Philippe Billy Named MVP and Defensive Player of the Year
Published on October 7, 2010 under U.S. Soccer Federation D-2 (USSF D-2)
Montreal Impact News Release
MONTREAL - Philippe Billy was awarded the Giuseppe Saputo Trophy, given to the Montreal Impact's most valuable player, while also earning Defensive player of the Year honours Thursday night, at eXcentris, as part of the club's 2010 Awards Banquet where the individual honours were awarded to players of the club.
Forward Ali Gerba was named newcomer of the year, while midfielder Tony Donatelli was chosen the team's Unsung Hero.
PHILIPPE BILLY: MVP & DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
- Prior to joining the Impact, Billy played for Stade Brestois 29, in France's Ligue 2, but also suited up for Italian club Lecce.
- During his first season in Montreal, he played in all 30 games, 27 as a starter. He was also the team's most used player with a total of 2,423 minutes played.
- Used as midfielder and defender, this versatile player showed a lot of consistency throughout the season.
- He was an important asset in all situations.
- Technical director Nick De Santis: "Philippe had an excellent season due to his work ethic and his consistent play throughout the year. He was an important part of the team's successful finish in the regular season. He was a key figure to our defensive scheme. He is a team player who is appreciated by his teammates. Philippe is very pleased to be playing in Montreal. He adapted quickly to the culture over here. He believed in this team from the very first time he put on the jersey."
ALI GERBA: NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR
- The Impact forward distinguished himself with his tenacious play in front of the adversary's goal and was a nightmare to opposing defenders.
- He joined the club on July 15 and finished the season as the team's scoring leader with a total of nine goals and one assist, for 19 points.
- He was the first Impact player to score a hat trick in regular season play and also scored the quickest goal in club history.
- Technical director Nick De Santis: "Ali joined our lineup when things were difficult for the team. He brought a new dimension to our offense after just a few games. From the moment he arrived, he showed he was ready to work hard for the team. He is an established goal scorer who helped us in many different facets, notably playing well defensively."
TONY DONATELLI: THE FOURTH STAR
- Donatelli played in all 30 games this season, establishing a new club record, and played a total of 2,359 minutes.
- He scored seven goals and three assists for 17 points this season, a new personal best.
- His offensive qualities and vision on the field were assets to the Impact throughout the season.
- Technical director Nick De Santis: "This title fits perfectly for Tony because he was an important player for the team this season, but his contribution flew under the radar. He scored some big goals this season. He is an intelligent player who reads the play very well and who puts himself in a good scoring position."
U.S. Soccer Federation D-2 Stories from October 7, 2010
- Philippe Billy Named MVP and Defensive Player of the Year - Montreal Impact
- Montreal Impact Awards Its Annual Bursaries - Montreal Impact
- Stars Head to Carolina with Season on the Line - Minnesota United FC
- AC St. Louis Goalkeeper Joins Chicago Fire - AC St. Louis
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