The heart and soul of an elite team both on and off the field comes from a core group of players who give everything they have for the crest on their jersey. Since the relaunch of the New York Cosmos in 2013, the team has won three championships in four years, each coming from a different type of team. 

 

However, one of the keys through the years have been a set number of players representing the Cosmos. This season, two players made their 100^th match appearance for the club, a spectacular feat that will not be forgotten. Midfielder, Danny Szetela and goalkeeper, Jimmy Maurer each hit the milestone this season, joining teammates Ayoze and Carlos Mendes, who reached 100 matches last year. 

 

Head Coach and Sporting Director, Giovanni Savarese has been instrumental for the club, building something special in New York. During the past few years, he’s been able to create a philosophy amongst the players, and believes they are on the path to further success. 
 

“I think that it’s exciting when you realize time has passed in this new era with the Cosmos and to have four players surpass 100 matches shows we have continuity and a good pace of players who want to stay and contribute to the club, said Savarese.” 

 

Those who have been with the Cosmos since the 2013 NASL Season have built a special bond throughout the years. While teams change, and players come and go in the sport, these guys have fought through obstacles as one. 

 

“We have become brothers, working together through the highs and lows, but always staying positive and are now able to teach the younger guys the importance of the Cosmos culture,” said Szetela.

 

The Cosmos are known for their long history of international travel, playing in a total of 48 countries. The team recently returned from Saudi Arabia, where they played an international friendly exhibition against Al-Hilal FC, drawing nil-nil. Jimmy Maurer believes when the team ventures to new places around the world, they grow on the field and more importantly, learn about different people and backgrounds.

“We’ve made so many great memories through incredible trips both domestic and international. With each visit, the team becomes closer, having opportunities to experience new cultures and learn about soccer in different ways,” said Maurer.

The players credit much of their success through the years to Coach Savarese. The way he leads by example and motivates each and every individual has propelled the team through the years. 

 

“Some players will have days where they aren’t playing well and like a father figure, he’s always there to help push you and make you a better player and person,” said Szetela. “He’s someone who’s been very important to me throughout my time in New York and remains positive all the time.”

 

The Cosmos are known for having great players throughout their history and have a set of players building the club’s future. As the team continues to grow, more players continue to leave their mark wearing the beloved kit. The team will honor both Danny Szetela and Jimmy Maurer on Saturday alongside their families as they step onto the field prior to the match against the San Francisco Deltas.