University of Denver product who attended the team’s open tryout in December signs his first professional contract
Midfielder Destan Norman has signed with Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC, after initially taking part in the team’s open tryout in his hometown of Fort Collins in November and then spending preseason with the team as a trialist. The deal is pending league and federation approval.
“Destan has been on a fantastic journey, one that should inspire every young local player around Northern Colorado,” said head coach Éamon Zayed. “He came into our first ever Hailstorm tryout last December, and we kept an eye on him ever since; we invited him into pre-season camp and he has excelled and shown tremendous determination and grit to get this opportunity to sign his first pro deal.”
At the time of Northern Colorado’s 2021 tryout, Norman had just finished his graduate year season at the University of Denver. He made 81 appearances for the Pioneers, starting in 76 of those and tallying three goals and six assists. During the 2021 season he helped Denver reach the second round of the NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Tournament, where they lost out to eventual national champions Clemson. That year, DU won the Summit League title and Norman was named to the Summit League Second Team. Norman also received academic all-league honors in four straight seasons.
Prior to playing for the crimson and gold, Norman played for Real Colorado. He captained the youth club, and was invited to the Colorado Boys All-Star Game in 2016.
“I’m truly excited to join the Hailstorm community,” said Norman. “It’s not every day you get to participate in building an organization from the ground up. Being born and raised in Northern Colorado, this is especially a very unique opportunity for me and I am looking forward to contributing to a club so close to home.”
Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC will play its home matches in the 6,500-seat TicketSmarter Stadium at the Future Legends Complex, the premier destination for sports and events in Northern Colorado. Season ticket deposits are being taken now.
Opening in 2022, the 118-acre Future Legends Complex will feature two stadiums, multiple baseball diamonds and multi-purpose fields, an indoor sports arena, lodging, and retail; and will host guests for major sports tournaments, events, leagues, and more.