2019 RSL Player Profiles: Damir Kreilach

Damir Kreilach is a leader on the team and has worn the captain’s armband a handful of times. That is pretty remarkable for a guy that has only been with the club for two full seasons.

Kreilach’s impact on the team is larger than goals scored. He is a really savvy, selfless, and humble player that does whatever he needs to do to make life easier for those around him. As an example, Damir played in a few different positions on the field over the course of the 2019 seasons implementing various tactical strategies. Whether or not that is the wisest way to use his talents is up for debate, but there was never a doubt that he was willing to do whatever was asked of him.

His reduction in goals and assists is likely a result of this. He scored 6 goals and dished out 5 assists in 2019 (he had 12 goals and 8 assists the prior year). This is not a knock on him by any means, just an insight.

Damir scores in some of the biggest moments for the club. Similar to last year, he scored a goal to put RSL ahead in their playoff game against the Timbers and came to celebrate with the fans. He is not afraid of the pressure games. In fact, I think it’s fair to say that is when he is at his best, when a lot is on the line.

His teammates gain confidence and play better by having him on the field. I suspect that whenever the American hero, Kyle Beckerman, retires that Damir will become the full-time captain.