March 13, 2023 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC News Release
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC announced today it had acquired Goalkeeper Alec Smir on loan from Minnesota United FC for the 2023 season.
“I am extremely excited to be here in Colorado Springs with the Switchbacks this season,” said Smir on the signing. “It’s really great to be with a club that is continuously pushing for success. I’m looking forward to getting out onto Weidner Field and helping the team in any way I can to bring a trophy to the city. I can’t wait to meet all the guys, the supporters, and hit the ground running!”
Smir, 23, joins the Switchbacks after spending the 2022 season with Minnesota United FC 2 in MLS NEXT Pro play. Smir made eight appearances, all starts, in which he earned three wins and one clean sheet. Smir was selected to compete in the 2022 MLS All-Star Skills competition where he won the NEXT Pro portion of the “Goalie Wars” Event.
The Greensboro native attended the University of North Carolina where he appeared in 68 matches from 2017-2021. Smir earned his spot as the expected starter his freshman season after turning in a 10-1-1 record in his 12 appearances. He would go on to have a sub-one goals against average of 0.86 in his collegiate career graduating with over 6,000 minutes played and 27 clean sheets.
Smir was selected 62nd overall in the 2022 MLS Superdraft by FC Dallas, but would sign with Minnesota United FC 2 in March 2022 and spend the year for the inaugural season for MNUFC 2.
“Firstly, his character is perfect for our locker room, he comes in with the attitude of a willingness to work every single day,” said Head coach Stephen Hogan. “His attributes include bravery in aerial duels, great distribution from his feet and his hands, and overall a commanding presence in the box. We are excited for the year ahead with him and hopefully we can progress his career in the right way.”
Name: Alec Smir
Position: Goalkeeper
Height: 6â² 2â³
Date of Birth: April 13, 1999
Age: 23
Hometown: Greensboro, North Carolina
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