Everett coach Cruz will build 2020 Trojans around Steelhead trialist Daniel Amador

cruz2 — **Erik Cruz.** *(The Clipper photo by Simon Krane.)*

EVERETT, WA— Everett College Trojans head men’s soccer coach Erik Cruz says midfielder Daniel Amador (Marysville Pilchuck High School) is a key component of his plans for the 2020 NWAC season.

Amador was selected to continue training with the Steelheads after open tryouts in March. Then the Covid-19 crisis hit and the 2020 Western Washington Premier League season was postponed.

Since then, Amador has been honored by the NWAC for his sportsmanship. Along with Edmonds CC soccer player Chihiro Ichimura, Daniel distinguished himself through demonstrated acts of sportsmanship and ethical behavior.

TOP PHOTO: Amador (#7) and Gerardo Lopez (#14) contain an opponent. Wilson Tsoi / Shoreline College Athletics photo.

70646770_1177298559127079_3838226326121086976_o — Daniel Amador (Captain’s armband) is a key player for the Everett Trojans. (Wilson Tsoi, Shoreline College Dolphins Athletics photo.)

“Danny Amador was one of last year’s captains and will continue to captain us this year,” Coach Cruz says. “He is one of our important midfield players, being able to play in any central position. He is key for us.”

Cruz is saying farewell to Steelhead players Cade Cooke (Kamiak High School, Seattle Pacific University) and another open tryout invitee, Gerardo Lopez (Cascade High School.) Cooke starred for Snohomish County FC in 2019’s championship season. Lopez impressed in March at trials.

lopez_gerardo — Gerardo Lopez completed two seasons with the Trojans. He’s been asked to continue training with the Steelheads after open tryouts in March.

Cruz has built a rising program in Everett. Local talent is leading the way. “With Wesco soccer improving over the last few years it has helped our team a lot,” Cruz says. “Being able to keep home grown talent at Everett instead of having them go elsewhere has helped us reach places where Everett is not known to be at.”