During the mid season break I received the opportunity to interview the owner of Jacksonville Armada FC, Mark Frisch, to understand his thoughts on topics like the Spring Season, transfers, and other news around the organization. Here is the full interview, hope you guys enjoy it!
(LA) Totally off topic but it must be known, when did you become a Stoke City fan and why?
MF – I had the opportunity to meet their Chief Executive and Technical Director during an All Star match one year. They have both been very responsive to any question I have and are just solid guys. For that reason I became fans of their club.
(LA) There have been recent news on NASL sides making moves in the transfer market including Edmonton, San Antonio, and most recently Ottawa. What is the philosophy on team building and improvement in the squad? Also, will Armada fans see any new faces in the fall season?
MF -We always look to improve. We really like the roster we have right now but, always open to opportunities.
(LA) The Inaugural Spring season was one of highs and lows within the franchise in which Armada emphatically won 3-1 on opening night but also suffered a goalless streak of over 330 minutes towards the end. What are your takes on how the season went?Also, are you confident in a playoff push in the fall?
MF- To come out and play like we did, committing to the style of play we have, has been great. Yes we won some, lost some, and tied some but I am very happy with where the team is right now and feel very good about a playoff push.
(LA) Governor Rick Scott vetoed the plan of building a world class training facility in Northeast Florida earlier this week. What are your thoughts regarding the veto of the facility and will there be a push to have one built in the near future?
MF- It was unfortunate. It is something that will be really special for our state and our region. We will continue to push and plan for this.
(LA) Boca Juniors come(came) to town on Saturday night to clash with the Armada in the International Community Cup. How important is this friendly to the team and the city of Jacksonville, being the first ever friendly in our history?
MF- It is absolutely massive. It’s a club that most people may not know but they are one of the best in the world. The TV audience will be huge and for our guys, it very well could be the best club they ever play and the most exposure they will ever get. It is pretty amazing to see it all come together. Not to mention the connection many of our players and staff have with Argentina…
(LA) What was the best moment of the Spring Season to you?
MF- Tough one but for me coming out to a record crowd and scoring in 12 seconds is hard to top.
(LA) Lastly, how amazing is the feeling of having a professional team in Jacksonville and seeing all the support it has received in the city, including a supporters group that follows the team wherever they may go whether it be to Minnesota or just down south to Tampa?
MF- I continue to be blown away. We truly have the best fans and we live in a special city. I am stoked to see where this thing can go.
Thanks to Mark Frisch for taking time out of his busy schedule to talk to Total NASL.
