If there's one thing that most families can agree on, it's that losing a loved one is tough. It's a grief-stricken time often filled with sleepless nights and free-flowing tears. Between notifying friends, planning funeral services, and working through your own emotions, the thought of Estate Administration is the last thing on your mind. But you know something must be done. You feel obligated to do something about your family member's estate but aren't sure how to proceed or when to do it. You're probably wrestling with hard-to-answer questions like:
That's where Cobb Hammett comes in - to help guide you through the complicated processes of probate court in South Carolina. Because the truth is, probate can be confusing and intimidating if you're ill-equipped to deal with the court's procedures and inner workings. There is legal paperwork to draft and file, petitions to publish, notices to serve, bonds to file, and a long list of rules that you must adhere to during this time. With a probate lawyer in Cleveland, SC, by your side, however, you can rest easy knowing your loved one's assets are protected, and their legacy is legally preserved.
When someone passes away, their assets have to be distributed according to South Carolina state laws and the directions in their Will. Your probate lawyer will be a significant source of help in this regard, as they will guide an executor of a Will or Beneficiaries of an estate through the often-confusing probate process. From identifying notating estate assets to distributing inheritances, your probate attorney is a crucial partner during this difficult time in your life.
At Cobb Hammett, our probate attorneys understand that when a client's loved one dies, they need a caring presence by their side. But they also need a confident source of knowledge that can act on their behalf as they grieve. That's why, given the complex nature of probate law, it's a good idea to have a trusted attorney on call who can settle an estate and handle the nuanced issues that arise in probate court.
Administering a decedent's estate can be a long, arduous process. That's especially true if disputes are involved with Beneficiaries. When you consider the chances of being held liable for decisions you make as a Personal Representative of an Estate, working with a probate lawyer from Cobb Hammett Law Firm just makes good sense.
As seasoned probate lawyers in South Carolina, we understand that Estate Administration often involves sensitive family dynamics as much as it does the legal minutia involved in probate law. After all, a person's estate not only affects their generation but the generations that follow.
But when your loved one passes, their assets must be managed and distributed correctly. When mismanaged, disputes often arise between parties like the Beneficiaries, Trustees, Heirs, or Executors of a Will. Even when everything is managed the right way, arguments and misunderstandings can still occur, and even evolve into bitter legal battles necessitating probate litigation.
It stands to reason, then, that you should hire a probate lawyer in Cleveland, SC to help. But the truth is, many attorneys don't have vast experience with probate and trust work. If they do, they aren't usually seasoned trial attorneys. That's what separates probate attorneys at Cobb Hammett, LLC from others - we have the ability to help plan your Estate and litigate estate disputes if they arise.
We are keenly familiar with local probate judges, courtroom staff members, and the related procedures involved with South Carolina probate law. Our intimate knowledge and experience help us successfully navigate the probate process to complete our client's cases quickly and efficiently.
But that's just one aspect that sets Cobb Hammett apart from other firms. Understanding the importance of personalized attention, we also make an intentional decision to limit our law firm's overall caseload. This allows us to better focus on individual clients, many of whom remain with us for generations. We do not pass off cases to paralegals or junior associates but rather prioritize the attorney-client relationship. We value compassion and integrity, and our practice reflects those values.
Moreover, trust is one of the most important aspects of the attorney-client relationship. We work to create an open, friendly environment in which you can feel comfortable. After years of experience, we boast the skill and experience necessary to earn that trust - and that's a priceless commodity when it comes to probate cases in South Carolina.
Our attorneys love probate and estate-related legal services, including but not limited to the following:
When our probate lawyers assist with Estate Administration, our team prioritizes efficacy and efficiency to ensure all tasks are accomplished correctly and on time. That way, our clients endure less stress while looking good in front of family members.
When an Estate is disputed and requires litigation, Cobb Hammett probate attorneys fight to win on our client's behalf. From holding unfaithful Executors accountable to contesting Wills, our team searches for the best way to achieve our client's goals.
Things get more complicated in probate cases where Trusts are involved. To ensure that the terms of the Trust are met and handled correctly, our team works closely with clients to advise them on how to proceed.
Every Trust is different. By proxy, every Trust dispute must be handled in a unique manner. After a careful analysis of the Trust and South Carolina law, our team will determine the best strategy to achieve our client's goals.
