Technical Sessions: El Hadj Cisse

Focused and Determined

Technical Sessions #8

“…is hard nosed, tough, focused, determined, and a terrific leader both on and off the field.”
– Quote regarding El Hadj Cisse at the player evaluation section of 3rddegree.net

El Hadj Cisse was selected by Chivas USA with the 37th pick in the 2008 Major League Soccer Supplemental Draft. Born in the Ivory Coast, Cisse came to the United States at age fourteen. While living in New York City, he attended the prestigious LaSalle Academy. His performances with LaSalle and the New York Freedoms brought him exposure and acclaim.

After high school, he competed at North Carolina State University. With the WolfPack, El Hadj Cisse started every game in his collegiate career. He played defensive midfield, attacking midfield, and forward. His versatility will be useful as he competes for a roster spot this preseason which begins on February 4. He kindly spoke with Soccer City FC before leaving for California.

Cisse commented on his upcoming opportunity with Chivas USA.

“I am ready to give them what they need from me and try my best to make the roster. Going to a big team like Chivas USA, I know that there is a lot of pressure on me. I will try my best.”

He talked about his eagerness to experience California having spent the majority of his time in the US on the East Coast.

“I am looking forward to the West Coast's climate and the environment.”

El Hadj Cisse concluded our interview with a focused and determined message.

“I want to play at the highest level. I want to show that I can do what they ask of me.”

Patrick Phelan Q & A Interview

Patrick Phelan was kind enough to speak with Soccer City FC after the 2008 MLS SuperDraft. He was the site's first collegiate player interview as well as the site's first professional player interview.

- Congratulations on being selected tenth overall by Toronto FC. How excited are you? What other emotions are you feeling?

A: I'm very excited to have been drafted so highly by Toronto. I think they had an excellent draft day, one of the best in the MLS, and I see no reason why the 2008 season won't blow the 2007 season out of the water. I'm glad that the "in-between" period after college is over and thrilled to have such a great opportunity. Being from Connecticut I've visited Toronto before and it's a fabulous city with arguably the best fans in the MLS. It was also pretty tough to sit around waiting to see where you will begin your career as a professional so I'm happy that part is over.

- How much do you think your inclusion in the U.S. Under-23 Men’s National Team pool as well as your performance at the MLS Combine had to do with your top-ten overall selection?

A: My goal at the combine was to play consistently and not to do anything to lower my stock going into the draft and I think I succeeded in that respect. As for being part of the U-23 MNT, I think it allowed some coaches an extra opportunity to see me play at a high level before the draft. I also think it may have helped to squash any doubts that coaches may have had about me as a player. I truly feel that I belong in the U-23 pool and I'm very thankful for the opportunity. The past month has been very exciting for me and I'm ready to move on and begin my career.

- A projected 800 to 1,000 Toronto FC supporters will be in attendance on March 29th at Columbus. How gratifying will it be to see so much away support in Columbus?

A: It is always a bonus when your fans join you for away games and with the level of support that the Toronto fans bring to every match it may well feel like a home game. I'm sure it will help us to start off the season on a positive note which will be very important for the team.

- How happy are you to be heading to Toronto FC with Wake Forest teammate Brian Edwards?

A: Whenever you go to a new place it always helps to have a familiar face with you. Playing with Brian for the past 4 years has allowed us to develop a great chemistry and I'm sure we will be able to carry that over into the pros and help each other out adjusting to the new environment. I'm very excited for Brian (and for Julian Valentin who was drafted to LA). They both have worked unbelievably hard to get to this point and they both deserve to be where they are today. I'm looking forward to carrying the success that Brian and I had at Wake Forest into the professional ranks.

[Please Note]

This interview first seen at GoTorontoFC

Technical Sessions: Toronto FC's Brian Edwards

Championship Experience -Technical Sessions #7

At the 2008 MLS SuperDraft, Mo Johnston and his staff went about drafting players with championship experience at the collegiate level. Julius James and his University of Connecticut teammates captured the Big East Championship this season. UCLA’s Mike Zaher played in the 2006 College Cup. Wake Forest’s Patrick Phelan and Brian Edwards were instrumental members of the 2007 NCAA Champion Demon Deacons.

Toronto FC acquired goalkeeper Brian Edwards with the 28th overall pick from the Los Angeles Galaxy for allocation money. He was the first ever goalkeeper to be drafted by Toronto FC and the third overall selected at the 2008 SuperDraft. After playing in the competitive Atlantic Coast Conference as well as the 2007 NCAA College Cup, Edwards is ready to begin his professional career.

“I have four seasons of college experience under my belt. I will learn and take a little bit from each experience. I am going to apply that to my game to help me be successful at the next level.”

In 2007, Toronto FC’s goalkeepers suffered through a season of injuries and inconsistency. The 2007 NCAA College Cup Defensive MVP is prepared to compete for minutes right away.

“I am looking forward to getting fit, getting into camp, and making my mark. I am looking at it as a challenge and I am really excited about it.”

Edwards leaves for preseason training knowing that he will be joined by his collegiate teammate. Patrick Phelan was selected in the first round by Toronto FC. He spoke about his fellow Demon Deacon.

“When I got picked, that was one of the first things I thought about. We are good friends and we have played together for a number of years now. It is going to be nice to have a familiar face up there. He is just a tremendous player.”

Several supporters made the trip to Baltimore, Maryland for the MLS SuperDraft. Edwards commented on his personal encounter with them.

“They are great! I have already experienced them first hand. They were the loudest group at the draft. Afterwards when I got out of media, they came over and introduced themselves. I know they bring that emotion to the stadium. I hear that it is the best place to play.”

[Please Note]
This interview first seen at GoTorontoFC.

The Arrival @ Soccer City FC's MCFC Blog

I posted a short commentary on Daniel Sturridge.

• The Arrival: Daniel Sturridge

Wizards Training Day #1

Kansas City Soccer Review publised some notes and observations regarding the Kansas City Wizard's first day of training. KC Soccer Review also included a wonderful photo set of the session which can be found here.

Alexandre Pato Index Week 3

Week 3 Update found below:

• Pato Index V.1.2
  

The Weekend XI: January 26-27

The Weekend XI will highlight the top eleven players from around the globe as judged by SoccerCityFC. 3-4-3 format will be used. Alexandre Pato and Michael Bradley highlight this edition's list. Follow the link below to find out who else is in:

• The Weekend XI: January 26-27

Brian Grazier Q & A Interview

Brian Grazier was selected with the 47th overall pick in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft by the Colorado Rapids. He begins preseason camp on Janurary 28th. SoccerCityFC interviewed Brian prior to the 2008 MLS Combine. Brian kindly answered three more questions on the eve of his professional career.

