U19 Academy Player Lucas Spiegel completes season in NPSL First Team

16 year old Midfielder Lucas Spiegel signed with the Grove United NPSL 1st team from the U19 Development Team. Lucas featured in 6 NPSL matches, including the 4 game undefeated streak and the semi-final match in front of over 7,000 fans.

Lucas joined Grove United’s U19 Development Academy in August and has been steadily progressing in the pro development environment. He was offered the NPSL roster spot after his stand-out performance vs. MLS Atlanta United’s u19s in March and USL Academy Cup in April.

Photo @Jessica Hendricks Photography

“I am very thankful to all of the coaches and the belief they have in me to help bring something to the team. I am excited to play at such a high level to help develop my game. Most of all, I look forward to doing all I can to help the team win,” says Lucas Spiegel

Lucas was selected to be a part of the squad but quickly impressed to become an impact player.

“Lucas has proven throughout the year that he can play at the next level. He was offered an NPSL roster spot and quickly worked his way into the game day roster and starting 11, competing with top college and former pro players as a 16 year old."

Lucas' talent, coupled with his work ethic and determination, has allowed him to excel in the pro development environment.

Photo @Jessica Hendricks Photography

"We have built an environment that encourages youth players to strive in a pro-development environment and established a pathway that allows players to move up within the club and beyond. Lucas has embraced this environment and has been putting in the work to advance through the pathway. He has the talent, determination, and mindset to make it to the next level, and we look forward to watching his success."

Lucas will now enter the USL Academy season. He will continue in the pro-development environment in the UPSL squad in the fall competing against top competition, including DC United MLS Academy.

Asanda Tom Selected to NPSL Conference XI

Photo @Jessica Hendricks Photography

Grove United starting center midfielder, Asanda Tom, was selected to the 2023 Mid-Atlantic Conference XI. Asanda scored 2 goals and had 7 assists in his 10 NPSL games. Asanda developed in Grove Soccer Academy- South Africa before moving on to South African Clubs Mamlodi Sundowns and Cape Town City. He joined the Lions earlier this year and has impressed on the NPSL stage.

Photo @Jessica Hendricks Photography

“Asanda deserves this recognition. He was the creative engine in the middle of the park creating goal scoring opportunities and feeding assists all season long. We look forward to seeing him move on to the next level.” says Justin Grove, club president and technical director.

After a standout NPSL season, Asanda now sets his sights on opportunities at the next level in the US.

Click the button below to see an exclusive interview with Asanda.

ASANDA TOM INTERVIERW 2023

Grove United Wins at Home During Santi Strong Fundraiser!

Photo @Jessica Stone Hendricks Photography

The Grove United Lions were playing for more than a win on Sunday night against Virginia Dream FC. They were also playing for their teammate and captain, Santiago Naliato. Santi was involved in a devastating car accident back in June, which left him paralyzed from the neck down.

In the weeks leading up to the return to City Stadium, Grove United launched the Santi Strong fundraiser as a way for fans, players, and staff members to support Santi and his family on his road to recovery through. All profits from the Grove United Replica Jersey sales went directly to the Santi Strong Campaign and promotion of the GoFundme campaign.

As July 2nd approached, the team prepared for their first home game in weeks without their captain. With Santi on everyone’s minds, the Lions rallied together and scored their first home win of the season.

Photo @Jessica Stone Hendricks Photography

The Lions started strong as #10 Onesime Muepu Ngoie, the Lion’s lead scorer with seven goals in the last five games, was assisted by #6 Asanda Tom to score the first goal in the 44th minute. VA Dream FC answered with a goal by Angel Chavez in the 68th minute. However, Muepu responded with another goal just minutes later. The Lions capped off the night with a 3rd goal in stoppage time from #17 James Lee, ending the night with a 3-1 win.

After the match, fans and players were called to the center of the stadium to show their support for Santi. Fans in the stands sported their new #5 jerseys as a result of the Santi Strong fundraiser and took pictures with the team after the exciting win.

As a result of the fundraiser, over $34,000 was raised for Santi and his family. However, there is still time to show your support for Santi on his recovery journey, as the fundraiser will continue at the next Grove United home match on July 8th against Fredrick FC.

Come out to City Stadium on July 8 at 7 P.M. to support Santi and the Lions.