SECAUCUS, N.J. - 17-year-old Red Bulls forward Jozy Altidore is featured in ESPN The Magazine's 'Next' issue, which hit newsstands yesterday. Their annual trademark issue scours the sports landscape worldwide in order to find the future stars of professional athletics. This year, The Magazine tabbed Orlando Magic forward Dwight Howard as the athlete most ready to make the leap to superstar status, edging out this year's finalists: Georgia Tech Wide Receiver Calvin Johnson, New York Mets shortstop Jose Reyes, Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin and rising racing star Juan Pablo Montoya.
Notable athletes featured in previous 'Next' issues don't need full introductions, as LeBron, Kobe, Urlacher and A-Rod have all graced the cover. Last year, New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush and Titans quarterback Vince Young were among the next young superstars to break out.
Altidore was featured in the 'On Deck' section, which introduces athletes who are on the heels of the '07 finalists, in terms of making the jump in their respective sport. Kansas City Royals prospect Alex Gordon and Arkansas Razorback RB Darren McFadden- among others- joined Altidore in the 'On Deck' portion.
After spending the majority of the season between U-17 National Team duty and finishing his high school education in Florida, Altidore helped propel the Red Bulls into the '06 playoffs by scoring three goals in the club's final stretch of the season. Including playoffs, Altidore finished his rookie campaign with four goals in only nine appearances.
The Red Bulls begin their preseason training in Bradenton, FL today and will open their season on April 7 at 7:00 p.m. ET against the Columbus Crew at Crew Stadium. The team's home opener is Sunday, April 15 at 3:00 p.m. ET at Giants Stadium, when they take on FC Dallas. For tickets or more information, log on to www.newyorkredbulls.com
or call 1.877.RBSOCCER.