- Your teammate John DiRaimondo also competed with you in 2006 at St. Louis University. Have you spoken with him since the MLS SuperDraft? If so, what advice has he given you?

A: I have spoken with John since the draft and the biggest thing he stressed with me is the speed of play. You have to play one and two touch with confidence and you cannot be afraid of making mistakes.

- Are you looking forward to playing at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in front of 18,000?

A: I am looking forward to playing at Dick's Sporting Goods Park a lot. The new stadium has state of the art training facilities.

- Colorado has partnerships with both Arsenal F.C. of England and C.F. Pachuca of Mexico. Are you looking forward to the potential of a possible friendly with either of these globally recognized clubs?

A: Arsenal and Pachuca are great club teams and it would be honor to play them in a friendly. I am glad the Colorado Rapids organization has relationships with both clubs.

Joe Germanese Q & A Interview

Joe Germanese was selected with the 27th overall pick by the New England Revolution at the 2008 Major League Soccer SuperDraft. Soccer City FC had already interviewed Joe prior to the MLS combine. He was kind enough to speak with us again before leaving for the Revolution preseason camp which begins on January 30.

- From the media reports out there, your performance at the MLS Combine was widely noticed and highly regarded. Did you personally feel like you had a strong combine?

A: I felt extremely fit going into the Combine and knew that if I relaxed and played my game I would perform well. I wouldn't say my performance was spectacular but I think I was able to play in such a well as to show my strengths. I am pleased that people noticed my play and proud to now be a part of the New England Revolution.

- What are your thoughts on Steve Nicol? Did you speak with him either at the MLS Combine or at the MLS SuperDraft?

A: I think Steve Nicol is a tremendous coach. New England is consistently atop the table in MLS and contending for trophies both the US Open and MLS Cup. His record at New England speaks for itself. We spoke briefly immediately after the SuperDraft. I am excited to play for both Steve Nicol and Paul Mariner as both had illustrious playing careers at the highest levels of the game in England and at the international level and I look forward to learning from both of them.

- New England has a great fan/supporter following. Have you heard anything about groups such as The Midnight Riders and are you looking forward to interacting with the passionate New England fan base?

A: I have heard about the New England fan support. I look forward to interacting with them more as I get more involved with the team. Supporters' groups add so much to the excitement and atmosphere at games. We at New England are lucky and hopefully we will give them much to cheer about in the upcoming season.

- What are your goals for the 2008 season?

A: My goal for the year is very simple. I want to find my role on this team and play it out to the best of my ability whatever that role becomes. I think it goes without saying that every competitive athlete wants to be a starter and contribute to the first team right away, but that is much easier said than done especially at an established club like New England. I think the first year in MLS is more about learning the ropes and staying mentally and physically prepared to contribute knowing it's a long season and that it's important to be ready to seize any opportunity that comes along.

Technical Sessions: Daniel Stratford Selected by D.C. United in MLS Supplemental Draft

No Regrets

Technical Sessions#6

Soccer City FC caught up with Daniel Stratford tonight after his selection in the 2008 MLS Supplemental Draft. Stratford was selected in the 2nd round with the twenty-fourth overall pick by D.C. United. The midfielder spoke about the selection.

“I am very excited. For me personally, it is the optimum location being about two and half hours away from West Virginia University. I have been to DC before and I must admit that it was my favorite city in the States. D.C. United is a fantastic side and I am looking forward to the experience and the opportunity.”

Looking back at his performance during the MLS Combine, Stratford had no regrets.

“I was pleased to be honest. I felt that I was one of the players who had maybe less exposure during the season. I knew that I had to go there and make the most of the opportunity. I was pleased with the way I played. I didn’t have any regrets. I was disappointed not to go last week in the first four rounds, but going in the supplemental is still great news. I have an opportunity to pursue a professional career.”

Finally, he spoke about his goals heading into D.C. United’s preseason camp which begins on January 28.

“I have my foot in the door now. I have the opportunity. I need to take it one step further. Getting to the combine was one accomplishment. The second one was getting selected by DC and the third will be staying there. I have to make the most of the opportunity I have in the preseason. I have to try and cement a place on the roster.”

MLS Preseason Training Dates Announced

EASTERN CONFERENCE:

• Chicago Fire - Feb. 6
• Columbus Crew - Jan. 28
• D.C. United - Jan. 28
• Kansas City Wizards - Jan. 28
• New England Revolution - Jan. 30
• New York Red Bulls - Jan. 26
• Toronto FC - Feb. 1

WESTERN CONFERENCE:

• Chivas USA - Feb. 4
• Colorado Rapids - Jan. 28
• FC Dallas - Feb. 4
• Houston Dynamo - Feb. 1
• LA Galaxy - Feb. 4
• Real Salt Lake - Jan. 26
• San Jose - Feb. 4

The Weekend XI: January 19-20

The Weekend XI will highlight the top eleven players from around the globe as judged by SoccerCityFC. 4-3-3 format will be used this week. Follow the link below:

• The Weekend XI: January 19-20

Alexandre Pato Index Update

Week 2 now updated:

• The Alexandre Pato Index V.1.1.

Draft Coverage Of SoccerCityFC Interviews

SoccerCityFC again wants to congratulate those players who were selected in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft.

Andy Iro Coverage:

• Andy Iro at The Columbus Dispatch
• Andy Iro at Columbus Crew

Patrick Phelan Coverage:

• Patrick Phelan at Toronto FC

David Horst Coverage:

• David Horst at Real Salt Lake

Ely Allen Coverage:

• Ely Allen at LA Galaxy

Joe Germanese Coverage:

• Joe Germanese at New England Revolution

Geoffrey Cameron Coverage:

• Geoffrey Cameron at Houston Dynamo

Brian Grazier Coverage:

• Brian Grazier at Colorado Rapids

Brian Grazier To Colorado Rapids At Pick 47

SoccerCityFC Q & A with Brian Grazier found below:

• Brian Grazier Q & A prior to MLS Combine
  

Geoff Cameron To Houston Dynamo At Pick 42

SoccerCityFC feature on Geoffrey Cameron found below:

• Technical Sessions: Geoffrey Cameron
  

Joe Germanese To NE Revolution At Pick 27

SoccerCityFC Q & A with Joe Germanese found below:

• Joe Germanese Q & A Prior To MLS Combine
  

Ely Allen To LA Galaxy At Pick 21

SoccerCityFC Q & A with Ely Allen found below:

• Ely Allen Q & A Prior To MLS Combine
  

David Horst To Real Salt Lake At Pick 14

SoccerCityFC feature on David Horst found below.

