Behind the Mic: Meet Christian "Filly" Filimon

Behind the Mic: Meet Christian "Filly" Filimon

Empire Strykers fans—have you ever wondered who it is behind the scenes making all these great things happen for the Strykers?

• Creating a fabulous game-day experience.
• Helping put a highly competitive team on the field while keeping the club engaged with the community.
• Encouraging kids and families to live fit and healthy lifestyles.
• Teaching soccer skills to the next generation through youth camps and clinics.

Well, that's your Empire Strykers front office staff, and we're excited to help you get to know them through a series of interviews about their role with the club, their passion for sports, and what it's like working behind the scenes for the Empire Strykers.

Getting to Know Christian "Filly" Filimon

If you've ever tuned in to an Empire Strykers broadcast, chances are you've heard the energetic voice of Christian "Filly" Filimon bringing every goal, save, and dramatic moment to life. Since 2021, Filly has served as the club's play-by-play broadcaster, combining his passion for storytelling with his love for indoor soccer.

Broadcasting has always been the dream.

"I've always wanted to be a broadcaster," Filly said. "I originally started by hosting the Strykers' official podcast, and from there an opportunity in broadcasting opened up and my career began."

While fans hear the excitement once the match begins, much of Filly's work happens long before the opening kickoff.

"Game day is all about getting to the arena early and getting mentally prepared for the broadcast," he explained. "The real work happens before game day. I spend hours researching both teams, watching film, reviewing statistics, and checking social media for storylines and facts that I can incorporate into the broadcast."

That level of preparation helps ensure every broadcast delivers more than just play-by-play. It gives fans insight into the players, the matchups, and the stories unfolding throughout the season.

For Filly, the job itself is exactly where he wants to be.

"I love being a broadcaster," he said. "I love indoor soccer, and I love my colleagues. Pretty simple, really."

Over the past several seasons, he's had a front-row seat to countless unforgettable moments, but a few stand above the rest.

"There have been so many great memories, but calling overtime game-winning goals by Justin Stinson and Brian Orozco stands out as some of my favorite moments."

Working alongside the rest of the organization has also left a lasting impression.

"The culture is open, friendly, and collaborative," he said.

Outside of game days, Filly enjoys seeing the Empire Strykers make a difference throughout the Inland Empire through clinics, appearances, and community events.

"It's all about connecting with the community and growing the sport at the grassroots level."

Fans may only see the finished broadcast, but Filly hopes they realize just how much preparation goes into every match.

"Fans might be surprised by how complex preparing for game days can be."

Looking ahead, he believes the future is bright—not only for the Empire Strykers, but for indoor soccer as a whole.

"The growth of the team and the growth of the sport are both incredibly exciting."

Before signing off, Filly shared one final invitation for both longtime supporters and first-time fans.

"Come out and support the team and experience indoor soccer for yourself. You won't regret it—it won't be a waste of your time, and you'll be glad you came."

So now you've gotten to know Christian "Filly" Filimon a little better. The next time you see him at a clinic, community event, or an Empire Strykers game, be sure to say hello!

For everything Empire Strykers—including season tickets, single-game tickets, official fan gear, the latest Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) news, and everything related to indoor soccer in the Inland Empire—visit www.theempirestrykers.com.

And don't forget to tune in to Soccer in 60 every Thursday afternoon on KMET 1490 ABC News & Sports Radio Inland Empire, where hosts J.R. and Tim bring you the latest news and stories from around the soccer world.