New name in CSL

TROIS-RIVIERES  - The new Quebec entry in the Canadian Soccer League, the  Montreal Impact's reserve team, will be named the Trois-Rivieres Attak.

Attak president Tony Iannitto and  Stéphane Chiarello, the director of operations, unveiled the new team's name and logo at a press conference here on January 17, and also announced that Marc Dos Santos will be the club's head coach. Montreal Impact president Joey Saputo and head coach Nick De Santis were on hand at the press conference.

'It's a great day for soccer in Trois-Rivieres because the team finally has an identity,' said Tony Iannitto. 'We are very pleased that Marc has accepted to coach the team. He has all leadership qualities we are looking for as well as the know-how to develop our future stars.'

Dos Santos, 29, has Provincial B and UEFA licenses. He was previously head coach of the Lac St.Louis Lakers senior team, which is currently in the first division of the Quebec Elite Soccer League (LSEQ).

The new CSL team also announced the signing of two players:  forwards Nicolas Lesage and Jean-Louis Bessé. Formerly with the Trois-Rivières Sélect, both players were constant offensive threats in the LSEQ last season - Lesage was top scorer in the league with 23 goals while Bessé finished third overall with 11. They also continued their excellent work during at the Canadian national championships, helping the Select to a bronze medal.

'Lesage and Bessé have earned their place on the team not because we are doing them any favours but rather because they have proved that they are among the best talents in the province,' said Dos Santos. 'We believe we can build a winning team around these two local players.'

A LOCAL PARTNER JOINS THE ATTACK
The team also announced a new major partner in Stratos Pizzeria which joins the club in a five-year agreement. 'Stratos is a leading example of the dynamic business community in Trois-Rivieres, which also illustrates the level of interest for this team locally,' said  Chiarello. 'With its commitment, Stratos becomes a leader in this venture by being first in line.' 

2007 SEASON TICKETS
The Attak will kick off its inaugural season in the Canadian Soccer League (CSL) next May. The team will play a total of 22 games, 11 at home at the Université de Québec à Trois-Rivières. Fans interested in purchasing season tickets can do so by calling 819-374-2327 or by visiting the website www.attakfc.com.

WINNER OF THE CONTEST: NAME YOUR TEAM
Mr. Bobby Thivierge was the winner of the Name Your Team contest which was launched throughout the province of Quebec. By submitting the name Attak de Trois-Rivieres, he will receive the club's first pair of season tickets, as well as the team's official jersey. The team's new jersey will be unveiled in upcoming weeks.