By Jordan Shim–

TLC continues to reveal under the radar players for the fall semester. Last time we put the microscope on women’s soccer team goalkeeper Taylor Bucklin. We now move to shed light on the men’s unknown player.

Men’s soccer: Danny Reynolds

The University of Louisville men’s soccer team looks to rebound from a season that finished below expectations. One player that will be a major contributor to the school’s resurgence is sophomore defender, Danny Reynolds.

Despite finishing the year with a 7-9-3 record, Reynolds’ individual season was successful. He played in 18 matches, started 17 and was one of two freshman to start for U of L last year. Although he was a freshman, Reynolds came with a wealth of experience. In England, Reynolds played first team soccer with Cheltenham Town FC. He scored eight goals and assisted on 25 in 60 appearances.

The full back position has evolved over the years, and currently requires players to help facilitate offensively. The role is also counted on for assistance on the flanks, making overlapping runs and sending crosses into the box. With the involvement on offense, Reynolds had nine shots on goal, scored two goals and assisted with four last season. Reynolds scored his first goal as a Cardinal in the 3-1 victory over Stony Brook. He also had an assist in the win.

Defending is Reynold’s top priority, therefore he has to track back when the team loses possession. It is one of the most strenuous positions in the game today, yet Reynolds was only substituted out in two matches, a credit to his superb stamina.

Reynolds’ 1,605 minutes logged ranked fourth on the team. His lack of collegiate experience in a schedule that included eight ranked teams did not hinder his ability to stay on the pitch or make him feel out of place. Reynolds’ discipline is a testament to his consistency, as the freshman from across the pond had just one yellow card all last season.

Reynolds was part of a stout Cardinal defense during the preseason, recording three clean sheets in five matches. Trailing a total of 12 minutes all preseason was a sign of their dominant defense. Reynolds and the Cards aim to build from a solid preseason and carry the momentum to a successful fall campaign.

During the off-season Reynolds played for Chattanooga FC, an amateur club in the National Premier Soccer League.

If you have not seen Reynolds and the Cards in action, you can catch them in their home opener on Aug. 23rd as they host Butler. Kick-off is at 7:30 p.m.

File Photo / The Louisville Cardinal