When a loved one passes away, it's natural to go through a time of emotional adjustment. However, it's crucial for the family of the loved one to face the financial realities of their estate. That reality includes the probate process, which involves distributing assets and settling the estate. A probate attorney in Cleveland, SC is often recommended to assist during this time. This process isn't just recommended - it's often a legal responsibility in South Carolina.
Delivery of Will Upon Death: During probate, the first step involves having a will delivered to an Estate Administrator or to the probate court. The deadline to accomplish this task is 30 days.
A Personal Representative is Assigned: This individual is often named in a Will and should be appointed officially by the court.
A Notice is Sent to Intestate Heirs: If these heirs feel that they should inherit, they have a right to challenge this step.
The Estate is Inventoried and Appraised: This process must occur within 90 days of opening an estate. In some estates with valuables like jewelry, art, and property, professional appraisers may be needed.
Settling Accounts: During this step, the estate must pay any applicable taxes, ongoing expenses, or outstanding debts. Should the estate not have enough money to pay these debts, creditors must be paid according to South Carolina code.
Distributions: If there is money in the estate after debts are paid, those funds are given to heirs of the estate, according to the Will or the State.
Discharge: As soon as any claims are paid, the personal representative of the estate will file documents to close the estate. To make this official, the court will issue a Certificate of Discharge.
Though most estates in South Carolina must go through probate, it is possible to avoid. This happens when a decedent's assets are placed in a Living Trust prior to their death. In this scenario, beneficiaries must be designated in order to inherit the estate. Suppose there are funds that have been promised to beneficiaries via life insurance policies or bank accounts with "payable upon death" designations. In that case, those funds do not have to go through probate.
Assets subject to probate in South Carolina include:
Assets that are not subject to probate in South Carolina include:
Though it's not always possible, some families go out of their way to avoid the probate process in South Carolina. Doing so can help save money in the long run and also expedite the distribution of funds to heirs. By avoiding probate, you're also keeping personal matters private.
Because every person has different estate and probate complexities, it's hard to say whether avoiding probate is good or bad. Whether or not you should avoid probate depends on your unique situation. As a general rule, it's always best to consult with a probate lawyer in Cleveland, SC, for honest feedback and probate assistance.
Typically, having a Living Trust or a Will in place will make transferring assets easier. A little prep ahead of time will make a world of difference when your loved one passes away. After all, nobody is ever prepared for a relative or family friend's death, but a compassionate, trustworthy probate attorney can make the process easier.
For many families, "Probate" is a dirty term that involves heartbreak and headaches. And while the probate process in South Carolina can be complex and stressful, having answers to some of the most common probate questions can help put your mind at ease.
My family member recently passed away, and we're considering their estate. How long will the probate process take?
The time it takes an estate to go through probate in South Carolina varies depending on a number of questions, including:
When conditions are good, a small or simple estate usually takes about a year to close. More complicated estates may take longer.
My loved one mentioned opening a Trust to protect my assets. What is a Trust, and what Trusts should I consider?
As is the case with most probate decisions, opening a Trust should be based on your unique situation and guidance from your probate attorney in Cleveland, SC. With that said, a Trust is meant to hold property for your loved one's benefit. When a Trust is created, assets are transferred into the said Trust and managed accordingly. Though there is a common misconception that Trusts are reserved for the wealthy, just about any family can benefit from opening a Trust.
The most common types of Trusts used in probate include:
When conditions are good, a small or simple estate usually takes about a year to close. More complicated estates may take longer.
What happens when somebody dies without a will in South Carolina?
When a person passes away without a Will in South Carolina, the state decides who gets their decedent's assets. This is also called passing intestate. When this happens, usually only spouses, blood relatives, or registered domestic partners can inherit property according to intestate succession laws.
Relatives who receive the probate property of the deceased are usually chosen in the following order:
If you're in need of a veteran probate lawyer in South Carolina, look no further than Cobb Hammett Law Firm. With years of experience in Estate Administration and probate cases, our team is ready to serve you with excellence and protect your interests. Have additional questions? We're here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about Estate Administration in South Carolina.
Law is complicate matter. It can cause you a big problem if you ignore it. Let us help you!
