Buffalo, NY – FC Buffalo is proud to announce the addition of seven players to the Western Region’s roster for the upcoming Empire State Games. Players selected include Lee Catchpole (forward, Getzville), Nick Fetterman (goalkeeper, North Tonawanda), Billy Gustafson (defender, Rochester), Tony Mermigas (forward, Grand Island), Andy Tiedt (forward, Akron), Mike Unwin (forward, Buffalo), and Tyler Williams (midfielder, Orchard Park).
These gentlemen will join coach Dave Hesch (brother of FC Buffalo coach Jim Hesch) as Buffalo hosts the annual Olympic style tournament from July 21 – 25. Nearly 6,000 athletes from 6 regions will make the trip to the Queen City to compete in over 25 events. A majority of the events, including the opening ceremonies, will be held at the University of Buffalo. The soccer portion of the tournament will be held at the Amherst Soccer Complex on North French and will run from July 22 – July 25. Some events will charge admission, but men’s and women’s soccer are among the few sports which can be viewed free of charge.
The Empire State Games make a return this year following budget issues which forced the cancelation of the 2009 games. The Western Region looks to continue their winning ways as they have medaled in the Men’s Soccer Open Division four out of the last five tournaments including back to back gold medals in 2005 and 2006. Head to empirestategames.org for schedules as they become available. — Brent Garner
