July 14, 2008

Wilmington, N.C. - Professional soccer clubs can often seek out big bodies to anchor the back line and tall trees to attack the opposing net and match up with opposing defenses.

But players of most any proportion possessing the necessary skills and desire can excel.

On the subject of size, Hammerheads coach David Irving says, "If you're good enough, you're big enough."

When discussing the spring signing of 5-foot-7, 155-pound Matt Avellino,

Irving uses the term, "commitment."

"He's not the biggest kid in the world, but he knows the game and he can play," Irving said. "He can play different

positions and he's actually a treat to be around.

"He shows up for training every day and he's enjoying it. He's passionate about the sport."

Avellino is so passionate about playing professional soccer, he traveled the eastern United States in the off-season to display his talents.

The Merrick, N.Y., product said he participated in USL First Division team tryouts at Miami, Rochester, Carolina, Charleston and Harrisburg and went to a Second Division event in Richmond before landing in Wilmington.

"It was frustrating because I'd go to (the tryouts) and all the coaches would tell me I did well," Avellino said. "But either they'd re-sign players in my spot or they felt like I needed another year of developing.

"It was frustrating because how am I supposed to develop if they won't give me experience. It was a tough road, but I really wanted to play, so I scheduled as many as I could fit into the months that I had."

Irving saw Avellino at player trials in Rochester and Charleston before inviting him to Legion Stadium.

The coach admires the fact that he refused to quit after being passed over along the way.

"That tells you a little bit about his character," Irving said. "He goes out there and gives 110 percent every day he practices. He's trying to be better. He's trying to learn.

"He's a great role model for kids that might not be the biggest kid. If you're good enough, you're big enough."

The 23-year-old played collegiate soccer for Stony Brook University and was a member of the 2005 America East Conference regular-season and tournament champions. In 2007, his senior year, he was named team captain.

"I felt I could play at the level," he said of the United Soccer Leagues. "I was just hoping someone would give me the chance to just work and develop and make myself better.

"It could have been my size. I'm not the most athletic guy, but I'm decent on the ball. Basically, it's all about the neck and above, about your brain. If you have a good mind for the game, you can find different ways to play."

Avellino and his teammates have their minds on a potential playoff berth. And Saturday night, at seven points off the playoff pace with six matches remaining, they face an important home match against league-leading Charlotte.