INSIDE THE CITY: TOMMY TANNER, GENERAL MANAGER

Tommy Tanner has quite the extensive soccer resume – a resume he will add to this year as the General Manager of Utica City FC.

Tanner, a retired American soccer midfielder, comes to Utica City FC with a plethora of soccer experience as a player, coach, and general manager. A native of Syracuse, Tanner began his playing career at North Carolina State University, where he made it to the NCAA Final Four during his senior year. After graduating, Tanner was drafted in the first round of the MISL (Major Indoor Soccer League) by the Cleveland Crunch; he received Rookie of the Year honors in his first season of play. Tanner would go on to win three championships with Cleveland in the NPSL (National Professional Soccer League). Tanner’s next stop was the Rochester Rhinos of the USISL A-League, where he played for 8 years and was a captain for several seasons. Tanner would win four more league championships with the Rhinos, including a US Open Cup Championship.

After some time spent as a player and assistant coach with the Syracuse Salty Dogs of the USL A-League, Tanner became Head Coach, and later General Manger, of the Syracuse Silver Knights of the MASL (Major Arena Soccer League).

Tanner comes to Utica City FC with a wealth of soccer knowledge, both on and off the field, and a commitment to growing the sport of soccer from the bottom up. Tanner is committed to the grassroots of soccer just as much as the pros, as he will play a large part in developing local youth players throughout the summer and winter months. 

What excites you most about being a part of Utica City FC?

I’m most excited for the opportunity to be a part of a top flight professional organization that will be able to make such a big impact. I have played for two truly first-class organizations as a player and feel the opportunity here with UCFC has the opportunity to be bigger. I am so excited to be a part of growing our sport and giving our fans and players the opportunity to be a part of a truly professional organization and first-class event that they will come to watch.

What do you look for in a potential player?

It all depends on the position, but I am always looking for highly skilled technical players who understand the game. A player has to have the ability to beat their opponent 1v1 and be able to make proper decisions with the ball much quicker than when playing outdoors.

What is it important for people to know about the MASL?

The MASL is the highest level of indoor soccer in this country. The players in our league have played in the MLS or other top leagues in their countries and many times represent their National Teams in competitions. The indoor game is fast, action packed and high scoring. I think it’s the best sport for a fan to watch of all the major sports.

How would you describe yourself as a General Manager?

 I have a great understanding of what it takes for a player to make an impact in this league. I am always looking to do what is in the best interest of the players and fans for this game.

What should fans expect as we get closer to the end of the summer and start of the 2018-19 season?

Fans should expect new player signings, announcements and appearances in the schools and community. This way Utica can get to know the team and see what great players and people these guys truly are. The fans will also begin to see all of the exciting promotions and information about the indoor game that we have planned for the upcoming season. Some really awesome events involving fan interaction will be taking place at the Adirondack Bank Center.