As our inaugural season approaches, we wanted to give you more of an introduction to the players who will represent Lansing Common on the field this summer. Today, it’s time to get to know Noah Canlas.
What position do you play and what do you think Lansing Common fans will enjoy most about the way you play?
In my college career I played mostly in the midfield under the forward. I have been know to be able to slide back into more of a defensive role, and even tucking into the backline as an outside back. I think I will be playing in a center mid role under Oaks, maybe out on the left and right sides of the midfield. Lansing Common fans are going to love that I play with 110% and leave everything on the field, as well as my ability to score goals from a distance.
With your collegiate career over, what made you want to come back and play this summer for Lansing Common? Especially given that it’s a bit of a trip for you, since you live in Illinois.
One thing that I knew leaving college was that I wasn’t ready to be finished playing soccer. I had some unfinished business to take care of with the sport, so getting the opportunity to play again is a dream come true. It was really a no brainer decision to come play in Lansing and leave Illinois. I have a lot of ties to Michigan, I practically grew up there during the summer as I would spend most of my time in Battle Creek at my grandfathers lake house. My dad is a graduate of Michigan State, and I have a lot of family and friends in Michigan. It’s really a second home for me, and I can’t wait to be back again.
Oaks said in his statement about you, “Noah was the most complete midfielder player I ever recruited to Alma. He’s technical, a gifted shooter from range, and also smart. He can play different positions through the midfield whether attacking or more defensive. I’m excited he will spend his summer with us!”. Did you blush when you read that?
It’s hard not to blush hearing something like that from a coach that I played for for three years, it’s a huge compliment, and it speaks highly to the hard work and dedication that I put into the sport.
What was your favorite moment you have ever had on a soccer field?
I think one of the best moments on the field wasn’t the goals that I scored, but instead was senior day in college. Our team walked out with an almost full starting lineup of seniors. It’s one of those memories that doesn’t go away easily. I had played with those guys for four years and to see us stick together through it all and walk out on the field together was a special moment. Of course, playing in front of my family was a positive too, being from Illinois that didn’t happen a lot.
What hobbies do you have when you aren’t playing soccer?
I have several hobbies, the biggest being photography and videography. I like to take trips with my friends and take my camera and drone to capture all the moments along the way. I am sure you’ll catch me with my camera in my hand at some point this summer.
Stay tuned for more player profiles and details on our upcoming Midwest Premier League season. Find our 2021 season schedule on our website by clicking here.