• Technical Sessions: David Horst

Patrick Phelan To Toronto FC At Pick 10

SoccerCityFC Q & A with Patrick Phelan found below:

• Patrick Phelan Q & A Prior To MLS Combine

Andy Iro To Columbus Crew At Pick 6

SoccerCityFC feature on Andy Iro found below:

• Technical Sessions: Andy Iro

Andy Iro SuperDraft Coverage:

• Andy Iro at The Columbus Dispatch
• Andy Iro at Columbus Crew

Andy Iro Update - 2008 MLS SuperDraft

**Update 1/18/2008: Andy Iro was selected with the sixth overall pick by the Columbus Crew in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft.

***SoccerCityFC would like to extend our congratulations to Andy Iro. All the best with your professional career in Columbus.

I recently finished speaking with Andy Iro and he confirmed what I had been hearing from England. Championship club Preston North End was one of the teams that he was in contact with over the 2007 holiday season.

We also discussed the 2008 MLS Combine as well as tomorrow's SuperDraft. He finished our conversation with...

"I am leaving my options open."
_________________________________________________

Also, Preston North End was the club recently linked with the New England Revolution's Taylor Twellman.

Stay tuned as SoccerCityFC will keep you updated with the latest on Andy Iro and several of the players who will be selected at the MLS SuperDraft.

3rd Degree Day Three Combine Analysis

Read the entire article here: MLS Combine 2008 Day Three

Also, 3rd Degree will be hosting a MLS Draft Chat at the site. Be sure to check it out if you cannot make it down to Baltimore this Friday.

Here are some more quotes from 3rd Degree about players who have interviewed with SoccerCityFC.

"...looks strong when one on one defending..."

"...getting the cross off while being fouled was also noteworthy."

"...shows a little quickness on a play over the top in the second half. Good to see that."

"When he has the space to run and operate I think he’s got a little something."

Maximiliano Damiano, Jonathan Sabbatini, & Lucas Fernandez: MLS Future?

Maximiliano Damiano, Jonathan Sabbatini, & Lucas Fernandez attended the 2008 MLS Combine. According to reports, they will not be in the MLS SuperDraft but will be made available in some other form. We will keep you posted.

3rd Degree has posted some combine commentary on the players. For excellent coverage on the 2008 MLS Combine visit the site here: 3rd Degree

RE: Jonathan Sabbatini - "He’s a capable linking or attacking mid. Great awareness, tight possession touch, terrific in combination, and advanced thinking and anticipation."

and...

"Good field sense, good ball skill. Works hard on defense too. Players around him couldn’t read him. Closest thing to a pure #10 here today."

RE: Maximiliano Damiano - "A big target forward that moves well for a large guy. Got in a few dangerous spots. I want to see more."

Alexandre Pato Index and Weekend XI Now Up

SoccerCityFC's Corner Kicks website has now uploaded two new columns:

• The Alexandre Pato Index V.1.0

SoccerCityFC will monitor Alex the Duck's development both with club and country. As Pato’s fame, fortune, and individual milestones rise and fall, we will rank his world soccer importance on the Pato Index.

• The Weekend XI: 1/12 - 1/13

The Weekend XI will highlight the top eleven players from around the globe as judged by SoccerCityFC. 3-4-3 format will be used this week.

New Feature: USL Look

USL Look will feature players from the United Soccer Leagues' various divisions. Check back often to see who has been highlighted.

3rd Degree Posts Day Two Combine Analysis

Read the entire article here: MLS Combine 2008 Day Two.

Here are some more quotes from 3rd Degree about players who have interviewed with Soccer City FC.

"...is quickly becoming my favorite player here (which is not the same as being the best player). Quick, light on his feet, and nimble with the ball. He’s putting the outside back under constant pressure."

"...has a wonderful motor. He’s all over the place and is quite a good player. He’s not much of a target striker but he’s a solid withdrawn striker partner and makes a great wide mid. He’s also a lefty."

"...I liked much better as a wide mid. He had some good ideas and tried to play in combination. He plays with his head up and has fairly good awareness."

"...was everything I thought of as a center back in the first half. Great defender with good feet who can pass out of the back."

"... is again Green’s best defender. I think he’s got what it takes as he showed some pace today to go with the good physical defending."

"He was much more effective wide when he could find room to work. He reminds me of the kind of player Nicol likes. Tall, rangy, can run, and beat someone with the ball."

Check back here at Soccer City FC to see what 3rd Degree will offer up on Tuesday.

Penn Profiles: Andrew Wheeler

York College’s Andrew Wheeler returned this season with a sole focus: win the Capital Athletic Conference Championship and progress deeper into the NCAA Division III Tournament. Wheeler felt that 2006 was a disappointment but saw optimism ahead in 2007.

“We came off a fairly disappointing season in 2006 with being eliminated in the Elite Eight on PKs. We returned 9 of 11 starters for the upcoming year and we added on transfers including, University of Maryland’s Jon Ports and Central Connecticut forward Jason Mancuso. In terms of goals, anything less than a Final Four appearance would be a disappointing year for us. We did have some big wins this year. We finally beat Messiah this year and we had a big win against Johns Hopkins on the road. We had a good year but again we came up short both in league and the NCAA Tournament.”

While those championship goals were not accomplished, the Spartans still posted an impressive 21-3-1 record and returned to the Elite Eight.

Looking back, Andrew Wheeler’s junior season and subsequent summer in the Premier Development League were impressive and noteworthy. He was the 2006 Capital Athletic Conference Player of the Year. Also, he was named to the NSCAA Division III and D3Kicks.com First Team All-American teams. Prior to his senior year, he was able to play for the Hampton Roads Piranhas in the Premier Development League. Interestingly, had it not been for his brother, he may not have been on the team.

“It was quite an experience. I got a call from brother who had spoken to Head Coach John Hall about coming down to play. My brother told Coach Hall about me and told him to give me a call. I soon as I was done with my last final I headed down to Virginia Beach and played two days later. It was an incredible experience. The pace of the game was so much faster. It was a good chance to play with DI caliber players.”

While the team was known for its defense, Wheeler’s fourteen goals and five assists, including four goals versus Northern Virginia, were certainly recognized. At the conclusion of the season, he was named to the PDL All-League Team and was one of three finalists for the Forward of the Year.

After the summer with the Piranhas, he briefly contemplated forgoing his senior season and heading overseas to begin his professional career. Ultimately, he opted to return for another collegiate season and aide in the team’s championship pursuits. Wheeler finished the year with eleven goals and eleven assists. He was also named NSCAA DIII All-South Region Team.