Planning your estate is the first step to take if you want to protect your family, your assets, your well-being, and the fruits of your hard work.
At Cobb Hammett, LLC, our team of experienced probate lawyers in Cleveland, SC, can help you navigate the entire Estate Administration process. Through creative legal strategies and a clear understanding of your goals and desires, we work together to make your asset and estate visions a reality. It's never too early to get your estate in order. In fact, estate planning is important for everyone, whether you're single or married, young or old, with or without children. If you're ready to protect your assets and be prepared for probate, contact Cobb Hammett, LLC, today.
Have you visited Cleveland Park in Spartanburg, SC? This gorgeous, heavily shaded park is located just off Asheville Highway and is the perfect place to spend the day with your family. This park has everything, from a large duck pond spotted with several species of bird, to an expansive playground. There is something new to experience with each visit. The park is handicap accessible, so everyone can enjoy the park without feeling restricted. So, grab your picnic basket and head to Spartanburg for a lovely day at ...
Have you visited Cleveland Park in Spartanburg, SC? This gorgeous, heavily shaded park is located just off Asheville Highway and is the perfect place to spend the day with your family. This park has everything, from a large duck pond spotted with several species of bird, to an expansive playground. There is something new to experience with each visit. The park is handicap accessible, so everyone can enjoy the park without feeling restricted. So, grab your picnic basket and head to Spartanburg for a lovely day at Cleveland Park!
Here are some of the best parks and playgrounds near Greenville, SC and Spartanburg!
The nature-themed play area features several towering structures, climbing towers, swing sets, and wiggly bridges. The entire play area is atop rubberized flooring to provide a safe place for children to run and play. The Tot Lot, recommended for ages 2-5, has an adorable sandbox with a metal digger to let your toddler scoop and pour to their heart’s content. There are also structures to climb that are the perfect size for younger children. The tot area has bucket swings, a xylophone, and monkey bars, perfect for the adventurous toddler in your family.
The largest area, The Great Adventure zone, features a climbing wall, towering structures to climb, and caves underneath to escape the heat and let your imagination run wild! Several slides, tunnels, and rope bridges form the bulk of the park. Also, there is an exciting spinning roundabout that will have your kid giggling uncontrollably (while giving your arms a workout).
A park would not be complete without swings, and this section has several swings and a tire swing! The play area is in direct sun, so be sure to pack sunscreen and water during the summer months to keep your kids happy and safe while they spend their day playing. There is a picnic table area in the shade where parents can relax while their children play, or families can enjoy lunch during their visit.
Paved walking paths weaving through towering shade trees elevate the park’s beauty. Along these paths, you will find gazebos, a picturesque bridge, a large pond with several bird species, restrooms, and several other standout features. Be sure to bring your frozen peas and healthy snacks to feed the ducks!
In addition, there are plenty of spots throughout the park to have a picnic in the grass, with more formal facilities available for rent, and picnic tables spotted throughout the entire park. If you are looking to work out during your walk, you can locate outdoor fitness equipment throughout the park. Looking to host a large event? No problem!
There is a gorgeous event rental space at the John B. Cleveland Event Center as well. Cleveland Park has so much to offer for children, families, and anyone looking to get out and enjoy the beauty of Spartanburg.
141 North Cleveland Park DriveSpartanburg, SC 29303864.562.4150
Has your family visited Cleveland Park in Spartanburg?
Steel City FC continued its recent run of success against their rivals from Northeast Ohio, defeating Cleveland SC, 2-0, before a standing room crowd at Founders Field in Cheswick on Saturday evening.With the win, Steel City (5w-0l-1d, 16 points) seized the top spot in the NPSL’s Great Lakes Conference, as they handed Cleveland (3-1-0, 9 points) its first loss of the season.First half goals from Gabe Norris (Highlands/Robert Morris) and Eben McIntyre (Charleroi/Pitt), assisted by Anthony DiFalco (Franklin Regional/Duquesn...
Steel City FC continued its recent run of success against their rivals from Northeast Ohio, defeating Cleveland SC, 2-0, before a standing room crowd at Founders Field in Cheswick on Saturday evening.
