Forward announces first four re-signings

Come the 2020 season, we know at least four players who will still be going “Full Mingo.”

Forward Madison officially announced the re-signing of four of its core from last season’s playoff run: midfielder JC Banks, forwards Paulo Júnior and Don Smart and goalkeeper Brian Sylvestre.

The Wisconsin-native Banks had a strong season from the midfield, scoring five goals in 2019 including the game winner that clinched Foward’s spot in the playoffs.

Brazlian Paulo Júnior played in every game last season for the Flamingos, scoring five goals and assisting five more.

Don Smart, Forward’s first ever signing, led Madison in goals scored with nine goals in all competitions as the “King from Kingston” quickly became a fan favorite.

Goalkeeper Brian Sylvestre also returns to the Flamingos, where he played a crucial part in Forward’s run to the playoffs. Sylvestre allowed only three goals in the last eight regular season games.

Head coach Daryl Shore in a podcast said that it was crucial to have that veteran core return to help build a solid base for next season.

“These four guys were all integral parts of our season all year long,” Shore said. “When you do that and you’re putting together your roster, you’ve got to have a core group of guys that come back.”

Shore also said that fans should expect more signings in the “coming weeks.”