My name is Rudy Lumanza, I’m 20 years old and played for KFCO Beerschot Wilrijk before I joined Cincinnati Dutch Lions FC in 2016.
I wanted to impress the scouts, play good and show people who I am. To be honest, I didn’t really expect that I would get chosen to play in America. It’s all about impressing the scouts. Also, it was a really nice stadium to play in, beautiful and big. An honour to play there! It felt like being in a dream and imagining the stadium was full, gave me a good feeling.
I was shocked…it was an offer that I had to take. I was really happy, it felt like somebody really believes in me.
It’s not the same as in Europe where players are technically and tactically good. In the US, it’s a lot more about winning mentality. The players are stronger, faster and don’t get tired (condition wise).
Yes definitely! Now I got a big chance to become a professional. During the PDL season I made connections with some professional teams who are interested in signing me.
I had a lot of beautiful and nice moments. When we played against KW (champions last season) for instance, we accomplished to draw and I scored a goal, while they are supposed to be the best PDL team in America. That day I developed my winner mentality, we didn’t give up, and at the end they respected us.
When we played in Toronto, the amazing stadium and complex made me realize I could become a professional, which was an amazing feeling.
A lot! First of all, coming here made me a man. I left everything behind me, which was definitely worth it. I changed my way of thinking, in a positive way. I made some good friends, which I will never forget and keep in my life. It felt like home!
Crazy (laughs)! I lived in a really nice and big house. The people I lived with made this experience even better. Also, you could reach downtown, supermarket, gym and training field very easily. I would definitely like to live over here and become a pro. Living here is so different to living in Europe. People here a nice, polite and social.
I will never forget about the Dutch Lions. I am a Lion now! If I become a professional it will be because of the Dutch Lions. Especially because of Mike Mossel (CEO) who believes in me and my coach Terry, one of the best coaches I had in my life. Overall, everybody at the club takes care of you and help you with any issues.
Do it, take this chance and don’t be scarred! That’s everything I can actually say. Make sure you are ready when you go, and take it serious. This might change your life! It can make you a professional, and is also a great experience. The Dutch Lions take care of you and treat you like a King.