Phoenix FC signs 7 as inaugural camp nears

Published Feb. 11, 2013 4:16 p.m. ET

foxsports

Phoenix FC, leading up to its inaugural training camp, announced Monday the signing of seven professional players who will immediately join the club's roster and report to camp in Tempe.

The newly signed players, pending league approval, all have local connections and are as follows: Andrew Weber, goalkeeper (McClintock High School, University of New Mexico, San Jose Earthquakes, Seattle Sounders); Elliot Weber, defender (Mesa Mountain View High School, Yavapai Junior College); Donny Toia, forward (Canyon del Oro High School, Pima Community College, Real Salt Lake, FC Tucson); Sheldon Parkinson, goalkeeper (New Jersey City University); Anthony Tokpah, forward (Valley Vista High School); Joshua Bento do O, midfielder (Verrado High School); and Mason Robertson, forward (Pinnacle High School.

"This is a great mix of experienced players and promising talent, and we are thrilled to have them all at training camp," said Phoenix FC managing director Rui Filipe Bento. "Players such as Andrew Weber and Donny Toia bring a wealth of professional experience, and Elliot Weber and Sheldon Parkinson add to our depth with promising collegiate numbers."

Head coach David Robertson added, "I am excited to have such experienced players to provide leadership and a backbone to the team. I am also very optimistic about the young local players who showed us great promise throughout the tryout process. We will field a team that will compete for a championship this season."

The new additions join previously signed players forward Darren Mackie, midfielder Diego Faria, defender Devon Grousis, forward Aaron King, midfielder Reid Schmitt, defender Brad Keller, defender Renan Felipe Boufleur, midfielder Netinho, defender Cyprian Hedrick, defender Scott Morrison, midfielder Anthony Obodai, defender Brian Holmes, midfielder Jimmy Lara, midfielder Thomas Ramos, defender Jose Ramos and goalkeeper Humberto Soriano.

Phoenix FC, a member of the United Soccer Leagues' pro division, will open its inaugural season in March and play its home games at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium.