AFC Cleveland is proud to announce the return of forward Vinny Bell for the 2014 National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) season.
“I’m delighted that we have once again been able to sign Vinny as I feel that he brings a presence to the organization both on and off the field that is invaluable,” AFC Cleveland head coach Andy Hoggarth commented. “As a player and a person Vinny is first class and will continue to help us to build soccer in Northeast Ohio.”
Bell brings a veteran presence to the squad, having been with the club since its inception.
He was the first-ever player to sign with the Royals and has been a dominant force on and off the field since then. Bell has received a variety of honors during his time in the NPSL, including National Player of the Week (May 19, 2013) and the AFC Cleveland Fans’ Choice Award (2013). He also led the team in goals and points the past two seasons.
The striker excels in the physical play that the NPSL has become known for, using his size and speed to make a difference in the attack.
“We are thrilled to have Vinny back for another season,” AFC Cleveland Chairman Terry Lawriw stated. “He has certainly been a core player and a fan favorite over the past two years. We know that he will play an important role on our squad as we begin our journey to bring a championship to the great city of Cleveland.”
The Valley Forge HS graduate was a star at Case Western Reserve, finishing as the only two-time NSCAA All-American in program history. He would leave the Spartans as the all-time leader in goals (43) and points (101) in addition to single-season records in both goals (20) and points (50).
The Parma Heights, OH native also spent one season with the Case Western Reserve football team, earning first-team All-UAA honors. Bell was named UAA Offensive Player of the Week after totaling a career-high seven receptions for 180 yards and a score in an Academic Bowl victory versus Carnegie Mellon.
AFC Cleveland will begin the 2014 NPSL season on the road against Fort Pitt Regiment (May 16) and FC Buffalo (May 18) before returning home to Cleveland State University’s Krenzler Field for a May 24th match against the Cincinnati Saints.
