I'm sad to read that Josh no longer wanted to be part of our program. I've suspected since the Spring that he had made a decision to go elsewhere. I wish him the best but cannot say the same for his new collegiate team. Hopefully, our new AD finds a way to make needed improvements for our student-athletes, but as noted, the lure of bigger money elsewhere will likely continue to hamper our program.
I haven't seen where Max Barboto will be this Fall. He is among the players in the voting for NPSL Golden Ball (most outstanding player in the NPSL season). He didn't play as many minutes for the Zips as I thought he would have, but is another player whom I looked forward to seeing potentially gain more minutes this year. Max has always been respectful, often initiating conversations with me. I wish Max well.
Also, agreed that Simon Guardiero is talented, and I looked forward to his continued improvement and perhaps getting more minutes, maybe becoming a starter for the Zips this Fall. Talented player and gracious person. I reached out to him on IG to wish him well; he responded thanking me for my support and wishing me and the Zips the best.