One of the key defensive cogs during D.C. United's MLS Cup-winning 2004 season, Bryan Namoff, re-signed with the club Monday and he will return to action for the Black-and-Red in 2005.
"We are very pleased to have reached an agreement that ensures Bryan will remain with D.C. United," said United Technical Director Dave Kasper. "He has developed into a terrific defender, was an integral part of our 2004 championship team and we look forward to his future contributions to the club."
The 25-year-old defender is a four-year United veteran, having joined the squad after being selected in the second round of the 2001 MLS SuperDraft.
Namoff had a banner year in 2004, appearing in 27 regular season games (all as a starter) under first-year head coach Peter Nowak. He missed three games the entire campaign, twice through injury and once due to a suspension. He showed his versatility throughout the campaign, figuring mainly as part of United's back three, but also as a wingback and even in a defensive midfield role.
Namoff started every game of the MLS Cup Playoffs en route to his first championship as a professional. He even contributed offensively in the postseason, notching his first career goal, a strike against the MetroStars in the Conference Semifinals that put the series out of reach at 4-0 on aggregate.
A fan favorite at RFK Stadium, Namoff is best known for his consistent play and high work rate. In 2003 he was recognized with the club's first-ever Coaches' Award after a strong season in which he made 22 appearances. He was limited to 442 minutes in 2002, also seeing time in the A-League while on loan with the Richmond Kickers. Namoff, a product of Bradley University and two-time Missouri Valley Conference First Team selection (1999 and 2000), played in 22 matches during his rookie season, including 17 as a starter.
Jonathan Nierman is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