With the win, Steel City (5w-0l-1d, 16 points) seized the top spot in the NPSL’s Great Lakes Conference, as they handed Cleveland (3-1-0, 9 points) its first loss of the season.
First half goals from Gabe Norris (Highlands/Robert Morris) and Eben McIntyre (Charleroi/Pitt), assisted by Anthony DiFalco (Franklin Regional/Duquesne) and Justin Kopay (Moon/St. John’s) were enough, as Steel City shut down Cleveland the rest of the way.
“While I’m very happy to get on the score sheet, especially against Cleveland, at the end of the day it was the by-product of a string of really good actions from the rest of the team,” Norris said after the match.
“I think it really highlighted the team’s chemistry and the fact we try to play as one brain.”
Goalkeeper Garret Wilson earned another clean sheet.
“As a goalkeeper obviously clean sheet is always the priority. This particular clean sheet though, all credit to the 10 guys in front of me flying around and putting them under pressure all game. They didn’t have a chance to breathe and we weren’t even really threatened in front of goal,” Wilson said. “To put in a performance like that in front of all of our youth players and members was exactly what we wanted to do. As someone who coaches in the club and sees every side of things it’s such a special thing to see everyone in the club top to bottom come together like that, especially against a rival like Cleveland, there’s nothing better.”
Steel City’s Head Coach Dan Brower was especially excited that his team could showcase a solid performance on the same day the soccer club held a women’s/men’s doubleheader with an awards ceremony for Youth teams between games.
“Just so very happy for the players and our club. Founders was jumping throughout the day and I want to thank our supporters for an amazing atmosphere. Our youth players and their families came out in force and our First Team players responded with an equally lively performance,” Brower stated.
For the second straight match against Cleveland SC, Steel City replicated its result from last season’s Great Lakes Conference Final, posting a 2-0 shut out victory, where the home side stayed in control throughout.
“We defended brilliantly – wonderful team effort to keep Cleveland off the board. We scored two great goals and, sure, would have been nice to put the game out of reach with another in the 2nd half but this just means some more things to work on in training, all good!” Brower added.
“Players are feeling confident and playing with more purpose each and every week. We’re playing a style of football that is true to the club ethos and hopefully excites the fans and our members on match days.”
Steel City continues to roll out many different roster combinations since the start of the 2024 year, as they have used different starting lineups going back to their Open Cup match in April, to the first six contests in league play.
“We were missing a few key pieces and so the depth of our squad took center stage. After this match, we’ve already had 28 players play in league matches and I expect that over 10 of our Academy products will find game minutes this summer,” Brower said.
“Steel City is about over-achieving and that can only happen by developing a thoughtful process-based approach – supported at all levels – and a winning culture. Our Steel City First Team continues to be about Player Development, plus results.”
Full-time at Founders Field finishes Steel City FC 2 Cleveland SC 0
We regroup and come back stronger. #WeAreCLE pic.twitter.com/zliGpZnLNd
— Cleveland SC (@SoccerCLE) June 9, 2024
Foodie road trips come in a variety of delicious adventures. But one thing they all certainly have in common is the thrill of exploring new places as well as new places to eat. Mountain House Restaurant is one of the best Cleveland, South Carolina restaurants. It has all the makings of a fun experience that includes a winding trek up a sc...
Foodie road trips come in a variety of delicious adventures. But one thing they all certainly have in common is the thrill of exploring new places as well as new places to eat. Mountain House Restaurant is one of the best Cleveland, South Carolina restaurants. It has all the makings of a fun experience that includes a winding trek up a scenic mountain, flavorful lunch choices, and a visit to a state park, which is just steps from the restaurant. The top offers some of the most incredible sweeping mountain views of the Blue Ridge Escarpment. There's nothing I appreciate more than the combination of great food and amazing views!
Mountain House at Caesars Head rests at the top of a mountain that peaks at just over 3,200 feet.
On the drive up the mountain, you'll pass the massive natural overlook known as Bald Rock. Stop and explore the rock and the views for 20-30 minutes... it's part of the adventure!
Once you're nearing the entrance to Caesars Head State Park, you'll see Mountain House Restaurant on your left.
Inside the rustic cabin exterior you'll find friendly faces and eclectic decor.
The abbreviated menu includes ideal choices like wraps, club sandwiches, grilled chicken, subs, salads, and more.
