Minnesota Thunder News Release - www.mnthunder.com

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

ST PAUL, MN -- The Minnesota Thunder announced today that it has signed former USL First Division All-League forward Alen Marcina, pending USSF approval and international clearance. The Canadian born forward most recently played with the Vancouver Whitecaps during the 2007 season. Marcina has signed a one year contract with two option years.

Marcina was a second team All-League forward in 2006 with the Puerto Rico Islanders. During that season, Marcina was third in the league in goals with 13 and fourth in the league in points with 26.

“Alen lit us up two years ago with Puerto Rico scoring three goals in two games against us,” said Thunder head coach Amos Magee. “He didn’t score against us this past year but the qualities that I liked were still there. He is good with both feet, very active and constantly trying to get behind the defense. He is an experienced striker who has scored goals at every level he’s played.”

Marcina had a disruptive 2007 season after being traded from the Islanders to the Montreal Impact, and then traded once again the same season to the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Prior to his USL First Division experience, Marcina spent the 2002-03 season with the Ottawa Wizards of the CPSL where he scored nine goals in just 10 games. He then landed a contract with Greek giants PAOK followed by a stint with Herfolge Boldklub of Denmark. The 2006 season was his first with the Islanders.

Marcina has been in camp with the Canadian National team, but has not been capped.

The Minnesota Thunder will open its home season on Sunday, May 4 at James Griffin Stadium against the Rochester Raging Rhinos at 5:05 p.m. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting www.mnthunder.com or by calling 651.917.8326.