Momčilo “Mike” Stojanović

Years with the Lancers: 1976-1980

Born: Lapovo, Serbia, Yugoslavia

The all-time leading scorer in Rochester Lancers history.  Played professionally in the Yugoslavian 1st Division from 1969-71 before coming to Canada in 1974, joining the Toronto Serbian White Eagles of the National Soccer League of Canada.  In 1974, scored an incredible 54 goals, still a league record, and added 42 goals in 1975, leading the White Eagles to the Canadian Cup title and a berth in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

Was the Lancers leading scorer in 1976 (4th in points and 3rd in goals in the North American Soccer League) and helped the Lancers reach the NASL playoffs for the first time since 1972.  Once again led the Lancers in scoring in 1977 (5th in points and 4th in goals in the NASL) and was named to the league All-Star second team.  Scored the only goal in the Lancers 2-1 NASL semi-final loss to the Cosmos on August 21, 1977 in front of 20,005 fans at Holleder Stadium.  Set a Lancers record with 13 assists in 1979. Was tied for top scorer on the Lancers in 1980. Played for the San Diego Sockers in 1981 and scored a personal best 23 goals and 52 points (2nd in goals and 3rd in points in the NASL) and was named North American Player of the Year.  Ended his career with the Golden Bay Earthquakes in 1982. Finished as the 10th all-time in points and 9th all-time in goals scored in NASL history.

Earned his first cap with the Canadian National team in 1980 at the age of 33.  Made 14 appearances for Canada in 1980 and 1981, playing in every national team match and scoring 5 goals, including goals in 3 straight matches in the fall of 1981.   Inducted into the Canadian Soccer Hall of Fame in 2009. Mike Stojanovic passed away on November 18, 2010 after a long battle with cancer.