Empire’s Suddeth Selected in MASL Expansion Draft

Defender departs club for Lehigh Valley after rookie campaign

Allentown, Pa. — Empire Strykers defender Ben Suddeth was selected by the Lehigh Valley Spirits with the sixth overall pick in Tuesday’s 2026 Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) Expansion Draft. The 24-year-old, who is coming off his rookie MASL campaign with Empire, had been under contract with the club through the conclusion of the 2027-28 season.

Over the course of 2025-26, Suddeth made nine appearances for the Strykers and recorded 11 blocked opposition shots.

“Ben was a true professional and an outstanding locker-room guy from day one,” said Head Coach and backline anchor Robert Palmer. “We want to thank him for everything he gave to our team and for his work in the community, and we wish him nothing but the very best going forward.”

Hailing from the Chicago area, Suddeth gained valuable indoor experience with MASL2 side Chicago Mustangs while also competing collegiately at Chicago State University and Northern Illinois University. During his college career, he also represented United Soccer Leagues (USL) League Two outfits Chicago City SC and Riverlight FC.

With the new MASL soccer campaign kicking off in late 2026, anyone looking to buy Empire Strykers single-game or season tickets should keep an eye out for the official schedule release in the fall. Empire Strykers fan gear is available year-round via our online store.

The Strykers are the premier indoor soccer team in the Inland Empire and one of two top-tier pro indoor soccer teams in California. As a founding member of the MASL, the Empire organization prides itself on fielding one of the best small-sided teams in the world.

If you’re IE-based and looking to compete, you may have found yourself wondering, “Where can I find an indoor soccer league near me?” If so, feel free to reach out. We’re well connected in the area and might just be able to help. High-level players may even stand a chance at joining our reserve team, the Empire Jets, and entering the pathway to our senior squad.