KOBAYASHI ENJOYING LIFE IN VEGAS: Japanese veteran midfielder Daigo Kobayashi arrived in Las Vegas late in Las Vegas Lights FC's preseason but has wasted no time in becoming a key part of the expansion side. For Kobayashi, the Entertainment Capital of the World has become something of a second home over the years since first joining Vancouver Whitecaps FC in 2013.

“Every offseason, I’m here in Las Vegas for training, and for soccer clinics for Japanese kids,” said Kobayashi in a Q&A with the club website. “This city has become my second hometown, and I’m so happy to play for the new team here now. I have so many friends here who support me, and they also helped me get together the clinic I help run.”

With such familiarity with Las Vegas, Kobayashi is excited for his second home to now be his full-time home, and to represent the city.

“I feel this city’s people are so kind, and I love this city. I’m really happy to be here as part of a new team that is building up, along with our fans and supporters,” said Kobayashi. “We are all growing together, and this city needs that. The stadium atmosphere has been very nice already, and we have some very good fans.”

Despite coming in part way through the preseason, a good team environment has allowed players like Kobayashi to get settled in as they prepare for Saturday's opening game of the season against fellow USL expansion club Fresno FC at Chukchansi Park.

“We’ve grown up as a team so fast, everyone speaks to everyone. Good friends help each other, and they’ve helped me. I already think we’re a good team,” said Kobayashi. “We have a good head coach in Chelís and a good assistant in Isidro Sánchez. That’s why we’re good together.”