Strykers’ Palmer, Stinson Named to 2025-26 MASL Second Team

Club icons led Empire to second straight playoff appearance

 Ontario, Calif. — The Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) today announced its individual awards for the 2025-26 regular season, recognizing backline anchor Robert Palmer and midfielder Justin Stinson as part of the MASL Second Team, which consists of 12 standout performers from all eight teams as determined by a vote among select coaches and front office staff. The announcement was made during MASL Mondays, the weekly news and highlights program on CBS Sports Golazo Network.

In addition to leading the Strykers in assists (14), Robert Palmer served as the team’s undisputed leader on defense, placing third in the MASL in blocks (45). The Empire captain also served as Interim Head Coach for his club’s final three games of the regular season, leading the Strykers to three straight victories and back above the playoff line.

Justin Stinson, who appeared in every single fixture for his side, finished atop the Empire roster in points (27) and jointly with Mounir Alami in goals (15) while also placing second in helpers (12) and points per game (1.13 in 24 games).

On February 22, in a 10-2 home win over Tacoma, the Missouri native made history in front of 6,223 at Toyota Arena, as he not only collected a staggering two netters and four assists but also tied for the most career regular season points collected by a single player in franchise history (185). 13 days later, Stinson took hold of the record by himself, scoring the dramatic winner in a 5-4 overtime win at St. Louis.