Balatsoukas, a left footed striker/attacking midfielder, comes to HU from Arka of the Polish Soccer League. “Tim is a top flight player in the local amateur leagues” said HU coach Andy Sotiropoulos. “He gives us yet another attacking option and can play multiple positions.”
Holland, a versatile fullback/center back, comes over from Stare Byki of the National Soccer League. “Mark will add more of a physical presence to our back four. I like big center backs, and Mark is just that. He's in superb physical condition, and can even play out wide” said Sotiropoulos.
Vanaria, a right wing/half, and Pilat, a defensive midfielder/fullback, were signed to secondary player passes for the Illinois State Cup match on June 19th against CKS Warta. Vanaria comes from Vikings of the Metropolitan Soccer League and Pilat from Orava of the Polish Highlander Soccer League.
“Sammy gives us a ton of pace out wide on the right flank. He really has the ability to stretch opposing defenses. Sebastian is an absolute workhorse in the midfield. He's the kind of player that does all the dirty work” commented Sotiropoulos. Vanaria is currently playing with the Chicago Fire reserves in the NPDL, while Pilat will sign a regular pass with HU once Orava's regular season is completed on June 28th. Hellenic United would like to thank both Vikings and Orava for their cooperation.
In addition to Balatsoukas, Holland, Vanaria, and Pilat, HU also added striker Zekail Gezafer from Albanian Stars of the National Soccer League and center back/defensive midfielder Petro Czerniak earlier this month. “Ziggy (Gezafer) is a very aggressive striker with lots of moxie. He puts pressure on opposing defenses. Petro has a high motor, and plays much bigger than what he really is “ said Sotiropoulos about the recently arrived duo.
Hellenic United may not be done, either. “We're looking at a couple of other options, also. Two strikers and a midfielder. Hopefully, something can get done within the next week” said Sotiropoulos.