Honorable Mention in PRISM Awards
D.C. United, one of the three finalists for the 2007 Turnkey PRISM Award in the Major League Category, received an Honorable Mention for the club's efforts in the area of Community Relations. The annual award is given by the University of Massachusetts' Department of Sport Management and recognizes American professional sport franchises that demonstrate industry-leading excellence and innovation in sport franchise management. Applicants are ranked on the five PRISM ideals: managing human resources, marketing (branding, advertising and promotion), fan development, community relations and customer/client service. The judging panel was "impressed by the variety of programs run by United for D.C., and the positive influence that these programs are having in the local community." This is the third consecutive year that United has been recognized as a finalist for the prestigious annual award and while the Honorable Mention is the team's first.
Man of the Match Auction
The Man of the Match jersey auctions are still underway for Luciano Emilio, Fred, and Troy Perkins. The players have signed their game-worn jerseys for matches played earlier this season, with proceeds from the on-line auction going to United for D.C. Bidding, for these auctions, ends respectively on May 17, 18 and 19. To place a bid, visit the auction page.
All-Star Ballot Lists Submitted
Major League Soccer clubs submitted the 12-man ballots lists for the 2007 Sierra Mist All-Star game last week. The compilation of players will be placed to a live, on-line ballot at www.mlsnet.com beginning Wednesday, May 16. The voting ends on Monday, June 25, with the game scheduled for July 19, 2007. The MLS All-Star team will square off against famed Scottish side Celtic FC before a national television audience on ABC.
Practices Resume without Arguez
After the weekend off, D.C. United resumed daily practices yesterday, minus one midfielder, Bryan Arguez. The 18-year-old was named to the U.S. Under-20 Men's National Team and is set to play with them today against the Argentina U-20 team in Rochester, NY. The match will kick off at 7 p.m. ET and be broadcast live at www.ussoccer.com.
Arguez will return to Washington later this week and is expected to be available for selection as United's first team and reserves travel north of the border for games against Toronto FC.
Twesigomwe Trial Ends Without Offer
Defender Edwin Twesigomwe, a Fulham Youth Academy player, ended his trial last week. The former teammate of Kasali Yinka Casal left without an offer from the Black-and-Red.
Troy Perkins on Washington Post Live
Later today, Troy Perkins will appear live on the set Washington Post Live. The reigning MLS Goalkeeper of the Year will comment on his season so far, as well as United's upcoming match in Toronto. Tune in to the program on Comcast SportsNet weekdays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. ET
