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Watch: FC Edmonton’s David Doe returns as Version 2.0

After getting a taste of being a professional at the end of the 2017 North American Soccer League season, David Doe is eagerly anticipating his first full season as a pro.

“I’m very excited to play on this team again,” Doe exclaimed. “It’s a big honour to play in front of my friends and family.”

The now-19-year-old forward made four substitute appearances as a then-17-year-old in October of 2017, playing a total of 33 minutes. Doe’s debut came at Clarke Stadium on October 6th of that year against the Jacksonville Armada. After the first team ceased operations, it was a massive disappointment for Doe, who re-joined the Academy. The youngster admits it wasn’t easy at first, but news of FC Edmonton being reborn in the Canadian Premier League relit his fire.

“At first I wasn’t really happy,” said Doe. “Then I had to think about if I wanted to be back on this team, so I went to practice every day and worked my butt off.”

“It’s been a bit of a roller coaster and I’ve had to tweak my game a little bit to re-join this team.”

Doe on the ball during his professional debut
Doe on the ball during his professional debut in 2017

“David came into our U-20 program and, quite simply, earned a first team contract,” said FC Edmonton Head Coach and Director of Soccer Operations Jeff Paulus. “His attitude in training, work rate and transition play made it impossible for us not to sign him.”

“Anyone who watched him with the Academy can identify his pace, but he has been adding some real cleverness to his game and I am quite excited to see how far he can go.”

After helping the Academy Team win the Edmonton and District Soccer Association (EDSA) Men’s Premier Division title and the Men’s Premier Provincial championship, Doe joined the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) at the collegiate level. He led the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) with 22 points, including 13 goals, in ten regular season matches, as the Ooks won ACAC gold before finishing sixth at Nationals.

“I think going to college for a bit made me stronger and tougher because you’re playing with older guys,” explained Doe. “It made me expand my game a lot more.”

Doe proudly holding an FC Edmonton scarf
Doe proudly holding an FC Edmonton scarf

Doe is used training with older guys, as more and more First Team Eddies arrive for practice sessions prior to training camp opening next month. It’s a great experience for young players to receive advice on a daily basis from more experienced pros.

“They tell me I’m doing well, but I have to slow my game down and focus and act more mature,” explained Doe. “It’s the greatest feeling to be on a team where you know a lot of your teammates, and have been friends with them for a long time.”

As for expectations for the CPL, Doe says he’s just going to try and enjoy the ride.

“This time I want to play more games, spend more time with my teammates, and just have more fun,” said Doe. “My first time (as a pro) was amazing, and my second time around will be even better.”