2006 Thunder combine dates announced

Published on December 8, 2005 under USL First Division (USL-1)
Minnesota Thunder News Release


ST. PAUL, Minn. (Thursday, December 08, 2005) - The Minnesota Thunder professional soccer team will conduct its annual player combine February 19-24 at Winter Park in Eden Prairie, the official training facility of the Minnesota Vikings, it was announced today by Thunder officials.

The combine will have representatives from all three men's divisions of the United Soccer Leagues. Thunder head coach, Amos Magee, will be joined by Flavio Ferri, head coach of the Long Island Rough Riders (DII), and Casey Mann, head coach of the Des Moines Menace (PDL) who is the reigning PDL champion.

"We are excited to have representatives from all levels of men's soccer in the USL," said Magee. "This opportunity gives players a better chance of being seen and finding a team that fits their level of play."

The combine attracts players from all over the world. In the past, roughly one-third of the players have been international, one-third out of college and a third local, according to Thunder general manager Djorn Buchholz. Approximately 75 players will be accepted to attend this year.

"We have seen the competitive level of our combine raise each year," said Buchholz. "This is a great opportunity for all players to have their shot at being a pro."

In recent years, the Thunder has signed at least one or two players per year from the combine to its 24-man roster. Current players Leo Gibson and Zafer Kilickan were discovered at the combine.

The combine consists of a two-hour training session each day. Training sessions include scrimmaging, specific offensive and defensive drills as well as a speed, agility and endurance testing. Cuts are made on Tuesday. Players have the option to commute or stay at the Town Place Suites in Eden Prairie.

Players interested in attending the 2006 combine must visit the Thunder website at mnthunder.com/combine_2006.shtml and download a registration form. All registration forms, along with a resume, must be submitted by Jan. 13.

THUNDER COMBINE TIMELINE

January 13 - All Applications DUE to Thunder office

January 16 - Final Player Invitations emailed & posted on website (mnthunder.com)

January 23 - Total Registration Fee DUE to Thunder office

For more information contact Trina Kramer at the Thunder at (651) 917-8326 or via email at combine@mnthunder.com.

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