As FC LONDON look to finalize their roster for their third season in the USL-Premier Development League, an agreement has been reached with Londoner and professional soccer player Tyler Hemming to suit up for the 2011 season. The talented midfielder is the impact player FC London’s been looking for to assist in both on-field coaching and hopefully, a third run in the playoffs.
"We are thrilled to have Tyler involved," says Ian Campbell, President of FC LONDON. "His experience will be a valuable asset both on and off the field. Plus, it gives our fans both young and old another reason to come to the field to watch some of the best soccer action in North America. We are currently working with the appropriate soccer bodies to get Tyler reinstated as an amateur."
Hemming boasts an impressive background and was drafted by Toronto FC as the 40th overall pick of the 2007 MLS Supplemental draft. In September 2008, Hemming was offered a trial by Finnish Veikkausliiga side Tampere United. He previously spent time playing for the Charleston Battery and was also traded to the Montreal Impact just last year. The skilled midfielder has even represented Canada at the U-20, U-23 and senior levels.
Though the 25 year old already has a great deal of professional experience under his belt, he is excited to play for his hometown. "During college I played PDL with the Ottawa Fury for a few summers since there was no PDL team in London. I’m really happy to be involved with FC London and am glad to help them in any way possible," says Hemming.
Hemming also hopes to use his experience to help in coaching Forest City London this season."After talking to [coach] Martin Painter, we decided that I would help out by playing and helping coach," explains Hemming, "I just hope as a player and a coach that I can share some of my experience with the players as well as help the club move forward."
FC London head coach Martin Painter agrees that Hemming will do wonders for the club. " Tyler is a great asset for our club in a number of ways. His knowledge of the game will be very beneficial from a coaching point of view. In addition, we know Tyler will be an impact player on the pitch. He has outstanding awareness, distribution, creativity and versatility as a player.”
For now, the 25 year old is focusing on finishing off his schooling at Hartwick College where he has also had a very successful college career. Hemming was named Atlantic Soccer Conference Player of the Year in both 2005 and 2006.
Hemming and the team will take to the field for their first regular season game on May 22, 2011 in Toronto. FC London’s home opener will be at the German Club in London on May 28, 2011.
Individual and Season Tickets are available at www.FCLONDON.ca