He recently attended the Pro Soccer Combine in Florida. Various professional scouts and personal were in attendance. Soccer City FC will keep you updated on his professional career.

3rd Degree Posts Day One Combine Analysis

Read the entire article here: MLS Combine 2008 Day One

Quotes regarding several of the combine players who have interviewed with Soccer City FC include:

"Big, good long passer, and great in air. All the raw tools, needs some coaching to refine his tactical positioning. Clearly the best green defender and leader back there."

"Immense physical presence, quick enough to man mark. Dominating in the air. Leads the back line."

"Plays good defense covering back. Great cross is the best chance of day for his team in the second half. Can beat players on the dribble, has the speed to get to the end, and plays composed and in combination. His team’s best player today."

Technical Sessions: Daniel Stratford

Ninety Minutes

Technical Sessions: #5

West Virginia’s Daniel Stratford arrived at this weekend’s MLS Combine with a slight advantage. Many of the combine players were unable to participate in ninety minute games during the holiday season. Stratford, however, played several full games back home in England.

“I have been training and working hard. I have been fortunate that I have been in England training. I have been able to play full games of ninety minutes. That might give me a slight advantage mentally to know that I am ninety minutes fit.”

The midfielder finished the year with six goals and eight assists. He was proud of the program’s 2007 season and knows that it was critical for future team success.

“It was another season for West Virginia to progress in the right direction. By making it to the Sweet Sixteen of the National Tournament for only the second time in school history shows that the program is heading in the right direction. We are working hard to become one of the major soccer programs in the country. We were little disappointed not to defend our Big East title on the regular season, but certainly it was a successful season for the team. We had a fantastic group of seniors and for me it was important that we had a rewarding season.”

Stratford’s technical ability and competitive spirit were evident throughout his career.
Statistically, he ended up as the career leader in assists with twenty seven. Following the season, he was recognized with appointments to the All-Big East Second Team as well as the NSCAA Northeast Region Third Team.

“That was quite pleasing for me personally. I was pleased with my senior year, but in general I was more focused and worried on how the team was doing.”

Unlike his good friend and teammate, Andy Wright, who passed over the MLS and signed with Championship club, Scunthorpe United F.C., Stratford has focused solely on the MLS Combine. He stated that he does have potential for trials in England but his goal right now is to play in the MLS.

“I am focused on the task at hand.”

Technical Sessions: Scott Bolkan

Teammates
Technical Sessions: #4

Stanford defender Scott Bolkan spoke with Soccer City FC prior to the 2008 MLS Combine. Bolkan looked forward to sharing the experience with goalkeeper Andrew Kartunen. While he was honored by the invite, he was also happy to see his teammate’s inclusion.

“It was exciting to see him on the list. It will be great to have a good friend from the past four years with me to share the experience. He struggled with injuries including this year. He has been through a lot. I am happy for him.”

Like many of the players on the combine rosters, he spent the summer in the Premier Development League with Westchester Flames F.C. honing his skills.

“I got hooked up with the Westchester Flames through a former teammate Luke Sager who is now at Harvard. I went out with two other Stanford players, Dan Shapiro and Evan Morgan. Luke touted this team; it was a good opportunity to play with a successful team.”

After the 2007 collegiate season, Bolkan prepared for the combine while on break back home in Oregon. Individually, he was able to stay consistent over the last three weeks.

“Fitness wise, I have been training pretty hard doing a lot of lifting, long runs, and short runs. It is kind of tough not having a team when everyone goes home for break. It is a lot of individual work. It is more important that I am mentally ready. I want to be focused and ready for the combine. The mental training is a lot tougher than the physical training.”

Finding players to train with proved to be more difficult.

“Going home for break was tough. I can get in two or three small-sided games per week with former teammates from high school and club. It is tough to get numbers when you go home for a break.”

Bolkan preferred to downplay his individual accomplishments and continued to highlight his team during our discussion. Thankfully, Andrew Kartunen was happy to share some insight on the defender.

“He is a classy player both on and off the field and is a huge reason why our defense let in less than a goal per game this year. He even became an attacking force at the beginning of the year, scoring three goals off crosses and corners. Scott has become a dominant header as a central defender and is honestly one of the best 1 v 1 defenders I have ever played with. He also is one of the best tacklers I have come across as well. He certainly deserves to be a part of the combine.”

“Scotty is a pretty reserved guy off the field, but once you get to know him he is a guy that you can have a ton of laughs with. One particular story that comes to mind was when we lived across the hall from each other our sophomore year, he would always sneak into my room and see what he could sneak out of our refrigerator. More often than not, my roommates would catch him sneaking food out of our room, but for some reason we always let him take it.”

Bolkan will not have to sneak past anyone to get into the 2008 MLS Combine. His collegiate honors and summer with the Westchester Flames guranteed his admittance. As for the food in the facilities’ refrigerators, there are no guarantees.

Technical Sessions: David Horst

Chemistry Class

Technical Sessions #3

Old Dominion University’s David Horst recently returned home to Pine Grove, Pennsylvania after spending the last year finalizing his claim as one of college soccer’s top defenders. He was able to relax and visit with family and friends before refocusing on his upcoming task: the 2008 MLS Combine. Soccer City FC was able to speak to him prior to his departure.

“This break is the first one that I have had since last Christmas. Mentally, my first goal was to relax and calm my mind down because the season just ended. Then, I wanted to refocus and get ready for the combine. Physically, it is tough to do anything outside this time of year in central Pennsylvania. I haven’t been able to get too many touches on the ball but I have been getting my body into game shape. It has been going really well. I think I am physically and mentally ready for this combine. I have to go out and play my game the way I have been these last four years.”

Horst would have taken some time this summer to refocus had it not been for the Hampton Roads Piranhas. He was invited to play for them in the Premier Development League. The season ended with both team and individual success. Hampton Roads went 14-0-2 with ten of those games being shutouts. Piranha forward Andrew Wheeler summed it up best when he stated, “Our defense stole the show.” Fittingly, David Horst was awarded the 2007 PDL Defender of the Year. He recalled the experience.

“I want to thank our owner for bringing the team back. It was a great experience for me because I didn’t get that kind of competition when I came home in previous summers. It was huge for me to keep playing. Each and every time I went out there, I got better by playing. The Piranhas helped me become a better soccer player.”

After the summer, he returned to ODU for his senior season. Horst reflected upon his team’s 2007 season that eventually ended with a loss to Virgina Tech in the third round of the College Cup.

