Griffins add promising recruit Lutz to battle for starting goalkeeper minutes
Jefferson Hagen
MacEwan Athletics
EDMONTON – The Griffins are looking for their next impact goalkeeper to step up after academic studies have forced reigning Team MVP Josh Stayko to transfer to the University of Alberta next season.
That leaves three incumbents in the fold – Mason Perras, David Sithole, and Isaiah Maluta – to battle for the starting job with new recruit Kaleb Lutz, who is joining the team for the 2023 Canada West season after he plays for head coach Adam Loga's semi-pro League One side Edmonton Scottish United this summer.
"Kaleb's a good technical keeper, he's very athletic, a good shot stopper," said Loga. "We made sure we did reference checks on Kaleb.
"With the departure of Josh Stayko, we need someone to step up. He's a bit younger, being a 2005 freshman, but we hope between the four lads they'll be able to shoulder the minutes this coming season."
Lutz joins previously announced Scottish United teammate Zewdu Mekonnen in the Griffins' 2023 recruiting class. They also played together on Juventus' provincial indoor championship team in March where Lutz had three clean sheets, allowing just one goal against in four matches. An Internazionale alumni, Lutz also has two SX Cup titles to his credit.
The next step in his career will be playing semi-pro this summer, where Loga notes he will be partnering with a veteran (1993 born) goalkeeper – a perfect mentor for him as he builds momentum towards a Canada West debut.
"Kaleb is playing League One here, so he should be able to get some experience on his end and hopefully he can work his way into the 18 (at MacEwan)," said Loga.
