As our inaugural season approaches, we wanted to give you more of an introduction to the players who will represent Lansing Common on the field this summer. Today, it’s time to get to know Leutrim Shefkiu.

What position do you play and what do you think Lansing Common fans will enjoy most about the way you play?

I play center mid and I think Lansing Common fans will enjoy how hard I work each game. 

You are currently playing for Coach Oaks at Spring Arbor. How would you describe the way Spring Arbor plays, and how you fit into that system?

The way we play at Spring Arbor is fast-paced play towards the wings and getting numbers forward. I feel like I fit well in that system because I can get involved a lot in the attack and defensively as well. 

You’ve played in some huge games in your career. In Mason, you played for the state title. And last year, you played in the Crossroads League title game. Do games at that level get easier the more you play in? Or are there still a lot of nerves and anxiety to overcome each time you play in one?

I think the more you do play in those types of games the easier it gets, you kind of know how the game is going to be, you get more comfortable. For me, I just focus on the task at hand and try and win. When you think too hard about the game, that’s when the nerves come in. 

You and your brother (Lirim) both played together at Mason, you are both on Spring Arbor right now, and now you’ll both be on Lansing Common FC. In what ways does having your brother on the same team as you help you on the field?

 I think playing with my brother is special, It helps us both compete at the highest level we can. Both of us want to be better than the other and that pushes us a lot. As well we just have a feel for the game because we have played a lot of games together in the past. 

What is something you would say you are much better than Lirim at on the field, and what is something he is much better than you at?

For the most part I think we both share a lot of similarities on the pitch, but I would say I can ping a ball a lot better than him, and I think his vision is off the charts. 

What was your favorite moment you have ever had on a soccer field?

My favorite moment on a soccer field is probably winning a state championship at Mason with a bunch of guys I had grown up playing soccer with, or hosting the opening round of the NAIA tournament at SAU and winning on our home field.

What hobbies do you have when you aren’t playing soccer?

Some hobbies outside of soccer are gaming, and honestly just watching soccer as much as I can.

Stay tuned for more player profiles and details on our upcoming Midwest Premier League season. Season tickets and memberships are still available for the 2021 season, get yours today!