each of whom brought U-16 and U-18 boys' teams.
Team photos >
The D.C. United Academy teams went 2-2 over the weekend, as each squad lost to Columbus' teams and beat New York's. The Columbus Crew teams finished with a 3-0-1 record, with their only tie coming against Potomac at the U-18 level.
D.C. United, New York and Potomac will all play in the Mid-Atlantic Division of the newly formed U.S. Soccer Development Academy, while Columbus plays in the Great Lakes Division. The weekend friendlies not only helped prepare for the upcoming season, but the great competition was a chance for local college coaches to scout for talent.
Nike Friendlies
Additionally, six D.C. United Academy players have been chosen to participate in the NIKE Friendlies with the U.S. National Training Select teams. The U.S. Soccer Development Academy was created to identify and develop the country's top players in order to help strengthen the U.S. National team player pool.
"The direct link to the U.S. National team staff and to the top college programs in the country is a big part of what makes our Academy so special," sayid Director of Youth Development John Maessner. "D.C. United is developing a wonderful reputation for having very talented players who are able to play at the highest level. We are thrilled to be able to provide the area's top players with an environment where they will thrive and continue to be pushed to the next level. We are very excited for these fine young men to be able to participate in this year's NIKE Friendlies as part of the National Training Select Teams."
The six Academy players invited to participate are forward Chris Hegngi and defender Ethan White for the Under 17/18 team; defenders Julio Arjona, Samuel Bradley and Shaquille Phillips and midfielder Lester Dewee for the Under 15/16 team.
For more information about the D.C. United Academy, call 202-587-5447 or E-mail John Maessner at jmaessner@dcunited.com.
Talent runs in the family
Troy Perkins' older brother, Travis Perkins, has received his PGA Tour Card after finishing in ninth place in the PGA Tour's Qualifying Tournament at the Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge in Winter Garden, FL. The Florida Southern College product finished 18 under par with scores of 67, 67, 69, 68, 69 and 74 over the tournaments six rounds.
Vanney welcomes twins
United defender Greg Vanney and his wife, Amy, welcomed twin boys, Dylan James and Mason Dean, on November 29.