“We had a great year. It is sad that it had to end at Virginia Tech. Many people counted us out from the start, but we had amazing chemistry. It was the chemistry that carried us through most of the year.”

He certainly left his mark on the Old Dominion soccer program as well as the Colonial Athletic Association. He was named the CAA Defender of the Year in both 2006 and 2007. He was also instrumental in the team’s twelve shutouts this season. He spoke humbly of the accolades.

“The awards really are a testament to our coaches. Also, it was a blessing to have Yomby William playing alongside me. A great player will make another great player even better.”

Yomby William and David Horst’s collegiate journeys are not yet complete. They both will be attending the MLS Combine. Two great players will be competing again.

Penn Profiles: Corey Curnutte

Interviewed by Terry Meyer.

Corey Curnutte took some time to talk with Soccer City FC a few days before he will attend the 2008 Pro Soccer Combine in Florida. Corey was a 2-time co-captain at Bucknell University, and a Civil Engineering major. Soccer City FC will be following up with Corey in the future to get his view on his future in professional soccer.

- Why did you choose Bucknell to continue your academic and athletic career?

A: Bucknell was a perfect fit for me both academically and athletically. The engineering program is strong and the school is very supportive of its student-athletes. Athletically, Bucknell had a strong team and I liked coach Nash's hard-working style of play. He gave me a chance to contribute right away.

- You are at a highly prestigious school, how do you manage to balance academics and athletics?

A: It can be tough at times, but you learn to manage time well at Bucknell. Coach Nash and coach Ormsby are very adamant on keeping grades high and make sure you take care of the classroom before you step on the field. They do everything they can to help out. Plus, everyone on the team is in the same situation which always helps.

- You're attending the Pro Combine in Florida, what do you expect? Have nerves set in? Are you angry or bitter that you are not going to be at the MLS sponsored combine?

A: No, I'm not angry or bitter about missing out on the MLS combine, although I would love to be there. The only frustrating part about it is how much the Pro Combine is costing me (laughing). As far as nerves go none have set in, I am just anxious to get down to Florida and play. I expect the competition to be tough but I look forward to it.

- What goals do you have for yourself, athletically?

A: My ultimate goal would be to play professionally in the MLS, or even overseas. I think playing soccer for a living is every college soccer player's dream. But reaching the MLS is very tough and I can't rely on that. I have a job offer which I will most likely take. However, playing at the Pro Combine is something I can't pass up, I would regret it if I did. And if a good offer comes out it I would take it in a second.

- Of all your athletic accomplishments, which do you hold dearest to you?

A: Being selected as a team captain junior and senior year meant a lot to me. Our team is full of captains. This past fall we had seven seniors, all of whom could play that role.

We want to thank again Corey for speaking with Soccer City FC.

***The Pro Soccer Combine will begin today and run through January 11. The Pro Soccer Combine is produced by InfoSport Inc. Several Scouts from Major League Soccer (MLS), United Soccer League (USL) I & II, the Premier Development League (PDL) and Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) will be present.

Two Join Soccer City FC as Contributors

Soccer City FC extends a welcome to Terry Meyer and Alex K. Terry Meyer will be focusing mainly on the Penn Profile section of the site. He will also assist with Q & A sessions and the occassional feature. Alek K is our first West Coast contributor. He will be reporting on news and notes in his California region. He will also continue to share photography from soccer events out west.

Read more about Terry Meyer here: Short Bio.

Read more about Alex K here: Short Bio

New Feature: Penn Profiles

Penn Profiles is a new regional feature here at Soccer City FC. We will be highlighting players who are from Pennsylvania as well as those who compete in the state. Check back often for updates.

David Worthen Interview Before Combine

Soccer City FC caught up with defender David Worthen before he left for the 2008 MLS Combine. While at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, his collegiate career was marked with both team and individual success. Worthen was selected to all-conference honors in four consecutive years. The UNCG Spartans won three regular season titles and two SoCon tournament titles over that span.

Sean Grybos: You had the privilege of competing at the highest collegiate level with your older brother Adrian at UNCG. Can you speak about the overall experience?

David Worthen: Well, originally I began my collegiate career at Wake Forest University where I enrolled after my first semester of my senior year in high school. After a year at Wake Forest, I transferred to UNCG where my brother was playing and it was a decision I have not regretted. UNCG had a great coaching staff, excellent athletic facilities, and a tradition of competing at the highest levels in college soccer. During my first few seasons our team had great senior leadership, a blue-collar mentality, and we worked extremely hard for each other. My first year at UNCG, our team went 16-1-1 in the regular season as Southern Conference season champions. We completed a sweep of four ACC schools in Wake Forest, UNC, Virginia Tech, and Clemson, along with a consensus national #1 ranking to finish the season. We went as far as the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA Tournament and came close to breaking into the Elite Eight had we defeated the eventual tournament runner-up in UC Santa Barbara. The next two seasons saw two more Sweet Sixteen appearances and two more regular season SoCon titles and two SoCon tournament titles. Looking back on my collegiate career, I am very pleased with the competition and experiences I took part in playing at UNC Greensboro.

SG: Now that you have had some time to sit back and reflect on the season, what will you take away from 2007?

DW: The 2007 season was more of a rebuilding year at UNCG. Our team had trouble finding players for several key positions and we also had trouble with consistency. We were unable to win the SoCon tournament and we were also kept out of the NCAA tournament for the first time in three years, so it was definitely tough not being able to enjoy those things at the end of the year. In the end, I enjoyed my senior season and plan on learning from our mistakes and moving on fully satisfied with my collegiate career hoping to go on to the next level.

SG: You started eighty-five games over your career. Can you list your five favorite?

DW: That’s a tough question but the ones that come to mind in no particular order are:

• @ Wake Forest, 2004, won 2-1
• Home vs. UNC, 2004, won 1-0
• @ Furman, 2004, won 2-1
• @ Virginia Tech, 2005 2nd round NCAA, won PK’s
• @ West Virginia Univ., 2006 2nd round NCAA, won 2-1 in overtime

SG: What have you been doing to keep physically and mentally prepared, especially with the holiday between the season and the combine?

DW: Surprisingly enough I have been able to keep on track during the holiday by staying in Greensboro and using the facilities here to train and stay in shape even though everyone else has gone home. Obviously the combine is a huge event, but I am trying to treat it as any other event I have had to prepare for in the past. Staying on top of the technical basics and keeping up my fitness have been my main goals in this time between the season and the combine.

SG: What are your expectations and objectives regarding the upcoming 2008 MLS Draft Combine?

