After starting the offseason by solidifying the team’s attack around its core of returning players, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers have looked overseas to inject youth and depth into the team’s defense. The Strikers have signed Colombian defender Daniel Arcila for the 2013 season. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

“I am very happy to join the team, it has always been my dream to join a professional club,” said Arcila, who signed his first professional contract with the Strikers. “I am thankful for my family who has supported me 100 percent in my playing career and reaching my dream. They have fought just as hard as I have fought to reach this point.”

Arcila, 19, played the 2012 season with his home club Deportivo Olimpia in Colombia. He’s also had the opportunity to play with a North American club after spending the 2012 preseason with the Montreal Impact in the MLS. The six foot, 170 pound Arcila is also in the selection pool of players for the Colombian U-20 national team.

“We’re excited to have a young player like Daniel join the team,” said head coach Daryl Shore. “He’s a skilled, left-sided player we feel can develop into being a very good player for us this season and into the future as well.”

Look for Arcila, who will be wearing jersey number 3, to make his debut with the team as the Strikers open their preseason schedule today, March 7 at 7:30pm, against the FIU Golden Panthers at FIU’s soccer stadium. Tickets are $4 for adults, $2 for children and FIU Students are admitted free. Go to www.FIUSports.com to purchase tickets online.