In the multi-faceted scope of judging the USL’s relationship with Major League Soccer clubs, Real Monarchs was highly successful in 2016, providing a proving ground for defender Chris Schuler and forward Ricardo Velazco to earn spots with Real Salt Lake. However, the club fell short of its playoff aspirations, giving RSL General Manager Craig Waibel several areas to focus on in improving the relationship in 2017.
“The positives have to be remembered from this year. We are much closer and next year we should be to the point that we feel like we have the players to compete and entertain,” Waibel said Monday.