By Cassie Cage, Digital Marketing Manager, Energy FC

OKLAHOMA CITY – OKC Energy FC has announced the signing of former CSU Bakersfield midfielder Jesus (Chuy) Sanchez., General Manager Jason Hawkins announced Jan. 29. Sanchez played for the USL PDL runner-up, Kitsap Pumas during the 2014 season.

“Chuy is a dynamic center midfielder with amazing technical skill,” said Energy FC Head Coach Jimmy Nielsen. “He has a great attitude and works tirelessly on the pitch. He's a tricky playmaker and will be a handful for any defender.”

Sanchez was also a key part of Kitsap's run to the PDL final in 2014. Sanchez scored two crucial late goals in the playoffs to help lead the Pumas into the finals. The first was a goal in the 83rd minute against Ventura County Fusion in the quarterfinals and then he struck again in the 89th minute against Oscala Stampede to put the Pumas ahead and secure a spot in the championship game.

Sanchez led CSU Bakersfield in assists as a freshman, earned conference player of the year honors as a sophomore with a team-best eight goals. He earned first team all-conference honors as a junior and had five assists as a senior in 2012.

“I am excited and grateful to Energy FC for giving me an opportunity to showcase my talent at a higher level,” Sanchez said. “I hope to contribute on and off the field to a great organization and successful season.”

Sanchez played for the Nomads SC in the US Soccer Development Academy. He was a first team All-South Bay selection at Castle Park High School in San Diego, California.

~ENERGY~