The Harrisburg City Islanders are proud to announce the signings of Stephen Basso and Jason Herrick, pending approval from USSF. Both players will be looking to contribute for the City Islanders in 2011 as they compete in the inaugural season of the newly created USL PRO. City Islanders head coach Bill Becher believes Basso will bring depth to an already sturdy backline, while he hopes Herrick will add a spark to Harrisburg's offense. Stephen Basso comes to the City Islanders as a familiar face in USL. Before joining Harrisburg, he played for former USL-2 clubs Real Maryland FC and Crystal Palace Baltimore, where he was a teammate of fellow City Islander Andrew Marshall. Prior to his USL career, the Costa Rican international played professionally in Germany with SV Darmstadt 98 after coming up through D.C. United's youth academy. A smart and steady defender, Basso models his game after his favorite player, former Italy and AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini. Basso will certainly provide stability for Harrisburg's stingy defense, but he will also give them an attacking option out of the back. "Stephen is an experienced defender who will help solidify our backline," Becher said about the City Islanders' acquisition. "He is an attack-minded player, and his ability to get forward will add another dimension to our attack." Basso will wear number 13 for the City Islanders in 2011. Unlike Basso, who has several years of professional experience, Jason Herrick is entering his rookie season of pro soccer with the City Islanders. During his youth career, Herrick had the opportunity to play for two of the most highly rated teams in the United States. He had a highly successful club soccer stint with Chicago Sockers FC, winning four Illinois State Cups. His individual accolades include being select to the Super Y League Select team and receiving and invite to the coveted Adidas ESP camp in 2005. From there, Herrick completed a stellar career at the University of Maryland. In 2008, he helped the Terrapins to the National Championship, and he was an All-ACC First Team selection in both 2009 and 2010. He finished his career with 29 goals and 14 assists, starting an unprecedented 85 out of 86 games over four seasons. Herrick's ability to score and set up goals should make him a valuable asset to the City Islanders' offensive. "Jason had an outstanding career at Maryland, and we expect that to continue here with the Islanders," Becher continued. "He is a top quality forward. We are very excited to have added Jason to our roster for the 2011 season." Herrick will wear number 9 for Harrisburg in 2011. The additions of Basso, Herrick, and several other new players will help bolster a City Islanders squad looking to make some noise in USL PRO, the strongest, best operated and most sophisticated North American men's professional soccer league below MLS. Tickets are now available for purchase by calling 717-441-GOAL or by visiting www.cityislanders.com. With the season fast approaching, don't forget to buy tickets for upcoming City Islanders games! The Harrisburg City Islanders will open the regular season at the Skyline Sports Complex against the in-state rival Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday, April 16th (7:00 p.m.) before traveling west for a rematch of the opener on Saturday, April 23rd (7:00 p.m.). For more information on the City Islanders, or any questions regarding season tickets, contact the team at 717-441-GOAL, or visit www.cityislanders.com.
