SECAUCUS, N.J. - The MetroStars announced today that they signed goalkeeper Mike Ueltschey to a developmental contract. The "Red and Black" claimed the netminder off waivers. Per MLS policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Ueltschey, a 6-2, 198 pound keeper from Jackson, Mississippi, played his college ball at the University of North Carolina where he was a teammate of MetroStars defender Chris Leitch. In his senior year at UNC, Ueltschey posted a school record 12 shutouts and helped lead the 'Heels to the 2001 National Championship. He also holds the UNC record for career shutouts with 30.
After graduating, Ueltschey was drafted by the Richmond Kickers of the United Soccer Leagues in 2002 and played for the Cincinnati Riverhawks, also of the USL. Ueltschey was signed by the Columbus Crew in 2003 and was loaned to the Montreal Impact for the '03 season. In 2004, he played with the Puerto Rico Islanders of the USL and tallied eight shutouts in 17 games. Ueltschey appeared in matches in Bradenton, Florida and Ecuador during 2005 preseason action with the Metros.
Coming off a bye this weekend, the MetroStars return to action on Saturday, April 16, 2005 when they face the Kansas City Wizards at Giants Stadium. Kickoff is slated for 7:30 p.m.
