Building a Champion Starts NOW!

Your Raptors indoor soccer club began building their championship roster on Sunday, August 3, with the first of five rounds of tryouts to be held at the AYSO indoor training facility in Cedar Rapids (2500 16th Ave. SW). Competition was strong and the energy level was high as a mix of new and experienced players came together to start the tough but exciting process of building a contender.

Raptors' technical coach Bobby Hurwitz (in white leggings) prepares a group for a scoring drill

"The turnout was great," said Bobby Hurwitz, a key contributor to a Raptors squad that made the playoffs twice in their last two seasons, reaching the league championship game in 2022-23. "It's going to be a tough decision, narrowing down the roster, and that's what we want to see. We want all these guys to make it as difficult as possible for us. That's how you build a champion."

Raptors' General Manager Carlos Taylor (back to camera) speaks with current and potential players after a scrimmage

The team's talent search is truly worldwide, with players from Liberia, Mali, Spain, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo present at the tryouts. Closer to home, the University of Northern Iowa, Dordt College (Sioux Center) and Cedar Rapids' Kennedy High School were represented.

Both local and international players were represented at the August 3 tryouts

"That's what it's about," said Raptors' Director of Operations Tony Islas. "We want to have the best team in the league from day one. All of these guys have been great. The intensity today was excellent. We're really looking forward to what the next tryout brings."

Islas and GM Carlos Taylor have already established a strong foundation. In addition to Hurwitz, who also serves as the team's technical coach, the Raptors are led on the field by captain Jake Johnson, another key contributor to the 2023 championship run and a soccer coach at Cedar Rapids' Xavier High School. Formerly a science teacher at Washington High and a standout at Coe College, Johnson has deep local roots and a passion for growing "The Beautiful Game" in Cedar Rapids. Along with returning Raptors David Lapan-Islas, Alan Losoya, Sarrive Rukakiza, and Sean Austin, he put the prospects through their paces on Sunday.

Returning Raptors discuss the upcoming season

"I'm excited for the new season," said Johnson, now entering his fourth indoor season as the Raptors' captain. "Bring the kids, bring the family, it's great time. Let's grow the sport in Cedar Rapids!"

If you think you might have what it takes to Run With the Raptors, spots are still available at our upcoming tryout dates. Stay tuned, Raptor fans!

All tryouts will be held at the AYSO indoor practice facility, 2500 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids