Yesterday was another exercise in the “Thursday is the new Tuesday” for Union Omaha and with it came another dose of excitement for the 2022 roster.
Chavany Willis was announced as the newest signing for the Owls. In signing Willis, the club ventured into new territories as the 24 year-old became the club’s first international transfer market signing. The defensive midfielder also brings experiences ranging from the Jamaican National Team, CONCACAF Champions League, USL Championship-side Bethlehem Steel, and Jamaican Premier League powerhouse Portmore United FC. Willis started his professional career as a teenager in Jamaica and expressed his excitement in adding Union Omaha to his resume, stating, “I am very excited to join such a great club. I look forward to the season and helping to bring more success to this club.”
All credit for the discovery and scouting of Willis goes to Union Omaha Assistant Coach Bobby Murphy. While on a trip to Jamaica, he was able to watch Willis play and open the discussions which ultimately brought the Jamaican to Omaha. In the club’s press release yesterday, Murphy was quoted as saying:
“During my trip to Jamaica, I saw a lot of talent on the island. I immediately recognized that Chavany stood out and the more I watched him over the course of the match, I thought he’d be a great fit for our style and our club. After speaking with him, I recognized his humility and desire for success. I’m excited to see him succeed with us this season.”
Even Union Omaha club General Manager Peter Marlette expressed his happiness with the newest addition to the Owls. “We recognized a need on our roster and Bobby went and found that player in Jamaica. Chavany is a full Jamaican international and we were thrilled to reach an agreement with Arnett Gardens to get him here to Omaha.”
It’s easy to see why the coaching and management staff is excited about adding Willis to the club’s title defense this season. In the highlight reel, the defensive midfielder does a great job of finding space on the field, sinking back on attacks to open lanes for the top line, picking his head up and scanning the entire field, threading the needle with tough passes, and facilitating a quality transition from defense to offense. Even while receiving passes with pressure on his back, he seems to find a way to make the 180-degree turn, and moving the ball up the field. Not many players are able to succeed in that skill, but Willis makes it look easy. Oh yeah, and he has the right skills to score goals. Across his entire career so far, he’s scored 19 goals, which is impressive considering he’s a defensive midfielder.
Chavany Willis joins Union Omaha as the club continues on with preseason training and scrimmages. The Owls are working hard to prepare themselves for the 2022 USL League One regular season, as well as their first appearance in the US Open Cup. There’s plenty of excitement ahead for the club, so make sure you have your tickets secured for all of the action that is quickly approaching.
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