TFC signs Velez, Smith to roster

Toronto FC announced Wednesday that they have signed two players for the 2008 MLS season. Defender Marco Velez joins the team along with forward Jarrod Smith who has been signed to a developmental contract. As per team and league policy contract details were not disclosed.

        "We're very pleased to get Marco under contract. He's come in here and had a great camp and is a good addition to our back line," said manager Mo Johnston. "We're looking stronger in that area this season and I'm happy about that. Jarrod has worked hard as well, and he'll give us some depth on our bench at his position."</p>

        Velez, 27, joins Toronto FC from the Puerto Rico Islanders of the USL 1st Division who he signed with in 2005. He was drafted by in MLS in 2003, chosen by the Metrostars in the 5th round, 49th overall, but he instead signed with the Seattle Sounders of the USL 1st Division in April and spent two seasons out west. </p>

        In 2005 Velez finished with 2 goals in 22 games and played a vital role in Puerto Rico's push to the playoffs as well as their involvement in the CONCACAF Champions Cup qualifiers. It was the first time the club had qualified for both events. In 2007, Velez scored 1 goal and added an assist in 27 games. That year the team advanced to the USL Semi-finals for the first time in their history. That season the defender led the team in both minutes and games played.</p>

        Velez also has spent time with the Puerto Rican National Team, and in January of 2008 was given the captain's armband. </p>

        Smith, 23, was selected by Toronto in the 2007 MLS Supplemental Draft 1st overall, but played last season in his native New Zealand for Hawke's Bay United.</p>

        Smith, originally signed with Crystal Palace Baltimore (USL Second Division) in August of 2007, but spent the season on loan in New Zealand with Hawke's Bay United.  He made 9 appearances, scoring 2 goals.</p>

        The forward attended West Virginia University and was a member of the Mountaineers all four seasons, competing in the 2005 and 2006 NCAA Men's Soccer Championship tournaments. In four seasons he compiled 32 goals in 74 appearances. His best season with the Mountaineers was his senior year where he scored a career high 14 goals in just 16 games.</p>

        Smith has made his mark internationally as well appearing for both the U-20 and U-23 New Zealand squads.  He made his debut against Malaysia on February 23, 2006.</p>

Marco Velez #4

Position: Defender

Height: 6-2

Weight: 190

Birthdate: June 26, 1980

Hometown: Carolina, Puerto Rico

Nationality: Puerto Rican

College/University: Barry University

Last Club: Puerto Rico Islanders (USL 1st Division)

How Acquired: Free Agent

Jarrod Smith #23

Position: Forward