PLAYER PROFILE
TML Interview - March 23rd 2017
Canada is celebrating it's greatest ever result. A 0-0 v Eurpean heavyweights Scotland in an International friendly. We want to join the party so it's time to introduce yet another TML player to you all. The latest Candian heartthrob to grace the TML is Andre Herath. Please read on for his thoughts on our wonderful league:
Name: Andre Herath
Nationality: Canadian
Team: Pumas FC
Position: Holding Midfielder
Number of years in the TML? Since October 2016
What do you like about the TML? I like the organization of the league, 3 divisions with relegation and promotion as well as cup play within league play. It's similar to the league I played for in Vancouver. Also having a team each week featured as team of the week is great. Just another small goal to strive for throughout the season besides cup and/or a league title. The rivalries being established are good too, adds to the atmosphere of each match. There have been some heated competitions but it remains respectful at the end of every match.
Which player would you compare your style too? Perhaps Francis Coquelin or maybe Sergio Busquets? I work hard to try and win the ball back and keep us in possession.
What is the highest level of football you have played at? Had a trial with the MLS Vancouver Whitecaps 2nd team, and played for the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.
Have you ever played for any other TML teams? Nope, Puma blood through and through!
What makes your club special? The guys on the squad. When I first joined the team all the guys were super welcoming on the pitch and often offered me help off the pitch to get settled in Tokyo. The comradery with the Pumas runs deep and I think it shows when we play. Guys are always positive and the team works hard all over the pitch to get the results. The post game food/drinks is always a good time too ;)
Where was your first ever TML match and what are your memories? My first ever TML match was on a Saturday night at Hachioji park. I came out for a trail with pumas against BFC as they were short guys and ended up snagging a cheeky goal near the end of the match. I guess that was enough for me to get the okay to stick around haha...
Favorite TML venue and why? Shibuya sports center - because the turf is the best quality and it's close to town.
Best player you have played with? Jacob Lensky, Canadian player, ex pro for Feyernood in the Eredivise (Netherlands)
Best player you have faced? Kekutah Maneh current MLS Vancouver Whitecaps player. Our university team used to play pre season friendlies against them.
Funniest moment before, during or after a TML match? Funniest moment directly after a match was probably when Jose Madeira hit his head on the fence doorway leaving YCAC (ding!) and barely reacted only to have a massive goose egg on his head by the time we got to the Izakaya haha...he was fine and is fine now ;)
Any other comments? It's been a really enjoyable experience playing for the Pumas in this league thus far! I can't thank enough all the guys on the team and everyone in the league for sharing this with me! Come on you Pumas!!!!!