With preseason just around the corner, on Friday Orlando City players traveled to Orlando Health to get their physicals done. Amongst them was striker Cyle Larin, who is coming off his 2015 campaign where he took home the 2015 Rookie of the Year award.. Now, he is ooking forward to a new year and new opportunities.
With a great season behind him, Larin knows what to expect going into his second season.. “I know what to expect,” Cyle said. “I scored a lot of goals last season but I have more to give.”
Still, some warn of the infamous “sophomore slump” that players sometimes face after a good rookie season. Those same people may warn that the league will know what to expect from Larin and they will be better prepared to defend him. “It motivates me to work harder,” he said. “Make sure I’m thinking quicker and moving quicker than the defenders.”
Last season, Larin made a name for himself in the league, scoring a record-breaking 17 goals in 27 games. He emerged as the Rookie of the Year and one of the star players for Orlando City. But that hasn’t affected his game. “Nothing’s changed,” Cyle said. “It’s just about working hard.”
When asked what he’s most looking forward to this season, the Canadian forward didn’t hesitate. “The first game,” he said with a smile. “I’m looking forward to the first game. It’s gonna be an exciting one… the city’s ready for it too.”
