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MLS D.C. United

D.C. United announces personnel moves

September 15, 2005 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
D.C. United News Release


Washington, D.C. (September 15, 2005) - D.C. United today announced a series of roster moves that finalizes the clubs roster as the Black-and-Red prepares to defend its fourth MLS Cup championship. Forward Jamil Walker has earned a spot on the club's senior roster, while midfielder Nick Van Sicklen was placed on a senior developmental contract and defender David Stokes was put on season ending injured reserve. The club has also signed a foreign player whose name will be released at a later date, once he receives approval of his work visa.

In addition, the Black-and-Red announced the signing of Stephen deRoux (High Point High School) to a developmental contract, who will take Stokes' place on the roster. The moves were all made prior to today's Major League Soccer roster freeze.

In 2005, Walker has primarily served as an offensive catalyst off the bench. He has seen time in 17 MLS games (four starts) and recorded two goals and four assists. He has also scored important goals in both the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the Copa Nissan Sudamericana. He also has seven goals in the reserve division, and has twice notched hat tricks in friendlies.

"Jamil has earned a spot on our senior roster," said United Technical Director Dave Kasper of Walker's upgrade. "He has made a significant impact for us this year and we look forward to his continued contributions for D.C. United both on and off the field."

Van Sicklen has not made a League appearance in 2005. The rookie midfielder, out of Wisconsin, made his United debut on March 16, versus Harbour View FC of Jamaica in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. After battling through injuries, he has returned to see time in nine reserve league games.

Now in his third full year with United, Stokes made 10 League appearances before suffering an ankle injury in July. He had season-ending surgery on Thursday, September 8 and is expected to return to full strength in time for 2006's preseason.

DeRoux spent a good portion of February with United after an impressive performance in an invitation-only amateur tryout. The speedy midfielder broke his foot, however, and had to have surgery, ending his trial. A local product from High Point High School, he was named to the Washington Post All-Met team in 2001 following a four-goal, 12-assist season. He also helped lead the team to the Maryland 4A South Region Championship and was a standout player with a local Hispanic amateur team in the Virginia International Soccer League and the Copa TACA tournament.

"This is a great opportunity for Stephen," said Kasper of deRoux's signing. "He has worked hard to prove that he deserves a shot in the MLS."

D.C. United returns to League action Saturday night at RFK Stadium against the Colorado Rapids. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased by visiting dcunited.com or calling the United offices at 202-587-5000.

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