On a hot day, it may be difficult to pass up a double-scoop cone after your meal.
Enjoy the lovely view from the bright and airy seating area facing the long-range view out back.
You won't find a more rustic and welcoming eatery on this mountain!
When the last bite has been consumed, go back for a piece of homemade mountain fudge and prepare for the next leg of this journey.
Only steps away (but you'll need to bring your car) is the entrance to Caesars Head State Park, and you won't want to miss it!
Caesars Head State Park features a huge rock with an overlook built on top, plus some spectacular trails.
It affords a perfect view of the Blue Ridge Escarpment (the edge of the mountain chain) and the surrounding mountains and valleys beyond.
On a clear day, you can see all the way to Table Rock and beyond. This is probably the perfect spot to enjoy the view AND that homemade fudge you just bought at Mountain House restaurant.
The rustic Mountain House restaurant is a great place to enjoy both views and great food! The hours for Mountain House Restaurant vary so it's best to check out the Mountain House at Ceasars Head website for current information. You can also follow the Mountain House on Facebook for more photos and to see specials. You can reach it on 864-689-1061.
A visit to one of the best restaurants in South Carolina isn't the only reason to make your way to the area. Cleveland is actually one of the most eccentric and fun spots in the state and we recommend making your visit a long weekend. To help you make the most of it, consider a vacation rental to feel a bit more like a local.
CLEVELAND, Ohio - Investing in a science career may be the key to making more money. The median annual wage for life, physical and social sciences is $72,740 in 2021, more than $20,000 higher than the median annual wage for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.With about 147,900 openings in the country each year, the field is also expected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, equating to 98,700 new jobs over the next decade.But what are the best options to pursue if you like in Cleveland? ...
CLEVELAND, Ohio - Investing in a science career may be the key to making more money. The median annual wage for life, physical and social sciences is $72,740 in 2021, more than $20,000 higher than the median annual wage for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
With about 147,900 openings in the country each year, the field is also expected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, equating to 98,700 new jobs over the next decade.
But what are the best options to pursue if you like in Cleveland? Stacker compiled a list of the highest-paying science jobs in the Cleveland metro area using data from BLS. Jobs are ranked by 2021 annual mean wage.
Below are the annual mean salary for the top 22 Cleveland-based science jobs, the current number of employees in that position and the cities with the highest pay for that work.
Annual mean salary: $47,890
Employment: 210
Metros with highest average pay: Kennewick-Richland, Washington ($79,780), Huntsville, Alabama ($78,320), Birmingham-Hoover, Alabama ($76,970),
Annual mean salary: $54,070
Employment: 70
Metros with highest average pay: Springfield, Massachusetts and Connecticut ($108,670), Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, Minnesota and Wisconsin ($106,200), Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, Nevada ($101,900)
Annual mean salary: $54,540
Employment: 450
Metros with highest average pay: Billings, Montanta ($86,340), Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, Nevada ($78,000), Baton Rouge, Louisiana ($77,020)
Annual mean salary: $55,620
Employment: 90
Metros with highest average pay: Evansville, Indiana and Kentucky ($77,880), Anchorage, Alaska ($77,690), Oklahoma City ($77,100)
Annual mean salary: $56,000
Employment: 40
Metros with highest average pay: Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, Georgia ($88,730), Columbia, South Carolina ($77,760), Springfield, Massachusetts-CT ($70,570)
Annual mean salary: $56,720
Employment: 770
Metros with highest average pay: Dallas-Fort Worth -Arlington, Texas ($69,050), Boulder, Colorado ($68,640), Des Moines-West Des Moines, Iowa ($65,940)
Annual mean salary: $60,280
Employment: 80
Metros with highest average pay: San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California ($106,600), Los Angeles-Long Beach -Anaheim, California ($96,980), San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California ($96,410),
Annual mean salary: $64,640
Employment: 30
Metros with highest average pay: Knoxville, Tennessee ($125,380), Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, Massachusetts and New Hampshire ($121,530), San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California ($115,340)
Annual mean salary: $71,990
Employment: 210
Employment: 76,890- Metros with highest average pay: Idaho Falls, Idaho ($116,630), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California ($109,190), San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California ($107,710)
Annual mean salary: $73,590
Employment: 250
Metros with highest average pay: Boulder, Coloraod ($116,280), El Centro, California ($116,010), Fresno, California ($115,360)
Annual mean salary: $74,740
Employment: 180
Metros with highest average pay: Boulder, Colorado ($119,680), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California ($112,760), San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California ($112,740)
Annual mean salary: $82,540
