December 18, 2019
PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Phoenix are excited to announce the first players signed to their 2020 roster.
Marc Sands
Marc Sands returns to the Phoenix for his second year. His impressive debut during the 2019 season quickly established him as a critical defensive player. Sands is a leader on the field with an energetic and emotive style of play. “His throwing ability, field sense and athleticism are powerful assets for the Phoenix going into 2020,” said General Manager, Jeff George. As one of the team’s most electrifying players to watch in 2019, he will be a celebrated return for Phoenix fans excited for the team’s new pool of AUDL competitors. “It feels good to help pioneer this sport that’s so close to home,'' Sands said, “I’m looking forward to building from last year. We’re a young team, but we are hungry and eager to make some noise in the new Atlantic Division.”
Himalaya Mehta
Marking his third season with the Phoenix, captain Himalaya Mehta returns to the roster. Last year Mehta logged one of the most impressive seasons in Phoenix history. Despite missing a game to injury, he racked up 41 goals in 2019, leading the Phoenix in goals and placing him eighth in the AUDL for goals scored. Mehta is a fast and relentless offensive player, but he brings more than athleticism to the team. George said, “As a returning captain, he brings a dedicated and steady presence to our young team. This is not meant to take away from Mehta’s exceptional athletic ability. He's a hyper-focused and well-conditioned athlete who poses a significant problem for any of our opponents.” With his proven skills and leadership, Mehta’s early signing to the Phoenix should come as little surprise to fans, who can look forward to more exceptional plays from “Himmy” in 2020.
Paul Owens
After his 2019 rookie season, Paul Owens has signed with the Phoenix again. As the youngest player on last season’s roster, Owens, a Junior at the University of Pennsylvania, proved himself to be one of Philadelphia’s top up-and-coming players. He logged impressive performances at the college, club and professional levels throughout 2019. Although 2020 will only be his second year in the AUDL, he is up to the challenge ahead. “I'm looking forward to playing Raleigh and Pittsburgh, two teams I feel we can contend with this year,” said Owens, “I’m also excited we’ll continue to compete against Rowan and the DC Breeze, who gave us great competition last year.” He is an energetic player for the Phoenix, going toe-to-toe with some of the AUDL’s best players during 2019. George said, “Owen’s enthusiasm for ultimate is contagious and invaluable to a winning team. He learned a lot last year and the biggest reason why is due to his coachability and maturity. We're all very excited to see him continue to grow in 2020.”
The Philadelphia Phoenix host their 2020 Open Combine on Sunday, January 12th, 6-10pm at the Penn Park bubble. Find full info and registration here.
