Feb. 14, 2011
By Jack McCarthy
Special to the Tribune
Midfielder Baggio Husidic was a pleasant surprise for Fire coach Carlos de los Cobos last season when he displayed a knack for setting up and scoring goals in 22 appearances.
More is expected this year as the 23-year-old former Illinois-Chicago star settles into his third MLS season.
"I had a surprise with Baggio last season," de los Cobos said. "Now the expectation is higher."
Husidic was among team leaders in 2010 with five goals and three assists.
"He's improving, he's working very hard and he's a smart guy," de los Cobos said. "He's a very good midfielder. He likes to score and he's always moving up and down. He has a very good pace and a strong shot. I think his confidence is stronger."
After playing sparingly as a rookie, Husidic gained extensive experience in his second full season, starting 18 games. And he's confident playing time, offseason competition in Spain and efforts to stay fit and focused will pay off.
"My numbers from last year show I can score goals and make assists," said Husidic, a native of Bosnia who earned three letters at Libertyville High School. "I've always had a creative part to my game and the more confidence you get, the more it comes out."
Husidic was a first-team All-American in 2008 as his nine goals and six assists helped UIC reach the NCAA Sweet 16. Other honors included Horizon League player of the year and Soccer America first team most valuable player.
The Fire made him the fifth pick in the second round of the 2009 MLS SuperDraft and he played in 10 games as a rookie, starting five.
He's pleased with how camp is proceeding as the Fire wrap up two weeks of training at the Bridgeview Sports Dome. The team departs Monday for more work, scrimmages and games near Naples, Fla.
"So far we have a good group of guys," he said. "We still have a good core from last season and it's important to focus on that. You can always add one or two or even three players, but if you look at the most successful teams, they always have a (good) core."
