Two Stark County, thought to be among the top talent ever produced in the area, have crossed paths again. This time Spencer Semple and Mitch Griffiths are teammates, not rivals from opposing schools. The former GlenOak HS and Jackson HS standouts now find themselves at one of the top Division II programs in the country, Notre Dame College.
NDC is led by a fantastic head coach named Michael “Mac” McBride, someone known for developing talent at the collegiate level. And he was lucky enough to snag the pair as they found both themselves looking for a new program and a fresh start.
Semple, a NSCAA All-Region selection as a high school keeper, landed first at Wright State and then at Niagara University. He felt neither was “a perfect fit” so he started to look for a program closer to home. He would choose Notre Dame from a plethora of options and feels that he made a good choice to finish his career.
“McBride is the best coach I ever had. He understands the game well and treats the players with respect. He doesn’t have favorites; the best players play. He does want to win, but he also wants us to shine on a bigger stage.”
Semple has been very successful at NDC. Every aspect of his game has grown and improved and he has become the complete package between the posts. Always known as a strong shot stopper, the Canton (OH) native has become a vocal leader and a smart decision-maker.
“I’m always communicating with my defenders. I want them to see the game as I see it.”
Semple spent this past summer sharpening his skills in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) and this seems to have given him an edge this fall.
“It helped me stay sharp. Playing year-round in game-like situations, getting that repetitive action, is incredibly helpful.”
Griffiths also joined him in the NPSL and the midfielder impressed coaches and spectators alike.
“Mitch is a dedicated player and a pleasure to coach,” stated Aaron McGuiness, who was Griffiths’ head coach in the NPSL. “He always gives 100% and will do any job that is asked of him.
Griffiths was equally impressed with the NPSL.
“It was a high level of play. It definitely helped my fitness and touch. It was nice working out and training everyday. Working with the team is always better than training on your own.”
None of his success is surprising, considering that Griffiths was the product of excellent coaching at the youth level. Playing for Michael Biros at Jackson and then for the USSF Development Academy at the Cleveland Internationals gave the Massillon (OH) native a tremendous foundation.
Griffiths would start his career at Ashland (OH) University only to find out that the college would be cutting its men’s soccer program after his freshman season. He would be lucky enough to land at Notre Dame shortly after. Though it was a shock to be left without a team, it ended up being a great opportunity. Getting to play for McBride was a special thing indeed.
“He really commands the team. He is so positive and encouraging. There’s just something about him. He is always right; he sees things I don’t see.”
The pair hopes to carry their individual success to the team. They hope to carry the side to the national playoffs, advancing further than they did last season. It’s clear that their coaches believe that these two will be an integral part of such a postseason run.
“Spencer has a great work ethic in practice, is a wonderful shot stopper in games, and a popular player within the squad. I’m thrilled he has already been recognized by the MEC for his performances,” goalkeeping coach Pat Svihlik added.
“Mitch is a tricky wide player,” McBride concluded. “Although he’s been hampered by injuries this season, he’s managed to stay positive. We’re looking forward to having him healthy and back out there for us soon.”
One things is for certain, this Stark County duo is making a big difference for the Falcons now and in the future. Those that follow the NDC men’s soccer program now have a lot to look forward to thanks to two players raised in the birthplace of American football. Maybe they will be the reason Stark County becomes a soccer powerhouse in the coming years.
