Empire Signs Polo Hernandez to New Long-Term Deal

Midfielder commits to Strykers through the 2028-29 MASL campaign

Ontario, Calif. — The Empire Strykers today announced they have signed Leopoldo “Polo” Hernandez to a new long-term deal, ensuring the 27-year-old will remain with the club through the 2028-29 Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) campaign. Since joining Empire in late 2024, following two seasons in professional outdoor soccer, Hernandez has steadily developed into one of the MASL’s best two-way midfielders.

“I’m incredibly excited to be staying with the Strykers,” said the Mexican. “This organization is home to me, so it was a no-brainer. I’m most excited about seeing all the guys and getting going again. We have a big year ahead of us, and we’ll give it our all to be successful. I want to make a big jump this season and contribute in any way the team needs me to. My biggest goal is the championship. I really believe it’s possible. We’re ready to get to work.”

Born in Tijuana, Polo Hernandez grew up in Sacramento, his standout performances with youth club Real Sacramento earning him a place in the academy system of USL Championship side Sacramento Republic FC. He later moved to the Golden State’s Central Region to compete with Taft College in 2017 and 2018, followed by a transfer to UC Riverside for the 2021 and 2022 seasons.

Hernandez began his professional career in the National Independent Soccer League (NISA), representing Los Angeles Force and Chattanooga Red Wolves in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

The Strykers midfielder has enjoyed a rapid rise since his transition to the indoor game less than two years ago. After making 14 appearances during his rookie MASL campaign, he became a stalwart for Empire during 2025-26, playing in 23 of 24 regular season games and in each of the club’s three playoff encounters. Hernandez has recorded five goals and 16 assists in 41 career matches with the Strykers.

Head Coach Robert Palmer expressed his excitement over the club locking down another key contributor for years to come.

“Polo’s growth since joining Empire has been impressive,” said the former team captain. “He’s improved each year he’s been here, and he’s earned a big role within the group through his consistency, professionalism, and desire to keep progressing. The expectations we’ve set for him moving forward will be demanding, but I know he’ll rise to the challenge. He has all the qualities needed to take the next step in his career, and I can’t wait to witness it up close.”

With the new MASL 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. 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 have a shot at joining our reserve team, the Empire Jets, and entering the pathway to our senior squad.