Red Bull New York announced today that it has signed goalkeeper Zach Thornton. Per MLS and team policy, specific terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Thornton will join New York for the second time in his career after being drafted in the 7th round (69th overall) by the club in the inaugural 1996 MLS Draft. The Edgewood, MD, native, who has earned a career 1.28 goals against average and an 111-71-33 record, was most recently a member of the Colorado Rapids, where he played in one game in 2007 before being waived on Nov. 28, 2007.
"We are excited to bring Zach into our squad as we head into the preseason," said Red Bull New York Sporting Director Jeff Agoos. "With his experience, he will immediately bring depth to the goalkeeper position."
Prior to joining the Rapids on March 2, 2007 after he was traded by the Chicago Fire for a conditional 2008 MLS Supplemental Draft pick, Thornton minded the nets in Chicago for eight seasons (1998-2003, 2005-2006). During his time there, Thornton played in a total of 215 games, starting in 212 and posting 57 shutouts. In 1998, Thornton was named the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year after he helped the Fire to win the MLS Cup in the club's first season. In-between his time with the Fire, Thornton also played for Portuguese side, Benfica, in 2004.
Thornton, 34, was acquired by Chicago in the 1997 MLS Expansion Draft after New York left him unprotected. During his two seasons in New York (1996-1997), Thornton made six appearances. The 6-3, 230-pound, former Loyola University (Maryland) standout has also earned eight caps with the U.S. Men's National Team.
The Red Bulls open their MLS regular season on April 5 against the Columbus Crew at 7:30 PM ET. For tickets, please call 1.877.RBSOCCER or log onto www.nyredbulls.com.
Transaction: Red Bull New York signs goalkeeper Zach Thornton.
Zach Thornton
Position: Goalkeeper
Height: 6-3
Weight: 230
Birthdate: October 10, 1973
Hometown: Edgewood, MD
Previous Club: Colorado Rapids (MLS)
