While some people in the Omaha area are elated to hear the news about a second elephant being born at the Henry Doorly Zoo, Union Omaha fans are overjoyed to hear about another owl joining the club.
On Tuesday afternoon, Union Omaha announced the signing of forward Noe Meza. The 23 year-old comes from Sunnyside, Washington and played collegiate soccer at Seattle University. The new signing brings a wealth of experience from his young career. After redshirting for the Redhawks in 2016, Meza went on to appear in 62 matches, starting in 44, and scored 21 goals, including 6 game-winning goals and a hat trick. He was even given the opportunity to showcase his talents at the NCAA Tournament, where he scored against Stanford. His play on the field attracted several accolades, including Team of the Week nominations, First Team All-WAC, All-WAC Second Team, and WAC Tournament MVP.
In the club’s announcement, released earlier this afternoon, Union Omaha coach Jay Mims said, “Noe is someone I have tracked for several years and I have enjoyed watching his development.” When describing how Meza would fit into the lineup, Mims said Meza “…is a versatile player who can play in a number of different positions including up front, in the midfield, or in the back. He comes from a super program and I am excited to help Noe develop into a good professional on and off the field.”
Noe Meza released a short statement in the same press release from the club, saying, “I’m very excited to join such a great club and city.” He also complimented the club and said, “The club’s recent history has shown a culture of winning. I look forward to helping bring more success. I can’t wait to play in front of an amazing fan base.”
Looking at Meza’s scouting film and highlight reels, he looks like an intelligent team player with soft feet and good finishing skills. He makes good runs up the field after passing to a teammate, has good composure under pressure, and has good instincts in the build-up of plays. Most of his film shows him playing out of the middle, but also shows his comfort level along the sideline and movement between the two areas of the field. That kind of freedom comes from a coach who is comfortable with the skills in his player and trusts his instincts. His height may limit him in aerial battles in League One, but his film also shows that he is good at winning the second ball and redirecting shots or headers on goal. He also shows the ability to draw fouls around the penalty area. This could become a valuable asset for the club during set pieces.
Noe Meza is one of two signings from the club today, so be on the lookout for the second article, in which we highlight the second addition to the team and welcome another owl to the community and our collective family.
Stay tuned to Who Gives A Hoot for even more analysis and thoughts on the recent club signings through our articles and podcast episodes. It may be offseason for the club, but the banter never quits on the podcast, so check out the latest episode to hear your favorite voices break down the latest club and league news, with a healthy sprinkle of miscellaneous news to keep you on your toes.
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