Flash Players Go MLS

San Diego Flash is not only one of the top teams in the NPSL, it is also becoming a proving ground for talented players looking to move up. In their 1st year of play in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), three members of the Flash have had the opportunity to try out with Major League Soccer (MLS) teams, with one (Ryan Guy) being signed by the New England Revolution. Flash Head Coach Warren Barton was instrumental in connecting the three with the top-league teams.

In August, star forward Larry Emeanua traveled to New England for a tryout with head coach Steve Nicol, in part on the recommendation of Coach Barton. Despite going in with a lingering groin injury, Emeanua did very well. Afterwards Nicol told Barton that Larry is “a bit of a rough diamond, but there is definitely talent there.”

Flash goalkeeper Justin Myers also traveled back east to show off his skills to MLS teams. His first tryout was with D.C. United under Coach Ben Olsen. This was followed up by a training session in the Windy City with the Chicago Fire. Myers is also waiting to hear about a possible tryout with the Portland Timbers.

Coach Warren Barton spoke about the two players and their experiences. “I think what’s been really impressive is the feedback on both the boys,” he said. “I’ve spoken to both Steve Nicol and Ben Olsen and it was all positive. Larry and Justin went back there and each had a good week’s training. Both players have the opportunity to go back again later so they can have another assessment. Both coaches were very complimentary.”

“Larry went [to New England] and did very well,” Barton continued. That’s a great tribute to him. He’s got great natural ability and Nicol said he’d like to have another look. So that’s very promising.”

Speaking about the Flash’s goalie, Barton said, “Justin doesn’t surprise me. He’s been around professional MLS soccer before, and he’s played in Asia. He has a wealth of experience and, as I said, Benny [D.C. United Head Coach] was very complimentary about Justin. They have a situation now where they have a full allocation of goalkeepers, but there’s no doubt he’s on their radar.”

Earlier, in June, New England signed Flash midfielder Ryan Guy to a full MLS contract after giving him a try on Coach Barton’s recommendation. Guy, who grew up in San Diego and attended La Costa Canyon High School and the University of San Diego, had originally been drafted in 2007 by FC Dallas, but decided to follow his dreams to Europe. He eventually signed with St. Patrick’s Athletic in Dublin, Ireland and started for the team for four years before deciding to return to America this past January. Ryan worked out with the Flash for several weeks while waiting for his papers to transfer from Ireland before he was able to suit up.

After contributing on the pitch with the Flash, Guy had his chance with New England Revolution – an opportunity he made the most of. “Five weeks beforehand he was playing for us vs. Santa Ana Winds, and then five weeks later he’s playing for New England against Manchester United,” Barton pointed out. “So, it’s a great experience for him.” Recently Guy has had less playing time as Coach Nicol juggles the lineup and the system to improve the team’s record, but he continues to be optimistic. “Ryan is well thought of,” said Barton. “I spoke to Steve Nicol about Ryan and he said he’s a great kid with a great attitude. I told Ryan, ‘Keep your head up. Just think about where you were and where you are.’ In perspective, Ryan is playing Major League Soccer, and a year ago he wasn’t. It’s been frustrating for him to get more playing time, but he’s got enough ability and enough self-belief to do well.”

Ryan, Larry, and Justin are just three talented players on the Flash with potential. Coach Warren Barton has several others on his list of potential MLS candidates. One of the biggest differences between the two leagues, and it is a definite plus for Flash players, is the time NPSL coaches have to dedicate to player development. “MLS coaches haven’t got the time, really, to coach the players,” Barton explains. “They’re driven on results; they need to win games every week. What we’re able to do is give players a little bit more time, working with them to get them to understand how to become a professional soccer player.”

Clent Alexander, CEO of the Flash, says “Our goal is to have youth players in San Diego become Flash players and get opportunities to catch on with MLS teams, U.S. Soccer or even International Clubs. We have begun to set a foundation of being a top developmental club in the United States. Based on Coach Warren Barton’s dedication, skill as a coach, and vast connections, it’s likely that Larry, Justin and Ryan will not be the last Flash players to test their skills at the MLS level.”

The next tryouts for the Flash will take place in October.
For anyone who wants to see if they can join the team, visit San Diego Flash Tryout Registration  

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