Midseason moves from Lights FC show commitment to success

Photo Credit: Maddie Dobbins/Lights FC

There are two main ways to react to a less than ideal situation: ignore it and pretend its not happening or recognize there is an issue and try to fix it. Las Vegas Lights FC chose the latter when it comes to their inaugural season.

With their last win coming at the end of March, Chelis and the Lights FC front office made some moves to help turn the season around. Departing the club, in addition to Isaac Diaz, are Anuar Kanan, Adolfo Guzman, and Jorge Guillen-Torres. Joining the squad, at different times, will be Eric Avila, Daniel Guzman Jr., and Rodrigo Inigo. According to the club’s press release, Avila will be available right away, but Guzman Jr. and Inigo won’t be until the international transfer window opens in mid-July.

Avila is thirty years old and has spent the past couple seasons with Tampa Bay Rowdies and Phoenix Rising FC, following a solid MLS career. He played for Chelis at Chivas USA and will help bring more attacking prowess from the midfield.

Guzman Jr., the 25-year-old son of longtime Liga MX player and manager Daniel Sr., will add another striking option for Isidro and Chelis. He played most recently in Guatemala.

Inigo has served as a captain under Chelis in Mexico. He is a 32-year-old defender and will bring more composure and experience to a backline already featuring Miguel Garduno and Joel Huiqui.

Whether these moves help Las Vegas move up from the 12 position out West is yet to be seen, but at least it shows Chelis and his staff are committed to doing what they feel is necessary for results. The club is heading into a busy week, with a US Open Cup match on Wednesday against FC Golden State Force and league play Saturday against LA Galaxy 2.

Carson A Merk

Reporting live from Sin City, I have covered both RGVFC and Las Vegas Lights FC since their inceptions. I also write profiles to highlight players from the NCAA to USL to NWSL and everywhere in between.