WINDSOR, Colo. – Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC announced today that they have picked up the option on midfielder Stefan Lukic’s contract to bring him back for the 2023 season.
Lukic was a consistent and creative force for the Hailstorm offense in 2022. He played in 25 of the team’s 30 League One matches, starting in 13 of those. In those 25 matches, he had 29 successful dribbles, 22 shots, 19 chances created, 11 shots on target, 19 key passes and two goals.
“I’m excited to see Stefan in year two,” Head Coach Eamon Zayed said. “In year one he showed glimpses of his ability, which is of a high, high standard. I think he finished the season frustrated that he didn’t get the productivity that his ability can have.”
Lukic was also very active in the community during 2022. He coached many local kids and hosted camps to share his abilities with the youth in Northern Colorado.
“I’m very thankful for the opportunity to continue my soccer journey with the Hailstorm,” Lukic said. “I’m looking forward to continuing to influence, inspire and help youngsters in Northern Colorado fall in love with the beautiful game of soccer. In the 2022 season [the team] did not achieve our goals, but we learned from our mistakes and toward the end of the season we were the best team in the league. I am sure we can make Northern Colorado proud in 2023.”
Lukic and his wife also welcomed their first child during the 2022 season.
“My firstborn was born in NoCo and I couldn’t be more excited to call Northern Colorado home,” Lukic said.
And Northern Colorado is excited for him to be here.
“[Stefan is] an excellent talent and I’m delighted to have him here,” Zayed said.
—
The future home of Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC, 118-acre Future Legends Complex, will feature 6,500-seat TicketSmarter Stadium, 2,500-seat Future Legends Field, multiple baseball diamonds, multi-purpose fields, an indoor sports arena, lodging, and retail; and will host guests for major sports leagues, tournaments, events and more.More information is available at HailstormFC.com and FutureLegendsComplex.com.