The Los Angeles Galaxy on Friday picked up five new players in the 2005 MLS SuperDraft in Baltimore, but traded one away in midfielder Sasha Victorine, shipping him to the Kansas City Wizards.
Ugochukweu Ihemelu (Southern Methodist), Troy Roberts (California), Michael Enfield (UCLA), Quavas Kirk (U.S. U-17 national team) and Mubarike Chisoni (Coastal Carolina) all were taken by the Galaxy. Victorine departs Los Angeles after five seasons with the club, including a successful 2004 campaign in which he played 26 games (25 as a starter), registering nine points on three goals and three assists.
Ihemelu, a defender, was the first choice for the Galaxy, coming as the No. 5 overall pick in the draft. He capped a strong four-year career at SMU by making All-Missouri Valley Conference First Team in 2004.
The Galaxy stayed defensive with their second selection on the day, taking Roberts as the eighth overall pick. A rugged and tough player, Roberts played in every game at California during his four-year career, racking up 84 appearances.
Enfield, a native of California and a former UCLA Bruin, will remain in Los Angeles as he makes the move to the professional ranks. The Galaxy acquired him with the 15th overall pick, trading Victorine for the right to the second-round selection. Enfield is a member of the U.S. U-20 national team and he is also a veteran of the U-18 side, having attended every camp the team held for two years. Enfield said he is excited for the opportunity to begin his MLS career with his hometown team.
"To stay in Los Angeles means everything to me," said Enfield. "The Galaxy is the team I have supported from Day 1 in the league and it's an honor to be a part of that organization and I hope to be there as long as I can."
Sixteen-year-old Kirk has been one of the most productive strikers on the U.S. U-17 national team since joining the residency program in Bradenton, Fla., last September. He started in 31 of 34 games in 2004, including 15 international matches. Kirk finished 2004 atop the U-17's scoring leaders list with 26 points on 11 goals and four assists.
"It feels amazing to be selected by the Galaxy," Kirk Said. "They've always been a strong team. I'll be able to pick up on whatever they have to teach me, which is great."
The Galaxy concluded their picks by selecting Chisoni 46th overall. He scored 16 goals for Coastal Carolina in 2004, earning All-Big South First Team honors.
Jonathan Nierman is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major Leauge Soccer of its clubs.
