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Fury FC ownership certainly hopes so, just as owners, players, coaches and, yes, supporters hope all three local players have a positive impact on the pitch after joining the squad for the fall season.

The trio spoke jointly following Fury FC practice on Tuesday.

Twin factors: motivation and Julian de Guzman

Edward, who played youth soccer with Ottawa South United and Premier Development League with Fury FC: “I have been playing against Ottawa (with FC Edmonton), so I could see the kind of football was something I would like. I feel like, in my career, I can learn more here.”

Tissot, a Gatineau native who played with FC Outaouais before joining the Impact academy: “When Ottawa was interested and I knew they were, I wanted to come here. It made sense for me to come here. I talked to (Fury FC and national-team captain) Julian de Guzman about the facilities, about the team, and he said only positive things.”

Dixon, was long ago with Gloucester Hornets and Ottawa St. Anthony’s. He also spoke with de Guzman after being called up to the Canadian men’s team for a February friendly against the United States in California and again about a month ago: “He told me everything about the club. It was fantastic. Everything he said about the club was positive: the football, the guys, the coaches, everything … the whole environment. It kind of make it easier to make the transition.”

The long path back home

Edward: “Everyone has a different road. Just because you may take a different road than one of your friends doesn’t mean you can’t make it. At the end of the day, Ottawa has great resources to become a professional. If you see this, how could this not inspire you to one day want to do this. For us to be positive role models, for kids to reach this level and higher, Ottawa has a lot of talent and can really get on the map for great soccer players.”