Claude Campos

Years with the Lancers: 1970-1974 (goalkeeper)

Born: Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

The top goalkeeper in Rochester Lancers history.  Nicknamed “The Black Cat” for the all-black uniform he wore in goal, his black hair, moustache and goatee and for his cat-like reflexes.  Started his professional career in Brazil with Bonsucesso FC and Clube Atlético Mineiro before relocating to the US. Played with the Syracuse Scorpions of the American Soccer League in 1969, who were runners-up in the league that season.

Came to the Lancers midway through the 1970 North American Soccer League season with fellow Wall of Famers Frank Odoi and coach Sal DeRosa.   Was the winning keeper for the Lancers in the 1970 NASL Championship Series against the Washington Darts when the team won their only NASL title.  Named an honorable mention NASL All-Star in 1971 as part of the Lancers’ regular season title winning team, despite missing part of the year due to having his jaw broken in 5 places after being kicked in the head during a match against the Toronto Metros.  Manned the nets for the Lancers in the 1972 CONCACAF Champions Cup, the only time an NASL team competed in the tournament. Started 43 of the 53 matches the Lancers played from 1972-74. Finished his career with the ASL New Jersey Brewers in 1975 and two-time US Open Cup winners Elizabeth SC in 1976.

Holds nearly every Lancers’ goalkeeping record, including most career shutouts and wins, most consecutive shutouts and minutes without allowing a goal and lowest goals against average in a season.