex from 7-9pm and the full coaching staff with be on hand: Coach Emory, Assistant Coaches Scott Lewis and Otis Holt.  General Manager Sean Janson will be there as well.

Coach Emory stated that he is, “looking for solid roster guys,” and, “to re-evaluate the first round tryout guys.”  Of course, he said with a smile, there is always the hope of getting an unexpected “head-turner” walking onto the field as well.  “I want each guy to bring something different, hard-working players that understand themselves as players. I don’t want guys out there trying to be Cristiano Ronaldo to impress me, but by doing what they do.”

It is an exciting time to be a Vancouver Victory supporter, Sea of Blue.  Season tickets are still available.  The first game of the season is May 5th against the Yakima United FC and it is sure to rock the high seas.

Below: too young to tryout by not to be a Victory fan.