Lions Defender Justin Clark saw significant playing time last year, appearing four times for the Lions with the aspirations of playing more minutes once the USL PRO kicks off on April 7.

“I just want to keep improving everyday, and keep playing,” Clark told orlandocitysoccer.com. “The system we have here suits my style of play really well. I like to run and get up and down the pitch, and the system allows me to do that.”

Born and raised in Atlanta, Ga., the 24 year-old Clark featured regularly when he went to school at Rollins College in Winter Park, but accepted that seeing consistent playing time at Orlando City took time, but will eventually payoff.

“It’s a big year for him,” says Head Coach Adrian Heath on Clark’s current form. “It’s a real pivotal moment in his career, he’s going to have to show and prove that he can play in this level and be part of a squad that’s one of the best teams outside the MLS (Major League Soccer).

Despite picking up time from injured players last season, the former Rollins Tar said that,“Playing time is earned,” and believes if he wants to squeeze into Heath’s starting XI, proving his worth at practice and at games will determine coach’s decision.

Clark, who joins Dennis Chin as former Rollins Tar players, reflected on his college playing time at Rollins.

“When I’m not practicing with the team, I go back and kick the ball around with the guys, I still have a good relationship with them,” said Clark. “To be All-American and winning conference defender of the year are some great memories.”

Clark also spoke on the mentality the team has when competing against other clubs in different environments saying, “Even in practice, everybody wants to win every game that just translates wanting to win every competition.”

With more preseason competition coming within a matter of days, the Disney Pro Soccer Classic is something Clark is looking forward to.

“There’s a lot of smack talk with the whole Tampa rivalry, but I really want to win the Disney tournament.”