SECAUCUS, NJ - In today's 2008 MLS SuperDraft in Baltimore, MD, Red Bull New York selected Eric Brunner of The Ohio State University with its second-round pick (16th overall).
"I think he was one of the strongest defenders in the draft," said Red Bull New York Sporting Director Jeff Agoos. "We rated him right up there with the top guys. To have him around and have him available, especially with having a need at that position, I think it was ideal for us to be able to select him."
Brunner, a 6-4, 170-pound defender from Dublin, OH, has earned a number of accolades during his college career. The 2008 adidas/MLS Combine MVP in January, Brunner was a NSCAA All-American and All-Region First Team selection in 2007 after scoring six goals and starting in all 26 games he played. Along with being the Buckeyes' captain, Brunner was named on the First Team All-Big 10 and made the College Cup All-Tournament team. He spent his first year in college at the University of Maryland.
"It's a great feeling to be selected by New York," Brunner said. "The Red Bulls are a great organization and they have shown a lot of commitment to MLS. I'm excited to come in and hopefully, improve the team."
Over his four-year career, Brunner played in 89 games, starting in 79 and scored 10 goals and four assists. A graduate of Scioto High School in Ohio, Brunner also played for club team, Thunder FC and under John Bluem at OSU.
The Red Bulls have selections in the third round (32nd overall) and the fourth round (44th overall).