DW: The invitation to the combine is a great honor and I would like to perform as well as possible. Going into the event I will try to be focused on playing my game and not worry about the scouts and coaches. I’m hoping to get picked up by a team in the draft, but right now I want to take the whole process one step at a time, not get ahead of myself, and solely think about competing.

SG: I want to thank you for your time and again extend my sincerest wishes on your upcoming soccer future; best of luck at the combine.

DW: Thank you.

2008 MLS Combine Roster Updated

Here is a listing of the finalized 2008 MLS Combine Roster. Players who are linked have been kind enough to speak with Soccer City FC.

adidas adiPure

• Brian Edwards via Wake Forest University
• Matt Allen via Creighton University
• Sean Franklin via California State University of Northridge
• Matt Hatzke via Santa Clara University
• Shea Salinas via Furman University
• Jonathan Leathers via Furman University
• Ely Allen via University of Washington
• Eric Brunner via Ohio State University
• George Josten via Gonzaga
• Peter Lowry via Santa Clara University
• Pat Phelan via Wake Forest University
• Ricardo Pierre-Louis via Lee University
• Michael Videira via Duke University
• Geoff Cameron via University of Rhode Island
• Maximiliano Damiano via Argentina
• Yomby William via Old Dominion University

adidas adiTunit

• Andrew Kartunen via Stanford University
• Stephen King via University of Maryland
• Jonathan Sabbatini via Argentina
• Jeremy Barlow via University of Virginia
• Matthew Britner via Brown University
• Hugh Cronin via North Carolina State University
• Pavle Dundjer via University of Illinois – Chicago
• Andre Sherard via University of North Carolina
• Cesar Zambrano via University of Illinois – Chicago
• El-Hadj Cisse via North Carolina State University
• Julius James via University of Connecticut
• Sherron Manswell via Boston College
• Brandon Owens via University of California – Los Angeles
• Keith Savage via University of West Florida

adidas Predator PowerServe

• Dominic Cervi via University of Tulsa
• Casey Latchem via Ohio State University
• Eric Burkholder via University of Tulsa
• Mike Zaher via University of California – Los Angeles
• Adrian Chevannes via Southern Methodist University
• Lucas Fernandez via Argentina
• Kevin Forrest via University of Washington
• Joe Germanese via Duke University
• Brian Grazier via Saint Louis University
• Pat Healey via Towson University
• Kai Kasiguran via Messiah College
• Corey Sipos via University of Akron
• Dan Stratford via West Virginia University
• Rauwshan McKenzie via Michigan State University
• Andrew Jacobson via University of California – Berkeley
• David Horst via Old Dominion University

adidas Trofeo

• AJ Kulp via Old Dominion University
• David Roth via Northwestern University
• Xavier Balc via Ohio State University
• Ryan Cordeiro via University of Connecticut
• Ryan Miller via University of Notre Dame
• Luke Sassano via University of California – Berkeley
• Ben Shuleva via Southern Methodist University
• Lukasz Tumicz via University of Rhode Island
• Julian Valentin via Wake Forest University
• David Worthen via North Carolina – Greensboro
• Scott Bolkan via Stanford University
• Andy Iro via University of California – Santa Barbara
• Scott Campbell via University of North Carolina

***Please Note that four players (Franklin, Phelan, Valentin, and King) are currently with the U.S. U23 National Team and will only be able to participate on January 13.

Andrew Kartunen Interview Before Combine

Stanford goalkeeper Andrew Kartunen has battled through recent adversity. In 2006, he missed his entire senior year due to a shoulder injury. After being granted a medical red shirt, he returned in 2007 but was out after only 8 games due to a concussion. Prior to these setbacks, he competed at the various national youth levels and gained recognition for his collegiate work. Most notably, Kartunen was named to the Under-20 National Team that competed in the 2005 World Youth Championship. His previous body of work was vital to his inclusion in the 2008 MLS Combine. He kindly sat down to answer some questions with Soccer City FC.

Sean Grybos: You were a member of the U.S. Under-20 National Team at the 2005 World Youth Championship. What have you taken from that experience?

Andrew Kartunen: Participating in the 2005 World Youth Championship was an invaluable experience for me. It really taught me and forced me to become a professional on and off the field. Being surrounded by a bunch of successful professionals as well as ones that were still trying to find their place in their respective squads really showed me and helped me learn what it takes to make it to the next level in my soccer career. The experience forced me to concentrate and work hard every minute of every day. At the international level, there is no room for mental breaks and that whole process of preparing and participating in the World Championship was an amazing experience for me.

SG: Physically, how do you feel right now?

AK: Physically, I feel pretty well. My shoulder feels great and ready to go, as does my head. It was an unfortunate circumstance that I ended up with a nasty concussion in the middle of the college season and that it persisted for so long, but my doctors at Stanford cleared me to play at the beginning of December and I have been working very hard to get sharp for the MLS Combine coming up. Ever since I returned from my two shoulder surgeries and the complications that resulted, my shoulder has felt great and I have not encountered any problems along the way and throughout the season up to my concussion.

SG: What have you been doing to prepare for the combine?

AK: It has been a bit unfortunate for me in that I have only had a month to prepare for the combine after the head injury, but I have done my best to prepare myself as best as possible to be ready for the event. My first priority was to get back into physical shape through anaerobic and aerobic running as well as building my goalkeeper fitness for the combine. The first few weeks were focused around long runs, interval training, and a lot of footwork. Fortunately, the coaches at Stanford have been very willing to help me towards my aspiration of getting drafted and they have been working with me to get me back to the form I was in mid-season. Once my fitness returned, I have basically spent my time focusing on shot stopping, distribution, and crosses. I am now in a regular training routine and feel good about where I am at entering the combine.

SG: What are your expectations and objectives regarding the 2008 MLS Combine?

AK: I am going to try to approach the combine like I would any soccer experience. I will try to limit my mistakes as much as possible and make the saves that I am expected to make. That has always been my philosophy as a goalkeeper. I believe that if you can do the simple things well, then you will have a lot of success for my position. Also, I will try to limit the number of instances I will get called upon to make saves by organizing my team the best I can. If I can have a loud, decisive presence back in the net, that will make my job a lot easier in the games we play in. As far as my expectations go, I just feel extremely lucky to be playing soccer again. I have had a lot of struggles with injuries and have felt a lot of uncertainty over the past couple of years, so to make it back to this point and be invited to the MLS Combine is an accomplishment in itself and anything else will be a cherry on top of the cake. That being said, I am by no means satisfied by getting selected to go to the combine and will do my best to succeed as much as possible and put myself in a position to get drafted and then we’ll go from there.

