With the 2012 MLS SuperDraft around the corner, the final additions to the draft class are being made through the Generation adidas process. Over the next week, MLSsoccer.com's college and youth expert Travis Clark will reveal and analyze the 2012 members of the GA class.
In the second installment, we take a look at Duke's Andrew Wenger.
1. He scored goals in bunches this year.
After Wenger was a standout center back his first two years in college, Duke head coach John Kerr decided to give the defender a run out as a forward in the spring when they were short of options up top. Coming away impressed, the Blue Devils trotted the junior out there this past season, where he was a revelation, scoring 17 goals and adding eight assists.
2. His future is likely somewhere else on the field.
The offensive success aside, Wenger is more likely to establish himself at the next level as either a defensive midfielder or center back. And while he likes attacking and meandering forward from those deeper positions, he’ll adjust quickly to a regular position.
3. He stands out anywhere he plays.
In 2010, after a strong season as a center back, Wenger was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year as a sophomore. And just a year later, after his 17-goal season, was the 2011 ACC Offensive Player of the Year, a rare feat in the college game.
4. He’s ready to make an impact.
While the lack of a defined position could be held against him, his abilities – good on the ball, sharp passing abilities, outstanding technically – he won’t last long on draft day and he’ll step in and compete for minutes right away.
5. He’s a bit like…
Geoff Cameron. Versatile, solid and with a bright future as a center back.
