This Friday’s Toronto FC II match against Saint Louis FC will be extra special for keeper Mark Pais. The St. Louis native spent his last two seasons playing for his hometown team and will be making his first trip home since signing with Toronto this offseason. 

“It’s going to be great, definitely some excitement, there is a little emotion there.” the keeper told TFC2.ca ,”Obviously [this is] the club I played at previously and where I grew up my entire life. “

To many, Saint Louis is considered the birthplace of American soccer. However, professional soccer has struggled to find its place in the city’s sports landscape. Previous USL and NASL franchises had attempted to change this trend but have had limited success.

“Saint Louis FC was the last shot to bring pro soccer back and do it right,” remarked Pais. Saint Louis FC was founded in 2014 and began to play in the USL during the 2015 season. Pais was an inaugural member of Saint Louis FC, signing in January of 2015.

As when any player returns to play at home, Pais will have a large contingency of family and friends in attendance.  “I’m excited to see them,” added Pais, “But at the same time, I’m there for a job. It will be all about shutting out those distractions prior to the match.”

Pais and the rest of the Reds will look to finish that job against Saint Louis FC Friday night at 8:30 PM. You can catch all of the action live on TFC2.ca.