Team News
Spirits Sign Veteran Superstar Player with Local Roots – Max Ferdinand
Perennial All-Star and Two-Time Champion Reunites with Former Coach in Lehigh Valley
Allentown, PA – The Lehigh Valley Spirits have signed one of the most prolific scorers in MASL history and two-time League Champion Max Ferdinand to the club’s inaugural roster for the 2026-27 season. Max was born in Haiti and moved with his family to the Reading, Pennsylvania area, where he grew up and became a standout soccer player in High School. Ferdinand will serve as a Player-Assistant Coach for the team.
Ferdinand, 39, returns to the region as one of the MASL’s most accomplished players, pairing Championship experience with a sustained record of production. Across 12 MASL seasons, the Reading product has accumulated 346 points in 209 regular-season games. His career point total ranks eighth in League history, while his 220 assists are the third-most all-time.
Born in Haiti, Ferdinand moved to the United States with his family at a young age and established his soccer roots in nearby Reading, Pennsylvania. He became a standout at Reading High School.
“As we build our team, our focus continues to be on good character players with a passion for winning and supporting the community, Max excels in each of these phases. Since coming into the MASL, we have heard nothing but great things about Max, he takes great pride in seeking out fans to brighten their day; he helped lead his team to the Cup Finals last season; and has won a League Championship with our Sporting Director, Giuliano Oliviero – add in the fact that Max has local roots in our area – it really seems like a match made in Heaven.” said owners Rob and Jim Brooks.
He remained a key contributor for the Milwaukee Wave last season, recording more than a point-a-game, with six goals and 16 assists for 22 points in 20 appearances while helping the club advance to the Ron Newman Cup Final.
During his time with Milwaukee, Ferdinand developed close ties and familiarity with members now of the Spirits organization, playing under head coach Giuliano Oliviero and alongside goalkeeper William Banahene. He will now reunite with both in Lehigh Valley while bringing another experienced voice to the coaching staff in addition to his playing duties.
Known for his elite vision, technical ability, and creativity on the ball, the longtime playmaker has established himself as one of the indoor game’s premier talents. His experience and understanding of the game will allow him to control the pace and overall tactical structure of play while continuing to contribute offensively.
The veteran began his professional indoor career with the Baltimore Blast in 2009-10. He made an immediate impact by earning Rookie of the Year honors during his debut season.
He helped Baltimore capture the 2013 Championship before adding a second title with Milwaukee during the 2018-19 campaign, when the Wave claimed the Ron Newman Cup.
Ferdinand’s decorated indoor career has included multiple stints with both championship organizations, along with one season with the St. Louis Ambush in 2021. He represented Baltimore from 2009-15 and again from 2021-23, while playing for Milwaukee from 2015-20 and most recently from 2023-26.
From developing his game in Reading to winning Championships on the professional stage, Ferdinand will now bring his career full circle as he helps introduce a new era of indoor soccer to the Lehigh Valley.
For more information, visit LVSpirits.com.