Ten-plus years in the Buffalo District Soccer League (BDSL) as a player, with league president now added to his résumé. We caught up with Mike about how he found soccer, his favorite BDSL memories, and where the league is headed next.
How’d you get into soccer?
Honestly, I played hockey most of my life. But most of my friend group in high school were soccer players, so once I hung up the skates, it was an easy switch. High school, then ECC, then their summer league team, which led me into BDSL. Been playing ever since. I’m a goalie.
Favorite place to watch or play soccer in WNY?
Lahai Field in Lackawanna, no question. Nicknamed “the cage,” surrounded by metal fencing on three sides, games there felt like full-on community events. Get beat by a guy, and the crowd would honk their horns at you. Intimidating, but respectful. Play well, and you’d get dap after the final whistle. That team isn’t in the league anymore, but anyone who played there remembers it.
Favorite EPL team?
Norwich City, a “yo-yo club” that bounces between the Premier League and the Championship. It goes back to playing FIFA in college. I was good at the game, so to keep things fair against my friends, I always had to pick a “bad” team. Norwich’s green and gold kit stuck with me, and I’ve followed them ever since, bootleg streams and all.
Favorite World Cup moment this year?
Watching the stars actually show up. I was nervous about the expanded format, but it worked out great. Cape Verde’s run stood out, their goalkeeper was pushing 40, and as a keeper myself, that hit close to home. Lots of late drama, nothing boring.
Favorite memory as a player?
Getting promoted to the Premier division after three straight semifinal losses, including an 11-round penalty shootout that still haunts me a little. Most of my high school friends were on that team with me. But honestly, it’s less about one moment and more about showing up year after year and building relationships.
What does BDSL mean for soccer culture in Western New York?
It’s personal for me. I grew up in South Buffalo, and BDSL exposed me to a much wider range of people and cultures than I would’ve had otherwise. I credit it with making me a better person, and someday I’d love to play alongside my two sons in the league.