The Reigning Champs are Back!

Nothing raises standards in sports like defending a championship, and that's just what Detroit Imperial will be looking to do as they return to FCS this year!  After impressively winning the title in their inaugural year, Imperial set an intense tone everywhere they went.  Their passion has always been clear on and off the court, and that focus and drive led to the ultimate success.  

With a championship title in the trophy cabinet, expectations are always high.  Imperial's own Pearce Branigan is no exception; "Our expectations heading into the season is to defend our title as champions and continue to grow to higher levels of play".  Branigan also acknowledged that sometimes retaining that high level of success means change.  "We are looking forward to integrating some new faces into the team this year."  

Even so, their veterans are still the talk of the preseason, including Imperial's leader, Davide Di Poce.  His footwork and skills on the ball have earned him international experience in other forms of the sport.  A pure competitor with an exciting flair, he will surely draw the attention of fans across the league.  

Another big playmaker will be returning player Omar Lahbiki.  Branigan had high praise for the player; "Omar is always a big goal threat and he has continued to add more weapons to his arsenal"  The link up play between these two key players will only strengthen over the off season and into the regular season.  

Fans across the league are in for a treat as Imperial prepares to take their title defense across the league.  Their travel within other leagues and tournaments will surely prepare them for the obstacles ahead this season.