SG: Is there anything that can be said about being able to attend the combine with your teammate Scott Bolkan?

AK: I am very happy for Scott that he got invited to the MLS Combine. He is a classy player both on and off the field and is a huge reason why our defense let in less than a goal per game this year. He even became an attacking force at the beginning of the year, scoring three goals off crosses and corners. Scott has become a dominant header as a central defender and is honestly one of the best 1 v 1 defenders I have ever played with. He also is one of the best tacklers I have come across as well. He certainly deserves to be a part of the combine.

SG: I want to thank you for your time and again extend my sincerest wishes on your upcoming soccer future; best of luck at the combine.

AK: Thanks a lot Sean, I am glad I could help out.

Ely Allen Interview Before Combine

University of Washington's Ely Allen brings an impressive offensive resume to this year’s MLS Draft Combine. During the 2006 season, the forward scored seven goals and assisted on six more in 19 games played. This year, he ended with twelve goals and two assists in 21 games played. He received several awards this season including Co-Pac-10 Player of the Year and 2007 NSCAA All-Far West Region Third Team. Before heading for the 2008 MLS Combine, he answered a few questions.

Sean Grybos: I would like to start with the hat trick on October 19th against San Diego State. When you scored the second goal, did you consider the possibility of a third?

Ely Allen: I think all forwards will take as many goals as they can get. So yes, after scoring 2 goals, it was almost an extra boost to think I have a chance to score a hat trick!

SG: Now that you have had some time to sit back and reflect on the season, what will you take away from 2007?

EA: I'll take away all the experiences that I have gone through with my team and as an individual. We had a lot of injuries, which meant we had to overcome a lot of obstacles, which brought out the fight or resilience of our team. A lot of mental toughness was drawn upon, which will definitely help in the future!

SG: What have you been doing to keep physically and mentally prepared, especially with the holiday season between the NCAA tournament and the combine?

EA: I have been running and working out with the Seattle Sounders!

SG: What are your expectations and objectives regarding the upcoming 2008 MLS Draft combine?

EA: I've been waiting for this moment for a long time and I will make the most out of it that I possibly can.

SG: Is there anything that can be said about being able to attend the combine with teammate Kevin Forrest?

EA: I'm excited to go with a former teammate. I think he's a great player and he should do well.

SG: MLS comes to Seattle in 2009. Are soccer fans getting excited in the Pacific Northwest?

EA: Yes, they are very excited. There have already been deposits put down on thousands of season tickets!

SG: I want to thank you for your time and again extend my sincerest wishes on your upcoming soccer future; best of luck at the combine.

EA: Thanks!!!

3rd Degree's MLS Draft Pool Analysis

Buzz Carrick recently published his extensive 2008 MLS Draft analysis over at 3rd Degree. His work can also be viewed on ESPNsoccernet in their draft coverage section.

For an in-depth look at the Goalkeeper pool check here:
Goalkeepers Pool

For an in-depth look at the Defender pool check here:
Defender Pool

For an in-depth look at the Midfielder pool clicker here:
Midfielder Pool

Soccer City FC recommends that you check back often. Don't miss his upcoming Forward Pool as well as continued 2008 MLS SuperDraft coverage.

USMNT Training Photos 1/4/2008

Soccer City FC has obtained photos of the Men's National Team in training for their upcoming friendly with Sweden on January 19.

Photos © Copyright 2008 Alex Kozela,

All Rights Reserved

Technical Sessions: Geoffrey Cameron

Play Up To Your Best Ability

Technical Sessions #2

Geoffrey Cameron and several of his Rhode Island University teammates have just returned from an early morning run on the beach. You would expect his next logical destination to be some well-maintained field. However, the harsh New England winter has forced the URI midfielder indoors as he prepares for the 2008 MLS Combine.

“It is tough for me because I am living up north in Rhode Island. You can’t hit balls outside in the grass or anything like that. I am training in a gym doing technical drills, sprint, and endurance. In the morning, I run two to three miles on the beach with a few of my teammates and then we go the gym for a technical session in the afternoon. I am just trying to stay as fit as possible. When I get down to Florida, I will have to adjust quickly to playing on grass again and I will have to get used to the warm weather.”

Cameron joined the team for the 2006 and 2007 season after transferring from West Virginia. The Rams found team success in his first year ending with a win in the Atlantic 10 Championship and a seed in the NCAA Tournament. This year the team began slowly and never found their 2006 form. They eventually lost in the A-10 semifinals 1-0 to UMASS. URI ended with a 9-8-2 record. Cameron reflected upon his two years at URI.

“I have a lot of memories with my teammates from the last two years. We had a really good 2006 season. We won the A-10 Championship and made it to the second round of the tournament, but fell short. This year we had a tough schedule, especially our first five games. We weren’t clicking, but we pulled through the hard times and made it to the semifinals of the A-10 Tournament.”

Although the team’s ultimate goals were not reached, Cameron’s midfield work was recognized as he was named the 2007 Atlantic 10’s Midfielder of the Year.

“I had no clue! We were in Ohio at the A-10 Tournament and they announced it before the tournament started. When they said that I received the A-10 Midfielder of the Year, I was completely shocked. I got compliments from coaches after games, but I wasn’t expecting it. I tried to be consistent in every game. It was a great honor; I am sure it helped me out with being selected for the combine.”

While he admits that he is anxious for the day to arrive, he is also confident that his abilities will show through once in Florida.

“You want to stand out but you don’t want to be flashy or go out of your realm. I am going to keep it simple, but also use my creativity both on and off the ball. I am going to look for a good first touch. I want to stay consistent. You have to play up to your best ability.”

The midfielder is not the only Ram who will attend the MLS Combine. Forward Lukasz Tumicz also was invited. Cameron feels that having his teammate and roommate down in Florida will only work to both players’ advantage.

“We know each other so well having been teammates these last two years. We will keep each other positive down there.”

Cameron committed to countless hours on the beaches of Rhode Island in preparation for the MLS Combine. Shortly, he will be playing up to his best ability with his collegiate peers under the warm Florida sun on a field of fresh, green grass. Positive thinking under such conditions will be simple.

Andy Iro Is Keeping His Options Open

University of California, Santa Barbara centerback Andy Iro has a lot to consider over the next few weeks regarding his professional future. Shall he stay and play in Major League Soccer or shall he go back home to a career in England? Tonight, he joined Soccer City FC from across the pond in Liverpool, England to talk about his upcoming future. While there has been a great deal of media and internet-forum speculation as to where Andy Iro will be playing soccer shortly, he has not made a decision.

