Signing of the 29-year-old Honduran comes as the team gears up for North American Soccer League (NASL) action in April and the grand opening of Toyota Field, the team’s new, 8,000-seat home and multi-purpose special-events and entertainment venue.
“Walter is always an attacking threat,” said Scorpions Head Coach Tim Hankinson. “With his quickness and one-on-one qualities, he’ll present defenders with a handful of problems in 2013.”
Before joining the Scorpions last year, Ramirez played for D. D. Vida in Liga Nacional de Honduras and also garnered valuable experience competing for Miami FC of the United Soccer League (USL). He became an anchor in Miami’s defensive line, appearing in more than 50 games for the team.
Ramirez, who last season started in 23 of 24 matches played and logged 1,964 minutes, was one of three Scorpions voted to the NASL‘s Best 11 Team in 2012. His consistent performance helped the Scorpions win the NASL regular-season title. He was the fourth-leading scorer, with 10 points, 2 goals and a team-high 6 assists.
The 2013 team-building process will continue with more player signings in the next few weeks prior to the start of training camp March 1, Hankinson said.
“The Scorpions franchise is unique in that all net profits go to help expand programs and services for the special-needs community through non-profit Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s first and only ultra-accessible theme park,” said Scorpions President Howard Cornfield.
Sensing an opportunity to benefit Morgan’s Wonderland for the long run, San Antonio philanthropist Gordon Hartman three years ago secured an NASL franchise – one rung below Major League Soccer – and launched Soccer for a Cause, a successful campaign to build community support for pro soccer. The Scorpions played their first NASL match April 15, 2012.
