CHARLOTTE – Just three days since landing in the Queen City, new Charlotte FC signing Bill Tuiloma is already starting to feel at home.
“From the first time I got here it was very welcoming, the Club and the players, and I felt like I had already been here for a little while,” said Tuiloma.
Tuiloma was already aware of Charlotte FC having watched some of the Club’s matches before his arrival including the record-breaking inaugural home match. It was the team’s ‘attacking and winning mentality’ that attracted the Kiwi to the Club.
“I’ve saw the home opener which was pretty cool to watch, and the stadium being sold out made for an amazing atmosphere. Also watching the Columbus Crew game and the team having that fire in them to come back from being down zero to two.
“All the players having that attacking, winning mentality to go on and win the game – that’s one of the reasons why I am here and wanted to be a part of this amazing group of guys, organization, coaching staff. I’m happy to be here.”
In his own words, Tuiloma listed out his strengths which included awareness of the ball and players, smart positioning, comfort on the ball, and communication which he particularly stressed the importance of.
“Center backs we see the whole field and we have to communicate to our midfielders and fullbacks to get tight with a player or step up in situations.”
Tuiloma has an advantage that no other fellow CLTFC defender has when it comes to communicating with center back Adilson Malanda – he’s fluent in French. He picked up on the language while playing in the French first division with Marseille which is valuable for connecting with his potential center back partner.
Charlotte FC fans gained notoriety throughout the inaugural season for their high attendances and passionate support. However, Tuiloma is no stranger to playing in front of a rowdy crowd coming from a club with the renowned Timbers Army and is looking forward to proving himself to the Club and CLTFC fanbase.
“I’ve seen Charlotte fans who do the same thing and I’m excited to see this Saturday and how the crowd comes out. I know it’s going to be a good sell out and it’s going to be fun.”
“I was interested in coming to this Club and environment to prove myself and show that I’m a center back that can help this team and go into playoffs and hopefully win trophies. That’s why I wanted to come out here because I believe in this team, and I believe in what the coach wants the game style to be on the pitch.”
