Thunder soccer coaches and players are hopeful a grand yet unusual midseason homecoming can cure recent on-field woes and capture fan interest.
Tonight's 7:05 match against Carolina will be the first played in the refurbished National Sports Center stadium in Blaine.
Several upgrades, for players and fans alike "will provide an atmosphere for high-level soccer," team president Manny Lagos said.
After four full seasons -- and two matches this season -- at St. Paul's James Griffin Stadium, the Thunder returned to the National Sports Center, their home from 1990 to 2003.
The team sought a more professional, soccer-specific environment than what could be offered at Griffin Stadium, home of St. Paul Central High School.
Just returning to Blaine was not the answer. The NSC and Thunder split the estimated $250,000 project cost to tear out the track around the soccer field and shift the field 80 feet closer to the grandstand. The construction has forced the team to play on an exhibition field next to the stadium since May 24.
Bleachers now surround the field on all sides. Seating is available for about 8,500 fans.
Playing in a soccer-specific stadium, Lagos said, has "increased the dialogue" about more television exposure and sponsorship opportunities. Coach Amos Magee said returning to Blaine means better amenities and fewer distractions for his team. In previous years, players practiced at four different locations. Now, they have a permanent home with larger locker rooms and meeting rooms.
