The New York Cosmos announced today the signing of defender Andrew Lubahn ahead of the 2020 NISA Season. The signing is subject to federation and NISA approval.

“We’re excited to have Andy sign with the Cosmos,” said Head Coach, Carlos Mendes. “I’ve known him for a long time, and he fits our style of play very well. He’s got great experience, and immediately elevates our level of play. He’s a great fit not only on the field but off the the field – he has the kind of mentality that we look for on this team.”

Lubahn, 28, brings a wealth of lower-division experience to the Cosmos. Notably, Lubahn was an integral part in Louisville City’s run to the USL Eastern Conference Final in 2016, as well as winning the 2017 Soccer Bowl with the San Francisco Deltas. Lubahn last featured for Loudon United, the USL-Championship affiliate of MLS side D.C. United.

“It's an honor to represent and play for the same club that my personal idol, Johan Cruyff, played for,” said Lubahn. “Carlos is a coach I’m familiar with, and someone I have the utmost respect for. He's a local legend and used to pick me up from my train stop to play at his pick-up games every off-season. I was excited when he reached out, and I'm excited to do my best to carry on and improve the legacy of the New York Cosmos."

Lubahn adds a new dimension to the Cosmos roster in various fashions, including tactically. Throughout his college and professional career, Lubahn has seen time in every part of the pitch, and Mendes considers him a two-way player. Though he’s recently seen most of his playing time been spent at outside back, Lubahn knows what his strengths are.

"There's no doubt I'm an attack-minded player,” added Lubahn. “I was a forward in college, and I use those same instincts as an attacking wing-back. This club has a history of playing attractive, high-scoring soccer and that's something which I'm excited to use my experience and abilities to contribute to.”

Among a litany of young signings for the Cosmos, Lubahn’s near decade of professional soccer experience is an additional asset for the club in their first NISA season. Lubahn knows that he’s been around for longer than some of his teammates and is ready to use strength however he can.

“I've been all over the U.S. Soccer pyramid and have played for some historic coaches, and I’m excited to use that experience to help teach our younger guys what it takes to be a professional. Playing for the New York Cosmos is a privilege, and an experience I'm excited to take full of advantage of.”

Lubahn and the Cosmos will participate in the 2020 NISA Season this summer, which will be streamed for free on MyCujoo. News about the team’s participation in the 2020 NISA independent Cup is expected to be announced in the coming days.