PARKER IS A “PLAYER TO WATCH” AT NPSL SHOWCASE

Memphis City FC’s Luke Parker is really looking forward to this weekend as many eyes will be on him at the 2017 NPSL Player Showcase at the StubHub Center in Carson, California.

It’s an opportunity that Parker has been waiting for.

“I expect to see a large number of very talented players that are passionate about the game. I want to play to the best of my ability and have success against other high caliber players. And more than anything I am looking forward to having fun.”

Parker has already gotten the job done at the youth and collegiate level.  He came up through the youth ranks with top programs like Memphis Lobos, Memphis Rush, and Memphis Lobos-Rush.  He is currently a redshirt sophomore with East Tennessee State University, one of the top programs in the Southeast.

At ETSU, Parker logged 20 games (10 starts) and 976 minutes in 2016, tallying an assist.  In 2015, Parker played in five games and totaled 213 minutes.

He’s also been a star for Memphis City, proving himself time and time again in one of the NPSL’s most competitive conferences.  He quickly become one of the region’s top players and many recognize that there is so much more to come from Parker.

Memphis City FC President Doug Kranz knows firsthand the difference Parker can make on the pitch.

“When we held our first open tryouts in January 2016, Luke Parker was far and away one of the strongest talents on the field.  We knew immediately we wanted him on the team and he proved us right every game this past summer.  It’s rare to find a player with his combination of work ethic, technical, and tactical abilities – and the best part is, he’s a local Memphis product.  Luke is a quality kid all the way around and he exemplifies what every soccer player should strive to be.”

Parker is at his best as an outside midfielder or forward.  He is a very direct player that loves to be creative and stay involved in every play. He is known for a tremendous work ethic and always tries to outwork and outrun his opponents.  He is the ideal teammate and a coach’s dream.

Getting so close to living his dream of becoming a pro is a very special thing for the St. Benedict at Auburndale HS graduate.

“I was very excited and humbled to be invited to participate. I was surrounded by excellent players in the NPSL and I am honored to have the opportunity to represent MCFC.”

Being selected to the showcase roster is helping make that next step possible, something Parker has been working towards for a long time.

“I have loved the game since I was six years old and have continuously worked to improve my game. As my ability has grown, I have looked for the next level where I might be able to compete. I am not sure the work is ever done, and I am sure I will always look for ways to get better.”

The humble Parker is very grateful for the opportunities that have been given to him by his club and league.

“MCFC and the NPSL provide an environment for me to play with and against very talented players. This has been instrumental in allowing me to expand my understanding of the game and make me realize that there is always more work to do on various parts of my game. The MCFC coaches have also been incredibly helpful in my development, as they have a great technical and tactical understanding of the game. The team ownership was also critical to our success by funding the operation and coordinating the administrative responsibilities. The club and the NPSL have provided a place for me to play against and with some of the best players in the country.”

Luke Parker is certainly a name you should remember, a player that you will be hearing about for years to come.  He’s that good.