Paul Gilbert will be in command as the head coach in the inaugural season for the Lubbock Matadors S.C. Coach Gibert brings two essential things to the table. One, he can build a culture in his six seasons as the head coach of LCU; he became the school's all-time win leader. He posted identical records in his first two seasons, going 5-11. However since those two losing seasons, LCU became a force in their conference winning a combined 19 games in his last two seasons. It all culminated with LCU's first appearance in the Lone Star Conference championship game. Secondly, he brings an exciting brand of soccer to the South Plains. Die-hard soccer fans will recognize the style of play immediately as the RB-Leipzig style of play, consisting of high pressing defense and quick counter-attacks with the ball constantly moving vertically. Beyond the X's and O's, coach Gilbert keeps preaching about the community and how important this will be for the overall organization's success.

I have constantly heard from the front office staff, "The community comes first." This motto is a breath of fresh air for a sports organization and something Gilbert seems to back up. When assembling the roster, he's looking for talented football players and role models. He doesn't want just athletes; he wants players who can score goals and help out the  Lubbock community.

We may not know the roster, schedule, or even where the matadors play. We know one thing is certain Coach Gilbert and the Matadors will be playing a thrilling brand of soccer.