MLS D.C. United

D.C. United Academy Update: March 24, 2008

March 24, 2008 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
D.C. United News Release


D.C. United Academy season continues: After an Easter weekend breather, D.C. United's U-16 and U-18 Academy teams will travel to New Jersey to battle Match Fit Academy on Saturday, March 29. Both sides ended their last matches with 1-1 draws against the Baltimore Bays at Maryland SoccerPlex on March 15. The U-16s saw penalty kicks awarded for and against them, with Funes converting for the Black-and-Red to earn the tie. The U-18s played shorthanded for much of the game, but came away with the come-from-behind tie, courtesy of an Ethan White strike in the 35th minute.

Josh Gros joins Academy coaching staff: Josh Gros, former United midfielder and defender, is set to lead D.C. United's U-15 Academy Developmental Training Program. Gros did not resume his playing career this season after his 2007 campaign was cut short, the result of a series of head injuries. Though his playing future has yet to be determined, the Rutgers product will remain a part of the team in his new position on the sidelines. This Academy Developmental Training Program is specifically designed for the area's most talented players born in 1992, 1993 and 1994. These players will be evaluated and considered for D.C. United's 2009 U-16 Academy team. The training schedule consists of two sessions per week on Wednesday and Friday nights, with intra-squad matches on Saturdays (from June 11-August 9, 2008). Tryout dates will be announced in the near future.

First team training: D.C. United Academy players recently enjoyed the opportunity to witness first team play, first hand. Last Friday, Shane Cooke, Darnell Edwards, Chris Hegngi and Ethan White of the U-18 team trained with the first team, seizing a chance to gauge themselves against seasoned professionals. Training before the rest of their Academy teammates, this unique training also gives the first team staff a chance to evaluate the talented younger players.

"It is important that our young players have the opportunity to train with our first team so that they see what the professional soccer environment is all about," said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper. "The Academy's goal is to take steps to develop players through the youth system, so they can eventually contribute to the success of the first team."

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