Frank Odoi

Years with the Lancers: 1970-1978 (midfield)

Born: Accra, Ghana

Played more seasons with the Rochester Lancers than any other player.  Competed for 5 years in his native Ghana in the 1960’s, earning a spot on the Ghana National Team and representing his country in the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.  Came to the United States in 1968 and started his US career with the Washington Whips of the NPSL (forerunner to the North American Soccer League). Played for the Syracuse Scorpions in the American Soccer League in 1969 and part of 1970, before coming to the Lancers.  Helped the Lancers to their only NASL title in 1970. Selected as the Lancers Most Valuable Player in 1973. He was known as “The Man Who Marked Pelé”, as he was responsible for shadowing Pelé every time the Lancers faced the Cosmos.   Joined the Major Indoor Soccer League Buffalo Stallions in the 1979-1980 season before retiring from professional soccer.

Became the assistant coach of the Rochester Raging Rhinos in 1996 and held that position for 9 seasons, which included winning three A-League championships in 1998, 1999 and 2001 and the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup title in 1999.