Today marks the 35th birthday of a player who truly bridged the gap between two eras of Minnesota soccer. While many remember Danny Cruz as a member of the inaugural 2017 MLS squad, his journey in the Twin Cities actually began in 2016. He arrived during the club’s final year in the NASL, providing the veteran grit and top-flight experience that helped the organization prepare for its massive leap forward.
After retiring from professional play following the 2017 season, Cruz made a swift transition to the sidelines. He joined the coaching staff at Real Monarchs before moving to Louisville City FC in the USL Championship.
Since being named the head coach of Louisville in 2021, Cruz has cemented his reputation as one of the brightest young minds in the game. Under his leadership, Louisville City has remained a perennial powerhouse, consistently finishing at the top of the Eastern Conference and competing for league titles.
For Loons fans who remember his high-energy shifts across two different leagues, seeing him translate that same intensity into a successful managerial career has been a highlight of the club’s alumni tracking.
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