By: Kyle Piercy, Director of Athletics Communications
OAKLAND, Calif. – The most prolific attacker and one of the most decorated individuals in Centre men's soccer history,
Alexander Garuba has signed a deal to join Oakland Roots Sports Club.
Garuba, the program's all-time leading scorer and a two-time All-American, inked a one-year deal with the club.
"I am looking to make an impact on the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) stage and do anything to help Oakland win football matches," Garuba said. "It will be great to experience in the Bay Area and get a grasp on what it means to #KnowYourRoots".
Founded in 2018, Oakland Roots competes in the NISA, a spinoff of the now-defunct NASL (North American Soccer League).
Community is a driving force for the Roots, which, as a "sports club," are looking to establish Oakland as an all-around public activity organization.
Per the club's web site: "Oakland Roots Sports Club seeks to harness the magic of Oakland and the beautiful game of soccer as a force for social good.
"Whether on the pitch, in the stands or within the community, Oakland Roots will represent our one-of-a-kind city with passion, pride and commitment to all things Oakland."
Garuba played in every game last summer for the full 90 minutes with Northern Virginia United in the National Premier Soccer League, leading the squad in goals. He and went on to Italy playing 90 minutes in all four of Centre's matches against Serie D teams this past August during the team's preseason trip.
In his final season, Garuba played all 90 minutes of the Colonels' 25 matches this fall, proving to be one of the best scorers in NCAA Division III. His 23 goals set the program's and the conference's single-season record while ranking in a tie for fifth in the nation.
