HOUSTON – HCU head men's soccer coach Ryan Pratt announced the addition of three new student-athletes to his program for the 2023 season on Friday afternoon with transfers Victor Velasco and Zach Blice and incoming freshman Nana Kofi Obeng.
Velasco, a transfer midfielder who is originally from Houston, spent the last four season at UIW in San Antonio. During his time with the Cardinals he has appeared in 55 matches with 42 starts under his belt. He has netted five goals and added three assists while logging nearly 4,000 minutes. He attended high school just a few miles away from HCU at Episcopal High School.
"Victor is a winger/wingback who brings a high level of playmaking ability!," said Pratt. "He can defend, he can score, and he can create. Having watched him and played against him for four years , I can tell you, we are very excited to bring him back to Houston! He is a feisty competitor and a natural fit for us here at HCU!"
Blice, a defender and another Houston native, played three seasons at Jacksonville before spending last year at St. John's. He did not appear in a game for the Red Storm but in his three seasons with the Dolphins won an ASUN championship as a sophomore and appeared in 33 matches with 27 starts. He spent his prep career at St. Thomas High School.
"Zach is a central defender who brings versatility, toughness, and is a good technical passer out of the back," added Pratt. "He is a Houston native with a great attitude and work ethic to go along with his athletic ability. We really look for him to develop into a potential cornerstone of our back line."
Obeng hails from Montreal, Quebec where he attends Marguerite Bourgeoys School. A 5-10 defender, he plays club for Club de Soccer-Saint Laurent.
"Nana is a tough defender who reads the game well, is difficult to beat in 1v1 situations, and has a very good passing range," said Pratt. "His pace allows him to cover space in behind which will fit our pressing style. His defensive ability will bring balance to our team and his leadership and overall toughness make him a great fit for our program"
