Starting XI Honors:
D.C. United Academy's Paul Torres was named to the Under-15/16 Academy Starting XI for his performance in the inaugural U.S. Soccer Development Academy. The 16-year-old midfielder was voted to the team by Development Academy coaches and National Team scouts.
"I'm excited," Torres said. "I think it's a good recognition. Hopefully next year I'll make it even though I'll be younger than everyone else. I have to keep working hard and hopefully I'll make it again."
Torres captained the Black-and-Red U16 squad that finished the season with a 16-8-6 record, good for second place in the Mid-Atlantic Conference. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Torres names compatriot Juan Arango and D.C. United legend Marco Etcheverry as his idols - and dreams of one day following in both their footsteps.
"I really want to play with the Venezuelan National team, the first team," Torres added. "I've gotten calls to come in and play with the first team during the summer. I want to play for D.C. United in the next few years, or maybe after college or a few years of college. But my main goal, my main focus, is to get a contract with D.C. and that's why I'm now playing with the Academy, because I want to make the team."
Summer Camps: The D.C. United Academy has added one last Summer Camp date to their calendar. A half-day camp will run from August 18-22 at High Point High School in Beltsville, Maryland. This camp is designed for players 8-14 and will cost $149. To register or for more information, please call 202-587-5468 or visit DCUnited.com.
