New York Red Bulls II forward Sebastian Elney enjoyed a solid first professional season last year, recording four goals in 24 appearances. Out of his four goals, he had two-game winning goals against Atlanta United 2 and Saint Louis FC. The season ahead gives Elney the opportunity to be one of the main attacking sources for the club.
Q: How was your offseason?
Elney: It was really good. It was great to be back home and have the opportunity to refresh physically and mentally. It also allowed me to start preparation for the upcoming season.
Q: What was your favorite memory from your rookie season?
Elney: For me personally, it was scoring my first professional goal against Atlanta United 2 last June. It is definitely something I will never forget. Overall, just looking back at some of the wins we had, the team pulled out some big results. We are looking to take that a step forward this year.
Q: What has been your favorite part about being a part of the Red Bulls family?
Elney: Definitely, the family aspect everyone was so welcoming, and it was really easy to settle in here. Also, getting in on the press, when the press goes right it is so fun to be a part of.
Q: What kind of music have you added to your playlist since the end of last season?
Elney: I have added a lot of Travis Scott to my playlist. Anything he puts out is my go-to.
Q: What was the most important thing you were looking to improve in the offseason?
Elney: For me, it was all about scoring more goals and recording more assists, just getting a little bit more involved.
Q: What are some team-oriented goals that you have in mind for the 2020 season?
Elney: The ultimate goal is the USL Championship Title that would be a big goal. We could break the goal scoring record that we set at the end of last season, that would be awesome. Then individually, just contribute any way I can to help the team win.
Q: How has preseason been going so far?
Elney: It has been going really well, some fresh faces and some returners coming back. Everyone is really excited about this upcoming season and the ball is knocking out there and the boys are buzzing. It has been a really fun time.
Q: After an early playoff exit last season, what kind of message are you and the returners trying to send to the new faces in camp?
Elney: That it is a difficult season, and that we need to set ourselves up better to get more points in the regular season, which would start us off with a home playoff game or maybe two and then carry on from there.
Q: What would be your advice to the new guys coming in for their first professional season?
Elney: My advice would be to tell them that it is a long and difficult season. There are ups and downs, but at the end, you will find that if you put in a lot of work, there will be something to be proud of.