Employment: 40
Metros with highest average pay: Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, Texas ($161,290), Corpus Christi, Texas ($156,870), Midland, Texas ($156,270)
Annual mean salary: $82,560
Employment: 40
Metros with highest average pay: Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, Washington ($145,410), New York-Newark-Jersey City, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania ($139,240), Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, New York ($124,460)
Annual mean salary: $82,960
Employment: 860
Metros with highest average pay: Kennewick-Richland, Washington ($111,950), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California ($108,240), San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California ($108,020)
Annual mean salary: $85,340
Employment: 650
Metros with highest average pay: Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, D.C., Virginia, Maryland and West Virginia ($131,290), Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, Connecticut ($115,790), Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, Massachusetts and New Hampshire ($108,330)
Annual mean salary: $92,350
Employment: data not available
Metros with highest average pay: Memphis, Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas ($176,770), Columbia, South Carolina ($155,570), Danbury, Connecticut ($151,970)
Annual mean salary: $101,750
Employment: 40
Metros with highest average pay: Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas ($138,600), San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California ($103,970), Wichita, Kansas ($102,100)
Annual mean salary: $103,340
Employment: 40
Metros with highest average pay: Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, Maryland ($142,410), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California ($135,480), Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, Massachusetts and New Hampshire ($133,380)
Annual mean salary: $107,250
Employment: 30
Metros with highest average pay: San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California ($118,860), Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, Massachusetts and New Hampshire ($118,420), Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, Oregon and Washington ($114,860)
Annual mean salary: $111,190
Employment: 60
Metros with highest average pay: New York-Newark-Jersey City, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania ($162,870), San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California ($161,320), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California ($156,360)
Annual mean salary: $127,820
Employment: 390
Metros with highest average pay: San Diego-Carlsbad, California ($136,630), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California ($134,200), Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, Oregon and Washington ($133,060)
Annual mean salary: $149,600
Employment: 60
Metros with highest average pay: Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland ($199,830), Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, Arizona ($195,300), Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, Texas ($188,250)
Zachary Smith is the data reporter for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer. See previous stories at this link.
$1 million club - the 38 highest paid non-profit employees in Greater Cleveland
2022 Data Download: Ohio by the numbers
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When Mikey Derezic, midfielder for Cleveland SC, was a senior at Lakewood High School in Lakewood, Ohio, his high school soccer career ended at his home field in a 3-1 loss to North Olmstead in the Ohio State District semifinals. Tonight, Mikey steps onto the same Lakewood pitch as a member of Cleveland SC, a member of the NPSL, to battle their rivals, ...
When Mikey Derezic, midfielder for Cleveland SC, was a senior at Lakewood High School in Lakewood, Ohio, his high school soccer career ended at his home field in a 3-1 loss to North Olmstead in the Ohio State District semifinals. Tonight, Mikey steps onto the same Lakewood pitch as a member of Cleveland SC, a member of the NPSL, to battle their rivals, Akron City FC. What an amazing turn for this former Lakewood Ranger and Cleveland State Viking!
Lakewood HS is in the Division 1 category of Ohio High School Athletics. Their schedule always has state champions or consistently strong programs that they battle during the regular season. Mike’s senior year, though it ended earlier than he wanted, saw him named First Team All-State, along with a former Columbus Crew and US Men’s National Team member, Will Trapp.
“In high school playing under Coach Toth really opened my eyes. Coach Toth has played a huge role in my life on and off the field. He always taught me lessons through the game and implemented the lessons in the real world. I have to give a lot of credit to him for my success as an athlete and more importantly as a person. I could write a paper on Coach Toth and the impact he has had on my life.”
Mike continued his soccer career at Cleveland State University, a member of the Horizon League, under the coaching of Ali Kazemaini, himself a former Cleveland State grad. Kazemaini was a driving figure in Cleveland soccer with the Major League Indoor Soccer team, the Cleveland Force, where he won Rookie of the Year honors in 1984-1985. Mike, as a freshman under Coach Ali’s tutelage, started 15 games his first year. In 2012 he helped the Vikings to their first NCAA tournament appearance since 1980.