"I am really open to both options. Obviously, I have a lot of contacts in England from growing up here and there are some opportunities. Financially speaking England would be the better option but saying that, the last four years of my life I have been in America and I am happy in America. I will seriously take a look at what MLS has to offer."

Iro certainly took an unusual road to soccer stardom. After his options in England hit a lull prior to college, he decided to send out several emails to collegiate coaches in the US. UCSB Head Coach Tim Vom Steeg answered his email request.

"In England, you hear very little about college scholarships. Ninety percent of people stop playing but I wasn’t ready to stop playing. Luckily enough and thankfully enough my parents put me in private school. I had decent grades and it went from there. I sent a bunch of emails out but I had very limited knowledge. I looked at the NSCAA polls but I had no idea what Division I or Division II was. I am sure Coach Tim heard it all before but he replied to my email. I think we are both thankful."

Upon arriving in California, he was surprised by the warm Californian disposition.

"I wasn’t expecting the people to be so happy. They have a zest for life."

Over the next four years, he would showcase his talents and go on to become one of the most impressive players in Gauchos and Big West soccer history. His team and personal successes include: the 2006 NCAA National Championship, two NCAA championship appearances, three Big West titles, Big West Freshman of the Year (2004), College Cup Most Outstanding Defensive Player (2006), M.A.C. Hermann Trophy candidate (2006/2007), and various other Big West and All-American awards. This noteworthy resume now has him receiving interest from both MLS and England.

Although Andy admits that playing professionally in England would have certain benefits such as being closer to his family, the door to his professional future remains wide open.

"It is a factor. I haven’t seen much of my family these last four years, but I won’t dismiss the MLS because of this. I have to think about where I will be happy now and where I will be happy at five years from now. I am heading back to America shortly and I will be at the combine."

No matter where his professional career takes him, Andy Iro hasn’t stopped playing soccer yet. Somewhere fans or supporters will be thankful that he has kept his options open.

*Technical Sessions is a new feature at Soccer City FC. We want to extend our thanks and best wishes to Andy Iro for being our first featured guest.

**Update 1/18/2008: Andy Iro was selected with the sixth overall pick by the Columbus Crew in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft and has signed with the league.

***Soccer City FC would like to extend our congratulations to Andy Iro. All the best with your professional career in Columbus.

Brian Grazier Interview Before Combine

St. Louis University midfielder Brian Grazier was a vital member of the 2007 men's soccer team. He helped the Billikens to a 12-2-5 record and a NCAA Tournament seed. An instrumental part of the team's defensive success, he also contributed one goal and four assists during the season. From January 11 through the 15, he will be attending the 2008 MLS Combine. He kindly answered some questions for Soccer City FC.

Sean Grybos: Your first collegiate goal came in the Billikens' exciting victory over Indiana University on September 15 in the Saint Louis/Nike Soccer Classic. How important was it to equalize before halftime against a quality team?

Brian Grazier: Indiana vs. SLU is always a great game. We usually play each other every year and you never know what is going to happen. My goal came at a crucial time because we were 1-0 down in the first half due to an excellent goal by Brad Ring. You never like going into half time down so I think my goal really sparked our team going into the second half.

SG: Now that you have had some time to sit back and reflect on the season, what will you take away from 2007?

BG: In one sense our season was a disappoinment due to the fact we were knocked out of the NCAA tournament in the first round. On the other hand we only lost two games all year. I think the biggest thing I have learned from 2007 is you have to win the big games. In all reality the regular season does not mean that much it is how you end up at the end of the year.

SG: You sat out 2005 with a right ankle injury and you missed five more games this year because of a left ankle injury. How are the ankles now?

BG: I broke and dislocated my right ankle in 2005 forcing me to miss that year. The right ankle is fine. This year I went into an ackward tackle at the end of the Indiana games and twisted my left ankle pretty good. I missed five games this year but it is completely healed and healthy.

SG: What have you been doing to keep physically and mentally prepared, especially with the holiday season between the NCAA Tournament and the combine?

BG: I have been training with a speed and acceleration coach four to five days a week with a member of the Colorado Rapids organization. My workouts consist of plyos [plyometric exercises], speed and agility training. Afterwards I play indoor soccer including 3 vs. 3, 1 vs. 1 games, etc on campus to keep my touch sharp.

SG: What are your expectations and objectives regarding the upcoming 2008 MLS Combine?

BG: At the combine I want to make sure I play to the best of my ability. I want to combine with my teammates and keep the game simple. I think when I do that my game shines the best and most of all I want to have fun out there. It is not every day you can play with the best players in the country.

SG: Going to the combine in Florida is somewhat full-circle for you since you trained in Bradenton, Florida before college. For our readers, can you talk about your experiences and memories while training in there?

BG: My time training in Florida was great. Every day trainings were competitive making you play your best soccer. I have learned so much from being down there as a player and young adult. The experience really matures you as a person. We traveled to many countries playing at the highest level creating many experiences and memories.

SG: I want to thank you for your time and again extend my sincerest wishes on your upcoming soccer future; best of luck at the combine.

BG: Thank you.

Technical Sessions To Be Added

Soccer City FC will be adding Technical Sessions which will be the main feature section of the site. Check back soon.

Edu, Wynne, & Dunivant Off To US Training Camp

Toronto FC's Todd Dunivant, Marvell Wynne, and Maurice Edu were called to the US Men's National Team training camp beginning January 3. The US National Team's first match of 2008 versus Sweden is on January 19.

26 players were invited.

Goalkeepers

• Brad Guzan (Chivas USA)
• Will Hesmer (Columbus Crew)
• Matt Pickens (Chicago Fire)
• Zach Wells (D.C. United)

Defenders

• Dan Califf (Aalborg BK)
• Jimmy Conrad (Kansas City Wizards)
• Ramiro Corrales (SK Brann)
• Todd Dunivant (Toronto FC)
• Clarence Goodson (San Jose Earthquakes)
• Drew Moor (FC Dallas)
• Michael Parkhurst (New England Revolution)
• Eddie Robinson (Houston Dynamo)
• Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)

Midfielders

• Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake)
• Ricardo Clark (Houston Dynamo)
• Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo)
• Maurice Edu (Toronto FC)
• Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA)
• Justin Mapp (Chicago Fire)
• Pat Noonan (New England Revolution)

Forwards

• Josmer Altidore (New York Red Bulls)
• Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy)
• Eddie Johnson (Kansas Cit y Wizards)
• Chris Rolfe (Chicago Fire)
• Taylor Twellman (New England Revolution)
• Jeremiah White (AGF Aarhus)