Rochester Rhinos News Release - www.rhinossoccer.com

Friday, March 27, 2009

ROCHESTER, NY -- The Rochester Rhinos announced Friday, the signing of midfielder Mike Ambersley to a two year contract and defender Nathaniel “Nano” Short to a one year deal. Both contracts are subject to USL and USSF approval.

Ambersley returns to the Rochester after previously wearing a Rhinos uniform during the 2006 and 2007 seasons. During his stint in Rochester the St. Louis native played in 32 matches, registering two goals and an assist. The midfielder signed with the Atlanta Silverbacks for the 2008 season before suffering a season-ending knee injury during the preseason.

“Mike impressed us while he was here during the preseason said Rhinos Head Coach Darren Tilley. “He has some knowledge of the league and played well in Rochester before. I think he will give us some versatility within our group”

Short, a graduate of Lynn University, spent the last two seasons playing with Cape Cod of the USL’s Premier Development League. In 2007, the native of London, England registered two goals in 16 matches for the Crusaders. While a collegian he captained Lynn University to the finals of the South Regional Tournament in 2006 while being named to the All-Tournament Team.

“Nano also impressed us” said Tilley. “He is very coachable and has a desire to be successful. He has certainly earned an opportunity to join our group.”

With the signings, the Rhinos currently have nineteen players under contract with six exhibitions matches remaining before their season opener on Saturday, April 18 at Carolina. The club will open its home portion of the schedule on Saturday May 30th when they host their rival Montreal Impact at Rochester Rhinos Stadium.

The Rhinos will resume their preseason exhibition schedule Saturday afternoon when they host the Canadian Soccer League’s Italia Shooters at Rhinos Stadium. The shooters are coached by former Rhinos goalkeeper Carmine Isacco. The match, which is free and open to the public, is set to kick-off at 4:00 p.m.


Sat., March 28
10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – training at Rhinos stadium
4:00 p.m. – preseason match vs. CSL Italian Shooters at Rhinos Stadium