Red Bulls forward Kenny Cooper answered a few questions after one of the team's training sessions at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, FL. Here's what he had to say about his second preseason with the team and first under Head Coach Mike Petke.
You’re in your second preseason with the team now after coming in as the new guy last year. How do the two compare?
It’s great to have a year under my belt with the guys. Obviously a comfort being around everyone and a familiarity after spending a year with the guys. So far it’s been a really, really great camp. And it’s a group I’m proud to be a part of.
Mike Petke Interview
You mention the familiarity, but what about getting to know some of the new guys in camp as well?
There’s a good group of guys that returned, but also a bunch of new faces and so far everyone has done really well and been welcomed. Everyone is just putting incredible work in and it’s great to see that united effort from everyone. Guys who have been around, putting in the hard work, and you can already see a great camaraderie developing.
How would you describe the tempo and the atmosphere of the training sessions?
After some time off, these guys are itching to get back out onto the field. With that comes a great energy and I think that’s been obvious. Everyone seems to enjoying themselves, but also putting in a good amount of work.
You worked with Mike Petke last year when he was an assistant coach and now you’ll be working with him again this season, only in his head coaching role. What did you take from him in just that first season together?
I’m excited for the team. He’s been named the boss, and I’m ecstatic for him and I think it’s very well deserved. He had a great career in the league and he did a great job as an assistant, so it’s great to see him get that head coaching job. And I know he’ll do a really great job.
