Although the Louisville Lightning has only existed for three years, its players harbor outstanding soccer experience that allows them to excel in professional play. In fact, five members of the Lightning—Charlie Campbell, John Michael Hayden, J.T. Murray, Tee Shipalane, and Othaniel Yanez—have formerly been drafted to teams in Major League Soccer, or the MLS.

Representing the top tier of both American and Canadian soccer, the MLS consists of some of the most talented players throughout the world. Encompassing 19 teams—16 in the U.S. and 3 in Canada—the MLS embodies the highest quality level of professional soccer. This league has attracted prestigious players not only from America, such as Landon Donovan, but also from other nations, such as David Beckham. Thus, the fact that five Louisville Lightning players have experience in the MLS exemplifies the exceptional quality of the team.

 

“Being able to play at the highest level possible domestically was a great experience,” Charlie Campbell shares. “The play is so much faster with guys knowing what they are going to do 4-5 plays before they get the ball. The runs off the ball and the skill level is drastically higher.”

 

With seasons running from March to November, the MLS requires an immense time commitment and a relentless work ethic. Demanding fitness, finesse, and full command of the game, this league molds men into extraordinary players equipped with unparalleled skill. Experience in this type of environment has enabled Campbell, Hayden, Murray, Shipalane, and Yanez to become a huge asset to the Lightning.

 

“Taking my experiences within MLS has helped me in numerous instances including my participation on the Louisville Lightning,” John Michael Hayden explains. “The skills I acquired in MLS have no doubt helped me play the indoor game.”

 

Traveling to various parts of the country, these five Lightning members each played with a different team; Charlie Campbell with FC Dallas, John Michael Hayden with the Houston Dynamo, J.T. Murray with Sporting Kansas, Tee Shipalane with DC United, and Othaniel Yanez with the Columbus Crew.

 

“Being able to surround yourself with players with the same goal as you and players who have succeeded at attaining that goal was an eye opening experience,” Campbell reveals. “Watching how the veterans conduct themselves on and off the field was a tremendous growth experience for me.”

 

The Louisville Lightning also helps breed players for the MLS; former player Tony Jouaux now works as a strength and conditioning coach for the Chicago Fire. University of Louisville stars Colin Rolfe and Kenney Walker, two of four U of L players recently drafted to the MLS, have been training with the Lightning since completing their collegiate careers. Several other players with MLS potential, including former University of Louisville players John Jonke and Frank Jonke, have also begun practicing with the Lightning. Likely to acquire MLS experience, standout players such as these will serve as excellent additions to the team; moreover, they will benefit from the opportunity to display and hone their talent while immersed in the professional atmosphere of the Lightning.

 

“To achieve success at any level,” Hayden asserts, “I have found that individuals must work at being a professional daily and always hold themselves to a higher standard than most.” The Louisville Lightning emulates this approach, enabling the team to both benefit and benefit from MLS-worthy players.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Possessing players with such talent enhances the quality of the Louisville Lightning and allows members of the team to challenge one another, fostering growth and encouraging effort out on the field. MLS experience has shaped Campbell, Hayden, Murray, Shipalane, and Yanez into talented leaders both on and off the field, and their remarkable athleticism, versatility, and character illustrate their invaluable contribution to the Louisville Lightning.