Steelhead Announce Semi-Pro Arena Tryouts

Snohomish County, WA – The Snohomish County Steelheads officially announce the eagerly awaited tryouts for the Western Indoor Soccer League (WISL). These tryouts are scheduled to take place on October 2nd and 9th at 7:00 p.m. at the state-of-the-art Arena Sports facility located in Mill Creek, WA.

Leading the Fish for the 23’/24′ season, Dorian Lair named as Arena Head Coach for the Steelheads. Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Dorian’s journey in the world of soccer began with a passion for “just playing ball.”

Playing Career: The Guardian of the Goalposts

Dorian’s playing career is characterized by his role as a goalkeeper, a position that demands tough skin. He honed his craft while playing college soccer at Warner Pacific University and Edmonds Community College. During his time at Warner Pacific, Dorian’s maintained a 1.12 goals-against average.

His journey as a player was not limited to the collegiate level. Dorian’s skills and passion led him to represent various teams, including the Portland Spartans in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), FC Mulhouse Portland (NPSL), St. Petersburg Aztecs (UPSL), Cascadia Association Football Federation (CONIFA), and finally Snohomish County Steelheads.

Coaching: Nurturing Talent and Fostering Growth

Dorian’s influence extended beyond the field as he transitioned into coaching, driven by his desire to elevate talent and contribute to the growth of soccer in his community. He embraced coaching roles at Salmon Creek SC and Hillsboro SC, where he focused on goalkeepers and imparting his knowledge to the next generation of players. Currently Dorian coaches at Snohomish United where he coaches Girls U12 & Girls U7 teams. Dorian’s coaching philosophy prioritized integrity in the work you do off the field, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for the nuances of the game.

Leadership and Contributions: From the Pitch to the Boardroom

Dorian’s soccer journey isn’t limited to playing and coaching; it also encompasses a diverse background in leadership and business. Beyond the soccer field, Dorian leveraged his skills in technology and data analytics, holding a variety of positions at Fortune 500 companies, including his current role at Lululemon as a Lead Business Analyst. This unique blend of expertise allowed him to make a significant impact in both the soccer realm and the corporate world.

In addition to his involvement in soccer, Dorian played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Snohomish County Football Club, where he serves as the President, and Chairman of The Steelheads Foundation, the charitable arm of the club. Under his leadership, the club has grown into a Washington State Non-Profit organization with multiple teams, running semi-pro and pre-professional Men’s and Women’s Indoor and outdoor teams.

A Vision for the Future: Building Bridges and Elevating the Game

Looking ahead, Dorian Lair continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of soccer in Snohomish County and beyond. His commitment to community engagement, skill development, and fostering a love for the game remains unwavering. As the head coach of the Snohomish County Steelheads Men’s Arena team, Dorian is dedicated to elevating the team’s status and nurturing a new generation of soccer talent.

About Arena Sports Mill Creek: A Soccer Haven for All Ages

“We have a wealth of talent in Snohomish County and I’m excited to see who comes out to represent us.”
Elliot Roberts, General Manager – Mill Creek

Arena Sports Mill Creek, a family-centric sports and entertainment complex, has been making waves in the community with its diverse range of programs and attractions. The facility, part of the broader Arena Sports Network, is a hub for soccer enthusiasts of all ages. Offering an array of leagues such as Adult, Youth (8-18 years), Youth (5-7 years), and Drop-in (16+ years), Arena Sports Mill Creek caters to both competitive players and those seeking recreational fun.

One of the standout features of Arena Sports Mill Creek is its commitment to nurturing soccer talent through programs like Lil’ Kickers and the Skills Institute. These programs provide comprehensive coaching and development opportunities for young players, creating a pathway for aspiring soccer stars. Moreover, the facility’s expansive field space has proven to be an invaluable resource, serving as a training ground for teams like the Snohomish County Steelhead. This collaboration has breathed new life into indoor soccer, igniting passion and excitement among players and fans alike.

A Strong Partnership: Snohomish County Steelhead and Arena Sports

The partnership between Snohomish County Steelhead and Arena Sports is a game-changer for the local soccer scene. Historically, limited facilities posed challenges to semi-pro soccer growth in the Pacific Northwest. However, this collaboration is set to reshape the landscape. By hosting Steelheads’ activities, Arena Sports contributes significantly to the development and advancement of soccer in the region.

The benefits are mutual. Steelheads gain access to top-tier facilities at Arena Sports, reinforcing their position as a premier semi-pro team. This enhanced exposure and branding translate to heightened support from the community and potential sponsors. The partnership also provides Steelheads with cost-effective access to top-tier venues, a key factor in maintaining their competitive edge.

Arena Sports, on the other hand, leverages the partnership to reinforce its reputation as a hub for soccer enthusiasts of all levels. Hosting a semi-pro team like the Steelheads adds prestige to their offerings and draws attention from a wider audience. The partnership enhances Arena Sports’ commitment to fostering soccer talent from a grassroots level, right up to the pro ranks.

A Bright Future for Indoor Soccer in Washington

The collaboration between Snohomish County Steelhead and Arena Sports holds promising implications for the future of indoor soccer in Washington. As the partnership flourishes, it could pave the way for the expansion of semi-pro indoor soccer, driving interest and engagement from fans and participants. The success of this initiative might even lay the foundation for a larger-scale professional indoor soccer league, ushering in a new era of soccer excitement in the Pacific Northwest.

Both the Western Indoor Soccer League (WISL) and the Northwest Premier League initiative express their enthusiasm for this partnership. They see it as a means to attract a broader fan base, increase participant involvement, and showcase the wealth of soccer talent in the region. This convergence of efforts promises to enrich the appeal of the sport and establish a vibrant soccer community.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Snohomish County Steelhead and Arena Sports is a testament to the unwavering passion for soccer in the Pacific Northwest. With Arena Sports Mill Creek serving as a vital resource, the Steelheads are poised for growth, and the entire region stands to benefit from the resurgence of indoor soccer. As these organizations unite to bolster youth development and elevate semi-pro soccer, the future looks bright for soccer enthusiasts across Washington.

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