“College was a different animal. Playing under [coach] Ali Kazemaini helped me further my game. I believe it was in college that my soccer took a big jump. Both high school and college play a big role in the player I am today.”
After CSU Mikey, the nickname he goes by, started playing for the NPSL club, AFC Cleveland. The Royals were in the NPSL since 2012. Their first year saw them finish third in the Midwest Conference, a respectable place for a first-year club! They even made it to the Midwest Final.
His teammates during this time were players like Admir Suljevic, Vinnie Bell, and Ben Hryszko. AFC Cleveland was a strong member of the Midwest Conference until they suddenly were forced to leave the NPSL.
NEWS: The #NPSL today announced the termination of the memberships of AFC Cleveland (@AFCCleveland) and Sports Club Corinthians USA (@SCorinthiansUSA) in line with the NPSL Bylaws for teams not in good financial standing with the league. pic.twitter.com/Teog7N61vM
— National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) (@NPSLSoccer) December 12, 2017
So, when Mikey heard this, a group of players convened. “When AFC Cleveland folded some of the guys reached out to Sam [Seibert, current owner] to start a new club. We all wanted to continue playing, so when I got the call from some of my teammates it was a no brainer.” Thus, Cleveland SC was born. But what to do during down times?
In 2021 Mikey and many of his current teammates on Cleveland SC started playing for the Crunch, a member of the MASL 2 (Major Arena Soccer League 2), a second tier level organization under the Major Arena Soccer League. The league is a good fit for those players that want to continue their soccer careers since the play starts in late November and runs to early April. Men who play in NPSL have a chance to continue staying fit and sharp. As is the case for Mikey, many of his current Cleveland SC teammates were with him on the Crunch roster.
“A lot of the older guys on the team have played together for quite some time. It’s truly what makes this group special. Playing with the same group on Cleveland Crunch and Cleveland SC (CSC) has only made us better. Obviously the more we play together the better we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Which makes the game become easier for us.”
You can see this in their play with CSC. They know where each likes the ball on the pitch and their communication and fluid play is a great example of how playing together for this long contributes to effective team success.
Mike and Admir were the top scorers in all of MASL 2’s 2021 season. They bring their successful efforts from indoors to outdoors.
(Photo by Luigi Musto, @viperg98)
Mikey and his teammates sit currently in second place in the Rust Belt Conference for NPSL this season. Fresh off an 8-0 win over Akron City FC, Cleveland has seemed to bounce back from their first two game losing streak in over three years!
(Photo by Josh Troche, @pedalstomper78)
Vlad Muresan, the Cleveland coach, and Mikey have a keen respect for each other, and it stems from their playing days together. “Me and Vlad go way back. We played together on the Cleveland internationals academy team and we also played against each other when Lakewood High played St. Ignatius. To keep it simple, the transition has been very easy. He has a European mentality which fits with our team very well.”
Mikey is currently working on “[j]ust staying sharp and fit… [and] helping the younger guys and giving examples for them to follow.” In short, being a leader, the team can count on.
Many people don’t realize that as a semi-professional team these men do not get paid. They have full time jobs. They play soccer for the love of the game, the camaraderie of teammates, and to win. “Winning championships [is] a highlight, but the best memories [are] made in the locker room and practices. That’s where you really get to know teammates and create long lasting memories.”
Mike’s current way to pay the bills? “I currently work at Lubrizol. Work is very flexible for me which allows me to do the things I love.”
When soccer is over, Mike likes to hunt and camp. But really, he prides himself on how much his family has been involved in this endeavor. “Family has always been a big support. My girlfriend has been a great addition to my cheer squad. I have to give her a lot of credit putting up with my traveling for soccer and getting the house ready to move in. Takes a special person to understand that commitment and support me along the way.”
(From Mike’s Twitter page, @MDerezic17)
And this is the story of so many of these players. So, as Mike steps onto the pitch tonight, all his Croatian family support for his soccer from youth games through the professional matches will come full circle on his high school field. Pretty cool for a young man from Cleveland!
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